WWE: Rusev Kicks U.S. Army Soldier, Will Triple H Address The Real Upset Servicemen? [Video]
Posted in: Wrestling
Posted: October 22, 2014
When Rusev kicked the U.S. Army Soldier on Monday Night RAW the reaction from the American audience was about what you would expect. Now Triple H is claiming the WWE will deal with the matter internally as part of their kayfabe investigation into the incident. But for real American soldiers, that response is unlikely to be enough.
In a related report by The Inquisitr, you might be surprised to find out that real life Miroslav Barnyashev and Catherine Joy “C.J.” Perry are real Americans who act American in their personal lives – when they’re not acting as the fake Russians called Rusev and Lana.
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Friday, October 24, 2014
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Austin Film Festival Terrible Love About PTSD Featured Today
Ultra5280.com
Review from Splash Magazine Yenis Monterrey
A veteran comes home from Iraq after suffering an injury to his eye. Rufus, played by Rufus Burns, brings back more than a physical injury to his family and wife Amy (Amy Urbina). As time goes by, the evidence of Rufus’ PTSD becomes clearer to Amy but is shrouded from those around the couple as they figure out how to battle this disorder and repair their marriage.
TERRIBLE LOVE is the debut feature from director Christopher Thomas and producer Luke Helmer. Following in the footsteps of Drake Doremus (LIKE CRAZY), the actors improvised their dialogue after heavy outlining and pre-production work. The grounded nature of this style gives it an immediacy and authenticity that is able to deliver an unflinching look at a devastating disorder.
Review from Splash Magazine Yenis Monterrey
"Find out what happens in this realistic story that many veterans deal with in real life. Director Christopher Thomas says his film was inspired by friends suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Don’t miss “Terrible Love” screening and find out the unveiling story behind this couple dealing with PTSD."This is the movie I consulted on for 3 years with Christopher. I can tell you that there was a deep, emotional connection to this labor of love from everyone involved, especially from Christopher. He struggled to get it right, so right that even after knowing it from start to finish, when it was done, he blew me away by what he had accomplished!
Action! Austin Film Festival starts Thursday
By KXAN News
Published: October 23, 2014
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The 21st annual Austin Film Festival kicks off at the Paramount Theatre. Al Pacino’s “The Humbling” premieres, along with several others throughout the next few days. For one week, more than 180 films will be showing.
Austin Film Festival co-founder Barbara Morgan spoke about how the festival is more than film screenings. People who want to get a kick-start can help get their career going, and there are workshops incorporated into the festival.
Director Christopher Thomas has a film, “Terrible Love,” screening Thursday night. He says his film was inspired by friends suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. “Terrible Love” screens Thursday at 9:45 p.m.
read more here
Strangers Step Up for PTSD Disabled Vietnam Veteran
Standoff between Vietnam veteran, repo man ends peacefully
Viewer trying to raise money to pay off loan
ABC 10 News
Steve Fiorina
Oct 22, 2014
SAN DIEGO - The Honda Ridgeline was ready for towing with wheels up on the bar, but the owner was inside the truck and refused to exit.
San Diego police were called to the address in Valencia Park. They talked to Dan Riley, who is visiting from Arizona.
"They said if I didn't get out, the owner of the company would have a citizen’s arrest done to me," said Riley.
"So you're expecting them to come and then what?" asked 10News reporter Steve Fiorina.
"Eventually, I guess I'll go to jail," Riley said.
He wasn't. Riley is a disabled Vietnam War veteran. He is also is behind on a $10,000 loan. The truck is on a repo list.
The tow company cruising the neighborhood got a hit on the license plate with its side-mounted cameras and tried to take possession. After several hours, the standoff ended. The police left and the tow truck was unhooked.
read more here
Viewer trying to raise money to pay off loan
ABC 10 News
Steve Fiorina
Oct 22, 2014
San Diego police were called to the address in Valencia Park. They talked to Dan Riley, who is visiting from Arizona.
"They said if I didn't get out, the owner of the company would have a citizen’s arrest done to me," said Riley.
"So you're expecting them to come and then what?" asked 10News reporter Steve Fiorina.
"Eventually, I guess I'll go to jail," Riley said.
He wasn't. Riley is a disabled Vietnam War veteran. He is also is behind on a $10,000 loan. The truck is on a repo list.
The tow company cruising the neighborhood got a hit on the license plate with its side-mounted cameras and tried to take possession. After several hours, the standoff ended. The police left and the tow truck was unhooked.
read more here
Canadian Terrorist Attacks Prove Love Stronger Than Hate
What will it take for terrorists to understand they cannot defeat love? How dumb are they? How do they waste their days hating so much instead of enjoying the emotion of love, experiencing tenderness, along with everything else that makes life worth living?
Tributes to Canada Soldier as Shaken Parliament Returns to Work
NBC News
Sweet tribute: Pittsburgh NHL fans sing 'O Canada' after Ottawa shootings
While courage is required to serve in the military, even a bully has some sort of courage but his love is for himself alone. To risk your life serving your country, it requires courage but above that, it requires being selfless. It is love for those you serve with causing you to put your life on the line, knowingly risking everything for the sake of someone else. That is something terrorists will never understand and will never, ever be able to defeat.
They can claim they are doing it for "their people" but then they would not be killing their own or putting their lives on the line so they can kill off more of those they see as enemies. They can claim they are doing it for "religious" reasons but the truth is, they use it and hide behind it.
They do not seek better lives for their own families or anyone else. They thrive on hatred and anger, feeding off fear but even as they do cause some to be afraid, they never win. Even with your fear, even in your emotional pain, you still refuse to surrender to it.
Most of the time after PTSD has set in while deployed, you do not allow yourself to suffer or feel it. You keep going until all those you are with are out of danger. Then and only then do you focus on yourself. That requires love in the purest form. A love that seeks nothing for yourself.
These are horrible times but there have been horrible times before. Each time during the history of civilization, those horrible times only came to an end when good people stood up against bullies and terrorists and said they would not surrender, refusing to allow them to take away all that is good in life.
Tributes to Canada Soldier as Shaken Parliament Returns to Work
NBC News
Sweet tribute: Pittsburgh NHL fans sing 'O Canada' after Ottawa shootings
While courage is required to serve in the military, even a bully has some sort of courage but his love is for himself alone. To risk your life serving your country, it requires courage but above that, it requires being selfless. It is love for those you serve with causing you to put your life on the line, knowingly risking everything for the sake of someone else. That is something terrorists will never understand and will never, ever be able to defeat.
They can claim they are doing it for "their people" but then they would not be killing their own or putting their lives on the line so they can kill off more of those they see as enemies. They can claim they are doing it for "religious" reasons but the truth is, they use it and hide behind it.
They do not seek better lives for their own families or anyone else. They thrive on hatred and anger, feeding off fear but even as they do cause some to be afraid, they never win. Even with your fear, even in your emotional pain, you still refuse to surrender to it.
Most of the time after PTSD has set in while deployed, you do not allow yourself to suffer or feel it. You keep going until all those you are with are out of danger. Then and only then do you focus on yourself. That requires love in the purest form. A love that seeks nothing for yourself.
These are horrible times but there have been horrible times before. Each time during the history of civilization, those horrible times only came to an end when good people stood up against bullies and terrorists and said they would not surrender, refusing to allow them to take away all that is good in life.
Marine Veteran Laid To Rest After Gun Range Suicide
Solemn ceremony for Marine vet
Friends honor Jeremy Sears, who 'never asked for help' before suicide
UT San Diego
By Jeanette Steele
OCT. 22, 2014
It was a spare, solemn service for a tough Marine Corps veteran who rarely talked about himself.
Jeremy Sears’ friends spoke for him Wednesday at a Miramar National Cemetery ceremony, where uniformed Marines presented a folded American flag to Sears’ widow, Tami.
Sears – who did five combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan before leaving the Marines in 2012 – killed himself Oct. 6 at an Oceanside gun range.
read more here
Oceanside shooting range where veteran put the gun to his head
Friends honor Jeremy Sears, who 'never asked for help' before suicide
UT San Diego
By Jeanette Steele
OCT. 22, 2014
Tami Sears, center, watches as Marines fold a flag during a memorial for her husband, Marine Jeremy Sears during a memorial for him at Miramar National Cemetery. At left, his her mother, Kathy Clinnin. — K.C. Alfred / UT San Diego
It was a spare, solemn service for a tough Marine Corps veteran who rarely talked about himself.
