ISFAC FACTS

VIDEO AVAILABLE: HOEVEN'S NATIONAL DAY OF THE DEPLOYED RESOLUTION PASSES IN THE SENATE

2011-10-18T09:59:00.001-07:00

Soldiers' Angels is proud to announce.... Day of the Deployed, October 26, 2011 was passed with 100% yes votes by the US Senate to become a NATIONAL DAY OF HONOR!

"Day of the Deployed is a day to honor the many selfless actions demanded of military members and their loved ones across the globe serves as a tangible reminder of the sacrifice being made in homes across America every day. Every deployment reflects the deep commitment of not only the deploying member, but of the many friends and loved ones who are left behind to aid in answering our nations call. Selfless men, women and children who are called upon to set aside their personal comfort and convenience to support the heroes they call mom, dad, father, mother, brother, sister or friend." Patti Patton Bader, Soldiers' Angels Founder

Please contact DayoftheDeployed@SoldiersAngels.org for details or stop by wwww.soldiersangels.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 18, 2011

ATTENTION NEWS DIRECTORS: VIDEO DOWNLOAD AVAILABLE BELOW

Click the following ftp link to download video of Hoeven's reaction: Day of the Deployed Reax.MP4,

HOEVEN'S NATIONAL DAY OF THE DEPLOYED RESOLUTION PASSES IN THE SENATE

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven announced today that a resolution he introduced to continue honoring the nation's deployed service men and women with a Day of the Deployed has unanimously passed in the Senate. Hoeven launched the first Day of the Deployed in 2006 while serving as Governor of North Dakota and spearheaded the effort to bring the initiative to the national level this year. The resolution, passed last night, calls on all Americans to reflect on the service of the nation's deployed service members and to offer support to their loved ones.

"Our U.S. service men and women currently deployed, along with their loved ones, make untold sacrifices as they serve our nation," said Hoeven. "A national Day of the Deployed pays tribute to their commitment to our country and their work to protect our freedoms. We want to ensure that our military members and their loved ones know of our appreciation and support before, during and after their service."

On Oct. 26, 2006, then-Governor Hoeven launched the first Day of the Deployed in support of Soldiers' Angels, a nonprofit organization that aids deployed American military personnel and their families. The effort spread, and in 2010, 40 states had proclaimed a Day of the Deployed.

"Working with John Hoeven on Day of the Deployed since 2006 in North Dakota has been an honorable way to extend appreciation to the deployed service members and their families. Day of the Deployed is recognition for their hard work, dedication and commitment to the United States of America. This day is all about them," said Shelle Michaels, Soldiers' Angels Deputy Director of Development.

"More than 2 million Americans currently serve in the Unites States Armed Forces. These men and women are making great scarifies to ensure the safety and security of our great nation.

Next Wednesday, October 26, is the Day of the Deployed. I encourage people in North Dakota and across our nation to take a moment to recognize and celebrate America's heroes — our men and women in uniform. They deserve our support and the thanks of a grateful nation," said Senator Kent Conrad, a cosponsor of the resolution.

Currently, more than 2.27 million people serve as members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those in the active guard and reserve components, with thousands of members deployed each year to 150 countries around the world. The resolution calls on Americans to reflect on the service of the nation's soldiers and encourages ceremonies and activities on Oct. 26 to mark the Day of the Deployed.

-###-

The Resolution reads as...

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. RES. 253

Designating October 26, 2011, as `Day of the Deployed'.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

Introduced August 2, 2011

Passed October 17, 2011

Mr. HOEVEN submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

RESOLUTION

Designating October 26, 2011, as `Day of the Deployed'.

Whereas more than 2,250,000 people serve as members of the United States Armed Forces;

Whereas several hundred thousand members of the Armed Forces rotate each year through deployments to 150 countries in every region of the world;

Whereas more than 2,200,000 members of the Armed Forces have deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks;

Whereas the United States is kept strong and free by the loyal people who protect our precious heritage through their positive declaration and actions;

Whereas the deployed members of the Armed Forces serving at home and abroad have courageously answered the call to duty to defend the ideals of the United States and to preserve peace and freedom around the world;

Whereas members of the Armed Forces and veterans personify the virtues of patriotism, service, duty, courage, and sacrifice;

Whereas the families of members of the Armed Forces make important and significant sacrifices for the United States;

Whereas North Dakota began honoring the members of the Armed Forces and their families by designating October 26 as `Day of the Deployed' in 2006; and

Whereas 40 States designated October 26, 2010, as `Day of the Deployed': Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate--

(1) honors the members of the United States Armed Forces who are deployed at home and abroad;

(2) calls on the people of the United States to reflect on the service of those members of the United States Armed Forces, wherever they serve, both now and in the future;

(3) designates October 26, 2011, as `Day of the Deployed'; and

(4) encourages the people of the United States to observe `Day of the Deployed' with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

We Have Not Forgotten

2011-09-10T05:46:00.001-07:00

Ten years. It's often difficult to accurately measure the passage of time. One way we do so is with pictures -- important events last forever in a single image. Take a look at the framed photos displayed around your house. Little snapshots of life gone by: kids with toothless grins who are now in college, the first family camping trip that is now a tradition, or the boy in his prom tuxedo now wearing a uniform in Afghanistan.
In the 10 years since the attacks of September 11, the lives of military families have changed. Difficult circumstances or the absence of a loved one might not always make for picture perfect moments, but they are important moments all the same.
When looking at photos, we often focus solely on the images and neglect to notice the strong frames that hold them—just as we sometimes overlook the extraordinary sacrifices of military families as part of the strength that frames our Nation.
For more than 40 years, the National Military Family Association has stood alongside military families as they continue to support the Nation's efforts to protect all the things we hold close. We are inspired by the pride in service and determination of military families, especially since September 11, 2001. We appreciate all of the sacrifices made in the past 10 years. We pledge to help military families shoulder the responsibilities of the years to come, and are thankful for your steadfast support of our efforts.
Sincerely,

Joyce Wessel Raezer
Executive Director

National Military Family Association
2500 North Van Dorn Street., Suite 102, Alexandria, VA 22302-1601
p: 800.260.0218 | f: 703.931.4600

Save the Date-- Brats for the Brave, May 18- pass it on and invite others.

2011-04-20T15:57:00.001-07:00

Hello-

Please pass this on to the community leaders, business members and all service members.

Brats for the Brave honors our military members in the community and we would love to have as many troops attend as possible. The 2nd Annual luncheon will be hosted at the Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce on May 18, 2011 from 1130-1300. Please feel free to come anytime for a free lunch honoring our troops.

RSVP is requested-- http://www.bismarckmandan.com/events/detail.asp?eventID=222

Shelle Michaels
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee Chairperson

Advisory from National Guard Bureau (NGB)

2011-02-24T10:51:00.001-08:00

The following is an advisory sent out by the National Guard Bureau (NGB) in reference to a group called "Veterans Affairs Services"

An organization called Veterans Affairs Services (VAS) is providing benefit and general information on VA and gathering personal information on veterans. This organization is not affiliated with VA in any way. Websites with the name "VA services" immediately after the "www" ARE NOT part of the Department of Veterans Affairs; the real VA website ends in.gov. If approached or called, do not offer them any information concerning yourself or data on other veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs does not randomly call veterans, nor does it ask veterans for information which it does not already have. If you have not dealt with the VA previously and in person, then you receive a call from someone saying they are with the VA or something similar sounding, hang up the phone. Do not respond to emails which suggest that they are from the VA. The VA never conducts official business nor asks for personal information by email.

VAS may be gaining access to military personnel through their close resemblance to the VA name and seal. NGB Legal Counsel has requested that the NGB Provost Marshal Office coordinate with DoD to inform military installations, particularly mobilization sites, of this group and their lack of affiliation or endorsement by VA to provide any services.

VA Police Services are urged to disseminate this information in case of inquiries from veterans and to prevent their unwitting release of Personally Identifiable Information (PII).

Awareness Bulletin #2011-01

2011-02-24T10:45:00.001-08:00

Free E- Cards for Valentine's Day benefits Soldiers' Angels..

2011-02-10T05:57:00.001-08:00

If EVERYONE sent TEN E-CARDS................. what an amazing donation that would be for Soldiers' Angels.

http://www.photocardsdirect.com/soldiersangels

Love the Troops with Free E-cards!

Thanks to PhotoCardsDirect.com, patriotic Americans can send a free Valentine's Day e-card to anyone and make money for Soldiers' Angels care packages at the same time! Keep reading for more info...

America appreciates and remembers our troops on Valentine's Day, and now Americans across the country can send a free e-card making sure those troops hear that message loud and clear. PhotoCardsDirect.com and Soldiers' Angels are expanding their partnership in support of America's Armed Forces with free Valentine's Day photo e-cards for the troops that also generate donations for care packages.

Anyone can thank and support the troops with a free Valentine's Day e-card from PhotoCardsDirect.com. For every 10 cards created, Soldiers' Angels will receive $1 towards care packages for deployed military personnel.

Soldiers' Angels Founder Patti Patton-Bader explains, "There's nothing like being able to put a face to the name of a supportive American back home. With these photo e-cards, we can ensure our motto 'May No Soldier Go Unloved' becomes a reality this Valentine's Day."

Combat veteran and Soldiers' Angels Executive Director Toby Nunn adds, "If half your heart is in Iraq or Afghanistan this Valentine's Day, you can bridge that gap and make it whole for a moment with an e-card. With just a couple of mouse clicks, every patriotic American can let the troops know how much they are loved and appreciated, that they are not forgotten."

The free Valentine's Day e-cards can be sent to any email address. Americans who do not have the email address of a service member can send their cards to Valentines2011@soldiersangels.org and Soldiers' Angels will pass the Valentine to a Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine who needs a boost.

Shelle M. Michaels / Professional Education Manager
Rasmussen College - Bismarck Campus

Office: 701-221-8810

Mobile: 701-214-8869
Fax: 877-307-4921

Shelle.Michaels@Rasmussen.edu

www.Rasmussen.edu

Support the Red, White and Blue. Give Love, Give Blood.

2011-02-08T12:20:00.001-08:00

January was Blood Donor Month. We salute everyone that gave blood during this campaign. Soldiers' Angels encourages everyone to give blood surrounding the weeks of Valentine's Day, as blood is needed every hour of the day. Support the Red, White and Blue. Give Love, Give Blood.

Armed Services Blood Program Newsletter	February 8, 2011

From the Desk of: COL Francisco Rentas, Director, ASBPO

National Blood Donor Month has come to an end, and what a great start to a new year it was! Thank you to all those who shared stories, videos and pictures, and to all the loyal donors who continued to give blood to support our service members worldwide. A very good example of this support was our annual West Point blood drive which saw over 2,100 units collected!

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, we highlight blood compatibility, couples that volunteer and donate together and a heart clinic filled with faithful donors.

Thanks to everyone who make the ASBP a success. Let's keep up the good work to ensure that injured and ill service members, veterans and their families will get to spend this and many future Valentine's Days together.

Warm regards,

COL Francisco Rentas

What Gets Your Heart Pumpin'?

It is all about the heart this month! Did you know:

Your heart beats about 100,000 times a day and circulates the body's blood supply about 1,000 times per day.

Joined end-to-end, all the blood vessels in your body would stretch about 60,000 miles. (That's 2 1/2 times around the Earth!)

Each minute, an adult heart (which is about the size of a clenched fist, or about 8 ounces for women and 10 ounces for men) pumps about 5 quarts of blood a day, that's almost 2,000 gallons!

It takes about 20 seconds to circulate blood through the entire human body.

Find these and more heart and blood facts from Portage Health or Saint John's Health Center.

Blood, Sweat and Steel Girders

Donating blood may not rank high on the to-do list after a day of laying concrete, placing steel beams and tacking dry wall. But for the Balfour Beatty Construction and Clark Construction companies giving blood for the troops is an honor.

So, in the midst of construction and heavy equipment, workers from the two companies made a point to stop by the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., to donate blood and platelets to the Armed Services Blood Program.

At the center, each military blood drive is dedicated to a service member. The first drive honored fallen Sgt. Forest Dane Cauthorn. The turnout was so great, that additional blood drives were held, and by the end of the fourth drive on Jan. 4, 2011, the National Naval Medical Center collected 214 whole blood units, which will be shipped to Iraq and Afghanistan ready to save the lives of those in need.

Read the entire article on the ASBP website.

Photo: Clark Construction employee, Mitch Vowler, makes his second donation to the ASBP at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.

Are You My Type?

Compatibility: Capable of existing together in harmony.

When most of us hear that word this time of year we think of Valentine's Day. A holiday for those in love and those searching for love. But, the ASBP encourages all of its donors to think about compatibility in a new way this year: blood type compatibility.

Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of the Rh antigen in addition to the person's blood group (A, B, AB or O). In order for a transfusion to be successful, blood types must be matched between the donor and the recipient. Blood can be needed at any time, and since compatibility is such an important factor in a successful transfusion, it is important to know which blood types are compatible.

Learn more about the perfect match for your blood type here.

Check Out the New ASBP You Tube Channel!

The ASBP debuts its new You Tube channel featuring the latest videos, interviews, public service announcements and more!

Stay tuned with the ASBP by subscribing to our channel.

Picture This!

The ASBP Focal Point picture of the month

These great couples are donating and working together to save lives!

Gunnery Sgt. Jim Joint and his wife, Staff Sgt. Jhomara Joint, always find a way to volunteer, so it is no surprise that the married couple decided to donate blood at the ASBP blood drive at Camp Pendleton, Calif. After meeting at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., in 2002, Jim and Jhomara Joint have been married for eight years. The couple has spent a combined 19 years in the military and both continue to find ways around their busy schedules to volunteer to help others. Read the entire article on the ASBP website.

Staff Sgt. Brian VanBruggen spent two days of hard-earned vacation in the ASBP's military blood donor center at Fort Hood, Texas, helping to run a blood drive because of his wife. For three days, the pair assisted with donor registration and recruited more donors to support the military blood drive held in the Robertson Blood Center at Fort Hood, Texas. Read the entire article on the ASBP website.

