Shows
Veteran Voice21 Oct 24 - A Week In ReviewVeterans Affairs and Support InitiativesDate: October 24, 2024Subject: Review of key themes and information related to Veterans Affairs, focusing on housing assistance, disaster relief, healthcare access, and career transition programs.Sources:* "Coast Guard Veteran tells how VA Housing First changed his life - VA News"* "Disaster assistance and resources for Veterans - VA News"* "Following Tester Efforts, Travis W. Atkins VA Clinic in Bozeman Expands to Provide Physical Therapy and Audiology Services"* "Information for Military & Veterans | SSA"* "Marine Corps veteran allegedly kicked off...2024-10-2109 min
Veteran Voice13 Oct 24 - A Week in Review1. What are some current job opportunities for veterans?Many employers across various industries actively seek to hire veterans. Some current opportunities, as of October 14, 2024, include:* Nationwide: Technician, Food Service Franchise, Veteran-Only Franchise, Firefighters, Police Officers.* Remote: Graphic Designer* Multiple locations: Senior Business Data Analyst: Business Intelligence* Various cities: (see source for full list) Critical Response Officer, Internal Audit Manager, Military & Family Life Counselors, Plant Engineer, Assistant Superintendent, Maintenance Technician, Director of Risk Management, Lead Business Execution Consultant, Process Excellence Engineer, Facility Electronics Technician, Account Manager, Unarmed Security Officer, Java...2024-10-1406 min
Veteran VoiceMilitary Honor and Accountability: A Closer Look at Heroes, Scandals, and SupportThis briefing covers recent events and issues impacting veterans and active-duty military personnel, including heroism, fraud, political engagement, and support programs.Key Points:* D-Day Remembered: A newly published account from Lt. Col. Gerhard L. Bolland, a paratrooper who jumped into Normandy on D-Day, offers a harrowing firsthand perspective on the operation. Bolland describes the intense moments leading up to the jump, the chaos of landing in flooded fields, and the heavy casualties suffered by his unit, the 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment. His story is a stark reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who...2024-10-0708 min
Veteran VoiceVeterans in Focus: Benefits, Recognition, and Mental Health - 29 Sep 2024The first source is a news article about Congress approving a cost-of-living increase for veterans' benefits, including disability payments, clothing allowances, and dependency and indemnity compensation. The increase is tied to the annual cost-of-living adjustment in Social Security benefits, and is intended to ensure veterans and their families receive financial support that keeps pace with inflation. The second source is a press release from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announcing Veteran Buddy Check Week, an initiative to encourage veterans to reach out to one another and offer support. The initiative promotes peer-to-peer connections, mental health awareness...2024-09-3007 min
Veteran VoiceArmy Anti-Terrorism Training Blunder: Nonprofits Misidentified as Terrorist OrganizationsIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we delve into the recent controversy surrounding the U.S. Army’s anti-terrorism training materials, which mistakenly labeled several legitimate nonprofits, including animal rights and pro-life groups, as terrorist organizations for over seven years. This error was exposed when photos of the incorrect slides surfaced online, sparking an investigation and Congressional hearings.We discuss how Army officials acknowledged the flawed development of the materials, retrained the responsible soldier, and launched a service-wide review to prevent future incidents. However, the Army’s refusal to disclose disciplinary actions angered many in Congress, fueling deba...2024-09-2409 min
Veteran VoiceSupporting Homeless Veterans: Salvation Army Receives $260,000 GrantIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we discuss the $260,000 grant awarded to the Salvation Army of Midland and Odessa by the Texas Veterans Commission. This funding is dedicated to helping homeless veterans in the area secure housing, turn on utilities, and determine their eligibility for disability benefits.We explore the Salvation Army’s mission to alleviate veteran homelessness and the positive ripple effect this grant will have on the broader community, allowing additional resources to be directed toward other homeless individuals in need. Join us as we unpack how this grant will make a significant difference in th...2024-09-2311 min
Veteran VoiceEvolving Army Aviation and Strategic Deployments: A Look at Recent Trends and ActionsIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we explore three significant developments affecting the U.S. Army's operations and readiness. First, we examine the decline in manned aircraft and flight hours since 2000, a trend driven by force structure changes and modernization efforts, despite an increase in aircraft availability. Next, we discuss the recent completion of U.S. troop withdrawal from Niger, a strategic loss for counterterrorism missions in the Sahel region following last year’s coup.Finally, we shift focus to the deployment of U.S. Army soldiers to a remote Alaskan island equipped with mobile rocket launchers in...2024-09-2309 min
Veteran VoiceAviation Therapy: A New Path to Healing for Veterans with PTSDIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we explore the innovative world of aviation therapy and its potential to help military veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Drawing from insights shared by Angels Wings Transport, we discuss how flying or building aircraft offers veterans a unique sense of control, accomplishment, and community, which can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and flashbacks.We highlight the growing advocacy for aviation therapy as a treatment option, focusing on how it can enhance veterans’ quality of life and provide them with new tools for mental health recovery. Tune in as we...2024-09-2204 min
Veteran VoiceEmergency Funding for the VA: Ensuring Veterans Get the Benefits They DeserveIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we break down the recent $3 billion emergency funding package approved by Congress to prevent a delay in veteran benefit payments. This funding comes in response to a surge in veterans receiving benefits and medical services, largely due to the implementation of the PACT Act, which expanded eligibility for those suffering from toxic exposure injuries during their service.We explore the budget pressures faced by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the political debate between Republicans and Democrats over the handling of the shortfall, and the critical importance of ensuring veterans receive...2024-09-2107 min
Veteran VoiceAngels Wings Transport: Bridging the Gaps for Military Families and MoreIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we highlight Angels Wings Transport, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded by a retired military member. Born from witnessing the heartbreak of a military family unable to afford travel to their son’s funeral, the organization has expanded to offer a wide range of vital services. From emergency transport for military members to animal rescues and medical transport for those in financial hardship, Angels Wings provides life-changing assistance using private aircraft and a network of dedicated pilots.We delve into their mission to support service members during times of crisis and explore th...2024-09-2004 min
Veteran VoiceEnhancing Access to Mental Health Care for Veterans in CrisisIn this episode of Veteran Voice, we dive into the urgent need for improved mental health crisis support for veterans, with a focus on the Veterans Mobile Evaluation Team (VMET) and Veteran Response Teams (VRT). These innovative programs connect veterans in crisis with critical resources, aiming to prevent tragic outcomes such as suicide, incarceration, and involuntary hospitalization.We share inspiring success stories, including how VMET has responded to over 7,800 calls since 2018, and explore how VRT is leveraging peer support to make a lasting impact on veterans' lives. With expert insights and real-life anecdotes, this episode highlights the...2024-09-1909 min