AMVETS Posts 9/11 Tributes

Thank you to Posts 178 and 5293 for sharing their 9/11 Remembrance Services.
Post 5293 in Ironton, Ohio was featured on the front page of the Ironton Tribune.

Kudos to you!


Post 178 in Defuniak Springs, Fla. 9/11 service program


Defuniak Springs ROTC Color Guard

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This magazine is for veterans and we would like our members to have a stronger voice to influence the information we present.

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Hiring Veterans is the Right Thing to Do

by Edward F. Clemons, SPHR
Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources & Ethics Officer
The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company
AMVETS Life Member

Since 9/11 we have been a country at war in places far from home. Unfortunately, there does not seem to be a time in the future when this will not be so. A whole generation of young Americans like you have gone off to war on behalf of America, and the question remains as to what this country will do when you come home.

The average modern veteran of military service is likely to be better educated than veterans of other eras. He or she is also likely to have worked with technologies and advanced systems under extremely stressful conditions. This average veteran also knows the value of teamwork and leadership.

Unfortunately, this veteran also has a good chance of being unemployed.

According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans was 10.9% in April, 2011. That’s a full 2% higher than the overall unemployment rate throughout the United States.

One might argue that these returning veterans are coming back to a country just out of recession and still not creating enough jobs – particularly not enough jobs for young men. Our veterans should not have to return from fighting a war on foreign soil, only to come home and fight another war for a job.

Male non-veterans in the 18-24 age group have an unemployment rate of around 17%. For male veterans in the same age group, the number is 27%.

Have employers lost the sense of obligation to veterans that they had in other eras?

There is no evidence that we have lost our emotional interest in them. We put the bumper stickers on our cars and we welcome them home in parades and town halls all across the country.

In fact, there are structural changes in the economy that make it more difficult for the modern returning veteran. A report to the Congressional Joint Economic Committee said “Prior to the start of the recession, post 9/11 veterans were more likely than non-veterans to be employed in mining, construction, manufacturing, transportation and utilities, information, and professional and business services – all industries that experienced significant drops in employment during 2008-2009.”

Not only did employment in many of these categories drop, there is little doubt that many of these professions will not instantly rebound with the next positive economic news.

It should be that we look at returning veterans not as a set of unwanted skill sets but as character assets. In the insurance industry, character counts as much as hard work, intelligence and contacts. Our business is based on duty, loyalty and nobility of purpose. These are hardly foreign concepts to the returning veteran.

What employers need to do is match those character assets to training programs in their industry that will educate and enable a new generation of professionals.

At Penn Mutual we just made a $2.5 million commitment to The American College to build the nation’s first Center for Veterans Affairs. The American College specializes in training and education for the insurance industry, and returning veterans could very well be part of the new generation that is urgently needed to replace a rapidly graying group of practitioners.

The Center for Veterans Affairs will work with a special panel of active duty and retired military leaders and insurance industry recruiters to create a ‘Mission Roadmap’ for soldiers who are interested in becoming life insurance professionals and financial advisers. It is anticipated that the first soldiers graduating from The College with these designations will be within the next two years.

While we are justifiably proud of our participation in this program, it’s important to remind colleagues that we don’t have any exclusive rights to support for this kind of training. Any company can, and should, participate.

When a veteran comes off a tour of active duty military service, the last thing he or she wants is the opportunity to rest on some well-deserved laurels. What veterans want is challenge, opportunity, a way to provide a future for their families, and the chance to once again serve others honorably as a civilian.

Matching those character assets to an industry always looking for new talent is the right thing to do.

AMVETS National Commander Gary Fry's 9/11 Commemorative Speech

Ten years have passed since the tragic terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Today, millions will gather to remember and honor those whose lives were lost that fateful day. Ceremonies at the Pentagon, near the site of the World Trade Center in New York, in Pennsylvania, and at hundreds of other places around the world are being held at this very moment. Just as we were united in the hours and days following the September 11 attacks, we are again drawn together in solidarity to remember those who were lost. And today we also honor the men and women, in and out of uniform, who continue to fight against those who would harm us for no other reason than our great country, the United States of America, remains a beacon of freedom in an increasingly dark and chaotic world.

With their blows to the Pentagon and the World Trade Center, Al Qaeda sought to overturn the world’s most powerful symbols of military strength and economic prosperity. They impacted our sense of safety, making it hard to trust the man or woman standing next to us. Some of us are still suspicious of strangers and many of us are still looking over our shoulders. Rebuilding trust certainly takes time. But they did not accomplish their goals. They did not cripple the far reaching capabilities or the effectiveness of our military and our collective resilience as a nation. Look around you. Take note of your brothers and sisters. This is your American family. We stand together against those who would attack our freedoms and our way of life. But they can’t keep us down.

Not long after the attack, family members who lost loved ones during the terrorist strike at the Pentagon created a makeshift memorial outside the damaged building. There were memorials at the site of the World Trade Center and the field in Pennsylvania. We are resilient, persistent and determined; all of which I would dare to say are inherent American attributes. These people did not wait for an official call to action. They made it happen. Fast-forward ten years. Where are we now? We continue to grieve, but we also continue to fight the war on terrorism. They wanted to make us weak, but they only made us stronger.

United in strength and camaraderie, we grieve for the 3,000 innocent people who perished in those dastardly attacks against our nation. They came from all walks of life, all races, and all ages. And while most of those who perished were U.S. citizens, we must not forget that the victims at the World Trade Center included citizens of dozens of other nations. Terrorism threatens the entire global community, not just the United States.

Again, I propose that the terrorists failed in weakening our great nation. In fact, the attacks produced new American heroes, such as the passengers of United Airlines Flight 93. The plane was hijacked the same way the passenger airliners flown into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon were, however, the passengers were united under the resolve that their airliner would not be used as another guided missile – and it wasn’t.

Additionally, America has newfound heroes in the hundreds of New York City policemen, firefighters, paramedics and other emergency responders who gave their all when the World Trade Center towers collapsed around them as they fought to get everyone out.

A little more than a week after the attacks, President George W. Bush told us that "We are a country awakened to danger and called to defend freedom. Our grief has turned to anger, and anger to resolution. Whether we bring our enemies to justice, or bring justice to our enemies, justice will be done."

And justice has been done. Working closely with the armed forces of other nations, our military campaigns have eliminated al Qaeda’s safe haven in Afghanistan and the Taliban government that supported them. Osama Bin Laden has been brought to justice, and our military service members continue to deliver justice every single day as they hunt down remaining fugitives throughout Afghanistan, even as they help the liberated Afghan people embrace freedom and democracy.

We have met many milestones during these past ten years and during the war against terror. We have a way to go, but as we speak, the numbers of American troops are drawing down. Eventually this war will end. Life will never be what it was before the attacks, but what has not eliminated us only educated us and made us stronger.

Soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are fighting the Global War on Terrorism, in an effort to create and maintain the conditions for peace. Every day they sacrifice to protect and defend our homeland, and our freedoms.

We will never forget September 11th, 2001 as one of America’s darkest days. But a renewed sense of national pride has arisen out of the gloom. A national resolve to make this world a safer place now shines brightly. Our unwavering strength and resolve is a wonder for the world to behold. We stand united. America will remember her heroes who emerged from the tragedies of those attacks, and we will fight the good fight against a global network of terrorism for as long as it takes to end its threat to our way of life.

AMVETS PASSES RESOLUTION SUPPORTING VETERANS TREATMENT COURTS

LANHAM, MD., Sept. 1, 2011— Newly-elected AMVETS National Commander Gary Fry announced today the passage of AMVETS Resolution 12-26, “Establish Veterans Treatment Courts,” at the 67th annual AMVETS National Convention in St. Louis, Mo.

Resolution 12-26 outlines the significant benefits of Veteran Treatment Courts to the veterans’ community, and calls upon existing Drug Courts and Mental Health Courts to assess veteran involvement within their programs and better assist this underserved population.

Fry, of Sugar Grove, Pa., said veterans suffering from substance abuse and/or mental health conditions in his home state and elsewhere have benefitted from Veterans Treatment Courts by receiving life-changing drug treatment and mental health counseling in lieu of incarceration.

“We have an obligation to ensure the men and women who have served their nation honorably have access to the benefits and treatment to which they are entitled,” said Fry. “To allow them to slip through the cracks of our criminal justice system is a national disgrace and an affront to all who have worn and continue to wear the uniform.”

With one in five veterans of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom suffering symptoms of a mental disorder or cognitive impairment, and one in six veterans of OEF/OIF suffering substance abuse problems, unprecedented numbers of veterans are appearing in criminal courts facing charges stemming directly from these charges. Veterans Treatment Courts connect these veterans with benefits and services to which they are entitled from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health care networks and the Veterans Benefits Administration, and assistance provided by veterans service organizations including AMVETS.

The nation’s first Veterans Treatment Court was established in early 2008 in Buffalo, New York. Since then, nearly 80 programs have been launched throughout the United States. With over 2,600 Drug Courts in operation, Justice For Vets sees the potential for a significant increase in the number of Veterans Treatment Courts in the coming years.

“The infrastructure is in place to expand this model throughout the United States to serve every eligible veteran in need. As we do so, it is critical that we have the support of our most respected veteran’s organizations,” said Justice For Vets Director of Development and Outreach Matt Stiner. “AMVETS has an unmatched reputation for serving veterans, and AMVETS’ involvement in local Veterans Treatment Courts is proving to be an invaluable tool for getting veterans stabilized and connected to the appropriate treatment and benefits. We are deeply honored to have this support.”

Fry said the expanded use of Veterans Treatment Courts nationwide is a key component of his agenda for his term as AMVETS national commander for the 2011-2012 year, and to this end, he will seek to forge strategic relationships between AMVETS and veterans legal advocacy groups, including Justice for Vets and the National Association of Drug Court Professionals.

READ RESOLUTION 12-26


About NADCP and Justice For Vets:
Drug Courts combine rigorous drug treatment and accountability to compel and support drug-using offenders to change their lives. After 22 years of innovation, there are now over 2,600 Drug Courts located in all 50 states. Since 1994 the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP), a non-profit organization 501 (c) (3) representing over 27,000 multi-disciplinary justice professionals and community leaders, has worked tirelessly at the national, state and local level to create and enhance Drug Courts. Now, the Drug Court community is answering the call of duty at home to meet the needs of justice-involved veterans struggling with substance abuse and/or mental illness. In the country’s first Veterans Treatment Courts, veterans have the opportunity to go through the treatment court process with the support of other veterans and a team of court staff that understands military culture and the specific issues with which veterans are faced. NADCP is now recognized as the experts in the field of addiction and the criminal justice system. In 2009, NADCP launched Justice For Vets: The National Clearinghouse for Veterans Treatment Courts with the goal of ensuring a Veterans Treatment Court is within reach of every eligible veteran in need. For more information, visit JusticeForVets.

