Harlingen, TX (KRGV) — Veterans and their families were able to get help filing claims and learn about available benefits during Cameron County's first veterans claims and resources summit at the Harlingen Convention Center.

Veteran Mike Valdez said he was drafted into the Army in 1966 and later served in the Air Force.

“I know part of it, but I want to know the whole thing,” Valdez said.

Valdez came to the summit to learn more about the benefits available to him and his family. He says filing a claim is not simple.

“And if we don't find out, we're not gonna get them,” Valdez said.

Cameron County Precinct 4 Commissioner Gus Ruiz said the summit brings together about 70 vendors and 15 accredited veteran service officers to provide information and help with claims.

“This is a one stop shop for veterans and their dependents where they can get the help that they deserve,” Ruiz said.

The event was open to veterans and families from all over the Rio Grande Valley and held at the Harlingen Convention Center.

“There's a lot of information that us veterans can get that we don't know about,” Valdez said.

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