A J O U R N A L O F A M E R I C A N S E R V I C E
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"The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war,
no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional
to how they perceive how the veterans of earlier wars were treated and
appreciated by their nation".................George Washington
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Published Editions Daily - Edited Copy - July 1-31,
2008. A Valued Resource. Since 2000 @ www.veteranshour.com
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www.armedforcespress.com
© Protected Copy -- All Rights Reserved. USA, San Antonio, TX. Wash. DC. Freeport,
FL. Rome, NY. West Roxbury, MA. Los Angeles CA. & The Nation.
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THIS WEEK IN NEWS & PHOTOS |
P E N T A G O N & S E R V I C E N E W S B R I E F S
Michael B. Donley, center, with Gen. Norton A. Schwartz (left) and Gen. Duncan J. McNabb, testifies July 22 before the Senate Armed Services Committee during hearings to examine their nominations for three key posts. Mr. Donley is being reviewed for secretary of the Air Force, General Schwartz for chief of staff and General McNabb for commander of U.S. Transportation Command. (U.S. Air Force photo/Scott M. Ash)
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NEW The HBO Documentary Film Series Continues With
The Recruiter, Premiering Monday, July 28th
With no end in sight for the War in Iraq and with deaths and serious injuries continuing to mount among soldiers, Army enlistment is at an all-time low. The death toll keeps rising and recruiters have found their jobs getting increasingly difficult trying to maintain troop levels in Iraq and Afghanistan .
The Recruiter offers a glimpse of the human drama surrounding recruits’ decisions to enlist through its remarkable central character: the charismatic Sergeant First Class Clay Usie, one of the most successful Army recruiters working in America . Working in his town of Houma , LA with the belief that every American should serve their country, Sgt Usie is committed to recruiting new soldiers and has his eyes on Lauren, Matt, Bobby and Chris: four teenagers with different reasons and rationales for joining the army. The Recruiter follows the recruits during their last semesters of high school as Sgt. Usie prepares them for boot camp and guides them as they say good bye to their loved ones, girlfriends and (in one case) a wife—before heading off to basic training where they will hopefully make a successful transition from civilians to soldiers.
Don’t miss The Recruiter as four teenagers embark on the journey of army enlistment and training when the documentary premieres Monday July 28th at 9 PM ET/PT exclusively on HBO.
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NEW HBO AND CORPORATE PARTNERS TEAM UP TO SEND
DONATIONS AND
SUPPORT U.S. TROOPS STATIONED IN AFGHANISTAN AND IRAQ
In honor of the Marines of Generation Kill, and all of our troops stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan, HBO and its partners are sending care packages overseas containing the items troops most frequently request. The troops have determined the items—YOU determine how many are sent.
Donations can be placed at no cost to you by going to www.genkilltroopdrive.com and following three quick steps. The donation drive starts NOW and will continue through the finale of the Generation Kill miniseries on August 24th. All donations will be shipped overseas this fall. Spread the word—every click counts!
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Texas Guard Gears Up as Storm Approaches
By Air Force Master Sgt. Mike R.
Smith
Special to American Forces Press Service
ARLINGTON, Va., July 22, 2008 – As Tropical Storm Dolly beat a
northwestward path over the Gulf of Mexico toward southern Texas and Mexico, at
least 600 Texas National Guard members prepared for storm duty today after being
called yesterday by Gov. Rick Perry. Meteorologists expect the storm to reach
hurricane strength -- with damaging winds, heavy rains and coastal flooding --
by tomorrow.
Officials said Perry authorized the call for up to 1,200 Texas military
personnel, including the Army and Air National Guard and State Guard, to assist
civilian emergency responders preparing for the first storm to threaten the
United States this hurricane season. A contingent of State Guard volunteers
based out of Weslaco in the Rio Grande Valley was available for duty.
Story
Historian Charts Six Decades of Racial Integration in U.S. Military
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 23, 2008 – July 26 marks the 60th anniversary of President Harry S. Truman’s executive order that integrated the U.S. armed forces. Conrad Crane, director of the U.S. Army Military History Institute at Carlisle Barracks, Pa., said the order recognized a basic tenet of warfare. “When your life depends on your buddy, the color of their skin tends to become less important; it’s how good they are,” he said.
The order came five years before the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown vs. Topeka Board of Education that struck down the idea of “separate, but equal” and ushered in integration of American schools. Looking back on the order after 60 years, one might think it was a slam-dunk decision, but it was not. In fact, Truman and Defense Secretary James Forrestal were about the only two U.S. leaders who favored the proposal. Story
Search Effort Continues Following B-52 Crash
7/22/2008 - ANDERSEN AIR FORCE
BASE, Guam (AFNS) -- A joint-agency search continues for missing crew
members following the crash July 21 of a B-52H Stratofortress bomber 25 miles
off the northwest coast of Guam.
The bodies of two of the six Airmen on board the aircraft have been recovered.
Identities of the crew members are being withheld pending family notification.
On-scene in a 900-square mile search area are crews with two U.S. Coast Guard
vessels and the USS John McCain, an Arleigh Burke class destroyer. Additionally,
Navy MH-60S Knighthawk helicopters from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 and
U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles from the 389th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron
joined a Navy P-3 Orion from Kadena Air Base in Japan. Guam police and fire
department rescue units also joined the search.
Continued
Program Reaches Out to Educate Veterans about Suicide Hotline
By Meghan Vittrup
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 18, 2008 – The Department of Veterans Affairs is launching a pilot outreach program to encourage veterans to use the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline -- 1-800-273-TALK (8255) -- if they need help.
The program is being launched July 21 “to see if it helps raise awareness for
veterans,” said Lisette Mondello, Veterans Affairs assistant secretary for
public and intergovernmental affairs.
