Virginia College/Huntsville Cosmetology Students Support Veterans with Third Annual Operation Stand Down
Tuesday, November 17, 2009

In times of war, exhausted combat units requiring time to rest and recover were removed from the battlefields to a place of relative security and safety in what was termed "stand down." At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment.

Today, stand down refers to a grassroots, community-based intervention program designed to help the nation's estimated 260,000 homeless veterans "combat" life on the streets. Homeless veterans are brought together in a single location for one to three days and are provided access to the community resources needed to begin addressing their individual problems and rebuilding their lives." http://operationstanddownhuntsville.org/

The local third annual Operation Stand Down took place November 13-15 at Joe Davis Stadium in Huntsville, Alabama. Virginia College Pivot Point cosmetology students were there giving haircuts. Many of the veterans shared stories and advice with the student volunteers, all of whom were encouraging and attentive to these men who served our country. Pictured are just some of the many students that participated. Students were there all three days of the event.

The school has long been supportive of veterans. The first Student Veterans Association Chapter was started at Virginia College in Huntsville.

 

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