“May you accept this award as but a small down payment on the vast and enduring gratitude that our entire nation owes to each of you, and may you depart your post in Iraq … confident in knowledge that you have made an immeasurable contribution to the success of Iraq and to the security of our beloved country,” she said.¹

During the twenty months that he commanded the Multinational Force in Iraq and his being instrumental in the success of the surge, which placed an additional 33,000 Troops on the ground in the country, to quell the violence in the country, which resulted in an 80% drop of violence in the country, Petraeus weathered a storm of criticism from politicians as well as citizens in our country. He never wavered from his belief that the surge could work, and he was right.

“Under General Petraeus’s leadership, U.S. and coalition troops have not only taken the fight to the enemies of Iraq. They have focused on securing the people of Iraq,” Rice said. “They have turned adversaries into allies, and they have provided the new Iraqi army with the training and support it needs to emerge as an increasingly capable and self-sufficient force.”²

Petraeus who is set to take over as commander of U.S. Central Command, accepted his award humbly, on behalf of the military personnel that he served with in Iraq and their families, who have endured the repeated separations of multiple deployments. General Petraeus told the audience that in his final letter to the Troops, prior to leaving Iraq, he told them that he could not a greater honor or privelage than having served with them. He was also quick to point out that had it not been for the diplomatic efforts of Crocker, that the improvements seen in Iraq, could not have been realized.(( http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51396))

“No soldier could be so privileged as to have such a great diplomatic partner, and it was a great honor for me to be his military wingman,” Petraeus said of Crocker.³

Defense Secretary Robert Gates also praised the efforts of both men, and the partnership they forged together, to get the job done. Crocker, accepted his award via video teleconference, from Iraq. He praised the relationship he had with General Petraeus and said he felt that he was the greatest military commander of his generation.

“Thanks to all of you, my colleagues, and thanks to my colleagues who wear the uniforms of our great military for what truly is a total partnership,” he said.⁴

I can’t think of two more deserving men for this award, than General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker, except perhaps the men and women, who executed and are still executing this plan, with the grace and dignity that is so constant in the ranks of our country’s military.

1. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51396
2. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51396
3. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51396
4. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51396

One of those warriors, Lt. Col. (retired) Bruce Crandall’s name is one that is known by many. His actions, which 32 years after the fact earned him the Medal of Honor, which I wrote about almost two years ago, spent two days at Fort Hood, visiting with 1st Cavalry Soldiers, touring the post and attending a meeting of the Phantom Corps Chapter of the Army Aviation Association. Crandall’s heroics were also portrayed in the book by then Lt. Col. (retired) Hal Moore, entitled “We Were Soldiers Once … And Young” as well as in a major motion picture by the same name. Crandall was able to also spend time with currently serving aviation Troops as well as other Troops at Fort Hood. The highlight for Crandall was when he visited the aviation Troops at Hood Army Airfield and was able to do something that will always be in his blood …. fly a UH-1 Huey helicopter, once again. This is only the 2nd time, since 1968, that Crandall has flown. The rest of his flight time was during combat. Crandall’s visit made a lasting impression on the Soldiers and Veterans who had the opportunity to meet him.

Retired Lt. Col. and Medal of Honor recipient, prepares to take off in a UH-1 Huey helicopter. Crandall served as a Huey pilot in the Vietnam War. (photo by Sgt. Nathan Hoskins, 1st ACB, 1st Cav. Div. PAO)

““Mr Crandall’s visit was nothing short of superb in all aspects. Just being around him and his wife, Arlene, was like walking with royalty,” Bill Mobley, a retired Army Aviation major said.¹

“Flying with Lt Col Crandall was an experience that I’ll never forget,” CWO2 David Facio said. “I got to teach a legend about current aircraft and the advances that have happened since Vietnam. A few more flights in the simulator and he would have been ready for the real thing.”²

Facio had the pleasure of meeting with Crandall and taking him through the AH-64D Longbow Apache attack helicopter simulator and the Longbow Crew Trainer as well as the CH-47F Chinook Tranportable Proficiency Simulator. Following the simulator training, Crandall was able to go to the airfield and fly a Huey. He donned a flight suit and helmet and climbed behind the controls, alongside CWO5 Rolf Giesler, the UH-1 Huey Instructor pilot with 21st Aviation.

Fort Hood Troops, had the pleasure of meeting yet another warrior from the Vietnam era, former Sgt Jim Greenwalt. His story is one that hasn’t been in the media, yet, his actions in Vietnam saved the lives of the men serving beside him and earned him a nomination and eventual award of the Bronze Star Medal with V device.

