Suicide's silent victims speak out
September 19, 2011
By Patricia Deal,
Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center Public Affairs
FORT HOOD, Texas, Sept. 19, 2011 -- It just wasn't something you talked about -- ever."
"To this day, my daughter won't talk about her brother."
"I thought I was OK all these years, but just out of the blue it hit me and I couldn't stop crying."
These are cries of pain and anguish from members of the Army family personally affected by the trauma of suicide.
Some lost a parent, a sibling, a child, a co-worker, a friend. Some are survivors from their own attempts.
They are Soldiers, civilians, spouses. They come from all areas and some even work in the behavioral health field. No profession or rank is exempt from the dark reaches of suicide.
All agreed to tell their stories in hopes their experiences can help other "silent victims," those impacted by the trauma of suicide, and help themselves heal a bit in the process.
Nancy Gist's experience has made her an advocate of sorts for speaking out against the stigma associated with suicide.
Her youngest brother shot himself in the head exactly one month after his 19th birthday.
read more here
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The Private Worry of Marines in Afghanistan
The Private Worry of Marines in Afghanistan
September 21, 2011
Associated Press|by Christopher Torchia
FORWARD OPERATING BASE JACKSON, Afghanistan -- It is a conversation, the military surgeon says, that every U.S. Marine has with his corpsman, the buddy who is first to treat him if he is wounded by an insurgent's bomb.
The Marine says, " 'If I lose my manhood, then I don't want to live through it,' " according to Navy Lt. Richard Whitehead, surgeon for 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, which is fighting in one of the most treacherous combat areas of Afghanistan.
"They ask us not to save them if their 'junk' gets blown off," said Whitehead, using a slang term for genitals. "Usually, we laugh. We joke with them about it. At the same time, you know that you're going to treat them anyway."
This is a world of fear, resolve and dark humor that is mostly hidden from accounts of the human cost of the war in Afghanistan. American troops who patrol on foot in bomb-laced areas know they might lose a leg, or two, if they step in the wrong place. But for young men in their prime, most unmarried and without children, the prospect of losing their sexual organs seems even worse.
Whitehead said: "It's one of the areas we can't put a tourniquet on."
read more here
September 21, 2011
Associated Press|by Christopher Torchia
FORWARD OPERATING BASE JACKSON, Afghanistan -- It is a conversation, the military surgeon says, that every U.S. Marine has with his corpsman, the buddy who is first to treat him if he is wounded by an insurgent's bomb.
The Marine says, " 'If I lose my manhood, then I don't want to live through it,' " according to Navy Lt. Richard Whitehead, surgeon for 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, which is fighting in one of the most treacherous combat areas of Afghanistan.
"They ask us not to save them if their 'junk' gets blown off," said Whitehead, using a slang term for genitals. "Usually, we laugh. We joke with them about it. At the same time, you know that you're going to treat them anyway."
This is a world of fear, resolve and dark humor that is mostly hidden from accounts of the human cost of the war in Afghanistan. American troops who patrol on foot in bomb-laced areas know they might lose a leg, or two, if they step in the wrong place. But for young men in their prime, most unmarried and without children, the prospect of losing their sexual organs seems even worse.
Whitehead said: "It's one of the areas we can't put a tourniquet on."
read more here
Amputations Up Sharply for Troops in Afghan War
Amputations Up Sharply for Troops in Afghan War
September 21, 2011
Associated Press|by Pauline Jelinek
WASHINGTON -- The counterinsurgency tactic that is sending U.S. troops out on foot patrols among the Afghan people, rather than riding in armored vehicles, has contributed to a dramatic increase in arm and leg amputations, genital injuries and the loss of multiple limbs following blast injuries.
These devastating injuries affect unit morale. They also give rise to talk on the battlefield that some troops had made secret pacts not to help each other survive if they were so severely injured, a new report said Tuesday.
The number of U.S. troops who had amputations rose sharply from 86 in 2009, to 187 in 2010 and 147 so far this year, military officials said Tuesday, releasing the report on catastrophic wounds.
Of those, the number of troops who lost two or three limbs rose from 23 in 2009 to 72 last year to 77 so far this year. Only a dozen or so of all amputations came from Iraq and the rest were from Afghanistan, where militants are pressing the insurgency with roadside bombs, handmade land mines and other explosives.
read more here
There are two Iraq veterans with amputations in this video. They are not just numbers, but young men with so much hope for their future it is clear to see. They don't want you to feel sorry for them but they need your help to make sure their future is as bright as possible. When you hear them, notice that no matter what happened to them, they are hopeful.
