Rio Metro Regional Transit District Staff to Help with
Free “Freedom Pass” Rail Runner Passes for Veterans Enrolled in the VA Health Care System

TOMORROW (Saturday, May 19) (10am-2pm)
Albuquerque/Cottonwood Mall (10000 Coors Bypass NW)

(ALBUQUERQUE, NM) – Military service branches, along with federal, state, and local first-responder agencies, will have equipment on display for 2018 Military & First Responders Day tomorrow (Saturday, May 19) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cottonwood Mall in Albuquerque, located at 10000 Coors Bypass NW in the city’s west side.

This free family-friendly event is presented by the New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Cottonwood Mall to provide an opportunity for the public to meet military and first-responder personnel--and learn how they serve and protect the citizens of New Mexico.

Dozens of military and first-responder vehicles, helicopters, boats, and other equipment will be available to climb aboard for a “hands on” look. Uniformed service members, law enforcement and first-responder personnel will also be there to meet and greet attendees.

Additionally, representatives from the Rio Metro Regional Transit District will be there to take photos and help veterans apply for a Freedom Pass—a lifetime pass which gives free rides on the Rail Runner Commuter Train and many connecting bus services to veterans who are enrolled in the VA Health Care System. Veterans must show a VA Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) to prove.

Representatives from DVS and the VA will be there to enroll veterans in the VA Health Care System and to assist with any other VA or state veterans benefits needs.

Additionally, “bounce houses,” food trucks, vendors, and many more activities and displays will be on-site to add to the fun and enjoyment for the whole family.

For more information, contact DVS Outreach Coordinator Joseph Dorn at josephm.dorn@state.nm.us or (505) 383-2414.