RED HOT: New Guidance for Purple Heart Eligibility

Under new guidance, Veterans and Soldiers previously denied the Purple Heart for such an injury are highly encouraged to submit an application for reconsideration of the medal.

To be eligible, the concussive or m/TBI must have occurred on or after September 11, 2001. Active-duty and reserve-component Soldiers must work with their respective chains of command for reconsideration. Veterans can submit packages directly to U.S. Army Human Resources Command.

To learn more click the link at the end of this story to read an article published by the Army News Service, which discusses the Adjutant General's new guidance on awarding the Purple Heart for concussive or mild traumatic brain injuries and includes application instructions.

http://www.army.mil/article/63926/

AMVETS partners with Bass Pro Shops during the Bass Pro Shops Honoring Our Heroes Labor Day Event

AMVETS will process donations and distribute to active duty service members

Washington, August 30, 2011— AMVETS will support Bass Pro Shops retail locations** across the U.S. during the Honoring Our Heroes Event during Labor Day weekend September 3rd –4th and again September 10th –11th, by distributing donations received during the event to deployed troops.

Bass Pro Shops retail locations will offer free family activities from 1-5pm each of those days and free crafts from 2-4pm (while supplies last) Labor Day weekend, September 3rd and 4th and again Saturday and Sunday, September 10th and 11th and it’s all free!

Show your appreciation for our troops, most of whom won’t be able to get home for the holiday, by bringing in new or gently used DVDs, video games or books. All donated items will be sent to our troops through AMVETS. The first 50 people at each store to donate, beginning at 10am each day, will receive a Sportsman’s Racing Team poster.

Families can also register to win one of two exciting prizes being given away. One winner will be selected nationally to win the Grand Prize of a trip to Charlotte, NC and meet NASCAR® driver of the #1 Bass Pro Shops car Jamie McMurray. The Grand Prize Package includes two tickets to the May 2012 Sprint Cup All-Star race in Charlotte, three-night hotel accommodations, special meet-n-greet with Jamie McMurray, a Bass Pro Shops® themed go-cart, one pair of Oakley® sunglasses, a tour of Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing and a $300 Bass Pro Shops gift card to spend at the Charlotte store. You may enter to win at the store or online at http://www.basspro.com/winatrip.

This Labor Day, help show your appreciation for all the everyday heroes plus our troops and squeeze the last drop out of summer fun without putting any pressure on your budget, by bringing the family to Bass Pro Shops Honoring Our Heroes Event.

**Bass Pro Shops retail locations in Miami, FL and Branson, MO will not have the event but will honor sale prices. Event details for Canadian locations can be found here.



About Bass Pro Shops Group:
Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 110 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations. For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit http://www.basspro.com. To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO.

TACOMA AMVETS AID VETERANS ADVOCATES AFTER ACCIDENT

AMVETS POST 1 HELPS CROSS-COUNTRY BICYCLISTS REPLACE BIKE AND TRAILER

TACOMA, WA., August 18, 2011— Friday, Aug. 19 at 4:30 PM, Commander Kelley Buyers of AMVETS Post 1 in Tacoma will present a check at the post for $750 to two young veterans to help replace a bicycle and trailer destroyed Aug. 11 in a collision with a pickup truck in Oregon.

Erick Barfield, a Coast Guard veteran and 9/11 first responder, and his wife Monica, an Army veteran, left Tampa, Fla., in February on a year-long trek to raise awareness for homeless and disabled veterans. The couple has also promoted AMVETS, a leading veterans organization they say has helped them in the past.

After leaving Florida in February, the Barfields traveled north and westward, eventually reaching Indiana where they adopted their road companion, a Jack Russell Terrier named Lily. They had another eventful stop in Cheyenne, Wy., where the couple were joined by AMVETS volunteers from Wyoming Post 10 in assisting local homeless veterans. Continuing on to Southern California, they received support from California Post 113, then headed north where they ran into trouble in Oregon Aug. 11.

While fortunate not to have been seriously injured in the traffic accident that destroyed his bicycle and trailer, Erick was discouraged by the set back and feared the couple’s year-long mission of service would come to a premature end. The generosity of Washington AMVETS Post 1 changed all that.

“I was totally shocked; I couldn’t believe it,” said Barfield. “I wasn’t expecting anything, and for them to do this – well, they didn’t have to.”

The donation from Post 1 enabled Barfield to purchase a modified Trek 1000 touring bicycle and a replacement trailer, and during the unscheduled stop other generous donations have poured in including a stay at the Governor Hotel in Olympia, and cycling equipment donated by a local REI store. The Barfields plan to re-donate these items to local Washington veterans in need.

Dave Harris, past commander of the AMVETS Department of Washington and Post 1, said the donation came from post funds as well as individual contributions from members.