Paul "Russ" MarekHomes for Our Troops already built a home for Russ. Russ went to visit Winter, the dolphin with the missing tail, and found hope knowing a dolphin without a tail could learn to swim, he could learn to walk missing a leg and adapt with the missing arm.
Branch: Army
Rank: Staff Sergeant
Home: Melbourne, FL
SSG Paul Russell Marek was serving with the 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division in Iraq when his tank was destroyed by an IED. Three of his crew members perished in the explosion and Russ lost his right leg and right arm, his right ear and left thumb and suffered brain injury and severe burns over 20 percent of his body. That happend on September 16, 2005 as he rode in a tank near Baghdad.
Luis Puertas
Branch: Army
Rank: Specialist
Home: Orlando, FL
Army SPC Luis Puertas was left a double amputee after an EFP explosion in Baghdad, Iraq, on September 20, 2006. SPC Puertas was the driver of the lead HUMVEE on a daily patrol near Sadr City when an unseen EFP, planted at the base of a light pole launched into the vehicle, amputating both of his legs on impact. Leaving him trapped beneath the 400 pound up-armored door of the HUMVEE. Miraculously, his team was able to extricate him from the wreckage, and prepare him for medevac from the scene.
Homes for Our Troops is almost done building a home for Luis. He's full of hope too. After all, he met his girlfriend Amber after he came home from Iraq and they fell in love.
I met these incredible veterans when the Orlando Nam Knights held an event to raise money to help build the house.
Helping Veterans In Central PA Find A Job
Helping Veterans In Central PA Find A Job
The Lancaster Vets Center Holds Job Fair
Nava Ghalili
Multi-media Journalist
5:29 p.m. EDT, September 20, 2011
EAST LAMPETER TOWNSHIP, LANCASTER COUNTY— Many veterans deal with a lot more than Post-traumatic Stress Disorder when they return home, so many are without jobs.
"I did not have a job waiting for me, actually I was on unemployment for a while," said Army and National Guard veteran, Michael Perez.
Sign up for breaking news text message alerts from FOX43!
Resource officers from a number of vet supporting agencies brought their employment tips to a job fair in Lancaster County Tuesday.
The job fair at Lancaster Vets Center in East Lampeter Township welcomed veterans for the first time since their doors opened this year.
read more here
The Lancaster Vets Center Holds Job Fair
Nava Ghalili
Multi-media Journalist
5:29 p.m. EDT, September 20, 2011
EAST LAMPETER TOWNSHIP, LANCASTER COUNTY— Many veterans deal with a lot more than Post-traumatic Stress Disorder when they return home, so many are without jobs.
"I did not have a job waiting for me, actually I was on unemployment for a while," said Army and National Guard veteran, Michael Perez.
Sign up for breaking news text message alerts from FOX43!
Resource officers from a number of vet supporting agencies brought their employment tips to a job fair in Lancaster County Tuesday.
The job fair at Lancaster Vets Center in East Lampeter Township welcomed veterans for the first time since their doors opened this year.
read more here
Gone With The Flesh, heavy metal band takes on PTSD
Band of airmen take on PTSD (VIDEO, SLIDESHOW)
Gone with the Flesh competes tonight to open at Fuel concert in Pensacola
September 20, 2011 4:33 PM
NAVARRE — A local band’s military background has influenced the hardcore heavy metal music they write and play.
From deployed days to weapon references, the military experience flows through many of the songs written and performed by Gone with the Flesh.
Bassist Jenn Goode said one subject close to the hearts of band members is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“We all have family members or friends that have been affected by PTSD which is why we are so strongly emotional about getting the word out there,” Goode said. “Our music is what helps us deal with all of our personal issues; it is definitely a great stress relief.”
Goode, a medic in the Gulf War, said she came back with a minor case of PTSD after working a mass casualty event and treating victims of an improvised explosive device.
read more here
Gone with the Flesh competes tonight to open at Fuel concert in Pensacola
September 20, 2011 4:33 PM
NAVARRE — A local band’s military background has influenced the hardcore heavy metal music they write and play.
From deployed days to weapon references, the military experience flows through many of the songs written and performed by Gone with the Flesh.
