Message from the Director – October 2018

Fall is officially here, but sadly October 1^st marks a grim anniversary for the U.S., Nevada and the Las Vegas community. Governor Sandoval is asking everyone to wear Vegas Strong shirts on October 1^st to remember and honor those hurt or killed in the mass shooting during a concert on the strip.

The Governor said in a statement, “Our great State has shown the country and indeed the world what Vegas Strong is every day for nearly a year. The events of 1 October affected so many and I think it is only right to show the world again how Vegas Strong Nevada is on the one-year anniversary.”

The Governor’s Office is also reminding anyone who was present during the shooting to apply for the Nevada Crime Victims Program. Even those not physically hurt can participate in the program. The deadline to apply is October 1, 2018. For more information on this program click here: http://voc.nv.gov/VOC/VOC_Home/

As we mark this anniversary, this is a good time to remind anyone who is in crisis or is emotionally struggling to seek help and support.  Resources are available for you. The Veterans Crisis Line is 1-800-273-8255, Press 1, or, visit: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/?banners

Our website at the Nevada Department of Veterans Services is also a place to find all kinds of resources at: www.veterans.nv.gov or go directly to our benefits and services page at: http://www.veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/

This month the Nevada Department of Veterans Services will be hosting a Nevada Veterans Advocate workshop in Elko Nevada on October 20-21. It is a free two-day workshop with a third day, October 23^rd, tailored specifically for Native American Veterans. The event will be held at the Red Lion Inn and Casino, 2065 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801. Register today at: http://bit.ly/2NnXQZ3. Travel scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Call 775-321-4708 or kingm@veterans.nv.gov for more information. ALL TRAVEL REQUESTS MUST BE PRE-APPROVED.

Speaking of upcoming events, the dedication ceremony for the Battle Born Memorial to Nevada’s Fallen Military will be held on November 9, 2018. The reception starts at 9:00 a.m. inside the State Archives and Library Building, 100 North Stewart Street, Carson City. The ceremony will be held just outside at 10:00 a.m. Save your seat by registering here: http://bit.ly/2PUuoKt

On Veterans Day, November 11^th, we will commemorate the100^th Anniversary marking the end to World War 1 at the Nevada State Veterans Home in Boulder City. We have lined up best-selling author and historian, Patrick O’Donnell to attend our event and sign copies of his most recent book, “The Unknowns: The Untold Story of America’s Unknown Soldier and WWI’s Most Decorated Heroes Who Brought Him Home.” The ceremony will start at 1:30. There will be WWI memorabilia, static displays, costumes and more. You can save your seat by registering online: http://bit.ly/2O0pa2p

Finally, we plan to end this year strong with a celebration and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Northern Nevada State Veterans Home in Sparks. This event will be held on December 17, 2018 with tours of the facility beginning at 4:30 p.m. with Governor Sandoval cutting the ribbon in a ceremony starting at 6:00 p.m. Reserve your seat by going here: http://bit.ly/2PtpFzt

As you can see, the next few months are going to be a busy time in the veterans’ community. We will be honoring and serving veterans while reaching some new and very important milestones. Thank you for your continued support.

Respectfully,
Kat Miller