“We were glad to do it,” said Harris. “They’re really nice people. I think it’s cool they’re getting out and doing something to help other veterans, see the country and help people along the way. They’re sincere and dedicated.”

Brigadier General David Smalley, Deputy Commanding General for Professional Services, U.S. Army 807th Medical Command, Addresses AMVETS Convention

Brig. Gen. David Smalley spoke Aug. 11 at the AMVETS National Convention in St. Louis, Mo. Smalley is the Deputy Commanding General for Professional Services, U.S. Army 807th Medical Command (Deployment Support).

Smalley shared information about a few of the United States Army Reserve’s Family Support Programs and Communities, designed to meet the changing needs of a new generation of veterans. Veterans are an invaluable part of the Army Reserve and of our nation’s workforce, and it is essential that we continue to make strides in bettering their transition between active duty and retired status.

Army Reserve Family Programs provide a range of education and training benefits, outreach and referral services, as well as informational resources to support our geographically dispersed Soldiers, veterans and families. He spoke about the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, the Army Strong Bonds Program and the Army Strong Community Center (ASCC). In addition, he discussed how the Army Reserve is working with the private sector as part of the Employer Partnership Program.

If you’ve participated in any of these programs, please visit http://myarmyreserve.dodlive.mil and let the Army Reserve know about your experience. Please feel free to submit a comment, tell your story and spread the word. By working together, we can and will ensure that the Army Reserve continues to be a positive investment for our Soldiers, our nation and especially our veterans.

As one of the nation’s largest veteran service organizations, AMVETS members include more than 180,000 active duty service men and women and honorably discharged veterans from all of the armed services, including Reserve and National Guard. The annual convention, which attracts state and national leaders and key influencers from across the country, offers an ideal backdrop for learning and engagement around ways to improve the quality of life for Soldiers, veterans and their families.

AMVETS 67th Annual Convention Begins

Today marked the opening ceremony of the 67th Annual AMVETS National Convention in St. Louis, Mo.

Members from all over the country began arriving at the Millennium Hotel as early as Thursday to participate in various pre-convention activities, see the St. Louis sites and to catch up with other AMVETS members whom they hadn't seen in a year. Hands were shaken and toasts were made at the Dugout, a hotel hospitality suite that served as the Sad Sacks Hospitality Room from Thursday to Monday, and then the Dept. of Missouri's hospitality room Tues. and Weds. Members from posts and departments enjoyed refreshments and good conversation into the wee hours of the morning.

Many members looked forward to the opening ceremony to hear remarks from honored speakers, VA Secretary Eric Shinseki, Sen. Claire McCaskill (MO), and Congressman Lacey Clay (MO), who made it a priority to address the AMVETS audience.

Shinseki, McCaskill and Clay thanked AMVETS for their service and advocacy. Shinseki outlined the Obama administration's goals for improving the quality of life for the nation's veterans focusing on the increased budget for 2012. He also mentioned the various initiatives that are planned for transitioning veterans and eradicating homelessness.

During a press conference following the ceremony, Shinseki emphasized the importance of responsible leadership when providing quality care to veterans at VA healthcare facilities and said he was satisfied at the direction VA healthcare administrators were going. He said change is never fast enough, but progress is being made and it is one of the highest priorites of President Obama.

AMVETS Serves St. Louis Veterans, Reaffirms Commitment to Homeless Veterans Cause

Sunday, in advance of the 67th Annual AMVETS National Convention in St. Louis, Mo., AMVETS volunteers joined the St. Louis VA Medical Center and the St. Louis City and County in Eternal Flame Park to deliver critical services to more than 450 homeless American veterans. AMVETS was honored to welcome participation from the Vet Hunters Project riders, whose remarkable, 1,900-mile trek from Los Angeles has served to raise public awareness for veteran homelessness. Regrettably, The Vet Hunters Project did not accept AMVETS’ offer to provide five minutes for brief remarks from a Vet Hunters representative during Wednesday’s opening ceremony, and instead insisted that they be afforded time to present a documentary film and to directly address VA Secretary Eric Shinseki during the ceremony. AMVETS does not exercise control over the Secretary’s schedule and other groups and dignitaries could not be accommodated during the opening ceremony. As evidenced by AMVETS’ participation in Sunday’s stand down for homeless veterans, this organization does actively support the cause to end homelessness in the veterans’ community, and recognizes the importance of the Vet Hunters’ mission. It is truly unfortunate that the Vet Hunters Project has chosen to publicly attack a major leading veterans service organization with an aligned mission, rather than expending their limited resources on their stated cause: serving homeless veterans.

AMVETS Riders Sponsor New Cabin at Camp Hope

Nearly two hundred AMVETS Riders rode motorcycles from the Millennium Hotel in St. Louis, the site of the 67th Annual National Convention, to Camp Hope in Farmington, Mo., as AMVETS leaders, local politicians, veterans and their supporters gather to dedicate a newly constructed cabin in honor of Air Force Master Sgt. Brad Clemmons. Clemmons, who earned the Bronze Star Medal in the Global War on Terrorism, was killed in August of 2006 when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device near Taji, Iraq.