Photos: (Top Left) Spouses Staff Sgt. Jhomara Joint (left) and Gunnery Sgt. Jim Joint (right), proudly volunteer to donate blood to the ASBP at the Camp Pendleton Blood Donor Center, Calif.

(Bottom Right) Staff Sgt. Brian VanBruggen and his wife, Margaret, host an ASBP blood drive at the Robertson Blood Center at Fort Hood, Texas.

Caring from the Heart Clinic

Many employees of the Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center, take their motto, "Caring from the heart," well... to heart. The team has been known to donate blood to care for their patients and support troops downrange. Carol Cox, a cardiac sonographer in the cardiology clinic, is no exception. She has been a faithful blood donor since college, and recently reached a milestone-her 50th blood donation at Fort Gordon, Ga.

Army Maj. Warren Brown, officer-in-charge of the Kendrick Memorial Blood Center at Ft. Gordon, presented Cox with a special ASBP coin to mark the occasion.

Read the entire article on the ASBP website.

Photo: Maj. Warren Brown, officer-in-charge of the Kendrick Memorial Blood Center at Fort Gordon, Ga., presents Carol Cox, a cardiac sonorgrapher in the cardiology clinic of the Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center, with an ASBP coin for accomplishing the milestone of 50 blood donations.

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Armed Services Blood Program | 5109 Leesburg Pike | Rm 698 | Falls Church | VA | 22041-3258

New VA Support Line Provides Important Assistance to Caregivers

2011-02-08T12:10:00.001-08:00

New VA Support Line Provides Important Assistance to Caregivers

Benefits and Support Information a Phone Call Away

WASHINGTON (Feb. 8, 2011)- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is
increasing its support to caregivers with a new, toll-free telephone
line for the caregivers of Veterans of all eras.

"The families and loved ones who care for severely injured Veterans
deserve the highest level of support," said Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "At VA, we consider them important partners in
our efforts to care for and rehabilitate our nation's heroes."

The National Caregiver Support Line -- 1-855-260-3274 -- will serve as
the primary resource and referral center to assist caregivers, Veterans
and others seeking caregiver information.

The line unofficially started Feb. 1, and in its first week logged
nearly 600 calls, including 134 referrals to local VA caregiver support
coordinators and 233 calls from caregivers themselves.

"VA has been providing support for the caregivers of Veterans for more
than seven decades," Shinseki added. "We already have more than two
dozen successful programs, policies and services that support the
caregivers of Veterans of all ages."

The support line will provide information regarding new caregiver
benefits, referrals to local caregiver support coordinators as well as
emotional support to those concerned with their ability to provide care
to loved ones who are Veterans.

The National Caregiver Support Line will be open Monday through Friday.
8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Eastern time; and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.,
Eastern time. Licensed VA social workers and health technicians will
staff the support line.

Local caregiver support coordinators are available to assist Veterans
and their caregivers to understand and apply for VA's many caregiver
benefits. VA also features a Web page, www.caregiver.va.gov
<http://www.caregiver.va.gov/> , with general information on other
caregiver support programs available through VA and the community.

Access to the National Caregiver Support Line was also identified as a
significant need in a November 2010 study on caregivers of Veterans
published by the National Alliance for Caregiving.

For an opportunity to get to know a few of today's remarkable caregivers
of Veterans, go to
http://www.youtube.com/user/veteranshealthadmin#p/u/0/XRmAwZHYRFE.

WARNING from the VA about VAS

2011-01-24T09:42:00.001-08:00

Forwarded by Kevin Secor, VSO Liaison, Office of the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

[Websites with the name "vaservices" immediately after the "www" ARE NOT part of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the US Government agency. D o not go to them or if approached or called, do not offer them any information concerning yourself or data on other veterans.

Keep in mind that the real VA website ends in .gov. Also, be aware that the Department of Veterans Affairs does not randomly call veterans, nor does it ask veterans for information which it does not already have--like Social Security Numbers. In particular, if you have not dealt with the VA previously--and in person--and all of a sudden, you receive a call from someone saying they are with the VA or something similar sounding, hang up the phone. Also, do not respond to emails which suggest that they are from the VA. The VA never conducts official business nor asks for personal information by email. Mike]

VAS may be gaining access to military personnel through their close resemblance to the VA name and seal. Our Legal Counsel has request ed that we coordinate with DoD to inform military installations, particularly mobilization sites, of this group and their lack of affiliation or endorsement by VA to provide any services.

In addition, GC requests that if you have any examples of VAS acts that violate chapter 59 of Title 38 United States Code, such as VAS employees assisting veterans in the preparation and presentation of claims for benefits, please pass any additional information to Mr.Daugherty at the address below.

Michael G. Daugherty

Staff Attorney

Department of Veterans Affairs

Office of General Counsel (022G2)

810 Vermont Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20420

Nick says THANKS!!!

2011-01-23T07:30:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone.

Thank you for the packages. I really appreciate everything you all are doing. I am a Combat Photographer, which is a job I really enjoy doing. Basically I take pictures of anything and everything that goes on out here. I also spend a lot of time drawing, so I've become the go-to guy for anything art related.

I am attaching a few photos of myself. I don't have a whole lot from out here, as I'm usually behind the camera, not in front of it. The internet is pretty hit and miss, but I will try to stay in touch as much as possible. Thanks again for everything.

-Nick

Be watching for Nick's photography as we share his work in the Helmland...

OPSEC: ‘Loose Lips Sink Ships’

2011-01-22T13:56:00.001-08:00

OPSEC: OPERATIONS SECURITY

Within the Navy, the odds of making it through boot camp without hearing 'Loose Lips Sink Ships' are improbable. Though the slogan is old, it still embodies the basic principle of Operational Security, or OPSEC.

What Is OPSEC?

Operations Security, or OPSEC, is keeping potential adversaries from discovering the critical information of our military. As the name suggests, it protects our operations – planned, in progress, and those completed. Success depends on secrecy and surprise, so the military can accomplish the mission faster and with less risk. Our adversaries want our information, and they don't concentrate on only soldiers to get it. They want to connect with the family member, the supporter or the friend.

There are many countries and organizations that would like to harm Americans and degrade our influence in the world. It's possible, and not unprecedented, for spouses, family members and those supporting U.S. military personnel to be targeted for intelligence collection. This is true in the United States and especially true overseas! What can you do?

Be Alert

Foreign governments and organizations collect significant amounts of useful information by using spies. A foreign agent may use a variety of approaches to befriend someone (Facebook even) and get sensitive information. This sensitive information can be critical to the success of a terrorist or spy, and consequently deadly to Americans.

Be Careful

There may be times when our troops cannot talk about the specifics of his or her job. It's very important to conceal and protect certain information such as flight schedules, ship movements, temporary duty (TDY) locations to include APO addresses and installation activities, for example. Something as simple as a phone discussion or email about where they are deploying, or going TDY, can be very useful to our enemies.

Protecting Critical Information

Even though information may not be secret, it can be what we call "critical information." Critical information deals with specific facts about military intentions, capabilities, operations or activities. If an adversary knew this detailed information, our warrior's mission accomplishment and personnel safety could be jeopardized. It must be protected to ensure an adversary doesn't gain a significant advantage.

By being a member of Soldiers' Angels in supporting our warriors, you may often know some bits of critical information. Do not discuss them outside of Soldiers' Angels via email, Facebook, texts, tweets or over the telephone. We have secure means as registered angels to disseminate information and these methods need to be followed to assure we are doing our part to provide a secure support net for our warriors and their families.

Examples Of Critical Information

• Detailed information about the mission of assigned units.

• Details on locations and times of unit deployments to include APO addresses.

• References to trends in unit morale or personnel problems.

• Details concerning security procedures

These bits of information may seem insignificant. However, to a trained adversary, they are small pieces of a puzzle that highlight what our troops doing and planning. Remember, the elements of security and surprise are vital to the accomplishment of the goals of the military and their collective personnel protection. It is your duty as an Angel to assure that protection.The bottom line is to use common sense and keep our troops safe on the front lines!

"OPSEC is a vital element in protecting the troops and missions, and I want to stress how vital a role every member of the team

plays in ensuring that we deny our adversaries potentially useful information.

"Whether we are on duty or off duty, we cannot afford to let our guard down. Your diligence in OPSEC

is key to ensuring our effectiveness in operations and our collective safety.

Together, we will succeed."

Maj. Gen. Keith B. Alexander

Commanding General

U.S. Army Intelligence and

Security Command

Golden Eagle

2011-01-19T15:01:00.001-08:00

As the chair for the Military Affairs Committee at the Chamber of Commerce, I invite you to nominate a business that you know goes above and beyond in support of the military in the community. You don't have to be a chamber member to nominate someone, but they do need to be a chamber member to receive this award.

The Golden Eagle will be awarded to a Bismarck Mandan Chamber member who has an active record of military support in the Bismarck Mandan area. The purpose of the award is to recognize those in support of the military through community involvement and business interaction.

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2011 award online: http://www.bismarckmandan.com/committees/military/golden-eagle-award/

If you would like to double check to see if any business is a member of the chamber—please check out the up to date list here:

http://www.bismarckmandan.com/directory/company.asp

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

2nd Annual Support the Red, White and Blue; Give Love, Give Blood

2011-01-12T02:52:00.001-08:00

During the week surrounding February 11th, 2011 Soldiers' Angels encourages Angels and friends across the entire country to honor those that have shed their BLOOD for us by heading to a local blood bank and donating a pint.

Send your photos of your giving experience to ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org or pixt them to 218-779-7271 for automatic posting to our Facebook fan page.

Bismarck – the United Blood Services Blood Mobile will be at Rasmussen College at 1701 Century Ave on February 11, 2011. Contact Kristen to set up your donation time at 701-371-5092. No formal drives other than in Bismarck are scheduled across the state of North Dakota; contact your local blood bank to schedule a time to give or feel free to set up a blood drive at your work site in honor of those that have shed their blood for us. Please share this with others.

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

VA Set to Verify Veteran Small Businesses

2011-01-03T08:40:00.001-08:00

http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel <http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel>

VA Set to Verify Veteran Small Businesses

Washington (Jan. 3, 2010)- To further advocate for Veterans, VA
announced that companies identifying themselves as small businesses or
Veteran-owned businesses to gain priority for some Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) contracts must now provide documentation verifying
their status within 90 days of receiving notice from the agency.
> "VA is committed to doing business with as well as supporting and
protecting Veteran-owned small businesses," said Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "Although the verification process may
initially be a challenge to some small business owners and to VA, it's a
necessary step to eliminate misrepresentation by firms trying to receive
contracts that should go to service-disabled and other Veteran-owned
vendors."

The Veterans Benefits Act of 2010, signed by the President Oct. 13,
expanded VA's requirement to verify the status of businesses claiming
Veterans preference to compete for VA contracts by being listed in VA's
VetBiz.gov "Vendor Information Pages" (VIP) database. Companies will
have to submit an application to substantiate their status as owned and
controlled by Veterans, service-disabled Veterans or eligible surviving
spouses. Only companies that submit the information will be listed in
the VIP database.

The law requires VA to notify currently listed businesses that within 90
days of the Veteran-owned business receiving the notice they must submit
certain business documents. VA sent notices to more than 13,000 listed
businesses by email and mail Dec. 10-11. Other companies, wanting to
be listed in the database and considered for future set-aside VA
contracts, also have to submit application packages. VA will work on
those verifications after the existing listings are verified.

The department plans to post additional information at www.VetBiz.gov in
early February informing applicants how to submit their documents
electronically. In the meantime, VA's notice to currently listed
businesses encourages them to submit their information on CD-ROM.

Priority processing will be given to those Veteran-owned firms that are
in line to receive a set-aside contract from VA, those that already
conduct business with VA, and those that have already filed an
application for verification.

For more information, visit the Office of Small and Disadvantaged
Business Utilization's website at
www.va.gov/OSDBU/veteran/verification.asp or the main page at
www.va.gov/osdbu/.

# # #

News Release: North Dakotans urged to "Resolve to be Ready"

2010-12-30T08:52:00.001-08:00

North Dakotans urged to "Resolve to be Ready"

For Immediate Release: December 30, 2010

Contact: Cecily Fong, 701-328-8100

Bismarck, ND - For many, the New Year is a time for making resolutions and goals for the year to come. This year, the Department of Emergency Services (NDDES) is asking citizens across North Dakota to "Resolve to be Ready."

Whether it is flooding, winter storms, tornadoes, or wildfires – preparing ahead of time will help families stay safe. By following the Ready Campaign's three steps, preparing for an emergency can be a simple and realistic resolution you can keep all year long:

· Get an emergency supply kit

· Make a family emergency plan

· Be informed about the types of emergencies that can happen in your area and the appropriate responses

While emergencies, either natural or man-made are inevitable, being prepared can help minimize the impact they will have on our lives. For more information about preparing for emergencies, please visit the "Get Ready, Get Set, Get Safe" section of the NDDES website at:

www.nd.gov/des/get/resolve-to-be-ready/.

# # #

The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services provides 24/7 emergency communications and resource coordination with more than 50 lead and support agencies, private enterprise, and voluntary organizations to assist local jurisdictions in disaster and emergency response activities. It administers federal disaster recovery programs and the Homeland Security Grant Program.

Service Member and Family Support Services

2010-12-29T07:44:00.001-08:00

Service Member and Family Support Services

http://www.pdhealth.mil/hss/smfss.asp#amsi

This section of PDHealth.mil provides information and guidance for service members and their families about the service member and family support services that are available from the military, VA, and the private sector.

