Military meeting to highlight reservists eligible for same benefits as regular armed forces

Windsor veteran says, 'a veteran is a veteran is a veteran'

Many reservists in Windsor are not aware they're eligible for the same services as members of regular armed forces, according to a Windsor veteran, and he is part of an effort to change that.

Tim Rousseau, a retired Chief Warrant Officer — most recently deployed to Afghanistan — is one of the organizers of a meeting on Thursday that aims to make members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families aware of the resources available to them.

Rousseau has heard from many reservists who are unsure about available benefits, largely because they have never been deployed in a conflict zone.

"It doesn't matter," he told CBC News. "Anyone who signs on the line to serve...may be put in harm's way. You are entitled to (services). A veteran is a veteran is a veteran. Don't be afraid to tap into those resources."

Thursday's briefing in Amherstburg will include information on benefits from departments like veterans affairs, the military family resource centre and other social support programs.

Rousseau wants to make sure all members of the armed forces know what's available to them through the programs.

"There is no difference," he said. "You are (still) serving your country. We're all in the same family."

Meeting details

Where: Royal Canadian Legion, Fort Malden Branch 157, located at 281 Dalhousie St. Amherstburg
When: May 12, 2016
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/windsor-reservists-equal-pay-1.3576044