6 Years... and a Heartbeat Ago

We will not forget. We will speak their names. We will tell their stories.

6 years.. and a heartbeat ago.

Rest in Peace.

Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice for Freedom

Mansions of the Lord

To fallen soldiers let us sing,

Where no rockets fly nor bullets wing,

Our broken brothers let us bring

To the Mansions of the Lord.

No more bleeding, no more fight,

No prayers pleading through the night,

Just divine embrace, eternal light

In the Mansions of the Lord.

Where no mothers cry and no children weep,

We will stand and guard though the angels sleep,

All through the ages safely keep

The Mansions of the Lord.

For Tim, Tommy, Vince, Rich, Jeff , Matt, Jason , David

Memorial Day 2010

Because the current President is too busy vacationing to pay respect to this country's war dead at Arlington National Cemetary... you know, the ones who died for him, and you, and me, and mine. Personally. So I give thanks and honor those who gave their lives to honor, defend, and protect me.

Memorial Day

"And today we remember all who have died, all who are still missing and all who mourn. And on this day, especially, our nation is grateful to the brave and fallen defenders of freedom. In every generation of Americans we have found courage equal to the tasks of our country.

The farms and small towns and city streets of this land have always produced free citizens who assume the discipline and duty of military life. And time after time, they have proven that the moral force of democracy is mightier than the will and cunning of any tyrant."

-President George W. Bush

Learn more about United States National Cemeteries

The American Legion Steps Up (Again). You Can, Too.

Your son is killed in action and vile people come to his funeral carrying signs thanking G-d for his death...  they say it is protected speech. (It may be, but AT the Marine's funeral? How deeply can you hurt someone with your speech before it's over the line?) You exercise your right to sue to get the objectionable behavior stopped. You win in one court, lose in the Appeals court and then the Supreme Court -- THE Supreme Court -- agrees to hear the case. Then the Appeals Court judge -- not waiting to see how the Supreme Court holds -- orders you to PAY THE COSTS of those who have caused you such hurt.

Well, the American Legion has come forward to advance the funds for this father AND they are planning on filing a brief with SCOTUS supporting the father -- and all parents who have had to endure those despicable "protesters". Just hate mongers in sheeps' clothing.

Go read all of this and find out how to help over at the Legion's BURN PIT.

My kudos to the American Legion!!

Folds of Honor Foundation: Scholarships for Families of KIA and WIA

The Folds of Honor Foundation (FHF) provides post-secondary educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving our great nation. Scholarships are to be used to subsidize the costs of tuition, school books, fees, room and board, special tools and equipment necessary for coursework, school-approved tutoring, and any other expense that the school in which the student is enrolled may deem appropriate and unmet. Scholarship funds will be paid directly to the school, and the standing policies and procedures of the school will guide the release of funds. Any unused funds will be returned to the Folds of Honor Foundation at the end of each semester. Nearly 1,000 scholarships have been granted in Folds of Honor's first three years.

Patriot Golf Day, our flagship fundraising event, is a cooperative effort with the PGA of America, USGA and is sponsored by our corporate champions American Express and Lifelock. This past Labor Day weekend, golfers across the country were asked to give an extra dollar to fund Folds of Honor scholarships. In three years, we have raised $5.3 million for deserving families.

Please visit www.foldsofhonor.org for more information on Folds of Honor.

Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay

Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay

What is it?

Soldiers, veterans and survivors of those whose service was involuntarily extended under Stop Loss between September 11, 2001 and September 30, 2008 can apply to receive $500 for every month, or portion of a month, they served under Stop Loss. The 2009 War Supplemental Appropriations Act established and largely funded the payment for all military services, but dictated that each service process and pay their own applicants. The Army estimates that 136,000 of the approximately 174,000 eligible servicemembers served in the Army.

What has the Army done?

The Army has created an application process for active-and-reserve component Soldiers, veterans, and survivors of Soldiers to process claims for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay. By law, the Army can only accept claims between October 21, 2009 and October 21, 2010. Eligible candidates must submit their request within this timeframe, or the Army will not be able to process their request. The Army has set up an email address to field questions people have regarding the benefit.

How can people apply?

