Veteran With PTSD Service Dog Unwelcomed At Wal-Mart?

UPDATE
Wal-Mart disputes veteran’s claim of ill treatment in store

“Service animals are welcome inside our stores,” Wal-Mart, headquartered in Bentonville, Ark., said in an emailed statement to the Herald. “After looking into the details of this situation including reviewing surveillance video and statements from associates, we’ve determined that our associate attempted to ask the customer about his dog and the customer immediately began verbally accosting both our associate and a member of management who attempted to assist. The customer treated our associates with disrespect including the use of profane language and was asked to leave the property or law enforcement would be called.” Wal-Mart declined to share the video clip with the Herald.

Vet says local Wal-Mart kicked him out over service dog issue
Killeen Daily Herald
Jacob Brooks Herald staff writer
July 25, 2015 4:30 am

Alvarado said he was very surprised by the situation. He had gone to that Wal-Mart many times before with his service dog and never had a problem.

HARKER HEIGHTS — An Army combat veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder said he was forced out of the Harker Heights Wal-Mart Supercenter earlier this month after a store employee demanded to see paperwork for the service dog he had with him.

Dave Alvarado, 39, went to the retail store to buy a few items July 10, right after he finished a counseling session for his PTSD, which he said he developed during two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan.

When Alvarado, a Nolanville resident, entered the store with his PTSD service dog — a female red healer named Lil’ Bit — he was confronted by the Wal-Mart greeter.

“She physically stepped in front of me and said I couldn’t come in unless I showed a certificate showing it was a service dog,” he said. Lil’ Bit, who weighs about 50 pounds, was wearing her service dog vest, which says “Service Dog” on one side and “Ask to Pet” on the other.
read more here

PTSD Vietnam Veteran In Jail Instead of Treatment?

Veteran With PTSD Jailed Twice In 2 Days: Family Says He Needs Help, Not Jail
WHO 13 News Iowa
BY AARON BRILBECK
JULY 23, 2015

The family says they recently tried to have Schutty committed, but because of a lack of mental health options in Iowa they have been turned away time and time again. They say he doesn’t belong in a jail cell.

NEWTON, Iowa — 68-year old John Schutty of Newton was arrested twice in two days on assault and weapons charges. The first time, Tuesday, police say he chased a woman in his Hummer along Highway Six and forced her into this parking lot.

When police arrived he told them that, as a Vietnam vet he was obligated “Take care of drug dealers” and that “There are people who kill for money and people who kill for fun, but a ranger does both and that’s what he is.”

Despite the threat, Schutty was released from jail, and the very next day showed up at a Git N Go gas station; and he was armed. “They had problems with the prepay and my employee went out to help him.” manager Misty Wooters said, “And he noticed the gun on the bumper with the safety off.”

Schutty, according to police, then went inside. “The guy threatened to shoot people.” Wooters said,”It was a disaster.”

Schutty is in jail, but his family says that’s not where he belongs. They say Schutty is a Vietnam Veteran who struggles with PTSD. He’s been treated for the disorder, but as he gets older, they say, his demons get stronger.
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Captain of Comedy Donny O'Malley Gives Prevention Legs,,,Really

Marines march in silkies to raise suicide awareness
Marine Corps Times
By James K. Sanborn, Staff writer
July 24, 2015

Above all, O’Malley seeks to extend the camaraderie veterans enjoyed while deployed or in garrison beyond their years in uniform. That, he says, goes a long way to keep those who are struggling from feeling so isolated and misunderstood after returning to civilian life that they self-destruct.

Medically retired Marine Capt. Donny O’Malley is leading a 22-mile walk on Saturday in silkies to raise suicide prevention awareness. (Photo: Blush Studio )

Marines and veterans are trekking more than 13 miles along a California boardwalk to raise awareness about suicide prevention — and they'll be wearing very little in the process.

Medically retired Marine Capt. Donny O’Malley is combining some of the things Marines love most in his effort to bring awareness to a serious issue: humor and very short shorts known as silkies.

The former infantry officer-turned-comedian is leading participants on a 22-kilometer road march on Saturday while they each carry 22 kilograms — nearly 50 pounds — of gear. The number of kilometers they'll walk and the weight that they'll carry represents the 22 service members who die from suicide each day.

O'Malley and other participants will walk in little more than silkies and boots while carrying their packs. They'll start at South Mission Beach Jetty in San Diego and will head about 13 and a half miles north to La Jolla Cove.

“Imagine a pub crawl with all your Marine buddies wearing nothing but silkies and rucks on the most crowded and beautiful boardwalk in California. That’s what’s going on here,” the event’s Facebook page says.

