RockVets Newsletter - October 2024

PTSD: Vietnam Memories Linger

Editorial by Jerry Donnellan
RockVets -- June 2016

It was the 24th of October, 1969. We were on a Search and Clear Operation which, a few months earlier, would have been called a Search and Destroy Mission. However, the grown-ups further up the chain of Command for some reason felt that search and destroy sounded too violent -- so it became Search and Clear. We did exactly the same thing. Who knew that the politically correct police had its roots back then?

I was an Infantry Buck Sgt. - 3rd Platoon, Company D, 3rd of the 21st, 196th Light Infantry Brigade working off LZ Center. Why it was called Center wasn’t hard to figure out. It was right between LZ East and LZ West. That was home although we spent very little time there. Most of our time was spent in what we called Indian country wandering the Central Highlands – although I guess we couldn’t call it that today. We’d have to call it Indigenous Personnel Country. At 22 I was the second oldest in my company.

The Highlands from a distance looked like the Catskills, only the vegetation was a bit different. They called this Triple Canopy Jungle. It was so dense that at noon on a sunny day the floor of the jungle would seem like night time. The temperature and humidity both were around 100 and to add to the fun of this sleep away camp, we’d have to carry anywhere between 80 and 100 pounds on our back – 8 pounds of which was water that was far more valuable than a number of other things we carried, especially the food.

In those days it was C-Rats or C-Rations some of which you literally couldn’t eat. There was one can that contained ham and lima beans. We would pray that we were resupplied before we got to the bottom of our rations and had to eat that! Many of these meals had nicknames but in polite company they can’t be printed. This stuff would truly gag a maggot.

To give you an idea of the toll that takes, when I got to Vietnam I was 6’2” and weighed 185 pounds and was in reasonably good shape. When I got home I weighed 122 Pounds. To be fair, part of that weight loss was my right leg. But still even considering that, it’s a fair amount of weight to drop in a relatively short time. I mean how much could a leg just below the knee weigh? 15-20 pounds?

Anyway, it happened on Hill 370. A couple of clicks off of the LZ. I remember it was very loud. The loudest thing I ever heard. There was a huge fireball and I was thrown...I’m guessing 10 yards... landing on my back and I knew it wasn’t good to be lying out in the open. My 12-gauge was gone. According to the Geneva Convention we weren’t supposed to have scatter shot weapons. But they issued Model 37 Ithaca pumps. The Army also gave the Duper gun (M79) guy a canister round, which made the 79 a super-sized shotgun. But then again, I never saw a referee out there to enforce any of these rules. A buddy seemed to be comforted by the fact that the Geneva convention said they could shoot you but they couldn’t eat you.

So I picked up my right arm and it fell off mid shaft – between the wrist and the elbow. What they call a double-compound fracture – 2 bones sticking out of each half of a bloody hunk of meat. And yes, your bones are white. Using my left arm, which had also been wounded, I carefully placed the broken right arm across my chest and lifted up my left leg to try and see if I could push my way back to cover. That leg was riddled with shrapnel...the inside of which looked like hamburger meat.

I carefully placed it down and lifted up my right leg…it was gone. That was kind of hard to wrap your head around. Even though I didn’t feel pain – at least the kind of pain that you think would accompany what I was seeing, there was a terrific burning sensation. Since my limbs weren’t working too well, I tried to prop myself up on my left elbow to see if I could see anyone. However, leaning forward caused a bloody head wound to run into my eyes, which blinded me. Just then I felt someone grab me. Not being able to see I didn’t know if it was the enemy or one of my own guys. Of all the things that were going on, that was simply the most terrifying. I was totally helpless. Thank God it was our medic - God bless him - without regard for himself. He started working on me. He shot me up with morphine for the pain, which you think would help. However, it had kind of an opposite and frightening effect because as the drug began to take effect I didn’t know if it was the drug entering my body or life leaving it.

A lot of good men died in those Highlands. In a funny way I think I was born there because the guy that went to that War didn’t come home. I believe that was the case with a lot of us. I don’t know how much time passed but my buddies eventually got me onto a poncho. I remember every time they moved, it hurt but it had to be done. Then I saw the greatest sight in the world. The belly of that dust off which, close to 20 years later became the logo symbol of our Vietnam Veterans group. But it just brought more pain. The down draft from the rotor blades was so strong that it began opening the wounds that had started to heal. My buddies literally threw me onto the floor of that Huey, which was awash with blood of the other wounded. Then we were out of there and on our way to Hawk Hill.