The AMVETS Riders successfully raised more than $30,000 for Camp Hope since officially designating Camp Hope a national cause for the organization one year ago at the 66th Annual AMVETS National Convention in Louisville, Ky. The AMVETS Riders’ contribution wholly funded a new cabin to be used by wounded warriors and their families while visiting Camp Hope, with remaining funds going to support a new main lodge, for which a ground breaking ceremony was also held Saturday.

After the ceremony, several AMVETS posts and chapters delivered monetary donations for Camp Hope, all of which totaled more than $12,000.
 
Founded in 2007 by Gold Star Parents Mike and Galia White, Camp Hope provides a variety of outdoor recreational activities to wounded warriors and their families free of charge.
 
Among the dignitaries in attendance for the ceremony Saturday was AMVETS National Commander Jerry Hotop of Branson, Mo., AMVETS Riders National President Victor “Dutch” Stivason, and Master Sgt. Brad Clemmons’ surviving family, including his wife, Rebecca, and the couple’s four children.
 
Stivason called the Riders’ yearlong campaign to support Camp Hope an outstanding success and a fitting tribute to a true American hero.
 
“I am proud of the hard work and dedication of our AMVETS Riders from all over the country this past year,” said Stivason. “Our mission will ensure our veterans and their families continue to enjoy the truly remarkable healing that happens here at Camp Hope for years to come. Having the Clemmons family with us is also a tremendous privilege. We are honored to pay tribute to the life and service of Master Sgt. Brad Clemmons.”    
 
Following the Camp Hope cabin dedication, the Riders held a fundraising dance at Shady Jack’s restaurant and bar in St. Louis.

My first look at St Louis

Landing in St. Louis last Thursday, I didn't know what to expect for my first convention. I have never before been to the "Show Me" state either, so this would be a new experience for me all around. I knew the city would be hot, and that there's a huge Arch, but other than that, I was pretty clueless.

On the flight over, I had the pleasure of meeting a soldier who just graduated from boot camp. His MOS is supply clerk. During our conversation, I learned that he wanted to get all of his training out the way so that he could join the fight in Afghanistan and follow in his brother's footsteps. It was fun trading boot stories and how we changed froom civilians into troops.

Once we landed, the young private and I said our goodbyes, and Commander Hotop and his wife Judy greeted me at the airport. The Hotops showed me that wonderful Midwest Hospitality and after making sure I was settled, treated me to a dinner of traditional St. Louis barbecue. I stuffed my face with tender beef brisket and fried okra, washing it down with a delicious root beer float made with Fitz's soda, which is a local company.

My overall first impression of St. Louis is that it is a friendly, welcoming city with a love of country and our troops. I look forward to the rest of my stay here, and will most assuredly visit in the future.


Now.... If I can only make time to visit the top of the Arch...

AMVETS Testifies Before the House Committee on Veterans Affairs about H.R. 1154, the “Veterans Equal Treatment for Service Dogs Act.”

Yesterday, was the first time I witnessed a congressional hearing on Capitol Hill. In case you've never been in a hearing room, imagine stepping back in time to the Victorian era. The room in which the hearing took place was intimidating to say the least, with extremely high ceilings painted white, with golden accents and pearl-like air vent covers. (At least they looked like pearls to me at like a million feet away)The window treatments were dramatic draperies in dark blue and white lace. There were three enormous windows that let in lots of natural light.
All set the perfect tone to get down to the business of passing H.R. 1154 into law.

H.R. 1154 was introduced by Rep. John Carter (TX) and gained overwhelming bi-partisan support since it's introduction on March 17, 2011. The bill's purpose is to give veterans utilizing Service Dogs the same access rights to VA Medical Centers and VA facilities already given to blind veterans using Guide Dogs. In March, more than 100 members of AMVETS, the sons of AMVETS and the AMVETS Women's Auxiliary stormed the Hill in an effort to let lawmakers know they were serious about the swift passage of H.R. 1154 and finally removing this hurdle to care disabled veterans are experiencing, such as AMVETS member Kevin Stone, and his Service Dog, Mambo.

AMVETS testified before the House Veterans Affairs subcommittee on Health, focusing their oral testimony on H.R. 1154, the "Veterans Equal Treatment for Service Dogs Act", as well as another piece of legislation AMVETS has assisted in developing, H.R. 198, introduced by Rep. Grimm (NY).

Below is an excerpt from the oral testimony of Christina Roof, National Acting Legislative Director for AMVETS, on the two bills.

AMVETS strongly supports H.R. 1154, the “Veterans Equal Treatment for Service Dogs Act.” In 2009, I personally began to play an active role in AMVETS 30 plus years of work in the area of disabled veterans and Service Dogs. I could have never imagined that 2 ½ years later, I would be sitting here testifying on a piece of legislation that is in dire need of being signed into law and implemented without any further delay. This piece of legislation is HR 1154.

AMVETS believes this cost free piece of legislation will permanently eliminate an often overlooked and unwarranted hurdle to care disabled veterans are currently experiencing when seeking their necessary VA health care services. To date, Title 38, Part 1, § 1.218 (a)(11) states:

“Dogs and other animals, except seeing-eye dogs, shall not be brought upon property except as authorized by the head of the facility or designee”.

