Veterans & Military Families Monthly News-August 2012

Veterans & Military Families Monthly News
August 2012 Vol. 3 No. 8

Good afternoon and thank you for reading, this months edition of the newsletter. We appreciate your involvement and continued support. Remember, we have two online sources where you can read and offer comments on the current and previous editions of the newsletter. The newsletter is posted on Facebook through the group called Veterans and Military Families Monthly News. Check it out and join the group. Click here to go directly to the page. (Keep in mind, you need a Facebook account to join; however, the documents can be viewed through the docs link toward the bottom of the page even without an account.) The second source for the online version of the newsletter is the website www.scribd.com. This online source for the newsletter works in the same fashion as the Facebook page. Please let us know what you think, or if you have any questions about the online sources. For those of you who enjoy just receiving the email each month, we will continue to send it out. But we want to build the online presence as a way to reach out to more people. As always, thank you very much for reading. Our hope is to continue to expand the newsletter. For that, we need your input. So, again, if anyone has any suggestions for topics to cover or wants to write their own piece, we will gladly try to work it in. We hope you enjoy, and please share your feedback with us. From: www.military.com Jul 02, 2012 Associated Press| By: Lolita C. Baldor From: Hank Fuhs WASHINGTON -- America's citizen soldiers, who train in their hometowns for a weekend a month and two weeks a year, receive more money for one day of training at home than their fellow National Guard and Reserve members earn for a day serving in the war zone. Pentagon officials defended the pay discrepancy as incentive for National Guard and reservists who give up their weekends and must be ready on a moment's notice to serve. But it's one of many problems in the complex Guard and Reserve compensation system detailed in a new Pentagon review that recommends changes to make the salaries and benefits more equitable across the board. The study noted that Guard members and reservists get two days' pay for each day of weekend training -totaling four days' pay for the weekend every month. In contrast, when they are called up to active duty and are deployed overseas to Afghanistan, they get a day's pay for a day's work. As an example, an officer in the reserves or the Guard could get $407 for a day of weekend duty, but get $269 for a day on active duty, or $318 for a day deployed to Afghanistan. Enlisted members could get $171 for a day of weekend duty, $134 for a day on active duty and $161 for a day deployed to war. The Defense Department will consider the preliminary recommendations made in the review. Solving the issue, however, is tricky because defense officials realize that one remedy would be cutting the pay that Guard and Reserve receive for weekend training at home. "That's a sensitive issue, because you're affecting what people receive," said Thomas Bush, who directed the recent review of military compensation, which included the pay problem. Continued...
Review: Change Guard, Reserve Pay
Thank you very much!

P.4-Hiring Heroes P.5-Non-VA Facility Care P.8-Medicare Reimbursement Rates P.10-Segmented Lanes P.11-Disables Wayne County Veteran Outfitted for Hunting P.12Show Your Colors P.13-Post Civil War P.15-PTSD Resources
In This Issue
P.16-Panetta Outlines Suicide Prevention Strategy P.19-TRICARE SCAM P.22-WWII Memories From Cpt. Franklin H. Smith Part-I P.23-TRICARE and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act P.24-Legal Help for Veterans P.27-Lest We Forget SW MI
And much more.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the Fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933
Some Useful Links

Bush noted that when troops -- including Guard and Reserve members -- go to war on active duty, they get additional hostile fire pay and their salaries are tax free. But even considering those additional benefits, he said, "a day on weekend training is more money." "It doesn't make sense," he said. "It would make more sense, I think, to have a more uniform pay schedule, like the active duty has." Pete Duffy, the acting legislative director for the National Guard Association of the U.S., said changing or reducing pay for weekend warriors would face heavy opposition around the country. "It's an incentive for National Guard and Reserve members to serve," he said, adding that when members have weekend duty, most also have regular jobs, so they end up working 12 days without a day off. Support and benefits for the Guard and Reserve have grown in recent years, after a backlash -- particularly from Congress members and state leaders -- during the early years of the Iraq war. Officials were furious that some Guard units were being sent to combat with equipment that was often hand-me-downs from active-duty brigades. There also was a push made to beef up enticements for people to join the Guard, as the U.S. military struggled to meet the demands of both wars. The Pentagon increasingly had to tap National Guard brigades to meet the escalating demand for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, even as combat deployments were extended to 15 months and enlistment standards were lowered to meet recruiting goals. Reservists also were activated for the war, sent overseas to fill specific expertise gaps or called to fill in at bases in the United States. The review also recommended allowing Guard members and reservists to begin collecting their military retirement on the 30th anniversary of their service, as long as they have worked the equivalent of 20 years of service. Currently, reservists who serve 20 years can't begin collecting their retirement pay until age 60. The Guard and Reserve pay and benefits system has evolved over the decades into what the Pentagon review called convoluted, confusing, and frustrating. It confounds the servicemembers as well as their commanders who have to request troops for missions and determine their duty status. That status governs their pay and benefits, but can often change monthly. Continued
Air Force Times www.airforcetimes.com Navy Times www.navytimes.com Marine Corps Times www.marinecorpstimes.com Army Times www.armytimes.com Military Times www.militarytimes.com TRICARE www.tricare.mil American Legion www.legion.org Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw.org AMVETS www.amvets.org The DAV www.dav.org Department of Defense www.dod.gov Military/Veterans Report www.militray.com The Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Administration www.va.gov Military Order of the Purple Heart www.purpleheart.org
If anyone has a site they would like to have added to this growing list please let us know! Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org Also check out the complete list of links that appear in this newsletter on the last page.
Thank you for your Support!

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The Guard and Reserve pay and benefits system has evolved over the decades into what the Pentagon review called convoluted, confusing, and frustrating. It confounds the servicemembers as well as their commanders who have to request troops for missions and determine their duty status. That status governs their pay and benefits, but can often change monthly. According to the review, Guard and Reserve members can be called up under as many as 30 different duty statuses, making the system difficult to administer and nearly impossible for troops to navigate and understand. The review recommends paring that down to just six different classifications. Very broadly, reservists can be called to active duty for federal missions such as the Iraq and Afghanistan wars; or they can train and perform missions under the authority of their state, such as for forest fires or hurricanes. There are seven reserve components in the U.S. military: The Army Guard and Reserve, the Air Guard and Reserve, the Navy Reserve, the Marine Corps Reserve and the Coast Guard Reserve. They total more than 1.1 million members, with an operating budget of nearly $50 billion.
A Note From: Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau

This notice from LWF is to inform the reader of the development of a Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau. Since our organization has conducted three yearlong courses at Lake Michigan College, we have many topics and many qualified speakers to present information from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, and our involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have developed formats for school children of all ages, and for veterans organization. Whatever the event we will gladly produce the correct format We would be glad to present any topic of interest to any group. As coordinator, I will be glad to help with the choices of presentations and help with planning. Gary C. Lulenski Coordinator Speakers Bureau 269-428-3442 Garykaye2@comcast.net
From: The USO In 2012, we're calling on the brave men and women of our armed forces to make some incredible sacrifices in Afghanistan, Iraq, and remote locations around the world. That means you and I need to make an extra effort to show our support. One of the best ways to let our troops know that you've got their back is by supporting the work of the USO. Step Up and Lead -- support our troops by signing up to be part of the USO today.
STEP UP AND LEAD
Michigan Republican Party Facebook Page

Along with building the newsletters Facebook page, which can be found by the link above, the Michigan Republican Party is building their page. If you would like join, please click here.
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
Please Support and listen to Frontlines of Fredom Military Talk Radio Hosted by Lt. Col. Denny Gillem. You can hear it every Saturday at 1p.m. on 1260 AM the Pledge (Zeeland, MI), or by visiting the website at www.frontlinesoffreedom.com. Or on Facebook by clicking here. Thank you for your Support!
~Ronald Reagan
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For the link to the interview with Rep. Ray Franz please Click Here
Rep. Ray Franz talks about the new Veterans program "Hire Heroes" that can be found online at - http://www.hireheroesusa.org/
A Little Information about Hire Heroes