The program will take place over a three-month period and will first launch in
the Washington, D.C., metro area, VA officials said. It will include paid
advertising in Washington, D.C., metro stations, metro rail cars, and buses.
Aside from signs and posters, the program also will include a public service
announcement recorded by actor Gary Sinise.
Story
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Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents - 2008 Edition La versión 2008 del folleto "Beneficios Federales para los Veteranos y sus Dependientes" esta en el processo de traducion. Va estar disponible en esta pagina de web cuando esta traducido en Español. |
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"There is many a boy here today who looks on war as all glory, but boys, it is all hell. You can bear this warning voice to generations yet to come. I look upon war with horror".........William Tecumseh Sherman, August 11th 1880. |
T H E W A R I N I R A Q
O P E R A T I O N I R A Q I F R E E D O M
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Frank Lugo (left) assigned to 404th Civil Affairs Battalion and Sgt. Dajuan Turner (right), assigned to Task Force - Regular, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment share a joke while providing security for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen, U.S. Navy, during his visit to the Sadr City district of Baghdad, Iraq, on July 7, 2008. DoD photo by Tech Sgt. Cohen A. Young, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Jonathan Conery, a civil affairs specialist from Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, talks to local business owners about their concerns during a patrol outside Joint Security Station Oubaidy in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, Iraq on July 13, 2008. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Brian D. Lehnhardt, U.S. Army. (Released)
TALKING TRAINING - U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. David J. Neukirchen, center, talks with another Marine about training during a combined medical engagement exercise in Mudiq, Iraq, July 6, 2008. Neukirchen is a squad leader assigned to Company F, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Jerry Murphy.
EXPLOSIVE STRING - U.S. Air Force explosive ordnance disposal personnel of the 447th Air Expeditionary Group prepare a string of C-4 explosives before placing the charges around the wings of a C-130 Hercules aircraft in Baghdad, Iraq, July 7, 2008. The team is using a series of controlled detonations designed to divide the airplane into smaller pieces so it can be moved. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Allen.
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T H E W A R I N A F G H A N I S T A N
O P E R A T I O N E N D U R I N G F R E E D O M
I have consistently said that we are seeing an increasing level of violence in Afghanistan, especially in the east and the south. I attribute part of that to the fact that there are sanctuary areas to militant groups that are across the Pakistan border in Fata and the North-West Frontier Province and partly to coalition and Afghan troops taking the fight to the insurgency
.......... Gen. David D. McKiernan, commander, International Security Assistance Force
WELL DONE! - A U. S. Marine congratulates a member of the Afghan National Police after a successful joint patrol in Garmsir, Afghanistan, July 11, 2008. The Marine is assigned to Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Andrew J. Carlson.
OUTPOST ZEROK - U.S Army soldiers survey a proposed site for a new observation post, Combat Outpost Zerok, in Afghanistan, July 11, 2008. The soldiers are assigned to Task Force Castle’s 420th Engineer Brigade. U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Tomas Rofkahr.
A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft moves into position to refuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft while on a mission over Afghanistan on May 29, 2008. The Stratotanker is assigned to the Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, 376th Air Expeditionary Wing. DoD photo by Master Sgt. Andy Dunaway, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
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A R O U N D T H E S E R V I C E S
Images of Military Life & Training
RIDING A WAVE - U.S. Navy Seaman Michael Cain, left, Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicholas Dahlin and Seaman Nancy Torres, ride a Zodiac inflatable boat through the surf while on safety patrol near the construction area of an elevated causeway during Joint Logistics Over-The-Shore, JLOTS 2008, Camp Pendleton, Calif., July 12, 2008. The sailors are assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian P. Caracci.
U.S. Air Force Academy basic cadet trainees of the Class of 2012 march to the athletic fields July 12 at the Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., to test their teamwork and athletic skills during Field Day. After being greeted by Academy leaders, they competed in various athletic events, and closed out the morning with a parachute demonstration by the Academy's Wings of Blue parachute demonstration and competition team. (U.S. Air Force photo/Dave Ahlschwede)
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A R O U N D T H E G L O B E
U.S. ARMED FORCES - RELEASED NEWS & PHOTOS
ARCTIC OCEAN (July 1, 2008) The fast attack submarine USS Providence (SSN 719) is moored at the North Pole in the Arctic Ocean to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first submarine polar transit completed by the USS Nautilus (SSN 571) in 1958. Providence is en route to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility from its homeport in Groton Conn. (U.S. Navy photo by Yoeman 1st Class J. Thompson)
ARCTIC OCEAN (July 1, 2008) The fast attack submarine USS Providence (SSN 719) breaks through the ice at the North Pole in the Arctic Ocean to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first submarine polar transit by the USS Nautilus (SSN 571) in 1958. Providence is en route to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility from its homeport in Groton Conn. (U.S. Navy photo by Yoeman 1st Class J. Thompson/Released)
Marines and Sailors from Battalion Landing Team 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, arrived safely on Okinawa July 15, 2008 to serve as the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s Ground Combat Element. As the MEU’s new GCE, BLT 3/1 is scheduled to conduct a variety of training exercises including MEU specific exercises that will prepare the Marines and Sailors for possible Non-combatant Evacuation Operations or recovery operations such as a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and personnel mission. The MEU is scheduled to deploy with the USS Essex Amphibious Ready Group this fall.(Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Cory W. Yenter)
SHIMONOSEKI, Japan (July 14, 2008) Vice Mayor Yamamura welcomes Cmdr. Dave Haas, commanding officer of the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 46), and his crew, to the city of Shimonoseki at the start of a routine port visit. This is the ship's first port of call to Japan during its current deployment. Thach is operating with the Ronald Reagan Strike Group in the 7th fleet areas of responsibility to promote cooperation and stability. U.S. Navy photo by Maintenance Repairman 1st Class Jose Reyes (Released)
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Section - A - Page 1. News
"T H E V E T E R A N S H O U R"
July 1-31, 2008 Edition
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A Special Feature from
ArmedForcesPress.Com - "Americas Leading Online Veterans Newspaper"
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Agent Orange Equity Act Press Conference,
Wednesday, July 23
VA and Courts Ignore Promises Made to Veterans: CONGRESS
MUST ACT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 18, 2008
Washington, D.C. – Bob Filner, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, will hold a press conference on Wednesday, July 23 at NOON on the Cannon Terrace to announce the introduction of the Agent Orange Equity Act. The bill restores equity to all Vietnam veterans that were exposed to Agent Orange.