Jeremy Sears’ friends spoke for him Wednesday at a Miramar National Cemetery ceremony, where uniformed Marines presented a folded American flag to Sears’ widow, Tami.
Sears – who did five combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan before leaving the Marines in 2012 – killed himself Oct. 6 at an Oceanside gun range.
read more here
Oceanside shooting range where veteran put the gun to his head
Congressional Candidate’s Veterans Health Care Plan Plagiarized
GOP Congressional Candidate’s Veterans Health Care Plan Plagiarized From Fox News Article
It’s an article about a proposed overhaul of VA health care.
Buzzfeed
posted on Oct. 21, 2014,
A Republican congressional candidate in Oregon appears to have plagiarized her plan for veterans from a Fox News article about proposed changes to the troubled Veterans Affairs health care.
Tootie Smith, a Republican running against Oregon Democrat Rep. Kurt Schrader in the state’s 5th Congressional veteran’s medical care plan uses nearly-identical language to a Fox News article from July on action taken by House and Senate Veterans Affairs committees.
The campaign for Smith, who currently serves as Clackamas County Commissioner, didn’t return emails or phone calls about the similar text.
read more here
It’s an article about a proposed overhaul of VA health care.
Buzzfeed
posted on Oct. 21, 2014,
A Republican congressional candidate in Oregon appears to have plagiarized her plan for veterans from a Fox News article about proposed changes to the troubled Veterans Affairs health care.
Tootie Smith, a Republican running against Oregon Democrat Rep. Kurt Schrader in the state’s 5th Congressional veteran’s medical care plan uses nearly-identical language to a Fox News article from July on action taken by House and Senate Veterans Affairs committees.
The campaign for Smith, who currently serves as Clackamas County Commissioner, didn’t return emails or phone calls about the similar text.
read more here
Fence Jumper at White House Captured
Man apprehended after jumping White House fence
The Associated Press
DARLENE SUPERVILLE
Oct 22nd 2014
WASHINGTON (AP) - A 23-year-old Maryland man was in the custody Wednesday night after he climbed over the White House fence and was swiftly apprehended on the North Lawn by uniformed Secret Service agents and their dogs.
The incident came about a month after a previous White House fence jumper sprinted across the same lawn, past armed uniformed agents and entered the mansion before he was felled in the ceremonial East Room and taken into custody.
That embarrassing Sept. 19 incident preceded the disclosure of other serious Secret Service breaches in security for President Barack Obama and ultimately led to Julia Pierson's resignation as director of the agency after 18 months on the job.
Secret Service spokesman Brian Leary said a man he identified as Dominic Adesanya of Bel Air, Maryland, climbed the north fence line at about 7:16 p.m. and was taken into custody immediately by uniformed agents and K-9 teams that constantly patrol the grounds. Adesanya was unarmed at the time of his arrest, Leary said. Charges were pending.
Two dogs were taken to a veterinarian for injuries sustained during the incident, Leary added.
read more here
The Associated Press
DARLENE SUPERVILLE
Oct 22nd 2014
WASHINGTON (AP) - A 23-year-old Maryland man was in the custody Wednesday night after he climbed over the White House fence and was swiftly apprehended on the North Lawn by uniformed Secret Service agents and their dogs.
The incident came about a month after a previous White House fence jumper sprinted across the same lawn, past armed uniformed agents and entered the mansion before he was felled in the ceremonial East Room and taken into custody.
That embarrassing Sept. 19 incident preceded the disclosure of other serious Secret Service breaches in security for President Barack Obama and ultimately led to Julia Pierson's resignation as director of the agency after 18 months on the job.
Secret Service spokesman Brian Leary said a man he identified as Dominic Adesanya of Bel Air, Maryland, climbed the north fence line at about 7:16 p.m. and was taken into custody immediately by uniformed agents and K-9 teams that constantly patrol the grounds. Adesanya was unarmed at the time of his arrest, Leary said. Charges were pending.
Two dogs were taken to a veterinarian for injuries sustained during the incident, Leary added.
read more here
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Canada: Cpl. Nathan Cirillo Killed Guarding Tomb of Unknown
Gunman, soldier dead after series of shootings in Ottawa including at Canadian Parliament
By RYAN GORMAN
Oct 22nd 2014
A Canadian soldier is dead after being shot at a Canadian National War Memorial by a suspect who was killed as he stormed the Canadian Parliament, officials said, and there may be more shooters still on the loose.
The gunman was shot dead by the parliament's sergeant-at-arms after he shot Cpl. Nathan Cirillo while he stood guard over the tomb of the unknown soldier at the National War Monument just before 10:00 a.m. Wednesday.
read more here
By RYAN GORMAN
Oct 22nd 2014
The gunman was shot dead by the parliament's sergeant-at-arms after he shot Cpl. Nathan Cirillo while he stood guard over the tomb of the unknown soldier at the National War Monument just before 10:00 a.m. Wednesday.
read more here
Michael Zehaf-Bibeau Named As Ottawa Shooter By U.S. Media
The Huffington Post Canada
Posted: 10/22/2014
CBS Evening News says it has identified a dead suspect in the shooting of a soldier in Ottawa on Wednesday.
The network tweeted just before 1 p.m. that the shooter was Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, a Canadian who was born in 1982.
NBC reported that he was born as Michael Joseph Hall.
Zehaf-Bibeau, 32, was raised in Quebec, according to CTV News, and was a Canadian convert to Islam, Reuters said.
Canadian authorities had considered him a "high-risk traveller" and his passport was taken away, according to The Globe and Mail.
Global News reporter Domenic Fazioli tweeted that Zehaf-Bibeau's name appears three times in Montreal's court database following arrests for possession of marijuana and PCP in 2004.
read more here
Inside Section 60 at Arlington National Cemetery
Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery Offers Tragic Testimony to America's Most Recent Wars
Improvised explosive devices have transformed battle—and disrupted one of the central rituals of grieving, author says.
National Geographic
Simon Worrall
for National Geographic
PUBLISHED OCTOBER 21, 2014
The emotions it inspires, intensified every November 11 on Veterans Day, are raw. Its stories, heartbreaking.
Robert M. Poole, a former executive editor of National Geographic, spent several years listening to those stories for his new book, Section 60: Where War Comes Home. Speaking from his home in Vermont, he explains why he wanted to commemorate this patch of hallowed ground, why it takes years of practice to fold a ceremonial flag, and why Section 60 is one of the few places in America where it's considered normal to talk to the dead.
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Improvised explosive devices have transformed battle—and disrupted one of the central rituals of grieving, author says.
National Geographic
Simon Worrall
for National Geographic
PUBLISHED OCTOBER 21, 2014
Photo of Mary McHugh lies at the gravesite of her fiancee.It's a tiny piece in a much larger jigsaw puzzle. No famous poets or presidents are buried there. No admirals or generals. Instead Section 60 in Arlington National Cemetery, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., is the final resting place of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in America's most recent wars, especially Iraq and Afghanistan.
On May 27, 2007—Memorial Day—Mary McHugh mourns her dead fiancé, Sgt. James Regan, in Arlington National Cemetery's Section 60. Regan had been killed by an IED explosion in February in Iraq.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JOHN MOORE, GETTY
The emotions it inspires, intensified every November 11 on Veterans Day, are raw. Its stories, heartbreaking.
Robert M. Poole, a former executive editor of National Geographic, spent several years listening to those stories for his new book, Section 60: Where War Comes Home. Speaking from his home in Vermont, he explains why he wanted to commemorate this patch of hallowed ground, why it takes years of practice to fold a ceremonial flag, and why Section 60 is one of the few places in America where it's considered normal to talk to the dead.
read more here
Vietnam Veteran Earned Medals 46 Years Before He Got Them
Milford Vietnam veteran gets 17 medals, ribbon 46 years later
New Haven Register
Pam McLoughlin
October 21, 2014
It’s been some 46 years since Frank Somohano Sr. served in Vietnam, but as of Tuesday he’s going to need a bigger display case for his medals and ribbons.
Somohano, 67, who served in the U.S. military for 22 years, was officially presented with 17 medals and a ribbon Tuesday at City Hall by U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn. Somohano served as a Marine for four years, going to Vietnam in 1964, then the Army for 16 years, and the Army Reserve.