It was someone else’s war now. At Hawk Hill I was placed on a real stretcher. In turn, the stretcher was placed on a pair of saw horses. A guy came towards me with one of those bent surgical scissors. I thought he was coming to help me. Instead he cut away the right saddlebag pocket and took my AO map that was wrapped in a plastic ANP RC-25 battery bag. Then I was pissed. It seemed my maps were more important than I was. I lay there for what seemed like a long time.

Oh, did I tell you that my wife was 8-months pregnant?

Then I was put onto a cleaner Huey and off to the 95th EVAC in DaNang. I refused to go to sleep for fear that I would never wake up. I came off the chopper in DaNang and who was waiting for me but the Chaplain. Somehow last rites may help the soul, but doesn’t do much for the morale. Then into the OR, which was ice cold. It was air conditioned. I hadn’t felt air conditioning in forever. In there they finally knocked me out.

The next week or so was mostly a blur. I went from there to the 106th in Yokota, Japan. In and out of surgery, when I came to on the ward, Bonanza the old western was on TV, but in Japanese – and seeing Hoss Cartwright in a high pitched Japanese voice was hard to believe. Then I was sure I was dead.

Actually I was beginning to feel better. I could tell because I was getting pissed again. Here I was damn near killed and nobody seemed to give a damn. Everybody else was just doing their day-to-day routine. It was just another day at the office or hospital. There were no parades, no bands, nothing.

Then I’m moving out of Japan after God knows how many more surgeries. By now the calendar has turned over and it’s November and we’re heading into Anchorage, Alaska at night. We were lining the walls of the plane hanging in litters. When we landed it was snowing. They dropped the tail gate of the plane. Mind you, all we were wearing were light pj’s that were meant for tropical weather. The blood we had left was thin from tropics. So why were we opening this huge door? Simple. So the Donut Dollies could bring us hot chocolate, which by the time it got to us was ice cold. But I guess it’s the thought that counts.

We were into the second week of November and into the inky blackness over the Canadian landscape into the U.S. I think we landed once or twice – maybe to refuel or to drop off casualties at hospitals along the way. My feeling is they kept us pretty well drugged up. It was easier to deal with us because we were all starting to feel a little better. That and there were no in-flight movies to keep us busy, so drugs were the answer. But then again it was the 60’s.

By the time light had begun to break, we were coming down approaching Maguire Air Force Base in New Jersey, which sits side by side with Fort Dix. By the time we landed and got loaded off the plane and onto ambulances, it was full daylight. I remember being frightened by the speed of the ambulance. It seemed like it was going 100 mph or more. It wasn’t, but to me it seemed dangerously fast. The reason I was told was that for months we had moved either on foot or in choppers and in the choppers we got used to going relatively quickly, but it wasn’t the same as being on the ground – you didn’t see things pass so quickly.

There at Walson Army Hospital at Fort Dix, my family came to visit except for my wife who was now in her 9th month and wiser souls felt that she had been through enough recently and would not do well with a 2-hour trip. The rest of the family showed up and lied and lied and lied about how good I looked. Later my brother told me I looked like someone who had just come out of Auschwitz.

Before I left for Vietnam, I had taken my father out, at my mother’s request, to get him a decent pair of shoes. I bought him a nice pair of wing tips. My mother was pleased. The problem was my mother wasn’t going to wear the shoes. My father hated them. My father was born in Ireland and came to this country in 1929, just in time for the Stock Market Crash. He always had a great sense of timing.

Anyway, that night despite his hatred of them, he wore the ‘bloody shoes.’ Never at a loss for a stupid thing to say I said, “My God, what you have to do to get this man to wear a pair of shoes.” I thought I was being funny. He left the room crying. Then my Uncle tried to paper it over and change the tone by saying, “Well, at least you made it back in one piece.” Not to be outdone I said, “Well, two anyway.” And he was out of the room.

The next morning, they loaded me onto the cleanest Huey I had ever seen. My stretcher was high and going from left to right on the bird behind the pilot and co-pilot’s head so I could see over their shoulders.

We took off nose down as Hueys have a tendency to do and headed west towards Valley Forge Army General Hospital, Pennsylvania. I knew that because as soon as we cleared the tree, the co-pilot took out a Texaco road map that was marked for Valley Forge. This was the Army I knew and loved. As the chopper banked coming into Valley Forge Hospital, I saw men in colonial uniforms - in nice straight lines, setting up by the side of a vintage cannon. Well, I figured it’s about time – about time I got some kind of reception to fit what I had been through. Not really. I had lost track of what day it was. It turned out we just happened to be landing at 11:00 a.m. on November 11th. You got it – it wasn’t about me at all. It was dumb old Veterans Day – and I just landed in the middle of their ceremony. But what was cool was the 4 guys that carried my litter off the chopper were all amputees, and I thought, "Maybe this could work."

