---

Dear Editor,
Mark your calendars now so that you don't miss the opportunity to support the veterans 55 and older who will be competing in the National Veterans Golden Age Games June 22-27, 2020 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI. The first games were held in 1985 and for the first time in history they are being held in Wisconsin this year.
As stated by the NVGAG staff, "There was a record number of 1,200 applications from 49 states in the record 2 1/2 hours. The interest in the National Veterans Golden Age Games is well beyond the interest we've had in the past as demonstrated by this year's quick response by many to register immediately."
Because there was a set number of spaces reserved for veterans who obtain their medical care through the VA in Madison, there will be many local area competitors. Come cheer them on or better yet, sign up to volunteer to help make this competition the best one ever!
Per the NVGAG, "Volunteers donating their time and talents are essential to the success of the National Veterans Golden Age Games. Several opportunities will be available to help with everything from sporting events to hospitality services. Events will take place at the Alliant Energy Center and surrounding community venues, to includes the Dane County Regional Airport. Volunteers must be 14 years of age or older, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the volunteer shift.
Volunteer registration for the 2020 NVGAG will be available soon. To be added to our email group to receive updates, please email us at NVGAGVolunteers@va.gov. We look forward to your support of our National's senior Veterans in Madison!"
I would be honored to see some friendly, familiar faces in the crowd as I compete. A large turnout would show the competitors from the other 48 states that we care for and support all veterans. Many of them will be traveling here without someone to support them due to the expense of travel and lodging.
Dawn Kabot, Spring Green, WI
CW2, US Army Retired