Salute Our Military

Charity Download of "Declaration Anthem" Featured in FOX Super Bowl Salute to U.S. to Help U.S. Wounded Soldiers

2011-02-12T10:52:00.000-05:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--"Declaration Anthem," the score created by award-winning Placement Music, LLC for the FOX SUPER BOWL SUNDAY presentation of the 'Declaration of Independence' during Sunday's pre-show is now available as a charity single and ringtone on iTunes and Amazon.com (Keyword Declaration Anthem). A portion of proceeds from the full-length score of "Declaration Anthem," a radio edit version and a ringtone goes directly to benefit Wounded Warrior Project. The non-profit, whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors, reports an estimated 40,000 U.S. service members have been wounded in the current world conflict alone, and more than 300,000 suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

"Placement Music is proud of 'Declaration Anthem' and our collaboration with FOX Sports. As 100 million people (the most viewed broadcast ever) in more than 200 countries tuned-in, we want to ensure the men and women who are active duty or retired military know how proud we are of them and how grateful," said Tammy Hurt, founder of Placement Music. "We are honored to make 'Declaration Anthem' accessible to the world and hope everyone who watched The Super Bowl will be compelled to tell others how to help. After all, there are hundreds of thousands of men and women who served our country so nobly that now need our help."

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It's Never Too Late To Say 'Thank You' to Our Nation's Veterans: Even at The End of Life

2010-11-09T10:58:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The following is a statement by J. Donald Schumacher, PsyD, President/CEO, National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization:

Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on November 11, a special day to salute the men and women who have bravely served our country in the military.

These fellow Americans have made profound sacrifices in defense of freedom and they deserve our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Honoring our nation's Veterans includes supporting them throughout their entire lives, especially at the end.

As our nation marks Veterans Day 2010, the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization deepens its commitment to increase Veterans' access to the compassionate, high quality care available from the nation's hospice and palliative care providers.

NHPCO has been a long-time supporter of the valuable work being done by the Department of Veterans Affairs to bring palliative care services to VA Medical Centers and the communities they serve.

This past month, NHPCO in collaboration with the VA, took a great step forward to help healthcare providers better serve Veterans at life's end by launching the website www.WeHonorVeterans.org, the centerpiece of the new We Honor Veterans campaign. This campaign will help those who provide care at the end of life, better understand the unique needs of our nation's Veterans.

But there is something that every American can do to honor and serve our Veterans – and that is to say, "thank you." Not just on November 11 but all year long.

Ask your friends, neighbors, coworkers and others in your community whether they have served in the military (you may be surprised how many have)—and thank those who have served for their sacrifice.

A generation of World War II and Korean War Veterans are facing end-of-life care decisions now, and they are quickly being followed by younger Vietnam War Veterans, many of whom are confronting serious illnesses at an even earlier age.

It surprises many Americans to learn that every day, 1,800 Veterans die. That's more than 680,000 Veterans every year – or 25 percent of all the people who die in this country annually.

The liberty that we, as US citizens, enjoy comes at a price paid by these valiant men and women. Let each of us make sure we do our part to recognize and support them throughout their lives.

If you know a Veteran who is in need of the special care hospice and palliative care brings to people facing serious and life-limiting illness, please reach out and help them learn more about care options. Information is available from NHPCO's Caring Connections at www.caringinfo.org or by calling the HelpLine at 1-800-658-8898.

To all our nation's Veterans, thank you.

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Paralyzed Veterans Needs Your Vote to Win $250,000 Grant From Pepsi Refresh Project

2010-09-07T13:50:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Beginning September 1, Paralyzed Veterans of America will begin competing for a $250,000 grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project. Grant funds will be used to support Paralyzed Veterans of America's adaptive sports and recreation programs. Each month, Pepsi selects groups working to "refresh the world" to compete for grants to fund their programs, and then invites the public to vote online for the winners.

Paralyzed Veterans of America will use the grant funds to sponsor 50 newly injured or wounded veterans to participate in adaptive sports and recreation programs, including the National Veterans Wheelchair Games--the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world; support 33 adaptive sports tournaments around the country, in such activities as bass fishing, trapshooting, bowling and billiards; and support five adaptive sports instructional clinics to train paralyzed veterans in adaptive sports.

"Sports and recreation are an integral part of rehabilitation for our injured and disabled veterans," said Andy Krieger, director of sports and recreation at Paralyzed Veterans of America. "Competition, camaraderie and achieving new goals from a wheelchair have immeasurable long-term health and fitness benefits."

Voters may vote once a day through September 30. To cast your vote for Paralyzed Veterans of America, go to http://www.refresheverything.com/paralyzedveterans. Voters may also cast their vote via mobile text message* by texting 102657 to 73774. (*Please note that standard text messaging rates may apply.)

Sixty-four years ago Paralyzed Veterans of America was founded by a band of spinal cord injured service members who returned home from World War II to a grateful nation--but also to a world with few solutions to the challenges they faced. These veterans from the "Greatest Generation" made a decision not just to live, but to live with dignity as contributors to society. They created an organization dedicated to veterans service, medical research and civil rights for people with disabilities. And for more than six decades, Paralyzed Veterans of America and its 34 chapters have been working to create an America where all veterans and people with disabilities, and their families, have everything they need to thrive. (www.pva.org).

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200 American POWs and MIAs from 33 States and 5 Wars to be Honored at National POW/MIA Recognition Weekend in Andersonville, GA, Sept. 16-18, 2010

2010-09-02T17:10:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Rolling Thunder®'s 2010 Ride Home, a multi-day annual activity held in conjunction with the Andersonville National Historic Site and the Friends of Andersonville to recognize and honor the nation's Prisoners of War (POW) and those still Missing in Action (MIA), will be held in Andersonville and Americus, GA, Sept. 16-18, 2010.

Hundreds of Rolling Thunder members are expected to gather to honor an estimated 200 former POWs/MIA family members from around the country who are scheduled to attend this year's program of events as guests of Rolling Thunder. A highlight of this year's activities is the presence of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall, which will be escorted by Rolling Thunder to the Andersonville National Historic Site where it will remain on display for 10 days.

This year's events will also include, for the first time, representatives of the American Gold Star Mothers, an organization founded in 1928 to remember and honor mothers who have lost sons or daughters in service to the United States. The organization was named after the Gold Star that families hung in their windows in honor of the deceased veteran.

Complete details on all events can be found on The Ride Home website. The national organization, Rolling Thunder®, Inc. was organized in 1987 to raise awareness of POW, MIA and Veterans rights issues. It is known for its annual demonstration "Ride For Freedom" in Washington, D.C. during Memorial Day weekend. For more information visit the National Rolling Thunder website.

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SIRIUS XM Patriot to Broadcast Glenn Beck's 'Restoring Honor' Rally Live

2010-08-27T07:53:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- SIRIUS XM Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) today announced that it will air Glenn Beck's "Restoring Honor" rally live in its entirety from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The August 28th event begins at 10:00 am ET on SIRIUS XM Patriot (SIRIUS channel 144/XM channel 166), the conservative talk channel that airs Beck's daily radio show The Glenn Beck Program.

Beck will be joined by Sarah Palin, Jo Dee Messina, Alveda King (niece of Martin Luther King, Jr.) and many more in a non-political event paying tribute to America's service personnel and other citizens who embody the spirit of our nation's founding principles. Net proceeds raised by the event will benefit the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a nonprofit charitable organization that provides scholarship grants and educational and family counseling to the children of special operations personnel who lose their lives and immediate financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel and their families.

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Harley-Davidson Foundation Presents $1 Million Grant to Disabled American Veterans

2010-08-04T11:56:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) yesterday announced the awarding of a second $1 million grant from the Harley-Davidson Foundation, Inc. to the non-profit organization, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Harley-Davidson's relationship with the DAV dates to 2006, when the Harley-Davidson Foundation made a prior $1 million grant to the organization. The new grant announced yesterday at the DAV National Convention in Atlanta is designated for continued funding of the DAV's Mobile Service Office (MSO) program over the next four years.

"We are proud to continue our relationship with the DAV and help the organization support veterans of all generations," said Gail Lione, President, Harley-Davidson Foundation. "Veterans have always been important members of the Harley-Davidson family and partnering with the DAV is an ideal way to support them and recognize their contributions to our country."

The DAV MSO program increases veterans' accessibility to benefits by literally putting service offices on the road. Since 2007, this program sponsored by Harley-Davidson -- dubbed Harley's Heroes® -- has visited thousands of sites across the United States, providing important counseling and assistance to help tens of thousands of veterans secure the benefits to which they are entitled from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, and other government agencies.

"Harley-Davidson not only represents freedom and patriotism, the Company backs up its brand and generously supports those brave men and women whose sacrifices protect our nation," said DAV National Adjutant/CEO Arthur H. Wilson. "Through the support of the Harley-Davidson Foundation, DAV representatives have visited nearly 300 dealerships across the nation on the Harley's Heroes tour, delivering free benefits assistance to disabled veterans and their families through our Mobile Service Office program. It's hard to put into words just how much the Harley's Heroes program has meant to thousands of sick and wounded heroes."

Founded in 1920 by disabled veterans returning from World War I, the DAV has continually represented the unique interests of the men and women who bear the wounds and scars of war. Through their network of 110 National Service Offices, 10 mobile service offices, and Transition Service Officers at more than 100 military installations, the 1.2 million member DAV builds better lives for all America's disabled veterans and their families. In 2009, DAV represented nearly a quarter of a million veterans and their families in their claims for VA benefits, obtaining for them nearly $4.5 billion in new and retroactive benefits.

To learn more about Harley-Davidson's support of veterans, visit, www.harley-davidson.com, including the "Salute to Veterans" page.

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Veterans Support Organizations Dedicates Plaque to Honor Staff at Winder Walmart

2010-07-29T07:56:00.000-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Over Memorial Day weekend, while there were many tributes, backyard barbeques and pool parties, the local chapter of Veterans Support Organization took time to thank the staff of the Winder Walmart for their commitment to local veterans.

“Without the dedication of people like Chris, we would not be able to bring aid to so many of our local area veterans”

With the help of Walmart store #520 on Atlanta Highway in Winder, Georgia, the Georgia chapter of the Veterans Support Organization is able to help countless area veterans.

As a result, and to show their appreciation, Kelley Cassani and Chris Tullis, of the Veterans Support Organization, presented Chris Talley, operations manager of the Winder Walmart, with a plaque in recognition of his and the company’s ongoing support of the organization.

With Walmart’s permission, the Veterans Support Organization is able to raise funds at the Winder store. The organization’s fundraising efforts help them to provide ongoing assistance to local area veterans in need.

“Without the dedication of people like Chris, we would not be able to bring aid to so many of our local area veterans,” said Bill Mock, administrative director of the Georgia chapter of the Veterans Support Organization. “Walmart has been instrumental in our efforts in this area; their support is invaluable. We are extremely grateful.”

The Veterans Support Organization is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit that helps veterans who are homeless, or near homeless, organize a “path” to independent living. The organization has created and manages several programs that specifically address the emotional and financial needs of veterans.

The Veterans Support Organization currently operates in 11 states, including Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Texas. The organization plans to continue to open chapters in states that are not currently served.

To help, donate or learn more about the Veterans Support Organization, please log on to www.veteranssupportorganization.org or contact Bill Mock directly at 912.704.5523 or by email at bmock@veteranssupportga.org

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Soldiers' Angels Unveils New Text-to-Donate for Military Support

2010-06-23T06:58:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Nonprofit Soldiers' Angels today announced a new way to support the troops just by using a cell phone. Patriotic Americans can now text "Soldiers" to 20222 to donate $5 toward care packages, assistance for wounded warriors, and support for veterans and their families.

A volunteer-based nonprofit awarded the prestigious Spirit of Hope by the Department of Defense, Soldiers' Angels has a long history of using high tech and social media platforms to motivate volunteers and donations. From raising hundreds of thousands of dollars through military and political blogs to winning a Twitter-based "Social Media Makeover" competition last summer, Soldiers' Angels has demonstrated a continuing commitment to using all available technological resources in its mission to support the troops.

"We are so excited to give Americans this great, cutting-edge way to help make sure our heroes receive the support they need in this time of war," said founder Patti Patton-Bader. "Five dollars really is a modest amount of money, but it adds up so quickly and means so much to our efforts. With text-to-donate we are continuing to use the latest technology to draw more Americans into this important work."

Along with text-to-donate, Soldiers' Angels is rolling out its new Mobile Support Club. Members of the club will receive up to four monthly alerts and updates on events, projects, soldier stories, support needs and much more, right on their mobile phones. Supporters can sign up automatically by texting "Soldiers" to 20222 to donate $5, or by visiting www.soldiersangels.org and clicking on the "Stay Connected" graphic.

Established in 2003, Soldiers' Angels is an award-winning 501(c)(3) with hundreds of thousands of volunteers providing aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as veterans and military families through a wide variety of hands-on projects and volunteerism. For more information, visit www.soldiersangels.org or call 615-676-0239. Tax ID# 20-0583415

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SunTrust Invites You to Say Thank You to the Heroes in Your Life with 'Solid Salutes' Personalized Video

2010-05-26T22:50:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- This Memorial Day, Father's Day or "just because," pay tribute to the solid people in your life who go above and beyond and make a difference. With SunTrust Bank's "Solid Salutes," you can send a free, customized video thank you as unique as the person you're honoring - whether a loved one or friend in the military, a parent, special mentor, or your neighbor.

"The Solid Salutes video is a unique way to pay tribute to our servicemen and women and to say thank you to those who have shown us what it means to live solid," said Rilla Delorier, Chief Marketing Officer, SunTrust Bank. "We encourage people to share the video with their friends and family through the Internet, Facebook and Twitter so they, too, can pass it on."

Featuring photos of our country's military personnel and veterans and everyday heroes along with the song, "Thank You" by Diana DeGarmo, the video can be personalized by adding your own photo and message or can be sent as is. Intuitive and easy to customize, at www.suntrust.com/solidsalutes, the video takes only a few simple steps to create, review and send your own tribute. There's also an option to share this site with friends and family.

Beginning May 26 through Father's Day, June 20, you can visit www.suntrust.com/solidsalutes, to send a message to anyone who is a solid hero in your life - anywhere in the world.

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The American Legion and Military Channel Launch 'American Heroes' Vignettes Honoring Those Who Served in Iraq, Afghanistan

2010-05-26T14:12:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The American Legion and Military Channel have teamed up to honor troops who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, including three soldiers who never made it back home. A series of ten, one-minute vignettes, "American Heroes" premieres Memorial Day on the Military Channel, which co-sponsored the production with The American Legion - the country's largest veterans service organization with about 2.5 million members worldwide.

Produced by Creative Street Entertainment, "American Heroes" includes the dramatic and poignant stories of those who fell in battle, suffered severe injuries, helped repair war-torn communities, or made it home to help other wounded warriors. Each American hero is honored with a Norman Rockwell Moments portrait at the close of the vignette. The profiles will air on the Military Channel for an entire year, starting with the network's live coverage of the National Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 31 from 2 to 4 p.m. EDT.

"The 'American Heroes' stories are a collection that encompasses several different aspects of what it means to be a hero in wartime. First and foremost, we think of those who gave their lives - those whose memories we will honor forever," said Clarence Hill, national commander for The American Legion.

"Then there are those who return home with severe injuries, yet go on to succeed in the civilian world. We have American heroes who take care of wounded troops at VA hospitals, who have helped Iraqi children in their devastated cities, or who have taught their own families how to be heroes," Hill said. These vignettes really highlight the sacrifices of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and how veterans of those wars continue to serve our country."

"Partnering with The American Legion to create these 'American Heroes' vignettes is emblematic of Military Channel's commitment to sharing compelling stories of heroism from within the U.S. Armed Services," said Henry Schleiff, general manager and president of Military Channel, Investigation Discovery and HD Theater. "And what better day to launch these poignant stories than Memorial Day, a hallowed day for our country to recognize the accomplishments and sacrifices of the men and women serving in uniform, who have preserved our freedom and liberties while bringing security to the world."

The 11 individuals featured in the "American Heroes" vignettes are: Patrick Brady and his daughter, Meghan; David Brown, Tammy Duckworth, Dawn Halfaker, Nick Madaras, Jose Pequeno, Robert Posivio, Joseph Proctor, John Schatzel and Klay South.

Madaras, Posivio and Proctor died in Iraq; Proctor received the Silver Star. Duckworth, an assistant secretary in the Dept. of Veterans Affairs, was a pilot who lost both legs when her helicopter was shot down. Halfaker, vice president of the Wounded Warrior Project, lost an arm when an RPG exploded near her Humvee.

South, who founded the Veterans of Valor service organization, was shot while clearing out houses in Fallujah. Pequeno, whose story was told in the May 2009 issue of The American Legion Magazine, suffered severe traumatic brain injury from an IED explosion.

Patrick Brady, a retired Army major general, is a Medal of Honor recipient for bravery in Vietnam; his daughter, Meghan, has served in Kosovo, Kuwait and Iraq. Schatzel helped to rebuild the Iraqi scouting program in Baghdad, and Brown - twice-injured in battle - now spends his days helping veterans recover from war and readjust to the world of peace.

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Office Depot and Lexmark Team up with Operation Homefront to Provide Military Families with Free Printers

2010-05-26T08:45:00.000-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--In recognition of Memorial Day, Office Depot® (NYSE:ODP), a leading global provider of office products and services, and Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE:LXK), a leading global provider of imaging products, solutions and services, today announced a new program in conjunction with Operation Homefront that will provide military families with much-needed technology to help them stay in touch with their loved ones serving in the armed forces.

“We applaud Operation Homefront for their dedication to military families all over the world, and we hope that our customers will embrace the opportunity to help these families as well.”

The special program runs from May 30 through June 5. During that time Office Depot and Lexmark will donate a new Lexmark printer* to Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization dedicated to the needs of military families nationwide, each time a customer purchases a Lexmark printer in an Office Depot store (regularly priced at $199.99 and above) or online at www.officedepot.com/lexmark/operationhomefront. Office Depot and Lexmark hope to donate more than 4,000 printers.

“Office Depot is honored to support Operation Homefront through our partnership with Lexmark, and give back to thousands of military families by providing printers through this special program,” said Steve Mahurin, Executive Vice President of Merchandising for Office Depot. “We applaud Operation Homefront for their dedication to military families all over the world, and we hope that our customers will embrace the opportunity to help these families as well.”

“Operation Homefront provides necessary assistance to the families of U.S. military troops who are serving our country,” said Paul Rooke, executive vice president and president of Lexmark’s Imaging Solutions Division. “Lexmark is pleased to support dedicated partners like Office Depot that value corporate citizenship as much as we do. In addition to saving time and money with their purchase of a Lexmark all-in-one printer, customers will walk away feeling good about supporting this worthy cause.”

Program Featured on Tony Stewart’s No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice Chevrolet

Two-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ champion Tony Stewart is helping the cause as well with his No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice Chevrolet featuring a special rear TV panel with the Office Depot, Lexmark and Operation Homefront logos, as well as the message, “Buy A Printer, Support Military Families.” The message will appear on the race car during the nationally televised Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway on Memorial Day Weekend (Sunday, May 30, 6 p.m. EDT, FOX).

“I am very grateful to the men and women who serve our country, and that includes all of the military families who sacrifice time with their loved ones,” Stewart said. “They make it possible for people like me to do what I love and for fans to enjoy being at the race track every weekend. For any NASCAR fan who needs a new printer, now is the time to visit your local Office Depot store. Your purchase of a Lexmark printer will directly benefit a military family, and that is a great gift.”

Tweet Your Support: #OperationShoutOut

As part of the Office Depot and Lexmark program, people can also engage with Operation Homefront and support members of the military via Twitter. Beginning now through June 5, people can give a “Shout Out” to someone serving in the military and be entered for a chance to win one of 10 Lexmark printers. To participate, go to Twitter (www.Twitter.com) and tweet the name and rank of a loved one in the military, along with the hashtag: #OperationShoutOut, from your Twitter account.

For more information, please visit www.officedepot.com/lexmark/operationhomefront or your local Office Depot retail store location.

You can find Office Depot on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/OfficeDepot and follow Office Depot on Twitter at http://twitter.com/officedepot.

To learn more about the products and services available at Office Depot, please visit your local Office Depot retail store location or www.officedepot.com.

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DRIFIRE, Provider of Comfortable FR Wear Donates Shirts to 2010 Run for the Heroes

2010-05-20T10:04:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- DRIFIRE, leading developer of comfortable flame resistant (FR) shirts and FR clothing, has donated its DRIFIRE Comfortable FR Wear t-shirts to the Run for the Heroes Memorial Day event. Run for the Heroes is a 260-mile run and relay across the state of Georgia from May 27 to May 31, and is open to all runners interested in supporting U.S. veterans.

The run was started in 2009 by John Teeples, a House of Heroes volunteer, as a way to raise money and awareness for the organization. House of Heroes provides free home repairs to disabled or elderly military heroes in gratitude for their service to the country.

"The DRIFIRE team is very excited to contribute to this event by donating our shirts. 260 miles is a really long distance, and our shirts will help runners stay dry, comfortable, and odor-free as they undertake this amazing feat of endurance and stamina," said Dustin Cohn, Chief Marketing Officer for DRIFIRE. "As a company that provides garments to many people serving in various branches of our country's military forces, DRIFIRE is honored to be working with an organization that strives to support our nation's heroes long after they've stepped off the battlefield."

The run begins at the National Infantry Museum at Fort Benning, GA., and ends in Savannah, GA. Individual runners have 120 hours to complete the run, while relay teams of up to eight runners have 40 hours. Runners can follow their own schedule, stopping and starting at any time once the run has begun, but leaving markers at exact stopping point to allow them to pick up where they left off after taking a break.

"The House of Heroes is a compassionate and committed nonprofit organization, and we are proud to be a part of this unique, charitable event," said Cohn. "Together, we can make a difference in veterans' lives and give them a much-deserved 'thank you' for all they have done for this country. All of the runners have DRIFIRE's full support and encouragement in their Run for the Heroes."

For more information about House of Heroes or Run for the Heroes, visit http://www.houseofheroes.org/ or http://www.runfortheheroes.com/.

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Military Pathways(R) Commemorates Military Appreciation Month and Mental Health Month with iSalute Campaign

2010-05-12T14:08:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Military Pathways is commemorating Military Appreciation Month and Mental Health Month in May by launching a web-based greeting called "iSalute." The site, www.iSalute.org, allows friends and family to send an online greeting to active duty soldiers, veterans and military families in honor of their service and sacrifice, while providing access to a variety of online health services including anonymous mental health self-assessments.

To send an iSalute, users can visit www.iSalute.org, where they can choose a custom greeting and write their own personal message. "Military Pathways is excited to be able to offer an easy, free way for service members and their families to connect, show thanks to one another and assess their mental health all at the same time," said Connie DiCocco, Executive Director of Screening for Mental Health, Inc., the non-profit that runs the Military Pathways program.

Military Pathways offers service personnel and their families the opportunity to take anonymous, mental health and alcohol use self-assessments online, by phone, and through special events held at installations worldwide. The self-assessments are a brief series of questions that help those in need of assistance find it, without the stigma that is often attached to seeking care.

"As May is both Military Appreciation Month and Mental Health Month, this is the perfect opportunity to honor our service members and their families. And although we are launching this in May, it will be available year-round as it is important that we thank those in the military for their service and sacrifice throughout the year," said DiCocco.

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Raytheon Pledges $1.5 Million to Advance Army Museum's Education Programs

2010-05-12T09:43:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN) has committed $1.5 million to the National Museum of the United States Army as a sponsor of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education content in the Museum's Experiential Learning Center. The museum, which will open its doors in 2015, hopes to attract 200,000 students each year to its Fort Belvoir, Va., location.

"Today's young students represent the promise of a new generation of technologists and innovators to work in both the public and private sectors," said William H. Swanson, Chairman and CEO of Raytheon. "The Army and Raytheon have a common goal to inspire these students to excel in STEM subjects in school in order to support our country's long-term competitiveness and security."

Swanson continued, "This museum will be a wonderful tribute to the millions of Americans who have served and sacrificed and are serving today in the United States Army, and we are proud to contribute to this important initiative."

General William W. Hartzog (USA-Ret.), president of The Army Historical Foundation said, "Research shows that middle school students are hands-on learners and benefit from interactive teaching tools. Raytheon's support will help make the Experiential Learning Center an unparalleled experience that will appeal to teachers, parents and students."

