Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• Veterans are challenging the VA’s denial process in an important Supreme Court case.

• Veterans who expressed overwhelming interest in a hotel on West LA campus have their wishes excluded from the developer’s plans.

• Paws of War is rehousing dogs lost during this year’s hurricane season with veterans and first responders.

• The Afghanistan War Commission is looking to the conflict’s past to learn and improve, Afghan War veterans are invited to contribute their insights.

• Free suicide prevention training from PsychArmor.

• The story of a WWII hero who helped break racial boundaries.

• And more…

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Stories

Veterans Challenge VA Disability Denial Processes in Supreme Court Case

Norman Thornton, a Gulf War veteran, believes the government downgraded his disability rating related to PTSD. At the same time, Joshua Bufkin, a former Air Force member, was denied PTSD benefits due to differing medical opinions. Both veterans sought reviews from a special veterans court, which ruled against them.

The Supreme Court is now considering how the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims should handle benefit denials, especially when evidence is unclear. Thornton and Bufkin’s lawyers argue that close cases should favor veterans, as Congress intended, and that the Veterans Court has not applied this principle thoroughly. The federal government maintains that the court's review should be limited to clear errors without re-assessing all evidence.

The case could significantly impact how veterans' disability claims are handled in the future, with a decision expected by summer.

Veterans Express Interest in Hotel at West LA VA Campus, But Plans Exclude It

A survey conducted by the VA revealed that 75% of veterans expressed interest in having hotel or hospitality services at the West Los Angeles VA campus. However, the developer, West Los Angeles Veterans Collective, has excluded a hotel from their plans, denying that the survey indicated veteran interest.

The survey results from The Times ranked a hotel above several planned amenities like a library or museum. After inquiries, the VA posted the survey online but did not address the hotel question directly.

The Veterans Collective, responsible for nearly 1,000 housing units on the campus, acknowledged the interest in a hotel but claimed it ranked lower in priority. They emphasized the survey's imperfections, stating it allowed veterans to check multiple preferences without limits.

The hotel has become a point of contention as the VA continues its campus development. Veterans groups argue the VA should reconsider, citing past misrepresentations and the hotel's importance in creating a regional destination for veterans.

Paws of War Rescues Puppies After Hurricane Helene in North Carolina

After Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina, Paws of War volunteers, led by Niki Dawson, arrived to help those affected, including pets. While many evacuees brought their animals, some were caught by surprise in hard-hit areas.

One family in Asheville, which had recently rescued a dog that gave birth to puppies, struggled to care for them post-hurricane. Paws of War provided supplies, including pet food, and took in the four puppies—Nova, Capone, Latte, and Cosmo—to rehome them with veterans and first responders. 

The family, which has a military background, was deeply grateful and found comfort in knowing the puppies would be cared for by those who had served.

📜 Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Updates

The Afghanistan War Commission's Mission to Learn and Improve

Three years after the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan, lingering questions remain for the estimated 800,000 military veterans who served in the 20-year conflict. The Afghanistan War Commission, established by Congress, is conducting a thorough assessment of the war to provide lessons for future policymakers and military personnel. 

The Commission, comprised of 16 bipartisan members, aims to produce a final report by 2026. Their research covers various aspects of the conflict, including military operations, policy, intelligence, and development, to prevent future disputes and support the veteran community.

Since its launch in August 2023, the Commission has held numerous meetings, gathered extensive documentation, and engaged veterans through public hearings, virtual roundtables, and outreach efforts. 

Veterans have actively contributed their insights, and the Commission has created a portal for Afghanistan War Veterans to share their experiences. By examining critical decisions and outcomes, the Commission hopes to bring closure to those who served and to provide valuable recommendations for future engagements.

⚕️ Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Updates

Free Suicide Prevention Training from PsychArmor

The VA emphasizes that sharing non-VA resources does not imply endorsement, and Veterans should verify information independently. Veterans in crisis or those concerned about one can access 24/7 confidential support through the Veterans Crisis Line, available by dialing 988 and pressing 1, chatting online, or texting 838255.

Suicide Prevention Month highlights the ongoing need for awareness and action in preventing Veteran suicides, but this effort should extend beyond just one month. The VA’s 2023 National Suicide Prevention Annual Report advocates for a community-based, “whole of nation” public health approach, where anyone can help by recognizing and responding to Veterans in crisis.

PsychArmor offers free suicide prevention training, including the VA S.A.V.E. course, which equips individuals to identify at-risk Veterans and provide support. With over 20 additional courses, including firearm safety, PsychArmor works with various partners to offer culturally sensitive, practical training tailored to different communities.

Veteran App of the Week

COVID Coach

The COVID Coach app is a free mobile application developed by the VA to support mental health and overall well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is designed to help users cope with stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges brought on by the pandemic. While it was initially created for veterans and their families, anyone can use it.

Here are some key features of the COVID Coach app:

• Mental Health Tools: The app provides tools and techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional difficulties. These include relaxation exercises, mood tracking, and strategies for building resilience.

