DECEMBER 2014
S
TILL SERVING 2014 Military Veterans Awards
HONORING THOSE WHO SERVED THEIR COUNTRY IN UNIFORM AND CONTINUE TO SERVE HAMPTON ROADS
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Publisher: Laura Baxter Editor/Designer: Rebecca Hastings Cover Designer: Allyson Garner Creative Director: Tricia Lieurance Photographer: Harry Gerwien Published by Military Newspapers of Virginia 150 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA 23510 Phone: (757) 222-3990 Fax: (757) 853-1634 Editorial: (757) 222-3970 Advertising: (757) 222-3990 Classifieds: (757) 222-3990 sales@militarynews.com The contents of this special section are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Government, DoD, the DoT or the U.S. Coast Guard. Opinions of the contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Military Newspapers of Virginia or The Flagship®. The availability of these newspapers and the appearance of advertising in these publications, including any inserts or supplements, do not constitute endorsement by the federal government, the DoD, the DoT, the U.S. Coast Guard or Military Newspapers of Virginia of products or services advertised.
here is no greater gift to give to the world than being of service to someone else. Our military veterans perhaps know this better than anyone. They selflessly served our country, defending our freedom worldwide, and they continue to serve out of uniform. They make significant contributions to our community through their work, philanthropic and volunteer efforts. They do not ask for recognition but contribute every day out of their sense of service and commitment. They understand and live by their principles of leadership, initiative and selflessness. It is part of their mission to make our country a better place to live, and we are lucky that so many have chosen to make Hampton Roads their home.
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This December marks the fourth anniversary of the Still Serving Military Retiree & Veteran Awards. Founded by The Flagship and Military Newspapers of Virginia, Still Serving is a recognition program that celebrates the service and achievements of these dedicated individuals. This year we received an impressive group of nominations. While all of these individuals have made significant impacts in our community, we have chosen ten as our 2014 honorees, highlighted in this section. These individuals were chosen based on their work and volunteer accomplishments, and for going above and beyond working with the military and/or civilian communities. We’d like to thank our committee members for taking time out of their busy schedules to help select this year’s honorees. Our committee members are: Gregory Banks, CMSgt, U.S. Air Force (Ret), Senior Dental Benefits Advisor, United Concordia Steve Ludwig - Command Master Chief, U.S. Navy (Ret)/Regional Military Representative, GEICO
Jason Redman was the 2013 Still Serving Award winner, pictured above with Lynne Hamilton (left) and MNV Publisher Laura Baxter (right). Paul Smith - McDonald’s Hampton Roads Owner/ Operator Joel Vargas - Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, LDO (Ret), Military Affairs Representative, USAA Adair Wells - Sales Development Manager, The Flagship and Military Newspapers of Virginia and founder of Still Serving We would also like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring the 2014 Still Serving Awards: United Concordia, our presenting sponsor, McDonald’s, Liberty Tax, GEICO, USAA and the USO Hampton Roads/Central Virginia. These businesses know the value of our retired and veteran military, and their generous support helped make this event possible.
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Favorite quote:
%ɏԽʑɠ Wɛ ȩɏ ʃKʝXɳKɢ Ɉ IRɼɗ ʃKʋɚ Wɛ ʝȼʑɚ \ʝʦɠ PʝXʃɓ ʋQɍ ȾʑPʝɃɏ ɪɸɗ GʝʅEɢ
Why? Too often people exhibit ignorance when they speak on subjects they know nothing about which can work against one’s position. If you don’t know or have the facts, it is better to be quiet or admit you do not have all the facts than to express an opinion that is without foundation.
Ties to Hampton Roads: It was the last place the Navy “deposited me.” I met my wife here and developed friendships, volunteer relationships and business relationships here.
Military highlights: Multiple Med/IO and North Atlantic Deployments // Coordinated exterior painting of Forrestal during a 7 day port visit with local contractors in Naples. // Developed multi-level mapping systems for Air and Sea operations off the East Coast. // Ship’s Liaison with the Maryland School for the Deaf. // Ship’s liaison with Frederick County MD Public Schools. // Regional FAA examiner for Air Traffic Controllers // Only Enlisted Air Operations Watch office on the USS Forrestal (CV 59) // Fleet interpreter for two deployments and two admirals // Air Show Coordinator. I also got to participate in a hand gliding demonstration at an air show (when dared by my troops that I wouldn’t do it).
Outside the military:
DAN BAXTER Navy | Air Traffic Controller First Class | Served 1975 - 1995 Virginia Beach Clean Community Commission, Civic Leadership, Lima Fire and Rescue
About helping the community: Working with the Civic Leadership, Clean Community, Lima Fire and Rescue Company, The American Red Cross and being an advocate for the community are all passions of mine. The organizations that I have been involved for more than 25 years here have been good to their volunteers and they all make a difference.
The birth of my son, Chris who I helped deliver. (He served in the Air Force Reserves and was deployed twice during recent campaigns). // My wife, Ruby. Marrying her (My closest friend and confidant) was the smartest thing I ever did. // Becoming the President of the Virginia Beach Council of Civic Organizations. // Becoming the Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Virginia Beach Clean Community Commission. // Being a board member and President of the Glenwood Community Association. // Developing Clean Community’s Helping Hands Program // Working with neighbors and friends to preserve Stumpy Lake. // Being a Board Member at Clean the Bay Day. // Graduating from Tidewater Community College. // Graduating from Old Dominion University. // Becoming Center Faculty for the American Heart Association through the EVMS Tidewater Center for Life Support. // Being a participant in the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Task Force in 2007 on management and fiscal programming. // Being hired as the business recycling and outreach coordinator for the city of Newport News. // Being the Vice Chairman and Chairman of the www. askhrgreen.org Litter Control and Recycling committee.