“They mean everything. … I feel blessed,” he said of the new decorations. “I was pleasantly surprised when this happened.”
read more here
New Haven Register
Pam McLoughlin
October 21, 2014
U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, left, presents Frank Somohano of Milford with medals and a ribbon Tuesday marking his military service.MILFORD
Arnold Gold — New Haven Register
It’s been some 46 years since Frank Somohano Sr. served in Vietnam, but as of Tuesday he’s going to need a bigger display case for his medals and ribbons.
Somohano, 67, who served in the U.S. military for 22 years, was officially presented with 17 medals and a ribbon Tuesday at City Hall by U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn. Somohano served as a Marine for four years, going to Vietnam in 1964, then the Army for 16 years, and the Army Reserve.
“They mean everything. … I feel blessed,” he said of the new decorations. “I was pleasantly surprised when this happened.”
read more here
Veterans Fed Up With Michael Savage After PTSD Rant
This started out as a rant about naming a tunnel after Robin Williams. Oh, by the way, Robin Williams went to Iraq and Afghanistan many times with the USO. The tone took a turn when a caller didn't agree with him. The caller was a veteran with PTSD.
Michael Savage Lashes Out After Veteran with PTSD Calls
What the fuck does Savage know about bravery? What does he know about putting your life on the line? What does he know about the price being paid all over the country? Hell, what does he know about how long it has been going on or what real patriotism is?
His disgusting rant against the veteran "You were a veteran at 20?" as if he didn't have a clue Vietnam veterans came home and yes, earned the title of veteran before they were even old enough to drink! What a damn fool! "Why should we be aware of mental illness?" Savage should be aware of a lot of things and there are plenty of real heroes ready to do the explaining to this twisted freak.
Here's some of the stories of men the country not only needed but were a hell of a lot more brave than this coward. Members of Special Forces not only have PTSD, some committed suicide.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
U.S. special forces struggle with record suicides
U.S. special forces struggle with record suicides even after all these years of the DOD saying they were taking care of the men and women serving this country. Even after suicides and attempted suicides went up. Even after even the "toughest" of the tough suffered. Anyone know what is going to change? How to change it? Who is accountable for it?
Joe Miller, then an Army Ranger captain with three Iraq tours under his belt, sat inside his home near Fort Bragg holding a cocked Beretta 40mm, and prepared to kill himself.
Staff Sgt. Jared Hagemann, 25, of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, killed himself June 28 (2011) at Lewis-McChord. Staff Sgt. Hagemann had orders to return to Afghanistan for a ninth tour of duty.
Crowley-Smilek, 28, a former U.S. Army Ranger who suffered from combat stress and physical injuries from service in Afghanistan, was dead; shot multiple times by a police officer outside the Farmington municipal offices on U.S. Route 2.
Staff Sgt. Charles Reilly, is a Special Forces soldier who has been deployed six times in the past decade. She said psychiatrists have diagnosed him with PTSD, and he's assigned to Fort Bragg's Warrior Transition Battalion, where soldiers recover from physical and mental wounds.
Sgt. Ben Driftmyer was discharged and betrayed. Survived.
"I had spent eight years serving the military. I never got in trouble. Never did anything bad. And I got treated like I was a piece of crap because of it," said Ben Driftmyer, discharged U.S. Army Sergeant and Cottage Grove resident. Driftmyer was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder by Eugene doctors after he was chaptered out from the special forces unit in Baghdad. He suffered several mental breakdowns during his service, but his discharge was classified as "other than medical."
"Because the military didn't want to pay for me for the rest of my life," said Driftmyer.
Chief Petty Officer Jerald Kruse, served 19 years in the Navy. He was a SEAL, an elite warrior sent to fight in some of the toughest situations around the world, including in Iraq. “His problems really began in ’05. That’s when I really began to notice something was wrong,” she said. He drank excessively, stayed up all night and lashed out at her and their three kids.
Navy Cmdr. Job W. Price, 42, of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, died Saturday while serving as the commanding officer of SEAL Team 4, a special warfare unit based in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Navy SEAL Robert Guzzo returned from Iraq, he feared seeking treatment for PTSD would endanger his career.
Savage said that everyone wants a government check. He said he was raised differently. "Raised to fight weakness. Raised to fight pain. Raised to depression. To not give into it and cry like a little baby" well he wasn't raised to actually go off and do the real fighting.
He has a brave mouth but that's all. He has to be the dumbest person in the country even though he seems to think he's braver than those who actually do go. "You need men like me to save the country" this bombastic twit! In case he doesn't know what the word means,,,,here it is.
Savage complained about "government checks" but failed to think about the billions being spent by congress, the VA and the DOD to fight PTSD or the fact they will keep paying long after wars are over. Failed to see that these men and women "looking for a check" will never make as much money from compensation as they could working on top of the fact while they were risking their lives 24-7 they also ended up making less per hour than someone working for Burger King!
Dakota Meyer not only has PTSD, he tried to kill himself. He also has the Medal of Honor.
Medal of Honor recipient Ty Carter waging war on PTSD
Thank God there are a lot more like them than Savage. Was all of the above bad enough for you to hold this twit accountable for what he said? Is it enough for you to stop using the freedom of speech rant defending him while no one else is supposed to be allowed to use their own free speech rights as well to defend the troops and veterans with PTSD he just attacked?
He gets to say whatever he wants because real patriots actually fought and died to obtain it and others fought and died to retain it. Why should they have to suffer for what this POS gets to enjoy? Go back and listen to the exchange he had with the veteran. Is that really the kind of person you want to listen to? No one has to silence Savage. He just did a good enough job of that on his own because so far, veterans are fed up with him!
Michael Savage Lashes Out After Veteran with PTSD Calls
What the fuck does Savage know about bravery? What does he know about putting your life on the line? What does he know about the price being paid all over the country? Hell, what does he know about how long it has been going on or what real patriotism is?
His disgusting rant against the veteran "You were a veteran at 20?" as if he didn't have a clue Vietnam veterans came home and yes, earned the title of veteran before they were even old enough to drink! What a damn fool! "Why should we be aware of mental illness?" Savage should be aware of a lot of things and there are plenty of real heroes ready to do the explaining to this twisted freak.
Here's some of the stories of men the country not only needed but were a hell of a lot more brave than this coward. Members of Special Forces not only have PTSD, some committed suicide.
Special Forces: commandos are committing suicide at a record pace this year Earlier this month, Socom commander Adm. William McRaven told a Tampa intelligence symposium that commandos are committing suicide at a record pace this year. Though he offered no figures, he was repeating a concern he first raised in February at a Congressional hearing on his budget.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
U.S. special forces struggle with record suicides
U.S. special forces struggle with record suicides even after all these years of the DOD saying they were taking care of the men and women serving this country. Even after suicides and attempted suicides went up. Even after even the "toughest" of the tough suffered. Anyone know what is going to change? How to change it? Who is accountable for it?
Joe Miller, then an Army Ranger captain with three Iraq tours under his belt, sat inside his home near Fort Bragg holding a cocked Beretta 40mm, and prepared to kill himself.
Staff Sgt. Jared Hagemann, 25, of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, killed himself June 28 (2011) at Lewis-McChord. Staff Sgt. Hagemann had orders to return to Afghanistan for a ninth tour of duty.
Crowley-Smilek, 28, a former U.S. Army Ranger who suffered from combat stress and physical injuries from service in Afghanistan, was dead; shot multiple times by a police officer outside the Farmington municipal offices on U.S. Route 2.
Staff Sgt. Charles Reilly, is a Special Forces soldier who has been deployed six times in the past decade. She said psychiatrists have diagnosed him with PTSD, and he's assigned to Fort Bragg's Warrior Transition Battalion, where soldiers recover from physical and mental wounds.
Sgt. Ben Driftmyer was discharged and betrayed. Survived.
"I had spent eight years serving the military. I never got in trouble. Never did anything bad. And I got treated like I was a piece of crap because of it," said Ben Driftmyer, discharged U.S. Army Sergeant and Cottage Grove resident. Driftmyer was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder by Eugene doctors after he was chaptered out from the special forces unit in Baghdad. He suffered several mental breakdowns during his service, but his discharge was classified as "other than medical."
"Because the military didn't want to pay for me for the rest of my life," said Driftmyer.
Chief Petty Officer Jerald Kruse, served 19 years in the Navy. He was a SEAL, an elite warrior sent to fight in some of the toughest situations around the world, including in Iraq. “His problems really began in ’05. That’s when I really began to notice something was wrong,” she said. He drank excessively, stayed up all night and lashed out at her and their three kids.
