(Justin Willis Reporting)
Fresno leaders took steps on Friday to give back to local military men and women, and put measures in place to help their families.
The Fresno Community Forces Covenant was signed to help veterans, and servicemen and women in areas like employment and finances.
They keep watch over us 24-7 at home and abroad, so it's only right they get the help they need when they come home.
Col. Clay Garrison with the 144th Fighter Wing said, "When we send our soldiers and airmen off to war, they don't always come back ready to integrate."
The Fresno Community Forces Covenant is meant to help with that integration and also offers assistance with mental health and education. "A lot of them are coming back and there are PTSD problems, and some have money problems," said retired Air National Guardsman, John Evans.
For families of veterans and service members, you can find out about financial services from credit unions and banks, and their kids can get help from Big Brothers / Big Sisters, and can even get information about youth camps. "When we go to war, we go to work. Our families stay here and there's a hole in their life and they're having to pick up and fill in where we haven't been," said Col. Garrison.
ParT of the covenant is a pledge to help families when duty calls for mom or dad. It's the least a community can do for those who defend our freedom.
Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin said, "It is up to us as members of the community to rally and be the support for those of you who are our strength."
These resources are available for veterans now. Anyone looking to access them just needs to contact Veterans Affairs, or your local military representative.