Bassist Jenn Goode said one subject close to the hearts of band members is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“We all have family members or friends that have been affected by PTSD which is why we are so strongly emotional about getting the word out there,” Goode said. “Our music is what helps us deal with all of our personal issues; it is definitely a great stress relief.”
Goode, a medic in the Gulf War, said she came back with a minor case of PTSD after working a mass casualty event and treating victims of an improvised explosive device.
read more here
PTSD on Trial:Rep. Daniel P. Gordon explains his recent arrests
UPDATE to this story sent by a reader, Corporal Roy
Records show R.I. Rep. Gordon didn’t serve in Gulf, as claimed
01:00 AM EDT on Saturday, September 24, 2011
By Karen Lee Ziner
Journal Staff Writer
State Rep. Daniel P. Gordon holds a news conference Wednesday in Portsmouth announcing he will not resign.
The Providence Journal / Frieda Squires
State Rep. Daniel P. Gordon, who blamed alcohol and legal problems on combat stress sustained in the 1991 Gulf War, never served in the Gulf, according to his military records. Gordon also claims that he suffered a shrapnel injury to his leg; however, his records do not list a Purple Heart, ordinarily awarded for injury sustained in combat.
“There appears to be no listing of combat tour of duty in the Middle East,” said Maj. Stewart T. Upton, head of media operations in the public affairs office for the Marine Corps at the Pentagon. “I don’t see a Kuwait Service Medal or any combat action or Purple Heart,” Upton said. Excepting any inaccuracies, “obviously we’re saying the information in front of us doesn’t have these tours of duty that he’s talking about.”
Gordon, R-Portsmouth, did not return calls or e-mails on Friday.
read more here
Records show R.I. Rep. Gordon didn’t serve in Gulf, as claimed
01:00 AM EDT on Saturday, September 24, 2011
By Karen Lee Ziner
Journal Staff Writer
State Rep. Daniel P. Gordon holds a news conference Wednesday in Portsmouth announcing he will not resign.
The Providence Journal / Frieda Squires
State Rep. Daniel P. Gordon, who blamed alcohol and legal problems on combat stress sustained in the 1991 Gulf War, never served in the Gulf, according to his military records. Gordon also claims that he suffered a shrapnel injury to his leg; however, his records do not list a Purple Heart, ordinarily awarded for injury sustained in combat.
“There appears to be no listing of combat tour of duty in the Middle East,” said Maj. Stewart T. Upton, head of media operations in the public affairs office for the Marine Corps at the Pentagon. “I don’t see a Kuwait Service Medal or any combat action or Purple Heart,” Upton said. Excepting any inaccuracies, “obviously we’re saying the information in front of us doesn’t have these tours of duty that he’s talking about.”
Gordon, R-Portsmouth, did not return calls or e-mails on Friday.
read more here
This is why there should be Veterans' Courts all over the country. Having PTSD as a veteran is not an excuse for committing crimes but it is a reason to provide true justice for the victims as well as the veteran. He should not get off the hook for "free" but if he does have PTSD, he should get the help he needs.
Rep. Daniel P. Gordon explains his recent arrests, incarceration and why he refuses to step down from office.
By Sandy McGee
Republican Rep. Daniel P. Gordon says "self-medicating with alcohol" to treat post-traumatic stress from wartime service led to his arrests in Massachusetts.
Gordon sat down with Portsmouth Patch on Tuesday to talk about his recent arrest, incarceration and why he refuses to step down from office.
Gordon attributes his past criminal record in Massachusetts to "self-medicating" with alcohol.
"When I returned home from overseas in the Marine Corps, I suffered a lot of issues that returning combat veterans do, namely post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as a physical ailment, and self-medicated it with alcohol.
"Each and everyone of those instances on my Massachusetts' record was directly or indirectly involved with alcohol. I've since received treatment for that...and continue to receive counseling for that."
Gordon, 42, of 35 Alan Ave., Portsmouth, was arrested on Friday, Sept. 16, as a fugitive from justice on a Massachusetts warrant for failure to appear on an eluding charge and other motor vehicle violations, according to the State Police report.
Gordon, a Marine Corps veteran, served in many countries, including Iraq in 1991. He also served in Kuwait, the Philippines, Korea, Thailand, Australia, Japan and Guam.
read more here
Marines lip sink video from Afghanistan
Being a Digital Media student I can tell you that this took a great deal of time to do but, wow, worth it! It shows that our Marines are not just young, (my daughter's age) brave, (takes a lot of courage to be filmed) talented (when they perform like this) but have great imaginations too. One other thing that you may not have thought about but it also shows that no matter what is going on where they are, they are still like everyone else their age. Now imagine being in their age group having nothing more to worry about than college, getting a job and a girlfriend and partying with your friends while they have to worry about being so far away from home with bullets and bombs to worry about on top of what you do. Just amazing!
