AT EASE! Veterans Magazine Winter 2023 : simplebooklet.com

PUBLISHERDevil Doc PublishingEDITOR IN CHIEFChristine WalkerASSISTANT EDITORVL StevensonPUBLISHING/EDITING INTERNMegan SuttorSTAFF WRITERSGuy BensingShelby LakeEric McNailStuart SaxVL StevensonAdam WalkerChristine WalkerFEATURE WRITERSLarry BroughtonDaniel DancerGy.Sgt. Jesse EsterlyMatt FeehanDr. Robert GarciaTim GrutiziusDonna HoffmeyerCristie RemmelPaul SullivanRob YounceFEATURE ILLUSTRATORStephen RussellSALES STAFFStacey BartellChristine WalkerLAYOUT & DESIGNChristine WalkerCONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Sonja BerrySara BoydSgt.Maj. G. LealCol. Joseph C. LongOperation Deep DiveTMDanny Romeo. MHS. CADCJames M. SchmidtHarold VachalFIND US AT:TheATEASEmagazine.comCopyright 2021-2024 © AT EASE! Veterans Magazine and Devil Doc Publishing All Rights Reserved.AT EASE! Veterans Magazine, a subsidiary of Devil Doc Publishing, reserves all rights connected to all copyright and proprietary property contained in our official publication, website(s), social media accounts, videography, email marketing, branding and printed materials. This includes, but is not limited to, authoritative and/or written content, photographs, graphics and infographics, ad design, artwork including official company logos in design, color, and format and video(s). Any use of the above aforementioned in whole or in part may not be used for any reason without the express written consent of Devil Doc Publishing. The subject matter and opinions of Contributing, Feature and Staff writers are their own and are covered under their First Amendment Rights.A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITORA MESSAGE FROM THE EDITORChristine WalkerWinter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 3As we gear up for the Holidays and closure of 2023, AT EASE! Veterans Magazine hits another giant milestone. This issue will complete our third publishing year. And in that time, we have shared 433 articles, written by 197 Veteran Writers in 12 issues of our publication, while reaching almost 60,000 Veteran readers across the Continental US and Internationally over the past three years. This major accomplishment took a lot of sweat, hard work, and quite a few tears. But even more astounding to me personally, is every single subscriber, reader, sponsor, and writer who has caught the vision as it has morphed into the only Independent, 100% Veteran written luxury print magazine. From the beginning, it was never about building my own kingdom, but instead it has always been about creating a lasting legacy for the Veteran community. And while my name may be on the DBA, this is not just ‘my’ magazine, it belongs to you too! We have BIG plans for 2024, including new features like From the Battleeld to the Playing Field, Warrior Wisdom, The Salty Skipper and The Veteran Lobbyist. We are also looking to nally start our podcast, “A Little More AT EASE!” and as soon as we solidify a schedule and air dates, we will announce it on our social media pages. Also exciting, we have brought in seven new AE team members: Adam Walker – USMC | Staff WriterGuy Bensing – USN | Staff Writer | Feature:Battleeld to the Playing FieldLarry Broughton – USA – Green Beret | Feature Writer |Warrior WisdomDonna Hoffmeyer – USAF | Feature Writer | DD-214 & BeyondMatt Feehan – USCG & ANG | Feature Writer | The Veteran LobbyistStephen Russell – USA | Feature Illustrator | The Salty SkipperMegan Suttor - Patriot | Editing Intern And an extra special 'Thank You' goes out to Adam Walker, he graciously stepped in to ll in the gap for our Veteran Stories this issue. As for me, in 2024 I will be stepping back from writing major articles to concentrate on the business of AT EASE! Veterans Magazine and expanding our reach. Finally, I know for some the Holidays are not the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” but it is our hope and prayer that this year is lled with Joy and Celebration with the people you love the most!Merry Christmas … Happy Chanukah… and Happy New Year! COVER PHOTO: Karl de la Guerra photographed by Kelly Mason of Mason Jar Photography LLC

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Table of ContentsTable of ContentsMessage from the Editor 3An Angel in Camouflage 10Gunny Claus 12Check the Logbook 20The Soldiers Night Before Christmas 21VA Home Loan Myths 23DD-214 & Beyond 24Veterans in Business: Skyhunter Outfitters 27'Motaritaville' - Week 4 38Do Something Creative 41V2VG - Confidence in Mission 42On Air with Stuart Sax: Ron Jones 44'I Remember When...' 45The Veteran Lobbyist: Veterans Status for Sale 50Op-Ed: Differentiating Truth from Propaganda 54From My Point of View... 56The Psychology of Addiction... 58Operation Truth 60Ten Thousand Words 62Operation Deep DiveTM 64Book Review: Face of the Enemy 66 TAPS 67Battlefield to the Playing Field: Hockey Saved My Life 69Veteran Fitness: From Zero to Hero 70Mind, Body, & Soul: Holding Space... 72P-38 74Salty Skipper: Airborne Song, By His Boots 7527 Veteran Podcasts 78Crossword: 'Winter' Scavenger Hunt 80Completely Inappropriate Exerpts from 'Born in a Bar' 81Amber Waves 82Coming Up in Our Next Issue 841515EVERY VETERAN HAS A STORY TO TELL292966'TO SERVE & PROTECT''TO SERVE & PROTECT'4 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023SO WHY THE QR CODES? It is simply a way for us to utilize technology and help make your reading experience more interactive. IT’S EASY!1. Open your phone’s QR Reader or Camera.2. Hold it over the QR Code3. A drop down link will appear, just tap it and it will take you to the extra content/website.46463434NOT ON OUR WATCH!If you are a Vet struggling with thoughts of suicide, know that you are NOT ALONE! You are loved and there is no shame in reaching out for help! VETERANS CRISIS HOTLINE988Press 1 For Immediate HelpVIETNAM IN PICTURESVIETNAM IN PICTURESHoliday FeatureHoliday Feature99Karl de la GuerraKarl de la Guerra

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Every historical period is marked by events that help to shape a country’s identity. With its tales of bravery and tenacity, the American Revolution gave rise to an event of unmatched audacity and lasting signicance: General George Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River. For military veterans and service members, history is shaped by more than just big plans and conicts; it’s also by the tales, tenacity, and exibility of leaders in the face of constantly shifting conditions.The American dream of independence was on the verge of collapse in late 1776. Washington’s forces were compelled by the British onslaught to a relentless retreat from Manhattan to New Jersey. The daunting obstacles of disease, desertion, and declining spirits were very apparent. It appeared as though the revolution’s once-bright ame would soon go out. In this context, Washington demonstrated the qualities of a great leader. His ability to remain composed and adaptable, view setbacks as temporary, and keep the larger vision in sight was unparalleled. He once said, “The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army.” These were more than just words; they were an emphatic call to action and an assurance of his steadfast resolve to improvise, adapt, and overcome.The words of Private Joseph Martin highlight the importance of optimism and exibility when considering the feelings of the general populace: “The night was excessively severe...But, the prospect of taking some Tories (Hessians) kept up our spirits.” Herein lies a lesson on the importance of hope. Even in the direst situations, hope can fuel determination and inspire action. Young soldiers found strength in camaraderie, the promise of a free nation, and the leadership of their General. It showcases that adaptability isn’t just a top-down directive; it’s a collective spirit that can invigorate an entire army. Ever the strategist, Washington recognized that military victories alone would not sufce to advance the Revolution. His army’s and the American people’s collective psyche yearned for images of tenacity and victory. A move for the Revolution’s soul was to target the Hessian mercenaries in Trenton. It was about rekindling hope, demonstrating tenacity, and proving that even a edgling army could stand tall against a formidable foe. However, as is often the case in both warfare and life, initial plans rarely unfold as envisioned. One moving example is the proposed Delaware Crossing. Designed to be a quick three-pronged attack, with militia led by Colonel John Cadwalader cutting off reinforcements, troops under General James Ewing cutting off escape routes to the south, and Washington’s forces striking Trenton from the north. The army was to cross the river under cover of darkness on December 25 at 2300, with the attack scheduled for early on December 26. An unexpected Nor’easter that hit Washington’s troops as they By Larry BroughtonBy Larry BroughtonThe Undying Spirit The Undying Spirit of Leadership:of Leadership:Washington’s Washington’s Crossing of Crossing of the Delawarethe DelawareLarry Broughton is an award-winning entrepreneur, bestselling author, keynote speaker, and former US Army Green Beret. CBS News has called Larry “the nation’s foremost expert on leadership and entrepreneurship.” He has been featured in national publications and has been a guest expert on every major television and cable network. www.larrybroughton.com6 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine |Winter 2023

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crossed the river caused chaos for the movement. The frozen river and violent storm hindered the army’s movements even though the crossing was only about 300 yards away. The General thought about calling off the attack at one point because it was running so far behind schedule. This could have been viewed by many commanders as an unsurmountable setback. Still, Washington persisted, displaying all the qualities of adaptive leadership. He had no idea that the wait had really been advantageous to him. The Hessian army had received notice from traitors and spies that an attack would start at midnight. They relaxed their guard when the army did not show up as planned. The maneuver might have been saved by the four-hour weather delay, which also prevented Washington’s two other columns from crossing the Delaware in time for the attack. At 0800, Colonel Henry Knox’s artillery and Washington’s soldiers launched an assault. Nearly 1,000 enemy soldiers were taken prisoner by the Continental Army, and the Hessian commander was killed.Following the ght, Washington withdrew back into Pennsylvania across the river. He recaptured Trenton on December 31 and proceeded north, where they routed three British regiments in successive engagements before relocating to Morristown, New Jersey, for the winter. It wasn’t arrogance that led him to believe, “We have this day no less than victory or death to expect,” but rather the realization that adapting to changing conditions can sometimes bring about unanticipated benets. These are perfect examples of how a leader sets the tone, motivates others to take action, and leads from the front.This highlights an important lesson: in leadership, as in life, our rst plans are frequently mere blueprints. They offer guidance but are not predetermined. During my time in the Special Operations community, I frequently heard, “No plan survives contact with the enemy.” Perhaps the best way to put it is to quote heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson: “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” The true measure of a leader is their ability to navigate unanticipated obstacles, change course when necessary, and seize opportunities when faced with hardships. In the same way that Washington exploited a weather delay for tactical advantage, modern leaders must be able to change course, adjust, and convert obstacles into opportunities.Following the resounding victory, Washington’s words to his brother demonstrated his humility and introspection: “Providence has her hand so remarkably in the events of this army, that I should be pained at relinquishing the cause without one more effort.” Recognizing that success often lies at the intersection of preparation, adaptability, and a touch of providence.Washington’s Delaware Crossing is remembered for more reasons than just being a crucial military action. It highlights the value of adaptability, vision, and resilience and captures the essence of adaptive leadership. It serves as a reminder to today’s leaders—military or not—that success rarely comes with a straight line. It’s a difcult journey that calls for tenacity, persistent adjustment, unwavering faith, and an eagle-eyed focus on the end result.Artist Rendering of George Washington by Larry BroughtonWinter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 7

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10 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023A tribute to my friend, George PaceWritten by Col Joseph C. Long, USMCR (Ret)It was the winter of 1966. Rain had been falling off and on for three months. In the autumn we had endured occasional lukewarm downpours that would last a few hours, then lift for several days. But as the year’s end approached the rains had gradually become colder and more frequent. By Christmas Eve, the sun had not shown itself for more than a month. I was unprepared for Vietnam to be cold. A state of perpetual shivering had become my lot; I was miserable.On Christmas morning, following my shift at radio watch, I arrived at my quarters to nd a hand-printed invitation on my bunk: “You are cordially invited to attend a party in celebration of the birth of the Christ child. It will be at 1900 tonight in hooch C14.” It was signed by George Pace.I had met George in September, shortly after joining my Marine infantry battalion. He had been in Vietnam a little more than a month when I arrived and was responsible for the supply section of the communications platoon. We were introduced by Chaplain Tom Collins – a Southern Baptist preacher from South Carolina who took well the kidding concerning his name. George was one of those people who could always make difcult situations seem almost like blessings. He was rather frail physically and had decided his greatest contribution to the war would not be in the eld as another radio carrier, but in the rear where he could do favors for those of us in the foxholes. Everyone who knew him seemed to consider the acquaintance a privilege, and George took full advantage. He used his personality and inuence to obtain material concessions from those who had, for those of us who had not. I especially remember the camouaged nylon poncho liner he sent me at a time when they were scarce and in high demand. (George’s activities on our behalf could well be a contributing factor to the Marine Corps adding nylon poncho liners to its list of “highly pilferable items.”) To others, he sent toothbrushes, Copenhagen, socks, and myriad other items designed to make our lives more bearable.I don’t recall the date, but it was while our battalion headquarters was located within range of artillery and rockets from across the border of North Vietnam that I got a special glimpse of George’s selessness.Since he stayed in the rear while most of us were patrolling the countryside, he had time to construct a very efcient bunker for himself. The hole was deep enough to stand in, it was wide enough to lie down in, and large enough to accommodate three or four people comfortably. Across the top he had placed a row of steel engineering fence stakes, then wood from ammunition boxes, and nally several layers of sandbags. The opening was a well-engineered affair consisting of an “L” shaped trench. The leg connected to the hole was covered in the same manner as the bunker. It would have withstood a direct hit.I happened to be in the rear the morning George got a chance to test his splendid bunker. About 3:30 a.m. the rst 122-millimeter rocket crashed into our base. I was awakened, but in my sleepy confusion, I thought the blast was part of a recurring nightmare I had been experiencing. Moments later I saw the second of several hundred devastating explosions, this one about 200 yards away, near George’s bunker. I stumbled amid the deluge of glowing steel shrapnel to a shallow foxhole someone else had begun. For almost an hour the enemy re fell. I felt something burn my right hip, but I lay still and endured the pain rather than take the chance of moving and exposing more of my body to the red-hot fragmentation.When the shelling nally ceased, I checked my wound and found it not serious. I didn’t even bother to have a corpsman look at it. Then, just before dawn, I went to George’s bunker to see how he had fared. I was surprised to nd him removing the sandbags from his bunker. In reply to my question, he simply said the hole needed to be enlarged. It seems that several American war correspondents had no place to go when the shelling began, so George offered them his bunker. He was about to enter it himself when he saw a few Marines without protection. He directed them toward his bunker. It was crowded, but there was still room for him in the entry trench when he noticed two medical ofcers frantically looking for shelter. George shoved them into the entrance. Having no room left for himself, he spent the remainder of the barrage lying face down in a shallow indention in the ground, completely exposed.A few weeks later, while our battalion was patrolling along the Demilitarized Zone, George, from his position “in the rear with the gear and the beer,” saw the need for a chapel at our base. He went into the City of Dong Ha and located a

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 11Vietnamese priest who was as impressed with this smiling lance corporal as the rest of us were. Through their joint efforts, a combined force of Vietnamese Christians and sympathetic Marines erected a magnicent structure framed in bamboo with walls and a roof of thatched elephant grass. Benches were made by local craftsmen working alongside Navy Seabees. An altar was constructed, and a mahogany chancel rail was donated by the priest’s parishioners.Our battalion was trucked back to the base about the middle of November. Mike Monahan, one of our fellow radio operators, was one of four Marines who had been killed in an ambush a few days earlier. I had helped load his body into the helicopter. Two other radiomen had been wounded in the same skirmish and were evacuated to a hospital ship. George met us as we dismounted from the trucks. He told us of a memorial service for the four dead men, scheduled for the next morning in the new chapel. I attended. The service was moving, and the ofciating chaplain was kind. He concluded by telling how the chapel had been constructed. Thereafter, each time I passed the chapel or remembered that service I thought of George and how much he cared about people.In early December our battalion headquarters was moved about 60 miles south to Phu Bai, just outside Hue City. The long period of rain and heavy mist was relentless. Our days were tedious and our nights cold. Although our living conditions were better than at our previous base, morale was low.As Christmas approached, there was no cause for mirth. Mail from home was slow in arriving. Mud had penetrated our most weatherproof possessions. Our tasks were boring. We stood regular shifts at radio watch; further, one radio operator was required to stand perimeter watch each night. Perimeter watch was a loathsome job during which you slept little, stayed wet, sat in the mud, and saw every movement in the dark as an enemy soldier.It was under these circumstances I found George’s Christmas party invitation. When I stepped into hooch C14 that evening I was amazed to see an articial Christmas tree complete with lights, tinsel, and neatly wrapped and ribboned presents for each of us. The party was immediately successful. We discovered a hand-constructed ice chest lled with cold drinks. Someone began singing “Jingle Bells,” and we all joined in. Then we sang “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” but no one could remember how the part went about “your kin,” so we just kind of hummed through that part. Each song we sang sounded better than the one before – the harmony sweeter, and the words more meaningful. By the time we got to “Joy to the World” all military rank differences were gone.Suddenly someone proposed three cheers for George. We all agreed, rising to our feet and turning our attention to the place where George had been standing at the beginning of the party. But he wasn’t there. One of our sergeants said George had volunteered for perimeter guard so none of the radiomen would have to miss his party. The mood of the assemblage changed. The cheers to George were given, not in the raucous spirit of a moment earlier, but with an attitude of deep affection for a lance corporal who had said little about the real meaning of Christmas spirit, but had preached a better sermon than many a minister in the largest churches back home. Someone began singing “Silent Night.” Everyone kept saying, “How about that guy!” Then one draftee who had been a music major in college sang, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas…If Only In My Dreams.” So it continued far into the night, until all the tears were shed, and all the songs had been sung many times. It was a wonderful Christmas night.On July 4, 1967, George Pace, then a corporal reassigned as assistant to the regimental chaplain, was back at Dong Ha serving mass in the chapel he had been responsible for constructing. A lone artillery round slammed into the base from North Vietnam. It did little damage to nearby structures as it hit the road outside the chapel. Only one person was injured: George Pace. He was on his knees at the altar when a single piece of shrapnel tore through his back and sliced off the top of his heart. A few hours later, after surgeons and ministers had done all they could, George was pronounced dead.I never come to this time of year without remembering George Pace and his year-round demonstration of what the Christmas spirit is all about....Memorial Tribute - 03 Jul 2007Every Fourth of July is “George’s Day” in my book. I think of him many times during the year as well, but on this day he is in the forefront of my memories. It has been this way for 40 years. I will never forget someone who has given so much for his country - I never will. With Father Ryan now gone, I guess I am the only one left to remember that fateful day. I was the surgeon the day George was wounded and I will never forget the Marines who were standing in a long line to give George their blood. It was a long and difcult surgery. When it was over, George woke up and asked me what had happened. I told him and he thanked me. He always thought of the other person and never of himself. He died later that night from his massive cardiac injuries. It was a sad time for us all.He was always visiting the hospital to check up on the wounded Marines. He was always in good humor and loved to talk and joke with the men. He organized a “Social Club” so the Marines would have a place to meet and play cards. Everyone loved him and his many ways to make you laugh.George was an outstanding Marine and a credit to his family. All should be proud of his service and dedication to his country. He is in good hands now, I’m sure, with many of his fellow Marines beside him.Semper Fi,Donald J. Hagan | Capt (Medical Corps) USNR Ret. | Dong Ha Vietnam 7/4/67George’s Friend and SurgeonAuthor’s bio: Col Joesph C. Long enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1966 and spent 13 months in Vietnam with the rank of Corporal as a radio operator for 2nd Battalion 9th Marines. After he was honorably discharged, he attended Eastern New Mexico University where he received his bachelor’s degree. In 1974, he reentered the Marine Corps and was commissioned as an ofcer. After serving 37 years, he retired as a Colonel.

