Recently, the Southern California Chinese Flag Team participated in the “Compton Veterans Stand Down” for the tenth consecutive year. Director Shen Lucy said that this event is the most comprehensive veterans support event in the greater Los Angeles area. The team is committed to caring for veterans and enhancing Taiwan-US friendship by providing practical support to help veterans and their families overcome life challenges.
The U.S. government provides military veterans with job benefits and generous treatment, but many veterans still face difficulties in their lives. Shen Lucy explained that some soldiers experience PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues due to war, traumatic events, or immense stress during their service. Although the Veterans Administration (VA) provides mental health services, not all veterans can receive adequate help, leading to physical injuries, chronic illnesses, and war-related trauma. Long waiting times and uneven services at the VA prevent many veterans from receiving timely and effective care.
The requirements in the military differ from those in civilian workplaces, and veterans may need training to readjust and integrate into civilian society after retirement. Many veterans face challenges in finding employment, and some are unable to work full-time due to physical and mental injuries. The close cooperation and shared sense of mission in the military contrast sharply with civilian life after retirement, leading some veterans to feel isolated, especially those lacking strong family or social support. Unemployment and psychological issues may even leave some veterans homeless, with a relatively high proportion of them among the homeless population in the United States, especially during periods of economic instability.
The “Compton Veterans Stand Down” event upholds the principle of “helping others, not charity” and provides comprehensive services such as social, psychological, employment, legal, welfare application, and health support to veterans to help them overcome crisis and rebuild their lives. The event also emphasizes community cohesion to make veterans feel loved and supported, fostering mutual assistance and friendship among them.
The 21st “Stand Down” event, held from September 21 to 23, was coordinated by the Compton Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with the VA healthcare system and the Compton city government. Participants included local organizations such as “Caring for Veterans,” the Employment Development Department (EDD), the American Red Cross, the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, AMVETS, the USS Iowa Veterans, as well as many other government agencies and community organizations providing free services. They offered veterans and their families services such as haircuts, hot showers, clothing, shoes, hygiene kits, and other essential items.
On the opening day (Saturday, September 21), the Chinese Flag Team performed in a parade and assisted in donating clothing, shoes, hygiene products, and more. Shen Lucy said, “In previous years, we would donate blankets, and last year and this year we also contacted Chinese medical charity groups in Southern California to provide eye care consultations for veterans.”
Shen Lucy pointed out that the Chinese Flag Team symbolizes the unity and national pride of Republic of China veterans. By assisting American veterans, they not only showcase the essence of Chinese culture but also demonstrate the goodwill and inclusivity of Taiwan, deepening Taiwan-US friendship to mainstream American society. She hopes that more charitable organizations and individuals will join in assisting and caring for veterans.