Who:
Chairman Bob Filner, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs
William G. Jeff Davis, Blue Water Veteran
Ron Abrams, Executive Director, National Veterans Legal Services Program
John Rowan, Vietnam Veterans of America
What:
Introduction of the Agent Orange Equity Act, a bill to ensure that veterans
receive their earned benefits
When:
Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at Noon
(Staging begins at 11:30 a.m. in Cannon Room 334)
Where:
Cannon House Office Building Terrace
The intersection of New Jersey and Independence Avenues, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20515
"We owe it to our veterans to fulfill the promises made to them as a result of their service," said Chairman Filner (D-CA). "If, as a result of service, a veteran was exposed to Agent Orange and it has resulted in failing health, this country has a moral obligation to care for each veteran the way we promised we would. And as a country at war, we must prove that we will be there for all of our veterans, no matter when they serve. The courts have turned their backs on our veterans, but I believe this Congress will not allow our veterans to be cheated of their earned benefits."
The Agent Orange Equity Act of 2008 would clarify the laws related to VA benefits provided to Vietnam War veterans suffering from the ravages of Agent Orange exposure. In order to try to gain a better military vantage point, Agent Orange, which we now know is a highly toxic cocktail of herbicide agents, was widely sprayed for defoliation and crop destruction purposes all over the Vietnam War Battlefield, as well as nearby nations. It was also stored on U.S. vessels and used for vegetation clearing purposes around U.S. bases, landing zones and lines of communication.
Currently, VA requires Vietnam veterans to prove "foot on land" in order to qualify for the presumptions of service-connection for herbicide-exposure related illnesses afforded under current law. This issue has been the subject of much litigation and on May 8, 2008, the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals upheld VA’s overly narrow interpretation. Congress clearly did not intend to exclude these veterans from compensation based on arbitrary geographic line drawing by VA.
The Agent Orange Equity Act of 2008 is intended to clarify the law so that every service member awarded the Vietnam Service medal, or who otherwise deployed to land, sea or air, in the Republic of Vietnam is fully covered by the comprehensive Agent Orange laws Congress passed in 1991. If enacted, this bill will make it easier for VA to process Vietnam War veterans’ claims for service-connected conditions that scientists have conclusively linked to toxic exposures during the Vietnam War and that are identified in current law. With this legislation, Congress will leave no doubt that the "Blue Water Navy" and all combat veterans of Vietnam are intended to be covered and compensated; thus ensuring that these veterans will receive the disability benefits they earned and deserve for exposure to Agent Orange.
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VA FAILING TO INFORM GUARD AND RESERVISTS RETURNING FROM IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN OF POTENTIAL BENEFITS, NEW IG REPORT SHOWS
Veterans Committee hearing on outreach to Guard and Reserve veterans Wednesday
July 21, 2008WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, today highlighted an investigative report issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General (IG), on the efforts of VA to provide transition assistance to veterans returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan.
"The Inspector General found VA is not meeting its clear legal obligation to inform new veterans of the benefits they may have earned through their service," said Akaka. "Especially alarming is the finding that Guard and Reserve veterans made up over half of those uninformed, even though they compose only about a quarter of servicemembers deployed.
"I am deeply concerned that Guard and Reserve veterans, who serve in combat honorably alongside their fellow troops, are not receiving the same level of support from VA. These veterans sacrificed to fulfill their obligation to our country, VA must fulfill its obligation to them."
Among other findings, the IG's audit found that in 2006,VA failed to send individual notices of possible benefits to over 65,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. Over 36,000 of those who were not sent notices from VA were members of the Guard and Reserve.
Senator Akaka introduced legislation last year to expand VA outreach, with an emphasis on Guard and Reserve veterans. This provision was included in H.R. 4986, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, which was signed into law on January 28, 2008. Under law, VA must inform Guard and Reserve veterans of the benefits they may be eligible by mail.
This Wednesday (July 23), Chairman Akaka will hold a public oversight hearing on the effectiveness of VA's overall outreach efforts to returning Guard and Reserve members. The hearing will be webcast live from the Committee's website, www.veterans.senate.gov.
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Understanding the Journey of War Veterans:
-------PRESS RELEASE 7/15/2008-------
House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs
Washington, D.C. – Bob Filner, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, will hold a screening of the documentary "All the Way Home" on The documentary follows a Montana fishing outfitter and his team of volunteers while they take severely injured Iraq and Afghanistan veterans from Walter Reed down an isolated river.
"There hasn’t been a movie or documentary or a creative piece like this that has moved me so much," say Shad Meshad, President and Founder of the National Veterans Foundation (NVF). The National Veterans Foundation runs "Lifeline for Vets," a crisis hotline that has fielded over a quarter of a million calls from veterans in need of emergency medical treatment, suicide intervention, post-traumatic stress disorder counseling, benefit advocacy, food, shelter, employment training or legal aid.
