In every election politicians on the local and national levels make it a point to discuss the treatment of veterans. Lawmakers and candidates on both sides of the aisle often highlight the challenges vets face like homelessness, mental illness and substance abuse, and promise to address the problems. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, vets comprise 11% of the total homeless population in the United States. On any given night, there are more than 39,000 veterans who are homeless. Politicians promises aside, The Maryland Center for Veterans Education and Training (MCVET) has been helping veterans in Baltimore for more than 20 years. The program offers former veteran men and women a range of services designed to help them get a job, a home, and stability in all aspects of their lives. Jeffrey Kendrick is the executive director of MCVET. He’s a 20-year veteran of the Air Force. Michael Weis is currently a resident at MCVET. He served in the US Air Force for nearly four years. They join Tom in the studio to discuss the program and its unique approach to helping veterans.
Then Tom talks with Paralympic swimmer and retired US Navy Lieutenant Brad Snyder. Snyder, who lost his eyesight in a bomb blast in Afghanistan, won two gold medals in the London Paralympics, and three gold medals at the Paralympic games in Rio this year. His new book is called Fire in My Eyes: An American Warrior’s Journey from Being Blinded on the Battlefield to Gold Medal Victory. Snyder joins Tom by phone from his home in Baltimore. MCVET will hold a 21 Gun Salute to honor those who contributed significantly to the formation of MCVET tonight Nov. 7 at 1840's Ballroom, 29 South Front St .The event begins at 1800 hrs (6pm). The Baltimore CASH campaign offers free financial coaching for veterans. For more information visit their website or call 443-692-9423
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