CALL TO ACTION! @VATHERIGHTWAY campaign TAKING THE WEST LA VA CAMPUS BACK FOR VETERANS

So as always,.. Warfighter Boone Cutler put on another FANTASTIC podcast - He has a Call To Action #VATHERIGHTWAY campaign TAKING THE WEST LA VA CAMPUS BACK FOR VETERANS  "In January 2015, VA Secretary Bob McDonald signed a settlement agreement in a class action lawsuit (Valentini v Shinseki) regarding encroachment on the campus of the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs facility. The agreement established a nonprofit, Vets Advocacy, to serve as a partner in the West LA VA master planning process."

The West LA VA in California sits on 388 acres of land that can be rebuilt, turning it into a 21st Century VA and a much needed community built on and based on the veterans and warfighters opinions of their needs. 

BUT THIS NEEDS TO HAPPEN FIRST,.... Here's The Call To Action: And there's less than 30 days left!!!

Veterans, Warfighters and Caregivers are needed to take the quick and simple survey at http://www.vatherightway.org/ and share your opinion,.. The numbers are needed!!!

Warfighter Supporters,.. You are needed to get this information out to the public! Please take the few moments and share this with veterans you may know and share with those in your online community groups. 

ALL of us together collectively, can rally and make this happen!!! It can be the turning point our veterans need and are very deserving of,..

Heres just a few of the many snippits from his show that really is worth listening too,..

#VATheRightWay The Time Is Now Be part of the Solution podcast with @boonecutler & Sean Patrick http://goo.gl/u4SjMy
They discuss how this VA facility on 388 acres of land can be transformed into something that can really assist the veterans and warfighters.
Look at the survey and read the deed,.. http://www.vatherightway.org/ Veterans opinions matter! And this is your oppertunity to make a change. 

" #VaTheRightWay Daniel from GruntStyle & Michael Broderick" podcast with @boonecutler http://goo.gl/q8t0FS
Discussion speaking about the VA facility in California on 388 acres that comes with funding and veterans/warfighters gets to decide what they want, what they need,.. by sharing their opinions by taking a survey http://www.vatherightway.org/ 

" #VATheRightWay Brigette McCoy Live Work Play " podcast with @boonecutler http://goo.gl/ig7o1e
Excellent conversation regarding #VaTheRightWay The possiabilities are endless to turning a broke VA facility sitting on 388 acres of land and turning it into a 21st Century VA and a much needed community built on and based on the veterans and warfighters opinions of their needs.  But action is NEEDED! Veterans, Warfighters and Caregivers are being asked to take a simple & quick survey. The numbers are needed to secure this Great oppertunity our Warfighters deserve! Theres less than 30 days!!!

"sgt to ceo author stops in" #VATheRightWay podcast with @boonecutler http://goo.gl/mQenhV
GREAT conversation about what can become of the 388 acres of land that could be rebuilt to better serve our warfighters.  Boone speaks of a potential Warfighter University, and what it could offer, his thoughts on it speaks Volumes!!!

Please Support,..
Vets Advocacy @VATheRightWay
A veterans advocacy organization overseeing revitalization of the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Campus. Read the deed, take the survey, share
#VATHERIGHTWAY
http://www.vatherightway.org/

#MilitaryMonday News Blog Sept 14th 2015

There was a lot going on this past week while America Remembered and Honoered the lives lost from the 9/11/2001 bombings to the lives lost in Benghazi 9/11.2012.  We also had World Suicide Prevention Day and there was a lot taking place around the world that pertains to our Military around the world.  I've gathered aome links to share with everybody,..

I need to start by sharing something that moved my heart and brought me to tears,..  Anthony Lembo #StopSoldierSuicide w/ widow Stephanie Mason Lembo



Even though stories such as these are hard to listen to,.. They should be heard,.. They should never fall on deaf ears. 
More importantly,.. these lives should never be forgotten and more need to support the efforts of family members left behind fighting to save the lives of others. And this goes beyond spreading awareness,.. this is a call to action that needs funding,..

"Carry The Fallen" Active Heroes http://www.gofundme.com/f83psvmc
The Original and Largest Ruck-March event For Veteran suicide Awareness http://carrythefallen.org
"Like" them on facebook! https://www.facebook.com/CarryTheFallen

Active Heroes @ActiveHeroes
Active Heroes’ mission is to strengthen active duty military, veterans and their families in order to provide the coping skills to manage the stress and the triggering points that lead to suicide. Active Heroes is dedicated to connecting and helping America’s military families through physical and mental therapy, home repairs and community outreach, financial assistance and community reintegration to halt the triggering points and stress associated with “hard times” that lead to suicide.
http://activeheroes.org/carry-the-fallen/
https://www.facebook.com/ActiveHeroes
https://twitter.com/activeheroes

NOT ONE MORE - VA FAIL my rant

Last week a report came out that clearly showed more than 300,000 deceased veterans are currently still active on the VA's Health care enrollment list; And if that wasn't enough to piss somebody off and get them fired up about the total disregarding of our veterans, our government is displaying to veterans and their families,.. It came out that 600,000 more veterans are still waiting,.. How many more need to DIE until something is done?

And those who may be unaware of how far back this problem goes,.. I will take you back just a few years ago in Feb 2013 reports were put out that veterans were stuck in a 7 month backlog on disability claims. Break down of it: They were 821,966 claims pending and 71 percent (585,234) were still backlogged! Betch cha most of them are the ones now reported as being DEAD!!!

