On Friday evening, Governor Jim Pillen and the Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs (NDVA) hosted Nebraska’s Welcome Home Dinner for Nebraska’s newest veterans and their families. Service members who discharged from the military over the past 24 months, as well as their families, were invited for dinner, games, and special recognition. Around 65 people attended the event, which started in 2016 and is sponsored by Walmart.
“Everywhere I go, I’m reminded that the best thing about Nebraska is the people, and this event is our chance to showcase that to our state’s newest veterans and their families,” said Gov. Pillen. “These heroes are exactly who we want to join the ranks of the great people of Nebraska, and it’s an honor to host them each year to thank them for their service and welcome them to the Good Life.”
Exhibitors from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), state of Nebraska agencies, veterans service organizations, and other veterans support groups and non-profits were on hand to share resources, promote benefits and services, and showcase employment opportunities with attendees.
“When you discharge from military service, you should be welcomed with open arms by a grateful community ready to share everything it has to offer you and your family,” said NDVA Director John Hilgert. “The Welcome Home Dinner is a way for us to connect with our newest veterans and make it clear that not only does Nebraska care, but it has a wealth of opportunities for them, from our great communities, abundance of opportunities, and everything in between.”
NDVA’s mission is to honor Nebraska veterans and their families by providing excellent service, assistance, and care. Its state service office helps veterans identify and access federal benefits, such as disability compensation and healthcare through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and state benefits, such as Nebraska Veterans Aid, tuition waivers, and more. Its four state veterans’ homes offer high quality assisted living and skilled nursing care to veterans and eligible family members across the state. And its cemetery system ensures eligible veterans receive an honorable final resting place maintained to the highest national standards. To learn more about NDVA and how it serves Nebraska’s veterans and their families, please visit veterans.nebraska.gov.
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