Navy Cmdr. Job W. Price, 42, of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, died Saturday while serving as the commanding officer of SEAL Team 4, a special warfare unit based in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Navy SEAL Robert Guzzo returned from Iraq, he feared seeking treatment for PTSD would endanger his career.
U.S. special forces struggle with record suicides: admiral
Reuters
BY WARREN STROBEL
TAMPA, Florida
Thu Apr 17, 2014
(Reuters) - Suicides among U.S. special operations forces, including elite Navy SEALs and Army Rangers, are at record levels, a U.S. military official said on Thursday, citing the effects of more than a decade of "hard combat."
The number of special operations forces committing suicide has held at record highs for the past two years, said Admiral William McRaven, who leads the Special Operations Command.
"And this year, I am afraid, we are on path to break that," he told a conference in Tampa. "My soldiers have been fighting now for 12, 13 years in hard combat. Hard combat. And anybody that has spent any time in this war has been changed by it. It's that simple."
It may take a year or more, he said, to assess the effects of sustained combat on special operations units, whose missions range from strikes on militants such as the 2011 SEAL raid that killed al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden to assisting in humanitarian disasters.
read more here
Savage said that everyone wants a government check. He said he was raised differently. "Raised to fight weakness. Raised to fight pain. Raised to depression. To not give into it and cry like a little baby" well he wasn't raised to actually go off and do the real fighting.
He has a brave mouth but that's all. He has to be the dumbest person in the country even though he seems to think he's braver than those who actually do go. "You need men like me to save the country" this bombastic twit! In case he doesn't know what the word means,,,,here it is.
The kind of person that makes a retarded chimp look smart.
Savage complained about "government checks" but failed to think about the billions being spent by congress, the VA and the DOD to fight PTSD or the fact they will keep paying long after wars are over. Failed to see that these men and women "looking for a check" will never make as much money from compensation as they could working on top of the fact while they were risking their lives 24-7 they also ended up making less per hour than someone working for Burger King!
Dakota Meyer not only has PTSD, he tried to kill himself. He also has the Medal of Honor.
The close call occurred in September 2010, just days after the first anniversary of the battle in Ganjgal, a small village in Afghanistan's Kunar province, Meyer said. He had been drinking at a friend's house in Kentucky, he said, and on the way home pulled his pickup truck over and took from the glove compartment what he thought was a loaded Glock pistol.
"I just remember pulling over, and it was at my buddy's shop. He had a shop that his dad and him work out of, and I just pulled in the driveway and was like, ‘I just can't do it anymore,' you know?" Meyer said. "I said, ‘I'm done. I just can't take it anymore. That's it.'"
Meyer pulled the trigger and was shocked when it didn't go off, he wrote in the book. He suspects someone else unloaded the pistol, but declined to disclose who it was. He subsequently sought treatment for post-traumatic stress and is doing better now, he said.
Medal of Honor recipient Ty Carter waging war on PTSD
Former Army Sgt. Kyle J. White said troops suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder shouldn’t suffer in silence.
“There’s no shame in going and getting help,” White, who was diagnosed with PTSD before he left the military, said at a news conference Wednesday in Charlotte, N.C.
The first thing that servicemembers with symptoms of PTSD need to do is reach out and get help, he said. “These servicemembers need to realize that they went to war and they made it back, but they might have some scars remaining. Reach out to your chain of command, and they will help you get the treatment that you need. If I can do it … then there’s no reason they can’t as well.”
Thank God there are a lot more like them than Savage. Was all of the above bad enough for you to hold this twit accountable for what he said? Is it enough for you to stop using the freedom of speech rant defending him while no one else is supposed to be allowed to use their own free speech rights as well to defend the troops and veterans with PTSD he just attacked?
He gets to say whatever he wants because real patriots actually fought and died to obtain it and others fought and died to retain it. Why should they have to suffer for what this POS gets to enjoy? Go back and listen to the exchange he had with the veteran. Is that really the kind of person you want to listen to? No one has to silence Savage. He just did a good enough job of that on his own because so far, veterans are fed up with him!
Saddle Stolen from Iraq Veteran Riding for Semper Fi Fund
UPDATE
Veteran back on track following saddle theft
12 News | azcentral.com
Stephen Root
October 22, 2014
He's riding across the country on horseback to raise money for injured vets, but thieves have made the trip less comfortable
Marine and Iraq war veteran Matt Littrell says he once considered taking his own life but chose to live. Now he's trying to help other vets by traveling across the country on horseback to raise money and awareness for vets dealing with depression.
Last night, while he was staying in Payson, somebody stole his saddle.
Littrell and two riding partners have been raising money for the Semper Fi Fund, a nonprofit which provides assistance for injured and ill veterans.
read more here
Veteran back on track following saddle theft
Matt Littrell, forward, and Raymond C. Avery are riding across the country to benefit veterans in need. (Photo: 12 News)Saddle stolen from veteran on charity ride
12 News | azcentral.com
Stephen Root
October 22, 2014
He's riding across the country on horseback to raise money for injured vets, but thieves have made the trip less comfortable
Marine and Iraq war veteran Matt Littrell says he once considered taking his own life but chose to live. Now he's trying to help other vets by traveling across the country on horseback to raise money and awareness for vets dealing with depression.
Last night, while he was staying in Payson, somebody stole his saddle.
Littrell and two riding partners have been raising money for the Semper Fi Fund, a nonprofit which provides assistance for injured and ill veterans.
read more here
Trisha Yearwood Sings National Anthem as Baseball Honors Veterans
Go to link and watch the video on this. Stunning!
Yearwood sings anthem; Staff Sgt. throws first pitch
Kansas City Royals
Alyson Footer
MLB.com
October 21, 2014
KANSAS CITY -- Trisha Yearwood has performed the national anthem at several World Series, but no matter how many of these she's asked to do, it never gets old.
"I love to do it," the country music star said while taking in the scene from the field during batting practice before Game 1 on Tuesday night at Kauffman Stadium. "It's such an honor."
Yearwood, a chart-topper since releasing her debut album in 1991, is in the middle of touring with her husband, Garth Brooks. When she got the call asking her to sing the anthem, she was hoping she could fit it in her schedule. The timing was perfect.
"I knew when the window of the World Series was, and I said, 'If I can do it, I'd love to do it,'" she said. "I was so excited that I got to be here for Game 1."
read more here
Dogs of War: Inside look at life after war with PTSD service dogs
'Dogs of War:' New A and E Series Captures 'Intense' Journey of PTSD Military Veterans As They're Matched With Shelter Dogs
October 21, 2014
Stephanie, a 25 year-old wife, mom and veteran haunted by memories of her year as a prison guard in Iraq, is paired with service dog Atticus in A and E's 'Dogs of War,' a new docuseries following war veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, as they are paired with shelter dogs trained to help them adjust to life after combat.
The A and E network will soon debut "Dogs of War," a new docu-series about war veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the service dogs that help them adjust back into life after combat.
The show, which premieres on Veteran's Day next month, is based on married couple Jim and Lindsey Stanek and their nonprofit organization Paws and Stripes. The organization provides service dogs to wounded military veterans, and each episode will chronicle the journey of one or two PTSD veterans as they are paired with man's best friend.
"This series is full of raw, real and intensely emotional moments that don't often get a spotlight in mainstream media," David McKillop, General Manager and Executive Vice President of A and E said in a press release. read more here
More Veteran’s Day events in Central Florida
October list #2 – Cumulative list of veteran, military and patriotic events in Central FL
This list INCLUDES Veteran’s Day events in Central Florida. This was compiled to the best of my ability and with the assistance of those who provided the information to me. There MAY be other events that I am not aware and have no information about.
Please share this information and events with your friends and interested others and attend. Post where appropriate.
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Everyone and especially Veterans – please plan to attend the various school programs. There MAY be events at some schools near your home that are not listed here. Our young ones need to be aware of who veterans are and how they have served our country. Your attendance reinforces the efforts that some teachers are trying to provide. Be an example – be someone that the young generation will remember and model after…
Just a bit of reminder for folks - There is a difference between veterans and military. Sometimes people get confused that veterans were once active military but they are not officially serving anymore. And our military are serving now and will one day be veterans. Retired veterans served a specified required time in service. All military retirees are veterans but not all veterans are military retired. Veterans Day honors all persons who once were in the military - especially the living. Memorial Day honors those who died while serving in the military. Armed Forces Day is the third Saturday in May - it was established in 1950 to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Air Force Days. It is a day to pay tribute to men and women who currently serve the United States’ armed forces.
