Stand Down 2012 assists veterans today

Rocky Hill - The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs in Rocky Hill is expecting more than 1,000 homeless and needy veterans to attend Stand Down 2012 today.

More than 70 federal and state agencies, as well as local businesses and corporations, will provide free services, assistance and information on topics such as employment, health care, social services and legal services.

Stand Down will be held today at the State Veterans Home Campus, 287 West St., 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This will be the 20th year the state has sponsored Stand Down for its veterans in need. State officials, including the governor, are expected to attend.

Pre-registration is not required. Free transportation for veterans is available from pick-up locations around the state, including in New London and Norwich.

For more information and transportation inquiries, call (860) 616-3802 or visit www.ct.gov/ctva.

- Jennifer McDermott