Uploaded by atarin18 on Sep 14, 2011
This is a video we made in Afghanistan before the Hold it against me video.
I do not own the music tracks it belongs to the below:
Justin Bieber Baby
Far east movement Like a G6
Black eyed peas dirty bit
kesha tik tok
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Vietnam 101st Airborne veteran still serving in Afghanistan
Face of Defense: Vietnam Vet Still in the Fight
By Army Spc. Jennifer Andersson
159th Combat Aviation Brigade
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Sept. 20, 2011 – Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Roy Brown proved his mettle as a combat pilot in Vietnam. Now, 41 years later, he’s proving his stamina and love of the military with service in Afghanistan.
Brown, who also served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, began his career with the 101st Airborne Division, and is serving with the Screaming Eagles again as his career draws to a close. As the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade’s liaison officer to the Air Force’s 702nd Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, which supports Regional Command – South here, Brown is in no hurry to retire.
“Call it patriotism or call it my admiration of the Army’s principles -- its organizational objectives and goals, its performance over the decades in areas not only of military success, but what I think of as social equity,” he said. “But your life’s works need to have a higher purpose.”
Explaining how his career began, the Oklahoma native said it was a $5 bill that transformed his boyhood dream into reality in 1971.
read more here
By Army Spc. Jennifer Andersson
159th Combat Aviation Brigade
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Sept. 20, 2011 – Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Roy Brown proved his mettle as a combat pilot in Vietnam. Now, 41 years later, he’s proving his stamina and love of the military with service in Afghanistan.
Brown, who also served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, began his career with the 101st Airborne Division, and is serving with the Screaming Eagles again as his career draws to a close. As the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade’s liaison officer to the Air Force’s 702nd Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, which supports Regional Command – South here, Brown is in no hurry to retire.
“Call it patriotism or call it my admiration of the Army’s principles -- its organizational objectives and goals, its performance over the decades in areas not only of military success, but what I think of as social equity,” he said. “But your life’s works need to have a higher purpose.”
Explaining how his career began, the Oklahoma native said it was a $5 bill that transformed his boyhood dream into reality in 1971.
read more here
Wounded Iraq Veteran Dancing With the Stars
Ex-Fort Campbell soldier takes lead on 'Dancing With the Stars'
Written by
Philip Grey and Alane S. Megna
Gannett Tennessee
Martinez and his professional partner Karina Smirnoff tied for the top score during the season premiere Monday night, with judge Carrie Ann Inaba, on the verge of tears, saying “I was absolutely touched by your performance.”
Martinez, who required skin grafts and reconstructive surgery after being burned over 40 percent of his body, points to one moment as a “life-changer” — when medical personnel asked him to talk to another soldier who was badly disfigured and unable to cope.
read more here
Written by
Philip Grey and Alane S. Megna
Gannett Tennessee
J.R. Martinez danced a Viennese Waltz with Karina Smirnoff Monday night on Dancing with the Stars. / Craig Sjodin / ABCJ.R. Martinez, an Iraq war veteran and former Fort Campbell soldier who spent 34 months in the hospital after being severely burned in combat, had already become a motivational speaker and soap opera star. Now he can add another feather to his cap: High scorer on Dancing With The Stars.
Martinez and his professional partner Karina Smirnoff tied for the top score during the season premiere Monday night, with judge Carrie Ann Inaba, on the verge of tears, saying “I was absolutely touched by your performance.”
Martinez, who required skin grafts and reconstructive surgery after being burned over 40 percent of his body, points to one moment as a “life-changer” — when medical personnel asked him to talk to another soldier who was badly disfigured and unable to cope.
read more here
3 Doors down, Home Depot Mission Continues
3 DOORS DOWN’S CHRIS HENDERSON DISCUSSES CHARITY, MUSICALITY AND LONGEVITY
by: Anne Erickson Yesterday
Universal Republic
It’s fitting the gents of 3 Doors Down are involved in the recent efforts of the Home Depot Foundation and the Mission Continues to help rebuild the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Medical Center, a place for homeless veterans recovering from substance abuse, mental illness and post-traumatic stress disorder. After all, the Mississippi band are long known for their dedication to the troops and their extensive charity work through their own Better Life Foundation.
