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Sunday, March 21, 2010   38º F

Updated 07/03/2009 05:12 PM

Watertown vet center hits the streets

By: Brian Dwyer

Watertown vet center hits the streets
WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- It's got everything you'd expect from a vet center. Informational booklets and pamphlets, private areas and of course, counselors. But it's also got something else. Tires.

The Watertown vet center has unveiled its mobile unit that's only a few months old.

"It brings the vet center services that we traditionally have out to the veterans instead of them coming to the vet center where, maybe, they don't have a way to get there because they're so far out in remote areas," Readjustment Counselor Michael Walling said.

The RV has a satellite and other communication equipment with cameras that allow for instant access to various benefits and services, as well as doctors from all across the country. Counselors say it's a big help for all sorts of needs.

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"Just kind of dealing with readjustment, reintegration back to home and family, trying to find out about medical services available to them, education services. Just the benefits entitled to them through the V.A," Clinical Social Worker and Counselor Ralph Marcellus added.

The first mission for the RV was in Star Lake a few weeks ago. Approximately 45 vets turned out, many of them getting benefits they hadn't gotten in decades. Veterans say it's just a great idea.

"Especially with this group of warriors coming through because there's a lot of them that are injured, that have survived and really need support," Veteran Counselor Daniel Yates said. "This is the best way to do it."

There are several more stops planned for the RV this summer including one in Plattsburgh, one in Sackets Harbor and one in Boonville. But it is a seasonal RV, meaning once the first snowfall comes, it'll be put away for the winter.

For more information about the vet center's services or upcoming appearance by the mobile unit, you can call the center at 1-866-610-0358.