DMVA Digest
A publication of Pennsylvania's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
July 11, 2018

 DMVA News 

Honoring Our Veterans With Special License Plates: 

With the warmer weather and longer days bringing increased travel, the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs suggests an Honoring Our Veterans license plate for your vehicle as a great way to show patriotism and support veterans in need. Read more.

Cabinet In Your Community Event Coming To Towanda: 

Governor Tom Wolf cabinet officials will gather to talk about issues that are important to you and your region at the Cabinet in Your Community event on July 25 at the Keystone Theater, 601 Main St., Towanda, PA (Bradford County). Special guest panelists include: Maj. Gen. Tony Carrelli, Pennsylvania's adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs; Lieutenant Colonel Robert Evanchick, acting State Police commissioner; Richard Flinn, director of PA Emergency Management Agency; Russell Redding, secretary of Agriculture; and Jennifer Smith, secretary of Drug and Alcohol Programs. R.S.V.P. to [email protected] or call 570-614-2090 by July 18. If you have a disability and may require accommodations in order to participate fully in this event, please indicate by contacting Cassandra Coleman at [email protected] by July 18.

 Around the State 

'I Was There, I Know What I Did' – 100 Years Of Heroes: 

Frederick Fellman exited Officer Candidate School in Fort Lee, Virginia, in spring 1967 and by June was sent to Vietnam. Even at age 20, he says his biggest problem was that he looked so young. "I looked like I was 12 years old," he says, grinning at the memory. "They called me Baby-sahn and Lieutenant Kid." Read more.

'This Gave Us A Sense Of Pride To Do Something Good' – Snapshots Of Heroes: 

I was a farm boy who grew up in Myerstown, Pa. and graduated Northern Lebanon High School. I was no sooner done with school when my best friend talked me into going in to the Navy on the "Buddy System," where we went together to RTC [Recruit Training Command or boot camp] Orlando, Fla. Read more.

Compost Bagging Project: 

Do you have experience gardening? Is it a hobby or a profession? If you garden at any level, the Social Enterprise Institute at Elizabethtown College would love to speak with you! The institute is conducting research this summer and would like to interview PA veterans interested in gardening. If you would like to participate, please contact student researcher, Kira Kuhar at [email protected].

The Gulf War 1991 – How Central PA Said Goodbye And Welcome Home, 100 Years Of Heroes: 

On Jan. 15, 1991, President George Bush committed the United States to battling Saddam Hussein, the Iraqi dictator who invaded Kuwait. Operation Desert Shield began in August 1990 when the United States participated in the defense of Saudi Arabia in case of an attack by Iraq. Hussein had been issued an ultimatum - get out of Kuwait by Jan. 15, 1991, or be attacked. Read more.

Unity's Zamosky Elected President Of Pennsylvania County Veteran Affairs Offices: 

Matt Zamosky of Unity, PA (Westmoreland County) was named to head the state organization that represents county veteran affairs offices. Zamosky, 51, will serve a two-year term as president of the Pennsylvania State Association of County Directors of Veterans. Read more.

 Across the Nation 

A Little Help Here – Asbestos And Mesothelioma: 

Asbestos refers to six types of minerals that are resistant to heat, fire and several chemicals. Asbestos is often found in automotive, industrial, and building products and can cause a person to become ill when exposed to it. Read more.

Army Combat Veteran Fights The War On Opioid Addiction: 

It has been nearly 25 years since the infamous Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia occurred. The events of that conflict made a lasting impact, were reported all over the world and inspired the critically-acclaimed movie “Black Hawk Down." Read more.

Award-Winning Video Series, The American Veteran, Receives 2017 Regional Emmy Award: 

A video story produced by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs focusing on a Navy veteran and comedian received an Emmy Award at a ceremony in Bethesda, MD. The National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences recognized the segment produced for VA’s The American Veteran video series. Read more.

