Groups turn out for Veterans' Expo

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI0 - More than 60 vendors gathered at a Terre Haute VFW hall Tuesday to help military veterans find services and jobs.

Organizers said that while there are many jobs and programs available for returning veterans, information about those jobs and programs is often scattered and hard to find. By bringing representatives of companies, agencies and organizations together, organizers hope to solve that problem.

“This event means everything to me,” said Chris Watson, a veteran who attended the Tuesday event. “I am a disabled vet. If it had not been for me coming to this event, I would not be where I am.”

Watson said he is completing a bachelor’s degree through a work study program, a program he first learned about through a similar event.

Some vendors said they have found success hiring veterans.

“They’ve been through basic training … they’ve served our country,” said Sgt. Joe Watts, who represented Indiana State Police at the event. “They’re normally well-educated. They’re usually able to follow orders, procedures, and they’re ready for employment.”