Just A Veteran

I am a veteran. There are many like me. We are not the government's veterans, we are your veterans. Some of us gave all, but all gave some and we have known hardship, service, fear, and brotherhood in ways that most people can't even imagine. We have seen our brothers killed and maimed, and sometimes become disfigured along the way. We have taken lives for our country, and returned to our lives as your neighbors, fathers, and native sons. Our courage is undeniable, yet it remains a trait we keep in silent humility, sharing only with a fellow veteran, if at all.

We don't ask for much but there are two things we will ask if you love this country as much as those of us who have sacrificed so much, many who have given their last full measure.

Pray for those of us who remain and never, ever forget those who rest now in cemeteries all over this beautiful land and on foreign soil, and those who remain in battlefields known but to God.

We are the thousands who fought for you, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives, loved ones who answered the call to protect and defend this greatest nation on God's green earth.

For all those currently serving in harms way;

Soldiers Prayer Psalm 91

O Lord Most High, help me to dwell in your secret place and abide under Your shadow.

Help me to believe and say out loud for everyone to hear that You are my refuge and my fortress; that You are my God; and that in You I put my trust.

O Lord God Almighty, please deliver me from hidden traps and diseases.

Father God, cover me with Your camouflage; hide me under Your wings; and let Your truth be my shield and buckler against the fiery darts—the lies—of the enemy.

Lord Jesus, help me not to be afraid of terrorists' attacks in the night; or weapons that fly by day; or sicknesses that walk in darkness; or destruction that wastes at noonday.

O Holy God, though a thousand fall at my side, and ten thousand fall at my right hand; please let it not come close to me and my companions.

O Lord Most High, let me live to see the reward of the wicked, because You are my refuge and my home. Let no evil conquer me and let no plague come into my house or near my family.

O Lord, my Strength and my Redeemer, please set angels over me to keep me in all Your ways, to bear me up in their hands and to keep my feet from stumbling.

Father God, help me to tread upon the lion and adder and trample the young lion and the dragon under my feet.

Lord Jesus, I love you with all my heart and I know Your name. Deliver me and lift me on high to soar with the eagles. I call upon you to be with me in times of trouble to deliver and honor me because I know Your name.

Please show me Your salvation and satisfy me with a long life.

I ask this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ

Amen.

Vigilia Pretium Libertatis

Fortis cadere, cedere non potest

Sleep well my son....

It's the Veteran

H/T Snooper.

It is the VETERAN not the preacher, who has
given us freedom of religion.
It is the VETERAN , not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the VETERAN , not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the VETERAN , not the campus organizer,
who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the VETERAN , not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the VETERAN , not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the VETERAN who salutes the Flag,

It is the veteran who serves under the Flag,

 ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM. 

I'd be EXTREMELY proud if this email reached as many as possible. We can be very proud of our young men and women in the service no matter where they serve.

God Bless them all!!!

Unsterile equipment used on Miami veterans

H/T Texas Fred.

More than 3,000 who had colonoscopies at VA hospital told to get HIV tests

MIAMI - Officials say more than 3,000 patients at a Veterans Affairs hospital in Miami had colonoscopies with equipment that wasn’t properly sterilized

They’ve been told they should be tested for HIV and other diseases.

The VA insists the risk of infection is minimal and only involved tubing on equipment, not any device that actually touched a patient. But it’s the second recent announcement of errors during colonoscopies at VA facilities.

Last month, more than 6,000 patients at a clinic in Tennessee were told they may have been exposed to infectious body fluids during colonoscopies.

The VA also said 1,800 veterans treated at an ear, nose and throat clinic in Augusta, Ga., were alerted they could have been exposed to an infection due to improper disinfection of an instrument.

SOURCE:
Unsterile equipment used on Miami veterans

This is nothing less than a travesty. Our veterans have given this nation everything they have, their health, their sanity, their arms, legs, eyes, they have given us everything they have to give, they answered the call. This is how WE take care of THEM?

We had documented cases of veteran neglect during the Bush administration, and we were led to believe that those problems were being fully addressed and dealt with. I have been hammering on this for a long time now, this was one of the stories I posted, Gov’t Struggles to Cope With Wounded GIs. The government has a responsibility to COPE with these warriors, these guys have earned the very best of care and nothing less, but what do they get? VA links poor care to 19 deaths at Ill. hospital.
About a year ago I went off on this tale of woe:

Maybe it wasn’t a deliberate attempt, maybe it’s all been just a terrible coincidence, maybe some of the deplorable conditions at some VA hospitals, conditions that have been documented, maybe that was just administrative oversight, the VA has their mission definition, and the utmost care of our Vets is their #1 priority, right?? VA lying about number of veteran suicides

 

The American Legion Strongly Opposed to President's Plan to Charge Wounded Heroes for Treatment

UPDATE:  FOX:  Obama drops controversial health care plan for wounded veterans.

Obama steps in it again.


WASHINGTON, March 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The leader of the nation's largest veterans organization says he is "deeply disappointed and concerned" after a meeting with President Obama today to discuss a proposal to force private insurance companies to pay for the treatment of military veterans who have suffered service-connected disabilities and injuries. The Obama administration recently revealed a plan to require private insurance carriers to reimburse the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in such cases.

"It became apparent during our discussion today that the President intends to move forward with this unreasonable plan," said Commander David K. Rehbein of The American Legion. "He says he is looking to generate $540-million by this method, but refused to hear arguments about the moral and government-avowed obligations that would be compromised by it."

The Commander, clearly angered as he emerged from the session said, "This reimbursement plan would be inconsistent with the mandate '... to care for him who shall have borne the battle...' given that the United States government sent members of the armed forces into harm's way, and not private insurance companies. I say again that The American Legion does not and will not support any plan that seeks to bill a veteran for treatment of a service connected disability at the very agency that was created to treat the unique need of America's veterans!"

