A Time of Holiday Remembrance

Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony and Pot Luck Dinner

Parents DIC from the VA

I've had some inquiry about Parents DIC so I have attached the information sheets provided from the VA, if you have questions please let me know and I will put you in touch with the VA representative.

1-71 Cav 14 K Squadron memorial Run

Attention All Ft. Drum Soldiers and Family Members!

1-71 CAV 14K Squadron Memorial Run

September 13th, 2013

Begins at 7:00am, Magrath Gym, Ft. Drum (Everyone Welcome, 95 minute time limit) The Army’s original Mountain Calvary Squadron honors it’s 14 Gold Star Troopers with a 14K run.

Homes 4 Gold Star

Homes 4 Gold Stars

Military Warriors Support Foundation is proud to award 100% mortgage free homes to Gold Star spouses who’s loved one made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. In addition to the home, recipient families will receive 3 years of family and financial mentoring.

Who Can Apply:

1. Must be a spouse of a Hero who was KIA during combat in OEF/OIF.


2. Must not currently have a mortgage.

How To Apply:

1. Review Available Homes below that are currently open to applications. Click on the picture of the home to see more photos and details about the home.


2. If you are interested in applying for the home, click “Apply Now” to download the application and for directions on how to submit your application. Applications MUST be submitted in either Microsoft Word or PDF formats. (Word format preferred) If you have filled out an application for a previous home, be sure to download the most current application to verify that you have the most updated version.


3. Home recipient is typically selected within 4-6 weeks of closing date.

Available Homes

The 2013 U.S. Army Soldier Show is Coming to Fort Drum.

I have arranged for Reserve Seating for Surviving Families Call me @ 315-772-6357  ~Tom

 

 

2013 U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW “READY AND RESILIENT: AT YOUR SERVICE” VISITS FORT DRUM

FORT DRUM FAMILY AND MWR PROUDLY HOSTS THE U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW AT MAGRATH SPORTS COMPLEX GYM ON FORT DRUM, AUGUST 28. THE SHOW BEGINS AT 6 P.M. WITH THE DOORS OPENING AN HOUR BEFORE SHOWTIME. DRINKS AND LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE OFFERED FOR SALE DURING THE PRESENTATION. SEATING IS ON A FIRST COME BASIS. THIS SHOW IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

THIS YEAR’S U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW PRODUCTION, “READY AND RESILIENT: AT YO...UR SERVICE” EXPLORES WHAT IT MEANS TO BE READY AND RESILIENT IN TODAY’S ARMY – AS A SOLDIER, SPOUSE, FAMILY MEMBER, SURVIVOR, RETIREE AND CIVILIAN. IT CELEBRATES THIS GREAT NATION, OUR ARMY, AND THE FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES THAT SUPPORT OUR SERVICE MEMBERS. THE TALENTED CAST AND CREW OF THE 2013 U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW ARE HONORED TO SHARE THIS EXPERIENCE WITH YOU, AND ARE CONFIDENT THAT THE PERFORMANCE WILL BE A POSITIVE AND UPLIFTING REMINDER OF WHAT MAKES OUR SOLDIERS “READY AND RESILIENT.”

THE CAST AND CREW OF THIS SHOW IS MADE UP ENTIRELY OF ACTIVE DUTY AND RESERVE SOLDIERS ASSIGNED TO SERVE THROUGHOUT THE WORLD AND FORT DRUM IS PROUD TO COUNT ONE OF IT’S OWN AS A CAST MEMBER. PV2 ALBERTH J. MADRIGAL. PV2 MADRIGAL WAS BORN IN COSTA RICA AND GREW UP IN SUMMIT, N.J. “I’M HISPANIC, SO I CAN DANCE PRETTY WELL, LOOSELY,” HE SAID. “MY MOM WAS AN OPERA SINGER AND MY YOUNGER BROTHER HAS AN INCREDIBLE VOICE. ME, I JUST REALLY LOVE TO SING. PERFORMING, ACTING - WISE, I DID IT THROUGHOUT HIGH SCHOOL.” MADRIGAL DISCOVERED THE U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW WHILE AT ADVANCED INDIVIDUAL TRAINING AT FORT SILL, OKLA., AND FAST TRACKED INTO THE CAST BEFORE HIS FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF BECOMING A SOLDIER.