Candidates for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay must submit a claim at Retroactive Stop Loss Web site . This Web site is the preferred method for submitting applications; however, other means for doing so, such as by mail or fax, will be available to those without access to computers. Additional communications will provide instructions for alternative forms of submission. During the application process, candidates will be asked to show documentation that indicates the time they served under Stop Loss. The necessary documentation, depending on their type of service, includes the following:

● Enlisted Soldiers need to present their DD Form 214 and DD Form 4 Enlistment/Reenlistment/Extension contract(s).

● Enlisted Soldiers who were in an indefinite status need a memorandum showing retirement/separation request was denied or an approved retirement/ separation was amended.

● Officers need a DD Form 214 and memorandum showing Retirement/ Separation request was denied or an approved retirement/separation was amended.

● National Guard Soldiers need to show DA Form 4187 for Stop Loss adjustment of ETS, separation documentation NGB Form 22, and/or NGB Form 1966.


What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future?

The Army will review, process and pay qualified candidates as they submit their applications at Retroactive Stop Loss Web site. Candidates who meet the criteria and show the required documentation will receive their retroactive payment in a one lump sum. The Army will not accept applications submitted after October 21, 2010.

Resources: Retroactive Stop Loss Web site

We Have Not Forgotten

Your brothers miss you... even as they have returned to Iraq.

We remember you. We tell your story. We still mourn. And we bear witness. And there are those that carry the name that will tell the story to a whole new generation.

Rest in Peace.

National D-Day Memorial -- A National Treasure!

On the drive between Blacksburg and Norfolk, Virginia, just off US-460 is the small town of Bedford, Virginia. This town lost more soldiers per capita on D-Day than just about any other town in America. Bedford, which is about 100 miles from the nearest large city, is tucked in the green magnificence of the Blue Ridge Mountains: surrounded by all of God's "mountain majesty". Bedford is also home to the National D-Day Memorial... stunningly beautiful, well crafted, reverent to the sacrifices and achievements of June 6, 1944. We had never heard of the Memorial, but it was the best 1-mile detour we have ever taken.

Others will blog today on the operational facts of D-Day and the meaning of D-Day and its (obvious) significance to the outcome of the war -- all of which the D-Day Memorial covers in detail -- but I will share the moving experience the National D-Day Memorial provided. Every regiment, battalion and division from every country that participated on D-Day on every one of the beachheads -- Juno, Omaha, Gold... is celebrated in a series of plaques -- and one for every destroyer, transport, carrier... and hundreds of brass plaques emblazoned with the names of every American killed on D-Day... and busts of the planners and leaders who saw the Allies to and through that horrific and eventually victorious day.

The National D-Day Memorial is set on 20 magnificent acres that contain a huge amphitheater with a mock of the Omaha landing with brass bodies strewn in water while air jets loudly spray the staccato sounds and effects of machine gun fire through the water... as a soldier pulls a buddy through the surf, one lies dead nearby and a trio of Marines struggle up the side of a netted hillside. All immortalized and honored in this Memorial. It is spectacularly landscaped with lush lawns and abundant trees and flowers... and benches and other places to sit and reflect... and perhaps remember those that were lost. When we were there, we saw a number of people shedding tears while running their hand over the name of a loved one on a plaque... and a message left in the guest book, "I miss you, Dad."

This privately founded and funded memorial is on the verge of bankruptcy -- many reasons -- cost, early mismanagement, maintenance... and Virginia legislators are planning to introduce legislation in the US Congress to turn this Memorial over to the US Parks Dept. I urge each of you to drop a quick note to your Congressperson and/or Senator drawing their attention to preserving and protecting this VERY deserving memorial. Or you may give a donation to save this Memorial at the National D-Day Memorial Foundation's site. Having been to the WWII Memorial and The Vietnam War Memorial, I assure you that the National D-Day Memorial is on par with those in its scope, its beauty and its message. We are a Nation of Memorials and Museums and this is a most important reminder of a Momentous day in our and the world's history.

