As a person who navigates two worlds, I have a good idea what it means to dress the part. On the farm, you’ll find me in work boots and blue jeans. When I’m at the Capitol in Jefferson City, I wear a coat and tie. I understand that neither get-up is appropriate in the wrong setting, but both have their place.
When I heard about an upcoming event that will help returning soldiers gear up for a transition to the civilian work world, I immediately understood the value of the effort. On Saturday, Oct. 12, active-duty military members and veterans will have an opportunity to receive a new uniform, free of charge.
Suits for Soldiers provides brand-new donated business suits to military personnel. The donations help soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines make a transition from military life to the civilian world. The new clothes may allow military members to make a good impression when applying for a non-military job, but also could help them dress for any occasion that requires more formal wear. It doesn’t matter whether a suit is needed for work, a wedding or even a funeral, Suits for Soldiers is ready to help veterans look their best.
The event will be held at V.F.W. Post 5923 in Camdenton. The organizers hope as many as 500 current and past military personnel will attend. Attendees can select a brand-new suit from hundreds donated to H.E.R.O.E.S Care, the nationwide sponsor of Suits for Soldiers. Male participants will receive a new suit, along with a shirt and tie, completely free of charge. Female veterans and service women may choose from donated pre-owned women’s suits, or receive a voucher that will allow them to receive a new suit from participating retail shops.
Alterations and suit fitting will be available on-site. Local barbers will provide free haircuts. The USO will serve lunch to all who attend, including family and guests traveling with service members. Representatives from the Veterans Administration will be on hand to explain benefits and services available to veterans and help resolve problems accessing those services.
This is the second year that Suits for Soldiers has come to the Camdenton area. Last year, more than 150 suits were distributed. Similar events have been held in other parts of Missouri and around the nation. Last year, a 92-year-old man rode three city buses and walked six blocks to attend a Suits for Soldiers day in St. Louis. He came to find a suit for his own funeral.
Veterans and servicemen and women interested in participating are asked to pre-register so that volunteers have enough suits available. Registrations will be accepted on the day of the event, however. Participants should bring a copy of their DD Form 214 or a military ID.
The event runs from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Oct. 12 at V.F.W. Post 5923, 65 VFW Road in Camdenton. For more information or to volunteer, call Jeanne Rackers at 573-268-6874.
It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.
