Veterans & Military Families Monthly News

July 2012 Vol. 3 No. 7

Good afternoon and thank you for reading, this months edition of the newsletter. We appreciate your involvement and continued support. 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. June 11, 2012 by Alex Horton (www.va.gov) Back in April, VA announced the decision to increase its national mental health care force by approximately 1,600 mental health clinicians and nearly 300 support staff, or an increase of about 10 percent. The boost was intended to cut down on wait times so that Veterans could see a clinician as soon as possible. Today, VA detailed an aggressive recruitment effort to get mental health professionals in the door. A team of 21 health care recruiters are on a national mission to bring in qualified physicians to facilities across the country, with an emphasis on rural and highly rural areas (places where it has been historically difficult to fully staff health care workers). The team works to fill vacancies across the country using a variety of factors, like existing demand and diversity of services that already exist at certain facilities. Since all members of the recruiting team are Veterans, they are qualified to help identify the particular needs and demands of a given population, which helps VA use its resources more efficiently and smartly.

VA Task Force Looks to Enlist More Mental Health Clinicians

Thank you very much!

P.3-Veterans Know Your Rights P.4-Hire Heroes USA P.5-Fisher House Expansion P.8-Legion Applauds DOD Review of PTSD P.9-Need a Ride P.10-Wong to Congress: Pass a New Stolen Valor Act P.11-Gulf War Syndrome

In This Issue

P.13-The Civil War P.14-Cost of Freedom Tribute P.15-Veterans Health Benefits Handbook P.16-PTSD Resources When You Need Them P.21-Legal Help For Veterans P.22-Veterans Voices P.23-House Bill Would Help Job-Seeking Veterans

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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The Veterans Health Administration anticipates the majority of hires will come aboard within six months. The hard-to-fill positions, like psychiatrists in rural areas, are anticipated to be filled by the second half of fiscal year 2013. To ensure a focused mission and proper oversight, a task force was established to help smooth out the challenges that come with national, focused hiring initiatives. The task force is accountable for reporting progress in hiring of mental health professionals in these occupations: psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, mental health technicians, marriage and family therapists and licensed professional counselors. If youre a mental health provider and want to serve Veterans, wed like to hear from you. Find out more information and apply online at VA Careers. Veterans interested in pursuing mental health care can go here for their closest facility or Vet Center. For immediate help, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255, or text 838255.

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 Military Order of the Purple Heart www.purpleheart.org

From: The USO In 2012, 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.

STEP UP AND LEAD

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!

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.

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

Where do words come from?

From: John Hess

S---H---I---T
At one time manure was shipped as fertilizer. This was particularly true of sea bird guano. The guano was found in great abundance on some islands. The product was mined and transported in the bottom of the holds of ships. Several of these ships had explosions due to methane gas. In order to counter act this problem the holds were better ventilated and the product was shipped in containers with the marking; Ship High IN Transit.

A Note From: Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau

This notice from LWF is to inform the reader of the development of a Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau. Since our organization has conducted three yearlong courses at Lake Michigan College, we have many topics and many qualified speakers to present information from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, and our involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have developed formats for school children of all ages, and for veterans organization. Whatever the event we will gladly produce the correct format We would be glad to present any topic of interest to any group. As coordinator, I will be glad to help with the choices of presentations and help with planning. Gary C. Lulenski Coordinator Speakers Bureau 269-428-3442 Garykaye2@comcast.net

Veterans know your rights

Veterans do not have to pay to have an advocate apply for their benefits. You have the right to be represented by an accredited organization or person in front of the Veterans administration. You do not have to go it alone when applying for your benefits from the Veterans Administration. Most counties in the State of Michigan have a Veterans Counselor to advocate for you. Service organizations (American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, and the Marine Corps League); also have representatives that will advocate for you. In most cases the service organizations and the county counselors work in concert for the veteran. No matter who you pick as your representative you cannot be charged a fee. It is illegal for anyone to charge a fee for any of your initial applications for service benefits. The county counselors receive their pay from the county they represent. The service organization representatives receive their pay from their respective service organizations. They are not supported financially by the Veterans Administration. Their job is to represent you the Veteran. Their allegiance is to the VETERAN. Attorneys and private agents, retained within one year of the first final BVA (Board of Veterans Appeals) decision are allowed to charge a reasonable fee to reopen a claim before the VARO (Veterans Administration Regional Office) or move the BVA to reconsider its denial. Attorneys and others authorized to practice before the U. S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims are allowed to charge a reasonable fee to represent the Veteran. If you start a benefit package with one veteran counselor and move or want to switch counselors you may, by filing a one page form VA 21-22. If you start with a private entity it is almost impossible to switch. The service organizations will also act on your behalf in front of the above mentioned boards and courts and do not charge a fee. Veterans and current military service members THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE NBF/DBF

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.
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
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For the link to the interview with Rep. Ray Franz please Click Here

