New Jersey Governor Chris Christie congratulates Stand Down of South Jersey, Inc., member Jim Maher during the 2017 New Jersey National Guard Military Review at the National Guard training Center, Sea Girt, N.J., Oct. 1, 2017. The Military Review is a long-standing tradition that allows the governor – the commander-in-chief of the state militia – the opportunity to review the Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard. (New Jersey National Guard photo by Mark C. Olsen/Released)

On October 1, 2017 Stand Down of South Jersey was presented with the State of New Jersey Meritorious Service Medal. The presentation was made by Adjutant General, Brigadier General Michael Cunniff, and Governor Chris Christie at the annual Governor’s Military Review and Awards ceremony at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ. The award recognizes Stand Down’s years of service to the area homeless and at-risk Veterans.

This years Stand Down provided service to 171 homeless and at-risk Veterans. Among them were 4 who needed and received urgent medical attention. One volunteer also required and received care for an urgent medical issue. One Veteran was evacuated by ambulance.

A Podiatrist, a Psychiatrist, and Optometrist and a Dentist provided care in their specialties.

Each Veteran could select from purchased winter coats, boots and hooded sweatshirts as well as surplus military gear. Gently used clothing was also available. Stand Down purchased and distributed winter coats, winter vests, blue jeans, hooded sweatshirts, and new boots. Socks and regular and thermal underwear were also distributed. A meal of spare ribs, hot dogs, hamburgers, salads and fruit was also provided.