Cato Institute reported that the number of Veteran Affair employees grew 56 percent from 2000 to 2013 to 341,000 employees. Of the 341,000 employees, 90 percent are employed in the Veterans Health Administration.  This makes absolute no sense to me at ALL, If they have 300,000+  VA workers daily Why are Veterans still waiting and dieing, months and years later, that's some messed up SHIT!!!

If I lived in the perfect world and I could run the VA for even 1 Month,.. This is what I would do. I would go in and tell the Va workers to get filed in a line,.. and walk their asses out! I would replace them with veterans & legit people who have PROVEN themselves to be dedicated to serving the veterans. Betch cha,.. the 300,000 on that list would be cleared and the ones waiting would start getting what they Need,.. and in Steadfast Time!

Saturday Military News - This Week Sept 5 2015

So here's some of the latest news from my News Alert's,... Wishing everybody an AWESOME Saturday!!!

U.S. #CoastGuard auxiliary members hurt after plane crashes in NJ field via @starsandstripes http://www.stripes.com/news/us/coast-guard-auxiliary-members-hurt-after-plane-crashes-in-nj-field-1.366462

U.S. #CoastGuard Tow Boat Collision On Mississippi Causes Oil Spill about 120,000 gallons
http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2015/09/03/437246235/coast-guard-tow-boat-collision-on-mississippi-causes-oil-spill

U.S. #CoastGuard To Clean Up Mississippi River Oil Spill In Kentucky
http://www.ibtimes.com/us-coast-guard-clean-mississippi-river-oil-spill-kentucky-2083341

U.S. #CoastGuard Beware of fake captains on Labor Day http://www.news-press.com/story/news/crime/2015/09/04/coast-guard-beware-fake-captains-labor-day/71665280/
The Coast Guard has seen an increase in Southwest Florida over the past several months in the number of fake captains operating illegal passenger boats less than 100 tons, said Ashley Johnson, petty officer third class.

U.S. #CoastGuard intercepts more than 50 pounds of MDMA also known as ecstasy
http://q13fox.com/2015/08/29/u-s-coast-guard-intercepts-more-than-50-pounds-of-mdma/

(retired) Captain Paul H. Garrity, #USCG passed away peacefully at his home in Sandwich on Aug. 31, 2015
http://capecoddaily.com/news/183652/

High court denies a retired lieutenant colonel with the U.S. #Army Reserve fee waiver
He filed a complaint in Barnstable Superior Court, alleging various constitutional violations with respect to the presidential ballot. He also filed an affidavit for indigency, requesting the waiver of fees, but a judge denied that on the grounds he had an income above the poverty line, according to the documents.
http://www.capecodtimes.com/article/20150905/NEWS/150909678/101015?rssfeed=true

Community gives retired #Navy #K9 a special welcome home party
A soldier from Knoxville, Illinois has reunited with his K-9. The last time they saw each other was four years ago when they were both serving overseas. He served as a bomb sniffing dog for the U.S Navy for the last eight years.
http://wqad.com/2015/09/04/community-gives-retired-navy-k-9-a-special-welcome-home-party/

Newest #Navy F-35C Strike Fighter Jets at NAS Fallon
The United States Navy's newest stealth strike fighter jets are out at the Fallon Naval Air Station this week. The F-35 C Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter is a state of the art plane which will make pilots’ jobs easier than ever.
http://www.mynews4.com/mostpopular/story/Newest-Navy-F-35C-Strike-Fighter-Jets-at-NAS/3wocB0q85U-u3hdnS8ZUsw.cspx

Mr Sergeant by George Andersen - For All of Us Military Moms and Dads

Just had to share this video,.. It's for All the Mom's and Dad's who has Son's and Daughters serving. I ran across this song the day my 20 yr old Son JB deployed out for Afghanistan in 2008.  This song hit home hard for me and every time I listen to this song,.. It still chokes me up, just as the first time I heard it.  But now that my JB is at home and safe,.. I can't help to think of the parents who's kids are'nt safe at home,.. and my heart breaks for those parents,.. who's kids didn't make it home safely.

Our Military families serve right with them,.. our hearts anyways,.. So just Always remember to include them in your nightly prayers,...

Mr Sergeant by George Andersen - For All of Us Military Moms and Dads

Up Coming Film, "The Interpreter" Inspired by Real Events Directed by Robert Ham

Up-Coming Film - Directed by Robert Ham A short film Inspired by Real Events about an Afghan interpreter working for the U.S. military who is hunted by the Taliban while seeking asylum.

I just wanted to share this with everybody,.. I was listening in on “Tipping Point“ with @boonecutler and he had Special Guest Robert Ham the Director of the new up-coming documentary "The Interpreter". This film raises the awareness that, Tens of Thousands Interpreters were left behind in Iraq and Afghanistan,.. In fact 6,000 of them are back logged in Afghanistan right now.

I’d encourage everyone to listen in as @boonecutler and Robert talk about the film. I personally was blown away,.. I had no knowledge of this. Bottom line,.. A lot of these Interpreters saved our warfighters lives… Might have even saved my Son’s life!  Now they are left behind, left behind to be hunted down and killed by the enemy.

