Columbus Junior ROTC Cadets Support Veterans at Annual Central Ohio Stand Down
October 21, 2022 -- Fort Hayes Arts and Academic High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadets were honored to assist veterans at the Central Ohio Veterans Stand Down event. The annual event occurred at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and was free to all veterans.
Stand Downs are typically one to three-day events that are part of the Department of Veterans Affairs efforts to provide services to veterans. It is designed to get necessary support and information to veterans ranging from social security benefits to housing.
Junior ROTC cadets participated in the morning flag service ceremony, then focused on helping veterans in wheelchairs. Each cadet accompanied those who served as they moved from station to station. At each station, veterans received free items and services such as clothing, work boots, haircuts, catered lunch, groceries, home essentials, VA medical checks, and other resources.
“Thank you for your service,” Hajaratu Kamara, a 10th grade Fort Hayes Air Force Junior ROTC student, said to a group of veterans as they shook hands after enjoying their lunch together. Beaming with an appreciation for Kamara’s assistance, veterans commented on how wonderful she was throughout their time at the event.
While Kamara conversed with a group of veterans, other cadets throughout the venue aided veterans by carrying bags, pushing wheelchairs, and serving food.
“I come from a family with a military background, and I’m honored to be able to help veterans in any way that I can,” said Cairo Vanterpool, 11th grade Fort Hayes Air Force Junior ROTC student. It was the first year Vanterpool volunteered at the event, an experience that he would gladly participate in again next year.
Central Ohio Veterans Stand Down has been happening since 1995. Its mission is to improve the lives of veterans by connecting them to social services and professional resources for success in their personal and professional lives.
“These community service activities serve to further develop a Cadet's self-confidence, leadership, and self-discipline skills,” said retired Air Force Major Ben Klepek, senior aerospace science instructor of the Fort Hayes Air Force Junior ROTC. “Participating at events as a unit increases morale, esprit de corps (spirit), and helps build a positive attitude through knowledge and adversity. Thus cultivating a culture of ethical behavior, integrity, values and moral leadership.”
The veterans gave us their service, and the cadets were proud to provide them with theirs.
“The cadets look forward to assisting Veterans at next year's Veterans Stand Down Day 2023,” Klepek added.