Welcome to The Veterans Newsletter!

In today's edition:

• Maine senator proposes a partnership with the American Legion to safely store firearms and prevent veteran suicides.

• An alarming survey of military families shows a decline in recommended military service.

• The VA plans to permanently house 41,000 homeless veterans.

• A senator demands improvements regarding VA employee background checks.

• The VA offers virtual sleep resources to help veterans cope with sleep disorders.

• And more…

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Links of the Week

📰 Veteran Stories

Senator King Proposes Safe Firearm Storage Initiative with American Legion to Combat Veteran Suicide

Senator Angus King of Maine proposed a collaboration with the American Legion to provide lock-and-key storage for firearms at thousands of American Legion posts nationwide. This initiative aims to offer a safe space for veterans to store their guns, especially during times of mental health crisis, reducing the risk of suicide. During a joint Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs committee hearing, American Legion national commander Daniel Seehafer expressed openness to the idea, citing the Legion's role as a trusted resource for veterans. 

Stressing the urgency of addressing veteran suicide, Seehafer highlighted the importance of improving the quality of life for veterans through measures such as timely access to mental health care and housing assistance. Recent VA efforts include distributing gun safety locks at regional offices, following a request from Senator King to provide resources for safe firearm storage. Seehafer emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation in addressing veterans' issues (link).

Survey Reveals Struggles and Declining Endorsement of Military Service Among Families

The Blue Star Families survey conducted in 2023 highlights several concerns among military families regarding military service. Only 32% of respondents would recommend military service, citing issues such as poor job opportunities for spouses, inadequate mental and physical health care services, and housing concerns. With over 7,400 responses, the survey noted a decline from 55% in 2016 to 32% in 2023 in the likelihood of recommending military service. Concerns included time spent away from family, pay, spousal employment, child care, and housing options. Senior military leaders have also raised similar concerns before Congress. 

Additionally, the survey revealed financial stress among respondents, with many struggling with housing costs and food insecurity. Lawmakers have proposed measures to address these issues, including overhauling the military pay chart and improving on-base food options. However, the Defense Department's response remains pending. While the survey findings are significant, it's important to note that it is not a scientific study and may not fully represent the entire military demographic (link).

VA Aims to House 41,000 Homeless Veterans in 2024, Expands Outreach Efforts

The VA is intensifying efforts to address homelessness among veterans, with plans to move over 41,000 homeless veterans into permanent housing and outreach initiatives targeting up to 40,000 veterans living on the streets or in vehicles in 2024. This initiative combines rapid rehousing with comprehensive support services, including job training, education assistance, and healthcare. 

VA funding for homeless programs has increased to $3.1 billion for fiscal year 2024, with projections indicating a need for $3.21 billion in 2025. Homelessness among veterans remains a significant issue due to physical disabilities and mental health challenges resulting from combat experiences. The VA's strategy involves immediate housing placement alongside support services to ensure veterans can maintain housing stability. Case managers are assigned to provide ongoing assistance to address risk factors that could lead to homelessness. The VA's outreach efforts aim to connect unsheltered veterans with housing, food assistance, and other services, with additional resources targeted for those facing complex challenges such as criminal justice involvement, medical issues, and financial hardship (link).

📜 Policy Updates

Senator Demands Action Plan from VA to Improve Employee Background Checks

Senator Jerry Moran, the ranking member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, has called on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide a comprehensive plan by next month to improve background checks for employees and contractors. This demand follows watchdog reports highlighting deficiencies in the VA's screening processes, including contractors with criminal records.

The VA's failure to comply with its own policies has raised concerns about the safety of veterans, their families, and the public. Recent reports revealed instances where contracted employees, including security guards, had criminal records, jeopardizing the safety of VA facilities. Moran emphasized the need for VA Secretary Denis McDonough's personal involvement in addressing these issues, urging the department to take swift action to rectify the shortcomings and ensure the safety and well-being of veterans and the broader public (link).

💡 Resources & Tips

VA Offers Virtual Sleep Resources for Veterans

Sleep disorders affect a significant portion of the American population, with obstructive sleep apnea and chronic insomnia being common issues. Recognizing the importance of good sleep for overall health, the VA provides virtual resources to help Veterans address sleep problems. 

These include the Path to Better Sleep course, offering free training on various sleep issues; the Insomnia Coach and CBT-i Coach apps for insomnia treatment; the Annie for Veterans text messaging service for CPAP use reminders and sleep tracking; and the Mindfulness Coach app for stress reduction and improved sleep quality. These resources aim to supplement traditional treatments and improve Veterans' overall well-being (link).

Benefits of The Week

• The Honor Flight Network: The Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring American veterans by allowing them to visit Washington, D.C., and the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifices. The organization primarily provides free flights for veterans to travel to the nation's capital, where they can visit memorials such as the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. 

