September 21, 2009

Hello,

On March 6, 2009 I was driving to Fargo from Grand Forks and came upon an accident that I knew the outcome would not be a positive one. The following day, the phone call came in that SPC Patrick Welsh had been killed in that very car accident. Patrick was one of the soldiers from the 191 MP CO that Soldiers' Angels supported through his deployment.

Shortly thereafter, I reached out to the family to extend more support in this time of need. Through this outreach, it became apparent that his younger sister Piper wanted to use this tragedy as a way of reaching out to others to make a difference.

Hello,

My twenty-four year old brother, Specialist Patrick Welsh from Grand Forks, ND died from injuries suffered in a tragic rollover traffic crash just two months after he returned from serving with the North Dakota Army National Guard's 191^st Military Police Company in Iraq. Please honor Patrick's memory and his service to our country by wearing your seat belt--every trip; every time.

Piper Welsh

Welsh, a 24-year-old Grand Forks resident, died in a one-car rollover accident along I-29 about 15 miles north of Fargo. His death came just two months after he and about 100 soldiers from the North Dakota Army National Guard's 191st Military Police Company returned to the state after serving in Iraq for a year.

The 191st received its mobilization order in October 2007 and began active duty in January 2008. In its year in Iraq to perform military police, security and maneuver support operations, the company completed almost 1,300 missions and traveled more than 120,000 miles. Among the company's accomplishments were assisting in 74 detainee releases and training 346 Iraqi police in a rigorous, 15-day training program that incorporated weapons training, Iraqi law, police tactics and physical training. Welsh's squad was assigned to what were called pit missions, serving as a police transition team for the Iraqi police. Upon his return to the United States in January, Welsh was quoted in an article in the local paper: "I am looking forward to seeing my daughter Arista, family and friends," he said. "I am also looking forward to going back to college and earning my degree." He continued on by saying, "The largest change I have seen in Baghdad from start to finish is the Iraqi Security Forces are doing an excellent job on providing better security."

While we cannot bring Patrick back, we can make a difference. Please accept this decal on behalf of Piper in her outreach to save a life; would you please share this message and please wear your seat belt--every trip; every time.

If you would like to receive another decal, please contact the primary sponsor of this project, Bill Vasicek of Safe Communities Coalition of the Northern Valley and Altru Health Systems. He canbe reached at (701) 780-5939 or bvasicek@altru.org or contact myself at (218-) 779-7271 or shellemichaels@soldiersangels.org. Thank you for taking this time to hear Piper's message!

Sincerely,

Shelle Michaels

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer

Hello ISFAC members-

HAPPY 62nd BIRTHDAY to the UNITED STATES AIR FORCE today!!

The official date of the founding of the US Air Force is 18 September 1947. It was a momentous event that 59 years later has demonstrated the achievement of an Air Force second-to-none. Its history and heritage goes back a lot further. From the time that the US military purchased its first aircraft in 1909 up to 1947, the US Air Force did not exist as a separate and independent military service organization. It went through a series of designations: Aeronautical Section, Signal Corps (1909); Aviation Section, Signal Corps (1914); United States Army Air Service (1918); United States Army Air Corps (1926), United States Army Air Forces (1941).

Check out the information on the UAS mission at the Grand Forks Air Force Base: 50 years of mission and force transformation. http://www.grandforks.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-090604-031.pdf

It is also national POW/MIA Recognition day on September 18^th. Please see the bottom of this note for a letter to youth of Grand Forks submitted on September 17, 1964 to the Grand Forks Herald by Cliff Cushman, MIA.

EVENTS:

Friday, Septmber 18 The Fargo Veterans Affairs Medical Center will conduct a recognition ceremony for prisoners of war and those missing in action at 10 a.m. Sept. 18 in the third-floor conference room at the hospital, 2101 Elm St. The event is being held in recognition of the National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day. Former POWs and families of those listed as MIA will be recognized. For more information, contact Peggy at (800) 410-9723, extension 9-3724.

Friday, September 18,2009: Grand Forks Air Force Base- Air Force birthday meal
To celebrate the 62nd birthday of the United States Air Force Sept. 18, the Airey Dining Facility is planning a phenomenal lunch from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend, so come out and celebrate YOUR United States Air Force's birthday! For more information call the Airey Dining Facility at (701) 747- 4101

Saturday, September 19, 2009: Minot Out of the Darkness" Community Walks to raise funds for suicide prevention and awareness. For information about locations and starting times, contact Mary Weiler at afspnd@gmail.com or www.afsp.org.