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12 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023GUNNY CLAUSOnce upon a time, in a land not so far away and not so long ago, there was a forlorn Retired Gunnery Sergeant who needed a new mission. Unbeknownst to him at the time, the wheels of fate were about to intervene. In 1986, Robert Porter stepped on the yellow footprints at Paris Island. Over the next 21 years, he would embark on a military career that included Military Police, criminal investigations, Drill Instructor, Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival Course (MCIWS), and Interservice Nonlethal Individual Weapons Instructor Course (INIWIC). Robert had a long and illustrious career and retired in 2007. Through a series of volunteer stints with multiple Veteran organizations, he found himself ‘behind the scenes’ volunteering in the warehouse for Toys for Tots in New York. The organization, ran by the USMCR unit in New York was moved to Connecticut, but there were still 15 counties that needed to be served in the State of New York. Enter Santa’s helper, Gunny ‘Vinny’ Roman. He told Robert, “You know, I need you to get out of the warehouse from behind the scenes. I need you to get out in front, so we have actual Marines doing the program.” “I was like, OK, I’ll do that. We did an event with Amtrak. I didn’t have the beard and my hair was bit shorter. I scared the kids for two days, I felt like Krampus… I felt like the anti-Claus. So, I was like, yeah, I’m not doing this again,” Robert thought to himself.But fate would intervene once again through the heart of a little girl. They delivered the toys via Amtrak to the charities that couldn’t come to Albany, NY to get them. “One organization there, a hobbyist train organization would donate train sets to us and each stop, we would get one or two of these trains to give to the kids that are there. These train sets are amazing, and I don’t know the price, but they’re expensive. It was the last stop right by the Canadian border, Rouse’s Point. It was dusk, getting colder, and we’re all tired [as] this is our second 16-hour day. I get the last train set to donate, get off the train, and walked to the back of the congested group. I see one of the women with Dunkin’ Donuts (Sponsor of of the Marines and I ask her what’s going on. She explains to me that this young girl eight or nine years old had seen the train set the year before and fell in love. Unfortunately, she’d been standing on the platform and [had] been pushed to the back [of the crowd] and didn’t get the train set. ‘Okay Point her out to me.’ So, I go over, and she has a Barbie doll. I get down on a knee in front of her with her parents there, ‘that’s a really good toy, my daughter wants that… would you trade me for this train set?’ And the girl [said], ‘yeah, you’re crazy. that train is a lot better than my doll.’ She looked at her parents [for approval], and so she got her the train set.”As Robert and the rest of the team boarded the train for the 4-hour long trip back to Albany, he recalled, “I wasn’t really thinking about it, I just did what I thought anybody else would do. But by the time we got back to Albany, everybody had heard the story from the Dunkin’ Donuts people and they’re like, that’s the ‘greatest thing in the world!’”were in motion. Growing out his white hair and beard, Robert secured a red blouse from a fellow Marine in the Drum & Bugle Corps and created a red campaign cover. To distinguish himself apart from the Marine Corps Band, he dons dress blue trousers, in lieu of the white, a black belt and his Rank insignia carries the logo for Toys for Tots, setting him apart from Active-Duty Marine Corps. And with that transformation, MGySgt. Robert Porter became ‘Gunny Claus.’ At a Marine Corps Ball, Gunny Claus recounts a conversation with a Staff Sergeant, “a little bit reluctant to come over and talk to me. I’m like, hey, because our family had hardship and we couldn’t [afford them]. The Marine Toys for Tots program came through.’ Wow! He’s thanking me? I was in the

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Camp Carroll, December 25, 1967, Christmas day. Our attempt to have a Christmas tree Marine Corps style. (L-R) Charles J. Cooper, Robert N. Howell, James R. Morgan, Thomas J. Vruno, Michael J. Gannon, Vernon L. Stevenson, ?? Ubani, Richard L. Lupold. All 2531 or 2533 radio operators for 2nd Battalion 9th Marines.This was my second Christmas in Vietnam. Ten days later I left Vietnam to never return, except in my memories.~ VL StevensonMillion Dollar FudgeMillion Dollar FudgeMarines on the West Coast or overseas at that time, I had nothing to do with you getting toys. ‘Yeah, but you’re here now and you are representing Toys for Tots and I have to thank you because without you and everybody else who does this, I wouldn’t have had a Christmas.’”Feeling the weight of his primary mission with Toys for Tots, Gunny Claus’ is also involved in the Washington, DC Rolling to Remember, He has stood in for Tim Chambers, the ‘Saluting Marine’ on a oat for a parade, and he participates in ‘Silkies’ hikes with Irreverent Warriors, just to name a few events in his ‘off time.’This is Gunny Claus’ busy time, but he asked that we pass along a message…Semper Festivius! Semper Festivius! This Fudge is the epitome of ‘Perfection.’ If done right, this fudge will produce a rich, silky, and smooth texture without a trace of graininess. This recipe, shared with my grandmother by my dad who was serving in the Air Force in Biloxi, Mississippi in the early 60’s. The recipe version below was altered from the original that used Marshmallow uff, and my grandmother perfected the cooking time. 1/2Lbs. (two sticks) Butter, sliced 4-1/2CupsSugar1Can(12 Oz.) Evaporated MilkPinch of Kosher Salt2 Pkg(12 Oz. Each) Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips1 PkgFresh, Soft Mini-Marshmallows1-1/2CupsChopped Pecans1tsp.vanilla1. In a LARGE metal mixing bowl, add chocolate chips, marshmallows, chopped pecans, and butter, Mix and then set aside.2. In a large saucepan, bring vanilla, salt, sugar, and milk to full rolling boil on medium-low heat, stirring continually for 25 minutes. Adjust heat accordingly, but DO NOT bring to a full boil.3. Remove sugar mixture from heat. Carefully pour over ingredients in large mixing bowl and mix well until chocolate, marshmallows, and butter are completely melted and mixture is well incorporated. ** Work quickly and consistently, but DO NOT over mix, as fudge will begin to set. 4. Pour into 15x10x1-inch greased baking sheet, smoothing top and let cool to room temperature then place in refrigerator for 2 hours. 5. Cut into 1.5 x 1.5 squares or equivalent and store in separate container. Makes approximately 6 lbs. of Fudge.Shelf Life: Two WeeksWinter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 13Written by: Christine WalkerMake Sure to Connect with Gunny Claus for your Podcast or Event

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16 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023Karl de la Guerra, Founder and CEO of Karl de la Guerra, Inc (KDI), can best be described as a modern-day warrior. With 44 years of protective services under his belt, he is the guy you want in your corner when the bad guys show up. His vast experience in the protective services industry includes military law enforcement, civilian law enforcement, and founding and running an international executive protection and tactical training agency.When asked about his profession, Karl responded jokingly, “I love what I do! I don’t know what I’m going to do for a real job when I grow up.” Karl discovered what he calls his ‘North Star’ at an early age. At age 10, he called a very serious family meeting to inform his parents that he wanted to be a policeman because he wanted to protect people. He has remained resolute in that calling ever since. Karl joined the military in 1979 at age 17. He took his Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) in high school and scored “ridiculously high.” Recruiters from all branches of the service came knocking on his door. They tried in earnest to scout the bright, young recruit. Efforts included buying him lunch and taking him to the movies & ball games. Because of his high scores, he was qualied for any job of his choosing. Yet, he was steadfast in his determination to follow his North Star. Ultimately, the Air Force (AF) offered him the best option. He still fondly remembers his recruiter, SSgt “Poncho” Villa, who helped him enlist with a guaranteed job in law enforcement.Karl got orders back home to San Antonio, Kelly Air Force Base (AFB), after graduating Basic Training and the Police Academy. “So much for joining the military to see the world,” he told me in jest. Kelly AFB was part of the Air Force Logistics Command (AFLC) in 1979, later becoming the Air Force Material Command (AFMC), the most civilian-centric component of the Air Force. There were only 2 military cops on the base at the time, the Chief of Police (a Major), and young Airman Basic de la Guerra. All the other cops on the installation were DoD civilians and the unit operated very much like a civilian police department. An event occurred in Italy 2 years into his assignment that altered Karl’s course. On December 17, 1981, the Italian Red Brigade terrorist group kidnapped American Army Brigadier General James Dozier from his apartment in Verona. Twenty-four hours later, the Pentagon ordered that all ag ofcers be assigned a protective bodyguard. To date, Dozier is the only American ag ofcer captured by a violent non-state actor. Luckily, he was rescued by a special operations unit of the Italian police 42 days after being captured. Karl recounted, “One day during patrol I got a call from dispatch to report to base operations and pick up a message for the Chief of Police. I remember walking into the Chief’s ofce. The secretary didn’t even look up from the newspaper, ‘he’s expecting you, go on in.’ I thought to myself, ‘What did I do.’ I reported in, the Chief read the message and asked me if I wanted to volunteer for a special duty assignment. We are always told not to volunteer for anything, but it was the Chief, what was I going say? Like any good Airman, I responded, ‘Yes sir, how can I assist?’ All he told me was, ‘You’re relieved from duty. Turn in your equipment and report to the training section tomorrow morning at 0800.’ I kind of hesitated, hoping to get more information, but that was it. The next day when I reported to the training section, I was told I’d been selected for a special duty assignment as a bodyguard for our General and subsequently issued a .38 caliber snub-nosed Smith and Wesson and shoulder holster.”Airman First Class (E3) Karl de la Guerra was assigned to protect the Commander of the San Antonio Air Logistics Center (SAALC). He was given the keys to the general’s vehicle and accompanied the general to events on an as-needed basis, carrying a concealed handgun. He said that a particular perk of the job was the great training opportunities, which paid several dividends throughout his career. Schools such as SWAT (1-3), Police Ofcer Survival Training, and a variety of other civilian protective training schools. That’s when he realized it wasn’t just a job. “Protection is a craft, and I fell in love with it.” Basic Training Photograph, Squadron 3706, Flight B490. December, 1979Kelly AFB, Emergency Services Team - 1981Air Base Defense Instructor, Pacic Air Forces Regional Training Center, Crow Valley, Philippines - 1986

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Winter 2023| AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 17Karl was promoted to Sergeant (E4) in 1984. He grew tired of his hometown and was ready to go somewhere else, preferably somewhere with beaches. He updated his dream sheet and two weeks later, he received orders to the Philippines, one of his top ve choices. “I was so excited that I was going to be near water, but low and behold, Clark Air Base was nowhere near the water.” He was rst assigned to Camp O’Donnell Air Station, a tactical electronic warfare training base outside of Clark AB. The camp was used during WWII to house Filipino and American POWs captured by Japan during its invasion of the Philippines. There wasn’t a whole lot going on during Karl’s time on station, so he swapped with a Sergeant assigned to Clark AB. He wanted to be “where the action was.” He immediately sought out the Emergency Services Team on the installation and was offered a position on their tactical unit because of all the specialized training he had attained while stationed at Kelly AFB. In the classic case of ‘be careful what you wish,’ Karl shortly learned that there was no shortage of action during his time at Clark. He was there during the People Power Revolution in 1986. They were unstable and uncertain times with threats lurking everywhere. The New People’s Army (NPA), an armed Communist faction of the Philippines, was targeting military and retired military members. One morning, Karl and the entire tactical unit were ordered to assemble and gear up when 22-year-old Airman First Class (A1C) Steven Faust, K9 handler had been assassinated off base on October 26, 1986. He was driving his POV and swerved to miss an ambush, ramming his vehicle into a concrete phone pole. An assassin then walked up behind the A1C and according to Karl, “put a bullet in the back of his head.” Following that incident, the tactical team worked 12-hour shifts for 21 days straight, gearing up and responding in their armored vehicles to anything suspicious.Karl still vividly recalls the day the People Power Revolution was declared. There were 2 factions of the Philippine government at the time: those for Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos, and those against. No one knew for sure who was who. Karl was working as an Air Base Defense Instructor when he was ordered to report to a brieng where he learned that rebel tanks had pulled up and circled the perimeter of Clark AB. The rebels had their turrets turned away from the base, awaiting further orders. In response, the 80-person Air Base Defense Chalk went to the armory and were issued cases of M72 LAW, anti-tank rockets, and were ordered to re two rockets per tank if the turrets started to turn toward the base. “I remember the looks on some of the Airmen’s’ faces. Some had tears streaming because this was the real deal. The uncertainty of not knowing if we were going to war or not was hovering over us.” The entire episode ended with the evacuation of President Marcos. Pararescue went in and picked him up in Manila and dropped him off at Clark AB. There he boarded a civilian aircraft that ew him out of the country.“That was an incredibly tense time for us. A lot of people did a lot of growing up during those times. When you start losing personnel to assassinations, the world becomes pretty real.” Karl described his time in the Philippines as the best and worst of his career. He quickly discovered that his type of work wasn’t for everybody. Military members were suffering from extreme stress; one member shot himself with his service weapon, and several others were drinking themselves to death. According to Karl, the culture regarding mental health in the cop community was to “just gut it out or risk being relieved of your rearm, getting put on some goon platoon, and becoming ostracized.” He admitted to being a little “messed up” after returning to the US. All he wanted to do was go back to the jungle and get back into the ght. There weren’t any counseling sessions or debriefs to assist with healthy reintegration. No one asked him how he was coping with the trauma he’d experienced. It took him ten years to nally discuss it for the rst time. He did admit that the police community has made positive strides regarding mental help, but as an industry, there’s still a lot of work to be done.At the close of Karl’s time at Clark AB, he received orders to Anderson AB in Guam. He was sitting in the Air Terminal awaiting his ight to Guam when Clark Air Base - 1987Early morning sunrise on Clark Air Base during Emergency Services Team deployment for Philippine Revolution. (Karl in center) K-9 Handler Craig Medon. Photo credit Buddy Harman - 1986Winter 2023| AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 17

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an airman from the personnel ofce walked in with a large manila envelope. When Karl saw the envelope, he asked the airman if he was being held up on an international incident. “No sergeant, your orders have been redlined en route,” the airman responded. To Karl’s dismay, he had been rerouted to Altus AFB, Oklahoma. Less than a year later, the First Sergeant called Karl into his ofce and told him he had been selected to separate from the Air Force as part of a reduction in force (RIF). The DoD cut 25,000 men and women from the Military by 1990 to meet spending cuts required by federal decit-reduction law. All the branches were being gutted. The selections were randomized, it wasn’t anything he’d done.Karl explained that he had served the Air Force during his most formative years. “It was valuable in my development as a leader, a manager, and today, as a CEO,” Karl said. Even though separating after 10 years wasn’t part of his initial plan of retiring from the Air Force, the transition was fairly easy for him. “I was fortunate enough to continue following my North Star.” Karl bought a one-way Greyhound ticket from Altus, Oklahoma to Phoenix, Arizona two weeks later, and never looked back. He was accepted into the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Academy and graduated with honors. Following graduation, he was selected for the day shift at the Madison Street Jail. He quickly learned that his safety was dependent on how he handled himself when interacting with the inmates. Six months later he became a community relations ofcer specializing in criminal street gangs. Phoenix was experiencing what Karl called, ‘The Los Angelization of Phoenix’ in 1991 and 1992 because of a massive gang migration coming out of LA. He learned a lot about street culture and how to effectively communicate with gang members. “Respect goes an incredibly long way. I don’t have to like you, but if there’s mutual respect there, we are going to get a lot further ahead in the conversation. Unfortunately, we are seeing it a lot less these days because the old rules that used to apply to criminal street gangs in the early 90s are no longer being practiced. Gang members didn’t attack grandmom’s house, and they didn’t attack churches. If there was honor amongst thieves, that was it. But now as we see the violence spread with the cartels, there are no boundaries. It’s a whole rewrite of the playbook.”In 2012, Karl founded Karl de la Guerra Inc (KDI), an international security consulting and protective services training agency headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 2015, KDI obtained a South Carolina state license, becoming a private security agency specializing in executive protection. Soon after, KDI obtained a private security license in the state of Texas, and private security and investigations licenses in Arizona, expanding their reach across the US in the area of executive protection and training.As the KDI CEO, Karl manages executive protection operations for clients of all walks of life and professions around the US and overseas. His training courses include such topics as active shooter response, advanced SWAT, and a variety of other protection topics. Recently, KDI has focused efforts on training professional rst responders. The increase in the number of school shootings has resulted in greater resource allocation for rst responders and school faculty. However, Karl identied a deciency in frontline responders’ on-scene response. Frontline responders are in a position where they are required to immediately act. It’s vital that they have the necessary mindset and training to engage with a threat without hesitation. In addition to an increase in active shooting tragedies, Karl has noted an uptick in the private sector for requests following the pandemic. He afrmed that “Crime is both on the rise and is more indiscriminate now than ever. A general sense of insecurity seems to have gripped America in a way I’ve never seen.” In a similar vein, societal attitudes toward police ofcers have declined as well. Karl proclaimed, “I have never in my career seen anti-police sentiment like there has been over the last 5 years. It’s hard to see such disrespect in our communities. Consequences are what keep society in line, and right now they are lacking. We see hardened criminals committing violent crimes and walking out of jail on bond a few hours later. Without proper consequences, you start getting a lawless society.” He further explained, “It’s impacted the executive protection industry because I’ve never seen a mass exodus of police ofcers like recently. A lot of ofcers are wanting to come over to the private sector. It’s very difcult on ofcers, but I have faith that no matter what, law enforcement will always be a calling for people like me. There will always be people who step up.”To say that Karl has ‘stepped up’ is an understatement. His list of contributions that make the world a safer place is seemingly never-ending. Summing up his many accolades and expertise: He currently instructs police tactical units and holds numerous courses on the topic of Active Shooter and executive protection. In addition, he is a graduate of the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training program and is an instructor for the ALERRT Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course. He is also a member of the National Tactical Ofcers Association. A few years ago, Karl enlisted in the South Carolina State Guard and is now Command Sergeant Major (E-9) for their Provost Marshal Detachment. In addition, he is also Chairman of Another TV photoTraining assignment in Charlotte, NC18 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023 On-air Security Analyst for local media.

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the International Bodyguard & Security Services Association (IBSSA) based in Budapest, Hungary.One of the rarest and most time-honored of all his accomplishments occurred in 2010 when he was invested as a Knight in the Sovereign Order of Cyprus. This is an honor bestowed on a small, elite group around the world. “The ceremony was surreal. I was driven by a police-led motorcade from my hotel to the Royal Palace of Godollo, an ancient queen’s palace outside of Budapest. We were met by the Hungary National Honorary Calvary posted on either side of the draw bridge on horseback and escorted into the castle through a Sabre arch into the Queen’s Room where the ceremony took place. I was so taken aback that I barely remember it. I do remember when I was being knighted, dubbed with a sword on each shoulder and the head. After that, the Grand Master of the Order said, “Rise Knight, and forever be known as ‘Sir Karl.’ It was an incredible honor, especially for me as an American.” I asked Karl if he ever plans to slow down. “I don’t see myself fully retiring. I’m fortunate right now that I have one foot in the operations door and one foot in the world of training and consulting. I’m still both physically and mentally capable of working as a bodyguard. One day I will age out of the operation side of things. But I will continue training and consulting, as well as accepting speaking engagements around the world. I want to always remain relevant in this industry, whether it’s through operations, training, consulting, or sharing how things used to be so that others can learn from it.” I’m both grateful and honored that Karl de la Guerra took the time to impart wisdom to the readers at AT EASE. It’s warriors like him who make our country and world a better place. To conclude with a nal dose of inspiration from Karl, here is his favorite quote. “When it comes time to die, be not like those whose hearts are lled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.” ~ Chief TecumsehKarl conducting CAT (Counter Assault Team) training for Executive Protection students.Photo by Kelly Mason of Mason Jar Photography LLC for Recoil MagazinePromotional photo KDITo find out more about Karl de la Guerra, visit: https://www.teamkdi.com/

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20 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023Once home and the guns have gone silent, combat veterans often feel alone. It may come in the quiet moments remember long nights on watch. It may come with the awkward stares following an involuntary inch to a loud noise. During the war one’s responsibilities held life and death consequences. Some found they felt the most alive when they were so close to death. Adjustment can be hard. The loved ones at home care but are incapable of understanding the paradox, the struggle. They yearn to help but are impotent to assist.The fatigue and demands of combat made staying awake a herculean feat, yet after the war sleep eludes the veteran. A man spends the war dreaming of coming home and once home he thinks of combat every day. You can’t say you miss it, that would make you sound crazy. At the same time there are aspects of it you do miss, and you wonder if you are crazy.You think the only ones who understand are those who were with you during the hard times of bitter combat, those who faced the confrontation of esh and steel by your side. You are close to people with whom you previously had nothing in common. The bond you now share would compel you to “show up with a shovel, no questions asked” as they say.Brothers-in-arms forged by combat are closer than your blood relatives. Despite this fact veterans lose touch with one another for many reasons. Physical distance and the busy demands making some kind of a life contribute to the dormancy of relationship. Additionally, many veterans purposely avoid maintaining contact in an attempt to circumvent dealing with combat’s residue in their life.Until one is ready to reconnect with their comrades, there is another way to nd camaraderie and a sense of community with individuals whose experiences resound with your own. It is through reading memoirs, biographies, and stories from veterans of conicts preceding your war. Here you will gain tremendous perspective, have a feeling of connectedness, and nd a measure of healing; reassurance that you that you are not crazy.Remember standing watch when you were in uniform? Prior to assuming post, you reviewed the logbook of those who had the watch before you. This informed you of what actions occurred, how your predecessor responded, and framed anticipated actions on your part. In similar fashion reading books will provide insight to the experiences of those combat veterans who proceeded you. You looked up to them when you were a child. A few of them were leaving the military when you were brand new enlistee. You admired them from a distance but now you are peers of sort. By reading their tales you can get to know them, and perhaps know yourself a little better.In the Marine Corps there’s a well-known set of regulations called General Orders. All Marines are versed in these General Orders. They are drilled into them during boot camp. The Sixth General Order begins with “To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me…” This same approach should be taken by veterans navigating life after combat, when the uniform is placed into the footlocker and stowed away. Receive the stories from the generations before you. Obey by taking their recommendations on how to process and move on. Pass on by sharing your stories with those young warriors next in the queue. One caveat, allow yourself time to heal, mature, and process your experience before diving in too deeply as a sage. The books that will provide you with the greatest value are those written years after the experience. Perspective takes time. Processing the experience takes time. Your own responses are often difcult to understand in the moment. Things such as “Why am I so restless?” “Why am I angry all the time?” “Why am I so self-destructive?” Books written in the weeks and months immediately following a battle may chronicle facts with a great degree of accuracy, but they will lack perspective. It is too soon for the personal context to be absorbed.Reading books about the experiences from previous wars has the additional benet of studying the topic while providing a measure of distance from one’s own conict. I know many veterans who enjoy war movies and documentaries, but they don’t watch ones about their era. A common opinion amongst combat veterans is the belief that the wars before their own were much tougher. Those older veterans are held in high regard. As such the lessons they pass on, even indirectly, are readily received. When an aged veteran writes about their experience as a young man in combat, and how they navigated life afterwards, they have the ability to impact generations of warriors who will follow in their footsteps. From a distance they exercise leadership with an impact that outlasts their own mortality. We owe a debt of gratitude for those who fought and died, but also to those who fought and came home to tell their tales. We remember them in gratitude. They are not forgotten.Therefore in the 2024 issues of AT EASE! Veterans Magazine we will review some lesser-known books spanning various wars in our nation’s history. We will highlight experiences, thoughts, and reactions from the men who fought there. We won’t cover the heroes with whom you are already familiar. Our goal will be to showcase the warriors who hitherto fore were known only by their family and their comrades. In doing so, we will not only honor their memory but will gain lessons for ourselves. We must be reminded that these lessons were paid for in blood, sweat, toil, and tears. In learning about them, we will learn about ourselves. We will ensure these lessons were not learned in vain. This practice will serve as an example to the veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan so that, in time, they too may be encouraged write an account for the generations that will ght the next war.Adam Walker served as a Marine infantryman for twenty-five years, retiring as a Master Gunnery Sergeant with three tours in Iraq and a Purple Heart. You can read more of his work on his blog: takeitontheleftfoot.comCHECK THE LOGBOOKBy Adam WalkerLOGBOOK

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 21Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone,In a one bedroom house made of plaster & stone.I had come down the chimney, with presents to giveand to see just who in this home did liveAs I looked all about, a strange sight I did see,no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree.No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand.On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land.With medals and badges, awards of all kind,a sobering thought soon came to my mind.For this house was different, unlike any I'd seen.This was the home of a U.S. Marine.I'd heard stories about them, I had to see more,so I walked down the hall and pushed open the door.And there he lay sleeping, silent, alone,Curled up on the floor in his one-bedroom home.He seemed so gentle, his face so serene,Not how I pictured a U.S. Marine.Was this the hero, of whom I'd just read?Curled up in his poncho, a floor for his bed?His head was clean-shaven, his weathered face tan.I soon understood, this was more than a man.For I realized the families that I saw that night,owed their lives to these men, who were willing to fight.Soon around the Nation, the children would play,And grown-ups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day.They all enjoyed freedom, each month and all year,because of Marines like this one lying here.I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone,on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home.Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye.I dropped to my knees and I started to cry.He must have awoken, for I heard a rough voice,"Santa, don't cry, this life is my choiceI fight for freedom, I don't ask for more.My life is my God, my country, my Corps."With that he rolled over, drifted off into sleep,I couldn't control it, I continued to weep.I watched him for hours, so silent and still.I noticed he shivered from the cold night's chill.So I took off my jacket, the one made of red,and covered this Marine from his toes to his head.Then I put on his T-shirt of scarlet and gold,with an eagle, globe and anchor emblazoned so bold.And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride,and for one shining moment, I was Marine Corps deep inside.I didn't want to leave him so quiet in the night,this guardian of honor so willing to fight.But half asleep he rolled over, and in a voice clean and pure,said "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day, all secure."One look at my watch and I knew he was right,Merry Christmas my friend, Semper Fi and goodnight.The Soldier's Night Before ChristmasOriginally entitled: Merry Christmas, My Friendby James M. Schmidt, USMCThe following is the original version:Though often attributed to others, this poem was originally written in 1986 by LCpl. James M. Schmidt. It was first printed in Leatherneck, a Marine Corps magazine in December 1991.

