Veterans News & Updates

An award-winning "Precision Policeman" and a former Marine were the brave officers who killed the transgender shooter who attacked a Christian school in Nashville, Tennessee, last week. On Monday, a transgender gunman, 28, killed three children and three adults at The Covenant School. Michael Collazo, 31, and Rex Engelbert, 27, fled in the direction of the sound of gunshots. According to Fox News, Collazo, a nine-year Metro Nashville Police Department veteran, is a former fireman and SWAT paramedic who also served in the Marine Corps. His sister, Deanne Collazo DeHart, said, "He is obviously very brave, braver than I ever imagined." He genuinely enjoys his work. Eight people were hurt and scores of structures were destroyed in the Christmas Day 2020 bombing in Nashville. The bomber, Anthony Quinn Warner, died in the blast. It all pays off, she continued, "when I sit and think about all the training and all the different classes that he takes, and all the family events that he's had to miss due to training or leaving to go through this training or this class." It is truly amazing to see the courage of all of them just storming and emptying the rooms. You also praise the entire staff. Officer Collazo can be seen sprinting unafraid towards the gunfire after several shots are fired inside the Christian school in a dramatic bodycam video that was made public on Tuesday. He shouts, "Shoots fired, shots fired, shots fired, move!" The transgender gunman discharges several additional shots as Collazo and the other officers reach the end of a passageway. The shooter was at the time shooting the police who were on the ground outside a window as the officers advanced towards him. Officer Engelbert, a four-year department veteran who discharged the initial rounds to stop the transgender shooter, was also one of the first rescuers. The brave deeds of Engelbert come one week after he was recognized for "precision policing" after finding nearly two dozen stolen credit cards, a handgun, and fentanyl. In a statement released on Thursday, the Central Precinct said that "these seizures took two dangerous felons who had multiple outstanding warrants off the streets of downtown Nashville." "We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to maintaining the safety of our city." Betsy Brantner Smith, a representative of the National Police Associated, appreciated the brave cops. Brantner Smith said, "That's what you want in your police officers, genuinely selfless devotion. We need to go back to that warrior mindset, of 'those children's lives are more essential than mine." Cynthia Peak, 61, Katherine Koonce, 60, Mike Hill, 61, and the children Evelyn Dieckhaus, Hallie Scruggs, and William Kinney, all aged 9, were killed in the attack. Find out more about the Heroic Officers by clicking the following link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/03/pics-vid-nashville-police-release-security-video-of-transgender-school-shooter/

The United States will recognize and honor Vietnam Veterans Day on March 29. This holiday was created to pay tribute to those who fought in the Vietnam War and the sacrifices they made on behalf of their nation. This day offers an opportunity to honor the fortitude, commitment, and perseverance of all Vietnam War veterans and their families. Representative History of Vietnam Veterans Day: The Vietnam War was a very challenging and divisive time in American history. From 1955 to 1975, over three million Americans served in the Vietnam War, with roughly 58,000 dying in the war. Many soldiers continued to experience trauma, discrimination, and isolation long after the conflict was over. The celebration of Vietnam Veterans Day gives Americans an opportunity to unite and show their appreciation for the service and sacrifices made by the Vietnam veterans. On Vietnam Veterans Day, the country will stop to remember those who fought in the Vietnam War. The day will be observed with unique homages, ceremonies, and activities honoring veterans and their families. Many towns, groups, and companies will provide unique discounts and services to Vietnam veterans and their families. The US Department of Veterans Affairs will hold special activities across the nation to honor Vietnam veterans and their families. This features the Washington, D.C., National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony. The gathering will include keynote lecturers, special acts, and a wreath-laying ceremony. Other activities will be conducted in honor of Vietnam veterans, ranging from parades to community celebrations. The Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. is also a famous location for those who want to pay their honors to Vietnam veterans. More than 58,000 military personnel who died in the Vietnam War have their names engraved on the Wall. The efforts made by those who fought and their families can be considered by visitors. On November 11th, all Americans should assemble to pay tribute to those who fought in the Vietnam War. It's time to honor the bravery, commitment, and efforts of the soldiers and their families as well as to remember and honor their service. Additionally, now is a good opportunity to consider the Vietnam War's teachings and make sure the same errors are not made again. Let's all take some time to honor those who served and the members of their families by remembering them and expressing our appreciation for their efforts. Reference Link: https://www.military.com/veterans-day/vietnam-veterans-day

