Paralyzed veteran beaten and robbed causes international reaction of love

Paralyzed Marine thrown out of wheelchair, customized surfboards stolen
KUSI News San Diego
By John Soderman
Posted: Jul 25, 2014

When asked his reaction to the outbreak of love and compassion generated by his story, Abbott is visibly shaken.

"When I have people who don't even know me and they call me from Hawaii, Australia and France and say 'Hey, just get back in the water and surf and you're gonna be ok. We love you buddy!' That means a lot to me."

The following story is generating an outpouring of compassion and support across San Diego and around the world. It's the story of a paralyzed Marine, assaulted and thrown out of his wheelchair by two suspects who stole his customized surfboards in Oceanside.

Randy Abbott gets around in a wheelchair, paralyzed from the waist down. But that hasn't prevented him from surfing three or four times a week. You see, it wasn't that long ago doctors told him he would never surf again after a back surgery went terribly wrong.

After spending fourteen years as a Marine Corps recon scout sniper, Abbott's body got pretty banged up. When he got out of the service he needed back surgery. But during that surgery his spinal cord ended up getting accidentally severed, leaving him paralyzed.

But Abbott turned his tragedy into a triumph, opening a surf camp for kids with disabilities. After all, he was able to get back into the water himself because of specially designed surfboards. Surfboards that ended up getting stolen Monday night after two thugs assaulted Abbott, leaving him with cuts and scrapes after they threw him out of his wheelchair.

"One guy was cutting the straps and I said 'Hey, I'm paralyzed, don't steal my surfboards!'" said Abbott. "And then the other guy came at me and took a swing at me, and I took a swing at him. He missed, and I connected. I caught him with a pretty good uppercut."

"The guy that was cutting the straps had come around behind me, and threw me out of my wheelchair, and then kicked my wheelchair and it rolled probably 50 feet down the parking lot. Then they threw my surfboards in the back of their (Toyota) 4Runner and took off."
read more here

Iraq Veteran wanted ashes scattered in Iraq before suicide

There are not many sites I trust on Facebook. Facebook 22 Too Many is one I have no doubts about. I was just updating Veterans Wounded Times when I spotted this from 22 Too Many.

Horror Of PTSD Puts One Marine Mom On A Mission Of Mercy "Brandon told his mother, ominously, that when he died, he wanted his dust scattered in Iraq, because he had already died there anyway."

"Brandon Meyers, a Marine with all the right “Semper Fi” stuff and with two tours of war to his credit, “this whole dream that he had became a nightmare,” said Wendy."

We can talk all we want about veterans and what is happening to them because the VA was not able to take care of all our veterans, but that avoids talking about the simple fact that not all of our over 22 million veterans go to the VA. We can talk all we want about how PTSD veterans do not get treated on time and how 43% do not seek help for it from the VA before committing suicide, but that avoids talking about how 57% committed suicide after seeking help. We can talk about how the VA was not prepared to treat veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, but then we avoid talking about how they were not prepared after the Gulf War, Vietnam, Korea, WWII and WWI.

We can talk about the failures of President after President but then we avoid talking about how congress has failed to do their jobs for decades.

We manage to avoid talking about so much but the biggest thing we will not talk about is how we have allowed all of this to happen over and over again.

Brandon ended his pain with a bullet into his head. Over 21 others died that day by their own hands because we let all of this happen.

Attempted murder charges filed by Navy after stabbing

Charges filed in stabbing at Navy barracks
ABC 27 News
Posted: Jul 25, 2014

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - The Navy has filed charges against one of its sailors for repeatedly stabbing another in a barracks near a naval hospital.

The Navy said Friday that Petty Officer 3rd Class Wilbur Harwell is charged with attempted murder and two counts of aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon.
read more here

After 5 suicide attempts Veteran with PTSD and TBI saved by center facing closure

Clinic treating Oklahoma veterans for PTSD in danger of closing
Patriot Clinic officials say they will be forced to close if they don't raise funds quickly
KOCO News
By Erielle Reshef
Jul 25, 2014

OKLAHOMA CITY —A center that uses a hyperbaric chamber to treat Oklahoma veterans for post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries is out of money.

Patriot Clinic officials said Friday that if they don’t raise funds quickly, they will be forced to close the center’s doors.

Chris Gregg, director of the clinic, served two tours of duty.

“I was in the first Gulf War; disarmed explosives,” he said. “I was EOD, landmines, package bombs, car bombs that type of thing.”

The horrors of war have haunted him ever since, taking a dramatic toll.

“I've been hospitalized five times for (attempted) suicide,” he said.

After receiving hyperbaric therapy at the Patriot Clinic in southwest Oklahoma City, he said, it changed his outlook and eased the emotional trauma.

