TORRINGTON – The Paul A. Johnson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Torrington is expanding its outreach program through Operation: Sling Load, a program designed to meet the immediate needs of veterans in the community.
An anonymous local veteran was the first recipient of $250 to go towards utility bills, groceries or other miscellaneous needs as well as two $125 gift cards, one for Main Street Market and one for Fresh Foods. Along with providing aid to local veterans, VFW member and program founder Matt Berry said the program aims to “support local businesses and keep those funds in our community.”
Berry and the rest of VFW are grateful for the generous donations received thus far to make Operation: Sling Load a success.
Torrington VFW chose the recipient after accepting nominations from the local community. At the December meeting, VFW members voted to gift the support to the beneficiary.
Berry is also looking to expand other veteran outreach programs within Torrington VFW, such as Sweats for Vets, where veterans living in local nursing homes will receive new sweatpants and a sweatshirt. Berry is also looking to arrange an annual fishing trip sponsored by VFW for a different veteran every year.
“Sling load” is a term used in the armed forces to describe flying resources into bases inaccessible through driving. The resources provided are logistical support, in the armed forces meaning it provides supplies and personnel close to or within areas of conflict. The veterans who receive aid from VFW are often in need of supplies close to or within areas of metaphorical armed conflict.
“It’s just like a quick jump start,” Berry said. “If they need something real quick, they can just go and get it done and be gone kind of a deal.”
Berry wants to remind the community VFW is present and active year-round, not just during Veterans Day and other holidays.
“We’re still here,” he said. “We want to do more than just Memorial Day and Veterans Day…We just want to do more than that, and there is more in the community to do than just those events.”
Those looking to contribute to Operation: Sling Load can send donations to VFW Post 2918, Attn: Operation Sling Load, PO Box 158, Torrington, WY 82240.
