GETTYSBURG, PA - Tim Dolen has just started a six-month assignment as Veteran Outreach Coordinator at Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site. Dolen’s new position is part of his fellowship withThe Mission Continues, a nonprofit that empowers post-9/11 veterans, Guardsmen and Reservists to deploy on new missions in their communities.
U.S. Army veteran, Dolen served five years, active duty, including most of 2009 in Iraq. Originally from Manteca, Ca. he moved to Pottsville, Pa. when he was 15, two months before the September 11 terrorist attacks.
During his fellowship, Dolen plans to work with existing organizations that help veterans currently doing retreats, excursions or day trips for veterans, either in the area or nationally. “I want to draw them here so they can see that Gettysburg would be a great place for veterans dealing with any sort of issues that are war-related," Dolen explained.
“My focus will be to build connections with veterans, hopefully lasting connections, so the park can be a place of healing and rehabilitation for veterans who have physical, or not-physical scars," said Dolen.
Read more about Tim's story in this special article.
The Mission Continues deploys veterans on new missions in their communities, so that their actions will inspire future generations to serve. The Mission Continues fellowships combine volunteer service, professional development and personal growth to deliver a unique impact in the community. The program is supported by the National Park Foundation.
“Veterans helped build Gettysburg National Military Park more than a century ago and we have a very long tradition of military teaching here," said Chuck Hunt, acting superintendent of Gettysburg National Military Park. “The Mission Continues is helping us strengthen our relationships with veterans today and provide inspiration and healing to those who have served."
Gettysburg National Military Park preserves, protects and interprets for this and future generations the resources associated with the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, during the American Civil War, the Soldiers' National Cemetery, and their commemorations. Learn more at www.nps.gov/gett.
Tags: military veterans gettysburg eisenhower us army history civil war educaton
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