From: www.hireheroesusa.org Mission: Hire Heroes USA (Hire Heroes) is dedicated to creating job opportunities for US military veterans and their spouses through personalized employment training and corporate engagement. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, Hire Heroes services are provided at no cost to the veteran. Creating the Opportunity. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Hire Heroes USA has built a national reputation of excellence for its success at helping unemployed veterans find jobs currently at the rate of one veteran confirmed hired every business day. Our team is comprised of military veterans many with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan and business veterans. That mix of military and civilian experience has proven essential to effectively training veterans in the skills of self-marketing and then networking them into good jobs with great companies. The hallmark of the program is a personal approach where each veteran receives dedicated assistance from a highlytrained staff member in order to help them overcome barriers to employment. To become part of this program, click on the tab above that best suits your interest.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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From: RAO Bulletin July 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238 -1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/ NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/ AD37 member) The Department of Veterans Affairs recently announced a change in regulations regarding payments for emergency care provided to eligible veterans in non-VA facilities. More than 100,000 Veterans are estimated to be affected by the new rules, at a cost of about $44 million annually "This provision helps ensure eligible Veterans continue to get the emergency care they need when VA facilities are not available," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. The new regulation extends VA's authority to pay for emergency care provided to eligible Veterans at non-VA facilities until the Veterans can be safely transferred to a VA medical facility. Non-VA Care is medical care provided to eligible Veterans outside of VA when VA facilities are not available. All VA medical centers can use this program when needed. The use of the Non-VA Care program is governed by federal laws containing eligibility criteria and other policies specifying when and why it can be used. A pre-authorization for treatment in the community is required for Non-VA Care -- unless the medical event is an emergency. Emergency events may be reimbursed on behalf of the Veteran in certain cases. Refer to the Emergency Non-VA Care brochure at http://www.nonvacare.va.gov/brochures/ Fee_Veteran_Brochure.pdf for further elaboration. There are five categories of Non-VA Care Programs. Infor-
Non-VA Facility Care
mation on each is available at: Pre-authorized Outpatient Care http:// www.nonvacare.va.gov/preauthout.asp Pre-authorized Inpatient Care http:// www.nonvacare.va.gov/preauthinpt.asp Emergency Care of Service-Connected Conditions http://www.nonvacare.va.gov/unauth.asp Emergency Care of Non-Service-Connected Conditions http://www.nonvacare.va.gov/ecnsc.asp State Home Per Diem Program http:// www.nonvacare.va.gov/state-homes.asp Non-VA Care is used when VA medical facilities are not feasibly available. The local VA medical facility has criteria to determine whether Non-VA Care may be used. If a Veteran is eligible for certain medical care, the VA hospital or clinic should provide it as the first option. If they cant -- due to a lack of available specialists, long wait times, or extraordinary distances from the Veterans home -- the VA may consider Non-VA Care in the Veterans community. Non-VA Care is not an entitlement program or a permanent treatment option. VA operates 121 emergency departments across the countries, which provide resuscitative therapy and stabilization in life threatening situations. They operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. VA also has 46 urgent care units, which provide care for patients without scheduled appointments who need immediate medical or psychiatric attention. For more information about emergency care in non-VA facilities refer to http://www.nonvacare.va.gov. To locate the nearest VA medical center or clinic refer to http:// www2.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp. [Source: eEchoes May-Aug & www.nonvacare.va.gov Jun 2012 ++]
From: www.michiganpva.org MPVA is celebrating its 50th year of service in Michigan. It is a chapter of the national Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), operating according to the standards and practices established by the PVA. MPVA is, however, a separate 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Michigan programs, services, education, and outreach conducted here are made possible by local volunteers, partners, sponsors, and donors. The mission of Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America is to enhance the lives of veterans with spinal cord injury or disease as well as all citizens with disabilities, by advocating for civil rights, assuring quality health care, supporting continued research and education, and encouraging independence and healthy living through various health, sports and recreational programs. MPVA shall continue striving to remain at the forefront of both veterans benefits services and disability rights, while working toward a better quality of life for all American citizens.
The MPVA Mission
By: Dale Hemphill-Designer, Spirit of America Flag (dhemp31628@aol.com)
Spirit of the American Flag
The Spirit of America Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 by a naval veteran realizing the need for historical recognition of American's heroes and the sacrifices they made for our country. The "Spirit of America" insignia shown above was designed to recognize our men and women of the military forces and the battles they fought. As the Spirit of America Foundation continues its mission to promote patriotism and the appreciation of our veterans, it has expanded its reach to help veterans in need in today's tough economy. FORGOTTEN HEROES USA, LTD, supports the missions of the Spirit of America Foundation by offering patriotic products honoring Americas hardships in history dating back to the Revolutionary War to present day Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. With each purchase, a percentage is donated to the Spirit of America Foundation. If you would like to help our cause by making a purchase or donation please know that your generosity will reach many others in their time of need. Please review our web site for more information. If you have any questions or comments please contact us via the "Contact Us" page. Thank you! Video: The Raising of the Spirit of America flag. At the American war cemetery in Margraten in The Netherlands on Sunday the 3rd of July 2011. Made by: RALPH84 Click Here to view the video. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
From: Gene Simon This summer, veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War will have the chance to take flight, for free! Beginning June 19, veterans will be able to fly in a Boeing-Stearman N2S-5 Kaydet, courtesy of the Air Zoo and pilot/sponsor Alan Wright. The Kaydet is an open cockpit aircraft that served as the U.S. Navys primary trainer during World War II. This is the Air Zoos seventh consecutive year to offer free veteran flights, said Bob Ellis, Air Zoo president and CEO. It is our simple way of saying thank you and giving back to those who have sacrificed so much to serve our country. Flights will take place on Tuesdays through Aug. 21 (except July 3), weather permitting. They are open to veterans who have not previously participated with the Air Zoos free veteran flights. Flights will be scheduled on a first-come, firstserved basis. Those who are flying must sign a waiver and be able to get in and out of the aircraft on their own. A maximum of five flights per day will be offered. For more information or to reserve a flight, please call the Air Zoo at 269.350.2815.
Air Zoo to Offer Free Airplane Rides to Veterans
From: RAO Bulletin July 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238 -1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/ NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/ AD37 member) Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) on 25 JUN proposed legislation that would eliminate the sustainable growth rate (SGR) that governs the reimbursement rate for Medicare physicians, and replace it with a simple, annual cost-of-living adjustment for these doctors. The Access to Physicians in Medicare Act, S.3337, would end what has become a periodic process in Congress of avoiding scheduled cuts to reimbursements for Medicare physicians. This has required passage of so-called "doc fix" legislation to delay these cuts under the current SGR formula. Instead, it would set up a process under which reimbursement rates could increase slowly each year, capped at 3 percent, based on a cost-of-living increase similar to the one used to calculate increases in Social Security benefits. Paul said this change would remove much of the
Medicare Reimbursement Rates
current uncertainty surrounding the reimbursement rate, which, if cut, could lead to a significant drop in access to medical care. "As an eye surgeon, many of my patients are seniors, and many of those seniors are Medicare recipients," Paul said. "Medicare, in its constant quest to save money, cuts physician reimbursement and in turn puts America's seniors at risk of losing their access to quality healthcare. I know the value of quality care, and I want to ensure our nation's seniors continue to get it." Paul said his bill would prevent a cut of about 30 percent to Medicare reimbursements next year, which represents cuts due under the current formula that have been avoided each year. He also said he would pay for this change by repealing expanded healthcare subsidies under the 2010 healthcare law. A related bill, the Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act (H.R.5707) was introduced in the House 9 MAY by Representatives Allyson Schwartz (D-PA) and Joe Heck (R-NV). [Source: The Hill Pete Kasperowicz article 26 June 2012 ++]
Old Warrior Camp

From: Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Retired, ANG This Hunting Camp was built by a retired Marine First Sergeant with the primary purpose of facilitating the Wounded Warriors as they begin their Journey back to Civilian Life. The First Sergeant is the Commander of the Disabled American Veteran (Manistique Chapter 26) He is also 100% totally disabled. There is no cost to veteransBring a Valid Michigan Hunting License and your sleeping bag. Contact Bob Blevins at (906)-477-0025 for dates and times available.
Short video from www.tricare.mil that explains some back ground information about TRICARE.
View this video to get a better understanding of what TRICARE is. Or Click Here.
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Additional Benefits for Active Duty Time Served: DD FORM 214-SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT
From: Social Security Administration (SSA) Please share this with anyone who's had active duty service between January 1957 to December 31, 2001 and planning for retirement. In a nutshell it boils down to this: You qualify for a higher social security payment because of Military service, for active duty any time from 1957 through 2001 (the program was done away with 1 January 2002). Up to $1200 per year of earnings credit credited at time of application - which can make a substantial difference in social security monthly payments upon your retirement. You must bring your DD-214 to the Social Security Office and you must ask for this benefit to receive it! Social Security website: http://www.ssa.gov/ retire2/military.htm This is something to put in your files for when you apply for Social Security down the road... It is NOT just for retirees, BUT anyone who has served on active duty between January1957 to December 31, 2001. FYI - this benefit is not automatic, you must ask for it!
A Note From Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