THE U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW CELEBRATES THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MODERN-DAY SOLDIER SHOW, WHICH BEGAN IN 1984. THE MOTTO, MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE SHOW – “ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE SOLDIER, BY THE SOLDIER” – WERE ESTABLISHED DURING WORLD WAR I BY SERGEANT ISRAEL BERLIN, A RUSSIAN IMMIGRANT BETTER KNOWN AS IRVING BERLIN. HE CONCEIVED AND DIRECTED THE FIRST ARMY SOLDIER SHOW, WHICH APPEARED ON BROADWAY IN 1918. THE SOLDIERS WHO MAKE UP THE 2013 CAST AND CREW OF THE U.S. ARMY SOLDIER SHOW CARRY ON THE PROUD ARMY ENTERTAINMENT TRADITION OF PERFORMING “FOR THE SOLDIER, BY THE SOLDIER.”

Back to School Bingo

North Country Spouses Club is hosting "Back 2 School Bingo" See flyer below.

Monthly Military Retiree Breakfast

American Gold Star Mothers Day Services 2013

http://www.goldstarmoms.com/Events/GoldStarMothersSunday/GSMSunday2013/GSMSunday2013.htm

Please print the above Reply Card by clicking here
to view the pdf, print it and return it to the office.

******SNOWBALL EXPRESS 2013******

Registration is now open

Click Here to Register

 

Snowball Express VIII

in Dallas - Fort Worth Texas

 

12/12/13 through 12/16/13

• Travel and arrival in Dallas: Thursday, December 12, 2013

• Departure and return home: Monday, December 16, 2013

We have worked to coordinate dates with our Presenting Sponsor American Airlines and our 2013 Hotel, the Hyatt Regency Dallas at Reunion Blvd.



Snowball Express 2013

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hG7-N4dtx6A&feature=player_embedded

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/61126934" width="400" height="300" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe>

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/61872685" width="400" height="300" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe>

<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/62389653" width="400" height="300" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe>

Over the Rainbow Location Change.

Over the Rainbow

We are very excited about our upcoming “Over the Rainbow” one day Kid’s camp and the possibility of your child attending. The day camp is for children 6-12 years of age who have experienced the loss of someone close to them. We will be working with your child on different coping techniques which they can use to help them with grief and loss. We encourage you to discuss with your child what they have learned and practice the coping skills with them. The camp will begin at 9am and run until 3pm, with a balloon release around 2:30pm. We ask that someone attend this part of the program with the child. This year the camp will be held at Watertown Mennonite Church, 19089 State Rt 3. If you have any other questions please feel free contact either Joyce Combs at 788-7323 or Tom Clegg at 772-6357

Carole Brody Fleet blog.

I thought this would be an excellent follow-up to my "Under the Tent" post 2 weeks ago.


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/carole-brody-fleet/remarriage-after-widowhood_b_3545400.html

Carole Brody Fleet

Speaker and Award-Winning Author, "Happily Even After…" and "Widows Wear Stilettos…"

 

Forget-Me-Never: The Reality Of Remarriage After Widowhood

A few months ago, a well-known and much respected actor mentioned in an interview that he still thinks about his late wife. People were shocked at this "stunning revelation", as the same actor has been happily remarried for a number of years.
This sort of "shocked" reaction begs an obvious question. Since when did remarriage become an equation formula that reads:


Remarried = Forgetting This latest in a long line of widowed-myths implies that once remarried, the life previously lived somehow fades into oblivion because the widowed has now found new life with new love in it. Because of this new life, the remarried widowed is apparently never again sad or wistful because their late beloved is no longer here.
Conversely and equally perplexing is the companion myth that once a spouse has passed away, the widowed should assume an attitude that they have "caught their limit"; that once their beloved has passed away, a widowed's destiny is to remain alone and longing for a life that is no longer here to live. A widowed should thereafter resign themselves to functioning in life with grief and mourning as their core and living a destiny that they did not choose.
The reality of spousal loss that is so important for both the widowed and those who surround them to understand is that:
You can honor your past
You can treasure your past
You can and should love your past
You do not have to live in your past
When it comes to love, our hearts are truly without capacity or limits -- if this were not the case, we would each have only one child because how could our hearts possibly expand to love more than one? We all have an infinite capacity to love and should that be a widowed's choice, finding love in a new life can and should absolutely be part of their dynamic.
Love is also not mutually exclusive one of the other. Loving again does not mean that the love for a late beloved somehow goes away. It doesn't. Furthermore, loving again does not dishonor or disrespect the person who is no longer here, nor does it disrespect the memory of that person. This is a concept that can create a fair amount of discord (especially within families) when a widowed finds companionship or love once again.
People who surround the remarried or re-partnered widowed can also interpret newfound happiness as not grieving "right", not having experienced grief at all, completely "forgetting" the past (as if that is even possible) or believing that we have collectively dusted off our hands and are glancing around as if to say, "OK, that's done and over with.... who's next?" The fact is that even in a wonderful new life, things like holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, "angelversaries" (the date of a late spouse's death) and children realizing various life milestones can all serve as painful reminders that someone who a widowed loves without measure is no longer here to celebrate, witness and in general, be a part of a life that was built with love
Almost thirteen years after losing my late husband, I can tell you without reservation that I still love him and I still treasure the life that we had together. However, I have also moved forward into a beautiful new life. Eleven years old when her daddy passed away, our daughter Kendall is now a young adult who enjoys a thriving career. After seven years of widowhood, I met and fell in love with a wonderful man in 2007 (who actually fell in love with me too), we married in 2009 and together, with my fantastic English daughter Michelle, we have built a beautiful blended family. To top it all off, I have the privilege of being on a mission of service and support to others in need.

