Bismarck and Fargo Military Service Centers to hold open houses

North Dakota National Guard Public Affairs
Courtesy Story

Date: 08.11.2014
Posted: 08.11.2014 15:19
News ID: 138996

BISMARCK, N.D. - The North Dakota National Guard's Military Service Centers in Bismarck and Fargo will hold open houses from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14 for the public, veterans, families and current military service members. The events will provide opportunities for visitors to become familiar with programs and services available through the service centers.

An array of resources will be available, including local veteran service officers, a Vet Center mobile unit and representatives from the N.D. Job Service Veterans Program and the TRICARE health program. Military families and service members also can receive free credit reports, have access to receive military identification cards and free school supplies for military children. Lunch will be provided for visitors between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The Military Service Center concept in North Dakota was launched in January 2009 in Bismarck. The center's success prompted a second center to open in Fargo, which are staffed by military and civilian employees of the North Dakota National Guard. Last year, more than 5,500 visitors accessed resources and services through the two Military Service Centers and thousands of others military members and veterans were assisted during events and activities provided by the centers' staff.

Military Service Centers provide Military Outreach Services to connect veterans with resources and benefits and information about TRICARE health insurance, life insurance, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve and military records requests.

Additional services that can be accessed through the Military Service Centers include a military family life counselor, a personal financial counselor, Military OneSource assistance, transition assistance, the help of licensed social workers and chaplains and members trained in assisting with sexual assault response and suicide prevention.

Who: North Dakota National Guard's Military Service Centers

What: Open House Events

When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday Aug. 14

Where: Bismarck Military Service Center at 1850 E. Bismarck Expressway Fargo Military Service Center at 2219 12th St N. Suite B

Media: Media is encouraged to visit between 11 and 1 p.m. If on-site coordination is needed, call Sgt. Janette Pfeifer, in Bismarck, at 701-333-4819 and Sgt. 1st Class Derek Hjelseth, in Fargo, at 701-451-6018.