• Self-Care: Users can access resources to help with self-care activities such as sleep improvement, healthy eating, and exercise routines. The app also includes information on building routines and staying connected with others.

• Personalized Progress Tracking: The app allows users to set personal goals and track their progress over time. This feature helps individuals monitor their emotional well-being, with options for daily check-ins.

• Resources and Information: COVID Coach offers up-to-date information on COVID-19, including health and safety guidelines and educational resources about mental health and coping strategies.

• Crisis Support: The app provides direct access to crisis support resources, including the Veterans Crisis Line and other emergency services, making it easy to get help.

The COVID Coach app is a potentially valuable tool for managing stress, promoting mental health, and offering support during times of uncertainty.

Military Deals of the Week

*We do not explicitly endorse any of these companies as we have not personally purchased from many of them. We are simply sharing online deals that we have found for your convenience.

• 10% Off: Wrangler

• 15% Off: Fanatics

• 20% Off: Stanley

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Vernon Joseph Baker

Vernon Joseph Baker was born in Cheyenne, WY, on Dec. 17, 1919. At the age of four, he tragically lost his parents in a car accident, and he and his two sisters were raised by their grandparents. Growing up in Clarinda, IA, Baker faced limited opportunities due to racial segregation, which forced him to work various odd jobs, including shining shoes and serving as a railroad porter. 

Despite these challenges, Baker was determined to rise above his circumstances, and in July 1941, just before the U.S. entered World War II, he enlisted in the Army. Recognizing his leadership potential, Baker was selected to attend Officer Candidate School. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant 1943, joining the segregated 370th Infantry Regiment of the 92nd Infantry Division, one of the few all-Black combat units.

Baker and his unit were deployed to Italy in 1944, fighting as part of the Allied efforts to push German forces north. In October of that year, Baker was wounded during a night patrol but returned to his unit by December. On April 5-6, 1945, Baker's leadership and bravery would distinguish him as one of the most heroic soldiers of the war. 

Tasked with leading his platoon in an assault on the German-occupied Castle Aghinolfi, Baker's unit faced heavy fire as they approached the stronghold. 

Despite this, Baker pressed forward, personally destroying several machine gun nests, observation posts, and bunkers and killing nine enemy soldiers. His courageous actions helped secure a crucial victory for the Allies, but they came at a great cost—only six of his 25 men survived the attack. 

Even after this harrowing battle, Baker volunteered to lead another dangerous mission the next night. He guided his battalion through minefields and heavy fire to achieve their objective.

For his bravery, Baker was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in 1945, but it would take more than 50 years for him to receive the full recognition he deserved. In 1997, following a U.S. Army review that determined racial discrimination had prevented African American soldiers from receiving the Medal of Honor during World War II, Vernon Baker was one of seven Black veterans to be awarded the nation’s highest military honor. 

Baker was the only one of the seven still alive to accept the award in person. It was an emotional moment when he said he both honored his service and vindicated the sacrifices of all Black soldiers who had fought in World War II.

After the war, Baker remained in the military, eventually becoming one of the first African American officers to command an all-white company following the Army’s desegregation. He served until 1968, after which he spent 20 years working for the American Red Cross. 

In his later years, Baker moved to Idaho, where he enjoyed hunting and spending time in nature. Vernon Baker passed away on July 13, 2010, at the age of 90, after a long battle with cancer. He was buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting tribute to a man whose heroism and perseverance exemplified the highest ideals of military service.

Businesses That Support Veterans

Paws of War

Paws of War is a nonprofit organization that provides various services to veterans and first responders. Its primary focus is helping veterans and service members deal with the emotional and psychological effects of war by pairing them with trained service animals. 

These animals provide therapeutic companionship, aiding in the management of PTSD, anxiety, and other related conditions. Paws of War also rescues and trains shelter dogs, giving the animals a new purpose while supporting veterans in need of emotional support.

In addition to service dog training, Paws of War offers programs such as animal rescue missions, which assist veterans in bringing pets home from overseas deployments, and community outreach initiatives that aid animals in disaster-stricken areas, as seen in their response efforts following Hurricane Helene. 

Their mission extends to improving the overall quality of life for veterans and their families through the love and companionship of pets.

Thank You For Your Service!

Not every service member may receive the Medal of Honor or garner widespread recognition, but that doesn't diminish the invaluable contributions each one has made to the sanctity and security of our great nation. 

The saying "freedom isn't free" holds profound truth–it resonates because every individual in the United States relies on the dedication of its military to safeguard the freedoms they enjoy. Each veteran has consciously defended these liberties, symbolizing a collective commitment to the nation's well-being. 

Whether you fought on the front lines or provided crucial support behind the scenes, thank you!

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Until Next Time!

Stay tuned for next week’s edition, where we’ll cover more stories and policy updates and find tools & deals for the veteran community.

Thanks,

The Veterans Newsletter