A cornerstone of the Museum's Experiential Learning Center will be the Raytheon-sponsored multi-user, multi-touch, interactive Learning Table with motion sensing technology. The Learning Table will accommodate more than a dozen simultaneous users or can be converted into four independent, team-oriented workstations.

Raytheon's support of the Army Museum's Experiential Learning Center is another element of the company's MathMovesU® program, which is committed to increasing middle school students' interest in math and science education by engaging them in hands-on, interactive activities. The innovative programs of MathMovesU include Raytheon's Sum of all Thrills(TM) experience at INNOVENTIONS at Epcot®, which showcases math in action as students design and experience their own thrill ride using math fundamentals; the "In the Numbers" game, a partnership with the New England Patriots on display at The Hall at Patriot Place presented by Raytheon; the company's multi-year sponsorship of the National MATHCOUNTS competition; and the Raytheon MathMovesU scholarship and grant program providing more than $1 million in annual funding to students and teachers.

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War Memorial Torn Down by Vandals!

2010-05-11T11:03:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The Mojave Desert War Memorial, which was saved temporarily by a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling, was torn down by vandals sometime Sunday night. Liberty Institute, which represents longtime memorial caretakers Henry and Wanda Sandoz, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW), The American Legion, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and the American Ex-Prisoners of War, is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the removal of VFW property.

"This is an outrage, akin to desecrating people's graves," said Kelly Shackelford, president/CEO of Liberty Institute. "It's a disgraceful attack on the selfless sacrifice of our veterans. We will not rest until this memorial is re-installed."

The ACLU and its plaintiff originally won a decision to tear down the memorial cross, but that was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court on April 28. The ACLU has stated that, as the case returns to the district court, it still plans to argue for the memorial to be torn down.

"This was a legal fight that a vandal just made personal to 50 million veterans, military personnel and their families," said VFW National Commander Thomas J. Tradewell, Sr. "To think anyone can rationalize the desecration of a war memorial is sickening, and for them to believe they won't be apprehended is very naive.

"The memorial will be rebuilt and the vandals will be caught and prosecuted in federal court, since the crime occurred on government property," said Tradewell, a combat-wounded Vietnam veteran from Sussex, Wis. "We hope this horrible act will highlight the importance of resolving this case quickly so that the memorial and land can be transferred to the VFW so that the service and sacrifice of all American war dead will be properly recognized and honored, as originally intended by a group of World War I VFW members 76 years ago."

"Reports that the Mojave Cross was illegally removed overnight are very disturbing," said The American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill. "The American Legion expects whoever is responsible for this vile act to be brought to justice. While the memorial has been attacked, the fight will continue to ensure that veterans memorials will remain sacrosanct."

"This was never about one cross," said Hill. "It is about the right to honor our nation's veterans in a manner in which the overwhelming majority supports. The American Legion strongly believes the public has a right to protect its memorials."

Liberty Institute works to uphold Constitutional and First Amendment religious and speech freedoms in the courts. Liberty Institute represented all major veterans groups as amici in the Supreme Court case of Salazar v. Buono involving this 76-year-old war memorial.

For more information or to leave a tip, visit www.donttearmedown.com.

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Ram Truck Brand and Zac Brown Band Launch 'Letters for Lyrics' National Letter-Writing Campaign to U.S. Soldiers

2010-05-07T16:41:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- -- Write a letter and receive a "Breaking Southern Ground" CD featuring
three all-new songs from Zac Brown Band

-- Goal to deliver 1 million letters to U.S. soldiers stationed across
the world
-- All U.S. Ram Truck dealerships will serve as collection points and
provide letter-writing stations
-- Letters to be collected at Zac Brown Band Concerts
-- Soldiers' Angels to deliver letters to U.S. Troops on behalf of the
Ram Truck Brand and Zac Brown Band
-- Exclusive documentary-style footage of Zac Brown Band's USO tour
directed by Darren Doane to debut on RAM Truck Brand's Letter for
Lyrics site

The Ram Truck Brand, in partnership with Zac Brown Band, kicks off "Letters for Lyrics," a national letter-writing campaign targeted to U.S. soldiers. The goal for the Ram Truck Brand and Zac Brown Band is to send 1 million letters to U.S. troops deployed around the world.

In exchange for writing a letter to a U.S. soldier, participants will receive a special compilation CD titled, "Breaking Southern Ground." This exclusive CD features three all-new songs from Zac Brown Band, as well as music from artists signed to Zac Brown's label, Southern Ground Records - Sonia Leigh, Nic Cowan and Levi Lowrey.

"The Ram Truck Brand is grateful for the commitment and courage that U.S. soldiers give to this country each day," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO - Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Our company has been steadfast in its support of America's armed services; we know these letters will help brighten a soldier's day. We encourage our employees, suppliers and our customers to visit a local Ram Truck dealership to write or drop off a letter for these soldiers who protect our right to freedom."

"We've had several opportunities to perform for the troops over the past year and each time we were deeply inspired by their positive attitudes and dedication to protecting our country and preserving our way of life," said Zac Brown. "We were so moved that we knew we needed to recognize their efforts in a big way. Our hope is that by combining our experience overseas, our music, and the good people at Ram Truck Brand, we will be able to rally a movement of support for our brave service members abroad."

Darren Doane, the CMT nominated director of Zac Brown Band's live 'Pass the Jar' DVD (Southern Ground/Atlantic) and their music video for the #1 hit "Toes," traveled with the band to the Persian Gulf to document the moving experience - capturing footage of the band performing for the troops and meeting individually with the men and women in uniform. Bringing the experience home, Doane has constructed several mini-documentary style videos which will be posted to RamTrucks.com starting today and updated throughout the coming weeks.

"This unique endeavor is derived from respect and admiration, from both the Ram Truck Brand and Zac Brown Band, for the men and women in the military," said Marissa Hunter, Head of Ram Truck Brand Communications, Chrysler Group LLC. "It is our hope that these letters serve as a source of appreciation and comfort."

Letters will be collected at Zac Brown Band concerts and all U.S. Ram Truck dealerships. People interested in writing a letter can visit any Ram Truck dealership where special "Letters for Lyrics" stationery will be provided.

Soldiers' Angels, a nonprofit organization, will deliver the letters on behalf of the Zac Brown Band and the Ram Truck Brand. Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-led organization with over 225,000 members providing aid and comfort to the men and women of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, along with veterans and their families.

"By standing wingtip to wingtip, the Ram Truck Brand, Zac Brown Band and Soldiers' Angels will be able to help build morale to heroes in combat zones one million fold," said Soldiers' Angels founder and president, Patti Patton-Bader. "We are truly grateful to the Ram Truck Brand and Zac Brown Band for their help in ensuring that our heroes know they are loved and appreciated."

The "Letters for Lyrics" campaign is part of an integrated marketing campaign for the 2010 Ram Heavy Duty and is supported with broadcast, print, digital and social media efforts that will run concurrently.

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Iraq Veteran Hikes U.S., Gathers Signatures for National 'Day of the Deployed'

2010-04-14T10:16:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Iraq veteran Troy Yocum is beginning a journey of 7,000 miles on foot with a special message for the President and DC politicians from leaders around the country.

Crossing 30 states and 37 major cities in a sixteen-month effort dubbed "Drum Hike," Yocum will raise donations, support and awareness for military families who need financial assistance. He will also carry with him a Louisville Slugger baseball bat adorned with the signatures of hundreds of mayors and dozens of governors who are urging the president to declare a "National Day of the Deployed" to honor the sacrifices of military families in this time of war.

Yesterday, Yocum procured the signature of Louisville's Mayor Jerry Abramson. He will add eight more Kentucky mayors and the state's governor during the first two weeks of his hike. Forty-two additional mayors and governors have expressed an interest in adding their signatures during the hike, and hundreds more are expected. Yocum will present the bat to the White House at the conclusion of his hike.

Other events associated with the Drum Hike will span the nation, including motorcycle rallies, a Blue Star Mothers convention, mini marathons, concerts, a skydiver and the largest American flag to trail a licensed vehicle. Yocum will also participate in baseball-related patriotic activities at 20 stadiums, and attend ceremonies to rename highways for fallen heroes of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Established in 2003, Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) providing aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as veterans and military families through a wide variety of hands-on projects and volunteerism. For more information, visit www.soldiersangels.org or call 615-676-0239. Tax ID# 20-0583415. For more information on Drum Hike, see www.drumhike.com or call 510-305-0004.

Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Week

2010-04-12T06:59:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The week of April 11-17, 2010, marks the founding of Paralyzed Veterans of America 64 years ago. All Americans are being encouraged to take time out of their busy schedules to honor and help empower America's paralyzed veterans.

With events and activities across the country and the theme Empowering Lives, Paralyzed Veterans of America Awareness Week highlights the unique challenges facing veterans with spinal cord injury/dysfunction. It spotlights the work of Paralyzed Veterans to empower seriously wounded heroes and their families with everything they need to thrive.

This special week will also see the launch of Mission: ABLE, a new campaign that will enlist all Americans -- companies, citizens and communities -- to help our paralyzed heroes fully live the lives they deserve and to receive what they need most: care, benefits and jobs. Please visit www.mission-able.com for more details.

"Please take a minute during Awareness Week to think about the enormous challenges paralyzed veterans and their families face every day and then do something good to help empower their lives," said Gene A. Crayton, national president of Paralyzed Veterans. "From a community saying thanks to a paralyzed veteran who has just returned home from Iraq to an employer deciding to hire more veterans with disabilities, you can do something special to celebrate the 64th birthday of Paralyzed Veterans of America."

Paralyzed Veterans and its 34 chapters:

-- Fight for quality VA health care and ample military benefits.
-- Promote and provide wheelchair sports and recreational activities.
-- Lead the charge to make America more accessible.
-- Empower paralyzed veterans with the tools they need to secure good
careers, at a time when the unemployment rate for veterans with severe
disabilities is 85 percent.
-- Invest in research to find new treatments and a cure for paralysis.
-- Provide our services to all veterans and their families free of
charge. We simply couldn't do it without your generous support.

Sixty-four years ago, Paralyzed Veterans of America was founded by a band of spinal cord injured service members who returned home from World War II to a grateful nation, but also to a world with few solutions to the challenges they faced. These veterans from the "Greatest Generation" made a decision not just to live, but to live with dignity as contributors to society. They created Paralyzed Veterans, dedicated to veterans service, medical research and civil rights for people with disabilities. And for more than six decades, Paralyzed Veterans and its 34 chapters have been working to create an America where all veterans, and people with disabilities, and their families, have everything they need to thrive. (www.pva.org)

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AirTran Airways Salutes Women Airforce Service Pilots as They Receive the Congressional Gold Medal

2010-03-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AAI) , today congratulates the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) as they receive the highest civilian honor bestowed by the U.S. Congress, the Congressional Gold Medal for their heroic service during World War II.

In 1942 and 1943, more than 1,000 women answered the call of duty, accumulating more than 60 million flight miles, ferrying all types of aircraft from factories to the front lines, providing training to male combat aviators, testing aircraft and even towing aerial targets for anti-aircraft artillery units. During that time, 38 WASPs made the ultimate sacrifice.

"We are overjoyed to see these pioneers and real American heroes finally recognized for their contributions and we are truly honored to salute them today along with a grateful nation," said Tad Hutcheson, AirTran Airways' vice president of marketing and sales. "To be able to fly some of these living heroes to this ceremony is a singular honor for the 8,500 Crew Members of AirTran Airways."

The low-cost carrier is an official sponsor of the group's festivities in Washington this week and offered complimentary flights to the ceremony for all living WASPs. The Company has a long history of supporting female aviation professionals from both the pilot ranks and throughout the industry.

"We are extremely grateful to AirTran Airways for stepping up to pay tribute to our WASPs, who after 66 years are finally receiving recognition for what they did for our country during World War II," said Brigadier General Wilma Vaught (ret). "Our corporate sponsors helped make the tribute special. I am a proud AirTran customer."

WASPs were officially classified as civilians by the U.S. government and were not considered to be members of the military during their service. They were responsible for providing their own transportation to and from duty and were not afforded veteran status until 1977. President Obama signed the bill officially awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the WASPs on July 1, 2009.

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WordpressURL Microsoft Announces Initiative to Help Prepare U.S. Veterans for Jobs

2010-03-08T15:39:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Building on its Elevate America program to provide technology training to help prepare people for 21st-century jobs, Microsoft Corp. today announced an initiative to bring together a coalition of public, private and nonprofit organizations to give veterans and their spouses the skills and resources they need to be successful in today's civilian work force.

Microsoft will contribute $2 million in cash and up to $6 million in software over the next two years to support programs for members of the armed services and their spouses who are separating from the military and reintegrating into their civilian communities and the work force. Through a competitive funding process, Microsoft will award cash, software and other resources to eligible organizations, including veterans service organizations, work force agencies, community colleges and other nonprofit organizations. The initiative will provide veterans and their spouses with the support they need to be successful in their transition to civilian careers, including technology skills training, job placement, career counseling and other support services such as childcare, transportation and housing. The initiative is intended to support active duty service members who are transitioning out of the military as well as members of the National Guard and Reserves who are returning to their civilian jobs.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is the first organization to join the coalition and will work with Microsoft over the next two years on this initiative.

"In the coming years, a significant number of veterans will seek civilian employment opportunities. Microsoft's new initiative provides veterans with the tools to successfully transition to new careers and contribute to economic growth in an especially tough economy," said Paul Rieckhoff, founder and executive director of IAVA. "Microsoft has been the leader in the technology revolution, and we appreciate its strength and commitment to our returning heroes. The company is sending a message to veterans nationwide that it has their back. IAVA is excited to be a part of this coalition, and we look forward to working with Microsoft to make a historic impact."

"I salute Microsoft's plan to help our nation's veterans successfully transition from military service to civilian careers. The men and women who have served in uniform make excellent employees, and I believe this effort will go a long way to helping them succeed in the 21st century work force. I hope Microsoft's commitment will inspire all employers across the country to give back to veterans," said Sen. Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii), chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs and World War II veteran.

"Programs such as Elevate America represent the uniquely American attributes of compassion for our fellow man and corporations answering the call to serve our veteran community in time of war," said Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.), U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. "Education and training of the young men and women who have served our nation in the military and their families is often an afterthought and an unattainable goal in times of economic stress. This innovative program helps bridge that divide and opens up paths to new opportunities in life."

"Veterans and their families deserve our nation's best efforts in providing the resources to ensure a seamless transition from military service to civilian life. I commend Microsoft for working to support these heroes by providing the tools necessary to be part of a 21st century work force," said Congressman Bob Filner (D-California), chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. "As a nation, we reap the rewards of their dedication and sacrifice. Today, Microsoft has shown individuals, communities and neighborhoods what we can do if we work together. What may seem simple at the outset can lead to powerful changes for our heroes."

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are nearly 185,000 unemployed Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans. The unemployment rate among Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans is 20 percent higher than the overall unemployment rate for nonveterans. While veterans are highly trained in military and leadership skills, many lack the formal education, training and certifications required by employers as they transition into the civilian work force. More than half of today's jobs require some technology skills, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that will reach 77 percent in the next decade.

"Our servicemen and women are amazing leaders, but to be able to compete in the tough job market when they return from duty, many of them need access to technology training," said Pamela Passman, corporate vice president of Microsoft Global Corporate Affairs, who announced the initiative at today's National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB) Forum. "We are bringing together organizations and companies that can combine their competencies and resources with ours to make the greatest possible impact to help veterans and their spouses."

Organizations and veterans can find more information on this initiative by visiting http://www.microsoft.com/elevateamerica, and can get updates by following Elevate America on Twitter at http://twitter.com/elevateamerica.

Since launching Elevate America in February 2009 as part of Microsoft Unlimited Potential, Microsoft has partnered with states to provide people with technology skills training, industry-recognized certifications and work force readiness tools to help them prepare for today's jobs. Elevate America was designed as a program for all Americans, to help people gain skills to be more employable, sharpen their skills to retain current jobs, apply for jobs they were not previously qualified for and have the confidence to continue job-seeking. States have until March 31 to sign up for the program.

At the NAWB Forum, Passman reported on the results of Elevate America so far:

-- Twelve states have implemented the program: Colorado, Georgia,
Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri,
North Carolina, Virginia and Washington.
-- To date, Microsoft has distributed more than 300,000 free training and
certification vouchers to these states.
-- More than 50 percent of people who received vouchers proactively took
the next step -- beginning a training course or taking a certification
exam.
-- Around 70 percent of the people who received the vouchers were
unemployed.
-- Sixty percent were women, and 37 percent were between 41 and 55 years
of age.
-- Thirty-three percent had a high school diploma or GED, and 42 percent
had some postsecondary education or training (certificate, some
college or four-year degree).

More information on Elevate America is available at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

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The SCOOTER Store Donates Scooters to WWII Veterans to Visit Jamestown Memorial

2010-02-19T12:41:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- J.A. Carlascio is one of the many veterans who fought for our freedom during World War II. Originally assigned to Italy, he was wounded and became a prisoner of war for two years. He also comes from a family of veterans: his oldest brother was wounded in Italy and his youngest lost his life in the Pacific. But that is not all that makes him noteworthy; he helped establish a veterans' memorial in his hometown.

One of only 17 sites in the nation, Flags Across America is a 30x60-foot flag on a 130-foot pole located on the grounds of Fort Seward. It features a new veterans' memorial that honors North Dakotans who fought and died for our country, and highlights the Congressional Medal of Honor winners from the state. Carlascio sent a letter to The SCOOTER Store asking for a scooter for those veterans who are unable to visit the memorial due to their mobility limitations or war-related injuries.

On Thursday afternoon, The SCOOTER Store provided AMVETS with two Go-Go scooters at the local Vets Club. On hand from the company's Bismarck operations was Mobility & Service Specialist Jason Roehrich to make the presentation. The scooters were donated under The SCOOTER Store Gift of Mobility program, which provides mobility equipment and assistance to those who do not have the financial resources or insurance to obtain power wheelchairs and scooters.

These scooters will help veterans in the area travel to the Flags Across America & Veteran's Memorial. To reach the memorial, visitors must follow a wooden pathway that starts at the Fort Seward Museum, to the eastern side of the Fort grounds, until it reaches the base of the flag. The path around the flag is made of paving brick, each holding the name of a veteran. Carlascio is responsible for selling more than 1,800 of these bricks.

"All Americans owe a debt of gratitude to our veterans," said North Dakota Senator Kent Conrad. "They have made great sacrifices to ensure our nation's freedom. It is a debt that we will never be able to fully repay, but we must make every effort to honor our veterans - both from the Greatest Generation and now this latest generation -- and ensure they continue to have our unwavering commitment and support."

The SCOOTER Store also proudly supports Honor Flight, a non-profit organization that transports World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials erected in their honor. Many veterans are more than 80 years old and need mobility assistance, so the company loans touring groups power wheelchairs and scooters for the day.

"Mr. Carlascio and his fellow veterans proudly served this country during World War II; the least we can do now is serve them," said Doug Harrison, Founder, President and CEO of The SCOOTER Store. "We started the Gift of Mobility program because we understand that mobility and the ensuing independence is fundamental to the freedom these veterans helped us keep. We hope the scooters remind the veterans how much their service is appreciated."

Harrison and his wife, Susanna, started the Gift of Mobility program in December 2002 to help people improve their quality of life by assisting in achieving their independence and mobility. Since then, the outreach program has worked with non-profit groups around the country to donate power wheelchairs, scooters and manual wheelchairs, valued at more than $350,000 a year to individuals and community service organizations, enabling them to provide freedom and independence to people with limited mobility.

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Distinguished Sailors Saluted On Stamps

2010-02-04T11:10:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Four revered U.S. Navy icons were commemorated with a First-Class salute with the dedication of the Distinguished Sailors collectable stamps. Available nationwide today, the 44-cent stamps immortalize four sailors who served with bravery and distinction during the 20th Century: William S. Sims, Arleigh A. Burke, John McCloy and Doris "Dorie" Miller.

The dedication ceremony took place today at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington, DC.

"On behalf of the U.S. Postal Service, I am pleased to honor these four great sailors who impacted our nation and world," said Potter. "These brave individuals represent the U.S. Navy's proud legacy of service to this nation. Their example is an inspiration to every American."

Joining Potter in dedicating the stamps were Juan M. Garcia III, Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower and Reserve Affairs); Vice Admiral Samuel J. Locklear III, Director, Navy Staff; Edward K. Walker Jr., Rear Admiral, Supply Corps (Ret.) and United States Navy Memorial President; David A. Rosenberg, PhD, Naval Historian/Captain, U.S. Navy Reserves; Rep. Chet Edwards (D-TX); Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX); and, U.S. Postal Service Vice President, Supply Management, Susan M. Brownell.

"I am honored to recognize the contributions these great Americans made to our Navy and to our country," said Garcia. "It is only fitting that their legacy of honor, courage and commitment be spotlighted by the United States Postal Service."

The stamps, designed by Phil Jordan of Falls Church, VA, are based on photographs from Navy archives. Text along the top of the stamp sheet identifies the four sailors, the approximate date of each photograph, and a ship named in honor of each sailor.

William S. Sims

Commander of U.S. naval forces in European waters during World War I, Sims (1858-1936) was an outspoken reformer and innovator who helped shape the Navy into a modern fighting force. Frustrated by the Navy bureaucracy, he circumvented his superiors to get the Navy to adopt improved gunfire techniques that increased firing accuracy as ships rolled through ocean swells. He also is noted for promoting the convoy system that grouped ships closely together as they were accompanied by small numbers of Navy escorts while crossing the U-Boat infested Atlantic -- saving countless lives in both world wars. The stamp features a detail from a 1919 photograph of Sims and depicts the crest of the destroyer escort USS W.S. Sims (DE-1059), commissioned in 1970.

Arleigh A. Burke

After serving as one of the top destroyer squadron commanders of World War II, Burke (1901-1996) had an equally distinguished postwar career in which he played a major role in modernizing the Navy and guiding its response to the Cold War. During World War II, he gained a reputation for brilliance and innovation while commanding Destroyer Squadron 23, known as "the Little Beavers." The squadron fought in 22 separate actions in a four-month period, sinking or helping to sink nine enemy destroyers and downing 30 airplanes. He later served an unprecedented three terms as the Navy's highest ranking officer -- Chief of Naval Operations -- to speed construction of nuclear-powered submarines and initiating the Polaris Ballistic Missile Program. His stamp, based on a 1951 photograph, depicts the crest of the guided missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51), commissioned in 1991.

John McCloy

Described by a shipmate as "like a bull" who couldn't be stopped, McCloy (1876-1945) holds the distinction of being one of the few men in the nation's history to earn two Medals of Honor for a rescue mission during the Boxer Rebellion in which he was wounded, and during the 1914 Mexican Revolt for intentionally exposing his boat to draw enemy fire to identify their positions for retaliation by U.S. cruiser gunfire. Shot in the thigh, he remained on post 48 hours until the brigade surgeon sent him to a hospital. In 1919 he was awarded the Navy Cross as commander of USS Curlew, which engaged in the "difficult and hazardous duty" of sweeping mines in the North Sea in the aftermath of World War I. His stamp is based on a circa 1920 photograph and depicts the crest of the destroyer escort, USS McCloy (DE-1038), commissioned in 1963.

Doris Miller

The first black American hero of World War II, Miller (1919-1943) became an inspiration to generations of Americans for his actions at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Serving aboard the battleship West Virginia as a mess attendant -- the only job rating open to blacks at the time -- Miller helped rescue scores of shipmates wounded or trapped in wreckage. He was later ordered to the bridge to help move the ship's mortally wounded captain. Never trained in its operation, he manned an unattended 50-caliber machine gun to fire on Japanese aircraft until ordered to abandon the bridge as fires raged out of control. He was later awarded the Navy Cross. Miller was promoted in June 1943 to Officer's Cook Third Class aboard the new escort aircraft carrier Liscome Bay and was killed in action on Nov. 24 that year along with more than 600 shipmates when an enemy torpedo sank the ship during the invasion of the Gilbert Islands. His body was lost at sea. His stamp is based on a 1942 photograph and depicts the crest of the destroyer escort USS Miller (DE-1091), commissioned in 1973. Actor Cuba Gooding Jr., portrayed Miller in the 2001 movie Pearl Harbor.

A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation, 150 million residences, businesses and Post Office Boxes. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars. With 36,000 retail locations and the most frequently visited website in the federal government, the Postal Service relies on the sale of postage, products and services to pay for operating expenses. Named the Most Trusted Government Agency five consecutive years and the third Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $68 billion and delivers nearly half the world's mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 28th in the 2009 Fortune 500.