“I was alive a couple months ago. I wasn't living at all, you know?” he said. “The fact that I'm able to enjoy my daughters – it's a big difference.”
read more here


Warning:Video includes combat footage on explosions.
Published on Jul 4, 2012
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Stroke and Concussions. Includes Doctor and Patient Testimonials.

Congress had 68 years to fix the VA

Wounded Times
Kathie Costos
July 26, 2014

The House Veterans Affairs Committee was first seated in 1946. Among their duties was to ensure our veterans had whatever they needed to recover after putting their lives on the line for this entire nation. 68 years later members of Congress accepted no responsibility for what happened to veterans.

Representatives and Senators want to pretend everything they have been hearing about veterans issues are all news to them. How dumb do they think we are? We know veterans have been calling their offices, reporters have been covering the news in their districts and we also know they have been getting an earful during their campaign stops to get support for their political life.

It has been their job to know and fix it.

The Committee on Veterans' Affairs of the House of Representatives was authorized by enactment of Public Law 601, 79th Congress, which was entitled "Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946." Section 121(a) of this Act provides: "there shall be elected by the House at the commencement of each Congress the following standing committees": Nineteen Committees are listed and No. 18 quotes: "Committee on Veterans' Affairs, to consist of 27 Members." This Act has since been amended so that there are now 22 Standing Committees in the House of Representatives. The number of Members (Representatives) authorized to serve on each Committee has been changed from time to time. There are currently 29 members of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

The Committee on Veterans' Affairs is the authorizing Committee for the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Committee recommends legislation expanding, curtailing, or fine-tuning existing laws relating to veterans' benefits. The Committee also has oversight responsibility, which means monitoring and evaluating the operations of the VA. If the Committee finds the that VA is not administering laws as Congress intended, then it is "corrected" through the hearing process and legislation. We are the voice of Congress for veterans in dealings with the VA.

You read the details on Congressional VA failures on Wounded Times all the time but they are so detached from reality they may actually believe they have gotten away with it. Last night on The Rachel Maddow Show it was made very clear too many of these people, elected to do their jobs, just show up to get a paycheck and free healthcare.

RACHEL MADDOW 07/25/14 Will do-nothing Congress do nothing on VA?

Senator Bernie Sanders, chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, talks with Rachel Maddow about whether this Congress, arguably the worst Congress ever, has the ability to pass a badly-needed bill addressing the needs of veterans and the V.A.

Bernie Sanders, Chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee is right about treating veterans should always be considered a price associated with what it costs to send troops into combat. So how is it that members of Congress have been able to get away with whining about not having enough money in the budget to take care of our veterans? How is it they think the other part of their job, in control over what the VA doesn't do as much as what they do do, is not their responsibility?

They got away with it because no matter how much our veterans are loved in this country, voters are no longer interested in the best and brightest serving them. They are no longer interested in voting on the issues. What is worse about most of us is the fact we hold none of them accountable for anything they fail to do.

This country is in deep trouble but the one obligation we have, no matter what part of the country we live in, is to take care of our veterans. They risk their lives, put up with extreme hardships in our name and suffer for the rest of their lives after being wounded or disabled. Widows and orphans mourn the loss of someone they love and then have to face needing this nation to step up for their sake.

They do all of this with political ideals in the proper ranking far behind what their buddy needs up to and including them to take a bullet to save their lives. Members of our congress are too cowardly to take on their own party for the sake of veterans and stand up for them.

That is the biggest shame of all. If they fail veterans, what else are they willing to sacrifice for some political game?

Combat and PTSD 100 years of research leaves leaders still clueless

100 years after a psychiatrist undertook battlefield mental health we have arrived at a time and place where there has never been more money spent on Combat and PTSD and never more suffering. That is a devastating indictment for all of us. Less serving in the military but suicides are up?

"English Professor at Dickinson College, Wendy Moffat is writing the biography of Doctor Thomas Salmon, a civilian psychiatrist who voluntarily went to the front during WWI to study, diagnose and treat mentally broken soldiers. He's the first U.S. Army psychiatrist and the first to recognize PTSD."

Published on Jul 23, 2014
Thomas W. Salmon was the first American military psychiatrist and a pioneer for mental health research during World War I. In this video, his story is told by Dickinson College Professor of English Wendy Moffat. Moffat is a biographer and social historian of the modern period in America and Europe.

Special thanks to Camille Fife-Salmon and the Salmon family for permission to use photographs.

Wisconsin Iraq Veteran Hero Firefighter Killed in Car Crash

Eagle firefighter, veteran killed in crash
WISN.Com
By Mike Anderson
July 24, 2014

WAUKESHA COUNTY, Wis. —Two communities are mourning an Iraq veteran and an Eagle Fire Department hero.