(Living, BSM-V recipient) Former Sgt. Jim Greenwalt (left) received his Bronze Star Medal with V device nearly 39 years after defending his fellow Soldiers against a Viet Cong attack. Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch presented the medal to Greenwalt Tuesday in a ceremony in the West Atrium of III Corps Headquarters.

Greenwalt was a Sgt and light weapons advisor on a Military Assistance Command, Vietnam mobile advisory team in January 1970. The teams were supposed to have 5 members but Greenwalt’s team included himself, a 1 Lt and a medic. On one mission, his team was attacked by the Viet Cong at Rach Ban outpost. Greenwalt defended his team with a .50 calibre gun that his team had borrowed from the Navy. Following the incident, his 1Lt nominated him for the Bronze Star with V device for his actions in battle. Greenwalt wasn’t aware of this and ultimately the paperwork got lost. In 2003, he found his former 1Lt Gary Findlay, who asked if he’d ever received his medal. When Greenwalt told him that he hadn’t, they resubmitted the paperwork in 2004. Eventually, with the help of Greenwalt’s congressman, he was approved for his medal. On Tuesday, September 30th, Greenwalt was awarded his Bronze Star with “V” device at Fort Hood.

“Ordinary men find themselves in extraordinary circumstances, in the worst of conditions doing what our nation has asked them to do … and then doing something more,” said Lt. General Rick Lynch, commanding general of III Corps and Fort Hood, at the award ceremony. “In the heat of battle, men are not fighting for lofty ideals. When the bullets are flying, the mortars are landing and people are dying, what Soldiers fight for are their buddies on their right and left.”³

Greenwalt agreed with what General Lynch said and said that’s exactly what he was doing, fighting to ensure that his buddies survived the attack.

“I was more than scared,” he said. “I was terrified. I really didn’t think we’d survive that attack.”⁴

Greenwalt’s only regret, when he was presented with his award, was that his father was not still alive to see it happen. He says that his father would have really been proud of him.

Soldiers like Crandall and Greenwalt and the type of men, ordinary men, who inspire today’s generation of Soldier and who will continue to inspire the Soldiers of the future. As Lt. General Lynch said, ordinary men who found themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Men who were willing to do whatever it took to ensure that their buddies survived. Both men were an inspiration to everyone they met and they will continue to be so. Many of our Soldiers now serving, will one day be looked upon like Bruce Crandall and Jim Greenwalt, as people that future Soldiers hope to emulate. Unfortunately I was unable to meet either of these men, wish I had.

1. http://www.forthoodsentinel.com/articles/2008/10/03/news/living/living01.txt
2. http://www.forthoodsentinel.com/articles/2008/10/03/news/living/living01.txt
3. http://www.forthoodsentinel.com/articles/2008/10/03/news/living/living02.txt
4. http://www.forthoodsentinel.com/articles/2008/10/03/news/living/living02.txt

Across the country, communities are holding activities to bring awareness to the issue of Domestic Violence. The Army and the military as a whole are also holding Domestic Violence Awareness campaigns, to bring attention to the problem of Domestic Violence and how it can affect the mission readiness of the military and the military institution as a whole.

Domestic Violence is a problem that is pervasive across the American society, and considering the fact that the military is made up of a diverse population of people from across the American society, it is also a problem that is faced in the military. It is a problem that has no place in the US Military or in American society. Domestic Violence is a cyclic crime, one that often is passed from generation to generation, if there is no intervention.

In the military culture, too often, Domestic Violence is not reported, due to many different factors. Often the abused spouse, feels that the military will not hold their abuser accountable for his or her actions. In many instances, victims are isolated from friends and family, by their abuser and the transient nature of the military helps the abuser to do so. Often the victim is left with no means of transportation, no money and feel that they have no where to turn. There is help out there for them, both in the civilian world and in the military as well.

Each US Military installation has a staff of Victim Advocates who are trained to respond and assist victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. Each advocate has at their fingertips a wealth of resources that are available to the victim, both within the military and within the local community. Victim Advocates are with the victim throughout their ordeal, helping them to navigate the sometimes overwhelming military system, ensuring that they receive help and support throughout the entire process, from the initial report to the conclusion of the legal process. It’s often said that the Victim Advocate is the “voice” for the victim in the system. The military offers two reporting options to victims of Domestic Violence. These options are Restricted Reporting or Unrestricted Reporting.

Restricted Reporting:

• Does not initiate the investigative process. Neither law enforcement or the command are notified with personal identifiable information.
• Allows the victim of Domestic Violence to confidentially disclose to the Victim Advocate, the Victim Advocate Supervisor, healthcare providers or chaplains.
The limitations to restricted reporting is that the offender is NOT held accountable and thus they may continue to be abusive.

The victim is not eligible to receive a Military Protective Order.

The victim may still continue to have contact with the offender.

