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Ed McLaughlin, a World War II Veteran and a Vernon Nash Antique Auto Club member, poses for a photo during the Fairbanks Veterans Stand Down event at Pioneer Park Civic Center in Fairbanks, Alaska, August 19, 2023. The Vernon Nash Antique Auto Club of Fairbanks, the northernmost region of the Antique Automobile Club of America, was on site with classic cars on display. McLaughlin spoke as the only World War II Veteran at the Stand Down event. McLaughlin, who is 97 years old, recently finished driving nearly 1,000 miles by himself as part of the car club to and from Dawson City, YT, and Eagle, Alaska. Airmen of the 168th Wing, Alaska Air National Guard, volunteer with community partners to serve other Veterans during the 2023 Veterans Stand Down at Pioneer Park Civic Center in Fairbanks, Alaska. The VA Stand Down provides Veterans with medical care, information on local community services, food, and winter gear. The event brings Veterans and the community together to give back to Veterans while enjoying music, raffles, camaraderie, and receiving services. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey)