Today at the VFW Post 4287 in Orlando, Semper Fidelis America Orlando Rocks for Air Force Master Sgt. Joe Deslauriers. This is the 4th Annual event for Orlando Rocks begun by one woman with a passion and vision for our veterans, Mary Louise and you can see past events below but for now, this is Joe's day.
Navy Lt. Cmdr. Jeremiah Jackson, left, Air Force Master Sgt. Joe Deslauriers, center, and Army Master Sgt. Guertin, rear, begin the procession for a wreath laying ceremony at the Bellingham, Mass., war memorial, May 19, 2013. Master Sgt. Deslauriers, an explosive ordnance disposal technician assigned to the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron and Bellingham, Mass., native, received a Silver Star for gallantry in action.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Capt. Belena S. Marquez/Released)
Technical Sergeant Joseph R. Deslauriers was born in Bellingham, Massachusetts, a small town southwest of Boston. He is the son of Joseph and Muriel Deslauriers, and brother to Celeste. Joe attended Bellingham Junior as well as Bellingham Senior High Schools where he lettered in football and baseball. He graduated from high school on June 6th, 1996 and was accepted to Framingham State College (Mass) where he continued to play football.
After attending Framingham State College for one year, Joe returned back to Bellingham and decided to join the United States Air Force. His desire was to serve his country and to travel and so he joined the Air Force on February 18, 1998. After graduating basic training Joe attended technical training at Eglin Air Force Base Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) phase one and then went on to phase two of training at Indian Head, Maryland. Upon graduation of EOD technical training school, Joe was stationed at Spangdahlem Air Force Base, Germany. While stationed there, Joe deployed to Gioia de Colle, Italy for Operation Allied Force during the Kosovo campaign. He then returned to Germany for three more months where he then deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Southern Watch. After returning from Kuwait, he PCS’d to Osan Air Force Base, Republic of Korea where he served as an EOD technician. From Korea, Joe was transferred to Hurlburt Field, FL home of the US Air Force Special Operations Command where he is currently stationed. While stationed there, he has deployed to Iraq in support of OIF and to Afghanistan three times in support of OEF. Joe also has also deployed to Africa in support of AFSOC operations as well. Joe married his sweetheart Lisa on 13 Nov 2010 and deployed to his last OEF tour a few months later
While on his last deployment in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan, Joe was conducting route clearance operations for a US Marine Combat Engineer Battalion when 3 IED blasts occurred. During the post blast investigation, Joe stepped on a pressure plate in an area which had already been swept and deemed clear. He had walked over the area on four different occasions and was returning to his vehicle when the blast occurred. His injuries were catastrophic Joe received an amputation of both legs above the knees and an amputation of his left arm below the elbow. Additionally, Joe also suffered from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and is now suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Jan 14, 2013
On Saturday Semper Fidelis held a fundraiser for a Green Beret, double amputee at the VFW Post 4287 in Orlando. Mary Ingrassia arranged the event and all of her hard work paid off. Everyone had a great time and over $10,000 was raised for Josh's recovery.
Jan 19, 2014
Last night proved beyond a doubt that when people come together for a common cause, mountains are moved out of the way!
Last year, Mary Ingrassia heard about a Green Beret double amputee Josh Burnette and decided to do something to help him. Semper Fidelis America President John Murphy has always been about team work. Just ask any of the veterans groups in Central Florida and they will tell you how active he and his wife Teresa are. Doug Pattelena, Commander VFW Post 4287 also knows this. Because they worked together, Josh knew how much he was loved with a fabulous night of appreciation, fun and over $10,000 in donations for his future.
Durning the event Mary heard about another young combat wounded hero, Bo Reichenbach. Bo, a Navy SEAL, lost both of his legs in 2012 while serving in Afghanistan. It was his time to be star of the show at the VFW.
Even Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer sent a proclamation declaring Bo Reichenbach Day!
Jan. 18, 2015
Marine Cpl. Adam Devine was honored by a huge crowd on January 17th at the VFW Post 4287 in Orlando, sponsored by Semper Fidelis America. Adam was wounded in Afghanistan. This is from the motorcycle escort thru the streets of Orlando.
Veterans VA "Minefield" Nothing New Wounded Times Kathie Costos March 5, 2016 Davich: Veterans new battlefield – VA's healthcare minefield is the headline on the Chicago Tribune from Jerry Davich. The trouble is, there isn't anything "new" about any of this! Go the VA someday and see what I mean. The majority of the veterans there are from all the other wars that left disabled veteran feeling unable to contemplate what the words "grateful nation" really mean. The story is about the new generation of veterans coming home, facing what hasn't been fixed for all the other veterans before them.
Carlos Villarreal did his best to curb his frustration while talking on the phone with the representative from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
"Sir, I've already had this same conversation with five million other VA reps," Villarreal said as politely as possible. "Yes, sir, I've already had this talk for my consultation and I'm still waiting and waiting for my appointment."
Villarreal, 31, of Hobart, is a former U.S. Marines sergeant who was seriously wounded in combat while serving in Iraq in 2005. Mortar fire caused severe hearing loss, lingering wounds to his mouth and, later, post-traumatic stress disorder.