Saturday, September 19, 2009- GFAFB Sportsman's Club hosts 3D bow hunting tournament. The Grand Forks Air Force Base Sportsman's Club will host their final 3-Dimensional Bow Hunter Tournament for the year Sept. 19. This event is open to everyone with a bow. The theme for this tournament will be "shoot as you hunt." The tournament will also feature a best dressed category. The entry fee is $15 for members and $20 for non-members. For more information as well as to volunteer or judge the event, call Staff Sgt. Elliott O'Claire at (701) 747-7455 or (701) 747-3207.

Sunday, September 20, 2009: Grand Forks Out of the Darkness" Community Walks to raise funds for suicide prevention and awareness. For information about locations and starting times, contact Mary Weiler at afspnd@gmail.com or www.afsp.org.

Monday, September 21st. The 11th Annual Hooligan Memorial Golf Tournament, at the Hawley Golf Course. This event is open to all past and present members of the Air and Army Nat'l Guard, Reserves, VFW, American Legion, AMVETs, and their invited guests. Note the attachment, "2009 Golf Tournament". This announcement is also announced at www.happyhooligans.com.

Monday, September 21, 2009. Piper Welsh, Soldiers' Angels and Altru Hospital kick of the Patrick Welsh Memorial Seatbelt campaign. Mayor Brown and BG Al Palmer will receive the campaign materials during the GF City Hall meeting at 5:30 pm. Piper will be assisted in her presentation by her brothers Brandon and Sgt Brody Welsh (home from Afghanistan on R/R.)

Sunday, September 27, 2009- Gold Star Mother's Day. We have several Gold Star mom's in the state of ND- take time to reach out to those that you know. Shortly after World War I the Gold Star Mothers Club was formed in the United States to provide support for mothers that lost sons or daughters in the war. The name came from the custom of families of servicemen hanging a banner called a Service Flag in the window of their homes. The Service Flag had a star for each family member in the military. Living servicemen were represented by a blue star, and those who had lost their lives were represented by a gold star. Gold Star Mothers are often politically and socially active. Today, membership in the Gold Star Mothers is open to any American woman who has lost a son or daughter in service to the United States. USC Title 36 Sec. 111 The group holds a congressional charter under Title 36 of the United States Code.

Sunday, September 27, 2009: Fargo Out of the Darkness" Community Walks to raise funds for suicide prevention and awareness. For information about locations and starting times, contact Mary Weiler at afspnd@gmail.com or www.afsp.org.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009: 6:30 p.m. social/7:00 p.m. - Veterans Upward Bound at the University of North Dakota presents Homecoming: After "BOOTS on the GROUND" - Life with Combat Stress. Presented by Dr. Earl Beal in the UND Memorial Union Lecture Bowl
Contact: Shelle.Michaels@ndsu.edu or (701) 777-6465 for more details. This is a registered UND Homecoming Events; UND Homecoming Week September 18–October 4, 2009

Wednesday, September 30 at 7 p.m.- Company C 2/285 Aviation Sendoff- Army Aviation Support Facility in Bismarck. More information will be coming in a media advisory a week prior.

Thursday, October 1, 2009- UND Veterans Upward Bound Open House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 316 Memorial Union. For more information about VUB, please contact Shelle.Michaels@ndsu.edu (UND) at 701-777-6465, or call toll free at 1-800-570-5719.

Saturday, October 3, 2009: Bismarck Out of the Darkness" Community Walks to raise funds for suicide prevention and awareness. For information about locations and starting times, contact Mary Weiler at afspnd@gmail.com or www.afsp.org.

Wednesday, October 7th. The 2009, Annual NDANG Retirees' Breakfast. Another BIG event of the season! The breakfast will be at the 119th Wing dining facility. Doors open at 7:00 a.m., serving begins at 7:30 a.m. This event is sponsored by the 119th Chief's Council. This info is also announced at www.happyhooligans.com. Oh, please remind a fellow Hooligan of this event who may not have access to the internet or The Hooligram.

