Veterans Benefits Information Session Set For March 31

The is hosting its first to help veterans understand the benefits they are entitled to and how to access them. The event will be held 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 31 at the

One of the organizers, Bernie Snyder, a commission member for 30 years and a Vietnam veteran, said they're bringing in speakers who help solve veterans' problems.

"A lot of veterans are coming in asking direction, how to get benefits," said Snyder. "They get out and don't know what they're entitled to."

Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau Director John Dorrity, whom Snyder calls the "guru" of veterans service officers in the state, will provide an overview of the services and programs available in the county and will review the veterans' claims process.

"I want to extend my appreciation to the Lacey Township Veterans Commission for hosting this educational gathering," said Ocean County Freeholder Director Gerry Little, the liaison to the Veterans Services Bureau. "It is so very important to get accurate information to our veterans that will help them and their families access the programs and services that can assist them."

Snyder said while the commission hasn't been very active for the last few years, there's been a need recently for information on veterans' services with an influx of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who may be injured and in need of medical benefits or who want to go to college or find a job.

Valerie Madore, the federal Veterans Administration Employment Coordinator, will present during the program.

"Valerie was the leading job-getter for vets nationwide," said Snyder. "She's like John (Dorrity). We've got the two best people in the country in Ocean County working for us."

Freeholder Director Little, along with Congressman Jon Runyan, a member of various veterans affairs and armed services subcommittees and chairman of the subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, are scheduled to attend the information session. 

The Lacey Township Veterans Commission consists of five members and is an outlet for veterans looking for assistance and guidance in Lacey Township. On the commission are representatives from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the American Legion and the Marine Corps League, according to Snyder.

"We want to reach out to as many veterans as possible to inform them of the benefits they are entitled to," said Lacey Township Deputy Mayor David Most.  "The Commission should be commended for their efforts in helping
our veterans."

All veterans, from World War II-era to present day, are welcome to the symposium. The Lacey Elks Lodge is located at 900 Beach Boulevard in the Forked River section of the township. For more information, call Snyder at 609-276-1775.