Nothing new about any of this, but why bother to actually report what has been going on all along? Here's some history reporters don't bother with. Until they do, nothing will change. Department of Veterans Affairs
The United States has the most comprehensive system of assistance for Veterans of any nation in the world, with roots that can be traced back to 1636, when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony were at war with the Pequot Indians. The Pilgrims passed a law that stated that disabled soldiers would be supported by the colony. Later, the Continental Congress of 1776 encouraged enlistments during the Revolutionary War, providing pensions to disabled soldiers. In the early days of the Republic, individual states and communities provided direct medical and hospital care to Veterans. In 1811, the federal government authorized the first domiciliary and medical facility for Veterans. Also in the 19th century, the nation's Veterans assistance program was expanded to include benefits and pensions not only for Veterans, but for their widows and dependents.
Following the Civil War, many state Veterans homes were established. Since domiciliary care was available at all state Veterans homes, incidental medical and hospital treatment was provided for all injuries and diseases, whether or not of service origin. Indigent and disabled Veterans of the Civil War, Indian Wars, Spanish-American War, and Mexican Border period, as well as the discharged regular members of the Armed Forces, received care at these homes.
As the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, Congress established a new system of Veterans benefits, including programs for disability compensation, insurance for service personnel and Veterans, and vocational rehabilitation for the disabled. By the 1920s, three different federal agencies administered the various benefits: the Veterans Bureau, the Bureau of Pensions of the Interior Department, and the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers.
The first consolidation of federal Veterans programs took place August 9, 1921, when Congress combined all World War I Veterans programs to create the Veterans Bureau. Public Health Service Veterans’ hospitals were transferred to the bureau, and an ambitious hospital construction program for World War I Veterans commenced.
Oh, but why remember all of those generations since they're all dead now? Because what they went through mattered enough to the rest of this country and the government promised to take care of them. House Veterans Affairs Committee, seated in 1946 and given jurisdiction over everything veterans were promised for risking their lives for the rest of this "grateful nation" they returned to. This was reported by Gregg Carlstom for Federal Times on February 25, 2008 showing the years of veterans waiting for members of Congress to do their jobs.
Poor planning by agency leaders and underfunding by Congress created these debilitating backlogs that may take years to resolve, according to federal officials, legislators and watchdog groups. At the start of the Bush administration in 2001, VA had more than 400,000 pending claims for disability ratings, which determine a service-disabled veteran’s employability and disability benefits. The department made progress reducing that number: By 2003, the backlog was down to around 250,000.
But then the nation went to war.
“VA was kind of cruising right along with a certain volume of claims until the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Then the volume of claims increased,” said Belinda Finn, VA’s assistant inspector general for auditing. “We still had the same processes for handling a lower workload, and the system just hasn’t been able to handle the increase in claims.”
And so the backlog started creeping up. By 2008, VA once again has more than 400,000 pending claims for a disability rating. About 25 percent of those are officially considered backlogged, meaning they have been pending longer than six months.
“The number of claims that we receive each year has been going up pretty steadily,” said Michael Walcoff, VA’s associate deputy undersecretary for field operations. “In 2000, we got 578,000 claims, and last year got 838,000. That’s a pretty significant increase, and certainly some of that can be attributed to the soldiers coming back from [the wars].”
President Obama took office with a backlog of claims at 803,000 on January 5, 2009. By May it was 915,000. So if reporters keep trying to pretend that any of this is new, it will keep getting worse for older veterans after they waited longer, suffered longer and have been forgotten about.
Kansas' First Veterans Treatment Court Convenes In Johnson County KCUR News
By KYLE J SMITH
March 4, 2016
“This is not the easy path out. The person is supervised in some instances more heavily than they would be if they were on probation.”
Dion Sankar with Jackson County's veteran court
The first Veterans Treatment Court is now in session in
Johnson County giving veterans options other than incarceration.
WIKIPEDIA -- CREATIVE COMMONS
Kansas’ first Veterans Treatment Court went into session in the Johnson County Courthouse on January 13, making the state the 41st in the nation to start such a program.
The court provides veteran offenders a diversion track through the Johnson County District Attorney’s office and a probation track offered through Johnson County District Court Services. They also link veterans with programs, benefits and services for which they are eligible.
Court officials pay special attention to conditions that may have risen as a result of active military service, including post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, depression, and substance abuse.
The Veteran’s Treatment Court was spearheaded by Judge Timothy McCarthy of the 10th Judicial District of Kansas. In order for a veteran to be eligible for the court, their felony must be a level 4 or lower. read more here
Goshen Air Force veteran recalls Persian Gulf War Associated Press By BRUNO MATARAZZO JR. Saturday, March 5, 2016
TORRINGTON, Conn. (AP) - Soldiers suffered burns, broken bones and amputations. The trip from the various MASH units to the military hospital in Germany during Operation Desert Storm meant an airplane ride for injured troops.
Often, Donald Sage of Goshen was with them.
Now retired, the Air Force master sergeant from the 74th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron at Westover Air Force Base in Massachusetts was part of a crew of Air Force reserve soldiers who transported injured soldiers during the war in 1991.
