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Veterans Cemeteries and Memorial Programs - Veterans Outreach Ministries
19 Dec
0

Veteran’s Cemetery and Memorial Program in Maryland

by in Patriotism

The State of Maryland and the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) are honored to offer our veterans and their eligible dependents a final resting place at one of five MDVA state veterans cemeteries.

The MDVA State Veterans Cemetery Program is one of the largest state cemetery programs in the nation with locations in Allegany County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Dorchester County, and Prince George’s County.

The Maryland Fiscal Year 2021 ended June 30, 2021, and during the year, 2,329 Veterans and 1,407dependents were interred or inurned at MDVA cemeteries, which was an increase over previous years.  It is the most solemn duty of the MDVA Cemetery staff to care for those entrusted to our care.

The Memorials program staff are responsible for several Maryland Memorials: the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, and the Gold Star Families Monument.  MDVA has seen an increase in individuals and groups volunteering to help at the Memorials in the last year, including landscaping and clean-up activities.  We appreciate the many people who have volunteered to help us keep the Memorials in excellent condition.

For More Information on the MDVA Cemetery & Memorials Program

Main Website: https://veterans.maryland.gov/

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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In Search of Sacred Self - Veterans Outreach Ministries
15 Dec
0

In Search of Sacred Self

by in Religion

Article by Rebecca Rondone

The term “In Search of Sacred Self” has its roots in Genesis 1:27, wherein “God created man in his own image…” This scriptural passage does not mean that God is in human form, but rather, that humans are in the image of God in their moral, spiritual, and intellectual nature. If you don’t already, always know that you are Sacred and deserve to be treated as so by yourself and all others. 

We all deserve someone who wants to invest in us, learn from us, see us succeed, support our visions, and fall in love with us again and again on the daily.⁠  The model of this relationship begins with how we relate to and honor ourselves.⁠ If we honor ourselves as sacred, soon the relationships will reflect and honor ourselves and those around us.⁠

In order to obtain the qualities we are seeking such as passion, purpose, trust, love, gratitude, reverence, kindness, peace, and vigor, we must begin by creating those qualities and showing up to demonstrate them in our own self-relationship.⁠

After we take time to create these qualities by following the process of creation:⁠

  1. Allow ourselves to imagine/dream the life we want – partner, shelter, abundance, being of greatest value and service, etc.⁠
  2. Take time to sit with the feeling of being these qualities you would like to experience more of in the present moment – allow these feelings to saturate our hearts and minds.⁠ ⁠
  3. Carry the feeling through the day and allow ourselves to remain open to the influence guiding our way and presenting possibilities to lead us towards the life that sustains these feelings⁠. .⁠
  4. Take action based on the guidance you are given – it will be the most exciting and irresistible feeling anyways; like a passionate fire is pouring out of your pure heart – just stop resisting and allow yourself to be driven and follow your passion⁠ and instincts.

Remember to choose to honor this truth and use your voice always!⁠

From a descriptive point of view, God and humans have the same likeness in that the Bible representation of God indicates “He can manifest Himself with a head, hair, eyes, mouth, a chest, legs, feet as well as hands and voice” (Revelation 1:13–17).

If you ever find yourself lost in any of the above, seek some alone time in prayer, mediation, a walk, run, or even fishing. Fishing can provide that connection with the whole living world. It gives you the opportunity of being totally immersed, turning back into yourself in a good way. A form of meditation, some form of communion with levels of yourself that are deeper than the ordinary self.

Blessings

Rebecca Rondone

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Business of the Quarter - Crouch Automotive - Veteran Outreach Ministries
11 Dec
0

Business of the Quarter – Crouch Automotive

by in Business of the Quarter

Crouch Automotive’s owners and staff would like to thank Tom Hogate and the entire Veterans Outreach Ministries staff for all of the work they’re doing each day to help Veterans and their families. We’re proud to be a small part of that as a platinum business partner this year. We’d also like to thank the VOM for making us the Business of the Quarter!

