Welcome to The Veterans Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• US and South Korean forces drill to respond to North Korean threats

• The VA helped house a homeless veteran

• Millions of veterans exposed to environmental hazards will be eligible for VA healthcare this March

• Tips for talking to a suicidal veteran

• The tale of a Marine who fearlessly rescued his closest companion

Links of the Week

📰 Veteran Stories

Joint Missile Interception Drill Responds to North Korean Threats

South Korea and the United States conducted a joint missile interception drill over the Korean Peninsula, deploying advanced stealth F-35A fighter jets in response to North Korea's recent weapons tests. North Korea's increasing missile tests, including cruise missiles targeting US aircraft carriers and military bases, have prompted heightened military exercises by South Korea and the US, as well as trilateral coordination with Japan. 

Amid concerns over North Korea's escalating nuclear threats and testing activities, diplomatic efforts at the G20 meeting included pledges to strengthen joint response capabilities and block North Korea's nuclear program financing. While North Korea seeks recognition as a nuclear state, US and South Korean officials have warned against any nuclear aggression, emphasizing the potential consequences for the North's government (link).

Unhoused Navy Veteran Receives VA Housing Support

Navy Veteran Margarita Belmarez demonstrates incredible resilience, overcoming homelessness caused by hurricanes twice. Her journey, from serving in the Navy to experiencing trauma and homelessness, is marked by determination and strength. With support from the VA, she transitioned from sleeping in her car to owning her own home. 

Belmarez's story highlights the importance of VA programs like HUD-VASH in providing housing assistance to homeless veterans. Now, she dedicates herself to helping other veterans in need, particularly women veterans, by guiding them toward available resources and support networks. Her journey from adversity to stability exemplifies the transformative impact of resilience and community support (link).

📜 Policy Updates

‘Millions’ of Veterans Exposed to Environmental Hazards Will Be Eligible for VA Healthcare on March 5

Starting March 5, millions of US veterans, including those who served in combat zones since Vietnam and those exposed to hazardous materials during training or operations, will become eligible for VA health care under an accelerated effort mandated by the PACT Act. This expansion, signed into law by President Joe Biden in August 2022, aims to provide timely benefits to veterans exposed to toxic substances. 

The initiative, hastened by a hiring blitz facilitated by the law, underscores the VA's commitment to supporting veterans' health. Eligible veterans, regardless of service-connected disabilities, will have access to comprehensive health care, toxic exposure screenings, and additional benefits. The VA's goal to hire 52,000 employees this fiscal year is poised to enhance capacity, streamline services, and improve access for veterans nationwide (link).

💡 Resources & Tips

What to Do if a Veteran You Know is Talking About Suicide

Transitioning from military to civilian life can present challenges, especially when faced with crises like a fellow veteran discussing suicide. Recognizing crisis signs such as immediate danger or warning signs indicating help is needed. Providing support involves making encouraging comments, listening without judgment, and suggesting resources like the Veterans Crisis Line. 

Knowing how to navigate difficult conversations and respond appropriately can significantly impact a veteran's life. Additionally, being aware of social media posts and learning how to engage with veterans online is essential for suicide prevention efforts. Ultimately, showing care and compassion can be lifesaving in supporting veterans through tough times (link).

Benefits of The Week

• PsychArmor Institute: PsychArmor Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to bridging the military-civilian divide by providing free education and resources to civilians, professionals, and organizations interacting with veterans and military families.

  Their online courses cover military culture, mental health, caregiving, and employment. PsychArmor aims to increase awareness, understanding, and support for the military community among the general public.

• Oakley Standard Issue - Up to 60% off, Free Shipping, and Up to 3% Cash Back: Oakley Standard Issue (SI) is a specialized division of Oakley Inc. that provides eyewear, apparel, and equipment tailored specifically for military and law enforcement personnel, as well as other professionals. SI offers a range of products designed with military members' input to meet the rigorous demands of their missions. 

  Oakley SI is a great match for veterans because its high-quality, durable gear provides superior performance and protection in various environments. Additionally, Oakley SI is committed to supporting the military community through initiatives like the Oakley SI Military and Government Sales Program.

The Best of The Week

• Terminal Lance: Terminal Lance is a webcomic created by Maximilian Uriarte, a former Marine Corps infantryman. The comic, launched in 2010, provides satirical commentary on the experiences and culture of Marines, particularly those serving in the infantry. 