I tell you this because there are 58,000 who can’t – and someone should speak for them.

Jerry

Tuesday, October 8th, 2024: The Next Chapter: Understanding New York’s Newest Veterans. You can attend the program in person or remotely. If you prefer to attend remotely, register here and a link will be sent to you the day before the Conference.

Please join us to explore the results of a new report from the RAND Corporation, commissioned by the New York Health Foundation (NYHealth), on the health and wellbeing of New York State’s newest veterans. Based on a survey of New Yorkers who recently separated from military service, the report offers the first comprehensive look at New York veterans’ health and social service needs since RAND’s landmark needs assessment nearly 14 years ago.

Conference Date:

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Time:

9:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

Location:

Empire State Plaza, Meeting Room 5

279 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12242

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/veterans-health-conference-understanding-new-yorks-newest-veterans-tickets-976117141647?aff=oddtdtcreator

Thursday, October 10th, 2024: VVA #333 Monthly Meeting. Please note that the monthly meeting times have changed. The regular membership meeting will begin at 5:00 p.m. The VVA #333 Board of Directors will meet at 4:00 p.m. Since part of the Rosh Hashanah celebration will be held during the first Thursday of this month, the October VVA meeting will be held as noted above -- on Thursday, October 10th, 2024 starting at 5:00 p.m.

Friday, October 11th, 2024: Join us for our Veteran’s Game Day Social Luncheon on October 11th (Friday) from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown. See further information under Joseph Dwyer Vet-to-Vet Program.

Saturday, October 26th, 2024: Equine Retreat Days for Veterans at Victory Hill: Back by Popular Demand!!! Victory Hill Therapeutic Horsemanship will be hosting two Equine Retreat Days for Veterans (including active duty and reserve members) this fall! The Retreat Days offer a wonderful opportunity to come enjoy the serenity of the farm, camaraderie with fellow vets, and the incredible partnership of our amazing horses! No prior horse experience necessary. Come see what all the "buzz" is about! You'll be so glad you did! The event is FREE for all Veterans and includes lunch. For registration and details, see the attached flyer.

Dates: Saturday, October 26th.

Time: 11am - 3pm

Where: Victory Hill Therapeutic Horsemanship, 1138 Mountain Rd, Port Jervis, NY 12771.

For more information, contact Laurie Bryceland - 845-843-0020 or laurie@victoryhillth.org.

Monday, October 28th, 2024: 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. "Thank You For Your Service" Radio Live Marc Carlo, Director of Veteran Peer Services Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, is on the airwaves hosting a radio show on WRCR 1700 AM. The show will air once a month on the 4th Monday at 9:30 a.m. Veterans can call in and ask questions about Veterans issues. The call-in number is: 845-429-1700. Marc will discuss Veteran issues and events in and around Rockland County. Please tune in to the show on 4th Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. on WRCR 1700 AM radio or access the show live on WRCR's website: https://www.wrcr.com.
You can also access previously recorded episodes/podcasts on the following link:
https://www.bridgesrc.org/programs-services/vet2vet/ or https://open.spotify.com/episode/43jD5NLPAPdTQdi9tz5Ngp
For further information, get in touch with Marc Carlo, Director of Veteran Peer Services, Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, “Vet to Vet” at Email: mailto:mcarlo@bridgesrc.org / (Office) (845) 624-1366 ext 104 / Cell (845) 521-9440

November 8th, 2024: TWENTY-NINTH ANNUAL ROCKLAND COUNTY MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY LUNCHEON. DATE: Friday November 8, 2024

1130-1230 Cocktail and Sea Story Hour (CASH BAR) Lunch at 12:30
Krucker’s Catering and Picnic Grove
81 Call Hollow Road, Pomona, NY (845) 354-9832
Prime Rib of Beef, Lemon Salmon, or Chicken Marsala, Wine for Toast, Beer on Tables at Luncheon, Birthday Cake and Coffee
Checks must be received by October 31, 2024 for door prize eligibility
$50.00 per person in advance. Make checks payable to: Rockland MCL $55.00 AT THE DOOR
Spouses, Companions and Friends Welcome
Please enter the entree preference of each person on the Door Prize ticket
WWII and Korean ERA Veterans are our guest but they must mail in Door Prize Ticket SO THAT WE CAN PROPERLY PLAN. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT WE HAVE YOUR RESERVATION BY OCTOBER 31
Please send your CHECK and DOOR PRIZE ticket to:
Rockland County Marine Corps League 20 Station Road
Pomona, New York 10970
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>CUT OFF AND MAIL WITH YOUR CHECK<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
DOOR PRIZE TICKET
Rockland County Marine Corps League 249th MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY LUNCHEON
NAME:__________________________________________ # OF ADDITIONAL GUESTS__________________ ADDRESS:________________________________________________________________________ TELEPHONE #:____________________ DOB (Marines only For Cake Cutting Ceremony)____________ Email Address______________________________ WWII or Korea VET?_______________
Entree:______ PRIME RIB OF BEEF ______ LEMON SALMON______ CHICKEN MARSALA Take a Marine to Lunch ( ) @ $30.00 each
(PLEASE SELECT AN ENTREE CHOICE FOR EACH ATTENDEE)
The take a Marine to lunch program will help to partially defray our cost to invite active duty Marines to our celebration. Thank you for your generosity.