The Persian Gulf War ended 25 years ago on Feb. 28, when President George H.W. Bush declared a ceasefire.
“Kuwait is liberated. Iraq’s army is defeated. Our military objectives are met,” Bush announced in a brief television address from the Oval Office the night before the cease fire.
It went into effect at midnight on the East Coast of the U.S.; 8 a.m. in Kuwait and Iraq.
“If you weren’t deployed over there, a lot of them don’t think that they deserve to be recognized, which is completely wrong,” Sage said. ” … If they weren’t doing their jobs back here, there wouldn’t be people over there.” read more here
Armed muggers who 'held up hero Afghanistan veteran at an ATM and shot him dead when he pulled his own gun' are arrested Daily Mail By ALEXANDRA KLAUSNER PUBLISHED: 5 March 2016
Army veteran Tyler Lackey, 24, had just returned from duty in Afghanistan On Friday he was shot and killed while taking money out of an ATM in Albuquerque, New Mexico, after dinner with a friend
Police arrested suspects Matthew Chavez, 25, and Veronica Trimble, 22, on Friday
Army veteran Tyler Louis Lackey, 24, (pictured) was killed on this after being shot while taking money out of an Albuquerque, New Mexico, ATM
Two suspects wanted in the shooting of a 24-year-old Army veteran in Albuquerque, New Mexico last month were arrested in Oklahoma on Friday. Matthew Chavez, 25, and Veronica Trimble, 22, are accused of gunning down Tyler Louis Lackey at a Wells Fargo ATM where he stopped to get cash after having dinner with a friend on February 5. Police have said that Chavez was trying to rob Lackey and that Lackey pulled out his own gun after Chavez pulled out his and fired five shots. Police were told that the suspects, who were identified on February 15, booked a hotel room in Oklahoma. They later arrested the duo at Winstar Casino in Love County, according to KOB.
Chavez is also wanted for robbing a store in Ardmore on Friday.
Tyler Lackey's brother Scott told reporters on Friday night that he is pleased the suspects were apprehended. 'I'd like to say that I love my brother. I'd also like to thank APD detective Acata, Wells Fargo for offering a reward and everyone who came together to help find them. The people of Albuquerque have been incredibly supportive. The men and women of Tyler's unit, the 67th and the 82nd, we're incredibly supportive,' he said. Police say that Lackey tried to detain his attacker before he was fatally shot. read more here
Iraq war hero to sell off his medals as he battles with post-traumatic stress disorder
Belfast Telegraph
By David Young
March 5, 2016
He felt that he first noticed the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in 2005 but was not diagnosed until 2009.
"You serve your country and end up feeling like I do," Trevor said.
Sgt Trevor Coult with the medals he has put up for auction
Former sergeant Trevor Coult (41) was awarded the Military Cross in 2006 for his bravery in a machine-gun ambush involving suicide bombers and gunmen in Baghdad.
Three armed insurgents stopped his multi-vehicle convoy on a stretch of road billed as the most dangerous in the world, opening fire on the stationary vehicles.
Acting as top cover sentry in the rear vehicle, he managed to return fire and control his vehicle, allowing two other convoy crews to retreat.
The former Royal Irish Regiment soldier, who now lives in Suffolk, said: "Every day is such a struggle for me. Over the past few years I've lost six ex-colleagues to suicide."
Trevor, who has a wife, Luba, and a five-year-old son, Sebastian, added: "The medals bring back bad memories for me. I've put them up for sale as someone will enjoy them more than me."
The Military Cross is the Army's third highest honour, behind the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross and the Victoria Cross.
Trevor's commanding officer, Lt Colonel Michael McGovern, described him as being "an outstanding young man of courage".
He was later honoured by both the Queen and former American President George Bush.
read more here
Orlando Rocks Benefit – Sat. March 5 – VFW Post 4287 and Semper Fidelis America sponsor this fundraising benefit for Air Force MSGT Joseph Deslauriers. He lost both legs, and his left arm at the elbow in an IED explosion in 2011. Destin, FL is now the home to him, his wife and son. Proceeds will assist with various family expenses. Meal and entertainment show are $20/pp available at the door; Arrive early as the National Anthem starts at 3pm, with an escorted limousine transporting MSGT and his family arrives before. VFW Post 4287, 3500 S. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando, 32822. Can’t attend? Donations still welcomed by mailing to Post or by PayPal at semperfidelisamerica.org for MSGT Deslauriers. Info: Navy Mom Mary orlandorocks@ semperfidelisamerica .org 407-273-6581.
Col. Jim Slife, commander 1st Special Operations Wing, pins a Silver Star on Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joseph Deslauriers, an explosive ordnance disposal technician from the 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron, during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Nov. 14, 2012. Deslauriers earned the medal for gallantry in action while serving in Afghanistan.
HAYDEN HYATT/U.S. AIR FORCE
Published on Nov 16, 2012
A Hurlburt Field airman is being awarded the silver star for his act of bravery during his last deployment. TSgt Joseph Deslauriers was able to stand and receive his award amongst his peers in the Hall of Heroes. Available in High Definition.
March list of Central FL veteran, military and patriotic events
From Cathy Haynes
*This is a list of unique events in Central Florida – events that have been shared with me.
*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.
Marine Corps PFT (Physical Fitness Test) Challenge - Sat Mar 5 - in Orlando has been postponed until October 1 – bigger and better! You now have more time to form a team and challenge other teams in competition, or to establish your individual record to break! Benefiting the Central Florida Marine Corps Foundation but open to all interested persons. To sponsor contact Sean sean.c.osmond @gmail .com
The Last Naval Battle of the American Revolution – Sat. Mar 5 – Join veteran and historical groups as they commemorate the last naval battle of the American Revolution – just off of Cape Canaveral in 1783. Color Guard begins at 10am, parade of organizations, and ceremony follows that commemorates a ship loaded with silver heading to the Continental Army in Philadelphia and escaping British ships trying to capture it. Veteran's Memorial Center, 400 South Sykes Creek Parkway, Merritt Island, 32952.
TinCan Jamboree – Sat. Mar 5 – Live Americana and Alt-Country music at the Orlando Eye. Benefiting Camaraderie Foundation, which supports veterans, military and their families with various counseling needs. Lives, marriages and families have been saved! 5pm – 9pm at 8371 International Drive, Orlando.
Firearms Fun Night - Sun. Mar 6 – 2pm shooting competition, $50. Presented by AVET Project in Melbourne, assisting veteran and military families. FrogBones Family Shooting Center, 404 S Harbor City Blvd, Melbourne, 32901. Raffle for Kel-Tec PMR30 handgun 22 mag, $10/ticket, 3 for $20. kim@ avetproject .org 321-373-7046
St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Sun. Mar 6 – 2pm start time in downtown Winter Park, at the Country Club and proceed south down Park Avenue to Lyman Avenue. More than 75 units will participate. Irish dancers, first responders’ bagpipes and the local Korean War Veterans Chapter 173 will also have a float! (KWVA - Thank you for the parade info!) 407-222-0648.
Veteran Infused Employment Workshop (VIEW) – Tues, Wed, Thurs March 8,9,10 – Workshops to provide veterans with updated job skills and information to obtain gainful employment. Lake Nona VA Medical Center, 13800 Veterans Way, Rm 4F106 A/B, Orlando, 32827. Shuttles are available from the Lake Baldwin facility and run every hour on the hour for those veterans with some transportation issues.
Tues. Mar 8: 10am – 2pm “Creating your Job Search Tactics and Network”;
Wed. Mar 9: 10am – 2pm “Goals, Resumes, and Interviewing”;
Thurs. Mar 10: 9am – 4pm “Performance Excellence, Mock Interviews and Graduation”.
(Lunch is NOT provided). Info: Ellamay “Annie” Artis, Veteran Community Employment Coordinator,
Phone: 407-646-5500 x28846, Mobile: 517-862-1434, ellamay.artis@ va .gov
Navy League Social – Tues. Mar 8 - Join the Central Florida Navy League for food, wine, networking and a great time on at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, Waterford Lakes. Cash bar and appetizers, 5pm at 529 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, 32828. This month’s social is being sponsored by SIMETRI. The Navy League is composed of citizens in support of the United States sea services – Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines, but we welcome Army and Air Force too!. Many members are military veterans but military service is NOT required. www. cfnavyleague .org
Central Florida Navy League mtg – Wed. Mar 9 - Guest speaker this month is Dr. David Painter, Rollins College Professor of Communications to give a presentation about the History of the Navy at Rollins College and in Winter Park, FL. Over 600,000 lives were changed due to presence of the Navy in Central Florida, and that doesn’t count the impact on the civilian community. The Navy League is composed of citizens in support of the United States sea services – Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines. Many members are military veterans but military service is NOT required. The local CFNL is one of the largest in Florida with fun and educational monthly meetings with a very diverse membership. Lunch meeting at Holiday Inn, UCF, 1724 Alafaya Trail, Orlando, 32826, at 11:30 and luncheon ends promptly at 13:00. Luncheons are $20 prepaid by 10am Mon. Mar 7; or $25 at the door for space available attendance. Prepay by credit card online at www. cfnavyleague .org Membership inquiries: Bob Karas navleaguecenfl @juno .com 407-977-7575
FAVOB After Hours – Wed. Mar 9 - Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (FAVOB) sponsors this After Hours "FREE"event!!! Come join us for drinks, fellowship and networking at Blu on the Avenue, 326 S Park Ave, Winter Park, 32789. 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Open to all civilians and veterans alike....You don't have to be a vet to support the veteran business community! Special reduced pricing on drinks and appetizers has been arranged. Info: jrice @ supportingstrategies. com
Tico Warbird Airshow – Fri, Sat, Sun March 11, 12, 13 – Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville. Fri. night has a twilight show ending with fireworks and music. Sat. and Sun gates open at 8:30am with the airshow beginning 1pm – 5pm. Advance tickets $20 adults, $5 children. Gate Tickets $25 and $10 for children. busy and fast paced flying program with a mix of historic warbirds, modern jets and aerobatic teams, and also “Fifi”, the world's only flying B-29 Superfortress . Ground events include military camps, car displays, a kid's carnival, gift shop and autograph tent, multiple food and souvenir venders, and pyrotechnics. www. valiantaircommand .com Ron Davis, Public Relations Officer of Valiant Air Command 321.268.1941 publicrelations@ valiantaircommand .com
Seminole County Homeless Veterans Stand Down - Sat March 12 – Volunteers and Vendor opportunities (requires registration now) 9am – 1pm at Florida Department of Health in Seminole County, 400 W. Airport Blvd., Sanford, 32773. 7:30 - 8am - Volunteers and vendors, Battle Buddies touring facility. “The term Stand Down was first used during the Viet Nam War; we would come out of the jungle after searching for the enemy for weeks, we would lick our wounds, clean our weapons and get ready to go back. Today the term Stand Down is used when we bring our homeless (and precociously housed) veterans to a central location to reconnect them with the VA and other homeless service providers. Not only providers, but we will provide showers, clothing, hot meals, legal assistance, medical, dental screening, etc . It is manned and serviced by volunteers. Last year, contrary to news reports, we had a 50% increase from the year before. Feel free to contact us directly at Seminolestanddown @gmail .com.” (Thank you, Ed Burford!)
Sun. March 13 – Daylight Savings time begins. Did you move your clock ahead one hour?
March 13 is K-9 Veterans Day. Many four-legged canine warriors and canine first responders have saved lives, sometimes sacrificing their own. Some came home and retired to become family pets. Others could not because of parasites and disease exposure, especially in Vietnam. Commemorate and memorialize these devoted veterans by sending your stories and pictures of them for a Museum of Military History special collection. Send to: museumofmilitaryhistory2 @gmail .com The Museum in Kissimmee already has a special display for these working dogs. 5210 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy., Kissimmee, 34796. Open 10am – 6pm Tues – Sun. www museumofmilitaryhistory .com
Remembering and Honoring Vietnam Veterans in Osceola County – Mon March 14 – Special presentation of a Proclamation by Osceola County at the Board of County Commissioners meeting, 1:30pm. Commission Chambers (4th Floor), 1 Courthouse Square, Kissimmee, 34741. All VVA Chapter 755 members, any Vietnam or any other veterans and veteran supporters are encouraged to attend the ceremony. It also shows the community leaders that their recognition is appreciated. The City of Kissimmee presented a Proclamation on March 1 at their Council meeting. (Thank you VVA member Vinnie M! SECVVA755 @aol .com)
Orlando Marine Corps League mtg – Mon. Mar 14 - Cpl. Larry E. Smedley, Detachment 064 monthly meeting, 7pm – 8pm at the Orange County Library, 4324 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, 32803 -- Herndon Meeting Room 1. Next mtg on Tues., April 12, same time, same place. Info: John Gionet sgtmajgna@ earthlink .net 407-963-9388 (USMC Corporal Larry E. Smedley was an Orlando resident who posthumously received the United States' highest military decoration — the Medal of Honor — for his actions in December 1967 in Quảng Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam. The actual Medal of Honor hangs in the Orange County Courthouse as a community gift from his mother.)
Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses mtg (FAVOB) – Tues March 15 – 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
“Silver Wings, Flying Dreams: The Complete Story of the Women Airforce Service Pilots” – Tues March 15 – This Emmy nominated documentary will be screened at Rollins College, free and open to the public and is in celebration of Women’s History Month. Hosted by Bill Suchy M.Ed., General Manager of Orange TV & Vision TV, who was the writer, producer and director. These were the first female pilots of American military aircraft and helped win the war by ferrying aircraft, flying as test pilots and towing targets for anti-aircraft gunnery practice. Reception begins at 3:30 and will include WASP Kathleen Hilbrandt. The film starts at 4:15 pm followed by a Q&A session. Bush Auditorium on Rollins College Campus, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park, 32789. Free parking Email: jnorburn@ rollins .edu or call 407.691-1251 to reserve your seat.
Vietnam Veterans of America Daytona Beach mtg – Wed. March 16 - Chapter 1048 of VVA meet at 6:30pm, at VFW 3282, 5810 S Williamson Bvd, Port Orange, 32128. All Veterans welcome, join now , bring your DD214. Contact Rod Phillips at cobra101st@ gmail .com 386.690.9553
Solar Bears Military Appreciation Weekend – Sat. and Sun March 19, 20 – Tickets to the Solar Bears Hockey games as low as $13. Solar Bears vs. Adirondack Thunder – Saturday start at 7pm, Sunday start at 6pm. Special giveaways. See Solar Bears website for details.
Vietnam Veterans Tribute– Sat. March 19 – This special Museum of Military History “Commanders Call” gathering is dedicated to Vietnam veterans. Special displays, info and events will start at 11am. Honored Guest Speakers are Gary Baura, Command Sergeant Major, US Army Special Forces (Ret.) and Vinh Dao, Colonel, Vietnam Air Force, who served as a pilot from 1964 up until the fall of Saigon in April, 1975. Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 755 will have a special display and there is free museum admission to ‘Nam vets, discounted admission for all others. 50th Anniversary Commemorative pins will be issued. Any veteran or other organization can reserve space by calling the Museum at 407-507-3894. 5210 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy., Kissimmee, 34796. Open 10am – 6pm Tues – Sun. www museumofmilitaryhistory .com
Greeters needed! Honor Flights Resume their Spring 2016 trips! Come Welcome them Home! –Sat. Mar 19 – Orlando Int’l Airport –After a day spent in Washington DC, 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 and enter the terminal area at about 10:30pm. Come welcome these former warriors home! “Welcome Home” receptions at the airports makes a difference! Bring your flags, banners and signs! –Dates are:
·Sat. March 19 – 25 veterans, plus their guardians and staff.
·Wed. March 30 – 35 veterans, plus their guardians and staff.
·Sat. April 9 – 50 veterans, plus their guardians and staff.
Contact Cathy Haynes for those details - chaynes11629@ yahoo .com 407-239-8468.
For the Early Birds - you can wave these veterans off in the morning no later than 5am. They process thru Security early and quickly.
Women in Defense (WID) Central Florida – Sun. March 20 - Pre-Easter/Women's History Month special event at the Blanchard Park YMCA. The agenda includes presentations from two exceptional women in the defense and security industries, a private facility tour and the option to engage in a healthy workout compliments of the YMCA-ensuring all guests an afternoon of mental and physical enrichment.
12-4pm, Blanchard Park YMCA, 10501 Jay Blanchard Trail, Orlando, 32817. $20 for WID Members, $25 for Non-Members. Attire: Spring Casual, but after the tour, guests are encouraged to utilize the YMCA amenities. Please bring a change of clothing. Registration: www. wid-cfl.org /programs RSVP to: Daila "Dee" Espeut-Jones at programs@ wid-cfl .org
Golf Tribute to LCol Earle Denton – Sun. Mar 20 - 1pm Shotgun Start at Rio Pinar Country Club, 8600 El Prado Avenue, Orlando, 32825. Sponsored by Sunshine Chapter of AUSA and Memorial Park Foundation to commemorate Army LCol Earle Denton, an avid supporter of veterans and military and local historical figure in Central Florida (d. 2015). Rio Pinar Member contribution: $25, Non-member contribution: $60 Sign up/Contact Proshop at (407) 277-5520
Remembering and Honoring Vietnam Veterans in St. Cloud – Thurs. March 24 – Special presentation of a Proclamation by the City of St. Cloud at the City Council Meeting, 6:30pm. 1300 Ninth Street, Building A, 3rd Floor, Council Chambers, St. Cloud, 34769. All VVA Chapter 755 members, any Vietnam or any other veterans and veteran supporters are encouraged to attend the ceremony. It also shows the community leaders that their recognition is appreciated. (Thank you VVA member Vinnie M! SECVVA755 @aol .com)
American Legion Post #55 Golf Tournament – Sat. March 26 – Swiss Fairways Golf Club, 13114 Skiing Paradise Blvd, Clermont, 34711. Registration will begin at 7:00 am with an 8:00 am Shotgun start. Entry fee is $50, includes golf, and award lunch, raffles. Teams being formed now, singles welcome.
Sponsorships welcomed; Donations, and Registration contact: Don at {352}874-2623; Jazmin at (352) 277-9379 LeqionPost55@ embarq mail .com Jazminidalis @smail .com
Scholarship Banquet Fund Raising Dinner – Sat. March 26 – This 21st Annual Valencia College & RAFMAN CLUB Foundation event rewards good scholars and encourages community leadership. 6:30pm registration, 7-9:45 PM Program & Dinner at First Baptist Church of Orlando, 3000 S. John Young PKWY, Orlando, 32805. $40/pp donation; Semi – Formal attire. Door Prizes: 10” Tablet or 7” Tablet or $100 VISA Gift Card! (need not be present to win one.) RAFMAN Club Foundation (RetiredAir Force, Marines, Army, Navy) is a 501(c)3 Non-profit. (407) 734-5794 RAFMANclub@ bellsouth .net www. rafmanclubfoundation .org/
Remembering and Honoring Vietnam Veterans in Orlando– Mon. March 28 – Special presentation of a Proclamation by the City of Orlando at the City Council Meeting, 1:30pm. Orlando City Hall, 400 S Orange Ave, Orlando, 32801 All VVA Chapter 755 members, any Vietnam or any other veterans and veteran supporters are encouraged to attend the ceremony. It also shows the community leaders that their recognition is appreciated. Parking will be validated ONLY if you park in the adjoining City Commons Garage. (Thank you VVA member Vinnie M! SECVVA755 @aol .com)
Central Florida Navy Leagues 5K & 10K Run/Walk/Roll – Sat. Apr 2 – This 7th annual event begins with Colors and National Anthem at 7:30am; Racing begins 8am at the Blue Jacket Park, 2501 General Rees Ave, Orlando, 32814. Join us for a run around the former grounds of Naval Training Center Orlando to honor the city's rich military heritage and support our wounded service men and women. Proceeds benefit the Lone Sailor Monument and Camaraderie Foundation (providing counseling for military and veterans and their families experiencing various life challenges.) Discounts for groups and military before race day. Visit cfnl5k. org for details and to register online. Sponsorships welcomed. Info: info@ cfnl5k .org
Militia Encampment – Sat and Sun April 2, 3 – Military history buffs will enjoy this event of soldiers in 1840 period uniforms, camp and programs in the Fort Christmas, east of Orlando on S.R. 50. 10am – 4pm in Christmas 1300 N Fort Christmas Rd, Christmas, FL 32709. Fort Christmas was built in present day Christmas, Florida during the Second Seminole War. Construction began on December 25, 1837, with the arrival of 2,000 U.S. Army soldiers and Alabama volunteers. Musket and cannon firing demonstrations, along with a traditional Florida "Cracker" house and eight pioneer homes.