October is Agent Orange Awareness Month. The organization Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) encourages your education and support of the Federal Toxic Exposure Research Act of 2014 (S.2738 and H.R.5484) Shared by the VVA Chapter 755 of Osceola County.
Attn. persons with any family member currently deployed to Afghanistan and other “rough areas.” - Local groups are seeking the names and addresses for warriors in such areas. They want to send care packages of snacks, good food, hygiene items, and things that may not be readily available to warriors in those “frontlines.” Providing names and addresses early (NOW) will allow the warriors to provide such items as gifts to their battle buddies during the holidays. One such care package group is J.O.S.H. - Just Our Soldiers' Helpers Inc. Contact Kathy at 407-314-1607 kathy@joshsupport.org and also CC me (Cathy H.) at chaynes11629@yahoo.com.
Shopping consideration – As we are preparing for the upcoming holidays, please consider buying items that are made in this country. Buying “Made in U.S.A.” allows employment for more persons in this country and some of those workers may be veterans, reservists, or guardsmen/women. UPC barcodes do not always indicate the country of manufacture. Look for the “Made in U.S.A.” labeling.
Mentors needed - Orange County Veterans Court IS succeeding! Longer term success is possible with community mentors. Be a “battle buddy” or “foxhole buddy” by assisting someone with life challenges. No proselytizing – just non-judgmental caring. Most of the offenders are DUI or possession, or PTS anger issues that are being rechanneled. If you have experienced substance abuse – although not required - and came thru it, you may be very helpful to someone else. If you are interested in participating as a mentor, know someone who is interested, or are a part of an organization where Mentors can be recruited, contact Beatrice Brown, the Coordinator. A Mentor Training session will be provided. She and Judge Brewer have graciously offered to visit and speak to various groups and organizations to tell about the mentor program and the successes of the Veteran’s Court. It does make a difference and you can too….. Contact Beatrice Brown at 407-496-1307 wellsbrownlawgroup@gmail.com
Military Recognition Program by Orlando Solar Bears –Looking for active military/veterans/guard or reserve personnel from all branches to honor at our home games for the 2014-15 season. The chosen persons will be attending the Solar Bears hockey game, and be featured on camera during 1st period time out. He/she should be in uniform or wear their military branch themed clothing and provide a 2-3 sentence bio. In return, the chosen person will be provided 4 free tickets for that game, 1 parking spot in the Geico Garage. (Additional tickets for friends & family available at discounted rate.) Wheelchair seating available upon request (based on availability); Home games in October - Sat 25, Sun 26 and Fri 31 (Halloween Night.) There are 22 other regular home games and personnel will be needed then too. For information to be considered or to nominate a person, contact Erin at 407-951-8200 x122 ecroce@orlandosolarbearshockey.com or Vickie at 407-380-5386. Shared by Vickie DiGiovanni, Navy advocate.
'Rope Yarn Sunday' (RYS) –Wed. Oct 22 and Wed. Oct 29 - on the Patrick Air Force Base (Brevard County) in Marina Tiki Bar, 1630-1900hrs. (4:30 – 7pm) The focus of the weekly gathering is to provide support for past & present military members and their families. During the Month of October, RYS will be raising ideas and funds to benefit the programs & services offered at no cost by AVET Project, Inc. PLEASE come out and show your support! 876 Marina Rd on Patrick Air Force Base, 32925. (321) 494-7455 If you can't get on Base let us know we can get you on, WELL that's if we know YOU otherwise you will have to get base clearance. kim@avetproject.org 321-373-7046.
Central Florida STEM Education Council – Fri. Oct 24 – This FREE meeting is focused on “Women in STEM” – STEM being Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. STEM focuses on encouraging all young students in those areas for careers. Featured speaker will be JoAnn Newman, President & CEO, Orlando Science Center; Panel speakers will be representatives from Water Resource Engineer for City of Sanford, Central Florida Society of Women Engineers, Boeing Research & Technology, Central Florida Women in Defense, and middle school, high school and college students. 8:30am - 11am, at Universal Technical Institute – Orlando Automotive Campus, 2202 W. Taft-Vineland Road, Orlando, 32837 (off OBT across from the Sam’s Club in South Orlando.) RSVP of attendance requested to CentralFLoridaSTEM@gmail.com or jessey.ion@ucf.edu or 407-207-7426
"One Nation Under God" – Fri, Sat Oct 24-25 - By Your Side Ministries produces this celebration of Christian Patriotism. It is a live musical Program with video and live testimonials honoring our 1st Responders and all branches of the military and veterans, and in partnership with Operation Safety 91.
By Your Side Ministries Theater, 13355 W Colonial Dr., Winter Garden, 34787 (in the strip mall behind Taco Bell.) Doors open at 6 pm. Dinner starts at 6:30 pm. 50 minute program "One Nation Under God" starts at 7:15pm. Donations for the dinner will be accepted. Reserve Tickets for free dinner and program at www. byyoursideministries.com/boxoffice Operation Safety 91: www. OS91.com 407-484-4506
….Sat. Oct 25 presentation will be at the Community Alliance Church, 4815 E Lake Dr, Winter Springs, 32708. Call Al Haslam for details at this presentation only: 407-221-4333
Osceola County Stand Down – Sat. Oct 25 – Various services offered to veterans, including homeless veterans. Volunteers needed! 9am – 2pm at Osceola County Veterans Service office, 330 N. Beaumont Ave., Kissimmee, 34741. Contact Tommie Maldonado, VSO at 407-742-8455, Ken Mueller, HCHV, at 407-631-7228. Register to volunteer with Chanel at 407-742-8455 cf66c@osceola.org
Rummage Sale to Light the Way for Veterans – Sat. Oct 25 - American Legion Unit 286 will be having a Rummage Sale from 8am - 1pm. The proceeds will be used toward their many patriotic veteran service programs. Check out the many treasures of this multi-family Rummage Sale by the Post at 529 E. Fairlane Ave., Orlando, 32809 in South Orlando. Info: 407-859-1460.
104th Birthday Party – Sat. Oct 25 - Floyd "Pete" Petiprin, Captain, USN (ret.)will celebrate this day at a party in his honor - Winter Park Towers, 1111 S Lakemont Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792. 2pm – 3:30 pm in the Towers Assisted Living Facility. If unable to attend, cards would be welcomed! Office – 407.647.4083. Shared by Fred Robinson of Vitas, and Carla Hoskins of Central FL Navy League.
Stars & Stripes Evening – Sat. Oct 25 – Event to benefit Space Coast Honor Flight. Dinner, auction and show at the Valiant Air Command's Warbird Museum, 6600 Tico Rd, Titusville, 32780. 4pm Museum tour. See website for schedule of full evening of entertainment, tickets and reservations: spacecoasthonorflight.org $50 per person suggested donation; Auction includes war items donated by veterans. Honor Flight takes WWII and Korean War veterans to Washington DC to see their war memorials – a culmination of their service and senior years. Sponsorships and donations welcomed. Info for this event: 321.243.7136 christinetatehf@gmail.com Shared by WWII vet Peter Diaz and JB Kump, Chairman of Titusville Chamber of Commerce.
Greeters needed! Honor Flight Welcome Home – Sat. Oct 25 – Orlando Int’l Airport – This is the VERY LAST weekend Honor Flight mission for the 2014 year from the Central Florida area. The WW2 and Korean War veterans truly appreciate the “Welcome Home” receptions at the airports with the flags and patriotic signs – It makes a difference! After a day spent in Washington DC, 25 veterans of WWII and Korean War veterans return home thru Orlando Int’l Airport. 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. This group will return at about 9:35 pm. Come welcome these former warriors home! Bring your flags, banners and signs! Southwest Airlines #1866 from Baltimore-Washington (BWI), Terminal A, Airside 2 (hotel area in front of Starbucks.) Before leaving home, 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 – who has been very generous to Honor Flights with free parking and shuttles to the airport - Contact Cathy Haynes for those details NLT 7pm - 407-239-8468chaynes11629@yahoo.com
For the Early Birds - you can wave them off in the morning no later than 5am – same location. They process thru Security early and quickly.
The very last Honor Flight for the year will be WED. Nov 5. Flights will resume in the Spring of 2015.
Halloween Party – Thurs. Oct 30 - American Legion Auxiliary Unit 286 will be giving the children of our communities a treat and fun filled Pre-Halloween from 6-8 pm. At this free event, there will be costume contests, games, prizes and treats for children, who are accompanied by an adult. 529 E. Fairlane Ave. Orlando, 32809 in South Orlando. Info: 407-859-1460.
