In the past two years, the housing market has seen record-high prices and record-low property inventory. The remainder of 2022 may bring a slight cooling in prices, but Reuters has found that inventory is likely to remain low in most American cities. Because of this, the current housing market will probably stay competitive.

For veterans, this can be discouraging when looking to buy a house in a seller's market. Luckily, this is where VA loans can make a big difference. Let's dive into the ins and outs of government-backed loans for veterans. Here is everything you need to know! 

What are VA loans?

VA loans are for current service members as well as veterans and their eligible spouses. A VA loan is a mortgage that is guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It can be issued by a private lender of your choice. This loan option has been available since World War ll when the GI Bill of Rights created the VA home loan program in 1944.

VA loans are beneficial for many reasons, but there are extra benefits in today's highly competitive housing market.

What are the benefits of VA loans?

One of the main draws of a VA loan is that there is no down payment required in most cases. In 2022, the VA loan limit received a sizable increase, making it easier to get more out of a single loan. This year, the limit is $647,200 for most U.S. counties. As house prices remain high, this can help veterans and active service members find their ideal housing.

This loan type also requires no private mortgage insurance, even if the down payment is less than 20% of the original mortgage amount. Many other loans can be complicated to obtain because of this prerequisite. Veterans also have the opportunity to receive better rates and terms than with other mortgages.

How do VA loans work?

When it comes to finding the right loan for your needs, there is no one size fits all option. Luckily, there are several kinds of VA loans available for different types of circumstances. Here are some examples:

• Purchase loans.
• VA streamline refinance.
• VA cash-out refinance.

Within this, there are two categories of VA loans. They are VA direct loans and VA-backed loans. Here are the differences:

1. VA direct loans: These are loans that the borrower gets directly from the VA.
2. VA-backed loans: In this case, the loan is issued by a third party and backed by the VA.

There is only one VA direct loan, which is the Native American Direct Loan available for Native American veterans buying a home on federal trust land.

Eligibility

The current housing market has made it hard for prospective buyers to get their dream homes. VA loans are here to take care of those who have served the country by helping them obtain fair housing options, something that is extremely valuable in today's hot housing market. Here are some of the eligibility requirements for securing a VA loan:

• Must be an American veteran.
• Must be an active duty service member.
• Able to prove current or prior enlistment in the National Guard or Reserves.
• Must be a surviving spouse of a veteran who passed from service-related injuries.

Your bank or mortgage lender will be able to guide you through the process and ensure that you can prove eligibility.

Summer is nearly here, and the joys of water activities and cookouts with friends and family are just around the corner. Amidst all of this are the first responders who keep our communities safe. June is known as National Safety Month, a reminder to be aware of how your actions can impact others while off having fun. After a few years that have been difficult for nurses, firefighters, police officers, and EMT responders, it is more important than ever for us to work together to keep each other safe. Let's break down some of the most common summer incidents and how to avoid them.

Car accidents

Whether it is a much-anticipated road trip or packing the car up for a camping trip, there is no doubt you'll be hopping into a motor vehicle at some point this summer. It can be easy to forget how common and dangerous a car accident can be. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 42,915 motor vehicle accidents resulted in fatalities in 2021, 11% of which occurred from June to September. Avoid these common causes of collision:

• Driving under the influence.
• Distracted driving.
• Irresponsible or reckless driving.

Accidental drowning

As the weather warms up, people flock to rivers, lakes, pools and water parks. This can be an enjoyable pastime and a great way to cool down while making lasting memories. However, the dangers of accidental drowning are very real and should be taken seriously. Stop Drowning Now reports that there is an average of 320,000 deaths as a result of drowning each year, and have increased since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition, they found that "drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1-4." Here are some of the most effective ways to prevent drowning:

• Learning to swim.
• Life jackets.
• Know CPR or basic life-saving skills.
• Be watchful.

