POTSDAM – A group of local veterans and interested civilians have organized a Military and Veterans Appreciation Day and Career Fair Saturday, June 16 in Clarkson University’s Cheel Center.

There will be information and opportunities for military veterans, retirees, wounded warriors, families, and anyone interested in advancing the lives of veterans, military retirees, and their families, especially those in search of employment and educational opportunities.

Information and representatives from veterans services, retiree services, and organizations will be available. The day will also include a community event featuring military vehicles and information sessions.

There will be presenters and organizations with information on VA health benefits, claim benefits representatives, GI Bill benefits and vocational rehabilitation claims, Medicare, TRICARE for active and reserves, CHAMPVA, Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs comprehensive dependent health care program, and behavioral health counseling (PTSD, TBI and depression), and more.

Information on entrepreneurial programs, various small business support agencies, and educational institutions that can help enhance skills will be available.

Vendors will have freebies, handouts and goodies.

The new St. Lawrence County Veterans Cards will be issued, allowing many veterans and family members looking for a veterans picture identification card to take advantage of reduced prices at over 30 merchants who have signed up so far, and that number is expected to go much higher.

Support is coming from New York State Veteran Service Officer Tom Robinson, Saint Lawrence County Veteran Service Officer Michael Boprey, and Clarkson University

An opening ceremony at 9 a.m. will include a color guard, singing of the national anthem, posting of colors, and remarks by Clarkson University President Dr. Tony Collins, civil rights attorney and Purple Heart recipient John Lancaster. Veterans of World War II will be honored.

The event floor is open 9:25 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The organizers are planning to make this an annual event.

More information and advance registration for runners, attendees and vendors is at www.northcountryveterans.com and on their Facebook page. Veterans who register in advance at the web site will be entered in a raffle for a new TV.

Parking will be available in lots 25 and 33 near Cheel Arena.