Table of Contents

DoD Family Services
DoD Helplines
Military OneSource
Other Organizations Providing Family Services/Resources
Transition and Employment Services
Wounded Warrior Support
Casualty Assistance Information
Military Pathways® (Mental Health Self-Assessment
Guides to Service Member and Family Assistance Services
National Guard/Reserve-Specific Healthcare and Support Services

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

ADA: Know Your Rights - Returning Service Members with Disabilities

2010-12-29T07:41:00.001-08:00

http://www.ada.gov/servicemembers_adainfo.html

U.S. Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division
Disability Rights Section

ADA: Know Your Rights

Returning Service Members with Disabilities

You've been seriously injured while serving on active duty in the U.S. Military -- perhaps you've lost a limb, sustained a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury, sustained hearing or vision loss, or are experiencing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) -- and now you're back in the States trying to adjust to living with your injury. This publication explains your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides information on where to get assistance.
Introduction
The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination and guarantees that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in the mainstream of American life -- to enjoy employment opportunities, to purchase goods and services, and to participate in State and local government programs and services. Modeled after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, the ADA is an "equal opportunity" law, not a benefit program entitling you to specific services or financial assistance because of your disability.

The ADA uses different standards than the military and the Department of Veterans Affairs in determining disability status. The ADA covers people with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities such as walking, speaking, lifting, hearing, seeing, reading, eating, sleeping, concentrating, or working. Major life activities also include the operation of major bodily functions such as brain, immune system, respiratory, neurological, digestive, and circulatory functions. Businesses and State and local government agencies must take reasonable steps to make it possible for people with disabilities to be their employees or customers.

Employment
Obtaining Employment: What to Expect

The Hon. L. Tammy Duckworth, Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, Department of Veterans Affairs
The ADA prohibits discrimination against qualified employees or job applicants on the basis of their disability. It covers all employment practices, including the job application process, hiring, advancement, compensation, training, firing, and all other conditions of employment. Under the ADA, employers cannot use eligibility standards or qualifications that unfairly screen out people with disabilities and cannot make speculative assumptions about a person´s ability to do a job based on myths, fears, or stereotypes about employees with disabilities (such as unfounded concerns that hiring people with disabilities would mean increased insurance costs or excessive absenteeism).

Additionally, employers must make "reasonable accommodations" for employees with disabilities, which means changing the work environment or job duties to eliminate barriers that keep an individual from being able to perform the essential functions of the job. Employers are not, however, required to make accommodations that would result in an "undue hardship," which means accommodations that would result in significant difficulty or expense. Also, employers are not required to provide accommodations unless an employee requests them. So, if you´re a veteran with a hidden disability like PTSD, you can decide whether to reveal the disability and request accommodations. If you don´t need accommodations, you don´t have to disclose the disability. Employers with fifteen or more employees must comply with these provisions.

Typical examples of reasonable accommodations are:

Flexible scheduling at a retail store or restaurant, so a sales clerk or cashier with PTSD can attend counseling sessions or an employee with a spinal cord injury who has a lengthy personal care routine in the mornings can start his or her workday later.
For an employee who has a brain injury, reducing clutter and distractions, providing instructions and information in writing, breaking down complex assignments into small steps, or allowing a job coach on the worksite to help a new employee get settled into the job.
Specialized equipment for a data-entry operator who has lost an arm, hand, or finger, such as a one-handed keyboard, a large-key keyboard, a touchpad, a trackball, or speech recognition software.
Making sure materials and equipment are in easy reach for a factory worker who uses a wheelchair.
Raising an office desk on blocks for a worker who uses a wheelchair, and making sure supplies, materials, and office machines are at a height that is easy to reach and use and are in a location that is not obstructed by partitions, wastebaskets, or other items.
Allowing more frequent work breaks or providing backup coverage when an employee who has PTSD needs to take a break.
Providing a stool for a sales clerk who uses crutches so he or she can sit when not serving customers.
If the employer has an employee parking lot, reserving a parking space close to the entrance for an employee who has difficulty walking because of the loss of a leg, foot, or toe.
Providing instructions and information in writing for an employee with hearing loss.
Allowing an employee to bring his or her service animal to work.
Allowing an employee with tinnitus to play soft background music or sounds to help block out the ringing in his ears.
For more information about these provisions or how to file a complaint, see Contact Information for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. For practical advice on workplace accommodations, see Contact Information for the Job Accommodation Network.

Customer Access
Purchasing Goods and Services: What to Expect

There are over seven million businesses in the United States that provide goods or services to the public, including grocery stores, retail stores, restaurants and bars, hotels and motels, gas stations, dry cleaners, laundromats, banks, law offices, medical offices, insurance agencies, movie theaters, art museums, gyms, amusement parks, and other businesses. All businesses that provide goods or services to the public, even small ones with only one or two employees, must comply with the ADA, including the following requirements:

Reasonable Modifications

> Businesses must make "reasonable modifications" in their policies, practices, or procedures when necessary so that people with disabilities can be their customers. Businesses are not, however, required to make any changes that would fundamentally alter or change the nature of the business or its services. Additional information about the rules for "reasonable modifications" can be found at www.ada.gov/reachingout/lesson11.htm or by calling the ADA Information Line. See Contact Information.

Typical examples of reasonable modifications are:

Modifying a no-pets policy to allow someone with PTSD to bring in a service animal that has been trained to calm the person when he or she has an anxiety attack.
Modifying a membership policy at a health club to allow a person who uses a wheelchair to bring an aide to provide assistance in getting on and off exercise equipment, in and out of a swimming pool, or to assist with showering and dressing in the locker room, at no additional charge to the club member.
Instructing staff that if a customer who has lost the use of his or her arms asks them to reach into a shirt or jacket pocket to retrieve the wallet or credit card needed to pay the bill, they should honor the request.
Modifying procedures at a bank so customers who have difficulty standing for a long time can sit down without losing their place in line.
Providing refueling assistance at the self-serve price for a customer with a disability who cannot pump his or her own gas.
An example of a fundamental alteration or change is:

At a gas station with only one employee whose primary job is to protect the cash box or activate the gas pumps remotely, it would be a fundamental change for the employee to leave his or her post unattended in order to pump gas for a customer with a disability.
Effective Communication

Businesses must communicate effectively with customers who have vision, hearing, or speech disabilities. The businesses, not the customers, are responsible for providing the tools or services that are needed for "effective communication." Businesses are not, however, required to provide any tools or services that would be an "undue burden," which means significant difficulty or expense. The type of tool or service needed depends on the nature of the communication as well as the particular customer´s disability. Additional information about the rules for "effective communication" can be found at www.ada.gov/reachingout/lesson21.htm or by calling the ADA Information Line. See Contact Information.

Examples of effective communication are:

At a restaurant, the waiter can read the menu to a person with vision loss.
At a grocery store, a staff person can assist a person with vision loss by locating and retrieving items from the shelves or reading price and content information to him or her.
At an apartment rental office, the agent can provide a large print copy of a rental contract for a person who has vision loss or an audiotaped or electronic copy for a person who is blind.
At a retail store, the sales person can write notes to answer simple questions from a customer who is deaf or has hearing loss.
At a movie theater, staff can provide an assistive listening device for someone who has hearing loss.
A pizza delivery service must accept calls through the telephone relay service from a customer who uses a TTY because of a speech disability.
New Construction and Alterations

Businesses whose facilities were built or altered since the ADA went into effect must comply with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design so that the facility is accessible to and usable by people who have mobility disabilities as well as people who have sensory disabilities and people who have limited dexterity or grasping ability.
>
Barrier Removal

In addition, businesses have a continuing obligation to remove architectural barriers when it is "readily achievable" to do so. For example, if inaccessible features in an older facility can be corrected easily and inexpensively, they must be corrected. If there are several inaccessible features and it is not easy and inexpensive to correct them all at once, they should be corrected over time.

When an inaccessible feature cannot be corrected, if there is another easy and inexpensive way to provide service to a customer who cannot access the business, the business must offer that alternative for the customer.

Additional information about the rules for "barrier removal" can be found at www.ada.gov/reachingout/lesson41.htm or by calling the ADA Information Line. See Contact Information.

Inexpensive steps businesses might take to improve access may include:

Installing a ramp over a step or two at the main entrance.
Making a curb cut in the business's sidewalk.
Rearranging tables, chairs, vending machines, display racks, and other furniture to allow for easy passage throughout the business.
Installing grab bars in a toilet stall.
Lowering a bathroom's paper towel dispenser.
Restriping a portion of the parking lot to create accessible parking spaces.
Installing a paper cup dispenser at an inaccessible water fountain.
Examples of alternative ways to serve a customer when barrier removal is not feasible are:

At a dry cleaner's, providing curb-side service for a customer dropping off or picking up clothes.
At a neighborhood restaurant, providing home delivery or carry-out service for a customer who cannot enter the restaurant.
For more information about these provisions or how to file a complaint, see Contact Information for the U.S. Department of Justice.

Civic Life
Using State and Local Government Services and Activities: What to Expect

State and local governments offer a wide variety of services and activities that returning service members might need or wish to participate in, and all of these must comply with the ADA. Here are just a few examples of the many types of public services that are covered by the ADA: public trade schools and community colleges, public libraries, public hospitals, public parks and recreational facilities, public transit buses and trains, city and county offices where people go to renew licenses, apply for food stamps, pay their taxes, attend town meetings, serve on boards and commissions, or conduct other government business.
>
> The rules for State and local governments concerning policy modification, effective communication, and facilities built or altered since the ADA went into effect are very similar to the rules for businesses, as described in the previous section of this publication. However, the rules for government facilities that have architectural barriers are different than the rules for businesses. The rules for government facilities are outlined here.
>
> Government offices are not required to make all of their facilities accessible, but are required to make all of their programs accessible. They can do this by removing barriers at an existing facility, by relocating the program to an accessible facility, or by providing the program in a different manner. Government offices are not, however, required to undertake steps that would result in an "undue burden" or that would fundamentally change the nature of their programs.
>
> Examples of making a program accessible are:
>
> A community college has two campuses, one is accessible while the other is not. It is not necessary to remove physical barriers at the inaccessible campus, if the two campuses offer the same courses, have the same hours, and serve the same geographic area.
> If the community college offers different courses at its two campuses, offers different programs (for example, day courses at one campus and evening courses at the other), or serves different geographic areas, it must undertake physical improvements at the inaccessible campus or move classes to accessible locations.
> If a person who uses a wheelchair volunteers to serve on a city Parks and Recreation Commission and the Commission's regular meeting place is inaccessible, the Commission must remove barriers at the regular meeting place or relocate its meetings to an accessible location, such as the auditorium of a nearby high school.
> An example of providing a program in a different manner is:
>
> A public library that cannot be made accessible can drop books in the mail and allow them to be returned by mail to accommodate an individual who uses a wheelchair.
> An example of an "undue burden" and how it might be solved is:
>
> In a small municipality, the town council holds its public meetings in an auditorium on the second floor of an historic town building. There is no space on the accessible first floor large enough to hold the meetings, there is no other building where the meetings could be held, and the cost of installing an elevator is beyond the town´s financial ability and would destroy the historic features of the town hall. The town´s solution may be to install a video conference system in a room on the first floor so people with mobility disabilities can participate in the meetings.
> If a city or county employs 50 or more people, it is required to have an ADA coordinator. If you encounter problems when trying to use or participate in local government services and activities, you should ask your city or county if it has an ADA coordinator and see if the coordinator can resolve the problem. All State agencies should have an ADA coordinator to resolve problems in accessing State government services and activities.
>
> Contact the U.S. Department of Justice for more information about the ADA or how to file a complaint. For information about the ADA's public transit provisions or how to file a transit-related complaint, contact the U.S. Department of Transportation. For information about the ADA's public education provisions or how to file an education-related complaint, contact the U.S. Department of Education. See Contact Information.
>
> Other Federal Laws
> Other Federal Disability Rights Laws
>
> As noted earlier, the ADA covers employment, access to goods and services, and State and local government programs, activities, and services. There are other Federal disability rights laws that cover housing, air travel, telecommunications, Federal programs and services, and other topics. For more information, see the Department of Justice publication called "A Guide to Disability Rights Laws." You can read or download a copy at www.ada.gov/cguide.pdf or order a copy from the ADA Information Line. See Contact Information.
>
> Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
>
>
> Gen. Hal Hornburg, USAF (Ret), with two service members
> The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) prohibits discrimination against employees or job applicants on the basis of their military status or military obligations. It also protects the reemployment rights of people who leave civilian jobs to serve in the uniformed services. It applies to all veterans, not just those with service-connected disabilities. Under USERRA, employers must make "reasonable efforts" to help returning employees become qualified for reemployment in the positions they would have attained if they had not left for military duty, or comparable positions. This includes providing training or retraining, at no cost to the veteran. For more information about this law or to file a complaint, see Contact Information for the U. S. Department of Labor.
>
> Benefit Programs
> A Word about Benefit Programs
>
> You have probably already received information from your service branch or the Department of Veterans Affairs about programs designed to assist returning service members. But you may not know that there are many other benefit programs for people with disabilities, whether you´ve served in the military or not.
>
> All over the United States there are organizations called Independent Living Centers that provide information about benefit programs and other services for people with disabilities. You can find out how to contact the center nearest you by calling the ADA Information Line or by calling your regional DBTAC - ADA Center. See Contact Information.
>
> State Vocational Rehabilitation agencies also offer services to help people with disabilities enter or return to employment. Your State´s contact information is available at www.rehabnetwork.org/directors_contact.htm or from the ADA Information Line.
>
> Publications
> The following publications can be ordered by telephone or viewed online.
>
> A Guide to Disability Rights Laws
> www.ada.gov/publicat.htm#Anchor-14210
> 800-514-0301 (voice)
> 800-514-0383 (TTY)
>
> Americans with Disabilities Act: Questions and Answers
> www.ada.gov/q%26aeng02.htm
> 800-514-0301 (voice)
> 800-514-0383 (TTY)
>
> The ADA: Your Employment Rights as an Individual With a Disability
> www.eeoc.gov/facts/ada18.html
> 800-669-3362 (voice)
> 800-800-3302 (TTY)
>
> Veterans with Service-connected Disabilities in the Workplace and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
> www.eeoc.gov/facts/veterans-disabilities.html
>
>
> Accommodating Service Members and Veterans with PTSD
> www.jan.wvu.edu/corner/vol03iss02.htm
> 800-526-7234 (voice)
> 877-781-9403 (TTY)
>
> Accommodating Employees with Traumatic Brain Injury
> www.americasheroesatwork.gov/accommodatingTBI.html
> Accommodating Employees with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
> www.americasheroesatwork.gov/accommodatingPTSD.html
>
> So You Want to Go Back to School
> www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/back-to-school-2008.html
>
> Contact Information
> All the agencies listed below provide technical assistance to help businesses, State and local governments, and individuals with disabilities understand the ADA. Each agency specializes in different ADA topics.
>
> The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission provides information about the employment provisions of the ADA.
>
> For questions
> 1-800-669-4000 (voice)
> 1-800-669-6820 (TTY)
>
> For ordering publications by mail
> 1-800-669-3362 (voice)
> 1-800-800-3302 (TTY)
>
> For ordering publications online
> http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/publications/index.cfm
>
> Website
> www.eeoc.gov/laws/types/disability.cfm
> Email address -- info@eeoc.gov
>
> Please include your zipcode and/or city and state so your email will be sent to the appropriate office.
>
> Mail
> Please call, or click on the website´s link "Contact Us," to get the address for the office that serves your area.
>
> The Job Accommodation Network provides information about accommodating employees with disabilities.
>
> 800-526-7234 (voice)
> 800-232-9675 (voice)
> 304-293-7186 (voice)
> 877-781-9403 (TTY)
> 304-293-5407 (fax)
>
> Website
> www.jan.wvu.edu
>
> Job Accommodation Network
> PO Box 6080 Morgantown, WV 26506-6080
>
> The U.S. Department of Justice provides information about the provisions applying to businesses and State and local government agencies, including the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Contact the ADA Information Line to speak to an ADA Specialist who can answer questions and help you understand the ADA´s requirements. All calls are confidential.
>
> ADA Information Line
> 1-800-514-0301 (voice)
> 1-800-514-0383 (TTY)
> 24 hours a day to order publications by mail
> M-W, F 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. (eastern time) to speak with an ADA Specialist.
>
> Website
> www.ada.gov
>
> U.S. Department of Justice
> Civil Rights Division
> 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
> DRS-NYA
> Washington, DC 20530
>
> The U.S. Department of Transportation provides information about the public transit provisions of the ADA.
>
> ADA Assistance Line
> 888-446-4511 (voice)
> TTY: use relay service
>
> Website
> www.fta.dot.gov/ada
>
>
> E-mail address
> FTA.ADAassistance@dot.gov
>
> Federal Transit Administration
>
> East Building
> 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE
> Washington, DC 20590
>
> The U.S. Department of Education provides information about the public education provisions of the ADA.
>
> 800-421-3481 (voice)
> 877-521-2172 (TTY)
>
> Website
> www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
>
> E-mail address -- ocr@ed.gov
>
> Mail
> Please call, or click on the website´s link "Office Contacts," to get the address for the office that serves your area.
>
> The ten regional DBTAC - ADA Centers provide information about the ADA.
>
>
> 800-949-4232 (voice and TTY)
>
> Website
> www.adata.org
>
> The U.S. Department of Labor provides information about the provisions of USERRA.
>
> 202-693-4731 (voice)
> TTY: use relay service
>
> Website
> www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/main.htm
>
>
> For persons with disabilities, this publication is available in large print, Braille, audio tape, and on computer disk.
>
> Reproduction of this publication is encouraged.
>
> January 2010
>
>
> ADA: Know Your Rights Returning Service Members with Disabilities (PDF version)
>
>
> ADA Home Page
>
>
> Last updated August 17, 2010
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *********************************************************************************************
>
>
>
>
> Very Respectfully,
>
> Shari Parrow, MSW LCSW
> U.S. Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2)
> Advocate
> Serco, Inc. Contractor
>
> Providing personalized support to severely wounded, injured and ill
> Soldiers and their Families for, "as long as it takes".
>
> Direct: (701) 306-8751 (C) (Leave Messages Here)
> Toll Free: 1-877-393-9058
> Email: shari.a.smith@us.army.mil
> Online: www.AW2.army.mil
>
> (160 D&T-0)
> RM 1135-d
> Fargo VAMC
> 2101 North Elm Street
> Fargo, ND 58102
> Fargo VAMC Office: (701)232-3241 - 9/4412 (Do not leave messages here)
> Faxination: VAMC Fargo, ND (Atten: Shari Parrow (AW2) 701-237-2578
>
> NOTICE: Freedom of Information Act: The information contained in this communication is intended for the sole use of the named addressees/recipients to whom it is addressed, in the conduct of official business of the United States Government. This communication may contain information that is exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, USC 552 and the Privacy Act, 5 USC 552a Addressees/recipients are not to disseminate this communication to individuals other than those who have an official need to know this information in the course of their official Government duties.
>
> Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act: This document may contain confidential information that is legally privileged under the Privacy Act, 5 USC 552(a), and/or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (PL 104-191) and its various implementing regulations. If this correspondence contains healthcare information it is being provided to you after appropriate authorization from the patient or under circumstances that do not require patient authorization. You are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner. Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality subjects you to application of appropriate civil and federal criminal sanctions. If you have received this correspondence in error, destroy any copies you have made and notify the sender or the local MTF Chief, Patient Administration Division or Privacy Officer. Access rights to this information are defined in AR 40-66 and DOD Regulation 6025.18, Health Information Privacy Regulation 60.

