Homeland Magazine April 2023

MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD

Tips for managing the emotions and feelings of your family

Supporting Our Mighty Military Kids

Military Child Education Coalition

SEALKIDS

MILITARY TO Law Enforcement

TRANSITION To Civilian Life

Woman Warrior Overcomes Adversity to Live with Purpose

VETERANS Resources & Support

Reclaiming Control PTSD

US Navy (1987 – 1993) US Air Force (1993 – 2013)

PTSD treatment can turn your life around. For more information visit: www.ptsd.va.gov/aboutface

“I’m happier with myself. Having been in therapy, period, has helped me be in a better place now.” Rogelio “Roger” Rodriguez, Jr

www.HomelandMagazine.com

Welcome to Homeland Magazine!

Homeland is a veteran-focused magazine throughout the country. It serves to assist all veterans, active military as well as their spouses and families.

It is the leading veteran magazine emphasizing resources & support and focusing on topics and issues facing today’s veteran community. Homeland focuses on resources, support, community, transition, mental health and inspiration for our veterans, & military personnel.

The content is the driving force behind our magazine and the connection it makes with our veterans, service members, military families, and civilians.

The magazine is supported by a distinguishing list of veteran organizations & members, resource centers, coalitions, veteran advocates, and more. We are honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people.

Despite all the challenges, our team has upheld their focus and let not one opportunity go to provide resources and support to our veterans & military personnel.

On behalf of our team, we wanted to take this moment to say THANK YOU to the readers and the military and veteran community for supporting our magazine. With that support we aim to make a difference and continuing to make a profound impact on the quality of life for our veterans, military personnel and their families.

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Mike Miller Editor-In-Chief mikemiller@homelandmagazine.com

www.homelandmagazine.com

Publisher

Editor-In-Chief

Mike Miller

Monthly Columns

What’s Next Transition

Eve Nasby • Kristin Hennessy

Human Resources

Paul Falcone

Veterans in Business

Barbara Eldridge

Successful Transitioning Stories

Dr. Julie Ducharme

Risky Business

Hadley Wood

Franchise Frontline

Rhonda Sanderson

Real Talk: Mental Health

Hope Phifer

TLC Caregiving

Kie Copenhaver

Art & Healing

Amber Robinson

Legal Eagle

Kelly Bagla, Esq.

Family Law

Tana Landau, Esq.

Midway Magic

David Koontz

Veterans Chamber Commerce

Joe Molina

Contributing Writers

Wounded Warrior Project

Raquel G. Rivas, WWP

Disabled American Veterans

San Diego Veterans Coalition

Veteran Association North County Shelter to Soldier (STS)

Eva Stimson

(In-House) Correspondents

Holly Shaffner

CJ Machado

Bouncing Back Stronger:

Woman Warrior and Purple Heart Recipient Overcomes Adversity to Live with Purpose

From the Streets of Chicago to the Notre Dame Basketball Court to a Battleground in Iraq, Danielle Green’s Story is One of Determination and Inspiration

By Paris Moulden, Wounded Warrior Project

LeBron James was there. Peyton Manning was, too. So were Derek Jeter, Stephen Curry, and the reigning World Cup champion U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. But the real hero at the 2015 ESPYs was Army veteran and wounded warrior Danielle Green.

The annual star-studded ESPY Awards celebrate the biggest names and best performances in sports. As a former standout for the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, Danielle certainly fit that mold. She played for the Fighting Irish from 1995-2000 and is one of the team’s top-20 all-time leading scorers.

But it wasn’t her athletic prowess that brought Danielle to sports’ biggest awards stage that night. It was her tenacity, strength, perseverance, and courage. And those qualities were on full display when she took the stage in her purple, sleeveless dress, baring her scarsand a prosthetic arm, to accept the Pat Tillman Award for Service.

That night, in front of hundreds of celebrities and millions of viewers, Danielle talked about the importance of finding your purpose. It’s something she has done over and over again.

A Child’s Dream

Danielle’s independent and adventurous streak started at an early age. She grew up in Chicago on the South Side. Her dad wasn’t really in the picture and her mother fell victim to the drug epidemic that ravaged cities in the 1980s and 90s, so her grandmother helped raise her.

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“I wore a purple dress because it was symbolic of the Purple Heart,” Danielle said. “I wanted people to know that I was strong, fierce. I wanted to show the world that there are female combat veterans out there and we do come back with war scars.”

At the tender age of 7 or 8, Danielle was already planning her future and how she was going to change her life.

“I told myself then that if I don’t go to the University of Notre Dame, then I’m going to go into the military,” Danielle said. “Those were the two things that gave me hope as a child.” Turns out, she’d accomplish both of her goals.

Making the ‘Dream’ Team

In high school, Danielle moved in with her grandmother permanently, which gave her some much-needed stability. She wanted to play basketball, join ROTC, and get the best education possible, so she attended Roosevelt High School in Chicago’s North Side. She would take two trains and a bus to make the 50-mile round-trip commute for all four years of high school, but she had one goal on her mind.

“I remember telling people, ‘I’m gonna go to the University of Notre Dame,’” Danielle said. “I just had this thought that no matter what, I’m going to go. I remember telling my high school coach that I was going to Notre Dame, and he just looked at me. Now I understand what the looks were about, nobody really believed me. But I believed.”

At 17, Danielle started getting recruitment letters and scholarship offers in the mail. They were plentiful – 70plus. Then one day, it came, the one she’d been waiting for. The Fighting Irish were interested in her. Although she briefly considered some of the other schools, she verbally committed to Notre Dame after a recruiting visit before she even left campus.

The Fighting Irish and Facing Reality

Danielle had made her dream come true. She was in South Bend, walking by the famed Golden Dome and the ornate Basilica of the Sacred Heart, wearing the iconic gold and blue jersey, and playing basketball for future Hall of Fame coach Muffet McGraw.

But none of it was making her happy. It wasn’t really like she had pictured in her childhood. Danielle felt lost – a non-Catholic, Black woman from inner city Chicago at an affluent, majority-white, Catholic university in Indiana.

“I’m not seeing anybody who looks like me,” Danielle said. “It was somewhat of a culture shock. I don’t know if [my coaches] really knew how much baggage I had brought from Chicago, because I never went to therapy as a kid. It was just one of those things I just dealt with. But once I got to Notre Dame, I realized I was probably clinically depressed.”

An introduction to a sports psychologist helped Danielle change the way she was thinking and dealing with negative thoughts. And although she tore her Achilles tendon her sophomore year – the same year Notre Dame went to its first NCAA Final Four – she maintained her focus on school and the team, using her time on the sidelines as a learning experience. “I had an opportunity to see how a team really works and interacts together,” Danielle said.

“Somehow, I figured it out and I’m a better person for it because I believe my experience at Notre Dame really prepared me for what was in store for me in the military.”

The War … and the Rings

After graduation, Danielle tried out for the WNBA’s Detroit Shock, making it to the final cut. When that didn’t work out, she returned home, and took a job teaching physical education and coaching high school basketball. She met someone, began a relationship, and contemplated graduate school.

“One day, I just woke up and I was having an identity crisis,” Danielle said. “I didn’t know who I was. I had identified myself as a student-athlete for so long, and now that was gone. I realized I didn’t want to teach. I really didn’t want to coach. As I reflected on it, I thought about the 7-year-old girl who wanted to join the military and thought, ‘I’m getting older now. If I’m gonna do this, I need to do this now.’”

A year after she enlisted, Danielle was in Iraq. It was January 2004, and she was assigned to be the company commander’s gunner. Although she was proud to be selected, she was also aware of the risks and the possible aftermath of combat. “My goal was to get back to my cot every night,” Danielle said.

At one point, Danielle had the chance to return home on leave to visit her family. She used the time to marry her longtime boyfriend before returning to Iraq.

“I had a premonition when we got orders that I was going to get hurt,” Danielle said. “So, I told my boyfriend, ‘Let’s get married, just in case.’ We loved each other, don’t get me wrong, but I just said, ‘I think I’m gonna get hurt.’ I went back to Iraq as a married woman. I had the rings and everything.”

Seven weeks after her wedding, Danielle and other MPs were summoned to report to the police station, where they trained Iraqi police officers. “We get to the police station and normally we’re greeted by the civilian kids, but there are no kids there. It’s empty,” Danielle said.

“We go inside. There are no police officers, just the detainees, and I’m like, ‘Oh, boy, this doesn’t look good.’ But you do what you’re told to do.”

Normally, rooftop surveillance would be done in twoperson team rotations, but because of a staff shortage, only one soldier was going on the roof at a time. When Danielle’s turn comes, she goes up to the roof alone.

“I surveyed the area, and everything looked clear,” Danielle said. “I’m starting to relax and all of a sudden, something hits the barricades two stories below and somebody shouts up, ‘Green, are you OK? Are you OK?’”

Danielle wasn’t hurt and immediately reacts as she’s trained to do. She lifts her rifle and turns the safety lever to fire. As she kneels into position, a blast from a rocketpropelled grenade knocks her down.

“I just remember thinking this can’t be real,” Danielle said. “I’m lying there angry, in shock, waiting to die. My body’s numb. I hear ringing in my ears and there I am, facing mortality. After a little while, I realized that maybe I wasn’t going to die. So, I said a prayer.”

Danielle asked for the strength to go on, to be able to share her story, to be able to help others. She prayed about the child she had been wanting to have, and whether that dream would ever be able to come true now.

“I can feel the numbness and the shock starting to wear off and I just felt pain come from every which way,” Danielle said. “My uniform is shredded and covered with blood, and I can see my thigh is shredded. I couldn’t tell what was going on with my arm. I’m waiting and I’m waiting. And then my comrades come up and start performing first aid, trying to tourniquet my arm.”

Thirsty and bleeding, but still conscious, Danielle’s fellow soldiers manage to get her off the rooftop and to a Humvee. They transport her to an airfield to be medevaced to a hospital, where she’s cut out of her uniform and taken into emergency surgery. Hours go by before Danielle comes to and realizes the extent of her injuries.

