PARIS — Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School will once again become the gathering point for area veterans organizations to honor Americans who served their country on Nov. 11.

This year’s ceremony at the high school auditorium is being co-presented with American Legion Post 72’s and VFW Post 9787’s outreach program. The two Paris-based groups are bringing veterans’ support organizations – from community to the federal government – to town to try and inform all veterans of their benefits earned by their military service.

As of Oct. 21, Foster Carroll American Legion Post #72 Commander Sarah Glynn has confirmed that the following agencies, Congressional representatives volunteer groups and other supporters are participating: Veterans Benefits Administration; Veterans Health Administration; Senator Angus King’s office; Senator Susan Collins’ office; Congressman Jared Golden’s office; Veterans Upward Bound; Honor Flight Maine; Quilts of Valor; and Boothbay Vets Trailers.

“We historically have had Veterans Day ceremonies that celebrate and honor veterans,” Glynn told the Advertiser Democrat during an interview last Thursday. “And we would get VIPs, a guest speaker, announce a Veteran of the Year and give speeches. We say, ‘oh veterans, thank you for your service.’ That’s nice, and there is the appreciation in our country, and more now.

“But there are veterans who don’t know how many people are out there working for them.”

The American Legion and VFW began organizing outreach events to coincide with holidays honoring U.S. military men and women a year-and-a-half ago.

Much of Glynn’s work as an attorney involves one-on-one counseling for veterans, navigating lengthy and complicated Veterans Agency applications.

She approaches strangers wearing military insignias to thank them for their service and encourage them to seek their benefits.

By incorporating her efforts with established ceremonies, Glynn is able to reach (1) more people and expand the number of first contacts with veterans who have never utilized the services available to them; (2) inform veterans already receiving about updated laws and programs they may have not heard about yet.

The exposure area to agent orange during the Vietnam War has been expanded to Navy ships in waters around the area. More recently services have been initiated for veterans exposed to burn pits in Afghanistan.

“We want our veterans to know about federal programs and disability benefits,” Glynn said. “Health care benefits. What your congressional representatives can do for you. How veterans can get help easing into college after service. Assimilate into civilian life. And more.”