Anthony Morrissette, a Westminster veteran, was jobless, without a vehicle, and in danger of becoming homeless a few months ago. The Carroll County Veterans Independence Project assisted Morrissette, 40, in finding employment fast. However, work is useless without dependable transportation. Morrissette claimed that the CCVIP provided long-term assistance that was above and beyond what any other organization could have provided. When the veteran got a vehicle given by Kim Heard at LaScuola Motorworks Auto Repair last week, he was beaming with joy. Morrissette declared, "I'm a person who has always worked." "I don't like to beg people for anything very often. Since I've always been independent, I have to find a solution if I don't have one. I was in a situation where I felt like I was at my wits' end and had no clue what to do or what would happen before I got this car. I was annoyed. The exit of the passageway was not visible to me. When Morrissette thought back to his 10-year-old boy urging him to take care of himself, he realized he needed to take action. He claimed that the motivation he required to carry on came from his son, who resides in Virginia. After serving in the Marine Corps for eight years, until his discharge in 2011, Morrissette put a lot of effort into starting his own handyman company. Unluckily, Morrissette said that finding employment after the pandemic was difficult, and the veteran realized he needed a steady source of money to support himself. Morrissette said, "I needed to learn how to be autonomous. I wasn't able to take care of myself physically or mentally, and there's a saying that goes, "You can't take care of anyone else until you can take care of yourself." According to CCVIP Executive Director Jason Sidock, there is a shame associated with asking for assistance. However, after Morrissette entered the organization's doors last winter, experienced advocate Nicole Shifflett of Hampstead was able to guide him through each stage of his new starting. CCVIP was introduced in 2021. Army veteran Sidock, of Union Mills, stated that the group is special to Carroll because it offers long-term case management and upholds the credo of "never saying no to a veteran in need, no matter what the need." The Kahlert Foundation as well as countless other smaller contributors assist CCVIP. Morrissette said, “The assistance he received from CCVIP differed from that from other organizations because he always felt Shifflett treated him as a human needing help rather than a box to be checked off.” Morrisette stated, "I lost all hope." "I had no clue what was going to transpire. I was in danger of becoming destitute and had no idea how I would pay my rent or get around." Shifflett stated, "I want to create an atmosphere where veterans feel safe seeking assistance and then also demonstrating to them that the promise does come through." Although the veteran's boss kindly offered to transport him 45 minutes to and from work, Morrissette said this was not a long-term option. Unfortunately, getting assistance can be difficult in and of itself. Veterans who are in need can access resources thanks to CCVIP's collaboration with other neighborhood groups, but many services have revenue requirements. To solve this issue, we had to think outside the box. Shifflett stated that Kim Heard of Westminster, the mother of one of Shifflett's friends, occurred to be listening to her talk about her work when Heard realized she could assist Morrissette. Like everyone else, Heard admitted, "I'm guilty of saying something needs to be done and then doing nothing." Heard realized that giving someone who has already given the nation so much the 2004 Cadillac CTS she has resting in her driveway would be a simple gesture. Heard's late father, a Coast Guard veteran, used to drive that vehicle, and she claimed he would have loved the thought of giving it away to help a fellow veteran. Shifflett's fiancée happened to be a mechanic at LaScuola Motorworks and was able to persuade proprietor John LaScuola to contribute the components and labor to get the car ready for Morrissette.  Tires, belts, suspension components, and other items were repaired extensively, and the gift of materials and labor came to about $3,000. Westminster resident LaScuola remarked that giving Morrissette the keys to the vehicle was unexpectedly sentimental and that it felt good to be of service. "In my opinion, owning a local business entails more than just making money", said LaScuola. "The community is what enables us to exist in the first place, so any opportunity I can find to try and give back makes the most sense. I try to implement that even in smaller ways in my business. It’s part of our business mindset that our main goal is not really to earn money, our main goal is to help the community, and I think that if we do that money will follow.” The donation of tires was especially kind because LaScuola does not keep tires on hand, according to Sidock. The more recent LaScuola location in Eldersburg is where the repairs were done. The business opened in Randallstown in 1989. Veterans of Foreign Wars District 7 Morrissette received a free tank of gas from Cmdr. Aaron "Doc" Dockery and CCVIP paid for him to receive his tags. Morrissette said, "This enables me to try to get back on my feet, move into a new place, continue with a good job, have benefits, save up a little bit of money, and ultimately help someone else out." Sidock stated veterans face distinct hurdles in reacclimating to normal life and any contribution helps. Reference Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/03/maryland-businesses-vfw-and-veterans-independence-project-team-up-to-gift-westminster-veteran-with-a-car/