How to Order the First-Day-of-Issue Postmark

Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at their local Post Office, at The Postal Store at www.usps.com/shop, or by calling 800-STAMP-24. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or others, and place them in a larger envelope addressed to:

Distinguished Sailors Stamps
Special Cancellations
PO Box 92282
Washington, DC 20090-2282

After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark. All orders must be postmarked by April 6, 2010.

How to Order First-Day Covers

Stamp Fulfillment Services also offers first day covers for new stamp issues and Postal Service stationery items postmarked with the official first-day-of-issue cancellation. Each item has an individual catalog number and is offered in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog. Customers may request a free catalog by calling 800-STAMP-24 or by writing to:

Information Fulfillment
Dept.6270
U.S. Postal Service
PO Box 219014
Kansas City, MO 64121-9014

Philatelic Products
There are four philatelic products available for this stamp issue:

-- 465863, First-Day Cover/Set 4, $3.28
-- 465868, Digital Color Postmark/Set 4, $6
-- 465891, Ceremony Program, $6.95
-- 465899, Digital Color Postmark/Set 4 w/Full Pane Keepsake, $14.95

William S. Sims

Commander of U.S. naval forces in European waters during World War I, Sims was an outspoken reformer and innovator who helped shape the Navy into a modern fighting force.

Sims was born in Port Hope, Ontario, Canada, where his father, an American citizen, was a railroad engineer. The family moved to Vermont when Sims was about 12 and soon settled in Pennsylvania.

Sims attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD, from 1876 to 1880. He then spent nearly two decades at sea, interrupted by a year (1889) in Paris studying French. From 1897 to 1900, he served as naval attaché to the U.S. Embassy in France and to the ministry in Russia. During this time, he studied and made reports on European naval developments, which he found to be far more advanced than those in America. While in France, he met his future wife, Anne Hitchcock, daughter of the U.S. minister to Russia.

In 1901, at great risk to his career, Sims circumvented his immediate superiors and wrote directly to President Theodore Roosevelt about "the extreme danger of the present very inefficient condition of the Navy," emphasizing the glaring deficiencies of American battleships and the need for more accurate firepower. Roosevelt thanked Sims for the letter and encouraged him to continue offering suggestions. Sims was able to implement some of his ideas for reform, especially in the area of gunnery, while serving as inspector of target practice in the Navy's Bureau of Navigation from 1902 to 1909. He trained officers and gun crews in a new gun control method called "continuous aim firing," adapting the techniques of British officer Percy Scott and achieving significant improvements in firing speed and accuracy. He also served as President Roosevelt's naval aide from 1907 to 1909.

Shortly before the United States entered World War I, Sims, by this time a rear admiral, was sent on a secret mission to gather information on wartime conditions and to confer with the British Royal Navy. Soon after America entered the war, he was appointed commander of U.S. naval forces operating near Europe. To counter the German strategy of unrestricted warfare by U-boats, Sims advocated various anti-submarine measures. He played a critical role in promoting and coordinating a system of convoys -- using destroyers and other warships to escort merchant ships and transports through danger zones -- that achieved dramatic reductions in Allied shipping losses. To the extent that the defeat of German submarine warfare was "the critical naval campaign of the war, essential to victory over the Central Powers," as historian David Trask has written, Sims's contribution to the Allied victory in World War I was profound.

After the war, Sims returned to the same position he had held previously at the Naval War College, serving as president until his retirement in 1922. He sparked a congressional investigation in 1920 of the wartime conduct of the Navy Department, leading to extensive hearings on the subject. He also wrote a Pulitzer Prize-winning book about the war, Victory at Sea (1920).

Sims continued to write and lecture about naval reform until his death in 1936, at which time the New York Herald Tribune declared that he had "influenced our naval course more than any man who ever wore the uniform." The Navy has named three destroyers after Sims. The most recent, USS W.S. Sims (DE-1059), was commissioned in 1970.

Arleigh A. Burke

After serving as one of the top destroyer squadron commanders of World War II, Burke had an equally distinguished postwar career in which he played a major role in modernizing the Navy and guiding its response to the Cold War.

Born and raised on a farm near Boulder, CO, Burke secured an appointment to the Naval Academy in 1919 and graduated in 1923. After serving five years on the battleship USS Arizona, he pursued postgraduate work in ordnance at the United States Naval Postgraduate School and then earned a master's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Michigan in 1931. During the 1930s, Burke served in various capacities in a heavy cruiser and a destroyer before being given command of USS Mugford, which under Burke won the Destroyer Gunnery Trophy for 1939-1940.

At the outset of World War II, Burke was an inspector at the Naval Gun Factory in Washington, DC. His repeated requests for sea duty went unheeded until he was given command in early 1943 of a destroyer division in the South Pacific. He soon gained a reputation for brilliance and innovation, especially after taking command that fall of Destroyer Squadron 23. Under Burke the squadron became known as "the Little Beavers" and fought in 22 separate actions in a four-month period, sinking or helping to sink nine Japanese destroyers and downing 30 airplanes. His exploits and his own nickname, "31-Knot Burke," became widely known, and his performance in battle earned him an appointment in March 1944 as chief of staff to Vice Admiral Marc Mitscher in the famed Fast Carrier Task Force. According to the Dictionary of American Military Biography, in this post Burke "coordinated the operations of the largest naval striking force in history in the battles of the Philippine Sea, Leyte Gulf and Okinawa."

With the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, Burke was sent to Japan to serve as deputy chief of staff to the commander of U.S. naval forces in the Far East. In 1951, he briefly served as commander of Cruiser Division Five before being designated a member of the United Nations Truce Delegation, which sought to negotiate an armistice in Korea. In late 1951, Burke was summoned to Washington, DC, for a two-year tour as director of the Navy's Strategic Plans Division. In 1955, while still a rear admiral, he reached the pinnacle of his profession when President Eisenhower appointed him Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), promoting him ahead of nearly 100 more senior officers. During an unprecedented three terms as CNO, Burke sped up the construction of nuclear-powered submarines and initiated the Polaris Ballistic Missile Program.

Burke retired from the Navy in 1961 after nearly 40 years of service. He remained an influential figure and was at the forefront of efforts to establish the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, DC, which was dedicated in 1987. In 1977, Burke was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Navy honored him by naming a new class of guided missile destroyers after him. On July 4, 1991, the first of these, the USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51), was commissioned in a ceremony attended by Burke and his wife, Roberta.

When Burke died in 1996, he was hailed as a "sailor's sailor" who defined what it meant to be a naval officer: "relentless in combat, resourceful in command, and revered by his crews."

John McCloy

Described by a shipmate as "like a bull" who couldn't be stopped, McCloy has the distinction of being one of the few men in the nation's history to earn two Medals of Honor for separate acts of heroism.

Born in Brewster, NY, McCloy went to sea as an adolescent, by some accounts joining the U.S. Merchant Marine when he was 15. In March 1898, at age 22, he enlisted in the Navy on the eve of the Spanish-American War.

During the Boxer Rebellion of 1900, McCloy earned his first Medal of Honor "for distinguished conduct in the presence of the enemy" while participating in a relief expedition to rescue members of the foreign community under siege at 11 ministries in Peking (now Beijing), China. He was wounded in action on June 22, 1900, during the seizure of an arsenal near Tientsin (now Tianjin).

McCloy earned his second Medal of Honor for his heroism in 1914 when American forces landed at Veracruz, Mexico. On April 21, Chief Boatswain McCloy was in charge of three picket boats unloading men and supplies at a pier when his detachment came under fire from the nearby Mexican Naval Academy. To expose enemy positions, he took his boat away from the pier and directed fire at the building. His action drew retaliatory fire that allowed cruisers to locate and shell sniper positions, thus protecting the men on shore. McCloy was shot in the thigh but remained at his post for 48 hours until the brigade surgeon sent him to a hospital ship. His medal citation credited him with "distinguished conduct in battle and extraordinary heroism."

Described by one naval historian as "an almost legendary figure" by the time of the Veracruz incident, McCloy continued to live up to his reputation for bravery. In 1919, now a lieutenant, he was awarded the Navy Cross for "distinguished service" as commander of USS Curlew, which engaged in the "difficult and hazardous duty" of sweeping mines in the North Sea in the aftermath of World War I.

McCloy retired from active duty in 1928 after a 30-year career in the Navy and "a lifetime of service on all the seven seas," as the Kansas City Star put it. His service record notes that in 1942 he was advanced on the retired list to lieutenant commander after being "specially commended by the Secretary of the Navy for performance of duty in actual combat." McCloy died in 1945. In 1963, the Navy commissioned a destroyer escort named in his honor, the USS McCloy (DE-1038).

Doris Miller

The first black American hero of World War II, Miller became an inspiration to generations of Americans for his actions at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

Miller was born into a family of sharecroppers and raised near Waco, TX. Imposing in stature, he played football in high school and later showed skills as a heavyweight boxer. In 1939, at 19, Miller enlisted in the Navy as a mess attendant, the only job rating open to Blacks at the time.

Miller was serving aboard the battleship West Virginia when the Japanese attacked while it was moored at Pearl Harbor. When damage to the ship prevented him from reaching his regular battle station, Miller helped with efforts to rescue his shipmates, scores of whom were wounded or trapped in wreckage. He was later ordered to the bridge to assist in moving the ship's captain, who had been mortally wounded.

After helping carry the captain to a more sheltered area, Miller took over an unattended 50-caliber machine gun nearby. Though never trained in its operation, he maintained fire on Japanese aircraft until ordered to abandon the bridge as fires raged out of control.

After the attack, West Virginia's senior surviving officer wrote in his report that Miller's contributions as a rescuer were crucial, "unquestionably saving the lives of a number of people who might otherwise have been lost." Thanks to press coverage and the tremendous interest of the Black community, Miller (who was often referred to as "Dorie" in press accounts), became, arguably, the best known enlisted sailor of World War II.

On May 27, 1942, Miller was awarded the Navy Cross "for distinguished devotion to duty, extraordinary courage and disregard for his own personal safety during the attack on the Fleet in Pearl Harbor." While presenting the award, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, commander in chief of the Pacific fleet, commented: "This marks the first time in this conflict that such high tribute has been made in the Pacific fleet to a member of his race and I'm sure that the future will see others similarly honored for brave acts."

After serving aboard the Indianapolis for nearly a year, Miller took overdue leave and made public appearances in California, Texas and Illinois before being advanced in June 1943 to the rating of officer's cook, third class, and assigned to the new escort aircraft carrier Liscome Bay. On Nov. 24, 1943, he was killed in action along with more than 600 shipmates when a Japanese submarine torpedoed and sank Liscome Bay during Operation Galvanic, the invasion of the Gilbert Islands. His body was lost at sea.

Miller received numerous posthumous honors. A destroyer escort, USS Miller (DE-1091), commissioned in 1973, was named for him. A number of elementary schools across the country have been named after Miller. A school, park, cemetery, and YMCA branch in Waco, TX, bear his name.

Although he was only the first of a number of African Americans to be recognized for their heroism in World War II, Miller is singularly remembered for providing inspiration to a campaign for equal recognition and opportunity for Blacks in the military, a campaign that bore fruit in 1948 when President Truman ordered "that there shall be equality and opportunity for all persons in the armed forces."

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Miramar National Cemetery Dedicated

2010-01-31T09:16:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) held a dedication ceremony today in San Diego for the Miramar National Cemetery.

"Offering more burial options for Veterans in southern California is a top priority," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "With this cemetery, we are keeping our commitment to provide a final resting place and lasting tribute to the men and women who sacrificed to protect our Nation."

VA's Acting Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs, Steve L. Muro, gave the keynote address and was joined by elected officials as the dedication plaque was unveiled. Military honors included a firing salute and the ceremony ended with the playing of "Taps."

The 313-acre Miramar National Cemetery will include both gravesite and columbarium development, providing a full range of burial alternatives to approximately 235,000 Veterans in the San Diego County area.

The nearby Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery closed to first interment casketed burials in 1966, although it stays active with casketed interments of family members of those already interred and inurnments of cremated remains. Riverside National Cemetery, 90 miles from Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, is currently the nearest national cemetery offering full burial options.

The design contract for $961,004 was awarded to Van Dyke Landscape Architects, a small business firm in San Diego.

The first phase of construction will include approximately 11,500 conventional gravesites; 4,500 in-ground cremation sites; 10,000 columbarium niches; an administration building and maintenance complex; two committal service shelters; and a public assembly area. The project will also include systems for water distribution, roads, utilities, signs and landscaping.

VA chose Kirk Leopard as director of the cemetery. He will continue as the director of Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, a position he has held since 2007. Prior to that appointment, he was director of Baltimore National Cemetery and assistant to the director at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery in Alabama. In June 2006, he completed 12 months of training as a cemetery director intern at VA's National Cemetery Administration training center in St. Louis. Leopard is a 21-year Navy Veteran, having served as a hospital corpsman, medical laboratory technician and medical research technician during his military career.

Veterans with a discharge other than dishonorable, their spouses and dependent children are eligible for burial in a national cemetery. Burials in VA-run national cemeteries are also open to military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.

Other burial benefits for eligible Veterans include a burial flag, a Presidential Memorial Certificate and a government headstone or marker - even if the burial is not in a national cemetery.

In the midst of the largest cemetery expansion since the Civil War, VA operates 131 national cemeteries in 39 states and Puerto Rico and 33 soldiers' lots and monument sites. More than 3.4 million Americans, including Veterans of every war and conflict -- from the Revolutionary War to the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan -- are buried in VA's national cemeteries.

Information on VA burial benefits can be obtained from national cemetery offices, from the Internet at www.cem.va.gov or by calling VA regional offices toll-free at 800-827-1000. Additional information about the Miramar National Cemetery is available by calling the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery at 619-553-2084. To make burial arrangements at the time of need at any VA national cemetery, call the national cemetery scheduling office at 800-535-1117.

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Cell Phones for Soldiers Announces Free Phone Program for Returning Troops

2010-01-11T13:51:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- In response to a growing need to support military members returning from active duty, Cell Phones for Soldiers today announced an expansion of their services by offering free cell phones to all armed forces returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

To achieve this goal, the charity is calling on all Americans to donate their old phones to the cause. The free phones are drawn from those donated by individuals and corporations; to achieve this goal, an additional 1 million phones will need to be donated in 2010.

"With tens of thousands of our brave troops returning from active duty this year, the need to help them get back on their feet here at home has never been greater," said Brittany Bergquist, cofounder of Cell Phones for Soldiers. "We are thrilled to be able to provide this tremendous service to our brave men and women."

The Helping Heroes Home campaign relies on the donations of used phones. Qualifying phones are refurbished and given to requesting soldiers along with a month of calling time. Other donated phones will either be recycled or used to fund the charity's free calling-card program for troops overseas.

Cell Phones for Soldiers was founded in 2004 by brother and sister Robbie and Brittany Bergquist. To date, they have provided more than 60,000,000 minutes of free calling cards thanks to a national network of individual and corporate supporters donating phones and money.

"There are more than 130 million phones retired every year in the United States," said Robbie Bergquist, cofounder of Cell Phones for Soldiers. "If just 2% of all American's were to donate their phones, we could supply every troop with a phone as a small measure of the gratitude of a nation."

Sponsors for this initiative include the Consumer Electronics Association, One Source Inc. and ReCellular Inc.

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ThanksUSA Awards 200 College Scholarships for Military Spouses and Children in 2009

2009-12-22T15:08:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- ThanksUSA, a charitable effort to mobilize Americans of all ages to "thank" our active-duty troops by providing need-based college scholarships to their spouses and dependents, announced that it awarded a total of 200 scholarships, valued at $3,000 each, to military families in 2009. Rounding out its fourth year of tuition assistance, ThanksUSA sent out the final 100 scholarship letters on Monday, December 21, with the previous 100 awarded in the fall.

"Despite economic hardships in 2009, Americans continued to show their appreciation for our men and women in uniform by contributing to ThanksUSA's scholarship program. We hope these additional 100 scholarships help brighten the holidays for military families, especially those with loved ones serving overseas," said Michele Stork, executive director of ThanksUSA. "ThanksUSA had an amazing year in 2009, and we look forward to doing even more in 2010 for the families of the men and women who provide such an invaluable service to our country."

ThanksUSA began in 2005 as the idea of two Virginia schoolgirls as a way to mobilize Americans to thank active-duty troops for defending our freedoms. Since 2006, ThanksUSA has awarded nearly $6 million in need-based, post-secondary scholarships to nearly 2,000 spouses and children of military members serving on active-duty status. Scholarships have been awarded in all 50 states and the District of Columbia to families representing all branches of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves and the families of those killed and wounded.

This past Thanksgiving, ThanksUSA unveiled Treasure Hunt Five, which was sponsored by the ESA Foundation, as part of a three-year partnership that aims to increase the number of scholarships available to military families. Treasure Hunt Five features more than 150 questions on a variety of states, along with the history of the U.S. Army and a new chapter on the Earth's resources in honor of Earth Day's 40th anniversary in 2010. Once the game ends on August 15, 2010, ThanksUSA will award prizes, including laptops and gift certificates, to the winner of each game "chapter." Contestants may access the game at www.ThanksUSA.org.

To help fund these scholarships, ThanksUSA hosted its first annual ThanksUSA Benefit Concert in Nashville, TN, in 2009 honoring military families with performances by Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Ricky Skaggs, Jim Lauderdale, the SteelDrivers, Leslie Satcher, and Monty Holmes. The event was attended by recuperating troops from Walter Reed and military personnel from both Fort Campbell and the Tennessee Air National Guard.

"We're honored to have been a part of the benefit concert and to have contributed to ThanksUSA's mission in 2009," said Chris Eberbach, CEO of USA Payment Services, the presenting sponsor for the Nashville benefit concert. "America's men and women in uniform deserve our thanks for their unwavering bravery; congratulations to ThanksUSA for another successful year."

These need-based scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to the spouses and children of active-duty military personnel who plan to pursue a post-secondary education, including vocational and technical training. Recipients are selected on the basis of financial need, demonstrated leadership, and participation in school and community activities.

About ThanksUSA

Founded in the fall of 2005, ThanksUSA, a non-partisan 501(c) (3) organization, is an effort to thank the men and women of our armed forces and their families for their service to the country with the gift of education. The organization provides need-based, post-secondary education opportunities to the children and spouses of active-duty status military personnel through competitive scholarships. For more information visit www.ThanksUSA.org.

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Holiday Wreath Laying Ceremony at Pentagon Memorial

2009-12-10T05:14:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization that donates 5000+ Christmas wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery each year. This year, Ms. Kathryn Cross, a Gold Star Mother who is leading the Wreaths Across America effort, personally secured enough donated wreaths for all three of the 9/11 memorials including the Pentagon Memorial. The donation was made possible by the Worcester Wreath Company and Wal-Mart Corporation who are donating the wreaths as a gesture to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001. The wreaths will be delivered as part of a convoy traveling to each of the three 9/11 memorials.

Wreaths Across America plans to deliver the wreaths to the Pentagon Memorial Thursday afternoon, December 10 . On Friday, December 11 at 3:00 p.m., Wreaths Across America and the Pentagon Memorial Fund will conduct a short wreath laying ceremony. Representatives of the Pentagon, Pentagon Memorial Fund and family members of the victims will be in attendance. Similar ceremonies will be taking place in New York City and Shanksville, PA on December 12th.

WHO: James J. Laychak, President of the Pentagon Memorial Fund
Morrill Worchester, Founder of Wreaths Across America

WHAT: Holiday Wreath Laying Ceremony

WHEN: Friday December 11, 2009
3:00 p.m.

WHERE: The Pentagon Memorial
South Parking Lot of the Pentagon

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Walmart Gives $1.1 Million to Support Military Families and Honor Fallen Heroes This Holiday Season

2009-12-04T08:41:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Walmart gives an early Christmas to more than 10,000 military children and families who will receive free toys, books, Walmart gift cards and gift packages. Through a $1.1 million donation from Walmart, the initiative will benefit families in all branches of the military. The company will also lay 16,000 wreaths at national cemeteries across the United States to honor fallen veterans.

Representatives from Operation Homefront and Wreaths Across America joined Walmart in Fort Bragg, N.C. today to launch the program, part of "Walmart Gives Back," a holiday giving initiative focused on hunger relief and support for military families.

"Walmart has a history of supporting our troops. This holiday season, we recognize the sacrifices of our deployed servicemen and women - and their families back at home," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Walmart Foundation. "We know that many military families have a tough time during the holidays. They miss their loved ones who are away, and we hope that our efforts will make their holiday easier and better."

More than 300 associates from Walmart and Sam's Club locations nationwide will help organize toys and assist participants at each event.

Supporting Military Families

Spouses of deployed military personnel will shop for free today at Operation Homefront toy shops near Fort Hood and Fort Bliss in Texas; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Stewart, Ga.; and Camp Pendleton, Calif. - markets that top the Pentagon's list of cities with the highest troop deployment. With toys and books donated from Walmart, the shops will serve more than 3,000 military moms and dads with 10,000 military children, combined.

"This has been an especially difficult year for our military families and their children. They're not only dealing with deployments but also the economic recession," said Operation Homefront chief executive officer, Jim Knotts. "Through the generosity of Walmart, these donated toys and books will allow the military families to provide a happy holiday for their children while using their limited resources on the vital basic needs."

In addition, Walmart gift cards will be given to more than 1,500 military families in 30 cities and 1,000 gift packages will be given to the caregivers of wounded military - all made possible through Walmart's donation to Operation Homefront.

Honoring our Nation's Veterans

Walmart's military support this holiday season will also help Wreaths Across America purchase, transport and lay 16,000 wreaths at national cemeteries and memorial sites across the United States, including "a mile of memories'' wreath display at Battery Park to honor 9/11 victims and veterans from the New York area, Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, Fayetteville National Cemetery in Fayetteville, Ark. and the site of the Flight 93 crash in Shanksville, Penn.

"Our mission is to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach our children the value of freedom," said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America. "This is the second year that Walmart has generously donated wreaths, trucks, and resources - and we are proud to work with Walmart to show our gratitude to those who served and sacrificed."

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MyChristmasCatalog.com to Donate Calling Cards to Active Duty Troops

2009-12-03T08:33:00.001-05:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--While most of us look forward to spending the holidays at home with our families, our active duty U.S. troops stationed far from home don’t have that joy. So MyChristmasCatalog.com is trying to make it a little easier for them. The nation’s largest online Christmas gift-giving store powered by the newest Microsoft Silverlight 3 technology devoted a large interactive section of the site to honor our soldiers at Christmas, and is taking ten percent of its Christmas sale proceeds to purchase one of the most requested gifts by our soldiers – pre-paid calling cards – so they can phone home and stay connected with their families.

"Having calling cards allows us to stay in contact with our family and friends back home. This helps us to have peace of mind that they are okay," said Capt. Emma Phillips, U.S. Army Reserves Company Commander for the 724th Military Battalion in Fort Lauderdale. Her office will receive and help administer distribution of the pre-paid calling card donations.

“Our military men and women are willing to sacrifice everything all year round to keep our nation safe and strong,” said Jerrold Burden, creator of MyChristmasCatalog.com and Chairman of Fort Lauderdale-based Catalog Enterprises, Inc. “We wanted to do what we could to show them thanks.”

Burden, an Army veteran, designed part of the site to allow the public and online shoppers to view heartfelt Christmas videos, poems and photo albums of our troops overseas, send soldiers free e-cards directly from the site, get the latest news from Iraq and make donations to purchase more calling cards for troops. Visitors can also find links to organizations that assist veterans, honor the Fallen, and help children of fallen soldiers.

“We want to make America aware by embracing our troops this holiday season and sharing the memories, tears, heartache and heroism,” said Burden.

Catalog Enterprises was selected by Microsoft early this year as the fourth company in the nation to become a Microsoft Partner utilizing the new Silverlight 3 software to develop award-winning websites. The newly launched MyChristmasCatalog.com is among the first sites to show off this revolutionary technology in ways to delight visitors.

To first access MyChristmasCatalog.com, with it’s brand new Microsoft technology, visitors are offered a quick and free download that opens the door to an easy, user-friendly format they’ve probably never experienced. The site helps visitors choose the most popular and unique gifts at the lowest prices for every age and gender. It has more than 18,000 products to choose from, including those from dozens of affiliate retailers like Macy’s, Target, Radio Shack, Barnes & Noble and Walmart. Once a gift is found, customers can click again to find the current lowest price among the affiliate retailers for that item before making their purchase online.

