Downtown Colorado Springs to Host 'Stand Down' Veterans' Event on Oct. 17.

El Paso County is set to host a “Stand Down” Event on October 17th, and for the first time ever, the event will be led by Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. The event aims to provide a helping hand to the veterans in need and to offer them access to essential resources and services.

The Service Center explains that the term “Stand Down” originated during World War II as a way to give military personnel a break for rest and recovery after extended periods of combat.

Cities all over the United States are using the term “Stand Down” as they dedicate a day to providing homeless veterans with access to much-needed resources and benefits. These include employment assistance, health checkups, free haircuts, warm clothing, and access to veterans’ benefits. This initiative is especially crucial as winter approaches, ensuring that the veterans receive the assistance they need to make it through the colder months.

The upcoming “Stand Down” Event is scheduled at 9 a.m. and is set to take place at the City Auditorium situated at 221 E. Kiowa St. in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs.

During the event, veterans can enjoy complimentary breakfast and lunch, and will also be paired with an active-duty service member who will serve as their guide and escort throughout the day. This will ensure that veterans receive the necessary support and assistance in accessing the services and activities available to them.

According to the Service Center, 123 veterans were assisted through the event held last year.

According to Robert McLaughlin, an executive director of Mt. Carmel and a retired Army colonel, the Stand Down event serves as an opportunity to show homeless veterans that the community cares about them. He believes that it is a way to express gratitude to those who have served their country and are now facing difficult times.

On October 17, a ‘Stand Down’ Veterans’ Event will take place in downtown Colorado Springs.

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