ers and Auxiliary Unit 275) meeting. Planning on a ... former troops who had Gulf War illness symptoms and 160 who did n
MOON BROTHERS POST 275
F E B R U A R Y I S S U E 1 27
Next Meeting: February 2nd, 2017 7:00 P.M. Kenton County Court House Independence Email:
[email protected] or phone: 859-429-0750 Website: www.moonbrothers275.org Facebook: Moon Brothers Post 275 of the American Legion
Coming in March! Saturday, March 4th, 2017 1:00 p.m. Location still to be determined Moon Brothers Post 275 Legion Family (Post, SAL Sqd 275, Moon Riders and Auxiliary Unit 275) meeting. Planning on a collaborative meeting for planning of local Veterans events and activities. So far, plan on it being a pot luck type gathering, think of bringing a family style sharable.
JUST A REMINDER! Veteran Identification Many businesses and organizations are kind enough to offer discounts to veterans and/or members of the military. KDVA thanks these businesses and organizations for honoring and helping veterans this way. We wish to make clear, however, that most veterans do not carry official ID cards identifying them as veterans. There is, in fact, no such thing as an official veteran ID card. Members of the activeduty military and veterans who retired from the military have official ID, but most veterans do not. This is why in 2012 Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear signed legislation authorizing a designation of “Veteran” on driver’s licenses held by veterans. To obtain a license with the Veteran Designation, a veteran must present her/his discharge document (DD-214) to the Circuit Clerk, who will verify that the veteran is eligible for the Veteran Designation. The Veteran Designation driver’s license is thus a government-approved and –authorized identification in place of the DD-214 or other discharge document. The Commonwealth of Kentucky officially designates the Veteran Designation driver’s license as valid and sufficient identification for veterans. If your business or organization requires identification for veterans to receive a discount, KDVA strongly urges you to accept Kentucky’s veteran Designation driver’s license in lieu of a a copy of the veteran's discharge document, or DD214. Both the Veteran Designation driver’s license and the DD-214 verify the veteran's service and is sufficient proof of veteran status. You may also accept a VA healthcare card, which also verifies veteran status, or a membership card for a Veterans Service Organization like VFW, AMVETS, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and others. If you are a veteran seeking to use your Veterans Designation driver’s license to obtain discounts from businesses, please be aware of the following: • The Veteran Designation driver’s license is new and not all businesses are familiar with it. If a business questions the Veteran Designation, please have the manager call KDVA at 502-564-9203. • Some businesses offer veteran discounts only to certain categories of veterans, such as disabled veterans, or only at certain times of year, such as Veterans Day. Please check with the management of the local store to determine your eligibility for discounts.
Honor Banners INDEPENDENCE SALUTES BANNER PROGRAM Honor past and present police, fire, military and veterans by purchasing an Honor Banner which includes the hero's name, photo, branch and years of service. Banners will fly for three consecutive years from mid-May through mid-November in the Independence Kroger Parking Lot and other designated areas around Independence. A 24”W X 36”L can be ordered through the American Legion Post 275 by emailing
[email protected], calling 859-429-0750 or the preferred method is to complete all actions online at www.operationhonor.org/banner-program/ . The two sided banners cost $149 through February 1, 2017 !!! and $169 through April 1, 2017. Legion Family Active Members receive $10 off purchase price if order online using promo code Post275 at checkout. For those who don’t know, our current Commander, Rusty Mardis is the In-Processing Manager for TVCA (Tristate Veterans Community Alliance), so, take advantage of their programs by contacting Rusty on his cell at 406-899-2512 or at the office 513-357-2008. Lots of awesome things happening for Veterans in our community!!!
