Veterans & Military Families Monthly News

July 2011-Part II
Good afternoon and thank you for reading, this months edition of the newsletter. We appreciate your involvement. Remember, we have two online sources where you can read and offer comments on the current and previous editions of the newsletter. The newsletter is posted on Facebook through the group called Veterans and Military Families Monthly News. Check it out and join the group. Click here to go directly to the page. (Keep in mind, you need a Facebook account to join; however, the documents can be viewed through the docs link toward the bottom of the page even without an account.) The second source for the online version of the newsletter is the website www.scribd.com. This online source for the newsletter works in the same fashion as the Facebook page. Please let us know what you think, or if you have any questions about the online sources. For those of you who enjoy just receiving the email each month, we will continue to send it out. But we want to build the online presence as a way to reach out to more people. As always, thank you very much for reading. Our hope is to continue to expand the newsletter. For that, we need your input. So, again, if anyone has any suggestions for topics to cover or wants to write their own piece, we will gladly try to work it in. We hope you enjoy, and please share your feedback with us.

Vol. 2 No. 11
From: U.S. Department of Defense-Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) The deadline for eligible service members, veterans and their beneficiaries to apply for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP) has been extended to Oct. 21, 2011, allowing those eligible more time to apply for the benefits theyve earned under the program guidelines. The deadline extension is included in Continuing Resolution H.R. 1473, signed by President Obama April 15, 2011, providing funding for federal government operations through Oct. 21, 2011. The RSLSP was established to compensate for the hardships military members encountered when their service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss Authority between Sept. 11, 2001, and Sept. 30, 2009. Eligible members or their beneficiaries may submit a claim to their respective military service in order to receive the benefit of $500 for each full or partial month served in a Stop Loss status. When RSLSP began on Oct. 21, 2009, the services estimated 145,000 service members, veterans and beneficiaries were eligible for this benefit. Because the majority of those eligible had separated from the military, the services have engaged in extensive and persistent outreach efforts over the past 18 months. Outreach efforts including direct mail and engaging military and veteran service organizations, social networks and media outlets, will continue through Oct. 21, 2011. To apply, or for more information on RSLSP, including submission requirements and service-specific links, go to http://www.defense.gov.

Deadline for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay Extended

Thank you very much!

P.2-Some Useful Links P.3-Army Ranger Receives Medal of Honor P.5-A Note From Hank Fuhs P.7-Wounded Warrior Project P.11-Patriot Guard Riders of Michigan Event

In This Issue

P.12-Pershings Last Patriot P.13-Mach 3-Part I P.14-Spirit of the American Flag P.16-Selfridge Air Show P.20-WWII Vets Update P.22-Talking with Heroes P.24-Compelete List of Links And much more...

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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Michigan Republican Party Facebook Page

Along with building the newsletters Facebook page, which can be found by the link above, the Michigan Republican Party is building their page. If you would like join, please click here.

Some Useful Links

Air Force Times www.airforcetimes.com Navy Times www.navytimes.com Marine Corps Times www.marinecorpstimes.com Army Times www.armytimes.com Military Times www.militarytimes.com TRICARE www.tricare.mil American Legion www.legion.org Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw.org AMVETS www.amvets.org The DAV www.dav.org Department of Defense www.dod.gov Military/Veterans Report www.militray.com The Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Administration www.va.gov

Form: www.dav.org Because so many sick and disabled veterans lack transportation to and from VA medical facilities for needed treatment, the DAV operates a nationwide Transportation Network to meet this need. Through the Transportation Network, DAV volunteers drive sick and disabled veterans to and from VA medical facilities for treatment. The Transportation Network is a clear example of veterans helping veterans. The DAV stepped in to meet a substantial community need when the federal government terminated its program that helped many veterans pay for transportation to VA medical facilities. The DAV has 189 Hospital Service Coordinators around the country who coordinate the transportation needs for disabled veterans. Use the DAV Hospital Service Coordinator Directory to contact your nearest HSC for information or assistance. Please remember that the DAV Transportation Network is staffed by volunteers; therefore, it is unable to cover every community. We hope we can help you. Locate your nearest VA Medical Center

Need a Ride

If anyone has a site they would like to have added to this growing list please let us know! Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org Also check out the complete list of links that appear in this newsletter on the last page.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

Thank you for your Support!

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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

From: www.militarytimes.com By: Kathleen Curthoys Staff writer Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry received the Medal of Honor on Tuesday from President Obama, who said This could not be happening to a nicer guy or a more inspiring family. Petry, 31, is the second living soldier on active duty to receive the Medal of Honor for actions during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This is a historic occasion, Obama said. This is only the second time since Vietnam that a recipient of the Medal of Honor in an ongoing conflict has been able to accept this medal in person. Petry, his wife Ashley, and family members and fellow soldiers gathered in the East Room of the White House for the ceremony. Army leaders and Vice President Biden also attended the ceremony in the East Room, which was packed with family, friends, members of the 75th Ranger Regiment and former Medal of Honor recipients. Among them was former Staff Sgt. Sal Giunta, the first living recipient of the medal from the current wars, wearing a dark suit and a goatee. He was awarded the medal last year and has since left the Army. Petry has had eight deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, with a total of 28 months deployed. Petry and fellow Rangers from 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment were conducting a daytime raid to capture an enemy target in Paktya, Afghanistan, on May 26, 2008. He and Master Sgt. Steven Walter, first sergeant for 2nd Battalions Headquarters and Headquarters Company, were to clear another target building while an assault force cleared the primary target. One of the assault squads needed help clearing their building, so Petry diverted to join them. Petry and Pfc. Lucas Robinson moved to clear the outer courtyard. The enemy positioned outside fired on Petry and Robinson as they crossed an open area. Petry was shot in both legs and Robinson was hit in his side armor plate. They took cover while Sgt. Daniel Higgins came into the courtyard to help them. An enemy grenade landed a few meters away from them, and the blast wounded Higgins and Robinson. Two more Rangers, Staff Sgt. James Roberts and Spc. Christopher Gathercole came to their aid.

Army Ranger Receives Medal of Honor

Photo from: J.LEE / STAFF (www.military.com) Sgt. 1st Class Leroy Arthur Petry shares a laugh with President Obama after being awarded the Medal of Honor on July 12 at the White House.