Evidence from the crime scene could be lost or could impede the official investigation if the victim later chooses to switch to an unrestricted report.

If the assessment revels a “high risk” for future injury or death, a restricted report may not be granted.

If the victim discloses the abuse to someone other than the specified individuals, these actions may alert the command or law enforcement and may initiate an investigate an investigation and the report will become unrestricted.

The benefits of restricted reporting are that the victim is able to obtain medical treatment for their injuries, advocacy and counseling.

It provides the victim with some personal space and time to consider their options.

The victim is able to control the release and management of his or her personal information.

It may increase the victims trust in the system.

It may encourage other victims to come forward.

Unrestricted reporting:

• Military Policy favors unrestricted reporting.
• Command and investigative services are notified.
• Allows the victim to receive medical treatment, a forensic examination, advocacy services, clinical counseling, pastoral counseling and protective services.

The benefits of unrestricted reporting are:

The victim receives medical treatment, advocacy and counseling.

It ensures the widest range of rights and protections for the victim (Military and civilian protective orders)

Commander support including separation from the offender.

Full investigation enhances the opportunity to hold the offender accountable for their actions (crime scene, witness interviews and suspect interrogation).

Limitations:

Cannot be changed to a restricted report.

The victim may consider the investigative process intrusive, as information about the domestic abuse incident will be in the public domain.

Requires the victim to face the offender in court.

Investigation and court proceedings may be lengthy

There is never a guarantee that the offender will be convicted in either a court-marshall or a civilian court.

On Wednesday, President Bush signed a proclamation declaring October Domestic Violence Prevention Month. That proclamation reads as follows:

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2008

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Our Nation has a moral obligation to work to prevent domestic violence and address its brutal and destructive effects. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we underscore our commitment to helping individuals across our country who face such devastating violence.

My Administration remains dedicated to eradicating domestic violence and helping victims find the compassion, comfort, and healing they need. In 2003, I announced the creation of the Family Justice Center Initiative to help local communities provide comprehensive services at one location for victims of domestic violence. In 2006, I was proud to sign legislation that reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act to improve criminal justice responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

The Department of Justice’s Domestic Violence Transitional Housing Assistance Program also offers victims of violence counseling and transitional housing services so they can escape the cycle of abuse.
During this month, we rededicate ourselves to protecting vulnerable members of our society and ensuring domestic abusers are punished to the full extent of the law. We encourage victims of domestic violence and their families to seek assistance through Family Justice Centers and the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Together, we can help heal hearts and build a culture in which all Americans can pursue their dreams and realize the great promise of our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2008, as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I urge all Americans to reach out to victims of domestic violence and take action to make ending domestic violence a national priority.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
GEORGE W. BUSH ¹

This year, the Army’s theme for Domestic Violence Awareness Month is “Soldiers, Family, Community: The Perfect Combination For Prevention.” At the beginning of this article, is a copy of one of the Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign posters approved by the Army. I encourage each of you, if you’re aware of a person who is in an abusive relationship, to share information with them about Domestic Violence and provide them with the number to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which will be able to direct them to local agencies that can assist them. That number is 1-800-799-7233.

1. http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/10/20081001-13.html

Acknowledging this fact, President Bush signed an executive order on September 25th making it easier for military spouses to obtain jobs in the federal government. The order Bush allows hiring managers for all federal agencies to hire qualified military spouses without going through the competitive process. According to Patricia Bradshaw, deputy undersecretary of defense for civilian personnel policy, the new hiring authorities won’t be put into place until after the first of the year.

“One of the key things to recruiting and retention of service members is the employment of spouses,” Bradshaw said, noting that only about 10 percent of military spouses stay in the same location for as long as five years. Frequent relocations make it difficult for spouses to build a career.¹

The spouses would have to meet the qualifications for the job that they’re applying for. The new order would allow for hiring managers to hire a qualified military spouse, without advertising the jobs, dependent on other hiring requirements.

“Here’s a quick hiring authority for them to get to another bucket of talent that may have perhaps gone unnoticed in the past,” Bradshaw said.²

There are still details to be worked on for the initiative, but the following is the gist of the new initiative.

• Spouses of active-duty members on PCS orders, if the spouse is relocating to the member’s new permanent duty station. This will include members of the National Guard and Reserve on active duty. Details have not yet been worked out on the length of time that the new hiring authority will be in effect before and after a PCS move.
• Spouses of 100-percent disabled retired or separated military members.
• Unremarried widows or widowers of a military member who is killed while on active duty.³

The new initiative does not require that hiring managers hire military spouses, however it does allow them to do so, without having to first advertise the job openings. The order does not affect the Defense Department’s existing spouse preference program, designed to help spouses who are already in civil service in obtaining jobs within that department.