Advice for transitioning troops: Connect with the outside community early. It is all about relationships. People hire people they like, know and have something in common with. Find people who can help you on your way through church, civic leagues, and community groups. // Volunteer… Find something you like and check it out. From rescue squads and volunteer fire companies to police auxiliary, Clean Community, civic leagues, community associations, Habitat for Humanity, to churches and youth sports organizations. There is something out there for everyone. // Find things you like to do and do them… It is not a job when it is your passion. When you are passionate about what you do, people see it and want to help. // Know your plan before you separate… That means having all your VA paperwork ready. Going back to school, have your plan for your first semester in place before separating. Joining VFW, DAV, The American Legion, and Wounded Warriors, Wounded Wear or other organization that protects the interests of those who serve and have served. // Listen first to understand and then endeavor to be understood. // Remember, you are your own advocate.
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Favorite quote:
$ ʣʛɵȵɏ Fʋɚ ʍʢLɳKɀʑɚ \ʝʦɠ Gʋɨ ʋQɍ VʝȷHʝȸɏ ɰOȿɏ ɡ
I have always believed that it is easier to smile. I am one who would rather see the brighter side.
TANISHA A. BROWN Navy | Hospital Corpsman Third Class | Served 1990 - 2002 O c e a n a Yo u t h C e n t e r, G i r l S c o u t s
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About helping the community: I felt it was my duty to help in whatever capacity I could since my children were in their activities i.e. my daughter in girl scouts, so I became assistant leader, then felt I should be doing more! I enjoy watching the youth, so volunteer and enjoy every minute of it. Working with children has made me want to go from working with psychiatric patients to the younger ones.
Ties to Hampton Roads: My children are the reason I stayed in Hampton Roads. I became a single parent, and I felt there were more resources here to involve my children in that would keep them active. I believe an idle mind can get only get an individual in trouble.
Military highlights: One highlight is working with Lt. Mitchell on African Americans in the Medical Field luncheon. I also loved traveling to Okinawa, Japan which allowed me in my leisure time to hop to interesting places (New Zealand, Tokyo). I enjoyed my tour with the Marines — it was always exciting. And I have always enjoyed working within the psychiatric field.
Outside the military: My fondest memories are when I have seen positive improvement in my children that I volunteer with and the parent comes back to thank me.
Advice for transitioning troops: There is always some organization that can use our help. Your knowledge will be valuable to someone, as well as, encourage at least one.
My mom has two special needs children that she constantly takes to various appointments. In spite of, she finds time to volunteer as a coach for the Oceana Youth center. While coaching, she has continued her studies in psychology to earn her second bachelor’s degree. She has always put others before her. She was a Girl Scouts leader for six years when my sister was younger, as well as taking an active role in my boy scout troop. My mom loves to see people happy.” -Michael-James Brown, son of Tanisha Brown
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Favorite quote:
˜6KɛԨ IĘ?É ĘƒČąÉ? PRĘ?Éš (ÉƒĘ‘Éš LÉ‘ \Ę?ɤ Ę›LVÉĄ \Ę?ɤ›ɸɗ OĘ‹QÉ? Ę‹PĘ?QÉ’ ĘƒČąÉ? VWĘ‹UÉĄ ™ 1Ę?ʢPĘ‹Éš 9Ę–QČŞĘ‘Qɢ 3HÉŞČľÉ?
I use this for all aspects of my life. Strive for the best and reach for the highest goal possible. It has allowed me to be successful when I volunteer, my business, my family and completing my degrees.
About helping the community: The Peninsula Chapter of the Direct Sales Network is a local networking group for direct sales representatives. Our main mission is to network and to help with charities, primarily through organized quarter auctions. Recently, we’ve helped local school fundraising. // I also volunteer with Corporate America Supports You/Military Spouse Corporate Career Network as a way to give back to veterans and military spouses. It is rewarding to help veterans and military spouses ďŹ nd jobs. I also volunteer with Navy Wives Clubs of America as a way to meet other military wives and to help each year with the Wreaths Across America event.
Ties to Hampton Roads: My husband is still serving in the U.S. Navy and his orders were for Norfolk. He is currently overseas in Bahrain and we stayed here to be close to friends.
STACEY CUMMINGS A i r Fo r c e | T e c h n i c a l S e r g e a n t | Served 1994 - 2009 Peninsula Chapter of the Direct Sales Network, Corporate America Supports You
Advice for transitioning troops: No matter what your plans are after the military, you need to serve in some way. Volunteering is a great way to avoid gaps in your resume. There are lots of opportunities to volunteer and you have to be willing to look for them. Be proud of your military service for no matter how long you served, you served.
Stacey helped co-found the Peninsula Chapter of the Direct Sales Network a nonproďŹ t organization that bring Direct Sales professionals together to give back to the local community through fundraising events. This group has given back thousands of dollars a year to local community groups and Stacey is instrumental in this.â€? -Erin Voirol, employer/friend
Military highlights: I deployed ďŹ ve times during my career, twice to Saudi Arabia, twice to Bosnia and once to Iraq. I also served overseas in South Korea. I was deployed to Bosnia when the United States was attacked during September 11, 2001. It was a surreal experience to feel like we were in a peaceful area, and to immediately go into a higher threat level, and not being able to reach family members to let them know I was ďŹ ne. It was also surprising to leave the U.S. prior to the attacks and to come back after to a completely different U.S. I still remember that was the ďŹ rst time I was ever thanked for my service was after the attacks of 9/11.
Outside the military: I have my own home-based business and I have received many achievements through that business. I have also made many lifelong friends through my volunteer work and business. My fondest memories is the ability to give back, but still able to stay home with my children. Since I left the military, I was able to ďŹ nish my BSBA in accounting, an MBA in forensic accounting, and an MBA in ďŹ nance.
