Veterans & Military Families Monthly News-August 2011 Part I

Veterans & Military Families Monthly News
August 2011-Part i
Good afternoon and thank you for reading, this months edition of the newsletter. We appreciate your involvement. Remember, we have two online sources where you can read and offer comments on the current and previous editions of the newsletter. The newsletter is posted on Facebook through the group called Veterans and Military Families Monthly News. Check it out and join the group. Click here to go directly to the page. (Keep in mind, you need a Facebook account to join; however, the documents can be viewed through the docs link toward the bottom of the page even without an account.) The second source for the online version of the newsletter is the website www.scribd.com. This online source for the newsletter works in the same fashion as the Facebook page. Please let us know what you think, or if you have any questions about the online sources. For those of you who enjoy just receiving the email each month, we will continue to send it out. But we want to build the online presence as a way to reach out to more people. As always, thank you very much for reading. Our hope is to continue to expand the newsletter. For that, we need your input. So, again, if anyone has any suggestions for topics to cover or wants to write their own piece, we will gladly try to work it in. We hope you enjoy, and please share your feedback with us.
Vol. 2 No. 12
VA Expands Outreach to Women Veterans
From: www.va.gov
Department Hosts 5th National Summit in D.C.

WASHINGTON Over 700 participants plan to attend the Fifth National Summit on Women Veterans Issues scheduled July 16-17 at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki will give remarks to open the summit this Saturday, which will focus on expanding outreach to women Veterans and increasing awareness of the enhanced VA benefits and services available to them. With more women serving in our armed forces than ever before, this summit is an opportunity to exchange ideas and focus attention on the issues and concerns unique to women Veterans, Shinseki said. Today, there are over 1.8 million women Veterans of all eras and one of VAs highest priorities is to continue to expand our services and outreach to ensure they receive the care and benefits they have earned. This is the first time VA will provide targeted training, education, and collaborative cross training for its staff responsible for providing services and benefits specifically to women Veterans and their families. Participants include: women Veterans, women Veteran advocates from across the nation, active duty women service members (to include those in the Reserves and National Guard) VA employees who provide care to women Veterans, and representatives from a multitude of Veterans service organizations and nonprofit agencies. VA Medical Centers employ women Veterans program managers; community-based outpatient clinics employ a womens liaison; and VA regional offices employ a women Veterans coordinator. Continued on P. 2.
Thank you very much!

P.3-Overture 1812 P.4-Wounded Warrior Project P.7-Lest We Forget SW MI P.8-MACH 3-Part II P.10-Spirit of the American Flag P.12-Purple Heart Vets P.14-Paralyzed Veterans of America
In This Issue
P.15-Namspeak P.16-Beaver Island Veterans Memorial Park P.19-VA Womens Health Care P.20-VA Homeless Veterans Update P.21-TriWest P.22-Veterans Summit P.23-On a Lighter Note And More
Please See Page 27, In Memory of Gary Lillie

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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"The number of women Veterans using VA health care has doubled in the last decade, said Patricia Hayes, chief consultant of VAs Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group. This training, coupled with direct feedback from women Veterans, will enable VA to continue to enhance health care and services to meet their needs. Today, over 200,000 women are serving in the armed forces. About 11 percent of the U.S. forces currently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq are women. Recognizing the valor, service and sacrifice of Americas 1.7 million women Veterans, VA has stepped up its outreach efforts to women Veterans to increase their awareness of the comprehensive array of VA benefits and programs. Women Veterans are entitled to the same benefits and medical care as their male counterparts, including health care, disability compensation, education assistance, work-study allowance, vocational rehabilitation, employment and counseling services, insurance, home loan benefits, nursing home care, survivor benefits and various burial benefits. In addition, VA also has a multitude of gender specific services and programs that respond to the unique needs of women Veterans, including pap smears, mammography, general reproductive health care, counseling for substance abuse, sexual trauma, depression, and evaluation and treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For more information about VA visit the website at www.va.gov and its Center for Women Veterans at http://www.va.gov/womenvet.
Some Useful Links

Air Force Times www.airforcetimes.com Navy Times www.navytimes.com Marine Corps Times www.marinecorpstimes.com Army Times www.armytimes.com Military Times www.militarytimes.com TRICARE www.tricare.mil American Legion www.legion.org Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw.org AMVETS www.amvets.org The DAV www.dav.org Department of Defense www.dod.gov Military/Veterans Report www.militray.com The Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Administration www.va.gov
Michigan Republican Party Facebook Page

Along with building the newsletters Facebook page, which can be found by the link above, the Michigan Republican Party is building their page. If you would like join, please click here.
If anyone has a site they would like to have added to this growing list please let us know! Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org Also check out the complete list of links that appear in this newsletter on the last page.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
Thank you for your Support!

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From: www. www.usarmtyband.com
OVERTURE 1812
Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. Sylvan Theater, Washington, DC