@boonecutler & Robert Ham - The Interpreter "No Man Left Behind "
Definitely worth the 15 minutes!!!
@boonecutler & Robert Ham - The Interpreter "No Man Left Behind "  
　

PTSD – The True Numbers of Warfighter Suicides

1 out of every 5 Soldiers returning home suffers from PTSD.
They say it is 9 times more likely if they have served in Afghanistan or served multiple deployments in Iraq. Also it is important that we realize Vets from Vietnam, WW2, the Korean wars also suffers from PTSD, which was earlier referred to shell shock. PTSD can lead into many issues including self-medicating with drinking and drugs, homelessness, jail sentences for DWI's. They really need our help.  Raising awareness and revealing the truth is the first step.. And having the issues clearly pointed out. With some clarity, there’s a better chance to finding the help that’s needed and in a more timely fashion, SAVING LIVES!!!

With that being said,.. Have you heard of Boone Cutler? If not let me tell ya a little about him. Boone is a Iraq war veteran leading the way for warfighters rights and bringing truth to the issues warfighters face. His on-air personality “Tipping Point with Boone Cutler” http://tippingpoint.podomatic.com/    is nationally recognized and focuses on national and international events based on the warfighters perspective. In 2010, Boone founded the National Warfighter Symposium to bring attention to Warfighter issues like the alarming Warfighter Suicide and homeless rate. America currently loses at least twenty-three Warfighters to suicide every day. His signature charity is GallantFew.org, founded by Ranger Karl Monger, because it’s where Warfighters link-up with Warfighter mentors that have successfully transitioned from a military lifestyle into the civilian world. In 2014, Boone became the national spokesperson for the Warfighter Rights' Movement.
I could really go on for hours taking about this man,.. I admire him very much and he is an inspiration not only to other veterans, but to us military families and supporters as well. As I mentioned earlier,.. He brings truth to the issues at hand that effects many warfighters, this video is just one of the many truths. Everybody pretty much has heard the statistic "23 soldier suicides a day",.. well that number in truth is many more,.. as Boone explains in the video below.

Video- LEARN WHY WARFIGHTERS ARE BEING KILLED, WHO IS RESPONSIBLE AND HOW TO STOP IT


Big Dogs --- To The Front from Boone Cutler on Vimeo.

FREE Advertising and Promoting ALL Military Related & Veteran Owned

 

 

 So as many of you know I was the founder of the original "Military Resource Directory"...which was published online from 2009 - 2015. Earlier this year I had decided to take it down temporarily for reconstruction and updating. Somehow, with out my knowledge the domain host I was using, auctioned off my site and sold it,.. So now it's gone.

But Hey,.. That's OK! Sometimes Blessings are found in life's mishaps. Since Im beginning from scratch again,... I have formed a new creative concept for my new site. It will be bigger and better than the original site and I am so excited to get this work in progress. But I'd like your all's help! If you'd like free advertising and promoting on the new upcoming site just give me a shout out and tell me to add you! Now keep in mind this pertains to all military related information for our warfighters, veterans, thier families, thier communities and such. Also I am adding special sections to promote Veteran Owned businesses, blogs, and websites, along with Veteran Authors, Musicians, Artists and Film Makers. So again,.. If you'd like free advertising and promoting on the new upcoming site just give me a shout out and tell me to add you!

My goal for the new site re-launch is set for Nov. 11th Veterans Day!!!

You can send me a shout-out via,..
TWITTER  @ArmyInfantryMom
FACEBOOK E-Mail:  Army_Infantry_Mom@yahoo.com
 

 

CarePackage Supply List For Our Warfighters

I compiled this care package list to give idea's and try to make it easy on you, while providing a detailed list of all the supplies that are needed and most asked for. So here's the compiled list,.. It may seem over-whelming I know, there is a lot listed here. Just keep in mind you can turn this into a team effort between your family, friends and even co-workers.

Gulf War Illness - In Depth

 
GULF WAR ILLNESS by @ArmyInfantryMom

In the fall of 1990 more than a half million US Troops headed over-sea's to the Persian Gulf but with the fear of Sodom Hussein using chemical and biological weapons the government had decided they would protect our troops by implementing medical precautionary. These precautionary included Service Members to take pyridostigmine bromide (PB) pills and receive a series of Anthrax vaccines.

The PB pills were to protect them if they were exposed to nerve gas agents such as soman and sarin, however the pills were experimental !!! Keep in mind at least half of those who served took them throughout their deployments, but was used even more by the Army personnel.

The Gulf War Veterans were also exposed to many other materials considered dangerous, some occupational and some battlefield related, in fact there were so many they called it a "Toxic Soup." In this toxic soup was, burning oil wells, depleted uranium, organophosphate pesticides, jet and rocket fuels and the leaking of Iraqi chemical weapons after collation air strikes .

Important things we can do,... is find the answers that many Veterans and their families has been asking. For too too long, these questions fell on deaf ears, causing more unnecessary suffering to those affected by Gulf War Illness.

Gulf War Illness: Remember Those Who Served,.. One out of four that served in the first Gulf War have Gulf War Illness!!! Downloaded by Congressman Dennis Kucinich (July 17, 2012)

 

Generations of Warriors Project - Coping & Healing PTSD Through Awareness

I would like to introduce you to a Vietnam Veteran I am Honored to call my friend and Proud to be partnered with,.. Spencer Oland Founder of Generations of Warriors Project (GOWP)

PTSD awareness is the primary mission Spencer has taken on, going out and speaking with fellow veterans from World War 2 all the way to the ones who has served in the recent Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Through our first conversation, he shared the fact, that even though the ages differ, the experience of war trauma doesn’t, and he had it in his mind to start Generations of Warriors Project. Spencer is well spoken, his message hits home when it comes to raising awareness, and his determination is relentless.

Find out more about Spencer in this interview with the TV Richland City View "I am Richland".

