Remembering Pearl Harbor: Strength Born From Sacrifice

 

Remembering Pearl Harbor: Strength Born From Sacrifice

On the quiet Sunday morning of December 7, 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor shocked a nation that had hoped to remain at peace. In just a few hours, lives were lost, ships were burning, and the world was changed forever. Yet from the ashes of that devastation rose something far stronger than any enemy assault—courage, unity, and an unbreakable American spirit.

USS Arizona

The men and women who faced the attack that day were ordinary Americans placed in extraordinary circumstances. Sailors, Marines, soldiers, nurses, and civilians—many barely out of high school—responded with remarkable bravery. They fought flames, rescued their shipmates, returned fire, and tended to the wounded, often at great personal risk. Their actions remind us that heroism is not the absence of fear but the willingness to stand firm in the face of it.

The days and years that followed showed the world what America is made of. The nation did not crumble under pressure; it rallied. Citizens from every background joined together with a shared purpose. Factories roared to life. Communities supported one another. Service members stepped forward, determined that the events of that morning would not define the future—only strengthen the resolve to protect freedom.

For today’s veterans, Pearl Harbor stands as a symbol of the heritage they carry. The courage displayed in 1941 echoes in every generation of Americans who have raised their right hand and answered the call of duty. Whether serving overseas or on the home front, they inherit the same legacy of resilience and honor.

For all Americans, Pearl Harbor reminds us not merely of a moment of darkness, but of the light that followed. It teaches us that while tragedy may strike without warning, our response—our unity, determination, and compassion—is what truly defines us as a people. It is a story of loss, yes, but also of hope, rebuilding, and rising stronger than before.

As we remember Pearl Harbor, we do more than look back—we look around. We see the freedoms we enjoy, the communities we cherish, and the future we continue to shape. And we honor those who served, those who sacrificed, and those who still carry the torch of courage today.

America’s story is not one of defeat, but of perseverance. From Pearl Harbor to the present day, the message remains the same: we are a nation that stands tall, stands together, and stands unbroken.

USS Virginia

6 Ways to Support Veterans and Military Families This Christmas

6 Ways to Support Veterans and Military Families This Christmas

The holiday season is a perfect time to show appreciation for veterans and active-duty service members. Many face loneliness, stress, or separation from loved ones during Christmas—but small gestures can make a big difference. Here are practical ways to help:

1. Send Care Packages or Letters
Brighten a service member’s holiday with snacks, hygiene items, or handwritten notes. Organizations like the USO and Operation Gratitude make it easy to participate.

2. Volunteer Locally
Help at veterans’ hospitals, nursing homes, or shelters. Decorating, serving meals, or simply spending time with veterans can bring holiday cheer.

3. Donate to Veteran Charities
Support organizations providing housing, medical care, or mental health services. Even small donations make a lasting impact.

4. Include Veterans in Holiday Events
Invite veterans to community meals, concerts, or gatherings. Social connection can combat isolation and make them feel valued.

5. Show Everyday Appreciation
Thank veterans you know, support military families, or shop at veteran-owned businesses. Simple gestures of recognition go a long way.

6. Help Military Families
Contribute to toy drives, gift cards, or holiday meals for families of deployed service members. Supporting them ensures the whole family feels the joy of the season.

This Christmas, let’s honor those who serve by spreading gratitude, connection, and care. Small actions can create meaningful holiday moments for veterans and military families.

How Much You Can Actually Save on Car Insurance as a Military Member

How Much You Can Actually Save on Car Insurance as a Military Member

If you’re in the military or retired from it, certain insurance companies offer discounts and premium reductions designed with you in mind. The savings can add up significantly — sometimes hundreds of dollars a year — especially if you combine the right discounts and coverage strategies. Below are some real-world examples and estimates based on recent data and analyses.