The Eagle Fire Department is draped with black and purple bunting, and its flags are lowered to half staff. It's a symbol of mourning for the family of Lt. Jed Ellenson who died Tuesday night.

"Jed was hired in 2009. It was shortly after he got out of the U. S. Marine Corps. He served two tours in Iraq, and he really found his niche and his calling once he joined our organization," Eagle Fire Department Chief Justin Heim said.

Ellenson was on the job about a year when the town was hit by a 125-130 mph tornado. His Iraq training was a lifesaver in the community.

"He was out there helping folks and doing what needed to be done and even since then," Heim said.

Ellenson's pickup truck slammed into a tree in his hometown of Mukwonago.
read more here

Vietnam Veteran once paralyzed walks to wed

Love’s ‘double delight’
Longtime couple weds at rehabilitation center that aided groom
Boston Globe
By Derek J. Anderson
GLOBE CORRESPONDENT
JULY 25, 2014

When Dennis O’Brien was admitted to a rehabilitation center in Roslindale six weeks ago, he was caught in a nightmare: diagnosed with a rare disorder and paralyzed from the neck down.

But on Thursday afternoon, life took a dramatic turn for the 66-year-old Vietnam veteran. O’Brien, able to walk now and standing with only a cane in the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, married his longtime girlfriend Dorothy K. Smith in front of family, friends, and staff.

“It was a double delight,” said O’Brien, who was discharged the same day. “We had a marriage today, and I got to walk out the door when we were finished.”

O’Brien was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack the nerves.
read more here

Sequestration Continues to Shrink Armed Forces

What is happening with our military?

Some Army captains prepping to leave, majors to be alerted
Fort Hood Sentinel
By Dave Larsen, Chief, Command Information
JULY 24, 2014
NEWS

As the Army looks to reduce its force to 490,000 by the end of fiscal year 2015 and 450,000 by the end of FY ’17, a military personnel official from Fort Hood said Tuesday that 213 captains within III Corps were recently identified by the Army Officer Separation Board to transition from the service in the coming months.

At Fort Hood, 91 captains were affected by the OSB, according to Jay Whitaker, the senior military personnel officer, or G1, with Fort Hood’s Mission Support Element.

Why is it happening?

As noted repeatedly over the past several months by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno, force reductions are based on the Army’s budget.

If sequestration continues, however, there is a possibility that the Armywide personnel end-strength could go as low at 420,000, to include additional reductions in brigade combat teams.

Enough said!

Inspirational Double Amputee Iraq Veteran Up for Cover for Men's Health

Local veteran in the running to grace the cover of Men's Health magazine
MyFOX Alabama
By Vanessa Araiza
Posted: Jul 24, 2014

ALABASTER, AL (WBRC)
To his three children, Noah Galloway is just Dad. But soon the Iraq veteran and double amputee may be the very first reader to ever grace the cover of Men's Health Magazine.

In the past, athletes and celebrities have only been the ones to draw readers' attention.

When asked what his children thought of the coveted spot Galloway said they don't see it as a big deal.

"As long as I take them to the park that's all that really matters," said Galloway. "I've tried explaining it to them and they're like, 'Yeah, OK.'"

If you didn't know him or his story you wouldn't know the struggles he's overcome since being injured in 2003 when an IED struck the humvee he was riding in.

"In 2007-2008 if you would have said I was even in the running to be on the cover of Men's Health magazine I would have said you're crazy, there's no way," said Galloway.

Galloway said he's always wanted to be in the magazine he's read for years but it wasn't until the loss of his arm and leg he felt he truly had a story to tell.

"After I was injured and then I got back in shape I always felt like I had a legitimate reason to be on Men's Health because I designed all my workouts. Everything I've done I've done on my own, " said Galloway.

After sinking to his lowest in 2007 and 2008, Galloway took a different approach on life. That new outlook not only put him in great shape but it pushed him and inspired others.
read more here

Montel Williams and Others Meeting For Veterans New Battleground, Being Home

Montel Williams to Keynote “The New Battleground: Veterans”
Joint Event from Defense One and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America on Critical Veterans Issues

Wednesday, July 30

Soledad O’Brien’s Documentary, “The War Comes Home” to Premiere Iraq Vets Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) and Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) to Speak

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 30, 2014) – As the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs grapples with one of the largest scandals in its history, Defense One and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America will present "The New Battleground: Veterans."

Scheduled for next Wednesday, July 30, in Washington, the day-long event will convene lawmakers, journalists and defense industry specialists for the first of three cornerstone events focusing on critical veteran issues.

Veterans advocate and former TV host and Navy and Marine veteran Montel Williams will keynote the forum.

The program will also feature Iraq veterans Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Sen. John Walsh(D-MT), and Chairman of House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Rep. Jeff Miller(R-FL) on how the Department of Veterans Affairs needs to adapt to the 21st century, the growing unemployment rate among veterans, and how to train and employ veterans.