Fires started by people

According to the USDA, 90% of all wildfires are caused by humans, many of which happen in the summer. This is due to:

• Unattended campfires.
• Discarded cigarettes.
• Fireworks.
• Equipment usage.

This is why it is so important to be mindful and aware of your surroundings. Be sure to completely distinguish campfires and never set off fireworks in a dangerous area. Fires can result in human harm, structure damage and wildland deterioration.

Boating accidents

Boating in the summer is one of the most beloved activities, but it does require an eye for safety. Whether you are setting sail on a lake or an ocean, it is important to know the dangers associated with boating. The Coast Guard reports that the following are some of the most common causes of boating accidents:

• Operator inexperience: Be sure that the operator is capable of operating a boat well. 
• Boating too fast: Speeding is very dangerous and can result in a boating accident. 
• Not having a lookout: The Coast Guard suggests that every boat has someone who is keeping a lookout for dangers on the horizon. 
• Operating while under the influence: Boating while impaired is just as harmful as driving while drunk. 
• Poor weather conditions: Boating in a storm or other dangerous weather can be treacherous. 

Now you know what to watch out for while you're enjoying the long days of summer. National Safety Month is a great time to become CPR certified or just be more mindful during your warm-weather activities. Your community and first responders will thank you!

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President’s Message
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Life Insurance Offers Sense of Security
PTSD Awareness
AFBA’s 75th Anniversary
Member Benefit Highlights

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On Monday, May 30, Americans across the country will pause to observe Memorial Day. To learn more about the histories and traditions related to the holiday, read our blog from 2021. Today, we will take a look at what events have returned and what new options there are for those who want to honor and memorialize the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for this country. There are a lot of local traditions to participate in as well as national festivities.

Parades

Since 1971, Memorial Day has been celebrated on the last Monday in May. Parades have been a popular tradition and way to honor the occasion. However, due to recent years of COVID-19 restrictions, many local parades were put on pause in the name of public health and safety. For example, the annual Gilroy, CA parade was canceled last year; as their local newspaper puts it, "A holiday like Memorial Day should be a day to bring us together. Unfortunately, we can't safely gather together yet."

Now as Memorial Day 2022 fast approaches, three major cities are hosting parades to remember those who have served. Let's take a look at some of the most popular events happening this year:

• Chicago's Memorial Day Parade
• New York City's Memorial Day Parades – Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan
• National Memorial Day Parade – Washington, D.C.

Visit the birthplace of Memorial Day

While there are many local events that memorialize those who have lost their lives in defense of the country, it may be worth it to take a family vacation to the birth of Memorial Day. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson announced Waterloo, N.Y to be the birthplace of the holiday. The true origin of Memorial Day is debatable, with some arguing that the first true day of memory was 100 years earlier.

Waterloo itself claims that May 5, 1866, was the first day that businesses closed and the fall soldiers recognized with flags flying at half-mast. Not everyone agrees that this was the real first day, but the truth is that Americans have been honoring those who were lost protecting our freedoms.

Regardless, visiting some key sites can be a great way to learn more about the past and honor the fallen soldiers. You can visit other historic landmarks along the way to Waterloo, like Arlington National Cemetery. If you arrive at Waterloo, consider attending some of the Memorial Day events that the town holds.

Wreath Laying Ceremonies and Local Events

If traveling is not on your agenda, you can still participate in local events or even create your own! Many Veteran cemeteries encourage volunteers to help spring clean the area, or lay wreaths and flowers during the weekend of Memorial Day. Call your local town office to find out if there are any organized events your family might be able to lend a hand to. Or ask for permission to help lay flags or flowers where needed.

If your family is planning to attend a local ceremony or event, ask if they need last minute volunteer help. With responsibilities such as helping to place the flags, coordinating volunteers or attendees, and passing out supplies, the gift of helping is the ultimate thank you!

No matter how you choose to celebrate this weekend, stop and find a few moments to honor and thank those who sacrificed their lives to protect the United States of America and keep our great nation safe.

