South Dakota Veterans Affairs to Host ‘Coffee & Camaraderie’ Outreach Event in Watertown

Join the SDDVA Outreach Series for a Coffee & Camaraderie Gathering on March 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at BG Ernie Edwards Readiness Center, Watertown. Connect with veterans and receive expert advice on healthcare, benefits, and more. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere as we share stories over coffee.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA) has announced it will bring its popular outreach series to Watertown later this month. In a joint effort with the Codington County Veterans Service Office, the department invites local veterans and their families to attend a “Coffee & Camaraderie” gathering on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

The event is the latest installment in the SDDVA’s “What’s Brewing” series, an initiative designed to provide a relaxed, welcoming environment for those who served. Organizers say the goal is to create a space where veterans can connect, share personal stories, and receive up-to-date information on the benefits and services available to them.

The gathering will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (CT) at the BG Ernie Edwars Readiness Center, located at 1951 N. HWY 20 in Watertown.

Expert Assistance on Hand

Attendees will have direct access to experts from the SDDVA team as well as Codington County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) Jay Roberts and Eric Lewis. These representatives will be available to answer questions and provide detailed information on a comprehensive range of topics, including:

·         Healthcare and pension eligibility

·         Disability compensation and education benefits

·         Burial benefits and the State Veterans Cemetery

·         Services at the Michael J. Fitzmaurice State Veterans Home

Connecting the Veteran Community

The SDDVA emphasizes that all veterans and their family members are encouraged to attend the session. “Let’s share a cup and connect—because every veteran’s story matters,” the department stated in its announcement.

For those unable to attend the in-person event, the SDDVA offers assistance via phone at 605-333-6869. Veterans can also locate their specific County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer online at vetaffairs.sd.gov.

For more information regarding the Watertown event, contact DJ Montreal at 605-204-9241 or via email at dj.montreal@state.sd.us.