Thursday, January 6, 2011

Wisconsin’s Annual State Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day Ceremony to be held January 14

 
(MADISON – WDVA Press Release) - The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) will host a Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day ceremony, in the Richard H. Zeitlin Education Center of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, on Friday, January 14, 2011 at 11:00 a.m.  The ceremony is being held in advance of the actual date of the observance, due to a state holiday falling on January 17.

WDVA Secretary Ken Black and Gulf War veteran Cpt. Angela Joseph-Gaffke of the Wisconsin Army National Guard will provide remarks.  WDVA Deputy Secretary Donna Williams will read a Governor’s Proclamation signed by Governor Scott Walker declaring January 17, 2011 as Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day in Wisconsin. 

2005 Wisconsin Act 37 was created designating each January 17th as Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day in the state, a day statutorily designated for recognition of those who still suffer from post-deployment health issues. 

Wisconsin was the first state in the nation to designate an annual observance, starting in 2006.

Those attending the ceremony will include members of the Wisconsin Board of Veterans Affairs, members of Wisconsin veterans service organizations, and Gulf War veterans.

Legislators, veterans and the public are invited to attend.  The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs is located at 30 W. Mifflin St. in Madison, Wis., across the street from the State Capitol.

Media are invited to attend, as there will be opportunities for photos and interviews.  In addition, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum is opening a photography exhibit on January 14 that chronicles the Gulf War.  For further information about Gulf War Illnesses, as well as WDVA programs and activities, go to www.WisVets.com/GulfWar or call toll-free at 1-800-WIS-VETS (947-8387).

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