We need your help to grow the Newsletter
We are currently looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know. For it is through your involvement we are able to reach more and more people each month. Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy.
Three ways to help:

1. Email us the contact information at mhauser@migop.org 2. By mail at: 520 Seymour Lansing, MI 48933 3. Or simply forward the newsletter along to a friend. Thank you for your Continued Support -Hank Fuhs
community need when the federal government terminated its program that helped many veterans pay for transportation to VA medical facilities. The DAV has 189 Hospital Service Coordinators around the country who coordinate the transportation needs for disabled veterans. Use the DAV Hospital Service Coordinator Directory to contact your nearest HSC for information or assistance. Please remember that the DAV Transportation Network is staffed by volunteers; therefore, it is unable to cover every community. We hope we can help you. Locate your nearest VA Medical Center
To request a copy of a DD-214 click here.
Form: www.dav.org Because so many sick and disabled veterans lack transportation to and from VA medical facilities for needed treatment, the DAV operates a nationwide Transportation Network to meet this need. Through the Transportation Network, DAV volunteers drive sick and disabled veterans to and from VA medical facilities for treatment. The Transportation Network is a clear example of veterans helping veterans. The DAV stepped in to meet a substantial
Need a Ride
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July 12, 2012 By: Catherine Trombley From: www.va.gov Working at one of the Big Six Veteran Service Organizations taught me a few things about VA. First, the regional offices that process compensation claims are not equal, some are more consistent. But the most important thing I learned during my three years representing Veterans who filed appeals to the Board of Veterans Appeals is this: NO CLAIM IS THE SAME. I learned while some claims may appear similar, little variances in each make all the difference. The Veterans Benefits Administrations Transformation Plan is change of giant proportions. Weve tested and measured more than 40 initiatives that are in some phase of implementation. Each initiative falls into one of three categories: people, process, or technology. Its not enough to change only our processes, update technology, or only change the way we train our employees. VBA Transformation must take place across all three fronts. Segmented Lanes is one of our new processes that we have implemented at 16 regional offices. The rest of our regional offices get Segmented Lanes throughout 2013. When you file a claim or send evidence to support your claim, our Intake Processing Centers sort it into one of three Segmented Lanes: Express, Core, or Special Operations. This allows VBA to identify at the earliest possible point any Veteran who requires expedited handling, such as a Veteran experiencing financial hardship, a homeless Veteran, a Veteran over the age of 75 or a Veteran who has a terminal illness. For the rest of us, Segmented Lanes helps get our claims processed faster, in the hands of the right processor, increases accuracy and standardizes the process across all regional offices. This means that the process at the New Orleans Regional Office is the exact same process at the Salt Lake City Regional Office. The lanes break down like this: Express Lane: claims that have one or two contentions, or fully developed claims (an example would be if a Veteran files for an increase in compensation for a back issue and is also seeking to have her left hip condition service connected) Core Lane: claims that have three or more contentions, or any claim that does not meet the criteria for Express or Special Operations. Special Operations: All claims that require special handling because of their nature (examples are Military Sexual Trauma, former Prisoners of War, Traumatic Brain Injury).
Segmented Lanes: a New Process for Claims
Each lane has dedicated claims processors whose skills and expertise match the lane to which they are assigned. This is how VA will process claims more quickly and more accurately. While no claim is the same, certain aspects of processing are alike, so if you work similar claims the process naturally speeds up and quality increases. When I worked at the Board, I often worked several claims in a row for disorders that resulted from a Military Sexual Trauma because some of the same regulations applied to those claims (like rating criteria), even though the claims themselves varied dramatically. Not having to refer to different parts of the regulations saved time, but I also became really good at claims resulting from MST. If I worked at a regional office today, I would probably be in the Special Operations lane. Another way the lanes are ensuring speed and quality is through our Fully Developed Claims program. FDCs are claims where the Veteran certifies at the time they submit the claim that he or she has provided all evidence. That certification allows VA to move forward without waiting the mandatory waiting period for the Veteran to submit evidence. Veterans can file an informal claim stating they intend to file a claim for benefits using FDC to preserve an effective date and allow them time to collect evidence. We have assigned these claims to the Express lane, allowing FDC claims to be determined in an average of 100 days. Veteran Service Organizations are available to help Veterans, their families and survivors file claims using both the traditional process and the Fully Developed Claims process. They provide this service regardless of whether you are a member. Let them help you. Segmented Lanes is just one part of our Transformation and as such and it alone will not eliminate the backlog. But collectively, the initiatives will give VA the ability to process all claims within 125 days at 98 percent quality in 2015. Cat Trombley is a communications specialist with the Veterans Benefits Administration. Prior to working for VA, she was an assistant director with one of the Veteran Service Organizations and represented Veterans before the Board of Veteran Appeals. She is also an Air Force Veteran.
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DISABLED WAYNE COUNTY VETERAN OUTFITTED FOR HUNTING