Now, by living this incredible new life, does that mean that I have forgotten about or betrayed my past life? Absolutely not. Does it mean that after Mike died, I should have stayed inside the house in my pajamas and kept the blinds closed forever? What would that have accomplished? I chose instead to grieve in my way, in my time, help my daughter with and through her own grief recovery and slowly, yet steadily, move into a life of my own design - a design that happily included new love and new adventures to go along with that love.
The love that you have for your late beloved will never go away. Not ever. Not with the passage of time. Not with the introduction of a new person into your life and into your heart. Not with the 8 jillion people around you saying things like, "Well you should be over it by now". I am honoring Mike's legacies of love and service by continuing to move forward; by modeling the best example that I can for my daughters, by serving a community that I love and by building a family and living a life with my Dave, whom I love deeply. By doing all of these things, I am indeed honoring the legacies of love and service that Mike left to us to carry forward.
You can do the same, if and when you choose to do so.
Remarriage does not equal forgetting -- let no one tell you otherwise. Loving again does not imply lack of or the end of love for the past. You are not destined to remain in mourning forever... that isn't why you are here. Embrace and carry forward the legacies that were entrusted to you by your late beloved. If you choose it, living your new life can include companionship... and love. Choose carefully, choose wisely -- and love again abundantly.
Because you can.

A Survivor's Guide to Homebuying

 

 

A Survivors Guide to Homebuying

Presented by Erin Wilcher SOS Financial Counselor

 

3 July, 2013  10:00 am

 

Army Community Services Bldg

P4330 Conway Road

Fort Drum, NY 13602

 

Call 315-772-0745 to sign up.

 

https://www.facebook.com/events/450701591670032/



Legislative Updates

Periodically I post updates and changes to legislative actions that could have some impact on Surviving Families. This is for informational purposes only.

Below are the legislative updates on bills that may effect Survivors.

below are updates on bills that may affect Survivors.   

********************************************

Jun 25, 2013 — New Cosponsor

 

H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr32?utm_campaign=govtrack_email_update&utm_source=govtrack/email_update&utm_medium=email>

 
New Cosponsor: Rep. Rob Bishop [R-UT1] <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/rob_bishop/400029>

 ********************************************

Jun 25, 2013 — New Cosponsor

H.R. 1851: Family Act of 2013 <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr1851?utm_campaign=govtrack_email_update&utm_source=govtrack/email_update&utm_medium=email>

New Cosponsor: Rep. Betty McCollum [D-MN4] <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/betty_mccollum/400259>

********************************************

Jun 26, 2013 — New Cosponsor

S. 734: A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ dependency and indemnity compensation. <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/s734?utm_campaign=govtrack_email_update&utm_source=govtrack/email_update&utm_medium=email>

New Cosponsor: Sen. Mark Begich [D-AK] <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/mark_begich/412326>

********************************************

Jun 27, 2013 2:57 a.m. — Bill Text

H.R. 1960: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr1960/text?utm_campaign=govtrack_email_update&utm_source=govtrack/email_update&utm_medium=email>

 This bill’s text for status Passed the House (Engrossed) (Jun 14, 2013) is now available.

 *********************************************

Jun 28, 2013 3:45 p.m. — Bill Text

H.R. 2216: Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2014 <http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/hr2216/text?utm_campaign=govtrack_email_update&utm_source=govtrack/email_update&utm_medium=email>

This bill’s text for status Reported by Senate Committee (Jun 06, 2013) is now available.

Thanks and have a great day!

