The Veterans Newsletter - Thanksgiving Week

Author

Hagen McMenemy
November 22, 2023

Welcome to The Veterans Newsletter!

In today's edition:

  • How a new video game’s sense of “wonder” is helping some veterans through life’s challenges

  • The VA is pausing foreclosures on VA-backed home loans 

  • Extensive lists of resources for veterans and service members

  • Fun websites and products veterans need to know about

  • And more...

Links of the Week

📰 Veteran Stories

The newest Super Mario Bros. game is an enjoyable and uplifting outlet for veterans. The author, who found healing through the game's sense of "wonder" during difficult moments, believes that other veterans could benefit from its positive impact (link).

The VA is launching an internal investigation into the operations of its suicide prevention hotline after a whistleblower claimed that some callers were being ignored (link)​.

📜 Policy Updates

The VA recently announced that it is pausing foreclosures on VA-backed home loans and extending pandemic protections for veterans struggling to pay their mortgages (link).

💡 Resources & Tips

This locator can help you find local social security offices to help with retirement, disability, and benefits (link).

This page from Salute Heroes provides a vast list of helpful resources for veterans, including community and family care, emergency assistance, health and wellness, and legal assistance. (link).

The Best of The Week

  • Black Rifle Coffee Company: This veteran-owned coffee company was founded in 2014 by Special Forces members and is known for its commitment to high-quality coffee. They also sell apparel, gear, and accessories while being highly involved in supporting veteran causes. They also have a popular YouTube channel that regularly posts educational videos, minidocumentaries, and entertaining reaction content. Black Rifle Coffee Company.

  • Vet Tix: Also known as the Veterans Ticket Foundation, it is a non-profit organization that provides free event tickets to service members, veterans, and their families. It gives back to those who have served by allowing them to attend fun events such as concerts, sporting events, and other family activities for free. VetTix.

  • Stars and Stripes: This independent news source provides a comprehensive range of news, information, analysis, lifestyle features, and multimedia insights tailored for service members, veterans, and their families. While it initially started as a newspaper, it has since gained recognition for its substantial digital footprint. Stars and Stripes.

Meme of the Week

Hero of the Week: Sergeant First Class Alwyn C. Cashe

Sergeant First Class Alwyn C. Cashe, born on July 10, 1970, in Oviedo, Florida, personified dedication and duty from a young age. These traits transitioned seamlessly into his military career when he enlisted as a supply specialist in the U.S. Army in 1988. However, driven by an unwavering work ethic, he shifted roles in 1993 to become an infantryman, embarking on a journey that would later lead him to the heart of the Iraq War.

During Operation Iraqi Freedom, SFC Cashe found himself on the front lines as a platoon sergeant in Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. He served as a reliable leader, earning the trust of his subordinates, who regarded him as a dependable figure they could turn to whenever they needed support or assistance. 

On October 17, 2005, SFC Cashe and members of his platoon were conducting a routine patrol near Samarra when the Bradley Fighting Vehicle he was in charge of was attacked by small-arms fire. During the clash, the vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), erupting into an inferno. 

SFC Cashe was able to exit the vehicle, and he and another soldier were able to retrieve the trapped driver. They then came under direct fire after the enemy noticed their movements. Fortunately, another company element came to assist and engage the enemy, providing SFC Cashe an opportunity to save his comrades. 

Despite suffering severe injuries, SFC Cashe's immediate concern was the safety of his platoon. In an awe-inspiring display of selflessness, he disregarded his burns and injuries, repeatedly re-entering the blazing vehicle to rescue his fellow soldiers. 

SFC Cashe courageously pulled six comrades from the wreckage, ensuring their safety at a significant personal cost. When medical evacuation helicopters arrived, he declined to board until every other wounded soldier had been evacuated, prioritizing their safety over his own.

His actions, marked by unparalleled selflessness, valor, and dedication, epitomize the highest ideals of the U.S. military. Although he was horribly wounded, he continued to fight to save his men and ensure that they could live to fight another day. 

Regrettably, SFC Cashe paid the ultimate sacrifice, succumbing to severe burns on November 8, 2005, at the age of 35. For his extraordinary bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. 

Over the subsequent years, there were strong efforts to upgrade his award to the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military distinction.

On August 24, 2020, Secretary of Defense Mark Esper agreed that SFC Cashe's heroism warranted the Medal of Honor. This sentiment found support in the U.S. House of Representatives, culminating in the unanimous passage of a bill on September 22, 2020. Finally, on December 4, 2020, President Donald Trump signed the bill, posthumously bestowing the Medal of Honor upon Sergeant First Class Alwyn C. Cashe.

SFC Cashe went far beyond the call of duty, and his indomitable spirit, profound sacrifice, and the recognition of his heroism inspire the United States and all those who proudly wear the uniform, symbolizing the selfless commitment that defines the spirit of service members nationwide.

Sergeant First Class Cashe is survived by his spouse, Tamra Cashe, along with his daughters, Lajada and Alexis, and his son, Andrew.

Top Resources For Veterans

  1. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

  2. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

  3. Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

  4. Wounded Warrior Project

  5. Hire Heroes USA

Until Next Time

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

Cheers,

Chad Hill

Founder,

The Veteran's Newsletter