Rep. Ray Franz talks about the new Veterans program "Hire Heroes" that can be found online at - http://www.hireheroesusa.org/

A Little Information about Hire Heroes

From: www.hireheroesusa.org Mission: Hire Heroes USA (Hire Heroes) is dedicated to creating job opportunities for US military veterans and their spouses through personalized employment training and corporate engagement. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, Hire Heroes services are provided at no cost to the veteran. Creating the Opportunity. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Hire Heroes USA has built a national reputation of excellence for its success at helping unemployed veterans find jobs currently at the rate of one veteran confirmed hired every business day. Our team is comprised of military veterans many with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan and business veterans. That mix of military and civilian experience has proven essential to effectively training veterans in the skills of self-marketing and then networking them into good jobs with great companies. The hallmark of the program is a personal approach where each veteran receives dedicated assistance from a highlytrained staff member in order to help them overcome barriers to employment. To become part of this program, click on the tab above that best suits your interest.

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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From: RAO Bulletin June 2012 (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) Military and civilian leaders cut the ribbon for the first Fort Belvoir Fisher House, 22 MAY, during a dedication ceremony at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. The Fort Belvoir Fisher House joins a network of 56 operational Fisher Houses in the United States and Germany. Fisher Houses are homes donated to the military and Department of Veterans Affairs, where Families can stay while a loved one is receiving treatment. Additionally, the Foundation ensures that Families of servicemembers wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan are not burdened with unnecessary expense during a time of crisis. "Each Fisher House is unique in design and decoration," said Roxanna Calderon, Fisher House manager. "We dont want it to look like cookie-cutter hotel rooms; this is supposed to be a home away from home." The Fisher House at Fort Belvoir is a 10,000 square foot home with 12 private guest suites. It includes various common areas including, a kitchen and spacious dining room, a family and living room, and a large laundry facility with multiple washers and dryers. The common areas and guest suites are professionally

Fisher House ExpansioN

designed and furnished in the tone and style of the local area. "This home represents an unwavering commitment to both patient and Familycentered care and world-class care provided by the hospital," said Col. Susan Annicelli, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital commander. "As the newest addition to the fleet of Fisher homes opens its doors, it will serve as a beacon of care and comfort that will endure for generations to come." The Fisher House program allows military Families a place to stay, at no cost, while their loved one is in treatment at a nearby military treatment facility or Veterans Affairs hospital. The home offers a nurturing refuge from the stress of hospitalization, rehabilitation, and recovery. A hospitalization can last weeks even months and Fisher Houses aim to provide more than just housing. Families can share their experiences with the other Families living at the house and support one another. "The Families arent just by the side of their own loves ones, theyre by each others side during these difficult times," said H.C. Barnum, Medal of Honor recipient. "These homes provide our servicemembers with the very best medicine possible, which is the love and support of their Family members," said Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Lloyd J. Austin, III. Fisher Houses across the nation and in Germany have saved thousands of Families an estimated $192 million in lodging and transportation costs. Ken Fisher, chairman and chief executive officer of Fisher House Foundation, said the foundation is more than just building houses. "Fisher House believes that Thank you for your service is not enough anymore," Fisher said. "Its more than just words, it is now deeds. Its remembering that behind each and every man or woman that wears this nations uniform is a Family and that Family serves this nation too." [Source: Belvoir Eagle Kristin Ellis article 24 May 2012 ++]

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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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.

From: Gene Simon This summer, veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War will have the chance to take flight, for free! Beginning June 19, veterans will be able to fly in a Boeing-Stearman N2S-5 Kaydet, courtesy of the Air Zoo and pilot/sponsor Alan Wright. The Kaydet is an open cockpit aircraft that served as the U.S. Navys primary trainer during World War II. This is the Air Zoos seventh consecutive year to offer free veteran flights, said Bob Ellis, Air Zoo president and CEO. It is our simple way of saying thank you and giving back to those who have sacrificed so much to serve our country. Flights will take place on Tuesdays through Aug. 21 (except July 3), weather permitting. They are open to veterans who have not previously participated with the Air Zoos free veteran flights. Flights will be scheduled on a first-come, firstserved basis. Those who are flying must sign a waiver and be able to get in and out of the aircraft on their own. A maximum of five flights per day will be offered. For more information or to reserve a flight, please call the Air Zoo at 269.350.2815.