Over the Rainbow Camp

Over the Rainbow

We are very excited about our upcoming “Over the Rainbow” one day Kid’s camp and the possibility of your child attending. The day camp is for children 6-12 years of age who have experienced the loss of someone close to them. We will be working with your child on different coping techniques which they can use to help them with grief and loss. We encourage you to discuss with your child what they have learned and practice the coping skills with them. The camp will begin at 9am and run until 3pm, with a balloon release around 2:30pm. We ask that someone attend this part of the program with the child. This year the camp will be held at Watertown Mennonite Church, 19089 State Rt 3. If you have any other questions please feel free contact either Joyce Combs at 788-7323 or Tom Clegg at 772-6357

Sitting Under the Tent

The author of this blog post, Stephen Byers, is the new husband of a Gold Star Wife as well as a personal friend. They, along with their combined family of 5 children attended the 10th Mountain Division Annual Remembrance Ceremony on Tuesday morning.

It is a very rare opportunity we have to gain the perspective of the "New Spouse". Steve provides us insight as to the mindset of just such a person. I'm sure his thoughts are not alone in their context and meaning.  As I watch families every day move into their "new normal" I am awed by the dignity, honor, respect, and support they provided the the Gold Star Family members. Steve has respectfully allowed me to share his words as I'm sure they will be enlightening to many others.

 

Sitting Under the Tent

The humidity was not normal for Northern New York and the suit and tie I was wearing was not helping the situation at all, I was uncomfortable. I was inclined to start grumbling but the event I was attending demanded that I look my best. I am sure I wasn't alone in my discomfort because everyone around me was dressed up and most of them were in Class A's or Dress Blues. To be quite honest I was feeling a little under dressed and a little jealous that I wasn't wearing the same uniform.

When I got out of the car with the family we were greeted by a officer who escorted us to where the event was to take place. Along the way our escort asked us if we needed or would like anything, he was very eager to meet the needs of seven strangers. He ushered us to our seats under a large tent and we sat down. This was first class treatment to say the least.

When I sat down I looked out at the other soldiers and their families that were sitting in the bleachers, uncovered from the glaring sun and thought to myself how uncomfortable they must be in the heat and humidity.

To an uninformed bystander it would appear that the place to be on this day was under the tent. There was shade, a good view and escorts to care for your every need. But today that couldn't be farther from the truth.

The tent was set up for Gold Star Family members on Ft. Drum. Becoming a Gold Star Family Member is not what it sounds like. It means that you have lost a family member in the wars our nation has been fighting for the last decade. I was honored to sit with my wife and three step children as they came to honor the loss of a husband and father.

As I sat among such great loss and sacrifice I was immediately humbled by a question? Are you willing to pay the price to sit under the tent? There is no doubt that the tent for this event was the place to be for comfort, but the price to get their was very high. Everyone under that tent had paid a price for their comfort at that memorial, and all will do so for years to come.

I couldn't help but think about how easy it has been for me at times to look at someone that is successful or prospering; someone that in appearance is sitting in the comfort of the tent we call life. It is an entirely different matter when you start to find out what they paid to get their. The hard work, the sleepless nights, the time away from family and most importantly the times they failed and had to get back up. I walked away from the Remembrance Ceremony with a lot to think about but no thought was bigger then what price are you willing to pay to sit under the tent?

This can carry into so many areas of life; relationships, finances, raising children, work, and the list could go on and on. Everyone has a proverbial tent they are working towards. Maybe it is retirement or another level in education, financial freedom or some other form of success. But let me tell you about a tent, that if you are reading this in the United States you have already been blessed to sit under.

I am talking about the freedom we have as Americans. Yesterday I was moved by the sacrifice of the people that have paid the ultimate price so we can remain under that tent. We have a solemn obligation to never forget that sacrifice but we must do more then just remember. We need to continually be willing to offer ourselves to keep this nation free as it was intended.

Camp Corral

 

Camp Corral : Home

CAMP CORRAL – Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Camp Corral?

A: Camp Corral is a free, summer camp for children in military families ages 8-15. The child must be 8 to15 during the week of camp. It is a FUN week full of great camp activities – a place where a kid is free to be a kid!

Q: Is the age range firm or is there some flexibility?

A: The age range (8 to 15) is firm for your child’s safety and to ensure age appropriate programming.

Q: Who sponsors Camp Corral?

A: Camp Corral is proudly sponsored through the generosity of Golden Corral Corporation, their restaurants and our guests.

Q: What is the cost of Camp Corral?

A: Camp Corral is free to qualifying children in military families.

Q: Is transportation provided or costs covered?

A: No – parents/guardians are responsible for the camper’s transportation to and from camp.

Q: Who is eligible to attend Camp Corral?

A: Any child (age 8 to 15) in a military family. Priority is given to children in a family with a wounded, disabled or fallen service member.