Each year The United States Army Band performs its big summer concert that concludes with the spirited Tchaikovskys Overture 1812 on the slope of the Washington Monument Groundscomplete with the cannons of The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Presidential Salute Battery. A favorite among Washingtonians, the annual must-see musical extravaganza offers an enjoyable musical program of traditional band music with vocal highlights and Herald Trumpet fanfare. The concert features classical, popular, and patriotic music for audiences of all ages. This free performance will be held at the Sylvan Theater on the Washington Monument Grounds between 15th Street and Independence Avenue. No tickets are required for this event. The closest metro stop to the location is the Smithsonian station on the Orange and Blue Metro lines. The concert ends in grand fashion thanks to the Presidential Salute Battery, equipped with four three-inch, 5,775-pound, World War II vintage anti-tank guns, will fire 75mm blank shells with one-and-a-half pounds of gunpowder. A total of 23 shots will be fired, including the
final volley from all four cannons. Overture 1812 was composed for the 1880 Kremlin Square celebration honoring the Russian victory over the French Napoleon Bonaparte in 1812. Today the overture is revered among concert goersfrom its playful, mocking themes from the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, to the powerful finale with ringing church bells and booming cannons proclaiming victory! This performance is a highlight of the Washington, DC, outdoor music season. Come early and bring a blanket/lawn chairs and a picnic and enjoy the sights and sounds as The U.S. Army Band and the Presidential Salute Battery light up the night (alcoholic beverages are not permitted). View a video preview of the Overture 1812 Concert (QuickTime Player 7.0required).
From: http://www.jpac.pacom.mil The mission of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) is to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all Americans missing as a result of the nation's past conflicts. The highest priority of the organization is the return of any living Americans that remain prisoners of war. To date, the U.S. Government has not found any evidence that there are still American POWs in captivity from past U.S. conflicts. JPAC is located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The command was activated on Oct. 1, 2003, created from the merger of the 30-year-old U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii, and the 11-year-old Joint Task Force - Full Accounting. Commanded by a flag officer,
JPAC is manned by approximately 400 handpicked Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Department of the Navy civilians. The laboratory portion of JPAC, referred to as the Central Identification Laboratory (CIL), is the largest forensic anthropology laboratory in the world. JPAC also maintains three permanent overseas detachments to assist with command and control, logistics and in-country support during investigation and recovery operations. They are Detachment One located in Bangkok, Thailand, Detachment Two in Hanoi, Vietnam and Detachment Three in Vientiane, Laos. JPAC has a fourth detachment, Detachment Four, located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, responsible for recovery team personnel when they are not deployed.
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Wounded Warrior Project
From: Mark Eddy Head Coach-Coloma High School (Cell: 269-214-8956) Next fall the Coloma football program will host a Wounded Warrior Project night. The Wounded Warrior Project raises money and awareness for persons of the Armed Services who have been injured while serving our country. When I heard about this fund raiser personally I thought this is great fit for Coloma. Programs that have participated in the Wounded Warrior project play the game in jerseys that people in the community sponsor in honor of a Wounded Warrior and/or US Veteran. Our program plans on having each player seek out a veteran and gather some information about his service. The player will place that veterans name on the back of the sponsored jerseys. After the game, those jerseys will be presented to the service member or a member of their family. We plan to host the WWP game on Friday September 30th @ 7:00PM vs. Edwardsburg High School. Donations: These donations will cover the upfront cost of items like t-shirts. Also these donations hope to cover the cost of the game program which we will sell for a $1 dollar donation. The program will promote the generous gifts on a donors page. We will place donors on T-shirt designed for the game as well as game announcements and the Coloma website. Sponsorship Levels: Platinum $500, Gold $300, Silver $200, Bronze$100, Green $50, Yellow $25 For more information you can visit the Wounded Warrior Project Website at: http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/.
From: Rick Briggs, Major, USAF (Ret) The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) Veterans Program utilizes numerous types of outdoor activities to gather Veterans and currently serving military personnel together for a little R&R. These special events are almost always free for the troops depending totally on the kind donations of sponsors and donors. In addition to being a great way to say Thank you for their service, these activities serve as the mechanism to get the troops to open up a little if they are having post-deployment issues. Frequently we find that in the comfortable confines with others who have been there, done that they tend to be more receptive to learn about Invisible Wounds says Rick Briggs the Program Manager, both PTSD and TBI are treatable if they seek the proper help. To find out more about these activities, or to donate to their Veterans Program, please make out checks to BIAMI Veterans Program and send them to 7305 Grand River Suite #100, Brighton, MI 48114 or contact Rick Briggs at veterans@biami.org or call him (810) 2295880 or visit www.biami.org.
Brain Injury Association of Michigan
BIAMI is celebrating its 30th Anniversary as it continues to strive to provide persons with a brain injury and their families, healthcare professionals, and the general public with the resources necessary to enhance brain injury awareness, education, prevention, and support. BIAMI is also fields the first and only dedicated Veterans Program staff within the Brain Injury Association of America.
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About the Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI):
Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Committee Testimony Committee Minutes No SubCommittees Committee Members: Kurt Damrow (R), Committee Chair, 84th District Ray A. Franz (R), Majority Vice-Chair, 101st District Gail Haines (R), 43rd District Sharon Tyler (R), 78th District Mike Callton (R), 87th District Dale W. Zorn (R), 56th District David E. Nathan (D), Minority Vice-Chair, 11th District George T. Darany (D), 15th District Charles Smiley (D), 50th District Lesia Liss (D), 28th District Paul Clemente (D), 14th District Ben Cook, Committee Clerk 517-373-2002 bcook@house.mi.gov
Rep. Kurt Damrow Committee Chair Welcome to the Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee. The committee's regularly scheduled meeting time is Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. in room 308 of the House Office Building in Lansing. I welcome citizens to contact me or other committee members regarding bills or proposals our committee is addressing. Individuals needing special accommodations to participate in a committee meeting may contact my office to request the necessary assistance.
2011 Southeastern Michigan Veterans Stand Down October 12th & 13th, 2011 Location: Detroit Rescue Mission 3606 E. Forest Ave. Detroit, Michigan 48207
Contact us Service providers contact Norm Wilcox at (248) 808-0929 Email: semvsd@aol.com or Linda Jones at (313) 576-3870 Volunteers contact Mark Sutton (248) 477-6377 Media Contact Norm Wilcox at (248) 808-0929
A Note From Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

We need your help to grow the Newsletter
We are currently looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know. For it is through your involvement we are able to reach more and more people each month. Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy.
Legal Help for Veterans

From: James G. Fausone Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC is a law firm located in Northville, Michigan. We have a national practice representing veterans on veterans disability claims. This representation occurs at the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, the Board of Veterans Appeals and regional offices. We have helped veterans collect over $10,000,000 in retro and future benefits. Over the last decade, LHFV has become a trusted name in the legal community for providing legal services to veterans and lecturing at law schools, bar associations and community events. Members of the Legal Help for Veterans practice group are former service members who bring not only legal expertise but an understanding of service and duty. The members of the group have medical and administrative backgrounds as well as finely honed legal skills developed over twenty years of practice and experience. We have represented thousands of veterans and currently have over 650 active clients. For more information about the organization and about legal help for veterans and for contact information www.legalhelpforveterans.com and found on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Our telephone number is 800.693.4800. Our blog discusses current issues facing veterans and the VA. Typically our clients are enlisted men and women who served post Korea. The Vietnam vet is still the one with the most common problems. These include Agent Orange related disabilities, PTSD, psychiatric or orthopedic injuries. Other vets often have hearing loss, military sexual trauma or tinnitus. We are now seeing Iraq and Afghanistan vets with TBI. Many vets do not even begin the disability claim process until many years after service. The trigger may be unemployability and the need for benefits. With a million claim back log at VA, it is a slow and confusing process and many people need professional help establishing the proper diagnosis and service connection. That is what Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC has been doing for clients for years. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
Three ways to help:

1. Email us the contact information at mhauser@migop.org 2. By mail at: 520 Seymour Lansing, MI 48933 3. Or simply forward the newsletter along to a friend.
A Note From Lt. Col Hank Fuhs

Special Active Military Membership pricing from the Fredrick Meijer Gardens. Please visit: www.meijergardens.org for more information.
Steaming Live for those who serve check it out.

