On Oct. 24, the VA in Prescott, Arizona will host the 2nd annual Veterans Olympic Day. Servicemembers and veterans from every branch are invited to bring their families and participate in a day of sporting competition. This year's event will be sponsored by the Arnold Air Society at Embry-Riddle University, the Marine Corps League and the local VA.
According to The Daily Courier, the main events of the day will be held at Northern Arizona Veteran Affairs Health Care System's sporting venues. The competition categories include dodgeball, basketball, pickleball and cornhole. Aside from the sports, there will be music, free food and other activities for those in attendance to enjoy.
This is a great way for veterans and current military personnel to let loose for a day and enjoy themselves. It is also an excellent opportunity for servicemembers to meet and influence some of the ROTC students at Embry-Riddle University.
"This is the second year we are hosting this event and our veterans really seemed to enjoy the sports and activities," Dr. M. Keith Piatt, the VA's chief of staff, told The Daily Courier.
The 2015 Veterans Olympic Day will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is required.
On Sept. 29, the negotiators in the House and the Senate reached an agreement and approved a $612 billion defense authorization bill that will take effect on the fiscal start of 2016. According to Military Times, along with this budget increase comes a pay "raise for service members, trims to some military benefits and a dramatic overhaul of the military retirement system."
The representatives agreed that servicemembers would see a 1.3 percent increase in their salary in 2016. While many were hoping for a larger increase, President Obama defended that number, saying that it was part of keeping the national spending under control.
"As our country continues to recover from serious economic conditions affecting the general welfare … we must maintain efforts to keep our nation on a sustainable fiscal course," he wrote in an address to Congress in August. "This effort requires tough choices, especially in light of budget constraints."
The other parts of the bill, the trimming of military benefits and the military retirement overhaul, have also been major points of focus. Military Times wrote that 83 percent of retired military servicemembers have no benefits, but the plan hopes to correct this.
The bill will be sent to Obama for finalization in December, but most experts expect that it will pass without much contention.
According to TimeandDate.com, there are nearly 2,000 veterans from the Vietnam War alone still listed as missing or unaccounted for. The U.S. Defense Department created POW/MIA Recognition Day on July 18, 1979, as a way to honor these missing heroes and servicemembers unaccounted for from other wars. Sept. 18 marked the 36th annual POW/MIA Recognition Day, and cities across the nation acknowledged the event in their own ways.
The Knoxville Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America in Knoxville, Tennessee, held a prayer service. They also invited veterans and the families of servicemembers to a meal. Local8Now.com reported that the meal was served at a round table with one empty seat with an upside down glass in its place setting. This glass was meant to symbolize the inability of POWs and MIA servicemembers to toast with their families.
"They haven't come home yet. Those are the [families] that don't have closure yet. They're still wondering, 'Are they alive? Are they held captive some place? Where are they,'" William Koprince, an event coordinator, told Local8Now.com.
However, the Knoxville gathering gave POW/MIA families a chance to support one another and receive words of kindness from other servicemembers.
Though military children may face more difficulties than their peers, they also have opportunities that other children their age may not. Military children are exposed to a different lifestyle than others and learn important life lessons at a young age. Take a look at some of the qualities military children glean from their experiences.
1. Cultural awareness
Some children of servicemembers have the opportunity to spend chunks of their lives in foreign countries where their parents are stationed. This time abroad can introduce military children to cultures different from their own. It can also be a chance for them to learn different languages. Later in life, military children who have been exposed to a variety of cultures and languages may have greater cultural sensitivity and global understanding.
2. Adaptability
The unpredictability of military life means that military children have to learn to adapt quickly. This can mean being prepared to change schools, move cities or countries, or say goodbye to a parent as he or she is deployed. Children of servicemembers will have excellent adaptation skills later in life.
3. Easily make friends
Children of servicemembers who get transferred frequently must get used to saying farewell to old friends. While they leave many playmates behind, military children often learn how to make friends quickly in a new environment. This can lead them to develop excellent conversation skills and a charismatic disposition. The ability to be amicable and approachable in unfamiliar environments will be useful in their future careers.