Thursday, 8 October, 10:00-3:00PM, ISFAC at the Fargo Armed Forces Reserve Center. SEE AGENDA at the end.

Thursday, October 8, 2009: Veterans Affairs is hosting women veterans meetings in Grand Forks on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 1 to 3 PM @ the Porpoura Coffee House located on 8th 3rd St S. Contact number: 701-451-4645.

Thursday, 8 October, AFTER ISFAC- TBI PSA campaign team meeting. Contact ShelleMichaels@msn.com if you would like to be a part of this state campaign. Planning for a professional workshop in March along with a state wide community education series is in the works. LTC Fehr and Rebecca Quinn also may be contacted in regards to the project.

Wednesday, October 14th. Semiannual WSO Reunion. Time has rapidly swept by since the April Reunion Here's the opportunity to attend 2009's second, semiannual WSO Reunion. Attendance has rapidly been increasing. It's at the Auger Inn, 7:00 p. m.

Wednesday, October 14^th, 2009- Operation Honor - Fargo VA Welcome Home- Hjemkost Center, Moorhead- SSgt Jessica Clark - jessica.b.clark@us.army.mil

Saturday, October 17th. It's the bimonthly breakfast at the Holiday Inn/Club House Hotel in Detroit Lakes. The Detroit Lakes and surrounding area Hooligans invite you to drop in for an enjoyable social event and breakfast. Show time is 8:00 a.m.

Friday, October 23rd. Here we go, it's the Auger Inn's Pork-Alo Feed. Prizes galore, a good-sized delegation of retirees. Join the fun. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Friday, October 23, 2009- the 1st National Guard Teen Council meeting will take place at
the Military Service Center in Bismarck. Contact Tonya Sigl for more details.

Friday, October 23-25, 2009—NDNG Volunteer Academy Minot at the Grand International Inn. The Volunteer Academy's are trainings offered four times a year to individuals who are interested in becoming members of a Family Readiness Group (FRG). Military personnel are also encouraged to attend to better understand the processes and workings of an FRG. This weekend event is packed full of invaluable trainings, speakers and information to help better prepare you and your family for military life and deployments. SSgt Jessica Clark - jessica.b.clark@us.army.mil

Monday, October 26, 2009 - Day of the Deployed, more details coming soon. ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Wednesday, November 11, 2009. Veteran's Day

Thursday, November 12, 2009: Veterans Affairs is hosting women veterans meetings in Grand Forks on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 1 to 3 PM @ the Porpoura Coffee House located on 8th 3rd St S. Contact number: 701-451-4645.

Saturday, December 12, 2009- Wreaths Across America Nationwide Remembrance Ceremonies will take place at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan. More details later.

IN THE NEWS/NOTES:

Hoeven proclaims Suicide Prevention Month; N.D. ranks 15th in the U.S. for suicide deaths

Gov. John Hoeven has proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention Month in North Dakota.

According to the North Dakota Department of Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death among North Dakotans ages 15 to 24 and the 10th leading cause of death overall. North Dakota ranks 15th in the nation for its rate of suicide deaths. In 2008, 86 North Dakotans died as a result of suicide. Suicide affects everyone, but some groups are at higher risk than others, the Health Department said. Men in North Dakota and nationally are four times more likely than women to die from suicide. In North Dakota, people in the 25 to 34 age group and American Indians are also at higher risk.

"Knowing the risk factors and warning signs for suicide may save a life," said Gail Erickson, suicide prevention director for the Department of Health. "It's important to realize, however, that not everyone who displays these warning signs will attempt suicide."

Risk factors for suicide include, but are not limited to:

* Previous suicide attempt(s).

* History of depression or other mental illness.

* Alcohol or drug abuse.

* Family history of suicide or violence.

* Physical illness.

* Feeling alone.

"Unfortunately, someone dies as a result of suicide every four days in North Dakota," said State Health Officer Terry Dwelle, M.D., M.P.H.T.M. "About 5 million Americans have lost a loved one to suicide in the last 25 years. That's why it's important for all of us to recognize the warning signs and reach out to people who are having difficulty coping."

The warning signs of suicide can include:

* Changes in a person's mood, diet or sleeping pattern.

* Increased alcohol or drug use.

* Withdrawal from friends, family and society.

* Rage or uncontrolled anger.

* Reckless behavior.