Commander Rehbein was among a group of senior officials from veterans service organizations joining the President, White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emmanuel, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki and Steven Kosiak, the overseer of defense spending at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The group's early afternoon conversation at The White House was precipitated by a letter of protest presented to the President earlier this month. The letter, co-signed by Commander Rehbein and the heads of ten colleague organizations, read, in part, " There is simply no logical explanation for billing a veteran's personal insurance for care that the VA has a responsibility to provide. While we understand the fiscal difficulties this country faces right now, placing the burden of those fiscal problems on the men and women who have already sacrificed a great deal for this country is unconscionable."

Commander Rehbein reiterated points made last week in testimony to both House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees. It was stated then that The American Legion believes that the reimbursement plan would be inconsistent with the mandate that VA treat service-connected injuries and disabilities given that the United States government sends members of the armed forces into harm's way, and not private insurance companies.

The proposed requirement for these companies to reimburse the VA would not only be unfair, says the Legion, but would have an adverse impact on service-connected disabled veterans and their families. The Legion argues that, depending on the severity of the medical conditions involved, maximum insurance coverage limits could be reached through treatment of the veteran's condition alone. That would leave the rest of the family without health care benefits. The Legion also points out that many health insurance companies require deductibles to be paid before any benefits are covered. Additionally, the Legion is concerned that private insurance premiums would be elevated to cover service-connected disabled veterans and their families, especially if the veterans are self-employed or employed in small businesses unable to negotiate more favorable across-the-board insurance policy pricing. The American Legion also believes that some employers, especially small businesses, would be reluctant to hire veterans with service-connected disabilities due to the negative impact their employment might have on obtaining and financing company health care benefits.

"I got the distinct impression that the only hope of this plan not being enacted," said Commander Rehbein, "is for an alternative plan to be developed that would generate the desired $540-million in revenue. The American Legion has long advocated for Medicare reimbursement to VA for the treatment of veterans. This, we believe, would more easily meet the President's financial goal. We will present that idea in an anticipated conference call with White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emmanuel in the near future.

"I only hope the administration will really listen to us then. This matter has far more serious ramifications than the President is imagining," concluded the Commander.

SOURCE The American Legion

Obama Wants Wounded War Vets To Pay Medical Costs

H/T Pat Dollard.

CNN:

Senators slam plan for wounded vets to use private insurance

WASHINGTON — Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki confirmed Tuesday that the Obama administration is considering a controversial plan to make veterans pay for treatment of service-related injuries with private insurance.

But the proposal would be “dead on arrival” if it’s sent to Congress, Sen. Patty Murray, D-Washington, said.
Murray used that blunt terminology when she told Shinseki that the idea would not be acceptable and would be rejected if formally proposed. Her remarks came during a hearing before the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs about the 2010 budget.

No official proposal to create such a program has been announced publicly, but veterans groups wrote a pre-emptive letter last week to President Obama voicing their opposition to the idea after hearing the plan was under consideration.

The groups also cited an increase in “third-party collections” estimated in the 2010 budget proposal — something they said could be achieved only if the Veterans Administration started billing for service-related injuries.

Asked about the proposal, Shinseki said it was under “consideration.”

“A final decision hasn’t been made yet,” he said.

Currently, veterans’ private insurance is charged only when they receive health care from the VA for medical issues that are not related to service injuries, like getting the flu.

Charging for service-related injuries would violate “a sacred trust,” Veterans of Foreign Wars spokesman Joe Davis said. Davis said the move would risk private health care for veterans and their families by potentially maxing out benefits paying for costly war injury treatments.

A second senator, North Carolina Republican Richard Burr, said he agreed that the idea should not go forward.

“I think you will give that up” as a revenue stream if it is included in this April’s budget, Burr said.
Murray said she’d already discussed her concerns with the secretary the previous week.

“I believe that veterans with service-connected injuries have already paid by putting their lives on the line,” Murray said in her remarks. “I don’t think we should nickel and dime them for their care.”

Eleven of the most prominent veterans organizations have been lobbying Congress to oppose the idea. In the letter sent last week to the president, the groups warned that the idea “is wholly unacceptable and a total abrogation of our government’s moral and legal responsibility to the men and women who have sacrificed so much.”

The groups included The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
At the time, a White House spokesman would neither confirm nor deny the option was being considered.

Flashback:
Pres. Bush increased the VA budget by 56% from 2001 to 2008

Petty and Paralyzed Veterans of America

Pettys work with vets

Petty Enterprises has extended its partnership with the Paralyzed Veterans of America through the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup season.

“Our membership has been behind this program from day one and we’re excited to continue this into 2009,” said Randy L. Pleva Sr., president of the Paralyzed Veterans. “Our partnership with Petty Enterprises has been great.

“We’ve seen an increase in awareness about our mission since we aligned with The King,” he added, referring to longtime NASCAR star and team owner Richard Petty.

The organization will be featured on the Petty cars at Daytona on July 4 and at Texas on Veterans Day.

Since the partnership began in 2006, Petty has made numerous trips to VA Hospitals across the country, hosted Paralyzed Veterans members at racetracks, and attended fundraising events in an effort to increase awareness of the organization.

In 2008, the relationship grew to include Kyle Petty, Richard’s son and a NASCAR driver.

“I’m proud of the way that this program has continued to grow because this is a partnership that goes beyond racing,” Richard Petty said. “Paralyzed Veterans continues to do outstanding work with America’s service members and veterans in a time when they really need its help.”

