Central Florida Veterans Events Includes Tall Ship!!

If you're a Central Florida veteran and think there is nothing to do, this should prove you are wrong. Great way to get out and meet other veterans!

About the Eagle: Originally operated by Nazi Germany to train cadets for the German Navy, the ship was taken by the United States as a war prize after World War II. In 1946, a U.S. Coast Guard crew – aided by the German crew still on board – sailed the tall ship from Bremerhaven to its new homeport in New London, Connecticut. Eagle returned to Bremerhaven for the first time since World War II in the summer of 2005, to an enthusiastic welcome.

The following is from Cathy Haynes My Soapbox...My teeth usually start to itch this time each year….. Memorial Day, an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May, honors men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings. Armed Forces Day primarily honors those persons who are currently serving our country. Veterans Day primarily honors those who have served in the past. Memorial Day primarily honors those who died while in service to our country, those who have given their lives for the nation’s freedom and the freedom of others. While it is always appropriate to thank someone in our military services, past and present, Memorial Day is a day for those no longer with us.  It was meant to be a more solemn day, rather than celebratory with parties and sales….   Fly your American flags this weekend and for Memorial Day/weekend.  If they are torn, tattered or fade you may take them to any veteran service organization post for proper retirement. See the events for Flag Day in June.   Armed Forces Appreciation Day – May 20 – The unified recognition of all presently servicing persons in the armed forces rather than separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and Air Force Days.   Armed Forces Day Recognition – Sat. May 20 – The Museum of Military History hosts this event to honor our men and women who are serving our country.  There is also special recognition of the Merchant Marines.  For those interested in joining the armed forces, military recruiters will be available to answer questions. The Central Florida USO will be distributing beneficial information for service members and their families.  10am – 2pm with a ceremony at 12noon featuring a special guest speaker.  Free museum admission for all Active, Reserve, National Guard, and Merchant Marine members, reduced $5.00 admission for all others. Light snacks and drinks provided; tour guides will be present for museum tours or questions.  5210 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy (192), Kissimmee, 34746.  407-507-3894. (If you no longer want your military treasures and artifacts, please consider donating them for safekeeping.  Keep them out of a future landfill.  Stories of the item(s) also appreciated!) Europa Expo – Sat, Sun May 20, 21 – This is one of the largest Health, Fitness & Sports trade shows in the WORLD - The Central Florida Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America Inc. (PVA) will be on hand displaying all of their sporting paraphernalia regarding adaptive sports for wheelchair users. 9am - 6pm, Orange County Convention Center. $20 for one day ticket.  Info:  www. europaexpo.com /orlando-2017 (PVA assists vets with spinal injury and neurological diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and ALS also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.  They receive and distribute unwanted medical equipment to vets and civilians.  407-328-7041)   Coast Guard Auxiliary meeting – Sat. May 20 – The Orlando-Winter Park Flotilla 17-11 meets on the 3rd Sat. of each month, 9am, at the Lake Baldwin VA Clinic, 5201 Raymond St., Orlando, 32803.  Auxiliary members are volunteers who support the Coast Guard in all its non-military, and non-law-enforcement missions. Members help to provide maritime safety, security and stewardship; to secure the homeland, save lives and property; and to protect the environment. There are several Flotillas (groups) in Central Florida and membership in the Auxiliary is open to persons 17 years of age and older – some are much older! Info: Joseph Bonaccorse  bonaccorse@ usa .net  407.222.9681.   Veterans’ in Need Stand Down – Sat. May 20 - CareerSource Flagler Volusia will be hosting Veterans in Need Stand Down from 9 am - 2 pm in Daytona Beach, 250 N. Beach St., 32114. Homeless and in-need veterans as well as their families can receive free haircuts and food, along with information about VA services, medical care, employment resources, shelter, clothing, counseling and vocational services. In addition to CareerSource, program sponsors are the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Volusia County Veterans Services, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans of America, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Paws of War and the Salvation Army.  Info:  Joe Roberts - 386-323-7011.   Greeters needed!  