Another enemy grenade landed near the wounded men. Petry grabbed the grenade and threw it away from the other soldiers. As the grenade detonated, Petrys hand was lost. He put a tourniquet on his own arm and called on the radio to report what happened. Roberts, Higgins and Robinson returned fire, killing the enemy. Gathercole was killed during the fighting. Petry was medevaced and taken to a hospital in Germany, then returned to the U.S. for treatment. He now has a prosthetic hand, and still is trying to recover from the wounds to his legs. Last year, he re-enlisted indefinitely in the Army rather than retire. Petry remains a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment and is attached to Special Operations Command, serving at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., as a liaison for the SOCOM Care Coalition. He works with Rangers who have been wounded in the warzone. A native of Sant Fe, N.M. Petry joined the Army in September 1999. His previous awards include two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, three Army Good Conduct Medals, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Combat Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and others. The Medal of Honor is the nations highest award for valor.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Vietnam Veterans of America

From: Phil Smith Director/Chief VVA NVSO Well Memorial Day and now July 4th Independence Day has come and gone, the fireworks were completed and some areas just could not conduct fireworks this year due to the budget crisis. I hope that all went well for all. And, I would like to apologize for not getting something out before, its either overlooking the date or oversight. As I looked back over these two eventful occasions, I had the opportunity to be on the Parade Committee in Dearborn, I am not a Dearborn resident, but I am one of the Commanders in the Veterans population of the City. In fact two this year, plus what I already do as work. The parade was again outstanding, but what was lacking is more Veterans. Where are they? If you watch the parade especially from where I was, it seems the veterans population is dwindling, this is not so, or maybe it could be. The veterans population from the stand point of WWII and Korea and in some point Vietnam Veterans due to age and other reasons, are dwindling fast. Now comes the Desert Storm to current, I would be remiss to say, you don't see many of the last two being involved. This coming up 2012 we would like to see more of the current veterans. Saying that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and his Staff are getting innovative. Ensuring that DoD and VA others work together to make sure the Veterans are being treated fairly and records are uptodate in a coordinating effort. Saying that, they have come out with some new conditions of Vietnam Veterans and looking at more. Ischemic Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease), Parkinson's and Leukemia B-cell (Hairy Cell Carcinoma), these have been out and have backlogged the VA system, seems there is a relationship between Agent Orange (Herbicide Dioxin), and those medical conditions, the other is Desert Storm to present - Brucellosis, Campylobacter jejuni, Coxiella Burnetii (Q Fever), Malaria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Nontyphoid Salmonella, Shigella, Visceral leishmaniasis and West Nile Virus and to say the least PTSD, which is being called PTS instead of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is now Post Traumatic Stress.

Legal Help for Veterans

From: James G. Fausone Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC is a law firm located in Northville, Michigan. We have a national practice representing veterans on veterans disability claims. This representation occurs at the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, the Board of Veterans Appeals and regional offices. We have helped veterans collect over $10,000,000 in retro and future benefits. Over the last decade, LHFV has become a trusted name in the legal community for providing legal services to veterans and lecturing at law schools, bar associations and community events. Members of the Legal Help for Veterans practice group are former service members who bring not only legal expertise but an understanding of service and duty. The members of the group have medical and administrative backgrounds as well as finely honed legal skills developed over twenty years of practice and experience. We have represented thousands of veterans and currently have over 650 active clients. For more information about the organization and about legal help for veterans and for contact information www.legalhelpforveterans.com and found on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Our telephone number is 800.693.4800. Our blog discusses current issues facing veterans and the VA. Typically our clients are enlisted men and women who served post Korea. The Vietnam vet is still the one with the most common problems. These include Agent Orange related disabilities, PTSD, psychiatric or orthopedic injuries. Other vets often have hearing loss, military sexual trauma or tinnitus. We are now seeing Iraq and Afghanistan vets with TBI. Many vets do not even begin the disability claim process until many years after service. The trigger may be unemployability and the need for benefits. With a million claim back log at VA, it is a slow and confusing process and many people need professional help establishing the proper diagnosis and service connection. That is what Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC has been doing for clients for years.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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VIETNAM WAR COMMEMORATION

From: www.vietnamwar50th.com In Accordance With Public Law 110-181 SEC.598; the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act authorized the Secretary of Defense to conduct a program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War and "in conducting the commemorative program, the Secretary shall coordinate, support, and facilitate other programs and activities of the Federal Government, State and local governments, and other persons and organizations in commemoration of the Vietnam War." The Secretary of Defense shall determine the schedule of major events and priority of efforts for the commemorative program, in order to ensure achievement of the objectives specified in Law. The commemorative program will include activities and ceremonies to achieve the following objectives: 1. To thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war (POW), or listed as missing in action (MIA), for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans. 2. To highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and the contributions of Federal agencies and governmental and non-governmental organizations that served with, or in support of, the Armed Forces. 3. To pay tribute to the contributions made on the home front by the people of the United States during the Vietnam War. 4. To highlight the advances in technology, science, and medicine related to military research conducted during the Vietnam War. 5. To recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by the allies of the United States during the Vietnam War.

A Note From Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

We need your help to grow the Newsletter
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Three ways to help:

1. Email us the contact information at mhauser@migop.org 2. By mail at: 520 Seymour Lansing, MI 48933 3. Or simply forward the newsletter along to a friend.

A Note From Lt. Col Hank Fuhs

Special Active Military Membership pricing from the Fredrick Meijer Gardens. Please visit: www.meijergardens.org for more information.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

From: www. www.usarmtyband.com

OVERTURE 1812

Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. Sylvan Theater, Washington, DC

Each year The United States Army Band performs its big summer concert that concludes with the spirited Tchaikovskys Overture 1812 on the slope of the Washington Monument Groundscomplete with the cannons of The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Presidential Salute Battery. A favorite among Washingtonians, the annual must-see musical extravaganza offers an enjoyable musical program of traditional band music with vocal highlights and Herald Trumpet fanfare. The concert features classical, popular, and patriotic music for audiences of all ages. This free performance will be held at the Sylvan Theater on the Washington Monument Grounds between 15th Street and Independence Avenue. No tickets are required for this event. The closest metro stop to the location is the Smithsonian station on the Orange and Blue Metro lines. The concert ends in grand fashion thanks to the Presidential Salute Battery, equipped with four three-inch, 5,775-pound, World War II vintage anti-tank guns, will fire 75mm blank shells with one-and-a-half pounds of gunpowder. A total of 23 shots will be fired, including the final volley from all four cannons.