The road march, which departs at about 11 a.m., is organized by a group O’Malley helped to found called Irreverent Warriors. They're teaming with VETality Corp., another veteran support organization, in their mission to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress and suicide prevention.
read more here

Losing the Battle at Home, Veterans Remember Jessie Tolbert

Surviving the War; Losing the Battle at Home
WOWT NBC Omaha
Brian Mastre
Jul 24, 2015

“PTSD comes in many forms,” said his platoon leader Graber. “As a leader – sometimes those who are the strongest are suffering the most and you can't pick up on it until later. Sometimes it hits them months and years later.”

They've given everything for their country but when they come home they lose hope. It doesn't have to be that way. Brian Mastre reports: Surviving the War; Losing the Battle at Home

A close-knit unit of the Army's 259th Field Service Company came back together this year for the first time since the team returned from Iraq in 2007.

Back then, none of them envisioned the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia would one day be their reunion destination.

After all, they all came home from the war alive.

The soldiers came to Arlington National Cemetery to meet the family of one of their leaders in Iraq and to finally say goodbye.

The remains of Specialist Jessie Tolbert of West Virginia rest in Section S25 of the Columbarium.

“I knew him from basic training and all the way through our military experience. We were friends,” said Travis Johnson, who traveled from Lakeland, Florida, to be with the rest of the team. “[Jessie] would come at the drop of a hat to bail you out of whatever mess you were in.”

Their platoon leader, Emily Graber, who was in town on other business, stopped by the cemetery to reminisce and remember. “Tolbert was a special soldier. He was always very willing to do whatever you ask him. Sometimes as a leader, that's hard to find. he was so energetic with what you do and he so loved the military.”

The get-together was months in the making. Around the first of the year, veteran Kyle Hanson of Omaha – another one of Jessie Tolbert's friends and fellow soldiers – along with Jenna Vaughn of Lincoln – another member of the team – tried to find Tolbert online to warn him of bad news. One of their friends had died from a brain aneurysm.

“None of the phone numbers for him worked anymore," said Hanson, "And so I went online to look for him – and I didn't find a phone number – but his obituary.”

Jessie Tolbert had killed himself in 2012. It took more than two years for the news to reach the rest of the team.
read more here

Boots On The Wire, War Not Left Behind

Motorcycle Ride Honor Fallen Army Ranger Life Saver After Death

Motorcycle Ride Honors Army Ranger Killed In Afghanistan
CBS Minnesota
Jennifer Mayerle
July 24, 2015

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – On Saturday morning, hundreds will ride motorcycles in honor of an Army Ranger who died after being shot in Afghanistan six years ago. Fire sparked by lightning almost halted Friday night’s fundraising part of the Memorial Ride.

Twenty-one-year-old Ben Kopp died after being shot in Afghanistan in 2009. The Army Ranger saved the lives of six of his fellow Rangers, and in death, donated tissue and organs, including his heart, to 75 people.

It’s why Kopp’s mother, Jill Stephenson, and others press on, despite a set-back.

Silent auction items line the room at Bogart’s Place in Apple Valley. The items were saved from her Rosemount home early this morning and some still hold the lingering smell of smoke.

“Lightning struck outside my town home and hit a gas main and it started the box on fire,” Stephenson explained. “You know it’s not my first rodeo with something like this, unfortunately.”

She said a neighbor pounded on the door, saving her and her guests’ lives.

“I don’t think my heart’s ever beat so fast in my life,” Stephenson said. “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing.”
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Navy SEALs Took on Lake Norman to Save Veterans

How many times have you heard it said that PTSD is a sign of weakness? Some are still thinking that even after all these years. Nothing seems to be able to educate them on the simple fact that Medal of Honor recipients have said they suffer from what war did to them. Were they weak? Hell no and they proved that by doing whatever they could to save someone else.

Generals have publicly talked about their own struggles to heal. Members of Special Forces have come forward to show that no matter how courageous they were, no matter how well they were trained, they could not be trained to stop being human and caring.

That is the biggest thing missing in all the talking going on. It is not that they are weak at all. It is because the core of their emotions is so strong they able to do what they do for the sake of someone else. They are willing to "pay any price up to and including their own lives" until everyone goes home.

That is when they feel the pain the most and the danger created by combat is the greatest threat to them.


SEALs Swim Across Lake Norman to Save Veterans from Suicide
FOX 46 Charlotte
Caroline Fountain Digital Journalist
Posted: Jul 24, 2015

The darkness nearly swallowed up Kevin Trainor, a Mooresville veteran.