Study links genetics, anti nerve-agent pills to Gulf War illness A small research study at Baylor University has identified a genetic difference between veterans who developed symptoms of Gulf War illness after deploying to that 1990-91 conflict and those who deployed but didn't get sick. The finding — touted as the first "direct evidence" that genetic factors may contribute to a veteran's risk for Gulf War illness — links the use of anti-nerve agent pills and troops' genetic makeup. Baylor University Institute of Biomedical Studies researcher Lea Steele and others examined the genetic profile of 304 Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm veterans, including 144 former troops who had Gulf War illness symptoms and 160 who did not. The scientists found that veterans with a gene variant that complicates their bodies' efforts to metabolize chemicals in anti-nerve agent pills — pyridostigmine bromide, or PB — were up to 40 times more likely to have Gulf War illness symptoms than those who took the pills or were exposed but had a different gene variant. Steele said the findings are preliminary but point to a physical reason why as many as one in four troops who deployed to the region fell ill while others came through fine. "Scientists have long thought this might be because of some genetic interaction. We know different people break down toxicants differently based on their genotypes," Steele said. Researchers looked at genetic variants that "program" a body to break down certain chemicals found in PB, Sarin nerve gas and some pesticides. In high doses, these toxins can be fatal, but anti-nerve agents such as PB contain low levels of these chemicals, which bind with nerve receptors to shield an individual from the effects of a nerve agent. The research found that those with a less active genetic variant for the enzyme butyrylcholinesterase were more likely to have Gulf War illness symptoms. "If you look at sick veterans versus healthy veterans ... the number of people who had the gene variation was not different. But when we looked at exposures, that's where we saw the big difference. That tells us its a gene-environment interaction," Steele said. An estimated one-quarter of the 700,000 U.S. troops who deployed to the Persian Gulf to liberate Kuwait have medical symptoms related to service in the region, including muscle and joint pain, fatigue, headache, gastrointestinal problems, memory issues, rashes and respiratory illnesses. The exact cause of the symptoms has not been determined, although previous research has indicated that PB pills, pesticides, a contaminated batch of the anthrax vaccine and/or chemical agents may play a role. Steele noted that the findings of the new study are preliminary and must be corroborated by larger, follow-on research. She also said the study indicates only that veterans with the gene variant may be at risk, but other factors — and other gene variants — may contribute as well. "If this is corroborated, it would tell us that acetylcholine is part of the biological underpinnings of this illness and could point to some treatment options," she said. VA officials on Monday described the research as "intriguing" and "very useful." Retired Army Col. (Dr.) Ralph Erickson, director of VA's pre-9/11 environmental health program, said VA still has many questions about the causes Gulf War illness, but the study adds to the body of existing research and may help underpin future projects. "Given that some of the symptoms that are experienced by Gulf War veterans involve the autonomic nervous system, we think there could be great potential for this study to lead to a greater understanding to what causes symptoms," Erickson said. Dr. Victor Kalasinsky, program manager for VA's Gulf War research program, said VA possibly could sponsor efforts to corroborate the findings. VA already is "in discussions" with other research groups in doing genetic research for exposures, he noted. Kalasinsky said VA's current research on the causes of Gulf War illness and treatment of symptoms has yielded promising solutions involving light therapy, magnetic
GULF WAR VET’S ISSUES cont’d: resonance, exercise, and complementary and alternative therapies to relieve symptoms. "It's extremely intriguing to see this genetic marker that we might take advantage of, too," Kalasinsky said. VA encourages former troops with Gulf War illness symptoms to file claims for health care and benefits. But ill veterans say the department is dismissive of their complaints and has actively sought to undermine their efforts to get treatment and compensation for their disabling diseases. Last year, data provided to Congress indicated that nearly 80 percent of the 54,193 claims filed for Gulf War-related illnesses were denied; in 2011, almost half were approved. The figures came with several caveats: They do not include compensation claims from Gulf War-era veterans who became sick while on active duty. Of those denied service connection for Gulf War illness, 52 percent receive compensation for another service-connected condition. Erickson, himself a Gulf War veteran whose experience includes commanding the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, said that given the study's limitations, it would be premature to assume the results would be useful to support disability claims. Home Repairs TVCA is working closely with our partners at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati for a unique opportunity to have critical home repairs completed at a reduced cost or fully subsidized for eligible Veterans that are home owners. To qualify you must meet certain income requirements (30% to 80% of the median income), home must be owner occupied, honorably discharged Veteran is member of household, need repair for accessibility, health & safety, and/or code issues, mortgage in good standing & property taxes are current and home must be in the local 9-county service area (OH: Butler, Warren, Hamilton, Clermont; KY: Boone, Kenton, Campbell; IN: Dearborn, Ohio). Call for more details at 513-357-2008. New Home TVCA is working closely with our partners at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati for a unique opportunity for Active Military or honorable discharged Veterans to own a home. There are qualifications, but many are approved so call us for more information at 513-357-2008. Qualifying veteran partners need to volunteer 250 – 500 sweat equity hours with Habitat, purchase home with a zero-percent interest mortgage or zero-percent equivalent (terms up to 30 years, with average monthly payment around $450 – $700). Dental Services: Working with our Partners of CityLink we are able to offer a Free Dental Screening for veterans, and their families. Follow-up care will be available based on income and eligibility and sign up for CityLink Services. CityLink has lots of great additional services to include Employment, Education, Smart Money Financial Counseling, vision clinic, and others. To see if eligible for Dental Services call their main line at 513-357-2000 and let them know you were referred from TVCA to get the veteran preference. If you have any questions regarding any of their programs, feel free to contact Rusty Mardis at 513-357-2008. Kentucky Enforcers: Who loves Free? Who Loves Basketball? Who wants to go see a game of the new ABA basketball team in Greater Cincinnati the Kentucky Enforcers? They play at Cincinnati Christian University (CCU Gym) and provided TVCA with Free Tickets for Veterans and Family members, please come to our meeting on Feb 4 th to get your free tickets!!! - Games are February 4th or March 4th. Call if questions 513-357-2008 -- Come out and support your Enforcers!!! First come basis while supplies last. Veteran Benefits Administration (VBA): The VBA is tentatively scheduled to start full operations in March at the Independence City Building. If you need help registering for Veteran Affair Compensation or Claims please email or call Rusty to be pre-scheduled at
[email protected] or 406-899-2512. Get on the list now, as their appointment times are expected to go quickly! The VBA is the most knowledgeable about filling paperwork for the VA, so ensure you are receiving the benefits you earned by meeting with them ASAP! Know your BENEFITS! – Just one item your VBA can help with. VA’s pension program provides monthly benefit payments to certain wartime Veterans with financial need, and their survivors. What are Pension benefits? • Pension is a needs-based benefit paid to a wartime Veteran and his/her survivor(s). A Veteran may generally be eligible if he/she: was discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions, AND served 90 days or more of active military, naval or air service with at least 1 day during a period of war*, AND his/her countable income is below the maximum annual pension rate, AND meets the net worth limitations, AND o is age 65 or older, OR is shown by evidence to have a permanent and total non-service- connected disability, OR is a patient in a nursing home, OR is receiving Social Security disability benefits. *Veterans who entered active duty after September 7, 1980, must also have served at least 24 months of active duty service. If the total length of service is less than 24 months, the Veteran must have completed his/her entire tour of active duty. Call and get on the wait list for the VBA coming soon to Independence – thanks to Post 275.