I urge if you are anywhere near Bedford, Virginia please take the drive and visit this memorial -- and if you can't decide where to visit this summer, visit the D-Day Memorial and take the old folks and the kids along -- you will be so very glad you did!

the setting

the great arch is emblazoned "OVERLORD"

the names of the American fallen...

preparing for the 65th Anniversary

Leaders


honoring vessels...

scaling the cliffs

On June 6, 1944, 150,000 Allied soldiers clambered aboard heaving landing craft and braved six-foot swells, waves of machine gun fire, and more than 6 million mines to claim a stretch of sand at a place called Normandy. Their mission was to carve out an Allied foothold on the edge of Nazi-occupied Europe for the army of more than one million that would follow them in the summer of 1944. This army would burst forth from the beachhead, rolling across Europe into the heart of Germany, liberating millions, toppling a genocidal regime, and ending a nightmare along the way. But it all began on this beach in France, with an army of teenagers on a day called D-Day.

on the beach

leave no man behind

Memorial Day 2009: Thank You

In 2005, I wrote

We Honor You

On this Memorial Day, I personally honor and thank the soldiers, marines and sailors in my family:

My Dad - who left high school at 17 and joined the Army – 82nd Airborne – and lost his left arm above the elbow at the close of WWII. As children, we called that my Dad’s “broken arm”. HOOAH, Dad.

My dear husband – from a small farming community in central Illinois who enlisted in the Navy at age 19 and spent the next 24 years in the Navy. He earned his wings, served two tours in Vietnam and was spit on, ridiculed, called foul names but still considers his years in the Navy to be the epitome of what life is about: duty, honor, country. BRAVO ZULU, dear husband!

In 2006, I wrote about Sgt. Kenneth Schall:

Terri Schall told us the story of her delightful and brave son who had a passion for the work he did in the Army. She told the story of his tenacity -- how he had crawled out on the 2nd story window ledge at his barracks to harass and convince a buddy to accompany him for a late night pizza after he had been turned down by the buddy five or six times.

and CDR Kirk T. Walsh

After graduation from the University of Colorado with a degree in Political Science, Kirk Walsh was commissioned an Officer in 1962 and enjoyed a 20-year career as a naval aviator -- flying aircraft including the Huey and Cobra helicopters and serving two tours in Vietnem.

And in Yes, In My Name, we remembered those close to us...

I know I say this a lot, but holidays have new meanings for me beginning this year. The change in my outlook is not just a one-year change, but a life-changing epiphany. The day our son was wounded irreversibly changed the intensity with which I view each day, but especially holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas had new meaning, as did New Year’s Day and Mother’s Day. And certainly Veterans’ Day.

However, I think one of the most significant changes for me is how I will view and celebrate and feel Memorial Day. My family has always remembered Memorial Day. Thanks to my mother, our family learned early to honor those that serve. We attended Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans' Day parades in our town: some years we sat and cheered from the curbs as we waved our American flags, while in other years we were participants.

In 2007, I let the words to one of my favorite songs speak for me in Bang the Drum Slowly

Bang the drum slowly play the pipe lowly
To dust be returning from dust we begin
Bang the drum slowly I'll speak of things holy
Above and below me world without end.

And last year, I shared President Bush's Prayer for Peace.

On Memorial Day, we honor the heroes who have laid down their lives in the cause of freedom, resolve that they will forever be remembered by a grateful Nation, and pray that our country may always prove worthy of the sacrifices they have made.

Amen.

Memorial Day 2009: To those who gave all in service to our country, we thank you. We honor you. We remember you.

2009 National Memorial Day Concert

From Military.com:

The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) presents the 20th Annual National Memorial Day Concert on Sunday, May 24 at 8 p.m., Eastern Standard Time. The concert will feature musicians such as Katharine McPhee, Trace Adkins, Denyce Graves, as well as readings from Katie Holmes, Colin Powell, Laurence Fishburne, Joe Mantegna, Gary Senise and Dianne Wiest. For more information, visit the National Memorial Day Concert website. Please check your local television listings for the exact date and time of broadcast in your area.

I love this concert. I watch it every year. It is not only good entertainment, but the images of the crowds are very moving and very patriotic.

Out of the Darkness

Every 16 MINUTES in the United States, a parent grieves. Every 16 MINUTES, someone commits suicide and leaves behind those who do not understand.

This is Kristin and her younger brother Christopher. Of course, they grew up. They were very close. Christopher joined the US Navy and was serving as a Hospital Corpsman when at the age of 21, he committed suicide. He was my brother-in-law's nephew. The family has been deeply and irreversibly affected by Chris's suicide.