“We feel like the troops give up so much, and their families give up everything, sometimes even their lives,” guitarist Chris Henderson tells Loudwire in an exclusive interview. “They’re not really doing it for the money, either. When they come back, they need our support and they need America’s support. We feel it’s our duty. The least we can do is give back.”
read more here
by: Anne Erickson Yesterday
Universal Republic
It’s fitting the gents of 3 Doors Down are involved in the recent efforts of the Home Depot Foundation and the Mission Continues to help rebuild the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Medical Center, a place for homeless veterans recovering from substance abuse, mental illness and post-traumatic stress disorder. After all, the Mississippi band are long known for their dedication to the troops and their extensive charity work through their own Better Life Foundation.
“We feel like the troops give up so much, and their families give up everything, sometimes even their lives,” guitarist Chris Henderson tells Loudwire in an exclusive interview. “They’re not really doing it for the money, either. When they come back, they need our support and they need America’s support. We feel it’s our duty. The least we can do is give back.”
read more here
PTSD decorated veteran, tasered by police, files lawsuit
Tasered Veteran Files Lawsuit Against New Lenox Police
Brian Wilhelm, 28, was Tasered by police in December 2010 while trying to help people in a car accident. The lawsuit claims officers acted with "reckless disregard" and maliciously prosecuted him.
By Michael Sewall
New Lenox police officers used "reckless disregard" when they Tasered resident Brian Wilhelm last year, a recently filed lawsuit against the officers claims.
Wilhelm, a 28-year-old Army veteran who was Tasered in December by New Lenox police, and his attorneys filed a federal lawsuit Aug. 23 in the U.S. District Court for the northern district of Illinois.
The lawsuit states that Wilhelm is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, but his attorney, Lewis Gainor, would not put a dollar amount to what he wants.
Brian Wilhelm, 28, was Tasered by police in December 2010 while trying to help people in a car accident. The lawsuit claims officers acted with "reckless disregard" and maliciously prosecuted him.
By Michael Sewall
New Lenox police officers used "reckless disregard" when they Tasered resident Brian Wilhelm last year, a recently filed lawsuit against the officers claims.
Wilhelm, a 28-year-old Army veteran who was Tasered in December by New Lenox police, and his attorneys filed a federal lawsuit Aug. 23 in the U.S. District Court for the northern district of Illinois.
The lawsuit states that Wilhelm is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, but his attorney, Lewis Gainor, would not put a dollar amount to what he wants.
Wilhelm came to help at the scene of a Dec. 11 car accident near his home at Woodlawn and Wisconsin roads. After trying to assist an injured passenger, Wilhelm got into a confrontation with New Lenox police officer Mark Klausner.read more here
101st Airborne Paratroopers jump into Michigan Stadium on YouTube
Michigan vs Notre Dame 2011, paratroopers of the 101st Airborne Division, U.S. Army, jump into Michigan Stadium during the half time show.
Five people found dead after Tennessee motorcycle charity run
Five people found dead after Tennessee motorcycle charity run
By Tim Ghianni
NASHVILLE, Tenn
Sun Sep 18, 2011
(Reuters) - Five people who were part of a charity motorcycle run in Tennessee, were found dead at a campground where bikers were staying after the Saturday event, organizers said on Sunday.
The bodies of the three men and two women were found in a camper at the Clarksville Speedway, where 200 bikers and their families were camped out. Local media said police were looking into carbon monoxide poisoning as a possible cause.
The bikers were part of a contingent of 1,500 riders, mostly on Harleys, who rode through the streets of Clarksville, Tennessee, on Saturday for the 30th Annual Leslie W. Watson Memorial Toy Run, sponsored by local charity Bikers Who Care.
Bikers must donate at least one new toy to participate, and the bikers had filled four trucks with items bound for the Clarksville Fire Department Christmas toy drive for underprivileged children.
read more here
By Tim Ghianni
NASHVILLE, Tenn
Sun Sep 18, 2011
(Reuters) - Five people who were part of a charity motorcycle run in Tennessee, were found dead at a campground where bikers were staying after the Saturday event, organizers said on Sunday.
The bodies of the three men and two women were found in a camper at the Clarksville Speedway, where 200 bikers and their families were camped out. Local media said police were looking into carbon monoxide poisoning as a possible cause.