If anyone has any other sites or link they find to be a good source please let us know we will gladly work it in. Please contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org.
Veterans Radio is dedicated to all of the men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces of the United States of America. Our mission is to provide all veterans with a voice, to give them a forum where they are able to discuss their issuesand tell their stories. You can listen to the show on: WDEO (990-AM Ann Arbor/Detroit), WMAX (1440-AM, Saginaw), WDEO-FM (99.5 FM, Naples FL), KAGY (1510-AM Port Sulfur/New Orleans LA), KIXW (960-AM, Apple Valley CA) and KMRC (1430AM Morgan City, LA). Or, listen to our Webcast and archives at: www.veteransradio.net.
Lest We Forget SW Michigan

Have you ever felt that history, particularly military history, isn't being taught in our schools like it was in the "good old" times? Why is it that many of our high school graduates, some say a majority, don't know who we fought in WWII, who bombed us at Pearl Harbor or worst yet, believe that the holocaust never happened? Our children are not being taught the basic principles that have made this country great! "Lest We Forget" was started by a group of veterans who felt that patriotism was too important of a subject to be given the short shrift that it presently receives in our schools and community. Our operating principle is "To brighten the future we must illuminate the past." We've "illuminated the past" through WWII re-enactments, patriotic concerts, presentations by Medal of Honor recipients, presentation of the American flag to Frank Buckles, our last WWI veteran, TV telecasts to schools throughout the country, participation in local parades, made presentations in our schools on the flag, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published a book of WWII stories by local veterans, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published two books of veterans stories, brought in the VN Wall and honored the Korean vets this year. Next year (2012) Jun 29-Jul 1 we will have D-Day and Iwo Jima beach landings and much more. Remember, "Freedom is NOT free!" Patriotically Yours, Don Alsbro, President COL, US Army (ret) Lest We Forget For more info about Lest We Forget SW MI please visit their website by simply clicking here.
LWF 2010 Group Picture
MACH 3-Part II
18 IN-FLIGHT BREAKUP OF AN SR-71 BLACKBIRD
By: Bill Weaver, Chief Test Pilot, Lockheed From: Gene Simon I raised the frozen faceplate and discovered its uplatch was broken. Using one hand to hold that plate up, I saw I was descending through a clear, winter sky with unlimited visibility. I was greatly relieved to see Jim's parachute coming down about a quarter of a mile away. I didn't think either of us could have survived the aircraft's breakup, so seeing Jim had also escaped lifted my spirits incredibly. I could also see burning wreckage on the ground a few miles from where we would land. The terrain didn't look at all inviting a desolate, high plateau dotted with patches of snow and no signs of habitation. I tried to rotate the parachute and look in other directions. But with one hand devoted to keeping the face plate up and both hands numb from high-altitude, subfreezing temperatures, I couldn't manipulate the risers enough to turn. Before the breakup, we'd started a turn in the New Mexico-Colorado-Oklahoma-Texas border region. The SR-71 had a turning radius of about 100 miles at that speed and altitude, so I wasn't even sure what state we were going to land in. But, because it was about 3:00 p.m. , I was certain we would be spending the night out here. At about 300 ft. above the ground, I yanked the seat kit's release handle and made sure it was still tied to me by a long lanyard. Releasing the heavy kit ensured I wouldn't land with it attached to my derriere, which could break a leg or cause other injuries. I then tried to recall what survival items were in that kit, as well as techniques I had been taught in survival training. Looking down, I was startled to see a fairly large animal perhaps an antelope- directly under me. Evidently, it was just as startled as I was because it literally took off in a cloud of dust. My first-ever parachute landing was pretty smooth. I landed on fairly soft ground, managing to avoid rocks, cacti and antelopes. My chute was still billowing in the wind, though. I struggled to collapse it with one hand, holding the still-frozen faceplate up with the other. "Can I help you?" a voice said. Was I hearing things? I must be hallucinating. Then I looked up and saw a guy walking toward me, wearing a cowboy hat. A helicopter was idling a short distance behind him. If I had been at Edwards and told the search-and-rescue unit that I was going to bail out
over the Rogers Dry Lake at a particular time of day, a crew couldn't have gotten to me as fast as that cowboypilot had. The gentleman was Albert Mitchell, Jr., owner of a huge cattle ranch in northeastern New Mexico and I had landed about 1.5 mi. from his ranch house--and from a hangar for his two-place Hughes helicopter. Amazed to see him, I replied I was having a little trouble with my chute. He walked over and collapsed the canopy, anchoring it with several rocks. He had seen Jim and me floating down and had radioed the New Mexico Highway Patrol, the Air Force and the nearest hospital. Extracting myself from the parachute harness, I discovered the source of those flapping-strap noises heard on the way down. My seat belt and shoulder harness were still draped around me, attached and latched. The lap belt had been shredded on each side of my hips, where the straps had fed through knurled adjustment rollers. The shoulder harness had shredded in a similar manner across my back. The ejection seat had never left the airplane. I had been ripped out of it by the extreme forces, with the seat belt and shoulder harness still fastened. I also noted that one of the two lines that supplied oxygen to my pressure suit had come loose, and the other was barely hanging on. If that second line had become detached at high altitude, the deflated pressure suit wouldn't have provided any protection. I knew an oxygen supply was critical for breathing and suit-pressurization, but didn't appreciate how much physical protection an inflated pressure suit could provide. That the suit could withstand forces sufficient to disintegrate an airplane and shred heavy nylon seat belts, yet leave me with only a few bruises and minor whiplash was impressive. I truly appreciated having my own little escape capsule.
After helping me with the chute, Mitchell said he'd check on Jim. He climbed into his helicopter, flew a short distance away and returned about 10 minutes later with devastating news: Jim was dead. Apparently, he had suffered a broken neck during the aircraft's disintegration and was killed instantly. Mitchell said his ranch foreman would soon arrive to watch over Jim's body until the authorities arrived. I asked to see Jim and, after verifying there was nothing more that could be done, agreed to let Mitchell fly me to the Tucumcari hospital, about 60 mi. to the south.. I have vivid memories of that helicopter flight, as well. I didn't know much about rotorcraft, but I knew a lot about "red lines," and Mitchell kept the airspeed at or above red line all the way. The little helicopter vibrated and shook a lot more than I thought it should have. I tried to reassure the cowboy-pilot I was feeling OK; there was no need to rush. But since he'd notified the hospital staff that we were inbound, he insisted we get there as soon as possible. I couldn't help but think how ironic it would be to have survived one disaster only to be done in by the helicopter that had come to my rescue. However, we made it to the hospital safely--and quickly. Soon, I was able to contact Lockheed's flight test office at Edwards. The test team there had been notified initially about the loss of radio and radar contact, then been told the aircraft had been lost. They also knew what our flight conditions had been at the time, and assumed no one could have survived. I explained what had happened, describing in fairly accurate detail the flight conditions prior to breakup. The next day, our flight profile was duplicated on the SR-71 flight simulator at Beale AFB, Calif. The
outcome was identical. Steps were immediately taken to prevent a recurrence of our accident. Testing at a CG aft of normal limits was discontinued, and trim-drag issues were subsequently resolved via aerodynamic means. The inlet control system was continuously improved and, with subsequent development of the Digital Automatic Flight and Inlet Control System, inlet unstarts became rare. Investigation of our accident revealed that the nose section of the aircraft had broken off aft of the rear cockpit and crashed about 10 miles from the main wreckage. Parts were scattered over an area approximately 15 miles long and 10 miles wide. Extremely high air loads and g-forces, both positive and negative, had literally ripped Jim and me from the airplane. Unbelievably good luck is the only explanation for my escaping relatively unscathed from that disintegrating aircraft. Two weeks after the accident, I was back in an SR-71, flying the first sortie on a brand-new bird at Lockheed's Palmdale , Calif. assembly and test facility. It was my first flight since the accident, so a flight test engineer in the back seat was probably a little apprehensive about my state of mind and confidence. As we roared down the runway and lifted off, I heard an anxious voice over the intercom. "Bill! Bill! Are you there?" "Yeah, George. What's the matter?" "Thank God! I thought you might have left". The rear cockpit of the SR-71 has no forward visibility--only a small window on each side--and George couldn't see me. A big red light on the master-warning panel in the rear cockpit had illuminated just as we rotated, stating: "Pilot Ejected". Fortunately, the cause was a misadjusted micro switch, not my departure.
Two Great Sources for Veterans/Military Legislative Updates in Washington D.C. Simply click the images to view the site.
From: U.S. Department of Defense-Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) The deadline for eligible service members, veterans and their beneficiaries to apply for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP) has been extended to Oct. 21, 2011, allowing those eligible more time to apply for the benefits theyve earned under the program guidelines. The deadline extension is included in Continuing Resolution H.R. 1473, signed by President Obama April 15, 2011, providing funding for federal government operations through Oct. 21, 2011. The RSLSP was established to compensate for the hardships military members encountered when their service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss Authority between Sept. 11, 2001, and Sept. 30, 2009. Eligible members or their beneficiaries may submit a claim to their respective military service in order to receive the benefit of $500 for each full or partial month served in a Stop Loss status. When RSLSP began on Oct. 21, 2009, the services estimated 145,000 service members, veterans and beneficiaries were eligible for this benefit. Because the majority of those eligible had separated from the military, the services have engaged in extensive and persistent outreach efforts over the past 18 months. Outreach efforts including direct mail and engaging military and veteran service organizations, social networks and media outlets, will continue through Oct. 21, 2011. To apply, or for more information on RSLSP, including submission requirements and service-specific links, go to http://www.defense.gov.
Deadline for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay Extended
By: Dale Hemphill-Designer, Spirit of America Flag (dhemp31628@aol.com)
Spirit of the American Flag
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
The Spirit of America Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 by a naval veteran realizing the need for historical recognition of American's heroes and the sacrifices they made for our country. The "Spirit of America" insignia shown above was designed to recognize our men and women of the military forces and the battles they fought. As the Spirit of America Foundation continues its mission to promote patriotism and the appreciation of our veterans, it has expanded its reach to help veterans in need in today's tough economy. FORGOTTEN HEROES USA, LTD, supports the missions of the Spirit of America Foundation by offering patriotic products honoring Americas hardships in history dating back to the Revolutionary War to present day Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. With each purchase, a percentage is donated to the Spirit of America Foundation. If you would like to help our cause by making a purchase or donation please know that your generosity will reach many others in their time of need. Please review our web site for more information. If you have any questions or comments please contact us via the "Contact Us" page. Thank you! Video: The Raising of the Spirit of America flag. At the American war cemetery in Margraten in The Netherlands on Sunday the 3rd of July 2011. Made by: RALPH84 Click Here to view the video.
~Ronald Reagan
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MICHIGAN AIR NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY BOOKS

The Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association created a three volume set of history books covering the periods 1926-1996. A fourth volume covering the years 1996 to 2006 is in production and should be available soon. Volume 1 covers the period 1926 to 1976-Cost: $1.00 Volume 2 covers the period 1976 to 1986-Cost: $4.00 Volume 3 covers the period 1986 to 1996-Cost: $1.00 Volume 4 covers the period 1996 to 2010-Cost: $6:00 Full color $35.00 If you wish to purchase one or more of these volumes or are interested in more information, please contact MAGHA at Phone: 586-239-6768, Fax: 586-239-6646, Email: 127.wg.selfridgeairmuseum@ang.af.mil
MANGBANG
From: Eugene (Gene) A. Simon- Command Chief Master Sergeant USAF (Retired) & Matthew X. Hauser As you may have seen in past editions of the newsletter, MANGBANG has been one of our sources. We are thankful for the source and so we just wanted to pass the information along for MANGBANG in case anyone is interested in joining the Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association. You can contact Lou Nigro if you are interested. We think it is a worthwhile investment-it supports the history of the Michigan Air National Guard and his monthly publications are very informative. For those who want to view it on our website (www.selfridgeairmuseum.org, http://www.selfridgeairmuseum.org ), Lt Col Lou Nigro, MI ANG (Ret) Executive Director, Selfridge Military Air Museum Email: louis.nigro@ang.af.mil
From: Dept. Hospital Chairman Merridy Lewis Hospitalized Veterans Writing Program (HVWP). This program helps veterans get their poems and stories down on paper is one of the goals for our volunteers. Volunteer aides help both with a one on one or with groups of patients to help them put their thoughts and feelings into stories and poems. The stories and poems can be submitted to veterans voices, a magazine that publishes the articles that have been submitted. The HVWP does its very best to publish every article that has been submitted following the guide lines.
"Veterans Voices"
It is important to submit the authors name, VAMC facility and state, the authors permanent address the branch of service and duties along with the serial number or social security number. Manuscripts must be original and unpublished, except in VAMC publications. Writers can submit up to three poems, each no longer than 24 lines with 60 character width. Stories no longer than 10 pages, typed using double spacing. This is a brief detail of what HVWP is about. It may be an interest you would like to share with a Veteran on a volunteer basis. This is part of our history for generations yet to come we are losing World War II Veterans every day and we need to hear their stories. For more information about the organization please visit their website at www.veteransvoices.org.
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From: RAO Bulletin July 2011 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238 -1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/ NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/ AD37 member) A study led by Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers found that aging Veterans who earned the Purple Heart show decreased mortality compared with those who had not earned the medal. Additionally, those war-wounded Veterans who survive into later life especially those who do not develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)- may provide valuable clues as to the that lead to resilience to combat stress. A team of VA researchers who studied more than 10,000 Veterans of World War II and the Korean War produced these findings, which appear online in the journal Depression and Anxiety. "Among the older Veterans we studied, those with Purple Heart citations had half the mortality rate of those without Purple Heart citations," said lead author Tim Kimbrell, MD, a physician-researcher with the Center for Mental Health and Outcomes Research, based at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System. Whether the Purple Heart holders had chronic PTSD or not, they were about twice as likely to still be alive after some 10 years of follow-up, compared with those with no Purple Heart and no PTSD. The study included Veterans who were 65 and or older in the late 1990s. It tracked their survival through 2008. It is estimated that more than a million Servicemembers received a Purple Heart in World War II, and nearly 119,000 in the Korean War. In recent years, researchers with VA and the Department of Defense have
Purple Heart Vets
sought insight into the psychological and neurobiological factors that enable some Servicemembers to not develop PTSD after traumatic events. The authors of the new VA study say Purple Heart holders who survive long past their war experience without PTSD may be the ideal population on which to focus such research. "Our theory was that there are many factors that contribute to resilience to PTSD, and these same factors may increase survival," said Kimbrell. The researchers were surprised to find that among Purple Heart recipients, those with PTSD had slightly lower mortality than those without PTSD. This is a contradiction to several studies that have shown a link between chronic stress conditions such as PTSD and worse survival. Kimbrell and colleagues suggest this finding is due to what they term "early attrition." Those who had been physically injured in World War II or Korea and suffered PTSD may have been less likely to survive until age 65 in the first place; the PTSD-Purple Heart group included in their study may have been an exceptionally healthy and hearty cohort of Veterans. The researchers say further studies involving these Veterans, as well as those who were wounded in combat but did not develop PTSD, may lead to new insights to help prepare future Servicemembers to cope with the stress and trauma of war. Kimbrell, in addition to his VA role, is also a professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He collaborated on the study with other authors from his site, as well as with colleagues from the Houston Center for Quality of Care and Utilization Studies, at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center; Baylor College of Medicine; the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, SC; the Medical University of South Carolina; and the University of Texas Health Science Center. For more information on VA research, visit www.research.va.gov. [Source: VA News Release 12 Jul 2011 ++]
STEP UP AND LEAD

