The annual veterans resource fair hosted by Middletown Elks Lodge took place on Oct. 5, featuring a complimentary breakfast, sponsored haircuts, and a variety of veteran service providers. Teresa Meyer, the veterans committee chair of the local lodge, shared that her late father, a Korean War veteran, inspired her to organize the event in support of local veterans. With the assistance of like-minded organizations and individuals, Meyer was able to make the event a success.
Michelle Vazquez, a hairstylist from Goshen who owns Dazzlers Hair Design in Middletown, participated in the event for the second year, offering free haircuts to over 20 veterans. Vazquez, whose father is a veteran, expressed that honoring veterans through her hairstyling services was a small tribute she could offer.
The event was made possible by sponsors like Hudson Valley Credit Union, volunteers from Middletown and Cornwall Girl Scout troops, and members of the American Legion Post 1181 and the local Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) who performed the color guard procession.
Middletown High School NJROTC Chief Kyle Slingerland emphasized the importance of community service in their program, stating that they always engage in events hosted by community organizations to assist in any way they can.
Various veteran service providers were present, including Orange County Veterans Service Agency Director Christian Farell, who provided information on free food deliveries and transportation services for veterans. Additionally, a representative from a local Vet2Vet program shared details about peer-support opportunities, and owners of a Pine Bush-based nonprofit discussed their healing programs for veterans and first responders.
Dwayne Lallathin, co-owner of Heros, Cowboys, and Companions, highlighted the benefits of their equine program in helping individuals develop relationship skills and reintegrate into society.
U.S. Rep. Patrick Ryan (D-N.Y.) stressed the significance of supporting veterans, mentioning the tangible assistance in housing, clothing, and food, as well as the emotional impact of feeling cared for by the community.
Justine Crowley-Duncan, an upstate Elks association veteran, traveled from Latham, Albany County, to showcase her New York State Fallen Military Memorial honoring soldiers lost in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars post-9/11. Crowley-Duncan emphasized the importance of remembering and honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
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