Sun. Apr 2 – Kids on the Water – free day of activities for kids at Wickham Park, per AVET Project. See their website for up to date info and places. www.avetproject .org
28th Annual Central Florida Marine Corps Foundation Golf Tournament - Fri, April 8 - The annual golf tournament, CFMCF’s only fund-raising activity, is an opportunity to support our organization’s projects through golf. 8am Shotgun Start at Timacuan Golf Club, 550 Timacuan Boulevard, Lake Mary, 32746. Register at www. CentralFloridaMarines .org To sponsor or for info: Vince Dees at (407) 456-3314, julian.dees@ gmail .com, or Jan Baka at (407) 758-0968, jan.baka @ecs-federal .com
Minority Veterans Town Hall Meeting and Veterans Information Seminar – Sat. April 9 - 10am till complete. Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center, 1723 Bruton Blvd., Orlando, 32805. Come with your questions about your VA Benefits. Department of Veterans Affairs Representatives will be on site to provide information on programs and services available in the VA. Spouses, families and loved ones of Veterans are encouraged to attend! Sponsored by RAFMAN Club of Orlando – Retired Air Force,Marines, Army and Navy.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Sat. Apr 16 – Hiring Our Heroes – Job Fair for veterans, transitioning military and spouses.
Sun. Apr 17 – Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall arrives for a week at the Vietnam and All Veterans Reunion. Large motorcycle and first responder vehicle escort leaving Eastern Florida State College, Clearlake Rd, Cocoa at 10am.
Thurs – Sun. Apr 21 – 24 - Vietnam and All Veterans Reunion – 29th Annual nation’s largest gathering in Melbourne.
Fri Apr 22 – USMC Correspondents Foundation Golf Tournament
Thurs. June 9. This is the tentative date for the Ribbon Cutting of our USO Welcome Center at the Orlando International Airport! 5:30 PM (Thank you for the info, Tweet Coleman!)
The Invictus Games - May 8-12 – Orlando and Central Florida will be in a spotlight for thisinternational adaptive-sporting event for injured military members, held at Disney World's ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. More than 500 wounded or sick, with visible and non-visible wounds, actively serving or ex-military athletes from 15 nations will gather. 10 competitive events including archery, indoor rowing, powerlifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, swimming, track and field, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair tennis.
GENERAL INFO, PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Greeters needed to Welcome Home military – Sometimes VERY, VERY short term notice is received about local troops coming home thru the airport. Recently, there was less than 24 hours in advance notice. Ideally there would be more time but we never know, and with security operations being what it is, we have to go with the flow. If you and your organization(s) are able to respond with such short notice, PLEASE let me know! Our returning warriors would welcome a cheering group of persons with flags and banners. Let’s form a responding list NOW! chaynes11629 @yahoo .com
Florida East Coast Air Force personnel deploying in April – You can sponsor or assist with a special, secure send-off luncheon. Show you caring and appreciation for our deploying military. Contact Kim Cone, kim@avetproject .org www.avetproject .org 321-373-7046.
Military Bases No Longer Accepting IDs from Five States, U.S. military installations are no longer allowing visitors to gain base access using official ID cards from five states -- and other installations may soon follow. State-issued driver's licenses and identification cards from Illinois, New Mexico, Missouri, Washington and Minnesota can no longer be used to obtain a visitor's pass because those cards don't comply with federal standards, officials said. DoD officials did not say whether or not enhanced driver's licenses (EDL) from Minnesota or Washington would still be accepted. (Consider if you need to access the Exchanges on Patrick AFB or McDill AFB…. Thank you, Ed Burford, Seminole County Veterans Service Officer; Military.com, Jan 13, 2016,)
Veterans should remain on high alert for IRS impersonators As tax-filing season begins, Veterans should be aware of people contacting them who claim to be from the Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury. These IRS tax impersonators have been using phone calls and emails to take millions of dollars from taxpayers in every state in the country. The callers tell intended victims they owe taxes and must pay using a pre-paid debit card, money order or a wire transfer. The scammers threaten those who refuse to pay with being charged for a criminal violation, a grand jury indictment, immediate arrest, deportation or loss of a business or driver's license. To prevent taxpayers from falling victim to these scams, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration has expanded their outreach efforts to make sure people remain on high alert. (Thank you, Ed Burford, Seminole County Veterans Service Officer; VA Blog, January 26, 2016)
Veterans should avoid some VA benefits filers - Persons/businesses are in Central Florida who claim that they can file for your belated benefits and medical claims. Some even “guarantee” the acceptance if you visit their special physicians – of which 2 are on the east coast of Central Florida. The written statements from those physicians are worthless and you have to pay for the office appointments. These filers may require upfront monies, up to and exceeding 40% of your benefit monies. There are Veterans Service Organization volunteers (ie: American Legion, VFW, DAV, AVET Project, etc.) who will assist you AT NO COST. Each county in Florida has a Veterans Service Office with professionals who will assist you AT NO COST – and Central Florida is especially fortunate to have some excellent personnel in those offices. Don’t fall prey and lose your hard earned monies and time. There may be instances where legal assistance could be an option. The good resources listed above can guide you in that situation…don’t waste your money in the meantime. The county Veterans Service Offices can assist in filing consumer complaints against the vultures.