Kristin says

My brother Christopher served three years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. On January 27th 2008, at only 21 years of age, he was able to take his life. The series of events that led to his death that night could’ve been prevented. He screamed for help and his cries went unheard. A child is supposed to outlive their parent, grow old with their siblings and one day have children of their own. Chris left us still just a child. Please help my family and I honor Chris’ memory and raise awareness for the prevention of suicide.

The Out of the Darkness Overnight Experience is an 18-mile walk over the course of one night, from sunset to sunrise. Net proceeds benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, funding research, education, and awareness programs – both to prevent suicide and to assist those affected by suicide.

While Kristin has reached her original (modest) monetary goal, I ask that you consider donating to Kristin's efforts to not only honor her brother, but to honor all those in our military who have died by their own hand in the hope that this money and the efforts to raise awareness and further education and efforts at suicide prevention will save lives. And help Kristin and her family heal.

Kristin's Pledge page is HERE.

Truly Honoring Our Dead

Dear Secretary Gates and President Obama (and the media):

For the past week or so, many milbloggers have been discussing the media's request for you and the President to reconsider the ban on photographing the flag-draped coffins of military members killed in service to their country as they arrive at Dover, DE.

Read: OBAMA Speech Addressing Nation on Monday 2/9/09 - Did I hear the question I thought I heard Ed Henry CNN ask?

The Return

Bring us your dead!

It Is About Family

Coffins, Photographs and the families rights

Dover

I have commented on a number of these blogs, and now I weigh in here.

If you read my blog, you would know that in Oct. '05, our youngest son, Noah had the honor of escorting his good friend and brother SPC Thomas Byrd to his final rest. He accompanied Tommy from Dover to Chicago to Tucson. He and I spoke a number of times before, during and after his mission. He spoke (and I blogged) of the kindness and the respect of those he came in contact with on his journey. I told the story of Tommy and Noah's last journey together HERE HERE HERE and HERE.

Because our son had been wounded and returned stateside a few weeks before, he was not there when the IED took Tommy and four other brothers in his squad. When he first learned that he had been granted the honor of taking Tommy home, he told me that when they all went off to war, they promised each other that they would bring each other home. "This isn't how we thought it would happen, Ma." To our son, the opportunity to greet his friend at Dover and have that private reunion with him and the interactions as they transferred between planes and when they reached their final destination were moments that would not be -- nor could they ever be -- the same if the media were present and snapping away.

The final minutes with his friend were solemn and special and private moments that are -- and should remain -- reserved for those who understand the sacrifice. They do not have to personally know the soldier, but they do have to BE a soldier or family to understand. And understanding in this case is just not the same as knowing. You will find many of those moments recounted in "Taking Chance" (be sure to read all the links -- it will be worth your time) and in Jim Sheeler's "Final Salute".

As I have said in any number of comments on this story of reconsidering the ban, what is to be accomplished by lifting the ban? Will it somehow make the death(s) more meaningful? Will the image of a flag-draped coffin on the front page of the local newspaper or the New York Times or on the local television station somehow ease the grief of the families? Or could the release of such photos for any all purposes demean and belittle the sacrifice of the dead and their families?

Those who say that it is a "right" for all Americans to pay their respects for those who made the sacrifice and should not be a right held exclusively for the families, I say it is a right that SHOULD be held exclusively for the families. If a family wishes the media at their soldier’s arrival, fine… but otherwise the media should remain barred. To those who say they wish these photos so that the "public" can show their respect for the dead, I say, if it takes photos of flag-draped caskets to inspire someone to mourn our war dead, “respecting” the dead is not their intention.

We do not hide our heroes. We speak their names. We tell their stories. We celebrate their lives. We mourn their deaths. Any who wish to honor those who have died may join us in those undertakings. However, photos of the caskets are so singularly subject to misuse and abuse — to demean their deaths, to undermine the cause for which they willingly served, to serve purposes for which the dead have no say — THAT is why the ban should remain.

Is there some monetary or political profit to be made on the dead? Yes, I see. Maintain the ban.

I have sent my comment, but ask that you share your thoughts with Secretary Gates:

Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates
1000 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 20301-1000

2008 SNOWBALL EXPRESS (Christmas is for Children)

Snowball Express started in early 2006 with a simple idea: America should honor and pay tribute to the children of those military fallen heroes who have died while honorably serving since 9/11. In December of 2006, nearly 900 family members from all across America and the world gathered in Southern California for an unforgettable holiday gathering. Kids and widows discovered they weren't alone. And they found they weren't forgotten.

