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• OPERATION STAND DOWN NASHVILLE, INC

It's difficult to find words that would truly reflect the impact that OSDN has had on the Volunteers and the witnessing of lives changed by the Veterans who came to the annual event. I Volunteered as a Nurse for OSDN last year and it was an experience I will not forget. To be in the presence of so many Veterans was an honor. Col. Bill Burleigh is a man of excellent character and he has accomplished what some may think impossible. He and his crew are dedicated to helping Veterans and deserve the highest level of respect. I remember one gentleman standing in the hallway saying in the hallway "Thank you...I don't believe this, thank you." he wasn't talking to anyone in particular but you could tell he received something that took years of hardship off his face. I'm ready to do this anytime when called upon and remain a supporter of this organization's honorable work.

I was first referred to Operation Stand Down by my V.A. Rep. in Lawrenceburg,TN after my business was wiped out by 911 and I found myself back in the job market after over thirty years of business; much had changed and I had to return to school to catch up on technology. After thirty credit hours, I qualified for a co-op education program, which gave school credits for returning to work, I had been unempoloyed for two years and I had no income. I had to relocate to Nashville about 100 miles away. I called and spoke with a OSD counsoler and he called back in two days and said that he had located a place for me to stay, that would give me time to find work, and get my school grant. When I arrived, OSD helped me find employment, and when I qualified for a State Internship, OSD was my third reference. When the engine in my car blew, driving to school, OSD helped me with bus passes for work and school all the way through my last simester. Now, due to all the assistance that I received from OSD, I have a degree in Computer Technology Management, with a minor in Business Adminstration and have several honors and awards as well as job referrences from the State Senate and House of Representatives and am a proud volunteer for Operation Stand Down. Sincerely, Garry L. Thomas

I have an indirect link to a story about this group. I was the Patroit Guard Riders ride captain for a Vietnam Vet's funeral in Jackson TN. One of their clients was our honoree that day. Michael had been homeless for many years. months prior to his death, he had been working with OSDN and had found employnment a home and more important, reconciled with his family. Had it not been for Operation Stand Down NASHVILLE- Michael most likely would have spent his last days in a vacant lot tent city too weak to fend off the predatory efforts of others. Instead, he was in a hospital and the woman who loved him at his side. His family felt like things had turned for him and he had made ammends never knowing he was going to be sick and die when he did. Michael is not the only story of success, but the only one I have first hand knowledge of. I am proud to be PGR and that PGR has partnered with this organization on a state wide level. I wish we could get one started here in Jackson TN and Memphis regions! I would surely take an active role!

Operation Stand Down Nashville's annual weekend event helps homeless veteran secure full time permenent employment, solve legal issues, connect with the VA, provide mail box address, and work with substance abuse issues for hundreds of veterans who are homeless. The Stand Down event is a one time assist to these veterans each year, however they assist veterans in all of these same areas all year. They have an outstanding success rate in moving veterans off the street and to become a productive citizen again.

I had an opportunity to talk and visit with a great deal of Veterans and was able to help a few I believe this program is an excellent way of helping those who served our country in the military I feel that this program needs to reach other parts of the State of Tennessee and not Nashville area