That program does not help new spouses get into the federal civil service system; the new policy is designed to do that, Bradshaw said, adding that the policy will give Defense Department managers more flexibility in hiring. Bradshaw also stressed that the new initiative will not affect the veteran’s preference programs, which allow for a qualified veteran to be given preference for federal jobs.⁴

I think it’s fantastic that the federal government is finally recognizing the difficulties faced by military spouses when it comes to careers and that they’re taking steps to make it easier for them to do so. I think this will have some impact on retention of Soldiers who might otherwise get out of the military, so that their spouses can have a career. I’m sure this news will be well received by military spouses in all branches of the military and at all military bases.

1. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/10/military_spouses_federaljobs_100108w/
2. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/10/military_spouses_federaljobs_100108w/
3. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/10/military_spouses_federaljobs_100108w/
4. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/10/military_spouses_federaljobs_100108w/

Sarwar and Islamuddin, the Bermel Radio station jockeys, located on Forward Operating Base Boris, Paktika province, broadcast religious services, play music, educational programs and spread news 13 hours a day to the local area.

In Afghanistan, citizens are now able to have more of an idea what’s occurring in the world, with the opening of a new radio station, “The People’s Radio, located at 92 FM on their radio dial. The creation of the radio station was done with the idea of providing news, advice and education to the villagers. Currently the station, located at Forward Operating Base Boris operates 13 hours per day, throughout the district of Bermel, which is located in eastern Paktika province.

Currently the station is providing over 11 different types of programs. They cover almost every aspect of life for the people in the local villages. The programs range from work and agriculture to health and education. The station also features programs that are specific to women, as well as religious service programs.²

Operating the station are Sarwar, who is a former agricultural professor at Khowst University and Islamuddin, who is an advisor that has over 10 years of agricultural experience. The operate the station as well as host most of the broadcasts.

“We try to do as much as we can for the people here,” Sawar said. “We even meet with them and teach them as much as we can about agriculture. It’s a big part of life for them and we want to make it better for them.”³

So far, the local villagers have responded favorably to the new radio station and the information that it provides to them. The radio station has been in operation for 5 months and thus far have received over 7,000 letters from citizens. Most of the feedback has been positive. Letters run the gamut from offering praise, to making suggestions, asking questions or requesting other programming. The response from the citizens has been so good, that plans are in the works to expand the station. Currently it is operating on a 50 watt system, which has a listening range of 15000-17000sq km. Plans are to upgrade that to a 500 watt system, which will increase the listening range over 10 times to what it is currently, or closer to 170,000 sq. km.

Funding and support for the radio station are provided by Internatinal Security Assistance Forces, which also assists the operations of 9 other radio stations in the Paktika province. It’s great to see these positive steps being taken in Afghanistan. Just knowing what has been accomplished in Iraq and the improvements that have been made, gives me hope that we’ll begin seeing many similar changes in Afghanistan as well, including more radio and television stations, to ensure that those in isolated regions of the country can have contact with the rest of the world, if that is their choice.

1. www.centcom.mil/en/news/bermel-radio-sends-information-to-villages.html
2. www.centcom.mil/en/news/bermel-radio-sends-information-to-villages.html
3. www.centcom.mil/en/news/bermel-radio-sends-information-to-villages.html

In the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, (Public Law 110-181) Congress changed Section 9, Title 4, US Code, that covers “Conduct during hoisting and lowering of passing of the flag.” Don’t hesitate to share this information with veterans you know, so that they’re aware of the change. The section of US Code that was changed, reads as follows:

“During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag, or when the flag is passing in a parade or in review, all persons present in uniform should render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces and Veterans who are present but not in uniform, may render the military salute. All other persons present should face the flag and stand at attention with their right hand over the heart, or if applicable, remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Citizens of other countries present, should stand at attention. All such conduct toward the flag in a moving column should be rendered at the same moment as the flag passes.”¹

I’ve often heard veterans express their desire to be authorized to salute the flag. Even though they’re retired or no longer in the military, doesn’t mean that their respect for our country and it’s symbol, the Stars and Stripes, is any less. This was a great move by Congress.

Army Echoes, Bulletin for Retired Soldiers & Families

1. http://www.armyg1.army.mil/RSO/docs/echoes/08_Dec.pdf

According to a study that was released in April, nearly 20% of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are suffering from symptoms of PTSD. Those symptoms can cover a myriad of emotional and behavioral changes. Some experts feel that by facing their demons head on, that Troops suffering from PTSD can finally learn to release the effects of their disorder.¹

At Walter Reed, thousands of miles from the combat zones, are three computers. One has a cord that attaches to a pair of goggles, a set of stereo headphones and machines that create motion and scent. Using this equipment, doctors there are walking Troops afflicted with PTSD, through an interactive experience called “Virtual Iraq.”