“We worked hard to make a magical, mystical wonderland of holiday shopping all in one place by creating a truly unique and entertaining site for the whole family,” said Burden. Not only can you shop on the site, but also visitors can enjoy hours of free fun. You can play online Christmas games and Christmas music, have animated Christmas stories read to you and your children, watch classic cartoons, enjoy an online holiday recipe book, send letters to Santa and check his flight track on Norad, view photos of Manhattan’s most famous retail Christmas windows, check out Sears and Spiegel holiday catalog flipbooks from the 30s and 40s, and much more.

For more information on Catalog Enterprises, Inc. and MyChristmasCatalog.com, visit our websites at www.MyChristmasCatalog.com and www.CatalogEnterprises.co.

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Showing Troops America Cares - Soldiers' Angels Send Holiday Care Packages

2009-12-03T07:03:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- American military personnel stationed in the war zones will soon receive Holiday care packages from nonprofit Soldiers' Angels. This holiday season, Soldiers' Angels aims to ship 140,000 Wrapped in Holiday Spirit gifts to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and is calling on all Americans to join the final push to that goal.

Each Wrapped in Holiday Spirit care package includes a handmade "Blanket of Belief," snacks, socks, holiday cards and other treats with a personal note of thanks and support. Troops in the most remote regions of Afghanistan will also receive beautiful stainless steel coffee mugs. The "Blankets of Belief" forming the heart of the care package tell America's service men and women, "We believe in you." When they receive a Blanket of Belief, service members know that somebody back home remembers them, that somebody labored over a handmade item with love and belief in them.

Founder Patti Patton-Bader describes how important it is for the troops to know America believes in them and supports them, especially during this time. "Holidays away from home are very tough on our deployed troops," she says. "Please help us show them America cares--be there for a hero this holiday season."

Soldiers' Angels is soliciting donations, as well as offering a 15% discount at www.AngelsStore.org on Wrapped in Holiday Spirit care packages that allow patriotic Americans to order a package for a specific soldier or have their gifts sent to "Any Soldier" with a personal note of gratitude and support.

Donations for the Wrapped in Holiday Spirit project can be made online at http://soldiersangels.org/holidays-for-heroes.html, or sent to Soldiers' Angels, 1792 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104.

Care packages at www.AngelsStore.org are offered as a convenience for those who support America's troops, giving them an easy way to send a personal message with a gift especially designed to meet the needs and interests of deployed service members. The cost includes shipping, and any payment above the base cost of the contents helps to fund the many military support projects of volunteer-led non-profit Soldiers' Angels.

SOLDIERS' ANGELS is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) non-profit providing aid and comfort to U.S. military personnel and families. Over 200,000 volunteers also provide assistance to the wounded, support for veterans, comfort for families of the fallen, and immediate response to unique difficulties. www.SoldiersAngels.org, TAX ID #20-0583415.

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FamilyLife Supports Military Marriages in Atlanta

2009-12-02T16:50:00.002-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- In response to rising suicide and divorce rates within the U.S. military, FamilyLife, a non-profit ministry dedicated to supporting marriages and families, will present its Weekend to Remember® marriage conference at a significant discount to military couples in Atlanta from Dec. 11 - 13 at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead (3300 Peachtree Road NE). Weekend to Remember is a marriage getaway aimed at strengthening healthy marriages and healing troubled ones in a fun, supportive and non-threatening environment.

While every couple is encouraged to attend, FamilyLife has invited local members of our armed forces and their spouses to attend the conference at a reduced rate in recognition of the sacrifices they make and the subsequent toll their jobs take on their marriages.

"We want to do whatever we can to support military marriages," said FamilyLife President, CEO and Co-Founder Dr. Dennis Rainey. "We recognize and revere the tremendous responsibility and stress placed on our servicemen and women, and that such a career can truly take a toll on one's marriage and family."

FamilyLife's military marriage initiative comes on the heels of reports of rising suicide rates within the United States military. One of the ways the military has chosen to combat this tragic trend is by encouraging soldiers and their spouses to participate in marriage enrichment programs offered by chaplains at military posts around the country. To provide resources to military marriages worldwide, FamilyLife has set up a dedicated website that offers resources specific to military marriages, as well as a downloadable sample of the HomeBuilders: Making Your Marriage Deployment Ready small group study, at www.FamilyLife.com/MilitaryMarriage.

"Making a marriage work is never easy, and it is difficult for any husband or wife to not 'bring the office home,'" said Major General (Retired) Robert Dees, executive director of Campus Crusade's Military Ministry, a FamilyLife partner ministry. "When 'the office' is a battlefield, and a couple isn't equipped with the necessary tools to deal with those experiences, such as separation and the fear of losing one's life or one's spouse, the results can be disastrous. In that spirit, FamilyLife and Military Ministry are committed to strengthening the bonds between the heroes who serve and the spouses they love."

Military couples can attend for a special military rate of $69 per person (a $120 savings per couple). To register, military couples may call 1-800-FL-TODAY or visit www.FamilyLife.com/MilitaryMarriage. Select "Donate" to give to the FamilyLife and Military Ministry partnership and thereby enable even more military couples to attend the Weekend to Remember conference on a scholarship basis.

For more than three decades FamilyLife®, a global, donor-supported, non-profit organization co-founded by Dr. Dennis and Barbara Rainey, has focused on the mission of using practical, biblical principles to build healthier marriages and families through conferences and media channels. FamilyLife, a 501c3, works in 100 countries around the world to help to transform lives and restore hope through its Weekend to Remember® marriage conferences, Homebuilders small group studies, FamilyLife Today(TM) radio broadcasts, Hope for Orphans® orphan care ministry, FamilyLife publications, and the internet. For more information, visit FamilyLife.com.

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Sweet Treats for Troops

2009-12-01T13:48:00.001-05:00

Boxes filled with 65 pounds of M &M chocolate candies are on the way to troops of the 5th Ranger Training Battalion at Frank D. Camp Merrill in Dahlonega, GA.

Bus drivers of the Fayette County Public School System in Georgia donated the chocolate in the hopes of making the holidays a little brighter and sweeter for military personnel who will not be able to make it home for family gatherings and celebrations. This marks the seventh year the bus drivers have sent chocolate to troops stationed both in the United States and overseas.

“We are grateful for what these brave men and women are doing to protect our freedom and this is just a small token of our appreciation for their sacrifices,” says bus driver Linda Mosley who organizes the drive each year.

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How You Can Support Our Troops

2009-12-01T11:15:00.000-05:00

(StatePoint) With hundreds of thousands of U.S. troops continuing to be stationed everywhere from Iraq and Afghanistan to Germany and Japan, American citizens at home are continuing to mobilize to show their support of our men and women overseas.

Individuals and businesses are doing everything from organizing donation drives and sending care packages to actually getting involved in developing medicines for soldiers on the front lines or working to find homes for disabled troops when they return.

Some of the more popular things you can do to help include donating computers, frequent flier miles, DVDs and phone cards, or sending care packages and letters to the front lines.

To help people learn how to get involved with donation drives and troop outreach programs, the U.S. Department of Defense has set up a Web site, listing such initiatives by type. Visit www.ourmilitary.mil/help.shtml to peruse the ways you can help.

Many are choosing to not only get involved themselves, but to organize their co-workers to help out. This can increase the effectiveness of a donation drive, as many employers are choosing to match donations or simply to donate resources like computer and phone time or stamps to help expand a donation drive.

Some small businesses are taking the patriotic call a step further by creating much-needed products for the troops. One such company, PolyMedix, Inc., a biotechnology company that develops drugs for infectious diseases and cardiovascular disorders, has turned its attention on helping the armed services by creating drugs and other treatments that soldiers can use against anthrax and other biowarfare pathogens.

And the company's work is being recognized by the U.S. Government, which has awarded it several grants and research contracts through the Defense Threat Reduction agency, the Office of Naval Research, and U.S. Army Research Office to help PolyMedix develop new drugs for the troops.

"We sincerely appreciate the support of the U. S. Army Research Office and its recognition of the significance of our work," said Nicholas Landekic, President and CEO of PolyMedix. "We are making good progress towards developing new types of antibiotic drugs which may be useful against infections caused by biowarfare pathogens and other serious infectious agents. We have received eleven grants and research contracts from different organizations, including DTRA, the Navy, and the Army, which all are going to support work that we would otherwise not be able to pursue."

So, when looking for ways to help out, consider things you can do at home and at your job with the participation of your employer.

Of course, most citizens don't have the resources to develop medicines or ship lots of goods overseas. But there are many ways individuals and families can help out.

If you are getting involved in any initiative to help the troops, consider asking friends and family for assistance and for participation from your employer, your child's school and even local community and religious organizations.

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Thank You Cards from Across America Sent to Troops for Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-11-30T10:03:00.002-05:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--U.S. Army Soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan over the Thanksgiving Holiday will be reading thousands of thank you cards written by Americans from across the nation. Volunteer Ambassadors with the Army’s Freedom Team Salute program campaigned on ”Make A Difference Day” on October 24 to encourage individuals in their communities to write thank you cards that would be sent to troops deployed in harm’s way.

“We shipped over five thousand cards to the troops overseas,” said Colonel David Griffith, Director of Freedom Team Salute. “Our goal was to send all of the cards to Soldiers for Thanksgiving but our office is still receiving thank you cards. It just demonstrates how people want to do whatever they can for our men and women in uniform who are away from home and making sacrifices for this nation.”

The Freedom Team Salute Ambassadors participating in “Make A Difference Day” set-up outside grocery stores, shopping centers, VFW and American Legion Posts, and Community Centers with one mission in mind – get members of their local communities to take a few minutes to sign or write Thanksgiving thank you cards for Soldiers deployed. Many people were so excited to be able to thank Soldiers that they brought bundles of cards signed by friends and family members.

School teachers participated and used the opportunity to have their students get involved by creating hundreds of handmade thank you cards that were signed by children of all ages. Bass Pro Shops, headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, notified all of their store locations to welcome any Freedom Team Salute Volunteer Ambassador requesting permission to reach out to their customers.

The expressions in the thank you cards were heartfelt and filled with patriotism. One individual wrote “Good morning and Happy Thanksgiving. I hope and pray that you have a quiet and uneventful day. We will be thinking of you and your buddies and the peace we are enjoying here at home because of you. We do appreciate all you are doing for us! God Bless You!” Another person simply said -- “Thank you for putting yourself second and your country first.”

“It will be awesome to get a box of cards to distribute to our Soldiers,” said Command Sergeant Major Brian Lambert with the 16th Military Police Brigade at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, when notified that a box of cards was being mailed to his unit. “Our younger Soldiers are just beginning to understand the power of a card or letter in the mail. I know they will enjoy receiving them.”

Each card was accompanied with a U.S. Army decal with Freedom Team Salute information printed on the back encouraging the Soldiers to go to www.freedomteamsalute.com to thank individuals who have supported them and made a difference in their lives.

U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute was established in 2005 by the Secretary of the Army and Army Chief of Staff to give the public the opportunity to thank all U.S. Army Veterans for their service by recognizing them with Commendations. The program also gives all Active Duty, Army Reserve, and National Guard Soldiers the opportunity to recognize their Parents, Spouses, Supporters, and Employers. Over 2.2 million individuals have been honored with Freedom Team Salute Commendations.

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General David Petraeus and the Men and Women of Central Command Receive 2009 AMERICAN PATRIOT AWARD before Nearly 630 People

2009-11-14T07:19:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- On Friday, nearly 630 people gathered to honor the National Defense University Foundation's 2009 American Patriot Award recipients: General David Petraeus, Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Men and Women of CENTCOM. The event, one of Washington, D.C.'s most prestigious galas, was held on Friday, November 13, 2009, in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

Program participants for the 2009 American Patriot Award Gala included honoree General David Petraeus, USA, General Ann Dunwoody, USA, and General John Rogers Galvin, USA (Ret). Grammy nominated jazz saxophonist Ski Johnson performed live. Leon Harris, Anchor of ABC 7/WJLA-TV, emceed the event.

Five military heroes accepted the American Patriot Award on behalf of their services, along with General David Petraeus, USA. The five heroes included: CSM Rocky Shapla, USA; CDR Stephen Hall, USN; GYSGT Josue Magana, USMC; Tech. Sgt. Timothy R. Evans, USAF; LCDR Holly Harrison, USCG.

Notable guests included White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel; LTG Dennis Via, USA, Director, C4 Systems (J6) Joint Chiefs of Staff; and, National Defense University President VADM Ann E. Rondeau, USN; Members of Congress, the Administration, and Diplomatic Community; and past and present Armed Forces Service Heroes. The Gala was attended by more than 600 guests.

More than 40 "patriots" from all five branches of the military service attended this year's celebration, through the "Sponsor a Patriot" program. Many of these young patriots recently returned from Iraq, Afghanistan or other overseas deployments. Some are recovering from injury sustained while deployed; others are actively serving their country on military installations and in communities across America

Beyond honoring the recipients, the Gala supports National Defense University (NDU) and its crucial mission of educating national security leaders. Students of NDU are the next generation of ambassadors, national and international military commanders and civilian defense industry leaders -- patriots who have committed their lives to furthering the security of our nation and the world.

"Paying tribute to General Petraeus and the service men and women who put their lives at risk every day to safeguard our national security is the focus of this year's National Defense University Foundation's American Patriot Award," said Walter Stadtler, Ambassador (Ret), President and CEO, National Defense University Foundation. "These unsung heroes are the ultimate patriots and are most deserving of this award."

Previous recipients of the American Patriot Award include: The Honorable Henry A. Kissinger; General Colin Powell; The Honorable Caspar Weinberger; former President George H.W. Bush; The Men and Women of our Nation's Defense Team; The Honorable Bob Dole; The Honorable Daniel K. Inouye; The Honorable Ted Stevens; The Honorable John Glenn; The Honorable John Warner; and The Honorable Ike Skelton.

IBM is the Patriot Sponsor for this year's Gala. Eagle Sponsors include: C4 Enterprises, LLC; Lockheed Martin Corporation; and, Raytheon Company. Liberty Sponsors include: Agility Defense & Government Services; The Boeing Company; Caterpillar Inc.; EADS North America, Inc.; G4S Wackenhut and WSI; L-3 Communications Corporation; Northrop Grumman Corporation; William D. Smythe Family Foundation; and TriWest Healthcare Alliance.

The National Defense University Foundation, Inc. was established in 1982 to support and enhance the mission and goals of the National Defense University through promoting excellence and innovation in education by nurturing high standards of scholarship, leadership and professionalism.

The National Defense University is the country's preeminent institution for military, diplomatic and civilian national security education, research and outreach. It is the only university providing a common educational experience for all the various professional communities engaged in national security. The main campus is located at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C. For more information, please visit www.ndufoundation.org.

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On Veterans Day, Nation Salutes Those Who Served

2009-11-11T12:11:00.002-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki called on Americans to honor the 48 million men and women -- including America's 23 million living Veterans -- who have served our Nation in uniform.

"Americans come together today to honor and thank those who have safeguarded our Nation both in peace and war," said Secretary Shinseki. "Veterans Day is a time to renew our national resolve to care for those who have borne the battle. Our character as a country is revealed through the honor we accord them and measured by the respect with which we care for them."

Shinseki joined President Obama, military officials and leaders of the major Veterans organizations at a public wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery at 11 a.m. Following the ceremony, VA hosted an observance program in Arlington's amphitheater.

"President Obama has called for a Department of Veterans Affairs that is Veteran-centric, results-oriented, and forward-looking," said Shinseki. "We are privileged and honored to have that mission, and I am proud of the 298,000 great Americans who come to work every day to serve Veterans, over 30 percent of them Veterans themselves."

Americans attend programs and ceremonies honoring Veterans at many VA facilities across the country on Veterans Day. In some locations, Veterans and VA employees participate in programs conducted by civic and Veterans organizations. For a list of Veterans Day regional observances, visit www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/regsites.asp.

"We have a sacred trust with those who wear the uniform of the United States of America," President Barack Obama said in his Veterans Day proclamation. "We reflect upon the invaluable contributions of our country's Veterans and reaffirm our commitment to provide them and their families with the essential support they were promised and have earned."

Memorial Day is a time to commemorate deceased military members, especially those who have died during military service. Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform and thank living Veterans for their service.

"In partnership with Congress, Veteran service organizations and the American people, we will ensure that America's legacy is one of unwavering commitment and compassionate care for its Veterans," said Shinseki.

Since the beginning of November, VA's Web site has hosted oral histories of Veterans from every state and some territories produced by the Library of Congress in its Veterans History Project. Each day leading up to Veterans Day, five additional Veterans from different states have recounted their military experiences on the VA Web site, www.va.gov.

In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued America's first Veterans Day proclamation. The Veterans Day observance has evolved over the years. America's custom of observing the end of World War I in 1918 at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month became a legal holiday known as Armistice Day in 1938.

In recognition of military service members' sacrifices in World War II and Korea, the name of the holiday was changed to Veterans Day so that, as President Eisenhower said, a grateful Nation might pay appropriate homage to the Veterans of all its wars who have contributed so much to the preservation of this Nation.

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Statement By the Honorable Tom Ridge on Veterans Day

2009-11-11T06:57:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Vietnam combat veteran Tom Ridge, the nation's first U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security and current chairman of the National Organization on Disability, issued the following statement commemorating Veterans Day:

"Today we pay tribute to the valiant service of the United States Armed Forces - those who have protected our nation in wars past and present. We also honor their loved ones, for when one person wears the military uniform, the whole family does, with far-reaching sacrifice. From the recent tragedy at Fort Hood, to our brave fighters on today's front lines, to the long legacy of courage that defines the American story, may we salute those who have faced, and continue to face, the diverse and dangerous demands of war.

"Often the challenges of military life do not end when our troops leave the battlefield. This is particularly true for our wounded warriors, those brave men and women who live every day with emotional and often painful injuries borne on the battlefield. Housing, job training, education and health care make up the 'duffel bag' of issues that these military heroes must shoulder long after they return home.

"On this Veterans Day, as we pause to reflect on the privilege of freedom, the price of it and our duty to it, let us do so with a renewed commitment to help our veterans enjoy the very way of life they have fought so hard to protect."

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Golden Corral Restaurants Salute America’s Heroes with Free Dinner on Military Appreciation Monday

2009-11-10T09:29:00.002-05:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Monday, Nov. 16, Golden Corral will thank thousands of active-duty and former United States Military personnel for their service with a free dinner buffet and beverage, while raising donations for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). A tradition started nine years ago to celebrate our nation’s heroes, Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday has served more than two million complimentary meals to military personnel and generated nearly $3.3 million in contributions for state and local DAV chapters.

“We have 45,000 employees in 485 restaurants nationwide who are very passionate about supporting our military service men and women, and look forward to supporting Military Appreciation Monday annually,” said Ted Fowler, president and chief executive officer of Golden Corral. “While the current economy is challenging, we remain committed to recognizing the military through this program and look forward to reaching 2.5 million meals served and $4 million raised this year.”

Golden Corral has enlisted Gary Sinise, celebrated actor/director, Bo Derek, pop icon and actress, and Collective Soul, the platinum award-winning band, to record public service announcements for Military Appreciation Monday. Sinise, Derek and Collective Soul are all actively involved in supporting active-duty and retired military personnel through a variety of organizations and initiatives including tours to military installations overseas.

“This is the fifth year I’ve had the pleasure to partner with Golden Corral in supporting our troops, past and present, through Military Appreciation Monday,” said Sinise. “The number of meals given away and amount of money donated in the past eight years really distinguishes Golden Corral’s commitment to the military. I’m proud and happy to help raise awareness for Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday.”

Golden Corral will serve free dinner buffets with beverage from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 16 to any person who is or has served in a United States Military branch, including the National Guard and Reserves – identification is not required. State and local DAV representatives will be on-site at all Golden Corral locations coordinating the collection of donations from customers. While only current and former military qualify for the free meal, everyone is encouraged to come out and show support for our veterans. For more information on Military Appreciation Monday, please visit http://www.goldencorral.com/military/ or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/GCMilitaryAppreciation?ref=nf.

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FedEx Delivers Holiday Cheer to U.S. Armed Services Members and Their Families

2009-11-10T09:13:00.002-05:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--For the fifth consecutive year, FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation are teaming up for Trees for Troops, a program created to deliver support and cheer to members of the military and their families during the holiday season. Throughout this holiday season, Trees for Troops will deliver approximately 16,000 real Christmas trees to more than 50 military facilities in the United States and overseas.

“FedEx and its team members are pleased to support Trees for Troops, delivering holiday cheer to military men, women and families,” said Douglas G. Duncan, president and CEO, FedEx Freight. “Now in its fifth year, this program provides us the opportunity to say thanks to those who serve our country in the Armed Forces.”

This year’s Trees for Troops campaign will kick off Nov. 10 in Columbus, Ohio, with the pickup of approximately 200 trees to be delivered to service members stationed in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan via the FedEx Express hub in Indianapolis.

A second international shipment of nearly 100 trees will also depart from Indianapolis on Nov. 24 for service members stationed in Bahrain, aboard vessels of the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet, and other locations.

“The FedEx team considers it a privilege to help coordinate Trees for Troops,” said Stan Bradford, freight flow analyst for FedEx Freight who assists with planning the tree pickup and distribution logistics for the program. “As an Army veteran, I am glad that FedEx is taking this step to support these very deserving men, women and families.”

Since 2005, the first year for the Trees for Troops program, the effort has quadrupled in size and donations. Some program milestones include:

* In the program’s first year, 4,300 trees were delivered to troops and military families at five bases in the U.S. and overseas
* More than 50,000 real Christmas trees have been distributed to families in every branch of the military at 40-plus bases in 17 countries.
* More than 750 tree growers in 29 states have donated trees
* FedEx Freight trucks have traveled an estimated 150,000 over-the-road miles to pick up and deliver the trees

Throughout November, National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA) members around the country will donate trees, and FedEx will provide transportation and logistical services to the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, the NCTA's philanthropic branch. Both FedEx Express air operations and FedEx Freight’s trucking networks will play a role in the Trees for Troops program, delivering donated trees to military bases throughout the U.S.

The public will also have the opportunity to participate in Trees for Troops by purchasing trees and attaching a personal message at 40 retail locations nationally. These trees will be included in the Trees for Troops delivery schedule, which begins Nov. 30 and concludes Dec. 11. For a list of participating Trees for Troops retail locations, please visit www.treesfortroops.org.

Trees for Troops is a part of FedEx Special Delivery, a nationwide program that supports local organizations by donating transportation services and manpower to help them fulfill their missions. For more information about FedEx Special Delivery and FedEx during the peak holiday season, please visit http://news.fedex.com.

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Military Heroes to Gather in Washington

2009-11-10T08:50:00.002-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Many of America's most celebrated and distinguished veterans from World War II through the present day will converge on Washington, DC from November 12-14 for the American Veterans Center's 12th Annual Conference.

In the largest gathering of its kind in the nation, these men and women who have served in many of the defining moments in military history over the past 65 years will share their experiences with an audience of several hundred high school and college students, active duty military, and fellow veterans. The events will take place at the United States Navy Memorial's Burke Theater.

Headlining the event will be General David Petraeus, Commander, U.S. CENTCOM and former Commanding General, Multi-National Force - Iraq. General Petraeus will be taking questions from the audience on Friday, November 13.

Also joining the conference on the 40th anniversary of his Apollo 11 moon landing will be retired Air Force colonel Buzz Aldrin. Col. Aldrin will also take questions, and will be honored at the Center's Awards Banquet on Saturday, November 14, along with veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Others participating include:
-- The Band of Brothers -- Veterans portrayed in the acclaimed HBO
miniseries.
-- Bob Feller -- U.S. Navy Veteran of WWII and Hall of Fame Baseball
Pitcher.
-- "Dutch" Van Kirk -- Navigator of Enola Gay, the B-29 that deployed the
first atomic bomb.
-- Lorenzo DuFau -- USS Mason, first Navy ship with a mainly African
American crew in WWII.
-- Edgar Whitcomb -- Former Governor of Indiana and POW of the Japanese
during WWII.
-- Shelby Westbrook -- Tuskegee Airman of WWII and pilot of 60-plus
combat missions.
-- Thomas Hudner Jr., Roger H.C. Donlon, & Alfred Rascon -- Medal of
Honor recipients.
-- Black Hawk Down -- Men portrayed in the award winning film.
-- Army Nursing Panel -- On the history and role in opening doors for
women to serve.
-- Iraq and Afghanistan -- Several of the most highly decorated veterans.