Guard to Honor Former ND Governor Hoeven During Ceremony (UNCLASSIFIED)

2010-12-21T03:55:00.001-08:00

Guard to Honor Former ND Governor Hoeven During Ceremony

BISMARCK, N.D. - The North Dakota National Guard will honor former Gov. John
Hoeven and his wife Mikey at a ceremony at the Guard's Raymond J. Bohn Armory
Tuesday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.

Hoeven will be awarded the North Dakota National Guard's highest award for
his distinguished service as commander in chief throughout the past 10 years.
During his tenure as governor, more than 5,300 Soldiers and Airmen were
mobilized for federal duty and more than 3,000 active duty, reserve and Guard
personnel were called to serve on state active duty to fight floods and help
communities following ice storms and tornados.

Media are invited; no pre-coordination is required.

The ceremony can be viewed live on the internet at
http://www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil/news/videos/.

WHAT: Ceremony to honor Former Gov. John and Mikey Hoeven
WHERE: Raymond J. Bohn Armory, 4200 East Divide Avenue, Bismarck, N.D.
WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m.
MEDIA: no pre-coordination is required
--
Since the 2001 terrorist attacks on America, the North Dakota National Guard
has mobilized more than 3,500 Soldiers and more than 1,800 Airmen in support
of the Global War on Terrorism. Currently, about a dozen North Dakota
Guardsmen are serving overseas while more than 4,000 remain in the state for
emergency response and national defense. For every 10,000 citizens in North
Dakota, 65 serve in the North Dakota National Guard, a rate that's more than
four times the national average.

DMA Holiday Video

2010-12-16T12:29:00.001-08:00

All-

I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you Happy Holidays and to share a special video that we at the Defense Media Activity Emerging Media directorate produced, with the participation of more than 40 commands worldwide.

Servicemembers from each of the services, stationed everywhere from Afghanistan to Antarctica, helped make "Twas a Night in December," a variation of the popular holiday story rewritten with a military twist. Country music singer and active military supporter Toby Keith introduces our holiday video.

Please feel free to share this video with your friends and family. And if you'd like to share it on your Facebook pages, blogs, and other social media, we'd be grateful!

You can link to the video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1j_icz3ZEHw

And, you can view the entire blog post: http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2010/12/twas-a-night-in-december/

Happy Holidays,

V/r,

LT Jennifer Cragg
Emerging Media Directorate
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs
Defense Media Activity
601 North Fairfax Street, Suite 311
Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2007

GOLD STAR WIVES DAY - December 18th

2010-12-16T12:24:00.001-08:00

Senate resolution designates Gold Star Wives Day

By C. Todd Lopez

Army News Service

WASHINGTON (AFRNS) -- For the first time, America officially recognizes the contributions and dedication of military widows with ''Gold Star Wives Day.''

A Senate resolution designates Dec. 18 as a day to honor and recognize the contributions of the members of the Gold Star Wives of America Inc.

The group, with about 10,000 members, provides service, support and friendship to the widows and widowers of military personnel who died on active duty or as the result of a service-connected cause.

"This is the first year we've had a Gold Star Wives day. It's something that our government relations committee has been working on," said Kit Frazer, president of Gold Star Wives of America Inc. "It's national recognition for the organization, which is wonderful. It's something very special to us."

Mrs. Frazer's husband was an Army helicopter pilot and was killed in Thailand during the Vietnam War. She said the organization represents military widows from every war since World War II.

Vivianne Wersel serves as the chairman of the Gold Star Wives government relations committee. Her husband, Marine Lt. Col. Rich Wersel, died Feb 4, 2005.

She said she hopes the observation brings awareness to the efforts of the Gold Star Wives.

"Part of it is public awareness, that the organization does exist and has existed since 1945, and the only time when we are really in the eye of the public is when we are on (Capitol Hill)," she said.

One of the issues Mrs. Wersel said the Gold Star Wives would like to bring attention to is how widows receive benefits after the deaths of their husbands -- in particular, how dependency and indemnity compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs affects a survivor's payments from the Survivors Benefit Plan.

Mrs. Wersel said some are confused by what the organization is working for when they ask that the rules governing benefits be changed. She said it helps to understand that a military wife often gives up a chance to earn her own retirement benefits when she agrees to move with their husband's military career.

"When you are a spouse and you have to move 10 times to 10 states in 10 years you don't get your own retirement," she said. "Your retirement is a team retirement."

She said one of the things Gold Star Wives of America Inc., works for is to bring attention to that issue, and she hopes the observation Dec. 18 will bring attention to that effort.

Related Link: Gold Star Wives of America Inc.

Announcing DCoE's 2011 Monthly Webinar Series

2010-12-16T12:19:00.001-08:00

The Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic
Brain Injury (DCoE) recently completed its first year of monthly webinars
(http://www.dcoe.health.mil/Events/MonthlyWebinars.aspx), a promotional and
informational series that offers resources, speaker presentations, best
practices from government and non-government organizations, and the
opportunity to dialogue with experts in areas of psychological health and
traumatic brain injury.

Since our first webinar in November 2009 about chaplains and chaplain
assistants, the listserv has increased by more than 1,240 percent; actual
attendance has increased by more than 400 percent; RSVP rates have increased
by more than 750 percent. These numbers clearly show an interest in national
and international discussions on various topics surrounding psychological
health and traumatic brain injury, such as reintegration, mobile technology,
support for caregivers and suicide prevention.

We are pleased to announce the 2011 DCoE Webinar schedule
(http://bit.ly/hJdrJ7). The 2011 topics range from technical and
research-focused subjects like indirect neurotrauma and neuropathophysiology
of mild traumatic brain injury to personal and emotional subjects like
compassion fatigue and holidays away from families. The webinar topics are
as varied as the issues and topics that DCoE focuses on in support of
servicemembers, veterans and their families.

TRICARE Offers Help for the Holiday Blues

2010-12-16T12:14:00.001-08:00

FYI: TRICARE Offers Help for the Holiday Blues [ http://www.tricare.mil/mediacenter/press_article.aspx?fid=507 ]

The holidays are usually an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends, but this time of year can also present significant stress. Joyous reminders of the holiday season for some can bring pain and loneliness to others.

Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, encourages service members and family members to reach out for help if they are struggling with feelings of stress, anxiety or depression through the video "Getting the Help You Need, When You Need It" at http://www.youtube.com/tricarehealth#p/u/4/SzMk-n8nY8k&feature=related.

Getting the Help You Need, When You Need It [ http://www.youtube.com/tricarehealth#p/u/4/SzMk-n8nY8k&feature=related ]

Please reach out to your family and friends if you are experiencing any holiday blues. Try to talk about your feelings with someone you trust, or seek confidential counseling through the TRICARE Assistance program (TRIAP) in the privacy of your home at www.tricare.mil/TRIAP [ http://www.tricare.mil/TRIAP ].

See what TRICARE Deputy Director Rear Admiral Christine Hunter has to say about getting help: http://www.dodlive.mil/index.php/2010/12/medical-monday-tricare-assistance-program-is-here-for-you-during-the-holidays.

A complete list of websites and other links are available at the TRICARE Mental Health Resource Center at www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth [ http://www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth ].

Sign up for TRICARE e-mail updates at www.tricare.mil/subscriptions [ http://www.tricare.mil/subscriptions ].

Connect with TRICARE on Facebook and Twitter at www.facebook.com/tricare [ http://www.facebook.com/tricare ] and www.twitter.com/tricare [ http://www.twitter.com/tricare ].

The TRICARE Management Activity administers the worldwide health care plan for 9.6 million eligible beneficiaries of the uniformed services, retirees and their families.

________________________________________________________________________

TRICARE [ http://www.tricare.mil/ ] Questions for TRICARE?
Contact Us [ http://www.tricare.mil/contactus/ ]

Praise our heroes everyday....

2010-12-15T09:00:00.001-08:00

A Poem Worth Reading

He was getting old and paunchy
and his hair was falling fast,
and he sat around the Legion,
telling stories of the past.

Of a war that he once fought in
and the deeds that he had done,
In his exploits with his buddies;
they were heroes, every one.

And 'tho sometimes to his neighbors
his tales became a joke,
all his buddies listened quietly
for they knew where of he spoke.

But we'll hear his tales no longer,
for ol' Bob has passed away,
and the world's a little poorer
for a Soldier died today.

He won't be mourned by many,
just his children and his wife.
for he lived an ordinary,
very quiet sort of life.

He held a job and raised a family,
going quietly on his way;
and the world won't note his passing,
'tho a Soldier died today.

When politicians leave this earth,
their bodies lie in state,
while thousands note their passing,
and proclaim that they were great.