Honor Flights - Orlando Int’l Airport –After a day spent in Washington DC, veterans of WWII, Korean War and Vietnam return home thru Orlando Int’l Airport in the evening.  The nation-wide organization has three local hubs that take veterans on a single day trip to our nation’s capital where they visit the WWII, Korea, and Vietnam War Memorials, Marine Corps Iwo Jima and the Air Force Monuments, and witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.  Come welcome these former warriors home!  “Welcome Home” receptions at the airports make a difference!  Bring your flags, banners and signs! – The closest dates are:  Sat. May 20 – Southwest flight# 5205 from BWI arriving MCO at 8:40pm.  25 veterans (10 from WW2, 10 Korea and 5 Vietnam.  23 men and 2 women; 7 vets are over age 90 with the eldest being 98 yrs young.  8 Army, 7 USAF/USAAC, 7 Navy and 3 Marines.) Wed. May 24 – Southwest flight# 1838 from BWI arriving MCO at 9:20pm.  40 vets, including one woman  – 3 WW2, 36 Korean War veterans and one Vietnam Veteran. The groups enter the Hotel end of the Airport terminal area and we greet them in front of the Starbucks - Terminal A, Airside 2 -  Oftentimes led from the Tram by a bagpiper.  Before leaving home to attend the homecoming, it is suggested that you check online to see if the flight is on time because there may be delays due to weather, mechanical or medical issues.  Free parking has been arranged at an off airport property – FastPark and Relax (7870 N Frontage Rd, Orlando, 32812) who has been very generous to Honor Flights with free parking and shuttles to/from the airport (Tips welcomed by drivers!) Just tell the attendant upon entering that site that you are there for the veterans/Honor Flight – they try to park us together.  New:  Parking Vouchers WILL be available for airport garage parking from a GOAA rep. in the terminal for this event – maximum of 3 hours – BUT you have to take a PAPER ticket upon entering the airport garage.  The vouchers will NOT work if you use the SunPass/EPass transponders – we cannot credit the charge back.  Seek the GOAA rep. (or ‘Miss Liberty’) early before the veterans arrive.  Information for more Flights will be forthcoming.  Contact Cathy Haynes for those details  407-239-8468  chaynes11629 @yahoo .com     Greeters needed!  Honor Flights - Orlando Int’l Airport – Wed. May 24 – See information in May 20 posting.   Armed Forces Appreciation Night – Thurs. May 25 – A combined gathering of Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard personnel, veterans, and groups at the Citrus Club in downtown Orlando.  Sponsored by Sunshine Chapter of Association of the United States Army, Central Florida Navy League, and Central Florida Marine Corp Foundation.  (Dag-gone-it, Air Force Association!  Join us next year!  But Air Force personnel/veterans will not be turned away!  You are still welcomed to join us for fellowship and networking and appreciation of all military personnel!!!) Open bar, complimentary hors d’oeuvres.  6pm-8:30pm 255 South Orange Avenue #1800, Orlando, 32801.  RSVP is required. david.wood@ clubcorp .com  Info:  Jan Drabczuk 407- 448-5369   United States Submarine Veterans mtg – Thurs May 25 – The Central Florida Base meets on the fourth Thursday of every month at 7pm, at the Casselberry Veteran's Club, 200 Concord Dr., Casselberry, 32707.  Fun and networking with membership open to all Navy personnel and veterans who are qualified in submarines.  Guests are always welcome at meetings.  Info:  Jay D Mack  407- 920-9347  jmack349@ gmail .com FYI:  The National Convention of Submarine Veterans will be held in Orlando on September 1-6.  Any group/business that would like to post an advertisement in the convention book, contact Jay.   VERY UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY:Coast Guard Cutter Eagle visit to Port Canaveral: May 31- June 3.  This is a tall ship – one with real masts and sails.  The Coast Guard Cutter EAGLE, provides USCG Academy cadets and officer candidates with their first taste of sea and salt air. Built in Germany in 1936 and recommissioned by the United States at the close of World War II, the EAGLE is the largest tall ship flying the Stars and Stripes.  This will be a unique opportunity!   City of Orlando Mayors’ Veterans Advisory Council – Thurs. June 1 – 1:30pm monthly meeting of numerous organizations and individuals for the benefit of local veterans and active duty personnel.  Planning of functions (ie:  Veterans Day parade) and awareness of events is shared.  Designated representatives allow groups to coordinate efforts.  If your Orlando area vet/military associated group isn’t attending, it should plan to get involved.  Networking before and after the meeting.  See website at cityoforlando.net, Office of the Mayor, Mayor’s Committees, Veterans.   Contact Chairman Michael Waldrop for attendance and location information.  mwaldrop@ blue-cord. com   Pars and Stripes Golf Tournament – Fri. June 2 – Cubic sponsors this fund raiser for the local Camaraderie Foundation which helps "heal the invisible wounds of war" for even more local heroes.  