DMVA Digest
A publication of Pennsylvania's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
August 29, 2018

 DMVA News 

TWO DAYS Remaining For Persian Gulf Veteran Bonus Program: 

The Persian Gulf Veteran Bonus Program, administered by the DMVA, will end Aug. 31, 2018. Eligible veterans who served on active duty in the Persian Gulf Theater of Operations from Aug. 2, 1990 to Aug. 31, 1991, have only two more days to apply for a special one-time payment to honor their service and sacrifice. Read more.

DMVA Acknowledges Veterans' Trust Fund Grant Recipients: 

Joel Mutschler, director, Programs, Initiatives, Reintegration, and Outreach with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), attended an event to personally thank Veterans’ Trust Fund grant recipients for their work in support of the commonwealth’s nearly 820,000 veterans. The event in Norristown was hosted by the Montgomery County Office of Veterans Affairs, one of the honorees. “We work tirelessly every day to support Pennsylvania veterans with necessary programs and services, but we cannot do it alone,” said Mutschler. Read more.

DMVA Still Looking For 25 Photos Of Pennsylvania Veterans Who Paid Ultimate Sacrfice: 

To further honor and preserve the memory of our veterans for future generations, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund in D.C. is leading an initiative to locate a photo for every U.S. service member who died during Vietnam. Please help us find the remaining 25 photos from 4 Pennsylvania counties. For information on how to submit a photo, visit: Read more.

Welcome News On DMVA's Hollidaysburg Veterans Home: 

Although veterans will be the primary beneficiaries of the multimillion-dollar “renewal” targeted for DMVA operated Hollidaysburg Veterans' Home over approximately the next decade, Blair County as a whole also will reap great benefits from the upgraded facility. Here’s the way that a front-page article in Sunday’s Mirror described what’s ahead for the home, which has been in operation at the site of the former Hollidaysburg State Hospital since 1977. Read more.

 Around the State 

'I Always Felt Guilty For Taking Him Over And Leaving Him There'– Snapshot Of Heroes: 

I was born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania (Lackawanna County). I am 70 years old and have lived in Etters just about 20 years. I moved here to be the Drug Interdiction Unit Coordinator for the Department of Corrections, which included upgrading the Canine Unit. I was drafted into the Army on Oct. 14, 1968, and served until October 1970, with a tour in Vietnam '69-70, which included the Cambodia incursion. Read more.

28th ECAB’s Oldest Soldier Reflects On Flood Rescues, 42 Years Of Service: 

During the flooding in Columbia County, Pennsylvania on Aug. 13, 2018, the 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade’s oldest soldier, Sgt. 1st Class Mike Moy, personally rescued eight people and three pets on the hoist. Five days later, Moy was promoted from staff sergeant to sergeant first class. Read more.

Seeking Letters Of Intent For Community Grants Program: 

The Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council is now accepting “letters of intent” for community grants, our small grants program. Community grants are intended to bring together people, with and without disabilities, in a local community initiative to influence social change and improve the lives of everyone in the community. You can learn more about this grant opportunity and how to submit a letter of intent, at the following website.

 Across the Nation 

Forever GI Bill/Colmery Act Allows More Reserve Service To Qualify For Education Benefits Under The Post-9/11 GI Bill: 

Reservists called up for active duty will soon qualify for increased Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits if they meet certain requirements. The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Education Assistance Act, also known as the “Forever GI Bill,” was passed by Congress and signed into law last August. The Forever GI Bill expands education benefits for some members of the Reserve effective August 1, 2018. Read more.

Group Seeks To Recognize 'Forgotten' Civil War Veterans At Oakwood Cemetery In Joliet: 

The Philip H. Sheridan Camp of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War in conjunction with the Fredrick A. Bartleson Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the Union and Oakwood Cemetery will conduct a dedication ceremony for 46 new headstones on the previously unmarked graves of Civil War veterans buried in historic Oakwood Cemetery in Joliet next month. Read more.

My Perspective – An Outsider Looking In On U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs (VA): 

I wish you could see what I see. As a contractor working with VA’s National Health Care Recruitment Office, I’ve had the privilege of visiting many VA medical centers around the country. I am a non-veteran, non-VA employee and not in the health care field. In fact, I specialize in employment marketing which is just about as far from the health care field as you can get. Read more.

U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs (VA) Marks One Year Since The Signing Of Historic Appeals Modernization Act: 

The Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2017 (Appeals Modernization Act) was signed on August 23, 2017, effectively transforming VA’s appeals process from a complex, frustrating process into one that is simple, timely and transparent. VA is working toward full implementation of the law by February 2019. Read more.