Papers tell of their life stories
from the time that they were young,
but the passing of a Soldier
goes unnoticed, and unsung.

Is the greatest contribution
to the welfare of our land,
some jerk who breaks his promise
and cons his fellow man?

Or the ordinary fellow
who in times of war and strife,
goes off to serve his country
and offers up his life?

The politician's stipend
and the style in which he lives,
are often disproportionate,
to the service that he gives.

While the ordinary Soldier,
who offered up his all,
is paid off with a medal
and perhaps a pension, small.

It is not the politicians
with their compromise and ploys,
who won for us the freedom
that our country now enjoys.

Should you find yourself in danger,
with your enemies at hand,
would you really want some cop-out,
with his ever waffling stand?

Or would you want a Soldier--
his home, his country, his kin,
just a common Soldier,
who would fight until the end.

He was just a common Soldier,
and his ranks are growing thin,
but his presence should remind us
we will need his like again.

For when countries are in conflict,
we find the Soldier's part,
is to clean up all the troubles
that the politicians start.

If we cannot do him honour
while he's here to hear the praise,
then at least let's give him homage
at the ending of his days.

Perhaps just a simple headline
in the paper that might say:

"OUR COUNTRY IS IN MOURNING,
A SOLDIER DIED TODAY."

We're Celebrating "National Free Shipping Day" Early!

2010-12-15T08:47:00.001-08:00

	Free Shipping Day is December 17th We're Celebrating Early! 800.324.7982 - brownies.com

Sale | Holiday Gifts | Christmas Gifts | Gift Types | Shop By Price

Read the latest news
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Use priority code FSDAY at checkout.
Cannot be combined with other offers or volume discounts. New orders only.
Offer expires Midnight, MST Friday, December 17, 2010.

It's "the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." Or is it? - Military Pathways® is hosting a Depression, Deployment and the Holidays Webinar

2010-12-03T04:28:00.001-08:00

It's "the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." Or is it?

For many service members, veterans and family members, the holiday season can be stressful - especially when a loved one is away. To help those who may be feeling depressed or overwhelmed this time of year, Military Pathways® is hosting a Depression, Deployment and the Holidays Webinar on December 8th from 3:00-4:00 p.m. EST. This webinar is for service members, veterans, family members, and clinicians who work with the military. To reserve your spot, register online at www.MilitaryPathways.org

Grac After Fire

2010-11-30T05:54:00.001-08:00

She's a sister, a daughter, a wife...

SHE IS AN AMERICAN SOLDIER.

Did you know women veterans often struggle
as they come home and try to resume civilian life?

They need your help, today.

She fought for you.
Here's how you can join the fight for access to more care...

At Grace After Fire, we provide outreach to all women veterans and their families, offering confidential peer support; and increased access to appropriate trauma, mental health, addiction and community services. We offer unique peer services and work to connect women veterans to
healthcare and workforce readiness services.
Read more about our program...

On behalf of the nearly 2 million women veterans in America,

Thank You.

To learn more about Grace After Fire, go to our website www.GraceAfterFire.org

Grace After Fire is a 501(c)3 nonprofit public charity.

Your donation is tax deductible according to IRS regulations.

500 East 4th Street, #104 | Austin, TX 78701 | (512) 692-9152
www.GraceAfterFire.org | 501c3 Nonprofit Charity | Woman Veterans Support Line: (800) 362-6477

Mission: Provide outreach to all women veterans and their families, offering confidential peer support and increased access to appropriate trauma, mental health, addiction and community services.

EmailNow powered by Emma

Free Shipping on Gourmet Brownie Cakes for the Holidays!

2010-11-29T14:28:00.001-08:00




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3rd annual Adopt a Military Family for Christmas

2010-11-19T09:28:00.001-08:00

Dear Angels,

We have received a HUGE response to our 3rd annual Adopt a Military Family for Christmas Presents project. Nearly 2000 FAMILIES ARE WAITING TO BE ADOPTED!

Our goal is to help military families in need with Christmas presents for their children, along with a grocery gift card or prepaid Visa gift card for the family to purchase their holiday dinner and trimmings.

If you can't adopt a military family by yourself, please considering pairing up with another family, or organizing your church, workplace or community group to adopt a family. This project is a great way to connect one on one with military families to offer a special Thank You this holiday season by providing food and gifts for a Military Family!

What am I expected to provide the families?

For each family adopted, you are to provide a minimum of $50-$100 food gift card for a holiday meal, depending on the size of the family and gifts for each child in the amount of $20 - $50. All toys must be new and age appropriate. We ask that you wrap the gifts and ship the presents to your family you are matched with, so the families can receive your gifts before the Christmas holidays.

Adopt a Military Family for Christmas Sponsor
Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of commonly asked questions to familiarize you with our program. If this does not answer your questions, please feel free to contact me at cvink@soldiersangels.org

1. How soon do I need to tell you that I want to adopt families?
Our goal is to match families as soon as possible in hopes to give the sponsor and families enough time to plan. We would appreciate firm commitments from our sponsors no later than December 5th to make this possible. However, please note that the later you submit your request, the less likely that we will be able to match you with a family.

2. Can I choose the size of the family?
Yes, you can choose the family size that best suits your family's/groups ability to support.

3. Can I adopt multiple families?
Yes, you can adopt as many families as you would like as long as you can provide the minimum requirements to each family.

4. Can I specify the location of the families?
Yes you can specify the State of the family you would like to adopt. However, we may ask that you widen your geographic location if we are unable to match you with a family in your requested area.

5. What am I expected to provide the families?
For each family adopted, you are to provide a minimum of $50-$100 in a food gift card for a holiday meal, depending on the size of the family and gifts for each child in the amount of $20 - $50. All toys must be new and age appropriate.

6. Can I purchase items for the parents?
Yes you can purchase items for the parents but it is not required.

7. Can I wrap the gifts?
Please gift wrap your gifts, if you are able.

8. Can I ask the family over to my house?
You can ask the family if they would be comfortable coming over to your house for dinner or to open the presents, but they are not required to do so to participate in the program. For the safety and comfort of the families we leave that up to them to decide. Please respect their decision.

9. I am a company/organization and I want to invite all of our families to a party we are having at our place of business. Can I do this?
Yes, you can invite them to the party, but it cannot be required of the family to participate in order to receive assistance. Some families may not be comfortable attending such a function. Please respect their decision.

10. Can I make the family dinner and bring it to them?
Yes you can make the family dinner and bring it to them but please ask the family first before doing so. The family may not be comfortable with accepting premade food from someone they are not familiar with. Please respect their decision.

11. What if I want to adopt the family for the entire year – how do I do that?
Our program matches families with sponsors for the December Holidays, but if you choose to adopt the family for the entire year that is between you and the family. Please discuss this with them and see if they are comfortable with this relationship. You do not need to inform us if you decide to adopt the family for the entire year.

12. How do you screen the families?
All families are screened for participation in our Adopt a Military Family for Christmas program. An application form and a telephone interview are requested by every applicant for our Adopt a Military Family for Christmas program. However, this program is an expression of gratitude for families that sacrifice daily for our country and not necessarily based on financial situation.

13. When do the military families start applying?
Family registration began October 1st. Deadline to submit application for assistance was October 31st.

14. How long does it take for you to match me with a family?
The wait time will vary. We will review applications matches every week and we review every application thoroughly. Beginning in mid-November, we will match the families with the sponsor that best fits the sponsors request. If you are interested in adopting a military family for the holidays, please contact cvink@soldiersangels.org (Please do not just hit reply to this email. Thank!)

Thank you and Happy Holidays!

Caren Vink
www.soldiersangels.org
cvink@soldiersangels.org

Secretary Shinseki on Veterans Day

2010-11-11T06:53:00.001-08:00

On Veterans Day, VA Secretary Shinseki Recognizes, Thanks Veterans

WASHINGTON (Nov. 11, 2010) - This Veterans Day, Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Eric K. Shinseki calls on America to honor its 23 million
Veterans by reaching out to them and their families with heartfelt
thanks and encourage them to seek the benefits and services they have
earned from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

"As we observe Veterans Day, I look to everyone - families, friends and
acquaintances in communities, large and small--to turn out and thank all
our Veterans, from earlier eras and those who are just returning home,"
said VA Secretary Shinseki.

Shinseki noted that America has made significant investments in Veterans
benefits and services over the past 19 months: a 16 percent VA budget
increase last year and a 10 percent increase in the 2011 budget request.
He said this is making it possible to increase Veterans' access to
benefits and health care services, help end the disability claims
backlog, and eliminate Veterans' homelessness by 2015. The Post 9/11 GI
Bill has already sent more than 400,000 Veterans to college, and care
and benefits will be extended to more Veterans who have illnesses
related to exposure to Agent Orange and service during the first Persian
Gulf War.

Under Shinseki, VA is taking unprecedented steps to reach out to
Veterans and their families with a television ad campaign, a new VA
blog, and other social media initiatives, and outreach teams traveling
throughout rural communities. The goal is to let Veterans and their
families know what services they are eligible for and how to access
them. The emphasis is on meeting emergent transitional needs such as
treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which affects many
Veterans, including those returning from the Middle East, as well as
those who served in Vietnam four decades ago.

VA recently launched its first official blog, "VAntage Point," at
http://www.blogs.va.gov to improve the way VA and Veterans engage
online. The blog expands VA's social media presence, adding to its
Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/VeteransAffairs), Twitter
(http://twitter.com/DeptVetAffairs/), Flickr
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/VeteransAffairs/), and YouTube
(http://www.youtube.com/user/DeptVetAffairs) postings. With more than
70,000 subscribers, VA has the largest Facebook subscriber base among
cabinet-level agencies.

On Veterans Day, Shinseki will join White House and military officials,
and leaders of major Veterans organizations, at the traditional Veterans
Day wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington
National Cemetery at 11 a.m. Following the ceremony, VA will host an
observance program in Arlington's Memorial Amphitheater.

Across the country, from the rousing notes of the "Star Spangled Banner"
to the poignant bugle solo of "Taps," Americans will celebrate U.S.
Veterans with music, ceremonies and speeches. Nearly 100 VA-sponsored
activities are scheduled, highlighted by Birmingham's 63rd annual
Veterans Day parade and parades in Lexington and Denver; recognition
ceremonies in Anchorage, Alaska, Chillicothe, Ohio, and Tomah, Wis.;
concerts in Durham, N.C., Bath, N.Y., and Tucson, Ariz.; and the third
annual Veterans Run/Walk in West Haven, Conn. The oath of citizenship
will be administered to 25 Veterans at the Fort Sam Houston Cemetery in
Texas as they become official citizens of the nation they served.

The Veterans Day National Committee has designated regional observance
site status to Veterans Day programs at 54 sites in 29 states. Sites
were selected on the basis of community involvement, regional impact and
continuity. They are also eligible for support from the Department of
Defense.

A guide to these sites and other information about Veterans Day is
available on VA's Veterans Day Web page at
http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/ under "Regional Observances." The page
includes a variety of resources, including a teacher's guide, a poster
gallery and links to information about the Arlington National Cemetery
ceremony.

Veterans Day 2010

2010-11-10T19:34:00.000-08:00

Dear Veterans and Veteran Supporters,

November 11, 2010 will mark the 91^st anniversary of Veterans Day (Known as Armistice day from 1919-1953). The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery . The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans' organizations and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces.

Throughout the state of North Dakota Veteran Service Organizations will be having similar ceremonies to honor and thank the Veterans of our communities.

I would like to ask you to

· Have a moment of silence on at 11AM on 11/11/2010

o Reflect on those who have fought for our freedom

· Attend a ceremony in your community.

o . For information on Veterans Day ceremonies in your area contact your local County Veteran Service officer at this link: http://www.nd.gov/veterans/officers/county-officers.html or contact your County Court house.

· THANK A VETERAN for their service.

· Encourage all veterans and their dependents to visit their County Veteran Service Officer

o Learn about the services and benefits they may be eligible for.

§ Find Service officer in your county at: http://www.nd.gov/veterans/officers/county-officers.html

· Show Support to your Veterans

o You can support your local Veteran Service Club http://www.nd.gov/veterans/service/

o Donate to the "Support our Veterans"" fund. Tax Deductible.

§ $11 (or more) on 11/11 by clicking on link at top of page or https://www.impactgiveback.org/general/index.aspx

§ Purchase a Yellow Ribbon Support our Veterans License Plates.

Click on plate for more information

To learn more about Veterans day visit http://www1.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

To learn more about the Support our Veterans Fund visit http://www.impactgiveback.org/ and search: Support our Veterans.

PLEASE PASS THIS E-MAIL ON TO ALL YOU KNOW.

Thank you for supporting the Veterans of North Dakota!

Lonnie Wangen

Commissioner

ND DVA

Real Warriors Campaign: November 9, 2010

2010-11-09T07:47:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

www.realwarriors.net

Real Warriors Campaign Celebrates America's Veterans

We at the Real Warriors Campaign would like to thank all those who have served in the U.S. military—and all of their supportive friends and family. In honor of Veterans Day, we have added several exciting veteran-specific features and resources to our website.

New Veterans Day E-Cards

The Real Warriors website now has e-cards! Visit the e-cards page to send service-specific messages to loved-ones, or celebrate the veterans in your life with our new Veterans Day e-cards.

New Articles

If you are a Service member transitioning to veteran status you may know of the many resources available to you and your family, but you may not know where to start. In order to help make your transition less daunting, the Real Warriors Campaign has worked with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to produce a three-part series of feature articles that highlights frequently asked questions from Service members and families in transition, and to discusses how VA is changing the way it communicates with veterans in the digital age.

Veterans Affairs Health Benefits Overview

The first article in our series introduces you to VA and the VA health care system. Topics include eligibility, how to enroll, and how to find a VA facility.

Compensation, Pension, and Other VA Benefits

In the second article, we answer some frequently asked questions about the VA's programs for disability compensation, pension and vocational rehabilitation of veterans.