USAA
USAA is often regarded as the top choice for servicemembers and veterans because it exclusively serves the military community (active duty, reserves, retirees, spouses, dependents). NerdWallet

On average, full‑coverage car insurance from USAA costs about $1,670 per year (or $342 per year for liability-only coverage), before applying some of the military-specific discounts. NerdWallet For many military members, these discounts bring the cost significantly lower. USAA

Depending on your situation, the savings from USAA may include:

• Up to a 15% discount if your vehicle is garaged on a secure military base. USAA

• If you are deployed or otherwise storing the vehicle (e.g. long‑term storage when you’re not using it), you may get up to 60% off your premium while the vehicle is parked. USAA

• Additional reductions may come from multi‑vehicle policies, bundling auto with home/renters insurance, safe‑driver discounts, or programs that track safe driving. USAA

In practice, many USAA members report saving an average of about $725 per year compared with previous insurers. USAA

GEICO
GEICO is widely available (nationwide) and offers discounts for active duty, reservists, National Guard, retirees, and their families. GEICO

Some of the savings you might expect with GEICO:

• Up to a 15% discount on total premiums for eligible military members. GEICO

• If you are ordered to deploy and qualify under GEICO’s “Emergency Deployment Discount,” you may get additional savings — especially if your vehicle is stored under approved storage protection. GEICO

• Multi‑policy and multi‑vehicle discounts may also apply if you insure more than one vehicle or combine auto coverage with renters/homeowners insurance. RateSonic

To put this into perspective: one comparison lists the “average” annual full‑coverage premium from GEICO (for military members) at about $1,951 — after applying a typical 9% discount — though these numbers vary by state, driving history, and coverage level. Carinsurance.com

Other Insurers Worth Checking
While USAA and GEICO are the most consistently highlighted for military discounts, other companies sometimes offer discounts depending on state, coverage type, or specific policy terms:

• Some sources note that insurers like Farmers Insurance and Liberty Mutual may offer around a 10% discount for veterans or military — though the availability and size of that discount can vary widely depending on the insurer and your state. WalletHub

• In rare cases, policies like storage coverage (e.g. during a deployment) may dramatically lower premiums when your vehicle is not being used. Insurance Panda 

Putting It All Together: What You Could Actually Save

Suppose you were paying $2,000 per year for full coverage before military‑specific discounts. With a 15% military discount, that could reduce your premium by $300 — to about $1,700. If you qualify for a deployment or storage discount (e.g. 50–60%), and your vehicle is not being driven for some period, you might only pay $800–$1,000 for that period of time — a savings of $1,000 or more.

With USAA, many members across the U.S. have reported average annual savings of $700–$800 per year compared with previous non‑military insurance providers. USAA

If you bundle policies (auto + homeowners/renters), insure multiple vehicles, maintain a clean driving record, and take advantage of deployment or storage discounts, your savings could be even more significant.

Tips to Maximize Discounts and Savings

It helps to evaluate your situation honestly and update your insurer whenever circumstances change: for example, storing a vehicle while deployed, reducing coverage if you are driving less, bundling multiple policies, or combining multiple cars under one policy. Reach out directly to insurers and ask which discounts you qualify for — active duty, Reserve/National Guard status, deployment, multi‑vehicle, bundling, storage, etc. Because discount availability can vary widely by state and by insurer, it’s often worth requesting multiple quotes to compare.

Also keep in mind that cheap doesn’t always mean “best.” Look closely at coverage levels, deductibles, and benefits like emergency deployment coverage or storage options — especially if you frequently relocate, deploy, or store a vehicle for long periods.

Veteran’s Day Ideas: Small Gestures, Big Respect

  

Veteran’s Day Ideas: Small Gestures, Big Respect

Veteran’s Day is a meaningful opportunity to pause and acknowledge the courage, sacrifice, and service of the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. Honoring veterans doesn’t always require grand gestures or complicated plans. Sometimes the simplest acts, done with sincerity, carry the greatest weight. Here are ten thoughtful and accessible ways anyone can show appreciation on this special day.

One of the most heartfelt ways to honor veterans is by expressing gratitude directly. Whether face-to-face, through a handwritten note, or in a phone call, a genuine “thank you for your service” can mean more than you realize. Many veterans appreciate hearing that their sacrifices are seen and valued, especially from younger generations who benefit from the freedoms they protected.

Another meaningful act is to take a moment of silence. Pause at 11 a.m., the hour World War I ended, and reflect on the bravery of those who served. This quiet personal moment not only honors their memory but also restores a sense of connection to history and the values they defended.