Boat Project Helps Keep Veterans Afloat: 

As Rick Tafoya carefully steered the saber saw around the outline of what will eventually be part of the hull, the Marine Corps veteran saw more than just a simple wooden boat. “It does two things for my mind,” Tafoya said. Tafoya is part of a group of veterans building a small wooden boat as a project with All Hands Boatworks, a non-profit organization that usually works with youth groups through hands-on, wooden boat building. Read more.

Changes Coming To Survivors’ And Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program: 

Effective Aug. 1, 2018, the entitlement available under the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program will be reduced from 45 months to 36 months, but in October, the monthly allowance for eligible recipients will increase. These changes, part of the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017, aka “Forever GI Bill,” were passed by Congress last summer. Read more.

Coping With Survivor's Guilt: 

Guilt is a feeling of responsibility for bad events, whether that feeling is realistic or not. Some veterans feel guilt or remorse because of something that happened in their military experience, such as an injury to a buddy in their unit, friendly fire, or civilian deaths. Read more.

Free Legal Advice Military Discharge Upgrades: 

Do you have an Other Than Honorable Discharge? Contact us today for FREE legal assistance by calling 202-733-3324 or email [email protected]. Free representation for veterans with other than honorable discharges related to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, traumatic brain injury, or similar mental health conditions. Website.

Gun Safety Matters Challenge: 

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently selected three winners in its Gun Safety Matters challenge, an open-innovation contest to develop cost-effective solutions for firearm storage, which veterans and their families and friends could use to prevent suicide, injury or accidents. Read more.

Nurse Practitioners – Meeting The Needs Of Rural Veterans: 

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) strives to deliver high-quality, compassionate health care to veterans across America. VA has taken great strides to ensure patients living in rural areas have access to a range of care options to best meet their health care needs. Read more.

Older Veterans Take Part In Exercise Program Aimed At Easing Symptoms Of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): 

It’s no secret that regular exercise is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and is recommended for everyone, including elderly adults. For people with PTSD, research looking at exercise has shown benefits to quality of life and physical well-being. Read more.

Salute To Veterans – They Served And Still Serve: 

Throughout our lives, we are made aware of the contributions and sacrifices those in the military make, especially on television and through the power of movies. As intriguing and powerful as movies such as “Saving Private Ryan” or more recently, “American Sniper,” can be, nothing affects a person more than hearing these military experiences firsthand from a coworker, relative or friend. Read more.

Smartphone Feature Provides Immediate Access To Veterans Crisis Line: 

“Call the Veterans Crisis Line.” The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is excited to announce that service members and veterans can connect to the Veterans Crisis Line using these simple words. The Siri function on Apple’s iPhone and the Google Assistant function on Android phones now automatically dial the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline which also serves the Veterans Crisis Line, even if the number (1-800-273-8255) is not saved in the phone’s contact list. Callers will need to Press 1 in order to reach the Veterans Crisis Line. Read more.

Studying Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) And Moral Wounds: 

Combat veterans can experience long lasting emotional and spiritual pain from participating in, witnessing, or failing to prevent traumatic events. As a result, veterans may experience symptoms of PTSD, depression or substance use, or they may consider ending their own lives. Read more.

The Key To Veteran Health May Be A New Kind Of Troop Building: 

Once military veterans leave the service, they often leave their close friends from the service behind. The result is a sort of hidden danger that’s not readily addressed by traditional veteran health benefits. Read more.

The Loneliness Factor – How Much Does It Drive Depression In Veterans?: 

There has been a wealth of research on the ties between depression and loneliness. In fact, loneliness has been linked to depression perhaps more than any other psychiatric problem. The two are not synonymous, but they interact with one another. Read more.

US Army Quietly Discharging Immigrant Recruits Without Citizenship: 

Some immigrant U.S. Army reservists and recruits who enlisted in the military with a promised path to citizenship are being abruptly discharged, the Associated Press has learned. Read more.

