Homeland Magazine January 2026

Homeland

Vol. 13 • Number 1 • January 2026

MAGAZINE

DOD IN ACTION Best In Photos (2025)

ARE YOU READY Military-Veterans

IN TRANSITION 2026

We've Got You Covered Transition to Civilian Life Columns & Featured Articles Careers - AI - Education - Entrepreneurship Mental Health - Healthcare - Family Veteran Resources - Support and more...

2026

RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS

SOLUTIONS

MENTAL HEALTH lapu.edu

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Alaska Adventure Project Be a part of a Hero’s Journey! We provide therapeutic support to veterans and their families through outdoor adventures in the rugged beauty of Alaska.

About Alaska Adventure Project: Founded in 2017 by U.S. Marine Combat Veteran and Native Alaskan William Boulton. Alaska Adventure Project (AAP) is a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to supporting military veterans and their families.

Our Adventure program entails: • • • •

Therapeutic support for veterans and their families suffering with PTSD and TBI. Veterans helping veterans through shared experiences.

Outdoor activities provide atmosphere’s of reflection, discovery, meaning of service, camaraderie, New network of resources, a new extended family, connecting veterans with veterans, establish lifelong bonds, and promote healing.

learn more

donate

Visit our website for more info about our program:

Contribute toward a Hero’s Journey:

Contact us

Reach out to us with any question:

AlaskaAdventureProject.org | info@AlaskaAdventureProject.org

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Missions Change. Ours Doesn’t.

Serving Veterans.

You served our nation, and we’re proud to serve you. We’ll help you make the most of your money.

Our members could earn and save $461* per year by banking with us.

Visit navyfederal.org navyfederal.org to join.

Insured by NCUA. *Dollar value shown represents the results of the 2024 Navy Federal Member Giveback Study. The Member Giveback Study takes into consideration internal market analyses comparing Navy Federal products with industry national averages, as well as member discounts, incentives, and other savings. Image used for representational purposes only; does not imply government endorsement. © 2025 Navy Federal NFCU 14233-F (4-25)

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Publisher Editor-In-Chief Mike Miller mikemiller@SDVetsMagazine.com

Monthly Columns What’s Next In Transition Eve Nasby Human Resources Paul Falcone

Veterans in Business Barbara Eldridge

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’s the leading veterans 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.

Risky Business Hadley Wood

Real Talk: Mental Health Hope Phifer

PTSD: Reclaiming Control Robert ‘Bob’ Cuyler, PhD Aging & End of Life Care Shelly Dew Legal Eagle Kelly Bagla, Esq. Midway Magic David Koontz

Cartoons For Veterans Jerry King Contributing Writers Wounded Warrior Project Disabled American Veterans (In-House) Correspondents

We are honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people.

Holly Shaffner CJ Machado Lori Noonan

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.

Homeland Magazine

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.

If you want to catch up on the current and all past issues please visit: www.homelandmagazine.com/archives

Mike Miller

Editor-In-Chief mikemiller@homelandmagazine.com www.homelandmagazine.com 4

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

9528 Miramar Road, #41 San Diego, CA 92126

(858) 275-4281 mikemiller@homelandmagazine.com

Homeland Magazine is published monthly. Submissions of photographs, Illustrations, drawings, and manuscripts are considered unsolicited materials and the publisher assumes no responsibility for the said items. All rights reserved *The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

On The Edge - Photo Credit: Marine Corps Cpl. Mya Seymour

2026

ARE YOU READY JANUARY 2026

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 8 D0D In Action (Best of 2025)

14 2026 Resolution Solutions

16 Risky Business: The 2026 Plan

17 2026 Imagine What You Can Do

18 2 Decades After Answering the Call

20 Summer Camp for Military-Connected Kids 24 Investing in Your Mental Wellness 26 Trauma and women Veterans 28 Walking though the Fire

30 PTSD and the Military: Overcoming the Stigma

31 A Q&A on the Veteran Medication Access Crisis 32 Reflections and Lasting Lessons

34 Transition to Civilian Life (January 2026)

36 Lessons from Louis Zamperini (After Military) 38 Establishing Your Online Presence 40 New Dreams After the Final Salute

42 Imagination, Identity, Mission After Service

46 Military-Connected Talent: Voices from the Field 48 Former Marine finds Academic Excellence 50 From Silent Service to Storefront

52 Priceless Relationships: Behold Your Customer 54 New Year - New Business

56 Legal Eagle: Business Plans for Your Company 60 Managing Expectations for 2026 61 Cartoons for Veterans

62 Is Your Personal Information on the Dark Web 66 Careers in Law Enforcement

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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WWW.HARMONETIKSWARRIORS.COM

Veterans Helping Veterans

THE YEAR OF

EASY BREATH

and our Harmonetiks Warriors Some of us spent years training our nervous systems to run hot: stay sharp, stay ready, stay moving. That wiring saves lives—but it can also keep the body on alert long after the call ends.