Published: April 29, 2012 4:07AM By: BOBBY WARREN From: http://www.the-daily-record.com & Chad Miles BLACHLEYVILLE -- A Wayne County man received hunting gear from a new nonprofit organization that helps disabled veterans experience the outdoors. Russell Sellers received the gear for wild turkey hunting Thursday from childhood friend and former Triway classmate Chad Miles, who now lives in the Detroit area and started Sling and Stone Outfitters. In the package were a new shirt, pants, jacket, boots, turkey decoys, a turkey call, a mouth call and a face mask. Miles told his friend he wished there were more, but the nonprofit is new and does not yet have much of a budget. Sling and Stone Outfitters was formed on Veterans Day last year: 11-11-11. Miles had been doing research on crossbow hunting and discovered in several states it is illegal, except for disabled veterans. So, he began thinking what if he could get crossbows into the hands of disabled veterans, along with boots and clothes. His ultimate goal is to be able to provide amputees with special gear for hunting. As a 20-year-old, Russell Sellers, who is permanently disabled, was working as a diesel mechanic in the U.S. Army. While installing a drive shaft in a Utah National Guard truck, in preparation to be shipped out for Operation Desert Storm, he felt a pop in his back. For the next month, he lay in traction. At the time, he was told he had a low lumbar fracture. He refused back surgery because he was told there would be a 50-50 chance of not walking again. The injury ultimately led to him being released from the military. Over the course of the next 20 years, Sellers, now 41, dealt with incredible back pain, leading him to take "every drug known to man" in order to find some relief. "It was very stressful," Russell Sellers said. "I lost some good jobs because of it, and I can't hold my kids." In 2011, he had back surgery, and the doctor said his injury was not a fracture, rather he broke his back. He is doing better since the surgery. Laurie Sellers said when her husband was having all of those problems, it was frustrating. His back could go out at any moment, and he would drop to the floor. Russell Sellers, who loves to hunt, whether deer, squirrel, rabbit or turkey, said he thinks it is great to be the first recipient of hunting gear from Sling and Stone Outfitters. When Miles started the organization, he created a Facebook page. He informed others he was soon going to put together a package for turkey hunting for a disabled veteran. After the Facebook post, Russell Sellers contacted Miles about being considered. With five children, Russell Sellers has not had the money to update his hunting equipment. His boots are 13 years old and shredded from the briars, but they were all he had. He was excited to get a pair of insulated boots. The name of the nonprofit plays on the idea of a primitive weapon, but it is also connected with David, an Old Testament figure who as a young boy slew Goliath with a sling and a stone. The goal of the organization is to help disabled veterans face their psychological Goliaths and slay them, Miles said. Anyone wishing to donate to the organization can visit the website, slingandstone.org, or check out its Facebook page.
From More information contact Chad Miles at: Phone: (313)-690-3010 Email: chad@slingandstone.org Mail: 2130 Audette Street. Dearborn, MI 48124 Facebook: Click Here
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From: Department of Veteran and Military Affairs Michigan-www.michigan.gov After the Civil War, people's prevalent thought seemed to be that war was so terrible there would never be another among civilized people. Thus, all military organizations became suspect. There were still some companies organized though, and it was the habit of these independent companies to go on little tours of camp duty each year by themselves. For example, in 1867, the Light Guard camped at Orchard Lake and in 1869 at Whitemore Lake. Despite the sincerity of these troops, in 1870 the affairs of the militia were at such a low ebb there were only three companies in state service. These units, anxious to maintain their existence, obtained Governor Baldwin's approval to hold a joint encampment in August 1870, at Slocum's Island. This encampment aroused the interest of the public and the state militia began to grow again. Birth of the Michigan State Troops The Franco-Prussian War of 1870 also fueled the pubic's interest in the state militia. The conflict had such an effect the legislature passed an act authorizing the establishment of the "Michigan State Troops." The plan was to take existing volunteer companies and, if they desired, incorporate them into the Michigan State Troops. The organization was similar to the National Guard, as far as the state was concerned. In 1891, the name was changed to Michigan National Guard. The organization of volunteer companies was finally recognized as a sensible and logical move, so upon the reorganization of 1870, the old idea of the "militia" was dropped and total reliance for state defense was placed upon the Michigan State Troops. Units in the following cities were once part of the Michigan State Troops, and are still active in the Michigan National Guard today: Ann Arbor, Adrian, Jackson, Lansing,
Post-Civil War
Ypsilanti, Coldwater, Grand Rapids, Muskegon, and Calumet. At the end of 1872, the state's military force consisted of nine companies. However, during 1873-74, seven more companies were added, forming two regiments (the First and Second) of eight companies each. Letter designations, locations, and original dates of muster of the First Regiment, under Colonel William H. Withington, of Jackson, were as follows: --Company A, Detroit, November 16,1855 --Company B, Ann Arbor, September 22, 1868 --Company C, Detroit, March 25, 1870 --Company D, Adrian, August 15, 1970 --Company E, Tecumseh, December 29,1870 --Company F, Monroe, December, 29,1870 --Company G, Hudson, April 1, 1872 --Company H, Ypsilanti, December 25,1872 Letter designations, locations, and original dates of muster of the Second Regiment were as follows: --Company A, Coldwater, November 17,1871 --Company B, Flint, October 18, 1872 --Company C, Grand Rapids, November, 26,1872 --Company D, Kalamazoo, March 4,1873 --Company E, Bay City, April 18, 1874 --Company F, East Saginaw, April 13,1872 --Company G, Port Huron, April 16, 1874 --Company H, Marquette, July 24,1874. During the years between the 1870 reorganization and the Spanish-American War in 1898, the State Troops increased in number, efficiency, and preparedness. New units were added and those that dropped below standards were disbanded. By 1876, the State Troops' strength stood at 1,792 and was organized into 24 companies. Rifle practice was emphasized and the soldiers participated in many civil celebrations and parades and aided the civil authorities in keeping law and order on several occasions.
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Hubbardston American Legion Disable Veteran Hunting
From: www.va.gov The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to informing the Veteran community about VA health benefits and services. Currently, VA is producing personalized Veteran Health Benefits Handbooks for Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care. The new handbooks are tailored specificfor each Veteran and provides detailed information about the VA health services the Veteran may be eligible to receive. The Veteran Health Benefit Handbook provides answers to common questions such as contact information for the Veteran's local facility, instructions on how to schedule appointments, guidelines for communicating treatment needs and an explanation of the Veteran's responsibilities, such as co-pays, if applicable. Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare will receive their personalized handbooks via mail as part of a national rollout campaign starting in February 2012 based on Priority Group, beginning with Priority Group 1 and ending with Priority Group 8. In the near future, VA will develop an online version of the handbook for Veterans to access via MyHealtheVet. This will allow Veterans to access their up-to-date health benefit information anywhere, anytime. Click the link below for additional information about the Veterans Health Benefits Handbook or call VA at 1 877-222-VETS (8387).
Veterans Health Benefits Handbook
From: Dan Heckman Adjutant-Hubbardston American Legion Located on Jones Rd. mile South of Maple Rapids Rd. Clinton County, Lebanon Twp. Disabled Veterans Hunting Shack Built and sponsored by the Hubbardston American Legion Post #182. It was constructed on the corner of Tim Chartrand, Doug Cusack and Wilson Dairy Farms properties. The shack is 8 x 8, 2 feet off the ground. Its sporting a fivefoot deck with roof and its insulated and heated. A disabled veteran or person can drive to the shack and exit onto the 4 x 8 platform and ascend up the 12-foot ramp. The entire cost was accepted by the American legion. Sons of the American Legion donated $200.00 for the cost, Triple C trucking donated the gravel for the driveway and Cusack Masonry provided some material and equipment. This opportunity is free, with no guarantee for harvesting a deer. DNR rules & Laws Apply.
100% Disabled Veterans Sept. 26-27 Special Disabled firearm hunt, 100% disability Oct. 15-18 Regular Bow season with a crossbow Oct. 1st-Nov. 14th Regular firearm season Nov. 15th-Nov. 30th Appointments or scheduling, call Mid-Mich. Process Serving at (989) 981-6979
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Available Hunting Dates are as Follows
From: June 14, 2012 by Alex Horton www.va.gov Were right in the middle of PTSD Awareness Month, so its a good time to take a look at some of the resources from VA at your disposal. The National Center for PTSD has put together a video series exploring the different aspects and consequences of post-traumatic stress. In the first series, How I knew I had PTSD, a Veteran explains how he came to understand the issues he was having. Youll find links to PTSD symptoms, a trauma symptom checklist, and more information about the PTSD Coach mobile app. In the second series, My family suffered, a female Veteran explores how her isolated behavior affected her loved ones. Go to the link to learn more about how PTSD can affect your family, tips on how couples can cope with mental health challenges, and more. For the rest of the month, the page will be updated with more stories and resources, so check back often. If youre in crisis and need help immediately, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255, or text 838255. Its also a good idea to put that number into your phone now to have just in case.
PTSD Resources When You Need Them
A clipping from Gene Simon. It does bring up an interesting point. Do we forget?Matthew X. Hauser
We hear stories from around the state about Veterans who are in need of help. Please remember what these men and women have done for this nation. Please remember them, and let our communities not forget what these men and women have sacrificed. Thank you to everyone who has supported this newsletter, and if you know of any veterans who are in need of help let us know and we will put the word out to help. -Matthew X. Hauser Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org
Lest We Forget
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By Karen Parrish American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, June 22, 2012 Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today described a four-part strategy against what he termed perhaps the most frustrating challenge Ive come across as head of the nations military forces: service member and veteran suicide. Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta speaks at the annual DOD/VA Suicide Prevention Conference in Washington, D.C., June 22, 2012. Panetta described suicide as one of the most complex and urgent problems facing military families, and said the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs shared a commitment to do everything possible to prevent suicides. DOD photo by Erin A. KirkCuomo The secretary said his long-term goal is for the Defense Department to be a game-changing innovator in the field of suicide prevention. Just as we helped foster the jet age, the space race and the Internet, I want us to break new ground in understanding the human mind and human emotion, he said. The secretary said key efforts involve leadership, improving quality of and access to behavioral health care, elevating mental fitness and increasing research in suicide prevention. Speaking on the concluding day of the DOD and Department of Veterans Affairs Annual Suicide Prevention Conference here, Panetta told the audience of mental health, military, government and private sector professionals there are clearly no easy answers, and that is no damn reason for not finding the answers to the problem of suicide. We can do more. We must do more. And together, we will do more to prevent suicides, the secretary vowed. The military and veteran communities will face the threat of suicide long after combat in Afghanistan ends, he noted. More than half of those who have committed suicide in the military have no history of deployment, the secretary pointed out. So were dealing with broader societal issues. Substance abuse, financial distress and relationship problems -- the risk factors for suicide -- also reflect problems that will endure beyond war.
Panetta Outlines Suicide Prevention Strategy
An effective suicide prevention strategy requires vigilance, Panetta said. He called on leaders, particularly the noncommissioned officers and junior officers who lead troops day-to-day, to be sensitive, aware and open to signs of stress in the ranks. And they need to be aggressive in encouraging those under them to seek help if needed, the secretary emphasized. They also must set an example by seeking help themselves if necessary. Junior officers and NCOs must foster group cohesion and togetherness, he said, adding such bonds are fundamental to the military culture and can do much to improve mental health. My wife was a nurse [who] worked on mental health care issues, Panetta said. She has said to me time and time again, This is a human issue, a human problem. Youve to look in peoples eyes. Youve got to be sensitive to their emotions. Youve got to be sensitive to the challenges that theyre facing. Youve got to be aware. The more leaders keep their eyes open, the more we can see those problems coming, the more we can do to try to help people in need, he said. The second pillar of the strategy is improving behavioral health care and making it more available, the secretary said. There are more than 9,000 psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, mental health nurses and counselors working in military hospitals and clinics, he noted. That number has increased more than 35 percent over the last three years. Behavioral health experts are now being embedded into line units, and the department has worked to place mental health providers in primary care clinics to facilitate access, he said. Due to geographic circumstances, he acknowledged, National Guard and reserve members, family members and some active-duty troops may still face difficulties in accessing needed care. However, officials said, online and telephone-accessed mental health consultation and information services also are helping to assist service members and families in need. I want to make sure that all service members and their family members have the quality mental and behavioral health care that they need, the kind of care that must be delivered by the best health care professionals in the world, Panetta said. Thanks to the efforts of many in the audience, he added, the military services are improving in their ability to identify and treat mental health care conditions.
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And we are working to better equip our system to deal with the unique challenges that these conditions can present, Panetta added. One example of building better care stems from reports of problems with the post-traumatic stress screening process within the military disability evaluation system, he said, noting he was very concerned at the reports and has directed a review of such screening across the services. We have got to do everything we can to make sure that the system itself is working to help soldiers, not to hide this issue, Panetta said. Its necessary to face facts and deal with the problems upfront, he added, and to make sure that we provide the right diagnosis and that we follow up on that diagnosis. The third strategic element is to elevate mental fitness, he said. Panetta credited Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan Battaglia, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman, with leading all of the services to approach mental fitness with the same level of importance DOD has always placed on physical fitness. Advancing mental fitness involves training and equipping service members with coping skills so they can mitigate or bounce back from stress, he said. Separately, he said, a whole-of-government effort led by President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama is working to combat veteran unemployment and boost military spouse hiring. Those initiatives are helping to reduce the financial stress faced by military families and veterans, the secretary said. The fourth part of DODs suicide prevention strategy involves improving understanding of suicide and
related mental health issues through improved scientific research, he said. Better research requires partnership across government and with the private sector, Panetta added. As a step toward building that understanding, he said, DOD and the Department of Veterans Affairs are building a data repository that will help mental health professionals better analyze suicides and suicide attempts, and spot trends. In another initiative, DOD and the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund recently announced a plan to build state-ofthe-art treatment centers for brain injuries and psychological disorders at nine of the largest military installations in the country, Panetta said. I am delighted that we were able to break ground on the first two of these centers, at Fort Belvoir [Va.,] and Camp Lejeune [N.C.], Panetta added. The centers, he said, will complement the National Intrepid Center of Excellence in Bethesda, [Md.], and provide cutting-edge evaluations, treatment planning, research and education for service members and for their families. Panetta emphasized effort in all four areas must push forward aggressively. All of us, and frankly for that matter all Americans, have to always support and care for those who have stepped forward to defend our country in uniform, he said. We are a family, and by God we have to take care of our family members. In a reference to his own heritage, Panetta added, Thats not just Italian, thats American. We owe it to those who protect us to do all we can to protect them.
The July issue of The BEAT is now available!