4. Self-reliance
When a servicemember is deployed, his or her children often have to assume part of the responsibility and help the remaining parent with housework and other things. Military children learn that something will not get done unless they take the initiative to do it. They also grow up around some of the best role models and may pick up on some of the self-motivating qualities that drive soldiers to serve.
5. Respect
If military children learn nothing else, they will learn respect. It may come in the form of deeply ingrained patriotism or from being made to keep their rooms immaculate. Wherever they pick up on respect, it will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Military children understand hierarchy and know that to move up you must put in the effort.
So, while children of servicemembers may have a more difficult and unconventional childhood compared to their peers, the skills they learn far outweigh the inconveniences.
With classes beginning just around the corner, it is time to start preparing for the new school year. As a military family, there is a chance you moved and your children will be starting the new year in an unfamiliar school. AFBA has compiled some ways you can help them adjust to their new educational environment.
Prepare a routine
Most children thrive on some level of predictability. Before the school year begins, establish a route to the bus stop or school and walk it several times to familiarize them with it. This may help eliminate some of the stress they may experience during their first day. It is also a good idea to get into the practice of getting them to sleep and waking them up like they would on a school day a week or more before the year begins to give them adequate time to adjust.
Orientation is a great resource
If your children's new school holds orientation, you should make a point to attend. This event is an excellent opportunity for your kids to meet the staff of their new school as well as their teachers and some of their classmates. By interacting with these individuals in a more individualized setting, they can connect with them before the hectic first day. It also allows your children to explore the hallways of their new environment and get a visual as to what their school days might look like.
Try to get involved
You are a busy person, but if you can find the time to get involved as a classroom parent or bus monitor, you may help your kids adjust easier. They can look forward to seeing you at some point in the day, and this knowledge may relax them enough to help them find their niche in the new school.
Get to know people in the neighborhood
Make an effort to get to know other families in your neighborhood. Some of the children may be attending the same school as your children, and they might even end up in the same class. By giving your kids a chance to get to know neighbors ahead of time, you may set them up to have friends before their first day. It will also give you peace of mind in knowing that your children will be waiting at the bus stop or walking to school with other kids.
Be ready to listen
During the first couple of weeks, be open to listening to your children's thoughts and opinions regarding their new school. Though you may be tempted to encourage them toward a positive opinion, allow them a few complaints. You can work out a solution for these feelings together after they have settled in. If your children seem to be adapting to the new school without problems, talk with them about their favorite things and inquire about new friendships.
Though transferring schools is difficult for children, it does not have to be a completely miserable experience for them. There are steps you can take to help make the adjustment a little easier and less intimidating. Just remember to remain sensitive to the emotions your children may experience during this transitional phase in their lives.
AFBA has written articles on care package ideas for military families to send their servicemembers. These lists include items like activities for down time and special foods from home. However, there are some items that are simply not a good idea to send to your soldier. There are also military and United States Postal Service restrictions on some items. Take a look at some things you should leave out of your servicemember's next care package.
Carbonated beverages
These are mainly restricted because they may explode in transit and cause a mess for the carrier. It is likely that your servicemember will have access to his or her favorite carbonated beverage anyway, so prevent your package from being rejected and leave this item out.
Aerosol cans
Disinfectants and body sprays that come in aerosol cans are prohibited items. These are more items that could potentially explode during shipment and destroy other packages. Do not include any aerosol cans in your servicemember's care packages.
Firearms and ammunition
Servicemembers have a government-issued weapon and ammunition. Even if they request their personal firearm or special ammunition, these items are strictly off-limits in care packages. Do not risk legal trouble for you or your servicemember by including one of these in a care package. Let your loved one know that you will look after their prized possession until their return.
Alcohol
This is often considered an "unauthorized substance" in combat zones. While your servicemember may request it, it is not a good idea to send alcohol in care packages. It could explode in shipment and ruin the rest of the items you sent, and your servicemember could face trouble if it is discovered.
Adult entertainment
Most military establishments do not allow servicemembers to receive items or media related to adult entertainment. It is seen as inappropriate and causes a distraction. It is best to exclude these items from your servicemember's care packages.