  The Honor Flight Network aims to express gratitude to veterans for their service and ensure they can see the memorials built in their honor. Additionally, the organization often organizes special ceremonies and events to honor veterans during their trips to Washington, D.C.

• Chewy - 50% Off and Up to 3% Cash Back: Chewy is an American online retailer specializing in pet food, toys, treats, and accessories. Founded in 2011 by Ryan Cohen and Michael Day, the company offers a wide range of products for various pets. 

  Headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida, Chewy operates primarily through its website and mobile app, providing convenient shopping and home delivery services across the United States. In addition to its standard offerings, Chewy has recently begun offering a 50% military discount and up to 3% cash back to support active-duty service members and veterans.

The Best of The Week

• Cammo Comedy: Cammo Comedy is a weekly podcast that humorously explores the lighter side of military service. Hosted by veterans, the show features amusing anecdotes, pranks, and shenanigans encountered during their time in the armed forces.

  Released every Monday, it offers entertaining stories that highlight the camaraderie and humor unique to military life, providing listeners with a lighthearted glimpse into the experiences of service members.

• US Veterans Magazine: US Veterans Magazine is a publication that provides valuable resources, information, and support for veterans, transitioning service members, and their families. It covers various topics relevant to veterans, including education, career opportunities, health and wellness, finance, and lifestyle. The magazine features articles, interviews, and profiles of veterans who have contributed significantly in various fields. 

  Additionally, it offers insights into veteran-friendly companies, educational institutions, and organizations that support the veteran community. US Veterans Magazine aims to empower veterans by connecting them with opportunities and resources to thrive in civilian life.

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: George Edward Wahlen

George Edward Wahlen was born into a modest family in Ogden, Utah, on August 8, 1924. While details about his early years are limited, Ogden was known as a tight-knit community where family values were cherished. From a young age, Wahlen's parents instilled in him the importance of honor and service.

Despite his humble beginnings, Wahlen showed a dedication to his interests, particularly boxing, which he pursued passionately. He left high school to train as a civilian aircraft mechanic, honing his skills in this field.

In 1943, at the age of 17, having trained as an aircraft mechanic at Hill Field, Utah, Wahlen found himself leading a crew of mechanics for the US Army Air Corps. Eager to contribute further, he volunteered for the draft, hoping to leverage his expertise in aircraft maintenance.

Enlisting in the US Navy Reserve on June 11, 1943, as a seaman apprentice, Wahlen quickly transitioned to active duty and completed his recruit training at the Naval Training Station in San Diego, California. Instead of being trained to work on aircraft, he was designated as a hospital corpsman, training to be a combat medic. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, California after his training.

In July 1944, following additional training in Hawaii, Wahlen was assigned to Fox Company, 2/26 Marines, as part of the 5th Marine Division. Their deployment to Iwo Jima on Feb. 19, 1945, marked the beginning of one of the most intense battles in the Pacific Theater.

Initially intended as reserves, Wahlen's unit was quickly thrust into the front lines due to heavy American casualties. On Feb. 26, just days into the battle, Wahlen was wounded by a grenade. Despite his injuries, he adamantly refused evacuation and focused on aiding wounded comrades instead.

His bravery continued unabated, even as he sustained further injuries. On March 2, Wahlen was wounded in the back but refused to leave his post, tirelessly administering aid to fellow Marines. Later that day, he was wounded again, this time in the leg, yet he persisted in his efforts, crawling over 50 yards to assist one last wounded Marine before finally being ordered to evacuate.

Following his return to the United States, news of George Wahlen's heroic deeds reached the highest echelons of the US government. On Oct. 5, 1945, President Harry S. Truman bestowed upon Wahlen and two other sailors the Medal of Honor in recognition of their extraordinary valor.

Wahlen spent nearly nine months recuperating before receiving an honorable discharge on December 19, 1945. Undeterred by his injuries, he re-enlisted in the US Army as a medical technician in 1948. He would go on to serve with distinction in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War, retiring from military service in 1968 after being wounded once more and receiving the Purple Heart.

After transitioning to civilian life, Wahlen advocated for his fellow servicemen and women, dedicating over a decade to working with the VA. In a testament to his enduring legacy, President George W. Bush authorized the naming of the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Salt Lake City in 2004. Although federal regulations typically prohibit the naming of buildings after living individuals, Congress granted a special exemption to honor Wahlen's exceptional contributions.

George Wahlen passed away on June 5, 2009, and was laid to rest on June 12. His selfless actions in the face of danger exemplified the highest ideals of heroism and sacrifice, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of military history and serving as an enduring inspiration to future generations.

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!

Cheers,

The Veteran's Newsletter