“I wake up and I see the entire command standing at the foot of the bed and they’re crying,” Danielle said. “And I’m looking at them like, ‘Why are you crying?’ I look down and I noticed that my left arm was shorter than my right.”

In disbelief, Danielle looked at her master sergeant and asked if her arm was missing. The answer left her

reeling. She had lost her left arm in the attack – the arm she used to shoot hoops; the hand her new wedding bands had been placed on less than two months ago. She began crying.

‘Hey, I gotta tell you something,” she recalls her master sergeant saying. “A couple of your sergeants went back up to the rooftop, and they found your hand under several inches of sand.’”

The damage was too severe to repair the arm, but her fellow soldiers had retrieved the wedding rings, which were now placed on her right hand.

Building a New Future

Danielle survived, but her injuries would be lifealtering. After a few days, she was moved to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, DC, to begin her recovery. One of the first things she remembers from her arrival at Walter Reed was receiving a backpack from Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP).

“I am still grateful that somebody was there to provide support,” Danielle said. “They were the first folks who came and then my husband came. He was smiling and crying at the same time, and we just embraced each other as hard as we could.”

Because she was left-handed, Danielle had to go about learning how to do everything again – driving, cooking, combing her hair, tying her shoes – with her right hand. But the one thing Danielle really wanted to get back to was playing sports. Being athletic and physical was a part of who she was.

“The connection that Wounded Warrior Project provided was vital,” Danielle said. “They were there for us. It really helped me realize that maybe sports could be my way of healing.”

Danielle left Walter Reed in 2005, ready to acclimate back into the civilian world. She wore a prosthetic with a hook at the time and had to get used to the stares. She decided maybe now was the time to go to graduate school.

“I thought I was done with Wounded Warrior Project after I left the hospital, but then they contacted me in May of 2005 about Soldier Ride Chicago,” Danielle said.

WWP’s Soldier Ride® is a multi-day cycling event for warriors of all skill levels, but Danielle didn’t know how she was going to ride a bike with one hand – and she didn’t even own a bike.

“Wounded Warrior Project said that’s OK,” Danielle said.

“We’re going to have [your local bike shop] build you a bike or modify a bike – and they did. I still have that bike today, almost 19 years later.”

Once Danielle participated in Soldier Ride, she started thinking about all the other things she could physically do.

“I like to say that was a springboard to the adaptive sports world,” Danielle said, “It built my confidence because after that, I learned how to water ski; I went golfing. It became a big part of my rehabilitation.”

Danielle started going to graduate school and got a job with the Chicago Board of Education, but she still felt she had a greater purpose. She applied for, and received, a position working as a mental health therapist for the Department of Veterans Affairs, allowing her to help other veterans like her.

In 2011, Danielle was dealt another shocking blow when her husband unexpectedly passed away from cardiac arrest.

“It kind of shook me up again because I’m seven years out [of Iraq], and he had been there [for me] before, during, and after Iraq,” Danielle said. “Now my partner was gone, so I went through a lot.

“Wounded Warrior Project was there for me again then. I remembered them calling me and invited me to go to Kodiak, Alaska, to fish all week and I did. That helped me to take my mind off of things and try to focus on healing the best I could.”

What’s Your Purpose?

In 2014, Danielle met her ultimate purpose – what she had prayed for 10 years ago while laying injured and alone on the hot, sandy rooftop in Iraq.

She gave birth to her son Daniel.

“He’s my why,” Danielle said. “I have this kid who I’m responsible for, who I’m watching grow up and I’m nurturing him. It is my duty, my obligation, to make sure I can provide him with the very best that I can and make sure he grows up to be a productive citizen. He’s my purpose.”

A year after Daniel was born, Danielle was honored for her service and sacrifice at the ESPYs. The award, named for the late Pat Tillman, who gave up an NFL career to join the Army in the wake of 9/11, honors individuals with a strong connection to sports who serve in ways that echo Tillman’s legacy.

Danielle had found her purpose, through her son, through the veterans she helps every day, through showing herself and others that no matter what life throws at you, there is a way forward.

“Trauma and adversity are all around,” Danielle said. “It’s not unique to veterans or the military community. We’re all struggling with something. We can bounce back to even stronger heights. You have to believe in that.”

Danielle now works for WWP’s Warriors Speak, inspiring all to find their purpose and to not let anything stand in their way. She always had the drive and determination, but the support Danielle received from her childhood mentors in Chicago, her sports psychologist at Notre Dame, her fellow soldiers in Iraq, the programs and services at Wounded Warrior Project, her dad who helped raise her son for the first four years of his life, and especially Daniel, allowed her to not just survive, but to thrive.

“You don’t have to struggle or suffer alone,” Danielle said. “There is help out here. That’s the No. 1 thing to know. Build a supportive team around you.”

About Wounded Warrior Project

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition.

Learn more:

https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org.

team

SEALKIDS

Navy SEALs are some of the most courageous and strong individuals in the world. SEALs make up just 1% of all Navy Personnel. While we may not always see what SEALs are up to because of their privacy and protection, SEALs are sent on missions daily that are unimaginable to most of us. SEALs spend up to 9 months of the year out of the home on mission and in training. With SEALs being gone for most of the year, their spouses and families must make sacrifices to keep SEALs on mission. Dad doesn’t get to come home at 5 pm and eat dinner with the family; SEAL families accept a unique normal and may need help to support children while one parent is away on life-threatening missions.

Because even our bravest individuals need support, the National Nonprofit SEALKIDS exists to help provide additional team members and support for SEALs and their families.

SEALs are never out of the fight, and neither is SEALKIDS.

SEALKIDS SUCCESS STORIES

Mikey began services with SEALKIDS in 2014. He graduated high school in 2022. Mom shared: “We are beyond grateful for the support SEALKIDS has provided. Thanks to SEALKIDS, the financial burden of tutoring was not an issue. We are ever so grateful for the help and the assistance we have received over the years. It has been invaluable! Mikey has graduated and is working his first job!”

Jacob also began services with SEALKIDS in 2014 and graduated from high school. Mom shared: “Thanks to SEALKIDS Jacob has continued to grow and mature in his academic performance. We are VERY thankful to have the support provided. Now Jacob is doing great! He is working and having a blast!”

Since 2011, SEALKIDS has helped over 1,000 children across the USA reach their academic goals. SEALKIDS works as a partner with parents, schools, and the Naval Special Warfare community to address the unique challenges faced by some of our heroes’ children.

SEALKIDS, through its programs, supports the children of Naval Special Warfare—everyday kids living in extraordinary circumstances.

This encompassing approach of academic testing, tutoring, therapy, advocacy, and enrichment fosters the success and well-being of the child, critically reducing family stresses and ultimately keeping today’s Navy SEAL in the fight.

HOW TO JOIN THE SEALKIDS SQUAD

SEALKIDS is able to work with the over 350 children they currently serve due to generous donors who have decided to sacrifice for those that sacrifice for us. By raising funds for SEALKIDS, you are helping the only non-profit organization devoted solely to children’s educational support and success in the Navy SEAL community. Your generosity will help children living in a world most cannot comprehend, improve their grades and confidence to pursue their own mission in life. You can fund their future.

Ways to Get Involved With SEALKIDS:

• Learn about SEALKIDS www.sealkids.org

• Attend local events- www.sealkids.org/calendar

• Companies can reach out to contact@sealkids.org to create a partnership with SEALKIDS to raise funds and awareness for SEALKIDS and their companies.

IN NEED OF SERVICE?

If you are in a SEAL family or know a SEAL family that could benefit from SEALKIDS services, please go towww.sealkids.org/request-help and fill out the form to request service.

Military Child Poem

My hometown is nowhere.

My friends are everywhere.

I grew up with knowledge that home is where the heart is and the family is.

Mobility is my way of life.

Some wonder about roots, yet they are as deep and strong as the mighty oak. I sink them quickly, absorbing all an area offers and hopefully giving enrichment in return.

Travel has taught me to be open. Shaking hands with the universe, I find brotherhood in all men.

Farewells are never easy.

Yes, even in sorrow comes strength and ability to face tomorrow with anticipation.

If when we leave one place, I feel that half my world is left behind, I also know that the other half is waiting to be met.

Friendships are formed in hours and kept for decades.

I will never grow up with someone, but I will mature with many.

Be it inevitable that paths part, there is a constant hope that they will meet again.

Love of country, respect and pride fill my being when Old Glory passes in review.

When I stand to honor the flag, so also do I stand in honor of all soldiers, And most especially, to the parents whose life created mine.

Because of this, I have shared in the rich heritage of military life.

~ Anonymous sealkids.org/donate

Military Child Education Coalition Helping Kids Thrive is a Worldwide Mission

Did you know there’s a global non-profit that’s 100% devoted to helping smooth transitions and supports overall well-being for military kids and their families? It’s a massive mission that calls for considerable teamwork: The “coalition” in the name Military Child Education Coalition (or MCEC, for short) connects administrators, teachers, military officials, parents, and students (both military and civilian).

MCEC (www.militarychild.org) was founded 25 years ago when a school administrator in Killeen, Texas – near Fort Hood, one of the world’s largest military posts – saw the challenges military children faced, and the many ways these students chose to excel. That administrator, Dr. Mary Keller, founded MCEC in her office at the Killeen ISD. That program quickly became a model of support for military families.

Today, MCEC continues to serve children and families worldwide. The organization is there to support all branches of the Armed Services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, National Guard, and Reserves. MCEC also provides support to the ROTC Cadre and veterans’ families, too.

The organization works through a variety of innovative programs and services that provide inspiration, imagination, cooperation, and socialization. For example, the MCEC Frances Hesselbein Student Leadership Program invites select students to a weeklong, intensive, life-changing leadership program at the United States Military Academy (Westpoint) and the United States Air Force Academy. The MCEC Student 2

Student program trains both military and non-military children to serve as young ambassadors helping newcomers feel welcome at their new schools. And MCEC SchoolQuest, an online resource, makes it easier for parents to access transcripts and other essential information to prepare for their next school move.

