More than 40 exhibitors took part in the Chaves County Veterans Symposium on Thursday at the New Mexico National Guard Armory, located off of West Earl Cummings Boulevard. The symposium was billed as a collaboration between state, local and federal veterans organizations.
Several rows of exhibitor tables were lined up around a hall at the armory, offering everything from information about services specifically for veterans, including dental care, hospice and funeral services.
Visitors to the symposium were able to browse the exhibits and collect an array of promotional materials and informational brochures, as well as partake of free donuts and other goodies.
New Mexico National Guard Maj. Anthony Kessel said it is natural for the National Guard to host such an event and support local veterans, their families and the community.
“A lot of civilians say, ‘Thanks for your service,'” he said. “This is tangible action, not just saying words, but doing things.”
Danielle Thompson, the Roswell Veterans Services officer for the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (DVS), credited the Chaves County Veterans Symposium steering committee for making the event a success.
“Without them, this would not be possible,” she said.
Thompson said that the symposium was about getting the word out to veterans about available services.
“We are bringing them all together and letting veterans know about state benefits,” she said.
Among the exhibitors, staff from the DVS were on hand to assist veterans in preparing forms for tax exemptions and waivers.
Sabrina Lepkofker, who was seated at the Department of Veterans Affairs table along with Registered Nurse Aurora Seidel, said they are a part of the New Mexico VA Medical Center clinic in Artesia.
Lepkofker, a licensed social worker and case manager, said that even though the clinic is located in Artesia, most of her…
Read the full article here
