Veterans’ Van provides free transport for eastern Connecticut, Reminder News

Veterans’ Van provides free transport for eastern Connecticut

REMINDER NEWS

BY CAITLIN M. DINEEN
Staff Writer For story ideas contact Caitlin M. Dineen at cdineen@remindernet .com

May 9, 2008

After five months of work on the part of Congressman Joe Courtney and the Veterans’ Advisory Committee (VAC), aided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Disabled American Veterans, driving services have begun for veterans in eastern Connecticut.

The service provides rides to appointments at West Haven or Newington Veterans Affairs medical locations. The van is in operation every day of the week, with local VFW volunteers dedicating time to those who need assistance . The van was purchased after Courtney and the VAC recognized a need for reliable transportation in the district. "People are voting with their feet," said Courtney, adding that the price of gas has been having a negative impact on veterans and other Americans.

Courtney’s field representative for Military and Veteran Affairs, Ed Burke, said the van has only been in operation for a month and a half, but word about the service has circulated quickly. While certain veterans receive mileage reimbursement for medical appointments , the service is free of charge for all who need it. "Transportation has been a constant issue," said Courtney, adding that the VAC has been "very effective addressing high gas prices."

The volume of the van use is "always increasing" said Courtney. He and the VAC are in the process of obtaining a second van to evenly distribute driving services to the northeastern sections of the state.

Volunteer driver Leonard Barry is one of the four drivers who operate the van, four times a week. "It’s been rewarding to help disabled veterans," said Barry. According to Barry, the program started off slowly, but has grown into a successful and busy service.

Commander of VFW Post 10004 in Jewett City, Raymond Elliot expressed his appreciation for the van and the services it is providing for veterans. "The system is finally turning around to help the veterans," said Elliot. He had been providing rides for fellow veterans, before this transportation service began. Elliot said that he volunteered his time to drive veterans because to him money for gas and a few hours out of his day could make a huge difference for someone who needs help.

Elliot said he believes that the van was provided for the sole purpose of helping local veterans. "We’re doing it for the veterans’ needs," said Elliot, "not for the glory."

For rides to West Haven please call (203) 932-5711 extension 3575 or call (860) 667-6759 for rides to Newington.