Overture 1812 was composed for the 1880 Kremlin Square celebration honoring the Russian victory over the French Napoleon Bonaparte in 1812. Today the overture is revered among concert goersfrom its playful, mocking themes from the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, to the powerful finale with ringing church bells and booming cannons proclaiming victory! This performance is a highlight of the Washington, DC, outdoor music season. Come early and bring a blanket/lawn chairs and a picnic and enjoy the sights and sounds as The U.S. Army Band and the Presidential Salute Battery light up the night (alcoholic beverages are not permitted). View a video preview of the Overture 1812 Concert (QuickTime Player 7.0required).

Lest we Forgets next big event we have coming up is Sept 11, 2011. Normally we have a Veterans Day concert, usually on the Sunday closest to Nov 11. However, this year we are having a ten year tribute to 9/11. We will have the Southshore Concert Band doing a powerful tribute to 9/11 and our speaker will be LTG Robert Van Antwerp. General "Van" is a 1968 graduate of St Joseph High School and a 1972 graduate of West Point. General Van has had a very illustrious career in the military. During Desert Storm he was one of the Army's chief logistician (supply). When 9/11 occurred he was chief of Army Recruiting and it was his idea for the Army motto: Army Strong to replace An Army of One

A Note from Don Alsbro President Lest We Forget SW Michigan:

which very few liked. Anyways on the morning of 9/11 the plane crashed into his office in the Pentagon and he lost several staff members. The plane came to rest about 10 yds from his desk. However, he was across town to a meeting so luckily he didn't get hit. He is a tremendous individual, very charismatic and charming. This should be a very moving concert.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Wounded Warrior Project

From: Mark Eddy Head Coach-Coloma High School (Cell: 269-214-8956) Next fall the Coloma football program will host a Wounded Warrior Project night. The Wounded Warrior Project raises money and awareness for persons of the Armed Services who have been injured while serving our country. When I heard about this fund raiser personally I thought this is great fit for Coloma. Programs that have participated in the Wounded Warrior project play the game in jerseys that people in the community sponsor in honor of a Wounded Warrior and/or US Veteran. Our program plans on having each player seek out a veteran and gather some information about his service. The player will place that veterans name on the back of the sponsored jerseys. After the game, those jerseys will be presented to the service member or a member of their family. We plan to host the WWP game on Friday September 30th @ 7:00PM vs. Edwardsburg High School. Donations: These donations will cover the upfront cost of items like t-shirts. Also these donations hope to cover the cost of the game program which we will sell for a $1 dollar donation. The program will promote the generous gifts on a donors page. We will place donors on T-shirt designed for the game as well as game announcements and the Coloma website. Sponsorship Levels: Platinum $500, Gold $300, Silver $200, Bronze$100, Green $50, Yellow $25 For more information you can visit the Wounded Warrior Project Website at: http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/.

From: Rick Briggs, Major, USAF (Ret) The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) Veterans Program utilizes numerous types of outdoor activities to gather Veterans and currently serving military personnel together for a little R&R. These special events are almost always free for the troops depending totally on the kind donations of sponsors and donors. In addition to being a great way to say Thank you for their service, these activities serve as the mechanism to get the troops to open up a little if they are having post-deployment issues. Frequently we find that in the comfortable confines with others who have been there, done that they tend to be more receptive to learn about Invisible Wounds says Rick Briggs the Program Manager, both PTSD and TBI are treatable if they seek the proper help. To find out more about these activities, or to donate to their Veterans Program, please make out checks to BIAMI Veterans Program and send them to 7305 Grand River Suite #100, Brighton, MI 48114 or contact Rick Briggs at veterans@biami.org or call him (810) 2295880 or visit www.biami.org.

Brain Injury Association of Michigan

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

BIAMI is celebrating its 30th Anniversary as it continues to strive to provide persons with a brain injury and their families, healthcare professionals, and the general public with the resources necessary to enhance brain injury awareness, education, prevention, and support. BIAMI is also fields the first and only dedicated Veterans Program staff within the Brain Injury Association of America.
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About the Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI):

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Committee Testimony Committee Minutes No SubCommittees Committee Members: Kurt Damrow (R), Committee Chair, 84th District Ray A. Franz (R), Majority Vice-Chair, 101st District Gail Haines (R), 43rd District Sharon Tyler (R), 78th District Mike Callton (R), 87th District Dale W. Zorn (R), 56th District David E. Nathan (D), Minority Vice-Chair, 11th District George T. Darany (D), 15th District Charles Smiley (D), 50th District Lesia Liss (D), 28th District Paul Clemente (D), 14th District Ben Cook, Committee Clerk 517-373-2002 bcook@house.mi.gov

Rep. Kurt Damrow Committee Chair Welcome to the Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee. The committee's regularly scheduled meeting time is Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. in room 308 of the House Office Building in Lansing. I welcome citizens to contact me or other committee members regarding bills or proposals our committee is addressing. Individuals needing special accommodations to participate in a committee meeting may contact my office to request the necessary assistance.

From: www.pentagonchannel.mil Monthly News Program put out by the Department of Veteran Affairs and posted through the Pentagon Channel. We will be providing the link each month in this newsletter. Simply Click Here, or the image above to view.

Please Support and listen to Frontlines of Fredom Military Talk Radio Hosted by Lt. Col. Denny Gillem. You can hear it every Saturday at 1p.m. on 1260 AM the Pledge (Zeeland, MI), or by visiting the website at www.frontlinesoffreedom.com. Or on Facebook by clicking here. Thank you for your Support!
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.

~Ronald Reagan

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Hubbardston American Legion Disable Veteran Hunting

From: Dan Heckman Adjutant-Hubbardston American Legion Located on Jones Rd. mile South of Maple Rapids Rd. Clinton County, Lebanon Twp. Disabled Veterans Hunting Shack Built and sponsored by the Hubbardston American Legion Post #182. It was constructed on the corner of Tim Chartrand, Doug Cusack and Wilson Dairy Farms properties. The shack is 8 x 8, 2 feet off the ground. Its sporting a fivefoot deck with roof and its insulated and heated. A disabled veteran or person can drive to the shack and exit onto the 4 x 8 platform and ascend up the 12-foot ramp. The entire cost was accepted by the American legion. Sons of the American Legion donated $200.00 for the cost, Triple C trucking donated the gravel for the driveway and Cusack Masonry provided some material and equipment. This opportunity is free, with no guarantee for harvesting a deer. DNR rules & Laws Apply.

