Burlington County Freeholders to recognize military veterans

Burlington County Freeholder director Bruce Garganio announced that 50 military veterans will participate in the Burlington County Military Service Medal Ceremony on Friday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at Burlington County College, Laurel Hall, Mt. Laurel Campus.

“This is an important event that recognizes county residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and have not yet received their county medal,” Garganio said. “Approximately 10,000 County Service Medals have been awarded since the program began in 2002, but we continue to identify and reach out to those who have not been honored.”

“The ceremonies in and of themselves are emotional, uplifting events,” Garganio continued. “But the medals program also enables us to better identify veterans in the county, and make sure they have information regarding benefits and programs to which they may be entitled.”

“With thousands of Veteran Administration programs and benefits available to veterans, the Division of Military and Veterans’ Services aids residents in acquiring assistance and benefits such as pensions, education, job search support, unemployment, Dependent Indemnity Compensation, VA Health Care, VA Home Loans, vocational rehabilitation, and disability compensation and survivor benefits,” Garganio said.

“Our folks have helped county veterans and their families secure more than $18 million in new disability claims this year alone, and we average about $171 million in benefits county-wide annually,” Garganio said. “The number of claims we process for veterans is a true indication that this program has been successful.’’

Requirements for receiving a medal are current residency in the county and having been honorably discharged from U.S. military service. Veterans must register and be approved to receive a medal through the County Department of Military and Veterans Services. For more information, please call (609) 265–5008.