Veterans & Military Families Monthly News

December 2012 Vol. 3 No. 12

Good afternoon and thank you for reading, this months edition of the newsletter. We appreciate your involvement and continued support. Remember, we have two online sources where you can read and offer comments on the current and previous editions of the newsletter. The newsletter is posted on Facebook through the group called Veterans and Military Families Monthly News. Check it out and join the group. Click here to go directly to the page. (Keep in mind, you need a Facebook account to join; however, the documents can be viewed through the docs link toward the bottom of the page even without an account.) The second source for the online version of the newsletter is the website www.scribd.com. This online source for the newsletter works in the same fashion as the Facebook page. Please let us know what you think, or if you have any questions about the online sources. For those of you who enjoy just receiving the email each month, we will continue to send it out. But we want to build the online presence as a way to reach out to more people. As always, thank you very much for reading. Our hope is to continue to expand the newsletter. For that, we need your input. So, again, if anyone has any suggestions for topics to cover or wants to write their own piece, we will gladly try to work it in. We hope you enjoy, and please share your feedback with us.

Dear Friend,

New Resource For Active Duty Military and Veterans. From The Michigan Attorneys GenerAl office.

Thank you very much!

We wish everyone all the best in 2013!
P.2-State Rep. Mike Shirkey Helping MI Spouses Find Work P.3-VA Work-Study Program P.4-VA Pension/Disability P.5-Speiacl Note From the Office of Secretary of State Ruth Johnson P.6-ESGR P.7-Legion Claims Coach App P.8-Electronic Payments Required for TRICARE Reserve

Thank you for your service to our State and Nation. Our nation's freedoms and security could not be preserved without the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform and their families. Every American owes you a debt of gratitude. I hope you will find this information about the legal rights and protections you have earned by serving in the Armed Forces helpful and easy to understand. Please note the information provided is not legal advice, legal authority, or a binding legal opinion from the Department of the Attorney General. Should you need additional legal assistance, please see the resources listed under Helpful Links to ensure your rights are respected and honored. Thank you again for your service and sacrifice. Sincerely, Bill Schuette Michigan Attorney General For More information please click here. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the Fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

In This Issue

P.9-WWII Memories P.14-WWI P.15-COLA 2013 Updates P.16-Veterans Health Benefits Handbook P.18-VA Loan P.19-Legal help for Veterans P.21-A Veterans Veteran P.22-Toys For Tots P.23-Hire Heroes USA P.24-MANGBANG P.26-Lest We Forget SW MI

And much more.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

By: Lisa Satayut| Lsatayut@mlive.com From: www.mlive.com JACKSON, MI - State Rep. Mike Shirkey has introduced legislation that would make it easier for military spouses who move to Michigan to find work. Under House Bills 5994-96 Michigan would recognize valid teaching certificates and health-care and real estate licenses issued from other states. If the legislation passes, Michigan would join 23 other states with similar laws. Shirkey, R-Clark Lake, also plans to introduce follow-up legislation that would include anyone who wanted to move to Michigan, not just military spouses. "This is just the start. We already know military families are some of the most mobile. They experience frustration on a higher frequency, but so does anybody else who chooses to move to the state," Shirkey said. "It's about establishing a principle and building upon that and doing the right thing broadly. God bless them for wanting to move to Michigan." (Related story: Rep. Mike Shirkey chosen as assistant House majority floor leader) In February there were 11 states with legislation for military spouses. Now there are 23, with Illinois passing legislation in June. His bills, introduced Friday, were referred to the House Committee on Education. "As we celebrate Veterans Day this Monday, we should remember that we must help veterans and their families throughout the entire year," Shirkey said. "Moving to a new state can be a hectic and uneasy time, especially if a military spouse is without work. We need to expedite these temporary licenses for these spouses to find work and help provide for their families." More than 100,000 military spouses with professional licenses have trouble transferring their licenses as they move from state to state, according to the Defense Department. Military spouse unemployment is close to 26 percent, more than double the national average. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

State Rep. Mike Shirkey Introduces Legislation to Help Military Spouses Find Work in Michigan

Some Useful Links

Air Force Times www.airforcetimes.com Navy Times www.navytimes.com Marine Corps Times www.marinecorpstimes.com Army Times www.armytimes.com Military Times www.militarytimes.com TRICARE www.tricare.mil American Legion www.legion.org Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw.org AMVETS www.amvets.org The DAV www.dav.org Department of Defense www.dod.gov Military/Veterans Report www.militray.com The Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Administration www.va.gov Military Order of the Purple Heart www.purpleheart.org

If anyone has a site they would like to have added to this growing list please let us know! Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org Also check out the complete list of links that appear in this newsletter on the last page.

Thank you for your Support!

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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

From: RAO Bulletin November 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238 -1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/ NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/ AD37 member) If you're a full-time or 3/4-time student in a college degree program, or a vocational or professional program, you can "earn while you learn" with a VA workstudy allowance. This is available to persons training under the following programs: Post-9/11 GI Bill--(38 U.S.C. Chapter 33) Montgomery GI Bill--Active Duty (38 U.S.C. Chapter 30) REAP Participants Montgomery GI Bill--Selected Reserve (10 U.S.C. Chapter 1606) Post-Vietnam Era Veterans' Educational Assistance Program (38 U.S.C. Chapter 32) Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (38 U.S.C. Chapter 35) Eligible dependents under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 35 may use work study only while training in a State. National Call to Service Participants Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Program -- (38 U.S.C. Chapter 31) To receive a formal decision from VA on your eligibility you must file a claim for benefits. VA will select students for the work-study program based on different factors such as: Disability of the student Ability of the student to complete the work-study contract before the end of his or her eligibility to education benefits Job availability within normal commuting distance to the student VA will give the highest priority to a veteran who has a service-connected Disability or disabilities rated by VA at 30% or more. The number of applicants selected will depend on the availability of VA-related work at your school or at VA facilities in your area Under the program participating veterans earn an hourly wage equal to the Federal minimum wage or their State minimum wage, whichever is greater. If in a workstudy job at their college or university, the school may pay them the difference between the amount VA pays and the amount the school normally pays other work-study students doing the same job. You may elect to be paid in advance for 40 percent of the number of hours in your

VA Work-Study Program

work-study agreement, or for 50 hours, whichever is less. After you've completed the hours covered by your first payment, VA will pay you each time you complete 50 hours of service. You may work during or between periods of enrollment. You can arrange with VA to work any number of hours you want during your enrollment. But, the total number of hours you work can't be more than 25 times the number of weeks in your enrollment period. Services you perform under a VA work-study program must be related to VA work. Examples of acceptable work are: Processing VA paperwork at schools or VA offices Performing outreach services under the supervision of a VA employee Performing services at VA medical facilities or the offices of the National Cemetery Administration For forms and information, one or more of the following offices or representatives can assist you: Any VA regional office. Any VA office or Vet Center. Local representatives of Veterans organizations. Reserve Education and Incentives Officers. You can download a copy of the application form at http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-228691ARE.pdf. Consult a telephone directory under United States Government, Department of Veterans Affairs, for the telephone number of the office nearest you. Toll-free telephone service is available in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U. S. Virgin Islands. Call 888-GI-BILL-1 (888442-4551) or for the hearing impaired call 711. To obtain information on other sources of assistance, contact the financial aid office at your school. [Source: http:// www.gibill.va.gov/documents/pamphlets/ work_study_program.pdf Oct 2012 ++] We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