Additionally, the event will serve as the Washington premiere of award-winning journalist and CEO of Starfish Media Group Soledad O'Brien's documentary, "The War Comes Home," which follows the journeys of two young men who return home and the personal battles they must face to recover from the emotional effects of war.

“The New Battleground: Veterans” will convene at 7:45 AM at the National Press Club (529 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20045), with registration and networking starting at 7:15 AM.
get more details here

Orlando Harley Davidson Veterans Appreciation Weekend

Veteran's Appreciation Weekend - Defend Freedom Tour

Friday, July 25, 2014

6:30 PM - 9:00 PM EDT

On Friday evening, July 25th, The Concerned Veterans for America Defend Freedom National Tour is rolling in to Orlando Harley for a patriotic event featuring live music from rock band Madison Rising, complimentary BBQ & beer, plus special guest speakers to honor our veterans for the sacrifices they give to defend freedom and liberty for all. All are welcome. RSVP online today:http://summertour2014.com/tour_event/harley-davidson-orlando/

On Saturday, July 26, we are hosting a Veterans Appreciation Ride to benefit Operation Giveback. 
Ride Time: 8am Registration | 9:30am Safety briefing, Kickstands up 
Starting Locations: East Orlando Harley-Davidson OR Orlando Harley-Davidson South 
Destination: Orlando Harley-Davidson Historic Factory 
Registration Fee: $10 per person

Take a scenic ride to the Historic Factory Dealership to enjoy a patriotic performance from the Orlando Harley-Davidson Drill Team, followed by complimentary lunch, military displays and vendors, live music, a Parts Swap Meet and 50/50 raffle.

During both events, guests will be able to explore an interactive exhibit from the Museum of Military History and meet representatives from military support groups including OPERATION GIVEBACK, the USO, the American Legion and the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association.

Event proceeds benefit Operation Giveback, a local 501C3 organization dedicated to helping our servicemen and women and their families in times of need.

Learn more about the Museum of Military History in Kissimmee:http://www.MuseumofMilitaryHistory.com

Central Florida Veterans Events for July and August

July/August+ – veterans, military and patriotic events in Central FL from Cathy Haynes

 

Please share these events with your friends and interested others and attend.  Post where appropriate.

Don’t miss the “Extras” section at the bottom.

If you wish to be removed from the email list, just let me know.

 

Defend Freedom Tour– Fri. July 25 – Sponsored by Concerned Veterans for America (CVA)  The tour features a variety of nationally syndicated military speakers (Past events included New York Times Bestselling Author and Army Ranger, Captain Sean Parnell; Gold Star Mother, Karen Vaughn; Former CIA Directorate of Operations, Gary Berntsen; and CVA CEO & Fox News Contributor, Pete Hegseth.) The tour will also feature complimentary food, drink, and beer in addition to live music from America's most patriotic rock band, Madison Rising! At 6:30-9pm, Orlando Harley Davidson, 3770 37th Street, Orlando, 32805 (South Orlando - West of John Young Parkway along I-4, Exit 79) FREE EVENT - RSVP requested at  summertour2014.com   Info relayed by Dave Matthews.

 

Honoring our Military – Now thru Sat. July 26 - Lake Mary Historical Museum - 158 N. Country Club Road, Lake Mary. 10 am to 3 pm Tuesday and Saturday. Noon to 8 pm Wednesday and Thursday, through July 26. Numerous military artifacts are included in the display. Free; 407-585-1481.  Source: Orlando Sentinel

 

Orlando Harley-Davidson's Veteran Appreciation Ride and Rally – Sat July 26

 

Operation Giveback fundraiser – Sat July 26 - Rick Brumby (of the Museum of Military History) will be conducting a 15 mile/50 lb. Ruck in boots and fatigues to raise money for Operation Giveback. Rick will start at Orlando Harley East at 7am and walk to Orlando Harley Historic with the goal to make the trip in four hours.  Fun events are planned and donations will be accepted at Orlando Harley Historic.  Orlando Harley Davidson, 3770 37th Street, Orlando, 32805 (South Orlando - West of John Young Parkway along I-4, Exit 79)  Museum:  407-507-3894

 

Korean War Remembrance - Sat July 26 – Tampa.  The Korean War Veterans Association, Lt Baldomero Lopez, M.O.H.Chapter 175, Inc., Tampa, FL in conjunction with the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners and the Museum and Parks Committee, Inc. will conduct a Korean War Remembrance.  The Patriot Guard Riders has been invited to stand a flag line at Veteran’s Memorial Park, 3602 US Highway 301 North, Tampa, 33619.  The 11am ceremony will honor all of those Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard service men and women who served during the Korean War and United Nations personnel who have made the supreme sacrifice or were missing in action and/or unaccounted for.  Bring your 3’x5’ American Flag to stand with them.