November 4th through November 8th, 2024: Vietnam Memories, Stories Left At The Wall Program for fall & spring 2024-25
Tappan Zee High School
15 Dutch Hill Road, Orangeburg, NY 10962 November 4 – 8, 2024
November 4th full Assembly 9-10th grade starting at 8:15am full Assembly 11 – 12th grade starting at 9:00am
Teaching in Library period 4, 10:34am November 5 – 8 teaching in the museum 8:15 – 3:00 pm

Thursday, November 7th, 2024: VVA Chapter #333 regular monthly meeting will be held at 5:00 p.m. The Board of Directors will meet one hour before at 4:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 10th , 2024: 10:00 a.m. - Vietnam Veterans Orangeburg Memorial Ceremony honoring our veterans. The Memorial is located at Veterans Memorial Park off Orangeburg Road in Orangeburg, New York 10962.

Sunday, November 10th, 2024: The Rockland County Coordinating Council Veteran of the Year Ceremony will be held at 12:00 Noon at the Rockland County Court House on Main Street in New City, New York 10956.

Wednesday, December 4th, 2024: The North Rockland Veterans Buffet and Winter Concert will be on Wednesday, December 4th. Further information will be in RockVets November edition.

Editorial by Major General John F. Hussey (Ret.) - October 2024

Since the beginning of our nation’s history Veterans have answered the call and served in countless wars to maintain our freedom. They have also served in their local communities during times of crisis to assist fellow Americans in their time of need. Many people ask why young men and woman step forward and put the uniform on and put themselves in harm’s way often for people they do not know. There are a variety of answers and each one in personnel to the Veteran who has answered the call however, many do so to preserve the freedoms that we cherish as Americans.

One of those freedoms is the right to vote. As we head into November we will decide on who should be president of our great nation. We will in many cases also decide who we wish to send to Washington, D.C. to represent us so that our voices may be heard. We will also vote for many local representatives to help maintain our communities and our everyday way of life.

The service and sacrifices our veterans and their families made should be a reminder when we decide to vote. I am not advocating for any candidate or any position, rather that you, your family, and your friends & neighbors take the time to vote. Many Americans never returned home from foreign battlefields. Many who did return did so with wounds that have lasted with them a lifetime. The least we can do as Americans is honor their service and get out and vote. Let them know that you appreciate their service by exercising that right and not staying home and complaining. When our Veterans had a choice they put on a uniform and made a deliberate decision to take an action and now you need to do the same.

Major General John F. Hussey (Ret.) has written a book entitled, "Inside The Wire." You can check it out at this link:
https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Wire-Guarding-Prisoners-Guantanamo/dp/B0DGDNSWGW

A Note From Major General Hussey:
Since my retirement in Sept of 2022, I have met many friends and veterans who have told me that I should write a book. As with many other veterans who served, we all have various stories to tell. I believe there are many unique experiences which I had during my military career operating Enemy Prisoner of War Camps which I wanted to share.

I took what I was told to heart, and I have finally completed the book. The title is, “Inside the Wire, Guarding America’s Prisons in the Global War on Terror from Abu Ghraib to Guantanamo Bay.”

I wrote the book for two reasons. The first is to tell my own story of proudly serving in the U.S. military with some of the greatest warriors as an inspiration for anyone interested in a military career. For those who are interested in this aspect, I will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of being a leader in any organization, particularly in combat. My second reason for writing this book is for future leaders who will have to conduct the Detention Operations mission in combat. I share my stories of overseeing what the military calls Detention Operations (DO) Camps. I served at two of the most important prisoner of war (POW) camps during the Global War on Terror, now referred to most often as Enemy Prisoner of War (EPW) camps that the U.S. has had in its recent history, Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo.