This 7th Annual event has 06:30 check-in and breakfast with an 8am shotgun start.  Reunion Resort Golf Courses, 7593 Gathering Drive, Kissimmee, 34747.  Additional sponsorships available.  Camaraderie Foundation in Central Florida provides resources for private and confidential Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) counseling for Post 9/11 veterans/warriors and their families.  They also have connections in other areas, other states.  It works.  It HAS saved lives, saved marriages and saved families.   camaraderiefoundation .org   Info:  events@ camaraderiefoundation .org   407- 841-0071   Battle of Midway Commemoration - This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Midway. On June 4th 1942, a vastly outnumbered and outgunned U.S. Fleet defeated the finest of the Imperial Japanese Navy in the waters off a small Pacific Atoll named Midway. The combination of intelligence, tactics, courage, sacrifice and luck forever changed the course of the war and world history.  Thank a WW2 Pacific veteran!   D-Day Commemoration -  On June 6, 1944, more than 160,000 Allied troops landed along a 50-mile stretch of heavily-fortified French coastline, to fight Nazi Germany on the beaches of Normandy, France. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower called the operation a crusade in which, “we will accept nothing less than full victory.” More than 5,000 Ships and 13,000 aircraft supported the D-Day invasion, and by day’s end, the Allies gained a foot-hold in Continental Europe. The cost in lives on D-Day was high. More than 9,000 Allied Soldiers were killed or wounded, but their sacrifice allowed more than 100,000 Soldiers to begin the slow, hard slog across Europe, to defeat Adolf Hitler’s troops.  Thank a WW2 European theater veteran, especially one involved in D-Day.   Coast Guard Auxiliary meeting – Wed. June 7 – The Osceola Flotilla 17-10 meets on the 1st Wed. of each month, 7pm, at American Legion Post 10, 205 Lakeview Dr., Kissimmee, 34741. Auxiliary members are volunteers who support the Coast Guard in all its non-military, and non-law-enforcement missions. Members help to provide maritime safety, security and stewardship; to secure the homeland, save lives and property; and to protect the environment. There are several Flotillas (groups) in Central Florida and membership in the Auxiliary is open to persons 17 years of age and older – some are much older! Info: Jim Nickles at jimnickles2@ gmail .com  407-390-9611**Recent CG Aux persons were able to assist local sheriff department and State Fish and Wildlife Dept. personnel with boat safety checks on the Lake Butler, Chain of Lakes. Way to go! US Senator’s office offers Constituent Services – Thurs. June 8 - If you are having an issue with Social Security, Medicare, Veterans Affairs benefits, immigration, the IRS or any federal agency, a member of Senator Rubio’s staff will be available to meet with you. 10am – 1pm at The Museum of Military History, 5210 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy (192), Kissimmee, 34746.  Please plan to attend to meet your local staff and find out the services Senator Rubio’s Office offers his constituents.  Central Florida/Orlando office:  407-254-2573 or toll free in Florida 1-866-630-7106.   Women Veterans’ Conference – Fri and Sat June 9, 10 – Sponsored by the Florida Dept. of Veteran’ Affairs to provide information  Free and open to all women who have served or are currently serving in the military.  Orlando VA Medical Center at Lake Nona, 4th Flr Auditorium 4F301-A, 13800 Veterans Way, Orlando, 32827. Learn about local and state resources, career opportunities, information & outreach booths for benefits and assistance, rotation of knowledgeable guest speakers, some different each day.  8am – 4:30, Lunch provided both days, raffles and door prizes. Free Parking.  See:  floridavets .org  Info:  Darlene – 727-319-7418 scullyd@ fdva.state. fl.us   or Sherrel - 319-727-7405     Oviedo Veterans’ Tribute Golf Tournament – Fri. June 9 – This fund raiser is also a memorial tribute to its original planner, Mark Stockwell, who died unexpectedly only a few months ago.   The “Fountain of Service” in Oviedo’s Veterans Memorial has the military branches presented on polished granite blocks. Water flows from each into a common trough, moving slowly and seems to disappear into the lake. This represents the idea of honorable separation and sacrifice. Sponsorships are very welcomed.  10:30 registration with 12noon shotgun start at Twin Rivers Golf Club, 2100 Ekana Drive, Oviedo, 32765.  Deadline of signing up is June 1 for discounts for veterans - $25, or $80 for others. Info: Art Weaver 407-765-0255   aweaver56@ gmail .com   Flag Retirement ceremony – Sat. June 10 – Ceremony begins at 12 noon at the Orlando Scottish Rite Center, 1485 Grand Rd., Winter Park, 32792.  Sponsored by the Knights of St. Andrews with participation by scouts and veteran groups.  