About Research: According to recent research, military members who work as pilots or ground personnel have a higher chance of getting certain cancers. Researchers from the Naval Health Research Center published the results in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives this week and made them public. Over 560,000 current service personnel from all US military branches were examined in the research, which spanned 13 years and was performed. When compared to other military members, it was discovered that those who worked as ground personnel or pilots had substantially greater rates of skin, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Percentage of Higher Risk of Diseased: For instance, compared to non-pilots, pilots had a 37% higher risk of getting skin cancer. Additionally, they had a 22% increased chance of colon cancer and a 20% increased risk of prostate cancer. The ground personnel also had a 36% higher chance of getting skin cancer, a 17% higher chance of getting prostate cancer, and a 16% higher chance of getting colon cancer. The researchers postulate that these increased risks could be linked to lifestyle choices like nutrition, worry, and inactivity as well as exposure to air pollution or radiation from aircraft motors. The use of specific chemicals during upkeep procedures and the job risks of working on an airport runway are some additional hypotheses. According to main researcher Dr. Steven Parrish, "our findings indicate that ground crew and pilots may be exposed to carcinogens through their work environment." To safeguard themselves against possible health risks, these people should take additional precautions. Pilots and ground personnel can lessen their risk by donning protective clothing while working, such as long sleeve shirts, trousers, and headwear. They can also make an effort to reduce their contact with hazardous substances, such as those in aircraft fuel. Finally, they should adhere to safety recommendations and make sure to have routine medical examinations. Even though the study is in its early stages, it acts as a reminder that people who serve in the military have a higher chance of getting certain cancers. The writers of the study point out that additional investigation is required to learn more about the fundamental reasons and create successful interventions for those who might be subjected to occupational hazards. Precautionary Advice: Pilots and ground personnel should take precautions to lower their risk in the interim by adhering to safety procedures, donning safety gear, and visiting a doctor frequently. They can do this to ensure that they stay secure and healthy while helping their nation. Source Link: https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2023/03/19/higher-cancer-rates-found-in-military-pilots-ground-crews/

The Department of soldiers Affairs (VA) stated on May 31, 2021, that the interest rate for Native American soldiers looking to refinance their mortgages would be reduced. The action is part of an attempt to help Native American soldiers, who have historically had to deal with heavier financial burdens than other veterans. The loan rate for Native American soldiers has been reduced from 4.25 percent to 3.5 percent by the VA. Both veterans who have been given a Statement of Service (SOS) by their tribal government or a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) by the VA are eligible for this fee decrease. The VA additionally stated that this rate decrease is available for refinancing debts from any lender, not just the VA. The VA's move to reduce the interest rate for Native American soldiers was spurred by a clause of the Tribal Economic Assistance Act of 2021, which was approved by Congress in April. According to the law, the VA must lower the interest rate for Native American veterans to the same amount as the interest rate for all other veterans. The same cheap loan rates that other veterans have long benefited from are now available to Native American veterans. Veterans of Native American descent and those who support them have generally lauded the VA's move. President of the National Congress of American Indians Fawn Sharp said, "This is a tremendous victory for Native American veterans who have been denied access to the same home loan refinancing programs available to other veterans." Native American veterans and their families will benefit greatly from this rate decrease, making it simpler for them to maintain their homes and achieve financial stability. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which is in charge of the VA's Home Loan Guaranty program, has also praised the ruling. The VA's move to lower the interest rate for Native American soldiers is encouraging, according to HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge. "This is a crucial step in ensuring that all veterans, regardless of race or ethnicity, have access to the same home loan benefits." The VA's decision to reduce interest rates for Native American veterans is one more move toward acknowledging their particular financial requirements. The VA has increased access to programs tailored specifically for Native American veterans as well as mental health services, and it is currently reaching out to more of them. These initiatives are part of the VA's larger mission to serve all veterans and recognize their unique needs and experiences. As the VA continues to improve its services and expand its outreach to Native American veterans, it is clear that the VA is making great strides in its mission to serve all veterans. Source Link: https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2023/03/22/veterans-affairs-department-lowers-interest-rate-native-americans/9561679535192/