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VA HOME LOAN MYTHSVA HOME LOAN MYTHSI’ve been helping Veterans and active-duty service members achieve the dream of homeownership for over 15 years. There is so much bad information about the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home Loan Benet and I would like to clear the air about this fantastic program. In this article, we’re going to set the record straight and debunk the top 5 myths surrounding VA home loans.Myth #1: VA Loans Are Only for Active-Duty Service MembersOne of the most common myths is that VA loans are exclusively for active-duty service members. While active-duty personnel are certainly eligible, VA loans are also available to Veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and some surviving spouses. Eligibility criteria can vary, but it’s important to know that the VA loan benet extends to a wide range of individuals who have served our country.Myth #2: The VA Issues VA LoansMany people mistakenly believe that the VA directly issues VA loans. In reality, the VA doesn’t originate mortgages. Instead, VA loans are offered by private lenders such as banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. The VA simply guarantees a portion of the loan, which encourages lenders to offer favorable terms and conditions to eligible borrowers. This guarantee signicantly reduces the lender’s risk, making homeownership more accessible to Veterans and service members.Myth #3: VA Loans Are a One-Time BenetAnother myth that often circulates is that the VA loan benet can only be used once. While there are limits on how much of a VA loan can be guaranteed, eligible borrowers can use their VA loan benet more than once. It may be necessary to restore their entitlement if they’ve used it before, but multiple uses of the benet are possible, allowing Veterans and service members to nance multiple home purchases throughout their lives as well as multiple homes at the same time. Myth #4: VA Loans Take Longer to Close and Are More ComplicatedThere’s a common myth that VA loans are time-consuming and complicated. This couldn’t be further from the truth! VA loans can be processed and closed in a similar timeframe to conventional loans. In some cases, they may even close faster due to the VA’s streamlined appraisal process.While it’s true that VA loans have specic requirements, such as VA appraisals, these requirements exist to ensure the safety and soundness of the property being nanced. The process is not meant to be overly burdensome but rather to protect the interests of both the borrower and the lender. With a competent lender who understands the VA loan process, borrowers can experience a smooth and efcient home-buying experience. Also, the loan guidelines offer more exibility than any other loan program, which helps more people qualify.Myth #5: VA Loans Have High Upfront CostsMany believe that VA loans come with high upfront costs. The reality is quite the opposite. VA loans are known for their no-down-payment feature, making them one of the most affordable mortgage options available. While there is a funding fee associated with VA loans, this fee is used to sustain the VA loan program and varies based on factors such as military service, down payment, and whether it’s the borrower’s rst or subsequent use of the benet. Importantly, this funding fee can often be rolled into the loan amount, reducing the immediate out-of-pocket expenses for the borrower.Additionally, the VA limits the closing costs that Veterans can be charged. In some cases, sellers may even agree to pay a portion or all of the borrower’s closing costs, making VA loans even more cost-effective. It’s important for Veterans to understand these benets and work with knowledgeable lenders who can guide them through the process.In conclusion, VA home loans are a valuable and versatile benet for our Veterans and active-duty service members. It’s essential to debunk these common myths and ensure that those who have served our country fully understand the benets available to them. VA loans are not just for active-duty personnel, they are not issued by the VA, and they don’t have high upfront costs. The process is efcient, and the benet can be used multiple times. With the right mortgage advisor and a solid understanding of the program, Veterans and service members can make the most of this fantastic opportunity to achieve the dream of homeownership.ROB YOUNCE USNA ‘93 | Military Mortgage Advisor OVM Financial powered by Annie MacNMLS# 1521082Phone: 757-605-0513Email: ryounce@annie-mac.comWebsite: robyounce.comWinter 2023| AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 23

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24 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023MILITARY TRANSITION: THEN VS. NOWMILITARY TRANSITION: THEN VS. NOWWritten by: Donna HoffmeyerNot what I wanted to hear. But, I trusted her, so I continued. It took about two months before the tears stopped. Those tears were an abstract compilation of childhood trauma, insecurities, toxic work environments, toxic people, past abuse, delayed grieving, ownership of my toxicities, and guilt and shame for the impact my unhealed trauma had on my friends and family.On the other side of all those tears was something I had not felt in a long time, calmness. I stayed diligent in my practice for almost a year. What I found was that I had developed my intuition again. After spending 21 years in the military, I did not realize I lost my ability to navigate myself. it was best to know what we were working with ASAP. I could sense when things were about to go wrong better than a drug dog could pick up a scent.What I was incapable of was trusting my instinct to navigate myself. I didn’t know how to listen to myself and determine what worked for me. There is no need for that in the military. I was one of many assets. What I needed didn’t matter. You do whatever is needed for the mission…like it or not. Voluntold is real.whisper, but I trusted it. The only thing I could hear was ‘write’. So I did. I started a blog, Taking Off the Armor, that I continue to write 2 ½ years later. At 12 months, I heard myself again, start your business. Again, I listened and created R.E.B.el LLC. Initially, it was a Veteran coaching business. However, my experience and intuition led me I would categorize my transition as a crash-and-burn. I didn’t think so at the time, but looking at where I am now…yeah…crash and burn is accurate.2020. Right smack in the middle of the pandemic. No retirement, no celebration. A Zoom ceremony was of zero interest to me. Just trying to was mailed to me…a year later. There was a bittersweetness to this quiet transition. Bitter, because I was not able to execute the thank you celebration I had planned.The one that was going to bring together all my favorite people and end my 21 years of service on a high note.The one that was going to honor my friend and co-worker killed in a car accident the year before. Sweet, because I didn’t have to hear the phony compliments from people who would most likely have wanted to attend just to ensure my retirement wasn’t a rumor. When the day came it was like any ordinary day. It was so ordinary, that no one even called me to say congratulations on your civilian status. The kids still needed help with remote schooling. My husband still had remote work. I think the only thing different was toilet paper was not scarce anymore.The next 6 months were a blur, not because life was moving fast, just the opposite. It was more like Ground Hog’s Day. Get up, get kids off to school, walk dog, get tea, sit, think, paint rock, sit, think, go get kids…wash, rinse, repeat. Somewhere in there, I started to meditate. My friend, Dana, started to teach me and help me with my practice. I sucked at it. I couldn’t clear my mind. I ran more grocery and to-do lists in my mind. She cheerleaded me on. Eventually, I started to get the hang of it and spent the next two months coming out of meditation in tears. Let me mention right here, I am not a crier. My husband could count on one hand the number of times he saw me get teary-eyed. I asked her how long this was going to go on. Her answer…when it is done. Beautiful. PART II: A TRANSITION STORY | 2020

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down more roads to explore. Warrior To Patriot Citizen. It is a resource book to help Veterans transition out of the military. In 2020, I authored my second book, Pandemic Parodies86 days of the pandemic, from a military mom’s perspective. Little did I know, these two books were the start of one of my future businesses.Today my business is made of up two DBAs. The Transitioning Warrior is a business focused on Veteran advocacy, coaching, businesses, and Veterans, both individually and collectively. interested in learning the business side of self-publishing. The business also includes two podcasts, Beyond the Front Line and Bullets 2 Bedpanimpact Veteran transition. The second focuses on all things that impact the healthcare worker, with a focus on military healthcare workers. We look at topics from their perspective and have discussions in a language they understand…humor and sass. It has been a long road, but a worthy road. What I realized on this journey is that everyone has to crash and burn to some extent. It helps us let go of what does not serve us anymore. It also allows us the chance to reinvent ourselves. If someone told 25-year-old nurse Donna she would one day be an author, podcaster, and entrepreneur, she would have walked off laughing.I am thankful I took the time to unload the accumulated It allowed me to discover that lighter, calmer, more focused space I lost years ago. These days I fully trust my instincts even when they do not make sense at the moment. It is that unconditional trust in myself that has opened me to an abundance of opportunities.the ashes.Donna Hoffmeyer is a 21 year retired Air Force nurse, education, training, readiness, and policy. During her last job, she saw the stress service members transitioning to the civilian were under. This lead Citizen; focused on ensuring service members are prepared for transition well before transition occurs. She retired and transitioned out of the military, 30 Sept 2020, during COVID.

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BRANDI RECTOR US Marine to Aerial Hog Hunting Tour CEO Brandi Rector’s aviation journey started in the US Marines as she enlisted to honor her father, a Vietnam era soldier. Her father always had a patriotic love of this country and felt that military service was the most honorable way to protect it. Brandi went through boot camp and was assigned as a helicopter mechanic and door gunner while serving. She loved the feeling of taking to the sky. She knew that her future was in aviation and started planning for a career ying after the military. Her time in the Marines taught her goal setting, self discipline and the power of dynamic leadership. After leaving service, she completed her pilot’s license. Brandi bought Skyhunter in 2021 to continue her love of aviation. She started in the eld of hog hunting and then expanded to skydiving and aerial tours. She moved her company to Oklahoma along the Texas border, conveniently located 2.5 hours from the Dallas/Ft Worth area.She recently launched a hunting package where she will y clients in a Bell 206 L3 and let them hunt wild hogs. Brandi is the CEO of the only female owned hog hunting company in the United States. Helicopter hog hunting, also known as aerial hunting, is a method of hunting wild pigs from the air using a helicopter. Helicopter hog hunting is an effective way to control wild hog populations. Wild hogs can cause signicant damage to crops and property, and their numbers can quickly become overwhelming if not controlled. Aerial hunting allows hunters to quickly locate and target large numbers of hogs, which can help keep their populations in check.It is also a highly efcient method of hunting. Hogs are fast and elusive animals, and they can be difcult to hunt on foot. Using a helicopter, hunters can quickly cover large areas of land, making it easier to locate and target them.Skyhunter practices ethical hunting practices that minimize environmental impact and support local farmers. Brandi sees this industry continue to grow as she steadily receives inquiries nationwide for her aerial services. Brandi has recently made some valuable partnerships with the state of Oklahoma and future plans include a female owned helicopter ight school. Brandi is currently a graduate student at Georgetown University pursuing a Master’s Degree in Applied Intelligence. She will graduate in December, 2023. Skyhunter Outtters has been featured in SHIFT Magazine, Rotor Pro Magazine, and the Aviation Careers Podcast. Her press release was hosted by NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox, and the Associated Press. Find out more at www.sky-hunters.com AND MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT THEIR AD ON PAGE 36 Dr. Rob Garcia is an award winning business strategist in San Diego. He is the founder of SHIFT Magazine.Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 27

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30 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023Texas native Ben Johnson knew from childhood deep-seated, unmistakable desire. His grandfather fought as a Marine on Guadalcanal but passed when he was ten. Later in life as a young combat veteran Johnson had the opportunity to learn more about his grandfather’s service from one of his peers who’d been blinded on Tarawa. They were generations apart but many of their experiences were quite similar.Though determined to be a Marine, Johnson’s mother implored him to at least talk to the other recruiters. Out of respect for her, he conceded with the caveat “Except the Air Force,” an indicator he possesses the cocky demeanor found in most Marines. The Navy recruiter showed up late for the appointment, an egregious affront to the Texan’s work ethic, so Johnson shook his head disapprovingly and said “No.” A squared-away Army recruiter in jump boots gave a presentation at the high school that began by disparaging Marines. Johnson stood up and walked out of the “I’m not going to sit here while he talks trash about the Marine Corps!”Johnson scored well on the ASVAB and could have picked any MOS, but only wanted the infantry. The recruiter told him “No you don’t” but the stubbornness that would one day mature to resolve did not yield. It looked like another dumb grunt was in the making.10th, 2001, the day before the 9/11 attacks. He graduated on December 7th, the 60th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor bombing. The Johnson was old-fashioned believing he was duty-bound to do his part, that every generation must be prepared to defend our great nation. He took training very seriously at the School of Infantry as the clouds of war hovered over the Marine Corps.Johnson reported to an undermanned infantry battalion in Twentynine Palms, California. His Bridgeport, California where Corporals served as Platoon Commander and Platoon Sergeant, and Lance Corporals as Squad Leaders. He experienced a measure of hazing from this junior cadre of leaders. None of it was serious, but it was petty, condescending, and maddening. The “thrash sessions” increased his already peak physical conditioning. A positive result of this ordeal was the bonding that occurred with other junior Marines. Two years later they would be the squad leaders and in Iraq in 2003, in what the Corps refers to as The March Up. His apprehension and worry were not leadership. Several months in-country that all changed with a new company commander.This new CO known as Kilo Six gave an impassioned speech when he assumed command. He stated, “One man can make a difference” and showcased this belief by his own example. Kilo Six demanded tactical competency and ruthlessly enforced standards. In less than a week he knew the name his care and concern for the men. Under this kind of leadership, Johnson thrived and came into his own as a leader.Four months after returning home Johnson’s unit was again back in Iraq. By then he was an NCO and a squad leader. The training schedule during their brief interim period back in Twentynine Palms was an intense regime requiring attainment of in a casualty evacuation, and coordinating close air support simultaneously. In stark contrast to the dumb grunt stereotype, Johnson showcased the incredible intelligence possessed by an infantry squad leader. During this combat deployment, he would do all these things while maintaining composure and leading his men.Marines have a saying that “the enemy gets a vote.” As such not all of Johnson’s men survived. He compartmentalized the tragedy and continued leading the reconstituted squad when an IED took three lives, and severely injured another. Amidst this chaotic environment, Johnson remained steady.Upon conclusion of the second deployment, Johnson arrived at the end of his enlistment. He’d spent so much time focused on the mission and staying alive, he’d given no thought to what he would do next. When the career planner asked gonna be a pirate.” The Staff NCO threw him out a decision Johnson considered his options. After the pace and demands of combat, he wasn’t quite ready to transition to “normal life” so abruptly. This combined with the sense of belonging, the camaraderie, and the brotherhood caused him to He signed on for another four years with orders to serve as a combat instructor.Johnson said he would only serve as a combat instructor if he could teach infantrymen as opposed to other MOSs who also received combat training. He was told only the class honor graduate could have that guarantee, so he grinned, laced up his boots, and said “Roger that.” He graduated as the Honor Grad and the Marine with the highest he received still hang on the bulkhead today.“BORN TO SERVE”The Story of SSgt. Ben Johnson - USMC – OIF"Born to Serve" continued on Page 37

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 31Larry commented. A life lesson he took with him was, “Be kind to the people around you and serve others.” Larry graduated from Special Forces at Fort Bragg NC in 1984 and spent the next four years on active duty at Fort Devens, Massachusetts with the 10th Special Forces Group.Interestingly, while in the Army, Larry discovered he was dyslexic and once he understood his diagnosis, he learned how to overcome his reading disorder. After that, “I couldn’t read enough. I was reading newspapers and magazines and books constantly, with an insatiable appetite.”He was deployed several times during his time on active duty and in the reserves. While assigned to his “A-Team,” he was the Weapons Sergeant but was also cross-trained as a medic. Larry recollected the read “Individuals play the game, but teams beat the odds.” That really resonated with him and he applied that mantra into the business world with his coaching, mentoring, and keynote speeches.He left active duty in 1987 and took a job at a “no-tell motel” in the Tenderloin District in San Francisco as a night auditor. He worked nights but attended San Mateo Community College during the day. After a couple of years, he attended the University of California Santa Barbara, and then ultimately attended the Executive Program at Stanford. About six months after he started, an investment group bought the motel and renovated it to become a cool boutique rock n’ roll hotel. It catered to bands that were traveling on the road such as entertainers Linda Ronstadt, Rolling Stones, Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Lenny Kravitz. Larry stated, “Most of the employees at the ‘no-tell’ were either alcoholics, drug dealers, pimps, or prostitutes. I was the only guy who looked like he had his stuff together. So they asked me to stay on and be a manager for this little motel after it changed ownership.” During Desert Storm, Larry returned to active duty for a year and then left the Army after nine years of service. He returned to the San Francisco area and met up with the owner who was running the hotel business he had left. The owner had just bought his third hotel and made an offer to Larry that would make him a partner in the enterprise. Larry accepted and it was a huge opportunity. The three hotels turned into fourteen hotels in fourteen “FROM THE RUST BELT, TO GREEN BERET”The Story SSgt. of Larry Broughton - USA – SFDue south of Buffalo New York in a rural part of the state is the small town of Weston Mills near the New York and Pennsylvania border. This is the town where Larry Broughton grew up in the ‘60s and ‘70s in a very patriotic family. His dad was an Iwo Jima Marine Veteran but never shared his experiences with anyone which was a common theme among many WWII Vets. His dad never pushed military service on Larry.In high school, Larry struggled academically, and when he told his counselor he wanted to be a veterinarian she kind of chuckled and said, “Honey, you’re not smart enough to be a veterinarian.” You can imagine how demoralizing that would be to hear. He knew he was smart but just learned differently. During high school, Larry took a job at McDonald’s, while his twin brother worked at a local grocery store. Still just 17 years old, Larry and his twin moved out of their parent’s house with a fellow classmate. Larry was looking for a way to get away from the rural Rust Belt of Upstate New York, as he knew in his gut there was something bigger out there for him. and then achieving a superb score on the military’s ASVAB test, the recruiter told him that he had scored so high that he could pick whatever job he wanted in the Army (except that of a commissioned try out for Special Forces.” Larry didn’t know what SF was, "but I liked how he said “Special Forces” with a twinkle in his eye. He admits he didn’t know a lot about the Special Forces but it sounded to him like a “life of adventure.”With a couple of years on their own under their belt, in 1983 the brothers enlisted in the Army. His brother became a Medic while Larry had his sights set on Special Forces. One of the requirements to apply for Special Forces was to be at least an E4 promotable to an E5. However, at the time a new deviation in policy would allow a private to try out. The downside was if you failed you didn’t return to your old MOS but rather wherever the Army decided. So, with that as a motivator, a high score on the ASVAB test along with a background in wrestling and martial arts set Larry up to score near the top of his class in the fail in qualifying was to be “peered out” where your peers submit negative reviews that would disqualify you from graduating. He told of a classmate who made it to graduation day and was peered out. “You can show up and be the smartest person but how you get along with your team members matters,” "From Rust Belt, to Green Beret" continued on Page 37

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32 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine |Winter 2023Laurel “Buff” Burkel grew up in the suburbs north of Detroit, Michigan. She was an athlete who played several sports including football and softball, endeavors that helped prepare her for military service, though she didn’t know it at the time. Buff didn’t come from a military family, and military service wasn’t initially on her radar. She considered becoming a doctor but is such an empathetic and relational person the thought of one day losing a sights on becoming an orthodontist and headed off to the University of Michigan where she pursued an undergraduate degree in biology.In college Buff learned more about herself and developed relationships that exposed her to the potential of opportunities not previously considered. She became aware that her talents and disposition were quite suited for military service and before long enrolled in the University of Michigan’s Air Force ROTC program where she became a distinguished graduate in 1991. Circumstances caused her to have to wait almost a year before being able to go on active duty. During this time, she worked at a Chinese restaurant, a humbling experience for a 2nd Lieutenant and college graduate, but one that would provide perspective and appreciation. These two qualities became hallmarks of Buff’s career in the Air Force, contributing to the type of leader she became. Buff became a Navigator on the C-141, only the that platform was retired, she transitioned to the C-130. Buff served in many locations during her 27 years of service including California, Washington, Illinois, Arkansas, Texas, Korea, Washington D.C, Alabama, Canada, and Afghanistan. Monterey, California was her favorite duty station, and in classic military fashion that post was immediately followed by her least favorite tour, the Pentagon.She held several operational and staff billets in her career while attaining several education milestones along the way including master’s degrees from Chapman University, Naval Post Graduate School, and the Air War College. Buff was a Squadron Commander for a C-130 Squadron Iraq and other countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Afghanistan.Buff faced challenges and achievements along the way, events that would again render perspective and a thankful attitude. Disappointed at being passed over for promotion to year she was selected for promotion. Buff’s mother was terminally ill, and the Air Force permitted her to have some time at home as the days appeared to grow short. Buff was promoted to Colonel at her mother’s bedside, a touching moment for both. The spirited little girl, now a decorated military leader. The Air Force reinforced the ethos of family, that service members are family when they supported Buff during this time. As a leader, she continues to convey this attitude by example.One noteworthy assignment for Buff was an exchange tour with the Canadians where she served that that she was to be assigned a one-year advisor tour in Afghanistan. Achieving the pre-deployment training requirements for this combat tour became quite the challenge. Buff was not only away from the big Air Force, but she was also in a completely different country. Her military occupational specialty had not made it necessary to conduct tasks common to combat arms personnel, until now. In the harsh environment of Buff found herself qualifying with an M-4 service techniques, all new territory for the Colonel. Not one to be deterred or intimidated, she reached out to her Canadian counterparts and even U.S. Marines at the embassy to gain as much training as possible before heading into theater. Buff says it was a challenge, but it was fun.Buff’s tour in Afghanistan would result in a life-changing event, and life-ending for some of her comrades. What was to be a routine, short, helicopter ride ended in a crash that took the lives of several service members. Buff sustained a broken neck and soon found herself at the Army hospital in Landstuhl, Germany.Now up to this point in her life Buff had never undergone any kind of surgery, nor had even received an IV. She now would face an operation that would include having several screws. She tells folks “We all know that Colonels have a few screws loose, but I am the only one who’s had them tightened!” Humor has been one component of this leader’s resiliency. Buff is grateful to have been under the care of a neurosurgeon who began his career as an Army Ranger shortly after graduating from West Point in 1993. This doctor was direct with almost no bedside manner, an attribute that set well with Buff. She recognized quiet courage, leadership, and strength in his eyes. He was the right guy at the right time.She wore a contraption referred to as a halo for three months as her neck healed. The Air Force and Wounded Warrior Program gave her tremendous support during this season, including bringing her father and siblings over to take turns serving as non-medical attendants. She grew stronger and began to ponder her future while taking it all in. Once again Buff had much to be thankful for and honed her perspective even more. She says, “After the helicopter crash, my career crash was nothing.” As retirement sped into the foreground Buff decided to “go big or go home” and retired atop Mount Kilimanjaro, celebrating another milestone in a memorable way.Through her 27 years of service, accentuated by the crash, Buff has known all along that relationships matter. She found her continued calling to serve once the uniform was put away. Buff is an inspirational and motivational speaker addressing issues such as resiliency and the importance of relationships. Being connected matters and no one should face life’s challenges alone. She serves in various organizations as a volunteer and is seemingly busier than when on active duty.“GO BIG OR GO HOME!”The Story of Colonel Buff Burkel - USAF – OEF"Go Big or Go Home!" continued on Page 37