“You feel like you’re doing to die. Your heart’s beating out of your chest, your blood pressure’s going up and you want to just get away from it all,” Dr. Michael J. Roy, the director of Military Internal Medicine who oversees Virtual Iraq said of the treatment. “But you can make it through it. And you realize you’re going to be OK.”²

Traditionally, when a person is treated for PTSD, their doctors may use what is known as imaginal therapy. Using this form of treatment, doctors have the patient close their eyes and then imagine the traumatic experience and provide a first hand account of it. They are asked to describe what they saw, heard, and smelled. Often however, the attempt to protect oneself from the trauma, does not allow the individual to remember much of the traumatic moments in detail.

“It works well for those who can do that, but one of the cardinal features of PTSD is avoiding the trauma,” said Roy, a medical internist and Army Colonel. “So you’re asking somebody who wants to avoid any reminder, ‘Tell me everything you can about what happened.’ If you can do that, great - there’s a good chance you’re going to be cured. But are you going to be able to do it? Are you going to put up with it and keep coming back? A lot of people don’t.”³

Virtual Reality has been tested in other hospitals, with very good results. It’s great to see it expanding to other military medical centers. Each and every tool doctors have, to help those suffering from PTSD, to get better, is that many more of our Troops that can be helped in overcoming PTSD. I think this program, along with some of the other non-traditional therapies are going to be the answer to helping the Troops who suffer from PTSD. As I find more information, I’ll make sure to report it here.

1. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51297
2. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51297
3. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51297

When the United States entered World War I in 1917, George Vaughn Seibold, 23, volunteered, requesting assignment in aviation. He was sent to Canada where he learned to fly British planes since the United States had neither an air force nor planes. Deployed to England, he was assigned to the British Royal Flying Corps, 148th Aero Squadron. With his squadron, he left for combat duty in France. He corresponded with his family regularly. His mother, Grace Darling Seibold, began to do community service by visiting returning servicemen in the hospitals.

The mail from George stopped. Since all aviators were under British control and authority, the United States could not help the Seibold family with any information about their son.

Christmas Eve, 1918, the postman delivered a package to the Washington, DC residence of George and Grace Seibold. The package was marked, “Effects of Deceased Officer, First Lieutenant George Vaughn Seibold, Attached to the 148th Squadron, BRFC.” No other information was provided.

Grace continued to visit hospitalized veterans in the Washington area, clinging to the hope that her son might have been injured and returned to the United States without any identification. While working through her sorrow, she helped ease the pain of the many servicemen who returned so war-damaged that they were incapable of ever reaching normalcy.

After months of inquiry, the family received official notice. “George was killed in aerial combat during the heaviest fighting over Baupaume, France, August 26, 1918.” His body was never recovered.

Grace, realizing that self-contained grief is self-destructive, devoted her time and efforts to not only working in the hospital but extending the hand of friendship to other mothers whose sons had lost their lives in military service.

She organized a group consisting solely of these special mothers, with the purpose of not only comforting each other, but giving loving care to hospitalized veterans confined in government hospitals far from home.

The organization was named after the Gold Star that families hung in their windows in honor of the deceased veteran.

After years of planning, June 4, 1928, twenty-five mothers met in Washington, DC to establish the national organization, American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

The success of our organization continues because of the bond of mutual love, sympathy, and support of the many loyal, capable, and patriotic mothers who while sharing their grief and their pride, have channeled their time, efforts and gifts to lessening the pain of others.

We stand tall and proud by honoring our children, assisting our veterans, supporting our nation, and healing with each other.

Woodrow Wilson

On May 28, 1918, President Wilson approved a suggestion made by the Women’s Committee of the Council of National Defenses that, instead of wearing conventional mourning for relatives who have died in the service of their country, American women should wear a black band on the left arm with a gilt star on the band for each member of the family who has given his life for the nation.

“The Service Flag displayed from homes, places of business, churches, schools, etc., to indicate the number of members of the family or organizations who are serving in the Armed Forces or who have died from such service. Service flags have a deep Blue Star for each living member in the service and a Gold Star for each member who has died.” Thus, the gold Star and the term Gold Star Mother, as applied to mothers whose sons or daughters died in the World Wars, has been accepted.²

Because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, I feel it’s extremely important, especially now, to honor these women, for the sacrifices they’ve made for our country. In his proclamation, President Bush is asking that all Americans fly their flag today. To read his proclamation in whole, please click on the “more” button.

Gold Star Mother’s Day, 2008
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

White House News

Throughout our history, the men and women of the Armed Forces have put our Nation’s security before their own, doing their duty in the face of grave danger. On Gold Star Mother’s Day, we pay solemn tribute to the mothers of the patriots lost serving this great Nation.