Q: How are campers selected?

A: Top priority is given to children in a military family where a service member has been injured, wounded, is disabled as result of service or has fallen in action. Other qualifying youth are placed on the camp’s “Wait List”.

Q: When will campers be accepted from the “Wait List”?

A: Spaces are kept open for “top tier campers” until 60 days prior to camp. At that point, any available spaces will be filled from the camp’s “Wait List”.

Q: Are children of veterans eligible?

A: Yes

Q: Is any documentation required to show that the service member was injured, disable or fallen in action?

A: No – we trust you as a member of our military to answer all questions honestly and accurately.

Q: Who should complete the on line application?

A: A parent or legal guardian only (no child should complete their own application).

Q: Can a friend sign up a child in another family?

A: No – we must have a separate application for each child completed by that child’s parent or legal guardian.

Q: Which email address should I use in completing the application?

A: Please use the email that you use most often. If your email address changes before camp, please let the camp know.

Q: How are Camp Corral locations (host camps) selected?

A: Very carefully. Each camp is personally visited and reviewed. All Camp Corral host camps are 4-H Camps (run and operated through that state’s Land Grant University) or YMCA Camps run by a respected Board. All camps are accredited by the American Camp Association or operate using their guidelines.

Q: How is camp staff trained?

A: Extensive on site training is provided for all staff, with many receiving additional training through local 4-H or YMCA’s. Golden Corral provides specific training to Camp Directors on “Working with Children in Military Families”.

Q: Are there other trained persons at Camp Corral?

A: All Camp Corral sites seek the assistance of a trained Military and Family Life Consultants (MFLC) to be on site during their session. All camps have trained and certified medical staff and established protocol in the unlikely need of emergency care.

Q: What do campers need to bring to camp?

A: Each Camp Corral host camp will provide that list to camper families. In general, your child will need a sleeping bag (or single sheets/blanket) and a pillow as well as their own cosmetic items and clothing for 5 nights/ 6 days of camp. Remember a rain jacket. Campers may get some clothing soiled, or wet, and need to change during the day. Older clothing and shoes are fine for camp.

Q; How do I apply?

A: Use the APPLY tool bar at the top of the web site. Follow the steps. Ensure that you fully complete each section of the application, especially the section - “Emergency Contacts”.

Q: What happens after I apply?

A: The camp (location) you applied to will review applications to ensure that the camper meets established guidelines. If the camper is in the “Top Tier” group, they will be accepted (Registered) for that camp session. If they are not in the “Top Tier” group, but meet other requirements (age, child in military family, etc), they will be placed on that camp’s “Wait List”.

Q: What do I do after my child is accepted (registered)?

A: Follow the instructions sent to you by your Camp Corral camp. They will let you know other forms that they need (such as medical and specific permissions, arrival and departure times, what to bring to camp, etc.).

Q: What is camp arrival time?

A: Camp Corral camps conduct on-site registration on Sunday afternoon. Follow the specific times provided by your camp for arrival and departure times. DO NOT arrive earlier or later unless approved by the Camp Director.

Q: When do I pick up my child?

A: Friday morning at the end of the week (exact time will be provided by your Camp Director.)

Q: After my child is accepted for Camp Corral, who do I communicate with about camp?

A: The camp staff where your child has been accepted. Each of our camps is unique and has it own set of rules and policies. Please respond quickly to all requests from them for information and forms that are needed.

Reclaiming Memorial Day

 

Dear Families,

I have attached an article that I took great interest in as it is a view I've had for some time now.  As a veteran, I have always recognize the sacrifices of soldiers and their families of our armed services. However, in my capacity as SOS Support Coordinator, the reality of those sacrifices is far more clear.  Each day, I look into the eyes of someone who has lost and feel only a little piece of the pain that they each have endured and continue to endure. Everything I do is out of respect and a personal commitment to honor the ultimate sacrifice of my Brothers and Sisters in arms. I commit my every fibre to be sure their families are provided the care and compassion they each so deserve.

Memorial day in the past has been little more than a passing holiday, an extra day off to enjoy with my family, and an opportunity to pay a small tribute to the fallen by attending a morning memorial and saying a brief prayer in their honor, and then off to a bar-b-q.

Today, much has changed. I have changed. We have been at war for over a decade and we continue to lose so many of our Countries Finest Soldiers. These soldiers have committed their lives for the ideals they believed in. Each has a story which yearns to be told. The stories of these soldiers deserves to be told every year at this time. Memorial Day, now, to me, is the day I remember all of you, the Surviving Families, friends and loved ones, that I serve and support every other day of the year. I invite you to take a few minutes and share a story, memory, a brief look into the lives of your Hero, in the comments section of this page. Don't let the memories be forgotten or go untold.