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 33Retired Navy veteran Guy Bensing is passionate about two things: his Louis Blues. Both institutions came into his life during childhood and had Guy grew up in St Louis, Missouri. He describes childhood as “not too bad, but not great.” After experiencing bullying, Guy found himself in a different school, one with a Navy JROTC unit. Guy’s grandfather served in the Navy during WWII, surviving a kamikaze attack. Guy naturally gravitated towards a future in the U.S. Navy.As a student Guy struggled academically, eventually being diagnosed with a learning disability. He scored well on the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test, a testament to his intelligence. Guy knew Both his parents lost their jobs in 1986. It would be a lean Christmas and he would only receive one gift. When asked what he wanted most, it was for them to sign consent for enlistment.Guy enlisted in the Navy’s Delayed Entry Program in 1986. He had some interest in journalism or radar, and no interest in the nuclear program. Having been advised not to enlist undesignated he Technician (GSM).His Navy JROTC experience ensured he would graduate boot camp as an E-3. A-School followed with one year at Naval Station Great Lakes’ Gas Turbine School, where he left as an E-4. He then reported assigned to the U.S.S. Yorktown in 1988.Serving aboard a ship during the Cold War was an interesting experience. Underway on the horizon. UNREP (underway replenishment) operations occurred at 0300 to minimize Soviet observation of U.S. Navy methods. Guy had liberty ports in Spain, France, and Yugoslavia. In 1989 while in France, shipmates symbolically tore down a wall of cardboard boxes coinciding with the fall of the Berlin Wall, in a show of solidarity.After the Yorktown, Guy returned to the Great Lakes for C-School in 1990, then to the U.S.S. Mobile Bay, out of Yokosuka, Japan. This assignment Guy thinks of his time in the Navy, service aboard the Mobile Bay draws the fondest memories. It also included a sobering experience.serious business it didn’t seem to carry the gravity of his deployment with the Mobile Bay in the Gulf War. His ship was 19 miles from the coast of Kuwait. hours a day. They patrolled in support of efforts ashore. These combat operations ingrained a deep sense of vigilance. It was during this deployment that Guy began sleeping in the fetal position with his back to the bulkhead. In this manner, he would more likely survive contact with a mine, a real threat to the engineering department’s berthing area below the waterline. The Mobile Bay encountered 27 mines, including a cluster of 9. She was 1 of 22 ships from the group awarded the Combat Action Ribbon.Ask Guy how he made it through these stressful times as a young man and he will tell you “Hockey got me through, hockey saved my life.”Hockey fans are passionate about the sport and quickly found one another aboard ship. In the days before the internet, it was hard to keep up with sports while deployed. Guy and his hockey-enthusiast shipmates devised a plan by which they would intercept sports magazines, hiding them in a particular part of the ship known only to those in the group. Catching up on hockey gave them something to look forward to when coming off shift. It was an escape of sorts. It brought back the smell of the ice and the thrill of the game. It was comforting.Guy continued to serve faithfully for many years while leveraging hockey to buoy him through the hard times. He married the former Keiko Hashimoto of Japan while stationed in Yokosuka. He returned to the Great Lakes as an instructor and once reenlisted on the upper deck of Wrigley Field when the Cubs played the Cardinals. He served aboard two other ships, the U.S.S. John S. McCain and U.S.S. Gary, but nothing would compare to those formative years aboard the Mobile Bay. He has notable memories such as reenlisting three days after 9/11 and taking liberty in India and Pakistan.Guy rounded out his career at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Upon retirement, he remained in Hawaii and worked as a contractor for a few years. Today he is still in Hawaii and pursues creative outlets such as writing and hosting his vodcast the Blue Note Fan Report, where he is known as the “Hawaii Blues Fan.” His love of hockey, the St. Louis Blues, and his work on the vodcast have a great impact on navigating the turbulent waters of post-traumatic stress. These mediums continue to help him turn off the constant alertness required when he served aboard a vessel of war.Where things like politics divide, Guy advocates that sports unite. He is the newest staff writer of AT EASE! Veterans Magazine and authored “Ten “BLUES FAN”The Story of GSM1 Guy Bensing - USN – Cold War & Desert Storm"Blues Fan" continued on Page 37

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34 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023I’ve recently transitioned out of the Air Force after 26 years. To say the experience has been challenging would be an understatement. My emotions have ranged from feeling devoid of purpose, estranged, lost, and depressed - just to name a few. That’s why when I learned about Irreverent Warriors, I jumped at the chance to participate in their next event in a city near me. It absolutely lived up to the hype.was part of a community of like-minded people. Not only that, but I also laughed harder than I had in a long time. organization is to bring Veterans together using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and prevent suicide. The organization accomplishes its mission by organizing creative engagements, events, and building strong Veteran-based support networks. Their most infamous event is known as the ‘Silkies Hike,’ which occurs in over 125 cities worldwide. According to their reminds us that the camaraderie we once had in the military will never truly die. We will always be there for each other. That is why IW’s Silkies Hikes will continue to hit the streets year after year.” things seriously.” It’s a nod to Veterans and our use of dark humor as a coping mechanism. Sometimes laughter is the only way to survive the unimaginable. Therefore, the Silkies Hikes are exclusive to Veterans, active-duty members, and reservists to create a safe space for hikers to feel comfortable opening up without worrying about the occasional slip of a poorly timed dead body joke. I had the pleasure of joining the San Antonio Silkies Hike on October 21, 2023, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my experience with the AT EASE family. I enjoyed it so much that I plan to partake in as many future hikes as possible. San Antonio hike coordinator, Army Veteran Danny Hernandez added a certain panache to the event that made it extra special. A burly former soldier dressed as Woody from Toy Story in daisy duke style cut-off jean shorts and cowboy boots, he was hard to miss. He had this to say when I asked how he got involved with IW. “In 2020, I fell into a pretty dark place in life. My buddy Scott Summers was right there alongside me out on my own. He was supervising me, to say the least. In one of the random drunken nights, he mentioned this Silkies Hike and asked me to go. I looked at some pics, and it looked like a huge party, so I was completely for it. Little did I know that it would be the stepping stone to addressing my lifestyle and changing the way I thought about things. It led to me taking time to live sober and get my mind right. I’m not sure if it was the environment or if it was the to me changing my entire outlook on my life. After that, I knew I wanted to get more involved and help others After I signed up for the hike on the IW website, the next order of business was to decide what to wear. Some of you might be asking, why Silkies, aka, ranger panties and Daisy Dukes of Freedom?San AntonioSan Antonioby Sonja Berry

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 35According to the website: “Silkies are a traditional and nostalgic PT uniform item, you can’t take yourself too seriously when wearing them, and it’s eye-catching, civilians can’t help but stare with their mouths open.” The fun does not stop with silkies, the remainder of the dress code includes, “old military gear, ultra-patriotic clothing, assorted doodads, and basically whatever the hell you want. The one rule is, at a minimum, you must My chosen wardrobe included a pair of American Tattoo Society silkies, a black-on-black logo AT EASE t-shirt, Danner’s Prowess combat boots, an old eight-point desert camo hat from Iraq, and a pair of mirrored aviator sunglasses for good measure. I inspected myself in the mirror before though I worried my legs might get cold when I stepped outside bright and early. Chuckles in the hotel lobby The hike kicked off at Grunt Style Retail Headquarters, a charitable Veteran-owned business that carries apparel for lovers of freedom, bacon, and whiskey. The IW volunteer and killer swag. Newbies were given a green wristband Within minutes, I was offered an honorary “Silkie Hike virgin shot” of bourbon from participant Air Force Vet Bryan. The weather was 70 degrees by 8 am, and my freezing leg woes quickly dissipated in the warming sun. The medley of exceptionally clad Veterans was impressive, to say the least. The looks ranged from grown men wearing pink tutus and nipple pasties, elaborate Viking warrior costumes, and a never-ending assortment of colorful silkies adorned with rubber duckies in combat helmets, skulls with pink roses, and a plethora of stars & stripes. and signs with sayings like, “You matter.” However, Otis, the German Sheppard service dog, stole the show with his hoodie that stated, “Bitches love me.” Something that stood out was hikers wearing several IW tags that they had collected from different cities. A friendly Vet dressed in a Bavarian dirndl told me she had been 5 She was hooked right away. Danny told me this was very that understands you on a different level is a magnet for everyone! Plus, we have some pretty badass hikes nationwide, so why wouldn’t you want to attend more?”When we hit the street, the line of hikers seemingly stretched a mile long. There were over 250 of us frolicking the streets of San Antonio in our short shorts. A sight to behold for sure. The lively vibes in San Antonio added a majestic feeling to the hike. The urban scenery was painted with vibrant street art and the San Antonio River Walk was lined with Day of the Dead décor in preparation for Dia de Muertos celebrations. There were fabulous photo ops at every turn. The Yanaguana Garden at HemisFair Park, nestled on the southeastern edge of downtown was my favorite spot. It was the perfect urban oasis, with charming gardens, shaded walking paths, cozy seating areas, and whimsical outdoor structures. And for those worried about being on their feet for long stretches, there were several stops built in along the way and medics on scene. The incredible IW volunteers ensured there was never a shortage of water, Gatorade, and healthy snacks. We stopped for lunch and a cold one in the beer garden at VFW Post 76, the oldest VFW post in Texas. The reportedly haunted 110-year-old Victorian home was stunning. Danny selected the sight because “I love Post 76! I love how they are very active with events and they’re always contributing and helping the military community.” In addition, shout out to Ruby’s Barbecue who donated lunch. According to Danny, “They have been a pillar of support for our group in San Antonio, and they believe strongly in our mission!” It was also evident that those in the San Antonio community were huge supporters of the military. They clapped and honked as we marched by. Many joined in while singing NSYNC, Bye Bye Bye. Fire Station 4 greeted us with an had been a long time since I’ve felt that kind of support. Pride swelled in my chest and tears welled in my eyes.Midnight Swim Restaurant and Bar. It was the perfect unwind spot for fellowship and gallows humor. It’s also where I discovered my new favorite cocktail, Mexican Candy. They also have a Horchata French Toast on the menu that looks to die for. Tenish miles and three blisters in, we landed back at Grunt Style for the after-party. I asked Danny if there was anything he would like me to highlight for the readers. His response was, “Just let people know your experience. A natural rating from an attendee can lead to more Vets coming out. The stronger we make this community, the stronger we are.” My overall assessment is that every Vet MUST attend the next Silkie Hike near you. I promise that you will not be disappointed! https://irreverentwarriors.com/. SCAN THE QR TO FIND OUT MORE!

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As the instructor tour concluded, the Corps thought they could get one more deployment out of Johnson. He checked into another infantry battalion and executed a third deployment to Iraq. The cohesion and leadership of this unit failed to match the caliber of his last combat tour, contributing to an encroaching thought. Maybe it was time to go back home to Texas.Johnson became engaged before his last deployment, demand. The two of them decided to share a simpler life, raising a family with him at home.Ben Johnson had more than paid his dues.The Johnsons just celebrated their fourteenth wedding anniversary, and they are expecting their fourth child. He works in the leadership of a construction company in East Texas and maintains close ties with the Marines of that second combat tour. Ben Johnson is a remarkable man and one of countless veterans who’ve paid a great price on behalf of their fellow citizens. AT EASE! Veterans Magazine is proud to share his story."Born to Serve" continued from Page 30"From Rust Belt, to Green Beret" continued from Page 31"Blues Fan" continued from Page 33"Go Big or Go Home!" continued from Page 32Buff is a tremendous example of resiliency, the impact a positive attitude can have, and the importance of relationships. She has so much to offer to a wide audience. AT EASE! Veterans Magazine asked Buff what advice she would convey to three demographics: those aspiring to join the military, those serving today, and Veterans.For those considering the military Buff encourages young people to talk to others about the incredible opportunity. Ask yourself why you are doing this and determine which branch is more suited to your goals and disposition, as well as whether to special, and you will learn a lot about yourself while developing relationships with amazing people.Buff has the utmost respect for those on active duty. The world is changing rapidly, and today’s service members are meeting those daunting challenges. She encourages them to keep it up but to also be aware of when it is time to leave the service. You don’t have to stay forever. Know your family and when it’s time to hang it up.To her fellow Veterans, Buff reminds them that each of you has a story. Your service matters and you’ve done something important. She admonishes them to nurture relationships and their social network. Who do you call when the going gets tough? Who do you celebrate with? With whom do you interact on a daily basis?As Buff continues to contribute, lead, and serve after overcoming tremendous tragedy, she is an example to all. The Colonel is one tough bird, and her here at https://onetuffbird.com/.the Playing Field” highlighting how sports help the military community in remarkable ways. The beyond his time in uniform and are a continuation of his service.There’s no camaraderie like that of shipmates in the blue-water Navy, however, being a Blues Fan is a close second. The camaraderie of the sea now extends to the ice and Guy Bensing is there leading the charge. Let’s Go Blues!Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 37As an author of a national magazine stated, “Larry was in the right place and waited for the right time to come around.” That was a great commentary on life. “Sometimes you just have to hang on by so many other people will quit and run the other way.” When asked what are the top characteristics of successful people, leaders, or entrepreneurs the And a lot of the “culture of tenacity comes from military service because that’s where you don’t give up. If you do, in many cases, someone gets injured or dies.”In the early 2000s, Larry was successful in his hotel partnership but felt something was missing. He was a primary leader in a secondary leadership role. “I’m never going to be the CEO of this enterprise,” he recalled. So he and his wife decided to leave and start their own business. They moved from the San Francisco area to Southern California and started their own boutique hotel development, ownership, and operations company. That was 23 years ago and it has been growing steadily since. Along with the hotel business, Larry has made TV appearances on MSNBC, Fox, and CNN to talk about entrepreneurship and leadership. “I also started doing a lot more keynote speeches and then coaching and mentoring for other entrepreneurs and leaders.”An entrepreneur, motivational speaker, best-selling author, leadership consultant, and mentor—many of the skills Larry attributes to his military service. Not bad for someone who was told he could never be a veterinarian. Another life lesson: Never let the “I think of a hero as someone who understands the degree of responsibility that comes with his freedom."Bob Dylan

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38 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023I was deployed to Balad AB, Iraq during the 2004 holiday season. Leadership made efforts to make the base feel festive. We decorated our war-torn buildings and tents with tinsel and bulbs, and forged enthusiasm on our faces to try and lift each other’s spirits. Air Force volunteers built a 41-foot-tall lumber Christmas tree in the center of the H6 housing area. A scheduled tree lighting ceremony had been interrupted by an alarm red before Santa had had a chance to make his arrow signaling to the bad guys, “Aim here.” Besides, the veneer didn’t match how I felt on the inside. Nothing could make up for how badly I was missing my 4-year-old daughter, Kailynn. It wasn’t all bad. My clinic teammates, who were like a second family, were very supportive and made life bearable. We did a Secret Santa gift exchange, which was fantastic fun. My Secret I happily welcomed the self-care items. They were a welcome reprieve from my sweaty combat boots. In addition, the chow hall put on a decent holiday spread for both Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. Plus, we received extra care packages, which felt like tiny pieces of home. Two weeks before Christmas, I received a large package from my daughter. Inside was a 3-foot-tall Christmas tree, miniature ornaments & lights, a Christmas stocking, and a medium-sized present wrapped in shiny paper and a big bow. Attached was a note that instructed, “Don’t open until WEEK FOURby Shelby LakeMortaritavilleDefense Visual Information Distribution Service

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 39Christmas.” I did the customary inspection of the present to try and guess the contents. It was relatively light for its size, it didn’t clank or clamor with a soft shake, and it was a bit soft to the touch with a gentle squeeze. My guess was an article of clothing, maybe a hoodie or a sweater. Once I set up the tree, the twinkling lights transformed my drab containerized housing unit (CHU) into a magical box of Christmas spirit. It felt like a warm hug from afar and tears welled up in my eyes. I made a promise aloud that I wouldn’t open my gift until Christmas. Kailynn was in the irresistibly cute stage with her baby chub face and tiny darling voice when I deployed. her about the deployment, I explained to her that “there are both good people and bad people in Iraq, and mommy must go to help protect the good people from the bad people.” Her response was, “Can’t we just bring all the good people here?” She was so brave. She put up a strong front and never once cried when we talked on the phone. Although, the delay confused her, and sadly, we didn’t have Facetime apps at that time. Whenever I’d ask her dad how she was doing, he would tell me, “She’s good.” But I could see from the pictures they sent that her big brown eyes had lost some of their sparkle. It saddened me deep in my chest, where I desperately tried to contain it to stop it from spilling over. The base had a surprise holiday USO visit on December 14. The impressive headliners included Hollywood actor Robin Williams and NFL Super Bowl champion quarterback John Elway. Robin Williams opened the show; “Go-o-o-o-od e-e-e-e-evening Iraq,” causing the large crowd to erupt. Elway was drilling footballs into the audience with his winning arm. The scene was chaotic. There were over two thousand service members anxiously waiting after the show for autographs and pictures. We were being herded like cattle in groups of 8 onto the stage to snap a quick photo, before being hurried away. When it was my turn to approach, I was shoved by a group of impatient Soldiers, causing me to stumble up the stairs onto the stage, landing at Robin William’s feet. He reached down, offered me a hand, and asked, “Are you ok.” I looked up at him with shiny star-struck eyes and replied, “I am now.” Afterward, I got an autograph from John Elway. Eagerly, I told him, “I’m from Denver, yet I had to come all the way to Iraq to meet you.” It was a very memorable day. Every day leading up to Christmas, I woke up with the temptation to open my shiny present. I missed Kailynn so much. One day, I noticed one of the corners had a slight tear. I thought to myself, “I can take a little sneak peek without breaking my promise.” But I still couldn’t make out what was inside. With each passing day, the tear was getting bigger; yet, to no avail. Two days before Christmas I was feeling particularly vulnerable and convinced myself that the only cure for my homesickness would be to open my present. I was supposed to meet my friend FH at the gym but decided I pulled the bow off and meticulously peeled the tape to avoid further tearing. What I found inside caused my buried            Finally, I gathered myself up and headed to the gym, taking my gift with me. When I walked through the entryway of the sanded-colored TEMPER (Tent Extendable Modular Personnel) tent, I center. We locked eyes and she could instantly see that I had been crying and ran over to me. We didn’t exchange a single word as I held out a white teddy bear wearing a green sweater in front of me. I pressed its belly and out came the tiniest, most precious sad voice, “I love you, and I miss you mom, Merry Christmas.” Still, without a word, she held her arms out wide to me and I melted in her embrace in the center of the gym. The deployment forever changed my relationship with Kailynn. Over time, we each developed a protective shield that we used to survive being apart. In some ways, we grew closer. In other ways, we have an emotional barrier between us that spans seven thousand miles, the distance between home and Iraq.Twenty years later, Kailynn is the strongest woman I know. But she still buries her pain. I wish she would let it go and let me carry it for her. I’m the one who volunteered for military service; she didn’t have a choice.

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Summer 2023| AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 35DO SOMETHING CREATIVE!DO SOMETHING CREATIVE!Whether the Veteran spent four years in uniform, or made it a career, the experience transformed their perspective, and daresay identity, for the remaining years. This element is compounded ten-fold after enduring combat. Something about being so near death, in a hostile environment for months on end, affects how one looks at life. There are some very positive attributes generated afterward such as thankfulness, humility, and appreciating simple pleasures such as a cold beer or a hot cup of coffee. to wash away.Though much of the stigma surrounding Post Traumatic Stress has diminished with the current generation of combat Veterans, it remains in the minds of some. There are solid counselors, too many prescriptions, and community groups of varying effectiveness. components of emotional and mental health as the Veteran navigates and cultivates life in the wake of alone with their thoughts, memories, and unvoiced feelings. Much of the knotting in the heart and mind must be unraveled alone.An overlooked method of untangling this debris is engaging in a creative outlet. Simply put, the value of creativity for the combat Veteran is where the effort once applied to destruction is now applied to make something of value. The concentration and focus applied to this creative outlet serve as a means to quiet the constant reels playing in the background of one’s mind. It slowly burns up the weeds choking the garden of your heart. Some take up tools in their hands to work wood or turn wrenches. They start with some basic components; with time and labor, a beautiful thing emerges. A sense of accomplishment is visible and tangible. Others play music and write songs, a powerful means of conveying emotion and story with depth mere in farming. It may be a backyard garden, a small can simultaneously apply their leadership skills. Area of interest and venue vary but the results are always of immeasurable value. Some Veterans apply natural talent and novice skills to become master craftsmen in their trade, even if as an amateur. is healing. Other Veterans apply themselves to things completely out of the box and reap what essentially feels like a new life. These discoveries are not distractions from the past, but mediums that usher hope for today.A brief search of the internet will result in a plethora of organizations dedicated to equipping Veterans in their pursuit of a given creative outlet. However, just as the Veteran discovered there’s a time for structure, unit, and cooperation; there’s also a place for individual effort. It is in solitude, with an application of the creative, that much of the combat residue is washed away. There will always be a stain, but the years do not have to be scrapped and wasted.The combat Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan combat were spent in distraction, recklessness, and drunkenness. We were old men while still young, but now the lines on our faces and the thinning, gray hair leave no doubt. The self-destructive methods did not help our plight. We wasted money, impaired our health, and damaged relationships. We each know brothers who succumbed to despair and by their own hand became a stereotype and statistic. There must be a better way.One of the most effective means of initiating a new season in life while wrestling through post-traumatic stress is to create. If you don’t know where to start, simply put your hands to work wherever you are. Conduct a home improvement project, landscape, start cooking elaborate meals, pick up an instrument, or take a single class at a community college. It won’t take long for you to bring that small glowing As you grow in this newfound interest, a hobby that may become a lifestyle has the potential to reframe the view you have of yourself. Identity can be a real struggle for some Veterans. You once had a title and responsibilities that meant life or death; that’s a tough one to follow. You are more than a Marine, Sailor, Soldier, or Airman. Simply isn’t a complete cure or replacement, but does help you to see that you are more than a combat Veteran. insist on holding onto that image too tightly then you compound your struggles. And for the love of Chesty Puller…start exercising again! You don’t have to become a CrossFit Commando or Spartan Mud Runner, but you must PT. Even if you just take a thirty-minute stroll around suburbia with the dog, it pays huge dividends. Get outside and get some movement. The expenditure of physical energy burns emotional energy while generating a host of goodness for your overall health.You recall moments in training as a young service member when you were placed in scenarios to develop decision-making and were told “DO SOMETHING!” You didn’t always get it right, but you got better each time, and you learned the value of momentum. Always move forward. Do not allow apathy, indecisiveness, or fear to hold you in place. DO SOMETHING. Apply that principle now and do something leaving something for others. It may be a piece of furniture, a loaf of home-baked bread, a song, or a podcast; but you will have made something for others. You can pour yourself into this outlet with the result of contributing to the lives of others. It is not a stretch to say that too is a service. It may not come with awards and recognition but with a sense of satisfaction, healing, and peace.NOW GO DO SOMETHING CREATIVE.By Adam WalkerWinter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 41

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42 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023CONFIDENCE IN MISSIONSadie Mullen came to the attention of Veterans2Veterans Group just a couple of years ago. A precocious, patriotic, and introverted young teen who assisted at various V2VG functions. She helped for a variety of reasons, not the least of which was to see how, and why we operated so she could take those experiences and lessons back to her primary organization, that of the American Legion, Auxiliary Unit 22 Lebanon, New Hampshire.Ms. Mullen was present and assisted at multiple V2VG events and gatherings. From yard sales and bake sales to information booths that the charity set up during local and regional veteran-friendly expos, even being present at a few ofcial Veterans2Veterans Group Board Meetings. She was there to offer a hand in support, a word of encouragement or advice, or just be a presence to remind the V2VG Staff that we were not in this alone. As an example of her commitment to the cause of assisting veterans, Sadie continued to help even after a major sports injury had her in a knee brace that immobilized her right leg for the summer of 2023. Regardless, she toughed it out and was always ready to lend a helping hand.Young Ms. Mullen aspired for the American Legion Auxiliary leadership positions and was out absorbing knowledge and experience from multiple angles and, very soon afterward, was elected to be the Department of NH Honorary Junior President of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 22, Lebanon NH. Almost immediately she met with the executives of Veterans2Veterans Group and asked for information on how to run a meeting more efciently according to Roberts Rules of Order; any advice she could glean to aid her in her role as Hon. Junior President was her goal. She took many notes during the meeting and asked great questions as well.Once she obtained her new position she was given a mission. A project was due for her American Legion and she chose Veterans2Veterans Group as the focus and recipient of that project. Sadie now speaks at various functions and events as the Honorary Junior President of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 22 on behalf of Veterans2Veterans Group, telling people and other organizations about who we are, what we do, as well as what we stand for. She plans on donating any money she raises during the course of this project to V2VG at her year-end project presentation in May 2024. We, of course, will have folks attending to show our support, donation or not.Written by: Eric McNailVeterans2Veterans Group is naturally happy to support her in this at every step of the way. The ultimate goal is to help and aid our veteran brothers and sisters in as many ways as possible from as many different angles as possible. How else could we better live up to our motto, “Family Through Service”?During her tenure thus far, Sadie Mullen has transformed from an introverted young teen into an ever-blossoming, condent, and sure young woman, as well as it should be. Her infectious smile and condence in her mission are contagious. We know she has a bright future ahead of her in any service organization and the American Legion Auxiliary is lucky indeed to have such a dedicated young woman in their ranks. Veterans2Veterans Group wishes Sadie the best for her future and will always be there to support her like she’s been here to support us as we’ve grown.