 Who Are We?

Crouch automotive service and repair company in Cecil County, Maryland, voted “Best Auto Repair Shop” from 2019 – 2021, has three locations to serve their customers. North East, Conowingo, and Rising Sun are the locations of their shops. As an independent repair shop, they service all foreign and domestic vehicles, all years (including those old carbureted models!), all shapes and sizes up to about a Ford F-550 truck. Often Crouch Automotive is asked if they can work on Jaguar’s, Volvo’s,& BMW’s. The answer to all of those questions is a YES! If you can drive it on the road or track, we can work on it! Stop in and give them a try. While you’re there, stop and see Dale or Joanna Crouch, the local business owners, often seen in the shops throughout the workweek.

Owner Dale Crouch – is a certified ASE Master Technician with many years of experience working on cars and trucks at local dealerships and independent repair shops. In the not-too-distant past, Dale has been the guy a few auto parts manufacturers have called for input on their products.  He holds numerous auto manufacturing certifications (GM, Ford, Toyota, etc.). Dale began working on cars and trucks as early as eight years old, with his mechanically inclined, Father and Grandfather. Early on, Dale had a love of hotrods that has endured to this day. He’s been drag racing since 1983. Dale enjoys building race cars, usually from the ground up, and building race engines for himself and others in his spare time. Spending a full day on an engine dyno looking for that extra little bit of horsepower is what he loves to do!

Owner Joanna Crouch – is not a mechanic! Joanna is the business guru at Crouch Automotive. She often helps with engine swaps. As a University of Delaware graduate with a BS in Business Management, Joanna is an ASE certified Auto Service Writer, certified Web Designer, and Dog Trainer. Joanna has a real love for dogs and all animals. Together, Dale and Joanna have four dogs and a guinea pig! After college, Altria Group recruited Joanna, also known as Philip Morris USA, for about 12 years. In her time there, she learned a lot about business and how to sell programs. She was quickly promoted from Territory Sales Manager to Sales Development Associate to Unit Manager in her 1997 to 2012 tenure there. She is also a drag & hotrod enthusiast and a drag racer since 1996. Yup, Joanna. Joanna was one out of three or four ladies racing competitively at Cecil County Dragway in her early days.

Dale and Joanna met at Cecil County Dragway in 1996 but didn’t get together as a couple until 2009. Their early years were quite fast-paced! Crouch Automotive started of necessity when Joanna when Altria Group laid off Joanna in early 2012. 

A humble beginning for Crouch Automotive:

It all started when Joanna happened to drive past a 2-bay old gas station-style building with a small office in Rising Sun that was up for rent in January 2012. Then the conversation went something like this:

Joanna: “Hey Dale, I saw this little shop for rent. Do you want to check it out?”

Dale: “Heck yes!”

And so, it began! The Crouchs’ contacted the property owner, did some shopping for supplies, and within about 20 days, the building had a fresh coat of paint, some waiting room chairs we found online, and a desk/counter we built together. Crouch Automotive opened on February 15th, 2012. The Crouchs’ veered away from paper invoices to computerized auto repair software within a month. Mid- March brought a new webpage and new Facebook pages. They knew it was going to work out by July, so they purchased the building and property.

As soon as Crouch Automotive opened, they acquired a newfound partnership with a local truck tuning and performance company. Along with Dale’s mechanical abilities, it all paid off in a big way.  Crouch Automotive became the “go-to” shop for Ford 6.0ltr diesel truck repairs in 3 states (one customer from Arizona!). They obtained permits and quickly expanded from two to four service bays with room on the new side to accommodate larger trucks & dually’s.

They  quickly realized that adapting to CHANGE is everything:

By late 2013, Crouch Automotive had three technicians working with Dale and an assistant in the office with Joanna. Their shop and small parking lot suddenly seemed to be closing in with the amount of business they had. They also had the highway administration stopping in, asking them to get the cars off the road! 