Battle of the Branches – Sat. Nov 1 – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! AVET Project fund raiser for local military family, including active duty, Reserves, and Guard's morale events as well as AVET Project's PR&R (Project Recuperation & Reintegration) retreats for returning combat veterans, helping them transition back into civilian life. Counseling on VA & State veteran benefits, PTSD/TBI screening, Suicide risk assessment, alternative therapies for physical & mental issues, outdoor recreational activities, massage & hypnotherapy are but a few of the offerings during PR&R... all FREE! Sponsors welcomed. If you would like your logo on the Battle of the Branches (BOTB) t-shirts Deadline is Oct 17. Satellite Beach (Brevard County) just off A1A at Pelican Housing at Poinsettia Drive. 5k Walk/Run will begin at 8am, and Obstacle Course opens at 8:30am & THE "Pull Challenge" begins at 9am. Planning by Melbourne Regional Chamber and AVET Project. FREE Vendor spots for Military Organizations & 1st Responders; 10x10 Vendor spots start at $25 and other sponsorship levels up to $2,500. AVET Project is also looking for Silent Auction items and we would happily provide a tax-deductible donation receipt. Battle of the Branches is FREE to spectators. Sgt Jeff Barillaro aka Soldier Hard served 10yrs in the service, 3tours and suffers from PTSD will be Performing and speaking about Music Therapy and PTSD; other guest speakers, resources and even Career Source Brevard will be present helping you find a job. Come out and support our Military & 1st Responders. Info: www.avetproject.org kim@avetproject.org 321-373-7046
Central Florida Heroes on the Water – Sat. Nov 1 - This group hosts monthly kayak trips. It is for "warriors" (Active Duty and Veterans) and family members, Caregivers (fishing buddies also) and service dogs. We do a shore lunch and provide all of the equipment and instruction, the cost is always the same FREE. They are a 501.c.3 that operates from donations and grants and since this chapter started in Oct of 2013 have proudly served 231 warriors. There are 10 active chapters across the state and warriors can participate at any event by reserving their spot. Dec 6 trip is on Lake Jackson. Future local trips are being planned for 2015. Contact Tom Welgos, 407.414.8393 or Kathie Decker , 407-516-8050 centralfl@heroesonthewater.org www.heroesonthewater.organd click on the local chapter. See Facebook at: Heroes on the Water - Central Florida Chapter
Election Day – Tues. Nov 4 – Become educated and do your civic duty – VOTE!
The First Academy Veteran’s Day Celebration – Wed. Nov 5 – The students of Wounded Warrior Club of The First Academy would like to honor members of the Armed Forces, with special recognition for the Vietnam Warveterans – with a goal of 100 of them attending! 10am in Faith Hall. First Baptist Orlando, 3000 S. John Young Parkway, Orlando, 32805. (North of I-4 and John Young Pkwy, exit 79.) Info/RSVP’s appreciated for head count planning to 407-206-8643 or gisselvalois@thefirstacademy.org Shared by Brian Rose, Principal. Event flyer available.
Greeters needed! Honor Flight Welcome Home –WED. Nov 5 – Orlando Int’l Airport – This is the VERY LAST Honor Flight for the 2014 year from the Central Florida area. Winter, ice, and senior citizens don’t do too well together in Washington DC. The WW2 and Korean War veterans truly appreciate the “Welcome Home” receptions at the airports with the flags and patriotic signs – It makes a difference! After a day spent in Washington DC, 25 veterans of WWII and Korean War veterans return home thru Orlando Int’l Airport. 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. This group will return at about 9:30 pm. Come welcome these former warriors home! Bring your flags, banners and signs! Southwest Airlines #3303 from Baltimore-Washington (BWI), Terminal A, Airside 2 (hotel area in front of Starbucks.) Before leaving home, 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 – who has been very generous to Honor Flights with free parking and shuttles to the airport - Contact Cathy Haynes for those details NLT 7pm - chaynes11629@yahoo.com 407-239-8468.
For the Early Birds - you can wave them off in the morning no later than 5am – same location. They process thru Security early and quickly.
Honor Flights will resume in the Spring of 2015 when the weather improves.
Veteran Reintegration Information Workshop: Subtleties of Trauma Spectrum Disorders – Thurs. Nov 6 – This Workshop/discussion is open to the Public. It is about Reintegrating America’s returning warriors – a cultural “boot camp” for clinicians. There is a charge for professionals ($50) because this offers three CEUs for LCSWs, LMFTs and LMHCs; UCF students ($10) and FREE for veterans. Presented by the UCF School of Social Work and the College of Health and Public Affairs Alumni Chapter. Noon - 5 pm, Fairwinds Alumni Center, 12676 Gemini Blvd. N. Orlando, 32816. RSVP your attendance and Info: Sarah at 407.823.35525 socialwork@ucfalumni.com ucfalumni.com/cohpa
Lake Highland Preparatory School’s Veteran’s Day Tribute – Fri Nov 7 – Students and faculty presents its annual tribute of music, dancing, drama and video footage to honor veterans. “Living the Legacy – Let Us Live to Make Men Free.” FREE Shows at 8:45 am, 10:45 am, and 1 pm in the Harriett Coleman Center for the Arts on campus, 901 N. Highland Ave., Orlando, 32803. Veterans, LHP friends and family are welcome to attend. 407-206-1900 x5762. Event flyer available.
Winter Park’s 4th Annual Veterans Day Celebration – Fri. Nov 7 - “Every Soldier Deserves a Hero’s Welcome.” This event will be held in honor of all of the veterans at 10am at the Winter Park Community Center, Ruby Ball Amphitheatre, 721 W. New England Ave., Winter Park, 32789. Beginning at 9:30 am, the VFW Post 2093 Community Band will be entertaining guests as they visit with organizations and services that offer resources specifically for veteran needs. At 10 am, the official program will begin with musical tributes, anecdotal speakers including Lt. Chuck Nadd, and recognition of veterans according to the various military branches served. Info: 407-599-3428 or choward@cityofwinterpark.org
Central Florida Veterans Job Fair – Fri. Nov 7 – The UCF College of Business Administration and Wells Fargo host this second annual event. 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. 100% of the employer registration fee will go to help our returning service men and women through a scholarship benefiting the local Camaraderie Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Project – thereby also increasing the quality of employers participating. Easy to pre-register online. 10am – 3pm at the Venue on University of Central Florida Main Campus. 4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando, 32816. Info: Tiffany at 904-509-0599 Tiffany.Hughes@ucf.edu
Veterans Commemoration Ceremony at UCF – Fri. Nov 7 – Public is invited to this ceremony where the UCF Colbourn Brass Quintet & AFROTC Color Guard will honor veterans. 11:30 am, Veterans Memorial on Memory Mall near the UCF Arena. Info: Tiffany at 904-509-0599 Tiffany.Hughes@ucf.edu
Salute Our Veterans – Fri to Tues, Nov 7-11 – This is one hopping, active community! Several days designed to promote the Solivita community active lifestyle while celebrating Veterans and their families. Open to the public. The weekend will be filled with fun, fitness, and music for all ages. All festivities this weekend will be open to the public so bring your family and friends to support this wonderful event for a great cause. All proceeds will be donated to Habitat For Humanity to build homes for Veterans and to the USO Central Florida.
Fri. Nov 7 - Veterans Day opening street party kick offs this major weekend with the Solivita Lifestyles Team on Village Drive. 5pm-9pm. Food trucks, live entertainment, vender expo.
Sat. Nov 8 – 5K/10K Run/Walk on USATF certified course at Freedom Park.
Sat. Nov 8 – Golf Tournament- 8am at Stonegate Golf Club at Solavita. $60 for Club members, $85 for non-Club members. Includes Cont.breakfast, lunch, on course special events, awards, lots!!
Sun Nov 9 – Solivita Lifestyles will attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the WORLDS LONGEST ICE CREAM DESSERT! We will build a dessert that runs over 1,500 feet long. $5+ donation will get you a bowl and spoon to then EAT the dessert!
Mon Nov 10 - Evening filled with entertainment in a variety of music and comedy, open to the public. Kathleen Kane, opening act, and Michael Rapposelli will perform a range of music from the 50’s to today’s hits. $15 donation.
Tues. Nov 11 – 9am Ceremonial flag raising in honor of the men and women who give more than we can measure. Please join us at the Veterans Memorial in Freedom Park to “Salute Our Veterans” for all that they do.