The screening will be followed by an opportunity to discuss the documentary and related veterans’ issues with Filmmaker Edward Nachtrieb, Chairman Filner and Shad Meshad of NFV.
"This is a powerful documentary that really shows the realities faced by our wounded warriors – up close and personal," said Chairman Filner (D-CA). "It also shows what we can do – individuals, communities, neighborhoods – to help our veterans as they return home from war. What may seem insignificant can lead to powerful changes for our heroes and ourselves."
About National Veterans Foundation: (www.helpnvf.org)
National Veterans Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) human service organization. Since 1985, the National Veterans Foundation’s main focus is to provide the crisis management, information and referral needs of all U.S. Veterans and their families through (1) a toll free Lifeline for Vets that is available to all veterans and their families; (2) public awareness to highlight the needs of America’s Veterans; and (3) outreach services provide veterans and families in need with food, clothing, transportation, employment, and other essential resources. For more information call toll free at 1-888-777-4443 or go online at www.helpnvf.org.
About the Film: www.AllTheWayHomeMovie.com
Three years ago, Montana fishing outfitter Mike Geary was inspired by news reports to organize fly fishing trips for disabled veterans down one of the American West’s most isolated rivers. In this film, we meet a group of veterans that reflects the diversity of challenges facing our returning soldiers. Some, on leave from Walter Reed Hospital, bear the obvious physical wounds of war while others cope with hidden traumas that are invisible, yet dangerous. With a backdrop of the breathtaking landscape of the American West, they share personal stories of war and the resulting challenges for them and their families after their return home. At the same time, a team of volunteers works tirelessly to make the trip an unforgettably positive experience.
About the Filmmaker:
Filmmaker and journalist Edward Nachtrieb's background includes series television, commercials and international photojournalism. For the last three years, Ed has served as Supervising Producer and Director for the Travel Channel’s "John Ratzenberger’s Made in America." He skipped season five of that show to make the time to produce "All The Way Home." Prior to his career in Los Angeles, Ed was based in New Mexico where he created documentaries focused on Native American health issues as well as music videos and commercials. Ed’s still photography has been featured in magazines and newspapers worldwide. As Reuters Chief Photographer in China from 1987 through 1989, he documented the massacre of pro-democracy protesters in Tiananmen Square and its aftermath as well as ethnic unrest in western China and Tibet.
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America Supports You: Airgas, Operation Homefront Bond to Help Vets
By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 14, 2008 – In the next three years, an untold number
of veterans of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan will benefit from a new
partnership between two organizations who share only geographic proximity and a
desire to honor servicemembers. Airgas, a distributor of industrial, medical,
specialty gases, and welding and safety products, recently launched what its
chairman and chief executive officer described as a long-term program.
“We’re kicking off a three-year program the way we look at it,” Peter McCausland
said, “but we’re thinking that it’s going to be a long-term program for Airgas.”
The program began with Airgas’ pledge to donate $100,000 a year for three years
to Operation Homefront, a troop-support organization. The guidelines for the use
of the funding stipulate that 70 percent of the funds must directly benefit
wounded veterans or their families, McCausland said.
Another piece of the program is the company’s commitment to hire 100 veterans of
operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom in conjunction with Operation
Homefront. “We have over 15,000 employees, and the least we can do is make room
for 100 veterans,” McCausland said. “We felt like we wanted to do something
tangible for individuals, and we have a lot of veterans in Airgas, so we know
that they’ll be happy.”
For veterans who think they might be interested in learning the welding trade,
Airgas also is offering its “Welding 101” course. While the company doesn’t
actually do welding, it also has the facilities, courses and certified welding
engineers needed to offer the two days of classroom instruction and hands-on
experience that serve as a good way to gauge interest in pursuing the trade
further. “The two days can get them started, and then we can direct them from
there to the American Welding Society and other kinds of resources,” McCausland
said. “A lot of big companies run welding schools.”
Operation Homefront is pleased with the opportunities the new partnership offers
veterans, said Amy Palmer, the troop-support organization’s chief operating
officer. “Airgas’ ‘Welding 101’ is a significant training opportunity for many
wounded warriors who need help finding a lucrative and steady job as they enter
the civilian world,” she said. “We appreciate Airgas’ generous support for our
job placement efforts for injured veterans who are transitioning to the civilian
world.”
At the community level, each of Airgas’ 22 operating units across the country
will develop relationships with local Operation Homefront representatives to
work on events to support the organization through fundraising, direct
assistance to veterans and other programs, he added. The idea for the program
grew from McCausland’s wife’s philanthropic activities benefiting veterans. Her
work with veterans’ causes may be a direct correlation to their son’s service in
Iraq. The former Marine’s four-month deployment began on the fifth day of the
war.
“My wife was very concerned about veterans from these two wars and the toll that
it’s taken them and their families,” the Airgas chairman said. “We started to
look for organizations around the country that would be [a good] fit for Airgas
and that are providing services to veterans of these two conflicts and their
families. “Operation Homefront was one of about four or five of these
organizations that we vetted, and we felt that it came out way ahead,”
McCausland added.
While Airgas is just kicking off the program with Operation Homefront,
McCausland said his company is approaching it as a long-term commitment. “We’re
very grateful for what these people and their families have done for the
country, and this is just a way for Airgas to give back and show our collective
support,” he said. Eligible veterans interested in participating in Airgas’
welding training course or possible employment with Airgas should contact
Operation Homefront, McCausland added.
Operation Homefront is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department
program connecting citizens and companies with servicemembers and their families
serving at home and abroad.
