Raymond A GERVAIS

1926 - ____

• BIRTH: 1926, Mishawaka, St Joseph, IN

• MARRIAGE: 6 SEP 1952, St Monica, Mishawaka, IN
• DIVORCE: 4 MAR 1977, St Joseph County, IN

1.  Brian Michael GERVAIS

INDEX

[N28826] Michiana Military Stand Down connects veterans to free services

When Raymond A. Gervais returned from World War II, he was greeted with stigma."I asked a girl I went to grade school with, 'Why won't the girls dance with me?' And they said, 'Well, what do you tell them?' I said, 'Well, I just got out of the service. And they said, 'You're all messed up,'" recalled Gervais. On Wednesday, Gervais and countless local veterans were shown overwhelming appreciation at the sixth annual Michiana Military Stand Down. It took place outside the St. Joseph County VA Clinic in Mishawaka. "It's everybody in the community coming together on this one great day and offering services to veterans," said Kent Laudeman, director of the Robert L. Miller Sr. Veteran's Center. Between 60 and 70 agencies and organizations -- such as local colleges, employment agencies and health systems -- set up in the parking lot to offer free services. Veterans received complimentary haircuts, clothing, dog tags, flu shots and food. "We need to be recognized and know that we matter," said Howard King, an Army veteran. "A lot of times we feel forgotten, or the struggle is unreal simply being a veteran." Stephan Morrow, a fellow Army veteran, enjoyed the camaraderie. "I didn’t know there were so many (veterans) around here until you come out here and see all these veterans. That’s a proud feeling," Morrow said. Equally proud is World War II Navy veteran Frank Grabner. "I was so glad I was able to serve this country, because it means everything in the world to me and my family," Grabner said. Army veteran Michael Williams was grateful for the appreciation. "I think it's great, giving back to the veterans," he said. "It’s a blessing." Laudeman, the Stand Down co-chair, said the event began six years ago to help homeless veterans. Since then, it has transformed to help everyone who has served.
SOURCE: https://www.wndu.com/content/news/Michiana-Military-Stand-Down-connects-veterans-to-free-services-494433031.html