I hope you take the time to read the book and learn about leadership and building functional teams on the run. I am proud of the people I served with and truly appreciative to those who took the time to mentor me and make me a better leader and person. I truly believe there is something for everyone to learn from this book.
https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Wire-Guarding-Prisoners-Guantanamo/dp/B0DGDNSWGW

Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #333 -- monthly meeting is usually held on the first Thursday of each month, at Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York 10970. Because of the Rosh Hashanah celebration during the first Thursday of this month, the October meeting will be held on Thursday, October 10th. It has also been decided to hold meetings earlier in the evening. Therefore, the VVA #333 Board of Directors will now meet at 4:00 p.m. with full membership meeting to start promptly at 5:00 p.m. Veterans from all eras are welcome.

VVA 333 will hold their usual monthly meeting on Thursday, October 10th, 2024. The Chapter welcomes current, former and prospective VVA members to attend. The meetings are held at the Kearsing-Edwards American Legion Post #1600, 20 Station Road, Pomona, New York starting at 5:00 p.m.

NOTE: ZOOM IS AVAILABLE FOR THIS MEETING. SEE THE LINK INFO BELOW.
Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 630 567 5618
Passcode: 980722
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Also check out the VVA #333 recently revised website created and maintained by Debby Frank. Below is a link to lots of great information such as: V.A. Info, Officers and Past Presidents, Fallen Heroes, Our Members Then, Members in Action, Veteran of The Year, RockVets Newsletters, Watchfires, Pig Roast, Momentos at The Wall, Handcycles Program, 529 Educational Program, Merchandise, Jerry Donnellan -- Founder of Chapter 333, Scholarships, Applications, Gene Sullivan Service Award, VVA National Convention, 30th Anniversary of Chapter 333, Street dedication ceremony for one of Rockland's KIAs, James Margro, and so on. Much thanks to Debby Frank for maintaining the website.

And for those who have not done so yet, please send a picture of yourself in uniform so Debby can add it to the VVA website. Send photos to EJF308@aol.com.
The VVA #333 website address is: http://vva333.com

Vet-to-Vet: Special Events
THE ROCKLAND COUNTY JOSEPH P. DWYER
VETERAN PEER SUPPORT PROGRAM
WEEKLY WELLNESS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES FOR VETS

Friday, October 11th, 2024: Veteran’s Game Day Social Luncheon: October 11th (Friday) from 11:00am to 2:00pm at the Community Center Town of Clarkstown - Auditorium located at 31 Zukor Road, New City, New York 10956. All Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star families are welcome to join us to play games including BINGO and TRIVIA for prizes. It’s time to come out, get together, socialize, eat lunch and have fun ! This event is provided free of charge by Vet to Vet. There is plenty of parking available and the auditorium is very large with plenty of room for folks to spread out and maintain social distance if they choose to do so. Doors open at 10:40 am. RSVP: Required for Lunch! Call and reserve your seat early as we need a proper head count to order the catered meal. Please contact Izzy Quintana at email iquintana@vettovetrc.org or call 845-587-6497 to reserve a seat or if you have further questions

Thursday, October 17th, 2024: Apple Picking at Dr. Davies Farm: October 17th from 10am to 12pm located at 306 Route 304, Congers NY. Veterans and their spouses, Caregivers and Gold Star Families are welcome to join us. We will provide each Veteran and Gold Star Parent attending with one free 1/2 peck bag to fill and take home. Let's get outdoors and enjoy the nice autumn weather while it lasts! Please RSVP and advise if planning to attend with a number of people to ensure Dr. Davies can accommodate us appropriately. Contact Izzy Quintana at email: iquintana@vettovetrc.org or call cell phone number: 845-587-6497.

Monday, October 28th, 2024: From 9:30 to 10:30 am - "Thank You For Your Service" Radio Live : Marc Carlo, Director of Veteran Peer Services Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, is on the airwaves hosting a radio show on WRCR 1700 AM. The show will air once a month on the 4th Monday at 9:30 a.m. Veterans can call in and ask questions about Veterans issues. The call-in number is: 845-429-1700. Marc will discuss Veteran issues and events in and around Rockland County. Please tune in to the show on 4th Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. on WRCR 1700 AM radio or access the show live on WRCR's website: https://www.wrcr.com. You can also access previously recorded episodes/podcasts on the following link: https://www.bridgesrc.org/programs-services/vet2vet/ or https://open.spotify.com/episode/43jD5NLPAPdTQdi9tz5Ngp . For further information, get in touch with Marc Carlo, Director of Veteran Peer Services, Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, “Vet to Vet” at Email: mcarlo@bridgesrc.org / (Office) (845) 624-1366 ext 104 / Cell (845) 521-9440

Veterans Accessible Transportation
BRIDGES offers free door-to-door service to and from VA facilities in Montrose and Castle Point. A two week notice for scheduling or cancellations is required. Donations are welcomed. To schedule or learn more, call 845-624-1366 Ext. 139.