Related Sites:
Operation Homefront
America Supports You
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CHAIRMAN URGES REDUCTION
IN BACKLOG OF
VETERANS DISABILITY CLAIMS, NOTES PROGRESS
July 9, 2008
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, held an oversight hearing today on the undue delay of veterans disability claims processing. This was the fourth in a series of hearings Chairman Akaka has held this year to review veterans' disability benefits. At today's hearing, Akaka sought input from VA and other witnesses on what improvements should be made to compliment the historic increase in staffing at the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) made by Congress during the last several years.
"I know there is no silver bullet that will solve the claims processing problems that exist at VBA, but we owe it to veterans to make certain that everything that can be done is being done to improve the situation.
"The number of veterans filing disability claims is increasing. As more war wounded return from Iraq and Afghanistan, and veterans who have conditions made worse by their advancing age turn to VA for increased ratings, we can anticipate that the number of claims received by VA will continue to increase. VA should make necessary technological, process and staffing improvements to expedite overall efficiency," said Akaka.
In his testimony, VA Acting Under Secretary for Benefits Patrick Dunne highlighted the fact that VA has reduced the backlog of disability claims to 390,000, and reduced average processing times from 183 days to 182. Dunne also reported that VA is processing more claims that they are receiving, despite a 5 percent increase in new claims since last year.
Senator Akaka added, "While I appreciate that the average processing time is decreasing rather than increasing, 182 days is still a far cry from VA's goal of 125 days. VA must work harder to reach their strategic goal."
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H U M A N I T A R I A N
U.S. FORCES MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Access People In Uniform For More Like This
DILI, East Timor (15 July 2008) Donna Willard, left, wife of U.S. Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Robert Willard, plays with children during a visit to a Pacific Partnership engineering civic action program at the Bario Pite Elementary School. Pacific Partnership is a four-month deployment by the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH-19) to assist the governments of participating nations with medical, dental and construction civic assistance programs. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph Seavey (Released)
DILI, East Timor (July 17, 2008) Builder 2nd Class Eilene Dustan applies a finishing touch of concrete to a new walkway at a Pacific Partnership engineering civic action program at Bario Pite Elementary School. Pacific Partnership is a four-month deployment by Mercy to assist the governments of participating nations with medical, dental and construction civic assistance programs. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Danny Hayes (Released)
KEMAMAN, Malaysia (July 16, 2008) Rear Adm. Nora W. Tyson, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific, congratulates the headmaster of the Sekolah Kebangsaan Kijal Elementary School in Kemaman after a ribbon-cutting ceremony opening a new assembly building jointly constructed by a detachment of U.S. Navy Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133 and an element of the 91st Royal Malaysian Army Construction Regiment during Cooperation Afloat Readiness And Training (CARAT) 2008. CARAT is an annual series of bilateral maritime training exercises between the United States and several Southeast Asian nations designed to build relationships and enhance operational readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Steve Vasquez/Released)
Maj. Darrell Grise uses a slit-lamp to look for cataracts and assess the health of the front of a patient's eye July 18 at a school in Santa Maria, Panama. Approximately 3,100 patients was seen by Air Force medics July 14 through 18. Major Grise is an optometrist deployed to Medical Readiness Training Exercise Panama from the 96th Aeromedical Dental Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. (U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Ben Sakrisson)
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N E W S W O R L D
An International Feature - U.S.
and Foreign Forces
For More Like This Access
Newsworld
ABUJA, Nigeria — Gen. A.O. Azazi, Nigerian Chief of Defense Staff, inspects the troops during the opening ceremony of Africa Endeavor 2008 on Nigerian Air Force Base, Abuja, July 16, 2008. Africa Endeavor 2008, a U.S. European Command-sponsored exercise, brings the U.S. and African nations together to plan and execute interoperability testing of command, control, communications, and computer systems from participant nations in preparation for future African humanitarian, peacekeeping, and disaster relief operations. (Department of Defense photo)
SURABAYA, Indonesia (July 20, 2008) Members of the Indonesian navy stand pierside as the amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) pulls into port at the Tanjung Perak commercial pier in Surabaya. Tortuga is one of four U.S. ships participating in Naval Engagement Activity (NEA) Indonesia. NEA is part of an annual series of bilateral maritime training exercises between the United States and several Southeast Asian nations designed to build relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kim McLendon/Released)
WAIMANALO, Hawaii (July 18, 2008) Marines assigned to Combat Logistics Unit (CLU) 3 land at Bellows Air Force Station, Hawaii, in Marine CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters during a simulated raid while participating in Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2008. The helicopter flew from the amphibious assault ship USS BonHomme Richard (LHD 6). RIMPAC is the world's largest biennial multinational exercise conducted by the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Participants include the U.S., Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore and the United Kingdom. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Mark Rankin (Released)
ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 20, 2008) Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Biggs shoots a French F-2 Rafale off the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) during combined French and American carrier qualifications. This event marks the first integrated U.S. and French carrier qualifications aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Snyder (Released)
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With the words, “To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and orphan,” President Lincoln affirmed the government’s obligation to care for those injured during the war and to provide for the families of those who perished on the battlefield............... President Abraham Lincoln -- March 4th 1865
I N T R O D U C T I O N
-------Gary Thomas - Founder of "The Veterans Hour"-------
"The Distinguished Military Site Award"
The
Editors of Military.Com: have selected Veterans News Hour Daily as one of the best military sites on the Web. Military.Com recognized this website as a valued resource for the military community. In appreciation, We received "The Distinguished Military Site Award". Thanks Military.Com - Please visit their site.Founder of The Veterans Hour - SMSgt. Gary Thomas U.S.A.F. Ret. A decorated combat veteran, he was awarded The Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism while participating in aerial flight over Dak To II, Republic of Vietnam. Other awards include; The Air Medal with (First Oak Leaf Cluster) for Meritorious Achievement while participating in aerial flight over enemy territory, and The Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.