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Favorite quote:
˜:É? Ę‹ČžÉ? ʇKDɢ É„É? ȞʑȟHDÉ€HɎʙɨ GÉ› ([ȪɰɸȾʑQČŞÉ? ĘƒČąĘ‘Éš LÉĄ ÉšÔ¨ Ę‹Éš DFɢ Ę?Xɢ Ɉ KÉŞĘ?Lɢ ™ $ʢLVɢԧȾÉ?
I like this quote because it challenges all of us to take responsibility of our own success by becoming better each and every day to ultimately be the best we can be, yet not in an overwhelming manner because it recognizes the steady “baby steps� it takes that builds to a success.
Ties to Hampton Roads: Although I was born in Ohio, there is little doubt I am a Virginian. My family roots are buried here for many generations, deep in Virginia soil. I spent summers growing up working for my uncle on the family farm in White Post, a farm I am proud to say is still in the family. I grew up in Northern Virginia and graduated from Madison High School in Vienna. Later, I attended the Darden School at University of Virginia. My parents live in Charlottesville. My in-laws live in SpringďŹ eld. All of my children who have attended college, did so in Virginia. Yet the Navy moved me 17 times, and never once to Virginia or the D.C. area until my last very tour. They say “you can never go homeâ€? but when I received last military orders to Norfolk, I knew I was coming home! In my current position, I work with veterans and being in a military-concentrated area serves all of us more effectively. Finally, my ďŹ ve kids are at the age where their roots are growing into the Hampton Roads region. Four of them are young adults and their activities, careers, and interests are all right here.
Military highlights: I gained extensive experience over the course of a 27-year active duty Navy career in strategic planning, customer service, logistics and program management. I served both in surface ships and submarines and was designated a Joint QualiďŹ ed OfďŹ cer. Assignments included tours all over the U.S. as well as in the Asia PaciďŹ c and Europe. I am a former President of the Navy Supply Corps Foundation, Hampton Roads Chapter, focused on engaging the military community and charitable endeavors.
Outside the military:
TED DIGGES Navy | Captain | Served 1985 - 2012 Pe n n M u t u a l C e n t e r f o r Ve t e r a n s Affairs at The American College
About helping the community: Giving back is very important, and further, when there is an opportunity to give back that beneďŹ ts not only individuals, but also improves our community or society in some way, it is even better. Helping veterans with a second career in the ďŹ nancial services industry not only helps these deserving individuals in a demographic that could use assistance, but it also helps an industry that needs an infusion of the talent and soft skills that our veterans bring to the table. Finally, our society is the ultimate beneďŹ ciary when we have an effective industry with people of integrity and service that can help others make some of the most important, tough long term decisions of their life. This is really a great example of a “win-winâ€? situation with virtually no downside.
The Navy recruiting slogan when I came into the service was: “It is not just a job, it is an adventure.â€? As a young man, I bought into this adventure notion and when my dad asked me as a high school senior why I wanted to join, I said “to see the world.â€? “Wellâ€? he said, “most of the world is water, so I guess you’ll see a lot of it indeed.â€? This is all a bit ironic as I think back on it. My dad does more travelling than anyone I know. He would come visit me, always somehow associated with business to Seattle, Hawaii, Germany, and even Guam! The fact of the matter is the Navy has indeed shown me a bit of the world as well. In my 27+ years, I moved 17 times. That is right, there have been 17 permanent change of stations (PCS) where my family, consisting of my wife Lisa and my now ďŹ ve children have packed up with a moving van and started all over somewhere new‌ and each PCS was an adventure. It is true that military families are typically close-knit and this is one of the reasons why. You learn how to adapt to the opportunities in each location and take the best while protecting yourself from the worst. It was in Long Beach that Lisa tried her hand at acting in Los Angeles. It was in the PaciďŹ c Northwest where we decided to raise a family. It was on our move to Hawaii when we decided to home-school the kids. It was in South Central Pennsylvania where we started a farmette. It was in Guam we took up ocean kayaking, it was in Europe where we all learned to speak uent German‌ oh wait, that didn’t happen‌ but we did visit more than 24 countries!
Advice for transitioning troops: When in the military, you have a “built-inâ€? social life and support system with others at your command. When you transition, that changes and you have to work harder to enjoy the beneďŹ ts of camaraderie, being part of a team and working towards something meaningful. Getting involved with your local community is a great way to do this and the community is always looking for someone like you!
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President recognizes National Veterans Small Business Week Since our Nation’s founding, brave men and women have put themselves in harm’s way to protect the land we love and the freedoms we cherish. With profound selflessness, these patriots serve on behalf ofus all and enable our country to thrive. Even after our service members hang up their uniforms, they keep shaping our country, applying their innovative and unique skills to form small businesses that define our communities and drive economic progress. During Veterans Small Business Week, we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that is crucial to developing the products, services, and ideas that fuel our economy, and we pay tribute to the veterans behind them. From coffee shops to tech startups, veteran-owned businesses fortify America by boosting our economic competitiveness and enriching our neighborhoods and towns. Veteran entrepreneurs are responsible for nearly 1 out of every 10 small businesses. Those businesses generate over 1.2 trillion dollars in receipts every year
and employ nearly 6 million workers. Supporting veteran entrepreneurs is not just good for their bottom line-it is good for our entire Nation. With unmatched determination and unbounded ingenuity, these highly-skilled and highly-trained heroes help expand our economy and reflect an ideal at the heart of the American dream-that with hope and hard work, we can unlock opportunity and build a brighter future. That is why my Administration remains steadfast in our commitment to our veterans and is working to foster an environment where veterans can access the tools and resources to start or grow a business. Through initiatives like Boots to Business and BusinessUSA, we have taken steps to ensure Government works better for veteranowned businesses. We are increasing training in entrepreneurship and providing mentorship opportunities, and we have cut taxes 18 times for small businesses. These measures help veterans’
businesses thrive and have a ripple effect on our efforts to ensure those who fought on the battlefield do not have to fight for a job at home-veterans are more likely to hire other veterans. Demonstrating the virtues that make America great, our veterans embody the integrity and dedication to service that reflect the true meaning of patriotism. This week, let us recommit to supporting them and the small businesses that power the greatest economic engine the world has ever known.