Additional Benefits for Active Duty Time Served: DD FORM 214-SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT
From: Social Security Administration (SSA) Please share this with anyone who's had active duty service between January 1957 to December 31, 2001 and planning for retirement. In a nutshell it boils down to this: You qualify for a higher social security payment because of Military service, for active duty any time from 1957 through 2001 (the program was done away with 1 January 2002). Up to $1200 per year of earnings credit credited at time of application - which can make a substantial difference in social security monthly payments upon your retirement. You must bring your DD-214 to the Social Security Office and you must ask for this benefit to receive it! Social Security website: http://www.ssa.gov/ retire2/military.htm This is something to put in your files for when you apply for Social Security down the road... It is NOT just for retirees, BUT anyone who has served on active duty between January1957 to December 31, 2001. FYI - this benefit is not automatic, you must ask for it!

From: Patricia Webb- Correction: It is automatically applied for duty from 1968 forward. Duty prior to 1968 must be applied for. To request a copy of a DD-214 click here.

Old Warrior Camp

100% Disabled Veterans Sept. 26-27 Special Disabled firearm hunt, 100% disability Oct. 15-18 Regular Bow season with a crossbow Oct. 1st-Nov. 14th Regular firearm season Nov. 15th-Nov. 30th Appointments or scheduling, call Mid-Mich. Process Serving at (989) 981-6979

Available Hunting Dates are as Follows

From: Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Retired, ANG This Hunting Camp was built by a retired Marine First Sergeant with the primary purpose of facilitating the Wounded Warriors as they begin their Journey back to Civilian Life. The First Sergeant is the Commander of the Disabled American Veteran (Manistique Chapter 26) He is also 100% totally disabled. There is no cost to veteransBring a Valid Michigan Hunting License and your sleeping bag. Contact Bob Blevins at (906)-477-0025 for dates and times available.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Steaming Live for those who serve check it out.

If anyone has any other sites or link they find to be a good source please let us know we will gladly work it in. Please contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org.
Veterans Radio is dedicated to all of the men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces of the United States of America. Our mission is to provide all veterans with a voice, to give them a forum where they are able to discuss their issuesand tell their stories. You can listen to the show on: WDEO (990-AM Ann Arbor/Detroit), WMAX (1440-AM, Saginaw), WDEO-FM (99.5 FM, Naples FL), KAGY (1510-AM Port Sulfur/New Orleans LA), KIXW (960-AM, Apple Valley CA) and KMRC (1430AM Morgan City, LA). Or, listen to our Webcast and archives at: www.veteransradio.net.

Lest We Forget SW Michigan

Have you ever felt that history, particularly military history, isn't being taught in our schools like it was in the "good old" times? Why is it that many of our high school graduates, some say a majority, don't know who we fought in WWII, who bombed us at Pearl Harbor or worst yet, believe that the holocaust never happened? Our children are not being taught the basic principles that have made this country great! "Lest We Forget" was started by a group of veterans who felt that patriotism was too important of a subject to be given the short shrift that it presently receives in our schools and community. Our operating principle is "To brighten the future we must illuminate the past." We've "illuminated the past" through WWII re-enactments, patriotic concerts, presentations by Medal of Honor recipients, presentation of the American flag to Frank Buckles, our last WWI veteran, TV telecasts to schools throughout the country, participation in local parades, made presentations in our schools on the flag, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published a book of WWII stories by local veterans, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published two books of veterans stories, brought in the VN Wall and honored the Korean vets this year. Next year (2012) Jun 29-Jul 1 we will have D-Day and Iwo Jima beach landings and much more. Remember, "Freedom is NOT free!" Patriotically Yours, Don Alsbro, President COL, US Army (ret) Lest We Forget For more info about Lest We Forget SW MI please visit their website by simply clicking here.

LWF 2010 Group Picture

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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

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2011 Southeastern Michigan Veterans Stand Down October 12th & 13th, 2011 Location: Detroit Rescue Mission 3606 E. Forest Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48207 For more information visit www.4vets.org

Contact us Service providers contact Norm Wilcox at (248) 808-0929 Email: semvsd@aol.com or Linda Jones at (313) 576-3870 Volunteers contact Mark Sutton (248) 477-6377 Media Contact Norm Wilcox at (248) 808-0929

Pershings Last Patriot

From: www.pershingslastpatriot.com Many award-winning feature films have tried to bring the American twentieth century to life through fictional stories. Forrest Gump walked us through the twentieth century with his profound life; The Curious Case of Benjamin Button used a characters life to entertain us through American History from 2005 to World War I, and The Notebook escorted us through a tale of American history through a similar formula. These films demonstrated a intense and blockbuster success and a powerful indicator for the publics level of interest in such stories. But what if there was a true story of an American who actually accomplished these things and whose life is a parallel to the proven success of these films? The life of Americas last World War I veteran, Frank Buckles, is the one story, the one survivor and the one whose story needs to be shared. Pershings Last Patriot: The Frank Woodruff Buckles Story is slated for release in 2011. In this unique and insightful documentary film, we will travel with Frank to reflect on his early life in rural Missouri and Oklahoma. Frank will share his experiences as he enlisted and served our nation in The War to End All Wars. We will experience his life in a Japanese prisoner of war camp, and relive his amazing rescue from death. Finally, we will see how Franks life has changed over the decades, and his rise to fame as Americas last witness to the First World War and so many other world events. Photos right from: Dale Hemphill-Designer, Spirit of America Flag, Please visit: www.forgottenheroesusa.com/