Some of the ways to be helpful to someone who is threatening suicide include:

* Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.

* Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.

* Be nonjudgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life.

* Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.

* Don't dare him or her to do it.

* Don't act shocked. This will put distance between you.

* Don't be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.

* Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.

* Take action. Remove lethal means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.

* Get help from someone specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. In North Dakota, help is available by calling 2-1-1, a free and confidential 24/7 information, crisis management, and referral services program.

The North Dakota Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention raises funds for scientific research, education and treatment programs, as well as programs to support those who have lost loved ones to suicide. This year, five "Out of the Darkness" Community Walks have been scheduled in North Dakota to raise funds for suicide prevention and awareness. The event will be held in Minot Sept. 19, Grand Forks Sept. 20, Fargo Sept. 27, and Bismarck Oct. 3. Williston held a community walk was held Sept. 13. For information about locations and starting times, contact Mary Weiler at afspnd@gmail.com or www.afsp.org.

The North Dakota Department of Health, the North Dakota

Department of Human Services, Mental Health America of North Dakota, and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention are partnering with local organizations, tribal agencies, the Veterans Administration, and the North Dakota National Guard to address suicide prevention through the North Dakota Suicide Prevention Coalition.

For information about developing local prevention programs or for more information about suicide prevention, contact Gail Erickson, North Dakota Department of Health, at 701-328-4580.

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SIDEBAR TO NOTE FOLLOWING: I would like to have ISFAC members chip in towards a few wreaths from our committee. Please contact ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org if you would like to add to the collection from our committee.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available in Preparation for Wreaths Across America

MINOT, N.D. — At noon EST on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, there will be simultaneous wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 350 locations throughout the world. Minot's own Magic City Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol will be joining CAP members throughout the nation who will be participating in a tribute to our fallen servicemen and women. One of this year's Wreaths Across America Nationwide Remembrance Ceremonies will take place at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan.

Wreaths Across America will mark the 18th anniversary of the Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, donating wreaths to adorn the headstones of our Nation's Veterans at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to 10,000 wreaths destined for Virginia, Worcester Wreath will again donate seven ceremonial wreaths to more than 350 state, national and local cemeteries across the country.

Magic City Composite Squadron CAP hopes to further the goal of Wreaths Across America, which is to one day see every Veteran's grave in the country covered with a wreath to honor them during holidays. To accomplish this goal, Minot's Civil Air Patrol's adult and cadet members have begun their campaign to sponsor wreaths from Minot.

Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization formed to help other volunteer organizations emulate the Remembrance Ceremony performed at Arlington National Cemetery in December each year. A sponsorship of $15 places a wreath on a Veteran's grave and helps to support Magic City Composite Squadron CAP and funds Veteran and educational outreach.

A wreath can be sponsored through the Wreaths Across America Web site: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. In order to have the wreath delivered to the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, enter in NDCCMA for the cemetery, and to direct it to Magic City Composite Squadron CAP, enter in NDCAP021 for the group ID number.

For more information or assistance in getting a sponsorship form, contact 1st Lt. Pam Romance with Civil Air Patrol at 701-578-5709.

All wreaths sponsored for Minot's Civil Air Patrol will be sent directly to the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, not to a sponsor's home. At the cemetery, Magic City Composite Squadron CAP members will be joining volunteers throughout the state to perform the wreath-laying ceremony. The ceremony takes place in all types of weather. Everyone is welcome to come and observe the Dec. 12 ceremony at the cemetery, which is 6.5 miles south of Mandan on Highway 1806, in the southwest corner of Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park.

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Nominations for Military Spouse of the Year are now being accepted until November 13, 2009 : www.msoy.milspouse.com

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To: All Businesses and Employers

Re: H1N1 Informational/Planning Session – September 25, 2009

The North Dakota Department of Health requests your participation for an informational and planning session regarding H1N1 novel influenza. As you are probably aware, planning for the upcoming influenza season is in full swing and things are moving and changing rapidly. This flu season will present many new challenges as we receive H1N1 vaccine in addition to seasonal influenza. While no one can predict how severe the H1N1 novel strain will be, planning now is vital in order to be prepared for different scenarios.

