JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Hundreds of veterans looking for work headed to a local job fair on Thursday.

The event was held at the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, and more than 200 veterans went through those doors in the first 30 minutes of the job fair.

The U.S. Department of Labor said the unemployment rate for veterans is rising, especially for those between the ages of 20 and 24.

Veterans said the sagging economy isn't helping the situation and they are looking for any opportunity that will get them an interview.

"When I put my uniform on, I get a lot of thank yous, job well-dones and thank you for protecting the country, but when you head home and reality sets in, you're still looking for a job," said William Curry of the Army Reserves.

"I want to work. When you work you contribute to society and your family and to America and when you don't work, someone else is paying for that bill, and I can't do it," said Vietnam veteran Robert Searci.

There are companies that try to hire former military, and recruiters said many veterans have the experience needed for jobs in law enforcement, commercial flying or working on an oil rig.

Organizers of the job fair said at least 20 percent of the veterans who attend events like Thursday's get a second interview or are hired by the companies recruiting.