May is a month of celebrating first responders. The week of the 15 through the 21 is National Police Week as well as National EMS week. Here, we will go into detail about how to honor the first responders who spend their lives protecting and defending American citizens. National Police and EMS Week is a great chance to show your appreciation and support for every first responder, but especially those who are in the police force and in the emergency medical services.

National Police Week

National Police Week, as detailed by the organizers,  "offers honor, remembrance, and peer support, while allowing law enforcement, survivors, and citizens to gather and pay homage to those who gave their lives in the line of duty." There are many events lined up in Washington DC that aim to offer support and a way for survivors to gather together with a common understanding. Here is the schedule as defined by the official website (note that some dates have passed):

• Annual Blue Mass: Tuesday, May 3
• Washington Area Law Enforcement Memorial Service: Monday, May 9
• National Police K-9 Memorial Service: Wednesday, May 11
• Police Unity Tour Arrival Ceremony: Thursday, May 12
• Annual Candlelight Vigil: Friday, May 13
• National Police Survivors Conference and C.O.P.S. Kids/Teens: Saturday, May 14
• Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service: Sunday, May 15

May 15 has been dedicated to memorializing police officers since 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation to make it so. Now, the entire week is devoted to honoring the police force and many officers make the journey to Washington, DC to participate in the festivities. According to policeweek.org, there are between 25,000 to 40,000 attendees each year.

National EMS Week

May 15-21, 2022, is the 47th annual National EMS Week. It is a time for people to recognize EMS personnel and for those who have lost people to the profession to connect with each other. National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) partners with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) to lead annual EMS Week activities. They have created a theme for every day of the week to enhance awareness and promote safety.

• Sunday – Health, Wellness and Resilience Day
• Monday – EMS Education Day
• Tuesday – Safety Tuesday
• Wednesday – EMS for Children Day
• Thursday – Save-A-Life Day (CPR & Stop the Bleed)
• Friday – EMS Recognition Day

Schools and community groups can use these themes as ideas to celebrate EMS Week. This year, the overall theme is "Rising to the challenge." According to the President of the American
College of Emergency Physicians Gillian Schmitz, "The theme of 'Rising to the Challenge' is particularly meaningful as it reminds our nation that EMS professionals are faced with so many challenges today and they still rise above them. Through it all, EMS continues to respond, support and care for the needs of our communities."

Use this week to thank those who work or have worked on the medical front line. These are people who go to work every day and may find themselves in potentially life-threatening situations, all in the name of serving their communities.

The week of May 15 is to honor and celebrate first responders by participating in the activities surrounding the notable days.

It is almost summertime, which means camping, barbecues, and best of all, summer camps for the kids. When someone in the family is in the military, their children have the opportunity to attend fun camps at discounted prices for all the same joy. Let's take a look at some of the most popular summer camps for military kids and where they are located.

What are military-based kids camps?

Military kids camps are places for children of military members to go for the summer to have a fun experience, though the attractions change from camp to camp. Many of the camps that we will discuss are targeted specifically at kids who have family in the armed forces. These camps are supposed to be fun, engaging and built for kids to learn something new and meet friends. The following camps have different age groups that the attendees are divided into. Here are a few of the best and most popular military-based kids camps.

Operation Purple Camp

This camp came from the National Military Family Association and was created to "stand up for, support, and enhance the quality of life for every military family through bold advocacy, innovative programming, and dynamic and responsive solutions." Operation Purple Camp is a place where military kids can go for a free week of fun. Children from all branches and statuses are welcome, including the National Guard, Reserve, Space Force, the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United States Public Health Service.

The camp has been providing this service since 2004 and has served 3,535 military kids virtually since the start of the pandemic. Just like most summer camps, children participate in arts and crafts and outdoor activities, all supervised by trained counselors and camp staff. The organizers chose the name Operation Purple because purple is the color that results from Army green, Coast Guard blue, Air Force blue, Marine Corps red, and Navy blue.