Air Zoo to Offer Free Airplane Rides to Veterans

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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: The American Legion-June 14, 2012. www.legion.org Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta revealed at a June 13 congressional hearing that he has ordered a review of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) cases handled by the military since 2001. The U.S. Army began such a review last month, after an investigation at the Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Wash., revealed that hundreds of soldiers with PTSD were misdiagnosed or accused of faking their symptoms. Panetta broke the news while being questioned by Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., at a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing. Murray heard complaints last fall from soldiers who said their PTSD diagnoses had been purposely changed to lesser maladies. She spurred the Army to launch its review and found out about Panettas decision after telling him, "this is not just an Army disability evaluation system. This is a joint Department of Defense and VA program (that) covers all of the services." American Legion National Commander Fang A. Wong said that Panettas decision will provide a muchneeded expansion of the Armys initiative. "We dont want our servicemembers being denied care and benefits because someone in the DoD system says they have personality disorders or some other misdiagnosis, just to save some money," said Wong, referring to a May 16 story in the New York Times that mentioned an internal Army memo that came to light last February. The memo quoted a Madigan doctor who said that Army clinicians needed to be "good stewards" of taxpayer dollars, and that a servicemember could collect up to $1.5 million in disability benefits if diagnosed with PTSD. "We stand behind Secretary Panettas prudent decision to go through every PTSD case in all branches of

Legion applauds DoD review of PTSD cases

the military and reassess the decisions to make sure they were made properly not as cost-cutting measures," Wong said. "And we also want to thank Sen. Murray for her hard work and leadership on this critical issue. Without her persistence, these reviews might never have happened." During the hearing, Murray said the Pentagon and VA "are losing the battle on mental and behavioral health conditions that are confronting a lot of our servicemembers" and noted that, on average, military suicides have been occurring once a day in 2012. Wong said he agreed with Murray that, five years after the health-care scandal at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, DoD has been slow in its response. "Secretary Panetta said that part of the problem is bureaucratic, that hes in charge of a very big bureaucracy," Wong said. "We need to find a way to cut through all of that and make it clear to DoDs leadership that our troops who suffer from PTSD need to be helped as quickly as possible. Issue an order, replace incompetent people, eliminate some positions. Whatever it takes, DoD should do it now," he said. In October 2010, The American Legion formed the Ad Hoc Committee on Traumatic Brain Injury/PTSD. Over the course of nearly two years, the committee heard from various experts military, federal and civilian in the field of mental health, as well as servicemembers. Viable alternative treatments for both TBI and PTSD were discussed, as well as improved screening, research, diagnosis and treatment for both conditions. The committee prepared a list of recommendations for DoD and VA that are being reviewed by Legion leadership.

Short video from www.tricare.mil that explains some back ground information about TRICARE.
View this video to get a better understanding of what TRICARE is. Or Click Here.
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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!

A Note From Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

We need your help to grow the Newsletter
We are currently looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know. For it is through your involvement we are able to reach more and more people each month. Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy.

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. Thank you for your Continued Support -Hank Fuhs
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

To request a copy of a DD-214 click here.

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

Need a Ride

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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Wong to Congress: Pass a new Stolen Valor Act

The American Legion - June 28, 2012 American Legion National Commander Fang A. Wong is calling on Congress to pass a new version of the Stolen Valor Act, one that would stand up to constitutional scrutiny. The U.S. Supreme Court issued a "plurality" ruling Thursday morning a 6-3 decision that protects those who lie about their military experiences, including those who falsely claim to have received combat wounds and medals, in order to advance their careers. "While we are obviously saddened and aggrieved by the overall decision in this case, we felt good about the portions of the decision which suggest that a more narrowly tailored bill, which incorporates traditional fraud elements, would be upheld," Wong said. "Since the vast bulk of the more notorious valor thieves engage in this to gain something of value as a result, they will not be able to claim legal immunity once a new bill is passed." The plurality opinion, announced by Justice Anthony Kennedy who was joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor reasoned that, with only narrow exceptions, content-based restrictions on speech face strict scrutiny and are therefore almost always unconstitutional. False statements of fact do not fall within one of these exceptions, and so the Stolen Valor Act can survive scrutiny only if it is narrowly tailored to a compelling government interest, the Court held. The majority concluded that the Stolen Valor Act is unconstitutional because the government had not shown that such a statute is necessary to protect the integrity of the system of military honors the interest the government had identified in support of the act. Wong said a 2011 revision of the challenged law would pass the constitutionality test. "Congress needs to do whatever it takes to pass H.R. 1775, a 2011 rewrite of the original Stolen Valor Act, which we believe the Supreme Court would accept as constitutional. The justices did not say that the idea is wrong because the idea is not wrong. Its just a matter of conforming to constitutional parameters." Associate Justice Stephen Breyer, joined by Associate Justice Elena Kagan, concurred separately, concluding that the Stolen Valor Act, in its current form, applies even in family, social or other private contexts where lies will often cause little harm. Breyer and Kagan argued that the government could achieve its goals in a less burdensome way, and so determined that the Stolen Valor Act, as written, is unconstitutional. Their opinion leaves open the opportunity to revise the act, so it would stand up if challenged in the nations highest court.
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From: Norma Housey Norma Housey, a Custom Design Labyrinth Builder, has incorporated an American Flag into the Labyrinth she built for the May 28th, 2012 Memorial Service hosted by the Grosse Pointe War Memorial in Grosse Pointe MI. In the center of the labyrinth is a pair of military boots, a helmet, and a first aid box. People are encouraged to write the name of a loved one, or a special intension, or a prayer and place that paper in the first aid box. These special intensions are to be burned at an appropriate time. Unlike a maze, the labyrinth has only one path that will lead you to the center, and back out again. Many of the attendees walked the labyrinth and used it as a time of reflecting and meditating. When they reached the center it seemed natural to pause for moment, and then, gently placed their folded intention into the box. This was a very beautiful and moving expression in honoring their loved ones. Soldiers and their families also walked the path of the labyrinth. Norma has a daughter who is currently serving in Afghanistan. Building this Patriotic Labyrinth was more than just her passion; it had a very deep meaning as well. Norma also builds luminary labyrinths for hospitals that use the labyrinth to honor survivors. In the center of these luminary labyrinths is a small fire where you can burn your intension. She has studied labyrinths in France. Labyrinths are a place of peace, where you can find clarity and renewal. Many are approximately 3500 years old and are found around the world. For more information on labyrinths go to Norma Marie Inc. 313.580.8598 or www.normamarie.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.