MEDITATION - Weekly - (M, W & F) - 9-9:30 am. Class elicits deep relaxation and helps reduce stress and anxiety with experienced Instructor Brett Cotter (Stress is Gone Founder and Author of 3 Keys To Managing PTSD). Online virtual event you can experience via Zoom. Meeting ID 983 8404 0455; Passcode: join or Click here for link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/98384040455?pwd=djE3VGhUTDJzRU1HMEJ6bnJxa3E2QT09

VETERANS WALKING CLUB - Weekly - (Wednesdays) - 9:30 am at PALISADES CENTER. Meet in front of BRIDGES, 2nd Floor, next door to Autobahn Indoor Speedway. We will walk between 45 minutes to an hour. Join a fast pace group, slow pace group or walk at your own pace for however long you want. The mall offers us a comfortable indoor venue regardless of the weather outdoors where we can gather together in camaraderie and get some fitness and exercise while we get walking !

GENTLE YOGA - Weekly - (Wednesdays & Fridays) - 7-8 pm & again on (Sundays) 10-11:15 am. Virtual session via Zoom. Yoga is extremely beneficial for your physical and mental health. Instructor Mira Stangl is a 500 hour Yoga-Alliance Certified Teacher With Extensive Training in PTSD and Restorative Yoga. If interested in attending email iquintana@vettovetrc.org. Then you'll be registered to get invitations to each session.

QIGONG - Weekly - (Thursdays) from 9-10 am. (Ancient Chinese Exercise). Gentle meditative exercises based on the cultivation and refinement of Universal Life Energy known as Qi. Practicing this exercise reduces pain, stress and anxiety, improves physical fitness and improves immune function and vitality. Instructor Norman Galinsky, MFA has over 36 years experience in the art. If interested in attending or have questions, contact Izzy Quintana at email iquintana@vettovetrc.org

If interested in attending or have questions, contact Izzy Quintana at email: iquintana@vettovetrc.org

Ismael (Izzy) Quintana / Veteran Outreach Coordinator
Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program
Rockland County (Vet to Vet) / Cell: (845) 587-6497

Learn About Your GI Bill Benefits

Whether you are active duty, Guard, Reserve, Veteran or family member, learn how you can use your VA education benefits to obtain a bachelors, masters or doctorate, use it for on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and much more.

Click on the links below or check out the full playlist of more than 30 videos, and get answers to all your GI Bill questions.

3 Tips for Maximizing Your GI Bill Benefits

Transferring GI Bill to Spouse & Children

Using GI Bill for Online Classes

Retro-Active Pay for GI Bill

GI Bill: Failing a Class

First Soldier Killed During Vietnam's August Revolution
September 26th, 1945

First U.S. soldier killed during Vietnam’s August Revolution
View link for Full story and video with Vietnam facts and timeline:
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/first-us-soldier-killed-during-vietnam-august-revolution?cmpid=email-hist-tdih-2024-0926-09262024&om_rid=

Lt. Col. Peter Dewey, a U.S. Army officer with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) in Vietnam, is shot and killed in Saigon. Dewey was the head of a seven-man team sent to Vietnam to search for missing American pilots and to gather information on the situation in the country after the surrender of the Japanese.

According to the provisions of the Potsdam Conference, the British were assigned the responsibility of disarming Japanese soldiers south of the 16th parallel. However, with the surrender of the Japanese, Ho Chi Minh and the Viet Minh declared themselves the rightful government of Vietnam. This angered the French colonial officials and the remaining French soldiers who had been disarmed and imprisoned by the Japanese. They urged British Maj. Gen. Douglas D. Gracey to help them regain control. Gracey, not fond of the Viet Minh or their cause, rearmed 1,400 French soldiers to help his troops maintain order.

The next day these forces ousted the Viet Minh from the offices that they had only recently occupied. Dewey’s sympathies lay with the Viet Minh, many of whom were nationalists who did not want a return to French colonial rule. The American officer was an outspoken man who soon angered Gracey, eventually resulting in the British general ordering him to leave Indochina. On the way to the airport, accompanied by another OSS officer, Capt. Henry Bluechel, Dewey refused to stop at a roadblock manned by three Viet Minh soldiers. He yelled back at them in French and they opened fire, killing Dewey instantly. Bluechel was unhurt and escaped on foot. It was later determined that the Viet Minh had fired on Dewey thinking he was French. He would prove to be the first of nearly 59,000 Americans killed in Vietnam.

Faces of Freedom -- Oral Histories and Portraits of the Men and Women that Defend Our Country

I never served in the military, and I never had to make the sacrifices US military veterans have made. I decided I wanted to do something to show my gratitude to our veterans and I began my project which I call Faces of Freedom.