Unfortunately, a stage 3 colon cancer diagnosis for Joanna at the age of 39 ended their entrepreneurship “high” and slowed them both down… at least temporarily. Soon, every day, Joanna was traveling up and down the road to Johns Hopkins instead of running the office. Luckily, her assistant stepped up to run the office.    Faith, prayer, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments in 2014 contributed to Joanna’s cancer cure. Joanna handled the Crouch Automotive finances at home. She came into work whenever she could and ran a dog and cat food bank every Friday during that period. Joanna was a trooper! 

With the influx of cars, especially diesel trucks, the Crouches’ became concerned about space. Seemingly out of the blue, a local real estate agent walked into our Rising Sun shop with an opportunity they couldn’t refuse. He was referring to the sale of a former car dealership in Conowingo. Hesitantly at first, they agreed to buy it. Suddenly able to accommodate many trucks and other vehicles and additional technicians, our business expanded to fill it.  A slight name and logo change accompanied this new facility: “Crouch Automotive & Diesel.” 

By 2016 or so, there were fewer and fewer older 6.0 ltr diesel trucks for us to service. Dale tapped into his pastime of fixing hotrods and race cars as another revenue source for us. One never knew what kind of cool old cars & trucks you would see out in front of our shops. People passing by told us they enjoyed driving by just to see what vehicles were displayed that particular day! Working on hotrods led to us opening a Speed Shop in the old showroom of the Conowingo facility. Dale was in heaven, and they had some cool local events, like when we had “The Freakin’ Rican” from the very popular at the time Street Outlaws TV show participate in a drag race in his Mustang against Dale’s purpose-built Nova. This opportunity led to other race-related partnerships and even a once-in-a-lifetime trip for Dale and Joanna to Puerto Rico! Going to Puerto Rico with a race car means the car travels via cargo ship. Dale worried the whole time his Nova was at sea! Perhaps rightly so, because the Nova almost caught fire during travel when a nearby container exploded!  At one point, Dale and Joanna received the news that the Nova was lost at sea! Luckily it made it to Puerto Rico with melted window tint, but without other serious damage. They had a lot of fun but unfortunately couldn’t see a business opportunity there. 

Worries about the future of their business with the economic downturn came as winter set in in late 2017. The Crouchs’ talked to their employees about the slowdown and encouraged ideas to bring in new business. Those older show and race cars were lengthy and expensive projects. It was time for a new revenue resource once again… 

That November, opportunity knocked again! The owner of a very popular auto repair facility in North East, MD, called them at our Conowingo facility. a Mr. Foster came by to meet with the Crouchs’ as he was ready to retire. Suddenly they were ready to shift gears! They talked to our folks about the new business opportunity and agreed that the increased traffic flow in the more densely populated area would be a welcomed addition. We acquired Foster’s Auto Service in March of 2018.

The Crouchs’ renovated the building inside and out, and we worked to maintain their same great service and reputation and incorporate our experience. This most recent business move, or change, has helped us grow and enabled us to maintain our other shops and our valued employees. Stop in and see the Crouchs’ for great, friendly service at any of our 3 locations. Dale and Joanna Crouch look forward to meeting you!

Change can be scary, but take the leap when you can and reap the rewards!

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Female Veteran of the Quarter - Lieutenant Colonel Kimberly A. Lindgren - Veterans Outreach Ministries
07 Dec
0

Female Veteran of the Quarter – Kimberly A. Lindgren

by in Veteran of the Quarter

LTC Kimberly A. Lindgren enlisted into the United States Army in 1994 at the age of twenty-nine. She served on active duty as a Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Noncommissed Officer in the 1/501st Apache Attack Battalion (Fliegerhorst Kaserne) in Hanau, Germany until 1998. During that time she deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina for a one-year tour in support of the Implementation Force (IFOR 96). In 1998, before departing Germany, she enlisted into the Delaware Army National Guard as a Traditional Guardsmen. She held a Noncommissioned Officer position as a Legal Specialist 71D in HHC 280th Signal Battalion in Georgetown and was a Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical 54B Noncommissed Officer in 262nd Maintenance Company in Dagsboro.