The bikers were part of a contingent of 1,500 riders, mostly on Harleys, who rode through the streets of Clarksville, Tennessee, on Saturday for the 30th Annual Leslie W. Watson Memorial Toy Run, sponsored by local charity Bikers Who Care.
Bikers must donate at least one new toy to participate, and the bikers had filled four trucks with items bound for the Clarksville Fire Department Christmas toy drive for underprivileged children.
read more here
Home Depot Foundation Announce 2012 Veteran Housing Rehabilitation Project
Sept. 19, 2011, 12:45 p.m. EDT
U.S.VETS and the Home Depot Foundation Announce 2012 Veteran Housing Rehabilitation Project for Homeless and Low-Income Veterans
Creating Transitional and Permanent Housing for 170 Veterans and Veteran Families in St. Louis and Washington, D.C.
LOS ANGELES, Sep 19, 2011 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- The United States Veterans Initiative (U.S.VETS) and The Home Depot(R) Foundation today announced the 2012 Veteran Housing Rehabilitation project to expand housing for homeless and low-income veterans in the District of Columbia and St. Louis, Missouri. As part of its "Celebration of Service" initiative to honor U.S. military veterans, The Home Depot(R) Foundation has awarded U.S.VETS $400,000 to support the launch of its newest site in St. Louis and increase the capacity of its location in the Nation's capital.
Funding from The Home Depot Foundation will enable U.S.VETS to expand its presence and provide programs and services to twice as many veterans in the D.C. area, while also replicating many of its most successful programs for a new population of veterans in St. Louis. These services include residential and reintegration programs for disabled veterans; education, employment and preventative mental health services for recently returned Iraq and Afghanistan veterans; as well as focused and specific services for women veterans.
"A new generation of men and women are coming home from service to fight another battle -- the transition back to civilian life," said Stephen Peck, President and CEO of U.S.VETS. "They join thousands of veterans from previous wars in their struggles with homelessness, unemployment, and mental trauma. We are grateful to have the support of The Home Depot Foundation and this opportunity to expand our services and presence in the places where veterans' needs are also growing."
They are doing it right here in Orlando too!
Home Depot Mission Continues at DAV
If you are a veteran support Home Depot because they support you!
U.S.VETS and the Home Depot Foundation Announce 2012 Veteran Housing Rehabilitation Project for Homeless and Low-Income Veterans
Creating Transitional and Permanent Housing for 170 Veterans and Veteran Families in St. Louis and Washington, D.C.
LOS ANGELES, Sep 19, 2011 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- The United States Veterans Initiative (U.S.VETS) and The Home Depot(R) Foundation today announced the 2012 Veteran Housing Rehabilitation project to expand housing for homeless and low-income veterans in the District of Columbia and St. Louis, Missouri. As part of its "Celebration of Service" initiative to honor U.S. military veterans, The Home Depot(R) Foundation has awarded U.S.VETS $400,000 to support the launch of its newest site in St. Louis and increase the capacity of its location in the Nation's capital.
Funding from The Home Depot Foundation will enable U.S.VETS to expand its presence and provide programs and services to twice as many veterans in the D.C. area, while also replicating many of its most successful programs for a new population of veterans in St. Louis. These services include residential and reintegration programs for disabled veterans; education, employment and preventative mental health services for recently returned Iraq and Afghanistan veterans; as well as focused and specific services for women veterans.
"A new generation of men and women are coming home from service to fight another battle -- the transition back to civilian life," said Stephen Peck, President and CEO of U.S.VETS. "They join thousands of veterans from previous wars in their struggles with homelessness, unemployment, and mental trauma. We are grateful to have the support of The Home Depot Foundation and this opportunity to expand our services and presence in the places where veterans' needs are also growing."
They are doing it right here in Orlando too!
Home Depot Mission Continues at DAV
If you are a veteran support Home Depot because they support you!
U.S. army braces itself for increase in PTSD in sniffer dogs
U.S. army braces itself for increase in PTSD in sniffer dogs
by Mark Glenning on September 20, 2011
The American Marine Corps is taking steps to combat post-traumatic stress disorder in its’ bomb sniffing dogs, as it prepares to increase the number of those on duty in Afghanistan.
The highly trained canines recently hit the news when Cairo, a Belgian Malinois, accompanied the team that stormed the compound of Osama Bin Laden in May. So far, he is the only personnel to be named as taking part in the operation.