MCEC’s holistic approach to its mission is rooted in empathy and understanding for military families. One of its signature programs, MCEC Call for the Arts, is an annual contest that invites students to use original, personal works of art to express what it means to be a military-connected child. The competition launched in 2002 and has expanded its categories by popular demand to allow for almost any form of art imaginable. This includes entries for paintings, drawings, sculptures, 3D art, poetry, personal stories, photography, video, and even performance art such as interpretive dance.

The entries received could (and perhaps should!) fill a museum. Submissions are categorized by grade level: Elementary (K-5), Middle (6-8), and High School (9-12). As you might expect, the artworks express everything from the innocence of young children to the raw emotions of adolescents and teens, and all the learning, hopes, achievements, losses, fears, and questions these amazing young artists experience in their everyday lives.

Curating and judging the works is a true labor of love for the MCEC family. Entries received from around the world are welcomed from children with direct military connections, and from non-military students who find themselves moved to express their support and perspectives on the experiences of their militaryconnected classmates. The results are a journey through the truths of these young artists, sometimes heartwrenching and other times heartwarming … but always powerful.

The works are often fascinating reflections of their moments in time. This has been especially evident in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. After years of even more isolation and separation than normal, opportunities for connection were more essential than ever. Military children found themselves going without goodbyes to teachers, classmates, and friends due to school shutdowns and remote learning. Or, when arriving to new hometowns, they faced challenges acclimating and forming new bonds due to school closures. In some cases, when schools reopened, it was time to move again.

As you celebrate the military kids in your life, explore our Month of the Military Child toolkit and find free, downloadable resources. Militarychild.org/MOMC_Toolkit

The pandemic-era artworks MCEC received express the experiences of their young creators with vivid honesty that make it obvious that the competition created something powerful of its own: an outlet to channel emotions in ways that turned out to be healthy, restorative, and fulfilling. One 2021 winner commented, “It feels empowering that I am a voice for other military children ... and that we do not go unnoticed.”

Awareness and recognition for MCEC Call for the Arts is gaining considerable momentum. Selected entries are displayed at an installation at MCEC’s annual Global Training Summit in Washington, DC, and the top three winners in each grade category are invited to attend and be recognized at a special ceremony. In 2022, First Lady (and educator) Dr. Jill Biden met with the winners and presented their awards before a live audience of hundreds (and seen online worldwide).

Entries for the 2023 MCEC Call for the Arts close on April 6, 2023, but the competition will be fortified by another brand that serves millions of children (and parents) around the world: Kellogg’s. To celebrate April as Month of the Military Child, Kellogg’s is supporting a concurrent art contest from April 1-30, hosted by DeCA commissaries on every military installation.

Visit your commissary for details, or MCEC online at www.MilitaryChild.org/programs/the-call-for-the-arts

There’s much more to MCEC’s work. Do you know someone who might benefit from MCEC’s programs, or would you like to help support our mission? Visit www.MilitaryChild.org to find out more.

There still time to enter Call for the Arts! Visit militarychild.org/programs/the-call-for-the-arts today!

The MCEC Global Training Summit offers the resources, knowledge, and community to support military children. Join us July 24-26, 2023, in Washington, DC. Militarychild.org/gts

Tips for managing the emotions and feelings of your family

By Cindy Grossman, LCSW, Executive Director, Kids’ Turn San Diego

Serving in the military is oftentimes perceived as an act of service by an individual. As true as this is, when the member is married and has children, at Kids’ Turn San Diego, we see this honorary service as one by the entire family. In recognition of the month of the military child, we offer this article as a new perspective. Imagine for a minute, that the family is a system and whenever something happens with one person in the family, that it travels through the whole system. From this perspective, the mom, the dad, the children and even the dog and cat would be impacted by this one event.

Let’s consider the event of a deployment. The family is enjoying their time together, parents work in or outside the home and the children go to school. The family system is working. The children are happy little kids that love their teachers and the teachers love them. Then the orders arrive. We have been told by parents in our programs that deployments tend to begin with orders, then pre-deployment meetings, preparation and a pre-deployment event that the parents gain support and resources, and the children get to jump in jumpy houses, get their face painted, see juggling acts and get balloon animals. They have tons of fun and then learn later that one or both of their parents are leaving for six months.

So how do the orders of deployment affect the family system? From those we work with, many military families have told us that couples tend to start arguing and fighting the minute they learn of the orders. Some have months to prepare, so months of fighting, while with others, the time is brief but more intense.

Why is this so common? Perhaps it is due to unspoken feelings of sadness, anger, powerlessness, fear or worry. Perhaps it is because as a family system, these emotions travel through the system like an electric shock and they affect each person.

For a pre-school age child, they may developmentally regress, like having potty accidents, wetting the bed, or pushing siblings or other classmates. For an elementary age child, they may be a happy kid who becomes angry and aggressive. But why is this so common? It’s common because children learn everything from their parents. When a parent is happy, the child tends to be happy. When a parent is sad, the child tends to be sad. When the parent is anxious and stressed, the children begin to worry. Young children do not understand why their parents are different. They don’t understand the arguing or the fighting. They don’t understand a parent packing, leaving and not coming home that day from work. They don’t understand why their parent who is home keeps crying or yelling at them.

Emotions are real and natural for every human. Some people share them with grace while others wear them on their sleeves. Some stuff them so deep that they use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate or to avoid their feelings at all costs, while others become explosive and unpredictable. When we consider a family as a system, when something happens to one part of the system, the entire system is affected. So, what do we do about it?

Remember, children are always watching, and they learn everything from their parents. Your children will adjust as well as you adjust. Your children will do what you do. If you are late all the time, they will learn to be late. If you yell at them (which is a common parenting behavior so if you yell sometimes, you are not alone!), they will yell at others. If you are angry, they will be angry.

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We honor military families and military-connected children. Here are some tips for managing the emotions and feelings of your family system:

1. Your children are not responsible for your emotional well-being. If you tell your children how you are feeling or expect them to take care of you because you are sad, angry or using substances to self-medicate, these behaviors could result in your children feeling like they need to take care of you. Instead, reach out to friends, family, support groups, counselors or other adults who will listen without judgement. Your feelings are valid and important, but they are not your children’s responsibility to manage.

2. Have you ever asked your child a question and five minutes later, when you ask it again, has your child said, “I already told you”? Parents are busy people, and we forget how to really listen, especially during times of high emotions or stress.

There are many ways to listen. When your children want to tell you something, listen with your body language by kneeling down so you are eye level with your child and leave your arms open (crossed arms tell others that you do not want to hear what they have to say). Repeat back in your own words what your child is telling you (Oh, so what I hear you saying is…). Ask questions and seek to understand (I’m not sure I understand, do you mean or are you saying?). Suspend the urge to give advice (this is a hard one for a lot of parents!) Instead of offering advice, ask your child, what are you going to do or do you want some suggestions? If they say no, respect what they say. No matter what your child tells you, do not get angry or overly emotional. Your children are coming to you because they trust you. If you overdo it with emotions, they will not come back.

3. Use “I Feel Statements”. How to begin? Google feeling face sheets, then find one you like and print it out. Show it to your children and begin a conversation about the feeling faces. Even three-year-olds can point out a feeling face they like or don’t like. Have fun by making the feeling faces at each other and guess the feeling, then put the feeling words into sentences. “I feel (happy) when you (listen to me). Please (listen to me more and give me hugs at the end).” This is a great communication strategy, and it works for people of all ages.

For more information about Kids’ Turn San Diego, please visit www.kidsturnsd.org. In honor of month of the military child, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

Real Talk: Mental Health

By Jenny Rodriguez, LMFT, Clinician, and Emily Paddock AMFT, Clinical Fellow The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics at VVSD

Supporting Our Mighty Military Kids

A military child can be described in various ways: strong, resilient, adaptable, puissant, and the list goes on. Yet, our mighty military kids are often forgotten in the whirlwind of the military world.

From inconsistent homestead to uncertainty of caregivers being present to “always being the new kid,” it is without doubt that our military children face unique challenges that are often misunderstood. When we lay out the experiences that a military child must endure, we can make parallels to the challenges that our foster youth face. Although not one of the same, the analogous comparison of inconsistency garners insight into the complex world that our smallest heroes face with an active-duty caregiver.

The unfortunate reality is our smallest ones are often left behind due to the limited resources provided to children and the collective family by the greater facet of the military. Although every child’s experience is a unique one, it is not rare for children to be visited by bouts of anxiety, fear, sadness, and anger as a result of the tough challenges of being a part of a military family.

So, what can we do to support our military children? Here are a few tips:

• Family Meetings. Stead and true, from both a personal and clinical perspective, unity and connection can be maintained with simple additives such as weekly family meetings. Family meetings can provide an opportunity for the whole family—even a potential service member that may be away via facetime—to share their weekly celebrations, grievances, or needs. It provides a sense of consistency when consistency may not be a commodity. To add in a little extra fun, the weekly meetings can swiftly roll into a family game night, where each family member can choose a game for everyone to participate in. It’s an uncomplicated way to build connection and foster closeness, despite the potential of being during physical disconnection and a complicated situation.

• Storytime. Children’s books discussing the reunification process, deployment, and emotional regulation are very powerful when reading these to

such population. Military children tend to make various connections across these books.

• Transitional objects included during the process of deployment and reunification seem to be an effective intervention that assists military children with coping through such process. For example, there might be a favorite blanket or other meaningful item or chosen possession that can be carried from one home to the next.

• Practice routines and encourage coping skills, among other things. Transitions are very challenging for military children, therefore interventions that involve using timers, alarms, prompting ahead of time, giving breaks or break cards, teaching/modeling/practicing coping skills and emotional regulation techniques with children and their families have shown to be very effective, especially during the deployment and reunification process.