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The Home Depot Pays Tribute To Military Personnel by Offering a 10 Percent Veteran's Day Weekend Discount

2009-11-06T09:48:00.002-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The Home Depot®, the world's largest home improvement retailer, today announced that the Company is continuing the tradition of honoring our military by offering all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10 percent discount off their purchases in honor of Veteran's Day. The offer is valid on purchases of up to $2,000 for a maximum discount of $200 between now and November 11, 2009, at all U.S. and Puerto Rico The Home Depot stores.

To qualify, individuals must present a valid military identification when checking out and discounts will be taken at the register.

The discount offer extends the Company's overall commitment to supporting the military community and is offered on Memorial Day, July 4th and Veteran's Day each year.

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Free Krispy Kreme Doughnuts for Veterans and Military Personnel on Veterans Day!

2009-11-05T08:47:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- This year, Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation is honoring America's service men and women on Veterans Day by giving away free doughnuts to all veterans and active military personnel. Veterans and active military personnel are invited to visit any participating U.S. Krispy Kreme store on Veterans Day, November 11, and enjoy one free doughnut of any variety.

"Krispy Kreme is delighted to offer free doughnuts as a small gesture to thank the dedicated men and women who have served, or are currently serving in the armed forces," said Ron Rupocinski, corporate chef for Krispy Kreme. "It is our hope that veterans and active military will visit a participating U.S. Krispy Kreme store on Veterans Day to enjoy a free doughnut, and maybe share stories about their service to our country. We salute each and every one of them."

Veterans and active military personnel will be able to select from more than a dozen varieties - including Original Glazed®, Chocolate Iced Kreme Filled, Chocolate Cake, Pumpkin Spice and Glazed Raspberry Filled - that are available at most Krispy Kreme locations.

For updates on special promotions, exclusive offers and local events, join "Friends of Krispy Kreme" by visiting www.KrispyKreme.com, or interact with Krispy Kreme at facebook.com/KrispyKreme and twitter.com/krispy_kreme.

About Veterans Day

Veterans Day originated as "Armistice Day" on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and November 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. Then President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to honor those who served in all American wars.

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Shinseki Announces Veterans' Stories Posted on VA's Web Page

2009-11-04T15:35:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will join with the Library of Congress to host a "Veterans History Countdown" on the VA Web site - www.va.gov - featuring the oral histories of Veterans from every state and U.S. territory.

"VA has partnered with the Library of Congress to honor our Veterans, preserve their histories and ensure that their service, sacrifice and heroism will never be forgotten," said Secretary Shinseki. "We want to encourage Americans to record the oral histories of Veterans for future generations."

Each day, beginning Nov. 1, VA's Web feature will introduce new personal histories, culminating on Veterans Day when a Veteran's history from each state and U.S. territory will be available simply by clicking on the U.S. map in the display.

As Veterans Day approaches, the VA Web display will urge Americans to "Honor our Veterans. Record their Histories!" The display will link to the library's Veterans History Project Web site -- www.loc.gov/vets -- which provides background about the program, a guide for volunteers to follow in recording and submitting Veterans' oral histories and to access the project's extensive digital archive.

VA has collaborated with the Veterans History Project since its implementing legislation was signed into law on Oct. 27, 2000. VA Voluntary Service has made oral history recording part of its program. VA offers Veterans the opportunity to record their histories at its facilities and special events. These collections of first-hand accounts are archived in the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

"We hope the Veterans History Countdown will serve as a call to action for volunteers to record the first-hand stories of the Veterans they know--relatives, neighbors, friends," said Bob Patrick, director of the Veterans History Project.

The Veterans History Project collects and preserves the remembrances of American war Veterans and civilian workers who supported them.

The recordings make accessible the first-hand remembrances of American wartime Veterans from World War I through the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan so that future generations may hear directly from Veterans and better understand the realities of war. Approximately 65,000 individual stories comprise the collection of the Veterans History Project.

The project relies on volunteers to record Veterans' remembrances using guidelines accessible at www.loc.gov/vets/. Volunteer interviewers may request information at vohp@loc.gov or the toll-free message line at (888) 371-5848.

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General Colin Powell Receives American Patriot of Character Award

2009-11-04T10:35:00.002-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- General Colin Powell, former US Secretary of State, received the American Patriot of Character Award presented by The Character Education Partnership during their 16th annual National Forum on Character Education, in Alexandria, VA, Friday.

The American Patriot of Character Award honors one American citizen whose leadership exemplifies the very best of the nation's founding principles. The award recognizes individuals not only for great success in their chosen field, but also for upholding the highest ethical standards in service of the common good.

"General Powell is a remarkable public servant who has truly made a positive difference in our nation," CEP's executive director Joe Mazzola said. "He is a shining example of integrity for young people, and all American citizens, to emulate. We are honored to have him as the first recipient of this award."

In his acceptance remarks Powell talked about his family's emphasis on good character and achievement. He said a turning point in his life came about when he entered the ROTC program in college, and it emphasized West Point's code of ethics.

General Powell also congratulated the National Schools of Character award winners who were in attendance to receive their awards. He commended the educators for their efforts to develop students of good character.

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Military Support Organization Reaches for Christmas Miracle

2009-11-04T06:54:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- For the last two years, James Ward and his family have sent a bit of Christmas cheer to deployed American service members in Iraq and Afghanistan through Operation Christmas Tree, but this year that could change. Last year they sent 5,000 live Christmas trees. Now a goal of 2,000 may be out of reach, even with the efforts of fellow military support organization Soldiers' Angels, which contributed $2,000 to the cause yesterday.

In years past, the spirits of soldiers deployed during the Holidays have been buoyed by an extraordinary gift--a live Christmas tree complete with tiny ornaments and lights from Operation Christmas Tree. One soldier wrote, "I couldn't believe what I found in that little box. Wow. And it even smells a little like a Christmas tree!" Another exclaimed, "I am so moved and filled with joy. Thank you multiplied by a billion isn't enough for this simple act of kindness."

The recession has hit Operation Christmas Tree hard, with only five percent of the donations coming in that they've had in the past. "If we can't bring in more, there will be no trees going out this year," reports Ward, with a catch in his voice. "But I have faith that Americans will come though once again. Last year we got our last $10,000 needed on the day we packed the trees!"

Soldiers' Angels is calling on other organizations, companies and individuals to make sure that once again this year, deployed servicemen and women will have the experience of opening up a box in the sands of Iraq or the mountains of Afghanistan and finding a piece of Christmas inside. Says founder Patti Patton-Bader, "When our heroes are serving in dangerous places far from home on our behalf at Christmas, we owe them so much. A piece of home like this is a treasure."

Established in 2003, Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing aid and comfort to the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, veterans and military families. For more info, see www.soldiersangels.org or call (615) 676-0239. Tax ID# 20-0583415

Operation Christmas Tree is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a singular mission: sending live Christmas Trees to the deployed "until our troops are home." For more info, see www.operationchristmastree.com or call 410-984-7300. Tax ID# 84-1722360.

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Holiday Mail for Heroes to Deliver Greetings to U.S. Military Members and Veterans

2009-11-02T13:48:00.002-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- In this season of hope and giving, the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. have joined forces again to invite the public to "send a touch of home" to United States service members and veterans across the country and abroad through the Holiday Mail for Heroes campaign.

Now in its third year, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program provides Americans with the opportunity to extend holiday greetings and thanks to service members and veterans. Last year the program received more than 1.4 million cards for military men and women, their families and veterans.

The public can participate in the campaign by sending holiday cards with personal messages to a special post office box from Monday, November 2 through Monday, December 7. The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes will then screen cards for hazardous materials, sort and package the cards, and deliver them to military bases and hospitals, veteran's hospitals and other locations in the U.S. and abroad during the holidays. Pitney Bowes is providing all screening, packaging and shipping at no charge, as well as providing thousands of volunteer hours around the country. The Red Cross will utilize volunteers at over 300 participating chapters nationwide to sort and deliver greetings to military and veteran's hospitals and military bases in November and December.

Joining the campaign this year as spokesperson is contemporary music artist and American Red Cross celebrity cabinet member Amy Grant.

"I am honored and thrilled to be a part of the Holiday Mail for Heroes program," says Grant. "The service that our military men and women provide this country year-round is invaluable and I feel it is especially important to give thanks for their sacrifices during the holiday season."

Grant will celebrate the campaign's official launch with the Red Cross and Pitney Bowes at a Veteran's Day event in Washington where she will join military and public guests in signing holiday cards for the program.

"The United States currently has 1.4 million active duty members, reservists and guards serving within our borders and abroad. Additionally more than 24 million veterans have faithfully served our country in the past," notes Sherri Brown, Sr. Vice President of Service to the Armed Forces at the American Red Cross. "With increased chapter participation this year we hope to reach many more service members and veterans who may be spending this holiday season away from home or without loved ones," says Brown.

"The men and women who serve our country in uniform deserve our thanks every single day, and sending just one card is all it takes to make a difference in the life of one of our nation's heroes," said Jon Love, President of Pitney Bowes Government Solutions. "We are honored to participate in this important initiative again with the American Red Cross and look forward to helping the public say happy holidays and thank you."

Holiday cards should be addressed and sent to:

Holiday Mail for Heroes
P.O. Box 5456
Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456

Please be sure to affix adequate postage. Cards must be received no later than December 7. Cards received after this date will be returned to senders. For reasons of processing and safety, participants are asked to refrain from sending "care packages," monetary gifts, using glitter or including any inserts with the cards.

Additional ways to become involved with the campaign include connecting with fellow card senders through Facebook at www.facebook.com/redcross and Twitter at www.twitter.com/redcross and #holidaymail.

For more information and card requirements, please visit www.redcross.org/holidaymail.

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The Phoenix Group Launches Wish Foundation for Active Military

2009-11-02T09:45:00.001-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The Phoenix Group today launched a non-profit foundation that grants wishes for active duty Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and their families. The Foundation strives to relieve the burdens of family separation, re-integration for deployed soldiers, hardship circumstances, and other means of assistance not covered by existing military charities.

The Foundation is driven by an interactive website (www.wish4ourheroes.org) allowing anyone to request a wish for active duty members of our Armed Forces. The website allows 'wish granters' to view wishes and contribute donations. Pictures and accounts of the granted wishes are posted online to allow contributors to see the impact made in the lives of our nations' heroes. The website also has apparel and merchandise available for purchase, and all sales benefit the wish program. The Phoenix Group's for-profit companies will contribute 10% of pretax earnings toward the Foundation, and will give employees the option of contributing a percentage of their paychecks to the cause. The Foundation will also rely on the generosity of other corporations and individuals to grant as many wishes as possible. Many foundations focus on assisting wounded soldiers and families of deceased soldiers, but Phoenix's foundation will focus on providing assistance and rewarding our heroes who may be experiencing other types of hardship.

"The Phoenix Group hires many former military soldiers into our various companies, and we would like to give something back to our nation's heroes who sacrifice so much to defend our great country," said Jeff Wells, President of Phoenix's Wish For Our Heroes Foundation.

The Foundation is headquartered in Greenwood, IN, with a second office in Houston, TX. It is dedicated in memory of 1SG Thomas G. Wells (1933-2009), a Marine Corps veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars, as well as all of our active duty military heroes. To learn more, volunteer, or make a donation, visit www.wish4ourheroes.org.

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America Salutes Its Heroes

2009-11-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

(NAPSI)-The year 1944 was pivotal in the Allied prosecution of World War II. Some of the most crucial battles were engaged in the European and Pacific theaters as the Allied nations began to push back in earnest against the Axis powers.

World War II was a defining moment in time for the United States: It touched the lives of every citizen, every community and every family, and propelled a once isolationist country into a position of global leadership. There was no aspect of American life that was not affected by the war. More than 16.2 million men and women served during WW II. The war engulfed the entire globe: Nearly every continent saw significant action and men and women from every inhabited continent died in it.

Nearly 50 percent of those who wore the uniform of the United States served in the Army. World War II veterans from all services -the Army, Navy and Marine Corps-are dying at a rate of 1,135 per day.

"As our nation remembers the courage and sacrifice of those who fought on battlefields from Normandy to Bastogne, from Italy to North Africa and throughout the numerous Pacific Islands, we are presented with a unique opportunity to celebrate this legacy of duty, honor and selfless sacrifice, which now serves as the foundation for today's soldiers," said Colonel David M. Griffith, director, U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute program. "America has a responsibility to acknowledge the sacrifice of WW II veterans, to ensure they are not forgotten."

Freedom Team Salute is an official Army commendation program that recognizes the essential bond among soldiers, family and community; it celebrates the sacrifices made by all those who support our soldiers; and honors the millions of soldier veterans who have served and remain as our living connection to generations of duty, honor and patriotism. Army veterans receive a letter and certificate of appreciation signed by the Secretary of the Army and the Army Chief of Staff.

"It is appropriate that we as a society take the opportunity to pay our respects for the enormous sacrifices that were required of those who served in uniform during World War II as well as supporters on the home front who made their service possible," said Griffith. "Observances are occurring all year in the U.S., in Europe and in other places; but the service and sacrifice of our Army veterans is observed pre-eminently in the hearts of men and women around the world who remember the cost of freedom and are grateful."

Any honorably discharged Army veteran who served during World War II is eligible for Freedom Team Salute, including men and women who served in the Army Air Force, Army Air Corps, Women's Army Corps and the Army Nurse Corps.

For more information about Freedom Team Salute or to honor a U.S. Army veteran, visit www.freedomteamsalute.com.

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VetsFirst Established by United Spinal Association: First and Only Organization to Offer Full Membership to All Disabled Veterans

2009-10-29T16:38:00.000-04:00

VetsFirst Established by United Spinal Association: First and Only Organization to Offer Full Membership to All Disabled Veterans, Their Dependents and Survivors

/PRNewswire/ -- VetsFirst (www.vetsfirst.org), a new national nonprofit organization that will help all of America's disabled veterans, their spouses, dependent family members and survivors receive healthcare, compensation, rehabilitation and other benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, was announced today by United Spinal Association.

VetsFirst membership will embrace all generations of veterans, including those living with post-traumatic stress disorders, traumatic brain injuries, toxic exposures and those who are at increased risk of diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, ALS). It also supplies the veterans' community with guidance on education and employment. In conjunction with United Spinal Association, VetsFirst provides legal representation in VA claims and appeals.

"VetsFirst will offer the same high level of service and personal approach it has become known for, while expanding to provide for the needs of veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan," said Paul J. Tobin, president and CEO of United Spinal Association.

VetsFirst recognizes older era veterans are aging and their health and benefits needs are changing. Advocating and assisting women veterans and their particular health concerns are high priorities of VetsFirst.

"We're serving a very large membership with our holistic approach. When their families are taken care of veterans recover faster. Extending membership to veterans' families and others involved in their lives and well-being, distinguishes VetsFirst from other veterans organizations," said Leonard Selfon, VetsFirst senior vice president.

One of the organization's most unique offerings is 'Ask VetsFirst' (http://helpdesk.vetsfirst.org/), a Web-based service that gives veterans an opportunity to get assistance with benefits-related inquiries on-line. Ask VetsFirst allows visitors to submit questions using an online submission form. A VetsFirst trained national service officer or attorney will then respond with information and resources to help resolve the inquiry.

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Semper Fidelis Memorial Chapel Dedicated at National Museum of the Marine Corps

2009-10-24T09:17:00.001-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation dedicated the Semper Fidelis Memorial Chapel with a crowd of hundreds of U.S. Marine Corps general officers in attendance at the National Museum of the Marine Corps on October 22, 2009 at 11 a.m. Highlights of the reflective ceremony included a Navy bell ringing ceremony with students of the Marine Corps University, and the playing of Taps by a Marine Corps Band bugler followed by a 21-gun salute. Rear Admiral Mark L. Tidd, Chaplain of the Marine Corps provided the Benediction and a ribbon cutting officially opened the chapel to the public.

“It is my belief that as our Semper Fidelis Memorial Chapel takes its place within this Marine Corps Heritage Center it will soon serve as a welcoming sanctuary, a place of remembrance and reflection to all Marines, past and present,” said Lt. Gen Ron Christmas, president and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

Other ceremony speakers included Under Secretary of the Navy Robert Work, Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Conway and Marine Captain and businessman, Timothy Day and his wife Sandy. Mr. and Mrs. Day of Phoenix, Arizona, along with the Timothy Day Foundation, donated $5 million to construct the chapel.

The nondenominational chapel will serve as a contemplative space where Marines and all visitors can remember the service and sacrifices of those who have served our nation. It will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and is available for weddings, funerals and other military ceremonies through the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. Designed by Denver-based Fentress Architects, architects of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the chapel’s structure evokes images of improvised field chapels familiar to all combat Marines. The timber, glass and stone structure, standing within Semper Fidelis Memorial Park adjacent to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, includes an 8-foot tall etched glass, iconic image of a Marine kneeling in prayer, and a reflecting pool.

The dedication of the Semper Fidelis Memorial Chapel comes three weeks prior to the third birthday of the National Museum, which has welcomed more than 1.5 million visitors to date. The addition of the chapel in Semper Fidelis Memorial Park continues the expansion of the Marine Corps Heritage Center. Overlooking the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the park is situated on 23.2 acres of high ground and plays an important part in the Museum visitor’s experience. As expansion continues, the park will grow to include a water feature commemorating the Corps’ nautical tradition, as well as an additional network of paths that will extend throughout the wooded grounds.

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General David Petraeus and the Men and Women of Central Command to Receive 2009 American Patriot Award

2009-10-20T09:59:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The National Defense University Foundation (NDUF) announced today the recipient of this year's American Patriot Award: General David Petraeus, Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Men and Women of CENTCOM. The recipients will receive this prestigious award at a black-tie event, American Patriot Award Gala, on Friday, November 13, 2009 held in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

In honor of the recipients, General Ann Dunwoody, USA, and General John Rogers Galvin, USA (Ret), will make remarks, and Grammy nominated jazz saxophonist Ski Johnson will perform live. Additionally, His Excellency Samir Sumaida'ie, Ambassador of The Republic of Iraq and His Excellency Said Jawad, Ambassador of Afghanistan will attend. Both Ambassadors have CENTCOM locations in their respective countries.

NDUF's American Patriot Award Gala is one of Washington, D.C.'s most prestigious events, attended by nearly 600 guests, including senior Administration officials, Members of Congress, senior military officials, Ambassadors, and corporate and community leaders. Beyond honoring the recipients, the Gala supports National Defense University (NDU) and its crucial mission of educating national security leaders. Students of NDU are the next generation of ambassadors, national and international military commanders and civilian defense industry leaders -- patriots who have committed their lives to furthering the security of our nation and the world.

"National Defense University Foundation's American Patriot Award recognizes exceptional Americans who have demonstrated a profound and abiding love of country and whose inspirational leadership and selfless dedication symbolizes our nation's ideals, values and democratic principles," said Walter Stadtler, Ambassador (Ret), President and CEO, National Defense University Foundation. "General Petraeus and the Men and Women of Central Command, have played a vital role in safeguarding national security -- especially during these times of heightened security, and for their efforts, they are well deserving of this award."

Previous recipients of the American Patriot Award include The Honorable Henry A. Kissinger, General Colin Powell, The Honorable Caspar Weinberger, former President George H.W. Bush, The Men and Women of our Nation's Defense Team, The Honorable Bob Dole, The Honorable Daniel K Inouye and The Honorable Ted Stevens, The Honorable John Glenn, The Honorable John Warner, and The Honorable Ike Skelton.

The National Defense University Foundation, Inc. was established in 1982 to support and enhance the mission and goals of the National Defense University through promoting excellence and innovation in education by nurturing high standards of scholarship, leadership and professionalism.

The National Defense University is the country's preeminent institution for military, diplomatic and civilian national security education, research and outreach. It is the only university providing a common educational experience for all the various professional communities engaged in national security. The main campus is located at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C.

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SouthernLINC Wireless Gives a Little 'Home' this Holiday Season to Soldiers Stationed Overseas

2009-10-16T03:35:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- For the second consecutive year, SouthernLINC Wireless, a Southern Company (NYSE:SO) , is supporting our deployed American troops through Any Soldier Inc., a non-profit organization that helps boost morale among deployed men and women of the U.S. armed forces via letters and packages from "home."

Through Nov. 20, multiple SouthernLINC Wireless locations will serve as collection points for cards, letters and care package items, which will be sent directly to soldiers deployed from military bases in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi.

Employees, customers and community members are encouraged to show support in a personal way that suits them and their budgets. Especially during the upcoming holiday season, cards and letters mean the most to our deployed military personnel, yet cost very little and require only a small time investment.

"We are proud to once again support our dedicated servicemen and women with the help of the Any Soldier organization," said Bob Dawson, president and CEO of SouthernLINC Wireless. "Our troops sacrifice so much to protect us and our country. I hope our Southeastern neighbors will take this opportunity to write a note or donate a few, inexpensive comforts from 'home' to show our soldiers how much they are appreciated."

Cards, letters and care package items should be dropped off during business hours at multiple SouthernLINC Wireless locations in Alabama and Georgia. For more information, including a complete list of collection locations, guidelines and suggested care package items, visit www.southernlinc.com/community.

Last year's holiday drive with Any Soldier® collected and mailed more than 1750 cards and letters and 210 care packages - weighing more than a ton - to more than 1350 U.S. servicemen and women.

Founded in 2003 by Marty and Sue Horn, Any Soldier grew through a strong network of family and friends.

"Our family started Any Soldier to give our son Brian and his unit from the 173rd Airborne Brigade a few comforts from home and boost spirits," said Marty Horn, a 20-year Army veteran and president of Any Soldier. "We are honored that SouthernLINC Wireless is holding a holiday collection drive again this year to support soldiers deployed overseas from bases in the Southeast."

As a nonprofit organization, Any Solider relies on donations to continue their efforts to improve the lives of U.S. military personnel who are stationed far away from family and friends. To support this organization and the work it does, please go to www.anysoldier.com/HelpDonate.cfm to learn how to make a tax-deductible donation.

Currently, Any Soldier is helping approximately 100,000 active duty and reservists in all U.S. military branches who are in harm's way. In its six year history, Any Soldier has served nearly 1.5 million members of the U.S. military.

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Secretary Shinseki Designates 41 Regional Veterans Day Sites

2009-10-15T17:15:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- As Chairman of the Veterans Day National Committee, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced today the designation of 41 regional Veterans Day observances. These sites are model community events for the observance of Veterans Day 2009.

"Veterans Day is a national Thank You to the men and women who have served all of us in uniform," Secretary Shinseki said. "These regional observances enable the federal government to bring resources closer to more Veterans."

President Dwight D. Eisenhower formed the Veterans Day National Committee in 1954 to plan and promote the observance of Veterans Day nationally and regionally. Today, the committee is administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and is comprised of representatives from 44 organizations dedicated to supporting military Veterans.

The 2009 Veterans Day regional observances range from parades and ceremonies to military exhibits and tributes to distinguished local Veterans. Each site is recognized by the VA and may receive military support from the Department of Defense when available.

The 2009 Veterans Day Regional Sites are: Birmingham, Mobile, and Ozark-Dale County, Ala.; Phoenix, Ariz.; Palm Springs, Calif.; Loveland, Colo.; New Castle, Del.; Brevard Community College-Coco Campus, Fla.; Atlanta and Dawson County, Ga.; Emporia, Leavenworth and Valley Center, Kan.; Madisonville-Hopkins County, Ky.; and New Orleans, Shreveport-Bossier City, Shreveport and Slidell-Tammany Parrish, La.

Other regional sites include Sherborn, Mass.; Brunswick, Md.; Detroit, Mich.; Gulfport, Miss.; St. Louis, Mo.; New York, N.Y.; Columbus, Ohio; Ponca City, Okla.; Albany, Douglas County and Portland, Ore.; Gatlinburg and Nashville, Tenn.; Austin, Bonham, Dallas and Houston, Texas; Virginia Beach, Va.; Auburn, Port Angeles, Vancouver and West Richland, Wash.; and Milwaukee, Wis.

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'Week of the Women Warriors': Launch of Groundbreaking Report on Female Troops and Veterans

2009-10-14T12:53:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Today, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), the nation's first and largest non-partisan, nonprofit organization representing veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, released its new issue report, "Women Warriors: Supporting She 'Who Has Borne the Battle,'" on the unique service and homecoming challenges facing female troops and veterans. The report is the cornerstone of IAVA's first annual "Week of the Women Warriors," a multi-faceted effort to honor the courage and sacrifice of female servicemembers.