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44 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023We hope to broaden your perspectives of the stories that veterans tell by sharing some of them gathered through my broadcasts. These are real people with real stories to share. Some have overcome challenges and others have chosen to face the challenges they live with each day. While each of them is different, they all share one common thread, that of having served in uniform for our country. All of them are relevant to the mission of AT EASE! Veterans Magazine. These are their stories. They are your stories, and we hope that you enjoy them.Stories shared from broadcast interviews often allow a deeper perspective into the guest’s life, background, and feelings. When sharing conversation often there are memories that bubble to the surface and details that are expanded beyond what print can convey. And very often situations from one’s past form the foundation for their future. My interview with Ron Jones quickly revealed a man of faith and focus who has seen highs and lows in his lifetime but sets aside the lows to concentrate on the majesty of the highs.Ron is a music man and that most likely developed as a youngster growing up in Memphis, TN, a city steeped in blues, soul, and rock & roll music and the home of B.B. King, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash along with Sun Studios and Stax Records. He started playing piano and singing in church choirs at an early age and the music bug took a big bite out of him.Ron is also a military man. He enrolled in the ROTC program while studying music education at the University of Arkansas in Pine Bluff. Not only was he at the top of his academic class but he also graduated in the top 3% in the country in his ROTC program. Those two accomplishments alone set the stage for big things to come for this new second Lieutenant. He joined the U.S. Army and attended airborne and air assault school before entering actions overseas, Ron was assigned to Fort Hood as a UH-1 helicopter pilot assigned to the services of the Post General. Good fortune seemed to follow Ron until one fateful day when the brand-new chopper that was carrying Ron along with the General and others overheated shortly after taking off and blew an engine 300 feet above ground. The crash resulted in injuries to all on board and Ron sustained two broken ankles, head trauma, and additional injuries. His faith and perseverance carried Ron through this ordeal and his music aided tremendously in his recovery.Upon his honorable discharge, Ron returned to his musical roots by teaching in the private sector and in the public school system. Even when he relocated to north Texas his focus was on sharing his music with aspiring music students while also performing as often as possible in studios and on stages in the area. When asked what he feels are his greatest accomplishments he is quick to say seeing introverted and shy young people develop a love for performing music. He also takes great pride in seeing higher performance in academic skills.Tjust about anyone, but for Ron Jones it was just another notch on his piano. He established his company, Memro Music more than 35 years ago and, in addition to teaching voice and piano, Ron has served as a Minister of Music and as a choral director for several large churches all over the United Staes as well as performing on small stages and in large stadiums with many notable musicians including a recent performance with platinum recording artist and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Stevie Wonder. How helicopters in the Army.Deeper into our conversation I realized is working with the students that he teaches no matter their age, their backgrounds, their personalities, or their abilities. Especially having gone through personal traumatic events, this humble man gets his greatest enjoyment from seeing his students challenge themselves and improve him, Ron is quick to admit that he is off to a good start.from, Ron revealed his best kept secret. Most young musicians would choose a personal moniker for identity purposes and to separate them from other up and comers. “Memphis Ron” became his adopted name and years later he immortalized that name into his corporate title. For more information, visit MemroMusic.com.Ron JonesRon Jones

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 45I Remember When...I Remember When...Here’s a story that might shake you up a bit, too. While still a Lieutenant, on board the USS Okanogan, a troop-carrying naval vessel, I was assigned to the ofcers’ quarters for sleep purposes. It just so happened I was given the top bunk, which was directly below an air shaft. Fortunately, I was able to store much of my gear above the air shaft and did not have to sleep with it in my bunk. “Thank God” is what I said of this particular gift.During our “slow boat to China,” Sergeant Hughes requested the use of my binoculars for the purpose of viewing a pod of whales. Many of my men appreciated them as they followed alongside our ship. I told him my binoculars were above my bunk and he went and borrowed them. Now, the next time I needed these binoculars was just outside of O Luan Pi in southern Formosa. I wished to get an eagle’s look at the terrain I and my men would be working in for the next several weeks. When I went looking for them in my dufe bag, they were gone. I called on Sergeant Hughes and he informed me he had returned them where he had borrowed them from, namely on the airshaft above my bunk. Sergeant Hughes made use of these binoculars and told me that he had returned them. I assumed he had put them into my dufe bag. Upon getting to our appointed base camp at our destination, my binoculars were missing. My rst thought was a sailor stole them. My second thought was one or more “camp followers” took them from my dufe bag while it was stored in the company camp supply tent. The binoculars were totally gone from my use during our stay.Upon returning to Kaneohe Air Station, I informed my battalion supply ofcer of the loss of my binoculars. He suggested that I might nd a pair at the Pearl Harbor supply company ofce. I could not nd any binoculars that might be acceptable. So I wrote my letter of explanation. In my letter, I pretty much covered where I had placed them aboard ship and how Sgt. Hughes had my permission to borrow them and he said he had returned them. Following our return to home base a few weeks had passed when I bumped into Sgt. Hughes coming back from battalion headquarters. He was completely ustered. He said that headquarters intended to blame him for the loss of my binoculars. Since I was already on my way to “discuss” these binoculars, I went right to the S-1 ofcer’s desk. I sat down and before I knew it, he was giving me my military rights under Article 31 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. If anything I say could be held against me, etc, etc., etc. (similar to civilian rights under the Miranda Act). Totally befuddled, I awaited his reading of my rights and he stated the Battalion Executive Ofcer would see me presently. I waited, wondering what was wrong. What did happen to those damn binoculars? Were they ever found? Who might have them? Why is there so much hassle over these binoculars since the operation on which they were lost, was already close to two months ago? Was there something wrong with my written explanation? Then I found myself skating around the question, why would Sergeant Hughes even consider taking them? Etc., etc., etc.I was nally escorted to the Battalion XO’s ofce, a Major Blanchard. I approached his desk and stated, “Sir, Lieutenant Sullivan reporting as ordered, Sir”. (Sounds right, doesn’t it?) I waited for the return of my salute and the offer to be seated. Neither came. I stood at attention. Yes, I stood at attention, while he pursued answers to some of my own questions. After verbally responding to him for some ten maybe even fteen minutes, still at attention I remind you, he nally asked me, “Sullivan, Sullivan, what did you major in college?” “English, Sir!” “I thought so”, came his remark. “You wrote a beautiful explanation, a picturesque scenario that touched on all possibilities. Your sentence structure is perfect, no spelling errors, and paragraph indentation is appropriate. You have people and events surrounding a number of possibilities. You cover all avenues. You mention approximate times, the number of “camp followers”, and the fact that many of them had to be shushed away from taking all of the empty shells that were scattered about during your assigned rehearsals and practices. You did a marvelous job covering all possibilities.”Somehow or other, I had an inkling there was more to come. It almost seemed like he left out something. What was it? Shit, I had no idea. He paused, looked over my shoulder, where, to my astonishment, sat my commanding ofcer, Captain Anthony Palonis, a “Mustang” (an enlisted man who came up through the ranks). My captain looked very uncomfortable as if he were feeling guilty for having been told to sit there by this Major, this Battalion XO, while I “wormed” my way through how I truly believed those damn binoculars got themselves lost.You know what he did, this Major Blanchard? He leaned over to the right of his desk, pulled out the middle drawer, and lo and behold, right there, before my very eyes, were my binoculars. With a dramatic gesture, he dropped them on his desk. No shit! This son of a bitch had them from three days out to sea! Sergeant Hughes did borrow them! He did return them! He just failed to replace them either on the airshaft or in my dufe bag.How did this all come to be, you dare ask? Those damn binoculars just happened to be seen by one of this major’s junior ofcers while his crew was inspecting the ofcers’ quarters one early morning of our third day at sea. The major took them and swore his men to secrecy as to where they would be. He took them and waited, for whatever reason, how the owner, that would be me, would respond as to the loss.What really pissed me off was the fact that THAT particular captain, our battalion supply ofcer, was asked by me, of all people, where I might nd these damn binoculars. He’s the one who suggested I might nd a similar pair down at Pearl Harbor. He gave me the information on where to go, when to go, and who to see. Can you believe this shit? (I think I’m still pissed off. Can you sense my anger?)He chewed my ass out royally, but that’s it. When I got to my company area, Captain Palonis called me into his ofce and let me know in no uncertain terms how pissed off he was. Initially, I thought he was pissed at me, however, he was more upset with the Major and having been put behind the door at the XO’s ofce as if he were hiding. In particular, he hated the way the Major played cat and mouse with me. He did say something like how he liked the way I wrote my report on the loss of those “fucking” binoculars. He then oored me with some comments on what the Major should have said was…what a great job I did leading our company to the recently staged operation’s objective in Taiwan. I thanked him for his comments and we went our separate ways. A 'MAJOR' GAME OF CAT & MOUSE!by Paul Sullivan, Ret. Captain, USMCPaul Sullivan, Ret. Captain, USMC resides in Massachusetts with his wife Beverly.

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 47ABOVE: LCpl E. Gent with a couple of Vietnamese boys who worked at a small store on Highway One that ran through our base. Phu Bai Combat Base, South Vietnam, January 1967ABOVE: Letting off steam… Marines just like to fight! Dong Ha, South Vietnam, September 1967RIGHT: LCpl McNeal’s trousers split three days ago; no resupply. Results of bare skin exposed to the jungle. Operation Shawnee, Hai Lang Nt'l Forest northwest of Hue, South Vietnam, May 1967A CH-46 Sea Knight Marine helicopter offloading Marines on day one of Operation Shawnee. A VC trail is visible in the left foreground leading underneath the helicopter’s tail. Hai Lang National Forest northwest of Hue, South Vietnam, May 1967A CH-46 Sea Knight Marine helicopter offloading Marines on day one of Operation Shawnee. A VC trail is visible in the left foreground leading underneath the helicopter’s tail. Hai Lang National Forest northwest of Hue, South Vietnam, May 1967Water buffalo separating rice husks. Taken from a moving 6by truck on our way back from Operation Shawnee. Near Camp Evans, South Vietnam, May 1967Sign posted at the entrance of Camp Carroll. Route 9 was dangerous to travel not only because of enemy encounters but friendlies as well. The driver rounded a corner and hit a tank head-on. Camp Carroll, South Vietnam, January 1968The beauty of Vietnam blended with the threat of death. The photo was taken from Route 9 about a mile from Camp Carroll looking east at the Cam Lo River. Camp Carroll, South Vietnam, November 1967ABOVE: One of our radio operators making a treacherous river crossing. Barely visible is a rope to help assist him in a safe crossing. Operation Shawnee, Hai Lang National Forest northwest of Hue, South Vietnam, May 1967

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48 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023VIETNAM IN PICTURESShutter speed, focus, f-stops, aperture… all words I had heard growing up in the 50s and 60s from my father, but never paid much attention to—until he bought me a Sears 35mm camera for my 18th birthday. It was completely manual, and proper settings were needed to take a decent picture. So my journey into amateur photography began.In the early days, my father was a photography enthusiast. When I was a youngster my dad converted an infrequently used, but fairly large, walk-in closet equipment he used, I still possess for no other reason than nostalgia… a connection to him and my childhood.power I was holding in my hands, the power to create images and preserve memories. In my teenage years taking pictures was not a top priority. It wasn’t until I entered the military did my interest began to grow. After boot camp in the spring of ’66, my parents sent me my highly treasured civilian clothes and along with them, my Sears camera. While at Camp Pendleton I took some pictures of my buddies and myself, both on and off base. I still wasn’t taking many pictures, just enough to capture memories and faces during the time I was in radio school. But by this time I began to understand more about camera settings and how they affected picture quality. Finding the correct f-stop or amount of light exposure and shutter speed and how long Of course, the third component was focus which was the simplest if you had a good eye and steady hand. In December of 1966, I arrived in Vietnam and was assigned to 2nd Battalion 9th Marines which were providing security for Phu Bai Combat Base. I found Phu Bai well-organized and equipped to house and maintain thousands of Marines, Army, and Air Force personnel. I also found the PX which provided many of our living essentials along with but on a PFC’s pay, I couldn’t afford one. So, I opted for a less expensive Petri 35mm camera that cost me about $35. soon as it was restocked, word got around quickly and they soon sold out. I tried several times to buy for slides. I decided to purchase a few 24-exposure rolls of Kodachrome II, ISO 200, 35mm color slide That decision proved monumental in preserving the images I would later capture throughout my Vietnam tour. which was mounted or captured between cardboard sleeves on either side. Hence, there were no negatives to manage. The slides came packaged in a sturdy box of neatly staked two-inch square cardboard sleeves with an image in the center. These were perfect for the rough and dirty climate of the Vietnam War. almost exclusively, so I was already familiar with the end results. The best way to view the slides in Vietnam was with a hand-held battery-operated slide viewer, which I had my dad send me. I set up a system with my dad. When I completed a roll Kodak for processing in Dallas, Texas. Kodak would return them to my dad, and he mailed them to me. Once I received the slides, I reviewed them with my slide viewer and made notes for each slide as to content and camera settings. When I completed my review and had my fun with the pictures, I mailed them home along with my notes. My mom and dad would then have my slides at home where they could view them and keep them safe for me. Each box of slides made three trips, about 10K miles each way, back and forth from Vietnam to the US, and not once I maintained this system for my entire tour in Vietnam, and because the slides were not kept in Vietnam for long durations of exposure to the temperature and were reduced. Hence, when I returned to the US 13 months later, I had accumulated more than 275 color slide images all in pristine condition. One of the biggest challenges in Vietnam with cameras was keeping them clean and dry… much the same as the M16! When I took my camera into the jungles on operations I used the plastic battery bag that came with the battery for the PRC-25 radio. They were thick, heavy-duty bags and well-suited for the job. In rainy weather, I had my camera bagged up and tied high on my pack in case of high water crossings. Sometimes, I would hang it around my neck depending on the terrain and my radio duties at hand. Other times it would rest in the bottom of the side pockets of my jungle utilities. And when engaged with the enemy, the camera never came out… I was a radioman, not a combat photographer.During midday, the sunlight would often be dim when canopies. It was always a challenge to select the largest aperture (lens opening) in combination to the correct amount of light. My camera had a were times when I opened the lens to its widest aperture (2.8mm) and it was still inadequate for proper exposure. But I took the picture anyway hoping for the best. I also experimented with time exposure photography such as nighttime photos tripod and long exposure times up to 1-2 minutes. Of course, I was safely behind our perimeter lines at Camp Carroll, and Con Thien was about 10 miles north of Carroll’s position. My slides laid dormant in storage for 40 years until 2005 when I reconnected with some of my Vietnam buddies through a newly launched battalion website. Finally, we found someone who wanted to hear our stories: each other! That sparked my interest to share my photos with my buddies. I took my slides to a photo/camera shop and had all my slides digitized. Now I could share the photos with them electronically.Magazine in the fall of 2021, I have shared my personal photos with every story and in every edition. You know the adage, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Well, a picture plus a thousand words often tells an even better story!VL Stevenson – Corporal, USMCVietnam 1966 – 1968Flares dropped over Con Thien. This long-exposure photo was taken from outside my tent at Camp Carroll 10 miles south of ConThien. Camp Carroll, South Vietnam, December 1967

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50 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023INTRODUCTIONPublic opinion in 2023 wears a badge of unwavering support for Veterans—quite the change from the days when professors once protested the Vietnam conict. Now, those same academics shamelessly compete ercely for a slice of the G.I. Bill pie, brandishing ‘military-friendly’ banners in lockstep with every other business in the United States. The irony is as rich as the government pot of funds—a patriotic veneer can conceal a lucrative underbelly. Earning the support of the military and Veteran communities isn’t just a noble cause; it’s a booming industry, once championed by the Big Six:1. The American Legion: Founded in 1919, it is one of the most inuential Veterans’ organizations, focusing on service to Veterans, servicemembers, and communities.2. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): Established in 1899, it advocates for Veterans’ rights and provides a variety of services to Veterans.3. Disabled American Veterans (DAV): Founded in 1920, the DAV is dedicated to empowering Veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity.4. AmVets (American Veterans): Formed by World War II Veterans, AmVets provides advocacy for its members as well as various services to Veterans.5. Marine Corps League: Founded in 1923, the League supports current and former Marines and their family members.6. Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA): Founded in 1978, it is dedicated to Vietnam-era Veterans and their families.These organizations are the traditional torchbearers of Veterans’ interests in the political arena. Yet, they are now joined by newer groups like the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), which pushes for contemporary solutions for Post-9/11 Veterans; Veterans Education Success (VES), which focuses on educational opportunities; Special Operations Association of America (SOAA), advocating for the unique needs of the Special Operations community; Concerned Veterans of America (CVA), which often brings a conservative voice into policy debates; and the National Defense Committee (NDC), with its particular emphasis on national security issues.The big secret is this: from the Big Six to the smaller advocacy groups, all are active in the world of lobbying, where the true priorities of Veterans’ needs must be carefully distinguished from the realities of political life in Washington D.C. There is good reason why none of them, literally none of them, openly share their lobbying with the public. Instead, they refer to their activities on the Hill as ‘Advocacy,’ which is only technically true and the subject of this article. Enjoy.ALL LOBBYING IS ADVOCACY, BUT NOT ALL ADVOCACY IS LOBBYINGLobbying—the dirty word no nonprot executive ever wants to be caught using—plays an important role and has a signicant history in United States politics. A lobbyist is what you’d get if you mixed a stripper’s allure, a bartender’s listening skills, a used car salesman’s persuasive tactics, and a rst-year law student’s arrogance—all stirred up in the high-stakes cocktail party of political inuence. What ties all these tongue-in-cheek references together? Their ethics—or, more precisely, the lack thereof.Lobbyists are paid, often handsomely, to advocate for political positions on behalf of their clients—including donors. In other words, they are paid to talk. In one of Jason Reitman’s standout lms, ‘Thank You for Smoking,’ the protagonist Nick Naylor, portrayed by Aaron Eckhart as the silver-tongued lobbyist for big tobacco, eloquently sums up the essence of this controversial craft. He shares, “and right there, looking into Joey’s eyes, it all came back in a rush, why I do what I do: defending the defenseless, protecting the disenfranchised corporations who have been abandoned by their very own consumers, the logger, the sweatshop foreman, the oil driller, the land mine developer, the baby seal poacher...”Reitman was simply using reductio ad absurdum, which is Latin for ‘reduction to absurdity,’ to push the premise of American lobbying to its extremes—defending a baby seal poacher on the Hill, something that would likely be a tough sell for even the most audacious of Congress’s members.This is precisely why you will never catch a nonprot executive in the Veterans sector—especially those leading 501(c)(3) organizations—branding their Capitol Hill endeavors as ‘lobbying.’ That label is practically taboo in their circles. You’d strain to locate a single LinkedIn prole aunting the title ‘lobbyist.’ Instead, these organizations drape themselves in the noble cloak of ‘Advocacy’ and ‘ Veterans Advocate.’ It’s a half-truth well told—they indeed educate on Veterans’ issues—but let’s not ignore the asterisk. These lobbyists are on someone’s payroll, funded by corporations, partisan think tanks, celebrities, and occasionally foreign governments, to take stances on political issues like:• Marijuana legalization/criminalization;• Use/avoidance of psychedelics to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD);• Increase/decrease in domestic defense funding, e.g., military vehicles for local police departments; or• Privatization/nationalization of Veterans’ healthcare.Veterans’ Status for Sale: Veterans’ Status for Sale: The Cost of Compromised Advocacy

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 51A bitter reality that’s hard to digest, but one that demands attention: if the scourge of Veteran suicide had ever been a true concern for lobbyists, the Big Six would have solved it decades ago. Yet, as we stand in 2023, the Veteran suicide rates stubbornly loom, tragically high. In stark contrast, multimillion-dollar nonprot lobbyists are feasting on ve-star steaks in the nest restaurants of D.C., nesting in opulent hotels, and jetting across the country in private planes, all while drawing—at a minimum—$200k salaries in the name of ‘solving’ the crisis. Amidst this, countless disabled Veterans are embroiled in a relentless ght within the claims industry for a meager paycheck from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.Veterans’ homelessness has morphed into yet another revenue stream for lobbyists. In California, executives of ‘nonprot’ organizations and government entities have faced a barrage of criticism recently for their exorbitant salaries coupled with a glaring lack of substantive outcomes.Thankfully, servicemembers, Veterans, spouses, and others are catching wind and, understandably, are losing patience with those on the Hill. This is just one of the many reasons why—in addition to rampant mismanagement, excessive executive salaries, and lavish travel—many Veteran lobbying groups are losing money faster than they can raise it. In a twist of fate, this situation has interestingly spurred the growth of thousands of local, small Veterans groups—too many to count—that quite impressively stay out of D.C., out of politics, and simply focus on providing meaningful services to their communities, very often at a nancial loss.LOBBYING IS A GRAY AREA OF THE LAWAnother reason multibillion-dollar Veteran nonprots steer clear of the word ‘lobbying’ is the heavy legal implications it carries. It’s a term of art in the legal world, fraught with civil and occasionally criminal liabilities, as enforced by the U.S. Attorney’s Ofce for the District of Columbia under the Lobbying Disclosure Act, 2 U.S.C. § 1601 et seq. The IRS also chimes in, limiting how much 501(c)(3) nonprots can lobby and mandating disclosure of such activities on their IRS Form 990.The U.S. Government sharpened its scrutiny of lobbying following incidents where high-ranking ofcials, sometimes from the Departments of Defense or State, were found peddling inuence for foreign entities—sometimes even those at odds with American interests. These weren’t minor players; they were often former top brass who, it turned out, were promoting policies that weren’t exactly waving the American ag, selling their Nation out for a pretty penny. Yet, due to the nebulousness surrounding the legalities of ‘lobbying,’ many instances of failure to report go unchecked, slipping through the cracks or getting brushed off. That’s partly why Veteran nonprots tend to avoid the gamble and opt for ‘advocacy’ in their public-facing materials.Should an inquisitive soul decide to follow the money, the journey wouldn’t begin on the polished front pages of a nonprot’s website. Instead, the starting point would be the legally mandated disclosures on the House of Representatives’ and Senate’s websites. Here, if an organization is actively lobbying and above board, you’ll nd their identication numbers and the corresponding detailed quarterly reports.Sure, a good number of lobbyists have pulled off some laudable work on behalf of Veterans’ causes—take the G.I. Bill, the PACT Act, and the MISSION Act, for instance. This author even fought for expanded USERRA (student) rights, but here’s the kicker: not all Veterans see eye-to-eye on every piece of legislation and regulation. And that’s precisely why playing identity politics with Veterans can be so divisive and harmful. It only serves to deepen the cracks in our community that are already a minority within the U.S. populace—a good reason why many Veterans have chosen to steer clear of the political arena altogether and stick to truly apolitical service providers like so many local Veteran organizations.U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES U.S. SENATELobbying Organization Identication Number Lobbying Organization Identication NumberThe American Legion 307730000 The American Legion 2775-12Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 313230000 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 40010-12Disabled American Veterans (DAV) 333910000 Disabled American Veterans (DAV) 12356-12AmVets (American Veterans) 315610000 AmVets (American Veterans) 3914-12Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) 314420000 Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) 40087-12American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) (the VA’s Political Union)307510000American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) (the VA’s Political Union)54302-12And hundreds more, with thousands of corporate lobbyists and third-party interestsMatthew Feehan is a military veteran who honorably served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, Massachusetts & California Army National Guard, and the U.S. Army Reserve. He was commissioned as an infantry officer in 2013 through Boston University's Reserve Officers' Training Corps and later earned his Juris Doctorate from Western New England University School of Law in 2019.