ASYMCA Camps

The Armed Services YMCA offers summer camps with military children in mind. And because it is a service of the YMCA, it is available across the country. The camp is structured to address the unique challenges of military life. Some of these struggles can include isolation, frequent moving, separation and food insecurity.

ASYMCA camps are educational and exciting, offering day and residential options to encourage healthy living and recreation. There are the typical summer camp activities but there is also a focus on meaningful connections, something that military children often struggle with due to their lifestyle.

Military teen adventure camps

Because of their funding and high participation rate, these military teen adventure camps are available coast to coast. As the name suggests, they bring military teens on incredible adventures, including rafting, hiking, camping and other engaging outdoor activities. Military teens have the opportunity to participate at little to no cost. Because there are national locations, each camp is tailored to the outdoor option available in that area.

Military teen adventure camps are hosted by The Department of Defense and the Office of Military Community and Family Policy. Search for camps based on date and location, and you are sure to find something to suit your particular adventuring fancy!

Military kids can have a rough time making friends and keeping them, but these camps can offer a way to make genuine friendships and connections. All while having fun along the way!

May 4 is International Firefighters Day and a great opportunity to commemorate these first responders for all that they do for their communities. Let's take the time to dive a little deeper into what international firefighters' day is all about and how we can participate in our own ways.

How did International Firefighters Day begin?

International Firefighters Day began in the most humble of ways. Created by the Australian volunteer firefighter JJ Edmondson, the day of remembrance was established after a singular event that prompted her to take action.

On December 2, 1998, a wildfire was raging in Linton, Australia, a town about 93 miles west of Melbourne. The local crew was overwhelmed with the size of the fire and called for backup. One of the teams that came to assist was Geelong West Fire Brigade. Among them were Garry Vredeveldt, Chris Evans, Stuart Davidson, Jason Thomas, and Matthew Armstrong, who lost their lives fighting when their tanker caught fire.

The loss of these five brave men inspired Edmondson "to organize an internationally recognized symbol of support and respect for ALL firefighters and a date for which this could be coordinated worldwide" in 1999.

May 4 was chosen for a specific reason. It is the feast day of St Florian, who is the patron saint of all firefighters. He was the first firefighter of the Roman Empire, renowned for his bravery in his position.

How to recognize International Firefighters Day

The entire purpose of International Firefighters Day is to recognize all the brave individuals who serve their communities. As JJ Edmondson so eloquently puts it,

"The role of a firefighter in today's society – be it urban, rural, natural environment, volunteer, career, industrial, defense force, aviation, motorsport, or other is one of dedication, commitment and sacrifice – no matter what country we reside and work in. In the fire service, we fight together against one common enemy – fire – no matter what country we come from, what uniform we wear or what language we speak."

There are many different ways to celebrate the day, even if it's as simple as thanking a local firefighter.

The sound off

The official website for International Firefighters Day encourages first responders to sound off their sirens for 30 seconds in memory of firefighters who have been lost in the line of duty. The sirens are followed by one minute of silence in respect.

Wear blue and red

It is popular to wear blue and red on May 4 to showcase solidarity with all emergency responders, but especially firefighters. Displaying blue and red ribbons shows gratitude for those who have passed and responders who are still fighting vigilantly to this day. Ensure that the blue ribbon is covering the red one; symbolizing water over fire.

Show appreciation

The general public can celebrate the day by thanking their local fire department for all they do. You can do this by verbally expressing your gratitude or by donating to help support them in their efforts to protect the community. Another great way to show your respect is to be mindful of your actions outdoors by trying your best throughout the year to not contribute to the already high fire hazard that the world faces.

This May 4, take a moment to stop at noon local time for a minute of silence. Firefighters are continuously and bravely protecting us from the danger of fire.

