The annual Veterans Day Parade in San Marcos is a fantastic way to honor our nation's heroes. It's a community event where veterans, military organizations, and local groups come together to show their appreciation for those who have served.

How to Sign Up: https://sanmarcostx.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=14937#:~:text=We%20are%20looking%20for%20Veteran,youth%20teams%2C%20classic%20vehicles%20and

While specific details might vary year to year, you can typically sign up through the City of San Marcos website or by contacting the local Veterans Affairs office. Look for information about parade registration, deadlines, and any specific requirements for participating.

Observed on October 25th, National Overseas Military Day recognizes the sacrifices made by military personnel deployed overseas. It's a day to express gratitude for their service and to acknowledge the challenges they face while away from home.

"Hope for Hays" is a local initiative aimed at providing support and resources to veterans in the San Marcos area. This organization offers a variety of services, including:

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• Housing assistance: Helping veterans find stable and affordable housing.
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• Job training and placement: Assisting veterans in acquiring job skills and finding employment.
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• Mental health counseling: Providing counseling services to address the unique challenges faced by veterans.
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• Financial assistance: Offering financial support for emergencies and other needs.
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If you're a veteran in the San Marcos area and need assistance, "Hope for Hays" can be a valuable resource.

https://www.hayscountytx.gov/hope-4-hays-county-vets

Guest host Rob Roark welcomes back to the studio Sarah and Luke Chesla, founders of the Full Armor Ranch in Seguin, Texas. They update us on their progress over the past months in providing housing and employment opportunities for veterans and former first responders. They are currently collecting new and gently used shoes through October to raise funds. Shoes can be dropped off at the KZSM Studios.

### **Labor Day Veterans Show Outline**

#### **1. Introduction**

- **Welcome Message:**

- Thank the audience for tuning in.

- Briefly explain the significance of Labor Day and its connection to honoring veterans.

- **Host Introduction:**

- Introduce the hosts and any special guests, such as veterans or representatives from veterans' organizations.

#### **2. History of Labor Day and Veterans**

- **Origins of Labor Day:**

- Overview of Labor Day’s history and its focus on the contributions of workers.

- **Veterans' Contributions to the Workforce:**

- Discuss how veterans have historically contributed to various industries and the workforce.

- Highlight how military skills translate to civilian jobs.

#### **3. Veterans in the Workforce Today**

- **Employment Statistics:**

- Present current statistics on veteran employment and common industries veterans work in.

- **Challenges Faced by Veterans:**

- Discuss challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian employment (e.g., finding a job, adjusting to a different work culture).

- **Success Stories:**

- Share stories of veterans who have successfully transitioned into civilian careers and made significant impacts.

#### **4. Support Programs and Resources**

- **Government and Non-profit Programs:**

- Highlight available programs that support veteran employment (e.g., VA programs, Hire Heroes USA).

- **Training and Education:**

- Discuss educational opportunities and vocational training available to veterans.

- **Entrepreneurship Support:**

- Resources for veterans interested in starting their own businesses.

#### **5. Interviews with Veterans**

- **Guest Veterans:**

- Invite veterans to share their personal stories and experiences transitioning to civilian life and the workforce.

- **Panel Discussion:**

- Hold a panel discussion with veterans of different branches and eras, focusing on their challenges, triumphs, and advice for fellow veterans.

#### **6. Highlighting Veteran-Owned Businesses**

- **Local Business Spotlights:**

- Feature local veteran-owned businesses and their contributions to the community.

- **Interviews with Veteran Entrepreneurs:**

- Interview veteran entrepreneurs to discuss their journey, challenges, and advice.

#### **7. Mental Health and Well-being**

- **Importance of Mental Health:**

- Discuss the importance of mental health for veterans and available support.

- **Programs for Mental Health:**

- Highlight organizations that offer mental health resources specifically for veterans (e.g., PTSD support groups, VA mental health services).

#### **8. Calls to Action**

- **How the Public Can Support Veterans:**

- Encourage viewers to support veteran-owned businesses, volunteer with veterans' organizations, or hire veterans.

- **Veterans Helping Veterans:**

- Promote the idea of veterans supporting one another through mentorship programs and peer support.

#### **9. Closing Remarks**

- **Summary of Key Points:**

- Recap the main topics covered during the show.

- **Thank