AMVETS finds the aforesaid language of Title 38 to be inconsistent and outdated when compared to the sections of Title 38 it is to govern. While numerous parts of Title 38 are constantly updated to reflect the health care needs of today’s wounded warriors, this section of Title 38 has been overlooked and has thus failed to be updated since July of 1985.

This outdated law is resulting in disabled veterans utilizing VA approved Service Dogs as a prosthetic device, to be denied entrance into the VAMCs and CBOCs they depend on for life sustaining care. One of the veterans who has personally experienced this barrier to care is AMVETS member, Kevin Stone and his Service Dog, Mambo, who are in attendance today.

AMVETS believes disabled veterans, such as Mr. Stone, using Service Dogs as a prosthetic device must have the same access rights to VA care and facilities as currently afforded to blind veterans using Guide Dogs.

AMVETS supports H.R. 198, the “Veterans Dog Training Therapy Act.” AMVETS lends our support to the updated language of H.R. 198 that will be submitted in committee markup. AMVETS believes the updated language will help ensure that H.R. 198 provides veterans the highest quality care and vocational training.

By way of background, AMVETS has worked with Paws With A Cause, an ADI -accredited agency, to help provide Service Dogs to disabled veterans for over 25 years. Through this partnership, AMVETS has witnessed first -hand the incredible changes that occur in a veteran’s life when introducing a dog into their overall treatment plan. These changes are often illustrated through a veteran’s ability to maintain a higher quality of life and greater mental health improvements, when compared to veterans undergoing clinical care alone. HR 198 and the dogs it will use, have the ability to break down barriers in a veteran’s world by shattering public stigmas and increase a veteran’s overall wellbeing by reigniting purpose through allowing the veterans to continue their service to their country by assisting their comrades.

AMVETS is aware of VAMCs that have used programs similar to the structure of H.R. 198 with great success for both the veteran trainers and the veteran Service Dog recipients. Furthermore, AMVETS believes H.R. 198 will be beneficial to VA by developing stronger policies and procedures regarding Service Dogs within the VA health care system. AMVETS is happy to lend our support to H.R. 198.

Gearing up for Convention

Things around the AMVETS National Headquarters have been busier than ever, as we get ourselves and everything we need to bring with us together to take down to St. Louis for the AMVETS 67th Annual National Convention.

This will be my first convention, and I am looking forward to meeting all of the members out there who read the magazine and comment and respond to posts on Twitter and Facebook. I am eager to put faces to names and dive right into the mix.

I plan to take lots of pictures to post online, and cover stories that will go into the Fall issue of American Veteran magazine.

History will be made, and I am anticipating a good time to be had by all.


Hope to see you there! Only a couple weeks to go.


-Sha'ahn

National Commander Hotop's Address during the Women's Memorial Reception Dinner July 15, 2011

Let me begin by thanking the folks who thought enough of me to have me speak to you this evening. I am truly honored and humbled after visiting the Women Veterans Memorial. I would like to recognize Secretary Shinseki and those at the VA Center for Women Veterans for the outstanding work they have been doing to get our women veterans the healthcare they need and deserve. There is still much progress to be made, but I am encouraged that they are on the right track, particularly with their latest campaign of surveying women veterans to learn how to better service them. I applaud your new efforts at community outreach.

Friends and veterans, thank you for gathering here to recognize the contributions of women veterans. I know I speak for all of us here when I say you are important figures in the history of our nation – as well as important role models for our future.

The choice you made was not an easy one. You chose to place your personal needs behind the needs of your country. It takes a selfless person to do that, and I on behalf of AMVETS extend the warmest, most sincere, “Thank You,” for your service.

You are truly diverse, dynamic women who play many roles in your lives. To your families, you are Mothers, daughters, wives, aunts, sisters… And to your unit or shop, you are Gunny, Chief, or Top. You sure do wear many hats, but that’s the beauty of being a woman. I am not taking away anything from the men, because they sacrifice too, but there is a special strength with which God has blessed a woman. It’s tough to explain, and only He knows why, but you all are like chameleons. You do the work in the field alongside your brothers-in-arms without batting an eyelash. And then just that quick you can turn around to comfort your baby boy who just skinned his knee! You are respected and deserve this night of recognition. You deserve this “Thank You” for all that you do.

By celebrations such as this, we are highlighting your contributions to this great nation, and in doing so also helping to guarantee good services for the women who don the uniform in the future.

Whether you are a Soldier, Airman, Marine, Sailor or Coast Guardsmen, You are the driving force behind the American Dream. Your sacrifices in service allow us the freedoms we enjoy every day. AMVETS is committed to constantly reminding our leaders on Capitol Hill of the promises they made to you. We will continue to fight for legislation that makes life a little easier for those who serve and have served, and WILL serve in this country’s armed forces in the future.

I am pleased that not only does the VA seem committed to equality in its service, but it also intends to close the information gap about the benefits you have earned through your valiant sacrifices on behalf of our nation. AMVETS is here to help VA close that gap as well. Our service officers can help you file a claim, and educate you about the benefits to which you are entitled.

Now, I cannot, in good conscience, leave you all without extending an invitation to learn more about the fine organization that I lead. Unlike other VSOs, membership in AMVETS is open to anyone who is currently serving, or has honorably served, in the U.S. Armed Forces from World War II to present, to include those in the National Guard and Reserves.