-President Barack Obama
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IN THE NEWS
VetCap Surges During National Veterans Small Business Week N
ovember 3-7 was the first annual National Veterans Small Business Week. During this important week designed to support our veteran entrepreneurs, Joining Forces is excited to recognize the continued national growth of VetCap, a series of workshops to train veteran entrepreneurs on where and how to raise capital for their businesses. VetCap (capital for veterans) originated from a White House Veterans Entrepreneurship Workshop, co-sponsored by Joining Forces and the Office of Science and Technology Policy, with support from the National Economic Council. During National Veterans Small Business Week, the Obama Administration connected veterans from all over the country with workshops, resources, and training programs to establish and grow their businesses. Small businesses are essential to our nation’s economy and Veteran entrepreneurs are responsible for nearly one of every 10 small businesses; they generate over $1.2 trillion in receipts each year and employ nearly 6 million workers in the process. The White House Veterans Entrepreneurship Workshop, held in February, brought together private sector leaders in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and veterans services to collaborate on new programs to help veterans launch and grow their businesses. The VetCap concept was proposed by Craig Hanson, a venture capitalist in Silicon Valley working on veteran employment programs, and a team was subsequently formed to launch the idea into a national program. “Veterans represent some of our nation’s brightest and most dedicated entrepreneurs,” Hanson said. “A big hurdle for them, however, can be determining where and how to raise the capital they need to grow their businesses. VetCap is an innovative initiative inspired by a White House call to help veteran entrepreneurs.” The DC launch of VetCap took place November 6, in Chevy Chase, Maryland, as part of National Veterans Small Business Week and included a panel of experts from the major financing categories to teach veterans where to raise capital and how to make a pitch for financing. The event also featured speakers from the White House National Economic Council and the U.S. Small Business Administration, to outline the government’s many programs to help veteran entrepreneurs. I was grateful to have the opportunity to speak at the event and meet with veteran entrepreneurs in attendance. VetCap is an independent, private sector initiative, and Joining Forces is proud to have inspired these private sector innovators and entrepreneurs to aid in its mission to help military veterans create and grow their businesses. Doing so isn’t just good for their bottom line—it’s good for the entire country.
-Stephen Morris, U.S. Small Business Administration
Veterans represent some of our nation’s brightest and most dedicated entrepreneurs.” -Craig Hanson
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Favorite quote:
$ʙZʋ\ɡ Gɛ ʢLɳKɢ 7ʕLɡ ʨɵɸɗ ʔUDʤLʓɨ Vʝȷɏ ȼHʝɿȵɏ ʋQɍ DVWʝʜLʂɓ ʃȱɏ ȾHVɢ 0ʋʁɖ 7Zʋʖɚ
This quote from Mark Twain, clearly states that even though maintaining honesty in everything one says and/or does in life is an acceptable and desirable behavior, there will always be some people who think that it is not necessary, and they themselves decide to be a lesser person than they could be.
Ties to Hampton Roads: The area of Hampton Roads is the original home of my mother’s immigrant family which came to the U.S. from Slovakia in 1909. My father, originally from Vermont, was in the U.S. Navy and met my mother during World War II when he was stationed in Norfolk. I was born in 1944 and was raised, between my father’s various assignments, in Norfolk County, now known as the city of Chesapeake. I began elementary school at Deep Creek Elementary School and after my father’s deployments to the Panama Canal Zone and the U.S. Navy Training Center in Bainbridge, Maryland, I finished high school at Deep Creek High School in 1962. I attended Old Dominion College/University from 1962 to 1966 when I joined the U.S. Army. The Hampton Roads area is my home and I am a genuine Virginia Boy.
Outside the military: My main, lifelong interests are flying, sailing, and woodworking. // My interest in flying started at age 10 when I began building model gliders and airplanes. I began flying lessons at age 19 soloing in 1963 and became a private pilot at age 21. At age 22, I joined the U.S. Army and began my aviation career. In June 2005, along with a longtime friend and aircraft owner, I jointly flew a Cessna 206 single engine airplane, from Saluda, Virginia to Alaska and back. In Alaska we visited Bettles which is north of the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks, Anchorage and Homer. We returned to Saluda, Virginia after 25 days. // My wife and I purchased our first sailboat in 1972 and progressed through the years to our forth sailboat which we have owned for 35 years and continue to sail today. Throughout the years we have sailed the entire Chesapeake Bay, to include ocean trips around the Delmarva Peninsula with stops in Cape May, New Jersey, Ocean City, Marlyand and one trip from Norfolk out into the Atlantic Ocean and directly to Block Island, Rhode Island. // A lifelong hobby has been working with wood. I have a wellequipped wood shop. One of the greatest achievements is construction of a full set of kitchen cabinets in our present home.
About helping the community:
GEORGE A. GALO A r m y | C h i e f W a r r a n t O f f i c e r, | Served 1966 - 1995 Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Assoc., Military Officers Assoc. of America, Special Olympics
Military highlights: The tour in Vietnam held many experiences and is the foundation of many stories. My tour was from September 1967 to September 1968, which included the famous “Vietnam Tet Offensive” of 1968. I was very active during that period and in the course of the one year tour accumulated more than 1,400 combat flight hours.