Download a print version: http://dhims.health.mil/docs/newsletter/the_beat_full_ver_july.pdf Or read the full issue online: http://dhims.health.mil/newsletter/2012/jul/index.aspx
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From: www.wwimemorial.org In March 2008, Frank Buckles, the last surviving American veteran of World War I, visited the District of Columbia War Memorial, on the National Mall in Washington DC. He observed that this peaceful, secluded memorial, dedicated in 1931 as a memorial to the 499 residents of the District of Columbia who gave their lives in that war, sits neglected and in extreme disrepair, and that there is no national memorial to World War I. Mr. Buckles issued a call for the restoration and re-dedication of the D.C. memorial as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial. The World War I Memorial Foundation was formed to make Frank Buckles dream a reality. The mission of the Foundation is to advocate and raise funds for the re-dedication of the DC War Memorial as a national World War I memorial, dedicated to all those Americans who served in the Great War. In 2014 the world will mark the centennial of World War I. Nearly 5 million Americans served during the war, and 116,516 Americans died in defense of democracy overseas. Americas support of its allies in World War I marked the first time in this nations history that American soldiers went abroad to defend foreign soil against aggression -- and it marked the true beginning of the American century. Yet while the later conflicts of the 20th century World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War -rightfully have national memorials on the National Mall, there is no such memorial to the Great War, even though more Americans gave their lives in World War I than in Korea or Vietnam. The D.C. memorial, which is already located adjacent to those other memorials, is the most fitting site for a national World War I memorial.
The World War I Memorial Foundation
Photo: The Late Frank Buckles during his 2008 visit to the Washington D.C. World War I Monument.
From: RAO Bulletin July 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238-1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/ FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/ DD890/AD37 member) TRICARE Program Integrity has become aware of a Lottery Sweepstakes Scam in which fraudulent checks bearing the TRICARE name are being utilized. Individuals are contacted via mail with a letter informing them that they are winners of a USA Lottery Sweepstakes for $250,000. Accompanying the letter is a fraudulent check bearing the TRICARE name. The instructions on the letter inform the winner that the attached check is a portion of the winnings provided to help pay taxes, insurance, handling, and shipping fees. The winner is also instructed to return a portion of the funds from the cashed check. Individuals receiving this letter and check should be aware that individuals may be trying to gain access to their bank accounts, or other personal information. Individuals who cash the check may be putting themselves at financial risk. Once the bank determines the check is fraudulent, the individual who cashed the check could be held responsible for returning funds back to the bank. TRICARE beneficiaries who receive this Lottery Sweepstakes Scam letter and check are encouraged to report it to their Managed Care Support Contractor Program Integrity Office (i.e. Health Net, Humana Military, TriWest, Express Scripts, or WPS). Reports can also be made to TRICARE Program Integrity by emailing the TRICARE FRAUDLINE at FRAUDLINE@tma.osd.mil or by fax (303) 676-3981. [Source: http://www.tricare.mil/fraud/News/Document/Lottery% 20Sweepstakes%20Scam.pdf 11 Jun 2012 ++]
TRICARE Scam
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A Note From Department Hospital Chairwoman Merridy Lewis