Additionally, professional mental health care can be a key part in coping with military life for children. For example, military children can be receptive to play therapy interventions grounded on a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach by demonstrating ability to express safely feelings, thoughts, and behaviors impacting them when parents are deployed or returning home. Military children also tend to respond positively to deep breathing exercises, count downs, grounding exercises to manage feelings of anger, sadness, and other strong emotions linked to such adjustment and changes when parent is deployed.

Behavioral modification interventions, such a token economy and positive reinforcement could be a useful tool for helping military children find healthier ways of coping, making transitions, adjusting to changes, and finding a motivational factor to keep going. For example, a child will be asked what they would like to work for at the start of session and will earn tokens (i.e., stickers, or stars) each time they complete a preferred (i.e., playing a chosen game) and a non-preferred task (i.e., reading a book on regulating emotions, relaxation exercise etc.).

Also, through dollhouse play therapy intervention, military children seem to be able to “play out” the struggles home might be giving them with the deployment and reunification process and learn healthier ways to address or manage such challenges. Having conjoint sessions with military children’s parents and/or with their family unit can also be very effective when working with these children and can strengthen their support system and not feeling alone in the process.

The beauty of the Cohen Clinics with Cohen Veterans Network is that our clinicians understand the uniqueexperiences of military children and their families and can cater to every child’s individualized needs. With some clinicians who are children of servicemembers themselves, they can appreciate both the challenges and opportunities that come from being in this anomalous position.

PROUDLY SERVING THOSE

WHO SERVE

WHO WE ARE

Serving since 2003, Operation Gratitude is the largest and most impactful nonprofit in the country for hands-on volunteerism in support of Military, Veterans, and First Responders.

3,000,000

OVER

1 Million Military, Veterans and First Responders Impacted VOLUNTEERS

OUR MISSION

To forge strong bonds between Americans and their Military and First Responder heroes through volunteer service projects, acts of gratitude and meaningful engagements in communities Nationwide.

WE BELIEVE

Actions speak louder than words

Saying “thank you for your service” is the start of a conversation that leads to a better understanding of service

Hands-on volunteerism, acts of gratitude and meaningful engagements are the best ways to bridge the civilian-service divide

We focus on empathy, resilience, service, and sacrifice rather than sympathy, challenges, needs, and pity

PTSD: Reclaiming Control

By: Robert ‘Bob’ Cuyler, PhD Psychologist and Trauma Expert

Exploring Treatment

Although the psychological impact of war has been known for thousands of years, the ‘official’ diagnosis of PTSD was only formalized forty years ago. So it should come as no surprise that treatments for PTSD are still evolving and too often are not effective enough.

Let’s take a look at the treatment options we have available, how they work and how individuals can choose the treatments that best fit their needs.

The COVID pandemic placed PTSD front and center in the public eye, and people began understanding that trauma from serious illness, combat, crime, sexual assault, accidents and abuse can negatively affect both civilians and veterans. With many veterans choosing second careers as first-responders (in law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, etc.), exposure to new trauma can aggravate previous trauma.

However, there is hope on the horizon and newer options that widen the choices available for seeking help. These can also address some of the reasons why someone might refuse to get help - fear, stigma surrounding PTSD, and confidentiality issues among them.

(Part 2 of 2)

The Veterans Administration’s National Center for PTSD recommends several forms of psychotherapy as preferable over psychiatric medications, with a lower risk of side effects or negative reactions to drugs. Trauma-focused therapies considered to be the most effective include:

• Prolonged exposure therapy (PE)

• Cognitive processing therapy (CPT)

• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)

These therapies tend to have better and longer-lasting benefits than medications and general counseling.

But one of the challenges with these treatments is that they involve recalling traumatic memories, and this ‘re-experiencing’ is both necessary and difficult in these therapies. This can be a ‘hard sell’ for many who suffer from PTSD since they usually attempt to avoid traumatic memories. This is one of the reasons why roughly 50% of participants drop out of exposure-based therapies before completion.

For veterans seeking help for PTSD, there are many challenges to getting access to care. In fact, most veterans with PTSD receive no therapy at all, whether due to personal choice, a lack of available therapists nearby, or having tried therapy before without seeing significant benefit. There are also only a limited number of therapists in the VA health system and in our communities with specialized training in trauma therapy.

Telemedicine has been an important factor in making therapy available to veterans who don’t live near a VA center. There’s also ongoing research on the use of psychedelics, but since it comes with risks and will require careful regulation and supervision of its use, widespread availability will likely be slow.

Digital therapeutics that offer in-home, confidential treatment and don’t involve repeated exposure to traumatic memories are another option. When combined with support from a coach who can guide you remotely via weekly check-ins, published studies prove their effectiveness not just in reducing the symptoms of PTSD but also in improving how often people stick with it and benefit from it.

Cuyler is chief clinical officer of Freespira, an FDA-cleared non-medication treatment that helps people with panic and PTSD manage their symptoms by learning how to regulate their breathing. - www.freespira.com

WOUNDS WE CANNOT SEE

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder does not always allow the affected to seek help. Lend a hand and provide them with methods of help, listen and be a friend.

Homeland Magazine works with nonprofit veteran organizations that help more than one million veterans in life-changing ways each year.

Resources. Support. Inspiration.

At Homeland Magazine you can visit our website for all current and past articles relating to PTSD, symptoms, resources and real stories of inspiration.

Resources & Articles available at:

E S O U R C E S homelandmagazine.com/category/fighting-ptsd

FIGHTING PTSD

WHAT’S NEXT

Transition to Civilian Life

By Eve Nasby & Kristin Hennessy www.bandofhands.com

Transitioning to Becoming Your Own Boss

We write this article to provide tips and tricks to help you land that next job out of the military. But what if you don’t want to just get a job? Maybe you are built to be an entrepreneur! Whether you see a need in the market or have a specific passion you want to fulfill, you just need to know the right resources.

Did you know that there are thousands of resources out there for veterans to start their own businesses? Veterans and veteran spouses are purpose driven, so they tend to make great entrepreneurs.

We connected with veteran entrepreneur Luc-Rikardo Fils who is the Founder and CEO of DomumGym toget his first hand advice on creating your own business following your transition.

Overcoming Mental Barriers

It’s common for veterans to experience mental barriers that can hinder their success in the civilian workforce. The feeling of isolation is very common. Military life is highly communal, and veterans may feel disconnected from the civilian world. Connecting with other veterans and building a new network is the simplest way to combat this.

Then there’s the feeling of not being valued. Veterans may feel that their skills and experiences are not recognized or appreciated in the civilian workforce, but that’s not the case at all. Your experiences are highly valued and coveted in the business world.

Finally, veterans may struggle with adapting to the less structured and more fluid environment of civilian life. Developing new routines and practicing them daily will help you feel more structured and purposeful.

Starting a business isn’t overnight, and success isn’t guaranteed, but it does provide a way to lead a different kind of mission that can provide you value and structure in a way that works for you, instead of others.

Finding Your Own Value

Luc and his wife came up with their idea as a result of their own struggle with physical fitness and isolation during the pandemic. Specifically, Luc saw his wife struggle with fitness programs that just did not match her needs on many levels.

“We looked around the Thanksgiving table and we were the only ones not in great shape. My brother-in-law is a ranger, and the rest are all athletes. Then there was my wife and I. We needed to do something differently.”

Luc continues,” It was difficult for us to ‘get out’ to the gym especially as parents of young children. Though it would be great to look like Maverick with the oiled-up abs in the Top Gun beach scene, that’s just not our style or need.”

Together, they decided to fix this problem and jump into being their own bosses and changing the way that itness online gets done.

So, they created DomumGym, a virtual gym online designed for regular folks. They now have a national and international presence and are growing. It truly has brought a sense of value and purpose to Luc and his family. (https://domumgym.com)

If you’re looking to solve a problem by way of creating a business, he suggests keeping 3 things in mind.

1. Choose your team wisely.

“A Navy runs on its belly.”- Napoleon.

On a ship, the nuclear department needs the supply department because the supply department provides the food. Everyone needs food on a ship. If you are pursuing entrepreneurship, make sure you find a wellconnected team. Be extensive in searching for the team to make sure that they share common goals and interests, but not necessarily common temperaments. Discord can be good as long as you have healthy ways to overcome disagreements.

2. Make sure you have security

Always make sure you have capital and a network. Don’t quit your day job to work your own business unless you have capital. His team has been able to find great partnerships and leverage the SBA and SCORE who provide free business mentors. They can be your “Obi-Wan” to your Luke Skywalker. They also may be able to lead you to investors.

3. Persevere

He encourages us to remember that Mark Zuckerberg started out in his dorm and Jeff Bezos in his garage 20 years ago. It may take a while to get off the ground, but perseverance is key. You have the ability to create something of benefit to billions of people if you persevere.

Financial Resources:

Starting a business can be expensive, and it’s understandable that veterans transitioning out may not have the financial resources to get started. However, there are options available, such as loans and grants specifically designed for veteran-owned businesses.

Some resources include:

• Veteran Entrepreneur Portal (VEP) is a resource for veterans who are interested in starting or growing a business

• Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Veteran’s Advantage program provides fee waivers and discounts on SBA loans for veterans who own businesses as well as access to training and counseling services that can help veterans succeed in entrepreneurship.

Need help with your transition? Have questions?

Link up with Eve on Linked In today. www.linkedin.com/in/eve-nasby-given-hiring-expert

www.bandsofhands.com

www.bandofhands.com

BUSINESS FOR VETERANS Find the Gold

By Barbara Eldridge www.mindmasters.com

We use Goal Setting for various broad areas of our life … why not set a goal to master prospecting, to be a champion Prospector, an expert on the subject, or the World’s Best?

But just like Athletes, musicians, mechanics, writers; it takes practice. As solopreneurs there is little time to spend practicing, when you wear all the hats –bookkeeper, marketer, sales rep, manager, and producer.