It was a totally volunteer effort which came together in just a few months to create the largest all-expense-paid gathering for the families of our fallen warriors since 9/11.

In 2007, another unique event was planned for the week after Thanksgiving. This time, over 1,100 children and surviving parents attended as guests of Americans, corporations, and service groups who donated their time, money and resources to create another healing event. Nearly 400 family members attended Snowball Express for the first time. See the smiling faces HERE.

American Airlines, Oakley, Quiksilver, Panda Express, Taco Bell, Starwood, Marriott, Best Western, Southwest Airlines, AirTran Airways, JetBlue Airways, Disneyland and countless other partners and sponsors, combined with thousands of volunteers in Southern California and all across America, contributed and volunteered because it was the right thing to do. Nationally recognized organizations like Ladies Auxiliary VFW, Rotary Clubs, Vietnam Veterans of America, American Legion, Patriot Guard Riders and others stepped forward to donate their resources and gifts. Other local service clubs, churches and schools also donated resources to help the cause.

American Airlines stepped up to be the official airline of Snowball Express, with three aircraft donated for charter purposes. All pilots and flight attendants donated their time to spend the weekend with the families. Other companies from all across America are also helping to show these children and our fallen heroes’ surviving spouses that they’re not forgotten and that America cares.

The 2008 SNOWBALL EXPRESS is happening Dec. 17 and Dec. 18... and I received this request this morning:

We are in need of volunteers at Universal Studios on Wed, Dec 17 from 9:30am-6pm and on Thurs, Dec 18 at Disneyland and CA/Adventure 8am-midnight. Volunteers are assigned around the parks to help families with any assistance they may need, watching toddlers and infants, pushing strollers, riding on rides with older children, etc. Please know that we are unable to cover the expense of the entrance ticket for volunteers but we can offer you a discount price. Universal is $50, Disneyland is $40 and the Park Hooper for Disney and CA Adventure is $53. I have two shifts to cover at Disney (8am-4pm and 4pm-midnight). I need help for both shifts but the late shift is of course harder to fill and a greater need if you are willing. You may want to consider helping for a day or night shift and spend the other half the day enjoying free time around the park. If you decide to assist at the theme parks, please send me your t-shirt size and cell phone number to contact the day of the event if needed.

If this is not an option I have another suggestion. You can join in the Walk of Gratitude on Friday, Dec 19th from 10-11am. We are asking the community to line the street on Convention Way between the Hilton hotel and the Convention Center in Anaheim. Families will walk from their hotels to the Anaheim Convention Center for a private party starting at 11am. We ask that people line the streets around 10am and the families will be escorted to the Convention Center starting around 10:30am. You can bring American flags to wave, cheer, hold handmade signs, etc. Just come out and show your support and honor these families to let them know that we have not forgotten their loved ones and their sacrifice for us and our country. This is the most memorable experience of the entire event for most families and it will be for the community too!!

Please let me know if you would like to get involved. We want to ensure it is an awesome experience and we need the help of many people to make it happen and give them the royal treatment they deserve!!

Thank you again and Happy Holidays!!

Michele Barto
Volunteer Co-Chair
Snowball Express
m.barto@snowballexpress.org

If being in California to assist in this worthwhile effort is not an option, consider donating to this worthy cause. Any contribution amount is welcome from $1 up. It takes $500 to sponsor a child's trip; $1,500 for a family of three. Tax deductible donations are welcome. To make a donation, please click here.

Also know that corporations can become sponsors!! Organizations can lend their hearts to help mend those of the survivors in small towns and big cities all across America. If you’re an individual, they’ll take your dollars. One or a thousand.

There are no votes in these efforts. No lobbying, no politics.

No Republicans. No Democrats. Only Americans.

These people died as Americans. Let’s step up as Americans and help their families.

Dig deep. Please. They deserve no less.

For information about Snowball Express, please email info@snowballexpress.org


To see the smiles and the joy of these children -- it's what Christmas is really all about.

