Operation Stand Down in Nashville
Helps Homeless Veterans

Operation Stand Down's Executive Director Bill Burleigh opens the event with a Color Guard...

...and the Pledge of Allegiance.

From October 31 through November 2, Nashville HUD employees joined forces with many other organizations at Nashville's annual Operation Stand Down (OSDN), a health and wellness fair for homeless veterans.

Stand Downs are one part of the Department of Veterans Affairs' efforts to provide services to homeless veterans, and are typically one- to three-day events featuring health screenings, VA and Social Security benefits counseling, and referrals to other services, such as housing, food, clothing, employment, and substance abuse treatment. More than 30 Stand Downs nationwide are planned this year so far. They are collaborative events, coordinated between local VA offices, other government agencies, and community agencies that serve the homeless. Governor Phil Bredesen recognized this occasion, dedicated to the memory of Bob Hope, for the aid given to those who have served our country in times of crises.

Some 40 vendors and 300 veterans attended this year's event. New vendors representing Nashville's faith-based community were there, including Camp Samaritan, a Veterans Restoration Ministry in Nolensville, Tennessee. So was Nashville Cares, a health-advocate agency promoting education related to sexual health. More employment agencies attended this year than before.

This is the second year for the Nashville HUD Office. Three veterans from HUD were there: Field Office Director Dr. Ed Pringle, Joe Purcell, and William Dirl. The Office's Homeless Coordinator, Terry Livingston, coordinated the event with OSDN. "We wanted to show the Vets we really care, so we planned a special tribute for them," said Livingston. On Friday evening, Clinton Johnson, a member of HUD's Office of Community Planning and Development, played his soulful sax rendition of Amazing Grace and How Great Thou Art. "While the veterans ate their meal, Clinton really exemplified the meaning and reason for the whole event."

OSDN Executive Director Bill Burleigh (Lt. Colonel, US Army, Retired), wholeheartedly thanked the Office for their contributions. In March 2003, OSDN received funding classified as additional 2002 Continuum of Care funds from HUD for an employment counselor position.

Local, state and federal public agencies and non-profits provided assistance to each veteran. The generosity of Nashville is in evidence every year as medical volunteers, food vendors, clothing, products suppliers, and a variety of homeless and supportive service agencies assist OSDN and the veterans. The spirit of friendship and caring helped our veterans to feel "at home" for just a little while.

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