President Bush's Final Veteran's Day Speech as C-I-C

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all. Thank you for the warm welcome. Be seated. Charles and Rich, thanks a lot. I gratefully accept the Freedom Award. And I'm honored to be with you today as we rededicate a great monument to freedom: the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. At this ceremony, we recognize nearly 55,000 Americans who served aboard the USS Intrepid, including some who are here today. And we commemorate Veterans Day by honoring all those who have worn the uniform of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps. Thank you for serving our great nation. (Applause.)

I am proud to be traveling with the First Lady of the United States, Laura Bush -- (applause) -- the most patient woman in America. (Laughter.) Governor, thank you for joining us; Secretary Kempthorne. Senator Hillary Clinton, I'm proud to be with you. Thank you for being here. (Applause.) Congressman Pete King, Congressman Charlie Rangel, Congress Anthony Weiner -- thank you all for joining us today. Looking forward to that lame-duck session, aren't we? (Laughter.)

What an awesome guy General Jim Conway is, Commandant of the United States Marine Corps and member of the Joint Chiefs. (Applause.) Christine Quinn, thank you for your remarks. Bill White, the Vanna White of the Intrepid. (Laughter.) Arnold Fisher and the Fisher family -- what a fabulous contribution the Fishers have made to the United States of America, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. (Applause.)

John Rich, fellow Texan. John, tell them we're coming home, and we're coming home with our heads held high. (Applause.)

Members of the Intrepid Museum and Foundation Board of Trustees, Wounded Warriors -- you know, oftentimes they ask me, what are you going to miss about the presidency? And first reaction is, I say, no traffic jams in New York. The truth of the matter is, I will miss being the Commander-in-Chief of such a fabulous group of men and women -- those who wear the uniform of the United States military. (Applause.)

Veterans Day has a long and solemn history. The event that inspired it took place 90 years ago today, in a small railway car in a French forest. November the 11th, 1918, the Allied Powers and Germany signed an armistice that ended one of the bloodiest wars the world had ever witnessed. By the time that day arrived, World War I had raged for more than four years, and more than 8 million soldiers had given their lives. But on the 11th hour of the 11th day of that 11th month, the guns fell silent -- and peace began to return to Europe.

To commemorate the war's end, President Woodrow Wilson declared that November the 11th should be remembered as Armistice Day -- a holiday to honor the brave sacrifices of the American soldiers who defended democracy and freedom overseas. Today, we know it as Veterans Day -- a day when we celebrate and thank and honor every man and woman who have served in our Armed Forces.

These noble Americans are our sons and daughters. They are our fathers and mothers. They are our family and they are our friends. They leave home to do the work of patriots -- and they lead lives of quiet dignity when they return. Today we send a clear message to all who have worn the uniform: Thank you for your courage, thank you for your sacrifice, and thank you for standing up when your nation needed you most. (Applause.)

In the years since we began celebrating Veterans Day, America's Armed Forces have defended our freedom in many conflicts. And in those conflicts, they have often relied on the might of the USS Intrepid.

The great ship's keel was laid on December 1, 1941. Less than a week later, Pearl Harbor was attacked -- and America entered World War II. In the years to come, as the United States Navy defended the freedom in the Pacific, the men of "the Fighting I" would be in the thick of the battle. The Intrepid participated in the invasion of the Marshall Islands. She played a key role in the amphibious assault on Okinawa. She was part of one of the greatest sea battles in history: the Battles of Leyte Gulf.

In that massive engagement, American forces faced some of the most formidable elements of the Japanese Navy. The Japanese fleet included the Yamamato* and the Musashi -- these were the heaviest and the largest battleships ever constructed. The Imperial Navy approached the coast of the Philippines from three different directions, and it was a fearsome challenge -- but the men of this ship were ready. The Intrepid's Air Group fought courageously and without rest. By the time the battle ended three days later, the United States Navy had sunk the Musashi to the ocean floor, and lifted hopes for victory in the Pacific.

The war ended the following year, but the Intrepid's mission did not end. As the United States raced into the new frontier of space, the Intrepid stood by to retrieve astronauts returning to Earth. During the Cold War, she patrolled the Mediterranean and helped force the surrender of pro-Castro terrorists who had hijacked a freighter in the Caribbean, and did three tours off the waters of Vietnam. For our nation's bicentennial celebration, the United States Congress paid a fitting tribute to this ship's extraordinary service when they selected the Intrepid to represent the United States Navy in Philadelphia.

After more than 30 years at sea, the Intrepid was permanently decommissioned. Despite her amazing history, she was destined to be scrapped. But thanks to the work of the Intrepid Museum Foundation, she found a home in New York City. Since 1982, she has been a museum that educates new generations of Americans about the high price that those who came before them paid for their freedom.

One of the veterans who has been honored here was a Navy pilot who flew Avenger torpedo planes during World War II. When he was invited onboard the Intrepid for the 50th anniversary of D-Day, he was moved to see that the museum had arranged for a vintage Avenger painted in the style of his unit to be right here on the deck. It just so happens that it was flanked by two of the men who had flown in his squadron. The man the Intrepid honored that day is a great American. He's a dedicated servant to this country, and I can tell you from personal experience he's a fabulous father. (Applause.)

Even as a museum, the Intrepid still answered the call to service. I'm pretty certain most Americans don't understand what I'm about to tell you, but on September the 11th, when we came attacked just a few blocks from here, the Intrepid was used as an emergency command center. First responders launched helicopters from the decks. It became clear that this ship -- which helped defeat the great totalitarian threats of the 20th century -- was front and center in the opening moments of a new struggle against the forces of hatred and fear.

The war on terror has required courage; it has required resolve equal to what previous generations of Americans brought to the fields of Europe and the deep waters of the Pacific. And I'm proud to report to my fellow citizens, our Armed Forces, the Armed Forces of this generation, have showed up for the fight, and America is more secure for it. (Applause.)
This morning, Laura and I flew up here with some brave men and women who are keeping us safe. I want to introduce them to you.