  Terminal Lance comics cover many topics, including military life, deployment, barracks humor, and the challenges and absurdities of military bureaucracy. The comic has gained a significant following among active-duty service members, veterans, and civilians alike for its humor, authenticity, and insight into Marine Corps culture.

• The Salty Soldier: The Salty Soldier is a Facebook page known for its humorous and sometimes irreverent content related to military life. The page shares memes, jokes, and commentary on various aspects of military culture, including deployments, training, and everyday experiences.

  The page offers a lighthearted outlet for veterans to connect and share their common experiences. Although the content occasionally includes salty language or dark humor, it serves as a community where veterans and active-duty personnel can bond over their shared experiences and challenges.

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Kyle Carpenter

Kyle Carpenter was born on Oct. 17, 1989, in Jackson, MS. He was raised by his parents, James and Robin. Even in his formative years, his competitive spirit and team-oriented nature shone through, evidenced by his membership on the wrestling team at Gilbert High School, where he stood out as an exceptional athlete.

Not long after graduating high school in 2009, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, following in the footsteps of many of his family members who had served before him. There, he met his best friend, Nick Eufrazio, who would also serve with him.

 After completing his training, he was quickly deployed to Afghanistan as a SAW gunner with Fox Company of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, Regimental Combat Team One, 1st Marine Division (Forward), 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). During the early stages of his tour, Carpenter and Eufrazio would patrol together, day and night. 

Carpenter would call Eufrazio his “point man” and described his love for him as "like a brother”.

On Nov. 21, 2010, while he and Eufrazio were manning a rooftop security post during the defense of a village in Helmand Province from a Taliban attack, the enemy initiated a barrage of hand grenades. 

One of the hand grenades landed near them, and one landed inside of their sandbagged position. Carpenter, without hesitation, immediately sprinted toward the grenade and threw himself onto it to shield Eufrazio from the deadly blast. 

Carpenter was found face down, motionless amidst the devastation. Despite the destruction of his gear and the loss of his vest from the blast, he miraculously survived due to the swift response of his fellow Marines, who provided medical assistance amidst enemy fire. However, his injuries were severe; he suffered catastrophic wounds to his face and body, including the loss of his right eye, the majority of his teeth, and fractures to his arm.

Although he has no recollection of the events, for Carpenter, it was a small price to pay to protect the life of his dear friend and fellow Marine. He then underwent numerous surgeries and a protracted recovery process, during which he endured extensive and grueling physical rehabilitation. 

Recognizing his exceptional bravery and selflessness in risking his safety to shield a fellow Marine, Carpenter was honored with the Medal of Honor by then-President Barack Obama on June 19, 2014, becoming the youngest living recipient of the award at that time. His citation praised his actions as a testament to his immense courage and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Marine Corps.

Following his recovery, Carpenter accomplished many other notable achievements. He earned his bachelor’s degree, backpacked across Europe, and served as an intern on Capitol Hill. He was inducted into the Smithsonian Institute’s National Portrait Gallery. 

In 2019, he published his autobiography, "You Are Worth It: Building A Life Worth Fighting For," which details his story of recovery and overcoming adversity. He continues to travel the country and the world as a professional speaker, sharing his inspiring story of resilience, determination, and dedication to his brothers in arms. 

Carpenter's story embodies the very essence of what it means to be a Marine—selflessness, courage, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of others. Through his actions on that fateful day in Afghanistan, he demonstrated a bravery that few could comprehend, sacrificing his well-being to protect his comrade. 

His resilience in the face of adversity and his commitment to serving others serve as a shining example to his fellow Marines and people everywhere. Kyle Carpenter is a testament to the values of honor, sacrifice, and duty the US armed forces uphold.

Thank You For Your Service!

Not every servicemember 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 chosen to defend these liberties, symbolizing a collective commitment to the nation's well-being.

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

Top Resources For Veterans

1. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

   • Overview: An organization that offers various services to veterans, including assistance with benefits claims, scholarships, and community service opportunities.

   • Website: VFW

2. K9s for Warriors

   • Overview: This organization is committed to supplying highly-trained service dogs, primarily rescues, to military veterans dealing with PTSD, TBIs, or other service-related traumas, effectively saving two lives in the process.

   • Website: K9s for Warriors

3. Hire Heroes USA

   • Overview: An organization dedicated to helping veterans find employment through personalized job search training and assistance.

   • Website: Hire Heroes USA

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Until Next Time!

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

The Veteran's Newsletter