This Gold Star Mother, has proclaimed to reclaim Memorial Day in honor of all of your soldiers and you. I commit to stand with her in spirit this Memorial Day and each to follow.

Sincerely,

Tom Clegg, Support Coordinator
Ft. Drum, Survivor Outreach Services

This year Fort Drum SOS has partnered with the American Legion in Sackets Harbor, NY and invites all Surviving Families to join us in Sackets Harbor at 10:00 am on Memorial Day, May 27th, 2013, for the Memorial Day Parade and Balloon Release to honor your Fallen Hero, followed by a Chicken BBQ as the guests of the Harold W. Townsend Post 1757 American Legion, 209 Ambrose St. Sackets Harbor, NY.  Click Here for Information on parking and location.

Posted: 10:19 a.m. Monday, May 28, 2012
http://www.foxreno.com/news/news/military/mother-fallen-soldiers-proclamation-reclaim-memori/nPGBW/

Mother of a fallen soldier's proclamation to reclaim Memorial Day

 

By Debbie Lee

The commercials on TV are calling us to purchase, cars, furniture, clothing, appliances, electronics or a myriad of other things to “Celebrate Memorial Day” with their huge blowout sales! Our Parks and Recreation programs are declaring summer has arrived by opening our pools and encouraging us to come join in the fun and laughter this Memorial Day weekend. It saddens me and breaks my heart to see that most of America has taken advantage of this 3 day weekend as a reason to party, shop and celebrate for self-fulfillment. As a country we have lost our focus and the reason why we take time to stop and respectfully, solemnly and reverently remember those who gave up their last breath and hope of a future, so that we could enjoy each and every day. We have failed our children by not educating them as to the real meaning of Memorial Day.

As I child I remember getting together with family for picnics or bar-b-ques. We looked forward to camping trips or trips to the lake. There were a few trips I remember to the cemetery but it was to place flowers on deceased relative’s graves who had never served in the military. I thought Memorial Day was to remember loved ones who had died. I wasn’t taught and therefore I missed the opportunity to teach my children that Memorial Day is to remember those who paid the ultimate price. Freedom comes with a price, freedom’s not free .

It really was my son Marc Alan Lee who taught me about Memorial Day . The way he lived his life and the value he placed on others’ lives, caused him to sacrifice his life defending his teammates and our freedoms. Marc was the first Navy SEAL killed in Iraq 8-2-06. “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” John 15:13

The orders from Gen. John A. Logan declare “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit. “

General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery on the first Observance of Memorial day and then 5,000 patriots decorated the graves of 20,000 soldiers buried in the cemetery. I am so proud of the boy scouts who every year place flags on my son’s grave and every headstone at Fort Rosecrans. I know that many others throughout the nation will be doing the same at National Cemeteries all over our country, thank you!

Waterloo, NY was declared by President Johnson as the official birthplace of Memorial Day. He recognized that this was a city who understood the real meaning of Memorial Day. They knew that Memorial Day was to honor America’s mighty warriors who sacrificed their lives in combat defending our freedoms. Businesses closed, community wide events were planned to honor our brave warriors who were killed in action and residents gathered and decorated the graves of our heroes. How sad that there are businesses in America who take advantage of this holiday and choose to increase their profits instead of sacrificing a little by closing to remember the sacrifice of our fallen war heroes.

I speak for all of the Gold Star families who have lost a loved one in combat, that every day for us is Memorial Day. With pride and pain we remember them; we remember their smile, their voice, their smell, their touch, their laughter, their character, their dedication and their sacrifice. As a nation we ask that on Memorial Day, one day out of the year that as a Nation we corporately come together to honor our fallen heroes who died in combat. That’s not asking too much for the blessings and freedoms that you enjoy every day.
I’ve read many articles about Memorial Day and heard quotes from speeches from well-meaning people, even from our leaders in the military, who seem to not completely understand that Memorial Day is the Day we remember those heroes, who while serving in the military, died in combat. We have Armed Forces Day and Veterans Day to remember our Vets. Personally not a day goes by that I don’t remember our Vets, not matter when they served, or the branch of service they were in. I’ve dedicated my life to honoring, thanking and supporting our military and especially the families of the fallen, but on May 28th, Memorial Day join with me as we “Remember” not “Celebrate” those who gave their all for you and I.
Join with me as I lead the charge to reclaim Memorial Day. Attend Parades and community events to remember our fallen heroes. Take a carload of friends and family to a National Cemetery and decorate the graves and remember the sacrifice of a hero and their family. Thank the family members of those you know who lost a loved one in combat. Take a Gold Star family to lunch, coffee, dinner and ask them about their hero. Do something to let them know you have not forgotten the sacrifice and understand the high price that has been paid for our freedoms. Read a story of a fallen hero, watch a memorial video, then pass it on to those whose lives you have influence on. If you’re a business, close on May 28th to honor and remember our fallen or donate the proceeds from the day to a charity who tells the stories of our fallen or who takes care of the families of the fallen. Our fallen heroes gave their very last breath defending you and they have earned the respect due them on Memorial Day.