Harmonetiks Warriors [harmonetikswarriors.com] was born from a shared mission between Mike Williams (former Army Combat Medic and Special Operations soldier) and Dr. Jeffrey C. Zimmerman (integrative healer with over 40 years of experience). Their aim is simple: turn pain into purpose by blending science, breath, sound, and movement—so Veterans, first responders, and families can transform trauma into strength and harmony.

Ancient Medicine teaches that healing is often a return to harmony. When the body’s parts move together again— breath, posture, attention, and energy— we regain steadiness and resilience.

Harmonetiks calls this synchronization: helping the system re-sync so you can meet life with more calm and less wearand-tear.

The Easy Breath is that regulator. It doesn’t dim your drive—it gives it direction. It turns speed into steadiness, and intensity into presence.

It helps you stay ready without staying stuck in alarm.

Take A Free Class

Proven Success In The Harmonetiks Project [www.theharmonetiksproject.org] 6 session course, the result with working with over 100 Veterans: 64% Reduction of Perceived Anxiety 53% Reduction of Perceived Pain Going deeper in advanced training findings were up to 80% Reduction of Perceived Pain and Anxiety

Join us for a free live online class every month. All are welcome to join. Come as you are—learn the basics, ask questions, and build a practice you can carry anywhere.

Next month we will touch the Heart for Valentines Day. Note: This is general wellness education and is not medical advice.

Sign Up Here

Why connect this to the Chinese Year of the Fire Horse? Because Fire Horse The Easy Breath is the most practical (Bing Wu) energy is often described entry point we know. It’s not a as fast, bold, and forward-moving— performance. It’s a gentle, repeatable momentum, freedom, intensity. That’s a reset you can use anywhere—before a familiar current for warriors. But call, after a hard scene, at a stoplight, or “fire on fire” can also turn into burnout Scan the QR code to register for your at 0300 when your mind won’t stand if we don’t have a regulator.

FREE online class. down.

2026 IS THE CHINESE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE 6

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

RESILIENCY. GROWTH. BELONGING. Led by veteran facilitators, MOSAIC experiences blend physical activity, mindfulness, and resiliency education to rediscover strength, purpose, and connection in everyday life.

Weekend programs open to all service members including active-duty, reservists, and veterans.

Apply today.

themosaicfoundation.org HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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DOD IN ACTION Best In Photos (2025)

DOD Photo’s Available at: www.defense.gov/Multimedia/Photos 8

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Seeing Green Marines prepare for a free-fall jump during training at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif., July 2025.

Photo Credit: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Judith Ann Lazaro HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Blurred Motion A Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet launches from the USS Nimitz in the Pacific Ocean, Dec. 2025.

Photo Credit Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Hannah Kantner

Stronghold of Support Army Sgt. 1st Class participates in a tactical combat casualty care exercise to earn the South Korea, April 2025.

Photo Credit: Army Sgt. Steven Sheldon 10

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Heave-Ho! Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class heaves a phone and distance line with other sailors on the flight deck of the USS George Washington, Nov.2025. Photo Credit: Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Crowley

Stare Down A U.S. Marine prepares for an amphibious landing as part of Atlantic Alliance 25 at Marine Corps Base Camp, June 2025. Photo Credit: Netherlands Maritime Force Sgt. Maj. Cristian Schrik HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Hats Off to You Navy Lt. Cmdr. greets a loved one following the USS Gravely's return, Dec. 2025.

Photo Credit: Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Anderson W. Branch

Back for More A soldier reenlists in a C-130H Hercules aircraft assigned to the Delaware Air National Guard before a static-line jump during Exercise Agile Spirit 25 July 2025. Photo Credit: Air Force Staff Sgt. Brieana E. Bolfing 12

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Hero's Welcome An airman escorts an Honor Flight veteran during a welcome home ceremony at Albuquerque International Sunport, N.M., June 2025. Photo Credit: Air Force Senior Airman Spencer Kanar

Sailors Salute Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz render honors as the ship passes the USS Arizona Nov. 2025.

Photo Credit: Navy Seaman Matthew C. Wolf HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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2026

RESOLUTION SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS

The holidays are over, but the New Year’s resolutions have just begun, and San Diego Veterans Magazine is here to help you keep yours.

