Letter to the Editor: Important Information for Troops, Their Families

Dear North Reading Veterans, Troops, Families and Supporters,

On Sunday, May 15, at the Hillview Country Club, the Veterans Department and Veterans Committee will be hosting a Veterans Social. The event will begin with a social hour at 2 p.m., followed by a full dinner buffet accompanied by music for your dining and dancing pleasure. Operation Home Ties, Faces of Remembrance, a 25-foot-long wall, will be on display along with the POW/MIA presentation table.

This event will also be a fundraiser to assist with the upcoming 10th Anniversary of 9/11 – We Will Never Forget at Ipswich River Park, which the Veterans Department, Veterans Committee, and Parks and Recreation Department will host for North Reading and surrounding communities. This event will consist of military support, fire and police, entertainment throughout the day, and guest speakers. There will be concessions to purchase and games for the children to enjoy. This day is about bringing North Reading residents together along with the surrounding communities to remember those who were tragically taken on 9/11.

These funds will also assist with the finalizing the Veterans/Troop sign that is in the process of design. Stay tuned for updates to follow for the purchase of tickets.

ATTENTION: STOP LOSS PAY application submissions have been extended to April 8.

If you involuntarily served beyond your separation or retirement date, you may be eligible for the $500 per month bonus you were extended between Sept. 11, 2001, and Sept. 30, 2009. You have earned this. If you have any questions please contact the Veterans Department at 978-357-5212.

SOLDIERS, MARINES AND FAMILIES – For those who are about to deploy, or those who have recently returned, please contact the Veterans Department. This office is here to assist you and your families during this time, which can be very trying for all involved. This office can guide you with assistance that can be very helpful to you and your families. Please contact this office at 978-357-5212.

Susan Magner

Director of Veterans Services

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Do you have a letter to the editor? E-mail matthew.bashalany@patch.com. Please include your full name along with your submission. All letters should be 300 words or less.