Marines honored at Veteran’s Expo

Indio, Ca -- Two Combat Center Marines were honored during the 6th Annual Veteran’s Expo at the Riverside County Fairgrounds in Indio, Calif., April 2, 2016.

“The Veteran’s Expo is a collaboration of many organizations that come together to provide exposure for a lot of the services that benefit our service members and veterans,” said Sean Kelsey, officer in charge, Coachella Valley Salvation Army.

This year, Cpl. Stephen Garces, noncommissioned officer in charge of drafting and surveying, Marine Wing Support Squadron 374, and Lance Cpl. Andrew J. Conkey, mortarman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, were selected to receive honors at the event.

“It’s great being honored by the community as well as having the opportunity to represent the base and the Marine Corps,” Garces said. “Just being out here and showing our presence is important. It’s a fantastic opportunity to share stories with veterans.”

More than 70 organizations attended the expo to provide information on services for veterans including education, housing, medical and legal assistance all in one place.

“There are a lot of organizations involved and we wouldn’t be able to hold the event without all the support,” Kelsey said. “The Salvation Army has been serving our military since WWI and will continue to serve around the world for many years to come.”