Lake Nona VA Domiciliary – Residents undergoing various medical and counseling issues need bicycles, bicycle repair equipment, inner tubes, bicycle pumps and tools. Also needed are craft supplies, games and sports equipment. Idle hands need/want to be occupied in constructive ways! Contact:Jenny Danieli at 407-631-7110jenny.danieli @va. Gov
EXTRA
American Warrior Radio Show from 11am-noon EDT on Saturdays, radio station WMEL - AM 1300 Nationwide broadcast: www. 1300wmel .com
·The Navy Exchange (NEX) –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
·MWR / ITT Ticket Office – Offers discounted attraction tickets to active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, retirees, 100% service-connected disabled veterans and their dependents. It is locate adjacent to the Navy Exchange (NEX) listed above. Phone: 407-855-0116 or 407-851-4396 for details, email: mwrorl@ gmail .com or Text MWROrlando to 30364 for MWR Specials.
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
Aiming For Rio Paralympics, U.S. Army Sgt. Elizabeth Wasil First Seeks Redemption Team USA Karen Price March 3, 2016
Elizabeth Wasil gets disoriented when she swims, so when she was first helped out of the pool at the Jimi Flowers Classic meet in January in Colorado Springs, Colorado, she had no idea what all the yelling was about.
“I don’t know where I am when I’m done swimming and my teammate, Reilly Boyt, was screaming, ‘You got a world record,’” Wasil said. “I was like, ‘Who are you talking to?’”
Wasil highlighted the Jimi Flowers Classic back in January with a new world record in the SB7 50-meter breaststroke.
Boyt was talking to Wasil, a sergeant in the U.S. Army, who has gone from newcomer to Paralympic hopeful in just four years. Just days after being named to the U.S. Paralympics Swimming National “A” Team, Wasil broke Jessica Long’s SB7 world record in the 50-meter breaststroke with a time of 41.21 seconds. This September, she hopes to represent her country at the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Paralympic Games, which has been her goal, she said, since the very start of her Paralympic swimming career.
“As soon as I found out that there was a chance that I could become a member of Team USA, I wanted it,” she said. “That was my sole focus and drive in every practice, every weight session, every competition.”
Wasil isn’t comfortable discussing the specifics, but the bilateral hip injuries she suffered while serving as a medic in Iraq in 2010 led to multiple surgeries and the loss of function in her lower left leg. Though she was never a swimmer growing up, her desire to return to active duty led her to the pool in January 2012. read more here
Investigation reveals need for training, administrative changes at North Florida VA facilities Action News Jax by: Samantha Manning Mar 4, 2016
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. Veterans Affairs said it has made changes after an investigation revealed a need for administrative changes and staff training at some of the facilities in Northeast Florida.
The investigation by the VA Office of the Inspector General did not find any evidence of intentional wrongdoing for the four main facilities serving the greater Jacksonville area.
Training, administrative changes needed at North Florida VA facilities
The VA OIG investigations stem from 2014 complaints regarding patient times.
Petty Officer Chris Taylor served as a Navy Hospital corpsman for 12 years and told Action News Jax he suffers from a traumatic brain injury.
Taylor said he has been waiting for more than a year to see a neurologist at the VA Outpatient Clinic in Jacksonville.
“You call them and they put you on hold and they say you’ll get a letter in the mail, and you just never get anything,” Taylor said.
The investigation reveals the need for an administrative change at the VA Outpatient Clinic in Jacksonville when it comes to recording eyeglass prescriptions.
A report also reveals a lack of training for staff at the VA Medical Center in Gainesville.
read more here
Non-deployed Marine units ill-prepared to go to war Marine Corps Times
Jeff Schogol
March 3, 2016
“We do not believe that we are going to have full-spectrum aviation readiness until at least 2020 — and that is presuming that the budget continues as is,” Paxton told lawmakers at Thursday’s hearing.
Marines fire the BGM-71 missile during exercise Lava Viper in Hawaii. Top Marine leaders say about half of the Corps' unit lack the resources they need to deploy.
(Photo: Lance Cpl. Harley Thomas/Marine Corps)
Nearly half of non-deployed Marine units do not have all of the personnel, equipment or training they need, said Assistant Commandant Gen. John Paxton.
“I think it’s 46 percent [of units that] have some degree of personnel, training or equipment degradation,” Paxton told reporters on Thursday after testifying before the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee.
Commandant Gen. Robert Neller has said he wants 80 percent of Marine units at or near optimum readiness levels, but “we’re not there,” said Paxton, who did not have detailed information about what precisely non-deployed units lack. read more here