In 2002, she embarked on her officer career in the Delaware Officer Candidate School, Bethany Beach Regional Training Institute (RTI). In August 2003, after completing an eight-week accelerated course, she was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Delaware Army National Guard. Her officer assignments include Platoon Leader, 259th Tropo Company; Platoon Leader, B Company 280th FWD (Operation Iraq Freedom 3); Assistant S3, 261st Theater Tactical Signal Brigade (TTSB) (Operation Iraq Freedom 09-11); Commander, C Company 198th Integrated Tactical Signal Battalion (ITSB); Systems Control Officer, 261st TTSB; S3, 198th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (ESB); Team Chief, Defensive Cyberspace Operations Element (DCOE), G6 – JFHQ; Deputy G6, G6 – JFHQ; S3, 261st TTSB and currently serving as Battalion Commander – 193rd Regional Training Institute.

LTC Lindgren’s military schools include Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course, Signal Officer Basic Course, Signal Captains Career Course, and the Command and General Staff College Intermediate Level Education and Advanced Operations Courses.

LTC Lindgren’s awards and decorations include Meritorious Service Medal (2), Army Commendation Medal (4), Army Achievement Medal (2), Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (Silver OLC), National Defense Service Medal (BSS), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal (2 stars), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal (M) Silver Hour Glass, Army NCO Professional Development Ribbon (2), Army Service Ribbon, Army Overseas Service Ribbon (3), Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, North Atlantic Treaty Medal (NATO), Army Meritorious Unit Medal, Army Superior Unit Citation (2), Medal for Military Merit Longevity (2), National Guard Medal (2), National Defense Service Ribbon, Medal for Service in Aid to Civil Authority (5), Physical Fitness Ribbon (13), Governor’s Meritorious Unit Award, Unit Strength Award (4).

LTC Lindgren has served as a Federal Technician in the Delaware Army National Guard since 2005. She has held positions in Environmental, Construction and Facilities Management, Director of Information Management and is currently assigned as the Internal Control Administrator for the Chief of Staff. She received a Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Wilmington University and a Master of Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She is a lifetime member of both officer and enlisted National Guard Association of the United States and a member of the Signal Corps Regiment Association.

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Redeeming the Time - Veterans Outreach Ministries
03 Dec
0

Redeeming the Time

by in Religion

Article By Ken Cushwa

I am sure we have all heard the phrase “Redeeming the Time”, but do we understand what it means and how can that even happen? I tend to look at things from a personal perspective because there is no better way than the experiences I have had and the mistakes I have made. Something like redeeming time seems to require personal reflection and a willingness to examine how we have spent our lives and those we have affected with our actions and use of time. Many times in my own life I have looked back and wondered where did time go? I also think how did my girls grow up so quickly and how can one be in college and the other a junior in High School? 

Redeeming the time takes plenty of deep reflection of the time we spent, how we wasted opportunities and spent efforts on things that ultimately meant nothing. I found that whenever I wondered where the time went that it was a selfish decision that I had made that ultimately caused the time to be wasted and my daughters and wife suffered because of it. My daughters grew up while I was out playing softball 4 nights a week and then traveling on weekends for a sport that I didn’t even get paid to do. My priorities were about me and less about families and time lost. Oftentimes we get caught up in personal experiences, possibly work commitments, other things that waste away time that can never be recovered. Whatever the reasons we missed time or did not spend it wisely, it still requires the reflection and redemption that we all long for. Redemption begins with seeking forgiveness and doing everything you can to utilize your time more productively.