 Employment Opportunities 

This listing is offered as a resource to both Pennsylvania's veterans and businesses that seek to employ veterans. The DMVA has not investigated the positions being offered or the businesses listed, and does not warrant or guarantee either the availability or the terms and conditions of the positions listed. Please contact the employers represented in this listing directly. To have an employment opportunity listed please email: [email protected]

Baker Corp Employment Opportunities: 

BakerCorp is growing and has openings throughout Pennsylvania including openings for inside and outside sales reps, drivers, field technicians and pump mechanics in Aliquippa, Claysville and Springville. See a complete list of openings, including job descriptions, at [email protected]. Website.

Diesel Truck Mechanic Technician Needed: 

Rooster Cruiser LLC, hauler of Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs and Nellies Free Range is seeking an experienced and professional diesel truck mechanic technician in a facility located in Jonestown, PA (Lebanon County) Point of contact: Sarah Cain at 717-643-1910 or email your resume to [email protected].

Helping Veterans Get Jobs – How You Can Get Involved: 

Veterans sometimes face challenges when returning home after military service. Goodwill Industries International believes finding a good job to support one’s self and one’s families should not be one of them. Read more.

Waste Management Hiring: 

- Bucks, Montgomery and Northampton Counties
- Hiring commercial drivers, rolloff drivers, residential drivers and residential driver apprentice.
- Text WASTE to 51893 or call 1-877-220-5627 for more information
- Sign-on bonuses for select positions.
- Apply.

Put Your Military Experience To Work In Pennsylvania: 

Returning to civilian life? Starting a second career? Looking for an employer that values active National Guard and Reserve service? Bring the unique experience and personal qualities you developed in the military and continue your work in public service with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania! Read more.

Sysco Pittsburgh Job Fair: 

- July 11-12, 2018, 3-7 p.m. and July 14, 2018, 8 a.m.-noon
- Sysco Pittsburgh, 1 Whitney Dr., Harmony, PA (Butler County)
- For questions call Gabrielle Castro at 312-216-2018.

Adams County Is Hiring For Deputy Director Of Veterans' Affairs: 

The deputy director of veterans' affairs position provides advice and assistance concerning benefits, entitlement and services to veterans and their families through planning and organizing the daily operations of the department in compliance with applicable local, state and federal guidelines and regulations. Additional duties as required by the director of veterans’ affairs. Read more.

Careers In Farming: 

Teaching veterans to farm is promising both for the American military and for the American food system. These projects are not only helping veterans succeed in feeding and protecting their families and communities, they are also helping to build a brighter and more resilient food system for us all. Read more.

 Veteran Events 

This listing is offered as a service to individuals and organizations to promote their veteran and military-oriented events being held in Pennsylvania. The information is taken directly from emailed submissions from requestors. DMVA is not responsible for incorrect information submitted. Please send details on events to [email protected] and include the following key pieces of information: 1. Name of event, 2. Date of event, 3. Time of event, 4. Address of event, 5. County of event, 6. Event website, 7. Point of contact name, 8. POC phone number, 9. POC email address, and 10. Additional details/coordinating instructions (fees, pre-registration, etc.)

Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC) At Night: 

- July 12, 2018, 7 p.m.
- Senator John Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh, PA (Allegheny County).
- R.S.V.P. to 412-623-9029 or email [email protected]. Please mention DMVA Digest when you R.S.V.P.
- This panel discussion convenes experts and veterans to look at all sides of the military draft, as well as the history and possible futures of the draft. Join this lively conversation where everyone is welcome. Event is free and light refreshments will be served.
- Facebook page.

Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC) Morning Event: 

- July 18, 2018, 8:30-10:30 a.m.
- Robert Morris University, RMU Yorktown Hall (former Holiday Inn), 8256 University Blvd., Moon Township, PA (Allegheny County)
- R.S.V.P to 412-623-9029 or email [email protected]. Mention DMVA Digest when you R.S.V.P.
- Breakfast is $12. Without breakfast is free.
- The VBC is a nonprofit that creates communities of listening around veterans and their stories. Storytelling events, both morning and night, are held throughout western Pennsylvania. Veterans from World War II to Iraq and Afghanistan share their stories. They are open to the public, and you don’t need to be a veteran to attend.
- Facebook page.