Staff Sergeant Michael Noyce-Merino was the first National Guardsman ever to be named the Army's Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Senior Airman Alicia Goetschel was named one of the Air Force's Outstanding Airmen of the Year for her work in keeping dangerous extremists off the streets of Iraq. Chief Petty Officer Shenequa Cox won several awards recognizing her as one of the Navy's finest sailors. Petty Officer First Class Chris Hutto was honored as the Coast Guard's Enlisted Person of the Year. And United States Marine Sergeant John Badon's bravery earned him two Purple Hearts for his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Where are my new pals? God bless you. (Applause.)

They are representative of the finest our nation offers. And they have the support of strong and caring and loving families. And so on this Veterans Day, not only do we honor those who have worn the uniform, those who are wearing the uniform -- we honor their families. And we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.

We have a moral obligation to support our families, and we have a moral obligation to support our veterans. It has been my privilege to work with members of the United States Congress to nearly double the funding for those who have worn the uniform. It has been my privilege to work to implement the recommendations from the Dole-Shalala Commission, to make sure that we have a mental health care system and physical health care system worthy of the sacrifice of those who have worn the uniform.

It has been my privilege to work with the United States Congress to expand education benefits for both members of our military as well as our veterans. It has been my privilege to say loud and clear to our veterans, we love you, we respect you, and we thank you for serving the United States of America. (Applause.)

And I love what the Intrepid Relief Fund and the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund have done to support our veterans, as well. It provided more than $100 million to military families in need. The Intrepid's Fisher House program has provided temporary housing for families of servicemen and women receiving medical treatment.

At the Center for the Intrepid's physical rehabilitation facility in San Antonio, Texas, America's wounded warriors receive some incredible medical care. I have seen what happens in this place of healing and hope firsthand. The Intrepid Center brings great compassion to those who have worn and are wearing the uniform. It also shows that the American people are incredibly generous in supporting the veterans. And I want to thank the Intrepid members, and those who support the Intrepid foundations, for your work on behalf of our country.

Throughout the decades, our servicemen and women have shown a spirit of selfless courage. I was impressed by the story of Alonzo Swann, who on October 29, 1944, here on the deck of the Intrepid, had to help his fellow sailors deal with a kamikaze attack. He saw his best friend burning alive and caught in a gun mount. He rushed into the flames. He attempted to save his buddy, but before he could do so, an ammunition then detonated; nine were killed, six injured, including Alonzo.

For his bravery, he was awarded the Bronze Star. It's a high honor, but a lot of folks didn't think it was a high enough honor. They felt he deserved the Navy Cross, and many believed that he had been denied the Navy Cross because of the color of his skin; he was an African American. For 50 years, his advocates petitioned the government -- and for 50 years they were unsuccessful. But he kept the faith. November 3, 1993, under the presidency of my predecessor, President Bill Clinton, right here on the deck of the Intrepid, Alonzo Swann finally received his Navy Cross. And I want people to listen to what he said. He said, "If you think you're right, fight your heart out." That ought to be the motto of the modern United States military. You think you're right, and you're fighting your heart out for the sake of peace and freedom, and we thank you for it. (Applause.)

Laura and I are honored to be here. We're honored to see this majestic place. I love the fact that parents can answer a child's question about "Why fight?" with this answer: These brave souls fought for freedom, they fought for liberty, and they fought to guarantee the rights given to us by our Creator, and that has been the history of our Armed Forces -- brave folks, the mightiest defenders of those unalienable rights.

So on behalf of a grateful nation, I thank our veterans for your service, for your commitment. May God bless you, and may God continue to bless the United States of America. (Applause.)

END 12:44 P.M. EST

Honor our Vets, Send a Package to the Troops

Dear Fellow Patriots,

Happy Veteran’s day, and to all those who have served, thank you. Your contribution and sacrifice to our nation can never be measured, nor repaid.

Through the centuries since our country began, it has always been on those willing to fight and die to secure and protect our freedoms that have made America strong. We relied on you when our country needed you most, and time after time in countless wars and conflicts, our military has always come through.

Bravely and courageously you defended our flag, you defended our freedoms and liberties, you defended our people when they were threatened not just by enemies abroad, but from enemies within as well. What’s more, you came to the defense of our allies when they needed us. You have liberated millions of people all across the world when they were oppressed.

You met the threat of Empires, Nazism, Communism, Radical Isamic terrorists, and time after time you have prevailed without fail. You did this in our name, on behalf of your nation, and you ask nothing in return.

We can only offer our eternal thanks and gratitude to those who have been willing to take up arms and risk life and limb in defense of America.

And what better time than today to think about our veterans of tomorrow? I’m talking about those brave young men and women currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have fought so bravely and courageously to protect us from terrorist organizations who want to destroy America and the western way of life, while also fighting to retain religious, economic, political, and human rights for Iraqis and Afghans.

We can show our thanks to these brave patriots by sending them a small token of our appreciation, a little bit of comfort from home to make their thanksgiving a little easier. The holidays are a tough time for our soldiers in harm’s way. They will be missing their families on Turkey Day, but we can do OUR BEST to show them that we care, and that we are still back home supporting them and their fight!

As you and I plan our Thanksgiving feasts with our families, American troops are thousands of miles away from their loved ones fighting for our country. Our Troops don’t ask for anything, but they appreciate everything we send to them.

“We have been receiving your boxes . . . that are truly a blessing to everyone here,” wrote MSG Donika Nealy. “To know that someone is thinking of us is such a great feeling inside.”

This year, Move America Forward (http://www.moveamericaforward.org), with your help, will send care packages to our troops with special Thanksgiving goodies inside. You may sponsor these packages and write a personal note to the troops, who have left their homes to secure America’s freedom and protect us from enemies who want to change our way of life.