Memorial Day Events

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From: RAO Bulletin June 2012 (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) For the third time since the 1990-1991 Gulf War, Department of Veterans Affairs researchers will contact Gulf War-era veterans as a part of a long-term study of their health. For the Follow-up Study of a National Cohort of Gulf War and Gulf Era Veterans, researchers want to learn about how the health of these veterans has changed over time, and about the natural history of longterm conditions like unexplained multi-symptom illnesses. Researchers will begin contacting participants at the end of May 2012. Veterans were previously contacted for a baseline survey in 1995 and a follow-up survey in 2005. This continuing VA effort studies a group of approximately 15,000 Gulf War veterans and 15,000 veterans who served elsewhere during the Gulf War. The study group includes all branches of service, representing active, reserve, and National Guard members. Women are being oversampled to make sure they are represented, making up 20 percent of the study sample. Veterans will respond via a paper or online survey, and researchers will also review medical records from a sample of study participants. Veterans will be asked about health issues that affect them, including chronic medical conditions such as cancer, neurological, respiratory and immunological conditions, as well as general health perceptions, functional status, chronic fatigue syndrome-like illness, unexplained multi-symptom illness and womens health. Veterans will be queried about their level of physical activity and their use of alcohol and tobacco. They also will be asked about

Gulf War Syndrome Update

their use of VA health care and satisfaction with their care. More than a dozen scientific articles have been published from the two earlier surveys in the study. This work has investigated multi-symptom illnesses, chronic diseases, and environmental exposures associated with military deployment. For example, a recent scientific article showed that Gulf War veterans health has worsened over time compared to the health of Gulf War-era veterans who served elsewhere. Gulf War veterans reported higher rates of ongoing unexplained multi-symptom illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic fatigue syndrome-like illness, along with higher health care utilization, including frequent clinic visits and recurrent hospitalization. These findings, other ongoing studies, and future research efforts will help VA to better understand the health consequences of deployment and guide care delivery. VA is funding the new study by a team from the Post - Deployment Health Epidemiology Program, Office of Public Health. Additional information about this study can be found here. [Source: American Legion Veterans Healthcare article 25 May 2012 ++] cation, 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.

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, edu-

The MPVA Mission

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DISABLED WAYNE COUNTY VETERAN OUTFITTED FOR HUNTING

Published: April 29, 2012 4:07AM By: BOBBY WARREN From: http://www.the-daily-record.com & Chad Miles BLACHLEYVILLE -- A Wayne County man received hunting gear from a new nonprofit organization that helps disabled veterans experience the outdoors. Russell Sellers received the gear for wild turkey hunting Thursday from childhood friend and former Triway classmate Chad Miles, who now lives in the Detroit area and started Sling and Stone Outfitters. In the package were a new shirt, pants, jacket, boots, turkey decoys, a turkey call, a mouth call and a face mask. Miles told his friend he wished there were more, but the nonprofit is new and does not yet have much of a budget. Sling and Stone Outfitters was formed on Veterans Day last year: 11-11-11. Miles had been doing research on crossbow hunting and discovered in several states it is illegal, except for disabled veterans. So, he began thinking what if he could get crossbows into the hands of disabled veterans, along with boots and clothes. His ultimate goal is to be able to provide amputees with special gear for hunting. As a 20-year-old, Russell Sellers, who is permanently disabled, was working as a diesel mechanic in the U.S. Army. While installing a drive shaft in a Utah National Guard truck, in preparation to be shipped out for Operation Desert Storm, he felt a pop in his back. For the next month, he lay in traction. At the time, he was told he had a low lumbar fracture. He refused back surgery because he was told there would be a 50-50 chance of not walking again. The injury ultimately led to him being released from the military. Over the course of the next 20 years, Sellers, now 41, dealt with incredible back pain, leading him to take "every drug known to man" in order to find some relief. "It was very stressful," Russell Sellers said. "I lost some good jobs because of it, and I can't hold my kids." In 2011, he had back surgery, and the doctor said his injury was not a fracture, rather he broke his back. He is doing better since the surgery. Laurie Sellers said when her husband was having all of those problems, it was frustrating. His back could go out at any moment, and he would drop to the floor. Russell Sellers, who loves to hunt, whether deer, squirrel, rabbit or turkey, said he thinks it is great to be the first recipient of hunting gear from Sling and Stone Outfitters. When Miles started the organization, he created a Facebook page. He informed others he was soon going to put together a package for turkey hunting for a disabled veteran. After the Facebook post, Russell Sellers contacted Miles about being considered. With five children, Russell Sellers has not had the money to update his hunting equipment. His boots are 13 years old and shredded from the briars, but they were all he had. He was excited to get a pair of insulated boots. The name of the nonprofit plays on the idea of a primitive weapon, but it is also connected with David, an Old Testament figure who as a young boy slew Goliath with a sling and a stone. The goal of the organization is to help disabled veterans face their psychological Goliaths and slay them, Miles said. Anyone wishing to donate to the organization can visit the website, slingandstone.org, or check out its Facebook page.