Supporting veteran-owned businesses is another simple but powerful gesture. Choosing to buy from veterans shows respect for their post-service contributions and helps strengthen their livelihoods. It doesn’t require a major purchase—patronizing a local café, shop, or service owned by a veteran is a small act with real impact.

If you enjoy reading, spend time learning about veterans' experiences. Pick up a memoir, article, or historical piece that shares their journey. Understanding the emotional, physical, and personal challenges they faced deepens appreciation and fosters empathy. Sharing what you learned with others can spark awareness and gratitude beyond your own life.

You can also drop off a card or treat at a local VFW or veteran’s center. A small bag of baked goods or a thoughtful note brightens someone’s day in a personal way. This simple gesture reminds veterans that their community remembers them—not only in ceremonies, but in everyday kindness.

Another way to participate is by visiting a veterans’ memorial or cemetery. Leave a flower, say a prayer, or simply walk quietly. These visits honor those who served and those who never came home, anchoring us in remembrance and humility.

Wear a poppy or flag pin as a quiet symbol of respect. When someone asks about it, use that moment to talk about the meaning of the day, encouraging others to pause and reflect as well. Symbols speak loudly in a world that moves quickly.

Consider donating gently used clothing or items to organizations that directly help veterans and their families. A practical gift can bring comfort and relief to someone transitioning to civilian life or facing hardship. Giving from the heart uplifts both the giver and the receiver.

You can also share a supportive post or tribute online. While digital recognition isn't enough on its own, it can amplify gratitude and remind others to honor those who served. Highlight real stories, local heroes, or helpful veteran resources to make your message meaningful.

Finally, simply check in on a veteran you know. Ask how they’re doing, listen without judgment, and show appreciation for who they are—beyond their service. Sometimes the greatest honor we can offer is genuine human connection and presence.

None of these gestures are difficult or time-consuming, yet each holds the power to affirm dignity, gratitude, and remembrance. On Veteran’s Day, let us choose kindness, respect, and awareness. Our veterans gave a part of their lives for us; taking time to honor them is a privilege we should never take lightly.

Military REBOOT’s New Women-Only Course

A Path to Healing: Military REBOOT’s New Women-Only Course

Big Rapids, MI — On September 15, 2025, the Big Rapids community will launch a powerful new resource: the 12-week, women-only Military REBOOT trauma recovery course. This faith-based and peer-led program is designed for female veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families, offering a safe place to begin healing from trauma.

What Makes It Unique

Unlike traditional support groups, the program is peer-led by women with firsthand experience, ensuring an atmosphere of trust, confidentiality, and empathy. Organizers emphasize that “words don’t leave this area,” creating a safe environment where participants can process their journeys openly.

Military REBOOT has proven results nationwide. Participants often report stronger relationships, decreased reliance on medication, and lower rates of depression and suicide. The course is open not only to service members themselves but also to their spouses and families—recognizing that trauma affects everyone in the home.

Why It Matters

Women now make up the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. veteran population, yet they face unique challenges, including higher rates of PTSD. Programs like this one provide a much-needed space where women can process trauma in a supportive community tailored to their experiences.

By combining peer support with faith-based teaching, REBOOT addresses the mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of recovery. With over 25,000 graduates nationwide, it has helped thousands of service members and first responders rediscover purpose and resilience.

How to Join

Classes will meet weekly from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 430 N. Third Ave., Big Rapids. New participants are welcome through the third week of the course.

Anyone interested can register or learn more at RebootRecovery.com/join.

A Beacon of Hope

For many women in uniform, the path to recovery can feel lonely. This new REBOOT course is more than just a class—it’s a community, a place of trust, and a step toward renewed strength and peace.