Numerous other medals include; The Japanese Occupation Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Medal, National Defense Medal with (First Oak Leaf Cluster) Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. During the Vietnam War he was also nominated for a second Distinguished Flying Cross and Two Bronze Stars.
Gary Thomas has been a long time advocate for veterans rights locally and on the national scene. Though limited for health reasons he continues to be recognized for his leadership and tireless devotion to veterans, their families and our nation. He is a graduate of the Non-Commissioned Officers Academy and currently holds memberships in the V.F.W., American Legion, D.A.V. the N.C.O.A. and is President Emeritus of The Brotherhood of Vietnam Veterans.
Armed Forces Press is a privately owned service Not Affiliated with the U.S. Government, and is not supported by any commercial advertising. This web site is operated and maintained by a volunteer staff. Incurred cost and expenses are paid solely by us and through our Member Sponsor Program. E-mail us at mailto:veter3@sbcglobal.net for details. Our founder is Gary Thomas and his commentary will continue to appear periodically in the 1st. Sgt's Report.
Description: Designed to provide helpful information for all veterans. The editors of Armed forces Press wish to thank our Founder; Gary Thomas President Emeritus of The Brotherhood of Vietnam Veterans. The Veterans Hour is adding a name to our website address. We are now "Armed Forces Press" and still accessed @ www.veteranshour.com or www.armedforcespress.com We hope you find this website to be of service. Americas Leading Online Veterans Newspaper!
Pictured above is: The Distinguished Flying Cross being presented to Master Sergeant Gary Thomas for Heroism While Participating in Aerial Flight on 9 June 1966. Click here to read the Official Citation.
Please submit your veterans questions, and comments, to Armed Forces Press by accessing this e-mail - Contact Us. Use the links in the table of contents in the left frame to access topics. Thank you, from all of us at The Veterans Hour. This Web Site provides helpful information for veterans and the entire military community and is not affiliated with the U.S. Government.
"The Veterans Hour" @ www.ArmedForcesPress.Com/
"Americas' Leading Online Veterans Newspaper"
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"The Patriots who have volunteered to serve in our armed services have no equal in the world. I made a solemn commitment to the Congress, to the nation, and to you to keep the welfare of men and women in uniform uppermost in my mind at all times."
Secretary Robert M. Gates
F I S H E R H O U S E
Supporting America's military in their time of need, we provide "a home away from home" that enables family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time -- during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. http://www.fisherhouse.org/
Note: Veterans News Hour Daily ask that you please access The Fisher House website for more information on this wonderful organization. Having family close to those who are recovering from serious medical conditions is truly a great and helpful cause.
I N T R E P I D F A L L E N H E R O E S F U N D
The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund is a leader in supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families. Begun in 2000 under the auspices of the Intrepid Museum Foundation, and established as an independent not-for-profit organization in 2003, the Fund has provided close to $60 million in support for the families of military personnel lost in service to our nation, and for severely wounded military personnel and veterans. These efforts are funded entirely with donations from the public, and hundreds of thousands of individuals have contributed to the Fund. 100% of contributions raised by the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund go towards these programs; all administrative expenses are underwritten by the Fund’s Trustees. http://www.fallenheroesfund.org/
Note: Veterans News Hour Daily ask that you please access The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund website for more information. We in San Antonio are truly proud of what they do.
"T H E N A N D N O W"
Korean War - North American F-86 Sabre in Korea. (U.S. Air Force photo)
A line of U.S. F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 80th Fighter Squadron taxi down the flightline during Exercise Max Thunder on Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, June 19, 2008. The bilateral training exercise aims to improve interoperability between U.S. and South Korean military forces. U.S. Air Force Photo by Staff Sgt. Araceli Alarcon.
For More Access: Then & Now Archive
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The Following Links Provided by "The National Archives"
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Other Veterans Resources |
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H I S T O R I C A L P H O T O S & I M A G E S
World War II
"Burial at sea for the officers and men of the USS Intrepid (CV-11) who lost their lives when the carrier was hit by Japanese bombs during operations in the Philippines." By Lt. Barrett Gallagher, November 26, 1944. National Archives and Records Administration, General Records of the Department of the Navy.
"American servicemen and women gather in front of 'Rainbow Corner' Red Cross club in Paris to celebrate the unconditional surrender of the Japanese" By McNulty, August 15, 1945. National Archives and Records Administration, Records of the Office of the Chief Signal Officer.
World War I
Stills From National Archival Films
A German Hannover C.L. I I I was brought down by American machine gunnners between Montfaucon and Cierges, France, October 4, 1918. German War Film, 1914–1918, shows a German bombing raid. NARA Photo.
Men drafted into the Army report for service at Camp Travis, San Antonio, Texas. Draft and Mobilization Activities, 1917–1918, documents the draftee's transition to Army life. NARA Photo.