From More information contact Chad Miles at: Phone: (313)-690-3010 Email: chad@slingandstone.org Mail: 2130 Audette Street. Dearborn, MI 48124 Facebook: 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.
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From: Department of Veteran and Military Affairs Michigan-www.michigan.gov Michigan Answers the Call to Arms The surrender of Fort Sumter on April 15, 1861, was startling news throughout the country, and Michigan soon received the President's call for volunteers. The state was asked to furnish one regiment of infantry fully armed, clothed, and equipped to aid the federal government in suppressing the rebellion. Although the state treasury was not in a condition to meet this request, subscription made the necessary amount available; ten companies were at once mobilized. Michigan Civil War soldiers The President's call for Michigan troops was promptly met by the mustering in of the First Regiment and its early movement to the seat of war in Virginia. In the meantime, the War Department authorized Michigan to raise three other regiments, but at the same time stated that it was "important to reduce rather than increase that number." This authority only covered the Second, Third, and Fourth Infantry Regiment, already in process of recruitment. Many companies throughout the state, not included in the regiments named above, recruited without authority in the hope of obtaining places in those or other regiments. They were disappointed however, and 13 companies found service in the units of other states. By December 1861, Michigan had sent 13 infantry regiments, three cavalry regiments, and five batteries of light artillery, totaling 16,475 officers and enlisted men to the front. As The War Continues On July 2, 1862, the War Department assigned Michigan a quota of 11,686, as part of the proclamation for 500,000 men. The regiments recruited were as follows: 21st, Ionia; 22nd, Pontiac; 23rd, East Saginaw; and 24th, from Detroit and Wayne county. More companies were raised than could be placed in the district regiments, so the 25th (Kalamazoo) and the 26th (Jackson) infantry regiments were formed and sent into the field. The Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Cavalry regiments were also organized. Following the expiration of their three-year enlistment periods at the beginning of 1864, five thousand

The Civil War

five hundred forty-five veterans reenlisted, entitling the units in which they were serving to the designation of "Veteran." These organizations were the First, Second, and Third Cavalry; Second, Fifth, Eighth, Ninth, l0th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th Regiments of Infantry; the Sixth Heavy Artillery (formerly the Sixth Infantry) and Batteries B, C, and E, First Light Artillery. Because Michigan was on the Canadian border, it was continually threatened with invasion by rebels who had found refuge in Canada and were encouraged by the Confederate government to raid the northern states. During the time of these threatened raids, Michigan relied on the following forces to defend its borders against any hostile demonstration: six companies of the Second Regiment Veteran Reserve Corps, three companies of the State Troops, the Scott Guard, Detroit Light Guard, and Lyon Guard, with a section of light artillery. Colonel Benjamin Pritchard At the close of the Civil War, Michigan's Colonel Benjamin Pritchard and the 4th Michigan Cavalry captured Jefferson Davis, the defeated Confederate President. Michigan's Contribution From April 1861 to April 1865, Michigan furnished 90,747 men, not counting 1,982 men commuting and 4,000 Michigan men who served in the units of other states. The first Michigan troops discharged from federal service, the 20th Regiment of Infantry, arrived in the state from the battle field on June 4, 1865 and the last, the Third and Fourth Infantry, arrived on June 10, 1866. According to official regimental commander's reports, Michigan men engaged the enemy on more than 800 occasions. Of officers serving, 177 were killed, 85 died of wounds, and 96 died of disease. Among the enlisted men, 2,643 were killed, 1,302 died of wounds, and 10,040 died of disease. During the war, Michigan furnished more than 30 regiments of infantry (including the First Colored, 102nd United States, Infantry), a regiment of engineers and mechanics, light artillery of 12 six-gun batteries, two batteries of medium artillery, a regiment of sharpshooters, 11 regiments of cavalry.