Top 10 Military Related News Stories for This Week

 

Here are the top 10 military-related news stories from this week

---

1. Massive Russian missile and drone strike on Ukraine; Poland scrambles jets

Russia launched one of its largest attacks of the year on Ukraine—574 drones and 40 missiles targeted western regions, destroying a U.S.-owned factory and causing casualties. Poland scrambled jets in response.New York PostSky News

2. U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff forced into early retirement

General David Allvin will retire by November after being ousted by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, amid a sweeping purge of top military leaders under Trump’s administration.The Daily Beast

3. Russian “top sniper” exposed in compensation fraud scandal

Lieutenant Colonel Konstantin Frolov—once celebrated in Russian media—has been accused of faking battlefield wounds to claim £1.7 million in compensation, medals, and recognition.The Sun

4. U.S. and European military finalize Ukraine security options

Senior U.S. and European military officials have agreed on military options to guarantee Ukrainian security—these options are expected to be discussed among national security advisers.UNITED24 Media

5. Navy pilot rescued after $67 million fighter jet crash

A Navy pilot ejected safely from an F/A-18E Super Hornet that crashed into the ocean during a training exercise off the Virginia coast. The incident marks the sixth high-cost loss of a military jet this year.New York Post

6. U.S. Army launches advanced drone warfare operator course

The Army introduced its first official drone operator course at Fort Rucker to train soldiers in advanced drone tactics, flying systems, and 3D printing technologies.Task & Purpose

7. NATO “coalition of the willing” develops security framework for Ukraine

Top NATO and U.S. military leaders began formulating a security framework to guarantee Ukraine’s safety, while Russia criticized the talks and continues military aggression across Ukraine.The Guardian

8. North Korea’s senior military officers abruptly recalled from Russia

North Korea recalled top commanders from Russia’s Kursk region, signaling Russia’s growing confidence in its control of the region and potential easing of North Korea’s direct combat role.The Wall Street Journal

9. Trump revokes security clearances of 37 national security officials

The administration announced it would strip 37 current and former national security officials of their clearances—continuing a contentious tactic in U.S. politics.Military.com

10. Turkey and Syria coordinate to train new Syrian army

Military officials from Türkiye and Syria have begun preparations to train a new Syrian army under a bilateral agreement.Hürriyet Daily News

Do Veterans Make Good Teachers?

 

Veterans can indeed make excellent teachers for several reasons:

1. Discipline and Work Ethic: Military service instills discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic, qualities that are beneficial in any profession, including teaching.

2. Leadership Skills: Veterans often possess leadership experience, which can help them effectively manage classrooms and inspire students.

3. Diversity and Perspective: Veterans bring diverse life experiences and perspectives into the classroom, enriching the learning environment and providing students with valuable insights.

4. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Military service requires adaptability and the ability to solve problems in diverse and challenging situations, skills that are highly transferable to the classroom.

5. Service-Oriented Mindset: Many veterans are drawn to teaching because it allows them to continue serving their communities and making a positive impact on future generations.

If a veteran is interested in becoming a teacher, there are several steps they can take:

1. Education and Certification: Depending on the location, veterans may need to earn a bachelor's degree in education or a related field and obtain state certification to teach in public schools. Some states offer alternative certification routes that may be more accessible to veterans with non-traditional backgrounds.

2. Utilize Military Benefits: Veterans may be eligible for education benefits such as the GI Bill, which can help cover the costs of obtaining a degree or certification in education.

3. Networking and Resources: Veterans organizations, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) or the American Legion, may offer resources and support for veterans interested in pursuing careers in education. Additionally, networking with current teachers and education professionals can provide valuable insights and opportunities.

4. Consider Specialized Programs: Some programs and initiatives specifically aim to recruit veterans into teaching, offering additional support and resources tailored to their unique experiences and needs.

5. Gain Experience: Volunteer work or substitute teaching can provide valuable experience and help veterans determine if teaching is the right career path for them.

Overall, veterans bring a wealth of valuable skills and experiences to the teaching profession, and with dedication and preparation, they can make a meaningful impact in the lives of their students.

2019 Memorial Day Freebies and Deals for Veterans and Military

Saturday May 25, 2019, Ace Hardware is giving out free American Flags.