Highlights include tributes to the American Flag, POW/MIA ceremony, a 21-gun salute, live band and special presentations being made to first responders.   Gather your neighborhood retired flags, those that are torn, tattered and faded.  Bring them for proper retirement and disposal.  Past years have had over 4000 flags respectfully retired.  Alternatively, any American Legion or VFW Post will welcome flags for retirement.  Info:  Keith Albright 407.657.4550 Addl’ info - Masonic Membership consideration: National Sojourners, Inc., is a national fraternal organization composed of military commissioned officers, Warrant and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (past and present) and honorary members who are Masons in advancing programs that promote love of country ...   242nd Army Birthday Ball – Sat. June 19 – The local Sunshine Chapter of AUSA (Association of the United States Army) coordinates this great celebratory event that is open to ALL interested persons- regardless of service branch or civilian.  Special guest speaker.  RSVP required; Special invitations to Wounded Warriors, Soldiers, Gold Star families and our senior war veterans from Central Florida. This years’ theme is “Over There! A Celebration of the WWI Soldier”.  6pm – 11pm at Rosen Centre, 9840 International Drive, Orlando, 32819.  Discount for early ticket purchase.  Sponsorships very welcomed.  See chapter website.  Info:  Dee  at 407- 924-0810  daila.espeut-jones@ zeltech .com  Addl’ info - Interested in becoming an AUSA member?  Sunshine Chapter has flexible general meeting dates.  See the website or contact  john.reams@ zeltech.com  407.571.9920   Unique event: Free offshore fishing for wounded warriors – Tues. June 20 - Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam is inviting wounded veterans to a free offshore fishing trip. The boat will be launching from Carrabelle ( in the FL Panhandle near Tallahassee). All eligible veterans can register now by going to OperationOutdoorFreedom .com  Limited space.  This ongoing program provides wounded veterans with the outdoor activities that they enjoy at no cost. Designated state and agricultural lands throughout Florida grant these veterans unique opportunities for recreation and rehabilitation.  Requirements:  30% or more service connected disability, or Purple Heart recipient.   MISCELLANEOUS   Central Florida Veterans – There are approximately 65,000 military veterans just in Orange County.  And only 17,000 are receiving ANY kind of benefits that they are entitled to receive.  Enroll in the VA Healthcare system, even if you think you are not eligible.  Laws change, rules get updated and you may have some service related situations that appear years after you left service.  If you are already enrolled, it will decrease possible delays.  Healthcare is not the only benefit of your service to our country.  See your County Veterans Service Office.  Every Florida county has a VSO, some have multiple offices – they are FREE and very knowledgeable about benefits claims and possible appeals.  See  floridavets .org for locations. (Want to know a secret?  Many of the attorneys who advertise to assist with veteran benefit claims and appeals actually consult with these same VSO’s!  And then charge the client for it!)   Hepatitis C – It is imperative that veterans get tested!  If positive, get treated.  The VA will test you, and treat you – for free.  Consult your primary care team if you are already enrolled in the VA Healthcare system.  If you are not currently enlisted in it, do it.  One in 10 Vietnam veterans, and one in 30 baby-boomers, will test positive for this liver problem - a possible “time-bomb” that may lead to liver cancer. Blood Banks already test for this – if Hep C negative, your blood will help save a life.  (FYI – Hepatitis C was formerly known as Hepatitis Non-A, Non-B until the 1980’s.)   Veterans in crisis – For you or someone you know.  Suicide is a medical emergency.  If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, know that you are not alone and care should be sought immediately by calling 911.  Free, confidential resources are instantly available through the Military Crisis Line to aid you if you are in crisis.  Call 800-273-8255 and press 1,   OR chat online now for 24/7 access to trained counselors who understand what service members and military families are coping with.  Website at  veteranscrisisline  OR:  text 838255  for 24/7 confidential assistance.  They are there because they care….   Camaraderie Foundation in Central Florida provides resources for private and confidential Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) counseling for Post 9/11 veterans/warriors and their families.  They also have connections in other areas, other states.  It works.  It HAS saved lives, saved marriages and saved families.  camaraderiefoundation .org   Contact 407-841-0071       Caring and sharing,   Cathy Haynes Member/supporter of numerous veteran and military organizations in Central FL 407-239-8468 chaynes11629@ yahoo .com