I know that VSOs have been wrongly perceived as a club for men, of sorts, and that we do not welcome women. But that is a myth that I have strived to help eradicate during my year as National Commander. AMVETS welcomes ALL, regardless of gender, race and ethnicity.

With women making up at least 15% of our military personnel today, we at AMVETS want to be sure that you, our veterans, know that you can turn to us for help. If you know a veteran, male or female, who needs help, tell them to visit AMVETS.org, or contact our National Programs Department to learn more about our programs.

In closing, I want to say one last thank you to the women veterans here today. Even though you may not have always known it, you were moving stones and creating a path for the women who will serve after you. This nation owes you a great debt of gratitude.

Your pride in your service is a tremendous source of patriotism in our communities. I am so proud of you. You are doing great things, and I know you will continue to provide outstanding leadership in your communities. I, and every one of our 180,000 AMVETS members are here to help in any way we can.

Because you made the vow, “I will serve, too,” – our nation is stronger. I am proud to be an American.

AMVETS, Veterans Community, Condemn DoD for Breaking Sacred Promise with POW/MIA Families

WASHINGTON (July 13, 2011) — President Obama is a strong supporter of our nation’s veterans, military and their families, as well as the families of almost 88,000 missing servicemen and civilians, yet some within his Administration do not share that same level of commitment.

They would instead disregard White House guidance and abandon a Presidential Commission that was created in 1992 by President George H.W. Bush and Russian President Boris Yeltsin — and supported by every American president since — to help determine the fates of Americans who disappeared behind the Iron Curtain. They would also recall a multiyear budget submission for the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), whose worldwide mission to recover and identify America’s fallen is stretched thin by manning constraints and laboratory space.

After nine months of broken promises, we cannot sit quietly and allow senior officials in the Department of Defense to redirect funding, transfer researchers and linguists, and jeopardize any possibility of mission success for the U.S.-Russia Joint Commission on POW/MIAs. The Defense Department had previously agreed to reinstate by the end of June what it had taken from the Joint Commission, but to date, DOD has chosen to ignore the policy and funding recommendations made by the White House Office of Management and Budget and the National Security Council.

Such actions will negate 19 years of slow but increasingly steady progress that has permitted U.S. investigators to access Russia’s central military archives and to interview potential eyewitnesses. Such actions will also contradict a show of support by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who last month appointed a new co-chairman and more than 30 commissioners to their side of the Joint Commission.

Ongoing DOD actions will make it nearly impossible for our government to locate information and/or remains to help determine the fates of hundreds, if not thousands, of Americans who may have perished in the former Soviet Union or in the lands of their allies during World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Cold War. The Defense Department’s actions will help ensure mission failure, which will render the Joint Commission expendable, all because DOD wants to control a Presidential Commission instead of strongly supporting it.

We also cannot acquiesce to a relook of JPAC’s budget, which in these austere fiscal times means reduced funding. Congress has mandated that JPAC begin recovering and identifying 200 or more MIAs annually by 2015. This is more than double their current success rate, and without increased funding, it will be an impossible goal to reach.

When President Obama spoke at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day, he reminded us of the debt America and the entire world owes to our military — for their benevolence as well as their resolve. He honored the memory, service and sacrifice of those men and women who gave their all, and he offered assurances to thousands of Americans who continue to seek answers — the families of almost 78,000 missing and unaccounted-for from World War II, 8,000 from Korea, 1,680 from Vietnam, and one each from Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as the countless veterans who served by their side.

Our nation’s fullest possible accounting mission is a national priority that the president is committed to, a mission that other nations wish they could emulate, and a mission in which success can only be measured by recovering, identifying, and returning those we send to war back to their families and to their country.

On behalf of millions of members of our nation’s largest, oldest, and most influential veterans and POW/MIA family organizations, we call upon President Obama to immediately direct DOD to restore funding and personnel to the U.S.-Russia Joint Commission, and to protect JPAC’s proposed budgets. We also urge our fellow veterans and their families, as well as all Americans, to contact the president and their members of Congress to urge them to live up to our nation’s sacred obligation to never leave a service member behind.

//signed//

James B. King, National Executive Director, American Veterans
Barry A. Jesinoski, Executive Director, Disabled American Veterans
Herb Rosenbleeth, Col., USA-Ret., Executive Director, Jewish War Veterans of the USA
Michael A. Blum, Executive Director, Marine Corps League
Ann Mills-Griffiths, Executive Director, National League of POW/MIA Families
Peter S. Gaytan, Executive Director, The American Legion
Robert E. Wallace, Executive Director, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
Richard F. Weidman, Executive Director for Policy & Government Affairs Vietnam Veterans of America

Contact information:
AMVETS, Jay Agg, 301-683-4035; DAV, Thom Wilborn, 202-314-5221; Jewish War Veterans, Herb Rosenbleeth, 202-265-6280; Marine Corps League, Mike Blum, 703-207-9588; National League of POW/MIA Families, Ann Mills-Griffiths, 703-465-7432; The American Legion, Craig Roberts, 202-263-2982; VFW, Joe Davis, 202-608-8357; and Vietnam Veterans of America, Mokie Porter, 301-585-4000

ATTENTION MD/VA/DC Job Seekers: DC VA MEDICAL CENTER HOSTS JOB FAIR FOR VETERANS, ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY AND THEIR SPOUSES

DC VA MEDICAL CENTER HOSTS JOB FAIR FOR VETERANS, ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY AND THEIR SPOUSES



WHAT – Washington DC VA Medical Center Compensated Work Therapy Program is sponsoring a free job fair for Veterans, active duty military personnel and their spouses. Interviews may be conducted on site. Some of the participating employers are FBI, USDA, Homeland Security, SOC Enterprises, Computer Science Corporation, CW Resources, America Works, US Secret Service, ABLE Forces, and the National Housing Corporation Learning Center.

