ROANOKE, Va. – For some veterans, making the transition from active duty to the civilian workforce can pose challenges, but numerous companies in Southwest Virginia are working to make the transition easier. This year, it was given the Virginia Values Veterans Award at the Virginia Veterans and Military Affairs Conference. To help with that, Carilion has several programs to support its workforce and build community. “It’s a group that lets our veteran population come together for comradery, support and lets them make connections with the veteran group within our organization. He works full-time, while also attending Radford University Carilion full-time, working toward a nursing degree.
ROANOKE, Va. – Women can now serve in every brand of the military, but that wasn’t always the case. 10 News sat down with the first woman from Roanoke who signed up to serve in the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service. She was 18-years-old and unsure about what she wanted to do after graduating from Jefferson High School in Roanoke. “During World War II, my mother’s cousin came to visit us and she was in the Army and I thought ‘That uniform really looks nice,'" Ridenhour recalls. Regarding her time in the Navy, Ridenhour said she didn’t think too much about it when she first joined, but that soon changed.
Marley Campos enlisted in the Marine Corps and was sent right to a war zone in Iraq. Victor’s service started with the Marine Corps in 1976 and then continued with the National Guard in 1998. Even after her service in the Marine Corps, Marley continued honoring her father. (Marley Campos)“Something to give someone that no one else could do for them, probably ever,” explained Marley. “It just makes me feel proud,” explained Marley.
PULASKI, Va. – A Pulaski County confectionary delivered free sweet treats to servicemembers on Veterans Day. Robin Burdette’s business, Blue Ridge Fudge Lady, handed out fudge to more than 75 veterans this year. I’m grateful.”Burdette received help from dozens of volunteer delivery people in Pulaski County, including Sheriff Mike Worrell and Commonwealth’s Attorney Justin Griffith. “Having the opportunity to go out, talk to our veterans, and show our appreciation, it’s just an awesome experience," said Worrell. “People here are actually taking that next step to actually show veterans support and do something to help them," Griffith said.
LYNCHBURG, Va. – Lynchburg is home to one of the longest-running veterans' traditions in the United States. Veterans have gathered for the Monument Terrace Troop Rally every Friday since 9/11. “We’re with different organizations and have experienced different combat situations," said Daniel Valerio, a 91-year-old Marine veteran who comes to the Troop Rally every Friday. Now, Lynchburg is veteran-friendly.”The Troop Rally is closing in on 1,000 straight weeks. Stokes said the veterans will occupy Monument Terrace every Friday until troops return home from the Middle East.
For one New River Valley family, that became a reality when six brothers fought during World War II or the Korean War. Named after their small neighborhood in Giles County, today the brothers are still known as the Maybrook Men. The war took these then small town Giles County boys all over the world. The only two brothers still living are John Atkins, 96, of Christiansburg, and June Atkins, 100, of Maybrook. Full Screen 1 / 7 Meet the six Giles County brothers -- Harry, June, John, Curtis, David and Billy -- known as the Maybrook Men.
At 10 News, we want to do our part in helping our local veterans gather resources. Below are resources ranging from mental health resources to support groups for America’s veterans:Mental Health ResourcesWe acknowledge that our veterans go through the ultimate sacrifice for America and with that comes some hardships. Here are some mental health clinics, contact information and other resources for those in need of professional help. Support GroupsThese organizations have support groups for veterans searching for people to talk to that can relate to previous experiences. New River Valley National Alliance in Mental Illness: They have locations in Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Floyd County, Giles County, Montgomery County, Pulaski County and Radford.
Many businesses and companies even offer veterans and active-duty military members freebies or discounts as a way to say thank you. Also, most of these places typically require proof of military service in order to cash in on the deal or handout. Starbucks: All veterans, active service members and their spouses will receive a free tall hot brewed coffee at participating stores. Texas Roadhouse: The roadhouse is offering free lunch for active members and veterans from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday. This includes veterans, active military members and their families.
MARTINSVILLE, Va. You'll soon be able to pick up a bottle of spirits with a local face on the label. Evan Williams Bourbon is honoring a Martinsville veteran by naming him an American-Made Hero. John JC White received a $5,000 donation to go toward Paws for Purple Hearts, a non-profit of his choice, which trains therapy dogs for injured veterans. We actually work to train the service dogs and get them ready to be placed with an injured veteran and dogs are loving, always glad to see you and theyre not judgmental, said White, U.S. Nave Master-at-Arms (Ret.). More than 360,000 bottles total are available nationwide through July 4.