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VA News Releases (07/15/2008 - 07/22/08)
VA,
Monster Partner for Veteran Job Seekers - WASHINGTON – In a new plan to help
veterans find jobs, the Department of Veterans Affairs has partnered with
Monster Government Solutions, a division of Monster Worldwide, Inc., a company
that markets online employment services to employers and job seekers. (7/22/08)
VA
Reburies War of 1812 General at Congressional Cemetery - WASHINGTON –
Descendants of a War of 1812 general officer who died in 1841 witnessed his
re-interment during a ceremony July 17 at a historic gravesite administered by
the Department of Veterans Affairs. (7/18/08)
VA
Helps Vets Reengage with Life - WASHINGTON – From the laboratory to open
air, making medical and mental miracles are the focus of the July edition of
“The American Veteran,” the monthly half-hour news magazine from the Department
of Veterans Affairs. (7/18/08)
VA’s
National PTSD Center Deputy Honored - WASHINGTON -- Dr. Paula Schnurr,
deputy executive director for VA’s National Center for Post Traumatic Stress
Disorder (PTSD), received the 3rd annual Ladies Home Journal “Health
Breakthrough Award” for her work with PTSD and women veterans. (7/18/08)
Heroism
and Athletics Converge in Omaha for Veterans Wheelchair Games - WASHINGTON –
The 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games, scheduled to take place July 25–29
in Omaha, Neb., will attract more than 500 veterans with disabilities. It has
become the largest annual wheelchair sports competition in the world. Veterans
from conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq will again join their fellow veterans in
17 competitive events. (7/17/08)
VA
Announces On-Line Claims Applications - WASHINGTON – The Department of
Veterans Affairs announced today that on-line applications are now accepted from
veterans, survivors and other claimants filing initial applications for
disability compensation, pension, education, and vocational rehabilitation and
employment benefits without the additional requirement to submit a signed paper
copy of the application. (7/16/08)
VA
Announces New Sports Clinic for Newly Injured Veterans - WASHINGTON – One
hundred recently injured veterans from around the country will participate in a
unique rehabilitative sports experience this September in San Diego, the
National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic, sponsored by the Department of Veterans
Affairs. (7/15/08)
"It was said long ago by a visitor to America - Alexis de Tocqueville - that the American woman thinks for herself, speaks with freedom and acts on her own impulse. I would add that she also chooses to defend freedom - her own and that of others." ................ Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Nov. 3, 2007
Toll Free Numbers for Contacting VA
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ADDITIONAL NUMBERS
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COMMAND NEWS & PHOTOS |
U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND
For a Complete List Access: US Central
Command
U.S. EUROPEAN COMMAND
For a Complete List Access:
U.S. European Command
U.S.
PACIFIC COMMAND
For a complete list access: US Pacific Command
U.S. NORTHERN COMMAND
For a Complete List of Articles Access:
U.S.
Northern Command
U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
For a Complete List of Articles Access:
http://www.defenselink.mil/
THE PRESIDENTS PAGE - Access Photos
MEDIA LINKS
ABC ....................................................................... http://abcnews.go.com/
BBC ............................................................... http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/
CBS ...................................... http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/home/main100.shtml
CNN ................................................http://www.cnn.com/
FOX........................................http://www.foxnews.com/
NBC ........................................................http://www.nbc.com
KEMAMAN, Malaysia (July 9, 2008) Rear Adm. Nora W. Tyson, commander of Logistics Group Western Pacific, high-fives a child at Sekolah Kebangsaan Kijal Elementary School. The children are waiting to be seen by U.S. Navy and Malaysian military dentists and dental personnel during a dental civil action project conducted as a part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Daryl Borgquist (Released)
CENTRAL COMMAND & USSOUTHCOM
Access: US Central Command to use the above map as an interactive tool. It allows you to click on the country of interest. This feature is easy to use and we found it to be very educational. All the highlighted nations are part of the Area of Responsibility of Centcom....
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U. S. C O A S T G U A R D
BALTIMORE -- A 45-foot Response Boat-Medium (RB-M) from Coast Guard Station Little Creek, Va., transports U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff along with staff members to Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf here Friday. Bertholf, the Coast Guard's first 418-foot National Security Cutter, is the lead ship in the new Legend class of cutters designed to be the flagship of the modernized Coast Guard fleet. Bertholf will improve operational readiness and enable the Coast Guard to fulfill its multi-mission roles more effectively through better sea keeping, higher sustained transit speeds, greater endurance and range, and a greater ability to launch and recover improved small boats, helicopters, and eventually unmanned aerial vehicles. USCG photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Melissa Hauck...
The Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, also known as "America's Tall Ship", participated in the Parade of Sails with approximately 30 other tall ships and other attraction vessels July 3 during the Tall Ships Tacoma 2008 event along Foss Waterway in Tacoma, Wash. The Eagle's crew has spent this summer training more than 130 Coast Guard Academy cadets and Naval Academy midshipmen. The Eagle has served as a floating classroom to future Coast Guard officers since 1946 offering fundamental leadership, teamwork and seamanship skills. USCG photo by Petty Officer Kelly Parker...
Coast Guard Augments Army at Bagram Air Base
By Army Pfc. Christina N.
Sinders
Special to American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, July 8, 2008 – Long known to protect the
waters surrounding the United States, the question asked each time someone sees
them is, “What is the U.S. Coast Guard doing here?” Chief Petty Officer Daniel
Kinville and Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Kowalewski are part of an
eight-person unit from the Coast Guard’s 1179th Deployment Support Brigade, and
are the only two Coast Guard personnel in Afghanistan.
“Usually, everyone’s first reaction when they see us is shock,” said Kowalewski,
a Pittsburgh native. “They can’t seem to figure out why we’re so far from the
U.S. coast and why we’re in a landlocked country.” The answer lies in the Coast
Guard’s reputation for keen attention to detail with paperwork, packing, customs
and hazardous-materials shipping and storage -- their ability to continually
ship containers across oceans without frustration issues. Based on this
expertise, Army officials requested the Coast Guard’s help with redeploying and
sealifting their gear.
The Coastie duo adds another flavor to the vast assortment of uniforms here, and
for many soldiers, seeing a Bagram-based Coastie holds a silver lining,
Kowalewski said. “The soldiers get really excited when they see us,” she
explained. “They know that once we get here and start customs services, [it]
means they are getting closer to going home.”
Kinville and Kowalewski are serving nine-month deployments, and neither is
performing duties typical to their Coast Guard specialty. As a prerequisite for
their duties here, each had to go through extensive hazardous-materials handling
and packing and shipping courses, followed by convoy travel and weapons
training.