May is stroke awareness month, and we are taking a look into how strokes impact the military veterans of America. Regardless of age, many veterans are at a heightened risk for stroke and the impacts that come with it. When it comes to U.S. Veterans, about 15,000 of them suffer a stroke each year as a result of their service to the country. Let's go into further detail about why this is and other important resources related to stroke awareness.

How PTSD is connected with stokes

Multiple studies have found that PTSD is intrinsically linked with a person's risk of stroke. According to Reuters, one study found that "veterans with PTSD were 61% more likely than others to have a mini-stroke and 36% more likely to have a stroke." The study primarily focused on those who were a part of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars and who had no previous history of stroke incidents. 

The research also showed that, while age can be a factor in determining an individual's risk, there is a link between PTSD and strokes in young or middle-aged people. Strokes occur when a blood flow to the brain is disrupted by a clot or a rupture. Because blood vessels carry oxygen and other nutrients, the cells begin to die when it is blocked from those parts of the brain.

So how does PTSD relate to that? Traumatic stress that is sustained over a long period of time, such as in combat situations, can impact the overall functionality of the brain. While not every study suggests the same thing, many of them come to similar conclusions as to why PTSD increases the risk of stroke:

• Increased hypercoagulability: Hypercoagulability is the increased tendency to form blood clots within a blood vessel.
• Damaged Catecholamine and glucocorticoid production: These are hormones that the brain produces like epinephrine and dopamine. When these hormones are impacted, these impacts can lead to a higher risk of stroke: increased blood pressure, heightened platelet aggregation, vasoconstriction, cardiac arrhythmias, elevated heart rate and increased cardiac output.

Stroke awareness

PTSD is not the only reason why veterans are likely to be the victim of a stroke. Conditions such as brain damage received from active duty can also be contributing factors. The American Heart Association has found that "those who had a head injury were 69% more likely to have a stroke," even over the long term.  

Understanding that veterans are at a higher risk for stroke than their civilian counterparts can help increase awareness of the potential dangers. Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability across America, and awareness is just one piece of the puzzle and in creating prevention.

Stroke prevention

Aside from encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, there are a few things that a person can do in order to mitigate the damages of a stroke incident. There is even a helpful acronym that can help with stroke recognition and awareness:

• Face: A drooping side of the face is a key sign of a potential stroke.
• Arms: When both arms are raised above the head, does one fall lower than the other?
• Speech: Slurred speech is a red flag and a characteristic symptom of a stroke.
• Time: If you suspect a sign of stroke, call 9-1-1 right away because time is critical.

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs reports that about 6,000 Veterans per year are admitted to VA facilities with a stroke. If you are someone you know is at risk for a stroke, take the time to consult your physician and create a plan of prevention.

First responders lay their lives on the line to protect their communities and they are a true example of the kind of bravery that our nation benefits from. There are many different ways Americans show their appreciation and support for first responders, from parades and discounts to remembrance gardens.

With spring around the corner, the gardens are blooming and in prime condition for everyone to attend and appreciate. These locations serve as a tribute to those who were lost in the line of duty. The gardens can last hundreds of years if maintained well, and can also serve as a place for survivors to heal and others to spend a nice day. Let's take a look at some of our nation's first responder remembrance gardens.

Georgetown Community Hospital

The town of Georgetown, Kentucky recently unveiled a new garden commemorating first responders. In March 2022, the community gathered to show their support of the First Responders Memorial Garden. The garden came to fruition thanks to a partnership between the hospital and several other groups in the community. It has 5,000 daffodils that the team came together to plant in remembrance of local police, fire, EMS, and others who respond first to community emergencies.

"What a beautiful way to honor the first responders of our community," Georgetown Mayor Tom Prather told LEX18. "I know a lot of hard work went into this project, and I want to thank everyone who worked so hard to make this happen."