It will be very important for public health and other stakeholders to work together and keep informed of planning decisions. The North Dakota Department of Health is planning a series of H1N1 informational and planning meetings in order to make sure our partners are receiving important information and have a chance to ask questions and share their ideas. You are invited to attend an upcoming session that will include vital information for you and your organization. Please feel free to forward this invitation to anyone in your organization/business who will be involved with planning for the upcoming influenza season. For those not able to attend, the session will be recorded and archived on the Department of Health's website.

Information about the upcoming session is included below. By planning together, we can ensure that we are ready to respond to whatever this flu season will present for us. I look forward to your participation in this important event.

H1N1 Information/Planning Session – Businesses and Employers

Date: Friday – September 25, 2009

Time: 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. (Central)

Participation Options:

§ Videoconference: Contact your hospital or local public health unit for site availability, or the Department of Health's Education Technology studio via email at arussell@nd.gov to be connected at a site of your choice.

§ Teleconference: 866.888.3385

§ Webcast (Watch from your computer)

Step 1. Prior to the first time viewing a Department of Health web cast, please check that your computer has the necessary software installed.

Follow the link www.ndhealth.gov/webcasthtml/preflight for a test.

Step 2. Follow the link www.ndhealth.gov/WebcastHigh.asx to view the webcast.

The feed normally starts within 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time.

If you have difficulty connecting to the conference via video, telephone, or webcast, please call the technical assistance line at: 866-716-1274. The technical assistance line is only available for use immediately prior to or during the conference.

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119th Wing commander assigned to national Air Force UAS Task Force

Fargo, N.D. — The commander of the North Dakota Air National Guard's 119th Wing will be undertaking a new assignment as one of the Air Force's point people for matters involving unmanned aerial systems. Col. Robert Becklund, who has commanded the Wing since August 2004, will begin the position with the U.S. Air Force Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Task Force in Washington, D.C., soon, although a specific start date has not been set.

"He's been one of the best — if not the best — wing commanders I've ever worked with. He's got a bright future, and he's going to do good things for North Dakota," said Brig. Gen. Al Palmer, North Dakota National Guard assistant adjutant general - air. Palmer made the announcement over Hooligan TV, the Wing's broadcast news show, to Airmen drilling at the North Dakota Air National Guard base in Fargo this weekend.

"It's a great opportunity for Col. Becklund," Palmer said. "This position was by invitation only from the Air Force's UAS Task Force, and he's going to be in a position to shape UAS systems from the very small to the very large in that position."

Becklund will be the only Guardsman on the Task Force staff.

"North Dakota has become a world leader in unmanned aviation, and it is certainly fitting that the Air Force has tapped one of our best to fill this key position," said Gov. John Hoeven. "We will miss Col. Becklund's leadership and dedication as commander of the 119th Wing, but we're confident that the proud tradition of the Happy Hooligans will be carried on by Col. Rick Gibney."

The Wing's vice commander, Col. Kent Olson, will oversee operations until Col. Rick Gibney assumes command in early 2010. "Col. Becklund will certainly be missed as the 119th Wing commander, but I know his position and influence will continue to benefit the North Dakota Air National Guard and the state as a whole," said Maj. Gen. David Sprynczynatyk, North Dakota National Guard adjutant general. "This is a very prestigious and challenging position, but I know of no one more qualified than Bob. He is a strong leader who understands UAS as the way forward in the Air Force. I have no doubt he will bring great success to this new undertaking."

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GF Herald Editorial: Shelle Michaels, Grand Forks, letter: New memorial pays tribute to N.D.'s fallen

Would Herald readers please take the time to honor the 21 warriors who shed their blood for our nation? More details are available on the ND National Guard Web site, www.NDGuard.com.

GRAND FORKS — In Bismarck on Sept. 11, about 600 people attended the dedication of the North Dakota Memorial to the Fallen in the Global War on Terrorism. The ceremony began at 9:37 a.m., to coincide with the time that an American Airlines Boeing 757 struck the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.

The memorial is located outside the main gate of the North Dakota National Guard headquarters at Fraine Barracks. It is open to the public 24 hours a day.

Twenty-one service members with strong ties to North Dakota and their families were placed in the highest level of honor in North Dakota. Since local media did not report on this story, the majority of the people in the valley may not even know that this event took place, or that this memorial now stands in Bismarck.

Would Herald readers please take the time to honor the 21 warriors who shed their blood for our nation? More details are available on the ND National Guard Web site, www.NDGuard.com.