Veterans Affairs in the Digital Age

While the first two articles of this series addressed frequently asked questions and offered helpful information about many of VA's services listed above, the final article discusses some of the changes veterans will start to see in future communications with VA.

Upcoming Events

Bloggers Roundtable

At 1 p.m. today, Tuesday, November 9, 2010, Real Warrior profilees Maj. Ed Pulido (U.S. Army, ret.) and Army Capt. Josh Mantz will participate in a DoD Bloggers' Roundtable with Mr. Ken MacGarrigle from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Office for Returning Service Members (OEF/OIF). Pulido, Mantz and MacGarrigle will discuss the importance of seeking early intervention for the invisible wounds of war, as well as the tools and resources available to veterans and their families. You can participate in the event by calling 1-800-882-3610 (passcode 8648754#). International callers can dial 1-412-380-2000.

Facebook Q&A with Veteran Maj. Ed Pulido

Interested in talking to Real Warrior Maj. Ed Pulido? Real Warriors is hosting an hour-long Q&A with him on our Facebook wall starting at 3pm EST on November 16th. "Like" and follow our page for updates.

Upcoming Real Warriors Campaign Events Are Now on Facebook

We are excited to announce the launch of a new events tab on our Facebook page. This is a great way to get information on conferences and other events that the Real Warriors Campaign is participating in. Anyone can view the tab, even if they do not have a Facebook account. This resource will be highlighted from now on in the new "Upcoming Events" box on the right sidebar of every Real Warriors e-mail update.

Additional Resources

We hope veterans will find the new features on our website useful, but we want to remind you of the veterans' resources we have provided since day one:

A section of the website just for veterans
A list of helpful resources for veterans
A message board for veterans, which features a new post by Major Ed Pulido on transitioning to veteran status. We invite other veterans to visit the message boards and share their stories.

Happy Veterans Day, and thank you for your service!

Partner Spotlight

The goal of the the Wingman Project is to eliminate warrior and family member suicide through human outreach, media and training. Every warrior, family member or friend can learn to recognize the warning signs of someone at risk of suicide and be ready to intervene to save a life by utilizing the tools that the Wingman Project offers both online and through outreach, and using the A.C.E. (Ask Care Escort ) framework. The Wingman Project offers individual online and unit trainings, as well as state-specific websites to find help, tools and local resources in 54 Air National Guard states and territories.

Hearts of Heroes PSA

Your Profile Here

Sharing stories lets warriors know that they are not alone in dealing with a psychological wound or traumatic brain injury. Talking about the psychological effects of war on service members openly breaks down stigma. Learning what others are doing to address these issues creates new opportunities for healing.
If you are a Real Warrior and would like to share your story with the Real Warriors Campaign, please contact us.

Upcoming Events

The Real Warriors Campaign may be in your area soon! Visit our NEW events tab on Facebook to keep up with campaign events and access materials for resilience. Don't worry if you don't have a Facebook account – you can still visit the events tab and see what's coming up.

Connect With Us

Message Boards
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Subscribe to realwarriors.net RSS feed.

Daily News from the Veterans Today Network

2010-11-03T09:58:00.001-07:00

Nov. 3, 2010

Gordon Duff

National Security Alert

F-35 Stealth Fighter Cover Up

On April 21, 2009, the Department of Defense announced the theft of 1.5 terabytes of data on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the platform meant give the United States and her allies air superiority for the next 40 years. In a flash, all that was gone, $300 billion dollars of funding down the drain, every system, defense, offense, stealth, everything needed to build one or shoot it down, all gone. Day one, China was accused but it wasn't China, it wasn't Iran, it wasn't Pakistan. The theft left a clear signature, one identical to the data Wikileaks has been receiving, sources inside the Pentagon repeating the actions of Israeli-Soviet spy, Jonathan Pollard. As vital as the F-35 is to America's defense, Pollard's triumph on behalf of Soviet Russia and Israel dwarfs the current espionage coup.

Read More and Watch Video>>>

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Military Family Month

2010-11-03T08:11:00.001-07:00

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 29, 2010

Presidential Proclamation--Military Family Month

-------
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

We owe each day of security and freedom that we enjoy to the members of our Armed Forces and their families. Behind our brave service men and women, there are family members and loved ones who share in their sacrifice and provide unending support. During Military Family Month, we celebrate the exceptional contributions of our military families, and we reaffirm our commitments to these selfless individuals who exemplify the highest principles of our Nation.

Across America, military families inspire us all with their courage, strength, and deep devotion to our country. They endure the challenges of multiple deployments and moves; spend holidays and life milestones apart; juggle everyday tasks while a spouse, parent, son, or daughter is in harm's way; and honor the service of their loved ones and the memory of those lost.

Just as we hold a sacred trust to the extraordinary Americans willing to lay down their lives to protect us all, we also have a national commitment to support and engage our military families. They are proud to serve our country; yet, they face unique challenges because of that service. My Administration has taken important steps to help them shoulder their sacrifice, and we are working to ensure they have the resources to care for themselves and the tools to reach their dreams. We are working to improve family resilience, enhance the educational experience of military children, and ensure military spouses have employment and advancement opportunities, despite the relocations and deployment cycles of military life. Our historic investment to build a 21st-century Department of Veterans Affairs is helping to provide our veterans with the benefits and care they have earned. We are also standing with our service members and their families as they transition back into civilian life, providing counseling as well as job training and placement. And, through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, our veterans and their families can pursue the dream of higher education.

However, Government can only do so much. While only a fraction of Americans are in military families, all of us share in the responsibility of caring for our military families and veterans, and all sectors of our society are better off when we reach out and work together to support these patriots. By offering job opportunities and workplace flexibility, businesses and companies can benefit from the unparalleled dedication and skills of a service member or military spouse. Through coordination with local community groups, individuals and organizations can ensure our military families have the help they need and deserve when a loved one is deployed. Even the smallest actions by neighbors and friends send a large message of profound gratitude to the families who risk everything to see us safe and free.

As America asks ever more of military families, they have a right to expect more of us -- it is our national challenge and moral obligation to uphold that promise. If we hold ourselves to the same high standard of excellence our military families live by every day, we will realize the vision of an America that supports and engages these heroes now and for decades to come.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2010 as Military Family Month. I call on all Americans to honor military families through private actions and public service for the tremendous contributions they make in support of our service members and our Nation.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

Do You Have Angels Mail?

2010-11-03T04:40:00.001-07:00

Dear Angels, Troops and Supporters,

"You've Got Mail; Angels Mail That Is…"

Do you have a webcam? Put it to use and send a FREE video email to anyone from "Angels Mail" and a donation will be made to Soldiers' Angels. The more video emails you send, the more you help Soldiers' Angels. It is easy to use, check it out www.angelsmail.org

Angels Mail was created by Marlo Anderson for Soldiers' Angels as a thank you for what our organization does to support the troops, as his son is in the National Guard and received support from Soldiers' Angels while he was deployed.

What else is new regarding our social media? Soldiers' Angels launched our new Twitter Background that the MindComet team created for us as a part of the CommuniCause $25,000 Social Media Makeover. Some people might think "No one is going to see your Twitter background--everyone uses a mobile device or desktop application." They'd be right - but only in part. People who are reading an account's tweets are generally already subscribed to the account. In this case, it's really about spreading the word and gathering new followers and supporters. A Twitter background is just like a Facebook landing page. Upon arrival, the user is posed with a decision: should they follow or not? Putting our best WINGS forward is crucial to enhance our success in that decision making progress for others to follow us on www.twitter.com/soldiersangels.

Our Facebook Landing Page has all the makings of intrigue. If you are not a "fan" or "like us" already, please check out our Fan Page at www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial. When you arrive at our Landing Page you will see we offer three simple options; To Adopt, To Donate or to Join a Team. These three options are crucial to the existence of Soldiers' Angels.

At any given point in time, we have hundreds of service members waiting to be adopted by individuals across the globe with a simple commitment during the deployment of that warrior with 1 letter a week and 1 package a month.

We are also a one stop shop in troop support with over thirty teams to choose from. If you want to bake, we have the Angel Bakers. If you want to help the wounded, we have the Wounded TLC team. There is a place for you if you love babies, canines or chaplains. We have the Ladies of Liberty that focuses on pampering deployed females. We have teams for veteran and family support and many more.

If you don't have time to volunteer, but have the financial resources, we have a place for you too, you can make a donation online, via mail or by texting "Soldiers" to 20222.

There is a place for everyone at Soldiers' Angels. We encourage you to check out all our options. Our American warriors, veterans and their families deserve to know that we stand wingtip-to-wingtip in support of all they have done for the freedom, rights and liberties we have as American citizens. As Patti Patton-Bader our founder says, "Each of our volunteers create ripples of kindness that add up to an ocean of greatness."

Remember all those that have served on Veterans' Day and bow your heads in thanks this Thanksgiving Day. "Be There" for our warriors… they are always "There" for us.

Wingtip-to-Wingtip,

Shelle Michaels
National Communication Officer
ShelleMichaels@soldiersangels.org

“You’ve Got Mail; Angel Mail That Is…”

2010-10-31T00:29:00.001-07:00

Dear Angels, Troops and Supporters,

"You've Got Mail; Angels Mail That Is…"

Do you have a webcam? Put it to use and send a FREE video email to anyone from "Angels Mail" and a donation will be made to Soldiers' Angels. The more video emails you send, the more you help Soldiers' Angels. It is easy to use, check it out http://angelsmail.org

Angels Mail was created by Marlo Anderson for Soldiers' Angels as a thank you for what our organization does to support the troops, as his son is in the National Guard and received support from Soldiers' Angels while he was deployed.

What else is new regarding our social media? Soldiers' Angels launched our new Twitter Background that the MindComet team created for us as a part of the CommuniCause $25,000 Social Media Makeover. Some people might think "No one is going to see your Twitter background - everyone uses a mobile device or desktop application." They'd be right - but only in part. People who are reading an account's tweets are generally already subscribed to the account. In this case, it's really about spreading the word and gathering new followers and supporters. A Twitter background is just like a Facebook landing page. Upon arrival, the user is posed with a decision: should they follow or not? Putting our best WINGS forward is crucial to enhance our success in that decision making progress for others to follow us on www.twitter.com/soldiersangels.

Our Facebook Landing Page has all the makings of intrigue. If you are not a "fan" or "like us" already, please check out our Fan Page at www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial. When you arrive at our Landing Page you will see we offer three simple options; To Adopt, To Donate or to Join a Team. These three options are crucial to the existence of Soldiers' Angels.

At any given point in time, we have hundreds of service members waiting to be adopted by individuals across the globe with a simple commitment during the deployment of that warrior with 1 letter a week and 1 package a month.

We are also a one stop shop in troop support with over thirty teams to choose from. If you want to bake, we have the Angel Bakers. If you want to help the wounded, we have the Wounded TLC team. There is a place for you if you love babies, canines or chaplains. We have the Ladies of Liberty that focuses on pampering deployed females. We have teams for veteran and family support and many more.

If you don't have time to volunteer, but have the financial resources, we have a place for you too, you can make a donation online, via mail or by texting "Soldiers" to 20222.

There is a place for everyone at Soldiers' Angels. We encourage you to check out all our options. Our American warriors, veterans and their families deserve to know that we stand wingtip-to-wingtip in support of all they have done for the freedom, rights and liberties we have as American citizens. As Patti Patton-Bader our founder says, "Each of our volunteers create ripples of kindness that add up to an ocean of greatness."

Remember all those that have served on Veterans' Day and bow your heads in thanks this Thanksgiving Day. "Be There" for our warriors… they are always "There" for us.

Wingtip-to-Wingtip,

Shelle Michaels

National Communication Officer

ShelleMichaels@soldiersangels.org

Day of the Deployed

2010-10-25T08:37:00.001-07:00

On October 26, 2010, the 5^th Annual Day of the Deployed, Americans are encouraged to reaffirm their patriotism and allegiance to our flag and country, and to honor our brave men and women in uniform (and their families) who are selflessly putting their lives on the line to protect and preserve our way of life.

Businesses are encouraged to display the proclamation honoring America's deployed service members and their families. Other ways for individuals in local communities to honor a deployed service member are: holding a special thank you event, assisting with daily chores, raking leaves, watching their children, or adopting a hero, among many other ways to say "thank you!"

Major Bryan Carroll, recently returned from Afghanistan, explains why this is so important. "Our brave young Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guard are in harm's way, every day, around the world. I cannot even begin to tell you how much of a difference it makes when they know that they are loved and supported by their fellow citizens back at home. It could have been the worst day in the world, for any number of reasons, but that knowledge that comes from a letter, a care package, or a day like Day of the Deployed is what can make a critical difference in their spirits and morale. Thank you to all of you that participate in events like Day of the Deployed and sending care packages and letters to our brave troops."

Shelle Michaels, who led development of this special day adds, "This is the 5th Annual Day of the Deployed that Soldiers' Angels has honored. We encourage Americans to join with and other organizations across America to make this a day that our country stands in unison to support our deployed warriors and their families, a day to renew our commitment to support the troops all year long."

Cpt. Dan Murphy, North Dakota Army National Guard Public Affairs Officer says, "From the service member deployed today to those who have deployed throughout history there is no greater call than to serve others. Take the opportunity to thank all who wear a uniform, that show of support means more than we can express."

Soldiers' Angels Patti Patton-Bader and Shelle Michaels developed the concept of Day of the Deployed in 2006 in honor of all deployed military members and their families. This day of honor is no longer a day of honor just from the Soldiers' Angels stand point, as governors across the nation are on board signing their own state proclamations.

Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-led nonprofit, with over 30 different teams and programs supporting all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Volunteers send letters, care packages, and comfort items to the deployed, and support their families here at home. Soldiers' Angels also provide assistance to the wounded, continuing support for veterans, remembrances and comfort for families of the fallen and immediate response to unique situation. For more information, please contact ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org or view details on www.soldiersangels.org.