Lake Norman, N.C. (WJZY) -- Many of our military men and women face death when they are sent into combat. But it's actually here at home where more veterans lose their lives due to post traumatic stress disorder.

A group of Navy SEALs took on Lake Norman Friday for a 13.1 mile swim to bring awareness to the 22 veteran suicides that happen every day. Just last week that number became a lot more real.

Members of the community also took to the water for a 1.2 mile swim all to help save veteran’s lives.

"These are our national treasures that we're losing to suicide. We're going to stand in the gap for these guys. We're not going to let them fade away into darkness and hopelessness. We're going to show up every year and we're going to swim and raise awareness and get the word out. It's growing. We are making an impact in our community," said Shannon Rusch, Navy SEAL and founder of SEAL Swim Charities.

"We just lost another brother last week who was with the rescue swimmer group. We're fixing to lay him to rest. Through PTSD, he took his own life," said Trainor.
read more here

Central Florida Veteran Events

Upcoming Veteran Community Events from Cathy Haynes shows there is always something for Central Florida veterans to do and she does a great job putting this list together. An event I have along with Semper Fidelis and the VFW Post 4287 is this

Celebrating Sisterhood of Service – Sat Aug 8 - For Military Women and Veterans - they come home and too many citizens forget she served too! It happened to all generations of women after risking their lives but not always were they thanked equally for it. 9am video/photo shoot at VFW Post 4287, 3500 S. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando 32822. We're asking all veterans participating to wear a plain black T-Shirt. If you have a black T-shirt with military theme that is fine too. You are encouraged to wear your military hats if you have them. Info: 407-754-7526 woundedtimes@ aol.com. (Thank you for this info Kathy DiCesare!)

We need veterans from all generations to participate in this effort. Call me at 407-754-7526 if you want more information.

FROM CATHY HAYNES

July/August list of Central Florida veteran, military or patriotic events

Send me your events – people cannot attend an event if they don’t know about it!

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

It’s Hurricane Season and we are overdue…. Whether you are on the Special Needs Registry or not, your county may offer helpful services, such as access to a special needs shelter or transportation from your home to a shelter. Ask your county's Emergency Management Division representative for details. Are there seniors - especially veterans - in your neighborhood?   Please assist them with preparedness for any disaster – natural or man-made.    Info:    www. floridadisaster.org/fl_county_em.asp.

Back to School Back Pack Party – Sun July 26 – Deadline to register for Sat Aug 8.   See below.

Model Home Furnishing sale – Sat, Sun July 25, 26 – Benefiting Camaraderie Foundation - Proceeds from the sale will go towards programs that help Veterans and their families "heal from the invisible wounds of war."  Designer furniture, artwork and home accessories will be available for purchase – brands include Century, Tommy Bahama, Hooker, Rowe, Stanley, West Elm and more.   8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 134 Baywood Avenue, Longwood, 32750 (Off of CR 427.) Items are not available for viewing or purchase prior to sale date.  All purchases must be picked up the same day.   Cash, Visa and MasterCard accepted.   No Checks Please.  Camaraderie Foundation   - sbowlin@ camaraderiefoundation.org  407-841-0071   www. camaraderiefoundation.org   (Flyer available)

Also:   Volunteers are needed the day of the sale to help load furniture.   No vehicle is needed, just strong arms!!

Yellow Ribbon Event – Sun July 26 – Thank Air Force personnel for their service at this 10:30 am gathering at The Hyatt Regency (formerly Peabody Hotel.)   This event combines AF personnel who are going on deployment within the next 120 days or have just returned from deployment.   Join the local Patriot Guard as they honor them with a Flag Line of gratitude.   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. The events focus on members and their family concerns in preparation for deployment and providing military and community resource information workshops and stress management. For those members that have returned from deployment, the event focuses on reconnecting with family, community and employers.   10:30 am for after 11am presentation at The Hyatt Regency Orlando (old Peabody Hotel), 9801 International Drive, Orlando, 32819.   Bring your 3ft x 5ft patriotic flags and meet on the back side (north east corner) of the hotel.   Info:   David (Flyboy) Shelton, Dshelton01@ aol.com  321-689-4699.

Seminole County Veterans Service Office – Tues Jul 28 – On most Tuesdays the office conducts takes walk-ins from 9 am to 3 pm.   Due to a conflict in scheduling, on Tuesday July 28th only, walk-ins will be limited from noon until 3 pm.   The office is located at 534 West Lake Mary Boulevard in Sanford, 32773 - located in the Reflections Plaza at Hidden Lakes, 1/2 mile west of 17-92.