                                                      

Please visit our webpage at: http://www.gowarriorsproject.org
Connect with us on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/#!/gowarriorsproject/

Disabled Veteran needs a EMERGENCY "Hand Up" Lets Give It To Him!

A very dear and personal friend of mine Tom is a disabled veteran who has fallen on hard times and is needing a temperary Emergency "Hand Up" in order to save his house and car and I'm personally asking for your help in helping him.  He means the WORLD too me and I will share with you later in this post why and how he had made such a impact on my life personally.  But first,.. I'd like to share with you the service he gave for our country.  Tom served in the Army Infantry on the front lines during Desert Shield & Desert Storm where his unit recieved the Valorous Unit Award. 

I have worked with and assisted many veterans over the past 9 years and now I'm working with Tom and this project / "Mission" is the most important one I have EVER worked on because this hits home for me concidering how much I admire and care for him, and if EVER there was a "case" I needed to get right and be sucessful,.. this is it! But unfortantly I dont personally have the funds to assist him so I am reaching out to all those who know me and all those who has it in their heart to help a veteran out,.. and I am asking from the very bottom of my heart to PLEASE help me,.. help Tom. 

I have a lot of resources but out of ALL of them I can't seem to find any organization that assists Pre 9/11 veterans.... It's been like finding a needle in the haystack and I hav'nt found it and Tom is about to lose everything,.. and I would personally go to hell and back to find him the help he needs.  The best I have been able to come up with is partnering up with Raven Black and setting up a Go Fund Me for Tom  http://www.goo.gl/KPZeot   Unfortantly over the past 8 days only 100 of the 2,000 needed has been raised.  But God willing I am hoping the donations will start coming in for him and this is why,...

Tom is so deserving of a blessing, not just because he served our country but because he is a good good man,.. This I KNOW because back in 2008 when my son JB deployed to Afghanistan (who was also Army Infantry) I was besides myself with the fear he wouldn't make it home alive and Tom took me under his wing and was there for me anytime I needed to talk or just cry, day or night,.. and he was my constant reminder to keep my faith that God was with my son, and he'd return to me. (Which JB did). Without the support of Tom,.. that deployment would of been more than i could of bared for I didn't have no one I could turn to to help me find the "Calm" I needed so bad,.. being a single Mom.  He just means the WORLD to me,.. and it's breaking my heart seeing him in this crisis and him losing everything he has,.. just so aint right. 

So again,.. I am personally PLEADING for help on this one,... It would be MUCH APPRECIATED!!!

#MilitaryMonday #SOT News, Events and More 2/24/14

Hello everybody and happy #SOT #WoundedWarriors #MilitaryMonday It's been quite awhile since I last posted, took some personal time off,.. but I'm back and hoping the New Year has been treating everyone good. I'm so excited to be back, so many new projects going on this year to share, in efforts to help and assist our troops, veterans and wounded warriors. So let's just jump right into it!

The first thing I want to share is a #fundraiser that a veteran Derek Nuets and his talented wife Naomi is promoting, it is for their album Time and Voices. an emotional and haunting journey, and album art helps fans to deepen the meaning behind that journey.
The Fundraisers goal is to reach $750.00 to cover artwork and branding for their new album. But it's crunch time,.. less than 60 hrs left to go and they still need $400.00 more to reach their goal. I am really hoping people will pitch in with this one,... I've networked with Derek for the past 6 years and he has done so much within the military community helping fellow veterans and his wife Naomi is absolute pure talent,.. just good people who always give and I'm just hopin they will be on the recieving end this time. To help please go to: http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/artwork-for-upcoming-album-time-faces/x/3461897 Their future goals with this project is to extend album into movie/documentary and soundtrack.

2.) #Veterans #Event In My Hometown! - Presented by Russ Barnett Michigan Vet Fest Sat. July 19th 12pm - Sun. July 20th 10pm Motor City Eagles - 24401 5 Mile Rd. Redford, MI (South side of 5 Mile Rd., just West of Telegraph Rd. near Tim Hortons and McDonalds.)

"Two day music fest to Support Veterans! 100% of proceeds go to WWP (Wounded Warrior Project), Soldier's Angels and Veterans Haven in Wayne.

Addmission is free, however, concider a donation of $5.00 or more,.. We need to pull together and assist with funding and donations, we owe it to our veterans for all they have sacerficed,.. and more importantly they deserve the best from us,... when they need assistance.                                                                                                                                                                    "Like" them on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michigan.vetfest.

Learn more about Wounded Warriors Project : http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
Learn more about Soldier's Angels: https://www.soldiersangels.org/                             
Learn more about Veterans Haven (Wayne) : http://www.vetshaveninfo.org

3.) #SupportVeteransDreams - JT Hollis Veteran/Musician My buddy JT has released a new song, "Outlaws" that was composed and written by his friend Tim Weems. JT is battling it out in the Independant Music charts and need our support to get him in the top spot he belongs in. What I'm asking is if you could please take a listen to it,.. then "vote" it up in the charts! It's super easy and takes less than 60 seconds. Just go to http://www.independantmusicnetwork.com Scroll down to JT Hollis - "Outlaws" and click,... Your done,.. that's it.

Promote your mixtape at ReverbNation.com

http://www.reverbnation.com/passionandfire/song/19502115-outlaws-writtencomposed-by-tim

"Like" him on his Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/JT-Hollis-Fan-Page/133788946671278 "Follow" him o Twitter: https://twitter.com/JTHollis

Heads Up!!!
Camp Corral Summer Camp Registration Begins for Children of Wounded, Disabled or Fallen Military Families
Camp Corral provides free summer camp for Military children, ages 8 to 15, across the country. Since its founding, Camp Corral has grown to 20 camps in 16 states, and served over 4,000 children. Registration is now open http://www.campcorral.org.