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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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Hubbardston American Legion Disable Veteran Hunting

From: www.va.gov The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to informing the Veteran community about VA health benefits and services. Currently, VA is producing personalized Veteran Health Benefits Handbooks for Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care. The new handbooks are tailored specificfor each Veteran and provides detailed information about the VA health services the Veteran may be eligible to receive. The Veteran Health Benefit Handbook provides answers to common questions such as contact information for the Veteran's local facility, instructions on how to schedule appointments, guidelines for communicating treatment needs and an explanation of the Veteran's responsibilities, such as co-pays, if applicable. Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare will receive their personalized handbooks via mail as part of a national rollout campaign starting in February 2012 based on Priority Group, beginning with Priority Group 1 and ending with Priority Group 8. In the near future, VA will develop an online version of the handbook for Veterans to access via MyHealtheVet. This will allow Veterans to access their up-to-date health benefit information anywhere, anytime. Click the link below for additional information about the Veterans Health Benefits Handbook or call VA at 1 877-222-VETS (8387).

Veterans Health Benefits Handbook

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.

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.

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
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Available Hunting Dates are as Follows

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From: June 14, 2012 by Alex Horton www.va.gov Were right in the middle of PTSD Awareness Month, so its a good time to take a look at some of the resources from VA at your disposal. The National Center for PTSD has put together a video series exploring the different aspects and consequences of post-traumatic stress. In the first series, How I knew I had PTSD, a Veteran explains how he came to understand the issues he was having. Youll find links to PTSD symptoms, a trauma symptom checklist, and more information about the PTSD Coach mobile app. In the second series, My family suffered, a female Veteran explores how her isolated behavior affected her loved ones. Go to the link to learn more about how PTSD can affect your family, tips on how couples can cope with mental health challenges, and more. For the rest of the month, the page will be updated with more stories and resources, so check back often. If youre in crisis and need help immediately, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255, or text 838255. Its also a good idea to put that number into your phone now to have just in case.

PTSD Resources When You Need Them

A clipping from Gene Simon. It does bring up an interesting point. Do we forget?Matthew X. Hauser

We hear stories from around the state about Veterans who are in need of help. Please remember what these men and women have done for this nation. Please remember them, and let our communities not forget what these men and women have sacrificed. Thank you to everyone who has supported this newsletter, and if you know of any veterans who are in need of help let us know and we will put the word out to help. -Matthew X. Hauser Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org

Lest We Forget

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From: www.wwimemorial.org In March 2008, Frank Buckles, the last surviving American veteran of World War I, visited the District of Columbia War Memorial, on the National Mall in Washington DC. He observed that this peaceful, secluded memorial, dedicated in 1931 as a memorial to the 499 residents of the District of Columbia who gave their lives in that war, sits neglected and in extreme disrepair, and that there is no national memorial to World War I. Mr. Buckles issued a call for the restoration and re-dedication of the D.C. memorial as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial. The World War I Memorial Foundation was formed to make Frank Buckles dream a reality. The mission of the Foundation is to advocate and raise funds for the re-dedication of the DC War Memorial as a national World War I memorial, dedicated to all those Americans who served in the Great War. In 2014 the world will mark the centennial of World War I. Nearly 5 million Americans served during the war, and 116,516 Americans died in defense of democracy overseas. Americas support of its allies in World War I marked the first time in this nations history that American soldiers went abroad to defend foreign soil against aggression -- and it marked the true beginning of the American century. Yet while the later conflicts of the 20th century World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War -rightfully have national memorials on the National Mall, there is no such memorial to the Great War, even though more Americans gave their lives in World War I than in Korea or Vietnam. The D.C. memorial, which is already located adjacent to those other memorials, is the most fitting site for a national World War I memorial.

The World War I Memorial Foundation

Lest We Forget SW MI Memorial Day Parade

All photos from Lest We Forget.

Photo: The Late Frank Buckles during his 2008 visit to the Washington D.C. World War I Monument.

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
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A Note From Department Hospital Chairwoman Merridy Lewis

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! 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.

From: http://www.jpac.pacom.mil The mission of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) is to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all Americans missing as a result of the nation's past conflicts. The highest priority of the organization is the return of any living Americans that remain prisoners of war. To date, the U.S. Government has not found any evidence that there are still American POWs in captivity from past U.S. conflicts. JPAC is located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The command was activated on Oct. 1, 2003, created from the merger of the 30-year-old U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii, and the 11-year-old Joint Task Force - Full Accounting. Commanded by a flag officer,

