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Congressman Kildee to Host Fifth Annual Veterans and First Responders Recreation Day

August 21, 2021

FLINT—Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05), Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, will host the fifth annual Veterans and First Responders Recreation Day in Linden, Mich. on Saturday, August 28, 2021, from noon – 4 p.m. ET.

Veterans, first responders and their families are invited to join Congressman Dan Kildee for a free day of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fly fishing, spin casting and biking at Linden Mill Pond (Linden Library parking lot—201 Main St., Linden, MI 48451). The event will encourage veterans and first responders to participate in outdoor activities, which can increase function and independence, promote wellness and enhance quality of life. Studies have shown that recreational activity helps reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of PTSD for veterans and first responders. The event is hosted in partnership with State Senator Ken Horn (R-Frankenmuth) and State Representative Mike Mueller (R-Linden).

All skill levels are encouraged to participate. Equipment will be provided on-site, along with lunch for the whole family and a raffle of great prizes, secured by the city of Linden. Resources for veterans and first responders will also be available, including caseworkers from Congressman Kildee's office, veteran service officers and staff from the Genesee County Health Department to offer free COVID-19 vaccines.

"Our veterans and first responders give their all to keep us safe and this is one small way we can thank them for their service to our community," said Congressman Kildee. "Getting outdoors, especially during a pandemic, is a great way to stay active and connected to family, friends and community members. It is an honor to host our veterans, first responders and their families for the fifth Veterans and First Responders Recreation Day."

Congressman Kildee has been a champion for veterans and first responders in Congress. In 2020, Kildee introduced the Care for Veterans Act to ensure that veterans and military families exposed to toxic chemicals at the former Wurtsmith Air Force base in Oscoda, Mich., get the health care services and benefits they need. Congressman Kildee also spearheaded an effort to secure a Department of Defense Inspector General investigation into the military's use of PFAS, which revealed, in July 2021, that the military knowingly dragged its feet on toxic chemical exposure prevention and clean-up. Since 2017, Congressman Kildee has hosted the annual Veterans and First Responders Recreation Day across the Fifth Congressional District, including Genesee, Saginaw and Bay Counties. Find more resources for veterans and military members here.