In just its first few months, the Veterans Coalition of San
Benito County Web site has been a big success.
Persian Gulf War veteran Richard Herrera Jr., who started
working on the Web site in May, said it has information as well as
other resources for veterans in the county.
By ANDREW BOLLINGER
Free Lance Intern
In just its first few months, the Veterans Coalition of San Benito County Web site has been a big success.
Persian Gulf War veteran Richard Herrera Jr., who started working on the Web site in May, said it has information as well as other resources for veterans in the county.
“It provides updated information,” Herrera said. “Right now you can apply online for the Veterans Day Parade, check out sponsors and history.”
Veterans will also be able to submit their profiles by visiting the site, he said.
The site highlights the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hollister Post 9242, the American Legion San Benito Post 69, the Annual Hollister Veterans Day Parade and the San Juan Bautista VFW Post 6359, according to Herrera.
The Web site, which officially launched May 15, is used primarily to distribute news to veterans. Events and information are regularly posted, Herrera said.
Veterans who don’t use the Internet are able to keep current on the post’s activities by contacting the veteran service officer in town, Herrera said.
Herrera said he did take a look at some other veteran Web sites throughout the state to get some ideas for the design, but for the most part, this site is original.
“We have our own design,” he said. “We also have the logos of the VFW, American Legion and the Hollister Veterans Day Parade.”
Along with viewing information, visitors to the site (www.sbcveterans.org) can also buy a bobblehead for $10 to help support overseas troops.
Bobbleheads featuring the armed forces – Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines – and also the special forces – Army Rangers, Navy Seals, Marine Green Berets and Air Force 101 Airborne – are available.
Herrera has been pleased with the response he has received so far and encourages site visitors to continue to provide feedback so he can continue to make improvements. The Web site is a great place to learn more about the local veterans groups and related community events, he said.
“I’m hoping people will log on,” he said. “I don’t want it to just be there. It’s a good resource.”