From: RAO Bulletin November 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238-1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/ DAV/FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/ CG33/DD890/AD37 member) VA Pension by definition says that the person does not have and cannot hold gainful employment due to disability and their total income is below the threshold set by law and regulation. The rules for working on a VA Disability are not so cut and dry and vary with the type of service compensation and each veteran's circumstances. There are several types of VA Service Compensation 100% disability for work purposes. 100% Scheduler rated 100% for physical disabilities based on the VA CFR schedule. Disabled veterans on a 100% scheduler disability can work without limitations except where the definition of the disability makes the presumption that the veteran is unable to hold a job. 100% TDIU Individual Unemployability - You are only allowed to be marginally employed. You can only make a certain amount of money, and if you make more than that marginally amount of money, your IU rating will be reviewed for possible reduction in your current rating! 100% Scheduler for PTSD or other psychiatric disability Veterans receiving 100% disability for PTSD may not work, as that is part of the definition of 100% disabled by psychiatric disability. The definition of 100% PTSD is, Total occupational and social impairment, due to such symptoms as: gross impairment in thought processes or communication; persistent delusions or hallucinations; grossly inappropriate behavior; persistent danger of hurting self or others; intermittent inability to perform activities of daily living (including maintenance of minimal personal hygiene); disorientation to time or place; memory loss for names of close relatives, own occupation, or own name. 70% TDIU Individual Unemployability The PTSD 70% definition is, "Occupational and social impairment, with deficiencies in most areas, such as work, school,

VA Pension/Disability

family relations, judgment, thinking, or mood, due to such symptoms as: suicidal ideation; obsessional rituals which interfere with routine activities; speech intermittently illogical, obscure, or irrelevant; near-continuous panic or depression affecting the ability to function independently, appropriately and effectively; impaired impulse control (such as unprovoked irritability with periods of violence); spatial disorientation; neglect of personal appearance and hygiene; difficulty in adapting to stressful circumstances (including work or a worklike setting); inability to establish and maintain effective relationships." You can see that even at 70% employment is not consistent with the rating, and at 100%, 'inability to perform activities of daily living' and 'Total occupational and social impairment' says that work is an issue. Having this problem implies a person is unable to work. Veterans should exercise caution even if working as a volunteer. If the VA determines that the nature and amount of unpaid work that you are performing demonstrates that you are not unemployable, TDIU can be revoked. Anytime the VA revokes a TDIU rating, the amount of disability compensation drops to the level of the veterans actual rating under the rating schedule. There are laws and regulations that protect VA disability ratings that have been in place for certain periods of time. If a VA award of service connection for a disability has been in effect for ten years or more, absent evidence of fraud in applying for compensation for that disability, the VA may not revoke service connection but can reduce the rating percentage. Similarly, if a specific rating percentage has been in effect for 20 years or more, absent evidence of fraud, the VA may not revoke service connection nor reduce that rating. Bottom line, veterans assigned a VA disability rating are subject to reevaluation based on employment or improved condition. Lowering a rating is possible up to a point and the criteria for lowering can vary with each veteran's circumstances. The type and duration of any work is a major factor in the VA's decision on whether to lower or remove a preassigned percentage. If in doubt check with your assigned primary physician and/or local VARO for clarification on any limitations placed on you regarding employment or voluntary endeavors. [Source: http://forums.military.com, vetsfirst.org & CalVet Oct 2012 ++] We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Michigan Secretary of State Ruth Johnson had the privilege this fall of spending time with brave military men and women serving in the Middle East in parts of Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain. The U.S. Navy hosted several secretaries of state to talk with our troops about helping ensure that the votes of overseas military members get home and are counted on Election Day.

From the Office of Secretary of State Ruth Johnson

Anti-U.S. protests and unrest marked the trip. Conditions were very harsh, with temps near 120 degrees and high humidity. Secretary Johnson asked one soldier about having to wear full gear in the heat and he told her, Maam, we must be military ready, maam.

"They made me so proud to be America," Ms. Johnson said. "These people are willing to put their lives on the line to protect us. We MUST make sure they can vote on Election Day." Johnson said she is exploring use of a military online services access card, combined with pin numbers that would allow overseas military members to return their vote securely, but conveniently. Johnson brought gifts for the troops, including playing cards and a U.S. flag that flew over the Michigan Capitol on Oct. 13 - the anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Navy.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

A Note From: Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau

This notice from LWF is to inform the reader of the development of a Lest We Forget Speakers Bureau. Since our organization has conducted three yearlong courses at Lake Michigan College, we have many topics and many qualified speakers to present information from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam War, and our involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan. We have developed formats for school children of all ages, and for veterans organization. Whatever the event we will gladly produce the correct format We would be glad to present any topic of interest to any group. As coordinator, I will be glad to help with the choices of presentations and help with planning. Gary C. Lulenski Coordinator Speakers Bureau 269-428-3442 Garykaye2@comcast.net

From: www.esgr.mil ESGR, a Department of Defense agency, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. ESGR is supported by a network of more than 4,800 volunteers in 54 committees located across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam-CNMI, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Volunteers, hailing from small business and industry, government, education and prior military service bring a vast wealth of experience to assist in serving employers, service members and their families. Together with Headquarters ESGR staff and a small cadre of support staff for each State Committee, volunteers work to promote and enhance employer support for military service in the Guard and Reserve. ESGR has served our country for 40 years, developing and promoting a culture in which all American employers support and value the military service of their employees serving in the Guard and Reserve. These citizen warriors could not defend and protect us at home and abroad without the continued promise of meaningful civilian employment for themselves and their families. ESGR has continued to adapt to meet the needs of our Reserve Component members, their families and Americas employers by joining forces with a network of other national, state and local government and professional trade organizations as together, We All Serve!

What is ESGR

From: The USO In 2012, we're calling on the brave men and women of our armed forces to make some incredible sacrifices in Afghanistan, Iraq, and remote locations around the world. That means you and I need to make an extra effort to show our support. One of the best ways to let our troops know that you've got their back is by supporting the work of the USO. Step Up and Lead -- support our troops by signing up to be part of the USO today.

STEP UP AND LEAD

Click the Michigan Flag to access the ESGR Michigan Page

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

From: RAO Bulletin November 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238 -1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/FRA/ NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/DD890/ AD37 member) The National World War II Museum in New Orleans has created a new edition of a classic board game to educate younger generations about the essential 1940s struggle to halt tyranny and secure cherished freedoms. "Monopoly: Americas World War II: Were All In This Together" replaces railroads with supply routes, hotels with camps, and board spaces with World War II events. Up to 6 players can wheel and deal World War II events such as Pearl Harbor, D-Day Normandy and Battle of the Bulge while building support and/or rallying the troops as they establish Camps and Headquarters on their way to

Monopoly - AmericAs World WAr ii

victory. The museum was able to create the educational game by teaming up with toy and board game company Hasbro, as well as USAopoly, Inc. Additionally, the museums education, curatorial, research and retail departments worked with Hasbro to make the game as engaging and historically accurate as possible. To order refer to. To purchase visit http://store.nationalww2museum.org . [Source: AL Online Update 18 Oct 2012 ++]

From: www.legion.org The American Legions Claims Coach app is featured in a story on Military.com. The app, available for both iPhone and Android users, provides step-by-step guidance to help veterans and their families connect with a service officer and navigate the VA claims process. The free app features a nationwide directory of accredited American Legion service officers, a built-in organizer for appointments, documents and deadlines, and a wealth of other resources. Additionally, a personal secure file called "My Checklist" keeps everything in order, from the initial meeting with a service officer through VAs decision and appeal, if necessary. The app does not replace personal contact with service officers; it helps streamline the filing process and helps veterans make the most of time with their service officers. To download the app, visit www.legion.org/mobileapps. And read the military.com story here.