During these tough economic times, families of troops are struggling to get by. I fear that they will have fewer resources to send packages to their loved ones in war zones. This is why it is so important for you and other patriotic Americans to send what we can to our troops. We must never let them forget that we are not only thankful for our families here at home, we are thankful for their selfless sacrifices for our great country.

Please click here to sponsor a care package for our troops. Your contribution is tax deductible.

Now is the time to act so we can get packages to our troops for Thanksgiving. Together, we have sent 110 tons of care packages to our troops stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world.

Thank you for loving our troops and showing them that we are indeed a grateful nation.

With respect and gratitude,

Catherine Moy Executive director,

Move America Forward

Vets for Freedom: Honoring our Veterans

Dear Vets for Freedom Member:

Today, Americans across this great country join together to honor our military veterans. At town-squares, solemn ceremonies, and school assemblies across this county, we remember the beaches of Normandy, the jungles of Vietnam, the sands of Iraq, and everything before, after, and in between.

We remember that every liberty we enjoy--those we usually take for granted--was purchased and defended by warriors; those willing to stand their post, take the hill, or kick down doors in dangerous places so we can enjoy the American way of life.

Veterans Day is about one thing: honoring the service and sacrifice of America's veterans, and passing their collective story to the next generation. These stories, and the men and women who bear them, are the backbone of this American experiment and must never be forgotten.

As John Stuart Mill once said, "War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things; the decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks nothing worth a war, is worse." The moment we believe our freedoms inevitable, we cease to live in history and sour the soldier's sacrifice. Our freedoms--purchased on the battlefield--are indeed "worthy of war."

And today, with America still at war, it is fitting that we remember the troops currently serving in harms way. Because, as any veteran can attest, just one moment, one explosion, or one bullet separates Memorial Day from Veterans Day. Soldiers currently in Iraq and Afghanistan are fighting for our freedoms today, knowing it's possible they may never see tomorrow.

Vets for Freedom compels our membership to honor America's veterans this week. Whether at a ceremony, in a letter to the editor, or with a simple "thank you," find a way to ensure that every veteran -- young and old -- feels appreciated.

God bless America and her veterans.

Vets for Freedom

Veteran's Day Poem - "They Did Their Share"

They Did Their Share

On Veteran’s Day we honor

Soldiers who protect our nation.

For their service as our warriors,

They deserve our admiration.

Some of them were drafted;

Some were volunteers;

For some it was just yesterday;

For some it’s been many years;

In the jungle or the desert,

On land or on the sea,

They did whatever was assigned

To produce a victory.

Some came back; some didn’t.

They defended us everywhere.

Some saw combat; some rode a desk;

All of them did their share.

No matter what the duty,

For low pay and little glory,

These soldiers gave up normal lives,

For duties mundane and gory.

Let every veteran be honored;

Don’t let politics get in the way.

Without them, freedom would have died;

What they did, we can’t repay.

We owe so much to them,

Who kept us safe from terror,

So when we see a uniform,

Let’s say "thank you" to every wearer.

By Joanna Fuchs

found at Poem Source.com

Update on our Trip to DC

We arrived with our 85 yr. old WW II vet and his wife safe and sound in DC on Monday night. Today was the big day where Harold Gilliland got to see the WWII Memorial for the first time. You talk about something touching your heart. It was fantastic!

We have lots of pictures, and I will try to post some on Wednesday. For now, click here to see a picture of Harold and Cyber Pastor at our local Veterans Memorial.

We had a special treat while we were at the Memorial. Two buses loaded with WW II vets from Virginia Beach showed up. Harold had plenty of people to talk to, and we got to shake hands and thank several dozen HEROES for serving our country.

Also, we are still accepting donations to help make sure Harold doesn't have to foot any of the bill for the trip. You can donate by going to PayPal and hopecyberpastor@gmail.com is the account to make donations.

Thanks in advance for helping, and please keep us in your prayers!


Check back tomorrow......

CP

WWII Vet Heading to DC

Our dear friend Harold Gilliland is 85 years old and WWII veteran. He has mentioned to me many times that he wants to go to Washington DC and see the WWII Memorial that was finished in the last few years.

My wife and I have made plans to drive Harold and Lucy to DC for a few days beginning October 13th.

I have been working to ensure that Harold does not have to pay any of the expenses for this trip as a way to show our appreciation for his service to our nation.

This is where I need help.

The cost of this trip will be approximately $1200. Several hundred dollars have already been pledged for this, but we still have a few hundred left to go.

If you would be so kind as to help us with raising the remainder of the money needed, I know that Harold and Lucy would appreciate it so much and my wife and I do as well.

All money collected will be used for our trip, and be accounted for – money in and expenses out. If there is money left over, we will donate it to Harold’s favorite charity.

You can donate by going to PayPal and using the email address hopecyberpastor@gmail.com or you can email me at the same address for other arrangements.

May God Richly Bless You!

Pastor Ed Boston

PS. These pictures were taken at our local Veteran's Memorial in Hope, IN. That is Harold and I in the top picture, and Mrs. CP, Harold, and his wife Lucy in the the picture below.

Lucy tells us that Harold is like a little boy waiting for Christmas in his excitement about leaving on Monday.

I appreciate all who are helping us make this trip possible!

Dear Mr. Obama

H/T to Norm Hooben.

Back From Iraq - VFF Combat Veterans are Home From Embed

Back From Iraq With Stories of Success!

Dear Vets for Freedom Member:

Last weekend Vets for Freedom welcomed eight Iraq War combat veterans home as we returned from serving as embedded correspondents with U.S. combat units. The seven combat vets and myself met with top commanders, the lieutenants and sergeants fighting on the ground, their Iraqi counterparts and ordinary Iraqi citizens.