About: The US Army and the Thai Paratroopers have just concluded a successful joint exercise through the annual Cobra Gold 23 exercise. This exercise has been an important part of the US-Thai defense relationship since 1982, and this year’s iteration was no different. The US Air Force backed the drill by providing aerial support for the participating troops. The US Army and the Thai Paratroopers engaged in various activities during the exercise, including air assault operations, live-fire exercises, and airfield operations. These exercises allowed the two forces to get a better understanding of each other’s tactics and capabilities, and to work together more cohesively. The US Air Force provided air support during the exercise, which allowed the forces to move around the area quickly and safely. The US Army and the Thai Paratroopers also conducted several humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations during the exercise. The main objective of these activities was to help those who were in need in the neighborhood. This included providing medical care, food, water, and other supplies to those in need. Several training drills were also carried out during the exercises by the US Army and the Thai Paratroopers. These training drills covered a variety of subjects, from small-unit tactics to marksmanship, intending to improve the skills of both troops. The training was conducted in a variety of simulated environments and allowed both troops to hone their skills and become more effective in combat operations. In addition to the training and operations, the US Army and the Thai Paratroopers also conducted several cultural activities during the exercise. This included a performance by the Thai Army’s Royal Thai Air Force Band, as well as a variety of cultural exchanges and tours. Through these events, the soldiers were able to bond and learn more about one another's cultures and traditions. Concluded Situation: Overall, the US Army and the Thai Paratroopers conducted a successful joint exercise during Cobra Gold 23. The US Air Force provided invaluable air support during the exercise, and the two forces were able to conduct several operations and training exercises. The two forces also engaged in several cultural activities, which allowed them to get to know each other better. The exercise was a success, and the US Army and the Thai Paratroopers demonstrated their commitment to the US-Thai defense relationship. Reference link: https://www.usarpac.army.mil/Our-Story/Our-News/Article-Display/Article/3321920/cobra-gold-2023-airborne-drop/

The Russian military reportedly captured two US B-52H bombers near the border on May 20, 2020. Two Russian Su-27 fighter planes intercepted the bombers as they were flying in the Baltic Sea area as part of a planned training operation. It happened close to Kaliningrad, a Russian outpost situated between Lithuania and Poland. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the US bombers overshot the Russian boundary, forcing the Su-27 fighter jets to scramble to catch them. The pilots then led the aircraft outside the zone. The US military has acknowledged it but hasn't yet provided any details about the incident. According to the US Air Force, the operation was carried out in line with accepted international law and protocol. The incident comes as US-Russian tensions have risen, with both nations accusing the other of different transgressions of international law. To prevent Russian aggression in the area, the US has recently expanded its military impact in Europe. Furthermore, it coincides with American efforts to forge closer links with its European partners to resist Russian aggression. A significant military drill recently revealed by the United States will involve many NATO members as well as non-NATO nations like Finland and Sweden. Military tensions between the two nations have long been centered in the Baltic Sea region, where both parties frequently perform military drills. As a show of power against Russia, the US sent a task group of B-52 bombers to the area in April. It will likely exacerbate existing hostilities between the two nations and may even prompt a more combative military posture. As the US and Russia continue to compete for influence in the area, it serves as a reminder of how rapidly the situation between the two countries can deteriorate. Additionally, it emphasizes how crucial it is for both nations to uphold international law and honor one another's territory. Keeping out of each other's airspace and de-escalating any possible confrontations are duties shared by both the US and Russia. The incident serves as a warning that the US and Russia must keep coordinating to maintain regional stability and prevent tensions from rising further. Despite their disagreements, the two nations must uphold one another's authority and the region's security. Reference News Link: https://americanmilitarynews.com/2023/03/russia-claims-it-intercepted-2-us-b-52h-bombers-near-its-border/