If you’ve chosen to change your life this year, you’re not alone. Nearly half the United States – a stunning 150 million people – did the same.

Many of these aren’t plastic or paper decisions either but life-affirming, soul-quenching, I’m-the-captain-ofmy-destiny-and-I’m-finally-going-do-this variety.

If this sounds familiar, good for you! Recognition that change is necessary is the first step. Desire makes all things possible. Work well begun is half done.

High on most lists, losing weight or getting fit with many deciding the time to act is now.

You’re off and running, maybe literally.

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Now the bad news.

1. Set realistic goals. Losing a pound or two a month – and keeping it off -- is a reasonable. Anything more is, hmm, gravy.

Statistically speaking, most of you are doomed. Nearly 90 percent who make New Year’s resolutions fail. That’s a crazy high bust rate. Who would ever bet those odds?

2. Start slow. Take it easy as you learn what your body can do. Hurting yourself or being too sore to workout defeats the purpose.

You would and you do.

Let me explain.

At the start of every year -- without fail -- people flock to gyms. They’re recognizable by their new sneakers, stylish water bottles and eager looks. You can practically see their new gym bodies in the bubble dreams above their heads.

And so begins the brief lifecycle of the Resolution Set, a specimen of gym member whose chief function is giving money away for no apparent reason.

All gym vets know their ways well.

They start January like shooting stars, their resolution glow bright and vibe positive and contagious. February finds them making strides.

Cracks start showing in March as they realize that working out can be, well, work, and that maybe the miraculous transformations they envisioned might’ve been a skosh unrealistic.

This typically happens by May, exactly when the neophytes should be prepping for the big beach season reveal.

They were so close to getting somewhere and then puff. Gone. Another statistic.

But you can break this cycle of boom and bust, and here are some tips to do just that.

4. Just go. Just as possession is nine-tenths of the law, so too is getting to the gym is nine-tenths of the battle. Get there and you’ll figure out the rest.

5. No excuses. If you have five free minutes a day, you have time to workout. How? Do all the pushups and sit ups you can in one-minute increments. Follow that up with running as far you can for another minute – it will take you two minutes to walk back.

Done.

Memberships are bought. Trainers hired.

Classes enrolled.

Then the wheels fly completely off.

3. Then, ramp it up. You’re at the gym to work, so work. Push weights around, stretch, walk, peddle or paddle. Sweat a little so you can live a lot.

6. Find what works for you. Yoga, pilates, kettle ball, boxing, surfing, mixed martial arts, weights, running, kendo, fencing, cross-fit, judo, swimming, biking, walking, whatever. There are a lot of choices. Find one or three that work for you.

7. Remember the big picture. Attaining your fitness goals takes effort and means pushing through adversity.

8. Find your motivation. Whether you’re doing this for yourself, your family or some other reason, keep that reason in mind when you feel like quitting.

9. Have fun. It’s hard to succeed at anything unless you enjoy it and make it part of your life.

10. Forgive yourself. No one is 100 percent all the time. The best baseball hitters fail 70 percent of the time. The greatest quarterbacks throw interceptions. The most powerful tycoons make bad deals. When you backslide, pick yourself up and keep going.

“Nearly 90 percent who make New Year’s resolutions fail.”

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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RISKY BUSINESS Insurance Info & Risk Management Tips

By Hadley Wood www.hlinwood-insurance.com

The Risk of Resolutions pile of paperwork or cleaning up a few files on the computer each day. Even if it takes 6 months to truly get organized, it will be a success!

2) Create a realistic timeline with an end date.

Map out how long you think the change should take and break the timeline into small parts that can fit into your schedule. If your goal is to increase your Marketing, think about what you want the end result to be, work backwards and map out how each step of the process looks and how much time to allow for it.

If you are like most people, January is a month when we look back at the past year and decide to make some changes – a mental or physical reset button we can push, start fresh and wipe the slate clean as they say.

In the business arena, the 5 most common New Years’ resolutions are noted as being: • Get Organized • Outsource Tasks to Others/Hire Employees • Focus more on Marketing/More Clients • Learn Something New/Expand Business • Spend More Time Away from Work/With Family Making a resolution is a great way to identify a change that you want to make. The problem is that most people make a resolution without making a plan to execute, track and monitor it. This often leads to breaking the resolution within the first 3 months of the year and feeling a sense of failure.

Which is NOT how we want to start the new year!

Michael Kidd

“A goal without a plan is just a wish” Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

So, what can we do to make sure our resolutions are given a fair chance to take hold? Experts agree on a few things: 1) Start with small changes that you perform daily.