However, as the armed forces begin to rely on dogs more and more, the numbers that are wounded or killed on the front line are rising steadily. In fact, 14 highly trained dogs have died on the front line since May 2010. In that period, six were wounded and three are still missing in action.
Richard Vargus, who is head of law enforcement at the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), understands the support that is required to rehabilitate dogs that have been at the sharp end in the fight against the Taliban. He commented:
“Our biggest issue that we have with canines is canine PTSD.”
“We’ve seen a significant issue with that because when you’re standing 10 feet away from an explosion, the dog has emotions and the dog is affected as well.”
read more here
by Mark Glenning on September 20, 2011
The American Marine Corps is taking steps to combat post-traumatic stress disorder in its’ bomb sniffing dogs, as it prepares to increase the number of those on duty in Afghanistan.
The highly trained canines recently hit the news when Cairo, a Belgian Malinois, accompanied the team that stormed the compound of Osama Bin Laden in May. So far, he is the only personnel to be named as taking part in the operation.
However, as the armed forces begin to rely on dogs more and more, the numbers that are wounded or killed on the front line are rising steadily. In fact, 14 highly trained dogs have died on the front line since May 2010. In that period, six were wounded and three are still missing in action.
Richard Vargus, who is head of law enforcement at the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), understands the support that is required to rehabilitate dogs that have been at the sharp end in the fight against the Taliban. He commented:
“Our biggest issue that we have with canines is canine PTSD.”
“We’ve seen a significant issue with that because when you’re standing 10 feet away from an explosion, the dog has emotions and the dog is affected as well.”
read more here
Marine awarded for combat invention
Marine awarded for combat invention
HOPE HODGE
Like many inventions, it began with an unsolved problem.
Deployed to Afghanistan with 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion in 2010, Staff Sgt. Craig S. Cooper, a motor transport chief, found that armored vehicle blast doors on several of the personnel carriers were difficult to open from the outside in the event that they were hit and flipped or rolled over, which was not uncommon. While the vehicles were equipped with a tool that released all their doors, it was too large to carry and sometimes could not be reached if the armored transport was upside down.
“We came up with the idea to make one tool that would open up all the blast locks,” said Cooper, 38.
The result was simple, but effective: a pocket-sized device that incorporated a crowbar claw and a wrench. Cooper knew it would come through in a crisis, and in November, a crisis would prove him right.
read more here
Staff Sgt. Craig S. Cooper received the Lambertsen award for operational invented a pocket-sized device that incorporated a crowbar claw and a wrench to help open blast doors on armored vehicles.September 20, 2011 5:25 AM
Don Bryan/The Daily News
HOPE HODGE
Like many inventions, it began with an unsolved problem.
Deployed to Afghanistan with 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion in 2010, Staff Sgt. Craig S. Cooper, a motor transport chief, found that armored vehicle blast doors on several of the personnel carriers were difficult to open from the outside in the event that they were hit and flipped or rolled over, which was not uncommon. While the vehicles were equipped with a tool that released all their doors, it was too large to carry and sometimes could not be reached if the armored transport was upside down.
“We came up with the idea to make one tool that would open up all the blast locks,” said Cooper, 38.
The result was simple, but effective: a pocket-sized device that incorporated a crowbar claw and a wrench. Cooper knew it would come through in a crisis, and in November, a crisis would prove him right.
read more here
Suspect in Yuma Marine shooting broke weapons rules
Suspect in Marine shooting broke weapons rules
September 19, 2011 7:28 PM
BY MARA KNAUB - SUN STAFF WRITER
Although Saturday's shooting of a Marine appears to be accidental, the suspect is still facing charges of breaking Marine Corps Air Station rules regarding the transportation of weapons.
The shooting occurred just after midnight near the Navy Federal Credit Union Bank in the proximity of Hart Street and Thomas Avenue.
Investigators from the Naval Criminal and Investigative Service identified the shooter as another Marine, who used a .45-caliber pistol. His name will not be released until formal charges are filed, according to Capt. Staci Reidinger, director of public affairs for the MCAS Yuma.
The shooting appears to be an accidental discharge, said Reidinger. However, “rules were broken in this case. They are deciding what formal charges to bring against him.”
She expects charges to be filed sometime this week. In the meantime, the suspect is being held in pretrial restrictions pending disciplinary action, she said.