Legion Claims Coach app available

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

Electronic Payments Required for TRICARE Reserve Select and Retired Reserve Monthly Premiums
From: www.tricare.mil October 10, 2012 FALLS CHURCH, Va. To avoid losing coverage, beneficiaries enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select (TRS) or TRICARE Retired Reserve (TRR) who pay monthly premiums by check need to switch to an electronic form of payment before Jan. 1, 2013. Beginning Jan. 1, 2013, TRICARE will only accept monthly premium payments using recurring automatic payments by credit or debit card, or by recurring electronic funds transfer (EFT) from a linked bank account. To avoid confusion, beneficiaries should verify that their bank sends EFT payments electronically. The Defense Manpower Data Center is notifying current TRR and TRS beneficiaries directly by email, and new beneficiaries will be informed in their welcome package information when enrolling. Electronic payments streamline account management and ensure continuous coverage for beneficiaries. Failure to pay premiums by the due date results in termination of coverage. Beneficiaries can contact their regional contractor to set up automatic payments and get more information. Contact information for each region is available online atwww.TRICARE.mil/contacts.

TRS and TRR are premium-based health plans. TRS is available for eligible members of the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve and their families; and TRR can be purchased by retired Reserve members, their families and eligible survivors of deceased retired Reserve sponsors. For more information about TRS or TRR go to www.tricare.mil.
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

From: http://www.jpac.pacom.mil The mission of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) is to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all Americans missing as a result of the nation's past conflicts. The highest priority of the organization is the return of any living Americans that remain prisoners of war. To date, the U.S. Government has not found any evidence that there are still American POWs in captivity from past U.S. conflicts. JPAC is located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The command was activated on Oct. 1, 2003, created from the merger of the 30-year-old U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii, and the 11-year-old Joint Task Force - Full Accounting. Commanded by a flag officer,

JPAC is manned by approximately 400 handpicked Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Department of the Navy civilians. The laboratory portion of JPAC, referred to as the Central Identification Laboratory (CIL), is the largest forensic anthropology laboratory in the world. JPAC also maintains three permanent overseas detachments to assist with command and control, logistics and in-country support during investigation and recovery operations. They are Detachment One located in Bangkok, Thailand, Detachment Two in Hanoi, Vietnam and Detachment Three in Vientiane, Laos. JPAC has a fourth detachment, Detachment Four, located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, responsible for recovery team personnel when they are not deployed.
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Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

On July 4th 2012 Mr. Franklin Smith passed away. In December of 2011 I received a letter with a story attached. Since then I have been working on obtaining a copy of his full story. Don Alsbro the President of Lest We Forget SW MI provided me with the document. Mr. Smith wrote over 50 pages in his account of World War II. Over the next few months we will publish the whole story. I thank Lest We Forget for their support with this project.Matthew X. Hauser

By: The Late Cpt. Franklin H. Smith EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF K COMPANY I then worked out of Division Headquarters in charge of unloading coal that came to the island and having it distributed to the various camps. Colonel McKee also sent me out to do camp inspections in the area. After awhile I asked Colonel McKee if I could return to my own unit. He had wanted to keep me and said that he would get me a Captaincy, but there wasnt any way that he could as they were all filled. So he told me that I could go back to my unit which I did and I returned to my normal activities. In June 1943 we left Borgarnes and moved to Reykjavik prior to our leaving the island to go to England. I was then transferred form I company and became the Executive Officer of K Company, which was commanded by Captain Robert Altman. We arrived in England and went to Tidworth Barracks in Tidworth, England, which is located in Salis bury Plain. We immediately went into very hard training in England and there was some talk that maybe we were going to Italy. It was quite a nice move for us and it was almost like going home for we were in a country where they spoke our language. We got along well with the people and they dressed like we did. It was a nice change from Iceland. The stay in England ended in October 1943 when a decision was made to move the 5th Division to Ireland.

World War II Memories From Captain Franklin H. Smith-Part IV

IRELAND The units were broken up in Ireland and we had two battalions stationed at Ballykinler in Ireland. Ballykinler is not too far from Downpatrick, Ireland. We went into training again doing all kinds of problems like one regiment would attack two regiments, or one battalion would be attacked by two battalions. We would be out in the field for a week at a time. We would usually start a big problem with part of the unit marching about twenty five miles and the other unit marching ten to fifteen miles. We would have a neutral zone of five miles between the units and then at a certain hour we could begin to patrol and continue the fighting that we were doing to train us better for combat. The training in Ireland was great training and helped to prepare us for France. In February of 1944, Doug Hargrave and I received leave orders to go to England and also to Scot land. We went to Belfast, Ireland and after we arrived there all transportation from Ireland to England was shut down. There was some leak of information and because southern Ireland has a Japanese Ambassador and a German Ambassador, they thought something was going on. We happened to bump into an Air Force Captain and he said that he was stationed in England and I asked him about giving us a ride. He said because he was a pilot for two Generals, he really couldnt give us a ride. However, he did say that if we wanted to go out to the airplane early in the morning and get aboard, the Generals wouldnt know and we could get a free ride back to England. Since this was our only way to get back we said we would do it and at 6:00 a.m. we went out and found the plane. It was called the Michigan Flash because the pilot was a University of Michigan graduate. There were seven bombs painted on the side of the B17 as he had made seven bomb raids over France. Around 10:00 a.m. a staff car came out and said the General was not going to go that day. The Captain told us that if the General didnt go, he didnt fly but we were welcome to try again tomorrow. Doug and I came back the next day, climbed into the nose and around 8:00 a.m. the staff car came, the Generals got out, climbed aboard and away we went to England. While we were in England I noticed patches of many different divisions. I knew that England had been loaded with American Divisions and there was no question that there was going to be an invasion that year. In 1943 there was talk of an invasion but I knew it was ridiculous because there were only two American Divisions, the 29th and the 5th.
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There were also a few other units on the island. If the Germans had invaded in 1943, we would have been lucky to stop them. That was not true in 1944. There were plenty of American Divisions now stationed in England. While we were there visiting a Red Cross building the air raid siren went off. I went out to see what was going on. The Germans has sent what they called Pathfinder Planes over and they were dropping parachutes with flares on them to light up London. That was so they could see the big balloons that were up over London on steel cables. They had figured out how they could light it up so that the bombers would not have any trouble when they flew over. The bombers came and started bombing London and the antiaircraft was firing like crazy and everything shook. I was standing there and no one else was out when all of a sudden an air raid warden came by. I thought he was going to give me the devil and I said Good Evening. He said Good Evening back to me, and kept on walking. After the raid was over I went back into the basement of the Red Cross and that was it. In the morning paper it said the antiaircraft had knocked down six aircraft. I didnt see them knock any down, but I am sure that they did. One day I bumped into the Dean of the Indiana Business School, Arthur Weimer, who was an Army Major in the Educational Branch. He told me that John Mee, who was Director of Placement at Indiana University, was a Colonel in charge of the Air Transport Command in London and he told me that I should get up to see him. Arthur Weimer was leaving that day to go back to Washington. Doug and I went over to the Air Transport Headquarters and asked to see Colonel Mee and were told that he was in his hotel room getting ready to go to Washington D.C. for temporary duty. I told him I was a personal friend so he called him and I was told I could go right over. When he saw me Colonel Mee said: Gee, Frank, you are still a First Lieutenant. If you want to come over with me, I can make you and your friend a Captain right away. I was happy to join the Air Transport Com mand so I agreed and so did Doug. Colonel Mee told us that he was going to Washington D.C. for thirty days but before he left we would meet at his office in the morning and arrange for my trans fer. The next morning we were in the Colonels office and he called in a Major and told him that he wanted to get us transferred into his headquarters. The Major took our names, ranks, serial numbers and other information and went out to make his phone call. Colonel Mee told me that the Major was calling SHAEF and I could pick up the phone and listen in to the conversation. The Major called SHAEF, which was Eisenhowers headquarters and exchanged pleasantries with his friend and told him that he had two officers that wanted to get transferred into the Air Transport Command Headquarters in London. The Colo-

