The Veterans Resource Center held its official opening that drew over 50 people, including Rep. Julia Brownley, D-Calif., on Oct. 14.

The VRC helps veterans readjust from military life to civilian life, and provides them a place to study, do homework and interact with other veterans.

The opening started with Dean Emanuel Gebru and Sgt. Robert Felix, who gave thanks and talked about what it meant to them personally.

“Our veterans have combat related issues from traumatic brain injuries to PTSD,” Felix said. “They have readjustment issues, which then could affect their education and their ability to learn and succeed in college, so this resource center will allow them to slowly readjust back into the community.”

The event started off with the Navy Color Guard, who presented the American flag during their march and then followed with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Congresswoman Brownley said that this event was a significant occasion for Ventura County because there isn’t enough preparation for veterans to return to civilian life.

“The veteran center helps make that possible,” said Brownley.

Assemblywoman Jacqui Irwin also spoke and presented College President Luis P. Sanchez with a unique American flag.

“Thank you for making this a reality,” said Irwin.

Edgar Garcia, a student veteran who attended, was glad to see the center up and running.

“I’m very grateful to be a Moorpark [College] student,” Garcia said. “I appreciate everything you guys do.”

Once the ribbon was cut, everyone was allowed to come inside of the resource center and take a look at the refurbished building. Food and drinks were offered to those who wanted it and many others took a tour around the center.

The computer room was located to the right of the entrance and the room to left of it had couches and tables for those who wish to use them.

Veterans looking for more information can visit the center, located in the Student Services Annex near the bookstore.