Shelle Michaels
Michaels is national communication officer for Soldiers' Angels, a support organization for U.S. service personnel. http://www.grandforksherald.com/event/article/id/133840/

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Shelle Michaels, National Communication Officer (ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org) and Greta Perry, New Media Director (Greta@SoldiersAngels.org) are pleased to announce that....... WE WON!!! Thank you to all of our active social networking Angels, Warriors, Supporters and Friends for helping Soldiers' Angels achieve this terrific honor from Communicause.

Please check out our Social Media Sites--

Twitter: www.twitter.com/soldiersangels or @soldiersangels @publicrelations @valourit
Facebook: www.facebook.com- search for Soldiers' Angels (OFFICIAL) (www.facebook.com/pages/Soldiers-Angels-Official/23782461003)

Soldiers' Angels is CommuniCause Campaign Winner

Non-Profit Organization Supporting America's Men and Women in Uniform Wins $25,000 Social Media Makeover

Orlando, FL (September 17, 2009) -- Soldiers' Angels, a non-profit organization that supports members of the military and their families, has won CommuniCause, a nationwide online contest to win a social media makeover. Launched earlier this year by Orlando-based interactive agency MindComet, the CommuniCause campaign gave Americans the opportunity to vote online and rally support for their favorite 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Soldiers' Angels will receive $25,000 in consulting services from MindComet to help improve its social media presence and fundraising outreach efforts.

MindComet announced the winner today during a live, 10-minute "virtual awards banquet," an online twist on the traditional awards event. Nominees and their constituents logged onto CommuniCause.com and watched live streaming video as MindComet's prize patrol surprised the Soldiers' Angels team at their Pasadena office.

"We are honored to have Communicause award Soldiers' Angels with the $25,000 Social Media Makeover. We look forward to working wingtip-to-wingtip with these great folks to help further our mission in support of the service members, veterans and their families," commented Patti Patton-Bader, Soldiers' Angels Founder and CEO, upon hearing the news.

CommuniCause leveraged the power of social media to arm non-profit organizations with the tools to reach their constituents and gain support. More than 1,500 charities vied for the chance to win, from large, established national charities including the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), to niche support organizations like Soldiers' Angels. Anyone with an E-mail address could visit CommuniCause.com and nominate a charity or vote for a previously-nominated organization. The site structure consisted of a real-time voting engine and social media tools, including a CommuniCause Facebook Fan Page, Twitter profile, badges and links -- allowing participants to easily share campaign information and rally more voters to their cause. Users could vote only once on the Website using a valid E-mail address, but could cast a second vote on Twitter and encourage more votes through "retweets" of a custom message. The winner was selected at random from the top ten qualified 501(c)(3)'s, based on votes.

"We are thrilled to be working with such a worthy organization and can't wait to begin their online transformation," said Marcelle Turner, CEO of MindComet about Soldiers' Angels. "In our view, we have 1,500 winners, because every participating organization benefitted by learning how to use social media tools to increase visibility and rally support. These are strategies and tools they can continue to use in the future." The CommuniCause campaign was also a winner for MindComet, receiving more than 60,000 votes from participants across America and over 100,000 visits to the promotional Web site during the voting period. The digital agency intends to maintain CommuniCause.com Web site with ongoing education and communication, including progress reports on the winners' online campaign. "We fully intend to return with CommuniCause II next spring," added Turner.

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North Dakota National Guard Website and Social Media Sites

http://www.ndguard.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ndguard
http://www.twitter.com/ndnationalguard
http://www.youtube.com/ndnationalguard http://www.facebook.com (search for North Dakota National Guard)

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VETERANS UPWARD BOUND OFFERS FREE CLASSES AT NDSU and UND

With the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill in effect Aug. 1, the Veterans Upward Bound program at the North Dakota State University and University of North Dakota are available to qualified veterans planning to enroll in college or technical school in the near future or take the GED tests. Classes will start on August 24, 2009 for the fall session.

Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education as a TRiO project. VUB provides veterans with free academic refresher courses in English, basic computer and math, as well as academic guidance services to assure they are ready to succeed in their educational pursuits. That includes free preparation to take the COMPASS college entrance exam.