WHEN – Monday, July 11, 2011; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

WHERE – Washington DC VA Medical Center, Abraham Lincoln Auditorium, 4th Floor, 50 Irving Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20422

WHO – Veterans, military personnel and their spouses.

WHY – To link Veterans, military personnel and their spouses seeking employment with employers who have vacant positions.


The Compensated Work Therapy Program (CWT) is a Department of Veterans Affairs clinical program designed to prepare qualified Veterans for employment. The CWT Program is sponsoring this event as a community service effort and to provide direct support to Veterans, military personnel and their families in the DC metropolitan area in locating employment.

Parking at the DC VA Medical Center is limited. All Job Fair attendees are encouraged to use public transportation. Free shuttle service is available to and from Brook land/CUA, McPherson and the Columbia Heights Metro Stations. For more information on DC VA Medical Center shuttle service visit: http://www.washingtondc.va.gov/PatientInformation/transportation.asp



If you have questions, please contact the Office of Public Affairs, 202-745-4037. For directions to the Medical Center please visit the Medical Center website at http://www.washingtondc.va.gov/

AMVETS SUPPORTERS BIKE TO BRING AWARENESS TO VETERANS HOMELESSNESS AND AMVETS

Erick and Monica Barfield, both military veterans riding bicycles across the country for AMVETS and to raise awareness of the nation's homeless and disabled veterans, have embarked on a 4,500 mile journey to champion their cause.

U.S. Army veteran Monica and Coast Guard veteran Eric left their home state Florida on Feb. 15 and plan on arriving in San Diego in February 2012. They are traveling with their 5-year-old Jack Russell terrier, Lily. They have been supporting their trip through private donations. They said the purpose for their AMVETS ride is raising awareness of and donations for homeless and disabled veterans.

The two from Plant City, Fla., met while both were at an avionics seminar regarding Army Blackhawk and Coast Guard Jayhawk helicopters at Fort Campbell, Ky., Monica’s base. She specialized in aviation supply and served two tours in Iraq during five years in the Army. He responded with the Coast Guard after the World Trade Center attacks, and he was wounded in a drug raid between Cuba and south Florida.

According to the couple's official Biking Across America for Homeless and Disabled Veterans Facebook page, the couple plans to help educate others about the struggles veterans face when trying to receive the healthcare they need and deserve, take part in fundraising to help get some veterans "off the streets," and make donations to AMVETS, which supports their efforts.

Currently, the Barfields are heading toward Cheyenne, Wyo., and will stop at AMVETS Post 10.

The Barfields are Members at Large in Florida.

VA Creates Women Veterans Call Center

I receive press releases every day announcing various initiatives and campaigns that are pertinent to veterans. Today, I learned about the Department of Veterans Affairs' major outreach effort targeting women veterans. I guess it caught my eye because I am a veteran myself (and a woman) and I understand how important it is to reach this small but rapidly growing segment of service members.

According to the release, the VA is interested in soliciting input on ways to enhance health care services VA provides to women veterans. In order to accomplish this goal, representatives at VA's Health Resource Center are placing calls to women veterans nationwide asking them to share their experiences with VA and suggest potential enhancements that will further VA's mission to provide to provide the best care possible.

Women Veterans are one of the fastest growing segments of the Veteran population. Of the 22.7 million living Veterans, more than 1.8 million are women. They comprise nearly 8 percent of the total Veteran population and 6 percent of all Veterans who use VA health care services.

VA estimates by 2020 women Veterans will constitute 10 percent of the Veteran population and 9.5 percent of VA patients. The HRC, which started placing calls on June 1, is contacting women Veterans who have enrolled, but have not begun using VA services.

“Through this contact center, we are placing friendly, conversational calls to women Veterans,” said Patricia Hayes, chief consultant of the VA’s Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group. “We want these Veterans and their caregivers to talk candidly about why they are not using VA, whether they are aware of the gender-specific services we offer, and what additional services they would like to see VA offer.”

The HRC representatives making the calls are also informing women Veterans about the services VA offers and quickly connecting them with appropriate departments if they are interested in trying VA health care. Veterans who have complaints about VA are connected to a patient advocate who helps resolve issues.

The Women Veterans Health Care program has made significant changes in the last few years to enhance the health care offered to eligible women Veterans.
This progress includes:

Adopting key policies to improve access and enhance services for women Veterans;
Implementing comprehensive primary care for women Veterans;
Conducting cutting-edge research on the effects of military service on women’s lives;
Improving communication and outreach to women Veterans; and
Providing mental health, homelessness and other services designed to meet the unique needs of women Veterans

For more information about VA programs and services for women Veterans, please visit: www.va.gov/womenvet and www.publichealth.va.gov/womenshealth.