Little Children, Big Challenges Sesame Workshop
"Welcome to Sesame Street’s press room for our newest resiliency initiative Little Children, Big Challenges. This bilingual, multimedia outreach initiative is for military, veteran, and general public families with young children, to help increase self-awareness, boost self-esteem, and help children persevere through changes. The project will debut with a new anthem, What We Are."
http://www.sesameworkshop.org/press-room/little-children-big-challenges/

Wounded Warriors Project (WWP) will launch a new initiative this spring called the Long-Term Support Trust. It will provide a dedicated funding source to ensure that those warriors with the greatest need have access to quality services in the least isolated setting possible after their family members or caregivers are no longer able to provide it.
http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/?sm_guid=NTAyNzd8MTUwNzc1N3wtMXxhcm15X2luZmFudHJ5X21vbUB5YWhvby5jb218MTc3NjU5fHwwfDB8MTQ1MjYwODA1

Get Involved! Operation Gratitude’s Military Support Programs - unique care package programs, each with the goal of saying "Thank You" to our heroes: http://opgrat.wordpress.com/2014/02/04/operation-gratitudes-military-support-programs/

In Case You Missed It,...                                                                                               
2013 in Review: PTSD Monthly Update - January 2014
Veterans Health Administration
"In this issue we review PTSD developments and highlights from the last year. PTSD Symptoms – Update. Read our revised page on PTSD symptoms. New PTSD diagnostic criteria were released last year. Changes were made to stay consistent with what we have learned over time. Instead of three groups, symptoms are now organized into four groups. Doctors on How PTSD Treatment Can Help. View videos of clinicians who describe PTSD treatments. These clinicians join the Veterans who talk about their PTSD in About Face. Some of the most effective PTSD treatments are:
•Cognitive Processing Therapy
•Prolonged Exposure Therapy
•Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)."
http://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USVHA/bulletins/a10138

Retired Lieutenant-General Romeo Dallaire talks about terminal effects of PTSD
USC Social Work Center for Innovation and Research on Veterans & Military Families, January 2014
"On Jan. 22, retired Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire held a colloquium at the University of Southern California, where he discussed the impact post-traumatic stress disorder can have on military families. ‘Our families are now living the missions with us,’ Dallaire said. ‘When we send those members overseas and they come back with this injury, we can be causing casualties in their families.’ Related Items. Watch video of Combat & Family: Post-Traumatic Stress and the Impact on Military Families, See gallery of Dallaire's visit to USC and the Center for Innovation and Research on Veterans & Military Families."
http://cir.usc.edu/news/2014/01/romeo-dallaire-talks-about-terminal-effects-of-ptsd

Natural Healing: The Human-Animal Bond by Combat Stress Volume 2 Number 4 Read it online
Editor’s note: This issue is dedicated to treatment of military related trauma with animal therapy including canines, equines and other animals. There is a reference section on human animal bond and animals as therapy.
http://www.stress.org/wp-content/uploads/Newsletter/October_Combat_Stress_2013/?utm_source=October+Combat+Stress+2013&utm_campaign=October+2013+Combat+Stress&utm_medium=email

American Legion Launches TBI/PTSD Survey
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20140203006300/en/American-Legion-Launches-TBIPTSD-Survey#.UvR7lbCYZaQ

New Resources!                                                                                                                       
PTSD Foundation of America hosts weekly support group meetings
"The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Foundation of America has branched out to Huntsville by hosting weekly support group meetings at the Veterans Memorial Museum on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. David DeKerlegand, who served in the U.S. Army for 21 years, is the veterans’ coordinator for Camp Hope, a 90-day program in Houston that helps assimilate combat veterans with PTSD back into society
http://www.houstonianonline.com/news/ptsd-foundation-of-america-hosts-weekly-support-group-meetings-1.2852489#.UvSIabCYZaQ

Military Spouses of Strength
http://www.milspousesofstrength.org/
At Military Spouses of Strength you will find a group of military spouses who have joined together for information, resources, support and strength! This is a safe place that can be a support system to get you through the times when you feel alone and confused. Know that you are important and valuable, use this site as a place to lean on and the resources to aid you in your journey to recovery. You are not alone, let us be there for you! We want to hear from you! MSoS has created the first of it's kind anonymous survey and we what to hear from you! This survey will help us bring your concerns about mental health and the need of more support within the military spouse community. The data will be used to determine needs of the community and where MSoS might be able to provide programming in the future. MSoS survey will only take all of 5 minutes. Please take part our survey or share with other military spouses."

VA Caregiver Support
Aging and Disability Resource Centers
Caregivers of Veterans sometimes feel overwhelmed as they look for services and supports from the community to help care for a loved-one. Often, this search involves many phone calls, office visits, and web searches that produce confusing and sometimes conflicting information. Fortunately, there is a community organization that can help simplify this process—Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs).