If you have ever observed the activities of a young child, you know that their learning process is based on the principle of spaced repetition. They learn new words, begin to grasp their meaning, use the words whenever they can, until the words become a part of their vocabulary. Spaced repetition is one of the most effective forms for upping the game. To be a Master Prospector takes practice.

Start with a database system/CRM, one that allows you to group each name based on their value to you and how often you want to follow up with them. Get all those business cards off your desk and into a system. It will only produce Successful RESULTS! If you Use it!!!

Having your referral talk ready will be easier with every connection, learn it by heart. Develop the skill to draw people out. For a thought stimulator ask for specific leads, the kind you have identified as your ideal client. Have you tapped all the sources you have for prospecting, Strategic Alliances, Clients, Centers of Influence?

Get over the reluctance of picking up the phone. Use of the phone in Prospecting is a must. Use the phone to call your best friend –ask for a lead. Use the phone to call your best Center of influence – ask for more leads –express your thanks for those he/she gave you before, that are now customers and clients.

Organized activity and Maintained Enthusiasm go hand-in-hand. Being consistent is a must part of becoming a “Pro” at Prospecting.

Practice gives you mastery of your follow up system. When you think about – and plan to have a funnel full of leads and prospects – they must be filed, categorized, classified, rotated and always up to date!

The database funnel becomes your POT of GOLD!

So as a Master Prospector what else should we be practicing?

• Asking sales questions: Take the time to create a list of relevant and meaningful questions that help you discover the problems your target audience faces. Having a list of insightful questions will serve you well, time and time again. Your questions will support you in your quest to differentiate yourself and establish credibility and trust. They will open up new opportunities.

• Listening: Perhaps your most important skill; learning what a person’s needs and wants are, help to reveal if you can truly work together.

• Sales Process: Every step along the sales path, from prospecting to closing the sale is an opportunity to tweak your technique. Once you find the right combination of words that bring the best results, you then practice them over and over again.

If you have ever been to the batting cages, were made to practice the piano, or remember learning the multiplication tables, you know that practice is the foundation for any skill. Prospecting is a high priority high payoff skill. Does your prospecting tool box need sharpening? If you haven’t checked yourself out lately, you may be surprised that you are leaving something important out or have made a change that has caused you to be less effective. Look first at the high-priority, high-pay-off activities that drive business growth and practice, practice, practice.

Barbara Eldridge has built a solid reputation as a Results strategies specialist, within industry and business over the past 40 years. Her unique message, since starting Mind Masters 30 years ago for entrepreneurs and small business owners, continually stresses vision, purpose and values as the key elements of business philosophy. www.mindmasters.com

Prospect Your Way to Greater Success

Transition to Business HUMAN RESOURCES

By Paul Falcone

Family-Friendly Workplace Benefits

April is the Month of the Military Child. What better time is there to discuss family-friendly health and wellness benefits in the workplace? Once you transition from the military to the private sector, you’ll likely have some questions, concerns, and ah-ha moments about how benefits work at different companies.

Accommodating families is actually a key focus for many organizations, primarily to recruit and retain workers and achieve higher levels of employee engagement and satisfaction. But healthcare expenses weigh heavily on company budgets and are often regulated by the state, so finding the right mix for the employee population is always a challenge for the employer.

With parents making up 40 percent of the workforce, offering a benefits package that supports employees in different life stages is essential. If a private sector employer offers any particular family-friendly benefits, they’ll typically advertise them broadly in their recruitment advertising campaigns and career portals, especially benefits that are designed to be advantageous to career-oriented working mothers—a segment of the working population particularly hard hit by the pandemic and not returning to the workplace as quickly as other segments of the population. This may include paid maternity and paternity leave, alternative career paths, extended leave, flextime, job sharing, relaxed dress codes, summer hours, elder care flexibility, and telecommuting.

Some organizations provide take-home meals for those working overtime, subsidize babysitting, or offer jobfinding assistance for spouses of employees who are relocating. Requiring workers to shut off their mobile devices after hours is another perk that organizations are increasingly giving to their employees. All help recipients balance career and family. All square with Gen Y (Millennial) and Gen Z’s (Zoomers) desires for greater work-life-family balance, harmony, and control. And all help organizations raise the support they can provide to working parents while their employees raise their little ones or care for their elders.

Let’s take a bit of a deeper look into what some of these benefits are and how they work. . .

• Paid Parental Leave

• Flexible Work Schedules

• Childcare Assistance

• Dependent Care FSAs

• Adoption Assistance

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

• Wellness Programs

• Financial Wellness Benefits

• Paid Parental Leave

Paid parental leave is a benefit that allows new parents to take time off from work to bond with their newborn child. It is often offered to both moms and dads (but sometimes just for mothers), and companies often follow state law in determining how baby bonding works, for how long, and how it is compensated.

• Flexible Work Schedules

Hybrid work schedules are on the rise; fully onsite and fully remote work schedules are on the wane. While there’s much debate about “productivity paranoia” from CEOs and how “managing the unseen” can be accomplished effectively, hybrid work arrangements are providing the best of both worlds: consistent performance and productivity for employers and a healthy balance of autonomy and accountability for workers. Flexible start and stop times as well as job sharing round out this category, which can return workers who have remained on the sidelines since the pandemic back into the office or onto the shop floor.

• Childcare Assistance

If a company helps with childcare programs, it could include onsite daycare, subsidies for daycare costs, and reimbursement for daycare expenses. Broader benefits are generally found with the largest employers, but small to mid-sized organizations may be competitive in this space as well in order to attract and retain talent.

• Dependent Care FSAs

Flexible spending accounts permit you to set aside pretax dollars to fund eligible dependent care expenses, including daycare, after-school programs, and in some cases, summer camp.

• Adoption Assistance

Adoption assistance benefits, when available, are intended to cover adoption-related expenses and provide paid time off for bonding with the new child.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

EAPs offer counseling, support, and referral services to help workers with personal and family problems that may affect their job performance. Services typically cover mental health and depression, substance abuse, legal and financial aid, and other family-friendly services that help balance personal challenges that can sometimes flow over into work performance.

• Wellness Programs

Gen-Z Zoomers (the 25-and-under crowd) are testing out as the most isolated and depressed generation on the planet thanks to their consumption of digital media, among other things. That’s why you’re hearing so much about mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. Programs in this area typically include gym memberships, health coaching, yoga classes, smoking cessation, teletherapy, and similar benefits.

• Financial Wellness Benefits

Inviting guest speakers from local financial institutions to discuss employee financial wellness benefits often begins with leading workshops on household budgeting, investment and retirement savings, and estate planning (e.g., wills and trusts). Speakers and their services help workers gain financial acumen that translates into greater security and peace of mind. Likewise, pay-anyday solutions grant employees access to their earned wages (up to 50%) between pay periods. Keep an eye out for this and other digital solutions that are intended to make your work-life balance that much easier.

Companies offer benefits like these to retain staff and produce a more productive, happier workforce. It’s also the right thing to do in the face of today’s pressing family challenges. Look to these and other solutions that are being developed and rolled out as we speak. The goal is to help workers balance their work and family commitments, reduce anxiety and stress, and ultimately increase job satisfaction and retention. Those are noble goals for any employer and something that workers can leverage to their and their families’ benefit.

You can connect with Paul on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/paulfalcone1

Paul Falcone (www.PaulFalconeHR.com) is a management trainer, executive coach, and bestselling author on hiring, performance management, and leadership development.

Successful Transitioning Stories

By Dr. Julie Ducharme www.synergylearninginstitute.org

Kamin Samuel

Kamin Samuel started her professional career as the U.S. Navy’s first female AfricanAmerican helicopter pilot. She transitioned to having several small businesses and then to corporate as a web developer at a computer electronics company. Kamin moved up quickly working for several organizations, even serving as Vice President of Online Merchandising and Vice President of Global Website Operations at a billiondollar company.

Kamin is now an International Business and Executive Life Coach, and an IMPAQ B STATE® Coach, helping professionals increase their wealth mindset, improve performance, develop Breakthrough leadership skills, and create strategies to expand their opportunities. She assists her clients in identifying and clearing their inner blocks to achieving greater success in all areas of their lives.

Kamin holds a PhD in Positive Neuropsychology, a Masters of Science in Information Systems, a Masters of Arts in Spiritual Psychology, and a Masters of Science in Spiritual Science. Kamin’s unique background combines the technical and soft skills, allowing her to assist individuals in taking practical action in the real world that gets dramatic results. Kamin is a philanthropist and passionate about assisting educational organizations. She sits on the Board of EduCare Foundation, Los Angeles’ largest after school program. Kamin is passionate writer.

Did you feel pressure to be successful transitioning out because you were a barrier breaker?

Yes, I felt pressure as there had only been one other woman in aviation and that was Brenda Robinson, nobody in helicopters. They wanted to do a lot of press, but I had to get out to the fleet. I watched Devotion over the weekend and Life Magazine was interviewing him and that resonated with me as he didn’t want to be interviewed and as barrier breakers we just want to fit in. I wanted to make sure as a African American female aviator that I did not make mistakes that would hurt future female aviators. I wanted to make sure

I represented black females so they could never put a negative stereotype on us. I just wanted to make sure I did the best I could so any female behind me would always think she going to be great because they have only seen greatness.

Do you feel your military training helped equip you for your transition?

Yes, because going through the training to become a pilot was the toughest thing I ever did and just getting my commission was hard enough. I was not an athlete when I was there, so I had remedial on everything, even running. The things we had to do to get our commission taught me and helped me realize the grit and resilience that comes from my military training. The one decision I made when I entered into the military is that I would not give up, and that decision has carried me through my life. If you can tap into that, you’ve already survived so much being in the military, you can find that resilience and continue to push through in transition.

What barriers did you run into as you transitioned into business and as well creating your own business?