Garden of Honor

The Garden of Honor began as a project by an Eagle Scout, Hayes Lang, in Farmville, VA. His project aimed at memorializing first responders and veterans. With the help of other Eagle Scout members, the cemetery and community businesses, the Garden of Honor opened on June 14 of last year, after three years of preparation. Among the garden's plants are bronze sculptures of a fire helmet and police cap, which are true to size. Now, the area is not only a pleasant way to spend time outdoors but also reminds visitors of the service that first responders offer our country.

Memorial Garden in NY

When you think about remembrance gardens, New York's Memorial Garden probably comes to mind because it is one of the most famous examples. The garden commemorates those first responders and Port Authority employees who made extreme sacrifices during the terrible events of 9/11. The plaque that sits in the memorial garden reads "On the 20th anniversary of September 11, we dedicate this memorial garden in remembrance of the heroic first responders and rescue and recovery workers of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey."

With hundreds of visitors every day, the garden serves as a reminder to tourists and locals alike of the sacrifices made. This is a perfect example of what a remembrance garden should provide to the community.

Take part

Many of these gardens are always looking for volunteers to help take care of the garden by sweeping the walkways, weeding around the plants or helping plant any new contributions. For example, the 9/11 Reflection Garden has plenty of volunteer opportunities for people who live near the location.  Most locations also welcome flowers, plants or other arrangements to adorn the area. Even if you aren't sure if you know how to create a memorial garden yourself, taking the time to visit the garden this spring and summer is a way to pay tribute.

Friday, April 22 is Earth Day. This year, the U.S. Army is taking part in a more integrated way than ever with its new initiative to "sustain the mission, secure the future to meet and defeat climate challenges," according to the U.S. Army Environmental Command.

Let's take a moment to dive into the project a little more in-depth.

The Pentagon and climate change

When it comes to the Pentagon and the climate crisis, the department has a history of keeping an eye on environmental concerns. However, based on new information and at the recommendation of scientific data, worries about climate change have only increased. According to the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is expected to warm by 3.2C (or 37.76F) this century.

Global warming is only one of the major climate concerns. The U.S. government is also worried about rising sea levels, carbon emissions and habitat destruction. The Pentagon itself has taken steps to create a new strategy regarding the climate issue by introducing the U.S. Army's first climate change strategy.

For example, climate-related issues can lead to conflict, which is where the Pentagon's interests are peaked. From dwindling resources to water wars, the environmental changes have a severe impact on the United State's defense policies.

As a massive contributor to the federal government's carbon footprint, The Army is taking accountability and leading by example to lower its environmental impact — currently, the department produces about 56% of the federal government's carbon footprint and 52% of its electricity use, according to the Washington Post.

A new strategy

In its first strategic plan released in February of 2022, the Army outlined its response to global-warming-driven conflicts. In its climate strategy, it hopes to cut back on its own negative impact on the earth. Here are a few of its goals:

• Cut back on the military's emissions by half in eight years (2030).
• Convert all noncombat vehicles to electric by 2035.
• Develop electric combat vehicles by 2050.
• A new kind of officer training for the changing climate, dealing with warmer and more extreme environments.

These may seem like ambitious goals, but the hope is that the Army can be more efficient and move into the future with the tools to mitigate the damage and prevent further issues. But it is not only about the future, it is imperative to take action now.

According to Christine E. Wormuth, who is the Secretary of the Army, "For today's Soldiers operating in extreme temperature environments, fighting wildfires, and supporting hurricane recovery, climate change isn't a distant future, it is a reality."

While these goals may seem out of the Army's regular line of work, Paul Farnan, the acting assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment made it clear that the new strategy is actually aiding its main mission of fighting and winning wars. Now, these two issues have become intrinsically linked.

Earth Day is another opportunity for the U.S. Army to prove its commitment to sustain the mission, and secure the future to meet and defeat climate challenges. To learn more about the Defense Department's activities on Earth Day, take a look at the partnership for the planet.