The victim, Lance Cpl. Daryl Adams, 22, “is doing well with recovery at Yuma Regional Medical Center,” she added. Officials are working to bring his family to Yuma “to be with him as he recovers.”
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September 19, 2011 7:28 PM
BY MARA KNAUB - SUN STAFF WRITER
Although Saturday's shooting of a Marine appears to be accidental, the suspect is still facing charges of breaking Marine Corps Air Station rules regarding the transportation of weapons.
The shooting occurred just after midnight near the Navy Federal Credit Union Bank in the proximity of Hart Street and Thomas Avenue.
Investigators from the Naval Criminal and Investigative Service identified the shooter as another Marine, who used a .45-caliber pistol. His name will not be released until formal charges are filed, according to Capt. Staci Reidinger, director of public affairs for the MCAS Yuma.
The shooting appears to be an accidental discharge, said Reidinger. However, “rules were broken in this case. They are deciding what formal charges to bring against him.”
She expects charges to be filed sometime this week. In the meantime, the suspect is being held in pretrial restrictions pending disciplinary action, she said.
The victim, Lance Cpl. Daryl Adams, 22, “is doing well with recovery at Yuma Regional Medical Center,” she added. Officials are working to bring his family to Yuma “to be with him as he recovers.”
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Exeter Marine Reservist Dies In Colorado Shooting
Exeter Marine Reservist Dies In Colorado Shooting
Police: Fellow Marine Corps Reservist Accidentally Shot Victim
September 20, 2011
EXETER, N.H. -- A Marine Corps reservist died over the weekend after what police said was a tragic incident.
Benton Brubaker, 24, was shot by a fellow Marine Corps reservist at a gathering in Colorado on Thursday, and officers said alcohol may have played a role in the shooting.
Officers said they arrested Barton Enoch, 25, and charged him with manslaughter.
According to a press release, "detectives are looking at the possibility that alcohol may have contributed to this tragic set of circumstances."
Police in Aurora said about six Marine Corps reservists were inside a condominium unit just after midnight when a single shot was fired from a handgun.
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Police: Fellow Marine Corps Reservist Accidentally Shot Victim
September 20, 2011
EXETER, N.H. -- A Marine Corps reservist died over the weekend after what police said was a tragic incident.
Benton Brubaker, 24, was shot by a fellow Marine Corps reservist at a gathering in Colorado on Thursday, and officers said alcohol may have played a role in the shooting.
Officers said they arrested Barton Enoch, 25, and charged him with manslaughter.
According to a press release, "detectives are looking at the possibility that alcohol may have contributed to this tragic set of circumstances."
Police in Aurora said about six Marine Corps reservists were inside a condominium unit just after midnight when a single shot was fired from a handgun.
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2 Marines killed in helicopter crash at Calif base
2 Marines killed in helicopter crash at Calif base
September 20, 2011
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.—An investigation was under way into the cause of a helicopter crash that killed two Marines during a training exercise at Southern California's Camp Pendleton.
The crash sparked a brush fire that burned 120 acres, a base statement said. It was 80 percent contained.
The twin-engine, two-seat AH-1W Cobra attack helicopter belonging to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing crashed in the southeast corner of the base Monday near the community of Fallbrook.
The Marines died at the scene. Their names won't be released until their families have been notified, officials said.
The fire grew quickly after the crash, burning 50 acres within three hours after the helicopter went down. It initially was moving near the base's border with the town of De Luz, but was confined to the base late Monday, a base statement said.
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September 20, 2011
CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.—An investigation was under way into the cause of a helicopter crash that killed two Marines during a training exercise at Southern California's Camp Pendleton.
The crash sparked a brush fire that burned 120 acres, a base statement said. It was 80 percent contained.
The twin-engine, two-seat AH-1W Cobra attack helicopter belonging to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing crashed in the southeast corner of the base Monday near the community of Fallbrook.
The Marines died at the scene. Their names won't be released until their families have been notified, officials said.
The fire grew quickly after the crash, burning 50 acres within three hours after the helicopter went down. It initially was moving near the base's border with the town of De Luz, but was confined to the base late Monday, a base statement said.
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Monday, September 19, 2011
Remains of WWII MIA to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery
Yesterday during a POW-MIA program at the Vietnam Veterans Museum, Ret. Marine Sgt. Major John Gionet, announced the remains of his uncle Tech Sgt. Leonard A. Gionet, were identified and he will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery this year.
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