Here are the major chain restaurants giving away free and discounted food to veterans and military:

Applebee's
Chuck E Cheese
Outback Steakhouse
Hooters
Rubio's

Here are retailers giving discounts:

Eyemart Express
Food Lion
Goodyear
Omaha Steaks
Sherwin-Williams
Sleep Number
Walgreens

Retailers that give  discounts all the time:

(Call to ask about military and veteran discounts offered)
A.C. Moore
Advance Auto Parts
AT&T
Bass Pro Shops: 5% everyday military discount.
Big 5 Sporting
Cabela's
Foot Locker
General Motors
Home Depot
Home Town Buffet
Joann Stores
Kohl’s
Lowe’s
Michaels
O'Reilly Auto
Papa Murphy’s
Pep Boys
Aspen Dental

Veterans make great teacher. Find out how to be one!

All Veterans Can Shop Online at Military Exchanges

There is a brand new benefit starting up for all, yes, ALL, honorable discharged veterans. Starting November 11, 2017, they will all be eligible to shop online at military exchanges.

One huge benefit of this is that it is essentially tax-free shopping.

If they can offer free shipping and store-pickup, it could be a way to compete with amazon, and help our vets with a small, but generous perk.


However, you should also know that this is only online. If you are not now eligible to shop in person, you still cannot do that.

You can probably immediately verify your eligibility online at https://www.vetverify.org/ If you are a rather recent armed forces member, you might not be in that system yet.

There are four online exchanges you will be able to shop at:

https://www.mynavyexchange.com/

 http://www.mymcx.com/

https://shopcgx.com/

http://www.shopmyexchange.com/

We hope this little benefit will be useful and helpful to our veterans and their families.

How you can support the troops

Supporting the troops, honoring a veteran, is one of the most patriotic things you can do. Many people would love to just make each and every military service member feel like they are much appreciated. Of course it is impossible to thank everyone, but if you do a few things, you can spread love, support, and goodwill among our military members. Below are just simple few ways to show your appreciation for our troops and veterans. Make it a point to show your support for our troops!

 When you show patriotism, you show you care about our military personnel as well. Patriotism is perhaps the number one way you can show your appreciation for our men and women in uniform.

 Whenever I see an American flag on a house, business, or even a lapel pin, it makes me instantly think that the person doing that supports service members. So, if you can display the American Flag outside your house or business, or wear that lapel pin, do it.

 Purchase a whole bunch of small American flags, and put them on the graves of soldiers. When visiting a cemetery, find out what the rules are and when they mow the grass. Do your deed the day after so they stay up longer.

 Attend veteran's events like parades. Stand and cheer for the veterans who come by and are participating.

 Stand up and be reverent to the national anthem at sporting events.

 If you see a service member in their uniform, go up to them and thank them personally. But remember, a Thank You is never enough.

 Contact a local military base and ask them how you can show your appreciation to the men and women in uniform who are stationed there.

 Find a website that allows you to donate items and care packages to military personnel overseas.

 Ask your family and friends if they have any relatives in the military. You can honor them personally by writing them or sending them packages or gift cards.

 Do you own a business? Give a military discount and ADVERTISE it! Make it a decent discount that really counts! Get other members of your community to give discounts as well.

 Teachers, find out if any of your students have relatives in the military. Your class can adopt this soldier or sailor and write letters, send cards, and more. This can lead to a greater appreciation instilled in our young people for military service. Perhaps get them to visit your class!

 Visit a veteran's hospital and spread a little cheer to the sick and disabled veterans. Find out how you can volunteer and how you can help.

 Encourage young people who are wondering what do with their lives to consider the military. Not every job gets combat. The Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Coast Guard, Air Force are HUGE operations. They need personnel in every aspect, from desk jobs to health care, from build up, to tear down, from mechanics to pilots. The military IS an honorable career choice.

 Almost every town has a military recruiter. So, if your town does not have a military base, the recruiting office will have military personnel to meet, greet, and support. They may also know how you are able to help other military members. Find out if they have a meeting of new recruits before sending them off, and see if you can visit and tell them, "Thank You!"

>> Veterans make good teachers! 

President and US are just floundering militarily

The cuts in military at a time of increased terror awareness is just insane. How could we possibly cut bases in Europe? Shouldn't we be expanding?