 

Yellow Ribbon Program event – Sun July 27 - The Hyatt Regency Orlando (old Peabody Hotel), 9801 International Drive, Orlando, 32819. The US Air Force has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to participate in their Yellow Ribbon Program event with a Flag Line. Bring your 3 x 5 flags to this awesome event, as this is an opportunity for us to honor and support several hundred patriots and their families at one time.  Staging: 11am, Briefing: 11:15 by ride Captain David (Flyboy) Shelton.  The Yellow Ribbon Program is a cooperative network of military services, veteran service organizations, state and local government departments and other agencies that provide information, resources, referral and proactive outreach to service members and their families throughout all phases of the deployment cycle. Each event has members that are getting ready to deploy within the next 120 days and those just returning from deployment.  Ride Captain David (Flyboy) Shelton - Dshelton01@aol.com  (c) 321-689-4699   Come learn about Patriot Guard and Riders and you can join with us!

Note:  For parking, from I-Drive, go East on Convention Way which is to the right side of the Hyatt as your facing it from the road, go to the back of the hotel and parking will be on your left. A Flag Bike will be parked at the entrance to parking to help guide you.

 

Coast Guard Family Day Picnic - Sat Aug 2 – Volunteering opportunity and sponsors needed to honor Port Canaveral Coast Guard/families.  Not open to the public.  Static Displays, food donations (burgers, hotdogs, fresh fruit/veggies/chips), entertainment services and gift Items welcomed.  Contact Kim before July 25 at 321-373-7046   kim@avetproject.org  Memo: Coast Guard   AVET Project is 501(c)3 not-for-profit.

 

Back to School Back Pack Party – Sat. Aug 2 – 12-2 pm. Sponsored by the American Legion Family (Legionnaires, Auxiliary Unit and Sons of American Legion squadron) at Post 286,  529 E. Fairlane Ave., in Pine Castle area of south Orlando, 32809. (Half block west of Orange Ave.) Over 100 back packs with school supplies to be provided to students made possible thru member donations.   Also: games, lunch and school safety tips by the City of Orlando Police Department. Each child must be accompanied by an adult and register by July 26th by calling 407-859-1460.  RSVP’s please!!!   “The American Legion Post 286 Pine Castle Memorial Family  place high importance on preserving our American traditions and values, improving the quality of life for our Nation's children, caring for veterans and their families, and perhaps most importantly, teaching the fundamentals of good citizenship.”  

 

Borinqueneers Florida Honor Ceremony – Tues. Aug 5 – with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio.  9:15am – 9:45am - Registration/Welcome Reception.  Ceremony from 10am – 11:30am.  Location:  Iglesia Fuente de Agua Viva (Church), 12250 South John Young Parkway (North of Hunter’s Creek), South Orlando, 32837.  The Borinqueneers (originally from Puerto Rico) have been recognized for their military achievements in WWI, WW2, and Korean, and, at a later, will receive the Congressional Gold Medal-highest honor that US Congress can bestow.  If appropriate, please, bring photos of fallen and departed Borinqueneers to be placed at a special Honor table. Please, provide names of Borinqueneers attending to Carolyn Vega (Staff Organizer) at  RSVPOrlando@rubio.senate.gov  or 407.375.2071  Open to the public.  Info provided by Dennis Freytes.

 

Orlando Veterans Stand Down Organizing meeting – Tues. Aug 5, 2pm.  Members of Veterans Service organizations, Members of Veterans Service Providers, Volunteers, non-Veterans. Basically, anyone who wants to help us make this year's event even better than last year's. It's a good opportunity to become actively involved in helping our homeless or financially challenged Veterans.  Stand Downs (this year on Sat. Sep 27) provide services to veterans and their families. Services included showers, haircuts, Veterans benefits counseling, medical exams, employment counseling, rent and utility assistance, legal assistance, a warm meal, and Veteran camaraderie. Meeting location:  VAMC Orlando, 5201 Raymond St, Orlando, 32803,  Room C100 in building 503.  (Old CLC at the Lake Baldwin Campus.) POC:  Sean Gibbs, Veteran Services Coordinator, Homeless Services Network of Central Florida.  (407) 893-0133 x 212 sean.gibbs@hsncfl.org 

 

National Purple Heart Day –Thurs  Aug 7 – Thank a wounded warrior today – and every day!  Check out www.purpleheart.org  to learn about the Military Order of the Purple Heart which has history back to George Washington and the American Revolution.  There are local chapters of the MOPH.