Veteran Suicide Press Released Removed Truth!

More BS with the number!! Who did it come from? A Vietnam veteran!

“Veterans are returning from combat and committing suicide at a rate of 22 per day!” Delate emphatically declared. “Awareness and prevention is key, and I am doing everything I can to educate veterans and civilians alike to make a difference.”

Educate veterans and civilians on a fabrication?

So many people running around the country taking about veterans committing suicide without a single clue, yet reporters just let them talk as if it is fact. Will folks ever get it right?

Did he bother to read the report to know that is not true?

MEMORIAL DAY is an intimate portrayal of a veteran suffering from the wounds of war and on the verge of suicide who, through his story and numerous characters, experiences a transformation and redemption that offers hope and promise to new and old veterans and civilians alike. Delate wrote the theatrical version, which has been performed in New York, Los Angeles, and Hanoi.

Local Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Day Addresses PTSD and Suicide press release didn't bother to mention that the majority of the veterans committing suicide are over the age of 50! Yep, that's right. But had anyone bothered to actually read the report, they'd know that. Save guess that had this been actually an important enough topic, they would have actually read the report!

Take a look at this and then tell me how all this "awareness" has done any good?

Billy Ray Cyrus to Honor Vietnam Veteran During Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom

Billy Ray Cyrus Owes His Career to a Vietnam Veteran
FOX News
By PopZette Staff
May 16, 2017

'Weston Lee died serving our country, and we should all be forever grateful for his service,' said the singer

Billy Ray Cyrus says he owes his success to a Vietnam veteran.

Cyrus will perform on May 28 in Washington, D.C., during the Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom. It’s an annual motorcycle rally that ends at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and honors fallen servicemen and women.

He will perform the tune “Some Gave All,” which is about serving in the military.

“This is a full-circle moment, because a week after ‘Some Gave All’ came out, I stood at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall during Rolling Thunder with Don Von Tress, who is not only the writer of ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ but also a Vietnam veteran. That man and that song changed my life,” Cyrus said in a press release.
read more here

Veteran Acquitted For Flying Flag on Memorial Day--Yes You Read That Right

U.S. Army Veteran acquitted of illegally displaying flags at LA Veterans Affairs facility
My News LA
POSTED BY DEBBIE L. SKLAR
APRIL 18, 2017

A 75-year-old military veteran was acquitted Tuesday of illegally hanging an American flag on the fence of a Veterans Affairs facility in West Los Angeles without permission.

The federal misdemeanor count against Robert Rosebrock stems from a VA statute that prohibits the posting of materials or “placards” on a VA property except when authorized by the head of the facility.

Rosebrock was cited on Memorial Day 2016 for allegedly displaying two napkin-sized American flags on a fence adjacent to the “Great Lawn Gate” entrance to the Veterans Park. He and fellow veterans have been assembling at the site nearly every Sunday and Memorial Day for the past nine years to protest what they believe is the VA’s failure to make full use of the expansive property for the benefit and care of veterans, particularly homeless veterans.

At the conclusion of a bench trial, U.S. Magistrate Judge Steve Kim found Rosebrock not guilty of the violation, which carries a maximum six-month prison sentence. The judge concluded that no evidence was presented showing Rosebrock lacked permission to post the flags or that Rosebrock had displayed them in the first place.
read more here

Memorial Day, Graves Honored, Day After Flags on Ground?

Veteran angered as dozens of American flags left on the ground at Chattanooga National Cemetery
WRCB News
Michelle Heron
June 8, 2016

"These are veteran's flags. They flew on their graves and then to disgrace them by rolling them up and putting them on the ground, just ate my crawl," Strube said.

Dozens of American flags on the ground at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Photo by Don Strube

Chattanooga TN

A veteran, visiting the Chattanooga National Cemetery, leaves livid after finding American flags on the ground.

It happened last Tuesday as volunteers and crews were taking down Memorial Day flags but cemetery staff say the volunteers removing the flags had the best of intentions.

Vietnam veteran Don Strube and his friend discovered dozens of American flags rolled up in piles on the ground last Tuesday.
read more here
WRCBtv.com | Chattanooga News, Weather & Sports

Afghanistan Veteran Recovering After Shooting

Family of west Houston mass shooting victim speaks
Click 2 Houston
By Lea Wilson - Digital News Editor , Phil Archer - Reporter
June 07, 2016

HOUSTON - A man who tried to intervene in a mass shooting that left 6 wounded and two dead, including the gunman, underwent his seventh surgery Tuesday at Memorial Hermann Hospital. Byron Wilson, 30, was wounded in the shoulder and both legs by Dionosio Garza, 25, an Army veteran of Afghanistan who may have been suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

“I think his spirits are incredible. I'm very very proud of him,” Wilson's sister, Lauren Wilson, said.

She said Wilson heard gunfire from his home near the 13200 block of Memorial Drive that day and texted his wife not to return home with their 3-year-old son.

