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If you know a Veteran, please forward this issue to him or her as it provides important updates, resources, and information. In this Update:
Honoring Freedom and Tradition This Fourth of July in Jacobus
There’s something timeless and special about gathering with friends and neighbors at the heart of our community to celebrate the birth of our great nation. This Fourth of July, we honored the true meaning of Independence Day, celebrating the land of the free because of the brave. I’m grateful to live in a community that not only marks this day with fun and festivities but also takes time to recognize those who have served. A big thank you to the Jacobus Area Lioness Lions Club for continuing this tradition. It was an honor to take part in the celebration, recognize our Veterans, and congratulate Dr. Knapp on his well-earned retirement after more than 40 years of caring for our community. There’s no better way to spend the Fourth than surrounded by good people and a deep appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy. Spotlight on Women Veterans
Last month, we marked the anniversary of a major milestone in U.S. military history, the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act by President Harry S. Truman on June 12, 1948. Prior to that, only women nurses could serve in the regular and reserve forces during peacetime. This law opened the door for countless women to serve our nation in uniform. To recognize this important moment, Senator Tracy Pennycuick hosted an event at the Capitol celebrating the service and sacrifice of Pennsylvania’s women Veterans. It was great to see York County’s own Joan Snyder, a Gold Star mom and Veteran, join the celebration, along with Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity, who proudly served our country. To all the women who have served, thank you. Your courage, strength, and sacrifice continue to inspire us all. Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America will be bringing their Mobile Education Exhibit throughout Pennsylvania during July. Wreaths Across America was originally founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. They have expanded this mission to traveling the country to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom. The Mobile Education Exhibits are free to visit and will be in various locations throughout the commonwealth in July:
Recognizing Korean War Veterans Armistice Day
In June, the Senate passed Senate Bill 511 to designate July 27 as Korean War Veterans Armistice Day and require the governor to issue a proclamation each year to encourage schools to observe Korean War Veterans Armistice Day and recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by those involved in the Korean War. The bill awaits further action by the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee in the House of Representatives. Military Lifetime National Parks Pass
The U.S. Geological Survey offers a free lifetime America the Beautiful pass to all Veterans and Gold Star Families to receive free admission to all National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands.
Funding Available for Community Groups Providing Veteran Suicide Prevention Services
Community-based organizations that provide suicide prevention or emergency clinical services to Veterans have until July 18 to apply for federal grants to support their vital mission. Organizations can apply for grants worth up to $750,000 and may apply to renew awards from year to year. Learn more about eligibility and apply here. Veterans in crisis are encouraged to call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing one to speak with responders trained in crisis intervention and military culture. All calls are free and confidential. Additionally, Pennsylvania provides many programs and services to support Veterans. Veterans Job Listing
Every week, the Pennsylvania Nation Guard Association updates its free job board with good openings for National Guard members, Veterans and their families across Pennsylvania and in nearby states. The board features nearly 10,000 employment and internship postings. What are Vet Centers?
VA Vet centers provide free and confidential readjustment counseling for war-zone Veterans and their families, from World War II to the current Global War on Terror. Vet centers are small, non-medical, counseling centers conveniently located in our region. They’re staffed by highly trained counselors and team members dedicated to seeing you through the challenges that come with managing life during and after the military. Whether you come in for one-on-one counseling or to participate in a group session, at Vet centers you can form social connections, try new things and build a support system with people who understand you and want to help you succeed. Who is Eligible to Receive Services at Vet Centers?Vet center services are available to Veterans at no cost, regardless of discharge character, and without the need to be enrolled in VA health care or having a service-connected disability. If you are a Veteran or service member, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, you can access Vet center services if you:
Contacting Your Local Vet CenterEven if you are unsure if you meet the criteria to receive services from a Vet center, please contact a center. Center services are also available to family members when their participation would support the growth and goals of the Veteran or active-duty service member. If you consider them family, so does your local center. Bereavement services are also available to family members of Veterans who were receiving Vet center services at the time of the Veteran’s death, and to the families of service members who died while serving on active duty. Vet center locations in Pennsylvania are:
For more information, please visit www.Vetcenter.va.gov.
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