nel he was talking with took down our information but when he found out that we were with the 5th Infantry Division, he said: Thats dynamite, that outfit is going to war, whats the matter with those men, dont they want to fight? He said that he did not want to transfer us unless we had our release from the 5th Division. That if he transferred us without a release and it happened to be two officers that the unit wanted to keep, there could be repercussions all the way to the top at SHAEF. He said he could lose his head over that and to tell us to go back and get our release and once he got it the transfer to Colonel Mees Headquarters would be immediate. Colonel Mee didnt see it as a problem but of course he wasnt a West Point Officer and also he did not know Colonel Yuill, who was our Regimental Commander. Colonel Yuill was a tough old guy who had become a machine gun company commander in WWI. He was a little disgruntled because he had been passed by. He had been a classmate of General Patton. Colonel Mee told me to go and get my release. I told the Colonel that he didnt know my Regimental Commander and if I asked him for a release, not only would he not give it to me but he would be so mad he would give me every lousy detail he could think of. I had to tell Colonel Mee that as nice as it would have been to be with him, I couldnt do it. That evening Doug and I got ready to leave London and we were trying to catch a cab, which was very difficult especially at night. A cab happened to stop that had an American Air Force Officer in it, who asked us where we were going. When we told him, the train station, he told us to get in, he was going right by it. About that time the air raid siren sounded and I thought we were not going to get to the station because we were the only vehicle on the street and I figured the cab driver would want to pull over into some safe place but he kept going. After we arrived at the train station, he would not continue any further even though the American Air Force Officer wanted him too. The cab driver said he would not go on until the air raid was over. Fortunately the train left on time because as the agent said, it was safer to leave than to stay. Inside the train was blacked out as everything was in England, you couldnt see any light from the outside but on the inside we had lights. We pulled out of the station while London was being bombed and headed for Scotland. It was an overnight trip and we arrived in Edinburgh in the morning. We found a place to stay at the Royal Hotel. We took in the sights of Edinburgh and Glasgow and then we had to get back to Ireland. We went over to the airport and talked to an American Air Force Officer who said he would get us on a plane. We flew to Belfast and eventually got back to Ballykinler. We found out that while we were gone, General Patton had inspected the 5th Division.
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Of course it was typical Patton as he had them line the division up on an air field and then he rode back and forth standing up in his jeep and you could see his pearl handled revolvers. He gave a talk to the entire division. (Many of you probably have heard this in the movie, Patton) He said: When your grandchildren ask you what you were doing in WWII; you can tell them that you were killing Germans that you werent shoveling shit at Fort Polk, Louisiana. The soldiers got a big kick out of this but they told me that the chaplains and nurses were all hiding their faces at times during his speech.

Please Support and listen to Frontlines of Fredom Military Talk Radio Hosted by Lt. Col. Denny Gillem. You can hear it every Saturday at 1p.m. on 1260 AM the Pledge (Zeeland, MI), or by visiting the website at www.frontlinesoffreedom.com. Or on Facebook by clicking here. Thank you for your Support!

From: www.wwimemorial.org In March 2008, Frank Buckles, the last surviving American veteran of World War I, visited the District of Columbia War Memorial, on the National Mall in Washington DC. He observed that this peaceful, secluded memorial, dedicated in 1931 as a memorial to the 499 residents of the District of Columbia who gave their lives in that war, sits neglected and in extreme disrepair, and that there is no national memorial to World War I. Mr. Buckles issued a call for the restoration and re-dedication of the D.C. memorial as a National and District of Columbia World War I Memorial. The World War I Memorial Foundation was formed to make Frank Buckles dream a reality. The mission of the Foundation is to advocate and raise funds for the re-dedication of the DC War Memorial as a national World War I memorial, dedicated to all those Americans who served in the Great War. In 2014 the world will mark the centennial of World War I. Nearly 5 million Americans served during the war, and 116,516 Americans died in defense of democracy overseas. Americas support of its allies in World War I marked the first time in this nations history that American soldiers went abroad to defend foreign soil against aggression -- and it marked the true beginning of the American century. Yet while the later conflicts of the 20th century World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War -rightfully have national memorials on the National Mall, there is no such memorial to the Great War, even though more Americans gave their lives in World War I than in Korea or Vietnam. The D.C. memorial, which is already located adjacent to those other memorials, is the most fitting site for a national World War I memorial.

The World War I Memorial Foundation

Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.

~Ronald Reagan

Photo: The Late Frank Buckles during his 2008 visit to the Washington D.C. World War I Monument.

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Additional Benefits for Active Duty Time Served: DD FORM 214-SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT
From: Social Security Administration (SSA) Please share this with anyone who's had active duty service between January 1957 to December 31, 2001 and planning for retirement. In a nutshell it boils down to this: You qualify for a higher social security payment because of Military service, for active duty any time from 1957 through 2001 (the program was done away with 1 January 2002). Up to $1200 per year of earnings credit credited at time of application - which can make a substantial difference in social security monthly payments upon your retirement. You must bring your DD-214 to the Social Security Office and you must ask for this benefit to receive it! Social Security website: http://www.ssa.gov/ retire2/military.htm This is something to put in your files for when you apply for Social Security down the road... It is NOT just for retirees, BUT anyone who has served on active duty between January1957 to December 31, 2001. FYI - this benefit is not automatic, you must ask for it!

A Note From Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs

We need your help to grow the Newsletter
We are currently looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know. For it is through your involvement we are able to reach more and more people each month. Thank you very much! We hope you enjoy.

Three ways to help:

1. Email us the contact information at mhauser@migop.org 2. By mail at: 520 Seymour Lansing, MI 48933 3. Or simply forward the newsletter along to a friend. Thank you for your Continued Support -Hank Fuhs
community need when the federal government terminated its program that helped many veterans pay for transportation to VA medical facilities. The DAV has 189 Hospital Service Coordinators around the country who coordinate the transportation needs for disabled veterans. Use the DAV Hospital Service Coordinator Directory to contact your nearest HSC for information or assistance. Please remember that the DAV Transportation Network is staffed by volunteers; therefore, it is unable to cover every community. We hope we can help you. Locate your nearest VA Medical Center

To request a copy of a DD-214 click here.