Then, she said, he armed himself with two guns and walked toward the gunfire. But before he spotted Garza, he left the guns in a bulldozer bucket. A short time later, Garza spotted him.

“What happened was Byron walked out ... and was not armed, and was looking to see what was going on and Garza spotted him and Byron distracted Garza and prevented other people from being in the line of fire and getting hurt,” she said.
read more here

"Passion for Flag" on Memorial Day Cost Veteran His Job?

Former Marine fired from job for lowering flag on Memorial Day
FOX News
June 5, 2016

A former U.S. Marine said Friday he was fired from his contract job with Time Warner Cable in Charlotte after he lowered the American flag to half-staff on Memorial Day.

Allen Thornwell, 29, was thinking about his best friend, a former Marine who he said killed himself two years ago when he returned to the U.S., the Charlotte Observer reported.

The paper reported that Thornwell was fired Tuesday. The service that arranged the job for Thornwell said Time Warner told them they were disturbed by what was termed as “passion for the flag and (his) political affiliation.”

Thornwell said he remains in shock over his firing. Murphy Archibald, Thornwell’s attorney, said his client should have never lost his job.

Thornwell, who was discharged in 2014, knew the U.S. Flag Code policy which states that the banner should be half-staff until noon on Memorial Day. Thornwell said the incident happened at around 2:30 p.m. He said he wishes now he had permission.
read more here

Vietnam Veteran Died in Motorcycle Accident After Seeing The Wall

Vietnam veteran was making first trip to memorial
The Herald Bulletin
By Scott L. Miley

June 1, 2016

PENDLETON — Craig Van Brunt had hoped to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., for years.

This past Memorial Day weekend, Van Brunt, 66, of Pendleton, managed to see the symbolic wall Friday with about 80 other Hoosier motorcyclists participating in the annual Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom and Ride to the Wall.

Two days later, he joined in a demonstration ride urging Washington political leaders to find prisoners of war and service members still missing in action. After the demonstration, his motorcycle crashed on the way to the group's hotel. He died at George Washington University Hospital.

"This is something unfortunately that we have to live with," said Mike Clark, president of the Rolling Thunder Indiana Chapter 1, which organized area residents in the ride. "Most of us who ride motorcycles all know that once you swing your leg over the saddle, it could happen to any of us at any time."

Clark added, "At least he got to see the wall and participate in the Ride for Freedom demonstration. He got to accomplish his mission."
read more here

Driver Ran Over Veteran Couple in Pack On Memorial Day

WATCH: Driver appears to run over motorcycle in Pasco County
By WFLA Web Staff
Published: May 30, 2016

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Shocking video appears to show a driver running over a motorcycle in Pasco County. The incident occurred at US 41 and County Line Road around 5:30 p.m. Monday.

In the video, a male driver and female passenger are knocked off the bike. They are both seen standing up. According to Florida Highway Patrol, both people were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Robert Paul Vance booking photo (Courtesy Pasco County Sheriff’s Office) 

Abe Garcia posted the video and shared it with News Channel 8. He says the people on the bikes are veterans and for this incident to happen on Memorial Day is a shame.
read more here

Memorial Day tribute was held at VFW Post 4287

A Memorial Day tribute was held at VFW Post 4287 in Orlando.  Some Gave All panels offered a stark reminder of what this day is supposed to be all about.

Published on May 30, 2016
Today at the VFW Post 4287 in Orlando, there was a Memorial Day service. One of the special guest was a Korean War veteran about to celebrate his 95 birthday. What no one expected was that he can tap!

Vietnam War Memorial In Venice Desercrated

Vandals Deface Vietnam War Memorial In Venice
CBS Los Angeles
May 27, 2016

“It’s a desecration. I mean it’s very simple. There’s no sort of other way around it. It isn’t graffiti,” Francisco said.

VENICE (CBSLA.com) — Vandals defaced a memorial to Vietnam war veterans in Venice – an awful sight on this Memorial Day weekend.

Stewart Oscars welled up as he looked at the vandalized mural located on Pacific Avenue near Sunset Court. It was covered in graffiti from end to end.

“This knocked me out. So sickening. Just sadness…think of all these people. They’re gone,” Oscars said. “I remember the Vietnam war and how friends went to war, and bodies came back. Somehow, it has to be taught that this is not a good idea. This is actually stupid.”

The memorial was dedicated to service members who were listed as missing in action during the Vietnam War.