From: The USO In 2011, we're calling on the brave men and women of our armed forces to make some incredible sacrifices in Afghanistan, Iraq, and remote locations around the world. That means you and I need to make an extra effort to show our support. One of the best ways to let our troops know that you've got their back is by supporting the work of the USO. Step Up and Lead -- support our troops by signing up to be part of the USO today.
A note to everyone we are working on collecting the stories of WWII veterans from around the state with the hope of running them in upcoming editions. We must not forget the stories of these brave men have to tell for it our history and far too many people seem to have forgotten the sacrifice so many have made for this great nation. We are asking for everyones help to compete this goal. If you have or know of someone who has a story they would like to share please send it along. If you have any questions let us know. Thank you very much! Sincerely, Matthew X. Hauser & Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs
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Attention!
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A Note From Department Hospital Chairwoman Merridy Lewis

From: www.michiganpva.org MPVA is celebrating its 50th year of service in Michigan. It is a chapter of the national Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), operating according to the standards and practices established by the PVA. MPVA is, however, a separate 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Michigan programs, services, education, and outreach conducted here are made possible by local volunteers, partners, sponsors, and donors. The mission of Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America is to enhance the lives of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease as well as all citizens with disabilities, by advocating for civil rights, assuring quality health care, supporting continued research and education, and encouraging independence and healthy living through various health, sports and recreational programs. MPVA shall continue striving to remain at the forefront of both veterans benefits services and disability rights, while working toward a better quality of life for all American citizens.
The MPVA Mission
More Information will be Coming soon about MPVA 8th Annual Salute To veterans Gala!
Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2011 Location: The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC Please visit www.pva.org for more information. About the Event and PVAs National Chapter.
Hello Everyone, Im sure youve heard about budget cuts that are affecting so many of us. Our Veteran Medical Centers are no exception. Have you thought about being a volunteer? There are so many ways volunteers can help the Veterans Homes, medical Centers, clinics or even local Hospitals and nursing homes. As a volunteer you help to ensure that our Veterans are treated with care, affection, respect and enthusiasm. There are many opportunities available that volunteers are needed for. A few ideas that come to mind would be ---- A greeter/ambassador, this position you would help Veterans who may need assistance locating general information of the hospital, giving directions, or even escort them to an appointment. Perhaps, get a wheelchair for them. Another idea would be to write letters, read a book or to sit and visit with them, as sometimes they dont have family or friends that are able to visit. Play a game of cards or even work on a puzzle. The veterans can always use phone cards, bus tokens or transportation, vouchers, crossword puzzles, canteen books to purchase coffee or soda from the canteen and reading materials. How do I become a Veterans Affair Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteer? Contact your nearest VA or local nursing home or hospital. Ask to speak to a voluntary service specialist. They will set you up an appointment for an interview to see what interests you have, and give you a scheduled time to volunteer. You will also be given an orientation of hospital policy. Non members of the VFW & Ladies Auxiliary can be sponsored from each post. So, if you have a friend that would like to help you when you volunteer perhaps your Auxiliary would sponsor them. Children are welcomed to volunteer also. Do you have an out-standing hospital volunteer? Please submit an application to me for the Out Standing Hospital Volunteer of the Year!
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VIETNAM NAMSPEAK-Part IV
From: Don Alsbro-President of Lest We Forget SW Michigan. Please visit www.lestweforgetswmi.org for more information about the organization. Wars tend to develop a language of their own and the Vietnam War was no exception. The following are some of the words that reflect the Language of the American GI in VN. NOTE: The list is not complete (an impossible task and much too large) and a few of the terms with inappro-priate words have been omitted for obvious reasons. Gunny: Marine gunnery sergeant Gunship: A combat helicopter armed with various weapons H&I: Harassment and Interdiction fire by the artillery designed to deny enemy use of beneficial terrain Hawk: Someone who supported the war Hooch: Living accommodations Hoochgirl: Vietnamese women employed by the American military as a maid or laundress Hot: An area under fire Huey Helicopter: the UH-1 Huey was used as a utility helicopter to transport troops and supplies, as an evac-uation helicopter to evacuate wounded from the battlefield, as an assault helicopter to land combat forces, and, when modified with weapons, as an attack helicopter gunship. The UH-1 Huey was truly the workhorse of the Vietnam War. Hump: To carry pack, equipment; usually referred to activity by an infantryman In Country: To be in Vietnam Insert: To be dropped into an area by helicopter Iron Triangle: A VC stronghold, located between the Thi-Tinh and Saigon Rivers, next to the Cu Chi District, near and NW of Saigon Jody: The person who wins your lover or spouse away while youre in Vietnam Jolly Green Giant: A USAF rescue helicopter Kill Zone: An area around an explosive device in which 95 percent kill are predicted or the center / key target area for an ambush Kit Carson Scout: A VC defector working for the Americans Lager: Night defensive position Lifer: Career military man LBJ: Long Binh Stockade located on the Long Binh Base162 LP: Listening post LRRP: Long Range Reconnaissance Patrols mainly organized by Special Forces Lurps: Members of long range patrols (LRRP) M 16 Rifle: Became the standard US infantry rifle in Vietnam in 1967. It replaced the M-14 rifle. M 79 Grenade Launcher: Fired a 40 mm grenade cartridge with a range of 375 yards. Mamma-san: Used by American GIs for any older Vietnamese woman MARS: Military Affiliated Radio System: Used in base camps to call loved ones in the US. It required radio transmissions and was not very dependable. Article source: Wartime Memoirs by Southwestern Michigan Veterans Volume 2. Please visit www.lestweforgetswmi.org for more information about the project or to order the book. Wonderful Work!
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From: Bob Tidmore-Post Commander AMVETS Post 46 (Michigan AMVET News, Winter 2011) AMVETS Post 46 on Beaver Island has received the final permits for the construction of a Veterans Memorial Park on the site of the old Beaver Island power plant located on Main Street in the middle of the harbor. The park will included three flagpoles that will fly the American flag, the Michigan flag, and a rotating service flag. One monument will list the names of those from Beaver Island who gave their lives in the service of their country. A second pays tribute to all veterans who have served their country and the third honors the Emmett Burke AMETS Post 46. In front of the monuments there will be three area s containing bricks with veteran names, dates and service affiliation. These are available to any veteran or families and friends who wishes to honor their veteran. The bricks are 4x8 and 8x8 and are $100 and $200 respectively. Order forms for bricks, questions and answers about the park are available on the web site http://beaverislandnews.com/ or by emailing the Post at amvetspost46@yahoo.com and we will send you a form. AMVETS Post 46 wishes to thank the St. James Township Board and Wolverine Power for their help and support in this project.
Beaver Island Veterans Memorial Park
Veteran organizations across America are committed that all American veterans receive recognition and honor for their valiant service and sacrifices. Working hard to keep veterans efforts made today and in the past visible to everyone, we are spearheading the renovation of old Memorials and are building Memorials in communities that have none. AMVETS Post 46 of Beaver Island is building a Veterans Memorial on the waters edge of Beaver Islands beautiful harbor which we hope to dedicate this July Fourth. The location of this memorial will be visible to thousands of people as they enter Beaver Islands harbor each year. Along the harbor thoroughfare it offers outstanding visibility and access to tourist and residence alike. This Memorial, a popular attraction now, is destined to become a must see stopping place where the sacrifices in life and blood of Americas veterans will be honored and remembered. To finish this grand project we are coming to the Charlevoix Chamber of Commerce and its members seeking tax deductable donations which will enable us to complete the Memorial. With your help and support this Memorial will become a fitting tribute for everyone serving and those who have served.
A Note from AMVETS POST 46
Lest We Forget, Our Freedom Is Not Free.
Short video from www.tricare.mil that explains some back ground information about TRICARE.
View this video to get a better understanding of what TRICARE is. Or Click Here.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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From: John Haggard
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Hubbardston American Legion Disable Veteran Hunting