When I got out, I went into a business that was direct sales and it was not in alignment with who I am. It was not a natural fit and I failed epically; bankruptcy and loss of two homes. What I had to learn was what I am good at and focus on that and choose to recover and create from there. I was great at technology, and I looked at being a therapist. And I wanted to rebuild my self-esteem and my confidence with my natural talents. I found jobs that helped me excel in those areas. But I had to change my mindset to find what was in alignment to who I am and how I can channel that energy to make money and thrive.

What is it that you do to continue to empower your fellow women in military that are transitioning out?

I try to always answer the call whenever needed to speak or support. As much as I can I tell them all, they can do anything if they are willing to put in the work. Just like when I joined the military my decision was to not quit. The challenge coming out of the military is

you don’t know who you are, you don’t know you can do anything. They could do anything on this planet because of the skills they learned in the military but often we don’t realize this as we transition out of the military. So, make sure to focus on your why and what you really want to do. Once you do that, you will find the right job and industry you want to move to.

To learn more on what Kamin is doing check out her website www.kaminsamuel.com/about-kamin

Finding a job in the civilian world may seem easy at first. After all, you have learned skills, practiced leadership and demonstrated initiative that will make you successful wherever you go.

The reality, though, is that it can be difficult. In fact, it can be downright depressing, demotivating and you may feel totally disillusioned.

Veterans In Transition is dedicated to you and to helping you succeed in your transition.

For editorial & monthly columns regarding transitioning to business, career advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners and more visit Veterans In Transition at www.tinyurl.com/Veterans-In-Transition

To see how we help and support veterans transitioning out of the military check out our school www.synergylearninginstitute.org

Why Veterans are Perfect for Cybersecurity

By: Stephen Patrick, Marketing Coordinator

Veterans are mission-driven, protectors, and ready for action at a moment’s notice. They are respectful, dutiful, and have integrity. An estimated 55% of people transitioning to civilian life want to do something different than they did on active duty. This is according to LinkedIn’s recent Veteran Opportunity Report.

Are you on duty or a veteran seeking a meaningful new career after serving your country? If so, explore a fast-growing field for an urgent demand for many of the skills you have developed in the military — cyber security. This growing field requires many of the strengths often gained through military service and presents an opportunity to continue to serve your country in a new context: combating the widespread and ever-growing threat of cybercrime. Cybersecurity is a high-stakes field with a critical mission—protecting civilians and businesses from cyber-attacks. There are over 700,000 openings in America (www.statista.com) and 3.5 million worldwide. Cybersecurity is one of the highest-paying industries as tech has taken over our lives.

“Veterans bring a special breed of leadership and experience to the workforce, an unflappable presence during times of crisis and uncertainty,” said Dan Verton, Director of Content Marketing at Cybereason.

Ethical hackers actively work to ensure the security of their information systems, ensuring no outsider can gain access. In any information security job environment, your knowledge and a mindset of perseverance can put you ahead of the curve.

Whether it is a data breach, ransomware, or another form of systems attack when fighting cyber threats, every moment counts and could make the difference between success and failure.

Your training prepared you to be always ready to confront and neutralize a threat! Fighting any adversary means being able to think as they do. In combat, this means anticipating the strategy and next steps of the enemy. In cybersecurity jobs, it means doing the same against thousands of hostile organizations.

As a veteran, you know the success of a mission is always more important than one person. In the cybersecurity industry, teamwork is essential. This applies to the prevention of cybercrime and the need for ethical hackers.

Your military mindset, mentorship, and focus on outcomes, not excuses, will help other civilian employees to do better as you lead by example. Veterans are used to adapting to new orders, circumstances of living, and colleagues regularly. Cybersecurity is also a field that requires an adaptable work style. The University of Maryland reports that hackers attack every 39 seconds, and no matter where you end up working, your organization could become the next target. That means the long-term project you planned to work on that day may take a back seat, but then you will pick up right where you left off once the immediate threat is resolved.

If you think cybersecurity might be the right next move for you, your next step is to explore learning options and gain the foundational skills needed for the technical side of the job. Government agencies are intensifying their efforts to recruit military talent to fight the war on cybercrime.

The University of Louisville’s Cybersecurity Workforce Certificate Program offers several learning options to upskill the workforce in cybersecurity. The program partners with other universities across the country. This is not an academic program but a workforce development program. The certificate includes cryptography, database, artificial intelligence, analytics, blockchain and internet of things (IoT). Learn more:

https://louisville.edu/education/nsacybersecurity

Franchise Frontline

Success Stories & Resources

By Rhonda Sanderson rhonda@sandersonpr.com

Why Restoration, Recovery and Mitigation Services is Such a Booming Industry Right Now

A Q&A with Ryan Showers, Director of Franchise Development for Paul Davis Restoration

Q: Paul Davis seems like an excellent choice for a franchise for veterans. What are the advantages for them?

Franchising with Paul Davis for veterans offers numerous advantages, and our commitment to supporting veterans is an important part of our culture. One of the most significant benefits is our veteran discount which is 25% off the total franchise fee, this helps make the initial investment more affordable. Additionally, Paul Davis offers a reduced down payment of just 33% of the franchise fee with financing options for the remaining 67% over a four-year term. This allows veteran franchisees to invest more money into their business or keep it in their pocket, which is a significant advantage when compared to other franchise opportunities. Overall, Paul Davis offers a great opportunity for veterans to own their own business while receiving valuable support from a reputable company.

Q: How is business looking in the next 2 decades for restoration companies?

As the world continues to face natural disasters, fire damages, and water damages, the demand for efficient restoration services is never-ending. Over the next two decades, the business for restoration companies is looking very promising and the need for restoring the affected properties will continue to rise. Paul Davis has been operating for over five decades and we are projecting we will be a $2 billion organization with a network of more than 400 franchisees by 2027.

Q: Where are you focusing expansion currently?

Paul Davis is focusing heavily on the recruitment of franchisees in the California market for several reasons.

One of the most significant is our strong relationship with our insurance carrier partners, which is a driving force in developing California. The carriers trust and believe in Paul Davis, allowing us to provide outstanding services to their clients, and hence we are expanding our footprint further in California.

Weather events and climate conditions in California, such as mudslides, fires, and flooding, have increased drastically over the past few years. Tragically, Californians are no strangers to disasters, whether they are natural or man-made. These incidents have created an immense demand for our brand presence there, so we are searching for top quality candidates, both for ownership and employment in our network. There is a great need for technicians and team members who can meet our rigid standards.

Q: Why do veterans do so well with the franchise model in your opinion?

Veterans have a wealth of skills and experience that make them a natural fit for our franchise model. Their keen sense of service and dedication to a mission aligns perfectly with our culture of putting the needs of our customers first.

Moreover, veterans are well-equipped to thrive in our system and processes-driven environment. Their rigorous training and discipline make them excellent at executing tasks efficiently and precisely, which is critical in delivering quality service and maintaining a consistent customer experience across our franchises.

In addition, veterans bring with them a level of teamwork, leadership, and adaptability honed through their military experience, which translates seamlessly into our franchise model. They understand the importance of working collaboratively towards a common goal and can effectively communicate and execute on objectives.

Ryan Showers joined Paul Davis in 2017 and has proudly served the network in both an operation and sales capacity throughout his tenure. He can be reached at Ryan.showers@pauldavis.com or go to www.pauldavisbusiness.com for a complete list of available franchise opportunities.

Healthcare Careers: A Perfect Fit for Military and Civilian Life

By Stephanie Lee, Air Force Veteran & Enrollment Manager, CareerStep

Sometimes, the sense of division between life in the military and life as a civilian feels like a vast chasm. In fact, for military families, this sense of division joins a long list of challenges that specifically impact the men and women who sacrifice so much for the country. These challenges couldn’t be more apparent than when it comes to finding a post-military career or one that is flexible enough to align with military spouses’ unique needs—a career that checks all the right boxes: satisfaction, security, and stability.

Finding industries and employers that understand the skills of veterans and their families can seem like an uphill climb at times, and it shows. For example, the unemployment rate for veterans rose to 6.5% in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Reasons for this vary, but one contributing factor could be that lessons learned under the harsh conditions of combat don’t always translate to private-sector jobs. And for military spouses—60% of which say they’re looking for full- or part-time work—finding a profession that’s both portable and in-demand is increasingly difficult.

However, there is hope and there are opportunities. First, it’s important to consider key reasons why a career in healthcare—the fastest-growing sector in the U.S. economy according to BLS data—might just be what bridges that expansive gap between military and civilian life.

1. Meaningful Work

Most who enter the military are looking for fulfilling work—an opportunity to make a difference. A real difference. But few civilian careers allow veterans to make as much of a difference as those found in healthcare. That’s because working in this particular field, regardless of the role, provides the opportunity to impact peoples’ lives in profound ways. From mending wounds and healing minds to saving lives, the difference healthcare workers make is undeniable.

2. Transferable Skills

There’s a reason healthcare is an overwhelmingly popular career choice for veterans and their spouses: it’s an industry in which military-specific skills are undeniably relevant. Creative problem solving, adaptability, and effective communication—they’re all valuable skills that healthcare organizations can’t ignore if they want to provide the best possible service and care to their patients. And they’re all skills that veterans and their spouses already possess.

3. In-Demand Careers

People need healthcare. In turn, the industry needs people willing to step up to the proverbial plate.

Economic and labor experts believe we need to hire 2.3 million new healthcare workers by 2025 if we’re going to keep pace with the needs of our aging population. But a persistent shortage of skilled workers with exceptional knowledge and training means hundreds of thousands of positions will remain unfilled. Home health aides, medical assistants, lab technicians, and more are all in high demand.

4. Portable Jobs

For a working military spouse, it can be difficult to cultivate a strong professional network, and when the time comes to pack up and move to a new city, the wrong vocation can leave even the most talented pro scrambling to start over. That’s why job portability is so important. Healthcare training provides the skills and certifications that employers are looking for in highgrowth, high-demand fields in virtually every city in the entire world.

