Support Our Vets In A Visible Way By: Jordan Kelch, Public Relations Proper care for our veterans has been a national talking-point as of late, and for good reason. Who deserves more support, dignity, and respect than those who committed their lives to keeping our country safe? As of 2015, there were close to 19 million veterans living in the United States (the actual number is 18,931,395). Of them, 17,339,174 are male and 1,592,221 are female. According to the Kentucky Department of Veteran Affairs (or KDVA), roughly 331,000 of those veterans reside here in the Commonwealth. Speaking of the KDVA, this agency was created by Governor Paul Patton in 1998, and for the last 19 years, its mission has remained the same – to ensure all of Kentucky’s vets receive the benefits and services for which they are entitled. A variety of programs are also offered through the KDVA, including classes and workshops that detail how to find work, how to file a benefit claim, and how to maintain a residence. The agency also operates three veteran nursing home facilities (one in Wilmore, one in Hazard, and the last in Hanson, KY) and three cemeteries (Hopkinsville, Radcliff and Williamstown, KY). On top of that, there are 17 field offices throughout the state. There is never a bad time to show pride in the men and women who keep this country safe. With that in mind, consider displaying your support in a visible way by ordering the specialty “I Support Veterans” license plate. While giving the everyday civilian the opportunity to celebrate veterans, this plate also assists in funding the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring their good work will be around for years to come. Again, this plate is available to veterans as well as civilians, and proceeds go directly to the KDVA. To order the “I Support Veterans” license plate, visit a county clerk location near you. The plates are available in all counties; the initial cost is $31.00 with an annual renewal fee of $26.00. Any owner of a non- commercial motor vehicle is eligible for purchase. $10.00 of the initial fee and $5.00 of the renewal goes to the KDVA. For more information, visit http://veterans.ky.gov . This plate is available for personalization with an additional $25.00 fee annually; personalization is limited to a maximum of 5 characters. 6