On March 20, 2023, at the Town of Wheatfield Community Center in North Tonawanda, as veterans are given pins commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, Jim Kurucz claps his hand against his chest while holding his own award and posing with a U.S. Navy flag. Although Kurucz served in the U.S. Navy and did not fight in the Vietnam War, he attended the gathering to show his support for other troops. Ken at the Town of Wheatfield Community Center in North Tonawanda on March 20, 2023, the speaker, seated at right, talks with Jack Striegel after the two of them received badges honoring the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. Striegel and Speaker both served in the American Army; Speaker was awarded a Purple Heart. Even though he was wounded in Vietnam 55 years ago, Kenneth Speaker of Depew still finds it difficult to talk about it. On the plus side, he has good memories of resting in Japan. Following a ceremony Monday in the Wheatfield Community Center commemorating Vietnam troops, the commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 187, Buffalo, remarked, "I loved it there. In advance of the 50th anniversary of the last American military departure from Vietnam on March 29, 1973, Wheatfield Supervisor Don MacSwan and Rep. Brian Higgins of Buffalo recognized over 75 local veterans, most of whom were from Niagara County. Speaker, 74, was one of them. "Decades ago, Vietnam veterans put their lives on the line and returned to a nation that did not properly welcome them home," said Higgins. "When these veterans came home, they were ridiculed. They were spat on. They were criticized." He further added "When I came back, I've got to tell you, I got treated like dirt. I got spit at," The speaker, who had fought in Vietnam from January to December 1968, spoke of the treatment he stated he received after his duty. "I have to inform you that when I returned, I was handled like trash. I was vomited upon," he claimed. Each of the veterans, including MacSwan, a Vietnam survivor himself, received a special lapel badge and a certificate in appreciation of their service and readiness to risk their lives. The America Vietnam War Commemoration was started to mark the 50th anniversary of the war's formal conclusion, according to Higgins' office. A grateful country thanks and recognizes you on the commemorative pin, which is given to soldiers who served on active service in the U.S. Armed Forces between Nov. 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975, or their living wives, under the program. Higgins said, "We lose 390 Vietnam War veterans every day. They age out," referring to the loneliness, PTSD, and drug addiction issues that some Vietnam soldiers have experienced. "So we're always trying to reconcile our gratitude for their service, even if you were opposed to the war. And the nation was deeply split at that time during the turbulent '60s. There were all kinds of societal disruptions and the Vietnam War was one of them," according to Higgins. One of the few women veterans recognized during the event was Deborah Wesp of Buffalo. Wesp was a military police officer on an Air Force station in Germany even though she was in the Army and never fought in Vietnam. Wesp said, "I actually belong to Chapter 77 of the Vietnam Veterans of America. I can be there on a technicality because I served during that time." Even a half-century later, she and other troops on Monday stated it felt good to be acknowledged and valued. "You know what? That's the first thing that they did when I went to Chapter 77 for the first time. They told me to welcome home. And you know what? It gave me shivers. It really did. It's amazing how that makes you feel so good," she added. "So I've done everything I can, even back then, back in the '70s, to make them feel welcome," Wesp further added. "In fact, I couldn't tell people I served in the military when I first got home because people looked down on that." Robert "Rader" Parker, who served in the Army for 18 months starting in December 1965, claimed he did not remember being mistreated upon his return from duty. "My friends welcomed me. I didn’t notice anything bad. Some people did, but I didn't," added Parker, who also said he felt humbled by Monday's event. Before retiring in 2006, he spent 38 years working at Harrison Delphi in Lockport. Reference Link: https://buffalonews.com/news/local/local-vietnam-vets-honored-with-pins-commemorating-50th-anniversary-of-final-troop-pullout/article_1ea7d7d8-c75a-11ed-9381-473353138078.html

History and Introduction: From 2003 to 2011, there was a war in Iraq that saw the fall of Saddam Hussein's government and the deaths of over 4,500 US service members. The effects of the Iraq War are still felt today, twenty years after it ended, both domestically and internationally. The governmental, economic, social, and security landscapes of Iraq have all been significantly impacted by the war. The 2003 US-led war on Iraq was intended to bring freedom and security to the nation, but these goals were ultimately not achieved. More than 100,000 Iraqis lost their lives as a result of ethnic strife and terrorism after the war, which led to a sharp rise in violence. Millions of people were also uprooted as a result, and many of them are still living in refugee centers today. The war's effects on the economy have been catastrophic. Between 2003 and 2011, Iraq's GDP decreased by 28%, and the jobless rate increased to over 50%. The Iraqi dinar lost nearly 80% of its worth as a result of the conflict, which also precipitated a record-breaking economic catastrophe. The security situation in Iraq has also been significantly affected by the conflict. Terrorist organizations like the Islamic State (ISIS) were able to establish a presence in the nation thanks to the security void left by the fall of Saddam Hussein's government. As a consequence of the war, there were more armed militias and weapons in circulation, which increased violent crime. The healthcare infrastructure in Iraq has suffered a great deal as a result of the conflict. Since many of the nation's hospitals and clinics were devastated during the war, many Iraqis now have more difficulty accessing medical treatment. The conflict also brought in a large number of migrants, many of whom have poor access to medical care. The conflict has also significantly weakened Iraq's societal fabric. Religious and sectarian tensions have increased, and women's liberties have been badly restricted. Many colleges and institutions in the nation are struggling due to a lack of financing, which is another unfavorable residue of the Iraq War. There have been some positive advances despite the negative effects of the Iraq War. The nation has taken action to rebuild its economy and re-establish a working government since the conclusion of the war. Along with a decline in bloodshed and an improvement in security, Iraq is also steadily recovering from the war. Even though the Iraq War was over 20 years ago, its effects can still be felt today both domestically and abroad. The political, economic, security, health, and social circumstances in Iraq have suffered greatly as a result of the war. It is crucial to keep in mind the lessons of the Iraq War and make sure they are not replicated as the nation proceeds to transition from a time of war to one of recovery. Reference Links: https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2023/03/14/a-look-back-at-how-fear-and-false-beliefs-bolstered-u-s-public-support-for-war-in-iraq/ https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/20/us/politics/iraq-20-years.html?