Solivita is the Polk County side of Poinciana of Osceola County. Info: Marissa at 863.427.7125 during business hrs. mcardona@aamfl.com
Golf Tournament – Sat. Nov. 8 - American Legion Post 286 Family invites all to participate and assist in our Mission “Service not Self” in enhancing the lives of local veterans. Hunters Creek Golf Course 8 am Shotgun start, 4-person teams – Best Ball Scramble $55 per player includes door prize, drink & meal tickets; Prizes: Closest to the pin Ladies and Men; Longest Drive – Ladies and Men. Sponsorships available: Hole $50 each; Deadline to sign-up Nov. 3rd. Information call 407-859-1460
This active and involved American Legion Post 286 Family (Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and S.A.L Members) is located at 529 E. Fairlane Ave., Pine Castle, 32809, in South Orlando.
Veterans Day and Founder’s Day Parade and Ceremony – Sat. Nov 8 – Town of Celebration in Osceola County. Public invited. Parade at 9am goes thru Downtown Celebration to the Veterans Memorial Park with a wounded warrior and his family as Grand Marshalls; Flag Ceremony there at 10am will replace current flag with garrison sized flag. Founder’s Day Picnic will be at Lakeside Park and a Celebration residents photograph will be taken at 1:30pm. Info: Parks and Recreation at 407-566-1200 ext. 202, celebration.fl.us Shared by Rick Lane, Veterans Group Commander.
Veteran’s Day Parade – Sat. Nov 8 – in St. Cloud, Osceola County. Parade starts at 10am on Pennsylvania Ave. Numerous units including trailer with seats for Purple Heart recipients. Sponsored by the Osceola County Veterans Council. Contact TJ Palmer at tpalmer44@cfl.rr.com 407.552.7124 or Fred at 407.520.7646. Shared by TJ Palmer.
Orlando Veterans Day Parade – Sat. Nov 8 – One of the largest Veteran’s Day Parades in Downtown Orlando at 11am – 1pm. Free! Military bands and equipment, ROTC and JROTC units, floats, pipe bands, high school marching bands. Gold Star Mothers are the Grand Marshall’s this year. Begins at Robinson St., south on Orange Ave., east on Central, the north on Rosalind Ave. Info: 407-246-3104 cityoforlando.net/veterans
Timber Creek AFJROTC Veterans Day Program – Sat. Nov 8 – Timber Creek High School PAC (Auditorium). The program starts at 2pm and features a replica of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with Changing of the Guard throughout the program. In addition we present the Missing Man Table ceremony in a tribute to the POW/MIAs, The Battle Cross ceremony paying tribute to those who have been KIA, specifically one of our former cadets, Army Cpl. Patrick Deans. We also have a moving tribute to the Wounded Warriors. The program finishes with a celebration of the Military Spouse that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a tear to you eye. The program lasts for approximately 1 and one half hours. Admission is free. Timber Creek H.S., 1001 S. Avalon Park Blvd, Orlando, 32828. Shared by SMSgt Don Dowdy, 321.235.7800 ext. 6142622.
Marine Corps Birthday Ball – Sat. Nov. 8 – This 239th celebration will be at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando on International Drive. Cocktails begin at 6pm and the ballroom doors open at 6:45. At 7:30 the ceremony begins with dinner and dancing following that. Dress is formal. Cost is $75 per person and there are three choices for meal. Table sponsorships available. Anyone interested can get more information at the Central Florida Marine Corps Foundation website: centralfloridamarines.org or thru Jan Baka 407.745.3029 during business hours or jan.baka@ecs-federal.com Shared by Jim Hawn, Marine Corps Foundation. Semper Fi!
Sponsorships support local Marine Honor Guard group, Marine Color Guard, JROTC and Marine veterans.
The Warbird Museum Annual Veterans Open house – Sat., Sun, Nov 8 and 9 - Free entry from 9am – 5pm for All active, retired military and all FL residents. Please bring a non-perishable food item. Combat pilots on hand, displays, along with antique cars Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum, 6600 Tico Rd, Titusville, 32780. 321-536-4337 www.vacwarbirds.org
Mount Dora Patriot Cruise and Salute - Sun. Nov 9 – 20 wounded warriors, veterans and their families will be taken on a scenic boat ride, this 3rd Annual event. At 1 pm, after their return, a patriotic ceremony and picnic will be held. Gilbert Park in downtown Mt. Dora. 310 S Tremain St, Mount Dora, 32757. Details:www.mountdorapcs.org Email: fra10@aol.com 305-772-5246 Shared by Rozann Abato.
South Orlando Baptist Church Veterans recognition – Sun. Nov 9 - Veterans and their families are invited to visit SOBC 11am. A special recognition will be made of the numerous veterans. With church members from over 20 countries and an abundance of inter-racial marriages, worship services at SOBC are unlike anything you have experienced before. South Orlando Baptist Church, 11513 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, 32837. (about 2 miles south of the Beachline Expressway.) Info: sobc@southorlandobaptist.org Shared by Col. Edwin Marrero, USA (ret)
Veteran’s Day Luncheon – Sun. Nov 9 – First United Methodist Church of Oviedo Military Support Team sponsors this to honor all who have served. ALL Veterans and their spouse or guest(s) are invited. Special recognition will be given to those Veterans who served during the WWII era. Please send a picture of yourself in uniform to Liz Whitley at the church office (see address below) by October 27. Army Reserve Brig.Gen. Francisco Espaillat, Commander of the local 143rd ESC will be guest speaker. Lunch is FREE but reservations are requested for proper planning. RSVP to the Church office (407-365-3255) or online no later than Mon, Nov 3rd at fumco.net/veteransdayRSVP 263 King Street, Oviedo, 32765.
Maitland Salutes Veterans – Sun. Nov 9 – Maitland Military Band performance starts at 4pm with a Free patriotic program. 3pm registration. The Maitland Civic Center, 641 S. Maitland Ave., 32751. Reception following with hamburgers, hotdogs, cake and ice cream. RSVP for food planning and Info: 407-647-2111 or maitlandciviccenter.com Shared by Lyle Schmeiser, DAV #16, and Maitland Community Non-Profit Organizations.
Veterans Concert –- Sun. Nov 9 - Trinity Prep School auditorium in Winter Park at 7pm. 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. Event awareness from Wendy Wallenberg.
Toys for Tots Golf Event - Mon. Nov 10 - 7:30am. Celebrate the Marine Corps’ Birthday and Veterans Day at Mayfair Country Club, 3536 Country Club Road, Sanford, 32773. $37 includes golf, cart fee and lunch. Each player must bring a Toy for the Marine Corps Toy drive, in order to play. Enjoy a best ball scramble, a Tribute to our Fallen Brothers, lunch and an Armed Forces Cake prior to the awards ceremony. Prizes galore for the best scores of a two tier player bracket, closest to the pin and longest drives. Check the Mayfair Country Club face book, web site for a registration form. Registration forms and payment must be mailed no later than 3 Nov. Info: John at 407-417-3156. Event flyer available. Shared by John Craft.
“Remembering our Florida Fallen” Traveling Wall – Nov 10–14, Mon-Fri. - Valencia College honors the Floridians who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars by hosting this Traveling Wall. Opening ceremony of the wall starts at 2pm on Mon. Nov 10th. The wall features military and personal photos of our country’s Fallen who called Florida their home, brief narratives, and written messages left by loved ones. Free and Open to the public at Valencia College, West Campus in the Building 11 Courtyard, 8am to 8pm after the Opening Ceremony. Sponsored by Valencia College’s Student Veterans Association, Florida College of Integrative Medicine, and Fairways for Warriors. Info: remembering-our-fallen.eventbrite.com dgibson11@valenciacollege.edu Event flyer available.
Veteran’s Day Ceremony – Tues. Nov 11 - Dorie Miller Memorial Post 331 of American Legion invites you to attend the Veterans Day ceremony at Eatonville Memorial Gardens, 100 North Wymore Rd, Winter Park, 32792 (just north of Kennedy Blvd.) The Honor Guard will arrive at 10am to replace the tattered flags on the graves of veterans. The ceremony will commence at 11am. Info: Commander Al at 407.353.6960
The City of Ocoee Veterans Day Ceremony –Tues. Nov 11 - 11am at Bill Breeze Park, 125 North Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee, 34761. Patriotic songs, musical tributes, flag presentations and Ocoee Police Department Honor Guard. Keynote speaker: former Army Specialist Melissa Infante who served 2 tours of duty in Iraq and 1 tour in Afghanistan. For more information on Ocoee’s Veterans Day Ceremony - 407-905-3100, x9-1530. Shared by Joy Wright and Mayor Scott Vandergrift of Ocoee.