Gold Star Mothers inspire our Nation with their deep devotion to family and country. These extraordinary women serve their communities, dedicate their time to helping members of our Armed Forces and veterans, and bring comfort and hope to families whose loved ones laid down their lives in the defense of our liberty. Nothing can compensate for their sacrifice and loss, yet Gold Star Mothers demonstrate tremendous courage and resolve while working to preserve the memory and legacy of all our fallen heroes.

On this day, we honor our country’s Gold Star Mothers and remember their sons’ and daughters’ noble service and great sacrifice. We offer them our deepest gratitude and our most profound respect, and we ask for God’s blessings to be upon them and their families.

The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1895 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as “Gold Star Mother’s Day” and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in its observance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Sunday, September 28, 2008, as Gold Star Mother’s Day. I call upon all Government officials to display the flag of the United States over Government buildings on this special day. I also encourage the American people to display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression of our Nation’s sympathy and respect for our Gold Star Mothers.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH³

Today, as you go about your normal routine, remember, there are thousands of Gold Star Mother’s out there, who have lost their sons or daughters in the fight for freedom, over the years that this country has been in existence. As one of the speakers at this year’s Milblog Conference so eloquently put it, as she was speaking about her spouse and child being deployed, “A husband can be replaced, a child cannot.” If you know a Gold Star Mother, please take a moment to shake her hand, look her in the eye and tell her thanks for the sacrifices she has made for our nation.

1. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51308
2. http://www.goldstarmoms.com/WhoWeAre/History/History.htm
3. http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/09/20080924-9.html

Yesterday, at the age of 83, Paul Newman passed away due to cancer. Throughout his life, Newman wore many hats. Having acted in more than 65 movies, Newman was an icon in Hollywood. Known best for his acting and race car driver, there is so much more that defines the person that Paul Newman was.

How many of our readers, know of the many charitable things that he did? He opened summer camps for ailing children. Mr. Newman was an avid supporter of our military. Each year, through his Newman’s Own non-profit organization, he awarded grants to nonprofit organizations that provide support for our Troops and their families. The purpose of the Newman’s Own Awards is to recognize to volunteer and non-profit organizations supporting our nation’s military families. By providing grants to these organizations, he ensured that our Troops and their families were taken care of.¹ The program began in 1999 and each year, thousands of dollars are awarded to these volunteer and non-profit organizations.

The military community and the world in general will miss this man and the many wonderful things he did for others. I hope that each of us will remember his inspirational works and try to live up to his example. R.I.P. Mr. Newman.

Newman’s Own Website

1. http://www.fisherhouse.org/programs/newmans.shtml

When our Troops are deployed, they often miss out on important milestones in the lives of their family members. If they have children, they may miss that first birthday party, sporting events, music recitals and graduations, to name a few. Many have even missed the birth of their children, as their jobs took them away from home, as the due date approached.

The military understands how missing these milestones can affect the morale of the Troops, as well as the family members they leave behind when they deploy. Because of this, the military often attempts to ensure that the service member is able to go home on leave for at least some of these events. But that’s not always possible, due to mission requirements in the combat zone. That was the case for Marine Lance Cpl. Jovan Rodriguez, who was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first child and was hoping to be by his wife’s bedside, when she gave birth.

Marine Lance Cpl. Jovan Rodriguez, deployed to Iraq, smiles for the camera shortly after witnessing the birth of his daughter, Liliana, via satellite to New Jersey. He is a warehouse clerk assigned to Task Force 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines, Regimental Combat Team 5. Rodriguez joined his wife through teleconference at Al Asad Air Base for the birth of their first child, Sept. 10, 2008. Marine photo by Lance Cpl. Joshua Murray.

Due to operational commitments, Rodriguez was unable to return to New Jersey to be with his wife when she gave birth to their daughter. Rodriguez wanted to witness the birth of his child if at all possible, so he set out on a mission to find a solution to the dilemma and was able to do so.

“When we found out I couldn’t go home, we did some research and found out we could do it by Webcam,” Rodriguez said. He and his wife explained their situation and worked out the details with the hospital staff at Underwood Memorial Hospital in Frankville, NJ. The staff agreed to allow a video teleconference for them during the birth of their baby girl.¹

To facilitate the teleconference, Rodriguez had to fly from Camp Al Qa’im to Al Asad Airbase. He spent several days waiting for the baby to arrive. Finally the day came and rodriguez was able to spend hours at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center located at Al Asad. He was able to join his wife through a two-way audio and video conference.