Remembering their Sacrifice!

Polar Bears Honor the Fallen with Barnes-Messer Award

Polar Bear Soldier adds dog tags to Barnes-Messer Plaque

Earners of the Barnes-Messer Award attach their dog tags to the Barnes-Messer Plaque May 23, during a Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by 4-31 IN on Fort Drum. (Photo by PVT William L. Collins)

Polar Bear Command Team Lays Memorial Day Wreath

Lt. Col. Robert Ryan and Command Sgt. Maj. Benny Dobbs of 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry, place a wreath to commemorate fallen Soldiers past and present, during a May 23rd Memorial Day Ceremony on Fort Drum. (Photo by PVT William L. Collins)

May 24, 2012

By Capt. Robert McKay Contributing Writer

The 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (LI) conducted a memorial ceremony May 23 to honor those who gave all for the cause of freedom and to recognize several outstanding Polar Bears with the Barnes-Messer Award.
The Barnes-Messer Award was established by the 4th Battalion 31st Infantry Command on February 1, 2011 to enhance morale and recognize our fallen while embracing our warrior culture. The award was named in honor of two 4-31 IN Soldiers who were killed during combat operation in Iraq, Sgt. Nathan Stanley Barnes and Sgt. Christopher P. Messer.
There are seven rigorous requirements to earn the Barnes-Messer Award. A two mile "kit and weapon" run, a 200 meter skedco drag with 200 pounds, 12 pull-ups, three bench press repetitions at 50 pounds over the Soldier's weight, 15 front squats at three quarters of their body weight, 30 dips, and two 100 meter shuttle runs in under 27 seconds.
The Soldiers who earned the Barnes-Messer Award placed their dog tags on the Barnes-Messer plaque, symbolizing an eternal chain of Soldiers who strive to be at the top of their profession.
The ceremony was held around the memorial stone which recognizes seven Polar Bears and four Soldiers from 10th Aviation Brigade who died in a helicopter crash during a training operation on March 11, 2003.
Lt. Col. Ryan and Command Sgt. Maj. Dobbs placed a wreath at the memorial stone to honor the fallen. The Polar Bears remember not only those fallen warriors, but also Polar Bears and veterans everywhere who have fought and sacrificed throughout our country's long and storied history.
The ceremony concluded with a very somber moment, when names were read of all the Soldiers who died in the March 2003 crash followed by a ceremonial firing of volleys and the playing of "Taps".

Current Legislative Updates

Below is an updated list of legislative actions and bills that effect survivors.

Apr 22, 2013 — New Cosponsor

S. 734: A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ dependency and indemnity compensation.

S. 734 Info 

 

New Cosponsor: Sen. Dean Heller [R-NV]

Click for info

 

 

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Apr 22, 2013

H.R. 1067: To make revisions in title 36, United States Code, as necessary to keep the title current and make technical corrections and improvements.

H.R. 1067 Info

 

This bill’s text for status Reported by House Committee (Apr 19, 2013) is now available.

 

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Apr 24, 2013 — Introduced

S.Con.Res. 15: A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that the Chained Consumer Price Index should not be used to calculate cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security or veterans benefits, or to increase the tax burden on low- and mi

S.Con.Res 15 Info

Sponsor: Sen. Thomas “Tom” Harkin [D-IA]

Click for info

 

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Apr 24, 2013 9:46 p.m. — Bill Text

S. 735: Survivor Benefits Improvement Act of 2013

S. 735 Info

This bill’s text is now available.

 

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Apr 26, 2013 — New Cosponsors

 

H.R. 32: Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act

H.R 32 Info

New Cosponsor: Rep. Randy Forbes [R-VA4] <

Click for info

New Cosponsor: Rep. Donna Edwards [D-MD4]

Click for info

New Cosponsor: Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick [D-AZ1]

Click for info

New Cosponsor: Rep. Patrick Murphy [D-FL18]

Click for info

 

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Storming the Hill

MOAA ~ Military officers Association of America

One Association. One Voice Yours.

