On the last day, all of the Veterans gathered in a circle.
The Ventura County Homeless Veterans Stand Down was held on July 28th.
Approximately 200 homeless Veterans were bused into the Ventura National Guard Armory. The Sea Bees from Camp Point Hueneme set up tents for them to sleep. They were not only provided three meals a day, a place to sleep, and showers but also received haircuts, dentistry care, medical attention and legal help was available. It was truly a remarkable weekend for the Veterans and all those who assisted in the event.
On the last day, all of the Veterans gathered in a circle, holding hands and arms stretched high with the flags of all the branches of service flying next to the greatest, most beautiful flag of all; the American Flag. With its beautiful red, white and blue stars and stripes gently waving in the breeze above them; as if to bless each and every Veteran for fighting for our freedom and giving so much of themselves. The Lee Greenwood song, ‘Proud To Be An American’ played loudly for all to hear.
The Elks mission, “So long as there are Veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them”. The Elks Lodges of Ventura County; Simi Valley #2492, Thousand Oaks #2477, Ventura #1430 and Oxnard #1433; purchased and prepared a box lunch for each Veteran to take home. The boxes were insulated to keep water, sodas, sandwiches and fruit cold. They were also presented with back packs, duffle bags, blankets and medical supplies.
And Elks don’t stop there. They take pride in hosting events in their honor. All states have different programs. They visit them in hospitals and remember them at the holidays. If you are interested in helping Veterans or being a part of your community programs, please call your local Elks Lodge.