Form: www.dav.org Because so many sick and disabled veterans lack transportation to and from VA medical facilities for needed treatment, the DAV operates a nationwide Transportation Network to meet this need. Through the Transportation Network, DAV volunteers drive sick and disabled veterans to and from VA medical facilities for treatment. The Transportation Network is a clear example of veterans helping veterans. The DAV stepped in to meet a substantial

Need a Ride

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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DISABLED WAYNE COUNTY VETERAN OUTFITTED FOR HUNTING

Published: April 29, 2012 4:07AM By: BOBBY WARREN From: http://www.the-daily-record.com & Chad Miles BLACHLEYVILLE -- A Wayne County man received hunting gear from a new nonprofit organization that helps disabled veterans experience the outdoors. Russell Sellers received the gear for wild turkey hunting Thursday from childhood friend and former Triway classmate Chad Miles, who now lives in the Detroit area and started Sling and Stone Outfitters. In the package were a new shirt, pants, jacket, boots, turkey decoys, a turkey call, a mouth call and a face mask. Miles told his friend he wished there were more, but the nonprofit is new and does not yet have much of a budget. Sling and Stone Outfitters was formed on Veterans Day last year: 11-11-11. Miles had been doing research on crossbow hunting and discovered in several states it is illegal, except for disabled veterans. So, he began thinking what if he could get crossbows into the hands of disabled veterans, along with boots and clothes. His ultimate goal is to be able to provide amputees with special gear for hunting. As a 20-year-old, Russell Sellers, who is permanently disabled, was working as a diesel mechanic in the U.S. Army. While installing a drive shaft in a Utah National Guard truck, in preparation to be shipped out for Operation Desert Storm, he felt a pop in his back. For the next month, he lay in traction. At the time, he was told he had a low lumbar fracture. He refused back surgery because he was told there would be a 50-50 chance of not walking again. The injury ultimately led to him being released from the military. Over the course of the next 20 years, Sellers, now 41, dealt with incredible back pain, leading him to take "every drug known to man" in order to find some relief. "It was very stressful," Russell Sellers said. "I lost some good jobs because of it, and I can't hold my kids." In 2011, he had back surgery, and the doctor said his injury was not a fracture, rather he broke his back. He is doing better since the surgery. Laurie Sellers said when her husband was having all of those problems, it was frustrating. His back could go out at any moment, and he would drop to the floor. Russell Sellers, who loves to hunt, whether deer, squirrel, rabbit or turkey, said he thinks it is great to be the first recipient of hunting gear from Sling and Stone Outfitters. When Miles started the organization, he created a Facebook page. He informed others he was soon going to put together a package for turkey hunting for a disabled veteran. After the Facebook post, Russell Sellers contacted Miles about being considered. With five children, Russell Sellers has not had the money to update his hunting equipment. His boots are 13 years old and shredded from the briars, but they were all he had. He was excited to get a pair of insulated boots. The name of the nonprofit plays on the idea of a primitive weapon, but it is also connected with David, an Old Testament figure who as a young boy slew Goliath with a sling and a stone. The goal of the organization is to help disabled veterans face their psychological Goliaths and slay them, Miles said. Anyone wishing to donate to the organization can visit the website, slingandstone.org, or check out its Facebook page.

From More information contact Chad Miles at: Phone: (313)-690-3010 Email: chad@slingandstone.org Mail: 2130 Audette Street. Dearborn, MI 48124 Facebook: Click Here

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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From: www.michigan.gov Between duty on the Mexican Border and service in World War 1, the Michigan National Guard was expanded by the War Department. The two cavalry troops were increased to a squadron of four troops. The engineer company became a battalion of three companies. The signal company was increased to a battalion of two companies, and a brigade headquarters company was added to the Infantry Brigade. The First Michigan Field Artillery was also increased to a battalion. One company of engineers was called into federal service in May 1917, while the balance of the units were called on July 15,1917 and drafted August 5. The engineer company was included in this draft. Mobilized at their home stations, the troops first went to Camp Grayling and than began moving to Camp McArthur, El Paso, Texas in early August. The 33rd Infantry was relieved from its guard duty and garrison duties and was also sent to Texas in late 1917. The only Michigan unit not sent to Camp McArthur was the First Michigan Ambulance Company, which was sent to Camp Mills, N.Y., where it was incorporated into the 42nd (Rainbow) Division as Michigan's representative.

World War I

Squadron furnished most of the personnel for the 119th Field Artillery. The Michigan Engineer Battalion combined with the Wisconsin Engineer Battalion to form the 107th Engineers. The First Michigan Field Signal Battalion and the First Wisconsin Field Signal Battalion formed the 107th Field Signal Battalion. Michigan Field Hospital No. 1 and Michigan Ambulance Company No. 2 formed part of the 107th Sanitary Train. Thus, the designation of U.S. volunteer military units by their state names passed into history as they were never used again, except in ceremonial forms. For example, the 1225th Corps Support Battalion, successor of the 1st Battalion, 225th Infantry of Detroit, still uses the ceremonial name "The Detroit Light Guard."

"Over There"
The 32nd arrived in France in February 1918 and was the sixth division to join the Allied Expeditionary Force. Its units were the first American troops to set foot on German soil--in Alsace in May 1918. Advancing 19 kilometers in seven days, it captured Fismes in the Marne offensive. As the only American unit in General Mangin's famous 10th French Army, it fought in the Oise-Aisne offensive and helped break the German line which protected the Chemin de Dames. Fighting continuously for 20-days and twice in the line in the Meuse-Argonne offensive, the 32nd penetrated the Kriemhilde Stellung, crossed the Meuse and drove to the flank Metz. As the front line element of the Third U.S. Army, soldiers of the 32nd marched 300 kilometers to the Rhine and occupied the center sector in the Colbenz bridgehead for four months, holding 63 towns and 400 square kilometers of territory. From May to November 1918, they were under fire and were allowed only 10 days in rest areas. In three major offensives, the 32nd fought on five fronts, participating in the Aisne-Marne, Oise-Aisne and Meuse-Argonne offensives. Meeting and defeating 23 German divisions from which 2,153 prisoners were taken, the 32nd gained 38 kilometers in four attacks and repulsed every enemy counterattack. Since much of the fighting on the Western Front for years took place over the same 5-10 kilometers of ground, with neither side being able to break the line of the other, it was a remarkable feat for the young Americans. The division was still in action east of the Meuse when the Armistice was finally signed.
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32nd Infantry Division (Red Arrow)

The Michigan Guard merged with members of the Wisconsin Guard to form the 32nd Infantry Division on July 18, 1917, with Michigan furnishing 8,000 troops of all arms. The 32nd was to write many glorious pages in American history in both world wars and become known world-wide as one of American's toughest fighting units. The 63rd Infantry Brigade was formed of Michigan infantry. The 33rd Michigan Infantry, with the exception of one company, and five companies of the 31st formed the 125th Infantry. The entire 32nd and five companies of the 31st formed the 126th Infantry. The surplus companies of the Michigan Infantry Brigade formed the 120th Machine Gun Battalion, and the Headquarters and Supply Companies, 31st Michigan Infantry, went to the 119th Field Artillery. The Michigan Artillery Battalion and Cavalry

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The 32nd paid heavily for its victories. It suffered 14,000 casualties from all causes and was third in the number of battle deaths of any division in the Army. The shoulder insignia worn by its soldiers--a Red Arrow--signifies that the division shot through every line the enemy threw before it. The French, high in their praise of the 32nd's accomplishments, gave it the name of" es Terribles."More than 800 officers and enlisted men L were decorated by the American, French, and Belgian governments. The colors of all four infantry regiments, three artillery regiments, and three machine gun battalions received the Croix de Guerre of the Republic of France, while every flag and standard in the division was authorized four American battle streamers. During the war, Maj. Gen. William G. Haan commanded the 32nd. While serving with the Army of Occupation in Germany, the division was commanded by Maj. Gen. William Lassiter. It left Germany in April 1919 and was demobilized in May 1919, thus bringing to a close a glorious page in American and Michigan military history.