ADRCs can be an invaluable resource to Caregivers by providing connections to community resources. Working with your local ADRCs will widen the services and support available for Caregivers of Veterans. You can find your local ADRC through the following link: http://www.adrc-tae.acl.gov/

This weeks,... Extra's:
Tell Me Again, Why Did My Friends Die In Iraq?
Editor’s note: This article highlights the sense of despair that is felt by service members and veterans as events in Iraq unfold
http://www.businessinsider.com/iraq-war-reasons-2014-1#ixzz2pe6Fsm7b

‘Kill Me. I Can’t Live Like This' -- A Long Wars PTSD Love Story
http://www.nextgov.com/defense/2014/02/kill-me-i-cant-live-long-wars-ptsd-love-story/78083/?oref=nextgov_today_nl
"Signature wounds of war’" has become one of those phrases so embedded in the national lexicon to have almost lost its meaning, as the United States winds down the 13th year of its long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Former Army Sgt. Kayla Williams knows all too well the true meaning of those signature wounds – post–traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain Injury – as her husband, former Army Staff Sgt. Brian McGough, has struggled with the consequences of those mental wounds and a penetrating brain injury for the past decade. Williams wrote a powerful, unbelievably frank and emotionally exhausting tale of life with PTSD and TBI in her memoir, Plenty of Time When We Get Home, published this month by W.W. Norton. The book illustrates in excruciating detail how homecoming can mark for many veterans the start of new battles. McGough and Williams met in 2003 on a rock pile of an outpost in Iraq close to the Syrian border, a meeting recounted at the end of her first Iraq memoir, Love My Rifle More Than You, (Norton, 2005) and at the start of the current volume."

‘Veteran Nation’ is an award-winning, moving 30-minute documentary on the experience of how America has treated our veterans and their families from Bunker Hill to Baghdad; the challenges facing this generation; and how the American people can best serve those who served. The goal of the film is to inspire all of us to give back to those who gave their all. Veteran Nation was an official selection of the 2013 The Military Channel (a sponsor of the GI Film Festival) presented the documentary ‘Veteran Nation’ its award for the festival which best represented the mission and values of the cable-television network.
The documentary includes:
•Riveting combat film from the front lines of today’s wars
•Rare historical photographs and archival footage
•Jaw-dropping animation
•Gripping interviews with veterans and experts
http://www.servingourvets.org/screen-award-winning-documentary-in-your-community-for-free/




NEWS
VA funding of service dogs: a second look…
http://veterantraveler.com/va-to-pay-for-service-dogs/

A Troubled Marine's Final Fight
When his nation called, Marine Sergeant David Lindley answered. But when he came home hurting, his country let him down
http://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2164226,00.html#ixzz2sTYrboq1

Research Article - Associations Between Perceived Social Reactions to Trauma-Related Experiences With PTSD and Depression Among Veterans Seeking PTSD Treatment
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jts.21879/full

Serotonin May Perpetuate Chronic Pain
http://americannewsreport.com/nationalpainreport/serotonin-may-perpetuate-chronic-pain-8822871.html

How Phoenix ended homelessness among vets
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/01/23/usa-today-capital-download-phoenix-mayor-greg-stanton-veterans-homelessness/4794199/

Here’s What’s Troubling American Troops in One Chart
It's about 'combat experiences,' not length of deployment
http://swampland.time.com/2014/02/04/military-troops-iraq-afghanistan-ptsd-combat/

We Sacrifice so much but still don’t get what we deserve-US military vet on pension cuts
http://voiceofrussia.com/2014_02_04/We-sacrifice-so-much-but-still-dont-get-what-we-deserve-US-military-vet-on-pension-cuts-7867/

Military sexual assault reports jump by 50 percent
http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20131227/NEWS06/312270009/Military-sexual-assault-reports-jump-by-50-percent

Saddles For Soldiers’ Program Finds Success Treating PTSD In Veterans Through Horse Bonding
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2013/12/17/saddles-for-soldiers-program-aims-to-treat-ptsd-in-veterans-through-horse-bonding/

PTSD may cause families to reverse roles
http://www.ftleavenworthlamp.com/article/20140103/NEWS/140109875/1348

#SOT Resources and News May 7, 2013

Great Organization Worth Supporting! Warrior Dog Foundation @WarriorDogs
Warrior Dog Foundation is dedicated to serving the special operations community, families, and Special OperationForces (SOF) working K-9 military dogs.
Warrior Dog Foundation helps to transition dogs from an operational environment into our state-of-the-art kennel facility.  We strive to educate the public on the importance of K-9s in the combat environment, and showcase the level of sacrifice these dogs give in support of our troops.  We care for each individual SOF K-9 with dignity and grace, including both mental and physical rehabilitation for the rest of their lives.

Watch Foundation founder Mike Ritland’s “60 Minutes” Interview to learn more about dogs in combat. http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=50145334n

Thier Book: "Trident K9 Warriors"
Trident K9 Warriors @WarriorDogs gives readers an inside look at elite canines:
Who they are, how they are trained, and the extreme missions they undertake saving countless lives, asking for little in the way of reward.
http://www.amazon.com/Trident-K9-Warriors-Training-Battlefield/dp/1250024978/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1359148352&sr=1-1

DONATE NOW
Support Special Operation Forces K-9 warriors as we rehabilitate them and find them forever homes.
http://warriordogfoundation.org/
Hit "Like" https://www.facebook.com/TridentK9Warriors#!/TridentK9Warriors


53 Veterans Dia A Day Waiting For Benefits! #SOT Concerned Veterans @ConcernedVets #Petition Change VA backlog
Watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=O0iLXd8lMGo
#SOT @ConcernedVets #Petition Change VA backlog at http://www.millionvetbacklog.com 
I SUPPORT Concerned Veterans @ConcernedVets
Standing up for policies that will preserve the freedom & liberty our vets their families proudly fought to defend.
ConcernedVeteransForAmerica.org