Oh wait. The war on terror is over and we're going home. Safe and sound. Terrorists are on the run and...uh...no. Sorry. We seem to be completely clueless at terrorism.

Any wonder why we are floundering?

Just yesterday Eric Holder says Europe must do more....to detect terror. Aint that rich? Mr. Holder, how about us? Why are WE dropping the ball?

Not sending someone to Paris for the march was a huge mistake. But let's not pretend it was not on purpose. Sending a high level official like John Kerry would make it seem like..uh....we are agreeing that the terrorism threat is growing.

Our military and our terrorism fighting is just floundering. No other way to put it. Just today the twitter account of our military command was hacked by terrorist supporters.

Our  military is up to the task of protecting us...only if they are given the chance and the tools to do it.

But are they? Sadly, not at this time. Hopefully the Republican controlled congress can right the ship. President Obama needs to know that it was HIS policies that lost control of congress for his party. But he seems to be floundering....
 
Like making a big thing out of  "free" community college. Yeah.

Nothing is free including freedom.

We can't end without mentioning his motorcade in Phoenix going right by a VA hospital. And Obama not taking a few minutes to visit. Shame on you Mr. President. Never let our veterans get in the way of making a political speech.

On a side note, any feminist not standing with the 17 year old girl in Connecticut being forced to get cancer treatment is a hypocrite. Women (and girls) supposedly have complete control over their bodies, right?

>> Prepare for a disaster: Is a 2000 watt backup generator enough?

Help Veterans and United States Citizens First, Not Foreign Kids.

Obama vows to act on his own and rewrite whatever immigration law he chooses. He's got a phone and pen and he 's not afraid to use them. Well Mr. President, what about veterans?

Where was your phone and pen when it came to light about the mistreatment of our veterans at VA hospitals? Did anyone get fired? Did any law get changed? Did you make any executive actions? Um....no. Apparently our veterans are not worthy of your executive decisions.

But immigration and helping illegal children come here seems to be a higher priority. Then you chide the Republican led House about not passing immigration reform. Here's a newsflash: There are hundreds of bills passed by The House that are sitting on Harry-do-nothing-Reid. The same Reid who claimed that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was a White guy. But getting back to immigration.

Why would Republicans pass a comprehensive bill on immigration, only to see it go down the tubes after it becomes law? Mr. President, you don't have a good track record on enforcing duly passed laws. Your own party passed a HUGE comprehensive health care reform bill. And you signed it into law. It had specific items, specific dates, specific times. But how did you enforce that bill? You changed things, crossed stuff out, ignored that, delayed this. Nobody on earth can possibly keep track of how many times you changed that law! So Republicans somehow get a bill to your desk and you sign it. What assurance do they have that you will follow it? Not much.

But instead of using your pen and phone on foreign children coming here illegally, how about using your phone and pen, and demanding justice, service, respect, and great, fast healthcare to our veterans? Somehow your pen just won't leave your pocket. And that's a shame.

Just a side not on The Ukraine. What happened? Where's the outrage and demanding of justice? Can you imagine that a passenger jet with almost 300 passengers on board was shot down,....and not a thing is being done about it? In fact, it's old news! American influence? American ideals? Forget it. We are watching the rest of the world sink into an abyss.

Go RVing and stay safe this summer!

Nobody takes responsibility for VA or anything else.

The current administration in The White House seems to love giving lip service. Quips like, "Mad as hell," and other nonsense, just roll off the tongues of those in charge of the bureaucracies that make up our government. Billions of dollars spent on things like healthcare.gov, failures, and other misdeeds. Nobody is fired, fined, charged, or sent to prison.

The Veterans Administration should be different, don't you think? It's a bipartisan issue. Helping veterans. The very people that gave their all so these people in high-paid positions could keep taking taxpayer money. And what do they get? More lip service. No action. Just words that ring hollow. Nobody in this administration has been fired due to mismanagement.

We think the VA has committed crimes. People need to be fired, charged, fined, and sent to prison. But will it happen? Of course not. We have Shinseki 'mad as hell,' but not doing anything. He's using the president's favorite ploy. Let's wait. And see. Hope it goes away. Just another fake scandal.