We returned to Iraq as part of the Back--to--Iraq embed program sponsored by Vets for Freedom and National Review Online, The Weekly Standard and Blackfive. In doing so, each of us had the opportunity to assess the situation on the ground in cities like, Fallujah, Samarra and Baghdad. We posed tough questions to top commanders, scrutinized the implementation of General Petreaus' counterinsurgency plan and surveyed the impact that the Surge has had in Iraq.

Read Our Dispatches and Watch our Videos from the Frontlines Here


Pete Hegseth, VFF Chairman: Why Victory in Iraq Matters

David Bellavia, VFF Co-Founder: Diyala Surge

Ben Hayden, VFF Iowa State Captain: Interview with an Iraqi Translator

Two things were evident after having just returned from Iraq as an embedded correspondent: the surge is incontrovertibly working and in order to succeed in Iraq we have a limited window of opportunity in which to sustain the security gains that Americans and Iraqis have fought so hard for.

Immediately upon returning, Vets for Freedom co-founder and former Army Staff Sergeant David Bellavia and former Marine Corps Captain Erik Swabb participated in an Iraq Update Forum with one of Senator Barrack Obama's chief foreign policy advisors, Colin Kahl at the American Enterprise Institute. And, this morning David Bellavia was featured on C-SPAN's Washington Journal taking questions from viewers from around the nation.

Today, we urgently need your help in order to educate the American people about the importance of achieving victory in Iraq. Please sign up on the VFF website and let us know how you will help to inform your friends and neighbors about the phenomenal progress in Iraq and the need for victory on every front of the Global War on Terrorism!

Sign Up Today:
Let America Know We Want Our Troops to Win

With Confidence,

Joel Arends
Executive Director
Vets for Freedom

Roman General Post Traumatic Stress Disorder: From A Combat Veteran's Perspective

 Foreword from Dean;

Thanks to a post at Miss Beth's Victory Dance I followed a link to PTSD, A Soldiers Perspective and read what I consider to be required reading for all military service member, their families, loved ones, and friends, or any one who cares about our young and not so young warriors.

Far too often veterans live with the trauma of combat or near combat, seldom if ever speaking about their experiences. Many suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder without knowing it or why they seem to feel so much different after they get back home and away from the stresses and rigor of being in a war zone.
This is a very serious issue and I ask that you read this great article by Roman General.
If you know a veteran, his family, loved ones or friends please pass this on to them. There is help out there and we owe it to them for the sacrifices they made on our behalf.

Thank you.

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August 14th, 2008 by Roman General

The original paper that inspired the message and name of my blog:

12/2/2007

Returning Combat Veterans have a difficult time reintegrating back into society and family life. The scope of this paper explains these issues as they relate to the hindrance of Veterans from attaining a meaningful and productive life.

Returning Combat Veterans (RCV), have a difficult time reintegrating back into society and family life. They deal with a myriad of symptoms combining to hinder the RCV from coping in the civilian world, while having constructive relationships with their family and friends. The RCV struggles with these issues on a daily basis. The scope of this paper explains these concerns as they relate to the hindrance of the veteran from attaining a meaningful and productive life.

The symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) range from acute recurring of memories, nightmares and flashbacks, sleep problems, chronic fatigue, ego developmental disorder, defense mechanism dysfunction, dissociative states, memory repression and memory loss, identity diffusion, chronic depression and suicidal ideation. Substance abuse, addiction, survivor's guilt and somatoform disorders further encumber our soldiers in arms suffering from PTSD.

Combat trauma experiences can cause sleep disturbances in RCV who suffer from PTSD, for the purpose of this section we will concentrate on the psychological aspects of sleep deprivation and the side effects inherent with mental health problems (Caldwell et al, 2005). The avoidance response enables a deadening or numbing of feeling and aids in societal and expressive withdrawal, reducing participation with the external world. The intrusive responses include hyperarousal, irritability and an exaggerated startle reaction, acting out violently, nightmares, flashbacks, and hypersensitivity to stimuli in the environment (Silverstein 1994). “PTSD develops when traumatic events are unresolved and the person is unable to integrate the reality of the particular event and resulting repetitive replaying of the traumatic images, behaviors, feelings, physiological states, and interpersonal relationships” (Caldwell et al, p. 722).

The dreaming process of memory consolidation, when modified by the effects of PTSD and sleep disorders in patients affects Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. An association lies between REM sleep and the processing of memory fragments and information into semantic memory. These processes aid in the contextual consolidation and formation of fluid memories, much like a computer arranges and stores information on its hard drive. A lack of sleep often disrupts this process and leads to memory fragmentation, memory loss or repression of memories. Studies showed that RCV had a higher rate of REM sleep than the control groups, indicating a higher dreaming scape for the RCV. The leading theory states that elevated levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in PTSD patients while awake and asleep, creates a hyperarousal and hypervigiliant sleep state where traumatic dreams recur (Caldwell et al).

The fifth stage of Erikson's stages of psychological development deals with the identity verses role confusion crisis which normally happens in late adolescence and early adulthood. In this stage the person has formulated their constitution of personality, connecting the past with the present. Essential to the completion of this task is the successful formation of principles and moral judgment to make choices in areas such as profession and marriage. “[Erikson] observed a phenomenon which he described as an identity crises, suggesting that through the exigencies of war [the RCV] lost a sense of personal sameness and historical continuity. They were impaired in that central control over themselves for which in the psychoanalytic scheme, only the inner agency of the ego could be held responsible. Therefore, I spoke of a loss of ego identity.” (Silverstein, p. 71). Most of the young women and men inducted into the military have yet to crystallize their formation of a self-image; with the underdeveloped individual identity the effects have been tremendous on the undeveloped ego.