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

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MACH 3-Part I
18 IN-FLIGHT BREAKUP OF AN SR-71 BLACKBIRD
By: Bill Weaver, Chief Test Pilot, Lockheed From: Gene Simon Among professional aviators, there's a well-worn saying: Flying is simply hours of boredom punctuated by moments of stark terror. But I don't recall too many periods of boredom during my 30-year career with Lockheed, most of which was spent as a test pilot. By far, the most memorable flight occurred on Jan. 25, 1966 . Jim Zwayer, a Lockheed flight-test specialist, and I were evaluating systems on an SR-71 Blackbird test from Edwards. We also were investigating procedures designed to reduce trim drag and improve high-Mach cruise performance The latter involved flying with the center-of-gravity (CG) located further aft than normal, reducing the Blackbird's longitudinal stability. We took off from Edwards at 11:20 a.m. and completed the mission's first leg without incident. After refueling from a KC-135 tanker, we turned eastbound, accelerated to a Mach 3.2 cruise speed and climbed to 78,000 ft., our initial cruise-climb altitude. Several minutes into cruise, the right engine inlet's automatic control system malfunctioned, requiring a switch to manual control. The SR-71's inlet configuration was automatically adjusted during supersonic flight to decelerate airflow in the duct, slowing it to subsonic speed before reaching the engine's face. This was accomplished by the inlet's center-body spike translating aft, and by modulating the inlet's forward bypass doors. Normally, these actions were scheduled automatically as a function of Mach number, positioning the normal shock wave (where air flow becomes subsonic) inside the inlet to ensure optimum engine performance. Without proper scheduling, disturbances inside the inlet could result in the shock wave being expelled forward - a phenomenon known as an "inlet unstart." That causes an instantaneous loss of engine thrust, explosive banging noises and violent yawing of the aircraft, like being in a train wreck. Unstarts were not uncommon at that time in the SR-71's development, but a properly functioning system would recapture the shock wave and restore normal operation. On the planned test profile, we entered a programmed 35-deg. bank turn to the right.. An immediate unstart occurred on the right engine, forcing the aircraft to roll further right and start to pitch up. I jammed the control stick as far left and forward as it would go. No re-

sponse. I instantly knew we were in for a wild ride. I attempted to tell Jim what was happening and to stay with the airplane until we reached a lower speed and altitude. I didn't think the chances of surviving an ejection at Mach 3.18 and 78,800 ft. were very good. However, g-forces built up so rapidly that my words came out garbled and unintelligible, as confirmed later by the cockpit voice recorder. The cumulative effects of system malfunctions, reduced longitudinal stability, increased angle-of-attack in the turn, supersonic speed, high altitude and other factors imposed forces on the airframe that exceeded flight control authority and the stability augmentation system's ability to restore control. Everything seemed to unfold in slow motion. I learned later the time from event onset to catastrophic departure from controlled flight was only 2-3 seconds. Still trying to communicate with Jim, I blacked out, succumbing to extremely high g-forces. Then the SR-71 literally disintegrated around us. From that point, I was just along for the ride. And my next recollection was a hazy thought that I was having a bad dream. "Maybe I'll wake up and get out of this mess", I mused. Gradually regaining consciousness, I realized this was no dream; it had really happened. That also was disturbing, because I COULD NOT HAVE SURVIVED what had just happened. I must be dead. Since I didn't feel bad,- just a detached sense of euphoria- I decided being dead wasn't so bad after all. As full awareness took hold, I realized I was not dead. But somehow I had separated from the airplane. I had no idea how this could have happened; I hadn't initiated an ejection. The sound of rushing air and what sounded like straps flapping in the wind confirmed I was falling, but I couldn't see anything. My pressure suit's face plate had frozen over and I was staring at a layer of ice.

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The pressure suit was inflated, so I knew an emergency oxygen cylinder in the seat kit attached to my parachute harness was functioning. It not only supplied breathing oxygen, but also pressurized the suit, preventing my blood from boiling at extremely high altitudes. I didn't appreciate it at the time, but the suit's pressurization had also provided physical protection from intense buffeting and g-forces. That inflated suit had become my own escape capsule. My next concern was about stability and tumbling. Air density at high altitude is insufficient to resist a body's tumbling motions, and centrifugal forces high enough to cause physical injury could develop quickly. For that reason, the SR-71's parachute system was designed to automatically deploy a small-diameter stabilizing chute shortly after ejection and seat separation. Since I had not intentionally activated the ejection system--and assuming all automatic functions depended on a proper ejection sequence it occurred to me the stabilizing chute may not have deployed. However, I quickly determined I was falling vertically and not tumbling. The little chute must have deployed and was doing its job. Next concern: the main parachute, which was designed to open automatically at 15,000 ft. Again I had no assurance the automaticopening function would work. I couldn't ascertain my altitude because I still couldn't see through the iced-up faceplate. There was no way to know how long I had been blacked-out or how far I had fallen. I felt for the manual-activation D-ring on my chute harness, but with the suit inflated and my hands numbed by cold, I couldn't locate it. I decided I'd better open the faceplate, try to estimate my height above the ground, and then locate that "D" ring. Just as I reached for the faceplate, I felt the reassuring sudden deceleration of main-chute deployment. (To be Continued)

By: Dale Hemphill-Designer, Spirit of America Flag (dhemp31628@aol.com)

Spirit of the American Flag

The Spirit of America Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 by a naval veteran realizing the need for historical recognition of American's heroes and the sacrifices they made for our country. The "Spirit of America" insignia shown above was designed to recognize our men and women of the military forces and the battles they fought. As the Spirit of America Foundation continues its mission to promote patriotism and the appreciation of our veterans, it has expanded its reach to help veterans in need in today's tough economy. FORGOTTEN HEROES USA, LTD, supports the missions of the Spirit of America Foundation by offering patriotic products honoring Americas hardships in history dating back to the Revolutionary War to present day Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. With each purchase, a percentage is donated to the Spirit of America Foundation. If you would like to help our cause by making a purchase or donation please know that your generosity will reach many others in their time of need. Please review our web site for more information. If you have any questions or comments please contact us via the "Contact Us" page. Thank you! Video: The Raising of the Spirit of America flag. At the American war cemetery in Margraten in The Netherlands on Sunday the 3rd of July 2011. Made by: RALPH84 Click Here to view the video.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

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MICHIGAN AIR NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY BOOKS

The Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association created a three volume set of history books covering the periods 1926-1996. A fourth volume covering the years 1996 to 2006 is in production and should be available soon. Volume 1 covers the period 1926 to 1976-Cost: $1.00 Volume 2 covers the period 1976 to 1986-Cost: $4.00 Volume 3 covers the period 1986 to 1996-Cost: $1.00 Volume 4 covers the period 1996 to 2010-Cost: $6:00 Full color $35.00 If you wish to purchase one or more of these volumes or are interested in more information, please contact MAGHA at Phone: 586-239-6768, Fax: 586-239-6646, Email: 127.wg.selfridgeairmuseum@ang.af.mil