Good Neighbors Work to Prevent Suicide  http://on.wgrz.com/17FxSoR  via @WGRZ

An article on Ontario Provincial Police and #PTSD and the need for more #education
http://www.thestar.com/news/crime/2012/10/05/how_the_ontario_provincial_police_deals_with_officers_ptsd.html
Fort Cambell @FortCampbell emphasizes suicide prevention http://ow.ly/kJ805  #StopSoldierSuicide

Sexual dysfunction an overlooked part of #TBI - http://ow.ly/kBgql  - #PTSD #mentalhealth #sexualhealth #vets #trauma #health #medicine
 

On May 8, @MarielHemingway will host the @AFSPNational's Lifesavers Dinner in NYC. Please attend or donate: http://bit.ly/YpURne  #honored

Medal of Honor veterans discuss #combat #stress and how reaching out for help takes real strength: http://j.mp/HeartsofHeroes

"A Marine and His Dog in Afghanistan" by #USMarine @Kevin_Hanrahan  http://ow.ly/kv5Zb #dog #SOT
"Dogs: A front Line Defense Against IED in #Afghanistan" by #USMarine @Kevin_Hanrahan http://ow.ly/kv5Z7 #dog #SOT"

Public Accommodation for #Wounded and #Disabled #Veterans' http://ow.ly/ku43B #SOT

How do #militarychildren handle mild traumatic brain injury? Find out in this @DCoEPage video: http://ow.ly/kqvVu  #milhealth

The @DeptVetAffairs Launches Hotline to Answer Questions on VA Health Care and Benefits for Women Veterans
http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=2438 #womenvets

The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is looking for mentors to help #Milkids at Good Grief summer camp:
http://youtu.be/jvcNjLiQPoI

"A Soldier Sees Enough Death For a Lifetime After 11 years of War" by #USMarine @Kevin_Hanrahan http://ow.ly/kaAIE

More Mentally Ill Becoming Homeless Because States Won't HelpState governments across the United States are slashing funding for services for the mentally ill. The unsurprising result is more mentally ill people without homeshttp://www.care2.com/causes/more-mentally-ill-becoming-homeless-because-states-wont-help.html

About one in five homeless Central Floridians once wore our country's colors.
Darryl E. Owens: Homeless vet wants to take issue to the stage - OrlandoSentinel.com
'Tent to Tent': Homeless veterans' stories may play out on stage
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/opinion/os-darryl-owens-veterans-on-stage-20130506,0,378317.column

Jodi House @JodiHouse
Welcome to Jodi House Brain Injury Support Center! Since 1982, Jodi House has been helping survivors and their families cope with life after brain injury.
Santa Barbara, CA · http://www.jodihouse.org

Soldiers' Art: What traumatic brain injury feels like Pictures - CBS News
Active-duty military members suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries made these masks in an art therapy group at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence, located at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.
http://www.cbsnews.com/2300-504803_162-10016706.html

Secretive world of working dogs
Working dogs like those used domestically for anti-terror operations are also saving the lives of American soldiers on the battlefield.
http://www.cbsnews.com/2300-504803_162-10016571.html

National TBI and Emotional Wellness Alliance
In order to advance understanding of Traumatic Brain Injury and its mental and emotional impact, MHA-NYC has developed three collaborative Councils with a TBI and Emotional Wellness Alliance, ("The Alliance") as the hub.
The goal is to drive awareness, science-based information, and sound policy and advocacy initiatives at the convergence of mental health and TBI issues from the schoolyard, to the stadium, and on the battlefield.
http://www.mha-nyc.org/advocacy/national-tbi-and-emotional-wellness-alliance.aspx

#TBI #Video Frontal Lobe and Social Challenges After Traumatic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFki2p7TS9o&feature=player_embedded

EVERY DAY 22 VETERANS & 1 SOLDIER COMMIT SUICIDE #StopSoldierSuicide with "Welcoming Your Soldier Home Project" @WYSHProject

EVERY DAY 22 VETERANS & 1 SOLDIER COMMIT SUICIDE
#StopSoldierSuicide with "Welcoming Your Soldier Home Project" @WYSHProject

Suicide among our veterans is at such a high high rate, and it's effecting so many of our military families, and a lot of times us family members don't know how to reconize the signs, that our loved one is in grave danger.  However we have a special and unique oppertunity to learn more, from this amazing guy Andrew.  He's been there, and he is willing to share things, most wouldn't in hopes of saving more lives.  You may of heard of him,.. but if not,.. I won't let you miss out! 

Andrew O’Brian  - StopSoldierSuicides - "Welcoming Your Soldier Home" WYSH Project
Veteran Suicide Prevention, I survived Suicide from PTSD.. Help me stop the next one!
http://wyshproject.org
https://twitter.com/WYSHProject

Currently, Andrew is touring the US interviewing and speaking with soldiers who are struggling with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome) in support of his new book, “Welcoming your soldier home” – a how-to guide for families expecting a returning vet. Andrew’s ultimate goal is create a documentary film telling the stories of these soldiers he meets and his own.