The project consists of interviews and photographs. I meet with veterans, record their personal history, and take their photo. I print the photo in black and white, frame it and present it to each veteran at no charge. The interview covers each veteran’s life before, during and after their time in the service. Each veteran has the opportunity to make any changes to their bio before it is finalized. I make no money from this project and the photos are free to each veteran.

Currently these photos and bios appear on my website www.facesoffreedom.us. They also appear on my Facebook page and the photos and stories of the WWII veterans have been sent to the National WWII Museum for their archives. There are currently 80 interviews and photos on the website. I hope to make this into an exhibit for universities, high schools, community centers, libraries, etc. to help increase awareness of the 3% of the population who is doing the heavy lifting so the rest of us can enjoy all that this country has to offer.

Every veteran has a story. Some stories are about combat, some are about funny memories, some stories are sad, and some are about things accomplished after their military service. All are about service to country and making sacrifices.

You have a story and I want to tell it to the rest of the people in the United States. Let’s pick a date and get together to record your history and tell it to our fellow citizens.

Regards,
Walter Schuppe
Avon, CT
Phone: (860) 558-1072
E-mail: walter11_22@yahoo.com

Please check out Vietnam veteran Roy Tschudy's book, "Endless." Roy is a past President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #333, and writes about a variety of experiences that our Vietnam vets encountered. As with all good books, be prepared to experience a lot of emotions with this: you will be intrigued, angry, surprised, maybe shed a tear or two, and laugh out loud at some of the shenanigans in this enjoyable tale of fact, fiction and myth. All proceeds of "Endless" go to help veterans. The book is available in paperback or Kindle edition from Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Endless-Roy-Tschudy/dp/1524668516/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Roy+Tschudy+Endless&qid=1638898608&sr=8-1#customerReviews
"Endless" is the second book authored by Roy Tschudy. His first book also had great reviews.
"Up Close and Personal" is available through Amazon as well.

Free Entrepreneur Training and Mentorship for Post-9/11 Veterans

American Corporate Partners Ventures program provides Veteran entrepreneurs with 1-on-1 year-long mentorship, on-demand resources, and access to other Veteran entrepreneurs and industry experts. More info:
https://news.va.gov/134609/american-corporate-partners-entrepreneurship/?utm_source=middle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=VetResources&utm_id=11SEP2024

Con Edison: New Career opportunities posted on the Con Edison website.

We have our Leadership Development Program for College Graduates as well as CO-OP positions for College Students. The Co-Ops come in three categories.
Engineering, Business, Information Technology
Please see the other positions such as Auto Mechanic, Production Technician, Customer Service Representative and Others are on our Careers Page.
James E. Christman, Senior Engagement Leader, Workforce Development
Veterans and Disabilities
917-364-0801 | christmanja@coned.com
Career Site: Careers | Con Edison
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Hiring Veterans:
Each week, we receive job announcements from employers and employment websites—including RallyPoint, RecruitMilitary, VetJobs and HireMilitary—looking to hire Veterans. This post contains links to job listings for the week of June 24, 2024. Each week, we’ll continue to post relevant and timely listings as we receive them, and for the locations listed. Check this link for further information: https://news.va.gov/135213/jobs-of-the-week-for-sept-30-2024/

CHORE
CHORE helps people maintain the independence of living at home by providing free minor household repairs and home improvements that make living at home safe. CHORE is always looking for volunteers that have experience in minor home repairs/improvements and electric work. Interested volunteers may submit resumes to Sue Cibirka at scibirka@bridgesrc.org or call at 624-1366 ex 101.

VA Hudson Valley is hiring and enrolling! Our Veterans deserve the best and we need your help to deliver that care for them. Please share with your networks!
Hiring: We currently have 100+ job vacancies posted on our USAJOBS page, available USAJOBS - Search
These include clinical and non-clinical roles at our campuses in Montrose and Castle Point, as well many of our 7 clinics throughout the Hudson Valley. Applicants can review the great VA benefits we offer, to include, compensation, leave flexibilities, student loan forgiveness, health care benefits and retirement benefits.

Some of the jobs we need filled urgently are:

Nurse, including all Specialties – Montrose Campus
Medical Support Assistant - Montrose and Castle Point locations
AC Mechanic – Castle Point Campus

Always accepting applications for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurse and Certified Nurse Assistant. VA wants to hear from you! If you have questions about any of the above positions, please contact Timothy.McGuigan@va.gov or call 503-307-0193.
For further information, contact Timothy J McGuigan, MS, HR Senior Consultant, VA Hudson Valley HCS -- (503) 307 0193. VISN2HRSBUHudsonValley@va.gov

The Department of Civil Service: The following examination announcements have been updated and added to our public website. When filing your online application, please be advised that technical assistance is available Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please be advised that you will need a personal NY.gov ID to apply for Department of Civil Service examinations. If you do not have a personal NY.gov ID, please create an account. Here are some of the employment opportunity examinations coming up -- please view this link for further description of each position:

Continuous Recruitment Examinations
The Department also accepts applications for most continuous recruitment examinations on an ongoing basis, with no application deadline.

