Welcome to the Veteran’s Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Supreme Court ruling expands GI bill benefits.

• An Investigation shows that male veterans have an alarmingly high rate of suicide.

• The VA’s direct deposit initiative enhances veteran’s benefits delivery.

• Veterans Canteen Service launches online contact lens ordering service. 

• The story of a Pearl Harbor hero.

• And more…

News of the Week

📰 Top Veteran Stories

Supreme Court's Landmark Ruling Expands GI Bill Benefits for Veterans

The Supreme Court has issued a significant ruling that rectifies the VA’s previous miscalculations of GI Bill benefits, particularly benefiting retired Army Captain James Rudisill and potentially 1.7 million other service members. This ruling acknowledged that veterans should retain access to benefits earned under both the pre-and post-9/11 GI Bills, contrary to the VA's former stance, which forced veterans to choose between them. 

This decision opens up substantial educational and career opportunities for veterans who have served both before and after the 9/11 attacks, allowing them to further their education or vocational training. The case highlights the broader implications for veteran empowerment and economic contribution, ensuring veterans can leverage their military experience alongside enhanced educational benefits to better their lives and, by extension, their communities.

Alarming Disparity: Male Veterans Face High Suicide Rates

A recent investigation by Fox News Digital has highlighted a grave issue: the disproportionately high rate of suicide among male veterans compared to civilian populations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Veterans Administration data show that while the civilian male-to-female suicide ratio stands at 4 to 1, it escalates dramatically to 24 to 1 among veterans. This stark disparity suggests that male veterans are facing unique challenges that significantly elevate their risk of suicide. 

Contributing factors include family crises following military services, such as divorces and custody battles, which are indicated in about 90% of these suicides. The All Secure Foundation in St. Louis, Missouri, notes that these veterans often feel overwhelmed by personal conflicts rather than war memories, feeling as though their families would be better off without them. 

This tragic mindset is exacerbated by their military training in problem elimination, often leading to viewing suicide as a solution to their struggles.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

📜 VBA Updates

Enhancing Veteran Benefits Delivery: VA’s Direct Deposit Initiative

The Veterans Affairs' Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) has significantly improved the delivery of benefits to veterans by transitioning from mailed checks to secure direct deposits. Since its inception in 2019, VBBP has enlisted over 100 financial institutions and successfully converted more than 340,000 veterans and their families to direct deposit, enhancing benefit distribution's speed, security, and reliability. 

The program, developed in collaboration with the Association of Military Banks of America (AMBA), also offers financial education and counseling to promote financial stability and inclusivity among veterans. Notably, VBBP has reached a milestone with the participation of PlainsCapital Bank as the 100th and Frontwave Credit Union as the 101st financial institution. This initiative reduces the risks associated with mailed checks, such as loss and theft, and supports veterans in building wealth and accessing credit through a network of veteran-friendly banks and credit unions.

⚕️ VHA Updates

Veterans Canteen Service Launches Online Contact Lens Ordering with PatriotVision 

The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) has introduced PatriotVision, a new online platform that simplifies the process of ordering prescription contact lenses for Veterans, their families, caregivers, and VA employees. 

In partnership with NextDayContacts, this service offers a variety of top contact lens brands, such as Acuvue and Biofinity, with the convenience of free standard delivery. Highlighting customer benefits, VCS provides instant savings without the need for mail-in rebates and includes a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. Users can benefit from a 10% discount at the launch using the code VCS10. The website also features tools for prescription review, order tracking, and customer support via chat, email, or phone.

Established in 1946, VCS has been committed to providing essential services and merchandise at reasonable prices to enhance the well-being of America’s Veterans and is operational across 49 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.

Useful Mobile App of the Week

Objective Zero App

The Objective Zero app is a dynamic resource designed specifically for veterans, military personnel, and their families, aiming to tackle mental health challenges and prevent veteran suicide. This innovative app brings together a supportive community and immediate access to mental health resources at the touch of a button. 

Users can easily connect with peers, chat with trained ambassadors ready to lend an ear and explore a variety of mindfulness and wellness activities to help manage stress. By creating a welcoming and safe environment, Objective Zero empowers individuals to seek the support they need and connect with others who truly understand their experiences.

Deals of the Week

• 30% off online and 20% off in-store: Adidas military discount. 

• 62% Off: Rigid 18V Wireless Drywall Cut-Out Tool.

• 62% Off: Bella Pro Series - 6-qt. Digital Air Fryer.

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Doris Miller 

Doris “Dorie” Miller was born in Waco, TX, on Oct. 12, 1919. He was named after the midwife, Doris, who assisted his mother in birthing him as his mother was convinced before his birth that he would be a girl. 

He was one of four sons and was handy around the house and enjoyed cooking meals and helping his mother with laundry. He enjoyed team sports, especially football, where he played fullback on his high school’s team.

Despite his efforts, Dorie faced challenges in school; he was 17 years old by the time he reached the eighth grade and had to repeat the year, leading him to eventually drop out to support his family by working full-time. Dorie also enjoyed hunting with his .22 rifle, a pastime that honed his marksmanship.

Seeking broader opportunities, Dorie enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1939. Due to the racial policies of the time, the only positions open to Black sailors were in service roles, so he began his military career as a mess attendant at the recruiting station in Dallas, Texas. 

He served at the Naval Training Center and Operating Base in Norfolk,VA, for six years before being transferred to various ships, ultimately being stationed on the USS West Virginia.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, while aboard the West Virginia at Pearl Harbor, he had just finished breakfast and was collecting laundry at 7:57 am when Japanese aircraft carriers launched their attack, firing torpedoes at his ship.

As the battle station alarms sounded, Miller headed for his assigned post at an anti-aircraft battery magazine, only to find a torpedo had destroyed it. He was then ordered to assist with moving injured soldiers to safety.

After successfully helping the wounded, Miller took command of a .50 caliber anti-aircraft machine gun—a weapon he had never been trained to use. Demonstrating remarkable composure and accuracy, he began firing at Japanese planes, managing to shoot down several. He continued firing until he ran out of ammunition. As the West Virginia began to sink, he was ordered to abandon the ship.

During the attack on Pearl Harbor, Doris Miller's actions were pivotal in saving the lives of numerous sailors and helped to mitigate the overall casualties of the unexpected assault. In recognition of his heroism, Miller was awarded the Navy Cross, becoming the first African American sailor to receive this distinction. His commendation ceremony highlighted his exceptional devotion to duty and extraordinary courage during the attack.

Despite his heroic deeds, Miller did not receive the Medal of Honor, even though there was significant advocacy from the public and civil rights groups for such recognition.

Miller continued his service until November 24, 1943, when he was tragically killed in action after his ship, the USS Liscome Bay, was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine.

Doris Miller remains a true American hero, celebrated for his profound bravery and as a symbol of the struggle for racial equality within the armed forces.

Veteran Business of the Week

Frag Out Flavor

Frag Out Flavor, established in 2017 by Patrick Flynn, a former Army combat engineer, specializes in crafting high-quality spice blends and BBQ rubs without the use of fillers such as gluten, GMOs, or MSG.

 Motivated by his experiences relying on basic meals like MREs and Pop-Tarts while serving, Flynn aimed to enhance everyday dining with rich, flavorful seasonings. More than just a spice company, Frag Out Flavor is committed to supporting the veteran community, dedicating a portion of all proceeds to veteran-focused initiatives and programs. 

This combination of quality, taste, and philanthropy defines their unique approach to business and community engagement.

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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