Being deprived of an identity ego formation the soldier has expectations to assimilate back into civilian life and form relationships, provide for their families, and generally assume a civilian personality while shedding their military persona; that which gives them a feeling of safety. Some RCV stay stuck in this military mode of identification, in which they have been taught to conform and repress distinctiveness, autonomy and experimentation; all common experiences in defining oneself and developing a healthy perspective. Silverstein (1994) goes on to quote Erikson, “To be able to truly surrender oneself in an intimate relationship, a certain level of self definition has had to have taken place during the stage of identity formulation. The fluidity of boundaries that occurs when relating intimately or sexually is threatening. The threat is the further loss of identity, which is tenuous to begin with. It is therefore an experience which is avoided by the individual who does not have a firm sense of identity.” A psychic numbing occurs that interrupts and interferes with connections with family, friends, community and a profession.

Silverstein (1994) emphasizes Erikson's diffusion of industry as a lack of organizing cognitive tasks, such as concentration, that would be necessary in maintaining an occupation. A fixation with simple activity or a 'spacing out' would hinder a veteran's ability to sustain gainful employment. “His preoccupation with traumatic experiences may have channeled his psychic energy in a way which precluded that which was necessary for career development” (Sliverstein, p. 74). Many RCV have had many sporadic jobs not lasting long in duration, repeating the pattern many years after their war experiences, and thus further reinforcing the undefined character.

Troubles devising a strong sense of identity often result in a development of a negative identity. Culture has an influence on the developing persona as societies norms are modeled after our parents and peers. At a time when adolescents have not completely formulated an ethical belief system conducive to successes within society, they have been subjected to the armed forces value structure. “In combat, strength and force can be the arbiter of justice and morality. The laws of guerrilla warfare pre-empt compliance with the social and legal niceties of the civilian world” (Silverstein, p. 75). Taken from the jungles or the desert to normal life, a survival response such as these endangers the RCV and exposes them to the legal system. Many times traumatized veterans become seditious and wind up on the wrong side of the law. RCV who have failed to effectively assimilate their wartime incidents become encumbered with guilt. RCV exist with the weight of survivor guilt and of their horrific conduct long after the events, hindering their pre-war values.

Impulse control becomes exaggerated from the demand that soldiers respond automatically, without hesitation which could cost them their lives otherwise. “This tendency to act impulsively is not solely a function of the condition of the combat experience. It is also arguably related, to lower levels of ego development, of which reduced impulse control is a concomitant” (Silverstein, p. 76). By using the lack of impulse control, the RVC may use this mechanism as an endeavor of atonement to ally their remorse. These imbalances leave the veteran unable to forgive themselves of their wartime activities with a crippling continuous cycle of insanity and self-torture.

Detachment and estrangement have been experienced by many RCV; many avoid others for fear of rejection. “The veterans have been trained to sense danger even before it occurs. In the face of danger, they have learned to sense and see danger even before it occurs. In the face of danger, they have learned to react quickly and to attack the danger in a way that shifts many of them into a paranoid-schizoid position of functioning” (Bradshaw et al, p. 472). A struggle arises in healing as the veterans move to a depressive position, as stated by Bradshaw et al, p. 472,“…they sense danger related to feelings of loss, guilt, vulnerability, sadness, remorse, compassion, empathy, and loneliness.” To regain control, Bradshaw further says, “…they shift to the less morally ambiguous paranoid-schizoid position. When they make this shift, they justify their feelings [and actions through this defense mechanism, giving them an]…adrenaline rush and [feelings of] no grief or depression.” When this high wears off, they feel even more depressed. This fragmented personality leads to a life of chasing oneself without knowing their relational boundaries between normal society and themselves.

 

References

Bradshaw, Samuel L., et al. (1993). Combat and personality change. Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic. 57 (4), 466-478.

Caldwell, Barbara A., & Redecker, N. (2005). Sleep and trauma: an overview. Mental Health and Nursing, 26, 721-738.

Silverstein, Rebecca. (1994). Chronic identity diffusion in traumatized combat veterans. Social Behavior and Personality, 22 (1), 69-80.

Posted in PTSD Perspectives.

Latest from VFFPAC

Dear Vets for Freedom PAC members:

As we all prepare to celebrate the 232nd birthday of this great nation, we as veterans have a duty and solemn responsibility to honor all of those who have worn or are currently wearing the uniform of the United States of America. Among the millions who share this common bond, 31 Presidents have had the honor and privilege of serving in our Armed Forces.

Today, as sacred guardians of our constitution, we are shocked that United States Senators and trusted loyal advisors to presidential candidates think that being a veteran and fighting for America is NOT a qualification to be President.

If service to one's country in armed combat is not a qualification to be Commander in Chief, what is?

For several months now we have observed the irresponsible judgment of some of Senator Obama's most trusted and loyal advisors as they have unfairly attacked the notion that a veteran is not qualified to serve as President.

Here are several examples of this poor judgment by Obama's supporters and advisors:

"I don't think riding in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to be President." – General Wesley Clark, Obama Advisor and Surrogate, June 29, 2008.

"Everything is looked at from his life experiences, from always having been in the military, and I think that can be pretty dangerous…it's one thing to have been drafted and served, but another thing when you come from generations of military people and that's just how you're steeped, how you've learned, how you've grown up." – Senator Tom Harkin, May 16, 2008.

"... I think that the notion that the members of the Senate who were in the ground forces or who were ashore in Vietnam have a very different view of Vietnam and the cost that you described than John McCain does because he was in isolation essentially for many of those year…So I think ... to some extent his national security experience in that regard is sadly limited…" – Rand Beers, Obama Foreign Policy Advisor, June 30, 2008.