JPAC is manned by approximately 400 handpicked Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Department of the Navy civilians. The laboratory portion of JPAC, referred to as the Central Identification Laboratory (CIL), is the largest forensic anthropology laboratory in the world. JPAC also maintains three permanent overseas detachments to assist with command and control, logistics and in-country support during investigation and recovery operations. They are Detachment One located in Bangkok, Thailand, Detachment Two in Hanoi, Vietnam and Detachment Three in Vientiane, Laos. JPAC has a fourth detachment, Detachment Four, located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, responsible for recovery team personnel when they are not deployed.
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By: Tech. Sgt. Jake Richmond U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Public Affairs From: Hank Fuhs 12/8/2011 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds announced their 2012 show schedule Dec. 7. The team is set to perform more than 60 demonstrations in 33 locations, including two shows in Canada. The team, officially known as the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, will again kick-off their season by performing a flyover for the 54th running of NASCAR's Daytona 500 on February. 26. The remainder of the schedule is as follows bellow: March 17: Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. March 31 and April 1: Lakeland, Fla. April 14-15: Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. April 21-22: Barksdale AFB, La. April 28-29: Fort Lauderdale, Fla. May 5-6: Shaw AFB, S.C. May 12-13: Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. May 19-20: March Air Reserve Base, Calif. May 23: Colorado Springs, Colo. (U.S. Air Force Academy graduation flyover) May 26-27: Hill AFB, Utah June 2-3: Rockford, Ill. June 9-10: Ocean City, Md. June 16-17: North Kingstown, R.I. June 23-24: Indianapolis, Ind. June 30 & July 1: Battle Creek, Mich. July 7-8: Gary, Ind. July 21-22: Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. July 25: Cheyenne, Wyo. July 28-29: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska Aug. 4-5: Hillsboro, Ore. Aug. 11-12: Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada Aug. 17: Atlantic City, N.J. Aug. 25-26: Brunswick, Maine Sept. 1-2: Davenport, Iowa Sept. 8-9: Sacramento, Calif. Sept. 15-16: Scott AFB, Ill. Sept. 22-23: Salinas, Calif. Sept. 29-30: McConnell AFB, Kan. Oct. 6-7: Fort Worth, Texas Oct. 13-14: Daytona Beach, Fla. Oct. 20-21: El Paso, Texas Oct. 27-28: Moody AFB, Ga. Nov. 3-4: Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla. Nov. 10-11: Nellis AFB, Nev.

Thunderbirds Release 2012 Show Schedule

Five F-16 Fighting Falcons of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team perform aerial stunts Oct. 8, 2011, during their demonstration at the Legacy of Liberty Open House and Air Show at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. The team's primary mission is to exhibit the capabilities of modern warfighting aircraft and to demonstrate the high degree of skill maintained by Air Force members serving in a variety of career specialties. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman DeAndre Curtiss)

"We are excited about the upcoming season and representing our fellow American Airmen," said Lt. Col. Greg Moseley, who will command and lead the team in the 2012 show season. "We feel honored to tell the story of U.S. Air Force Airmen serving on the front lines of freedom around the world. We will proudly represent each Airmen with the same pride, precision and professionalism in which they perform their duties each and every day." As of 2012, the Thunderbirds will have been in existence for 59 years, dating back to 1953 when the team flew the straight-winged F-84G Thunderjets. This season will mark the 30th season the squadron has performed in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the Air Force's premier multirole fighter aircraft. The Thunderbirds team is an Air Combat Command unit composed of eight pilots, including six demonstration pilots, four support officers, four civilians and more than 100 enlisted people serving in about 30 Air Force job specialties. A Thunderbirds aerial demonstration is a mix of formation flying and solo routines. The pilots perform approximately 40 maneuvers in a demonstration. The entire show, including the beginning ground ceremony, lasts about one hour. The air show season lasts roughly from March to November, with the winter months primarily used to train new team members. To learn more about the Thunderbirds, visit the U.S. Air Force Demonstration Team Facebook, Twitter orYouTube pages.
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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.

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

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):

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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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From: The American Legion - June 21, 2012 The American Legion testified at a June 21 House hearing in Washington, D.C., showing its support for several bills, including one measure that would require states to adjust their licensing/ certification standards to accommodate military standards. Certifications for nursing assistant, certified nursing assistant, registered nurse and commercial drivers licenses would be affected. H.R. 4155, the Helping Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Return to Employment at Home Act, would remove some obstacles faced by job-seeking veterans whose military training and experience is not widely recognized by civilian agencies. Steve Gonzalez, assistant director of the Legions Economic Division, presented the Legions testimony to the House Committee on Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity. In many cases, civilian licenses and certificates require schooling that veterans have already completed through their military service. Unfortunately, most agencies that issue these documents do not recognize such training or experience. For example, a Navy medic who treated Marines with severe wounds cannot be certified as a private-sector emergency medical technician without additional and redundant course work. "When civilian credentialing boards, states and employers fail to fully recognize military education, training and experience," the Legion testified, "both the servicemember and the nation are impaired. The veteran faces reduced chances of obtaining a job on part with his/her skills, and the civilian workforce cannot take full advantage of the extensive skills training in which our nation has invested." Another Legion-supported bill discussed at the hearing, the Help Veterans Return to Work Act, would clarify the responsibilities of small businesses with respect to the employment and re-employment rights of vetWe 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.