Veterans Day 2008

I have written before about the members of my family that have served honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States and how proud I am of them. I have also stood as personal witness to the terrible cost of Freedom (start with the picture of my father at left... notice he has lost his left arm above the elbow) and HERE HERE HERE HERE HERE HERE HERE

Thanks to my mother, our family learned early to honor those that serve. We attended Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veterans' Day parades in our town...

some years we sat and cheered from the curbs as we waved our American flags, while in other years we participated as Girl Scouts, pep squad members, cheerleaders. After the Vietnam War, honoring our service people was not particularly celebrated and, in many towns, the parades were discontinued because no one came to cheer the Veterans.

When we had children of our own, we took them to the parades... we cheered the vets, we saluted the flag. We waved at ships arriving home with fathers and sons on deck and mothers and wives smiling and crying on the pier.

We attended many wreath laying ceremonies at our war memorial on the grounds of our county court house in New York and cheered from the court house lawn on Main Street (really) as the Veterans' paraded by. The large court house square, the large military community and the community's patriotism were key factors in our choice of the town we now live in. Paying homage to those that serve is the least we can do... a few minutes from a whole day set aside to honor our Veterans.

I sometimes think that even without the influence of DH's career (he had finished his 25 years and started his second career by the time the oldest was entering high school), our patriotism and our respect for our service members might have influenced our three sons' choices to serve in the military. We could not be any prouder of them.

This year we will be at the closest Veterans Hospital where our town, and the surrounding communities come to honor our Veterans... this year there are eight Grand Marshals... all Veterans wounded in the service of their country.

So on Veteran's Day, we each have the opportunity -- the obligation -- to thank all the Soldiers, the Marines, the Sailors, the Airmen, and the members of the Coast Guard who have served and are serving to protect us -- whether they fought or just stood on the Wall.

To all those who raised their hand, swore the oath and said, "This we'll defend", from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.

And don't forget, Veterans: WEAR YOUR MEDALS ON VETERANS DAY. (Info on that HERE)

and remember, HIRE A WOUNDED VETERAN when you have the need or the chance...

The Annual Inter-Military Branch Campaign for Project Valour-IT -- which gives laptop computers to wounded military members (including voice-activated software to those that need it) IS ON!! Go HERE for more information on this incredible program. This year in honor of the three Navy guys I love (two veterans and one still serving), I am raising money as part of the NAVY team! Click below to donate NOW! The campaign runs through Thanksgiving!

The Soldier

It is the soldier, not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the soldier, not the campus organizer,
who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the soldier, not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the soldier,
who salutes the flag,
who serves under the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag,
who allows the protester to burn the flag.

-- Father Dennis Edward O'Brien, USMC

But We In It Shall Be Remember'd...

For these five... for these of Noah's brothers... they are all our sons... I wrote about them here... here.... here.... here.... here... and here...

Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families and their friends.

SPC Jeffrey W. Corban, 30, of Elkhart, IN buried at Ft. Benning.

SPC Richard A. Hardy, 24, buried in Ohio.

SPC Thomas ("Tommy") H. Byrd, 21, buried in Tucson, AZ.

SPC Timothy D. Watkins , 24, buried in San Bernardino, CA.

SSG Vincent E. Summers, buried in Killeen, TX, the home of Fort Hood.

Summary of FY09 Defense Authorization Act

Summary of FY09 Defense Authorization Act


Active Duty Issues

- Pay Raise: 3.9% pay raise effective Jan 1, 2009

- End Strength: Army +7K USMC +5K Navy -2.8K USAF -12.5K (did not restore previously proposed cut for USAF, even though SecDef has stated that the planned USAF cut will not be imposed)

- Paternity leave: 10 days authorized for new military fathers, in addition to normal leave

- Maximum reenlistment period: Raised to 8 years vs. 6

- Warrant Officer mandatory retirement: Change to 30 years as WO vs 30 yrs (applies to Army WOs only)

- Sabbatical Program: Authorizes 20 officers and 20 enlisted members per service per year to take up to 3 years off from active duty to pursue personal/professional goals (participants to be paid 2 days’ basic pay per month and keep TRICARE eligibility, but will receive no retirement credit for sabbatical time and will owe 2 months’ active duty upon return for every month of sabbatical)

- Increase in Service Academy Enrollment: Authorizes up to 4,400/yr per academy starting 2008/09 academic year