MANGBANG
From: Eugene (Gene) A. Simon- Command Chief Master Sergeant USAF (Retired) & Matthew X. Hauser As you may have seen in past editions of the newsletter, MANGBANG has been one of our sources. We are thankful for the source and so we just wanted to pass the information along for MANGBANG in case anyone is interested in joining the Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association. You can contact Lou Nigro if you are interested. We think it is a worthwhile investment-it supports the history of the Michigan Air National Guard and his monthly publications are very informative. For those who want to view it on our website (www.selfridgeairmuseum.org, http://www.selfridgeairmuseum.org ), Lt Col Lou Nigro, MI ANG (Ret) Executive Director, Selfridge Military Air Museum Email: louis.nigro@ang.af.mil

From: Dept. Hospital Chairman Merridy Lewis Hospitalized Veterans Writing Program (HVWP). This program helps veterans get their poems and stories down on paper is one of the goals for our volunteers. Volunteer aides help both with a one on one or with groups of patients to help them put their thoughts and feelings into stories and poems. The stories and poems can be submitted to veterans voices, a magazine that publishes the articles that have been submitted. The HVWP does its very best to publish every article that has been submitted following the guide lines.

"Veterans Voices"

It is important to submit the authors name, VAMC facility and state, the authors permanent address the branch of service and duties along with the serial number or social security number. Manuscripts must be original and unpublished, except in VAMC publications. Writers can submit up to three poems, each no longer than 24 lines with 60 character width. Stories no longer than 10 pages, typed using double spacing. This is a brief detail of what HVWP is about. It may be an interest you would like to share with a Veteran on a volunteer basis. This is part of our history for generations yet to come we are losing World War II Veterans every day and we need to hear their stories. For more information about the organization please visit their website at www.veteransvoices.org.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

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A Note From Department Hospital Chairwoman Merridy Lewis

From: www.michiganpva.org MPVA is celebrating its 50th year of service in Michigan. It is a chapter of the national Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), operating according to the standards and practices established by the PVA. MPVA is, however, a separate 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Michigan programs, services, education, and outreach conducted here are made possible by local volunteers, partners, sponsors, and donors. The mission of Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America is to enhance the lives of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease as well as all citizens with disabilities, by advocating for civil rights, assuring quality health care, supporting continued research and education, and encouraging independence and healthy living through various health, sports and recreational programs. MPVA shall continue striving to remain at the forefront of both veterans benefits services and disability rights, while working toward a better quality of life for all American citizens.

The MPVA Mission

More Information will be Coming soon about MPVA 8th Annual Salute To veterans Gala!

Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2011 Location: The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC Please visit www.pva.org for more information. About the Event and PVAs National Chapter.

Hello Everyone, Im sure youve heard about budget cuts that are affecting so many of us. Our Veteran Medical Centers are no exception. Have you thought about being a volunteer? There are so many ways volunteers can help the Veterans Homes, medical Centers, clinics or even local Hospitals and nursing homes. As a volunteer you help to ensure that our Veterans are treated with care, affection, respect and enthusiasm. There are many opportunities available that volunteers are needed for. A few ideas that come to mind would be ---- A greeter/ambassador, this position you would help Veterans who may need assistance locating general information of the hospital, giving directions, or even escort them to an appointment. Perhaps, get a wheelchair for them. Another idea would be to write letters, read a book or to sit and visit with them, as sometimes they dont have family or friends that are able to visit. Play a game of cards or even work on a puzzle. The veterans can always use phone cards, bus tokens or transportation, vouchers, crossword puzzles, canteen books to purchase coffee or soda from the canteen and reading materials. How do I become a Veterans Affair Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteer? Contact your nearest VA or local nursing home or hospital. Ask to speak to a voluntary service specialist. They will set you up an appointment for an interview to see what interests you have, and give you a scheduled time to volunteer. You will also be given an orientation of hospital policy. Non members of the VFW & Ladies Auxiliary can be sponsored from each post. So, if you have a friend that would like to help you when you volunteer perhaps your Auxiliary would sponsor them. Children are welcomed to volunteer also. Do you have an out-standing hospital volunteer? Please submit an application to me for the Out Standing Hospital Volunteer of the Year!

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VIETNAM NAMSPEAK-Part III

From: Don Alsbro-President of Lest We Forget SW Michigan. Please visit www.lestweforgetswmi.org for more information about the organization. Wars tend to develop a language of their own and the Vietnam War was no exception. The following are some of the words that reflect the Language of the American GI in VN. NOTE: The list is not complete (an impossible task and much too large) and a few of the terms with inappro-priate words have been omitted for obvious reasons. DEROS: Date Eligible to Return from OverSeas. For the Army the standard tour was 12 months and for Marines 13 months. Didi (dee dee): Vietnamese slang for to leave or to go Didi mau (mo): go quickly Dong: Unit of North Vietnamese money. Used to be worth about a penny in the 60s. In 2009 it is 17,000 dong = 1 dollar Donut Dollies: American females who visited the troops in the field. They were usually USO workers Dink: Derogatory term for a Vietnamese Doper: A marijuana smoker Dove: Someone against the war Dust Off: Nickname for medical evacuation helicopters. Of the wounded that reached medical facilities about 97.5 percent survived. Early Out: Drop or reduction in the term of military service 11B: The MOS (military occupation specialty) for an infantryman EOD units: Explosive Ordnance Disposal experts who defused mines, booby traps, satchel charges, and explosive devices. They operated under great pressure and time constraints. ETS: Expiration of term of service or enlistment FAC: Forward air controller, a forward observer in an aircraft FDC: Fire direction Center, artillery term Firebase: A temporary artillery base to support ground operations. Firefight: An exchange of small arms fire Fire For Effect: The continuous firing of a batterys cannon, sustained until a cease fire or check fire is called. Five: Radio call sign for the executive officer FO: Forward observer, traveled with the infantry and coordinated artillery missions or an airborne FAC Fragging: The tossing of fragmentation hand grenades usually into sleeping areas to murder fellow soldiers, usually officers. Although receiving much attention, the actual number of cases was comparatively small. Surfaced in the late 1960s and the rate of incidents per thousand soldiers ranged from 0.35 in 1969 to 1.75 in 1971. Free Fire Zone: An area supposedly cleared of civilians where artillery could be fired without prior clearance. Freedom Bird: Plane that took the soldiers from Vietnam back to the World (US) Gook: Derogatory term for Vietnamese Grunt: Infantryman Article source: Wartime Memoirs by Southwestern Michigan Veterans Volume 2. Please visit www.lestweforgetswmi.org for more information about the project or to order the book. Wonderful Work!