Normally the office takes appointments on M, W, Th, and F from    8am– 5pm and Tuesdays are walk-ins – first come, first served from 9am – 3pm.    407-665-2300

(Thank you for the info, Ed Burford!)

USS Indianapolis – 30 July - Just past midnight July 30, 1945, two torpedoes from a Japanese submarine struck the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis with almost 1,196 men aboard. The subsequent explosions obliterated the ship’s front end, and tons of water rushed in.   There was no time to send emergency communication. Due to its secret mission of delivering the nuclear bomb parts to the United States air base on the island of Tinian in the Pacific Ocean, no one knew they were there. Nearly 300 of the Indy’s crew went down with the ship. Of the 900 who abandoned ship, only 317 would survive.   Hundreds died from shark attacks, dehydration or hypothermia.  After 5 days with no food or water, they just happened to be spotted by an airplane passing by.   This year is the last reunion of the survivors – the 70 ^th anniversary.   Less than 36 sailors remain and they are in frail and failing health.   Offer a prayer and hoist a drink in honor of the memory of the Worst Naval Disaster in United States history……….

Women Veterans Conference – Thurs and Fri July 30-31 – Florida Statewide 2nd Annual conference in Tampa on the campus of University of South Florida.   Wide range of subjects of concern for the female vets are discussed – from healthcare, legal, employment, homelessness, etc.       www. floridavets.org

Hilton Job Fair – Fri July 31 – Hilton Worldwide will be hiring for lots of jobs from 11am – 3pm at the Lake Baldwin site of the Orlando VA, outpatient clinic area in Auditorium A, 5201 Raymond St., Orlando, 32803.  Positions to fill include Call Center, Guest Service Mgmt, Cooks, Servers, Business Intelligence Analyst, Housekeeping, Recruiting and Marketing, Sales, Night Auditor, Customer Service, SR Financial Analyst, Laundry, Communications Professionals and more.   Bring resumes’, business attire highly recommended.  Contact Annie Artis – Central Florida Veteran Community Employment Coordinator, ellamay.artis @va.gov  407-629-1599 x1846

Veterans of Influence – Fri July 31 – Deadline for nominations into the Orlando Business Journal compilation for the Veterans of Influence Awards.   It will recognize military veterans who have made a significant achievement in their careers in the past year, have a strong record of innovation or outstanding performance in their work and are actively involved in our community. Honorees will be recognized at a Sept. 30 event, and results will be published in the Sept. 25, 2015, issue of Orlando Business Journal. To nominate someone go to Orlando Business Journal website, click “Events”, click “Nominations”

City of Orlando Mayors’ Veterans Advisory Council – Thurs. Aug 6 – 1:30pm monthly meeting of numerous organizations and individuals for the benefit of local veterans and active duty personnel.   Planning of functions (ie:   Veterans Day parade) and awareness of events is shared.   Designated representatives allow groups to coordinate efforts.   If your Orlando area vet/military associated group isn’t attending, it should plan to get involved.   Networking before and after the meeting.   See website at cityoforlando.net, Office of the Mayor, Mayor’s Committees, Veterans.    Contact Chairman Michael Waldrop for attendance and location information.   mwaldrop@ blue-cord.com

FAVOB After Hours Gathering – Thurs Aug 6 – Florida Association of Veteran Owned Business (FAVOB) invites interested persons to network and develop friendships.   This month we meet at the ‘The Smiling Bison’ in Baldwin Park, (former Navy Training Base area) 5:30 – 7:30ish.   745 Bennet Rd, Orlando, 32803.   BTW, the owner Ron is a Navy vet!   Info: Ilana at ilana.moreno@ yahoo.com 321-946-5657 or see our Facebook page!

Veteran Infused Employment Workshop (VIEW) – Fri Aug 7 – 10am – 1pm   The Orlando VA Medical Center is offering a series of Veterans Employment Seminars aimed specifically at the needs of Veterans who are seeking jobs in the Central Florida area.   Eight (8) weekly courses are available beginning August 7 to prepare you to successfully research, search, network, apply, interview, accept and retain desirable employment with skill and confidence.   Contact Annie Artis - EllaMay.Artis @va.gov   407-629-1599 x1846

National Purple Heart Day – Fri.  Aug 7 – Thank a wounded warrior today – and every day!   Check outwww.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.   Join Orlando Chapter 400 on Wed. Sept 16 at 7pm, Orlando Elks Lodge, 12 N. Primrose Dr., Orlando, 32803.   Contact mmichles@att.net  407-382-9737

Celebrating Sisterhood of Service – Sat Aug 8 - For Military Women and Veterans - they come home and too many citizens forget she served too! It happened to all generations of women after risking their lives but not always were they thanked equally for it.   9am video/photo shoot at VFW Post 4287, 3500 S. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando 32822.   We're asking all veterans participating to wear a plain black T-Shirt. If you have a black T-shirt with military theme that is fine too.   You are encouraged to wear your military hats if you have them. Info: 407-754-7526   woundedtimes@ aol.com.