- Meal Charges in Hospitals: Permanently bans charging hospitalized troops

- Temporary Lodging Expense Allowance: Raises maximum daily amt per family on CONUS PCS from $180 to $290

- Family Separation Allowance: Authorizes payment to both member spouses with dependents if both are assigned remotely

Military Family Issues

- Spouse PCS Weight Allowance: Authorizes 500 lbs for professional items

- Spouse Education: Authorizes programs to help spouses with degrees/credentials/licenses to pursue portable careers

- Impact Aid: Authorizes $35M to assist schools with high proportion of military children, with additional $15M for schools in BRAC/unit movement areas and $5M for schools attended by severely disabled military children

Guard/Reserve Issues

- Education: Requires honorable discharge for Guard/Reserve members to use education benefits resulting from active duty (effective 1/28/08 for members who haven't used any of their entitlement)

- TRICARE Reserve Select Premiums: DoD must recalculate (and presumably reduce) premiums for 2009 and beyond and base them on actual costs for previous year (2009 costs to be based on costs for 2006 + 2007) (GAO previously estimated that Guard/Reserve participants were overcharged by 45%-72%)

- G/R Medical/Dental Readiness: Services may provide free health/dental care to any SelRes/IRR (if subject to involuntary recall) they deem appropriate and may waive dental copays for Guard/Reserve personnel to facilitate/ensure readiness

- Transition TRICARE: DoD may temporarily continue active duty TRICARE coverage for separatees who enter SelRes (continue for 60 days if less than 6YOS; 120 days if 6+YOS)

Health Care Issues

- TRICARE Fees: Bar increases in pharmacy copays or retiree fees for FY09

- Preventive Care:
(1) Waive TRICARE copays/deductibles for beneficiaries under 65 for colorectal/prostate/breast/cervical screening, annual physical, vaccinations and other services authorized by SecDef (those over age 65 to be reimbursed for copays rather than waived due to budget technicality);
(2) establish TRICARE Prime pilot project in three geographic areas to test monetary and nonmonetary incentives to encourage healthy behaviors;
(3) Establish smoking cessation program for all under-65s (refund copays for over-65s);
(4) Test a “preventive health services allowance” payable to up to 1500 active duty members in each service ($500/yr single, $1000 family to purchase preventive services); (5) Authorize SecDef discretion to pursue other innovative programs (e.g., G/R medical/dental readiness and/or stipend for G/R families to continue employer care for families when activated)

- ECHO Payments: Raise TRICARE payment cap for active duty children with special needs from $2500/mo to $36K per year, allowing carryover month-to-month

- ECHO for Retiree Children: Require Sec Def report on providing limited temporary transition coverage upon retirement

Retiree/Survivor Issues

- Concurrent receipt: No provisions

- SBP: Authorize inclusion survivors of members who died on active duty among eligibles for modest new special survivor allowance

Wounded Warrior Issues

- DoD/VA Senior Oversight Committee (SOC): Extend SOC authority for 1 yr, with SecDef report by Aug 31 with recommendation on continuation

- Disability Determinations: Disqualifying condition is to be deemed service-connected unless there is "clear and unmistakable" evidence it existed before service entry and wasn't aggravated by service

- Centers of Excellence: Establish centers for hearing loss/auditory injuries and for traumatic extremity injuries/amputations

- Bonus Treatment: Bars recoupment of any paid amount and requires full repayment of unpaid balance within 90 days for member who dies or is separated/retired for combat-related injury/illness

Other Issues

- Decorations: Requires SecDef to replace decorations on one-time basis upon request by recipient or next of kin

- Salute: Authorizes military/vets not in uniform to salute flag during national anthem

GOLD STAR MOTHER'S DAY 28 SEP 08

THE WHITE HOUSE

Gold Star Mother's Day, 2008

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by the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Throughout our history, the men and women of the Armed Forces have put our Nation's security before their own, doing their duty in the face of grave danger.

On Gold Star Mother's Day, we pay solemn tribute to the mothers of the patriots lost serving this great Nation.

Gold Star Mothers inspire our Nation with their deep devotion to family and country. These extraordinary women serve their communities, dedicate their time to helping members of our Armed Forces and veterans, and bring comfort and hope to families whose loved ones laid down their lives in the defense of our liberty. Nothing can compensate for their sacrifice and loss, yet Gold Star Mothers demonstrate tremendous courage and resolve while working to preserve the memory and legacy of all our fallen heroes.