We have an example to live by if we choose to make the changes needed. The Bible tells the life and story of Jesus Christ, a person who utilized his time to demonstrate Love and compassion towards others without a care for his own. Some could argue he was called to do it, however he also had the power to step away and not do what is needed. He went to a cross to be sacrificed to demonstrate how important his time was and what impact his time had on others. Ephesians 5: 15-16 says, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise. Making the best use of the time because the days are evil.” It is not the time lost but the time remaining. The Bible also talks about our lives being like a vapor that appears but for a short time and then vanishes as if it was never there. If you have failed with your time up to this point I will remind you that it is not the past that can be redeemed, it is the time you have left that you can make a difference. Your life can be redeemed from above through salvation in Jesus Christ, you then can redeem your remaining time by demonstrating love and attention to those around you. Friends and family will notice the difference and those you work around will wonder what it is that you have that they can get to redeem their time. Review, reflect, and then redeem the time each day, focus on others and ensure you spend your time wisely.

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Male Veteran of the Quarter - Dennis G. Lindgren Jr. - Veterans Outreach Ministries
03 Oct
0

Male Veteran of the Quarter – Dennis G. Lindgren Jr.

by in Veteran of the Quarter

Article Written by Male Veteran of the Quarter Dennis G. Lindgren Jr. (261st TTSB Command Sergeant Major)

CSM Dennis G. Lindgren Jr. was born in Jamestown, New York, and joined the Military in June 1982, his significant experience is as follows.

He enlisted into the Military in June 1982 and attended One Station Unit Training (Basic Training and Advance Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He received the 31V MOS as a radio operator and maintainer. His first assignment was in the 2/110th Infantry Unit in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in Butler, PA until March of 1984. In April 1984 he moved to Delaware and enlisted in the Delaware Army National Guard as a TAC Communication System Operator.

He was assigned to HHD 736 S&S Battalion as a TAC Wire Operator Specialist. In 1991, he was transferred and assigned to 262nd Maintenance Company as Wheel Vehicle Repair, Track Repair, Senior Auto Repair and Auto Repair Sergeant. In 1995, he was transferred and assigned to the 153rd MP Company as the Motor Sergeant and HQ Platoon Sergeant. In 1997, he was transferred and assigned to 261st Signal BDE as Service Maintenance Supervisor. In 1999, he was transferred and assigned to 945th C&C Company as the First Sergeant. In 2001, he was transferred and assigned to 198th Signal Battalion as the Commander Sergeant Major.

In 2003, he was transferred and assigned back to the 261st as the Logistic Sergeant Major. In 2005, he was transferred and assigned to the JFHQ as the J4 Logistic Sergeant Major. In 2005, he was transferred and assigned to the 721st Troop Command as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major. In 2006, he was transferred and assigned to the 193rd RTI as the Commandant Command Sergeant Major. In 2007, he was transferred and assigned back to the 721st Troop Command as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major.

In 2010, he was transferred and assigned to 184th ESC Mississippi Army National Guard where he mobilized and deployed as the LNO for higher at USFOR-A in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan. In 2011, he was transferred back to JFHQ as the Logistic Sergeant Major, and as of 2013 has been serving as the 261st Theater Tactical Signal Brigade Command Sergeant Major.

Civilian education: graduated from Deer Lakes High School, Gibsonia Pennsylvania. He graduated with an Associate of Applied Science Computer Engineer Degree from Delaware Technical & Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management Degree from Wilmington University.

Military Education: Army Basic Combat Training, Tactical Communication System Operator Mechanic Course, Primary Leadership Development Course, Wheel Vehicle Repair Course, Basic NCO Course, Battle Skill Course, Advanced NCO Course, Master Fitness Course, Battle Lab Course, ULLS-G Course, 62B Sustainment Heavy Equipment Course, and Electrician Course, United States Army Sergeant Major Course NRC class 28 and Pre-Command and Command Sergeant Course and SSD5. CSM Lindgren is currently employed with Delaware National Guard Federal Technician Program.

Decorations, awards and citations: Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal (3), Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (9), National Defense Service Medal (2), Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 2 stars, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal (Gold Hour Glass/M device, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon (5), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon (6), NATO Non Article ISAF Afghanistan Service Medal, Delaware National Guard Medal of Military Merit (2), Delaware National Defense Ribbon (2), Delaware Medal for Service in Aid to Civil Authority, Delaware Physical Fitness Ribbon (13), Mississippi Magnolia Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Governors Meritorious Unit Award and Unit Strength Award.

