VA North Texas Health Care System
Welcome Home Celebration Planned for OEF/OIF Veterans
June 11, 2010
DALLAS – Returning service men and women who served in Iraq and Afghanistan are coming home to a hero's welcome, and VA North Texas Health Care System, Dallas Zoo and City of Dallas are joining efforts to provide a day of fun, fellowship and VA benefits information.
The welcome home event is set for Saturday, July 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Dallas Zoo, located at 650 S. RL Thornton, Dallas 75203 with easy access on the DART rail red line. Veterans must present military ID or VA card for free admission, and three family members per Veteran will also be admitted at no cost (children age two and under are free).
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is coordinating welcome home events all across the nation as part of its efforts to reach returning troops as they transition into civilian life in the community and may seek health care services, education benefits, and other VA opportunities they have earned.
As a community-wide effort, local Veterans' Service Organizations, veteran-centered businesses, CBS Radio and AT&T Pioneers have volunteered their time and resources to support the welcome home event at the Dallas Zoo. One of the community leaders is Ken Watterson, Marine Corps League. As a Vietnam Veteran who is active with the VA North Texas Health Care System van transportation program, Watterson realizes the value of events like these which help Veterans access VA care. "It's important to me that these men and women who have served our country are welcomed home with honor from a grateful nation, and I'm glad to do my part," said Watterson.
For more information about the welcome home event, contact Bobbie Scoggins, chief voluntary service, VA North Texas Health Care System, at 214-857-0428.
