The inaugural Emporia State University Student Veteran’s Week kicked off Monday evening with a veteran’s town hall discussion.
Both student and community veterans came together at Albert Taylor Hall to discuss a wide range of topics Monday. The Student Veteran’s Week activities will run through Friday and are separate from the annual Emporia All Veterans Tribute activities.
Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post 1980 Commander and event organizer Mike White explains it was important to separate the two due to their purposes. He says the two are both meant to celebrate the lives and sacrifices of veterans, however, he feels this week’s activities are meant to address darker topics which affect the lives of veterans every day.
Topics discussed during the town hall included benefits available to veterans, how veterans can go about filing claims and also the recent closure of the Emporia VA Clinic. White says the discussion came at the perfect time to ensure all veterans, students and non, are fully informed on their options moving forward.
Local veteran and former Student Veterans Association President Leon Bryson says the town hall also helps to bridge the gap between veterans of all ages and generations.
Bryson adds the event will hopefully help to bring more attention to the Student Veterans Association and the services they offer. Student Veteran’s Week will continue Tuesday with Justin Eggen Warrior Poetry at 7 pm inside Albert Taylor Hall.
For a full list of this week’s activities visit this story at KVOE.com.