Hello Everyone, Im sure youve heard about budget cuts that are affecting so many of us. Our Veteran Medical Centers are no exception. Have you thought about being a volunteer? There are so many ways volunteers can help the Veterans Homes, medical Centers, clinics or even local Hospitals and nursing homes. As a volunteer you help to ensure that our Veterans are treated with care, affection, respect and enthusiasm. There are many opportunities available that volunteers are needed for. A few ideas that come to mind would be ---- A greeter/ambassador, this position you would help Veterans who may need assistance locating general information of the hospital, giving directions, or
even escort them to an appointment. Perhaps, get a wheelchair for them. Another idea would be to write letters, read a book or to sit and visit with them, as sometimes they dont have family or friends that are able to visit. Play a game of cards or even work on a puzzle. The veterans can always use phone cards, bus tokens or transportation, vouchers, crossword puzzles, canteen books to purchase coffee or soda from the canteen and reading materials. How do I become a Veterans Affair Voluntary Service (VAVS) volunteer? Contact your nearest VA or local nursing home or hospital. Ask to speak to a voluntary service specialist. They will set you up an appointment for an interview to see what interests you have, and give you a scheduled time to volunteer. You will also be given an orientation of hospital policy. Non members of the VFW & Ladies Auxiliary can be sponsored from each post. So, if you have a friend that would like to help you when you volunteer perhaps your Auxiliary would sponsor them. Children are welcomed to volunteer also. Do you have an out-standing hospital volunteer? Please submit an application to me for the Out Standing Hospital Volunteer of the Year! We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
From: http://www.jpac.pacom.mil The mission of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) is to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all Americans missing as a result of the nation's past conflicts. The highest priority of the organization is the return of any living Americans that remain prisoners of war. To date, the U.S. Government has not found any evidence that there are still American POWs in captivity from past U.S. conflicts. JPAC is located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The command was activated on Oct. 1, 2003, created from the merger of the 30-year-old U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii, and the 11-year-old Joint Task Force - Full Accounting. Commanded by a flag officer,
JPAC is manned by approximately 400 handpicked Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Department of the Navy civilians. The laboratory portion of JPAC, referred to as the Central Identification Laboratory (CIL), is the largest forensic anthropology laboratory in the world. JPAC also maintains three permanent overseas detachments to assist with command and control, logistics and in-country support during investigation and recovery operations. They are Detachment One located in Bangkok, Thailand, Detachment Two in Hanoi, Vietnam and Detachment Three in Vientiane, Laos. JPAC has a fourth detachment, Detachment Four, located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, responsible for recovery team personnel when they are not deployed.
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By: Tech. Sgt. Jake Richmond U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron Public Affairs From: Hank Fuhs 12/8/2011 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds announced their 2012 show schedule Dec. 7. The team is set to perform more than 60 demonstrations in 33 locations, including two shows in Canada. The team, officially known as the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, will again kick-off their season by performing a flyover for the 54th running of NASCAR's Daytona 500 on February. 26. The remainder of the schedule is as follows bellow: March 17: Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Ariz. March 31 and April 1: Lakeland, Fla. April 14-15: Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. April 21-22: Barksdale AFB, La. April 28-29: Fort Lauderdale, Fla. May 5-6: Shaw AFB, S.C. May 12-13: Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. May 19-20: March Air Reserve Base, Calif. May 23: Colorado Springs, Colo. (U.S. Air Force Academy graduation flyover) May 26-27: Hill AFB, Utah June 2-3: Rockford, Ill. June 9-10: Ocean City, Md. June 16-17: North Kingstown, R.I. June 23-24: Indianapolis, Ind. June 30 & July 1: Battle Creek, Mich. July 7-8: Gary, Ind. July 21-22: Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash. July 25: Cheyenne, Wyo. July 28-29: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska Aug. 4-5: Hillsboro, Ore. Aug. 11-12: Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada Aug. 17: Atlantic City, N.J. Aug. 25-26: Brunswick, Maine Sept. 1-2: Davenport, Iowa Sept. 8-9: Sacramento, Calif. Sept. 15-16: Scott AFB, Ill. Sept. 22-23: Salinas, Calif. Sept. 29-30: McConnell AFB, Kan. Oct. 6-7: Fort Worth, Texas Oct. 13-14: Daytona Beach, Fla. Oct. 20-21: El Paso, Texas Oct. 27-28: Moody AFB, Ga. Nov. 3-4: Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla. Nov. 10-11: Nellis AFB, Nev.
Thunderbirds Release 2012 Show Schedule
Five F-16 Fighting Falcons of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team perform aerial stunts Oct. 8, 2011, during their demonstration at the Legacy of Liberty Open House and Air Show at Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. The team's primary mission is to exhibit the capabilities of modern warfighting aircraft and to demonstrate the high degree of skill maintained by Air Force members serving in a variety of career specialties. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman DeAndre Curtiss)
"We are excited about the upcoming season and representing our fellow American Airmen," said Lt. Col. Greg Moseley, who will command and lead the team in the 2012 show season. "We feel honored to tell the story of U.S. Air Force Airmen serving on the front lines of freedom around the world. We will proudly represent each Airmen with the same pride, precision and professionalism in which they perform their duties each and every day." As of 2012, the Thunderbirds will have been in existence for 59 years, dating back to 1953 when the team flew the straight-winged F-84G Thunderjets. This season will mark the 30th season the squadron has performed in the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the Air Force's premier multirole fighter aircraft. The Thunderbirds team is an Air Combat Command unit composed of eight pilots, including six demonstration pilots, four support officers, four civilians and more than 100 enlisted people serving in about 30 Air Force job specialties. A Thunderbirds aerial demonstration is a mix of formation flying and solo routines. The pilots perform approximately 40 maneuvers in a demonstration. The entire show, including the beginning ground ceremony, lasts about one hour. The air show season lasts roughly from March to November, with the winter months primarily used to train new team members. To learn more about the Thunderbirds, visit the U.S. Air Force Demonstration Team Facebook, Twitter orYouTube pages.
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On July 4th 2012 Mr. Franklin Smith passed away. In December of 2011 I received a letter with a story attached. Since then I have been working on obtaining a copy of his full story. Don Alsbro the President of Lest We Forget SW MI provided me with the document. Mr. Smith wrote over 50 pages in his account of World War II. Over the next few months we will publish the whole story. I thank Lest We Forget for their support with this project.Matthew X. Hauser
By: The Late Cpt. Franklin H. Smith I am writing this account at the request of my children and my wife. Primarily it will be for the use of my grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I was born on a farm located on Hilltop Road in St. Joseph Township, St. Joseph, Michigan. My parents were Thomas Henry Smith, Sr. and Elizabeth Marie Koch Smith. At the age of seven I moved with my parents to Chicago, Illinois and over the next several years we went back and forth from the farm to Chicago. I came back to St. Joseph in the eighth grade, attended and graduated from St. Joseph High School. I then went to Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana and graduated in 1941. While at Indiana University I played varsity football in the years 1938, 1939 and 1940. Before I graduated I received orders from the War Department in Washington D.C. advising me that upon graduation and receiving my Lieutenancy in the army, I was to report on July 7, 1941 at Fort Custer, Michigan to join the 5th Division. On July 7, 1941, I reported to Fort Custer, and was assigned to I company of the 11th Infantry Regiment of the 5th Infantry Division. Shortly after reporting we went on maneuvers to Louisiana and Texas where the 2nd Army was opposing the 3rd Army in these maneuvers. We were part of the 2nd Army under the command of Lt. General Ben Lear. The 3rd Army was commanded by Lt. General Krueger. This was quite a workout for we spent a lot of time in swamps and wooded areas and slept on the ground. We managed to survive until early September when we re turned to Fort Custer. At Fort Custer we continued our normal training and spent a lot of time on the rifle range and machine gun
World War II Memories From Captain Franklin H. Smith-Part I
range. I was range officer for two or three weeks at a time. The troops would come and fire the different weapons. I realize now this it wasnt very good for my ears but no one thought of anything like that at the time. I was ordered to go to the Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia in January of 1942. On January 17, 1942 I married Marguerite Barnes at the Methodist Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan. This was a very quick marriage because I didnt have any time off from the Army and I had to get back to camp. The wedding was squeezed in because the war had broken out. We had been at tacked on December 7, 1941 at Pearl Harbor by the Japanese and from that time on we were pretty much confined to camp and were under wartime footing. Leaves were granted only for emergencies but I did manage to get three days off after returning to Fort Custer and at the end of those three days I was to be in Fort Benning, Georgia to attend the Infantry School. There were no quarters in Fort Benning at this time, so Marguerite had to return to her parents who were living in Austin, Minnesota. I told her that as soon as I could find some place for her to live, I would call her and bring her to Fort Benning. This was no easy task as the various officers that were attending school at Fort Benning always promised their quarters to someone else from their own outfit who were coming to the school. I kept checking each class and I finally found someone who had not promised his room to anyone from his own unit who was coming down. I managed to rent it for $30.00 a month and it was located in Columbus, Georgia. When Marguerite arrived and we went to move in, the man told me that he couldnt rent it for $30.00 a month that I would have to pay $40.00 a month. So I said, Well, just let us in. And then on top of that there was a heater in the room and he said, Oh, the fellow who was here before asked me to sell this heater for him, so Ill have to have $11.00 for the heater. Well, I think this was just $11.00 in his pocket, but I gave him the money and he allowed us to move into our quarters. It just happened that shortly after Marguerites arrival she became ill and was confined to her bed. During that time, I was ordered to report to my unit immediately. This was in March 1942. I had to call the doctor and he said that she probably could move but if she gets sick on the train, theyll just have to find a place for her to lie down. So we managed to get on the express train that was going from Miami, Florida to Chicago. They flagged it down and said that they had a couple of Army officers to put aboard. We managed to get on the train, unfortunately without our baggage and away we went toward Chicago. I talked to the train conductor and told him our baggage was still in the station at Columbus. He said that he would wire back and ask them to put it on the next train.
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We arrived late at night in the city of Chicago and the train station was very quiet and of course the desk was not staffed. I had trouble finding someone to tell my story about my baggage that had missed our train. There were some fellows in the back of the room and they were not paying any attention to us. I had called to them several times and they ignored me. I told Marguerite that I was going to beat on the metal counter until someone comes, whether it is the police or whoever. I beat on the counter and they came running out to see what was going on. I told them about the baggage and told them I was reporting to my unit and asked them to look for my luggage and get it on the first available transportation to Fort Custer, Michigan. Marguerite was very tired and could hardly go on, but I said we must go on to Benton Harbor because I have to go to Fort Custer. We managed to catch a late bus out and finally arrived in St. Joseph. The next morning I immediately went to Fort Custer, having borrowed my brothers car. We spent all Saturday and Sunday getting our equipment loaded on the train and getting rid of company fund equipment. Civilians came out to the post to buy pool tables and whatever else we might have to sell. On Monday morning around 6:00 a.m. we went down to the trains and prepared to load. We had an English Pointer who had been with us on maneuvers and Captain Weaver had the dog on a leash as we approached the train. I remember they said that dogs were not allowed on the train so Captain Weaver handed the leash to a man standing there and asked him how he would like to have a nice English Setter. Of course the man was very glad to get him. We loaded the troops on the train and pulled out for Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania. After arriving we unloaded off the train into big trucks that took us out to the post. We spent a few days there making sure that we had underwear and other necessary equipment and getting everything in shape for shipment overseas. We were pretty sure we were going to Iceland although nothing had been said but the two other regiments from the 5th Division had been sent much earlier and we were pretty sure that was where we were going. We sailed out of New York Harbor in early April 1942. We were in a small convoy with three troop ships and one of them had Canadian troops aboard. Our escort was six United States Destroyers and one heavy cruiser, which I think might have been the Philadelphia. Will be Continued..
From: www.tricare.mil The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) signed into law in 2010 had no direct effect on the TRICARE benefit. The bill meant changes in health care coverage for many Americans, but the legislation did not apply directly to TRICARE. Nor did the law change the Defense Department's commitment to seeing that our service members, retirees and their families continued to receive the best quality health care. TRICARE is authorized by an independent set of statutes, and remains under sole authority of the Defense Department and the Secretary of Defense. Neither the passage of the PPACA or the recent Supreme Court ruling upholding the PPACA had a direct impact on the TRICARE benefit, or TRICARE's commitment to provide the best possible health care to its more than 9.7 million beneficiaries. TRICARE provides coverage for pre-existing conditions and serious illnesses; offers an array of preventive care services with no cost shares; maintains reasonable out-of-pocket costs with no or low deductibles and copayments; and there are no annual or lifetime caps on coverage. For more information about TRICARE's covered clinical preventive services, go towww.tricare.mil/preventivecare. One benefit addressed by the PPACA, but not already existing under TRICARE, was coverage of young adults up to age 26. Consequently, the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law in January 2011, led to the speedy implementation of TRICARE Young Adult (TYA.) TYA gives eligible uniformed services dependents under 26 who are unmarried, and not eligible for their own employer-sponsored health care coverage the option to purchase TYA. As of May 31, 2012, more than 17,000 beneficiaries are signed up for TYA plans - 11,171 in TYA Standard, and 6,407 in TYA Prime. For more information about TYA and how to purchase it, go to www.tricare.mil/tya. TRICARE is a benefit established under law as the health care plan for the uniformed services, retirees and their families. More information about TRICARE and health care reform is available at www.TRICARE.mil. Beneficiaries may also sign up for automatic email updates on TRICARE programs.
TRICARE and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
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Legal Help for Veterans