(Thank you for this info Kathy DiCesare!)

Back to School Back Pack Party - Sat Aug 8 - The American Legion Family of Post #286 will be supplying over 100 Back Packs filled with school supplies free to local Orlando Area Students 12- 2 pm. There will be games, and lunch. Each child must be accompanied by an adult and register by July 26th, by calling 407-859-1460 with child’s name, age, gender, grade entering, and parent’s name and contact phone number.   American Legion Family (Legionnaires, Auxiliary Unit and Sons of American Legion) at Post 286 Pine Castle, 529 E. Fairlane Ave. Orlando, Fl. 32809 (half a block west of Orange Ave. between Oak Ridge and Fairlane Ave., north of Sand Lake Road in south Orlando.)   Info:   alaunit286pinecastlefl @gmail.com

Third Marine Division Association Reunion – Tues to Sun Aug 11-16 – 2015 Reunion of the Marine Corps 3rd Division at the Double Tree Universal Hotel, 5780 Major Blvd, Orlando, 32819.   The theme is commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War.   It is expected that a few Marines with WW2 service on Iwo Jima will be attending.   Info:   Ron at usmcarty312@ aol.com   630-971-9593.   (Thank you for the flyer, Richard Black!)

NEX – Navy Exchange Special – Aug 12-18   For persons eligible for NEX, the next scratch off coupon event will take place at the Orlando Navy Exchange on August 12-18.   The scratch off coupon allows you to save up to 3 times during this period. One discount per transaction. Get an extra 5%, 10%, 15%, 25% or 50% Off with use of the coupon.   1 in 3 cards has 10% Off or better!   NEX in Orlando is 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. The big white building on the west side of Tradeport -   7151 Earhart Dr., Orlando, 32827.     www.mynavyexchange.com   407-857-3550

Central Florida Navy League luncheon and meeting – Wed. Aug 12 – All persons who support the sea services, whether civilian or military, are welcomed to attend this gathering on the 2nd Wed. of each month.  11:30 – 1pm at the Radisson Hotel (near UCF), 1724 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, 32826.   Interesting speakers and networking potential includes the simulation technology businesses.   $20 with RSVP or $25 at the door.  3rd largest Navy League in FL.   Contact Bob K. (Membership Chair.) at navleaguecenfl@ juno.com    407-977-7575

National 75th Anniversary of Airborne and Special Operations – Wed. Aug 12 – event at 7pm Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive, Orlando, 32819.

82nd Airborne Division Association National Convention – Wed-Mon Aug 12-17 - Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. Special Room Rate:   $85.   Cost/Resister at www. paratrooperdz.com.

Every Day is Veterans Day event – Fri Aug 14 - Information on resources to the Veteran’s community.

10am – 1pm at One Senior Place, 715 Douglas Avenue Altamonte Springs, 32714.   This is a special tribute celebration as we honor and remember the service and sacrifice of our Veterans past and present. Keynote speaker is Colonel Robert C. Springer, a veteran of both NASA and the United States Marine Corps.   Food, Door Prizes and Give Aways.   Flyer available.   Organized by VITAS Healthcare and One Senior Place.  

Does your organization want to have a table to reach others?    Info: 407.949.6733 ormichelle@oneseniorplace.com

Villagers for Veterans event – Fri Aug 14 - A fund-raiser for a service dog for Army Sgt. Pam Kelly. The Army veteran lost the use of both her legs and right arm in a 2006 training accident. She served as the first response combat medic in her unit from 1989 to 2006 and the accident crushed her spine, head and tore both her shoulders.   Kelly has the use of her left arm and needs a multi-task service dog.   Villagers for Veterans club is trying to raise $10,000 to help her.   A karaoke benefit will be held Aug. 14 at 6 pm in the SeaBreeze Recreation Center. “Paws for a Hero” has free admission is free and donations will be accepted.   Basket raffles, 50/50 raffle, karaoke, music and fun.   Info:   Marie Bogdonoff   516-220-5068   villagersforveterans @gmail.com

(Another event on the Villagers for Veterans horizon - On November 7, the group will sponsor a book signing for “Mighty Moms of Walter Reed.” It will be held at the American Legion Lady Lake Post and feature mothers and their wounded sons and daughters who spent time at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.   On another future date V4V hopes to have another fundraiser for John Peck, a Marine who lost both arms and legs while serving in Afghanistan. The group raised $7,000 in a benefit for Peck last summer and he is still waiting for experimental surgery to replace his arms.   Who says that retirement means being bored and sedentary???)

Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses mtg (FAVOB) – Tues Aug 18 – meeting at 10am, a “Chamber of Commerce” of sorts open to all veteran owned businesses, at American Legion Florida Department bldg., 1912A Lee Road, Orlando, FL 32810.   19 states offer contract preferences to veteran owned businesses.   Florida is NOT one of them.   Our goal is to change that in big business, our cities, and counties too.   See FAVOB Facebook site.   Info:   Chairman Michael Waldrop   mwaldrop@ blue-cord.com

Orange County Mayors’ Veterans Advisory Council –Wed. Aug 19 – 1:30pm monthly meeting of numerous organizations and individuals for the benefit of Central FL veterans and active duty personnel.   Planning of events and awareness is shared.   Designated representatives allow groups to coordinate efforts and unite for the common cause.   If your Orange County /Central FL vet/military associated group isn’t attending, it should plan to get involved.   Mayor Teresa Jacobs is very supportive of a veteran-friendly community.   Contact Chairman Edwin Marrero for attendance and location information.   emarrero81@ cfl.rr.com  

Networking for Veterans - Thurs Aug 20 – VetBuds is a group of military veterans whose purpose is to provide an open forum and networking source.  9am at First Watch cafe’, 1221 S. Orlando Ave, Maitland, 32751 (between Lake Ave and Circle Dr)  Veterans might help each other through our combined businesses, social and personal knowledge and connections.  Purchase your own breakfast, informal/casual meeting.  No dues.  Info:  Forrest   citrusolution91@ gmail.com   407-347-6499

Greeters needed!  Honor Flight Welcome Home –Sat. Aug 22 – Orlando Int’l Airport –After a day spent in Washington DC, 25 veterans of WWII and Korea return home thru Orlando Int’l Airport.   The hub of the nation-wide organization will 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 10pm and enter the terminal area at about 10:30 – 11pm. Come welcome these former warriors home!   “Welcome Home” receptions at the airports makes a difference!   Bring your flags, banners and signs! – Southwest Airlines #915 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 (tips welcomed by drivers!) - Contact Cathy Haynes for those details NLT 7pm   -   chaynes11629@yahoo.com    407-239-8468.

New:   Vouchers are available for airport garage parking from a GOAA rep. in the terminal for this event – maximum of 3 hours – BUT you have to take a paper/card upon entering the airport garage.   The vouchers will not work if you use the E-Pass/SunPass transponders – we cannot credit back the charge.

For the Early Birds - you can wave these veterans off in the morning no later than 5am – same location.   They process thru Security early and quickly.   Wave them off for a wonderful day!

(FOR THE REMAINDER OF HONOR FLIGHTS IN 2015, SEE BELOW.)

Veterans Business Initiative (VBI) - Tues Aug 25 - The VBI will run for eight weeks starting Tues Aug 25 through October with two sessions per day.   This is a no cost program for all Veterans who are seeking entrepreneurship opportunities, employment and continuing education. It will be held at the Central Florida Disability Chamber of Commerce (CFDC) located at the National Entrepreneur Center, 3201 E. Colonial Dr., Suite A-120, Orlando, 32803.   Register before Fri Aug 21.   Info:   Lisa Hancock at lisah@ mnpwr.com; Rogue Gallart rogue@ nationalec.org  407-420-4875    www. cfdisabilitychamber.org  

Central Florida Veterans Inc. mtg – Tues Aug 25 – Meeting of veterans and groups in the Central Florida area.   Meeting includes a guest speaker and sharing of information that is important to veterans.   This group meets on the LAST Tuesday of every other month. (Even numbered months) in the Orlando VA Medical Center at Lake Baldwin in the Cafeteria.   5:30pm.   Info:   Greg Smith at 901-438-7734   farside53@gmail.com

A Veterans Community Inaugural Golf Tournament – Fri Aug 28 – Fundraiser at North Shore Golf Club at Lake Nona.   8:30am Shotgun start.   Army LTG Jack Stultz, (ret.) formerly Chief Army Reserve, will serve as our Honorary Grand Marshall and will be joining us for golf and remarks.  This Central Florida not-for-profit has a mission to provide safe, and stable housing to homeless Veterans and their families    $125 for 1 golfer, or $400 for a foursome, includes 18 holes of golf, happy hour, door prizes, and all contests.   Sponsorships welcomed.   Info: sarah@ aveteranscommunity.org or Kyle Evans   407-810-1916kyle.evans@redconsolutionsgroup.com