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54 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine |Winter 2023I have spent weeks trying to write this piece, knowing full well it could open a Pandora’s box. However, not being one that backs down from speaking the truth, let’s give it a whirl. By the time this article is published, it will have been almost eight weeks since one of the most gruesome attacks against the Jewish people, in one single day, since the Holocaust and I am still trying to process it. I am Jewish on my mother’s side. And while I don’t often telegraph that part of me to the general public, it is not something I hide either. In my home, you will notice two things… family pictures of ve generations in Military Service in the United States and a whole lot of Judaica. From the Mezuzah on the door frame to Israeli art & photos, and Menorahs; there is something in every room of our house. These are not merely decorations, but each item holds a very special spiritual signicance and a connection to our land and our people, along with my memories of having walked the streets in Israel. Like the Veteran community, when something happens to one of us, it affects all of us and the same is true in the Jewish community. After hearing the news of the horrendous massacres on October 7th, my rst thought was to contact our friends in Israel. DIFFERENTIATING TRUTH FROM PROPAGANDA:NEVER AGAIN... IS NOW!It took some time, but eventually, we made contact, and while all of our friends have direct connections to those murdered, and some have been evacuated or misplaced, most are safe for the time being. Many of their children currently serve in the IDF or have been called back into active duty, and many in the States have own over to volunteer. As Veterans, we’ve got skin in the game too, since we now have active boots on the ground in the region. Now the hard part, differentiating the truth from the propaganda. And oy vey… there is a lot of it. ANTI-ISRAEL & PRO-HAMAS CHAOSWithin hours of the massacre, Israel declared war on HAMAS. 24 hours later, even before the bodies of 1500 Jewish victims could be recovered, HAMAS made a public declaration for a ‘Day of Rage,’ in which they called for every one of their supporters to attack Jews worldwide on Friday, October 15th. The announcement was chilling, and for the rst time since 9/11, I was actually afraid for my family’s safety. Of course, I was ‘poo-pooed’ as being overly dramatic by some friends, but when a terrorist organization calls for your end after what they had just done to innocent civilians in Israel, we believe them. The following week they called for a ‘Day of Jihad,’ and ever since protests, some resulting in violence, have increased exponentially, particularly within college campuses across our country. There has also been a shift away from reporting on the Jewish bloodbath to that of support for HAMAS within the legacy media as well. THE JEWISH AMERICAN CONUNDRUM Many accusations have been aimed at Jewish Americans for misplaced loyalty to Israel, as though we are one-dimensional and it has to be either America or Israel, but it can’t be both. Or can it? Perhaps, a perspective shift is in order. Do good parents love one child more than another? Are they only to be loyal to one and not the other? I can speak only for myself, but my love and loyalty are both to America & the American people… and to the Land of Israel and my Jewish brothers & sisters. How can we limit the capacity of the human heart? The two things that bind us together are the understanding that Freedom at its core, comes from above and is not given by man and the second is, that we value human life above all else.“BUT WHAT ABOUT THE INNOCENT PALESTINIAN PEOPLE?” Yes, let’s talk about the innocent Arabs living in Gaza, but rst, we need a quick history lesson debunking the idea that Israel is an apartheid state, or that they are ‘colonizers’ oppressing the Palestinian people in Gaza & the West Bank. According to the Library of Congress… “Inhabited since at least the 15th century B.C., Gaza has been dominated by many different peoples and empires throughout its history. In the early 16th century, it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire. During World War I, it fell to the British forces and became part of the British Mandate of Palestine. Following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Egypt administered the newly formed Gaza Strip. It was captured by Israel in the Six-Day War in 1967. Between 1994 and 1999, Israel transferred security and civilian responsibility for much of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank to the Palestinian Authority. In late 2005, Israel withdrew all of its settlers and soldiers and dismantled its military facilities in the Gaza Strip, but continues to control maritime, airspace, and other access. In early 2006, the Islamic Resistance Movement, HAMAS, OPINIONOpinion by Christine Walker

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 55won the Palestinian Legislative Council election and took control of the PA government. Brief periods of increased violence between Israel and Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip in 2007-08 and again in 2012, led to Egyptian-brokered truces. The status quo remains with HAMAS in control of the Gaza Strip and the PA governing the West Bank.” HAMAS – is an extremist terrorist regime. They thrive on and perpetuate a culture of death, nor do they have a Western mindset when it comes to the rules of engagement in war. They have NO rules and they will use whatever means necessary to rid the world of the Jewish people and the Jewish State of Israel. In Hebrew, the word HAMAS literally means ‘violence or extortion’ while its root meaning is to be pungent, harsh, or cruel. Palestine – comes from the Greek Palestina or Philistine. The name was used by the Romans as a racial slur during their occupation of the region that began in 63 BCE. It was revived again in the early 1970s by Yasar Arafat, the leader of the Palestinian Liberation Occupation or the PLO. Today, the ‘Palestinian’ people are actually descendants of Jordanian refugees.Yes, there are innocent Arabs living in Gaza, but unfortunately, they are under the iron st of HAMAS, and Israel understands this. That is why the ground offensive was held off for weeks as Israel did everything it could, giving Gazans time to evacuate to the South. The IDF sent out mass text alerts and the IAF also dropped paper leaets in Arabic dialects warning residents to get out. Unfortunately, HAMAS loves to use innocent human shields so that when Israel strikes, they can garner sympathy on the world stage.Golda Meir, the Israeli Prime Minister during the Yom Kippur War in 1973, said “We can forgive the Arabs for killing our children. We cannot forgive them for forcing us to kill their children. We will only have peace with the Arabs when they love their children more than they hate us.” I could literally write a book on the complexity of the Israeli/Arab conict that nds its origins going back to Isaac and Ishmael, but we don’t have time for that here. What I will say, is that Israel welcomes and embraces its over 1 million Arab citizens. Arab Israelis have equal freedom, they serve in the Knesset, work side by side with Israeli Jews, they also serve in the IDF/IAF, and are considered brothers. Over the decades, Israel has made concessions for ‘Palestinians’ to become citizens, but they have refused. And here we are… NEVER AGAIN… IS NOWIn closing, I have forced myself to watch the raw and unedited videos recorded by drug-induced HAMAS terrorists slaughtering innocent Jews. Young men and women running for their lives as they were gunned down at a music festival, the dead bodies of a young German woman and IDF Soldier paraded around and desecrated, burnt-out remnants of vehicles with the remains of those burned alive with their hands & feet bound. And the 40 babies found in Kibbutz Azrat Asa, some of whom had been beheaded or dismembered… This kind of horric and evil brutality could only be perpetrated by those who have no humanity and no soul.Instead of hiding the horror of October 7th, the victims’ families want the world to see the viciousness of the attacks. Every single member of the Knesset has viewed the “Atrocity” Film, and it has been scheduled for a screening by UN Ambassadors. At the end of WWII, the world was horried by the images of the Holocaust coming out of Europe. Some Jews made it out of that hell, but over 6 million were not so lucky. This in part, was fuel that helped to reestablish a democratic Jewish State, returning us, the indigenous people to our land and giving Jews around the world a safe haven for survival. Israel must eradicate HAMAS, thereby freeing Gazan citizens from tyranny and restoring the safety and security of Israel itself. For decades we have recited Never Again… Never Forget. But today we nd ourselves in a place of history where Never Again… is Now. "United wishes and good will cannot overcome brute facts... Truth is incontrovertible. Panic may resent it. Ignorance may deride it. Malice may distort it. But there it is."Winston Churchill

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56 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine |Winter 2023FROM MY POINT OF VIEW:FROM MY POINT OF VIEW:By Cristie RemmelAs our world dives into the brink of world war with the recent atrocities committed by Hamas on Israel; I question how I, one person, can help change the world for the better? The abominations that are being displayed on television are beyond words. These people called “human beings” are being compared to animals yet animals do not act in such a manner. They are an abomination and pure evil. What is more shocking is the worldwide general consensus that this abomination enacted on human beings is justied. As images of the atrocities circled in my mind night after night, I began to ponder on one rule that is as old as time: “Love Thy Neighbor As You Love Thyself.” It’s a timeless ethical principle that should guide our interactions with others. This simple phrase can change our reality if enacted by the great majority of people willing to set the intention for world peace. Its message is simple yet profound: treat others with kindness, empathy, and respect. This principle surpasses cultural and religious differences and resonates with various belief systems and philosophies around the world.The rst thing that must happen for our intention to generate enough force and shift our reality is to genuinely love and accept ourselves, it then becomes easier to extend the same love outward, creating a positive ripple effect. When our worldview shifts from a self-centered perspective to a collective one, we can appreciate and value the uniqueness of others. As we recognize the interconnectedness of humanity, we better understand how our actions can impact not only ourselves but also those around us. One key aspect of this expanded perspective is the recognition of our shared humanity. As we observe the world through this lens, we realize that our hopes, fears, joys, and hardships are not exclusive to us alone, but resonate within the hearts of countless others. We begin to feel a sense of empathy and compassion towards our fellow human beings, understanding that their experiences and struggles are just as valid as our own. This newfound understanding fosters a sense of unity and belonging, overcoming the barriers that divide us.One of the signicant challenges in learning to love our neighbors as ourselves is overcoming judgment. Often, we perceive others based on our own limited understanding and biases. However, practicing unconditional love allows for a paradigm shift in our observations of reality. By withholding judgment and seeking to understand, we open ourselves up to embrace diversity and bridge the gaps that divide us. This does not justify the abominations being committed by evil people. Let me be extremely clear. There is never, ever a justication for the extermination of human beings. If we look at different cultures and religions we rst nd that Jesus teaches this rule in the Gospel of Matthew. And, it is now referred to as the ‘Golden Rule of Christianity,’ while Confucius introduces a similar principle known as the ‘Silver Rule.’ Buddhism aligns it with the principle of ‘Metta’ or ‘Loving-kindness,’ and Judaism emphasizes it in the famous verse ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The universal principle lies in its promotion of harmonious relationships, empathy, and the creation of a caring local and global community.As humans, we often tend to view the world from a limited and self-centered perspective, focusing primarily on our own needs and circumstances. But when we consciously shift our observations and open ourselves up to a broader perspective, we unlock a whole new realm of understanding and interconnectedness. Setting the intention for this “principle” is all we need to do at the individual level. We can enact world peace by having that intention in our hearts. Together as a collective we can create a ripple effect for world peace: Will you join me? By challenging our narrow viewpoints, we start recognizing the intricate web that connects each and every individual on this planet. We acknowledge the diverse experiences, cultures, and struggles of people from different backgrounds, locations, and socio-economic statuses. This understanding allows us to develop a deeper empathy and compassion towards our fellow human beings.Shifting our observations also broadens our awareness of the environmental and social challenges we face as a planet. We become more attuned to the interdependence between ecosystems and the impact our actions have on others. With this expanded perspective, we become more conscious of our responsibilities and the potential consequences of our choices. By practicing unconditional love, individuals transcend their limited perspective and open themselves to a broader understanding of the world. This shift in perception enables them to see beyond supercial differences and recognize the underlying unity that exists among all beings, objects, and phenomena. They understand that there is a profound interdependence and interrelation between everything in the universe.Perspectives on Reality and Observational Shifts: LOVE THY NEIGHBOR AS YOU LOVE THYSELF

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Moreover, this deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of humanity inspires us to engage in collective actions for positive change. We recognize the need to work together, transcending boundaries and divisions, to address the pressing issues of our time.Reality may be subjective, but by embracing the idea of loving our neighbors, we can cultivate empathy and foster worldwide harmonious relationships. When we genuinely love and accept ourselves, it becomes easier to extend the same love outward, creating a positive ripple effect. Challenging judgment and seeking to understand others allows us to bridge the gaps that divide us. By practicing unconditional love, we open ourselves up to embrace diversity and acknowledge the interconnected unity that exists among all living beings.Socrates, the Greek philosopher, explored the concept of universal connection and recognized the underlying principles that govern interconnectedness. His teachings encouraged critical thinking and inspired individuals to question their own assumptions. Socrates’ journey led him to the understanding that the universe is not a collection of isolated entities but an intricate web of interconnectedness. His pursuit of knowledge led him to engage in rigorous dialogue with others, challenging their beliefs and encouraging critical thinking. Through his teachings and conversations, he aimed to inspire individuals to question their own assumptions and explore deeper layers of wisdom. Putting the principle of ‘love thy neighbor as you love thyself’ into action means practicing acts of compassion. Viewing reality through a lens of empathy allows us to recognize the struggles and challenges faced by others. Small acts of kindness, support, and understanding create an environment of love and acceptance, fostering unity within our communities. Embodying unconditional love taps into this enhanced understanding and cultivates empathy, compassion, and harmony within ourselves and with others.The golden rule serves as a powerful reminder to shift our focus from individual concerns to a more inclusive understanding of humanity. By embracing empathy, suspending judgment, and recognizing our interconnectedness, we foster compassion and love. This shift in perspective enables us to empathize with others, take collective action by setting the intention and starting in your own life, and work towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and harmonious world for all. Through the practice of unconditional love, we transcend limited perceptions and embrace the interconnected fabric of life.Become part of the solution by setting the intention of “loving thy neighbor as you love thyself” in your own personal life and this in turn will transcend the world. Join me: https://peaceprojectearth.com/“World peace must develop from inner peace. Peace is not just mere absence of violence. Peace is, I think, the manifestation of human compassion.” ― Dalai Lama XIVWinter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 57

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58 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine |Winter 2023For the purposes of this article, I will be using the term addict/addiction to infer dependent/dependency.INTRODUCTIONMost scholarly denitions about addiction tend to lean towards being ambiguous at best. They discuss chemical terms such as dopamine, serotonin and brain disease. I favor to use the military term KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid). I prefer a denition of drug addiction to be more concise and limited on interpretations. This is why I created the psychology of addiction in four words. Those words are user, abuser, consequences (immediate), and pain (physical/emotional).SEPARATING DRUG USERS FROM DRUG ABUSERSThe most important thing we have to do is separate the drug users from the drug abusers. In simple terms, the difference is the drug user cares about the consequences whereas a drug abuser does not care about them.One of the most common misnomers about addiction is society believes the amount of drugs consumed is the deciding factor of whether the person will be a user or an addict. The amount of drugs consumed is irrelevant. As an example, we all know the individual who can drink a case of beer a night and get up to go to work the next morning without suffering any immediate consequences. This does not mean that in the long run they will not suffer any consequences (i.e. health issues). Whereas, we all known or have heard of an individual who goes out to a bar, consumes two beers and instigates a ght suffering immediate consequences.Another misleading assumption about addiction is that society believes they can shame an addict using words/phrases such as “discipline” and “just say no.” They may be appropriate for a drug user because they care about the consequences; however, they are irrelevant for a drug addict due to the fact they do not care about consequences.CONSEQUENCES AND THE DRUG ABUSERThe reason the drug abuser does not care about consequences is because he or she is in pain. This includes both physical and/or emotional pain. Physical pain may include an individual suffering THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTION IN FOUR WORDSBY DANNY ROMEO, MHS, CADC

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 59from a headache or back pain as a result of three slipped discs. Whereas emotional pain canrange from someone’s goldsh dying to being abused by a relative. It is extremely important to understand that pain is relative only to the individual.That is it. That is the psychology of drug addiction in four words.As far as the veteran population dealing with pain, we are in the extremely high risk population. Dealing with physical pain is a given, being exposed from a simple muscle pull to becoming an amputee. This also applies to emotional pain, the spectrum can vary from a veteran leaving their family for the rst time to suffering a severe case of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.I am frequently asked how long does an individual remain in the category of a drug user or drug abuser. The answer is it depends on the current situation.The variable between a user and an abuser is the consequence. Let’s look at a few situations:An individual can care about consequences at the present moment dening themselves as a user. Unexpectedly, that same individual has just been informed that a loved one passed away or they recently lost their perfect job. Suddenly, consequences seem irrelevant to that individual and their only goal is to stop their pain thus falling in the category as an abuser.An individual who does not care about consequences at the present moment are dened as an abuser. The judge informs them, during a legal hearing, if they fail one more drug test their rights to see their children will be terminated. If the individual considers theseconsequences of not being part of their children’s lives greater than their current pain, they fall in the category of a user.In theory, an individual can swing like a pendulum between a user and abuser multiple times a day.A BONUS WORDWhen incorporating the four words of the psychology of addiction, what word would you use to describe a drug addict? If you chose the word “selsh” you would be correct. Let’s review the psychology of addiction – the difference between a drug user and a drug abuser is the drug user cares about the consequences, whereas the drug abuser does not. The reason the drug abuser does not care about the consequences is because they are in physical and/or emotional pain. We all can agree that drugs eliminate pain. An individual is selsh when they are in pain and do not care about the consequences. When I assess an individual to determine if he or she is a drug user or drug abuser, I incorporate a three question survey:Will you lie to your loved ones to stop your pain?Will you steal from your loved ones to stop your pain?Will you do anything for money to stop your pain?If you answered no to any of the above questions, congratulations you’re not a drug abuser.UNDERSTANDING THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTIONHere are two more cases of incorporating the psychology of addiction into real life situations: Author Johann Hari, YouTube Ted talk, “Everything You Think You Know about Addiction Is Wrong” describes thesituation that is relevant for this discussion about veterans. This example includes Vietnam soldiers abusing heroin.Mr. Hari stated during the height of the Vietnam War, when there were approximately 500,000 troops stationed in Vietnam, 20% of them were abusing heroin. This equates to approximately 100,000 troops. When they returned home, the medical journals at the time simply stated that they just stopped abusing heroin.How can that be? We have all been told in the past that heroin is the most addictive drug out there. Let us incorporate the psychology of addiction. The average age of a soldier in Vietnam was 19 years old. Participating in a war is an extremely traumatic event. Watching colleagues die, being wounded daily or not knowing if you are going to survive are very painful experiences. These traumatic experiences denitely lead one not to care about consequences resulting in an abusive heroin routine to stop their pain. Once surviving that environment and returning home, where most 19-year-olds live with their love ones, the painful experiences are removed. The returning soldiers can consider consequences of their present actions. Therefore, stopping their pain removes their need to abuse heroin.The second example is the MSNBC show, “All In,” with Chris Hayes discussing the Atlantic article “The Irrationality of Alcohol Anonymous.” One of the salient points of the segment was that Alcohol Anonymous was not effective. It was surmised that the anecdotal data concluded, most people with alcohol issues who did nothing basically tended to get better. The segment never addressed the articles rational as to why individuals with alcohol problems simply got better by doing nothing.Once more, let us implement the psychology of addiction. What is the difference between a drug user and a drug abuser? The answer is the drug user cares about consequences, whereas the drug abuser does not. Therefore, it is plausible to interpret from the anecdotal data that the individuals suffering from alcohol issues did not originally care about the consequences. However, since suffering the effects of the consequences, they started to care about them. Thus, leading them from being a drug abuser to a drug user.CONCLUSIONIt is not my intention to downplay the seriousness of individuals suffering from drug addiction. It is not even close. In the past, the so-called experts implemented strategies as zero-tolerance and mass incarceration when dealing with the drug abuse crisis. My goal is to have individuals understand the psychology of addiction. As a society, we need to realize that addiction has nothing to do with the lack of discipline and or personal weakness, but about physical and/or emotional pain. When applying this type of logic to describe the addiction process, we can express a more empathetic approach as to why individuals make the decisions they do.Finally, it is vital that we must be able to recognize the difference between drug users and drug abusers. Speaking from experience, it doesn’t take many resources to help a drug user. They care about the consequences. Conversely, it is not unrealistic for a drug abuser to spend years in therapy/treatment as a result of their pain issues. A recent survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration estimated that 22.7 million Americans need treatment for drug abuse. By separating the drug users from the drug abusers, we can provide our limited resources to helping the truly vulnerable which are our drug abusers.Danny Romeo, is a US Army Veteran and has a Master Health Science in Addiction Studies and is a Certied Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). After retiring from a law enforcement career he has been in the addiction eld since May 2016.