From: James G. Fausone Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC is a law firm located in Northville, Michigan. We have a national practice representing veterans on veterans disability claims. This representation occurs at the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, the Board of Veterans Appeals and regional offices. We have helped veterans collect over $10,000,000 in retro and future benefits. Over the last decade, LHFV has become a trusted name in the legal community for providing legal services to veterans and lecturing at law schools, bar associations and community events. Members of the Legal Help for Veterans practice group are former service members who bring not only legal expertise but an understanding of service and duty. The members of the group have medical and administrative backgrounds as well as finely honed legal skills developed over twenty years of practice and experience. We have represented thousands of veterans and currently have over 650 active clients. For more information about the organization and about legal help for veterans and for contact information www.legalhelpforveterans.com and found on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Our telephone number is 800.693.4800. Our blog discusses current issues facing veterans and the VA. Typically our clients are enlisted men and women who served post Korea. The Vietnam vet is still the one with the most common problems. These include Agent Orange related disabilities, PTSD, psychiatric or orthopedic injuries. Other vets often have hearing loss, military sexual trauma or tinnitus. We are now seeing Iraq and Afghanistan vets with TBI. Many vets do not even begin the disability claim process until many years after service. The trigger may be unemployability and the need for benefits. With a million claim back log at VA, it is a slow and confusing process and many people need professional help establishing the proper diagnosis and service connection. That is what Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC has been doing for clients for years. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
From: Rick Briggs, Major, USAF (Ret) The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) Veterans Program utilizes numerous types of outdoor activities to gather Veterans and currently serving military personnel together for a little R&R. These special events are almost always free for the troops depending totally on the kind donations of sponsors and donors. In addition to being a great way to say Thank you for their service, these activities serve as the mechanism to get the troops to open up a little if they are having post-deployment issues. Frequently we find that in the comfortable confines with others who have been there, done that they tend to be more receptive to learn about Invisible Wounds says Rick Briggs the Program Manager, both PTSD and TBI are treatable if they seek the proper help. To find out more about these activities, or to donate to their Veterans Program, please make out checks to BIAMI Veterans Program and send them to 7305 Grand River Suite #100, Brighton, MI 48114 or contact Rick Briggs at veterans@biami.org or call him (810) 2295880 or visit www.biami.org.
Brain Injury Association of Michigan
BIAMI is celebrating its 30th Anniversary as it continues to strive to provide persons with a brain injury and their families, healthcare professionals, and the general public with the resources necessary to enhance brain injury awareness, education, prevention, and support. BIAMI is also fields the first and only dedicated Veterans Program staff within the Brain Injury Association of America.
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About the Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI):
MICHIGAN AIR NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY BOOKS

The Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association created a three volume set of history books covering the periods 1926-1996. A fourth volume covering the years 1996 to 2006 is in production and should be available soon. Volume 1 covers the period 1926 to 1976-Cost: $1.00 Volume 2 covers the period 1976 to 1986-Cost: $4.00 Volume 3 covers the period 1986 to 1996-Cost: $1.00 Volume 4 covers the period 1996 to 2010-Cost: $6:00 Full color $35.00 If you wish to purchase one or more of these volumes or are interested in more information, please contact MAGHA at Phone: 586-239-6768, Fax: 586-239-6646, Email: 127.wg.selfridgeairmuseum@ang.af.mil
MANGBANG
From: Eugene (Gene) A. Simon- Command Chief Master Sergeant USAF (Retired) & Matthew X. Hauser As you may have seen in past editions of the newsletter, MANGBANG has been one of our sources. We are thankful for the source and so we just wanted to pass the information along for MANGBANG in case anyone is interested in joining the Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association. You can contact Lou Nigro if you are interested. We think it is a worthwhile investment-it supports the history of the Michigan Air National Guard and his monthly publications are very informative. For those who want to view it on our website (www.selfridgeairmuseum.org, http://www.selfridgeairmuseum.org ), Lt Col Lou Nigro, MI ANG (Ret) Executive Director, Selfridge Military Air Museum Email: louis.nigro@ang.af.mil
From: Dept. Hospital Chairman Merridy Lewis Hospitalized Veterans Writing Program (HVWP). This program helps veterans get their poems and stories down on paper is one of the goals for our volunteers. Volunteer aides help both with a one on one or with groups of patients to help them put their thoughts and feelings into stories and poems. The stories and poems can be submitted to veterans voices, a magazine that publishes the articles that have been submitted. The HVWP does its very best to publish every article that has been submitted following the guide lines.
"Veterans Voices"
It is important to submit the authors name, VAMC facility and state, the authors permanent address the branch of service and duties along with the serial number or social security number. Manuscripts must be original and unpublished, except in VAMC publications. Writers can submit up to three poems, each no longer than 24 lines with 60 character width. Stories no longer than 10 pages, typed using double spacing. This is a brief detail of what HVWP is about. It may be an interest you would like to share with a Veteran on a volunteer basis. This is part of our history for generations yet to come we are losing World War II Veterans every day and we need to hear their stories. For more information about the organization please visit their website at www.veteransvoices.org.
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Two Great Sources for Veterans/Military Legislative Updates in Washington D.C. Simply click the images to view the site.
Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Committee Testimony Committee Minutes No SubCommittees Committee Members: Ray A. Franz (R), Committee Chair, 101st District Dale W. Zorn (R), Majority Vice-Chair, 56th District Gail Haines (R), 43rd District Sharon Tyler (R), 78th District Mike Callton (R), 87th District David E. Nathan (D), Minority Vice-Chair, 11th District George T. Darany (D), 15th District Charles Smiley (D), 50th District Lesia Liss (D), 28th District Paul Clemente (D), 14th District Ben Cook, Committee Clerk 517-373-2002 bcook@house.mi.gov
Rep. Ray A. Franz Committee Chair Welcome to the Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee. The committee's regularly scheduled meeting time is Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. in room 308 of the House Office Building in Lansing. I welcome citizens to contact me or other committee members regarding bills or proposals our committee is addressing. Individuals needing special accommodations to participate in a committee meeting may contact my office to request the necessary assistance.
26
Steaming Live for those who serve check it out.