ON THE HORIZON

Spirit of 45 event - Tues Sept 1 - Special tribute honoring our local WWII heroes and commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the End of WWII.   9:30am – 11am, Winter Park Civic Center 1050 W. Morse. Ave. Winter Park, 32789.   Musical Salute by VFW 2093 Community Band and soloist Charles Haugabrooks.   All veterans and family members welcome. Flyer available.   Sponsored by VITAS Healthcare.   RSVP to Veronica Soto 407.599.2534   veronica.soto@vitas.com     

September 2, 1945 – V-J Day.   Thank a Pacific Theater veteran for his/her service!

Orange County Hispanic Heritage Month exhibit – Wed. Sep 9 - Kick off of Hispanic Heritage Month at the History Center.    Part of the exhibit will be a commemoration of the US Army 65th Infantry – “The Borinqueneers”.   In 1899, the Army 65th Infantry Regiment from Puerto Rico was established.   It was the largest, longest-standing, & only active-duty segregated Latino military unit in US history until 1959.   The Borinqueneers played a prominent role in World War I, World War II, and particularly the Korean War.   They performed many remarkable military accomplishments despite the additional burdens of segregation and prejudice.   The group will receive the Congressional Gold Medal recognition – like the Tuskegee Airmen, Navajo Code Talkers, Women Air Service Pilots, and others.   A ceremony is being planned for later in the year in Washington DC.   With over 60 Borinqueneers still living in the Central Florida area, an effort is being made to take them to Washington for the unveiling of the medal.

Anyone who is a Borinqueneer, whose family member is/was one, who has some items to display on temporary loan, please contact Dennis Freytes   407-298-1151   dennisfreytes@ hotmail.com

September 11 Memorial Event – Sat. Sept 12 – Fire and Iron Motorcycle Club will hold Station 10’s 7th Annual 9-11 Memorial Event at 10am at the American Legion Post 2874 S. Sanford Ave, Sanford, 32773.  Active, retired, volunteer Firefighters, fire service connected and interested others, with and without motorcycles gather to commemorate the Brotherhood and significance of Sept. 11, 2001. Other area Fire and Iron stations will also be present.   Food and fun after the ceremony.   (Flyer available.) Contact Capt. Ron Ryan  fandi10pres@ gmail.com  

Golf Tournament – Sat. Sept 19 – American Legion Post 286 sponsors this event with proceeds to benefit homeless veterans in Orange County.   Registration deadline is Sept 5.   8:30 start at Dubsdread Golf Course, 549 W. Par St, Orlando.   $75 includes lunch and prizes.   407-859-1460

Gold Star Mother’s and Families  – Sun Sep 27 – Are you a family who lost a loved one while in military service or know someone else who did?   Please share this information with them and contact 407-691-4548 before Sept. 15.   This day was originally established in 1936 as Gold Star Mother’s Day and many communities have included all family members.   A remembrance ceremony will be held from 3pm – 5pm in the Orlando City Hall Rotunda, 400 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, 32802.   Bring a photo of your loved one.  Caring public is invited.   Event coordination is being done by VITAS and AUSA.  Info: Eva at 407-691-4579  eva.paganhill@ vitas.com   Or De at   daila.espeut-jones@ zeltech.com

City of Orlando Veterans Day Parade Applications Available

The 16th annual City of Orlando Veterans Day Parade is Saturday, Nov. 14 in Downtown Orlando. Veterans groups, active-duty military, marching bands and youth organizations are encouraged to participate in the parade, which will be televised live on Central Florida News 13. Applications for the parade are currently available by visiting cityoforlando.net/ veteransparade. Contact Doug Richards at douglas.richards@ cityoforlando.net or 407.246.2782 for more information.

Oct 3 - I CAARE for Law Enforcement Ride – fundraiser and information resource by Wounded Officers Initiative, Windermere Police Foundation, and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 93 (Orange County Sheriff's Office) 10:30am from the Seminole Harley dealer at 620 Hickman Circle in Sanford, and will end at the American Police Hall of Fame and Museum at 6350 Horizon Drive in Titusville.   www. WoundedOfficersInitiative.org   More info later.