U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs (VA) Under Secretary For Benefits Focuses On Veteran Success In First 100 Days: 

In reflecting on his first 100 days, VA Under Secretary for Benefits, Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., focused on the Veterans Benefits Administration mission and what it means to veterans. “When you think about success, we’re the ones that help you get there,” he said. “I have come to appreciate that the totality of what we do at VBA helps veterans realize the American dream. This is a profound responsibility,” he said. “If we think back to WWII, the vision was: you go off to combat, do your service, come back, get a job and settle down. Read more.

What Nobody Tells You About Going Back To School As A Veteran: 

Conventional wisdom about being a veteran in school focuses on benefits or jokes about being an older student. And most of it holds up, no matter the kind of program, whether you’re a first-time, first-generation college student, or getting a Ph.D. But here’s what nobody tells you: 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]

DMVA Is Hiring: 

The commonwealth is hiring! State agencies including the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs have positions available in counties across PA. DMVA is seeking professionals in varying fields, including healthcare. A few of the positions available include chief pharmacist, LPN's, PRN's, and RN's for the six veterans' homes located throughout the state. Read more.

Veterans’ First Fridays – Job Fair Bootcamp With GI Jobs: 

- Sept. 7, 2018, 1-3 p.m.
- 304 Wood St., Pittsburgh, PA (Allegheny County)
- Point of contact: Melissa Handlovitch at 412-552-7100 or email [email protected] 
- All veterans and eligible spouses are welcome. A team member and strong veteran advocate of GI Jobs will share tips and information on how to successfully navigate a job fair. This is not a job fair or table event. Workshop begins at 1 p.m.
- Website.

Veteran Job Club: 

- Sept. 10, 2018, 9 a.m.
- Behavioral Health Clinic, Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC), 1st Floor conference room #165, Erie, PA (Erie County)
- The Veteran Job Club in Erie will have human resource professionals on-site to provide tips and tools on how to apply for government jobs. All veterans interested in seeking employment are invited to attend.
- Website

PennDOT Has Job Opportunities In The Winter Maintenance Program: 

Seasonal job opportunities are available in ALL COUNTIES and run from September 2018 through April 2019. Job opportunities exist for: CDL equipment operator; diesel mechanic; clerk/radio dispatcher; tradesman helper; automotive mechanic; welder; semi-skilled laborer; custodial worker; and stock clerk. Website.

Lebanon VA Medical Center (VAMC) Recruiting Pastoral Candidates For Residency And Internship Programs: 

VAMC's Clinical Pastoral Education Program (CPE) is recruiting pastoral candidates for both residency and internship programs. The CPE has four openings for its resident pastoral program, which begins on Oct. 1, 2018, and runs through Sept. 30, 2019. The program is accredited through the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE), Decatur, GA. Applications for the program are due immediately. For more information, contact Douglas A. Etter at 717-272-6621, ext. 6079 or email [email protected]. For more information about the Lebanon VA Medical Center, visit website.

Google Installs Tool To Help U.S. Military Veterans Find Jobs: 

Google is introducing a new tool to help U.S. military veterans build careers after leaving the armed forces. The product allows ex-military personnel to search positions using their occupational specialty code, retrieving a list of employment opportunities where their skills are in demand. Read more.

U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs (VA) Vet Centers Need Caring Mental Health Professionals: 

VA Vet centers need caring mental health professionals. Life isn’t always easy after a military deployment, and veterans’ mental health is a top priority. Vet Centers across the country provide a broad range of counseling, outreach, and referral services to combat veterans and their families who are seeking successful post-war adjustment to civilian life. 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.)

Fight4Vets "Boxcar Brawl" To Benefit Local Veterans: 

- Aug. 31, 2018
- Downtown Scranton, PA (Lackawanna County)
- Point of contact: Doug Long at 570-983-9718
- Outdoor boxing is returning to downtown Scranton, all for a great cause! Fight4Vets is a non-profit created to raise funds for our local veterans and veteran's organizations. Proceeds benefit hometown heroes. The fight card features both local and regional boxers. New this year, veteran and active-duty military members from the Army and Navy will be traveling from all over the United States to be a part Fight4Vet’s “Boxcar Brawl”.
- For information on purchasing tickets and to learn how to sponsor the event, visit Fight4Vets Facebook page.

Seventh Annual Disabled American Veterans Chapter 25 Golf Outing: 

- Sept. 4, 2018, 10:30 a.m., registration begins at 11:30 a.m., lunch buffet at 1 p.m.
- Rivercrest Golf Club & Preserve, 100 Golf Club Dr., Phoenixville, PA (Chester County)
- Website. 
- Facebook page.