"Women make up 11% of the force in Iraq and Afghanistan. Yet, their challenges have largely been overlooked and underreported. IAVA's new report pulls together the most up to date information on a broad range of issues confronting female servicemembers and veterans," said IAVA Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff. "Countless women have served bravely and honorably for their country. It's time for the Department of Defense, the VA, lawmakers and the public to take bold action on behalf of these women warriors and give them the support they have earned."

IAVA's newly released report explores a wide range of issues, including:

-- Sexual Assault, Harassment and Military Sexual Trauma (MST): Women in
the military have been coping with significant and underreported
sexual assault and harassment for decades. The report examines the
statistics behind this prevalent issue, the measures that are
currently in place and steps that must be taken to aggressively
address this systematic problem.

-- Higher Divorce Rates for Female Servicemembers: Marriages of female
troops are failing at almost three times the rate of male
servicemembers. The report examines the data behind this troubling
trend.

-- Barriers to VA Health Care: In recent years the VA has been challenged
to care for female veterans, who now make up 12% of all Iraq and
Afghanistan veterans seeking VA health care. The report examines the
fragmentation of women's VA services, privacy and safety concerns and
problems communicating eligibility and benefits to female veterans.

-- Homelessness among Female Veterans: Of homeless Iraq and Afghanistan
veterans, almost 10% are women, and many of them have families. The
report examines this growing trend and the urgent economic challenges
facing female veterans.

Week of the Women Warriors: During this week, IAVA.org will feature a new Women Warriors Center. Anchored by the new report, the Women Warriors Center will highlight ways veterans and civilians can get involved with supporting female veterans. Visitors will be able to read the report, learn about the history of women in the military, sign on to IAVA's letter introducing the report to Congress and participate in an aggregation of associated Twitter activity. Female veterans are encouraged to join Community of Veterans (COV), an online social network exclusively for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This is the first of what will be an annual week to honor and advocate for female troops and veterans.

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VA Chief of Staff Gingrich Kicks off National Veterans Creative Arts Festival in San Antonio

2009-10-06T11:53:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- On Oct. 5, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Chief of Staff John Gingrich celebrated Veteran-artists at the opening banquet of the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the culmination of a year-long fine arts competition involving nearly 3,500 participants nationwide. It is open to all Veterans receiving care at VA medical facilities.

"I salute each of our Veteran-artists -- from our 'Greatest Generation' to our latest generation -- for your service to America," said Gingrich. "The National Veterans Creative Arts Festival not only showcases the very 'best of the best' in the creative arts, but also VA's outstanding medical care and rehabilitative techniques."

More than 120 Veteran medal winners in music, dance, drama, creative writing and visual arts contests are participating in the week-long festival. The event will conclude on Oct. 11 with a visual art exhibit and gala variety stage show at the San Antonio Municipal Auditorium.

VA medical facilities incorporate creative arts into their recreation therapy programs. This annual competition recognizes the progress and recovery made through art therapy, and raises visibility of Veterans' creative achievements.

"VA's rehabilitation therapists deliver a brand of care that enriches -- even rescues -- lives by providing the kinds of art therapy that give self-confidence, pride and personal expression," said Gingrich.

The festival is presented by VA, Help Hospitalized Veterans (HHV) and the American Legion Auxiliary. It is hosted this year by the South Texas Veterans Health Care System.

"It is truly an honor for the American Legion Auxiliary to support the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival," said National President Rita Navarrete. "This phenomenal event affords our Veterans a unique outlet for their creative expression and is incredibly inspiring for everyone who is privileged to attend."

"The Board of Directors of HHV is again thrilled and privileged to co-sponsor the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival with VA and the American Legion Auxiliary," said Mike Lynch, HHV president and CEO. "HHV wishes to congratulate all Veterans who entered into this national competition, for you have shared your fantastic performing and visual arts abilities with America."

The artists will exhibit their work from 12:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11, at the San Antonio Municipal Auditorium. At 2 p.m., performers in music, drama and dance, as well as the creative writing winners, will showcase their talents in an entertaining stage show backed by a professional orchestra. Heloise, from "Hints from Heloise," will serve as the festival stage show's mistress of ceremonies for the first time.

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Six Flags Over Georgia Salutes Military Personnel

2009-09-18T20:27:00.002-04:00

Six Flags Friends is proud to honor the men and women who are currently serving with Military Appreciation Days presented by the Navy Federal Credit Union and Chrysler Group LLC. Active members of the military can present their current military identification cards at any of the Six Flags Over Georgia ticket windows on September 19, 20, 26 or 27 (one day only, see below for schedule) and receive complimentary admission for themselves and up to two dependants.

Only current active U.S. military personnel will receive admission on the date corresponding with their branch of the military. Reservists members of the military also qualify (must have military ID).

Sept 19 – Air Force: Park open 10:00a.m. to 8:00p.m.
Sept 20 – Navy & Coast Guard: Park open 10:30a.m. to 7:00p.m.
Sept 26 – Army: Park open 10:00a.m. to 8:00p.m.
Sept 27 – Marines: Park open 10:30a.m. to 7:00p.m.

*If an individual serving in the military is deployed during these dates, their spouse and two dependants may receive complimentary admission on the corresponding date. The spouse must present a current military identification card.

If current members of the military need to purchase additional tickets, they may do so at a rate 50 percent less than the main–gate admission price.

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The Bob and Dolores Hope Charitable Foundation Makes Donation to PGA TOUR Charities, Inc. Birdies for the Brave for Wounded Warrior Project

2009-08-26T12:56:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The family of the late World Golf Hall of Fame member Bob Hope has made a donation in the amount of $200,000 to the PGA TOUR Charities, Inc. Birdies for the Brave program, designated for the Wounded Warrior Project.

"This contribution is a perfect fit honoring both the veterans that my dad so admired, and the game of golf which played such an important role in his life," said Linda Hope, Bob Hope's daughter. "We hope that our donation in my dad's name will help lighten the burdens of some of our returning heroes much as Dad was able to do during his lifetime."

"We're so appreciative to the Hope family for this generous donation," said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. "Not only will these funds positively impact the lives of the men and women who return home after courageously serving our country, but this gesture from The Bob and Dolores Hope Charitable Foundation also continues a legacy of goodwill between the Hope family, the military and the game of golf."

"We are extremely honored that the Hope family views Wounded Warrior Project as a deserving program and extension of Bob Hope's legacy of caring for those serving in our nation's Armed Forces," said Steve Nardizzi, Wounded Warrior Project executive director. "This humbling gift, combined with the PGA TOUR's ongoing efforts to raise awareness and funds to support Wounded Warrior Project, will measurably impact our ability to provide timely and valuable services to wounded warriors, their families and caregivers."

The idea for the donation originated at the 2008 World Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Weekend last November, when Linda and her brother, Kelly, attended an exhibition opening of the Hall's newest featured exhibition, "Bob Hope: Shanks for the Memory." Within the exhibit, which focuses on many aspects of Hope's life, the Hopes viewed a section that pays tribute to the Wounded Warrior Project as the modern-day embodiment of Bob Hope's support of the troops.

Also during Induction weekend, Dan Nevins, a wounded soldier who credits his passion for golf as critical to his rehabilitation [and subsequently took a position with Wounded Warrior Project], spoke at the Hall of Fame's Night of Legends Tribute Dinner. Linda and Kelly were in attendance and were inspired by his speech.

"When our exhibit team dove into the project, we were astounded by the endless accounts of Bob Hope's philanthropic devotion, especially as it related to the men and women of the United States military," said Sr. Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of the Hall of Fame Jack Peter. "We wanted to be sure that aspect of his story was as emotional to our guests as it was to us. This donation really adds to the big picture of the Hope family's continued dedication to both golf and military."

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General Petraeus Honored With The American Legion's Distinguished Service Medal

2009-08-25T20:34:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of wartime veterans rose to cheer as General David H. Petraeus, Commander of the U.S. Central Command, was awarded The American Legion's Distinguished Service Medal this morning.

The Legion's National Commander, David K. Rehbein, began his tribute to the Iraqi conflict leader by quoting critics who had declared, "The war is lost," and "The surge will never work."

"Yet," said Rehbein, "General David Petraeus, the chief advocate of the military troop surge and the Commander of the Multi-National Forces Iraq, refused to share this pessimism. He never lost faith in America's fighting men and women. He would be the first to tell you that the credit for the success in Iraq belongs to those who served and are still serving over there."

General Petraeus himself reiterated this point as he accepted The American Legion's medal and in remarks a short time later. He also vowed to wage a vigorous campaign against insurgents in Afghanistan as U.S. forces aid the fragile country in its quest for self-sufficiency and freedom from tyrannical rule.

The award, the veterans' service organization's highest honor, was presented during The American Legion's 91st national convention in Louisville, Ky. this morning, General Petraeus joined fellow convention speaker Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Legion convention's opening ceremonies.

With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.

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Jack Daniel’s/USO “Toast to the Troops” Event Honoring Troops and Their Families to Be Held at Bristol Race

2009-08-19T06:58:00.001-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tennessee National Guard service members and their spouses, members of the NASCAR community, USO volunteers and Jack Daniel’s employees will assemble 10,000 USO care packages at Earhart Campground East adjacent to Bristol Motor Speedway as part of the Jack Daniel’s/USO “Toast to the Troops” program.

The event will be held prior to the Sharpie 500 race at Bristol on Aug. 22, and is the 11th stuffing party since Toast to the Troops was launched in 2005. Through Toast to the Troops, Jack Daniel’s collects personal messages of support, or “toasts,” to include in USO care packages.

Following the care package stuffing party, ten-year Army veteran and country music star Craig Morgan will perform a free concert for all volunteers and fans attending the race.

“Since this program began, we’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the great sacrifices that our friends serving in the military, as well as their spouses and families on the home front, make for our country,” said Tim Rutledge, Brand Director Americas for Jack Daniel’s.

Rutledge said this “Toast” event would be very special since a majority of the volunteers would be members and spouses of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment of the Tennessee National Guard that is being redeployed to the Middle East later this year. “We’re humbled and honored that these heroes will be joining us in Bristol, and we look forward to spending a wonderful day with them and recognizing their many contributions to our country,” he added.

“It is a privilege to be a part of such a worthy event,” said Lt. Colonel James Blevins, Squadron Commander of the 278th. “Our soldiers and families are looking forward to participating in ‘Toast to the Troops,’ knowing the care packages are being sent to our military brothers and sisters serving in harm’s way.”

Citizens can go to www.jackdaniels.com to fill out the special “toasts” that will be included in USO care packages for troops deploying to Afghanistan, Iraq and other overseas locations, as well as troops arriving and departing on rest and recuperation (R&R) flights. The care packages, sponsored for $25 each, include approximately $75 worth of items requested by service members, such as prepaid international calling cards, toiletries, sunscreen, playing cards, disposable cameras and snacks.

“We thank Jack Daniel’s for their continued support,” said Elaine Rogers, administrator of the Operation USO Care Package program. “Since 2005, these events have been an excellent opportunity for local communities to demonstrate their support for our men and women in uniform and their families.”

Craig Morgan has been a part of every Jack Daniel’s/USO Toast to the Troops event and fulfilled a lifelong dream last September when he was invited to join the Grand Old Opry at a Toast event at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where he was stationed from 1990-1992. Morgan has entertained troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and is a recipient of the USO Merit Award, an honor shared by the late Bob Hope.

“It has been an honor and privilege for me to perform for our military service members and their families, and the Toast to the Troops program is one way of letting them know how much we love, respect and appreciate everything they do for us,” said Morgan. “Their sacrifices, both abroad and on the home front, cannot be measured, and we all owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude.”

BNA Records recording artist Morgan has made a name for himself with massive radio airplay of his signature hits. Morgan’s current album That’s Why features the hit single “Love Remembers” and his current single, “Bonfire.” The new releases follow his Top 10 hit and fan-favorite, “International Harvester.” Other Top 10 hits include “Little Bit of Life,” “Tough,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” and “That’s What I Love About Sunday” – which spent five weeks at No. 1 and was Billboard’s Most Played Country Song of the Year in 2005.

Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing, will be on hand to take part in the program. Childress owns and operates Richard Childress Racing and fields four Chevrolets in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, including the No. 07 Jack Daniel’s Impala SS driven by Casey Mears.

“It’s an honor for RCR to be involved in the ‘Toast to the Troops’ program with Jack Daniel’s and the USO,” said Childress. “I’ve seen first-hand the efforts of the National Guard and other branches of the military in Iraq and I couldn’t be more proud to be an American knowing that those brave men and women are protecting us. The folks at Jack Daniel’s show their patriotism in so many ways and teaming up with the USO for the ‘Toast to the Troops’ program is the continuation of that great tradition.”

Due to heightened security, individuals can no longer send letters and packages addressed to “Any Service Member.” The Operation USO Care Package program is the best way to send a message of encouragement directly to a service member and provide a touch of home. The USO has distributed more than 1.5 million care packages since the program’s inception in 2003. More information on the Operation USO Care Package program and other USO programs can be found at www.uso.org.

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200,000 'I Served Stickers' Shipped to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans

2009-08-10T13:33:00.001-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- OBX, BB and HH are just a few of the beach-town stickers you've seen on car bumpers. And if Scott Kreger has his way, every veteran returning from duty in Iraq and Afghanistan will have free stickers bearing the abbreviation "IRQ" or "AFG" with the words "I Served" underneath.

"I hope that people will approach our courageous veterans and thank them for their service when they see the sticker," says Kreger, who created the concept. "I also see these stickers as a way for fellow veterans to identify and talk with each other. These connections could lead to networking opportunities, jobs and support in tough times."

About 40 volunteers stuffed 20,000 envelopes and packages on Saturday. The first wave of stickers will appear in towns across all 50 states and the U.S. territories, as well as the coalition troop countries, including Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.

"It's a small way to say thank you, but the response has been overwhelming," says Kreger. So far, he has received requests for about 200,000 stickers.

The project is funded entirely by private donations. Kreger has raised nearly $40,000 of the $100,000 he anticipates needing to cover printing and mailing for 1.5 million stickers to give to every soldier who has served or might serve in Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Soldiers' Angels and Spirit of America Cooperate to Support the Troops

2009-08-05T08:15:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The need to encourage and support America's fighting men and women around the world remains strong, and nonprofits Spirit of America and Soldiers' Angels are sharing their contacts and working together to ensure every service member has support to complete the mission and return home safe.

Soldiers' Angels (SA) "adopts" deployed Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, while Spirit of America (SoA) provides those same service members with directly-requested materials for locals in need. In a spirit of cooperation, SoA lets their deployed contacts know homefront support is available for soldiers and their families through SA, while SoA flyers in Angel care packages tell service members where to get assistance for their local outreach activities. The two organizations are also prominently linked on each others' websites.

Together, Soldiers' Angels and Spirit of America provide comfort items and necessities, love from home, and material assistance for America's military personnel in their role as ambassadors to the local population. Material support for people caught in a war zone helps "win hearts and minds," encouraging locals to provide intelligence and reduce conflict. Meeting locals' needs also helps them resist insurgents who bribe or threaten them into terrorist activities.

"Soldiers' Angels is an outstanding organization with a total commitment to supporting America's soldiers. We are proud to be working with them," said Jim Hake, founder and chairman of Spirit of America. "This cooperation and putting our troops first is exactly what's needed to make sure they are successful and safe."

Soldiers' Angels founder Patti Patton-Bader expresses similar sentiments. "Spirit of America is amazing. Their ability to provide exactly what units request to build relationships and improve communities in the warzones helps make our troops safer and more effective. They are a perfect complement to our efforts in bringing home healthy heroes."

As Internet-based entities, Soldiers' Angels and Spirit of America recognize the importance of social networking and word-of-mouth in meeting their missions. The cooperative spirit they demonstrate has been a significant factor in placing them among the largest and most effective of the newer military-related nonprofits that developed after 9-11.

By helping meet troops' emotional and physical needs and making their jobs easier, Spirit of America and Soldiers' Angels help bring home healthy and successful warfighters. From shipping 500 pairs of boot socks for tired Infantrymen's feet to sending 5,000 toothbrushes to a Marine unit teaching Afghani villagers dental hygiene, SA and SoA's complementary missions remind the troops that America has their back.

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Two Army Programs Help Soldiers And Veterans Receive Compensation For Sacrifices

2009-08-04T10:45:00.001-04:00

(NAPSI)-Two programs are further demonstrating the Army's commitment to caring for its Soldiers. Combat-Related Special Compensation and Traumatic Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance are helping veterans and traumatically injured Soldiers receive the compensation they deserve for their sacrifices to our Nation.

Combat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)

CRSC was enacted by Congress on December 2, 2002. CRSC restores military retired pay that is offset when a Military Retiree accepts compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for a combat-related disability or condition. This allows eligible Retirees to concurrently receive an amount equal to or less than their length of service retirement pay and their VA-disability compensation, if the injury is combat related.

CRSC is available to Retirees from each Branch of Service. To qualify for CRSC, Retirees must meet three basic criteria: 1) they must be receiving military retired pay, 2) they must have had their military retired pay reduced by VA-disability payments (VA Waiver), and 3) they must have a 10 percent or greater VA-rated disability that can be linked to a combat-related event through official military documentation. Combat-related injuries are defined as those that are a result of armed conflict, hazardous duty, an instrumentality of war or training that simulates war.

Traumatic Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (TSGLI)

TSGLI is a congressionally mandated program that provides financial support to traumatically injured Soldiers and their Families. Qualifying Soldiers receive a tax-free payment between $25,000 and $100,000 per traumatic event based on the injury. The TSGLI benefit is not intended to serve as income replacement and will not affect other compensation determinations.

Traumatic injuries covered by TSGLI are defined as severe trauma from an external force that is physical in nature. Examples include loss of sight, paralysis, limb salvage, facial reconstruction, severe burns or loss of activities of daily living functions due to traumatic brain injuries or other traumatic injuries, which focus on the Soldier's need for assistance.

The program began on December 1, 2005, and all Soldiers from that point forward who elected SGLI pay an additional $1 for TSGLI coverage. In addition, Soldiers who incurred qualifying traumatic injuries from October 7, 2001, through November 30, 2005, while on orders overseas in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom or in a Combat Zone are covered retroactively by TSGLI, regardless of whether they had SGLI at the time of their injury.

If you or someone you know may be eligible for CRSC, visit www.crsc.army.mil. You can also call 1-866-281-3254 or e-mail crsc.info@us.army.mil with any questions regarding CRSC.

For more information about TSGLI, including detailed eligibility requirements and claim submission instructions, you can visit www.tsgli.army.mil; call 1-800-237-1336; or e-mail TSGLI@ conus.army.mil.

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Obama to Bestow Medal of Honor on Soldier Killed in Afghanistan

2009-07-26T20:35:00.001-04:00

President Barack Obama will posthumously award Army Sgt. 1st Class Jared C. Monti the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry in Afghanistan, White House officials announced Friday.

The ceremony, scheduled for Sept. 17 at the White House, will mark the first time Obama confers the highest military honor, making Monti the sixth servicemember to receive the Medal of Honor for service in Afghanistan or Iraq since Sept. 11, 2001, all of which have been awarded posthumously.

Then a staff sergeant, Monti, 30, was killed June 21, 2006, while deployed to Afghanistan with the 10th Mountain Division. He was posthumously promoted to sergeant first class.

"He displayed immeasurable courage and uncommon valor – eventually sacrificing his own life in an effort to save his comrade," according to the White House news release announcing the upcoming ceremony.

The fallen soldier's parents, Paul and Janet Monti, are scheduled to attend the White House ceremony. Monti also is survived by his sister, Niccole; his brother, Timothy; and his niece, Carys.

During his Army career, Monti earned several military decorations, including a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, five Army Commendation Medals, four Army Achievement Medals, three Good Conduct Medals, and three National Defense Service Medals.

A native of Raynham, Mass., and a graduate of Bridgewater-Raynham High School, Monti enlisted in the Army in March 1993 and attended basic training at Fort Sill, Okla. His first assignment was as a forward observer in the 10th Mountain Division's Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment.

The nonprofit Jared C. Monti Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to provide a scholarship annually to an eligible student.

The Medal of Honor has been conferred on 3,447 men and one woman since President Abraham Lincoln signed it into law on Dec. 21, 1861. It is reserved for those who are distinguished "by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States."

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service
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Ambassador Praises Task Force for Contributions in Iraq

2009-07-18T18:58:00.001-04:00

The U.S. ambassador to Iraq met with soldiers and leaders of Task Force Pathfinder here [Contingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq] July 12 to thank them for their contributions and to discuss military support of provincial reconstruction teams in Iraq.

"What we're seeing is a crucial year, and it's good to see the military working with the [provincial reconstruction teams]," Christopher R. Hill said.

The ambassador met with Army Lt. Col. Michael Eastman, commander of Task Force Pathfinder, 2nd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment. The battalion provides support to reconstruction teams in Iraq's Dhi Qar, Maysan and Muthanna provinces.

"We try to meet the central needs of each area, and every day we're making progress," said Eastman, also the deputy commander for civil capacity for 1st Armored Division's 4th Brigade.

The ambassador also met with task force soldiers and discussed the battalion's activities.

Hill acknowledged the challenges of leading the way in efforts to advise and assist. "Not only are you working with the State Department, there are about 10 other civilian agencies working out there," he said. "Coming together can be tough; it's a bit like herding cats."

Communication is key, said Army Sgt. 1st Class Robert J. Smith Jr., a cavalry scout working with a military movement team in support of the Muthanna Provincial Reconstruction Team. "We have to communicate constantly to make sure we're not in each other's way."

Hill was told about the many roles the task force soldiers take on in support of the reconstruction teams. "Soldiers are stronger and smarter than any time in the Army's 233-year history," he said. "Intelligence and adaptability are exactly what's required on today's battlefield."

The Commander's Emergency Response Program has been particularly effective, Hill noted. Program funds are applied to water, agriculture, electricity, rule of law, governance and other essential service projects requested by the Iraqi government.

"I expect to see a [program] surge," he said.

Building Iraq's economic power and helping the population become self-sustaining will win out in the end over traditional military actions, Hill said.

New infrastructure -- with an educated and entrepreneurial population -- is needed to create an environment that is peaceful and free of terrorism, he said.

"There's a cycle. We've been at this for almost seven years and people are ready to see an end [to violence]," Hill said. "I appreciate what you're doing. You're a real credit to those who want to see a secure, economically stable Iraq."

(author Army Sgt. Mark Miranda serves in the 1st Armored Division's 4th Brigade Combat Team.)
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Military Veterans Roll Into Spokane for the 29th National Veterans Wheelchair Games

2009-07-13T08:55:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- More than 500 U.S. military veterans, all wheelchair athletes competing in the 29th National Veterans Wheelchair Games are rolling into Spokane, Washington, starting today to show the nation what it takes to be the best of the best.

The event, running through Saturday July 18, is the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world, with athletes competing from 42 states, Puerto Rico and Great Britain. It is a visual demonstration of competition at its best, the courage it takes to compete, and the camaraderie inspired by all who attend.

Paralyzed Veterans of America and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs co-present this comprehensive sports and rehabilitation event each year, designed for paralyzed and other disabled military veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition. These athletes receive care at VA medical facilities or military treatment centers for conditions that include spinal cord injuries, amputations, certain neurological conditions, traumatic brain injuries and other mobility impairments. The Northwest Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans and the SpokaneVA Medical Center are hosting this week's event.

"Get ready for hundreds of smiles in wheelchairs," said Randy L. Pleva, Sr., national president, Paralyzed Veterans of America. "The Wheelchair Games are a unique combination of competition, continuing courage and camaraderie. You will be inspired."

One of today's events is the Games Kickoff, which introduces the Wheelchair Games to the Spokane community. The Kickoff takes place at 11:30 a.m. in the Spokane Convention Center Breezeway and features a wheelchair basketball demonstration that pits some of the experienced athletes against local media representatives and community officials, giving them a true taste of wheelchair sports.

The Opening Ceremonies are this evening, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Veterans Memorial Arena, near the SpokaneConvention Center. In Olympic-style fashion, the athletes will parade into the arena carrying their state flags, to begin the festivities. Local news reporter, Jade Jordan, will serve as mistress of ceremonies, and nationally acclaimed country and western singer, Amy Clawson, will sing the National Anthem; followed by welcoming remarks from city and Games' officials. To cap off the evening, the 2009 Games torch will be lit as the hosts proclaim, "Let the Games Begin," marking the official start of the 29th National Veterans Wheelchair Games.

Veterans with disabilities will compete in 17 events throughout the week, which include air guns, archery, basketball, bowling, field, handcycling, nineball, a motorized wheelchair rally, power soccer, quad rugby, softball, swimming, table tennis, track, trapshooting, weightlifting and wheelchair slalom. For the third year, stand-up events will be offered to veterans who prefer to use prosthesis to compete and will include archery and table tennis. A golf clinic will also be held as this year's exhibition sport.