Still, the additional training and stepping out of normal roles expands a
servicemember’s breadth of experience, said Kinville, a Yorktown, Va., native.
“We get the experience of working with the Navy, Air Force, Army and Marines.
This is something totally different than what we do back in the states,” he
said.
They were both startled when they heard a 155 mm Howitzer fire for the first
time, and Kowalewski experienced her first helicopter ride. “The chance to be
here, [to] see the front lines with the soldiers [and to] experience their way
of life in and around the different stages of deployment is really amazing,”
Kinville said. “I’m proud to be able to support them and help where I can.”
(Army Pfc. Christina N. Sinders serves in the Combined Joint Task Force 101
Public Affairs Office.)
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"There is many a boy here today who looks on war as all glory, but boys, it is all hell. You can bear this warning voice to generations yet to come. I look upon war with horror" ............... William Tecumseh Sherman, August 11th 1880.
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| RESOURCES |
MILITARY HEALTH SYSTEM
The Military Health System portal contains messages and information from HA and TMA. Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., is the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs.
MISC. LINKS:
Access Weather for Major Military Installations World Wide Weather Reports
PERSIAN GULF WAR LINKS
Persian Gulf Veterans who are unsure of what to do or how to contact the nearest VA medical Center, Can call toll free: To VA Persian Gulf Veterans Information Helpline 1-800 PGW VETS
Persian Gulf War Photos & Statistics (VNHD) War Album & Stats
Gulflink -- A Government Website With Good Information: http://www.gulflink.osd.mil/
TRICARE LINK INFORMATION
Tricare Military Health System -- For information about Tricare for Life, interested persons may visit the TRICARE Web site at www.tricare.osd.mil/tfl or call the Worldwide TRICARE Information Center toll-free at 1-877-DOD-LIFE (1-877-363-5433).
VETERANS LINKS
Links to Govt. Vet. Org. and Media Sites Veteran Resources (Links)
A List of Veterans Org. Websites Veterans Organizations
Helpful Telephone Numbers Telephone Directory
Legislation News -- Click here for the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Website
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Links | Newsworld | Legislation | Opinion | Humanitarian | About Us | Terms of Use | Contact Us | Army | Navy | Air Force | Marines | Dept. of Vet. Affairs | Tricare Health | White House | |
WHAT IS A VET
An Excerpt re-published From a Veterans Day Tribute
By Father Dennis Edward O'Brien, USMC
"It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the soldier, not the campus organizer, who has given us the freedom to demonstrate. It is the soldier, who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag".......
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The Veteran's Museum in Texas -
http://www.TheVeteransMuseuminTexas.org
Additional Veterans Organizations Links:
Click Here to Access List. Related Links Page
Blinded Veterans Association - Serving vision impaired and blind veterans and their families the BVA is an outstanding veterans service organization charted by The United States Congress. Located at 477 H Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20001-2694 Tel. 1-800-669-7079 & (202) 371- 8880 Fax (202) 371-8258 Web Site http://www.bva.org & E-Mail bva@bva.org For info.
Non Commissioned Officers Association - NCOA - was founded in 1960 as a federally chartered, non-profit organization. The NCOA is outstanding in it's service to Americas non-commissioned and petty officers who are active duty, veterans, or retired. From legislation on capital hill, to job fairs, and local chapter involvement, the NCOA offers a variety of products and services to members. NCOA includes all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, including National Guard and Reserve. For more information about NCOA including membership, mission, current news, and services, access their web site at: http://www.ncoausa.org
Air Force Sergeants Association - Veterans News Hour Daily Salutes the Air Force Sergeants Association: For over 40 Years the AFSA has served Air Force enlisted personnel effectively, and with great dedication. We thank AFSA for their service to member veterans, active duty, and ultimately our nation. To learn more about AFSA and how you can become a member please access their Web Site from the link below. Click here to access AFSA Web Site: http://www.afsahq.org
Cost of Freedom - Tribute In Honor of Veterans of World War II. - This web site honors WW II veterans and contains journals which describe their stories in their own words. Congratulations to all who help preserve this history. These journals are very compelling: Please visit their site by accessing the link above. www.costoffreedom.org
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS:
E-Mail Contact Information:
New Link Exchange Site
LocalVeteranDiscounts.com is a comprehensive database of Veteran Discounts. Veterans can search, the site free of charge, for businesses in their area who offer Veteran Discounts.
www.LocalVeterandiscounts.com
Please visit this site!
"I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, and our flag still waves proudly from the walls. I shall never surrender nor retreat"............William Barrett Travis, The Alamo, 24 February 1836
United Veterans of America
The Veterans Hour: Salutes Dr. Barry Krupkin, Supreme National Commander of United Veterans of America for his tireless devotion to Americas Veterans. Dr. Barry Krupkin, SNC, Ph.D is an honored member of The Veterans Hour Advisory Board. His input is much appreciated! Thank you, Barry! Pictured Above, in Vietnam is Barry Krupkin, (Notice the chemical drums). More Agent Orange Info.
Social Security Claims - Handled - Appeals Expert - By Dr. Anna Pat Krupkin, PhD - Disability Consultants (850) 835-2163 - P.O. Box # 539, Freeport FL. 32439 - No Fee unless you collect. Call for details.
U.V.O.A. SEND A DONATION: IN ANY AMOUNT TO THE ADDRESS LISTED BELOW OR BECOME A MEMBER -- $25.00 ANNUAL OR $150.00 LIFE. Please mention that you are a Veterans News Hour Daily Reader. Thank You!
U.V.O.A NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP OFFICE
P.O. Box #539, Freeport, Fl. 32439-9627
Tel (850) 835-2163 Fax (850) 835-4036
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