Some of their strides may be a bit slower, but many of the uniforms still fit as generations of veterans showed up at Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) in Johnston last week for its annual outreach event.
The two-day event, held at the Anthony DeQuattro Veterans Service Complex off Hartford Avenue, offers veterans access to a wide variety of much-needed services and goods. Nearly 200 veterans filled the grounds, many wearing combat ribbons, service badges or uniform hats. There was a wide range of ages, but no gap in camaraderie as they greeted each other with handshakes and hugs, as they shared memories of time in the military. And many of them still fight a common war — the battle to succeed in civilian life.
“We see different needs across different generations of veterans,” said Kasim J. Yarn, director of Veterans Affairs for the State of Rhode Island.
Some, he said, may need help with healthcare and retirement issues; others may need housing. And there are many who struggle with addiction and mental health issues that are unseen scars of combat.
Erik Wallin, executive director of OSDRI, said the outreach event is intended to give veterans one place they can go to access all types of assistance.
“For over 30 years, we have hosted this event and each year we tailor the event to address the needs of today’s veterans,” Wallin said. “Whether the veteran is struggling with unemployment, homelessness or any other issue, OSDRI is here to give a hand up” and help all veterans get the resources they need.
He said the organization appreciates the participation of the wide variety of organizations that were on hand to help. The long list of providers — many of them state agencies — had staff available to provide information and resources to deal with needs such as housing, transportation, legal advice, employment assistance, financial support and much more. There was even a mobile dental clinic run by Thundermist Health Care.
Some of the booths provided supplies and goods such as new bed pillows, boots, clothing and rucksacks. A hearty, hot lunch was also served, making the event grounds feel like an open-air mess hall. On Friday, Gov. Dan McKee and other state officials showed up to help staff the buffet line and serve those who have faithfully served their country.
“I think how we treat our veterans says a lot about who we are as a nation,” Yarn said.
Editor’s Note: Barbara Polichetti, a Cranston resident, is a regular contributor to the Cranston Herald and Johnston SunRise. Contact Polichetti at bpolichetti@gmail.com.
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