Supportive Training for Success

These days, there are multiple training options for learners to pave their road to success. These organizations often have hiring network relationships, so it’s important to keep in contact and inform them when certification is achieved. It’s especially important for members of the healthcare sector to be fully qualified and properly trained. An early step is to start by choosing a specific discipline and then find a provider that can help learners develop the concrete job skills employers are looking for.

The good news is that there’s a significant amount of trusted providers who specialize in transforming entrylevel learners into high-performing, certified healthcare professionals. And they all do this with expansive catalogs of fully online career training programs that are fast, portable, and eligible for military education grants—often covering up to 100% of the cost.

Finding the right fit takes a little time and it is important to explore the possibilities. Doing the research is crucial as it can improve the learning experience—and potentially lead to faster employment. Deciding to pursue a career in healthcare is a fulfilling and viable option for veterans and their spouses.

About the Author:

Stephanie Lee served in the Air Force for 11 years as a Munitions Systems Craftsman. She now serves as an Enrollment Manager for CareerStep, (www.careerstep.com/military), the Allied Health training division of Carrus. (www.carruslearn.com)

Veterans Chamber of Commerce

By Joseph Molina www.vccsd.org

New Families and the Housing Crisis

Housing costs in the United States have risen dramatically, making it increasingly difficult for many Americans to afford a place to live and achieve the American Dream.

One of the main reasons for the rise in housing costs is a shift in demographics. In recent years, the United States has experienced a significant increase in population, particularly in urban areas. This has led to a shortage of available housing, as developers struggle to keep up with the demand for new homes and apartments. As a result, prices have skyrocketed, making it difficult for many people to find affordable housing.

Another factor contributing to the rise in housing costs is the overall state of the economy. In recent years, the US has experienced a period of economic growth, with rising wages and low unemployment rates. While this has been good news for many Americans, it has also led to an increase in the cost of living, including housing. With more people able to afford homes, demand has increased, driving up prices.

There are also a number of structural factors that have contributed to the rise in housing costs. For example, zoning laws and building codes can make it difficult and expensive to build new housing in certain areas. This has led to a shortage of available housing, particularly in urban areas where demand is high.

Finally, there are a number of cultural factors that have contributed to the rise in housing costs. For example, there is a cultural expectation that homeownership is a sign of success and stability, which has led to an increased demand for housing. Additionally, there is a perception that certain areas are more desirable than others, which has led to an increase in demand for housing in those areas, driving up prices.

There are a number of factors that have contributed to the rise in housing costs in the United States. These include demographic changes, economic factors, policy decisions, structural factors, and cultural factors.

While there is no easy solution to this problem, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable housing.

Ultimately, it will require a concerted effort by government, business, and individuals to address this pressing issue and ensure that all Americans have a place to call home. One program that is making an impact in providing a reasonable and achievable solution is the Real Property Fund™ which helps friends, family, and neighbors to come together in support of a new family and help them achieve the American Dream of owning a home. This program is ideal for young families, first time home buyers and veteran parents. The program can help make down payment easier and makes it possible for friends and family to participate in a business-like approach.

In Conclusion, there are many factors that have made housing expensive and out of reach for many, but it is up to all of us to help our now adult children starting new families achieve their American Dream. Contact us if you would like to learn more about the Real Property Fund™ veteransccsd@gmail.com

Nominate a Hero: The National Veterans Chamber Radio Show

• Would you like to Nominate a Hero? Let us know, and we will announce it on the show.

• Would you like to share your story?

Be our guest on the show – Here is the REQUEST FORM. (https://www.vccsd.org/radioshow.html)

• If you have any ideas or a project that you would like to Develop in collaboration with the National Veterans Chamber, send your ideas to: veteransccsd@gmail.com

Insurance Info & Risk Management Tips

By Hadley Wood www.hlinwood-insurance.com

Working with Kids is Not All Fun & Games

• If a child has to be accompanied to the restroom or any private space, make sure there are 2 adults present withthe child (of the same sex as the child).

• Make sure at least one employee/team member is trained in CPR.

• Run through a mock emergency drill to make sure everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.

And as a parent or guardian, you will want to make sure that the activities your child is involved in are doing their due diligence to ensure child safety.

If your business works with children in any capacity, don’t play around with your risk management. Whether it’s sports teams, day care, tutoring, photo sessions, hair stylists, and more – if your business involves interacting with children on a regular basis you will want to take extra precautions to ensure your business is protecting the children from bodily injury and/or abuse and molestation, and itself from costly legal harm.

A typical General Liability insurance policy for a business would not include coverage for abuse and molestation. This would be something you would want to add coverage for and there may be additional premium for this. Many business owners may think they do not need this, BUT in the event there is a claim against you or your employees (or even a third party onsite in your location space), legal defense and coverage would be denied due to this not being a “covered cause of loss” on your policy. So even if it was an accusation that was false, you could be left defending yourself out of pocket – which is costly!

The dynamics of working with children are different than working with adults and precautions should always be made from the business owner to create a safe space for them. Some considerations include:

• Encourage the parent/guardian to be there onsite while the child is at your business.

• Keep a daily sign in/sign out log and make sure the parent/guardian signs it.

• Set up cameras around the public locations to have a visual record of activities.

• Have a comprehensive emergency kit onsite.

• Visit the location and take note of the site security systems including working smoke alarms, fire. extinguishers, door lock system, trip/fall hazards, etc.

• Ask to see a copy of their current General Liability certificate.

• Ask about the ratio of adult to child supervision.

• Ask for references of current clients AND former clients and call them for feedback.

• Ask them about their emergency preparation and crisis procedures.

• Ask them about their disciplinary technique.

• If appropriate make sure the outside doors have an emergency bar to prevent children from leaving the premises unnoticed.

• Look the company up online for any unsavory comments or business infractions.

• If something feels off – always trust your instincts!

Claim Scenario

An after-school daycare center has 15 children in its program and 2 onsite supervisors. One of the supervisors goes to the backroom to get some snacks and the other is talking privately with one of the children. One of the children sneaks out the front door unnoticed. After more than an hour, the child’s disappearance is noticed resulting in panic. The child is finally found 1⁄2 a mile down the road walking alone. This could easily have been a very tragic scenario and one that happens more than you think. I know – it happened to me when I was 4!

For more information about me and my company, please visit www.hlinwood-insurance.com

legal Eagle

Straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners

By Kelly Bagla, Esq.

EXEMPT JOB CATEGORIES UNDER CALIFORNIA’S AB5 LAW

In California, a law called AB5 changed the rules for determining whether a worker is an independent contractor or an employee. This law presumes a worker is an employee, and not an independent contractor, unless the worker satisfies a strict “ABC Test.” However, this law does not apply to all workers, and many are exempt from the ABC Test.

CATEGORIES THAT ARE EXEMPT FROM THE ABC TEST

Workers in all the exempt categories must pass the Borello test to be classified as an independent contractor. Under the Borello test, the most significant factor is whether the hiring firm has control or the right to control the worker both as to the work done and the manner and means in which it is performed.

Workers Subject to the Borello Test:

Workers in the following categories need to satisfy only the Borello Test to be an independent contractor and must have all required professional or occupational licenses:

• Physicians, Surgeons, Dentists, Podiatrists, Psychologists, Veterinarians

• Insurance Brokers, Underwriters, Premium Auditors, Risk Managers

• Lawyers

• Architects, Landscape Architects, Engineers

• Private Investigators

• Accountants

• Registered Securities Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers

• Direct Sales Salespeople

• Manufactured Housing Salespersons

Professional services exception applies to the following workers:

• Marketing Professionals

• Human Resources Administrators

• Graphic Designers

• Enrolled Agents

• Appraisers

• Home Inspectors

• Travel Agents

• Grant Writers

• Fine Artists

• Specialized performer hired by a performing arts company or organization to each a master class for no more than one week

Freelance Writers and Editors:

Freelance writers and editors qualify as independent contractors only if they meet additional requirements. The exception covers freelance writers, editors, translators, copy editors, illustrators, newspaper cartoonists, still photographers, photojournalists, videographers, and photo editors who:

• Work under a written contract that specifies the rate and time of pay

• Do not directly replace an employee who performed the same work at the same volume for the hiring entity, and

• Do not primarily perform the work at the hiring entity’s business location

Construction Subcontractors:

Construction industry subcontractors are exempt from the ABC test in California. They qualify as independent contractors if they pass the Borello test and satisfy the following criteria:

• The subcontract is in writing

• The subcontractor is licensed by the Contractors State License Board and the work is within the scope of that license

• The subcontractor has all required business licenses or business tax registration

• The subcontractor maintains a business location separate from the business or work location of the contractor

• The subcontractor has the authority to hire and fire other persons to provide or to assist in providing the services

• The subcontractor assumes financial responsibility for errors or omissions in labor or services by having insurance, legally authorized indemnity obligations, performance bond, or warranties for the labor or services provided

• The subcontractor is customarily engaged in an independently established business of the same nature as that involved in the work performed

• The subcontractor has the right to control how the work is performed

Real Estate Licensees:

Licensed real estate salespeople and real estate brokers are not subject to the ABC test in California. For purposes other than unemployment and worker’s compensation insurance they must satisfy the Borello test to be independent contractors. For unemployment purposes, they are independent contractors if they:

• Are duly licensed

• Are paid based on sales, and

• Have a written independent contractor agreement

For an entrepreneur, there are countless considerations when starting a new business, and legal issues are not always top of mind. But an entrepreneur who understands what these issues are and how they arise is much more likely to address these issues before they become major problems. Staying on top of these issues and knowing when to involve a lawyer can play a significant role in the ultimate success of the business.

Becoming a business owner, you control your own destiny, choose the people you work with, reap big rewards, challenge yourself, give back to the community, and you get to follow your passion. Knowing what you’re getting into is smart business because the responsibility of protecting your business falls on you.

For more information on how to legally start and grow your business please visit my website at www.BaglaLaw.com

Disclaimer: This information is made available by Bagla Law Firm, APC for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, and not to provide specific legal advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state

Legally Speaking

Military Focused Family Law Facts

By Tana Landau, Esq.