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60 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Wnter 2023My name is Sara Boyd and I was born and raised in the small logging town of Sedro-Woolley, Washington. I have had many titles over my forty-three-year lifespan. Daughter, Sister, Soldier, Wife, Mother, Staff Sergeant, Disabled Veteran, Charity President, and the best one of all given to me by my oldest grandson, Gigi. At the age of 15, I realized the only way I could pay for a college education was by joining the military. On July 29, 1998, I took the oath that would change the rest of my life, I joined the United States Army. Throughout my military career, I had several medical diagnoses and symptoms, some of which had compounded to cause chronic pain issues, making me unable to run. As a soldier, “leg” running is what we do. I was forced to be placed on a permanent no-running prole status for several years. I was also diagnosed with a condition called Raynaud’s phenomenon, which caused me to have a permanent cold weather gear prole, to adjust for my body’s inability to adjust its temperature. As an administrative specialist in the Army, I stayed at the same rank for several years because I could never reach the needed promotion points to advance. In 2005, I decided to change my job. I went through retraining, retook the military placement test, and received a high enough score to pick any job I wanted. The two choices I had before me were linguist or Counterintelligence Special Agent. I was nally becoming who I dreamed about as a little girl while watching the X-Files television show, a Special Agent. I made it through the most mentally fatiguing training I have ever been through. I received orders to start my new career as a Counterintelligence Special Agent at Camp Red Cloud, South Korea, with the 2nd Infantry Division. I had my entire career path laid out; get promoted to Sergeant First Class, change from enlisted to warrant, get promoted to Warrant Ofcer 2, retire at the age of 38 from the Army, and start my new civilian career in the CIA. In theory, it was going to be the greatest achievement of my life, but the universe seldom does as we plan.In 2007, while stationed in Korea, I started having extreme lower abdominal pain. I was already on a permanent prole for Raynauds and not running. My command started the process of sending me back to the States for medical board processing. I was being seen by Korean doctors to determine what was wrong with my abdomen. At this point, I wasn’t able to eat, or even get out of bed. I was on quarters for several weeks while in Korea, taking multiple medications including narcotics. My command sent me back to Fort Lewis to go through the medical board process at the Warrior Transition Battalion. The abdominal pain continued to worsen, and I was increased to a stronger narcotic. After 10 years, 2 months, and 12 days of service, I was medically chaptered on October 11, 2008. As early as 1998, I was diagnosed and suffering from Gulf War Illness without ever deploying to Iraq or Afghanistan. My constant struggle with the Veterans Affairs (VA) has been a continued battle which I share with as many Veterans as possible so that they may not have to go through the same. The VA initially gave me 60% disability in 2008 and since has increased it to 90% as of January 2014. On September 1, 2012, I became permanently disabled at the age of 32 and was deemed unemployable due to the severity of my medical conditions by the VA. You wouldn’t know it by looking at me, most see me parking in the handicapped lot and pass judgment. I use a cane every day and a walker at times. When I use a motorized scooter in the store, I am looked at as a nuisance taking up room in the aisle. They don’t understand that I wear tinted glasses due to brain damage. When asked to smile by a stranger, they don’t realize that with every smile comes extreme facial pain and uncontrollable tremors. Most do not realize I can no longer drive, y, or do many tasks without passing out as a result of a heart condition. I am constantly humbled each time I must ask for assistance to achieve simple tasks I can no longer achieve. Those who are not informed judge me on my cannabis use. Calling me an unt mother, a stoner, and blaming my symptoms on my cannabis use. I have been judged negatively by the public and medical staff alike. To the point of the medical staff removing critical vaccine injury diagnoses from the VA and replacing the diagnosis with malingerer when they do not agree.Chronic Illness and cancers caused by toxic exposure or vaccinations are not a new concept. It is a medical concern our World Government and Medical Community Leaders have known for quite some time. The VA admits that military vaccines are one of four categories that cause Chronic Multi-Symptom Illness, formerly known as Gulf War Illness, affecting both our combat and non-combat Veterans. As service members, we are given vaccine protocols within the rst few weeks of basic training based on where our rst duty station is located in the region. Our military vaccine protocols are also given based on duty stations in the United States or overseas, on special assignment, region, policy, and other factors. On two different occasions, our military service members were mandated to take a high-risk vaccine during an Emergency Use Authorization. In addition, our military service members receive vaccination protocols for pre-deployment or Military Readiness, without deploying to a combat theater of operations. It is for this reason that we have so many non-combat Veterans who are suffering from what the VA calls Chronic Multi-Symptom Illness or Gulf War Illness. Not to mention all the other toxins our non-combat Veterans have been exposed to as well.The VA has compensation and medical benets set in place for our combat Veterans. However, it is extremely challenging for our non-combat Veterans to receive the same medical treatment or compensation. OPERATION TRUTH:THE COST OF VACCINE INJURYb Sar Boy

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Proving military service connection for any medical condition can be challenging. Proving military service connection for toxic exposure, including vaccine injuries, is nearly impossible. However, it is achievable, I was able to gain a vaccine injury diagnosis through evaluation from the War Related Injury and Illness Study Center (WRIISC) in Palo Alto, California. No matter what the VA staff will tell you, if you are a non-combat Veteran, you are authorized to be seen through the Gulf War Registries and have an evaluation through the WRIISC facility. This is important because they are the only medical experts with the knowledge to evaluate a challenging medical case le of a patient with toxic exposures or vaccine injuries, covered through our VA medical benets. It is for the above-mentioned reasons that I began the charity, Operation Truth-Vaccination Exposure Research. A 501(c)(3) charity formed to educate, not only those who served but the communities of civilians across the globe. The ght doesn’t stop with seeking effective medical care through the VA. It is a constant battle of researching, information distributing, and benets being awarded through US Congressional Bills for those military Veterans who are not being represented. If we want change for those Veterans who are suffering, we must continue to achieve the difcult task of seeking Congressional support. Congress has awarded several benets, regulatory standards of care, and research for those who have served in the Middle East. There are currently no benets or regulatory medical standards for those of us suffering from Chronic Multi-Symptom Illness otherwise known as Gulf War Illness/Syndrome; who did not deploy to a Combat Theater of Operations and Operation Truth intends to change that. Please go to OperationTruth.net for more information or to show your support.DID YOU KNOW?VETERANS...VETERANS WHO RECEIVE HEALTH CARE BENEFITS THROUGHTHE US DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS (VA) CAN ALSOENROLL IN MEDICARE UPON TURNING 65.Our organization can helpyou understand and navigatethose benefits and show youhow they work together. CALL TODAY! tracy@tracybrileyandassoc.com"The truth is like a lion. You don't have to defend it. Let it loose. It will defend itself."Augustine of Hippo

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62 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023Day oneWow, just reading the title feels daunting, ten thousand words seems like so much. Ten thousand combinations of letters and punctuation marks arranged so that they might make a little sense. Today is Monday the 18th of September, and I gave myself the goal of writing those ten thousand words in the next week. Why ten thousand words? To be honest, I’m not sure. It sounded like a nice round number and, according to a Google query, a short story is around that number, give or take. I have tried to write a few short stories before. Although, I’ve never gotten close to the needed number or the correct structure to make any of them comprehensible or readable. The most I have ever been able to write is around three thousand for an article on the website I owned. I remember struggling to get those words out of my head; I wanted to be sure I was saying what needed to be said. Why write at all? That is the right question to ask. Some people can sit down at a keyboard, or look at a screen and, without thinking, just pound away at the keys. They can write to their heart’s content. Not me. When I was in the fth grade, two signicant things happened that changed my perception of myself and my ability to put my thoughts down on paper. The rst of which is physical. During my eleventh birthday, my father and I were wrestling in the living room. He had me on the oor and was going to put his foot on me. While lying on the oor, I reached up my hand to hold his foot off. Every one of the ngers on my right hand said, “Oh hell no” and went into the palm of my hand, making a st. Except for the smallest and maybe the bravest and dumbest, the pinky. As my father stepped down, we all heard the crunch. I felt as if a million pins had just been stuck into my hand and arm. A feeling I would feel a few other times in my life as well. Anyone who has broken a bone in their body has probably experienced this sensation too. Yep, that’s right. I had broken my right pinky nger and would spend the next six weeks with a cast on my forearm. Those few happy minutes with my dad, Dave left me with a little nger that will not bend like my other ngers. It kind of sticks out like I am having a cup of tea at high noon in some hoity-toity European castle in Great Britain. While at face value, it is not a big deal. Anyone who can type over thirty words a minute will tell you how important it is to stage your ngers just right over the middle row of letters on the keyboard. Ever notice the little raised lines or bumps on the “F” and “J” keys? These allow you to position your left and right index ngers over the keys so you can always nd your place. Ever wonder why they were called index ngers? Now you know, I think. The second reason is both physical and psychological. My teacher, Mr. Gallager, noticed that my handwriting and spelling were atrocious. This made taking tests and doing homework difcult for me. I would do well when given an oral exam, though. He suspected I had a learning disability, “Gerstmann syndrome.” This was around 1978-79 and we knew very little about the long list of learning disabilities. In fact, we know just as much about Gerstmann today as we did in the 70s and early 80s. On the Wikipedia page, there are about eight paragraphs. The prognosis is that most adults and children just learn to live with it. We learn to live with it by avoiding the task as much as possible. If we couple this with ADHD, the person may avoid the task and become disorganized, like rush hour trafc. You know you are going to be stuck in it, so you just sit there and let it work its way out. You get where you need to go but can’t remember why you need to be there or what you need to do. That is a lot of words to tell you that writing is hard for me. That brings us back to the question. Why write? I am not a religious person, but growing up in the Midwest, Sunday was for church. So we went. One thing I remember was constantly being told that the universe or God if you so please, give everyone a gift. I think my gift is that of writing and storytelling. I have been told on more than one occasion I am very talented, and that I can help tell a visualized story. While I was also in the fth grade, Mr. Gallager would read books to us a few times each week. One book he read to us was “The Cay,” pronounced key, by Theodore Taylor. I found this book in my high school library and checked it out. I remember reading it one weekend afternoon on our back porch. The protagonist in the book is a young boy named Phillip. Set in the Ten Thousand Wordsby Guy Bensing

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 63HAVE A STORY TO TELL?We're always looking for Veteran stories! Whether it's your story, a family members or a Soldier you've read about... let us know! We are also looking for 'Boots on the Ground' Veteran organizations, making a tangible difference in the lives of Veterans. ... Every Veteran has a story to be told...Email us at: les@ateaseveteransmagazine.comCaribbean during World War Two, Phillip and his mother are returning to the States because of the dangers of living on the islands. Philip’s mother is a southern belle from Virginia in the 1940s. While this was a great read for the time it was written, it touches on some of the racial issues of the time period. This plays into the relationship between Phillip, a white boy, and Timothy, a black dockworker from the island of Curaçao. A German U-boat torpedoes their ship, and Phillip and Timothy, along with a cat, are set adrift in a lifeboat. During their time in this little boat, Phillip becomes blind from looking at the sun. Later, while on the island, Timothy teaches him how to live while blind. Not wanting to give too much away, at one point in the story Phillip is alone and has gone diving for shellsh. There is a moray eel that lives in the hole where Phillip is diving. The eel bites him. When I read this part, I threw the book and felt the pain in my hand. I mentioned this was the second time I had heard or read this book, but I was so in tune with it, I felt as if I was Phillip. This immersion into a story and my ability to feel the pain of the characters in stories was why the same teacher who said I had a learning disability affecting my writing also told me I had a talent for it. The ability to feel the written word might have made me a talented actor, but I never got the chance to nd out. Funny though, here is this gift I have, but I also have something that is making it challenging to discover. It is like being an alcoholic who is allergic to yeast or a sex addict who is not good-looking and turns people off. This duality of life fascinates me. I love it when someone’s greatest strength is also their greatest weakness. The late football coach Buddy Ryan is a great example of this. The NFL world thinks of him as a defensive genius. He created the 4-6 defense and was the architect of the 85’ Chicago Bears’ “Monsters of the Midway” defense, thought to be the greatest in the league’s history. Ryan was great as a defensive coordinator, but as a head coach, not so much. His defensive prowess became his weakness. He felt it was because he had to study a different offense each week that he understood how an offense worked and how to use it to beat a defense. Having a talent for writing while it is physically and psychologically painful falls under that same category. Funny how stories sometimes just tell themselves. This is just one of them. This is a story about the challenge of writing ten thousand words in a week. Not just writing words, but having them make sense. Making them entertaining and readable. Around eight a.m. today, I started this monumental task. I wrote the rst six hundred words, then had an Occupational Therapy appointment. Next, I completed some other stuff during the day, before deciding to sit back down and continue this quest. I think it is about time I learn how to defeat this crutch I have been using for the last forty-ve years. I called this a monumental task just now. Mental just might be the correct term. I have to break a lot of stigmas surrounding my inability to form my thoughts in written form. Learning how to tell a story is just as important as telling the story. It is like timing for a comic. The joke in and of itself may be funny, but if told with the right pace and inection, it can be hilarious. The telling of me writing these ten thousand words is the same. While this may not reach many people, I’m not sure if I would ever publish it. I hope I write it in a way that makes people want to read it. You know a good book or story when you nd one. While I was on active duty, I picked up a copy of Tom Clancy’s Red Rabbit. I could not put this book down. I mean, I just had to read and read and read. It was just that captivating. Not every book by him was as good as that one and a couple of them I had to start more than once. I don’t want these words to be like that. In order to write my ten thousand words, I gured out that I needed to complete just under fteen hundred a day for the week. Right now, I am pushing seventeen hundred words on my rst day. Now might be a good time to take a break and do a little editing to get the readability score back up. Not a bad rst day.Guy Bensing is originally from Maryland Heights, MO, a suburb of St. Louis.he currently resides in Honolulu, HI. He attended the only public full time NJROTC unit and the second largest Naval Academy in the country. After high school he Joined the U.S. Navy in 1987. He served on four ships, the USS Yorktown (CG-48), USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), USS John S McCain (DDG-56) and the USS Gary (FFG-51). He served as an instructor at Great Lakes Naval Training Center and the LPO of the mechanical codes at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyards.

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64 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023Bagdad, Iraq circa 1980. | Public DomainDoD data focused on male and female FSMs between the ages of 18-64. This population provides the greatest detail of the military service experience and is validated by DoD.3or undetermined deaths aligned with self-harm/suicidal behavior, which have been attributed predominantly to overdose deaths.MAJOR FINDINGSStates undercount FSMs deaths at a combined error rate of 25%• States undercounted FSMs status 18% of the time and counted non-FSMs as FSMs 7% of the time.37% greater suicide rate than reported by VA for years 2014-2018. The difference in the data is likely due to under-counting of military experience, and death details available to OpDD™.OpDDTMstates (18% of US veterans), are 1.37 times greater than reported by the VA from 2014-2018. If these eight states and age adjustment represented a national rate:OPERATION DEEP DIVE™ SUMMARY OF INTERIM REPORTEXECUTIVE SUMMARYOperation Deep Dive™ (OpDDTM), a former service member (FSM)1 suicide and self-injury mortality (SIM)2years of death data corroborated by the Department of Defense (DoD), indicates that FSMs take their own lives each year at a rate approximately 2.4 times greater than previously reported by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). OpDD™ data analytics was able to identify FSMs with the greatest probability of taking their own life. This interim report highlights the need to expand data sets to include additional states and the VA, and jointly identify suicide and SIM prevention efforts for FSMs. The implications of the data for prevention analysis and prevention application raise awareness to help prevent FSMs from taking their lives because “Together, We Can Do Better.”ABOUT OPERATION DEEP DIVETMAmerica’s Warrior Partnership (AWP) has contracted with the University of Alabama to obtain state data. In phase two, AWP has contracted with Duke University to analyze state-provided death data, coordinate with DoD to Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation.states: Alabama, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, and Oregon.In our Spring 2022 PTSD feature, we wrote an article on the Veteran suicide rates based on the VA's 2021 annual report. In reading the fine print of that report, we found that they were utilizing their 2019 data, essentially making the 2021 report void. In October, I saw a news article, explaining that the Suicide rates among Veterans was much higher than previously reported. This data came from Operation Deep DiveTM, of America's Warrior Partnership. I reached out to the lead investigator and through that conversation, we created a partnership to follow their ongoing study and share that information with our readership, as it continues to become available.Christine Walker | Editor in ChiefAll data and graphics are used with the express permission of America's Warrior Partnership and Operation Deep DiveTM. NEW STUDY FINDS VETERAN SUICIDE FAR EXCEEDS VA REPORTS

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 65• Approximately 24 FSMs die per day by suicide (determined by coroner or medical examiner) compared to the VA’s 2014-2018 average of 17.7 veteran suicides per day.• Approximately 20 FSMs die per day by Self-Injury Mortality (SIM)– previously listed as accidents/undetermined – over 80% are coded as overdose deaths.• If these eight states collectively represented the national rate, the combined death rate would be at least 44 FSMs per day which is 2.4 times higher than the VA suicide rate.OpDDTM military service experience characteristics to      their lives.• The longer someone has served in the military, the lower their probability of taking their own life is 2% for every year served.• Those who served in the military for less than three years were at greatest risk for suicide/SIM.• Receiving a demotion during military service increased the FSM’s odds of dying by suicide/SIM by 56%.• FSMs from the Coast Guard were most likely to die from suicide/SIM, followed by Marine Corps, Army, Navy, and Air Force.OpDDTM analysis exposed lifestyle experiencesof FSMs with the highest probability of taking their own lives.• In general, gender and race diversity were not associated with increased odds of suicide/SIM. Most FSM suicides and SIM were male and white.• Local and state communities differed for at-risk demographics and in the community.• Living with a partner decreased the odds of suicide/SIM by nearly 40%.• Data indicate that FSMs are at a higher risk of dying from suicide/SIM or natural causes such as heart disease or cancer before age 64 than those who never served in the military.RECOMMENDATIONS• SIM must be included in any analysis of FSM and veteran death.• Improvements are needed at the local, state, and national levels regarding death reporting:o Data standardization and the use of ICD codes regarding suicide and SIM would improve insights.o Coroners and Medical Examiners need better funding with standardized tools and approaches for accounting for FSM deaths.o DoD and the VA should make available a tool for coroners/medical examiners to validate military service as a part of the death record.• TM datao Incorporating other sources of data, such as VA health care and o enables the nation, states, and counties to develop impactful/measurable suicide/SIM prevention approaches.• States must make death data available, with proper controls, for research purposeso More state data are needed for OpDDTM. By participating in OpDDTM it will help the states and counties reduce FSM death.• This can be used to effectively identify those at higher risk. Increased participation by states will provide further details and data accuracy approach is needed to prevent premature non-natural death. Former from state to state and from community to community.• Prevention strategies must begin at the community level by security, relationships, purpose, physical health, and mental well-being. Solely focusing on the mechanism of death does not address the root cause of suicide/SIM.NEXT STEPS FOR OPERATION DEEP DIVETM• AWP moved OpDD™ to Duke University in order to expand the data set over the next four years and develop strategies that can be used at the national, state, and county levels to prevent FSM deaths.• Increase the number of states sharing data and participating in OpDD™• Incorporate US Department of Veterans Affairs data into OpDD™• With a larger data set, further analyze the cause of death in relationship to:o Years of military serviceo Time since discharge from military serviceo Characterization of dischargeo Military Service, Specialty, and Unit of Assignmento Military deployment historyo Incidents occurring during military service (e.g., MST, trauma, or exposure)o Protective factors of those who transition in the National Guard or Reserve prior to deatho Services received from the Department of Veterans Affairso Community services available• Work with government and non-government stakeholders to use For more information regarding study design, methodology, data, and limitations, please refer to the Methodology Report.TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OPERATION DEEP DIVETM, SCAN THE QR CODE >> OR VISITAMERICASWARRIORPARTNERSHIP.ORG/DEEP-DIVE

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66 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023FACE OF THE FACE OF THE ENEMYENEMYBOOK REVIEWBOOK REVIEWFace of the Enemy: An American Asian's War in Vietnam and at HomeBy David O. ChungPublisher: Booklocker.comCopyright © 2023 David O. Chung"FACE OF THE ENEMY is not your run-of-the-mill memoir. The second son of a mixed-race family of mainly Asian descent was challenge enough. His father's American values were overpowered by his mother's enforcement of the traditional Chinese culture of her homeland. David O. Chung, or ‘Doc’ to his friends, quickly learned that he had two identities, and that he was trapped in between them. The Vietnam War was winding down when Chung joined the Air Force. As a transportation specialist for the United States Air Force in Vietnam, he made sure aircraft delivering supplies were loaded and balanced properly. How much trouble could there be? Plenty, as he discovered."One of the favorite things about my job is connecting with Veterans from every war era. I love hearing their stories and getting to know them. A few weeks ago, I received an email from David O. Chung. It just happened to be a day when I had a light schedule, so I was able to send off a reply fairly quickly. Lo and behold, my phone rang and it was David. After a wonderful two-hour conversation, I immediately looked up his book. My inner nerd knew I had to read it and write a review for this edition. Face of the Enemy: An American Asian’s War in Vietnam and at Home, draws the reader in quickly to ‘Doc’s’ reality growing up in 1960s Chicago with a traditional Chinese mother and American Asian father. Bullied at school, he would race home to hide his wounds before his mother could add more injury to insult. Born to be the ‘servant son’ to his older brother, life was tough and unfair would be the understatement of the century; but David had a few allies, his dad and the O’Connells.Making his own path after high school, David moved out of the house, started college for a degree in aeronautics, and worked two jobs at small airports near Chicago. Vietnam was winding down… or so that is what the media reported. But in 1970, David received a draft notice, and he had a choice to be drafted for two years, guaranteeing infantry in the Army in the jungles of Vietnam, or he could enlist for four years and choose the branch of service. David chose the Air Force thinking it was a safer choice. It was not.Military life for David brought more isolation, sneers, and racial epitaphs, but David kept his head down, did his job, and followed orders. Not once did he think he would be attached to 7th Scan the QR Code to Find Out More...Air Force Base Headquarters, 377th Combat Support Group at Tan Son Nhut in Saigon nor was he prepared for the added rejection by the South Vietnamese themselves. Face of the Enemy: An American Asian’s War in Vietnam and at Home, continues to follow David’s journey in Vietnam; being abandoned at Quan Loi at An Loc, his subsequent injuries received from an explosion during an ambush on his convoy, and returning home with his ghosts and the many hard years that followed. But what makes this book exceptional, is Doc’s ability to navigate the accumulative pain and rage turning it into service to the Veteran community. "Helping these veterans and their families has given me purpose. I’m not sure I could stop even if I wanted to. Sharing my knowledge of the system makes me feel useful. It has helped to heal my broken heart, and allow me some happiness."For more information about the Author, visit davidochung.com "Outstanding! AT EASE! Veterans Magazine highly recommends Face of the Enemy: An American Asian's War in Vietnam and at Home is an Excellent & Emotional read!"

