WTC unveils $820,000 expansion to Veteran Military Center

An $820,000 project expansion to serve veterans at Western Technical College was unveiled Wednesday.

The newly expanded Veteran Military Center serves about 1,000 students a year with ties to the military. They get assistance with grants, job finding resources and more at the center.

WTC student John Stokes said at the ceremony it’s special to him, and referenced his experience of returning home from the Vietnam War.

“I received many negative comments, gestures because of my uniform,” Stokes told the crowd. “This veterans’ center here, this lounge, is my welcome center home.”

Stokes added that he can receive support from the people who understand him best.

“I’m back with my brothers and sisters once again,” he said. “No matter when we served, we’re back together to share our stories and support each other.”

After upgrades, the center is now 1,400 square feet.