Ever get the feeling that we have a fake president? Isn't it funny that the attorney general, Eric Holder, keeps giving directives and sticking his nose in places like immigration? Telling schools they better not check immigration status...and being very vocal. But with the VA, he's mute. Let's wait and see, he says. No need to get worked up, right? While they let loose convicted criminals instead of deporting them, you know where their heads are at. It's certainly not on American citizens like veterans.

And that is a shame.

Will somebody have the guts in this administration to start firing people? No. Why? Because that would be an admission of a scandal. And we have no scandals, right? Just fake ones. The VA hospital scandal will just be another fake one, swept under the rug.

Unless the American people will finally not stand it and declare they have had enough.

>> Get your child off the computer and outdoors!

Tips for Veterans Going to College

If you are a veteran or close to being discharged, and are planning to go to college right away, you need to start applying to college now. When you are admitted, make sure you ask about getting college credit for some of your military experience and schools. Find your DD-214 form. You also need to fill out a FAFSA. This will get you in on any other financial aid you may need. Ask the college's financial aid officer if they offer any scholarships for veterans.

And while we're at it, let's mention CLEP, The College Level Examination Program. These are tests that you can take to get college credit without taking the class. Find out which ones the college offers, and what ones you should be able to pass. Taking a test is cheaper than taking a class.

Your first stop on campus should be to the veterans office. Each college should have a person and office that deals directly with veterans. This is a valuable resource for you to use. They will have everything to help you get the benefits you are entitled to. This will be a one-stop for all forms. They should also set you up with an adviser who takes care of veterans specifically.

You are probably going to use your GI Bill benefits. There are quite a few programs available to veterans depending on service. Visit the GI Bill website for all details. But again, the veterans office at the college will also guide you.

If you are planning on staying in the dorm, make it known that you are a veteran. The college should put you with more adult students, or even veterans. It may not be a good situation if you are in the same dorm room as an 18 year old who is right out of high school.

Meet other veterans on campus. There may even be clubs or organizations for veterans. Network with them and certainly take advantage of the career services and placement assistance on campus.

>>Military Scholarships.

>>College Money Help.

New Grants and Scholarships for Veteran's Dependents.

There are numerous grants for dependents and survivors of veterans and service members.

Federal Pell Grants are given in full to dependents of veterans who died in Iraq or Afghanistan after 9-11. This means no matter what financial situation this student has, the will get the full amount, which at the moment is $5,550. Other students must meet other requirements. You need to fill out a FAFSA, and then let your college financial aid office know that you are under the special circumstances given to students whose parent died in Iraq or Afghanistan. There is no question or line on the FAFSA to get this grant in full. You cannot get a double Pell Grant. If you qualify anyway for it, you cannot get another using this eligibility.

There is also the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship. This extends the Post 9-11 GI Bill to children of fallen soldiers.

Public Law 111-32, the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship, amends the Post-9/11 GI Bill (chapter 33) to include the children of service members who die in the line of duty after September 10, 2001. The benefit is retroactively effective to August 1, 2009; the same day the Post-9/11 GI Bill took effect. Eligible children attending school may receive up to the highest public, in-state, undergraduate tuition and fees, plus a monthly living allowance and books and supplies stipend under this program.

Who is eligible: Children of an active duty member of the Armed Forces who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001, are eligible for this benefit. A child may be married or over 23 and still be eligible.

>College Money, Financial Aid, Student Loans, Consolidation, Scholarships.

>Military Scholarships

>VA Veterans Home Loans

Supreme Court: Cross can stay at veterans memorial

The Supreme Court has ruled that a cross put up as a memorial to WWI veterans can stay.

A federal court had earlier ruled that the cross had to come down due to religion. That argument does not hold water. Nothing religious about the cross or the memorial. This thing has stood for seventy plus years. Seventy years. Then suddenly someone does not like it and tries to take it down. Silly.

Besides, the congress had actually passed a law that transferred the land that the cross was on to private hands. No matter. When some people get a lawsuit in their minds, there's no stopping them.


The ruling was 5-4.

The cross was erected by the Veterans of Foreign Wars 75 years ago in the Mojave National Preserve.