On this day, we honor our country's Gold Star Mothers and remember their sons' and daughters' noble service and great sacrifice. We offer them our deepest gratitude and our most profound respect, and we ask for God's blessings to be upon them and their families.

The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1895 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as "Gold Star Mother's Day" and has authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation in its observance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Sunday, September 28, 2008, as Gold Star Mother's Day. I call upon all Government officials to display the flag of the United States over Government buildings on this special day. I also encourage the American people to display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression of our Nation's sympathy and respect for our Gold Star Mothers.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

/s/ GEORGE W. BUSH

God Bless Our Gold Star Mothers... and the families of those who have perished in the service of our country.

AMERICA SUPPORTS YOU: FREEDOM WALK

I will never forget... I remember... so I'm inviting you to come...

Walk with us... Celebrate Freedom... and Remember... Together.

The America Supports You Freedom Walk is a national tradition that calls on people to reflect on the lives lost on September 11, 2001, remember those who responded, honor our veterans past and present, and renew our commitment to freedom and the values of our country. Each year the number of walks held throughout the nation grows, as more people are moved to participate.

The tradition was born when Pentagon employees, seeking a way to honor the victims of the attack on the Pentagon and their families, and pay tribute to those who responded to that attack as well as those who serve, organized a walk from the Pentagon to the National Mall. Nearly 15,000 people took part. Now, America Supports You Freedom Walks are taking place in communities across the nation. Last year 255 communities participated, and every state was represented, along with eight nations overseas.

The National Freedom Walk

The tradition began with a walk in Washington DC, and the National ASY Freedom Walk continues. Now in its fourth year, the National ASY Freedom Walk draws people not only from the Washington metropolitan region, but from throughout the nation. Each person who walks has his own special reason and his own interesting story to tell. If you have a story you'd like to share, please let us know!

This year, on Sunday, September 7, the fourth-annual America Supports You National Freedom Walk will take place in Washington, DC. The National ASY Freedom Walk is free of charge and open to the public. You must register in advance to participate. Registration is easy and can be done online. But walking is not the only way you can support the cause. We're looking for volunteers to check registration, hand out t-shirts, support our walkers, and lend assistance to those in need. Find out more about what YOU can do to be a part of the America Supports You Freedom Walk.

LOCAL WALKS

America Supports You Freedom Walks come in many different shapes and sizes. Some feature governors and mayors, others have veterans and their families,and still others are organized and run by students and teachers. What they all have in common is people who care. If you are interested in participating in or establishing a walk in your community, this is the place for you.

The goal for 2008 is to have several America Supports You Freedom Walks in every state. The Freedom Walks will not be a platform to discuss the policy of the war, but will be a platform to reflect on the sacrifices of September 11, renew our commitment to freedom and to express our appreciation for the men and women who volunteer to serve in the military. This tradition ensures that America will never forget September 11th.

Come walk with us... Let us Remember... and Let Us Celebrate FREEDOM!

"I Love You, Dad." Remembering Sgt. Mike Stokely

Sgt. Michael Stokely was killed in action in Iraq just a week before my son Noah was wounded. I have always felt a kinship with Sgt. Mike as he and I share a birthday. I add a candle to my cake and wish Mike Happy Birthday every year; a birthday present in his name goes to a soldier-related charity. His life and his passing are worth remembering.

In a recent exchange with Mike's father, Robert, he said this:

It is three years in just a few days - August 16. This [Saturday], at 11:30 A.M. edt, it will be three years since I last talked to him and the last time I heard him say "I love you dad" - in a lot of ways, that is almost as tough a day for me as the day he died, the day I met his body by myself at the Airport and the day he was buried. So, I have four tear at my heart days coming up in the next three weeks - August is always a tough month for me and will be rest of my life.

But, we will carry on and we will Remember Mike with Honor by helping others have a better opportunity at education and life, whether they be local students or children in Yusufiyah Iraq.

Robert, has honored his son by establishing the Mike Stokely Foundation (read more here).

Stacy has a great video tribute to Mike up at her blog... take a look.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Stokely family today (as always).