Continuous Recruitment Examinations -

https://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/public/cr.cfm

HELP Program – No Examinations Required
The Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement (HELP) Program temporarily removes the civil service exam requirement for more than 100 direct care, health and human services titles across State agencies for a 12-month period. To be eligible for jobs in the HELP program, candidates must meet the jobs’ minimum qualifications and any other conditions of employment. Candidates should visit the HELP Jobs Portal and use the candidate portal to apply for jobs in the HELP program.
Check out HELP Jobs Portal here: https://www.cs.ny.gov/help/

Veterans Employment and Training Services (VETS) Resources for Veterans

The Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) is committed to helping America's veterans and separating service members by preparing them for meaningful careers, providing employment resources and expertise, and protecting their employment rights.
https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/4624

FedEx Independent Service Provider
FedEx is looking to hire full time and part time drivers to deliver and pickup packages from Blauvelt, NY. Full time schedule is Monday – Friday and part time schedule has weekend positions available. Must be over 21 years old, have a clean drivers license, and be able to pass physical and drug tests. Background checks are also required. Salary for full time starts at $700 per week. Please contact 201-724-7781 to see if you qualify.

Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction of the Veterans Administration:
The link below lists current positions have been announced for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction (OALC). This is not a complete listing of all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) vacancies and may not include all positions announced for OALC. You may access VA recruitment information on the VA Jobs site at this link: https://www.va.gov/jobs/
If you wish copies of announcements listed below, please contact the individual identified in the specific announcement. Here is the link to the OALC Job Listings:
https://www.va.gov/oalc/career.asp

Montefiore-Nyack Hospital, Nyack, New York 10960
See link for full listing and information about career opportunities at Nyack Hospital, Nyack, New York. https://montefiorenyackcareers.org

Good Samaritan Hospital, Suffern, New York. Good Samaritan Hospital is affiliated with Westchester Medical Center. See this link for available employment - https://wmchealthjobs.org/search-jobs/

Rockland County Employment Information:
Here is a link to current job openings available in Rockland County
http://rocklandgov.com/departments/personnel/job-opportunities/

Rockland County Veterans' Credits:
http://rocklandgov.com/files/8115/1120/9567/Veterans_Credit_Info.pdf

New York City Civil Service Jobs, Tests, and Results as listed in The Chief:
http://thechiefleader.com/news/civil_service/

MTA Metro-North Railroad has ongoing employment opportunities:
To apply for current jobs with the MTA, please go to the MTA Employment Portal at: http://web.mta.info/mta/employment/

NYC Green Book Online: The Green Book is the official directory of the City of New York. An indispensable reference guide for anyone living or working in New York City. Includes detailed listings of agencies. Website: http://a856-gbol.nyc.gov/GBOLWebsite/

Rockland County Marine Corps League regularly receives donations of handicap assistance equipment for disabled veterans from people who want to help. The donated equipment is available for free to military veterans and their families. The items include the following:

Motorized Wheelchairs
Manual Wheelchairs
Oxygen Generator
Walkers
Bath Chairs
Transfer Benches
Braces
Crutches
Canes

If you have need of any of this equipment, contact John Leighton of the Rockland County Marine Corps League - 845-521-5361 or via email: jhleighton@att.net.

RockVets is an Outreach program of New York Vets, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization established in 1992, to advocate for those who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Military, no matter where or when they served.

The volunteers at New York Vets / RockVets publish this monthly e-newsletter. We welcome your thoughts, questions, and feedback. E-mail: NewYorkVets@gmail.com.

We are not affiliated with any government agency such as the Veterans Administration, Rockland County Government, nor the Veterans Service Agency of Rockland.

Each month, our newsletter reaches more than 1800 local veterans or those who care about veterans' interests. Please use this forum to let veterans know of any information, resources, links or events they might enjoy. Send information to NewYorkVets@gmail.com or send us a note through our website: https://newyorkvets.org. Thank you for passing this newsletter along to other veterans or those who care.

Our Mailing Address
New York Vets, Inc. / RockVets
P.O. Box 387
Tomkins Cove, New York 10986

Pat McGlade
Co-Founder / Director
Website: http://newyorkvets.org
RockVets Newsletters: https://newyorkvets.org/newsletters
Email: NewYorkVets@gmail.com