Lincoln County area veterans now have more choices for medical appointments.

The local U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs office transports patients to the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane for medical appointments and recently began making trips to Kalispell.

Disabled American Veterans operates a fleet of vehicles that provides free transportation to VA medical facilities for injured and ill vets.

Local volunteer Roger Diller said trips are made from Libby and Troy to Spokane Monday through Thursday and to Kalispell Monday through Friday.

“It’s something we’ve hoped would be available for some time and now that it is, we’re glad to offer the service,” Diller said.

Rides are not available for non-ambulatory patients.

To make arrangements for a ride, call the Volunteer Transportation Network between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 509-434-7019 or send an email to [email protected].

To make arrangements for rides to VA clinics and Fort Harrison, call 406-242-0217.

Seating is limited and is first come, first serve.

Also, veterans looking forward to the annual Libby StandDown can mark it on their calendars. It will be held the weekend of Oct. 4-5 at the Memorial Events Center on Lincoln Boulevard.

It will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Haircuts, surplus military clothing, refreshments, lunch and food boxes will be available.

In addition, several resources will be available, including a service officer for the VA Clinic, physical health provider, mental health provider, employment counseling, veterans service organization and referrals to community resources.

For more information, contact Pamela Koller at 406-756-7304 or 406-270-5613.