Welcoming Your Soldier Home - Documentary




Learn more about it & Help Him Fund the Film at: http://wyshproject.org/documentary/

GOT "TWITTER" ???? "Tweet This"
EVERY DAY 22 VETERANS & 1 SOLDIER COMMIT SUICIDE #StopSoldierSuicide w/ @WYSHProject #SOT #Video http://goo.gl/NlLVb

The Guide to Welcoming Your Soldier Home
This is a guide to better understand PTSD and what soldiers go through when they come home. Learn how to handle certain situations with your soldier, and try to build back the strong relationship you had before they left to war. 50% of my royalties will be donated to Hope4PTSDVets. The other 50% goes towards funding the WYSH Project, which is a project of traveling around and giving speeches across the nation. During this travel we will be making a documentary of not only the speeches, but also interviews with other veterans and their family members as well as experience professionals who specialize in PTSD with the military.
http://wyshproject.org/the-guide/

Petition - Senator John McCain "Our Military Working Dogs are "NOT EQUIPMENT SIR"

 

Please par-take,.. K9's save our loved ones lives! They are living, breathing, and feeling creatures just like us. And PS Did ya know, Many of the K9's are coming back with PTSD! So ya, they deserve every right, to be treated fairly, humanely, and treated with RESPECT!!!

Sign The Petition & Please, Please Share!
Senator John McCain "Our Military Working Dogs are "NOT EQUIPMENT SIR"
http://www.causes.com/actions/1717202-senator-john-mccain-our-military-working-dogs-are-not-equipment-sir 

A Salute to Military Working Dogs
http://youtu.be/lggDvmoJ3QA

#SOT TAKE ACTION! - PETITIONS

I'm asking ALL my friends to please please sign this petition, ... We are fighting for the lives of our loved ones. we are losing 22 veterans (our family members) each and every day, infact the number is even higher if you take into account the ones who isn't reported.  I would sign it for your son or daughter, will you sign it for mine ?
http://ptsdawareness.org/Petition-to-Congress.html

"Like" & Support facebook page Bob Veteran for PTSD Awareness
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bob-Veteran-for-PTSD-Awareness/135886629844145?ref=hl

"Like" & Support facebook page PTSE (Post Traumatic Stress Education) Awareness Week
http://www.facebook.com/groups/PTSEawarenessWEEK/?ref=notif&notif_t=group_r2j

"Tweet" This - Please sign this #Petition 2 congress for PTSD(E) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Education Week http://fb.me/B5ujJaKb  #PTSD #Education #SOT


No More Home Foreclosures for Veterans!
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
Too many veterans return home to find themselves unable to pay for their own residency and facing foreclosure.
Sign the petition http://www.bit.ly/vetforeclosures22

Support Armed Forces Breast Cancer Research Act (H.R. 4896)
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
Research indicates breast cancer rates are significantly higher among military personnel. It's time to do something about it. Take action!http://goo.gl/5CBJi

Support Healing through Service Dogs for Veterans
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
Sign in support of the Dog Training Therapy Act! Take action!
The Dog Training Therapy Act would direct the VA to carry out a pilot program to help train service dogs for veterans in need of therapeutic care for post-deployment mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. This legislation is necessary in providing veterans with alternative care that can be integral to their recovery.http://goo.gl/ZVWX7

We Can't Afford to Lose Any More Veterans to Suicide!
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
Show your support for veterans coping with PTSD and depression. Take action!
Providing insurance coverage for PTSD and depression treatment is imperative. Every person's life has meaning. Sign the petition asking the Department of Defense for more comprehensive recognition and assistance for suicidal veterans.http://goo.gl/wOyPp

Protect Military Dogs for a Lifetime!
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
They've protected us, now it's time for America to protect them- for a lifetime! Take action!
The Canine Members of the Armed Forces Act would mandate that military dogs receive lifelong care and treatment following service. Sign your name in support of this important legislation today.http://goo.gl/Jw9wT

Military Suicide: Fight The War At Home
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
Encourage greater attention to the psychological needs of veterans when they return from service. Take action!
In the United States, a veteran dies by suicide every 80 minutes. http://goo.gl/cK03m

Fight For Vets Exposed To Toxic Chemicals
Sponsored by: The Veterans Site
Support legislation that will help veterans who have been exposed to toxic chemicals as well as prevent further contamination. Take action!
The Military Personnel Toxic Exposure Registry Act (H.R. 4477) would create a system to help identify soldiers who have been exposed to toxic chemicals and to help those service members receive the resulting care they need.http://goo.gl/0iRn0

"Thank-You!"

Wounded Times: Defense contractor had 518 decorated heroes social...

Wounded Times: Defense contractor had 518 decorated heroes social...: Decorated soldiers’ SSNs exposed online Army Times By Joe Gould Posted : Friday Sep 28, 2012 The Army is investigating how a defense co...

http://www.benefits.gov/benefits/benefit-details/313

VA - Health Care - Gulf War, Agent Orange and Ionizing Radiation Registry Program

Program Description

In 1978, VA set up a register of Vietnam veterans who were worried that they might have been exposed to dangerous herbicides during their military service in Vietnam. Beginning in that year, Vietnam veterans were offered an extensive medical examination to look for possible health effects resulting from exposure to the herbicides-an exam that is still offered at all VA medical centers.

The "Agent Orange Registry" is a computerized index of all of those examinations.

Since that time, we have also set up registries for Gulf War veterans as well as for veterans who were exposed to ionizing radiation and depleted Uranium.
Continoe reading at:  http://www.benefits.gov/benefits/benefit-details/313

Korean War POW buried with full military honors in native Scott County- Kingsport Times-News#.T0F0y15YdOU.facebook#.T0F0y15YdOU.facebook

Korean War POW buried with full military honors in native Scott County- Kingsport Times-News#.T0F0y15YdOU.facebook#.T0F0y15YdOU.facebook