If anyone has any other sites or link they find to be a good source please let us know we will gladly work it in. Please contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org.
Veterans Radio is dedicated to all of the men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces of the United States of America. Our mission is to provide all veterans with a voice, to give them a forum where they are able to discuss their issuesand tell their stories. You can listen to the show on: WDEO (990-AM Ann Arbor/Detroit), WMAX (1440-AM, Saginaw), WDEO-FM (99.5 FM, Naples FL), KAGY (1510-AM Port Sulfur/New Orleans LA), KIXW (960-AM, Apple Valley CA) and KMRC (1430AM Morgan City, LA). Or, listen to our Webcast and archives at: www.veteransradio.net.
Lest We Forget SW Michigan

Have you ever felt that history, particularly military history, isn't being taught in our schools like it was in the "good old" times? Why is it that many of our high school graduates, some say a majority, don't know who we fought in WWII, who bombed us at Pearl Harbor or worst yet, believe that the holocaust never happened? Our children are not being taught the basic principles that have made this country great! "Lest We Forget" was started by a group of veterans who felt that patriotism was too important of a subject to be given the short shrift that it presently receives in our schools and community. Our operating principle is "To brighten the future we must illuminate the past." We've "illuminated the past" through WWII re-enactments, patriotic concerts, presentations by Medal of Honor recipients, presentation of the American flag to Frank Buckles, our last WWI veteran, TV telecasts to schools throughout the country, participation in local parades, made presentations in our schools on the flag, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published a book of WWII stories by local veterans, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published two books of veterans stories, brought in the VN Wall and honored the Korean vets this year. Next year (2012) Jun 29-Jul 1 we will have D-Day and Iwo Jima beach landings and much more. Remember, "Freedom is NOT free!" Patriotically Yours, Don Alsbro, President COL, US Army (ret) Lest We Forget For more info about Lest We Forget SW MI please visit their website by simply clicking here.
LWF 2010 Group Picture
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Newsletter Links From Articles For August

Page 1 Newsletters Facebook www.facebook.com Newsletters Scribd www.scribd.com Military.com www.military.com Page 3 The USO www.uso.org Front Lines of Freedom www.frontlinesoffreedom.com MIGOP Facebook www.facebook.com Page 4 Hire Heroes USA www.hireheroesusa.org Page 5 Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America www.michiganpva.org Page 6 Spirit of the American Flag www.forgottonheroesusa.com Page 7 Gull Lake Community Schools Foundation www.glcsf.org Page 8 TRICARE www.tricare.mil Page 9 Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov DD-214 Form www.archives.gov DAV www.dav.gov Page 10 Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov Page 11 The Daily Record www.the-daily-record.com Sling and Stone www.slingandstone.org Page 13 Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Michigan www.michigan.gov Page 14 Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov VA Veterans Benefits www.publichealth.va.gov www.selfridgeairmuseum.org Page 15 Department of Veteran Affairs Veterans Voices www.va.gov www.veteransvoices.org Page 17 Page 26 BEAT U.S. Senate Committee on www.dhims.mil Veterans Affairs www.veterans.senate.gov Page 18 Team Pascarella U.S House Committee of Veterans www.teampascarella.com Affairs www.veterans.house.gov Page 19 World War I Memorial Foundation Department of Military and Veterans www.wwimemorial.org Affairs Michigan LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.michigan.gov www.lestweforgetusa.org Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee Page 20 Joint Pow/MIA www.house.mi.gov Accounting Command Page 27 www.jpac.pacom.mil Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Page 23 Veterans Radio TRICARE www.tricare.mil www.veteransradio.net Page 24 LEST WE FORGET SW MI Legal Help for Veterans www.lestweforgetusa.org www.legalhelpforveterans.com Also check out the Some Useful Brain Injury Association of Michigan Links Section on Page 2. www.biami.org Thank you for your Support! Page 25 Michigan Air National Guard
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Stand Up For Veterans-They Stood Up For US

-The DAV
American Legion Post is in looking for current military members to send care packages to. Please contact Robert Goulet if you know of any military member who might like something. Please see News From American Legion Post 341 below for more information. Thank you very much!
Staff & Contributors

CoordinatorMatthew X. Hauser ContributorsDon Alsbro Rick Briggs Helen Budd Sen. Patrick Colbeck Sam Cottle Rep. Kurt Damrow Matt Davis David Duenow Vicki Dunlop Mark Eddy Keith Famie James G. Fausone Rep. Ray Franz Sean M. Furr Denny Gillem Robert Goulet John Haggard Larry Harr Dan Heckman Dale Hemphill John Hess Norma Housey Sec. of State Ruth Johnson James Julian Adrian Keogh Adele Krovsky Bill Langbehn Merridy Lewis Gary C. Lulenski Claude McManus
In Memory of Gary Lillie

Chad Miles Louis Nigro Sid Rubin Eugene (Gene) A. Simon Phil Smith Sherry Swann Tim Pascarella Bob Tidmore Rep. Fred Upton Maureen VanHooser Publisher-Hank Fuhs
News From American Legion Post 341

American Legion Post 341 is seeking the names of troops that are deployed to a combat zone so that we can send them large package of goodies and that their names and address should be sent to the address below. Also post 341 is always seeking new members please contact Robert at the same address if interested. American Legion Post 341 Sr. Vice Commander Robert P. Goulet 6130 Nicholas West Bloomfield, MI rgoulet264@aol.com
Thank you for your service to our country. It is truly the men and women like you who make this nation great, and we must never forget that. Thank you to everyone for all the help you have given us with the newsletter. We have been able to reach more people because of your help. Compared to when we first started, the amount of input and ideas we receive has increased greatly. For that we are very thankful. If you have anything you would like to share, any questions, or have an article idea, please let me know. You may contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org. Sincerely, Matthew X. Hauser and Lt. Col Hank Fuhs
In Closing
Lest We Forget-A Clip from Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Ret, ANG (Just Click the Link Below)
I Fought For You
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Hope you enjoyed the Newsletter!

Please let us know what you thought. Contact Matthew X. Hauser at mhauser@migop.org
We need your help to grow the Newsletter
We are looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know.
Sincerely,
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
~Ronald Reagan
Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs & Matthew X. Hauser

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Veterans &amp; Military Families Monthly News-August 2012

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Veterans &amp; Military Families Monthly News-August 2012

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Veterans & Military Families Monthly News

August 2012 Vol. 3 No. 8

Review: Change Guard, Reserve Pay

Thank you very much!

And much more.

Some Useful Links

Thank you for your Support!

A Note From: Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau

STEP UP AND LEAD

Michigan Republican Party Facebook Page

A Little Information about Hire Heroes

Non-VA Facility Care

The MPVA Mission

By: Dale Hemphill-Designer, Spirit of America Flag (dhemp31628@aol.com)

Spirit of the American Flag

Air Zoo to Offer Free Airplane Rides to Veterans

Medicare Reimbursement Rates

Old Warrior Camp

A Note From Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

Three ways to help:

To request a copy of a DD-214 click here.

Segmented Lanes: a New Process for Claims

DISABLED WAYNE COUNTY VETERAN OUTFITTED FOR HUNTING

Hubbardston American Legion Disable Veteran Hunting

Veterans Health Benefits Handbook

Available Hunting Dates are as Follows

PTSD Resources When You Need Them

Panetta Outlines Suicide Prevention Strategy

The July issue of The BEAT is now available!

The World War I Memorial Foundation

A Note From Department Hospital Chairwoman Merridy Lewis

Thunderbirds Release 2012 Show Schedule

World War II Memories From Captain Franklin H. Smith-Part I

TRICARE and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

Legal Help for Veterans

Brain Injury Association of Michigan

About the Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI):

MICHIGAN AIR NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY BOOKS

Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Steaming Live for those who serve check it out.

Lest We Forget SW Michigan

LWF 2010 Group Picture

Newsletter Links From Articles For August

Stand Up For Veterans-They Stood Up For US

Staff & Contributors

In Memory of Gary Lillie

News From American Legion Post 341

Hope you enjoyed the Newsletter!

Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs & Matthew X. Hauser

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