Student group offers comfort to veterans through camaraderie

Brittany Westerberg

Brittany Westerberg

More than 400 SDSU students are veterans A new club has been started to bring those veterans together.

“We have a bond I think that the military creates,” said Claire Garry, organizer of the club.

Today people have a deep concern for everyone in the military. Even those who do not support the war in Iraq still hold a wide respect for those wearing the uniform. These men and women fight to preserve freedoms and keep people safe in both this country and others. This is why the new Veteran’s Club here on campus has been established.

After experiencing one of the deadliest months since the U.S. involvement in Iraq began, with the number rising to over 100 killed in October, those involved want to openly support and speak up for those in the military.

The Veteran’s Club will be “a link for the returning veterans to the campus and the community,” Garry said. They are there to help military personnel as they return to civilian life and to supply veterans the chance to learn more about military educational benefits and state aid.

“Sometimes it’s hard to adjust from military life to civilian life,” she said.

The Veteran’s Club is to be an active organization, participating in all of the regular events that most clubs here participate in, such as Hobo Days and intramural sports. They also will be take part in habitat for humanity projects and youth mentorship programs, among other things. They also wish to be thoroughly involved in state and federal legislature that effects or pertains to the military.

SDSU has never had an organziation like this, and with two more troops returning home in October, it was a good time to start one, Garry said.

Anyone who is a member of, a veteran of, or has a family member in the military, be it the U.S. Army, Air Force, Marines, National Guard, etc., can participate in this club.

The group had its first meeting on Monday, and will host its next meetings Nov. 20 and Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the VFW.

If you wish to be involved or have any questions about the Veteran’s Club, you can contact Claire Garry at the SDSU Veterans Affairs office at 688-4700 or at [email protected].