I am a life member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association and value the honor of having served my country as a member of the U.S. Army and my service as a combat helicopter pilot in Vietnam. // As a former trooper of the Virginia State Police, membership in the Virginia State Police Alumni, Inc. helps maintain the close relationships founded, cultivated and necessary during my years as a State Trooper. // Military Officers Association of America: As a retired Officer of the United States Army, I feel it is important to work closely to preserve the fraternity built with fellow members of our military. // The local chapter of the Virginia Aeronautical Historical Society conducts monthly meetings with the purpose of highlighting significant aviation related accomplishments with the focus on both the history of aviation and current developments. // Special Olympics. I have volunteered for the past four years in an 11week long bowling competition for the local area Special Olympics.
Advice for transitioning troops: Every person has specific interests, skills, and abilities that manifest themselves at various levels of expertise and proficiency. Recognize the skills and abilities one has, and hold as a personal obligation, the need to provide support to others and find a place to use those divine given skills and abilities. Good fortune received from a successful career was received for a purpose, the best of which will be to give back for the benefit of others.
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McDonald’s of Hampton Roads and N.E. North Carolina are proud to support our active duty military and veterans. Through programs such as the USO and the Virginia Wounded Warrior Program we strive to help those that have helped us.
Virginia Wounded Warrior Program Virginia Department of Veterans Services
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Favorite quote: ˜'É› ÉšÔ¨ ȡHDĘŁĘŚČžÉ? \Ę?ĘŚÉ ĘŁXFČŞHVÉĄ Ę?ɨ KĘ?ÉŚ Ę›XÉÉ“ PĘ?ȸʑɨ \Ę?ɤ Hʋʢɚ Ę‹QÉ? KĘ‹ÉƒÉ? Ę–Éš ĘƒČąÉ? Eʋɝɖ 0HDĘŁĘŚČžÉ? \Ę?ĘŚÉ ĘŁXFČŞHVÉĄ Ę?ɨ ʇKDɢ \Ę?ɤ GÉ› IĘ?É Ô§ČąĘ‘UÉĄ Ę–Éš ȸČHÉ? Ę?ɨ ԾȯʑʢʖQÉ’ ĘƒČąĘ‘É™ Ɉ ČąÉ°Ę™Ę Ę–QÉ’ KĘ‹QÉ? ÉšÔ¨ Ɉ KĘ‹QGĘ?Xɢ 0HDĘŁĘŚČžÉ? \Ę?ĘŚÉ ĘŁXFČŞHVÉĄ Ę?ɨ ʇKDɢ \Ę?ɤ FĘ‹Éš Ę”Ę–ÉƒÉ? WÉ› \Ę?ĘŚÉ FĘ?PĘ›ĘŚĘœLʤɨ ʨLĘƒKĘ?Xɢ DĘ‚Ę˜Ę–QÉ’ IĘ?É Ę‹Ęœ\ĘƒĘ•Ę–QÉ’ Ę–Éš ČžHʤʌʢɚ :ʕɨ" ,É‘ Ę‘ÉƒĘ‘Ę˘\Ę?ȸÉ? JĘ‹ÉƒÉ? WÉ› ĘƒČąĘ‘Ę–É FĘ?PĘ›ĘŚĘœLʤɨ ȹɰʙȟHÉ? ԧȹʑUÉĄ Ę–Éš ȸČHÉ? ʇKDɢ Ɉ ʔȞHDɢ ZĘ?Ę OÉ? É„É? ZĘ?Ę…OÉ? KĘ‹ÉƒÉ? ™
About helping the community: I always wanted to be a police ofďŹ cer and in 1975 was told about the Portsmouth Police Department’s volunteer auxiliary police program. I wanted to give something back to the community and help reduce the crime rate so I applied to the auxiliary unit and was accepted in late 1975. I attended the police academy and was sworn-in as a police ofďŹ cer in 1976. I started as a Patrolman working in the Uniform Patrol Division with assignments through the years as a detective in the Vice-Narcotics Unit, Warrant Squad, Background Investigations, Larceny Squad, and Crime Impact Street Crimes Unit. Through the years, I was promoted to sergeant, lieutenant and to captain in February 2001 as the Auxiliary Unit Bureau commander, in charge of 20 other auxiliary police ofďŹ cers. From 1975 to 2014, I have volunteered more than 33,172 hours working the street.
Military highlights: My military career was a dream come true. I started as an enlisted E-1 (Airman Recruit) and rose through the ranks to E-8 Senior Chief Petty OfďŹ cer as an Aviation Electrician’s Mate. I applied for an LDO (Limited Duty OfďŹ cer) “Mustangâ€? commission in 1982 and was commissioned an ensign in 1983. I was promoted through the ofďŹ cer grades of lieutenant junior grade, lieutenant, lieutenant commander and my ďŹ nal promotion was to commander in 1999. I have performed duty in Bahrain, Egypt, Iceland, Newfoundland, Greenland, London, Scotland, Norway, Italy, Malta, Spain, Cuba and onboard nearly every aircraft carrier in the eet. I was able to see the pyramids and sphinx in Egypt, and cross the arctic circle to get my “blue noseâ€? certiďŹ cate. Traveling the world with a police badge and ID card, allowed me to meet and become friends with other country’s police ofďŹ cers. I was able to swap patches, invited to ride along with them while off-duty from work and share “cop storiesâ€? that are the same all around the world. I have met presidents, congressmen, senators, rock stars and performed support services for our deployed troops. On deployment to Iceland in 1976, one of my radar E-2B aircraft tracked a lost Cessna aircraft with four Icelandic citizens on board. The aircraft was lost in the North Atlantic and had lost all communications. Our radar plane found them, ew in front of them and led them back to the airport. We received commendations from the Icelandic government and the U.S. Navy. I have had a fantastic life full of one-in-a-million events and would not trade it for anything.