George Francisco is the Vice President of the Venice Chamber of Commerce. He also runs a nonprofit called Veterans Foundation Incorporated.
read more here

Memorial Day can be painful for military men and women

Honoring fallen veterans for their bravery and service this Memorial Day
WWLP 22 News
Tashanea Whitlow
Published: May 28, 2016

Anziano told 22News, his neighbor suffered from PTSD. Two months after returning home from a tour in Iraq, he took his own life. “He seemed fine, but you can’t tell with PTSD. People can hide it very well. They hide it very well.”

AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP) – Days like Memorial Day can be painful for military men and women to remember their fallen brothers. Memorial Day is a time we remember those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice.

But for soldiers who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, this time and every day, can be difficult. “It’s a silent killer. I can be standing in front of you, suffering and you wouldn’t even see, because I can put a smile on my face,” said Anthony Anziano of West Springfield.
read more here

Widow Celebrates Life of Husband By Taking Another Plunge

Her Husband Was Killed in Afghanistan 
Patch 
By TANYA SNYDER (Patch Staff) 
May 28, 2016

She Went Skydiving to Celebrate Him. Alicia Dickinson is part of a new generation of young military widows who are having to rewrite the script of their lives alone. Arlington, VA

ARLINGTON, VA — The woman walking in front of Alicia Dickinson at Arlington Cemetery that September day in 2012 was old. She was also there to bury her husband.

At age 30, Alicia Dickinson was a widow.

“I remember walking behind her, thinking, ‘This is what it’s supposed to be,’” Dickinson said. “Not me.”

Her husband, Scott Dickinson, died August 10, 2012, in what’s called a “green on blue” attack, shot by an Afghan soldier the U.S. forces were training. He was due to come home in 10 days. He was just 29 years old.

“Going to Arlington, you’re reminded of how many young men and women gave their lives and how many young men and women they were married to and now were left to face a new life that you don’t expect at such a young age,” Alicia Dickinson said in an interview.

She’s part of the American Widow Project, a mutual support organization for a new generation of military widows. “There should be a different term when you’re so young,” Dickinson said. “’Widow’ just seems so old.”
read more here

Army Officers Give Stunning Reminder of What Memorial Day Is All About While Deployed

Grab tissues and remember this is what this weekend is supposed to be about!

Interstate 10 - I'm Gonna Miss You (Memorial Day Tribute) 
Currently deployed in Afghanistan, Interstate 10 still releases their Memorial Day tribute music video (recorded in Afghanistan) to their song “I’m Gonna Miss You”. 

The message is simple:

“Memorial Day is about remembering the ones we lost and supporting their loved ones. It’s about celebrating the lives they lived. 

Thanking them for allowing us the opportunity to come home safe, and most of all, thanking them for a second chance to hug our loved ones.”

They have vouched to donate $500 to the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation if they reach 100,000 views on the YouTube music video between Friday's release and midnight of Memorial Day. 

This video and song are in memory of all the soldiers who have died fighting for our country. Especially those they knew personally: 2LT Justin L. Sisson, PFC Jacob H. Wykstra, SSG Benjamin G. Prange, and PV2 Keith M. Williams.

"Please help us spread awareness and remind the public to remember this Memorial Day. For that we salute you, all the way from Afghanistan. 

Thank you." -Andrew and Justin

Learn about our inspiration and backstory here:
This Ain't Goodbye
Soldiers honor Memorial Day with video, chance to give back
Tallahassee Democrat
Ashley White, Democrat staff writer
May 27, 2016

Memorial Day is a time to remember those who have died serving America. Some decorate military cemeteries. Others visit the graves of the fallen and stand in silent salute. For others, it's time for the beach or barbecue.

Two Army officers who are deployed to Afghanistan are paying tribute with an original song, “I’m Gonna Miss You.”

1st Lt. Justin Wright and 1st Lt. Andrew Yacovone, who co-founded the band, Interstate 10, are doing more than paying homage in song. If their music video receives more than 100,000 views on YouTube between Friday and midnight Monday, they will donate $500 to the Children of the Fallen Patriots Foundation.

The Children of the Fallen Patriots Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships, supplemental grants and educational counseling to children whose parents were killed in the line of duty.

“We wanted this song to make an impact for the right reason,” Wright, who was born and raised in Tallahassee, said in an email interview. “We thought this was a great way to honor those who have given everything.”
read more here

MOH Staff Sgt. Robert Miller Featured in Medal of Honor Report

Army sergeant charged enemy to help others
Selfless act allowed his fellow soldiers to make their getaway
The San Diego Union Tribune
By Phillip Molnar
May 27, 2016

Army Staff Sgt. Robert J. Miller. U.S. Army

As enemy soldiers surrounded his unit in northeastern Afghanistan just before dawn, Army Staff Sgt. Robert J. Miller made a choice.