Civilian Affiliations: Life time member of Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS), member of United States Warrant Officers Association (USAWOA), associate member of the National Guard Association of Delaware (NGADE), member of the Signal Corps Regimental Association, member of Jersey Shore Volleyball Association, Head Coach for Women’s Volleyball at Del Tech Community College 2 years. Head Coach for Women’s Volleyball at Cecil College 2006 to 2014.

View the Full Magazine Here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Male Veteran of the Quarter - David Simpler - Veterans Outreach Ministries
01 Oct
0

Male Veteran of the Quarter – David Simpler

by in Veteran of the Quarter

Article Written by Male Veteran of the Quarter David Simpler

I thank pastor and fellow veteran Tom Hogate for asking me to do this! A little history about me. I never thought of myself as a celebrity, just plain ole me.

I was raised on a small dairy farm between Churchill and Sudlersville, MD. in Queens Anne County with my parents and four boys. With a dairy farm and other livestock it was seven days a week work. Sunrise to sunset! I got .25 cents a week allowance and we only went to town one day a week on Sunday morning. My .25 cents got me a 7 oz. Coca Cola and a hand-dipped ice cream cone! I was a happy boy and I worked all week for that Coke and ice cream cone.

I attended high school at Sudlersville High in MD which was known for the major league baseball player, Jimmy Dell Fox. My oldest brother, William A. was named after our father. He joined the National Guard in the 1950’s. My second brother, Kenneth R. joined the Army in the early 1960’s and served in the early days of Vietnam and Germany. My third Brother, Gary A. got married right out of highschool and started a family.

I graduated in 1965 and went to MD State Teacher’s College after highschool. Come summer break you were no longer 4F you were 1A for the draft. The draft was hot hot!! You could not buy a job if you were 1A with the draft board. So, I made the decision to go to the draft board and volunteer to move my number up so I could get it over with. They moved me up! In sight of 3 weeks I was on my way to Fort Holabird, an Army post in the City of Baltimore, MD for induction. Then on a bus to Fort Bragg, North Carolina for basic training. That was physical and military mental training with discipline included at no charge!

I was about 2 years older than most of the inductees, but as a farm boy I was in better physical shape than most. It was an experience to say the least! After 8 weeks of this, I was sent of Fort Sill, Oklahoma for field artillery school. This farm boy got his 1st ride on an airplane. An old jump plane with nylon strapped seats and this airplane rattled and shook all the way there. I think I probably had loose teeth by the time we got there. The barracks were still WW2 era but adequate for the purpose.

Graduation day was late December, however we had an ice storm and nothing moved by land or by air. We stayed in a motel until departure was available. Young and dumb (naive) we only has about 1 week before leaving for Vietnam. Some went via boat and some via air. I went by air, landing in Tuy Hoa on January 1, 1968. We had nothing but the government issued fatigues on and we got hit that night and lost a few guys within 24 hours of landing. We knew nothing of this type of environment.

Young and dumb! We were all separated and sent to various artillery units as needed. We were strictly replacements in one form or another. I was located in I Corps 5/27th B Battery 105-155 Towed Artillery. I thank my Lord and Savior that I survived. The 15 months I survived, I will leave locked in a box and then I returned home to a country that just seemed distant and unfriendly to me. There was no training for this. Being in a rural area, I knew nothing of how the country that I left had changed. I felt like I didn’t belong here again. That’s why a lot of Vietnam veterans re-upped and returned to Vietnam. They felt comfortable there.

I had people tell me that I was not the same person that I was before I left. I could not understand that. As most GI’s, I tried to acquire the American life that we envisioned and held dear to our hearts while in combat in a foreign country. Not knowing that it would be difficult because of the strict discipline, military training and the mental toll of combat that you never knew you had. The ups and downs with hills to climb was a way of life for me. We will leave that in a box also.