RONALD HYMAN Navy | Commander | Served 1969 - 2002 Department of Criminal Justice Services
Outside the military: Seeing my six wonderful children and 13 grandchildren grow up and be successful is indescribable. Serving my country and traveling around the world with the Navy and meeting civilians, business owners, military people and police ofďŹ cers from around the word has been an amazing experience. Other achievements have been volunteering to work on the board of directors with the Volunteer Law Enforcement OfďŹ cer Alliance, The Fraternal Order of Police, the Reserve OfďŹ cers Association, and serving with the local ESGR committee in past years. It has also been an honor and a privilege to work with the men and women of the best police department in the country, the Portsmouth Police Department. Being selected by my peers for the Auxiliary Police OfďŹ cer of the Year Award twice in my career was quite an honor I will never forget.
Ties to Hampton Roads:
Advice for transitioning troops:
I was born and raised in Norfolk and my late father was born in Norfolk in March 1922. I was blessed to be in the United States Naval Reserve and serve my country out of Naval Station Norfolk my entire 33 year naval aviation career which included scores of deployments around the world. I love the water, the 4 changes of seasons here in Tidewater and have never thought of living anywhere else in the world.
Don’t forget where you came from. Remember that you had to start at the bottom and work your way up. Find someone to mentor and help them grow. Find an organization that you believe in and offer your time and services. You will be able to look in the mirror each day and smile knowing you are helping your community and doing your part.
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Favorite quote:
7ȱɏ QDʤLʝɚ ʇʕLɭɓ IʝUȰHWɡ LWɡ ȫHȯʑQȫʑUɡ ʨɵɸɗ ȩɏ LWȿɰOɑ IʝUɒԦɀʑɚ &ɪʙʧʖɚ &RɼʙLGȰɏ
I believe this quote forewarns our nation’s youth that the freedoms they have can be easily lost should they not remember the sacrifices made to earn them.
About helping the community: I first volunteered with the Patriot Guard Riders in June 2006, which is an organization that, when the family requests our presence, our mission is to attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes. In my dedication to continue to honor these families I become a Ride Captain (RC) in March 2009. In December 2010 I became the Senior Ride Captain for District 5 – Hampton Roads and in October 2012 became the Assistant State Captain for Virginia – a position I still hold. // I then joined the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA) Virginia Chapter 27-1 in September 2010. CVMA is an organization that is comprised of those who saw combat, supported those who saw combat or are the spouses of those who saw combat, and ride motorcycles. Among our many endeavors our chapter has conducted four annual poker runs that raised funds for homeless veterans residing at Vets House in Virginia Beach and for the Cedar Grove Affordable Apartments for Disabled Veterans in Virginia Beach. // In 2011, I was asked to join the Horton Wreath Society, a fledgling organization whose sole purpose is to purchase wreaths to be placed on every gravesite and columbarium row each year on the second Saturday of December at the Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk; one of only three state veterans cemeteries in Virginia. We are an all-volunteer organization with no paid employees. This year we will be laying approximately 6,000 wreaths.
Ties to Hampton Roads: I fell in love with the area during active duty and decided to retire here!
Military highlights:
REBECCA LANDICK Navy | Chief Legalman | Served 1972 - 1992 Patriot Guard Riders, Horton Wreath Society, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association
Advice for transitioning troops: They have the unique opportunity to stay involved with this country’s veterans and veteran organizations. They have been blessed during their military career and can continue to serve their fellow man. Their commitment to their country does not stop the day they take off their uniform but, rather, continues for a lifetime with unbounded thanks and emotional rewards for their contributions.
In 1975, I was privileged to be a part of the Navy’s community action program and became a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO). The Navy paid for us to attend the San Diego Sheriff’s Academy and, in addition to our active duty assignment, we donated time with our local police department giving back to the community. I was with the Coronado Police Department for a year before transferring to the Navy’s Justice School in Rhode Island. // In 1978 I became the first Legalman to become a recruit company commander. I thoroughly enjoyed molding young minds and instilling a sense of pride, patriotism and responsibility in the future sailors of that time. I also continued my LEO community service with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in Florida while I was a company commander. // Even though I did not serve aboard ship I supported those who did. Throughout my career as a Legalman I was honored to serve with some of the finest Judge Advocate General (JAG) lawyers and to assist in a myriad of legal aid and family advocacy ranging from pre-deployment will preparation to designations of beneficiary, in courts-martial ranging from murder to espionage and in JAG Manual Investigations ranging from aircraft mishaps to ship collisions. I can truly say that I enjoyed everyday of my Navy career and was honored to serve my country.
Outside the military: Doing three four-corner rides around the country on my motorcycle with my husband. Our dog has traveled with us in her own trailer towed by my bike and she was an avid traveler for several years. Traveling via motorcycle has given us an opportunity to participate in veteran events with the Patriot Guard in other areas of the country when the opportunity arose. It also gave me the opportunity to soak in the sights, sounds and smells of this beautiful country. Another very fond memory while riding on the West Coast is giving our grandchildren rides on our motorcycles.
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Favorite quote:
˜&Ę?ĘŚUDČ°É? ɪɸOĘ?ZÉĄ ĘƒČąÉ? ĘŁXFČŞHČżVĘ“Ę…É— ZĘ?PĘ‹Éš WÉ› Iʋɾɗ Ę‹QÉ? ČľHʋʢɚ SĘ?É„Ę‘UĘ“Ę…É— ČľHČżVĘ?QÉĄ Ę“UĘ?É™ ĘƒČąÉ? IʋɾʙʌȞÉ? VÉ› ĘƒKDɢ Ę–Éš ĘƒČąÉ? Ę‘QÉ? Ę‚ČąÉ? Ę?LĘ?ɚ›ɢ Iʋɾɗ Dɢ ɪɸɗ ™ 0Ę‹\Ɉ $QČ°É°OĘ?ɤ
I love this quote, every chapter in my life teaches me a lesson. Each lesson has a purpose. Life lessons will make or break you. The life lessons that broke me made me into the women I am today.