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From: Bob Tidmore-Post Commander AMVETS Post 46 (Michigan AMVET News, Winter 2011) AMVETS Post 46 on Beaver Island has received the final permits for the construction of a Veterans Memorial Park on the site of the old Beaver Island power plant located on Main Street in the middle of the harbor. The park will included three flagpoles that will fly the American flag, the Michigan flag, and a rotating service flag. One monument will list the names of those from Beaver Island who gave their lives in the service of their country. A second pays tribute to all veterans who have served their country and the third honors the Emmett Burke AMETS Post 46. In front of the monuments there will be three area s containing bricks with veteran names, dates and service affiliation. These are available to any veteran or families and friends who wishes to honor their veteran. The bricks are 4x8 and 8x8 and are $100 and $200 respectively. Order forms for bricks, questions and answers about the park are available on the web site http://beaverislandnews.com/ or by emailing the Post at amvetspost46@yahoo.com and we will send you a form. AMVETS Post 46 wishes to thank the St. James Township Board and Wolverine Power for their help and support in this project.

Beaver Island Veterans Memorial Park

Veteran organizations across America are committed that all American veterans receive recognition and honor for their valiant service and sacrifices. Working hard to keep veterans efforts made today and in the past visible to everyone, we are spearheading the renovation of old Memorials and are building Memorials in communities that have none. AMVETS Post 46 of Beaver Island is building a Veterans Memorial on the waters edge of Beaver Islands beautiful harbor which we hope to dedicate this July Fourth. The location of this memorial will be visible to thousands of people as they enter Beaver Islands harbor each year. Along the harbor thoroughfare it offers outstanding visibility and access to tourist and residence alike. This Memorial, a popular attraction now, is destined to become a must see stopping place where the sacrifices in life and blood of Americas veterans will be honored and remembered. To finish this grand project we are coming to the Charlevoix Chamber of Commerce and its members seeking tax deductable donations which will enable us to complete the Memorial. With your help and support this Memorial will become a fitting tribute for everyone serving and those who have served.

A Note from AMVETS POST 46

Lest We Forget, Our Freedom Is Not Free.

Short video from www.tricare.mil that explains some back ground information about TRICRAE.
View this video to get a better understanding of what TRICARE is. Or Click Here.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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Two Great Sources for Veterans/Military Legislative Updates in Washington D.C. Simply click the images to view the site.

From: RAO Bulletin July 2011 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238 -1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/ NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/ AD37 member) James Downey Jr., who survived the infamous Bataan Death March in 1942 and became an inspiration to his family, died 20 JUN. He was 96 years old. Downey served with the Army's 26th Cavalry Philippine Scouts, a decorated unit that still rode horses into battle in the early days of World War II. Half-11 Filipino by birth, his mother was of Philippine and Spanish heritage and his father was from Augusta County, a cavalry officer who fought in the Spanish-American War. In 1942, Downey was a young soldier in the prime of life, six years removed from a tryout on the 1936 U.S. Olympic swim team, when Japanese soldiers captured him on 9 APR. He was put in line with thousands of other prisoners and ordered to start walking. The rule was simple, he recalled. If you stop,

WWII Vets Update

you die. The forced march to a Japanese POW camp covered 60 miles and lasted five days. For a time, Downey carried his little brother, Robert, who survived the march but ultimately died of sickness. Downey recounted his experiences last year in an interview with the Daily Press. After more than 60 years, his memories were still chilling. "A lot of my friends died along the way," he said. "And sometimes a Japanese tank would go over Oh God you'd see them along the road. It was terrible." By some estimates, 11,000 men died. But his determination in surviving one of the darkest chapters in American military history was not lost on his family. His son, Gary Downey, said the themes of never giving up and always helping a brother were impressed upon the children at an early age. "The journey that happened to him on Bataan, it still continues for him," Gary said last year. James Downey retired from the Army in 1963 as a master sergeant. He served a stint at Fort Eustis in Newport News, where he met his wif, Frances. She died in 2006. She and James were married 57 years and had four children. He was a former resident of Yorktown. At http:// video.search.yahoo.com/search/video? p=james+downey+jr you can view him recounting his Bataan experience in a video. [Source: TREA Washington Update 24 Jun 2011 ++]

Check out the Video of James Downey Jr. Telling his memory of the Bataan Death March by clicking here. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Amazing Story.
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Michigan Air Guard Historical Association/127th Wing 2011 Reunion and Golf Outing
All proceeds benefit MAGHA & the Selfridge Military Air Museum

Saturday, 6 August 2011

1:00 PM Shotgun Start Best Ball Scramble Rules at

$80.00 per person $25.00 per person for dinner only

18 Holes of golf and golf cart (2 carts per team of 4) Four persons per team Hot dog/chips/soft drinks/beer on the course Door prizes Free range balls available at 11:00 a.m. Dinner & cash bar @ 6:00 pm 50/50 drawing: $2.00 per ticket or 6 for $10.00

Selfridge ANG Base Golf Course

INCLUDES:

Reserve by 1 August 2011 -4 Person teams. Everybody is welcome -Single registrations will be grouped into teams -Tax-deductible hole sponsorships available ($100.00max of 4 names on sign) -Each sponsor gets one free 50/50 ticket and a one stroke deduction for putting on their sponsored hole -Make checks payable to: MAGHA -To reserve your space, or if you have any questions please Contact: Lt Col Lou NigroSelfridge Military Air Museum Phone: (586) 239-6768 27333 C Street, Bldg 1011 Selfridge ANG Base, MI 48045 127.wg.selfridgeairmuseum@ang.af.mil