From: Dan Heckman Adjutant-Hubbardston American Legion Located on Jones Rd. mile South of Maple Rapids Rd. Clinton County, Lebanon Twp. Disabled Veterans Hunting Shack Built and sponsored by the Hubbardston American Legion Post #182. It was constructed on the corner of Tim Chartrand, Doug Cusack and Wilson Dairy Farms properties. The shack is 8 x 8, 2 feet off the ground. Its sporting a fivefoot deck with roof and its insulated and heated. A disabled veteran or person can drive to the shack and exit onto the 4 x 8 platform and ascend up the 12-foot ramp. The entire cost was accepted by the American legion. Sons of the American Legion donated $200.00 for the cost, Triple C trucking donated the gravel for the driveway and Cusack Masonry provided some material and equipment. This opportunity is free, with no guarantee for harvesting a deer. DNR rules & Laws Apply.
Lest we Forgets next big event we have coming up is Sept 11, 2011. Normally we have a Veterans Day concert, usually on the Sunday closest to Nov 11. However, this year we are having a ten year tribute to 9/11. We will have the Southshore Concert Band doing a powerful tribute to 9/11 and our speaker will be LTG Robert Van Antwerp. General "Van" is a 1968 graduate of St Joseph High School and a 1972 graduate of West Point. General Van has had a very illustrious career in the military. During Desert Storm he was one of the Army's chief logistician (supply). When 9/11 occurred he was chief of Army Recruiting and it was his idea for the Army motto: Army Strong to replace An Army of One which very few liked. Anyways on the morning of 9/11 the plane crashed into his office in the Pentagon and he lost several staff members. The plane came to rest about 10 yds from his desk. However, he was across town to a meeting so luckily he didn't get hit. He is a tremendous individual, very charismatic and charming. This should be a very moving concert.
A Note from Don Alsbro President Lest We Forget SW Michigan:
Old Warrior Camp

100% Disabled Veterans Sept. 26-27 Special Disabled firearm hunt, 100% disability Oct. 15-18 Regular Bow season with a crossbow Oct. 1st-Nov. 14th Regular firearm season Nov. 15th-Nov. 30th Appointments or scheduling, call Mid-Mich. Process Serving at (989) 981-6979
Available Hunting Dates are as Follows
From: Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Retired, ANG This Hunting Camp was built by a retired Marine First Sergeant with the primary purpose of facilitating the Wounded Warriors as they begin their Journey back to Civilian Life. The First Sergeant is the Commander of the Disabled American Veteran (Manistique Chapter 26) He is also 100% totally disabled. There is no cost to veteransBring a Valid Michigan Hunting License and your sleeping bag. Contact Bob Blevins at (906)-477-0025 for dates and times available.
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Additional Benefits for Active Duty Time Served: DD FORM 214-SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT
From: Social Security Administration (SSA) Please share this with anyone who's had active duty service between January 1957 to December 31, 2001 and planning for retirement. In a nutshell it boils down to this: You qualify for a higher social security payment because of Military service, for active duty any time from 1957 through 2001 (the program was done away with 1 January 2002). Up to $1200 per year of earnings credit credited at time of application - which can make a substantial difference in social security monthly payments upon your retirement. You must bring your DD-214 to the Social Security Office and you must ask for this benefit to receive it! Social Security website: http://www.ssa.gov/ retire2/military.htm This is something to put in your files for when you apply for Social Security down the road... It is NOT just for retirees, BUT anyone who has served on active duty between January1957 to December 31, 2001. FYI - this benefit is not automatic, you must ask for it!
From: Merridy Lewis With more women entering the Military our VA Medical Centers are making changes to provide adequate care for the women Veterans. The number of women veterans is expected to double in the next five years. We, as volunteers need to raise awareness and educate women, so they will self identify and understand the benefits to which they are entitled. Encourage them to apply for benefits and services such as health care. One of the health care needs for women is pregnancy. How could we help? A fun idea would be to have your organization do a baby shower. You could have your members dress up as if they were having a baby and bring a baby gift for the shower. After the shower make up a basket with the baby items and give the basket to the new mommy. Another idea would be make a basket of lotions and personal care items for the new mommy. Then theres always child care you may like to help with. Please Support and listen to Frontlines of Fredom Military Talk Radio Hosted by Lt. Col. Denny Gillem. You can hear it every Saturday at 1p.m. on 1260 AM the Pledge (Zeeland, MI), or by visiting the website at www.frontlinesoffreedom.com. Or on Facebook by clicking here. Thank you for your Support! DAV stepped in to meet a substantial community need when the federal government terminated its program that helped many veterans pay for transportation to VA medical facilities. The DAV has 189 Hospital Service Coordinators around the country who coordinate the transportation needs for disabled veterans. Use the DAV Hospital Service Coordinator Directory to contact your nearest HSC for information or assistance. Please remember that the DAV Transportation Network is staffed by volunteers; therefore, it is unable to cover every community. We hope we can help you. Locate your nearest VA Medical
VA WOMENS HEAlTH CARE
From: Patricia Webb- Correction: It is automatically applied for duty from 1968 forward. Duty prior to 1968 must be applied for. To request a copy of a DD-214 click here.
Form: www.dav.org Because so many sick and disabled veterans lack transportation to and from VA medical facilities for needed treatment, the DAV operates a nationwide Transportation Network to meet this need. Through the Transportation Network, DAV volunteers drive sick and disabled veterans to and from VA medical facilities for treatment. The Transportation Network is a clear example of veterans helping veterans. The
Need a Ride
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VA Launches New Prevention Initiative to Serve 22,000 Veteran Families at Risk of Homelessness
From: www.va.gov-July 26, 2011 Nearly $60 Million in Homeless Prevention Grants Awarded Nationwide WASHINGTON Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced today the award of nearly $60 million in homeless prevention grants that will serve approximately 22,000 homeless and at-risk Veteran families as part of the new Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. This initial $60 million award will serve Veteran families at 85 non-profit community agencies in 40 states and the District of Columbia under VAs new homeless prevention initiative. This new homeless prevention program will provide additional comprehensive support to Veterans who have served honorably, and now find themselves in a downward spiral toward despair and homelessness, said VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki. This program expands our capacity to act before a Veteran becomes homeless and to target the problem of family homelessness. These grants would not have been possible without the extraordinary partnerships forged with community organizers who are firmly committed to making a positive difference in lives of Veterans and their families. The SSVF Program, a critical element of VAs plan to prevent and end homelessness among Veterans, will promote housing stability among homeless and at-risk Veterans and their families. Under the SSVF program, VA awards grants to private non-profit organizations and consumer cooperatives that can provide a range of supportive services to eligible very low-income Veteran families. Supportive services include outreach, case management, assistance in obtaining VA benefits, and assistance in obtaining and coordinating other public benefits. Grantees will also have the ability to make time -limited temporary financial assistance payments on behalf of Veterans for purposes such as rent payments, utility payments, security deposits and moving costs. More information about VAs homeless programs is available online at http://www.va.gov/homeless. A list of award recipients and details about the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program are available online at http://www1.va.gov/homeless/ssvf.asp.
Last month, like each year that comes around Comerica Park celebrates Veterans Appreciation Day at Comerica Park. In most cases, the veterans organizations hear about it because they are on a list or the word gets out. This year we had more veterans and their families there then expected, over 1,800 purchased tickets, cost is reasonable, plus a group of 15 or more purchasing tickets is offered a drink and a hot dog. To include with that the selected Michigan Veteran of the Year throws out the first pitch, receives something from the Tigers, and is recognized on the Field. This including those of the Commanders Group, which consists of the State Commanders of the Veterans Organizations. This year for the first time a female Veteran was selected for 2010. Along with that, each day I hear more and more about Veterans or their families do not know enough about the Department of Veterans Affairs and what it offers, each day I receive phones calls like other veterans organizations, to say, I wasn't aware that I could receive benefits for certain conditions, then as we go over the list of conditions, and what can be done or granted. Other items such a Home Loan Guarantee, Insurance, Health, benefits, most of the newer veterans today are getting involved with education, and some if not most, receive both monetary and health benefits. Little known secret of the VA, is Assisted Care Living or Nursing Home or Home Health Care or Caregivers. There is also one other benefit, that cost dearly when a Veteran or a Veterans Spouse passes. Burial Benefits, if you didn't know it, Veterans can be buried at a National Cemetery at no charge, the only burden is the cost of the Funeral, ever check into it, the cost can be great, a cremation can be maybe as little as $1,800.00 and a full service starts at $3,500 just for the funeral home, now lets add on the burial outside the VA National Cemetery System, another $10,500, this would include, opening and closing $1,800, Crept, another great expense, headstone or marker another $1,000 or two. Spouses of Veterans can also be buried at the National Cemetery to include children up to the age of 25 unmarried. You must have an Honorable Discharge or General Under Honorable Conditions.
Update From Phil Smith
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2 TriWest Programs Named URAC Best Practices Finalists