In the mid 1980’s I joined a VFW. They needed officers badly, So, I answered the call of duty again. Took on several different offices as needed. When the need for a service officer opened up, I volunteered for it. Again, naive! At that time the State of MD Service Officer was a man named Phil Medlin. He gave great training classes and was very thorough. Through his guidance many lives were changed and helped! The veterans received healthcare, treatment, benefits for their families, and compensation for military-related issues.

For some strange reason many veterans don’t know about the benefits available to them and their family! I call it; lack of communication! Reaching out to others and communicating is still the issue in my opinion. I know because I did without and it took 40 years for me to get any help! So, now as a Service Officer with the DAV, I make it a point to COMMUNICATE; which I find is still a stumbling block. My self made Motto is “I EXTEND THE HAND TO YOU THAT NEVER WAS EXTENDED TO ME!”

View the Full Magazine Here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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The Meaning Behind the 13 Folds of Old Glory - Veterans Outreach Ministries
28 Sep
0

The Meaning Behind the 13 Folds of Old Glory

by in Patriotism

This article is written by Laurie Pearson at Marine Corps News from www.military.com
(Photo Credit: Arlington National Cemetery/Elizabeth Fraser)

Most Americans have seen the traditional folding of the American flag, at specific events, such as funerals. Have you ever wondered why Old Glory is folded that specific way? Much more than just pomp and circumstance, each of the 13 folds holds special meaning.

The flag-folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which our great country was originally founded.

The 1st fold of our flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th fold represents our weaker nature; as American citizens trusting in God, it is Him we turn to in times of peace, as well as in times of war, for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to our country. In the words of Stephen Decatur, “Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong.”

The 6th fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

The 7th fold is a tribute to our armed forces, for it is through the armed forces that we protect our country and our flag against all enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor our mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood. It has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that has molded the character of the folks who have made this country great.

The 10th fold is a tribute to father, who has also given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since he or she was first born.

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies God the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost.

The 13th fold, when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it has the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under Gen. George Washington and the sailors and Marines who served under Capt. John Paul Jones and were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the U.S. Armed Forces, preserving for us the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Financial Focus - Veterans Outreach Ministries
25 Sep
0

Financial Focus

by in Interest

Look at Your Financial Situation Holistically

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Tyler Simonds. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

What’s the biggest financial mistake you can make? Choosing the wrong investments? Waiting too long to save for retirement?
Underestimating the costs of retirement? All these are reasonable answers, but the biggest mistake you might make is not looking at your financial picture holistically – that is, not bringing into the picture all the elements of yourself. Let’s consider some of them:

Your views on helping your family

Your decisions about helping your family are clearly going to be a major part of your financial strategy – and this is true at virtually all stages of your life. When your children are young, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to put away money for their college education, and, if so, how much, and in what investment vehicles. When they’re young adults, you may also need to decide how much financial support you’re willing to provide for things such as the down payment on a new home. And when you’re drawing up your estate plans, you’ll need to consider how to distribute assets to your children, grandchildren or other family members.

Your personal beliefs

As someone with civic, ethical and moral concerns, you want to positively affect the world around you. And that’s why you may feel compelled to make charitable gifts throughout your life and then make philanthropy part of your legacy. To accomplish these objectives, you’ll want to include gifting techniques in your financial strategy today and your estate plans for tomorrow. Of course, for the estate planning component, you’ll need to work with your tax and legal advisors.

Your purpose in life when you retire

When you retire, you may be stepping off a career path, but you’re also entering a world of possibilities. How will you define, and live out, your new sense of purpose at this stage of your life? Do you seek to broaden your horizons by traveling around the world? Do you want to give back more to the community by volunteering? Can you spend more time pursuing the hobbies you enjoy? Each of these choices will carry different financial implications for how much you’ll need to accumulate for retirement and how much you will need to take out each year from your retirement accounts, such as your IRA and 401(k).