Child Support Add-Ons

Child support is a monthly obligation that a parent pays to another parent to help cover the costs of raising a child, which includes everyday living expenses such as food, clothing, school supplies, housing etc. Both parents have a duty to support their children in California, whether they’re married to one another or not. The California Child Support Guidelines lay out a complex formula to calculate child support that includes several factors. The two main factors include the disparity in the parent’s incomes and the disparity in the timeshare (parenting time of each party). In general, the greater the disparity between the parents’ incomes, the higher the child support obligation. Likewise, the greater the difference in the amount of time each parent spends with the children, the greater the child support payment.

In addition to guideline child support, parents can be ordered to contribute to specific additional expenses for the direct benefit of the child. These expenses are considered child support add-ons. There are mandatory child-support add-ons and discretionary ones.

Mandatory Child Support Add-Ons

There are two types of mandatory child support addons that the Court can order in addition to guideline child support. These mandatory child support add-ons are typically ordered to be shared equally between the parties. However, where there is a significant disparity in the parties’ incomes, a court can order these expenses to be apportioned based on the income difference.

1) Child-care costs related to employment or reasonably necessary education or training for employment: Childcare expenses need to be specifically related to employment or education/training for employment. Babysitting expenses incurred for a parent’s social life are not part of the definition of a mandatory add-on expense. It is important to provide proof of childcare costs actually incurred through receipts and invoices and proof of payment.

2) Reasonable uninsured health care costs for the children: There is a procedure for reimbursement for uninsured health care costs.

Health insurance should be used at all times to the extent that is available for the health care cost, and you should obtain the written agreement of the other party to go out of network if necessary. The parent incurring an uninsured medical expense must provide the other parent proof of payment and proof of the expense within 30 days of incurring the cost. Therefore, if a parent receives a bill for uninsured medical expenses, a copy must be provided to the other parent within 30 days of receipt. The parent receiving notice from the other parent that an uninsured health care cost has been incurred must pay his or her share within 30 days, unless otherwise agreed upon between the parents or ordered by the court.

Discretionary Child Support Add-Ons

There are three types of discretionary add-on expenses as follows:

1) Costs related to the educational or other special needs of the children: These would include, but are not limited to, costs such as tutoring, private school tuition, or preschool. The court has discretion to order the other parent to contribute to these costs. This does not mean that the Court will necessarily do so if the other parent disagrees. The Court will weigh several factors. These factors include: The incomes of both parents (Can the parents afford private school for example going forward?); The child’s previous education history (Has the child been attending the same private school for several years? Did they already start the school year, is it their final year, do all their friends attend,

can another school meet their needs etc.); The religious background of the child and/or family; The extent to which the noncustodial parent was involved in the child’s education prior to the divorce (Did the parent agree for the child to be enrolled prior to divorce). The Court’s decision is a balancing act in the best interest of the child in light of the particular facts of each individual case.

2) Travel expenses for visitation: These costs become an issue when parents live far away from each other. Transportation costs can become very expensive for visitation. This is particularly the case when children are too young to fly without an adult. It is very common for a Court to divide these costs equally between the parents even when the costs are due to one parent unilaterally moving out of state. The court can apportion the costs based on a significant disparity in the parties’ incomes.

3) Extracurricular activities: These expenses are not listed in Family Code section 4062, which delineates the additional expenses that are child support add-ons. However, the court often treats extracurricular costs as a discretionary add-on expense. Typically, the parties will be ordered to equally share the costs of agreed upon extracurricular activities for the minor child.

If you are going through a divorce and your spouse is refusing to any of the above-mentioned expenses for your children, it would be wise to consult a family law attorney.

For more information about co-parenting in your military divorce, check out our website: www.frfamilylaw.com or call (858) 720-8250 and ask to speak with military family law attorney Tana Landau.

This article is intended only for informational purposes and should not be taken as legal advice.

Military and law enforcement have had a longstanding relationship with overlaps in training exercises, equipment, and, most important, personnel.

It is not uncommon for a service member to make the jump from the military to law enforcement as both professions look for the same characteristics; leadership, fidelity, chain of command, and teamwork are all common themes in both professions.

Quite understandably, many American military veterans often gravitate to a career in law enforcement when the time comes to rejoin the civilian workforce.

The two professions have many fundamental similarities; from the uniforms they wear with pride, to the firm command structure they serve under, to great personal risk they endure while protecting those who cannot protect themselves.

The following agencies are actively hiring & proudly support our veterans, active military and the families that keep together.

As a military service member or veteran making the transition to a new career path, law enforcement can feel like a natural fit.

From Navy Sailor to San Francisco Police Officer

By Holly Shaffner

Changing careers can be exciting, exhilarating, and filled with trepidation. Meet Officer Cindy Ovares who has made the transition numerous times – from active-duty service member, to student, massage therapist, teacher, and now police officer.

The life experience she gained in those previous longterm jobs set her up to be successful today. She is doing what she’s always wanted to do – have a career that is challenging and rewarding.

Cindy was like many seniors in high school as she contemplated what she would do after graduation. When the Navy recruiter called the house looking for her brother, the recruiter instead got an eager, independent 17-year-old woman who wanted to find adventure. Just a few months later, she was off to “see the world” and start her first career.

As an Aviation Machinist’s Mate, Petty Officer Ovares was a jet engine mechanic. It was a male-dominated job, and she wanted to prove that anything a man could do, she could do better. She attended military schools in Florida and Virginia to learn her trade, and was later stationed in Lemoore, California. She was attached to VFA-22, an F/A-18 Super Hornet squadron, that deployed on ships. After serving four years on active duty, she earned Post 9/11 GI Bill education benefits, and chose to leave the Navy to attend college.

After completing her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and being a fluent Spanish speaker, she was hired to be a high school Spanish teacher. The job was gratifying; but also, under resourced, understaffed, and had little room to grow professionally. She wanted something new and challenging, was drawn to the community where she grew up, so, in her late 30s she applied to be a police officer.

“Being able to talk to people, figure out what they are going through, and what they need is a huge portion of the job. I enjoy interacting with the public, and engaging in what I call verbal judo.”

- Officer Cindy

Ovares

Officer Ovares was accepted to the San Francisco Police Academy and has been an officer for the last three years. She is a foot patrol officer working in the Tenderloin District – a 50-block area that has a storied history, and has been known for homelessness, drugs, and crime.

“Being able to talk to people, figure out what they are going through, and what they need is a huge portion of the job. I enjoy interacting with the public, and engaging in what I call verbal judo,” said Officer Ovares.

For Officer Ovares, the parallels between serving in the military and serving in law enforcement made the transition go smoothly:

• Routine – You know what to expect before your shift begins (what time to report, what uniform to wear, the structure of the day).

• Camaraderie – The bond between fellow officers is like the bond between your fellow military brothers and sisters.

• Variety – Every day is different with different assignments and duties, so the job is never boring.

• Benefits – Include a competitive salary, paid vacation days, floating holidays, and sick days, healthcare, retirement, and special pay for certain assignments and being bilingual.

As a Latina giving back to her community, she admits that the job comes with highs and lows. Officer Ovares recommends a career in law enforcement for those military members looking to make a smooth transition to a new chapter.

To learn more about the San Francisco Police Department, or to connect with recruiter, go to: www.sanfranciscopolice.org/your-sfpd/careers

From Military to Police Officer

Why choose a law enforcement career?

By Holly Shaffner

Transition and career changes can be difficult at any point in life, so why not take out some of the unknowns? In the military, you have camaraderie between your brothers and sisters, there’s a mission to accomplish every day, the work can be challenging and exciting, plus you get to serve your country.

Much of the military work and values parallel to law enforcement work as well. This month, we interviewed San Diego Police Officer Bob Thatcher about his transition from military service to police service, and why it was an ideal fit for him.

Officer Thatcher served on active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps and today as a Gunnery Sergeant, he continues to serve as a drilling reservist. He is in the infantry field and has deployed on several overseas tours to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Japan. At the 10-year mark, he had to decide about re-enlisting or releasing from active duty. For him, the decision was guided primarily on one thing – continuing to serve others and work for a greater good.

“I have always been big into service of others,” said Officer Thatcher. “I wanted to give back to my country, my community, and those who sacrificed for me.” For Officer Thatcher, his transition was from military fatigues to police uniform. He had done his research and met the requirements and deadlines to be selected for the police academy as soon as he left active duty.

Police departments often actively recruit for people leaving the military. San Diego Police Department

Sergeant Jason Tsui said that in addition to important qualities such as work ethic, dedication, and integrity, military personnel also possess valuable life skills too. A good law enforcement candidate would be able to work in changing/fast-paced situations, in stressful conditions, can easily be part of a team, and be selfless. These are all attributes that most military men and women possess and learn during their military service.

When asked what the favorite part of his job was, Officer Thatcher said, “I like that my job is diverse. I am in the community every day, get to problem solve from call to call, and every day is different.”

Officer Thatcher’s advice to men and women looking to get into law enforcement:

• First, go on at least one ride along with law enforcement to see the different kind of calls and responses. Talk to the officers and ask questions.

• Be open and honest in your application and interviews.

• Keep at the process even if it takes a while to move along.

• Work hard each and every day to earn that spot.

• Go “all in” in everything you do.

• Academically, make the time to study.

• Physically, be able to run 5-6 miles at about an 8 minute/mile pace and do cross-fit exercise to build stamina.

Some of the benefits of working for the San Diego Police Department include:

A four-day work week, 11 paid holidays/year, 13-21 days of paid annual leave/year (depending on length of service), yearly uniform allowance, flexible benefits plan (Health, Dental, Vision), excellent retirement program, 401K/Deferred Compensation Plans, tuition reimbursement, and 30 days paid military leave/year.

For more information about applying to SDPD, go to: www.sandiego.gov/police or email: sdpdrecruiting@pd.sandiego.gov

San Diego Police Officer Bob Thatcher

PGHJOBS.NET