Complete story and proclamation: http://soldiersangels.org/index.php?mact=News,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01articleid=649&cntnt01returnid=15/

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

Digital Subscription Service Expands North Dakota Guard's Ability to Provide Real-Time News and Information (UNCLASSIFIED)

2010-10-21T06:32:00.001-07:00

News Release 11-007

For Immediate Release Oct. 21, 2010

Contacts:

Dan Murphy at 701-333-2007 (office) or 701-426-0190 (cell)

Amy Wieser Willson at 701-451-6130 (office) or 701-412-6895 (cell)

Digital Subscription Service Expands North Dakota Guard's Ability to Provide Real-Time News and Information

FARGO, N.D. — A new digital subscription service now provides the North Dakota National Guard an efficient, cost-effective way of tailoring information to its many audiences. North Dakota became the first state to launch with GovDelivery after the National Guard Bureau allowed an enterprise pilot to extend the service to 18 states. The Bureau has been using GovDelivery since February 2009.

"In this day and age, more than ever, communication needs to be quick and complete," said Capt. Dan Murphy, North Dakota National Guard public information officer. "While we've always followed Department of Defense policy of 'maximum disclosure, minimum delay,' we continually look for new ways to refine that to reach all of our audiences — Guardsmen, families, employers, community members and elected officials — with up-to-the-minute news and updates specific to their interests and needs."

As part of the system, interested people can digitally subscribe to any or all of more than 25 available topics, ranging from education benefits, family events, retiree information, news, photo and video uploads and more. Signing up is simple: Go to the Guard's website, www.ndguard.ngb.army.mil, and enter an e-mail address in the box with the "E-mail Updates" header. From there, users can click to select the updates to which they would like to subscribe. Periodic bulletins and updates will then be sent via e-mail, and users can unsubscribe at any time.

The new e-mail subscription service supplements a full list of award-winning online news and features from the North Dakota National Guard.

——

Since the 2001 terrorist attacks on America, the North Dakota National Guard has mobilized more than 3,500 Soldiers and more than 1,800 Airmen in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Currently, about 75 North Dakota Guardsmen are serving overseas while more than 4,000 remain in the state for emergency response and national defense. For every 10,000 citizens in North Dakota, 65 serve in the North Dakota National Guard, a rate that's more than four times the national average.

###

BLUE STAR KITS----

2010-10-08T04:00:00.001-07:00

Radcliff, KY (Vocus) October 6, 2010 -- USA Cares has partnered with Blue Star Mothers of America and Blue Star Families to form Operation Blue Star. The partnership will provide "Blue Star kits" to deploying service

members' mothers and spouses, reminding them they are not alone as well as informing them about the many organizations such as USA Cares, who are there to assist should the need arise.

The "kit" is in the form of a bright red tote with the Blue Star banner on the front and the names and web addresses of the three organizations on the back. Inside the tote is information about each organization. A Blue Star pin and other items will be included as well.

Blue Star Mothers represents mothers, foster mothers, stepmothers and grandmothers who have a son or daughter who is serving or has served, and honorably discharged, in any branch of US military service. The group was founded in 1942 and was chartered by Congress in 1960.

Blue Star Mothers are highly recognized among America's military community with 219 chapters representing 10,000 members across the US. USA Cares will work directly with Blue Star's network of volunteer members to distribute helpful information to spouses and family of deploying service members. USA Cares Founder and Outreach Director, Roger Stradley remarked, "Forging a relationship with Blue Star Mothers speaks directly to our mission of raising awareness of USA Cares and the assistance we provide to service members and their families." Stradley, a Blue Star Father himself, had the opportunity to address the Blue Star Mothers on behalf of USA Cares at their annual convention held in August. When a partnership was proposed, it was passed at the gathering by what Blue Star Mothers President Wendy Hoffman referred to as an "overwhelming majority". She went on to say in a post-convention address that the partnership is a compliment to their organization that represents a wonderful opportunity.

Blue Star Families began in 2008 with explosive growth. With over 70 chapters across the United States, it has done extensive work with a comprehensive Military Families Top Issues Survey and has briefed First Lady Michelle Obama, who uses much of the information in her support of military families. In addition, it heads the Obama administration's efforts through the Summer of Service program and was selected to lead the ServiceNation coalition working group on military families and non-profit partnerships.

If you would like to support this effort of outreach to our newest moms and spouses of deploying spouses, it is as easy as texting USA to 50555 and responding with "YES". A onetime charge to your cell phone bill of $5 will be added and the donation will be sent to USA Cares for the exclusive use of Operation Blue Star. Standard text message charges may apply. For more information about donating using your cell phone, visit www.mgive.com .
If you would rather donate to this cause on line at http://usacares.org or by check, please add "Operation Blue Star" to the remarks on the web or on your check.

About USA Cares
USA Cares is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that helps post-9/11 military and their families with basic needs, assists veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their families and works to prevent private military home foreclosures and evictions. In seven years, USA Cares has received over 24,000 requests and responded with more than $7 million in grants. Military families anywhere in America can apply for assistance through the USA Cares web site, http://www.usacares.org/ or by calling 1-800-773-0387. For more information on USA Cares contact John Revell, jrevell(at)usacares(dot)org or call (270) 352-5451

USA Cares has partnered with Blue Star Mothers of America and Blue Star Families to form Operation Blue Star. The partnership will provide "Blue Star kits" to deploying service members' mothers and spouses, reminding them they are not alone as well as informing them about the many organizations such as USA Cares, who are there to assist should the need arise.

The "kit" is in the form of a bright red tote with the Blue Star banner on the front and the names and web addresses of the three organizations on the back. Inside the tote is information about each organization. A Blue Star pin and other items will be included as well.

Blue Star Mothers represents mothers, foster mothers, stepmothers and grandmothers who have a son or daughter who is serving or has served, and honorably discharged, in any branch of US military service. The group was founded in 1942 and was chartered by Congress in 1960.

Blue Star Mothers are highly recognized among America's military community with 219 chapters representing 10,000 members across the US. USA Cares will work directly with Blue Star's network of volunteer members to distribute helpful information to spouses and family of deploying service members. USA Cares Founder and Outreach Director, Roger Stradley remarked, "Forging a relationship with Blue Star Mothers speaks directly to our mission of raising awareness of USA Cares and the assistance we provide to service members and their families." Stradley, a Blue Star Father himself, had the opportunity to address the Blue Star Mothers on behalf of USA Cares at their annual convention held in August. When a partnership was proposed, it was passed at the gathering by what Blue Star Mothers President Wendy Hoffman referred to as an "overwhelming majority". She went on to say in a post-convention address that the partnership is a compliment to their organization that represents a wonderful opportunity.

Blue Star Families began in 2008 with explosive growth. With over 70 chapters across the United States, it has done extensive work with a comprehensive Military Families Top Issues Survey and has briefed First Lady Michelle Obama, who uses much of the information in her support of military families. In addition, it heads the Obama administration's efforts through the Summer of Service program and was selected to lead the ServiceNation coalition working group on military families and non-profit partnerships.

If you would like to support this effort of outreach to our newest moms and spouses of deploying spouses, it is as easy as texting USA to 50555 and responding with "YES". A onetime charge to your cell phone bill of $5 will be added and the donation will be sent to USA Cares for the exclusive use of Operation Blue Star. Standard text message charges may apply. For more information about donating using your cell phone, visit www.mgive.com .
If you would rather donate to this cause on line at http://usacares.org or by check, please add "Operation Blue Star" to the remarks on the web or on your check.

About USA Cares
USA Cares is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that helps post-9/11 military and their families with basic needs, assists veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their families and works to prevent private military home foreclosures and evictions. In seven years, USA Cares has received over 24,000 requests and responded with more than $7 million in grants. Military families anywhere in America can apply for assistance through the USA Cares web site, http://www.usacares.org/ or by calling 1-800-773-0387. For more information on USA Cares contact John Revell, jrevell(at)usacares(dot)org or call (270) 352-5451

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

Operation Homefront holiday toy drive is underway!

2010-10-07T11:13:00.001-07:00

Dollar Tree and Operation Homefront Toy Collection 2010

Operation Homefront and Dollar Tree have teamed up to help military families provide toys for their children at Christmas.

Over 3,900 Dollar Tree and Deals stores around the country will be collecting toys from November 1^st through December 6^th, 2010. We have a goal to collect 6+ million toys. This is why we need your help!

Here's how the program works:

Operation Homefront chapter volunteers, Family Readiness Group Leaders, Family Support Specialists, VFW Posts, AUSA Chapters, Soldiers Angels, Blue Star Moms, and other key volunteers – you can register to be a volunteer for the Dollar Tree and Deals stores in your area, by clicking the link at the bottom of this page.

Once you click on the link to volunteer, you will be prompted to create a user name and password. You will then be required to enter your name, military affiliation, and contact information. Once you have entered the necessary contact information, you will be able to access a listing of Dollar Tree and Deals stores within a 100 mile radius of where you live.

You will then be able to select up to 15 stores you would like to serve as the pickup point of contact. Each store will have one point of contact, and that person is responsible for collecting the toys from that store during the collection dates.

Beginning November 1, 2010, store customers will be given the opportunity to purchase toys for military families. Once the items are purchased, they are placed into a drop box located near the checkout counters.

In order to streamline the process, it is recommended that the volunteer contact the Dollar Tree store manager before the kick off of the campaign to work out a pick up schedule. It is possible to have a pickup schedule of once or twice a week depending on the volume of toys the store collects.

Once you have picked up the toys, you can distribute them to the military families you serve, or if instructed, return the items to the Operation Homefront chapter that services your particular state.

*Operation Homefront Chapter staff and volunteers have priority in selecting stores. Operation Homefront reserves the right to make adjustments to registered volunteers, i.e. limit the number of stores picked up by one person or make any other necessary alteration if in the best interest of the program.

In order to register as a volunteer click the link and follow the instruction on our registration page. Thank you for your help with this program! http://www.operationhomefront.net/collectionvolunteer.aspx?id=6061

For questions about this program, Please contact your local servicing Operation Homefront Chapter or Brad Claus at Brad.Claus@operationhomefront.net or 210-659-7756

Supporting Soldier's Angels

2010-10-06T05:21:00.001-07:00

Dear friend,
 
I am very proud to announce that my publisher is processing a check to Soldier's Angels for almost $5000.00 as I write this to you. It would not be possible without you so I want to thank everyone who purchased a copy of my new book Iraq: Inside the Inferno 2005 - 2008. Sales the first week were great but I want to raise as much as $50,000.00 for Soldier's Angels and I need your help to do it.

I have just returned to Afghanistan and I'm writing to tell you about a new book project I'm working on and an important organization that I'm backing with this book. I hope you will too.
 
ABOUT SOLDIERS' ANGELS
Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the American soldier in the field.  Morally, materially, and spiritually. Its volunteers number over 200,000.  In my opinion, SA is the most effective of all civilian support groups. You've read about them in some of my dispatches as I have been a champion of their heroic efforts for years.
 
Soldier's Angels has a number of great projects, including Adopt a Soldier, which matches one soldier in the field to one supporter or family at home who sends a letter every week and a care package at least once a month. But their most important contribution is also one of the most expensive is theFirst Response Backpack. 
 
U.S. military personnel who are injured or wounded are moved out to treatment so fast that sometimes their gear and personal items never catch up with them.  Evacuated in the clothing damaged or removed during treatment, these soldiers often find themselves without basic supplies. A Soldiers' Angels First Response Backpack provides comfortable clothing, a full set of travel-sized toiletries and accessories, an international calling card the soldier can use to phone home, and a handmade Blanket of Hope. To date, Soldiers' Angels has distributed more than 15,000 backpacks to the wounded.
 
I've seen the great impact Soldiers' Angels has in the field, so you won't be surprised that I want to help them. Or that I'm asking you to join me in that effort.
 
A NEW BOOK DEDICATED TO THE MISSION & SOLDIERS' ANGELS
 
I am currently at work on a new book called IRAQ: INSIDE THE INFERNO. It will cover my years reporting in the field from 2005-2008. It will tell, with words and pictures, the dramatic story of how we won the war in Iraq – not primarily with our overwhelming technology, not with shock and awe destruction, but with the far more important force of American values.
 
The book will assemble some two hundred of the most powerful, telling, and dramatic photographs I have taken in Iraq (many never before published). With my publisher, Richard Vigilante Books, we have enlisted an award-winning documentary producer from Discovery Channel, Karen Kraft, and her handpicked team to create the book.  Pictures of American warriors at work, engaged in killing terrorists or rebuilding a school or a shattered neighborhood. My intent is to combine the best of my pictures with the best of my writing to create an entirely new type of experience. And for the final product to have the enduring memorial value of the most treasured, well-crafted volume in a great library. 
 
IRAQ: INSIDE THE INFERNO will come off the press for shipment late this year before the holidays, but my publisher is not going to ship the regular version to bookstores until Spring. Why?  Because we want to raise $50,000 to help Soldiers' Angels.
 
To meet this goal, my publisher is creating a limited number of boxed, signed, and numbered deluxe editions of the book to be offered exclusively to my supporters and both of us are contributing a portion of our proceeds to Soldier's Angels.
 
THIS BOOK IS SPECIAL
This 220 page, full color book will be printed on the finest paper used for art books and bound using timeless techniques of the book-makers' craft. Here are some of the details:

- The pages will be Smythe sewn, not just glued the way most books are today.
- The paper is acid free and guaranteed to last 800 years without yellowing or deterioration. 
-  The beautiful cloth cover – not plastic or some other synthetic fabric – will be gold stamped on both front and spine.
- And each book will be encased in a cloth-covered, gold stamped slipcase.
 
I will personally sign and hand-number each copy of this special edition and enclose a certificate, suitable for framing, to memorialize your support of my mission and of Soldiers' Angels.
 
PRE-ORDERS
The cost for each signed, numbered deluxe copy is $49.95, plus shipping.  A lot of money, but here is the bottom line:  The money we raise from sales of this book is crucial not only to support my own mission but for our goal of raising at least $50,000 for Soldiers' Angels. That's why we have tried so hard to create a work that expresses our gratitude for your support. As you know, I have returned to Afghanistan just days ago and my arrangement with my publisher provides book royalties to me earlier than a traditional publishing arrangement in order to assist me with my mission.
 