Nov 14 – Marine Corps Foundation organizing the 240th Marine Corps Birthday Ball in Orlando.   You don’t have to have served in the USMC to attend.   Sponsorships welcomed.   Info: Jan Baka at jan.baka@ ecs-federal.com   407-745-3029   www. centralfloridamarines.org  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Young Marines need help - 9 Young Marines of the Orlando Devil Dogs unit. Young Marines (ages 8 to 18) from across the country gather in Window Rock, AZ, to honor and give praise to the Navajo Code Talkers from WWII. The Young Marines’ theme for the 2015 event is “Teaching Today’s Youth about Yesterday’s Heroes.”  These Young Marines will be attending a class about the Code Talkers, setting up flags and marching in the Navajo Nation parade.   They will be providing gifts for the Navajo Code Talkers families and visiting the Navajo Nation Zoo and the Navajo Museum.  

Your contribution will help cover the airfares, accommodations, meals and other fees and expenses to host the 9 teenage Young Marines during the Annual Navajo Code Talkers Day events that will take place from August 13 to the 15th 2015.   See:   gofundme.com    This effort will make a lifetime impact on these young men and women.   You don’t see these youth’s pictures and stories in the media – they’re too busy doing too much good in our communities instead of becoming problems….

HONOR FLIGHTS from area hubs for the remainder of 2015:

Sat. Aug 22 –25 vets     Southwest Airlines #915 from BWI; Arriving MCO at 10pm.

Thurs. Sep 10 – 35 vets   - Southwest Airlines #407 from BWI; Arriving MCO at 8.35pm.

Sat. Sep 12 – Central FL hub – no information.

Sat. Sep 26 – Villages Flightless Honor Flight – 15 vets of WW2 will make a “Kiwi Flight” – kiwis are flightless birds.   It is a virtual tour via video format of all Washington DC monument stops and ceremonies except that this flight does not leave the ground.   It is a unique effort because it allows veterans to experience the trip even though they are medically unable to fly.    A “Welcome Home” reception is still held at 2pm – public invited – at American Legion Post #347 (Rolling Acres), 699 W Lady Lake Blvd, Lady Lake, 32159.  An Honor Flight with everything except leaving the ground.   Villages Honor Flight was recognized by the national Honor Flight Network for this unique concept!

Sat Sep 26 – 25 vets     Southwest Airlines #915 from BWI; Arriving MCO at 10pm.

Sat Oct 17 –-25 vets    Southwest Airlines #915 from BWI; Arriving MCO at 10pm.

NEWLY ADDED - Fri Oct 23 – 25 vets   info pending.

Sat Oct 24 – Central FL hub – no information.

Wed Oct 28 – 35 vets - Southwest Airlines #915 from BWI; Arriving MCO at 10.00pm

INFO to keep and share - because we care

Veterans in crisis – For you or someone you know - Confidential Hotline:  1-800-273-8255, #1. 

Or:   Website at   veteranscrisisline    provides 24/7 confidential chat online assistance;

Or:   text 838255   for   24/7 confidential assistance.   They are there because they care….

Camaraderie Foundation in Central Florida provides resources for private and confidential Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) counseling for warriors and their families.    It works.   It has saved lives, marriages and families.  Contact 407-841-0071

Caring and sharing,

Cathy Haynes

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

407-239-8468

chaynes11629@yahoo.com

"Death Letter: God, Sex and War" Chaplain's Book Turned Into Movie

Veteran's story of his 'invisible wounds' to be made into movie in Pittsburgh 
Pittsburgh Post Gazette
Janice Crompton
July 24, 2015

The book is called “Death Letter: God, Sex and War.” It is named after those just-in-case letters penned by every soldier to their loved ones before they head off to the front. It focuses on God, sex and war, “the three biggest mythologies of our imagination,” the chaplain said.

Erik Shaw and his wife Kristen. The couple married via live video satellite feed in 2005 after Mr. Shaw feared he would be killed in combat in Southern Baghdad. Just days earlier, he suffered a traumatic brain injury during a roadside improvised explosive device attack.

When Army Chaplain David Peters returned from active duty in Iraq nine years ago, he discovered that even though he no longer was living in the chaos of war, the battle within was just beginning.

Not long after he returned home, he got divorced ”and started serially dating and wondered, ’What is wrong with me?’ ”

But Rev. Peters realized that he had “to keep it together” for the wounded troops he was ministering to at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

The Bucks County native joined a writing program and tried to find answers to the challenges he was facing concerning religion, sexuality and relationships. While he found plenty of books about war and post-traumatic stress disorder, they glossed over the more intimate subjects of love and sex.

“I decided to write the book I needed to read,” he said. For Rev. Peters, the struggle represented “the invisible wounds I brought back with me.”

The book was published by Pittsburgh native and Army Sgt. 1st Class Erik Shaw, also an Iraq War veteran who started a publishing company as a way to help veterans with traumatic brain injuries and PTSD.
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