MilitaryShare Fresh Express Program: 

- Sept. 4, 2018, and every 1st Tuesday of the month, 11 a.m.
- Veterans Serving Veterans Knoxville VFW Post #6753, 703 Boatman Rd., Knoxville, PA (Tioga County)
- Point of contact: Sandy Fischer at 814-326-0804 to pre-register.
- Registration is required for MilitaryShare distribution. MilitaryShare, a collaborative program of local food banks and the Pennsylvania National Guard, is desgined to provide fresh, nutritious foods for veterans and military families in need.
- Proof of Military Service, such as DD214, Military ID or VA Military Card is required to register.
- Website.

Register For Free Making $ense Of Finance Workshop: 

- Sept. 7, 2018, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Fort Indiantown Gap, Building 8-80, Annville, PA (Lebanon County)
- Point of contact: 717-705-2687 or email [email protected] 
- FREE to members of the military, veterans and their spouses. USO will be awarding raffle prizes to participants at conclusion of the event. Complimentary food and drinks. FREE parking.
- Learn more about investment, retirement, budgeting, understanding military benefits, credit reports, credit score and scam prevention.
- Register.

Service Member And Family Support Lunch & Learn: 

- Sept. 7, 2018, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
- Fort Indiantown Gap USO, Building 14-99, Annville, PA (Lebanon County)
- Point of contact: email SSG Lopez at [email protected] 
- Everyone is welcome to this FREE event. Lunch will be provided by Mission BBQ. The event will focus on veterans benefits, services, resources and suicide prevention resources. There will be a discussion on the movie, "Ripple Effect."

Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency Family Event: 

- Sept. 8, 2018, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
- Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia County)
- The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) conducts periodic updates and annual government briefings for families of American service members who are missing in action. These events are designed to keep family members informed of the U.S. government's worldwide mission to account for those still missing and to discuss in detail the latest information available about their specific cases.
- Register.

Folds Of Honor – Pine Meadows 2nd Annual Patriot Golf Day Tournament: 

- Sept. 8, 2018, 8 a.m., shotgun start
- 319 Pine Meadow Rd., Lebanon, PA (Lebanon County)
- Point of contact: Beth Simmons at 610-442-5718
- Guest Speaker, former President PGA, Alan Wronokwski
- Website.

9/11 Heroes Run 5K: 

- Sept. 8, 2018, 9 a.m.
- Russell Elliot Memorial Park, Feasterville, PA (Bucks County)
- The 9/11 Heroes Run honors heroes lost on September 11 and in the wars since, as well as the veterans, active duty, first responders, inspired civilians and families of the fallen. The 9/11 Heroes Run 5K welcomes participants of all ages and levels to run, walk, ruck or volunteer in remembrance and gratitude.
- Register.

Veterans Breakfast Club (VBC) Morning Event: 

- Sept. 8, 2018, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
- Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh-Main in Oakland, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA (Allegheny County)
- Free Breakfast. R.S.V.P. to 412-623-9029 or [email protected]. Please mention DMVA Digest when you R.S.V.P.
- 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.

10th Annual Maj. Gen. Frank H. Smoker Jr. Foxhole Invitational Golf Tournament: 

- Sept. 8, 2018, 1 p.m., shotgun start
- Blue Mountain Golf Course, 628 Blue Mountain Rd., Fredericksburg, PA (Lebanon County)
- Point of contact: Mrs. Jamie Saphore at 717-813-7581 or email [email protected] 
- Tee up for the 10th Annual Maj. Gen. Frank H Smoker Jr. Foxhole Invitational Golf Tournament. This four-person scramble includes a steak dinner, contests and cash prizes. All proceeds benefit the Pennsylvania National Guard Military Museum at Fort Indiantown Gap. Sponsors and golfers welcome!
- Website.

Suicide Prevention Walk: 

- Sept. 10, 2018, noon
- Erie Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, 2nd Floor Pavilion (outside 2nd floor entrance), Erie PA (Erie County)
- For more information, contact 814-860-2038.
- Preventing suicide among veterans is one of the VA's top priorities. Join us for the Suicide Prevention Walk for a brief remembrance ceremony, a candlelight vigil, and a walk around the VA campus as we raise awareness about suicide prevention.

Sixth Annual Veterans Shark Tank: 

- Dec. 3, 2018, 5:30-9:30 p.m.
- Union League, 140 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia County)
- Point of contact: email Alex Archawski at [email protected] 
- Are you a Veteran Entrepreneur interested in pitching your idea to the sharks? The winning pitch will receive a monetary prize of $25,000, business services and create a veteran network for life as they launch their new venture. Apply here. Make an impact through sponsorship. Why sponsor? It’s one of the best ways to gain visibility and make connections with the veteran community. Sponsorship opportunities.

Veterans Wanted To Meet With Students: 

The Army Heritage Center Foundation is looking for veterans willing to work with local high school students on the Veterans Oral History Project. In need of any veteran regardless of where or when they served, who are interested in sitting down and sharing their story. Interested Veterans should email [email protected] or by call 717-258-1102.