AMAC Storming the Hill Event 2013

 

MOAA Proudly Sponsors this event and invites other military related organizations to join us in the AMAC storming the hill event on the SBP-DIC issue

Schedule
Hotel Information

For the eleventh time, the SBP/DIC offset failed to be included in the NDAA due to fiscal issues and the inability to secure the required funding.

MOAA is sponsoring the AMAC Storming the Hill Event to facilitate educating the 113th Congress and their Legislative and Military Assistants on the SBP/DIC Offset issue. In order to fully understand the importance of complete elimination of the SBP/DIC offset, it is vital that they understand the issue and its impact on surviving spouses and families. The ultimate goal is complete elimination of the SBP/DIC offset.

Rep. Joe Wilson (SC) introduced H.R. 32, the Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act, on Jan. 3 and a companion bill is expected to be introduced by Sen. Nelson (FL) in February.

Please contact (visits, letters, e-mails, phone calls) your Representatives and Senators to garner their co-sponsorship for the bills.

Register today!
Registration closes June 1.

HOTEL Information

Book your room using this link which includes the discounted rate - MOAA_AMAC . The booking code is MOA if you make your reservation over the telephone.

Holiday Inn
2460 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 960-3400

MOAA Room Rate: $100 a night (with tax $112.50)/ single OR double occupancy

Parking is free for hotel guests.

Features: Walking distance to a metro stop, movie theater and several restaurants across the street. Old Town Alexandria is just a few minutes away!

**MEMORIAL DAY*** Activities

 Fort Drum Survivor Outreach Services and the American Legion

Invite all Surviving Families to join us at Sackets Harbor Gazebo by the waterfront.

Memorial Day, May 27th 2013 at 10am

Enjoy the Annual Memorial Day Parade, participate in the Memorial Balloon Release to honor Fallen Heroes followed by a Chicken BBQ as the guests of the Harold W. Townsend Post 1757 American Legion, 209 Ambrose St. Sackets Harbor, NY.

Surviving Families are asked to meet at the Gazebo by the Waterfront for the parade and balloon release and then proceed to the American Legion. (Parking is available at the Legion)

 

Directions from parking at American Legion to Gazebo.

 

Directions from Exit 45 Rt. 81 to Americn Legion, Sackets Harbor, NY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 Great Activities!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RIVERFEST

 

Family and MWR, in partnership with AUSA, is once again offering a summer day on the river to Fort Drum Soldiers and Families at the annual Family and MWR/AUSA Riverfest on June 20. Your day in Alexandria Bay can start at Alexandria Bay Village Pavilion for a picnic lunch before strolling through the village to the Uncle Sam dock where you can also enjoy the Family and MWR Carnival at the boat la...unch area with children’s events, rock climbing wall, as you await your riverboat for a 1 hour tour of the Thousand Islands. You will have access to Heart Island with a tour of Boldt Castle. Tickets are $15 per adult, $5 for children aged 6 to12, and children who are 5 years of age are free. Riverfest tickets are available May 1 – June 3 from Unit Representatives. Tickets will then be available June 4 – 19 at the Family and MWR window on the second floor of Clark Hall Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 am – 4 pm and Monday through Saturday at Parks and Recreation daily from 9 am – 5 pm. Bus transportation is provided from Magrath Sports Complex to Riverfest and is encouraged due to limited parking available in Alexandria Bay. Additional parking and shuttle transportation are available at the Alexandria Bay Drive-In located on Rt. 26 or at the Uncle Sam’s overflow parking lot located off of Rt. 12. Look for directional signs for Riverfest parking. The last bus returning to Fort Drum will leave Alexandria Bay at 5 pm.  

 

In the past SOS has been provided complimentary tickets. I will be requesting to see if these will be available again this year, but need an idea of how many folks are interested in attending. 

RSVP to Tom Clegg at SOS  315-772-6357

 

                  

MOUNTAINFEST

 

The Fort Drum and North Country Community is invited to Division Hill on June 26, to enjoy the day at Mountainfest. The fun begins at 1 p.m. at this yearly event featuring military equipment displays, amusements, games, and food and beverage concessions. Once again, The Boss Custom Car, Motorcycle, and Audio Show returns to Division Hill with vehicle competition registrations beginning at 1 p.m. Salute To The Nation is a highly anticipated event and community favorite at Mountainfest with a patriotic rank and file display honoring each state in the union presented on the parade field at 5 pm. Top off this amazing day by staying for a spectacular fireworks display.
Call 772-5374 for more information.