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Clinton Posts’ Open House Connects Vets with Services

America’s military veterans know the drill: No one gets left behind. For local veterans facing a new set of challenges back home, that premise still holds true. On Thursday, Nov. 16, the Clinton American Legion Post 66 and the Clinton VFW All-American Post #9918 are hosting an open house for local veterans from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Hall at 82 West Main Street in Clinton to assist veterans with any questions they have about the services available to them.

“Basically, it gives veterans a chance to have any questions they have answered,” said American Legion Post 66 Commander Bill Belcher. “Primarily, they ask about what benefits they’re eligible for they don’t know about. A lot have to do with medical issues.”

The organizers have assembled representatives from the New Haven Vet Center, National Center for PTSD, Pay4ward.org, The Clinton Assessors Office, the VFW, and the American Legion family of organizations. Refreshments will be served.

Belcher said this will be the fourth year for the outreach effort.

“It’s been pretty successful,” said Belcher, who noted that typically about 30 veterans attend, though he hopes more can make it on Nov. 16. “We’re trying to spread the word as much as possible.”

While veterans of service from all eras often attend to find answers about financial and medical issues, Belcher said that in particular, Vietnam War veterans have had a hard time finding out about various services they’re eligible for, as they were ostracized upon returning home from the war.

“They were never appreciated,” Belcher said.

Belcher said that one reason to hold the event is simply to “thank vets for serving their country. That’s what we’re here for.” Belcher also said the event is a good chance to remind the veterans what the VFW and American Legion do.

For more information, visit the Clinton American Legion Post 66 and the Clinton VFW All-American Post #9918 on Facebook or call Post 66 at 860-669-8866 Post #9918 at 475-329-1169.