Fruit
Because fruits rot so quickly and to avoid violating cross-border agricultural policies, fruit is not allowed in military care packages. Your servicemember will likely have access to local fruit or canned fruit in military rations anyway. Skip the fruit in your next care package.
Live plants
It can be tempting to send your loved ones items that will make their deployment a little cozier. However, live plants are another prohibited item, as they can violate the same agricultural laws as fruits. Send home videos, pictures and other decorative items in place of live plants.
Whenever you begin a care package for your servicemember, you begin with good intentions. You want every item to make him or her more comfortable and boost his or her morale. However, even a well-meant item that is prohibited could cause unnecessary stress for you and your loved one. Be sure you are familiar with what he or she is allowed to have by checking with your local military support group and the USPS. MarineParents.com has also developed a database of prohibited items based on region. Check it out here.
September is a busy month. Kids are going back to school and the adults begin to prepare for the changing of seasons. There are also a number of veteran-centered events nationwide that occur in September. If you are looking for a patriotic weekend outing with the family or to get a jump start on your career search, check out the events below.
Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Display
Through the entire month of September, the Robert Rankin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Livingston, Texas, will have a display commemorating the veterans who served during the Vietnam War, especially the women who were involved in the war.
New York Mets Annual Military Appreciation Day
Every year, the New York Mets welcome active duty military personnel and veterans to a game. This year's event, which took place on Sept. 2, marked the 9th annual Military Appreciation Day at Citi Field. Servicemembers were lined up on the safety track and cheered before the Mets went up against the Philadelphia Phillies. There were also thank you videos and a displaying of the colors.
Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans
On Sept. 5, the VFW Post 894 in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, hosted a ceremony for veterans of the Vietnam War. The goalwas to gather as many Vietnam-era veterans as possible for commemoration and bonding. There were activities, food and all donations made during the event went to the Service Dogs for Service Vets organization.
Labor Day Salute
The Chattanooga Area Veterans Council hosted a salute to Vietnam veterans during the Lions Club Labor Day Salute in Signal Mountain, Tennessee. The event took place on Sept. 7 and featured a BBQ picnic, live music and a dedication to those who served in the Vietnam War.
Veterans job fairs
There are a variety of organizations dedicated to helping veterans find jobs when they enter life after service. Many of these organizations hold job fairs around the country to assist veterans with networking and resume building. Click here to find a veterans job fair in your area.
Nationwide Women Veterans Campaign
The Center for Women Veterans in Minneapolis, Minnesota, will host this event on Sept. 14 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m CST. There will be displays and speakers all with the purpose of celebrating female servicemembers and their history. There will also be experts on site to answer any post-service related questions.
The Patriot Tour
Hosted by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library, the Patriot Tour brings veterans and servicemembers together for healing and reflection. The event will take place on Sept. 18 from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Simi Valley, California, location. Speakers include Marcus Luttrell, author of "Lone Survivor," musician Pete Scobell and many other veterans.
As the summer winds down, things begin to pick up for most people. This is especially true for former servicemembers who have the option to attend many veteran-based events across the country during September.
For the fourth year in a row, the city of Lamar, Colorado, will host the Tri-State 9/11 Tribute. The three-day event is a celebration of veterans and first responders and a time to remember those who lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This year's tribute is scheduled to begin on Sept. 11 at 7:30 a.m. with a flag raising ceremony at the local library. Other activities during the event include a parade, presentations from veterans and much more.
According to 911families.org, live bands will play on Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. The next morning, the festivities will begin with a parade that will end at the fairgrounds. The Pueblo Chieftain reported that the previous year's parade lasted for an hour and was so large that the Colorado Department of Transportation asked the event leaders to move it from Main Street to the state highway. There, firefighters, veterans, active duty military personnel, police officers and other first responders are invited to enjoy a free barbecue. At 1:00 p.m., there will be a flag retiring ceremony before the 9/11 Memorial ceremony begins an hour later.
The events will conclude with a patriotic concert on the evening of Sept. 13.