About helping the community: I work with American Legion post 165 in Yorktown. I have been the Service OfďŹ cer since 2009. The position helps Veterans ďŹ le VA claims and answer questions for veterans and their family members. I love helping people. When I got out of the army in 2008, I had to ďŹ ght to get my VA beneďŹ ts – it took years. When I received my beneďŹ ts, I told myself I will help veterans do the same. I did not want veterans to have to ďŹ le VA paperwork alone. I love helping veterans ďŹ ght for the beneďŹ ts that they need. I believe no veteran that served this country and went to war should be homeless or unemployed, and they should have wonderful health beneďŹ ts.
Advice for transitioning troops: I would tell them to join a group that loves helping veterans and ďŹ nd out how can you help homeless veterans in your community.
Ms. Morris is always willing to help anyone at our school. She constantly volunteers to assist faculty & staff with open house events, job fairs, and orientation.� -Angel M. Robinson, college classmate
LYREN A. MORRIS Army | E-4 Specialist | Served 2001 - 2008 American Legion Post 165
Ties to Hampton Roads: I stayed in Hampton Roads after getting out of the army medically retired because I had to think about my sons. I wanted better for my sons and I did not want them to go through the things that I went through growing up in Philly. I live in Newport News I really enjoy the area and my sons love living here. Hampton Roads is a military area and I really love it.
Military highlights: I deployed from Ft. Eustis in February 2008 to Kuwait and Iraq. This is where I learned a lot about myself and realized I need to change how I think. Being deployed taught me to love my family more, the small things in life really make me smile, and it was a wake-up call. I did not know if I would ever see my family again. // Being in the Army, I met some wonderful people from all walks of life. I learned about myself and about other cultures. // I know some wonderful people from the military that I still talk to.
Outside the military: My achievements outside the military are being a teenage mother and that my sons are doing well, they plan on joining the Air Force. // When veterans call me and say “Momo (my nickname,) I received my VA beneďŹ ts!â€? I just smile. // Joining The American Legion and becoming a Service OfďŹ cer. // Going back to school, class president at Stratford University (Newport News Campus) with a 3.8 GPA, studying Business Management. I want to open up a non-proďŹ t homeless shelter for women veterans. // Not letting my disability stop me from helping veterans and people.
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2014 Still Serving Veteran of the Year Favorite quote:
˜,ɢ ›ɥ ÉšÔ¨ ĘƒKDɢ , FĘ‹Éš Ę‹QÉ? ĘƒČąĘ‘É¨ Fʋɚ›ɢ ,ɢ ›ɥ ĘƒKDɢ , ʨɾɸɗ Ę‹QÉ? ĘƒČąĘ‘É¨ ZĘ?ɚ›ɢ ,É‘ , FĘ‹Éš Ę‹ĘœĘ‰ERĘ?ɨ FĘ‹Éš <Ę?ɤ KĘ‹ÉƒÉ? WÉ› šZĘ‹Qɢ WÉ› ›™
Ties to Hampton Roads: We retired at Fort Monroe in 2006, and our children lived in Baltimore, and it was close by. Leslie my wife was (and is) teaching in Poquoson, and we fell in love with Virginia and decided this was a much gentler weather than going back to Montana.
Military highlights: Three tours in Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Served with one brother in Vietnam and another in Iraq. We served in Germany – Korea. The children had over 17 countries on their passports before they graduated high school.
Under Frosty’s leadership, the DAV York County Victory Chapter 13 of Yorktown is now open ďŹ ve days a week, meeting the needs of veterans as they come to complete and submit Veterans Affairs claims.â€? -“Terryâ€? Bohlinger, friend and comrade at DAV 13
Outside the military: Achievements outside the military are my grandkids and learning how to become a civilian again. After 20 years as a sergeant major, becoming a civilian is a bit difďŹ cult. My children and grandkids keep me grounded. Riding my Harley motorcycle gives great pleasure to me and my wife – we like weekend trips just to get away with friends for a 1,000 mile ride.
TIMOTHY PENTECOST Army | Sergeant Major | Served 1975 - 1995 C o m m a n d e r o f DAV Yo r k C o u n t y V i c t o r y C h a p t e r 1 3 o f Yo r k t o w n
Advice for transitioning troops: Join a service organization. Without the service organizations to lobby Congress and Capital Hill for the bills for the veterans and the military – we would get very little or nothing. With service organizations like the DAV, VFW, American Legion, MOPH, and the many others like them, the more members they have, the stronger their voices are heard on Capitol Hill. They run on the power of their membership.
About helping the community: I am a life member of several service organizations. But when I needed assistance (when I retired) the DAV stepped up to the plate and assisted me with my retirement packet and getting all of the issues with the VA in proper order. Without the DAV, I would have been lost. When it was my turn to step up to the plate and assist veterans, I came straight to the DAV.
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IN THE NEWS
Hampton Roads good for veterans to earn degree By Dianna Cahn | The Virginian-Pilot Good news for veterans seeking a degree in Hampton Roads: This is a pretty good place for vet-friendly colleges.
Our emphasis on finding jobs for people is very strong.” -Bob Larned, ECPI’s executive director of military education
In its annual ranking, Military Times named Old Dominion University, ECPI and Tidewater Community College among the “Best for Vets” colleges nationwide in their respective categories. Old Dominion ranked 14th out of the top 100 four-year colleges - a 16-spot jump over last year, according to the school. TCC ranked third of the top 20 in the two-year category, and ECPI, a for-profit school headquartered in Virginia Beach, came in second out of 20 among the online and nontraditional schools. Bob Larned, ECPI’s executive director of military education, said the college has landed among the top three on the list since 2012 - not just by helping veterans graduate quickly in the school’s accelerated program, but also by offering strong career services to help vets get jobs once they graduate. He said the typical student veteran is older than the average student - nearing 30 - and often already married with a family. That student typically will have a job and views college as a means toward a post-military career. They have less time for socializing, and they value the assistance the school offers through its veterans office, Veterans Affairs counselor on campus and its career services offices. “Our emphasis on finding jobs for people is very strong,” Larned said. “Getting a job when you graduate is really the most important thing. It’s a very appealing factor for ECPI and the students that come here.”