From: www.tricare.mil PHOENIX (July 27, 2011) Stressed because her husband is deployed thousands of miles away, a military spouse uses Skype video chat to talk through her challenges with a licensed counselor. Looking to ditch his chewing tobacco habit, a military service member calls into his tobacco cessation class. Meshing innovation with creativity, TriWest Healthcare Alliancein partnership with TRICARE successfully implemented these two programs, both of which are finalists for the 2011 URAC Awards for Best Practices in Health Care Consumer Empowerment and Protection. TriWest, which administers the militarys TRICARE healthcare plan for 2.9 million military families across 21 western states, joins other industry-leading programs as Best Practices finalists. URAC, one of the nations leading accreditation organizations, will honor the finalists Oct. 46 at the 12th Annual Quality Summit in Chicago, Ill. We are very proud and honored to know that among the many programs submitted throughout the countrytwo of our programs stood out as best-practice examples of URACs high standards, said TriWest President and CEO David J. McIntyre, Jr. Best Practices Program Finalists
The Quality Summit Awards honor programs in two areas: consumer decision-making and consumer health improvement. TriWests program finalists are: TRICARE Assistance ProgramConnects military members and dependents with 24/7 access to online behavioral healthcare access, including Web-based videoconferencing. Tobacco CessationHelps beneficiaries cope with tobacco addiction through classes offered over the phone. We are proud to honor TriWests programs, said Alan P. Spielman, President and CEO of URAC. By sharing these best practices, we can work to inspire the industry as a whole to adopt proven practices that advance patient safety and empower consumers. About URAC URAC, an independent, nonprofit organization, is well-known as a leader in promoting healthcare quality through its accreditation and certification programs. URAC offers a wide range of quality benchmarking programs and services that keep pace with the rapid changes in the healthcare system, and provide a symbol of excellence for organizations to validate their commitment to quality and accountability. Through its broad-based governance structure and an inclusive standards development process, URAC strives to ensure that all stakeholders are represented in establishing meaningful quality measures for the entire healthcare industry. For more information, visit www.urac.org. About TriWest TriWest Healthcare Alliance partners with the Department of Defense to do "Whatever It Takes" to support the healthcare needs of 2.9 million members of America's military family. A Phoenix-based corporation, TriWest provides access to cost-effective, high-quality health care in the 21-state TRICARE West Region. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook or visit www.triwest.com for more information.
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On a Lighter Note: Military Rules
US Army Rangers Rules:

1. Walk in 50 miles wearing 75-pound rucksack while starving. 2. Locate individuals requiring killing. 3. Request permission via radio from 'Higher' to perform killing. 4. Curse bitterly when mission is aborted. 5. Walk out 50 miles wearing a 75-pound rucksack while starving.
4. Check hair in mirror.
US Army Rules:
1. Curse bitterly when receiving operational order. 2. Make sure there is extra ammo and extra coffee. 3. Curse bitterly. 4. Curse bitterly. 5. Do not listen to 2nd LTs; it can get you killed. 6. Curse bitterly.
US Marine Corps Rules:

1. Be courteous to everyone, friendly to no one. 2. Decide to be aggressive enough, quickly enough. 3. Have a plan. 4. Have a back-up plan, because the first one probably won't work. 5. Be polite. Be professional. But, have a plan to kill everyone you meet. 6. Do not attend a gunfight with a handgun whose caliber does not start with a '4.' 7. Anything worth shooting is worth shooting twice. Ammo is cheap. Life is expensive. 8. Move away from your attacker. Distance is your friend. (Lateral & diagonal preferred.) 9. Use cover or concealment as much as possible. 10. Flank your adversary when possible. Protect yours. 11. Always cheat; always win. The only unfair fight is the one you lose. 12. In ten years nobody will remember the details of caliber, stance, or tactics. They will only remember who lived. 13. If you are not shooting, you should be communicating your intention to shoot.
US Air Force Rules:

