Welcome

For non-veterans (and all attendees)

All community members are invited. Only veterans will speak, but non-veterans are encouraged to attend and listen. Throughout the event, you may hear something you agree or disagree with. You may have a question. Or you may want to say encouraging words with the intention to help. However, we ask that you please refrain from responding. We are simply here to listen and learn about what it was like to serve in the wars that this nation has chosen to fight.

Curious about how you can help? Find out more here!

For speakers

Tell us what your service means to you. Please tell us about your own experiences, whatever they may be, rather than speaking broadly about an issue or organization. You’re a member of our community, and it’s your stories, reflections, and insights that we’re anxious to hear. If you’re interested in speaking but aren’t sure what to speak about, click here for some questions that can serve as starting points. Each veteran will be given up to 10 minutes to speak. Veterans who would like to speak can mark that preference when registering. If you’re considering speaking but prefer not to register, we encourage you to attend. After pre-registered speakers go, the host will take speakers from the floor, time permitting. The goal is for every veteran who would like to speak to have a chance to do so. Of course, veterans (and all community members) are also welcome to simply attend and listen.

Thank you

Thank you to the many supporters who help make these events happen. Community partners for the March and April 2023 events include:
Hosts Nic Thornbro and Jon Turner, South Burlington Public Library, Vermont Veterans Outreach Program, South Burlington Vet Center, Saint Michael’s College Military Community Services and Student Veterans Association, Vermont Electric Cooperative Community Fund, Vermont Veterans Outreach Program, Cabot Creamery Co-operative, and individual donors to Vets Town Hall