MOON BROTHERS POST 275 Main mission is to help local Veterans and their families! Please pay your dues so you can be part of that help! Many of you have not renewed your 2017 dues and can now NOT vote or have a voice for our business decisions. WE need EVERYONE’s help! Our Post is the MOST Community oriented of any Northern Kentucky Post! But without your support it becomes that much more difficult to perform our local commitments. Annual membership dues are due by the end of each year. Dues notices start going out in July giving every member a few months reminder to renew. Our local Post appreciates so much more than you know your membership and renewals. Please take the time right now to renew online or send your check to the Post. Thank you all of you who have already renewed!
Veterans Affairs Can Help Did You Know? Returning veterans may be at a higher risk of suicide. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' Suicide Hotline is there for all Men and Women Veterans 1-800-273-TALK (8255) VA's Suicide Prevention brochure for veterans. Recognize the Suicide Warning Signs Thinking about hurting or killing yourself; Looking for ways to kill yourself; Talking about death, dying or suicide. Self-destructive behavior such as drug abuse, weapons, etc. The presence of these signs requires immediate attention. Don't wait. Call 1-800-273 TALK (8255) Immediately. Additional Warning Signs Hopelessness, feeling like there's no way out; Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, mood swings; Feeling like there is no reason to live; Rage or anger; engaging in risky activities without thinking; Increasing alcohol or drug abuse; Withdrawing from family and friends. Call if you experience any of these warning signs. Don't delay. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) LOOKING FOR 7 POST MEMBERS TO BE PART OF A “TRUE” 21 GUN SALUTE FOR THE MEMORIAL DAY PARADE! WE HAVE FOR YEARS ONLY BEEN ABLE TO HAVE 4 MEMBERS OF THE RIFLE SQUAD. IT’S TIME TO DO A TOTAL 21 GUN SALUTE! HOPE YOU STEP UP! Contact Wayne Lohnoeller, 513-702-3868 if you are interested! WE WILL PRACTICE AND PREPARE! UNIFORM IS EXPECTED TO BE: WHITE DRESS SHIRT, BLUE OR BLACK TROUSERS, YELLOW LEGION TIE AND LEGION CAP. WE CAN HELP YOU GET ALL OF THAT; BUT ASK NOW BECAUSE MEMORIAL DAY IS JUST A FEW MONTHS AWAY! WE ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO CAN GIVE THE PUBLIC ADDRESS TO THE PEOPLE FOR MEMORIAL DAY! If you know someone, please let the Post know as soon as possible! Southwest Asia Service Medal—Service: All Services; Instituted: 1992;
Dates: 1991-1995. Criteria: Active participation in, or support of, Opera-tions Desert Shield, Desert Storm and/or subsequent follow-on operations in southwest Asia. Devices: All Services: Bronze Star; Navy: Bronze Marine Corps device. Notes: Recipients of this medal are usually entitled to the Saudi Arabian Medal for the Liberation of Kuwait and the Emirate of Kuwait Medal for the Liberation of Kuwait. Awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who participated in, or directly supported, military operations in Southwest Asia or in surrounding areas between August 2, 1990 and November 30, 1995 (Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm and follow-up). The medal was established by an executive order signed by President George Bush on March 15, 1991. The front of the medal depicts the tools of modern desert warfare, i.e., aircraft, helicopter, tank, armored personnel carrier, tent and troops, battleship, in both desert and sea settings along with the inscription, “SOUTHWEST ASIA SERVICE” in the center. The reverse of the medal contains a sword entwined with a palm leaf representing military preparedness and the maintenance of peace and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” around the periphery. The ribbon is predominately tan, symbolizing the sands of the desert and contains thin stripes of the U.S. national colors towards each edge. The green and black center stripes and the black edges, along with the red and white, suggest the flag colors of most Arab nations in the region of Southwest Asia. Approved campaigns for the Southwest Asia Service Medal, each being represented by a bronze star. • Operation Desert Shield, August 2, 1990 - January 16, 1991; • Operation Desert Storm, January 17, 1991 - April 11, 1991; • Southwest Asia Cease-fire Campaign, April 12, 1991- November 30, 1995; • Operation Provide Comfort, June 1, 1992 November 30, 1995; There are a maximum 3 campaign stars authorized for this award.