Veteran’s Day Ceremony – Tues. Nov 11 - American Legion Post 286 Family (Legion, Auxiliary, Sons) will honor Veterans at 11am at 529 E. Fairlane, Orlando, 32809. (South Orlando, just north of Sand Lake Road on Orange Ave.) Join us in the heartfelt gift of appreciation to the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Inviting all veterans and the public to join in to remember those who have fought for our freedom and give thanks to all who have bravely protected us. Following the service, there will be a BBQ lunch for $7.00 and entertainment from 2- 4 pm. Info: 407-859-1460.
Veterans Recognition – Tues. Nov 11 - The Veterans Memorial Committee at Polo Park, Davenport, invite you to join us as we give thanks to our Veterans, not only those who have died in service, but also to recognize those who have and continue to serve. 10am - A flag raising ceremony will take place at Polo Park Clubhouse, 1744 Challenger Ave., Davenport, 33897 ( junction of Routes 27 and 192 in Polk County.) Info: kclark8403@verizon.net
Transitioning/Military Job Fair - Hiring our Heroes – Tues. Nov 11 - Job fair for veteran job seekers, active duty military members, guard and reserve members, and military spouses at the University of Phoenix - Orlando. 8325 South Park Circle, Suite 100 Orlando, FL 32819 (South Orlando) Employment Workshop at 8:30 am is aimed at helping veterans and transitioning service members leverage military experience to achieve civilian career goals. 10am - 1pm is the Hiring Fair; This event will be a one-of-a-kind FREE hiring fair for both employers and job seekers. This University of Phoenix- sponsored hiring event is being conducted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS), the Florida Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Goodwill Industries International, The American Legion, NBC News, and other local partners. Info: hiringourheroes@uschamber.com uschamberfoundation.org/hiringourheroes/faqs Shared by Susan Fernandez of Sen. Marco Rubio’s office.
Sanford and Seminole County Veterans Recognition – Tues. Nov 11 - The City of Sanford and the Seminole County Area Veterans Advisory Council (SCAVAC) honors it’s Veterans in a Veterans Day Service at 11 AM in Veterans Memorial Park located at 300 N. Park Avenue, Sanford, 32771. Please join us as we salute our soldiers – current, past and future – who selflessly protect the freedoms that we hold dear! Info: 407-688-5120 or emailJennifer.Brooks@sanfordfl.gov Event flyer available. Shared by Magi Hosford.
Clermont Veteran's Day Program – Tues. Nov 11 - 11am at the Waterfront Pavilion on Lake Minneola, 330 Third St. Clermont, 34711. Sponsored by Tomoka Chapter, D.A.R.; South Lake Marine Corp Detachment, and VFW Post #5277. Details: Susan DeHart - 352-242-2394 or Carolyn Darling 352-394-4790.
Veterans Day Luncheon – Tues, Nov 11 – 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 avetproject.org
Patriotic Tribute for Veterans Day – Tues. Nov 11 – Public invited but Free meal for veterans and active military, Gift bags to first 100 mil/vet families; Raffles, entertainment. Starting at 6:30 pm – 9pm at Eastside Bistro, 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Avalon Park, 32828 (East Orlando.) Hosted by Game Plan Media. Sponsorships and non-profit group participation still open. Contact Laura at 407.535.7106 or laura@gameplanmedia.info
“The Concert for Valor” –Tues. Nov 11 – Salute to veterans performance live from Wash DC Mall on HBO – check your cable provider for the channel number. 7pm. Wide variety of musical performers and guest speakers, including Tom Hanks. Presented by HBO and Starbucks.
“Navy Seals – Their Untold Story”– Tues. Nov 11 - New programs on your local PBS channel about America’s military men and women start. 9pm – 11pm. Actor Gary Sinise, who has dedicated himself to veterans’ causes and supporting the troops in active service, narrates.
Orlando Vet Center Open House 2014 – Fri. Nov 14 – In honor of Veterans Day, the Vet Center will be celebrating all veterans with an Open House. Vets helping other combat vets and their families with the challenges of reintegration, family counseling, sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress management, etc. 12noon – 4pm. 5575 S. Semoran Blvd, Suite 30, Orlando, 32822. 407-857-2800.
Military Appreciation Day UCF Football Game –Fri. Nov 14 - UCF is offering a free game ticket to active duty/reservists and retirees for the UCF vs. Tulsa football game at 7pm at Brighthouse Stadium. Additional tickets can be purchased for $15.Eligible members can reserve the free ticket/purchase add’l tickets by registering at GOVX.com or call 407-UCF-1000 for information. Shared by Tiffany Rivera.
Poppy distribution – Fri. and Sat. Nov 14, 15 – American Legion Auxiliary of Post 286 (Pine Castle in South Orlando) will be extending their tribute to veterans. They will be distributing Poppies at Clemons Produce and the Navy Exchange. The Poppy has become a nationally known and recognized symbol of sacrifice to honor men and women served and died for their country in all wars. Pick up and wear a bright red POPPY (made by veterans) to honor the past sacrifices of our veterans. Donations welcomed. Clemons Produce at Dover Shores Shopping Center, 3325 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, 32806. Navy Exchange (NEX) is located at 7151 Earhart Dr., Orlando, 32827. (west of Orlando Int’l Airport, about 1 mile south of the Beachline Expy/528 on Tradeport Dr.) Info: 407-859-1460. Shared by Sandi Stepp, 1st VP.
"Walk a Mile in Their Boots" - Camaraderie Foundation’s 3rd Annual Ruck Sack March – Sat. Nov 15 – at Medical City in Lake Nona. This year there will be 3, 6, & 12 mile courses to challenge you. You can walk, run or RUCK as a Warrior with a 35 lb. ruck sack or backpack. The goal is not only to raise awareness about Camaraderie Foundation’s mission of helping to heal the invisible wounds of war for our Military Service Members and their families, but to raise funds to help implement our counseling scholarships and programs for them. Register yourself or your team by visiting www.RuckSackMarch2014.kintera.org. Receive $5 off registration when you use the code ‘camaraderie’. We have great prize incentives for the top Warriors, top Runners and top Fundraisers which include 2 roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines, SeaWorld & Disney tickets, Gift Cards, and MORE! Contact Jackie at 407.841.0071 camaraderiefoundation.com
EXTRAS of Interest
· American Warrior Radio Show from 11am-noon EDT on Saturdays, radio station WMEL - AM 1300 Nationwide broadcast: www.1300wmel.com
· Check out: hiredbyfriday.com and iamveteran.com. Both sites are for veterans and hiredbyfriday.com is a site for Veterans to upload their resumes and employers can look for skilled veterans there.
· WoundedTimes.blogspot.com - Veterans News Service covering news that matters to veterans and their families. Local, state and national news and events – especially with videos involving Central Florida military and veterans. Dedicated to defeating Combat PTS.
· Shades of Green Resort – Armed Forces Recreation Center on Disney property provides various packages for active duty, reservists, guardmen, 100% service connected disabled, and retired military personnel and their families. Go to www.shadesofgreen.org for information. Special discounts for rooms may be available based on occupancy levels, and special ticket rates. (407) 824-3400
· Vet Centers are available for combat zone veterans to help with personal and family readjustment counseling and outreach services. The nearest centers are located in Orlando, Melbourne, Clermont, and Daytona Beach. www.vetcenter.va.gov/
· The Navy Exchange (NEX) still exists in Orlando for all branches of active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, retirees, 100% service-connected disabled veterans and their dependents. It is located west of Orlando Int’l Airport, about 1 mile south of the Beachline Expy/528 on Tradeport Dr. Competitive pricing and programs. 7151 Earhart Dr., Orlando, 32827. www.mynavyexchange.com 407-857-3550
· Military OneSource is a free service provided by the Department of Defense (DoD) to active duty, Guard and Reserve service members, and their families with comprehensive information on every aspect of military life including deployment, relationships, economics, grief, education, parenting and child care, and much more. www.militaryonesource.mil
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 comprehensive list of groups that will allow interested persons to contact you and perhaps they will 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!
Caring and sharing,
Cathy Haynes
Member/supporter of numerous veteran and military organizations in Central Florida
407-239-8468
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