Welcome Home Veterans Appreciation Event: 

- July 13, 2018, 6-9 p.m.
- Erie Zoo, 423 W. 38th St., Erie, PA (Erie County)
- Tickets for the annual Welcome Home Veterans Appreciation Event at the Erie Zoo are available and free to veterans (four available per veteran). In addition to providing fun for the whole family, this event is a one-stop-shop for veterans and their families to meet with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) representatives on-site and veteran-related community resources to help connect veterans to the right services.
- Facebook page. 
- Ticket pickup locations.

Korean War Vets Meeting July 14: 

- July 14, 2018, 10 a.m.
- Vietnam War facility, 8000 Derry St., Harrisburg, PA (Dauphin County)
- For more information contact Gilbert Condor Sr. at 717-566-0735 or email [email protected] or Kenneth Hooker at 717-982-5141
- The local Harrisburg area chapter of Korean War veterans – those who served during 1950-53 – and Defenders – those who served in Korea after the signing of the truce in 1953 – will meet at the on July 14, 2018. Come and meet and greet your fellow veterans.

Pennsylvania Outdoor Veterans Fishing And Camping: 

- July 14-15, 2018, check in, 3 p.m.
- Evergreen Lake Fishing and Camping, 2375 Benders Dr., Bath, PA (Northampton County)
- Point of Contact: Miranda Moyer at 610-390-0963
- Open to veterans and family members. Pre-registration is required.
- Website.

Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC) At Night: 

- July 20, 2018, 6:30 p.m.
- McMurray VFW Post 764, 460 Valley Brook Rd., McMurray, PA (Washington County).
- R.S.V.P. to 412-623-9029 or email [email protected]. Please mention DMVA Digest when you RSVP.
- The VBC is a nonprofit that creates communities of listening around veterans and their stories. Storytelling events, both morning and night, are held throughout Western Pennsylvania. Veterans from World War II to Iraq and Afghanistan share their stories. They are open to the public, and you don’t need to be a veteran to attend. This event is free and includes food and a cash bar.
- Facebook page.

Bateman-Gallagher American Legion Post 668 85th Anniversary Celebration: 

- July 21, 2018, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- American Legion Post 668, 401 E. Lancaster Ave., Wayne, PA (Delaware County).
- Point of contact: R.S.V.P. to Nickie Plumb by text or call 610-405-0415 or email [email protected].
- Celebrating service to the community since 1933. The event is open to the public and includes free food, music and games.
- Website.

Celebrating Veterans Walk A Mile In My Boots Festival: 

- July 28, 2018, 4-10 p.m., 5K Twilight Run/Fun Boot Walk, 5 p.m.
- Resevoir Park Course and Band Shell, Harrisburg, PA (Dauphin County)
- Point of contact: 717-739-5907
- Stage performances, food and craft vendors. Jazz Under The Stars with Art Sherrod, Jr. FREE concert benefits Pop's House. bring lawn chairs.
- Website. Register for the 5K Twilight Run/Fun Boot Walk.

PA Military Finance Alliance -- Making $ense Of Finance Workshop: 

SAVE THE DATE! The Making $ense of Finance Workshop will be held on Aug. 8, 2018 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hiram G. Andrews Center, 727 Goucher St., Johnstown, PA (Cambria County). Register today! Read more.

Introduction To Whole Health Class: 

- Second and fourth Friday of every month, 9-11 a.m.
- Erie VA Medical Center, 135 East 38th St., Erie, PA (Erie County)
- Point of contact: Will Lachner at 814-860-2447
- Whole Health coaches are available to help recently discharged veterans and their families work through challenges that arise from transitioning from military service by equipping them with tools for self-care and well-being. Family members are highly encouraged to attend.

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Photo caption: Second Lt. Justin Lewis greets on-lookers of a Veterans Day parade Nov. 11, 2013, in Pittsburgh, Pa. Lewis is a member of the Air Force Heritage of America Band. The band also performed at Heinz stadium in Pittsburgh for the Steelers vs. Bills NFL Salute to Service game Nov. 10, 2013. (U.S. Air Force photo by Steve Stanley/Released)