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 69I will never forget the date: Dec 24th, 1990. I had been in the Navy for just over 3 years and was reporting to my second ship, the USS Mobile Bay (CG-53). After 6 days of travel with stops in LA, Alaska, Japan, Okinawa, the Philippines, Diego Garcia, and Bahrain I arrived in Dubai along with 20 others going to the USS Midway. Needless to say, I was slightly exhausted, a little nervous, and just a bit disoriented. I was to be part of the largest armada to be assembled since August of 1945. Now you might be wondering “What this has to do with hockey?” This period was 30 years ago during the buildup called Desert Storm. A guided-missile cruiser has space for about 400 sailors. I was new and I knew no one. Along with that, we were in an Arab country, preparing for war. I was days short of my 22nd birthday and my sphincter was as tight as it could get. I was taken down to engineering control to meet some of my new shipmates. The wrapped like a hockey stick. I asked about the handles and was told one of the Damage Controlmen had done it. Thus, I was introduced to a small group of hockey fans that were in my department and a few others on the ship including our chief corpsman whom we affectionately call “Doc.” Doc got The Hockey News in the mail when we got it and he would let us see it after he was done. Brett Hull was tearing up the league scoring goals left and right and was on the verge of becoming just the 5th person to score 50 goals in 50 games. My love of the Blues and this mouthy sniper were becoming quickly known throughout our small community of fans. The guys would look for articles and newsreels about the Blues or Hull and ensure I got a copy. Thus, hockey and Hull became my escape from reality for just a few moments each day.So, while this might not seem like a big deal to most people, we were high. In the days after the New Year, we spent countless hours training for a mine strike or gas attack. While most 18-to-25-year-olds are in college or going to frat parties, we were wearing gas masks every day and going to the battle station multiple times. My mental state was slightly out of whack.The few times I could get a hold of the news or a magazine that talked about the Golden Brett I was able to escape to the arena. I could hear my fellow Bluenatics cheering and counting every goal. I could see the towel man throwing his wares to the roaring crowd after Tom Calhoun’s deep voice announced each tally. Brian Sutter had created a scoring monster while at the same time saving me. Being an engineer in the Navy meant I spent much of my time below the waterline. My watch station was in one of the engine rooms, which are the largest and widest spaces on the ship and the likeliest of places for a mine to hit, just as one had exploded in the engine room of the USS Ruben James just a year earlier. Every time I heard something bounce off the side of the hull, I was ready for the worst. During these long repetitive days, mail call was a welcome relief.Knowing that while I did not receive mail, many of my hockey friends would get magazines or newspapers. You must remember this was long before the internet helped change the way we are informed. Back during Desert Storm and Desert Shield, Flipper did not deliver. We would get mail via helicopter or a type of underway replenishment about once a week. The teletype or ticker as it was known became our best friend and source of news. These news rolls were distributed around the ship and it could take days for you to get one. One of the junior radiomen was a fan, and he hid a sports reel in an overhead compartment in our gathering place called Mobile Hall. I would normally check this spot at about 4 a.m. each morning when I was coming off watch. Just before I would try to get a few moments of sleep before the next day began, I could transport myself into one of the great barns of the ’90s. Where I slept was also under the waterline and my feet were just mere inches neck. However, when I closed my eyes, I was banging on the glass calling the ref a blind asshole, and seeing the puck leap off of the Golden One’s silver tongue. These precious moments cemented my love of everything hockey and included another 28 years of heartbreak until June 12th, 2019. So yes, I have a special connection to the great St. Louis Blues teams of the past and I now use the same internet that I did not have, to broadcast the BlueNote Fan Report. So, when I say Hockey saved me, I mean Hockey with Guy Bensing MAKE SURE TO MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT GUYS PODCASTCHECK OUT GUYS PODCASTHOCKEY SAVED MY LIFE

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70 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023Many of us joined the military for different reasons. For some, it was reasons for joining were due to 9/11. The aftermath of that tragic day sent a ripple effect throughout the Nation. I was still in high school at they had every right to be. Years later I would join the Marine Corps having zero knowledge of how the military actually worked. The only reason behind my joining was to see what combat was like and to protect the Nation. I was born to serve, but I was not the only one.I spent 12 years in the Marines and held multiple billets and job titles. I managed to deploy to Afghanistan in 2009 and had some of the best and worst memories of my life there. But I digress, before joining the military I was just a teen with a dream. Most people do not understand the cost associated with joining such an organization. It’s typically impossible to just walk in and join. They have requirements, they have standards, they have rules.As we speak my nephew and niece are both training to join the military. Both of them will be ready when the time comes, but this was not easy.came in at a solid 20 minutes. As her coach, I expected that we would have some serious work to do. Her goal is to be infantry in the Army. She needs to lose weight and get into serious shape. However, if you have never trained, how do you start? I can promise you there is a right and a wrong way. The best way will always be the slowest. A body that has never been through extreme stress can easily break. The muscles can tear and take months to recover. I decided for this article we would showcase something simple.If you have a family member interested in the military, challenge them with this workout. We keep it nice and simple. My Niece Koko is a super huge fan of this workout. The goal is to complete 5 rounds with a two-minute break between rounds. Veteran Fitness:FROM ZERO TO HEROBy Daniel Dancer | USMC...

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Winter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 71contact us at CampFreedomFitness@gmail.comWe send them workouts, build their diets, coach them, and train them. Having an online platform means we can work with more people more often. You can always nd us on Facebook at @campfreedomtness or visit our website at campfreedomtness.org . We would love to meet you. ......Enjoy the Workout! I hope you enjoyed the workout! Take care of yourselves and remember to make yourself a priority. KEEP IT SIMPLEKEEP IT SIMPLE*As always please consult a medical professional before participating in exercise. 134EXERCISE 1 - THE BASIC AIR SQUAT 10 Reps 1. Starting position2. Down Position3. Return to Starting PositionEXERCISE 2 - MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS20 Reps 1. Starting Position 2. Right Knee Right Elbow3. Left Knee Left ElbowEXERCISE 3 – CRUNCHES 30 Reps1. Starting Position 2. Up Position3. Down Position EXERCISE 4 - JUMPING JACKS 30 Reps1. Starting Position2. Legs open hands touch3. Return to Starting PositionAfter completing these four exercises take a 2-minute break, and start again. Completing 5 rounds total. As always please consult a medical provider before attempting this exercise. Proceed at your own risk. 2

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72 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023HOLDING SPACE“Holding space for yourself is understanding when you need to take a step back. It’s understanding that you need to rest, it might be time to ask for help from others or time to make a change. It’s treating yourself with the same compassion and empathy that you would treat a treasured friend or loved one.” - unknown.One of the rst lessons I learned as a rst responder was to arrive safely at the emergency scene. No matter what re service-related class I attended, the instructors continually said, “Don’t drive at warp speed to the re. If you get into an accident and need rescuing, you cannot be the rescuer to those who called for help.” So, how does this sage advice connect to self-care?At its essence, holding space is self-care. It is about recognizing when to pause, re-group, and rest - being there for yourself. You can view this as taking a mini-vacation - easy to say but often difcult to accomplish in this hurried and chaotic world in which we live. Here are several ways in which you can establish a self-care routine.•Time Management: Although you have responsibilities, you cannot be everything to everyone twenty-four hours a day. During your waking hours, make yourself a priority. Before starting your day, make sure at least to take care of your basic needs- hygiene, eating a well-balanced meal (breakfast is the most important one of the day), and make a list of what you want to accomplish throughout the day. Refrain from stressing if items remain on your list - take care of the most essential ones rst.• Boundaries: Closely related to the time management skill set, setting boundaries will assist you in honoring the space needed to “recharge the batteries,” as the adage goes. Before being pulled into several directions, employ the one-word, complete sentence that quickly establishes your limits - “No.” •Spend Time in Nature: It can be as simple as walking around the block to provide space between you and the chatter of daily life - even if it is for only twenty to thirty minutes. If you have more time, take a hike in a wooded area. For me, this activity is healing, as I can set aside my thoughts and focus on navigating uneven terrain.•Journaling: Before you sleep, write at least three to ve things you are grateful for that day. Did you take time for yourself, and in doing so, did you still meet your responsibilities?•Meditation: Meditation is not about becoming devoid of all thoughts because the mind does not work that way. It is about quieting the chatter-perhaps by focusing on the breath or an afrmation. I have included a guided meditation (an excellent foundation for a beginner) and a YouTube link with a recorded version.'HOLDING SPACE' FOR SELF-CARETim GrutiziusTim Grutzius, is a US Army Veteran and a graduate of the YAM Yoga School (Laurel Park, NC) and is a 200-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance. He is a recognized Level I teacher through Warriors at Ease (trauma-informed training), and is the Owner of Mind Body Badge Yoga and Wellness (timothyggrutzius.com). As a young reghter, I was unaware of how to hold space for myself. I fell into the trap of a sedentary life coupled with a typical Western diet. I ate poorly and too much, my tness level declined, and disrupted sleep became the norm - products of a high-stress occupation. Eventually, I righted the ship and connected with mentors who instilled the value of self-care so I could perform at peak levels to meet the demands of my career. The choice was clear - be the rescuer or become the rescued.GUIDED MEDITATIONClose the blinds in your room to reduce the ambient light (you can also use a folded towel or eye mask), and turn on soft, meditative music to enhance the mood.Begin this meditation by lying on a yoga mat or in your bed. Make yourself as comfortable as possible (use a blanket, bolster, rolled-up towel), whatever you need to become comfortable.1. Feel your feet, ankles, calves, hamstrings, and hips - as the mat or bed supports them. 2. Feel your entire back, shoulders, arms, and head - as the mat or bed supports them. 3. Soften your jaw, the area around your eyes, and your forehead. 4. Inhale through your nose for a count of 1, 2, 3, 4, and exhale for a count of 1, 2, 3, 4. 5. Inhale through your nose for a count of 1, 2, 3, 4, and exhale through your mouth for a count of 1,2,3,4.6. Visualize a place familiar to you - somewhere you feel safe and content. The location could be your home, backyard, or the trees gazing at the stars. Make this meditation your own, where you want to be.7. Hold this resting state for as long as necessary (at least ve to seven minutes). When ready to return to a wakeful state, take a deep inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth.

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74 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023       those that served during World War II, Korea, and Vietnam there will be many aspects of this story that may bring back memories of old times and the beginning of the term “carryout meals”. Back in the 1940s there was a need for troops “on the go” in military theaters overseas. Packaged goods had a much shorter shelf life and canning was the best way to provide foods that would not only stand the test of time but also could survive all weather conditions.Because everything came in a sealed can, they were called C-Rations or “C-Rats” for short. The can sizes were usually the same and they pretty much all looked alike in those colorful olive drab labels. You kinda knew what was in each can just by the weight of the can in your hand. They mostly contained crackers or cake, fruits, or a moist blend of mystery meat. There were delectable choices like beef slices and potatoes with gravy, chicken and noodles, or the ever-popular beans with frankfurter chunks. The one to avoid at all costs was ham with lima beans. That one was usually shoveled to the newbies.Regardless of the type of haute cuisine you were about to consume, you had to have something other than a bayonet to open each can. That item was the government issued P-38        CAN, HAND, FOLDING, TYPE I”. Some referred to it as a “jeep” because of its durability. The Marines often called it a “John Wayne” due to its and adding it to the dog tags around our necks for quick retrieval.The opener consisted of a handle with a fold out blade to pierce and open each can.      the P-38 became easier to use than that old Chef Craft in the utility drawer in your home kitchen. While there are several explanations for the name the most logical is that the tool measures about 1-1/2 inches in length which is approximately 38 millimeters. Now you are armed with some special knowledge should it ever come up in a game of military trivia.But this is only part of the story about why the P-38 has endured over the years and why it has special meaning to one Vietnam veteran. While our WWII and Korean vets returned home to open arms, we are keenly aware of the scorn often leveled at our returning troops from Vietnam. We did our jobs but politics and public opinions at the time often overshadowed our reentry into mainstream society.While that situation affected my friend Ken Looney also, this mild-mannered guy found a way to right the wrong. Decades ago, Ken started his own personal program long before it became fashionable to shake a Vietnam veterans’ hand and say, “Welcome Home, Brother/Sister”. He began by gathering worn      their tours of duty and then painstakingly cutting out each of the white stars from the blue      the same time, he purchased tiny plastic bags, and a supply of P-38 can openers as a symbol of that time served.Ken then proceeded to put a star and a P-38 into each small bag. Everywhere he went there were a few welcoming packets in his pocket. When he encountered a Vietnam veteran at a meeting, a concert, a store or just about anywhere, he would reach into his pocket, place a packet in his hand and say, “Welcome Home” while transferring the gift by handshake to the new owner. It often brings tears to the recipient as it did when I received packet from Ken many years ago. It remains one of my most cherished military mementos.And it brings great joy to Ken Looney each time he does this. He has even incorporated       granddaughter Lanie for distribution which has now expanded to veterans of all wars and        one gesture decades ago has now reached six foreign countries!And it all began with a star from an American       with a big heart who continues to care about his military brothers and sisters. Welcome home Ken, and thanks you for your service.P-38By Stuart Sax

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27 VETERAN PODCASTS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT27 VETERAN PODCASTS YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT1. Devil Doc Talk Show: Hosted by Joey Martinez. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-devil-doc-talk-show/id8106837412. 7 Figure Squad: Hosted by Matt Sapaula. https://www.youtube.com/user/matthewsapaulainc3. Operation Freedom Recovery :Hosted by Dan Miller. http://www.ofrp.org/4. The Unprofessional Veterans: Hosted by The Rev & The Kid. https://anchor.fm/unprofessional-veterans5. The Red, White & You Show: Hosted by Dean McMurray. http://deanmcmurray.com/radio-show/6. The Truths We Hide: Hosted by Annette Whittenberger. https://anchor.fm/annette-whittenberger7. Someone You Should Know: Hosted by Stuart Sax. https://stuartsax.com/my-shows8. NonProt Architect: Hosted by Travis Johnson. https://nonprotarchitect.org/9. Entrepreneur on Fire: Hosted by John Lee Dumas. https://www.eore.com/10. You Why Powers Your How: Hosted by Richard Kaufman. https://www.audible.com/pd/SUCCESS-Your-WHY-Powers-Your-HOW-Podcast/B08JJPWCQB11. Jocko Podcast: Hosted by Jocko Willink. https://jockopodcast.com/12. Airman to Mom, Hosted by Amanda Huffman. https://www.airmantomom.com/13. The Stoned Vet, Hosted by Sgt G. https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/bab11620-51e8-460f-ade6-1f5c9fe49f15/the-stoned-vet-usmc14. The Hoarding Solution, hosted by Tammi Moses. https://anchor.fm/tammi-moses15. Veterans Be Real, hosted by John Valentine. https://www.veteransbereal.com/16. Disgruntled Docs Podcast, hosted by disgruntled docs. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disgruntled-docs-podcast/id151967719217. The Military Veteran Dad, hosted by Ben Killoy. https://www.militaryveterandad.com/18. The Ambitious Vet, hosted by Chris Hoffman. https://theambitiousvet.libsyn.com/19. Home-Bound Veteran, hosted by Keith and Laura. https://homeboundveteran.com/20. Mind of the Warrior, hosted by Dr. Mike Simpson. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mind-of-the-warrior/id102142229521. Team Never Quit, Hosted by Marcus and Morgan Luttrell. https://teamneverquit.com/podcast/22. Borne the Battle, hosted by Tanner Iskra. https://www.audible.com/pd/Borne-the-Battle-Podcast/B08K568Z9123. Frontlines of Freedom, hosted by Denny Gillam. https://frontlinesoffreedom.com/24. The Warrior Soul, hosted by Chris Alpert. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-warrior-soul-podcast/id109690138225. Mentors for Military, hosted by Robert Gowin. https://mentorsformilitary.com/26. Battle Buddy, hosted by Keith McKeever. https://www.battlebuddypodcast.net/27. Veteran on the Move, hosted by Joe Crane. https://veteranonthemove.com/78 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine | Winter 2023

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ACROSS3.EXPENDITURE OF PHYSICAL ENERGY BURNS …ENERGY.5.WHAT DID HE STORE ABOVE THE AIR SHAFT?4.ONE-MAN RUCK WAS HEADED TO ...7.THE DIRTY WORD NO NONPROFIT EXECUTIVEEVER WANTS TO BE CAUGHT USING?9.RON IS A … MAN10.SELECTED FOR SPECIAL DUTY ASSIGNMENTAS A …12.HE ENROLLED IN THE … PROGRAM WHILESTUDYING MUSIC.15.HE SAW THE NEED FOR A … AT OUR BASE.18.THE VARIABLE BETWEEN A USER AND ANABUSER IS THE … CONSEQUENCE19.JOINED THE MARINES TO SEE WHAT … WASLIKE.21.A LEARNING DISABILITY CALLED …SYNDROME.23.HE ACCUMULATED MORE THAN 275 COLORSLIDE IMAGES ALL IN … CONDITION.24.MY MENTORS INSTILLED THE VALUE OF …26.I’M GOING TO GET A … JOB WHEN I GROWUP.29.SPECIAL FORCES SOUNDED A LIFE OF …31.HAM WITH LIMA BEANS WERE USUALLYSHOVELED TO THE …33.RETIRED FROM THE AIR FORCE WITH A …CEREMONY35.A SHORT STORY IS AROUND … THOUSANDWORDS.37.THE AXE HANDLE WAS WRAPPED LIKE A …STICK.38.GEORGE COULD MAKE DIFFICULTSITUATIONS SEEM LIKE …39.HIS FIRST DUTY STATION HE WAS ASSIGNEDTO THE U.S.S. …DOWN1.FIRST THING I LEARNED WAS TO ARRIVE … ATTHE EMERGENCY SCENE.2.HE SIGNED ON FOR ANOTHER FOUR YEARS TOSERVE AS A … INSTRUCTOR.4. WHAT BRANCH OF SERVICE DID SARA JOIN?6. TREAT OTHERS WITH KINDNESS, EMPATHY,AND …8. EVERYONE HAS A PLAN UNTIL THEY GET … INTHE FACE.11.HER … GAVE HER A TEDDY BEAR FORCHRISTMAS.13.HE HID A SPORTS REEL IN AN …COMPARTMENT.14.WHAT DID SGT HUGHES BORROW?16.THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTION IN FOURWORDS: USER, ABUSER, CONSEQUENCES, AND…17.SHE WAS PART OF A COMMUNITY OF …PEOPLE.20.SOCRATES EXPLORED THE CONCEPT OF …CONNECTION.22.CHRONIC MULTI-SYMPTOM ILLNESS IS ALSOKNOWN AS … WAR ILLNESS/SYNDROME25.THESE TWO QUALITIES BECAME HALLMARKSOF BUFF’S CAREER: PERSPECTIVE AND …27.A THERAPY USED WITH VETERANS FORHEALING.28.LOBBYING IS A … AREA OF THE LAW.30.ITS … CAME FROM ITS LENGTH.31.WHAT HIT WASHINGTON’S TROOPS AS THEYCROSSED THE DELAWARE?32.A FORMER SOLDIER DRESSED AS … FROMTOY STORY.34.MY SECRET SANTA GAVE ME FOOT LOTIONAND A PAIR OF …36.FLARES DROPPING OVER CON THIEN USED …EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY.38.THE PHOENIX MUST FIRST …'WINTER''WINTER'SCAVENGER SCAVENGER HUNTHUNT80 AT EASE! Veterans Magazine |Winter 2023

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CROSSWORD ANSWERS:COMPLETELY INAPPROPRIATE EXERPTS FROM 'BORN IN A BAR II'...COMPLETELY INAPPROPRIATE EXERPTS FROM 'BORN IN A BAR II'...In the late 90s I was having casual sex with Jenna, a Navy girl who grew up near my home town, on weekends that we were both home in Pennsylvania. One such weekend Jenna had to be back on base in Norfolk by 0900 on Sunday morning, so in order for us to spend the weekend together, I offered to drive her back to her base from my house in laid. Anyway...The last leg of the ride was over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. If you’re unfamiliar with this bridge tunnel, it’s about seventeen miles in length and connects southern Maryland to northern Virginia crossing the Chesapeake Bay. It’s a two-lane bridge and tunnel system and         the beginning of the bridge system, I was feeling the Mt. Dew kicking in and I had to piss like a racehorse. A sign along the road said, “Last stop before bridge ahead on right” and I fully planned on stopping. Just before the turnoff Jenna started kissing my a hand-job.Forget it, I can hold it a little longer. “Don’t cum,” She said with a smile.After about 15 minutes of this, I’m ready to go. I’m horny and I still REALLY must piss. One can only take so much backed-up pressure.“In about a mile, there is a scenic overlook, pull over,” Jenna says.I began to ask, “Ok, but... what’s,” Jenna pulled off her panties, “there?” Never mind, I don’t care at this point. Whatever is about to happen I am all for it.At 0630 on a Sunday morning, my truck was the only thing on the bridge. We pulled over, Jenna got out and left the door open to help block any sights a passing car might see. She bent over while holding onto the guard rail “Be quick she says.” I’m not ashamed to admit but I only lasted all of two pumps.Now I still had to piss and I’m not making it any further than this exact spot, so I decided to take another step and just piss over the retaining wall into the ocean below. At that very moment, a police cruiser pulled up.he walked around my truck toward us. He begins to say something like “I know it’s a long bridge, but you couldn’t hold it two more miles?” In my mind, I’m             At that same moment we began hearing faint voices yelling. All three of us look over the retaining wall to the water twenty feet below and see two men in an open boat shaking      the pylon below the scenic overlook when I pissed all over them and their boat.“Semper Fi” as he turned and walked back to his cruiser and pulled off. We laughed the rest of the way to her base. On the way home I passed the very same spot and saw another car sitting there with another couple standing there. It made me wonder how many other guys Jenna had taken to that spot.I still chuckle a bit thinking about the guy’s face as he angrily pointed at us.FOR MORE INAppROpRIATE SHENANIGANS, FOR MORE INAppROpRIATE SHENANIGANS, SCAN THE QR COdE BELOw: SCAN THE QR COdE BELOw: CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL by Gunny Jesse EsterlyWinter 2023 | AT EASE! Veterans Magazine 81