Information regarding the GI Montgomery Bill or the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill can be found by contacting your local County Veterans Service office or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.va.gov.

For more information about VUB or to receive a complete class schedule for either university, please contact Jeri.Vaudrin@ndsu.edu (NDSU) at 701-231-9706 or Shelle.Michaels@ndsu.edu (UND) at 701-777-6465, or call toll free at 1-800-570-5719.

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Please send your events, announcements, activities, press releases, media, etc by Thursday 1700 to: (shellemichaels@msn.com or shellemichaels@soldiersangels.org) and I will compile the information and have out to the list on Friday. Look into your events a month out to allow those across the state the opportunity to plan for possible attendance and support of your organization, allowing more outreach to all. If you would list your events in the format below, DATE FIRST then event- it would be greatly appreciated.

Reminder- we have a blog listing information at www.ISFAC.blogspot.com and www.twitter.com/ISFAC

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The next meeting of the ISFAC is scheduled for Thursday, 8 October, 10:00-3:00PM, at the Fargo Armed Forces Reserve Center. You will receive additional information regarding the meeting and an agenda as the date approaches. Are you attending the ISFAC meeting on October 8th, 2009 in Fargo? Please let CW4 Theresia Hersch - theresia.hersch@us.army.mil know if you will be in attendance. Please remember to reply to just Theresia's email not reply all when RSVPing.

AGENDA:

Armed Forces Reserve Center at 4 Plt 461, Located on 15^th Ave North Fargo, North Dakota (701) 235-3964

1000 -1015 Welcome by Mr. John Hanson and Mr. Tom Slaughter

Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence for our POW/MIA and those serving in harms way, and their families.

Self Introduction, new members and guest.

1015-1020 Administrative notes - Theresia Hersch: Military Covenant update

1020-1030 Shelle Michaels – National project updates

1030-1115 Lonnie Wagen from the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs

1115-1230 Lunch on your own

1230-1430 Hillside Hope Threw Hooves Equine Therapy

There will be a live demonstration on equine therapy session outside after the information session

Battle Stress/TBI/Special needs for families and children who are affected by deployments?

1430-1500 Wrap-up/Q&A Time/Time and Place

THE NOTE FROM CLIFF CUSHMAN--

Clifton Cushman (2 June 1938–September 1966) was an American athlete who competed mainly in the 400 meter hurdles.

He competed for the United States in the 1960 Summer Olympics held in Rome, Italy in the 400 meter hurdles where he won the silver medal.

Cliff Cushman was a graduate of Grand Forks Central High School in Grand Forks, North Dakota in 1956. Cushman was an outstanding athlete while running in track for the Redskins, breaking and setting many records. In 1990 Cushman was inducted into the Grand Forks Central Athletic Hall of Fame.

After high school Cliff attended the University of Kansas where he again broke and set many track records. In 1959 Cliff took second place in the 400-meter hurdles providing Kansas with their back bone to reach their first NCAA Championship. In the next year he was named captain of the Jayhawks, in this same season he also earned most outstanding performer honors at the Kansas Relays, as well as winning the national title in the 400 meter hurdles. Again helping to provide the Jayhawks with that back bone needed to defend the NCAA Championship.

His biggest achievement during his college career was during the 1960 season where Cliff Cushman became an Olympian, competing in the 1960 games in Rome. Cushman finished second overall with a time of 49.6 seconds in the 400 meter hurdles.

In 1964 Cliff Cushman hoped to compete again in the Olympics. But his hopes of winning a medal were lost when he stumbled over a hurdle at the final U.S. Olympic trial meet in Los Angeles.

After that experience, Cushman wrote a letter to the Grand Forks Herald in which he asked the young people in his hometown not to feel sorry for him, but instead to set goals for themselves. His letter, written on an airplane only hours after the unfortunate fall, has always been an inspiration.

CHALLENGE TO YOUTH
Don't feel sorry for me. I feel sorry for some of you!

You may have seen the U.S. Olympic Trials on television. If so, you watched me hit the fifth hurdle, fall and lie on the track in an inglorious heap of skinned elbows, bruised hips, torn knees and injured pride, unsuccessful in my attempt to make the Olympic team for the second time.

In a split second, all the many years of training, pain, sweat, blisters and agony of running were simply and irrevocably wiped out. But I tried! I would much rather fall knowing I had put forth an honest effort than never to have tried at all.

