Veterans Day Campaign
Dear Legionnaire,
Recently the American Legion Newport Harbor Service Officer met a decorated Navy Corpsman, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. In total, the veteran has four combat deployments. He was referred by a non-profit who helps veterans with employment. The Veteran, who attended the October Coffee Talk, received vital support from the Veteran Emergency Assistance Fund (VEAF) through the American Legion Newport Harbor Post 291.
After experiencing an anxiety attack at work, the Veteran faced a lack of support from his supervisor and was subsequently let go under at-will conditions. This sudden job loss left him feeling isolated and unable to keep up with rent and other essential bills. Thanks to the VEAF, he was able to receive the financial assistance he needed to stabilize his situation and regain a sense of security during a difficult time. The one-time assistance bought him some time as he re-connected with a therapist and a work plan was put together for him with the Service Officer.
The Veteran explained that the day he had an anxiety attack was because of the anniversary of his best friend dying in Afghanistan – a Marine Corps Lance Corporal who was side by side with him before his death. He was so upset at the response of his supervisor that he didn’t have the courage to relay why he struggled that day. As advocates, it’s important to understand that he connected with American Legion Post 291 and was supported financially and emotionally. The connection between the Service Officer and the veteran who reaches out is extremely critical. The VEAF correlates with the mental health side as well. The services provided to this veteran can save a life and Post 291 has accepted that challenge.
Eventually, this veteran was hired with another company and the VEAF was able to relieve the stress, anxiety, and depression while he looked for another job. After he was paid his second paycheck, he donated $300.00 back to the VEAF. Please continue to support our current Veterans Day Memorial Campaign.
VETERAN EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FUND (VEAF) – American Legion 291
We are grateful for your support,
Cory Vigil
U.S. Navy, Operation Iraqi Freedom
The American Legion Post 291 Service Officer
714-643-3854