Your health

Your physical and mental health can play big roles in your financial plans and outlook. On the most basic level, the healthier you are, and the better you take care of yourself, the lower your health care bills will likely be during retirement, which will affect the amount you need to put away for health care. And you also may need to prepare for the costs of long-term care, which can be enormous – in fact, a private room in a nursing home can easily cost $100,000 per year, according to the insurance company Genworth.

It can be challenging to weave all these elements into a single, unified vision, so you may want to get some help from a financial professional. But, in any case, be prepared to look at your situation holistically – because, when putting together a lifetime’s financial strategy, every part of your life matters.

Read more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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Art Therapy: A Creative Approach to Healing - Veterans Outreach Ministries
22 Sep
0

Art Therapy: A Creative Approach to Healing

by in Health and Wellness

By: Lishamarie Hunter

Every day approximately 22 veterans and one additional active duty service member, reservist or national guard member commits suicide. As the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq come to an end there is a growing awareness over veterans and their treatment. The Veteran’s Affair is the largest healthcare system in the United States.

According to Congressional Research Services reported the raise in PTSD among Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi freedom veterans. Combat is the leading cause of PTSD among males, military sexual trauma (MST) is the leading cause among females.

What does PTSD look like clinically: re-experiencing, avoidance, numbing and hyper-vigilance? Re-experiencing includes night terrors, flashbacks, and frightening thoughts. Avoidance manifests as avoiding places, events or objects that brings back memories of the traumatic events. Emotional numbing, guilt, depression losing interest in hobbies and activities and and having difficulty remembering details of the traumatic events is a symptom of the numbing process. Hyper-vigilance is the most common of the symptoms starling easily, angry outbursts, anxiety and trouble sleeping. These behaviors are typical following a traumatic event and lasts for a short period of time. When these behaviors become chronic the individual develops PTSD. Often times people who suffer from PTSD experience substance abuse, alcoholism, depression, aggression, divorce, homelessness, and suicidal ideation.

Preferred treatment within the VA healthcare system is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is individualized counseling which includes Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure therapy. The goals for these approaches is reduce the symptoms of PTSD. They help to isolate the trauma and help to manage the variety of symptoms the individual is experiencing. It helps the individual reconnect to their beliefs and helps to manage their emotions. The goal is to reduce negative responses attached to the events.

Recently the VA Healthcare system has taken a more holistic approach to veterans mental healthcare. Clinics within the system are promoting mindfulness classes: yoga, tia chi, meditation and art therapy. Art therapy is less known and not much research has been done on the benefits.

How is art therapy used? What is the purpose of using art therapy in the treatment of mental health issues?

Art therapy explores feelings, resolves emotional conflicts, enhances self- awareness helps to manage behavior and addiction. Various art forms like painting in a group setting provide the individual with a safe environment to express feeling through the non verbal Meduim, while being in a supportive community. The art therapy session is broken down into three parts. The beginning is allotted to checking in, this establishes a emotional starting point for the veterans. The second segment provides an artistic prompt and the individuals are involved in producing artwork. The final stage is bringing in all together, sharing feedback regarding the artwork. A number of activities are included in the application of art therapy. The purpose of the process is to allow the individual to manage emotions and process the trauma.

Popular activity in art therapy is drawing. Drawing pictures expressing their inner thoughts and then sharing their interpretations of the images created. Another avenue in use is photography, while taking the picture the person visually captures a moment in their life and they form emotions to their daily activities. Art is more than drawing.

Art therapy utilizes painting, dance, poetry, writing and sculpting. Although the use of art therapy is new in the United States it does have a successful history in the United Kingdom and has been used since 1942 when it was used by a WWI official war artist, Adrian Hill.

The VA healthcare system has realized that a veterans mental healthcare needs a multi pronged approach. They are getting away from the medications and the traditional CBT approaches finding that veterans are having more success with a more holistic and well rounded healing processes. Art therapy can be a part of that.

Explore more articles from VOM Magazine here: https://www.veteransoutreachministries.org/vom-magazine/

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