From: RAO Bulletin November 2012 (Lt. James EMO Tichacek, USN (Ret) Associate Director, Retiree Assistance Office, U.S. Embassy Warden & IRS VITA Baguio City RPPSC 517 Box RCB, FPO AP 96517 Tel: (951) 238-1246 in U.S. or Cell: 0915-361-3503 in the Philippines. Email: raoemo@sbcglobal.net AL/AMVETS/DAV/ FRA/NAUS/NCOA/MOAA/USDR/VFW/VVA/CG33/ DD890/AD37 member) Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for nearly 62 million Americans will increase 1.7 percent in 2013, the Social Security Administration announced 16 OCT. The 1.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that more than 56 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2013. Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 31, 2012. Some other changes that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $113,700 from $110,100. Of the estimated 163 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2013, nearly 10 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum. Information about Medicare changes for 2013, when announced, will be available at http://www.Medicare.gov. For some beneficiaries, their Social Security increase may be partially or completely offset by increases in Medicare premiums. The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ cola. [Source: SSA Fact Sheet http:// www.socialsecurity.gov/pressoffice/factsheets/ colafacts2013.htm ++]

COLA 2013 Update

Short video from www.tricare.mil that explains some back ground information
View this video to get a better understanding of what TRICARE is. Or Click Here.
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From: www.va.gov The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to informing the Veteran community about VA health benefits and services. Currently, VA is producing personalized Veteran Health Benefits Handbooks for Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care. The new handbooks are tailored specificfor each Veteran and provides detailed information about the VA health services the Veteran may be eligible to receive. The Veteran Health Benefit Handbook provides answers to common questions such as contact information for the Veteran's local facility, instructions on how to schedule appointments, guidelines for communicating treatment needs and an explanation of the Veteran's responsibilities, such as co-pays, if applicable. Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare will receive their personalized handbooks via mail as part of a national rollout campaign starting in February 2012 based on Priority Group, beginning with Priority Group 1 and ending with Priority Group 8. In the near future, VA will develop an online version of the handbook for Veterans to access via MyHealtheVet. This will allow Veterans to access their up-to-date health benefit information anywhere, anytime. Click the link below for additional information about the Veterans Health Benefits Handbook or call VA at 1 877-222-VETS (8387).

Veterans Health Benefits Handbook

By: Dale Hemphill-Designer, Spirit of America Flag (dhemp31628@aol.com)

Spirit of the American Flag

The Spirit of America Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 by a naval veteran realizing the need for historical recognition of American's heroes and the sacrifices they made for our country. The "Spirit of America" insignia shown above was designed to recognize our men and women of the military forces and the battles they fought. As the Spirit of America Foundation continues its mission to promote patriotism and the appreciation of our veterans, it has expanded its reach to help veterans in need in today's tough economy. FORGOTTEN HEROES USA, LTD, supports the missions of the Spirit of America Foundation by offering patriotic products honoring Americas hardships in history dating back to the Revolutionary War to present day Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. With each purchase, a percentage is donated to the Spirit of America Foundation. If you would like to help our cause by making a purchase or donation please know that your generosity will reach many others in their time of need. Please review our web site for more information. If you have any questions or comments please contact us via the "Contact Us" page. Thank you! Video: The Raising of the Spirit of America flag. At the American war cemetery in Margraten in The Netherlands on Sunday the 3rd of July 2011. Made by: RALPH84 Click Here to view the video.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

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Michigan Republican Party Facebook Page

Along with building the newsletters Facebook page, which can be found by the link above, the Michigan Republican Party is building their page. If you would like join, please click here.

Old Warrior Camp

From: Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Retired, ANG This Hunting Camp was built by a retired Marine First Sergeant with the primary purpose of facilitating the Wounded Warriors as they begin their Journey back to Civilian Life. The First Sergeant is the Commander of the Disabled American Veteran (Manistique Chapter 26) He is also 100% totally disabled. There is no cost to veteransBring a Valid Michigan Hunting License and your sleeping bag. Contact Bob Blevins at (906)-477-0025 for dates and times available.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

A clipping from Gene Simon. It does bring up an interesting point. Do we forget?Matthew X. Hauser

We hear stories from around the state about Veterans who are in need of help. Please remember what these men and women have done for this nation. Please remember them, and let our communities not forget what these men and women have sacrificed. Thank you to everyone who has supported this newsletter, and if you know of any veterans who are in need of help let us know and we will put the word out to help. -Matthew X. Hauser Contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org

Lest We Forget

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Legal Help for Veterans

From: James G. Fausone Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC is a law firm located in Northville, Michigan. We have a national practice representing veterans on veterans disability claims. This representation occurs at the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, the Board of Veterans Appeals and regional offices. We have helped veterans collect over $10,000,000 in retro and future benefits. Over the last decade, LHFV has become a trusted name in the legal community for providing legal services to veterans and lecturing at law schools, bar associations and community events. Members of the Legal Help for Veterans practice group are former service members who bring not only legal expertise but an understanding of service and duty. The members of the group have medical and administrative backgrounds as well as finely honed legal skills developed over twenty years of practice and experience. We have represented thousands of veterans and currently have over 650 active clients. For more information about the organization and about legal help for veterans and for contact information www.legalhelpforveterans.com and found on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Our telephone number is 800.693.4800. Our blog discusses current issues facing veterans and the VA. Typically our clients are enlisted men and women who served post Korea. The Vietnam vet is still the one with the most common problems. These include Agent Orange related disabilities, PTSD, psychiatric or orthopedic injuries. Other vets often have hearing loss, military sexual trauma or tinnitus. We are now seeing Iraq and Afghanistan vets with TBI. Many vets do not even begin the disability claim process until many years after service. The trigger may be unemployability and the need for benefits. With a million claim back log at VA, it is a slow and confusing process and many people need professional help establishing the proper diagnosis and service connection. That is what Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC has been doing for clients for years. We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

From: Rick Briggs, Major, USAF (Ret) The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) Veterans Program utilizes numerous types of outdoor activities to gather Veterans and currently serving military personnel together for a little R&R. These special events are almost always free for the troops depending totally on the kind donations of sponsors and donors. In addition to being a great way to say Thank you for their service, these activities serve as the mechanism to get the troops to open up a little if they are having post-deployment issues. Frequently we find that in the comfortable confines with others who have been there, done that they tend to be more receptive to learn about Invisible Wounds says Rick Briggs the Program Manager, both PTSD and TBI are treatable if they seek the proper help. To find out more about these activities, or to donate to their Veterans Program, please make out checks to BIAMI Veterans Program and send them to 7305 Grand River Suite #100, Brighton, MI 48114 or contact Rick Briggs at veterans@biami.org or call him (810) 2295880 or visit www.biami.org.

Brain Injury Association of Michigan

BIAMI is celebrating its 30th Anniversary as it continues to strive to provide persons with a brain injury and their families, healthcare professionals, and the general public with the resources necessary to enhance brain injury awareness, education, prevention, and support. BIAMI is also fields the first and only dedicated Veterans Program staff within the Brain Injury Association of America.
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About the Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI):

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BY: ANGIE JACKSON AJACKSO3@MLIVE.COM From: Gene Simon BELMONT When Bill Schaefer was part of an Air Force unit sent to a base in Libya on Christmas Eve 1969, he didnt know what to expect. The team, which normally handled encoded communications, had been on standby for weeks but wasnt informed of what would be retrieved. Schaefer, 69, was baffled when he first saw a truckload of brightly wrapped Christmas presents. He wondered if he had given up his holiday to play Santa Claus. We were laughing at first. We thought we were going to give these boxes to the poor or military families, said the retired Air Force command chief master sergeant. We started unwrapping the gifts, and every top secret radio code in the United States was in there, plus equipment. The group airlifted the documents out of Libya in preparation for the Air Force bases closure six months later. Schaefers memories of his service echo those belonging to military veterans across West Michigan today as we mark Veterans Day. Schaefers 34-year military career began with undercover work during the Vietnam War, when he was fresh out of college, and concluded with one of the highest enlisted ranks in the Air Force. He laughs at some of his exploits and an unexpected promotion that put him in charge of an entire command an elevation he said still surprises him. His uniform is decorated with dozens of ribbons and medals, but Schaefer now spends time connecting other veterans with honors they earned but never received, some dating back to World War II. The Belmont resident enjoys researching their stories and seeing how his experiences align with theirs. It was always so interesting to be involved in that because it was current history, he said of his career.