 

Cornerstone Hospice Seeking Veteran Volunteers – Sat. Aug 9 - Cornerstone will offer a concentrated volunteer training class (9 am – 5 pm) for new veteran volunteers in Orlando.   The 8 hour training will offer a comprehensive orientation to Cornerstone Hospice and our specialized Cornerstone SALUTES! volunteer role.:  Cornerstone Hospice is currently seeking military veterans who would like to volunteer to help other vets with their end-of-life care, recognizing that veterans have the unique shared experience and understanding of what other veterans went through.  Lunch and materials will be provided at the training class.  For more information on the training or to receive a volunteer application:  407-206-2273 X2604.  POC is Diane Klebanow.

 

The World's Largest Golf Outing - Mon. Aug 11 – Golf Courses across the country will be participating in this great day of golf. They will be supporting fundraising for Wounded Warrior Project for injured service members through participation in the event.  All events will be a four person team, 18 hole or 9 hole (depending on course) scramble format. Registration fees based on team size (Foursome, Twosome or  Single, if applicable) will include a $10 per player donation to WWP, green fees, shared cart, warm up bucket (if applicable), lunch, WLGO logo’d hat, golf ball and bag tag (if applicable), local prizes and awards ceremony following play.  This event is about having a great day of golf with friends, family or colleagues while benefiting WWP.  There are 17 courses in Florida – Dubsdread in Orlando, Fairways Golf Club in East Orlando, Sanctuary Ridge in Clermont, Willowbrook in Winter Haven are the closest around Orlando.  Check online for other locations.  Register and info at www.worldslargestgolfouting.com   Info received from GolfNow Orlando.

 

VA Benefits Seminar – Sat. Aug 16 – 9am-2pm at Double Tree Hilton in Cocoa Beach. Free assistance provided by AVET Project for you to get your DD214, service medical records and awards. Hotel at 2080 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, 32931.  Info:kim@avetproject.org  321-373-7046

 

Wills and Directives legal assistance  - Sat. Aug 16 –Free help for veterans in preparing wills and advanced directives provided by various Brevard County legal resources.  Death is inevitable but you can have some control.  10am – 2pm; Double Tree Hilton in Cocoa Beach.  Pre-register at 321-631-2500 x14.  Info: brevardlegalaid@yahoo.com.

 

Teen Challenge, Commander’s Call - Sat. Aug 16 - Museum of Military History -  9am – 3pm.  Skills offered in a combination of class room and field training for ages 12 to 17.  Presented by veterans knowledgeable in both fundamentals and application.   A five block series of skills includes Basic First Aid/CPR; Compass/Map reading; Health/Physical Fitness/Basic Self-Defense (no hitting, sparing, contact); Field skills and Knot tying; US Military History.  $20 fee includes 1 MRE (lunch) and dogtag with double chain and silencer. Limited enrollment.  Call 407-507-3894 for further information.  5210 West Irlo Bronson Hwy., Kissimmee, 34746. www.museumofmilitaryhistory.com  Commander’s Call is a continuing education and sharing project provided by the Museum.

 

FAVOB – Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses – Mon Aug 18 – 11am-1pm.  Meeting at Doc’s Streetside Grille, 1315 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, 32806 (Across from ORMC Hospital)  Association developed as a 'chamber of commerce' and voice for Veteran Owned and Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses in the Great State of Florida. Small businesses run by Veterans don't have the same status when competing against other small businesses in regards to bidding and vendor status. Visit www.FAVOB.org to learn more.  chairman@favob.org

 

Honor Flights have paused until August 23.  It is too hot and humid for senior veterans and guardians to comfortably visit the memorials in Washington DC.  Mark your calendars to resume the “Welcome Home” receptions at the airports for Sat. Aug 23; Thurs. Sept 4; Two local hubs on Sat. Sep 27 at two airports; Sat. Oct 18; and Sun. Nov 2.  (Dates subject to change) Information will be upcoming.  The WW2 and Korean War veterans truly appreciate the flags and patriotic signs – It makes a difference!

 

Ocoee Military History show – Sat. Aug 30 – (Labor Day Weekend) - A “show and tell” of artifacts and interests from Seminole War to present.  8am – 5pm at the Tom Ison Center, 1701 Adair Street, Ocoee, 34761.  Military History buffs:  Come share your items and knowledge!  Space is limited but there are still tables available inside.  No sales – just displays.  There is ample room outside for vehicle displays and tents. Admission will be free, donations gladly accepted.  Event POC: Glen Richardson at 407-877-7472 cappouch@aol.com  

TEACHERS – Schools start again in mid-August.  Please consider extra credit for student attendance at this History event!

