PALM HARBOR, Fla.  (20 August)  – U.S. Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District including portions of Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, will be hosting his 3rd Annual Military Day & Veterans' Resource Fair on Saturday, August 29, 2009.

The event will be held at East Lake High School , 1300 Silver Eagle Drive, Tarpon Springs, Fla., from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

All veterans (past, present and future), their families and friends are welcome to attend this event. Longtime veterans advocate and entertainer, Tony Orlando will join military and veterans officials who will be on hand to discuss a myriad of services, benefits and information for veterans and their families. Some informational topics include medical/dental care, veterans' claims and services, education benefits, job placement/employment services, housing and social services. The fair will also feature a special welcome home for Vietnam Veterans.

"My office provides many important services for all veterans and their families in the Ninth Congressional District," said Bilirakis, who sits on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. "Whether it is providing assistance with VA claims or working with federal agencies to solve complex issues, my office is here to help."

Florida currently has the second largest population of veterans, and the highest percentage of totally disabled veterans, in the United States.  With almost 1.8 million veterans now calling Florida home, many bay area residents either have a family member who has served or is currently serving in the Armed Forces.

This event is open to the media.  Photo opportunities include military hardware on display, paratroopers, a military fly-over, drill team, and color and honor guard presentations. All media inquiries should be directed to David Peluso at (202) 225-5755. For event information or directions, please contact Congressman Bilirakis’s Palm Harbor office at (727) 773-2871.