My publisher is now accepting pre-orders for IRAQ: INSIDE THE INFERNO. Pre-ordering will guarantee you a copy – we can print this special edition only once – and within days of the book coming off the press. If our experience with the special signed edition of my last book, A Moment of Truth in Iraq, is any guide, it will sell out, so the only way to absolutely guarantee you will be able to get a copy is to pre-order.
 
More importantly, pre-orders will help us raise funds for Soldiers' Angels more quickly. I'd be thrilled if we could raise all of the $50,000 we have targeted for Soldiers' Angels on pre-orders of the special edition alone. If we can do that, then we can raise even more.
 
I think you'll love the book and hope you'll pre-order today. It makes a great gift, especially because it is also a gift to the American soldier, who, as I said in A Moment of Truth In Iraq, 'is not only the most dangerous man in the world, but the best man, too.'

--
Very Respectfully,
Michael Yon

Please remember that this website accepts no advertisement and is dependent on your support.    

Please send any regular mail for Michael to:

Michael Yon
P.O. Box 5553
Winter Haven, Fl 33880

NONPOINT RELEASE OFFICIAL ‘FRONTLINES’ VIDEO

2010-10-05T08:44:00.001-07:00

Soldiers' Angels extends its deepest appreciation to musicians of Nonpoint for their generous donation. All profits from their new single, "Frontlines" will be split 50-50 between Soldiers' Angels and the USO. Thank you, Nonpoint, for being such great supporters of the troops!

http://soldiersangels.org/index.php?mact=News,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01articleid=669&cntnt01returnid=15

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

Surveillance video from businesses next door led police to the arrest of 42 year old Charles Edward White

2010-10-05T06:24:00.001-07:00

SAN ANTONIO -- A crook broke into Soldiers' Angels last Sunday, stealing half a dozen flat screen tvs and laptops carrying valuable memorabilia.

"Certificates, awards, letters, inspirational letters," says the group's co-founder, Jeff Bader. "All of these were in the display modules and it feels like the loss of a loved one. Feels like we were violated."

The thief also vandalized the charity's exhibit room with flame retardant foam, right by the Fallen Heroes memorial.

"It was totally disrespectful," adds Bader. "It's unimaginable that someone would come into a place, a non-profit, and steal from a non-profit trying to help American soldiers."

Surveillance video from businesses next door led police to the arrest of 42 year old Charles Edward White. White is now charged with burglary of a building, but News 4 WOAI found this isn't his first time behind bars.

White has been in and out of jail since the late eighties for assault, kidnapping, drugs, and burglary.

Police haven't been able to recover the stolen items. Replacing the goods could cost Soldiers' Angels thousands of dollars... money that may have to come out of what they give to soldiers.

"This is going to cost money that could have gone to help wounded soldiers, deployed soldiers," says Bader. "It could have been used for better purposes than that, so we're going to need help replacing some of these items."
http://www.woai.com/news/local/story/Soldier-support-group-vandalized-calls-for-help/9zXIULf6fkW2WZ8JPEDn7g.cspx

Chance to win $2,500 in our Spooktacular Baking Activity Contest!

2010-10-04T15:20:00.001-07:00

Thought the families might enjoy this---

Enter our Spooktacular Baking Activity Contest
and you could win up to $2,500!

Submit Your Entry

What could you and your family scare up for Halloween? Share your idea for a fun and easy creation to bake with the family using NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Refrigerated Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.

Vote For The Winners

Ten creepy masterpieces will go on to compete for the grand prize of $2,500. The winners will be chosen by our NESTLÉ® baking community on Facebook. Submit your recipe and photo for frightening fun today!

Postal Service request for 2-cent stamp cost hike denied

2010-09-30T08:55:00.001-07:00

In July, the Postal Service proposed raising first-class postage from 44 cents to 46 cents as part of a strategy for dealing with a worsening financial crisis. The Postal Service lost $3.8 billion last year, and the agency has been seeking other rate increases as well, including higher fees for periodicals, post cards and parcels. By: Associated Press,

WASHINGTON - The independent panel that oversees the U.S. Postal Service has denied the agency's request to increase the cost of mailing a letter by 2 cents - to 46 cents

The Postal Regulatory Commission announced its decision rejecting the requested price hike at a news conference today.

In July, the Postal Service proposed raising first-class postage from 44 cents to 46 cents as part of a strategy for dealing with a worsening financial crisis. The Postal Service lost $3.8 billion last year, and the agency has been seeking other rate increases as well, including higher fees for periodicals, post cards and parcels.

The new rates would have taken effect next Jan. 2.

Chairman Ruth Goldway told reporters at a news conference that the Postal Rate Commission's vote to deny the rate request was unanimous on the five-member commission.

She said that in her view, the requested rate adjustment was not due to recent recession, as indicated by Postal Service officials, but was, rather, an attempt to address longterm structural problems.
The decision was applauded by the Affordable Mail Alliance, a coalition of postal customers including consumer groups, small business, chairities, utilities, national retailers and banks.

"The PRC today has helped countless businesses stay competitive and saved tens of thousands of jobs," said Tony Conway, a spokesman for the alliance. "The commissioners recognized that imposing an additional tax on Postal Service customers is not the way to address its financial troubles. Our members look forward to working with the Postal Service on the long-term restructuring needed to restore the Postal Service to competitiveness."

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

Fall 'Back' Into Safety!

2010-09-22T08:40:00.001-07:00

Safe Kids North Dakota wants to help

you keep children safe this fall!

Share these safety tips with all parents and caregivers you know by

downloading and printing the free Fall 'Back' Into Safety Tip Sheet!

Infants and toddlers are safest riding rear-facing until age 2 or until they reach the maximum weight/height limit of the car seat.
Why? A car seat helps distribute crash forces over a wide area of the body and the back

of a rear-facing car seat absorbs crash forces, protecting the infant's spine and neck
from injuries.

Children are safest riding in the back seat until they are 13 years old.
Why? Head-on collisions are the most common and the airbag, dashboard and windshield are extremely dangerous for children. Children also have more of a tendency to lean forward in the front seat.

Children are safest using a booster seat until they are 80lbs and 4'9".

Why? Seatbelts are designed for adults and a booster seat will allow the lap & shoulder belt to fit properly.

ND law states children must use a car seat or booster seat until at least the age of 7.

Download the Fall Back Into Safety Tip Sheet
today and share it with everyone you know!
If you have any questions, contact Serena Schmit at 701-873-2224.

=?utf-8?Q?Update: Twitter Apps and You=0A?=

2010-09-19T09:24:00.001-07:00

Hi @ISFAC,

Over the coming weeks, we will be making two important updates that will impact how you interact with Twitter applications. We are sending this notice to all Twitter users to make sure you are aware of these changes.

What are applications?

There are over 250,000 applications built using the Twitter API. To use most applications, you first authorize the application to access your Twitter account, after which you can use it to read and post Tweets, discover new users and more. Applications come in many varieties, including desktop applications like TweetDeck, Seesmic, or EchoFon, websites such as TweetMeme, fflick, or Topsy, or mobile applications such as Twitter for iPhone, Twitter for Blackberry, or Foursquare.

Update 1: New authorization rules for applications

Starting August 31, all applications will be required to use "OAuth" to access your Twitter account.

What's OAuth?

OAuth is a technology that enables applications to access Twitter on your behalf with your approval without asking you directly for your password.
Desktop and mobile applications may still ask for your password once, but after that request, they are required to use OAuth in order to access your timeline or allow you to tweet.

What does this mean for me?

Applications are no longer allowed to store your password.
If you change your password, the applications will continue to work.
Some applications you have been using may require you to reauthorize them or may stop functioning at the time of this change.
All applications you have authorized will be listed at http://twitter.com/settings/connections.
You can revoke access to any application at any time from the list.

Update 2: t.co URL wrapping

In the coming weeks, we will be expanding the roll-out of our link wrapping service t.co, which wraps links in Tweets with a new, simplified link. Wrapped links are displayed in a way that is easier to read, with the actual domain and part of the URL showing, so that you know what you are clicking on. When you click on a wrapped link, your request will pass through the Twitter service to check if the destination site is known to contain malware, and we then will forward you on to the destination URL. All of that should happen in an instant.

You will start seeing these links on certain accounts that have opted-in to the service; we expect to roll this out to all users by the end of the year. When this happens, all links shared on Twitter.com or third-party apps will be wrapped with a t.co URL.

What does this mean for me?

A really long link such as http://www.amazon.com/Delivering-Happiness-Profits-Passion-Purpose/dp/0446563048 might be wrapped as http://t.co/DRo0trj for display on SMS, but it could be displayed to web or application users as amazon.com/Delivering- or as the whole URL or page title.
You will start seeing links in a way that removes the obscurity of shortened links and lets you know where each link will take you.
When you click on these links from Twitter.com or a Twitter application, Twitter will log that click. We hope to use this data to provide better and more relevant content to you over time.

Thanks for reading this important update. Come and check what's new at http://twitter.com.

Thanks,
The Twitter Team

If you received this message in error and did not sign up for a Twitter account, click not my account.

Soldiers’ Angels is CFC #25131 in the Combined Federal Campaign

2010-09-16T04:58:00.001-07:00

The mission of the Combined Federal Campaign is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life ...for all.

CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace chari...ty campaign, with more than 300 CFC campaigns throughout the country and internationally to help to raise millions of dollars each year. Pledges made by Federal civilian, postal and military donors during the campaign season (September 1st to December 15th) support eligible non-profit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world. Soldiers' Angels is CFC #25131 in the Combined Federal Campaign

Shelle Michaels
ShelleMichaels@SoldiersAngels.org

Soldiers' Angels National Communication Officer
Vet Tix Board of Directors
Interservice Family Assistance Committee Communication Conduit
Bismarck Mandan Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Chairperson
North Dakota National Guard Family Advisory Council Member
ND Employee Support for the Guard and Reserve Committee Member

"Ask for what you want, or take what you get!"
~ Shelle Michaels

www.Facebook.com/SoldiersAngelsOfficial
www.Facebook.com/ShelleMichaels

2010-09-15T19:25:00.001-07:00

http://www.nob1.xhealthx.com

Ranger Up: Remember the Fallen...

2010-09-11T07:05:00.001-07:00

>" src="http://site.rangerup.com/email/images/email-layout_v2_01.gif" width=572 height=158>

This message was sent from Ranger Up to shellemichaels@msn.com. It was sent from: Ranger Up, 923 E Trinity Ave Suite H, Durham, NC 27704. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

Manage your subscription

Double Up on Troop Support!

2010-09-10T23:06:00.001-07:00

Dear Angels,

This weekend, you can support the troops two ways at once! A cup of coffee for a hero can also mean donations to help Soldiers' Angels continue to support that hero long past the last drop of delicious coffee...

The Cup of Joe project by Green Beans Coffee allows anyone, anywhere in the world, to say thanks to the troops through the simple act of buying a cup of coffee online and having it delivered along with their own personal note of encouragement into the hands of a deployed Soldier.

In honor of those who have served since 9-11-01, Green Beans is donating $1 for every dollar spent on "Cup of Joe for a Joe." It begins at midnight on Friday, and ends at midnight on Sunday.

To donate a Cup of Joe for a Joe… and help SA support more troops at the same time, go to www.greenbeanscoffee.com/coj. Remember, it starts at midnight tonight. For details, click here.

On this weekend of remembrance, our hearts go out to all who lost someone in the attacks of 9-11-01, and all who have served and sacrificed since that day.

Wingtip-to-Wingtip,

Soldiers' Angels
www.soldiersangels.org

THE EARLY BRIEF -- Green Beret to Get Posthumous Medal of Honor

2010-09-10T06:30:00.001-07:00



Green Beret to Get Posthumous Medal of Honor President Obama will posthumously honor Army Staff Sgt. Robert Miller with the Medal of Honor in a White House ceremony next month, making him the third servicemember to receive the award for actions in Afghanistan. The Green Beret was killed by small-arms fire on Jan. 25, 2008, sacrificing his life to protect his teammates. Full Story

Help make October 26- the 5th Annual Day of the Deployed a national day of honor.

2010-09-09T05:27:00.001-07:00

Bulletin from the cause: Soldiers' Angels (OFFICIAL)

Go to Cause

Posted By: Shelle Michaels

To: Members in Soldiers' Angels (OFFICIAL)

Help make October 26- the 5th Annual Day of the Deployed a national day of honor.

On October 26, 2010, Americans are encouraged to reaffirm their patriotism and allegiance to our flag and country, and to honor our brave men and women in uniform who are selflessly putting their lives on the line to protect and preserve our way of life. How? Think big, think small, but just…think and then do.

The first step is simply to sign the Day of the Deployed proclamation here: http://www.gopetition.com/petition/38876.html

Then, put those thinking muscles in motion and do something on October 26 in honor of America's service members. Join us in celebrating our deployed heroes and their families. You can download a Soldiers' Angels Day of the Deployed proclamation and other information here:

http://soldiersangels#org/index#php?mact=News,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01articleid=649&cntnt01returnid=15/

Proclamation Day of the Deployed October 26

WHEREAS, this nation is kept strong and free by the loyal citizens who preserve our precious heritage through their positives declaration and actions; and

WHEREAS, our deployed service members have courageously answered their nation's call to service by defending our freedoms on foreign lands; and

WHEREAS, Americans are encouraged to reaffirm their patriotism and allegiance to our flag and country, and honor the brave men and women currently deployed to protect and preserve our way of life; and

WHEREAS, since 2006 Soldiers' Angels has honored our deployed heroes with a day set aside in recognition of their hard work, dedication and commitment to the United States of America; and

NOW, THEREFORE, Soldiers' Angels hereby proclaim October 26 as DAY OF THE DEPLOYED throughout the United States of America and where ever our service members are serving.

Patti Patton-Bader, Founder
Shelle Michaels, National Communication Officer

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