 

On the Horizon – Mark your Calendar – more info to come

 

Sep 6, Sat - Stick Marsh Veterans Bass Challenge - Fishing teams of up to 3 (1 military veteran or active, 1 Municipal Leader, plus 1 Boat Captain) at The Stick Marsh, 6,500-acre reservoir near Fellsmere, west of Vero Beach.  Bragging rights and prizes will be awarded afterwards at the Bass Challenge BBQ hosted

at Bass Pro Shops. Sponsorship opportunities at multiple levels are available.  Contact Justin at 321-724-5400 ext. 233  orJustin@MelbourneRegionalChamber.com

 

Sep 6, Sat -  Tunnel to Towers 5K Run/Walk –– Cranes Roost in Altamonte Springs.  Commemorative 9/11 run/walk.  More info to come.  Contact Race Director Kyle Albano at  kylealbano@gmail.com  (c) 407-383-1992    www.t2trun.org    Event info relayed by Mark Owens.

 

Sep 11, Thurs. - 3rd Annual 9/11 Tribute in Avalon Park.  Free vendor spaces and for affiliated non-profit organizations.  Contact Laura Burk, Game Plan Media  at 407-900-1915.

 

Sep 13, Sat - 10th Annual Jason Burnett Memorial USO Benefit Ride – honoring Osceola Co. Marine LCpl who died in Iraq. Sponsorships and early registrations welcomed.  www.usobenefitride.com

 

Sep 19, Fri. - POW/MIA Day – see Sept 26 event.

 

Sep 19, Fri  - Central Florida Building Homes for Heroes Golf Outing, Reunion Resort, Kissimmee.  Flyer available upon request. Sponsorships welcomed.  Contact Kim at 407-803-5398  kim.valdyke@buildinghomesforheroes.org

 

Sep 26, Fri - Orlando City Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council will host a POW-MIA recognition ceremony in Orlando City Hall Rotunda, 10am.  Local WW2 and Vietnam POW’s will attend.

 

Sep 27, Sat - Orlando Veterans Stand Down – providing services to veterans, especially homeless vets. Volunteers, sponsors and supporters welcomed.  Sean Gibbs at 407-893-0133   www.standdown.HSNCFL.org  

 

Oct 3, Fri – Central FL Navy League Golf Tournament fundraiser – open to all.  See website for participation and sponsorship info. Proceeds go to scholarships and support of area youth groups.

 

Oct 4, Sat – Navy Ball – sponsored by Central FL Navy League.  Open to all interested persons.  See website for ticket info and sponsorships.

 

Nov 1, Sat – Battle of the Branches – Satellite Beach.  Sponsors welcomed. Planning by Melbourne Regional Chamber and AVET Project.  Info:  www.avetproject.org   kim@avetproject.org 

 

Nov 7, Fri –The UCF College of Business Administration, Wells Fargo, and OrlandoJobs.com will host the second annual Central Florida Veterans Job Fair.   Matching motivated veteran job seekers with top employers from around the region.  Join us now in our efforts to register 100 legitimately hiring employers (no scammers) to meet more than 1,000 job seekers to achieve our goal of raising $25,000 to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, a nonprofit veterans-service organization. 

 

Nov 8, Sat. – Orlando Veterans Day Parade in downtown Orlando.  Applications for parade entries can be submitted NOW online at cityoforlando.net/mayor/events

 

Nov 8, Sat. – Veteran’s Day Parade in St.Cloud, 10am.  Contact TJ Palmer at  tpalmer44@cfl.rr.com

 

Nov 8, Sat – Central Florida Marine Corps Ball (Marine Corps birthday is Nov 10, 1775.)  Open to all interested persons.  Ticket info to be provided in future.

 

Nov 9, Sun - Mount Dora Patriot Cruise and Salute.  Sponsors and volunteers welcomed.  www.mountdorapcs.org  More info to come. Event Awareness from Rozann Abato.

 

Nov 9, Sun - Veterans Concert –- at Trinity Prep School auditorium in Winter Park.  Portion of the proceeds go to Pets for Vets – which helps heal the emotional wounds of military veterans by pairing them with a shelter animal that is specially selected to match his or her personality. Professional animal trainers rehabilitate the animals and teach them good manners to fit into the veteran’s lifestyle.  As seen in People magazine, CNN, NPR, etc.  Timacua White House.  407-595-2713.  More info to come.   Event awareness from Wendy Wallenberg.

 

Nov 11, Tues – Veterans Day Luncheon –Double Tree Hilton in Cocoa Beach.  Sponsors welcomed.  Proceeds assist the Not-for-profit 501(c)3 AVET Project with continuing help for community vets and military events.  kim@avetproject.org  321-373-7046 www.avetproject.org

 

Nov 22, Sat. - Villages Honor Flight Golf Tournament - This fun event is their major fundraising undertaking of the year.  Sponsorships welcomed.  www.villageshonorflight.org  Event awareness from John Driscoll.

