The American Legion has announced that it will hold a “Walk for Veterans” through downtown St. Joseph, Mo., on Oct. 29. Leading the Walk will be American Legion National Commander Charles E. Schmidt and Department (state) Commander Elizabeth Gonzales.
“The purpose of this Walk is to raise public awareness about the crucial issues facing America’s veterans and their families,” said Schmidt. “An estimated 20 veterans a day commit suicide. Traumatic brain injuries have become a signature wound of the Global War on Terrorism and up to 20 percent of the men and women who served in Iraq or Afghanistan are believed to experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Veterans still have difficulty receiving health care in a timely manner and too many still have to wait years to have their disability claims resolved. We believe in a strong VA health care system, one that is worth preserving. We owe it to those who served our country to never forget the sacrifice and devotion of veterans and their families. We are walking for those who have marched for freedom. Many are no longer able to do so for themselves.”
“The American Legion family members in Missouri will proudly walk through historic downtown St. Joseph Missouri , walking shoulder to shoulder, step by step with our national commander. St. Joseph Mayor Bill Falkner will give remarks and make a presentation prior to the walk .
Registration will start at 8 a.m. the Walk will begin at 9 am sharp on Saturday, October 29, 2016. The length of the walk is 1.5 miles and will start and end at the Veterans Memorial in Civic Center Park right off Francis Street . The registration fee is $20 and will include a T-shirt and water.
Proceeds will benefit the Commander’s Charity Fund which benefits the Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) Program & The Veterans Service Officers (VSO) Program. Since 1925 The American Legion’s TFA Program has given out more than $15.2 million in grants benefitting hundreds of families with minor children in financial distress. They receive emergency funds for shelter, utilities, food, clothing and medical expenses — expenses that you and I often take for granted. Through our VSO Programs, our service officers work diligently to help veterans understand their rights and navigate the bureaucracy that often snarls the process. Our service officers have successfully worked cases to award veterans their due benefits, sometimes reaching into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
For more information about The American Legion Walk for Veterans or to register, please visit: www.missourilegion.org or call 573-893-2353
