The White House Office of the Press Secretary ----------------------------------------------------------------- For Immediate Release July 26, 1993 Contact: Lori Abrahms 456-7487 White House and Veterans Work Together For Mutual Gain As thousands of pieces of mail arrive at the White House daily, the Presidential Inquiries Branch found a way not only to be more responsive to the American people, but to allow a distinguished group of our nation's veterans to continue serving their country. The U.S. Soldiers' and Airmen's Home (USSAH), in Northwest D.C., houses nearly 2,000 veterans from every state in the union. Ninety-two percent served 20 or more years in the military, and fought in every war from World War I to Vietnam. USSAH got started in the White House mail business last January. Members traveled to the Old Executive Office Building each Thursday to help process White House mail. For many it was an opportunity to continue serving their Commander in Chief, long after their years of military service had ended. Unfortunately, many members were not physically capable of traveling into town, or working a full day. USSAH asked if there was any way that mail could be brought to the Home, where many members could contribute, and at the same time, benefit from helping out. Sitting on 320 acres of fenced and guarded land, the Soldiers' and Airmen's Home provided a secure environment. Furthermore, nearly all the members had clearances during their time in the service, and the Home's facilities provided ample work space. After careful consideration, it was determined everyone could benefit from a program at the Home. Today, nearly 100 veterans volunteer more than 300 hours each week. Some have suffered strokes and are partially paralyzed, others arrive in wheelchairs, and still others come physically active and ready to contribute any way they can. They address envelopes, stuff school packets, open and group thousands of pieces of mail, not including work done at the Old Executive Office Building. Most importantly, those volunteering feel a sense of pride that they can still contribute. Volunteering time and effort for the President is a natural progression for people who have spent their lives dedicated to serving our nation. Rarely has a program worked so well, to help so many. ###