“If something went wrong, they would have cut off the video and I would have been scared, because it’s my first time,” said Rodriguez. Luckily the birth of Liliana Rodriguez went smoothly. Rodriguez was able to witness the birth of his child and provide support to his wife. ²

“I could see my wife and listen to her the whole time, and the labor went very smoothly,” he said. “I consider myself one of the luckiest men in the world. I know a lot of (service members) don’t get to see the birth of their child and I was blessed to be able to.”³

Hopefully, with the success of this video teleconference, other service members will be able to witness such major life events in the future. Already many of our Troops are already able to participate in video teleconference visits with their families, while they’re deployed. Usually these are sponsored by their units. Encourage the military spouses you know to sign up for the video teleconferences that their deployed spouse’s unit might sponsor. It makes it a lot easier to be able to actually see your service member when you’re talking to him or her. I participated in several when Marty was deployed, as well as one with my son when he was in Kosovo. I think being able to actually see them, makes you know for certain that they’re okay and they’re not just saying that to relieve you and keep you from worrying. Many of the Marines serving with Rodriguez in 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines say that they hope they’ll too be able to make the trip to Al Asad to witness the births of their own children. This is great information for Troops who are getting ready to deploy. With a little bit of coordination between the MWR Centers and local facilities, such as the hospital in Rodriguez’s case, service members are able to participate in important milestones that they might not otherwise be able to.

1. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51289
2. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51289
3. http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51289

On Saturday, in Los Angeles, senior physicians with the VA medical system told Admiral Mullen, the top US Military officer, that the Pentagon needs to overhaul the way it discharges Troops, as hundreds of them are leaving military service with undiagnosed and thus untreated combat related mental health problems. ¹

The doctors are advocating mandatory mental health screenings for all service members retiring after service in war zones. What they don’t mention is, that at least in the Army, there are already mandatory Post Deployment Mental Health Assessments immediately upon returning from the combat zone, and at 3 month intervals thereafter for the first year. The problem is that often Troops will skip the follow-up screenings or be dishonest when answering the questions. This is out of fear that if they say they’re experiencing difficulties, it can have an adverse affect on their careers. As the doctors stated, few Troops acknowledge or seek help because of the stigma attached. The doctors stressed that combat stress related mental health issues become more difficult to treat, the longer someone waits to get help.

“We need to make it a gradual discharge process with milestones, whether it’s six months or a year, whatever it takes,” said Dr. Robert Rubin, chief of mental health at the Veterans Administration healthcare system for Greater Los Angeles. “The stigma goes away if they have no choice but to go for the exams.” ²

Since he was appointed as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff a year ago, Mullen has worked hard to change the military healthcare system. He’s an advocate of the Pentagon changing and improving the way that they take care of returning Troops who are suffering from physical and mental health injuries. He has ordered a senior staff officer to put together recommendations to provide to the Pentagon, as the veterans are handed over to the VA healthcare system. One goal is to make that process more seamless and easier to deal with. Mullen states that one of his big concerns is that the DoD loses track of veterans once they leave the military. That makes it difficult for them to follow their mental and physical health.³

“These people are so precious to us, we don’t have much contact with them anymore,” Mullen said. “We have to figure out a way to have a system that is integrated, to know where everybody is, so we can rest comfortably that those who have sacrificed so much are taken care of.” ⁴

Mullen shared that many of the changes that need to be made to the healthcare system, will require legal action by Congress, and that because of that, changing the discharge process might be difficult. Mullen is currently on a trip scheduled to take place over a week, to Texas and California. During his trip, he’ll be making stops at several mental health facilities for veterans.

Last Thursday, Mullen visited the R & R Center at Fort Bliss, Texas. As our readers know from past posts I’ve made about this center, Soldiers suffering from PTSD are treated aggressively by professionals trained in traditional mental health treatment as well as holistic treatments, such as acupuncture, biofeedback, meditation, and reiki to name a few. He was also scheduled to visit a homeless program in Los Angeles on Monday.

Whether we work in the military healthcare system, or we’re a Veteran or Soldier or a friend or family member, we need to make sure we continue to fight the stigma attached to seeking mental health treatment. That can start by teaching Senior Leaders to encourage their Soldiers to seek help and if they themselves are experiencing difficulties, seeking help themselves. What better way, then to lead by example? Leaders need to ensure that their Soldiers are obtaining the help they need and holding them accountable if they refuse to do so. We need to ensure that the screenings that are done, aren’t ones that veterans can “fudge” on, so a not to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder. We need to do everything in our power to ensure, that another generation of Veterans who might be suffering from combat related mental health issues, aren’t left hanging and that they receive the help they need.

1. http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-na-mullen21-2008sep21,0,5101541.story
2. http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-na-mullen21-2008sep21,0,5101541.story
3. http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-na-mullen21-2008sep21,0,5101541.story
4. http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-na-mullen21-2008sep21,0,5101541.story

The warrior ethos are something that our military men and women live by each and every day. It defines who and what they are as a person and as a servicemember. Those ethos read as follows.

