Rep. Chris Smith speaks to the veterans and volunteers at the event.
One of the volunteers who came from Hamilton, NJ to help out at the event, stops to talk to Congressman Smith.
One of the volunteers explains the Operation Gratitude packages given to each wounded warrior.
Cong. Chris Smith takes time to say hello to some K9 service dogs and their handlers.
Congressman Chris Smith joined Troopers Assisting Troops (TAT) during its annual three-day event held in cooperation with Wounded Warriors and K9s for Warriors this weekend, to serve those who have served the nation in war.
The event, marking its 10th year, was held Sept. 15 at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ. TAT is a grassroots nonprofit group of retired and active New Jersey State Troopers and friends providing support to Wounded Warriors who are returning from Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve, with local recreational and rehabilitative programs. TAT first met and formed in early 2009 and soon organized its first New Jersey-based recreational event in Sept., 2009 in Sea Girt.
The weekend allows the Wounded Warriors to spend time at the Jersey Shore with accommodations at the State Police Academy. Vets are given the opportunity to go deep sea fishing and sightseeing and are provided nightly entertainment, BBQs and time to socialize together. Counselors are available to help with questions concerning Veterans Administration compensation, education, and employment.
Smith, a two-time chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee in Washington, is the author of 14 bills enacted into federal law to help veterans with housing, education and other issues. Smith spoke to the veterans, thanking them for their service, and also thanked the organizers and volunteers of the event. WATCH PHOTO SLIDE SHOW ABOVE