Sign-Up Information

For those of you unable to attend who still wish to donate to the Michigan Air Guard Historical Association and/or the Selfridge Military Air Museum, please contact Lt Col Lou Nigro. Your donations are tax deductible and very much appreciated. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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Talking with Heroes

From: www.talkingwithheros.com I am Bob Calvert, the founder and host of Talking with Heroes Talk Show Program based in Colorado Springs. We also have an Online NEWS site www.thankyouforyourservice.us Each issue has had over 100 stories with many of them current news directly from Iraq and Afghanistan as well as military support and veterans groups, events and issues. As of May 23, 2011 this is now a weekly news site. My involvement in supporting our troops began almost 8 years ago as a result of my then 18 year-old daughter surprising me by enlisting in the Army. Her boyfriend (later her husband) had already enlisted in the Army. I was not sure how to support her. I searched the Internet and found many military support groups. In Jan 2005 my son n law was deployed to Iraq from Ft Riley on his first deployment. A year later he came back to my daughter and his family and their first child. Keith was later transferred to Ft Carson where we he was deployed for the second time. He was with over 3,500 soldiers with Ft Carsons 1-8 and the 3BCT 4ID where they did a great job serving for 15 months in Mosul, Baghdad and Taji, Iraq. Our Talking with Heroes program is not about politics. We are about helping, honoring, and supporting our men and women in the military and their families.

We give our military personnel an opportunity to share their mostly untold stories about the work they are doing worldwide. We believe that The American people have a right to hear their positive progress stories and our military personnel have a right to have their stories heard. We also interview military support and veterans groups for them to share what they do to support our troops, their families, the wounded and more. We have interviewed Gold Star Moms and Dads, Military Wives, Moms and Dads, Wounded Warriors, Veterans, and Corporations about what they do to support our troops. 2011 is the year for the American people to put aside politics and unite behind our troops and their families. We are looking in 2011 to partner with companies, organizations and individuals in a manner that will allow us all to better unite people. We have been to Iraq four times the past four years and to Afghanistan twice. Americans can watch our men and women from our Army, Marines, Navy, National Guard, Air Force, Army Corp of Engineers, Iraqis and Afghanistan people as they talk about progress and as they share positive stories in Afghanistan and Iraq. You can see who we interviewed and listen to some of these programs at: We have over 100 episodes on www.youtube.com/bobc9246.

STEP UP AND LEAD

From: The USO In 2011, we're calling on the brave men and women of our armed forces to make some incredible sacrifices in Afghanistan, Iraq, and remote locations around the world. That means you and I need to make an extra effort to show our support. One of the best ways to let our troops know that you've got their back is by supporting the work of the USO. Step Up and Lead -- support our troops by signing up to be part of the USO today.

A note to everyone we are working on collecting the stories of WWII veterans from around the state with the hope of running them in upcoming editions. We must not forget the stories of these brave men have to tell for it our history and far too many people seem to have forgotten the sacrifice so many have made for this great nation. We are asking for everyones help to compete this goal. If you have or know of someone who has a story they would like to share please send it along. If you have any questions let us know. Thank you very much! Sincerely, Matthew X. Hauser & Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

Attention!

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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Newsletter Links From Articles for July Part II

Page 1 Facebook www.facebook.com Scribd www.scribd.com U.S Department of Defense www.defense.gov Page 2 MIGOP Facebook www.facebook.com Disabled American Veterans www.dav.org Page 3 Military Times www.militarytimes.com Page 4 Vietnam Veterans of America www.vva.org Legal Help for Veterans www.legalhelpforveterans.com Page 5 Vietnam War Commemoration www.vietnamwar50th.com Fredrick Meijer Gardens www.meijergardens.org Page 6 Overture 1812 www.usarmyband.com LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetswmi.org Page 7 Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorproject.org Brain Injury Association of MI www.biami.org Page 8 Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee www.house.mi.gov Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Front Lines of Freedom www.frontlinesoffreedom.com Page 9 Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov DD-214 Form www.archives.gov Page 10 Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Radio www.veteransradio.net LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetswmi.org Page 11 Patriot Guard Riders of Michigan www.pgrmichigan.org Page 12 Southwest Michigan Veterans Stand Down www.4vets.org Pershings Last Patriot www.pershingslastpatriot.com Page 14 Spirit of the American Flag www.forgottonherosusa.com Page 15 Michigan Air National Guard www.selfridgeairmuseum.org Page 16 Selfridge Air Show www.selfridgeairshow.org Page 17 Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America www.michiganpva.org Paralyzed Veterans of America www.pva.org

Page 18 LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetswmi.org Page 19 Beaver Island Veterans Memorial Park www.beaverislandnews.com TRICARE www.tricare.mil Page 20 U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs www.veterans.senate.gov U.S House Committee of Veterans Affairs www.veterans.house.gov WWII Veterans Update www.youtube.com Page 22 Talking With Heroes www.talkingwithheros.com USO-Stand Up and Lead www.uso.org

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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Stand Up For Veterans-They Stood Up For US

-The DAV

Staff & Contributors

Coordinator- Matthew X. Hauser (mhauser@migop.org) ContributorsDenny Gillem Claude McManus Sean M. Furr Sam Cottle Gary Lillie Phil Smith Eugene (Gene) A. Simon Don Alsbro James G. Fausone Mark Eddy Rick Briggs Rep. Kurt Damrow Dan Heckman Dale Hemphill Merridy Lewis Bob Tidmore Robert Goulet Publisher-Hank Fuhs

News From American Legion Post 341

American Legion Post 341 is seeking the names of troops that are deployed to a combat zone so that we can send them large package of goodies and that their names and address should be sent to the address below. Also post 341 is always seeking new members please contact Robert at the same address if interested. American Legion Post 341 Sr. Vice Commander Robert P Goulet 6130 Nicholas West Bloomfield, MI rgoulet264@aol.com

Thank you for your service to our country. It is truly the men and women like you who make this nation great, and we must never forget that. Thank you to everyone for all the help you have given us with the newsletter. We have been able to reach more people because of your help. Compared to when we first started, the amount of input and ideas we receive has increased greatly. For that we are very thankful. If you have anything you would like to share, any questions, or have an article idea, please let me know. You may contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org. Sincerely, Matthew X. Hauser and Lt. Col Hank Fuhs

In Closing

Lest We Forget-A Clip from Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Ret, ANG (Just Click the Link Below)
I Fought For You

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

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