One more stupid thing. The cross has been covered up with plywood so not to offend anybody until the ruling was over.

Justice Anthony Kennedy:
"Here one Latin cross in the desert evokes far more than religion. It evokes thousands of small crosses in foreign fields marking the graves of Americans who fell in battles, battles whose tragedies are compounded if the fallen are forgotten."

>VA Veterans Home Loans

>Teacher Resources, Teaching Articles, Teaching Tips.

>College Money, Financial Aid, Student Loans, Consolidation, Scholarships.

Walmart and other companies hiring veterans

Walmart has made a concerted effort to hire military veterans, especially junior officers . Bill Simon, 25 year Navy vet, chief operating officer of Walmart, came up with a program to recruit young officers with recent experience leading soldiers, sailors and marines into Iraq and Afghanistan. These veterans had world class leadership experience that would be perfect for leading employees.

Walmart hired 150 of these vets and trained them in retail. They re now expanding the program to every level of the company.

There are other companies that are military and veteran friendly. These include Home Depot, Lowes, State Farm, ATT, Merck, Bank of America, and of course Walmart. Others include Pepsico and GE.

Some of our best and brightest people serve in the military. It makes only sense that companies recognize the benefits that their experience brings is top notch.

We also need to do something about the unemployment rate of our returning enlisted men and women. We are pleased to know that more businesses are opening their arms to these people. They need and deserve it.

The military is unique in that it takes 18 to 20 something year olds and puts them in charge of various degrees of operations. Nothing beats that kind of leadership and experience. These veterans have proven they can work under pressure and excel.

Let's not forget that these young people are put in charge of multimillion dollar equipment and operations. All levels. They're lives depend on not making mistakes.

If you own a business, why not offer a job to an experienced leader, one who has been well groomed, can follow directions, and gets the job done no matter what?

Not every person joining the military will make it a career. Let's help them out and reward them with jobs.

>Military Scholarships

>Baby, New Mother, and Breastfeeding Resources

>Home Loans for Teachers

Quilts for Veterans

There is a group of women, (well mostly women) who donate their time and skill to make quilts for veterans. Their mission is to cover our wounded soldiers. Their name? Quilts of Valor Foundation www.qovf.org.

There are groups in various parts of the country. They collect names of servicemen to give a quilt to. They send quilts all over the world. Some soldiers even do special requests.

There are local chapters of various quilting clubs that donate quilts to this cause as well. One of them is in the Hemet area of Southern California, http://www.valleyquilters.org.

If you wish to donate your time, quilt, money, fabric, whatever, just visit the websites above.

We salute these women who are true patriots! We know their quilts are made not with just thread and fabric, but love and affection for our servicemen.
===================================================
>VA Veterans Home Loans

>Teacher Resources, Teaching Articles, Teaching Tips.

>Baby, New Mother, and Breastfeeding Resources

Military Service members and money tips

Being in the military can be hard on families, especially in the pocket book. We at http://military-tributes.com are committed to doing what we can to support military families and veterans. We have a free e-book that you can download. It costs money to purchase this on other websites, so this is a special offer for our readers. No, anyone here can download it. You don't need to be a veteran or military service member. It's free for all. However, feel free to send out this link to other people who are struggling with a budget. Just visit the link: Military families and money to download the free e-book. Scroll down and click on the cover. It is available immediately.

Other Military resources:

Va Veterans Home Loans

Military Scholarships

Military Car Insurance Discounts

Top Military Friendly Employers

GI Jobs Magazine, just released their top 100 Military Family Friendly Employers.

These companies make a point to hire veterans and be friendly to military and their familes.

Here are the top 10.

1 Union Pacific Railroad Company
2 CSX Corporation
3 USAA
4 Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation
5 ManTech International Corporation
6 Johnson Controls, Inc.
7 Norfolk Southern Corporation
8 Cintas Corporation
9 Southern Company
10 ITT Corporation, Systems Division

You can read the complete list here.

===================================================
>VA Veterans Home Loans

>Teacher Resources, Teaching Articles, Teaching Tips.

>College Money, Financial Aid, Student Loans, Consolidation, Scholarships.

>Military Scholarships