PLATTSBURGH -- The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 125 will soon transform into a military hub of sorts.

Today, the Boynton Avenue Veterans of Foreign Wars in Plattsburgh will be filled with Vermont Air National Guard members and lined with an array of attractions, including an obstacle course, mini F-16 jet, basketball toss, children's activities, music and food.

"It'll be fun, and hopefully it won't rain," said Larry Wood, a New York-based career adviser and consultant for the Vermont Air National Guard.

Organizers have been planning the event for weeks, hoping it will give them an opportunity to meet area residents and spread awareness about what being in the Air National Guard is like.

Wood said informational pamphlets will be available to help explain the financial and training benefits of being in the Vermont-based unit, 40 percent of which is made up of New York residents.

He said that during the event members can explain how people can get help with higher education through the G.I. Bill and its kicker, scholarships and the student-loan payment program, which provides up to $20,000 in federal loans.

Other benefits to Air National Guard service include cash bonuses and advanced technical training, which Wood said can help members with an array of non-military career paths.

Air Guard Career adviser and consultant Nicola Samoska will be there today, too.

Wood said they are looking forward to helping people learn more about what the Air National Guard offers.

"It'll be nice that more people will know about the Air National Guard and what we're all about."

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