Another special highlight for the Games is Kid's Day, taking place July 17 at Spokane Falls Community College. This is a very special event where athletes, serving as mentors, meet local children with disabilities and teach them about wheelchair sports. This year the children will be introduced to slalom, T-ball and basketball.

The Closing Ceremonies, beginning at 7 p.m. on July 18 at the Spokane Convention Center in Halls B and C, will wrap up the week's festivities by celebratevent, the coveted Spirit of the Games winner for the 2009 Games will be awarded, and the torch will be passed to the local organizing committee in Denver, Colorado, which will host the event in 2010.

The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is made possible in part through the generous support of the following lead sponsors: National Host: Invacare Corporation; Local Host: Veterans Canteen Service; Sustaining Host: UPS Foundation; National: The Budin Family, The DeGasperis Family Foundation, Health Net Federal Services, Inc., HP, Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc., Spokane Transit Authority, Sprint, The ROHO Group, TriWest Healthcare Alliance and Xerox Foundation.

For more information about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, please visit the Games Web site at: www.wheelchairgames.va.gov. To contact the Games media center during the week of the event, call: (509) 434-7458, or (509) 434-7459.

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Soldiers are True Heroes

2009-07-09T16:39:00.003-04:00

We received the following as a letter to the Editor. It is powerful. I know July 4th has passed but we thought you'd appreciate the sentiment. We opted not to change a single word. We're going to add this to our Patriotic Potpourri blog also. - GFP

Too often this year we've all had to make cut backs, make sacrifices. This economy forces sacrifice. But what about the greatest sacrifice of all, life? Perhaps you've heard or will hear, but many cities across the country are canceling 4th of July celebrations due to the economy.

Now, this is the part where you get to understand my bias.

My brother Cpl. Tony Mihalo, was killed 8/14/08, serving his third tour in Afghanistan. This is the part where you would say, 'I'm sorry for your loss', and I would say 'thank you.'

Save it. Let's focus on the issue at hand.

Since the death of my brother, I've been to countless military events over the last 12 months. This event has given me a new perspective on what it means to be an American. Quite overwhelming are our soldier's stories. They can't say enough times how greatful they are for our support. Support being as simple as a reminder of home including letters, energy bars, and magzines shipped by the families of those on the front lines. However, in getting to know these brave men and women, I know the support is not enough.

Read this closely, I'm not one who angers easily, but an anger grows inside me. An anger because of the support, lack of support by Americans. In this celebrity obsessed, got to have it now culture, Americans take what they have for granted. That angers me.

Perhaps its ignorance on their part, but they don't know what a military family knows. And I can only imagine how a returning soldier copes once their service contract has expired.

Have you supported a returning soldier? What have you done besides watch a parade, or the 4th of July fireworks? What have you done for our soldiers?

This country, for all the celebrities we obsess over, or need to feed our sports addiction, we should treat our soldiers like celebrities, like sports heroes. They are the heroes. They are the reason we can go to a ballpark or, watch the E! channel whenever we want without fear of death at our door.

Support our soldiers, even after they've returned. Be that person to remind them why they signed up in the first place.

Our rights came from those who gave their lives and we created a national day to celebrate. For all the billions upon trillions of dollars we spend, stop canceling 4th of July! If anything, more should be done.

July 4th should be celebrated with as much intensity as New Year's Eve. Do you remember the hope you had? What about all that love you had before the clock struck midnight? Or, were you too focused on drinking, or what celebrity was at which party? The night of New Years Eve. That amount of focus, dedication, and anticipation needs to be shifted to the 4th of July.

Forget the economy, it wouldn't be the first time.

4th of July should be the new New Year's Eve. This 4th of July, keep this thought in your head: There's a reason you can watch this year's fireworks. Because the real fireworks are on the other side of the word.

Support our soldiers.

Mike Mihalo
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Paralyzed Veterans Get 'Ready to Roll' at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games

2009-07-01T08:14:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire / -- More than 600 veterans with disabilities have signed-up to compete in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, taking place July 13-18, 2009, in Spokane, WA. Now in its 29th year, the event has grown to become the largest annual wheelchair sports event in the world. This year's competitors come from 42 states, Puerto Rico and Great Britain.

"The National Veterans Wheelchair Games are sports and rehabilitation at their best for our brave heroes," said Randy L. Pleva, Sr., national president of Paralyzed Veterans of America. "From quad rugby to handcycling, power soccer to wheelchair slalom, the Games are an exciting combination of competition, camaraderie and courage."

The Wheelchair Games, co-presented each year by Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), are open to all U.S. military veterans who use wheelchairs for sports competition due to spinal cord injuries, certain neurological conditions, amputations, traumatic brain injuries or other mobility impairments and who receive care at VA medical facilities or military treatment centers. The Northwest Chapter of Paralyzed Veterans and the Spokane VA Medical Center are hosting the 2009 Games.

Sports are an important aspect of the therapy programs used to treat many disabilities. For many injured veterans, the National Veterans Wheelchair Games provide their first exposure to wheelchair athletics. At the Games, veterans will compete in 17 different sports: air guns, archery, basketball, bowling, field, handcycling, nine ball, a motorized wheelchair relay, power soccer, quad rugby, softball, swimming, table tennis, track, trapshooting, weightlifting and wheelchair slalom. For the third year, stand-up events will be held in archery and table tennis for athletes who have amputations and choose to compete using prosthetic devices instead of their wheelchairs. A golf clinic will also be held as an exhibition sport this year.

The 29th National Veterans Wheelchair Games begin July 13 with a wheelchair basketball demonstration outside the Spokane Convention Center, as well as the 2009 Disabled Sports, Recreation and Fitness Expo. Kids Day at the Games takes place July 17 at Spokane Falls Community College, where local children with disabilities will meet the athletes and learn about wheelchair sports. Track and field events, softball and archery will also take place at the college.

This year's opening ceremonies will be held at Veterans Memorial Arena in Spokane, while closing ceremonies are at the Spokane Convention Center, where many of the week's competitive events will take place. A special block party for the athletes and their guests will be held on July 15 at C.I. Shenanigans on the Spokane river front.

Other events will be held at Lilac Lanes, North Bowl, Esmeralda Golf Course, Whitworth University, the Spokane Gun Club and other area venues. Admission is free to the public, and the community is encouraged to attend.

The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is made possible in part through the generous support of the following lead sponsors: National Host: Invacare Corporation; Local Host: Veterans Canteen Service; Sustaining Host: UPS Foundation; National: The Budin Family, The DeGasperis Family Foundation, Health Net Federal Services, Inc., HP, Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems, Inc., Spokane Transit Authority, Sprint, The ROHO Group, TriWest Healthcare Alliance and Xerox Foundation.

The theme for this year's event is "Rollin' on the River," and the veterans attending the Games in Spokane are ready to do just that. For more information about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, or to follow event results as they happen, visit the Games Web site at: http://www.wheelchairgames.va.gov/.

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World's Longest Trans-Atlantic Flats Boat Voyage Benefits Wounded Heroes

2009-06-26T13:11:00.002-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Two Florida brothers, Ralph and Robert Brown, will take to the high seas on the world's longest trans-Atlantic voyage in a 21-foot flats boat on June 27 to raise $3 million for military charities in the name of fallen Marines. The I Am Second Wounded Hero Voyage Crossing the Atlantic Presented by Interstate Batteries will embark on a 48-day, 6,200-mile trip from Tampa, Fla., to Hamburg, Germany that includes 20 stops along the North American and European Atlantic coasts.

The Browns will use the Intruder-21, the same vessel which landed them in the "Guinness Book of World Records" in 2007. The pair is out to prove the humble boat they designed and built, capable of sailing in two inches of water, can also weather the rough Atlantic seas. The trip fulfills a 29-year promise by Marine veteran Ralph Brown to honor three fallen comrades (Sgt. John D. Harvey, Cpl. George N. Holmes Jr. and Staff Sgt. Dewey L. Johnson) who died on a 1980 mission.

The brothers will sell T-shirts and attract sponsors to raise money benefitting active and retired military personnel through the USO, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, Wounded Warrior Regiment, Military Ministry, Help for Heroes (Britain) and a Canadian organization to be determined. The ambitious voyage embodies the mission of the I am Second movement and is sponsored by Interstate Batteries, which provided three of its "outrageously dependable" batteries to power the boat.

"This trip became a reality when I recently met Norm Miller at a prayer meeting," said Ralph Brown. "We had volunteers and donated gear but no major sponsors to fund the voyage until I am Second and Interstate Batteries came onboard."

Miller, Interstate Batteries Chairman, is the visionary behind I am Second, a campaign designed to help people discover their purpose in life by putting God first. On the IamSecond.com Web site, celebrities, athletes, pastors and everyday people share their personal stories of struggle, transformation and restoration.

"Ralph's incredible faith and unwavering patriotism allow him to realize this monumental voyage and remember his fallen comrades," said Miller. "These brothers embody the true meaning of I am Second and we're honored to be a part of their selfless journey."

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More info on Sgt. Jeffrey Jordan; Services Today at 11

2009-06-12T07:07:00.000-04:00

The details honoring Sgt. Jeffrey Jordan's return home are being completed. The services include:

On Thursday between 0900 and 1100, Sgt Jordan's remains will arrive at Russell Field.
A procession led by the Patriot Guard Riders will take the body to Henderson and Sons Funeral Home on Maple Street near Lindale. It is presumed the route will be Martha Berry Highway South, left on Turner McCall Boulevard, right on Broad Street to 2nd Avenue. Left onto 2nd Ave. to Maple Street to Henderson and Sons.

Visitation will be held at Henderson and Sons Thursday afternoon or evening. Contact Henderson and Sons for times.

Services will be held Friday 1100 at Pleasant Valley South Baptist Church. Interment will be afterward at Oak Knoll Cemetery.

Please check Rome News-Tribune and other news sources Wednesday and Thursday to confirm this information or any changes.

It is hoped that the community will honor and respect Sgt. Jordan by lining the procession route from Russell Field to Henderson and Sons. The Russell Field/Armuchee portion and Broad Street areas are particularly appropriate. Flags, prayers, and salutes will be warranted and everyone is encouraged to be there and have a flag.

God bless Sgt. Jordan and the family and thank you all for honoring them.

Sgt. Jeffery Jordan

2009-06-12T07:01:00.002-04:00

We received the following AFTER Sgt. Jeffery Jordan was flown home, the procession noted in the invitation is over. However, we still wanted to pass it along in hopes that possibly some in the Rome / Armuchee, Georgia area might want to look up the funeral home and attend or otherwise honor Jordan.

This is from a Facebook group:

We would like to invite everyone in our group to attend the processional honoring a great American Hero who paid the ultimate price for his country last Thursday. Sgt. Jeffery Jordan will be flown into Russell Airport in Armuchee sometime between 9am-11am Thursday June 11. We have been asked to line the streets between the Airport and Broadstreet as a sign of appreciation for his service and honor his family during their time of loss. We should honor his life and dedication to his country.

Layla Shipman
Coordinator,
Rome Tea Party Org.
Vice Chairwoman,
Rome Young Republicans
706-853-9014

Services for SFC John C. Beale, Killed in Action, Afghanistan June 4

2009-06-10T21:52:00.002-04:00

Please help honor McDonough resident Sergeant First Class John C. Beale June 11th.

This is to update you on the escort route for the body of Sergeant First Class John C. Beale who was killed in action last week in Afghanistan.

The body of Sergeant First Class John C. Beale will arrive at Falcon Field in Fayette County tomorrow, June 11, 2009, at 6 p.m. to be escorted to Cannon-Cleveland Funeral Home by the Henry County Police Department. As the family would like some time to themselves at the airport, Police do not expect to begin the procession until 6:15 at the earliest.

The following is the route (From Falcon Field in Fayette County):

Dividend Drive to Highway 74
Highway 74 to Highway 85
Highway 85 to Highway 54
Highway 54 to McDonough Rd.
McDonough Road to Jonesboro Rd.
Jonesboro Road to McDonough Square
McDonough Square to Highway 42
Highway 42 to Brannon Road to Cannon Cleveland

Please spread the word to your friends and family, as we would like all those who are able to line the streets along the route to help honor this fallen hero and give him the welcome he deserves.

Spirit of America Founder Honored by the U.S. Marine Corps‏

2009-05-27T14:37:00.004-04:00

Spirit of America's Founder and Chairman of the Board, Jim Hake, was honored by the U.S. Marine Corps on May 22nd at the Marine Barracks in Washington, DC. The host for the evening was Lieutenant General Joseph F. Dunford, Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies and Operations. General Dunford is also a long-time supporter and friend of Spirit of America.

Jim Hake met General Dunford in 2005 at Camp Pendleton, and the two discussed shipments of humanitarian aid to Iraq. A friendship was struck, and General Dunford has followed the growth and expansion of Spirit of America as it has funded over $13 million in projects over the past five years.

The Evening Parade has a long tradition and is held every Friday evening during the summer months at the oldest post of the Marine Corps, and home to the Marine Corps Commandant.

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Rolling Thunder Roars Through Nations' Capital

2009-05-26T07:03:00.003-04:00

Pam Crane sat peacefully in a patch of freshly mowed grass along Highway 27 in the nation's capital, remembering her husband, his patriotism and his cause.

She overlooked a sea of motorcycles and bandana-wearing war veterans gathered today in the Pentagon's north parking lot for the 22nd Annual Rolling Thunder rally. Each and every one of them, she said, share her husband Warren's passion to never let the nation forget that some of their battle buddies and brothers in arms never came home.

"It was his passion," Crane said. "He was the most patriotic man I'd ever met."

Warren was one of the lucky ones to make it home after serving in Vietnam, but after years of struggling with post-traumatic stress, he took his own life on May 20, 2006. The next day his widow joined Rolling Thunder and has made the trip from Knoxville, Tenn., each year since for the Memorial Day weekend ride through the nation's capitol.

The event kicked off at noon today with riders filing out of the Pentagon parking lot in pairs in a parade that led them from the Lincoln Memorial, past the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Wall, to the U.S. Capitol building and back.

"It's such a wonderful, overwhelming experience to be here and to see the flags and patriotism and all these veterans together," Crane said. "We're doing everything we can to make sure the public doesn't forget our POWs and MIAs and certainly to take care of our veterans from all the different wars that are still here."

"It's such a moving event to see so many veterans gathered together, and everyone is here to honor our fallen comrades and soldiers serving now," added Army Sgt. 1st Class (ret.) Frank Lesnefsky, from Scranton, Penn., who's participating in his fifth Rolling Thunder rally.

Rolling Thunder, Inc., is a non-profit organization with more than 88 chapters in all 50 states, which work year round to ensure the nation never forgets that American prisoners of war and missing in action still remain unaccounted for in Southeast Asia. The organization raises funds to help veterans and serves as legislative advocates on veterans' issues. Members volunteer to visit local veterans hospitals and educate people about the POW/MIA issue.

Crane said Rolling Thunder's hard work over the years is evident, as they've impacted citizens from all across the country to join and take part in advocating their cause. Bikers, such as Danny Kang, from Richmond, Va., participated in Rolling Thunder for the past two years, but unlike many of the others, he's not a veteran and doesn't come from a military family, he said.

An American pilot in the Korean War saved his grandfather, Kang said. And if it weren't for servicemembers like that pilot, who risked his own life to protect Kang's grandfather and other South Korean nationals, the world might be a lesser place, he added.

"I'm here to pay my respect and show my appreciation for all those troops who never came back," Kang said. "It's hard to imagine that troops from past wars are still not accounted for."

Dale Recker, a Vietnam War veteran from Beaver Creek, Minn., participated in his sixth Rolling Thunder today, and said it's an event he looks forward to every year. He's a founding father of the Rolling Thunder Chapter 1 in South Dakota, he said.

Recker said he will be here in Washington for Rolling Thunder every year until he's physically unable. His cousin's name is engraved on the Vietnam Veterans' War Memorial Wall, and Recker wants to ensure his cousin and others like him will always be remembered for their sacrifice.

"We don't want anyone to ever forget, and we don't want the servicemembers coming back today to be forgotten either," Recker said. "We want all our troops home, and we won't rest until every last POW and MIA is accounted for."

Photo: Bikers from all across the country pull into the Pentagon's north parking lot May 24, 2009, to participate in the 22nd Annual Rolling Thunder rally in Washington, D.C., to remind the nation that many American servicemembers who were prisoners of war or missing in action are still unaccounted for. DoD photo by Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden

Article by Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

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Oxendine: Memorial Day Message

2009-05-25T12:29:00.002-04:00

As we pause today to honor our heroes, I was moved by the wisdom of President Reagan:
President Ronald Reagan remarks at the Memorial Day Ceremony at Arlington National
Cemetery in Virginia - May 26, 1986:

"Today is the day we put aside to remember fallen heroes and to pray that no heroes
will ever have to die for us again. It's a day of thanks for the valor of others,
a day to remember the splendor of America and those of her children...It's a day
to be with the family and remember.

I know that many veterans of Vietnam will gather today, some of them perhaps by
the wall. And they're still helping each other on. They were quite a group, the
boys of Vietnam -- boys who fought a terrible and vicious war without enough support
from home, boys who were dodging bullets while we debated the efficacy of the battle.

It was often our poor who fought in that war; it was the unpampered boys of the
working class who picked up the rifles and went on the march. They learned not to
rely on us; they learned to rely on each other. And they were special in another
way: They chose to be faithful. They chose to reject the fashionable skepticism
of their time. They chose to believe and answer the call of duty. They had the
wild, wild courage of youth. They seized certainty from the heart of an ambivalent
age; they stood for something.

And we owe them something, those boys. We owe them first a promise: That just as
they did not forget their missing comrades, neither, ever, will we. And there are
other promises. We must always remember that peace is a fragile thing that needs
constant vigilance. We owe them a promise to look at the world with a steady gaze
and, perhaps, a resigned toughness, knowing that we have adversaries in the world
and challenges and the only way to meet them and maintain the peace is by staying
strong.

That, of course, is the lesson of this century, a lesson learned in the Sudetenland,
in Poland, in Hungary, in Czechoslovakia, in Cambodia. If we really care about peace,
we must stay strong. If we really care about peace, we must, through our strength,
demonstrate our unwillingness to accept an ending of the peace. We must be strong
enough to create peace where it does not exist and strong enough to protect it where
it does. That's the lesson of this century and, I think, of this day. And that's
all I wanted to say. The rest of my contribution is to leave this great place to
its peace, a peace it has earned.

Thank all of you, and God bless you, and have a day full of memories."

Today more than ever, we must embrace our heroes from World War II, Korea, Vietnam,
the Persian Gulf, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Today we remember we owe these
heroes and their families everything. Georgia must never fail to honor and serve
her veterans. Ivy and I offer our prayers to those heroes who have served America
and Georgia.

John Oxendine
Governor 2010

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Governor Perdue Hosts Memorial Day Ceremony, Orders Flags to Half-Staff

2009-05-21T15:02:00.000-04:00

Governor Sonny Perdue today hosted the annual State Memorial Day Ceremony to honor Georgia’s fallen service members and their families. The ceremony paid special tribute to ten Georgia service members killed since last year’s Memorial Day ceremony in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).

Joining the Governor at the ceremony were the families of Georgia’s fallen service members; General Charles C. Campbell, Commander, U.S. Army Command Fort McPherson; and Brigadier General Maria Britt, Georgia National Guard.

“These brave men and women who answer our nation’s call are heroes,” said Governor Perdue. “Words fail to comprehend a gratefulness that transcends expression.”

The Governor also issued an Executive Order lowering the flags on state buildings and ground to half staff from sunrise Saturday, May 23, to noon Monday, May 25. A copy of the Executive Order is included at the end of this release.

The Memorial Day Ceremony included music by the Ft. McPherson military band, a moment of silence after the reading of the names of the 10 service members, and a keynote address by General Campbell. The names read at the ceremony are included below.

Rank
Name
Theater
Date of Death
Home of Record

Master Sergeant
David N. Weaver
Afghanistan
18-May-08
Barnesville

Sergeant
Steve A. McCoy
TX (Iraq)
10-Jun-08
Moultrie

Corporal
Matthew B. Phillips
Afghanistan
13-Jul-08
Jasper

Corporal
Jonathan R. Ayers
Afghanistan
13-Jul-08
Snellville

Master Sergeant
Mitchell W. Young
Afghanistan
13-Jul-08
Jonesboro

Private First Class
Theron V. Hobbs
Iraq
6-Nov-08
Albany

First Lieutenant
William K. Jernigan
Iraq
24-Nov-08
Doraville

Private
Colman J. Meadows,III
Afghanistan
16-Dec-08
Senoia

Command Sergeant Major
Benjamin Moore, Jr.
Iraq
24-Apr-09
Waycross

Specialist
Ryan C. King
Afghanistan
1-May-09
Dallas

Flags on State Buildings and Grounds Ordered Lowered to Half Staff

Whereas: In the words of Thucydides, “The secret of happiness is freedom, and the secret of freedom, courage.” For over 230 years, this great country has depended on the courage of the men and women who unselfishly offered their lives to defend the freedoms we enjoy each and everyday; and

Whereas: On Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, we join together to pay tribute to the servicemen and women who honorably and bravely fought to protect our rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and

Whereas: On this patriotic occasion, in addition to honoring the heroes of our country’s past, it is also necessary and fitting to pay special tribute to our fellow Georgian’s who courageously served and laid down their lives in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom; and

Whereas: We are a nation of thankful citizens, forever indebted to our country’s military, and to each of those who have been called to wear the uniform of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard.

Now, therefore, in honor and as a mark of respect for the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Georgia, it is hereby

Ordered: That during the weekend immediately preceding Memorial Day, (May 23 and 24) the flag of the United States and the flag of this state shall be flown at half-staff on all state buildings and grounds.

It is further

Ordered: That on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2009, in conjunction with the Proclamation of the President of the United States of America, the flag of the United States and the flag of this state shall be flown at half-staff on all state buildings and grounds until noon.

This 21st day of May, 2009.
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Memorial Day Ceremony Honors Gwinnett's Military Heroes

2009-05-21T11:56:00.001-04:00

The public is invited to Gwinnett County’s Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 25, 2009, at 1 p.m. at the Gwinnett Fallen Heroes Memorial in Lawrenceville. This event is held each year to honor the county’s past and present military heroes and public service personnel.

Board Chairman Charles Bannister, District 1 Commissioner Shirley Lasseter and County Administrator Jock Connell will lead this year’s ceremony. Honor guard units from the Gwinnett County Corrections, Fire and Emergency Services, Police and Sheriff’s Departments and the Lawrenceville Police Department will also take part in the event. Guest speaker Brig. Gen. Daniel J. Kaufman will give this year’s keynote address. No new names will be added to the memorial this year.

The ceremony will be televised on May 25 at 7:30 p.m. on TVgwinnett. Gwinnett cable customers can access TVgwinnett on cable channel 23 or 25, depending on the cable provider. TVgwinnett programming is also available streaming and on demand at www.tvgwinnett.com, where viewers will also find a program guide.

The Fallen Heroes Memorial, located on the grounds of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center at 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville, honors all Gwinnett residents who died in the line of duty in military or public service. The memorial opened in 2003 and was built with funds from private donations and Gwinnett County government. For additional information about the Fallen Heroes Memorial, visit www.gwinnettfallenheroes.com.
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Atlanta Braves pay tribute to members of the United States Military and Armed Forces Veterans on Military Appreciation Night Saturday, May 23

2009-05-21T09:17:00.002-04:00

This Memorial Day Weekend, the Atlanta Braves will honor the United States Military and pay tribute to those have served our country on Military Appreciation Night, Saturday, May 23rd. The Atlanta Braves invited fans to join the team in sending our nation's heroes to Turner Field for Military Appreciation Night, and thanks to a generous response, nearly 1000 members of the military will attend the game free of charge. Atlanta Braves Brian McCann, Mike Gonzalez, Kenshin Kawakami, and Rafael Soriano, and the Atlanta Braves Foundation are also among those providing tickets to recognize the service and sacrifices made by members of our nation's Armed Forces. Tributes planned for Military Appreciation Night include:

• Volunteers from Operation HomeFront, an organization that supports families of those fighting overseas, will present a giant American flag from Fort McPherson during special pre-game ceremonies.

