Operation Stand Down's Outreach Weekend Set For This Weekend

Operation Stand Down's Outreach Weekend Set For This Weekend

Operation Stand Down Rhode Island will kick off its 22nd annual outreach weekend on September 18 at noon at Diamond Hill State Park. The event will kick off with a ceremony in which Dr. Thomas O'Toole, the national director of the Department of Veterans Affair Homeless PACT, will be honored for the work and leadership he has provided while fighting homelessness among veterans. 

The ceremony will include  the Fallen Man Ceremony by Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Club and an MIA/POW remembrance. The ceremony concludes with comments from Operation Stand Down President and founder Tony DeQuattro along with Federal and State dignitaries. 

As for the rest of the weekend, a military style encampment will be set up at Diamond HIll State Park allowing homeless and at-risk veterans to stay the weekend while getting access to services they need to help get their lives back on track. 

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For the first time ever, this years event will include a job fair for veterans that are looking for full-time work. 

Entertainment will include an Indian PowWow, outdoor movies, karaoke, and a performance by Lt. Gen. Reginald Centraccio's band on Saturday. 

During last year's Stand Down Weekend, 460 veterans attended. 

OSDRI

Operation Stand Down RI was founded 22 years ago by three Vietnam veterans in an effort to end veteran homelessness. OSDRI now houses 63 veterans and their families year round. 

OSDRI operates six housing complexes, including one for female veterans.