 

----------------------------------------------

EXTRAS:

 

Veteran Owned Businesses - The Orlando Business Journal has weekly lists of businesses that are compiled annually into a Book of Lists.  It provides a reliable and reputable source of business information and contacts. Fill out a survey and allow your business to be included.  Larger businesses, including cities, counties, utilities, etc., are sometimes making provisions of contracting specifically to Veteran Owned Businesses.  We hope you will help us update this important reference resource.  Please complete the brief survey no later than 8/1/2014.  Contact Denise Hicks (herself a Marine Corps vet!) of Orlando Business Journal at  407.241.2893 dhicks@bizjournals.com  or contact me (Cathy) and I will forward the link of the survey to you.

 

Burn Pit Exposure Registry – veterans with service listed below should register their exposure for future possible lung and other health conditions.  Research may find airborne hazards and you will want to be notified.  Contact your local county or vet organization Veteran Service Officer.

Eligible Veterans include those who served in:

Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn

Djibouti, Africa on or after September 11, 2001

Operations Desert Shield or Desert Storm

Southwest Asia theater of operations on or after August 2, 1990

Modern waste contains significant amounts of plastic and other material which may emit toxic aerosol compounds and particulates when burned. In Iraq and Afghanistan the U.S. military, or its contractors such as KBR, operated large burn pits for long periods of time burning many tons of assorted waste. Active duty personnel reported respiratory difficulties and headaches in some cases and some veterans have made disability claims based on respiratory system symptoms. 

 

Local military, veterans, patriotic and associated organizations – Please send me information about your groups. (No political groups please.)   I would like to provide a future list of groups that will allow interested persons to contact you and perhaps become a new member/supporter!  We get new people moving to the area all the time and existing residents sometimes want to get involved.  Retirees also want to volunteer!  This may be your opportunity to find new members! 

 

Seminole County Veterans Service Officer Ed Burford shares: 2014 is the 100th anniversary of the beginning of WWI, the 70th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Europe at Normandy, the 50th anniversary of the beginning of the Vietnam War and the 10th anniversary of the Battle of Fallujah in Iraq.

And I will add:  Sept 14 is the 200^th Anniversary of the writing of the poem that later became our national anthem.  Francis Scott Key wrote “Defence of Fort McHenry” after witnessing the Battle of Fort McHenry in the War of 1812. When renamed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” it later became the national anthem of the United States of America by a congressional resolution on March 3, 1931, which was then signed by President Herbert Hoover.

 

JUST FOR FUN:  August, this year, will have 5 Fridays, 5 Saturdays and 5 Sundays. This happens only once every 823 years. The Chinese call it 'Silver pockets full'.

 

Then seriously:

The journey after military service can be a difficult one.

If you are a Veteran or warrior in crisis or know of one who is,

Please call the VA’s 24/7 Suicide Prevention Line at

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

To speak with a trained counselor - It’s Confidential.

Or find a Crisis Center near you at www.veteranscrisisline.net

 

A strong person will realize that help is needed,

That reaching out can and will make a difference,

And is NOT ashamed to ask for it…

 

Caring and sharing,

 

Cathy Haynes

Member/supporter of numerous veteran and military organizations in Central Florida

407-239-8468

chaynes11629@yahoo.com

Seattle Mayor Standing Up For Disabled Vietnam Veteran in Eviction Fight

If you have not heard about what happened when a disabled Vietnam veteran was being forced to leave his home with his wife, here is the story with a video.Protestors put their bodies on the line for wheelchair bound veteran

Topping off these young men putting their bodies on the line for this veteran, the Mayor of Seattle has stepped up as well.

Seattle Mayor Stops Eviction of Disabled Vietnam Veteran
The Scanner
Written by Lisa Loving Of the Skanner News
Published: 23 July 2014

Seattle Mayor Ed Murray set an historic precedent last week by instructing city law enforcement to “stand down” from evicting a stroke-ridden Vietnam veteran from his underwater home.

The Occupy-related group Standing Against Foreclosure and Eviction (SAFE) and the Washington Community Action Network had spent weeks of focused organizing in support of the elderly homeowners, Byron and Jean Barton.

Byron Barton, a Vietnam veteran, had suffered a stroke that left him unable to walk and with a severe speech disability; the couple’s property had fallen into the hands of a mortgage trustee corporation – one that has been repeatedly sued for wrongdoing -- and went into foreclosure.

The deed for the Bartons’ West Seattle home had been snapped up at auction by mortgage trustees Quality Loan Service, who sold it to Triangle Property Development, who foreclosed on the couple and filed for the eviction.

The Bartons are currently suing Quality Loan Service as well as JPMorgan Chase, and had asked Triangle to suspend the foreclosure while the case remains in court.

The Bartons say Triangle Property Development responded to the lawsuit by fast-tracking the eviction rather than waiting to see the case’s outcome.

Chris Genese of Washington Can says activists supporting the Bartons have won a battle against foreclosure but the war itself continues.
read more here