At the end of a tough day, the best thing to do is leave the job behind and unwind. Taking at least a half-hour to decompress and release stress can help you reset for the next day. According to The Huffington Post, it can also prevent you from developing heart disease, improve your immunity and may help prevent depression. There are plenty of ways for military servicemembers and first responders to relax at the end of the day, and one of the most effective methods is listening to music. Below are 10 songs to help you shake off the stress of the day.
1. 'Sunday Morning' by Maroon 5
This soothing ballad will have you swaying as you kick back on the couch. No matter what day of the week it is, Maroon 5's 2004 hit makes it feel as relaxing as Sunday morning.
2. 'Wake Me Up' by Aloe Blacc
It does not matter if you prefer the acoustic version or the remix. This song's folksy feel will calm you down in no time.
3. 'Free Fallin'' by Tom Petty
Listening to Tom Petty is always a good decision, but cranking this song in your car during rush hour after a long day can be the perfect remedy for work-related stress. The easygoing beat and guitar strumming accompanied by Petty's cry that he's free will release you from whatever negative emotions have followed you from work.
4. 'Ho Hey' by The Lumineers
This tinny-sounding alt song has a calming effect almost as soon as the first lines are sung. The best part is that The Lumineers have made it so that it sounds fresh every time you listen. You can return to "Ho Hey" as often as you like without tiring of it.
5. 'Brown Eyed Girl' by Van Morrison
Van Morrison topped the charts with this tropical-sounding ditty back in 1967, but the song's effect has never changed. It is hard not to slip into a chilled-out mindset when you sing, "Sha la la la."
6. 'Island in the Sun' by Weezer
When the first kicks of the drum begin, you know you are about to drift away to Weezer's beachy hit. The relaxing tempo and lulling bass guitar will have you mentally sailing away to your own stress-free island in the sun.
7. 'Tiny Dancer' by Elton John
When John plays the piano, it is like a signal to the brain to shut up and listen. Turn on "Tiny Dancer" when you want to be whisked away by charming melodies and soothing piano riffs.
8. 'Knee Deep' by Zac Brown Band
This is another island escape song, but Zac Brown Band adds a little country charm. After a few moments listening to this song, you will conjure up calming images of floating worry-free on the ocean.
9. 'Let It Be' by The Beatles
For days when nothing seems to go your way, The Beatles are there for you with this unforgettable song. The almost spiritual-sounding organ and Paul McCartney's soulful voice will absolve you of your troubles. After all, if there is nothing you can do about a bad day, it is best just to let it be and move on.
10. 'Landslide' by Fleetwood Mac
Stevie Nicks' hauntingly beautiful voice is enough to steal your cares away, but the lyrics of "Landslide" speak to the most human parts of us. This song is perfect for self-reflection and meditation. The violins in the song will soothe you as the softly strumming guitar robs you of your worries.
While there are many activities great for relaxing after a tough day on the job, there is just something about kicking back with your favorite songs that takes away all your troubles. The songs above are just a few of the most relaxing songs available. The next time you have a stressful day, consider turning some of them on to see if they soothe you.
Thanks to a new law, veterans who use their G.I. Bill benefits to attend college will be given in-state tuition rates at any public university in the country. According to The Shreveport Times, many veterans avoid returning to school when they enter life after service because they cannot afford out-of-state tuition. The Post 9/11 G.I. Bill only covers up to $20,000 of a veteran's higher education costs. The College Board reported that the average cost of out-of-state tuition at a four-year public institution is about $23,000 per year. The average cost for in-state at the same institution was only slightly over $9,000 per year.
The Veterans' Access to Care through Choice, Accountability, and Transparency Act of 2014, which officially became a law on Aug. 7, 2015, requires public universities to offer veterans in-state rates no matter which state they hold residency in.
Jason Hansman of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America told The Shreveport Times that the new law is a win-win for states and veterans.
"[This law] will benefit both states, by allowing them to retain new veteran residents who end their period of active service and decide to remain local, and veterans, who will no longer face financial constraints in attending the public school of their choice," Hansman said.