"McCain should calm down"..."on using military service…" – Senator Jim Webb, Obama Supporter, July 1, 2008.

DONATE HERE TO HELP US FIGHT AGAINST VETERAN BIAS

Vets for Freedom's 'Super Tuesday'Yesterday, Vets for Freedom rolled out the endorsements of 5 more candidates running for the United States Congress, most who have worn the uniform, all who strongly believe in the mission of our organization, as well as our nation's efforts in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Global War on Terror.

Our candidates include extraordinary Americans – patriots such as Tom Manion, who spent 20 years in the United States Marine Corps and who gave his son in service to our country. I encourage you to watch his VIDEO made in honor of his son Travis, who lost his life in Iraq in 2007. Below are all of our candidates – help us support them by visiting their websites.

Tom Manion (PA-08) is a former Colonel in the Marine Corps, successful business executive, and Gold Star Parent whose son was killed in Iraq.

Steve Stivers (OH-15) is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard who was awarded the Bronze Star for actions in OIF.

Jeff Beatty (Senate–MA) is a former member of Delta Force, to FBI Hostage Rescue Team, to CIA's Counter-Terrorism Center.

Mike Rocque (NY-20) is a former officer in the Green Berets and Delta Force.

Allen West (FL-22) is a former LTC who served with distinction in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom, earning a Bronze Star, three Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals (one with Valor), and a Valorous Unit Award

Lee Zeldin (NY-1) served in Iraq with the 82nd Airborne Division and continues to serve as a Captain in the Army Reserves.

Duane Sand (ND-At Large) is a Commander in the Navy who served in Iraq, and aboard 3 nuclear submarines throughout the 1990's

Kent Greenough (TN-04) is a former Marine whose family emulates service to ones country.

Tom Rooney (FL-16) served as an Army JAG for four years before teaching Constitutional and Criminal Law at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Duncan Hunter (CA-52) signed up to serve our country the day after September 11th, and served two tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan with the United States Marine Corps. He remains in the Marine Reserves.

John Cornyn (Senate–TX) is a first-term Texas Senator who is active in the Senate Armed Services Committee and a strong supporter of veterans and active duty military.

Dean Andal (CA-11) is a strong supporter of the military and veterans, and is a member of the Employer Support Council for the US National Guard.

Mark Ellmore (VA-08) is a Red Star parent whose son is currently deployed overseas in the Air Force.All of these men have either worn the uniform or understand what is at stake in the Global War on Terrorism, and will fight for victory if elected to Congress. Please visit our website for more information.

DONATE HERE TO HELP US ELECT THEM AND OTHERS LIKE THEM

Vets for Freedom PAC, or VFFPAC is a Political Action Committee whose mission is to help candidates—mostly combat veterans—who believe in achieving success in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the overall War on Terrorism, get elected to the United States Congress and other Federal positions. Established by combat veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan on November 11, 2007, Veterans Day, VFFPAC will endorse and offer extended support through financial contributions and media assistance to federal candidates who support victory in the Global War on Terrorism.

"Every Day is Memorial Day" - Gold Star Mother

This picture was taken just before the news conference held by Vets for Freedom back in April. 

If there was ever a definition of Memorial, then this Gold Star Mother fills the meaning in for us!

May God bless each family who has suffered the "ultimate" sacrifice, and may we get the job down and get our troops home.

I know I can speak for the entire Cyber Crew when I say that none of us want to lose even one more troop in this war, but I also know that none of us want to lose this war and disrespect the memory of those who have fallen. 

Cyber Pastor

"Every Day is Memorial Day" - Help Send A WWII Vet to DC to See the WWII Memorial

- Cyber Pastor

I first introduced you to my good friend Harold a few days ago in a Memorial Day pictures post. Harold served in the US Army in the Pacific theater during World War II. 

Harold is 85 years old and wants to go see the WWII Memorial in DC that honors him and his fellow veterans of "The Big One". Not only did Harold serve, but he also donated money to have the long overdue memorial finished. 

Mrs. CP and I would love to be able to take Harold and his wife Lucy to DC to see this important piece of our nation's history. 

Now, I've never done this on our blog, but I would like to ask our online friends and readers of this blog to assist us with a financial gift to help make this trip possible. 

I'm going to be talking to some local folks as well, but I know there are many of you who love veterans, and no gift is too small to help us out. I'm looking to raise $1500, so that Harold will not have to put out any money for this trip - I believe he earned it by his service.

Please pray about this and if you feel led to do so, you can donate by the PayPal button on the left side of the blog, or you can email me at hopecyberpastor@gmail.com to make other arrangements. 

God Bless all of our veterans today and always. 

"Every Day is Memorial Day" - Another War Hero!

The following was the end of an email sent by my District Superintendent. I've deleted a couple of pieces of info to protect this person's privacy. 

This last Sunday I met another true hero.  His name is Mr. Mike, and he attends one of our churches.  He served in World War II.  His ship was sunk by the enemy fire and he and his buddies had seven minutes to get on a life raft before the ship sank.  Four of the men I believe were on Mike’s raft.  One soldier died and so Mr. Modejewski, and the others with him, were forced to throw the dead soldier in the ocean because of details I won’t go into in this E-mail.  

They survived for three days out in the ocean without any water or food except what fish they could catch.  Mr. Mike told us he used his T-shirt to catch fish with so they could eat them.  Finally after three days a plane came by and rescued them.  

There are thousands of stories like Mr. Mike’s where soldiers have suffered and died so that we could have our freedom.  Of course, as I write this, thousands of Americans are in harms way defending our freedom.  May God be with them all.  They also are heroes! 

"Build Up To M-Day" - The Wall Postage Stamp

The Vietnam Memorial "The Wall" US Postage Stamp