1. Have a cocktail. 2. Adjust temperature on air-conditioner. 3. See what's on HBO. 4. Ask 'What is a gunfight?' 5. Request more funding from Congress with a 'killer' Power Point presentation. 6. Wine & dine ''key' Congressmen, invite DOD & defense industry executives. 7. Receive funding, set up new command and assemble assets. 8. Declare the assets 'strategic' and never deploy them operationally. 9. Hurry to make 11:45 tee-time. 10. Make sure the base is as far as possible from the conflict but close enough to have tax exemption and combat pay.
US Navy Rules:
1. Go to Sea. 2. Drink Coffee. 3. Deploy Marines Go Navy !
US Navy SEAL's Rules:

1. Look very cool in sunglasses. 2. Kill every living thing within view. 3. Adjust Speedo.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country. Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
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Newsletter Links From Articles for August Part I

Page 1 Facebook www.facebook.com Scribd www.scribd.com Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov Page 2 Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov Center for Women Veterans www.va.gov/womenvet MIGOP Facebook www.facebook.com Page 3 Overture 1812 www.usarmyband.com Joint Pow/MIA Accounting Command www.jpac.pacom.mil Page 4 Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorproject.org Brain Injury Association of MI www.biami.org Page 5 Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee www.house.mi.gov Southwest Michigan Veterans Stand Down www.4vets.org Page 6 Legal Help for Veterans www.legalhelpforveterans.com Fredrick Meijer Gardens www.meijergardens.org Page 7 Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Radio www.veteransradio.net LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetswmi.org Page 9 U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs www.veterans.senate.gov U.S House Committee of Veterans Affairs www.veterans.house.gov Page 10 US Department of Defense www.dod.gov Spirit of the American Flag www.forgottonherosusa.com Page 11 Michigan Air National Guard www.selfridgeairmuseum.org Veterans Voices www.veteransvoices.org Page 12 VA Research www.research.va.gov USO-Stand Up and Lead www.uso.org Page 13 Selfridge Air Show www.selfridgeairshow.org Page 14 Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America www.michiganpva.org Paralyzed Veterans of America www.pva.org Page 15 LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetswmi.org Page 16 Beaver Island Veterans Memorial Park www.beaverislandnews.com TRICARE www.tricare.mil
Page 18 LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetswmi.org Page 19 Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov DD-214 Form www.archives.gov Front Lines of Freedom www.frontlinesoffreedom.com DAV www.dav.gov Page 20 Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov Page 21 TRICARE www.tricare.mil URAC www.urac.org TriWest www.triwest.com Page 22 Canton Foundation www.cantonfoundation.org Legal Help for Veterans www.legalhelpforveterans.com Page 24 Plymouth Crossfit www.plymouthcrossfit.com
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Stand Up For Veterans-They Stood Up For US

-The DAV
In Memory of Gary Lillie Next Page

Staff & Contributors
CoordinatorMatthew X. Hauser (mhauser@migop.org) ContributorsDon Alsbro Rick Briggs Sam Cottle Rep. Kurt Damrow Mark Eddy James G. Fausone Sean M. Furr Denny Gillem Robert Goulet Dan Heckman Dale Hemphill Merridy Lewis Rob Macomber Claude McManus Eugene (Gene) A. Simon Phil Smith Bob Tidmore Maureen VanHooser Publisher-Hank Fuhs We hear stories from around the state about Veterans who are in need of help. Please remember what these men and women have done for this nation. Please remember them, and let our communities not forget what these men and women have sacrificed. Thank you to everyone who has supported this newsletter, and if you know of any veterans who are in need of help let us know and well put the word out to help. -M. Hauser
Lest We Forget
News From American Legion Post 341

American Legion Post 341 is seeking the names of troops that are deployed to a combat zone so that we can send them large package of goodies and that their names and address should be sent to the address below. Also post 341 is always seeking new members please contact Robert at the same address if interested. American Legion Post 341 Sr. Vice Commander Robert P Goulet 6130 Nicholas West Bloomfield, MI rgoulet264@aol.com
Thank you for your service to our country. It is truly the men and women like you who make this nation great, and we must never forget that. Thank you to everyone for all the help you have given us with the newsletter. We have been able to reach more people because of your help. Compared to when we first started, the amount of input and ideas we receive has increased greatly. For that we are very thankful. If you have anything you would like to share, any questions, or have an article idea, please let me know. You may contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org. Sincerely, Matthew X. Hauser and Lt. Col Hank Fuhs We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
In Closing
Lest We Forget-A Clip from Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Ret, ANG (Just Click the Link Below)
I Fought For You
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In Memory of Gary Lillie Seabee MCB3 Chu Lai RVN '66

From: www.VeteransRadio.net Gary Lillie was born in Detroit and graduated from Cody High School in 1958. In 1966 he served a tour in Chu Lai, Vietnam with MCB-3. For its remarkable accomplishments, the unit was named Best in the West; the top Seabee battalion of the year. When he was discharged in 1967 he first worked as a carpenter, but since his Vietnam experience caused him to swear he would never walk in mud again, he became a fulltime real estate agent that same year and has been specializing in vacant land sales ever since. In 1969, he moved from northern Michigan to Ann Arbor and has been here ever since. He owns and operates Gary Lillie & Assoc., Inc., a commercial real estate firm and lives in the country on 10-acres. His hobbies are planting trees and watching and feeding wildlife. In fact, during the winter, he feeds over 200-pounds of seed a day to the critters. He also likes to downhill ski and backpack. Bob Gould is constantly trying to get him to go back in the nets and play goalie for his hockey team! Maybe. For More information about Veterans Radio Contact: Dale Throneberry Veterans Radio P.O. Box 3085 Ann Arbor, MI 48106 888-638-6872 dale@veteransradio.net
While working in the Michigan Legislature in the early 2000's, I had the opportunity to work with Gary on a few matters he needed help with to navigate through the "red-tape". What struck me most, and on first impression, was his always respectful, yet confident demeanor. Most often, when people are up against a challenge they can become assertive or discouraged by instances of set-back, but Gary always treated every individual with respect and approached every challenge as a way to bring people together in compromise rather than focusing on differences. I'm sure this was a trait instilled in him through his service to our country. His dedication to the Veterans community was without question and so very appreciated by the many he worked with. Gary will be missed, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to have known him. -Rob Macomber-Former Candidate & Party Assistance Director, Michigan Republican Party
Remembering Gary
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Veterans &amp; Military Families Monthly News-August 2011 Part I

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Veterans &amp; Military Families Monthly News-August 2011 Part I

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Veterans & Military Families Monthly News

Department Hosts 5th National Summit in D.C.

Thank you very much!

Please See Page 27, In Memory of Gary Lillie

Some Useful Links

Michigan Republican Party Facebook Page

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From: www. www.usarmtyband.com

Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. Sylvan Theater, Washington, DC

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In Memory of Gary Lillie Seabee MCB3 Chu Lai RVN '66

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