This is not to say that everyone is capable of making the Olympic team. However, each of you is capable of making your own personal "Olympic Team," whether if be the high school football team, the glee club, the honor roll, or whatever your goal may be. Unless your reach exceeds your grasp, how can you be sure what you can attain?

Over 15 years ago, I saw a star -- first place in the Olympic games. I literally started to run for it. In 1960, I came within three yards of it; this year, I fell and watched it recede four more years away. Certainly, I was very disappointed. However, there is nothing I can do about it now but get up, pick the cinders from my wounds, and take one more step followed by one more and one more, until the steps turn into miles and the miles into success.

I know I may never make it. The odds are against me, but I have something in my favor – desire and faith. Romans 5:35 has always had an inspirational meaning to me in this regard: "...we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us..."

At least I am going to try.

How about you? Would a little extra effort on your part bring up your scholastic average or enable you to make the athletic team?

Let me tell you something about yourselves. You are taller and heavier than any past generation in this country. You are spending more money, enjoying more freedom, and driving more cars than ever before, yet many of you are unhappy.

Some of you have never known the satisfaction of doing your best in sports, the joy of excelling in class, the wonderful feeling of completing a job, any job, and looking back on it knowing that you have done your best.

I dare you to cut your hair neatly, to clean up your language, to honor your mother and father, and to go to church without being compelled by your parents.

I dare you to unselfishly help someone less fortunate than yourself and enjoy the wonderful feeling that goes with it, to become physically fit, and to read a book that is not required in school.

I dare you to look up at the stars and set your sights on one of them that, up to now, you thought was unattainable. There is plenty of room at the top, but no room for anyone to sit down. Who knows? You may be surprised at what you can achieve with since effort. So get up, pick the cinders from your wounds and take one more step.

I dare you.

Sincerely, Clifton E. Cushman
September 17, 1964

On September 25, 1966 Captain Clifton E. Cushman was the pilot of the #2 F-105D in a flight of three that was conducting an afternoon combat mission to bomb a railroad bridge located on the northeast railroad line approximately one mile north-northeast of Kep MiG base and 29 miles northeast of Bac Giang, Lang Son Province, North Vietnam. Capt. Cushman's call sign was "Devil 2." The flight arrived in the target area on schedule and immediately checked in with the airborne battlefield command and control center (ABCCC). Devil flight was directed to begin their bomb runs on the bridge.

At 1530 hours, Devil Lead made his pass on the target followed in order by the rest of his flight. After pulling off the target, Capt. Cushman radioed that he had been hit by anti-aircraft artillery (AAA) fire and he had a fire warning light. Devil 3 asked if he could steer, Cliff Cushman replied he had "lost his stability, augmentation and aircraft power."

Devil Lead observed 37 mm AAA fire bursting to the left and rear of Devil 2 (Cushman), and told Capt. Cushman to break right. Lead then saw his afterburner light and simultaneous torch of flames coming from the right aft section of Devil 2 (Cushman)'s aircraft. Devil Lead then observed Cushman's aircraft break into several burning parts. He also saw Cliff Cushman's ejection seat arcing up and to the front of the falling wreckage. They could not find the body of Cliff Cushman anywhere. Because of the rough landscape it was nearly impossible for anyone to gain radio control. Cliff Cushman was immediately listed Missing in Action.

On November 6, 1975, Cliff Cushman was officially declared dead.

Surviving family members were spouse Carolyn Cushman and son Colin Cushman.

Grand Forks Central High School named its football stadium after him, Cushman Field. His picture is displayed in GFC's gymnasium, and his name is mentioned in almost every Hall of Fame cabinet. There are still records to be broken at GFC that Clifton Emmet "Cliff" Cushman set over 50 years ago.

His wife said after being informed of her husband's status: "Somewhere in Vietnam he's running the biggest race of his life. It's like watching a race in which Cliff is running - only you can't see the finish tape. He's in excellent physical condition. Cliff also has a very deep faith in God. What better combination could there be?"

Shelle Michaels

"May No Soldier Go Unloved"

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org
www.SoldiersAngels.org

Ladies of Liberty Team Director
LadiesofLiberty@SoldiersAngels.org
www.SoldiersAngelsLadiesOfLiberty.com

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