A VeterAns VeterAn RISING TO RARE RANK doesnt meAn As much As HELPING OTHERS GET THEIR MEDALS, BILL SCHAEFER SAYS

Close calls Months after the Christmas Eve mission, tension in Jordan between the countrys army and the Palestine Liberation Organization led officials to call for the closure of the U.S. embassy. Schaefer was sent to help evacuate American workers on a charter flight. They were in a group, waiting for the plane to arrive on the tarmac. Minutes before the plane to Rome arrived, a man in the group fell. Schaefer ran to sling him over his shoulder. He kept saying, My leg, he said. All of a sudden, it was like the whole world opened up on me. Things were being shot out. Not until Schaefer boarded the plane did he realize his own shoe was missing and his foot had been grazed by a ricocheted bullet. A few days later, he was sent back to Jordan to destroy equipment at the embassy. After the mission was complete, he was forced to leave on foot to Israel because his visa had expired. Schaefer came under fire again while on the trek. I hugged the ground, he said. That was the worst experience, because I knew they werent shooting at me. Israeli soldiers were aiming at infiltrators behind Schaefer, and a bullet grazed his arm in the exchange. Returning to the then-Air Force Europe headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany, Schaefer decided he had had enough of overseas duty. That kind of scared me, he said with a laugh. A third time, and Id be six feet under. At age twenty nine, he returned to the U.S. and joined the reserves and then the Air National Guard. Continued...

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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Surprise Promotion Years later, just before the Gulf War, Schaefer was presented with the most unexpected moment of his military career. In a meeting with senior staff, he was promoted to command chief master sergeant of the Tactical Air Control Party. I was promoted over eight other guys, he said. I was really flabbergasted. In 1998, the Air Force established the rare pay grade of E-10, into which Schaefer was grandfathered. Despite the honor, Schaefer remains humble, saying, Its more of a ceremonial thing. In the years leading up to the promotion, Schaefer was integral in certifying personnel of the 172nd Tactical Air Support Squadron, in Battle Creek, to control aircraft from the ground. Schaefer, along with 12th Air Force active duty personnel, started a certification program for enlisted personnel to control aircraft, which was approved by the Air Force in 1986 and now is used worldwide. We set up a program to get these people certified as controllers. And now, it s a common thing, he said. Service to others After his 2011 retirement, Schaefer remained connected with the military. He joined the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard and took notice that some of his peers werent wearing ribbons he thought they would have earned. He found out the veterans either werent notified of the awards or hadnt taken the time to research them. Undertaking the research himself, Schaefer discovered some interesting twists. For example, he found Harry Booth, 90, whom he calls the veteran who never left World War II. After ending active service as a pilot in 1945, Booth long thought he was discharged. A few weeks ago, Schaefer revealed Booth had been transferred to a reserve unit and not officially discharged until 1953. I was really surprised, Booth said. It just completed my understanding of my own military service. Grandville Police Sgt. Dennis Richards was unaware of his five unclaimed awards from four years in the Navy. When looking into why his uniform was bare in comparison to others, Richards was told it could take years to recover the medals. Schaefer helped him do it within a month. For an individual to reach out to other military veterans and assist them with some of these issues, he doesnt have to do that, Richards said. Schaefer enjoys the history lessons, and its important to him that other veterans are recognized. Some people say, Bill, you outrank me. And I say, No, were all in the same boat.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program

From: www.toysfortots.org

MISSION:
The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted.

GOAL:
The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.

OBJECTIVES:
The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help less fortunate children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nations most valuable resources our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future.

Check out www.toysfortots.org for more information.

Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.

~Ronald Reagan
We would like to express our appreciation to all of the Fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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For the link to the interview with Rep. Ray Franz please Click Here

Rep. Ray Franz talks about the new Veterans program "Hire Heroes" that can be found online at - http://www.hireheroesusa.org/

A Little Information about Hire Heroes

From: www.hireheroesusa.org Mission: Hire Heroes USA (Hire Heroes) is dedicated to creating job opportunities for US military veterans and their spouses through personalized employment training and corporate engagement. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, Hire Heroes services are provided at no cost to the veteran. Creating the Opportunity. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Hire Heroes USA has built a national reputation of excellence for its success at helping unemployed veterans find jobs currently at the rate of one veteran confirmed hired every business day. Our team is comprised of military veterans many with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan and business veterans. That mix of military and civilian experience has proven essential to effectively training veterans in the skills of self-marketing and then networking them into good jobs with great companies. The hallmark of the program is a personal approach where each veteran receives dedicated assistance from a highlytrained staff member in order to help them overcome barriers to employment. To become part of this program, click on the tab above that best suits your interest.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.
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MICHIGAN AIR NATIONAL GUARD HISTORY BOOKS

The Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association created a three volume set of history books covering the periods 1926-1996. A fourth volume covering the years 1996 to 2006 is in production and should be available soon. Volume 1 covers the period 1926 to 1976-Cost: $1.00 Volume 2 covers the period 1976 to 1986-Cost: $4.00 Volume 3 covers the period 1986 to 1996-Cost: $1.00 Volume 4 covers the period 1996 to 2010-Cost: $6:00 Full color $35.00 If you wish to purchase one or more of these volumes or are interested in more information, please contact MAGHA at Phone: 586-239-6768, Fax: 586-239-6646, Email: 127.wg.selfridgeairmuseum@ang.af.mil

MANGBANG
From: Eugene (Gene) A. Simon- Command Chief Master Sergeant USAF (Retired) & Matthew X. Hauser As you may have seen in past editions of the newsletter, MANGBANG has been one of our sources. We are thankful for the source and so we just wanted to pass the information along for MANGBANG in case anyone is interested in joining the Michigan Air National Guard Historical Association. You can contact Lou Nigro if you are interested. We think it is a worthwhile investment-it supports the history of the Michigan Air National Guard and his monthly publications are very informative. For those who want to view it on our website (www.selfridgeairmuseum.org, http://www.selfridgeairmuseum.org ), Lt Col Lou Nigro, MI ANG (Ret) Executive Director, Selfridge Military Air Museum Email: louis.nigro@ang.af.mil

From: Dept. Hospital Chairman Merridy Lewis Hospitalized Veterans Writing Program (HVWP). This program helps veterans get their poems and stories down on paper is one of the goals for our volunteers. Volunteer aides help both with a one on one or with groups of patients to help them put their thoughts and feelings into stories and poems. The stories and poems can be submitted to veterans voices, a magazine that publishes the articles that have been submitted. The HVWP does its very best to publish every article that has been submitted following the guide lines.

"Veterans Voices"

It is important to submit the authors name, VAMC facility and state, the authors permanent address the branch of service and duties along with the serial number or social security number. Manuscripts must be original and unpublished, except in VAMC publications. Writers can submit up to three poems, each no longer than 24 lines with 60 character width. Stories no longer than 10 pages, typed using double spacing. This is a brief detail of what HVWP is about. It may be an interest you would like to share with a Veteran on a volunteer basis. This is part of our history for generations yet to come we are losing World War II Veterans every day and we need to hear their stories. For more information about the organization please visit their website at www.veteransvoices.org.

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

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Two Great Sources for Veterans/Military Legislative Updates in Washington D.C. Simply click the images to view the site.

Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Committee Testimony Committee Minutes No SubCommittees Committee Members: Ray A. Franz (R), Committee Chair, 101st District Dale W. Zorn (R), Majority Vice-Chair, 56th District Gail Haines (R), 43rd District Sharon Tyler (R), 78th District Mike Callton (R), 87th District David E. Nathan (D), Minority Vice-Chair, 11th District George T. Darany (D), 15th District Charles Smiley (D), 50th District Lesia Liss (D), 28th District Paul Clemente (D), 14th District Ben Cook, Committee Clerk 517-373-2002 bcook@house.mi.gov

Rep. Ray A. Franz Committee Chair Welcome to the Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee. The committee's regularly scheduled meeting time is Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. in room 308 of the House Office Building in Lansing. I welcome citizens to contact me or other committee members regarding bills or proposals our committee is addressing. Individuals needing special accommodations to participate in a committee meeting may contact my office to request the necessary assistance.

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Steaming Live for those who serve check it out.

If anyone has any other sites or link they find to be a good source please let us know we will gladly work it in. Please contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org.
Veterans Radio is dedicated to all of the men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces of the United States of America. Our mission is to provide all veterans with a voice, to give them a forum where they are able to discuss their issuesand tell their stories. You can listen to the show on: WDEO (990-AM Ann Arbor/Detroit), WMAX (1440-AM, Saginaw), WDEO-FM (99.5 FM, Naples FL), KAGY (1510-AM Port Sulfur/New Orleans LA), KIXW (960-AM, Apple Valley CA) and KMRC (1430AM Morgan City, LA). Or, listen to our Webcast and archives at: www.veteransradio.net.

Lest We Forget SW Michigan

Have you ever felt that history, particularly military history, isn't being taught in our schools like it was in the "good old" times? Why is it that many of our high school graduates, some say a majority, don't know who we fought in WWII, who bombed us at Pearl Harbor or worst yet, believe that the holocaust never happened? Our children are not being taught the basic principles that have made this country great! "Lest We Forget" was started by a group of veterans who felt that patriotism was too important of a subject to be given the short shrift that it presently receives in our schools and community. Our operating principle is "To brighten the future we must illuminate the past." We've "illuminated the past" through WWII re-enactments, patriotic concerts, presentations by Medal of Honor recipients, presentation of the American flag to Frank Buckles, our last WWI veteran, TV telecasts to schools throughout the country, participation in local parades, made presentations in our schools on the flag, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published a book of WWII stories by local veterans, presented college classes on WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars, published two books of veterans stories, brought in the VN Wall and honored the Korean vets this year. Next year (2012) Jun 29-Jul 1 we will have D-Day and Iwo Jima beach landings and much more. Remember, "Freedom is NOT free!" Patriotically Yours, Don Alsbro, President COL, US Army (ret) Lest We Forget For more info about Lest We Forget SW MI please visit their website by simply clicking here.

LWF 2010 Group Picture

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Newsletter Links From Articles For December

Page 1 Newsletters Facebook www.facebook.com Newsletters Scribd www.scribd.com State of Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette www.michigan.gov Page 2 Mlive www.mlive.com Page 3 Department of Veteran Affairs www.va.gov Page 4 Department of Veteran Affairs www.va.gov Page 6 ESGR www.esgr.mil The USO www.uso.org Page 7 The American Legion www.legion.org Page 8 TRICARE www.tricare.mil Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command www.jpac.pacom.mil Page 11 Front Lines of Freedom www.frontlinesoffreedom.com World War I Memorial www.wwimemorial.org Page 12 Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov DD-214 Form www.archives.gov DAV www.dav.gov Page 13 The Daily Record www.the-daily-record.com Page 14 Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Michigan www.michigan.gov Page 15 Social Security Administration www.socialsecurity.gov TRICARE www.tricare.mil Page 16 Department of Veteran Affairs www.va.gov Spirit of the American Flag www.forgottonheroesusa.com Page 17 MIGOP Facebook www.facebook.com Page 18 Team Pascarella www.teampascarella.com Page 19 Legal Help for Veterans www.legalhelpforveterans.com Brain Injury Association of Michigan www.biami.org Page 20 VA Home Front www.va.gov/homeless Page 22 Toys For Tots www.toysfortots.org Page 23 Hire Heroes USA www.hireheroesusa.org Page 24 Michigan Air National Guard www.selfridgeairmuseum.org Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America www.michiganpva.org

Page 25 U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs www.veterans.senate.gov U.S House Committee of Veterans Affairs www.veterans.house.gov Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Michigan www.michigan.gov Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Committee www.house.mi.gov Page 26 Pentagon Channel www.pentagonchannel.mil Veterans Radio www.veteransradio.net LEST WE FORGET SW MI www.lestweforgetusa.org Also check out the Some Useful Links Section on Page 2. Thank you for your Support!

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Stand Up For Veterans-They Stood Up For US

-The DAV

American Legion Post is in looking for current military members to send care packages to. Please contact Robert Goulet if you know of any military member who might like something. Please see News From American Legion Post 341 below for more information. Thank you very much!
CoordinatorMatthew X. Hauser

Staff & Contributors

Vicki Dunlop Mark Eddy Keith Famie James G. Fausone Rep. Ray Franz Sean M. Furr Denny Gillem Robert Goulet Dr. Jack Grenan John Haggard Larry Harr Dan Heckman

In Memory of Gary Lillie

Louis Nigro Sid Rubin Eugene (Gene) A. Simon Phil Smith Sherry Swann Tim Pascarella Bob Tidmore Rep. Fred Upton Maureen VanHooser Publisher-Hank Fuhs

ContributorsDon Alsbro Rick Briggs Helen Budd Sen. Patrick Colbeck Sam Cottle Rep. Kurt Damrow Matt Davis David Duenow

Dale Hemphill John Hess Norma Housey Sec. of State Ruth Johnson James Julian Adrian Keogh Adele Krovsky Bill Langbehn Merridy Lewis Gary C. Lulenski Claude McManus Chad Miles

News From American Legion Post 341

American Legion Post 341 is seeking the names of troops that are deployed to a combat zone so that we can send them large package of goodies and that their names and address should be sent to the address below. Also post 341 is always seeking new members please contact Robert at the same address if interested. American Legion Post 341 Sr. Vice Commander Robert P. Goulet 6130 Nicholas West Bloomfield, MI rgoulet264@aol.com

Thank you for your service to our country. It is truly the men and women like you who make this nation great, and we must never forget that. Thank you to everyone for all the help you have given us with the newsletter. We have been able to reach more people because of your help. Compared to when we first started, the amount of input and ideas we receive has increased greatly. For that we are very thankful. If you have anything you would like to share, any questions, or have an article idea, please let me know. You may contact us anytime at mhauser@migop.org. Sincerely, Matthew X. Hauser and Lt. Col Hank Fuhs

In Closing

Lest We Forget-A Clip from Hank Fuhs Lt. Col., USAF, Ret, ANG (Just Click the Link Below)
I Fought For You

We would like to express our appreciation to all of the fighting men and women in the United States Military. Thank you for your service to this country.

Paid for by the Michigan Republican Party with Regulated Funds. Not authorized by any candidate or candidates committee. 520 Seymour Street, Lansing, MI 48933

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Hope you enjoyed the Newsletter!

Please let us know what you thought. Contact Matthew X. Hauser at mhauser@migop.org
We need your help to grow the Newsletter

We are looking for any contact information of individuals or groups that you think would either be interested in receiving our newsletter or interested in writing articles. If you know of anyone please let us know.
Sincerely,
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.

~Ronald Reagan

Lt. Col. Hank Fuhs & Matthew X. Hauser

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