• A pre-game tribute will honor local Purple Heart recipients, including veterans from World War II, Vietnam, the Korean Conflict, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

• The 3rd Infantry Division Band from Fort Stewart, Georgia, will perform the National Anthem. The Fort Stewart Band will also entertain fans before the game from 5:30-6:30 in Fan Plaza.

• The Air Force Reserve Command's 94th Airlift Wing from Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia, will perform a flyover at the conclusion of the National Anthem.

• Nine members of the U.S. Military will "take the field" with the Atlanta Braves starting lineup to begin the game.

• An in-game ceremony will honor a local "Hometown Hero." Every game at Turner Field, the Braves "Hometown Heroes" program salutes one active military individual who has recently returned from the Middle East and has gone above and beyond in the call of duty.

• Recording artists Jessa and Alicia will lead the crowd in God Bless America during the 7th inning stretch.

Every game at Turner Field, members of the military can receive a 2-for-1 ticket offer on Upper Box seats by showing their military ID at the Turner Field ticket windows.

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Officials Dedicate Humanitarian Relief Corridor in Pentagon

2009-05-20T11:12:00.002-04:00

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates helped to dedicate a Pentagon corridor here yesterday that recognizes the efforts of America's men and women in uniform to bring hope to people in need of help around the world.

The "Humanitarian Relief Efforts at Home and Abroad" corridor has exhibits highlighting 27 major events, from the late 1940s to the present day, in which Defense Department personnel brought aid and comfort to those in need.

"The U.S. military is the greatest fighting force in the world – but there is another side to what they do," Gates said. "That side is represented in this exhibit. The suffering caused by war and natural disaster prompts a compassionate nation to respond."

The exhibit's displays include photographs from the operations, written words explaining what happened, and three-dimensional objects such as simulated mud, snow, debris, trees and containers with food and supplies.

"These vivid displays take us around the world, and back in time, to understand more about the relief operations of our military," Gates said. "Some of these missions of mercy have been carried out on foreign soil, others here in the United States. Some are legendary; many more deserve to be."

Gates mentioned the 462-day Berlin Airlift in 1948-49, in which U.S. and allied forces dropped food and supplies to a city blockaded by the Soviet Union. Many Berliners' lives may have been saved by the U.S. forces' actions, and 31 American servicemen gave their lives in the process.

Gates also spoke about the help U.S. forces provided Hungarians fleeing Soviet forces in 1956. He noted that the military has been increasingly involved in different types of humanitarian operations and has become more active in delivering humanitarian aid during disasters around the world.

"The scale and scope of these missions has widened over the decades," Gates said. "Our servicemen and women have responded to natural disasters on our own shores, from forest fires and blizzards to Hurricane Katrina, and have gone to every corner of the globe in the wake of tsunamis, earthquakes, mudslides and floods."

The secretary pointed out that military humanitarian operations are part of a broader effort that requires cooperation with other branches of government.

"In all of these missions, the military plays an important role – not necessarily in the lead, but in support of and partnership with the civilian agencies of our government," Gates said. "Today's broad range of activities requires close cooperation between civil and military institutions, whether we are talking about a hospital ship, the USNS Comfort, which has provided health care to thousands of people in Latin America and the Caribbean, or civil affairs teams in eastern Africa."

While the military's "fancy technology and lift capability" help to make humanitarian operations possible, Gates credited the men and women in uniform and "their desire to make something good and decent happen, even amid situations of chaos and destruction" for also helping to accomplish the missions.

As an example of this desire to help people, Gates pointed to Air Force Col. Gail S. Halvorsen, who earned worldwide acclaim as the "Candy Bomber" during the Berlin Airlift. While flying missions during the airlift, Halvorsen began dropping chocolate bars with tiny parachutes to Berlin's children. His actions earned him the love and gratitude of Berliners and the acclaim of people in the United States and throughout the free world.

Halvorsen was on hand to help to dedicate the corridor, and he also spoke during the ceremony. He reminisced about his experiences and how he was inspired by some German children he met at the Berlin fence in 1948 who told him, "Someday, we'll have enough to eat. But if we lose our freedom, we'll never have it back."

Feeling the need to do something extra to help Berlin's children, Halvorsen began dropping candy to them, and his deeds earned him his Candy Bomber nickname, along with others such as "Chocolate Pilot" and "Uncle Wiggly Wings."

Halvorsen spoke of a visit back to Europe in 1998, when he was approached by a man who remembered being a boy in Berlin and having one of the chocolates drop out of the clouds on a parachute. "It wasn't the chocolate that was important," the man told Halvorsen. "What was important was that someone in America knew that I was in trouble. Somebody cared. ... I can live on thin rations, but not without hope. Without hope, the soul dies."

Halvorsen said the efforts of those who took part in the Berlin airlift not only resulted in gaining the gratitude of the German people, but also helped to fulfill the U.S. forces who had an opportunity to be of service to others and put service before themselves.

"That's what this wall is; that's what this exhibit is," Halvorsen said. "It's service before self, and we see that today in our men and women serving right now."

In addition to Gates and Halvorsen, Michael L. Rhodes, acting director of administration and management in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, spoke during the ceremony.

"This is truly a special day," he said. "It's a day when we pay tribute to the men and women who have carried out the mission of the department during times of need. These men and women have displayed good will assisting civilians not only in our great nation but around the world."

Former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld also attended the ceremony. Rumsfeld had the initial idea for the corridor in November 2005.

By John Valceanu
American Forces Press Service

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American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial Reaches 90% of Fundraising Goal

2009-05-20T09:06:00.002-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Disabled Veterans' LIFE Memorial Foundation, Inc. has secured 90 percent of funding needed to break ground on the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial (AVDLM) in Washington DC, announced the Foundation's Co-founder and Chairperson Lois Pope. With the final phase of the fundraising campaign now kicking into gear, Pope added that $5.9 million must still be raised through corporate and individual donations before the Memorial can become a reality.

Unlike other war and veteran memorials, the AVDLM will be dedicated to both living and deceased disabled veterans, including army, navy, air force, marines and coast guard. The focal point of the Memorial design will be a star-shaped reflecting pool, its surface broken by a single eternal flame. A grove of trees will stand sentry beside the pool, symbolizing the persistence of hope. Michael Vergason Landscape Architects, Ltd., of Alexandria, Virginia, designed the Memorial following a national invitational design competition.

“When Congress approved the Memorial for Washington DC and President Clinton signed it into law, one of the stipulations was that 100 percent of the money needed to design, build and maintain the Memorial had to come from private donations,” said Pope. “And the Foundation, which was created to raise these funds, must have all the funds in place before construction can begin. We're almost there.”

The Memorial will command an impressive two-acre site between Washington Avenue SW, C Street SW and Second Street SW, in Washington DC. It will be within full view of the United States Capitol, adjacent to the National Mall, and across from Independence Avenue and the United States Botanic Garden.

“It is important to remember that of the 26 million American veterans living across the world today, three million are permanently disabled from injuries suffered in our nation's defense,” said actor, director and musician Gary Sinise, the Memorial's national spokesperson. ”It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to recognize the sacrifices that our country's disabled veterans have made on behalf of us all.”

The Foundation anticipates breaking ground on the Memorial in 2010. The Disabled Veterans' LIFE Memorial Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit and donations are deductible to the fullest extent of the law. To make a donation, or for more information, visit www.avdlm.org.

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NCO shares his love of the Army with school children

2009-05-19T20:22:00.005-04:00

As a group of students from Blackmon Road Middle School mingle around him, Staff Sgt. Terry Jones, a platoon sergeant in Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, holds the group’s guidon at Essenbager Field, on Kelley Hill at Fort Benning, Ga., May 12. The seventh graders spent the day with Soldiers of the 3rd BSTB, learning about what life as a Soldier is about.

As seventh graders from Blackmon Road Middle School filed off their school buses and made their way down to Essenbager Field, Staff Sgt. Terry Jones, a platoon sergeant in Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, stood perfectly still. The red guidon in his right hand was held firmly and he stared stoically forward as the children in his platoon flowed around him. Many made jokes and giggled at his military bearing, not knowing what to make of it.

“I wanted to show the pride I held for the organization,” he said. “For that day, red platoon was my organization. It was their organization. They needed to see that as long as that guidon was standing tall, they would be to.”

For many of those students, their field trip to Kelley Hill, May 12, was a day away from school. For Jones, it was a chance to represent the organization he has made his life.

“The news shows positive images of what we do,” he said. “These kids see us serving our country, saving lives and fighting for freedom on the news. I just wanted to maintain that and give them a live example of that.”

For one day, Jones was allowed to let the students into his world. It was an opportunity, he enjoyed.

“I know there were a lot of future Soldiers in that group,” he said. “The Army has taken me all over the world, taken care of my family and helped give my life discipline. I just hope the example I set that day helped give one of those children the same opportunity I was given.”

Jones was given the opportunity to give his platoon a mock physical training session, show them the equipment he and his fellow Soldiers use to accomplish their missions and let the students try on his gear.

“We take that stuff for granted and don’t realize how special it is,” he said. “As Soldiers we can get side-tracked by taskings and extra-duties. It can be frustrating. Days like that allow us to get back to having the same pride we had when we first joined.”

Jones believes that being around civilians can help Soldiers rediscover why they became Soldiers.

“I saw some of my lesser motivated Soldiers take pride in what they do during that event,” he said. “Everyone was very professional and took pride in what they did. We don’t see how important what we do is, sometimes. Events like that remind us.”

Jones is quick to point out that in five years, many of those students will be making the decision to join the Army.

“It’s not a long time,” he said. “You just hope you made the right impression and helped bring a quality person to the organization.”

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Armed Forces Day Presidential Proclamation

2009-05-16T08:45:00.002-04:00

On Armed Forces Day, 1961, President Kennedy connected civic engagement and our Nation's security. He stated, "the strength of our armed forces rests not alone upon their active and reserve members, our industrial productivity, and our human resources, but also upon the understanding and support of an informed American people." Based on this perspective, I call upon all Americans to learn more about, and express gratitude for, the heroic efforts of our men and women in uniform.

Today, the United States military serves across the world to keep us safe. They are working here at home to protect America from threats foreign and domestic; they are risking their lives in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan; and they are also serving bravely in many other parts of the world to ensure our security and provide humanitarian assistance. Members of the Armed Forces are forging a better future for our Nation and the world.

As they carry out their missions, military families endure the sacrifice of their absence. Worrying about their safety, moving to new duty stations, and managing a home without a loved one, these families shoulder great burdens as they help sustain our men and women in uniform. I thank military families for their vital contributions.

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coastguardsmen who have answered the call to service deserve recognition and gratitude. They have endured the most difficult of conditions to protect America and her highest ideals. Today, I ask all Americans to know their sacrifice and join me in humble thanks.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the United States, continuing the precedent of my predecessors in office, do hereby proclaim the third Saturday of each May as Armed Forces Day.

I direct the Secretary of Defense on behalf of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Secretary of Homeland Security on behalf of the Coast Guard, to plan for appropriate observances each year, with the Secretary of Defense responsible for soliciting the participation and cooperation of civil authorities and private citizens.

I invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to provide for the observance of Armed Forces Day within their jurisdiction each year in an appropriate manner designed to increase public understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces of the United States.

I also invite national and local veterans, civic and other organizations to join in the observance of Armed Forces Day each year.

Finally, I call upon all Americans to display the flag of the United States at their homes on Armed Forces Day and urge citizens to learn more about military service by attending and participating in the local observances of the day. I also encourage Americans to volunteer at organizations that provide support to our troops.

Proclamation 7562 of May 16, 2002, is hereby superseded.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

BARACK OBAMA

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Remembrance: A Memorial Exhibit on May 22-June 30

2009-05-15T10:23:00.001-04:00

The Savannah District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Coastal Georgia Center present Remembrance: A Memorial Exhibit on May 22-June 30, Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. at the Coastal Georgia Center. The exhibit is dedicated to U.S. servicemen and women who have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan and to those who continue to serve. Admission to the event is free.

Remembrance: A Memorial Exhibit, a Merilee Bowers Installation, represents a collective, collaborative artistic response to loss that honors fallen servicemen and women, as well as those who continue to serve. Initially conceived as a “living” exhibit, the memorial gives students and family members an arena in which they can create, in unity, a meaningful, collaborative work of art. It engages the viewers to bring awareness to those who have sacrificed their lives in the war.

There are two events held in conjunction with Remembrance: A Memorial Exhibit. On Tuesday, May 19, Figure Creature Workshops will be held at the Fort Stewart Youth Center at 4-5:30 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m., and on Tuesday, June 30, Executive Director Merilee Bowers presents “Engage Your Community Through Art” at Fort Stewart’s Club Stewart at 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.

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Atlanta: Veterans Remembrance Day Honors Service Men and Women

2009-05-07T08:51:00.001-04:00

Veterans Share Personal Wartime Experiences with Atlanta History Center Visitors on May 24, 2009

Join the Atlanta History Center to celebrate Veterans Remembrance Day on Sunday, May 24, 2008 from 12:00 to 5:00 pm.

This special program, funded by the Fulton County Arts Council, provides a unique opportunity for History Center guests of all ages to meet and honor the contributions of veterans of World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and today's conflicts as they share memorabilia and personal stories of triumphs and tragedies.

Throughout the day, visitors interact with both veterans and living history interpreters who represent the various branches of the United States Armed Forces. Both share stories about battles and military strategies of the various wars through displays of authentic dress, equipment, and vehicles.

Additional offerings include special presentations of The Americans on D-Day, which makes extensive use of smart graphics and veteran’s recollections; and Papa Said, ‘We Should Never Forget’ the true story of World War II’s unlikeliest heroes, including one young girl who, with her family and fellow villagers, put their lives on the line to assist the Allied soldiers in the fight for freedom. For more information on this program, please call 404.814.4000 or visit www.AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/VRD.

This program is free with the price of general Atlanta History Center admission. Visitors with military ID are admitted free.

Special thanks to the Atlanta World War II Roundtable for their support.

ABOUT THE ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER:
Founded in 1926, the Atlanta History Center is an all-inclusive thirty-three acre destination featuring the Atlanta History Museum, one of the Southeast’s largest history museums; two historic houses, the 1928 Swan House and the Tullie Smith Farm; the Centennial Olympic Games Museum; the Kenan Research Center; the Grand Overlook event space; Chick-Fil-A at the Coca-Cola Café, a museum shop, and acres of historic gardens and trails. In addition, the History Center operates the Margaret Mitchell House. Located in Midtown Atlanta, the two-acre campus features tours of the house and apartment where Margaret Mitchell wrote her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Gone With the Wind, an exhibit highlighting the life and times of Margaret Mitchell, a Gone with the Wind movie exhibit, and a museum shop. For more information on Atlanta History Center offerings, hours of operation, and admission, please call 404.814.4000 or visit AtlantaHistoryCenter.com.
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Join Atlanta Braves Players and the Atlanta Braves Foundation in Providing Tickets for Members of the Armed Forces on Military Appreciation Night

2009-05-06T11:42:00.002-04:00

Join Atlanta Braves Players and the Atlanta Braves Foundation in Providing Tickets for Members of the Armed Forces on Military Appreciation Night, Saturday, May 23rd

The Atlanta Braves are inviting fans to join the team in sending our nation's heroes to a game at Turner Field free of charge. Local businesses and individuals can provide members of the military with free entry on Military Appreciation Night, Saturday, May 23rd, by making a donation of tickets to the Atlanta Braves Foundation.

Donors of 25 tickets or more will receive four tickets to attend the game, along with recognition for their donation on the Golden Moon Casino Level LED boards.

Atlanta Braves Brian McCann, Mike Gonzalez, Kenshin Kawakami, and Rafael Soriano, and the Atlanta Braves Foundation will be among those providing tickets to recognize the service and sacrifices made by members of our nation's Armed Forces. Businesses or individuals who would like to take part in Military Appreciation Night by making ticket donations can go to www.braves.com/military or call 404-614-1444.

Special pre-game ceremonies on Military Appreciation Night will include a tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country, a performance by the Fort Stewart Army Band and a military fly over at the conclusion of the National Anthem.

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Celebrate the U.S. Army Birthday, Tell Your Army Story

2009-05-06T10:46:00.002-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--This June, Soldiers, Veterans, families, and supporters will celebrate the U.S. Army turning 234 years strong. In keeping with the tradition of celebration, the U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute, the Army’s official “Thank You” commendation program, is welcoming submissions of stories including accomplishments, memorable moments, and lessons learned, by those in the Army family.

The U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute Web site, www.freedomteamsalute.com, will feature a selection of compelling submissions, which will also be included in the special e-salute U.S. Army Birthday edition.

“The Army has a long and proud history, one that is celebrated by installations and commands all over the world,” explained Colonel David Griffith, Director, U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute. “We are asking for story submissions so that we can capture the accomplishments and defining moments of our Soldiers, Veterans, families, and supporters.”

Submissions should be 500 words or less and submitted by Friday, June 5.

Topics can be (but are not limited to):

* A defining moment in your Army life
* A lesson learned from the Army
* How the Army changed your life
* The reason you decided to join the Army
* Your most memorable Noncommissioned Officer

To submit a story, please go to:

https://www.freedomteamsalute.com/people/armystory.aspx.

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Soldiers' Angels Receives Combined Federal Campaign Approval

2009-04-29T08:42:00.001-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- National military support nonprofit Soldiers' Angels proudly announces its inclusion in the 2009 Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), an effort to encourage philanthropy among United States Government employees. This opportunity increases the organization's visibility and respectability, building on its growing reputation for providing a wide variety of powerful and personalized support for service members, military families and veterans of all branches.

During the yearly "campaign season" of September 1 through December 15, CFC provides federal civil servants, military personnel, political appointees and elected politicians with a list of verified and respectable charities they can be confident in supporting. Donations are collected through payroll deductions, offering employees the chance to make gifts that add up to substantial support over a twelve-month period.

Soldiers' Angels founder Patti Patton-Bader is excited to be included in the upcoming campaign. "We've been working very hard to meet CFC's guidelines and we are so thrilled to be a part of the campaign this year. It makes it so much easier for people to donate to Soldiers' Angels and will help us continue the important work of taking care of our military and their families."

As a CFC-approved charity, Soldiers' Angels has been subject to extensive review of its financial and governance practices, auditing performance and program activities, ensuring federal employees can be confident in supporting the organization. The approved status also gives Soldiers' Angels the opportunity to participate in meetings, exhibits and other events hosted at federal agencies and departments during campaign season, including providing speakers and other representatives.

Established in 2003, Soldiers' Angels is a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) providing aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard, as well as veterans and military families through a wide variety of hands-on projects and volunteerism. For more information, see www.soldiersangels.org or call 615-676-0239. Tax ID# 20-0583415. CFC# 25131.

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Ryan Klesko Highlights Arbor Day Celebration

2009-04-16T12:24:00.000-04:00

Baseball great Ryan Klesko will make a special appearance at Georgia’s official 2009 National Arbor Day Ceremony on Friday, April 24, in Milledgeville. Klesko will be the keynote speaker at the annual event which is co-hosted by the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and Department of Veterans Service at Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery. The public is urged to attend the observance, which begins at 11:00 a.m., and features a commemorative tree planting in honor of all veterans.

“National Arbor Day is an opportunity to acknowledge two valuable American resources,” said Robert Farris, Director of the GFC. “We salute our veterans, who have provided protection to our great country. And, with Georgia tree farmer and baseball hero Ryan Klesko’s support, we recognize the importance of trees, which provide clean air, clean water, and abundant products for every American.”

Ryan Klesko and his fellow Major League baseball colleague, John Smoltz, co-own 1600 acres of Georgia forest land, known as “Big K Farm.” In 2008, the property became the first location to be accepted in the new Georgia Carbon Registry, which provides landowners with official carbon storage and accumulation records that may be used in the emerging market for the sale of carbon offset credits. Trees remove and store an estimated 62 million tons of carbon dioxide annually from Georgia’s atmosphere.

In addition to comments by Klesko and Farris, the ceremony will include a performance by the Georgia Military Band and free GFC tree seedlings will be distributed, while they last.
Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located in Milledgeville on Highway 112 (Vinson Highway). For detailed directions and further information about the ceremony and about services of the GFC, visit GaTrees.org. For more information about Georgia’s Carbon Sequestration Registry, visit gacarbon.org.
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Lockheed Martin Provides Major Sponsorship Gift for Expansion of National Museum of the Marine Corps

2009-04-16T07:07:00.002-04:00

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation has announced a donation of $10 million from Lockheed Martin, the world’s leading global security company. The 10-year Lockheed Martin gift will expand the National Museum of the Marine Corps’ Education and Community Outreach Programs, as well as add a large-screen theater to the Museum complex. The gift significantly advances the Foundation’s efforts to raise $85 million for the completion of the National Museum and Marine Corps Heritage Center in Quantico, Virginia.

Robert J. Stevens, Lockheed Martin’s Chairman, President, and CEO said, “Our nation needs a strong Marine Corps, one built on a rich heritage dating back before our nation was born. This project will combine Marine Corps heritage with professional development to address the most challenging issues we face today. We are pleased that our commitment to the National Museum of the Marine Corps will support the completion of this important resource for the Corps and the nation.”

“We are deeply grateful to Lockheed Martin for its exemplary generosity and social responsibility,“ said LtGen Ron Christmas, USMC (Ret), President and Chief Executive Officer of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. “This wonderful gesture will help the Foundation to fulfill its vision of bringing forth a multi-dimensional, world-class facility to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, from across our Nation, time and time again.”

Retired Sergeant Major of the Marine Corp John Estrada, now a project manager for Lockheed Martin, helped announce the contribution. He noted, “Understanding our history and how we can build on it helps Marines be creative, innovative and able to adapt to changing world situations, and continue to be the world’s best fighting force.”

The Museum depicts America’s history as seen through the eyes of Marines since the founding of the Marine Corps in 1775. Contributing to the professional development of Marines, Lockheed Martin is also sponsoring the Foundation’s popular “An Evening with…” lecture series, with distinguished speakers addressing current world topics with students of the Marine Corps University, business and community leaders, and members of the public.

The addition of a large-screen theater will help expand the visitor appeal and educational impact of the Museum through the screening of action-oriented films themed on the Marine Corps and the corresponding history of our nation.

Related plans for project completion include: installation of interactive exhibits that will fully chronicle the contributions of the United States Marine Corps from its 1775 founding to the present day; the construction of a memorial park and chapel offering visitors opportunities of remembrance and reflection; completion of the National Museum structure; and the implementation of visitor programs focused on education. To see plans and video illustrating expansion of the Marine Corps Heritage Center, visit www.MarineHeritage.org.

Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Marine Corps history, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation was established in 1979 as a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization. The Foundation supports the historical programs of the Marine Corps in ways not possible through government funds. The Foundation provides grants and scholarships for research and the renovation, restoration, and commissioning of historical Marine Corps artifacts and landmarks. Securing the necessary funding for the complete construction of the National Museum of the Marine Corps and Heritage Center is the Foundation’s current primary mission while continuing to provide program support for the Corps’ historical, museum, and educational activities.

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Coalition Forces' Word Builds Solid Foundation at Iraqi School

2009-04-12T21:40:00.001-04:00

School officials and students took part in a ceremony at Michal al-Hurria, a small school in the Abu Ghraib district in Baghdad , to honor the hard work of coalition forces who were instrumental in renovating the school.

"The building was constructed in 1970 and has not received any repairs or upgrades since its opening," a spokesman for the school principal said.

The pipes were leaky and the wires were frayed, the spokesman said, but hopes for the renovation remained.

"Teachers have tried for many years to get the school repaired, and many have made promises, but none have kept their word but the [coalition forces]," the spokesman said.

Standing in front of the school, the principal's spokesman thanked the coalition forces and said they demonstrated dedication and put it into action. The school's needs were tremendous, he added, and the coalition forces delivered.

"The school was in pretty bad shape," said Army Capt. Jackie Manton, a native of Baton Rouge, La., and officer in charge of the 225th Engineer Brigade's Task Force Iron Paxton. "Some of the things replaced were sewer pipes, broken windows, water pumps, water coolers, electrical sockets and switches. Generators and window-type air conditioners were also added."

The principal's spokesman said the school never had witnessed a renovation program. The renovation has made the staff and students very happy, he added, and they owe their deepest gratitude to all those involved in the process.

"The renovation of the school has motivated us and given us the confidence to keep it up," one teacher said.

Although a majority of the renovations have been completed, a few things still need to be done, such as adding a playground for the kids. "When the 225th Engineer Brigade's name is put on something," Manton said, "we want to make sure it is done right."

(author Army Staff Sgt. Peter Ford serves in the Multinational Division Baghdad public affairs office.)
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