More than 150 insurgents had ambushed the combined U.S. special operations and Afghan National Army force in the snow-filled Gowardesh Valley in January 2008, exposing the men to automatic weapon fire and rocket-propelled grenades.

In the lead, Miller ordered the men to take cover. Then he charged the enemy to give his comrades time to get away.

The official Army report said he managed to kill at least 10 insurgents and wound dozens more before being killed by enemy fire. He is credited with saving seven American and 15 Afghan soldiers.

“No one wants to go through what we did with losing a child,” his mother, Maureen Miller, said this month from Florida. “To know that your child died doing his duty and saving the lives of others, it makes a big difference in how you’re able to handle that kind of thing.”

Miller posthumously received the Medal of Honor in October 2010 from President Barack Obama.
read more here


Medal of Honor service was here in Casselberry Florida

Military salute during the national anthem, during the Medal of Honor Headstone Dedication Ceremony, honoring U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Robert J. Miller, in Casselberry, Fla., Saturday, January 22, 2011. SSG Miller was was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2008 and was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously by President Obama in October. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Fallen Remembered On Stairway to Freedom

Stairway to Freedom: Remembering a Fallen Veteran 
WABI News 
Taylor Kinzler 
MAY 26, 2016

“We all have to deal with things of life in general. We have to take one step at a time.” Dixie Flag

As Memorial Day approaches, we pause to remember the men and women who work tirelessly to protect our country.

Every military family has a story.

In strong, a unique memorial is hidden beneath the woods to honor a fallen veteran.

A man who posthumously received the Purple Heart for his second and final tour overseas.

It’s called the Stairway to Freedom.

“Greater love has no man than this, than to lay down his life for his friends”

Dixie Flagg is the mom of a fallen veteran.

“Richard. No doubt. Think of him every day. He’s my rock.”

Sergeant Richard Parker was 26 years old when he was killed in Iraq by an IED. Just days after finding out he was going to be a father.

“Why do I want them to remember? I won’t let them forget.”‘

Flags and flowers surround his grave, next to a letter written by Keegan. The son he’ll never meet.

“His son is doing some of the things that Richard was known to do. I caught one the other day, just the way he said something and it was all Richard and Richard had never even met him.”

Just a few miles down the road is a symbol of hope, in the form of steps.
read more here

Please do not wish a veteran "Happy Memorial Day"

There are two totally different conversations going on in this country. One is all about what the press reports on and the other is what veterans and families live with. For us, it is not about a headline but it is about our heart-line.

Memorial Day weekend begins tomorrow.  Some folks are spending today finishing up arrangements for the unofficial start of summer. Our families are thinking about what Memorial Day means to the generations who risked their lives to pay for what the rest of the country enjoys.

Less than one percent are willing to pay the price serving today.  Only about seven percent were willing to do just that and became our current veterans.  

They are not civilians even though they live right next door to you. 

America’s Wars Total (1775 -1991)

U.S. Military Service during Wartime 41,892,128

Battle Deaths 651,031

Other Deaths (In Theater) 308,800

Other Deaths in Service (Non-Theater) 230,279

Non-mortal Woundings 1,431,290

Living War Veterans 16,962,000

Total will be more than sum of conflicts due to no “end date” established for Persian Gulf War. Source: Department of Defense (DOD), except living veterans, which are VA estimates as of Sep 2010.

Living Veterans (Periods of War and Peace) 23,234,000

Those numbers do not include Afghanistan and Iraq. Both still have forces deploying but it is close to 3 million more since 2001. 

Those numbers do not show how many have died since that report came out. 

Those numbers do not show how many have taken their own lives. Reporters say 22 a day but the VA said that number was from just 21 states taken from limited data.  We know it is more but they never asked us.  They never asked us about the majority of the veterans being over the age of 50.  They never ask us what it was like before they heard about any of this even though we were living with all of it.

Those numbers do not show how many families will spend Monday at the grave of someone they loved or remembering someone they lost.

Those numbers do not show how many veterans struggle with the aftermath of war with disabled bodies and minds that hold the scars.

While we hear about all the claims made about the price of freedom not being free, we understand that is a price we live with everyday and as some want to take their freedoms so lightly they seem to believe they deserve it for just being here, we will honor all those who paid because it was worth paying any price to retain it.

Please do not wish a veteran "Happy Memorial Day" because this is the day for them to honor those they risked their lives with.