Welcome to The Veterans Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• Jet fuel exposure causing health risks for veterans

• Veterans advocate for the reevaluation of military engagements

• Success stories of veteran-owned businesses

• And more...

Links of the Week

📰 Veteran Stories

A heartfelt recollection from Marine Sgt. Kevin Hermening brought to life his experiences during the Iran hostage crisis. He shared the intense moments of the embassy takeover and the grueling 444 days of captivity that followed. His harrowing account reminds us of the resilience and courage of those who serve, even in the face of great adversity. (link)

Air Force veteran Joseph Heeter has brought attention to the health risks associated with jet fuel exposure during military service. After developing multiple health issues, he supports research efforts to understand the long-term effects of such toxic exposures on service members. His story underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the hidden dangers of military occupations. (link)

The PACT Act, a significant legislative victory for veterans, has been highlighted for reducing barriers for nearly 3.5 million veterans exposed to burn pits during their service. This act is a result of advocacy by veterans like Dan Clare, who exposed the health risks of burn pits by leaking a Department of Defense memo. Clare's actions and the subsequent legislation represent a significant stride in acknowledging and addressing the health concerns of veterans related to their services. (link)

📜 Policy Updates

An emphasis on modernizing VA services has been made to promote veterans' independence post-service. Artificial barriers that hinder veterans' transition to civilian life are being challenged, and there is a movement towards streamlining and modernizing the structure of VA disability benefits to better serve the needs of veterans. (link)

Concerned Veterans for America have advocated for a prudent foreign policy that does not overextend America’s military presence globally. They argue for the prioritization of vital U.S. interests and the reevaluation of military engagements in regions like the Middle East, proposing a strategic withdrawal from Iraq to focus on domestic and international priorities. (link)

💡 Resources & Tips

For veterans interested in entrepreneurship, programs like Boots to Business provide valuable transition assistance, while the Veterans Business Outreach Center offers personalized support in developing business plans and marketing strategies. These resources are tailored to help veterans leverage their unique skills and experiences in business. (link)

The SBA’s engagement on social media platforms during this week promotes the success stories of veteran-owned businesses and encourages networking among the veteran entrepreneur community. This digital outreach is part of the SBA's ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and military families in their business endeavors. (link)

The Best of The Week

• A Combat Veteran: A channel by Drew Hernandez that is dedicated to bringing humor to the veteran community through various comedic content. A Combat Veteran

• BrainLine Military: Offers personal stories and blogs by a variety of contributors, including veteran caregivers and clinical mental health counselors. BrainLine Military

• VA Claims Insider Blog: Provides free VA disability resources for veterans and explores topics like VA Overpayment and other veterans' issues. VA Claims Insider Blog

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week

Amid the turmoil of the Korean War, a conflict often overshadowed by the global wars that preceded and followed it, emerged a figure of extraordinary heroism: Captain Lewis Millett. His service to his country began in World War II, but it was on the rugged terrain of Korea where his actions would define him as one of America's most courageous warriors.

Born in Maine, Millett grew impatient with the United States' initial reluctance to enter World War II, so he crossed into Canada to enlist in the Canadian Army. When the U.S. did join the fight, he transferred to the U.S. Army Air Corps, driven by a fervent desire to defend his homeland and its ideals. However, his defining moment came later, during the Korean War, where he served in the Army infantry.

Captain Millett's most memorable act of valor occurred in February 1951 near Soam-Ni. His company was tasked with taking an enemy position atop Hill 180, known as Bayonet Hill, due to the fierce hand-to-hand combat that would ensue. During the course of the battle, Millett noticed that his platoon was pinned down by enemy fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he leapt up, shouting words of encouragement to his men, and led a bayonet charge against the entrenched enemy forces.

Millett's audacity stunned the enemy, and his leadership inspired his soldiers to follow him into the fray. The intensity of the melee was brutal and close-quarters, but Millett, through sheer force of will and tenacity, rallied his troops to overrun the enemy positions. His fearless leadership and direct assault against formidable machine-gun nests resulted in the capture of Hill 180 and inflicted heavy casualties on the opposing force.

For his conspicuous gallantry and the indomitable leadership he displayed, Millett was awarded the Medal of Honor. The citation highlighted his valorous conduct and his intrepid fighting spirit, which were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. His bayonet charge, a throwback to a different era of warfare, was described as one of the most significant single-handed actions of the Korean War.

After the war, Millett continued to serve in the Army, never losing his edge or his dedication to his soldiers and his country. His legacy lives on as a reminder of the courage and self-sacrifice that define America's military heroes. Captain Lewis Millett stands as a testament to the unyielding spirit of American service members, whose actions echo through history, inspiring future generations to serve with honor and bravery.

Top Resources For Veterans

Volunteers of America 

• Overview: Their services include outreach, case management, and aid in obtaining VA and other benefits like health care, personal financial planning, and legal services.

• Website: https://www.voa.org/
  

National Veteran Support 

• Overview: focuses on aiding veterans and their surviving spouses in accessing the Aid & Attendance benefit, which provides tax-free financial assistance for long-term care needs.

• Website: https://vetsupportusa.com/

Veteran Support Organizations (VSOs)

• Overview: The U.S. Department of Defense provides an extensive list of VSOs that offer support programs and resources in areas like employment, homeownership, healthcare, and mental health.

• Website: https://www.va.gov/ogc/recognizedvsos.asp

National Resource Directory (NRD)

• Overview: A collaborative effort among the Department of Defense, VA, and U.S. Department of Labor, the NRD connects veterans and their families with supportive services.

• Website: https://www.nrd.gov/

Disability Attorneys

For over sixteen years, The Veterans Law Group has been a staunch ally for disabled veterans, ardently pursuing the maximum benefits for total disability claims. With a seasoned team led by Mark Lippman, a veteran in the field of veterans law, they have represented countless veterans, earning a reputation for turning challenging cases into success stories.

"Mark Lippman and his team turned my situation around when I had almost lost hope. They fought for my compensation with expertise and genuine care, restoring not just my benefits but my faith in advocacy."

- Johnny K. from Johnson City, TX.

Learn more here (link)

Until Next Time

Stay tuned for next week's edition, where we'll be discussing more top stories and the latest policy updates!

Cheers,

Chad Hill

Founder,

The Veteran's Newsletter