House Bill Would Help Job-Seeking Vets

erans. The measure would remove "undue hardship" as a justification for large businesses to refuse to give returning veterans their jobs back. Such protections would only apply to small businesses. The Legion testified that current law "is too lenient in allowing employers, regardless of size, to dismiss deployed servicemembers. It is estimated that nearly half of unemployed veterans are National Guard and reserve members. The Legion testified on two other bills at the hearing that would further safeguard military homeowners and their families. They were: 1. The Military Family Home Protection Act (H.R. 5747), which would improve protections for servicemembers against mortgage foreclosures. The Legion reminded the subcommittee that the homes of military families had been foreclosed illegally before, and that servicemembers should not be "distracted by concerns over whether someone is seeking a default judgment against them back home, or evicting their spouse and children, or selling their house at an auction sale." 2. The Fairness for Military Homeowners Act (H.R. 4740), which would ensure that active-duty servicemembers, relocated from their principal residence, would still be able to refinance their mortgages on those homes. "Americas servicemembers should be able to expect equal treatment as any other American homeowner when refinancing their mortgages," the Legion testified. Under current regulations, servicemembers cannot refinance their homes if they do not physically occupy them.

Old Warrior Camp

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.
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Two Great Sources for Veterans/Military Legislative Updates in Washington D.C. Simply click the images to view the site.

Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Committee Testimony Committee Minutes No SubCommittees Committee Members: Ray A. Franz (R), Committee Chair, 101st District Dale W. Zorn (R), Majority Vice-Chair, 56th District Gail Haines (R), 43rd District Sharon Tyler (R), 78th District Mike Callton (R), 87th 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. Ray A. Franz 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.

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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

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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Newsletter Links From Articles For July

Page 1 Newsletters Facebook www.facebook.com Newsletters Scribd www.scribd.com Department of veteran Affairs www.va.gov Page 2 The USO www.uso.org Front Lines of Freedom www.frontlinesoffreedom.com Page 3 MIGOP Facebook www.facebook.com Page 4 Hire Heroes USA www.hireheroesusa.org Page 6 Spirit of the American Flag www.forgottonheroesusa.com Page 7 Gull Lake Community Schools Foundation www.glcsf.org Page 8 American Legion www.legion.org TRICARE www.tricare.mil Page 9 Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov DD-214 Form www.archives.gov DAV www.dav.gov Page 10 Memorial Day Event www.normamarie.org Page 11 Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America www.michiganpva.org Page 12 The Daily Record www.the-daily-record.com Sling and Stone www.slingandstone.org Page 13 Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Michigan www.michigan.gov Page 15 VA Veterans Benefits Page 24 www.publichealth.va.gov U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs Page 16 Department of veteran Affairs www.veterans.senate.gov www.va.gov U.S House Committee of Veterans Affairs Page 17 Team Pascarella www.veterans.house.gov www.teampascarella.com Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Michigan Page 18 World War I Memorial Foundation www.michigan.gov www.wwimemorial.org Military and Veterans Affairs and LEST WE FORGET SW MI Homeland Security Committee www.lestweforgetusa.org www.house.mi.gov Page 19 Page 25 Joint Pow/MIA Pentagon Channel Accounting Command www.pentagonchannel.mil www.jpac.pacom.mil Veterans Radio www.veteransradio.net Page 21 Legal Help for Veterans LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.legalhelpforveterans.com www.lestweforgetusa.org Brain Injury Association of Michigan www.biami.org Page 22 Also check out the Some Useful Michigan Air National Guard Links Section on Page 2. www.selfridgeairmuseum.org Thank you for your Support! Veterans Voices www.veteransvoices.org
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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

Stand Up For Veterans-They Stood Up For US

-The DAV

American Legion Post is in looking for current military members to send care packages to. Please contact Robert Goulet if you know of any military member who might like something. Please see News From American Legion Post 341 below for more information. Thank you very much!

Staff & Contributors

CoordinatorMatthew X. Hauser ContributorsDon Alsbro Rick Briggs Helen Budd Sen. Patrick Colbeck Sam Cottle Rep. Kurt Damrow Matt Davis David Duenow Vicki Dunlop Mark Eddy Keith Famie James G. Fausone Rep. Ray Franz Sean M. Furr Denny Gillem Robert Goulet John Haggard Larry Harr Dan Heckman Dale Hemphill John Hess Norma Housey Sec. of State Ruth Johnson James Julian Adrian Keogh Adele Krovsky Bill Langbehn Merridy Lewis Gary C. Lulenski Claude McManus

In Memory of Gary Lillie

Chad Miles Louis Nigro Sid Rubin Eugene (Gene) A. Simon Phil Smith Sherry Swann Tim Pascarella Bob Tidmore Rep. Fred Upton Maureen VanHooser 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.

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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Hope you enjoyed the Newsletter!

Please let us know what you thought. Contact Matthew X. Hauser at mhauser@migop.org
We need your help to grow the Newsletter

We are looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know.
Sincerely,
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

Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs & Matthew X. Hauser

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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