CAREERS AND CONTINUING EDUCATION To read stories geared toward veterans transitioning out of the military and into the workforce, see our quarterly Careers and Continuing Education special section at http://bit.ly/1pgelIv.
Several hundred schools participated in the 2015 ranking, based on a detailed questionnaire that Military Times asked students to fill out. The survey contained more than 100 questions that delved into issues it said were most crucial to student vets, the publication reported. It used student responses along with academic success measures and other data compiled by the U.S. Department of Education to rank the schools. Batanya Gipson, who works at the Center for Military and Veterans Education at Tidewater Community College, said the school was delighted with the recognition.
THE VIRGINIA BEACH CAMPUS OF TIDEWATER COMMUNITY COLLEGE
“Our staff, the majority of which are veterans or spouses, understand the special circumstances many military-related students face when seeking higher education,” she said. “Our main goal is to ensure our students have what they need for academic success and employability. We are thrilled our commitment to this goal has been acknowledged by Military Times.” More colleges than ever before are tracking the academic success rates of their military students, the survey found. Out of the schools that responded, just 45 percent provided any military-specific graduation, retention or course completion rates. Still, that was up from 30 percent last year and just 11 percent two years ago. It also found that graduation rates among veterans were very similar to graduation rates among all students in both two- and four-year colleges. Old Dominion made the largest leap in the survey among the three local schools. Its director of military affairs, retired Vice Adm. David Architzel, said its ranking is an accurate reflection of what the university is doing to reach out to vets. Of particular note, the university created a military connection center last year, where military-affiliated students can seek information or guidance. And it doesn’t just educate veterans, Architzel said: ODU also has programs for active-duty military members. “It’s very important, sitting here in Hampton Roads surrounded by all branches of military,” Architzel said. “It’s about being known as a military institution.” This story originally appeared in The Virginian-Pilot and Pilotonline.com
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Favorite quote:
˜$QÉ? VÉ› ʛɨ ȯɰɸOĘ?ÉŚ $ȡʑʢLFĘ‹QÉĄ DĘ‚É– ÉšÔ¨ ʇKDɢ \Ę?ĘŚÉ FĘ?ĘŚQʤʢɨ FĘ‹Éš GÉ› IĘ?É \Ę?ɤ — DĘ‚É– ʇKDɢ \Ę?ɤ FĘ‹Éš GÉ› IĘ?É \Ę?ĘŚÉ FĘ?ĘŚQʤʢɨ ™ -ÇŒ.
Advice for transitioning troops: There are opportunities everywhere to serve your community. Find something enjoyable that will expand your abilities or experiences.
Ties to Hampton Roads: We continued ownership of our house in Norfolk when I retired, and returned here when I ďŹ nished working as Technical Director for the U.S. Chess Federation (USCF) in 2000. Other than the trafďŹ c, Norfolk is very enjoyable. That said, I also miss living in New Hampshire where we moved after I retired in 1985. New Hampshire is a great state.
Through the Chess House, Ernie has made chess accessible to the masses. He provides numerous venues for people to get involved in the game, running tournaments throughout the region.� -Christina Schweiss, friend
Military highlights:
ERNIE SCHLICH N a v y | E l e c t r o n i c s Te c h n i c i a n Fi r s t Class | Served 1964 - 1985 V i r g i n i a C h e s s Fe d e r a t i o n ( V C F ) , Hampton Roads Chess Club (HRCC)
About helping the community: I’ve always enjoyed chess since learning to play before high school. In addition to socialization and competition, chess has great value teaching life lessons and values. In addition to my volunteer work as a tournament director and chess club ofďŹ cer, I have also taught chess for young people at several Boys & Girls clubs and also at area recreation centers. Mentoring young people and providing opportunities to enjoy a great sport help to continue the values and desire for community service I developed in the Navy.
Above all, the best thing about serving in the U.S. Navy was the outstanding people I worked with and for. They made my service memorable. My ďŹ rst tour was unbelievably fun. While serving on the USS Canopus, I spent about 2½ years in Rota, 9 months in Bremerton, WA, and a year in Holy Loch. I can’t think of a more enjoyable and interesting ďŹ rst tour for a single Sailor. Some of the high points were crossing the equator and going through the Panama Canal. My last ship was USS Independence CV-62 from ’83-85. My ďŹ rst deployment started on my wife’s birthday. She turned on the evening news and discovered I was heading for Grenada. She expressed concern in the ďŹ rst letter I got. I replied that I was probably safer on board the Indy than braving trafďŹ c going to NOB. The highlight of this deployment was visiting Jerusalem and Bethlehem over Christmas. My ďŹ nal tour included a visit to Singapore and my only visit to WestPac.
Outside the military: In addition to my many chess activities which included directing the Armed Forces Open chess tournament onboard the USS Wasp, I enjoyed serving as an election ofďŹ cer for Norfolk. The only personal achievement I like to mention was becoming the State Amateur Chess Champion of Virginia in 2009. // The best thing I ever got from chess was this true story. As noted elsewhere, I became involved in USCF tournament chess in 1972. I went to the Charleston CC and played in my ďŹ rst rated tournament. The tournament was directed by one of the few women chess players in the area. We started dating and were married in ’73. She taught me how to direct chess tournaments and we have had a life full of chess since we met.
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United ConcordiaŽ Dental Honors our Military Veterans and Retirees United Concordia Dental has administered dental benefits for military members and their families for more than 18 years. We proudly support our nation’s military service members, veterans and retirees. Thank you for your continued service to the military community. We salute your courage and honor.