I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.

I’m going to concentrate on the very last one. We hear in the news on a regular basis, about the remains of fallen warriors from World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam being recovered and brought home. There are groups that solely spend their time searching for those remains, meeting with diplomats from other countries, to arrange the recovery of these remains. They never stop looking. That vow is taken so seriously that the Pentagon has a POW/MIA office in Arlington, Va. Their mission is to continue to looking for these servicemembers, so that they are finally brought home and their families can finally have closure. They take their job seriously, as well they should.

“The combatant commanders that are out in the field today are working to find any servicemembers who are missing in the current conflicts” in Iraq and Afghanistan, said Air Force Capt. Mary R. Olsen, a public affairs officer for the Pentagon’s POW/MIA Office in Arlington, Va.¹

Currently there aren’t any servicemembers listed as POW/MIA in Afghanistan. There is now only one servicemember listed as POW/MIA in Iraq, Army Spc. Ahmed Altaei, who was reported as being captured in Iraq on Oct. 23, 2006. Captain Michael Scott Speicher is listed as MIA from Desert Storm. The search for both of these brave warriors continues today.

According to Olsen, modern satellite-enabled communications devices and advanced forensics greatly assist today’s recovery and identification operations, Olsen said, so that “servicemembers don’t go [on] missing.” But they don’t just concentrate on the current wars. The POW/MIA Office works closely with the Joint POW-MIA Accounting Command to search for Soldiers listed as missing from previous wars.

“We are showing today’s servicemembers and the families of today’s servicemembers that these people that we send in harm’s way will not be forgotten, if, God forbid, something should happen,” Olsen said. “We will do everything in our power to bring them home and that we will remember their sacrifices.”²

On Saturday, September 19th, the Pentagon hosted a ceremony for the 2008 MIA/POW Recognition Day, with the event featuring troops from each of the military services. President Bush issued a proclamation commemorating the observances and reminding the nation of those Americans who have sacrificed so much for their country.³ Below is the Presidential proclamation.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2008
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

On National POW/MIA Recognition Day, we honor the brave and patriotic Americans who were held as prisoners of war, and we remember those who are still missing in action. For their valor and selfless devotion to protect the country they love, our Nation owes them a debt we can never fully repay. On this day we underscore our commitment and pledge to those who are still missing in action and to their families that we will not rest until we have achieved the fullest possible accounting for every member of our Armed Forces missing in the line of duty.

To observe this important day, the National League of Families POW/MIA flag is flown over the Capitol, the White House, the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and other locations across our country. The flag is a solemn reminder of our Nation’s enduring obligation and promise to our courageous service members who remain missing and a tribute to those who have been imprisoned while serving their country in conflicts around the world.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Friday, September 19, 2008, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. I call upon the people of the United States to join me in honoring and remembering all former American prisoners of war and those missing in action for their valiant service to our Nation. I also call upon Federal, State, and local government officials and private organizations to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH⁴

It’s important that we never forget these men and women. It’s important that WE as a nation do everything in our power to ensure that they all eventually come home. As we remember the sacrifices of our servicemembers and veterans, let us also remember the sacrifices of our POW/MIA’s and their families

1. http://www.military.com/news/article/army-news/a-vow-to-search-for-the-absent.html?wh=news
2. http://www.military.com/news/article/army-news/a-vow-to-search-for-the-absent.html?wh=news
3. http://www.military.com/news/article/army-news/a-vow-to-search-for-the-absent.html?wh=news
4. http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/powday/Proclamation2008.htm

The pre-party was hosted by the fantastic guys at Blackfive and held at the Penthouse Club. I can honestly say that the people at the Penthouse are very supportive of the Troops and they allowed us to invade their club at no cost. To give you an idea of the fun that occurred there, I’ll share some photos that some of the attendees took.

I'll let CJ and Marcus explain this one and .......

This one.....

Uncle Jimbo from Blackfive REALLY enjoyed himself

After the conference on Saturday, a bunch of us met up at the Mirage for an evening of “people watching,” among other things. Like the night before, I was fortunate to spend the evening in the company of a group of fantastic people. We had a blast and Marcus was able to show why the Marines are the “few and the proud” when he played hero to a damsel in distress (”I Got My Feelings Hurt!”)

Troy (from Bouhammer) and CJ

CJ, LL and Me

Troy, CJ and Travis

Marcus and Domestic Diva

Jack showing everyone his stash (you'll have to ask him what that is...)

It was an evening filled with lots of laughs (chicks in barely there red dresses and wheelchairs and red biohazard bags). I am SO looking forward to the conference next year, so that I can once again spend time in the company of such wonderful people.