If your goal is to get organized, start with one task at a time and perform it daily. It may just be one small 16

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

3) Have an accountability partner. Share your resolution with a trusted person that can help you achieve your goal and encourage you when you need it. Many business owners hire a life/business coach to help them in business like we would hire a trainer at the gym. It keeps us on track, focused and makes it harder to break the commitment.

4) Set daily time breaks. If your goal is to spend more time with family, friends or simply away from work, you may need to get up an hour earlier, take a break in the afternoon or leave the office an hour earlier. You will likely get the same amount of work done but creating intentional space for loved ones will be a win-win.

5) Congratulate yourself on small wins. Everyone needs a pat on the back or a high-five for making progress.

Gift yourself something you want with each step of progress. If your goal is to learn something new or expand the business, track your progress and reward yourself!

And if all else fails, June 1st is unofficially known as Resolution Recommitment Day- if you need to push the reset button again in 2026, don’t feel bad – think progress not perfection.

Wishing everyone a Happy, Healthy and Successful 2026!

Please reach out to me at www.hlinwood-insurance.com with any business insurance or risk management questions.

IMAGINE Arts & Healing

Arts for Military Veterans

By Amber Robinson Albert Einstein once said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited.

Imagination encircles the world.” Have you ever thought about the power of imagination and what makes it so important to us all?

Stop to think about the things you’ve used your imagination for in your life. They are probably some of the proudest moments. They were most likely times you created something new and exciting, problems solved something big at work or stepped into a new home or work space you had envisioned first.

It’s your creativity and imagination that writes those awesome college papers your teachers love, the ones where you are not only showing you understand the content you are learning, but also visualizing where you could use it or talking about where you have used it. For me, as a 44-year old college student, I’m usually writing about the latter.

We use our imaginations daily when we think about how we’d like our day to go, how we are going to time out our day. It’s used constantly by us, but not usually given the credit it deserves. I mean, what do you think happens when scientists imagine possibilities outside of the box, what happens when inventors do that? The world advances!

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”

- Albert Einstein

In the same ways our world’s great “imaginers’ will help us move from crisis phase to a new way of thriving post-pandemic, you can create a brighter future for yourself.

In an article by Forbes magazine writer Lidija Globokar (tinyurl.com/Globokar-forbes) shares the way athletes have always used visualization as an example of how it can be used to reach any life goal. Famous athletes like Muhammed Ali, Kobe Bryant and Arnold Schwarzenegger all used visualization and imagination to achieve the things they are now famous for.

But the article says it has also been used successfully in police training and with new medical surgeons.

Those who went through visualization training prior to their first times under job stress not only executed better on the job, but did so with reduced anxiety.

So, in 2026, I challenge us all to be mindful of our imaginations. I posit we give our imagination the credit it deserves and become conscious of its use.

With that said, what will you visualize for yourself this year? In what ways will your imagination lead the way to a life that thrives?

According to an article in the Harvard Business Review (https://tinyurl.com/imaginationHBR) we need imagination more now than ever. As we deal with an ongoing pandemic with rapid mutations happening constantly, it’s hard not to get down. But when the days get dark, we need our imaginations to create light in the midst of them, to create a safer, brighter future.

The Harvard article states, “renewal and adaptive strategies [will] give way to classical planning-based strategies and then to visionary and shaping strategies, which require imagination.”

IMAGINE HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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A New Calling, 2 Decades After Answering the Call Woman warrior Carla Best lives life with chronic pain after a traumatic combat injury while deployed with the Army in Iraq

By Rich Donnelly, Wounded Warrior Project It’s morning, a time when most Americans are rested, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the day. For warrior Carla Best, stiff shoulders due to arthritis and a restless night mean it’s time for a series of stretching exercises before she can even get out of bed.

“Once I’m awake and once I’m up, the first thing I have to do is use my crutches,” said Carla, “but not trying to use them too correctly because you’re trying not to put all your weight on your shoulders.”

A Call to Serve

Carla grew up in a military family.

Her father served in the Navy, her grandfather served in the Army during the Korean War, and her younger brotherserved in the Army with a deployment to Iraq. That’s exactly where Carla, a U.S. Army sergeant, found herself on Oct. 9, 2004.

After four years in the Army, a mission in Iraq to gather several vehicles and bring them back to base was the first mission outside of the Green Zone for Carla, an Army mechanic. Carla recalls that white flares started going off about 100 feet from her vehicle the instant her convoy left the area; the flares were not set off by the Army. Ten minutes later, Carla had an uneasy feeling when another white flare fired into the sky. Then she saw a green flare, and her life changed forever.

“As soon as that green flare popped off, there was an explosion,” Carla said. “It sucked all the air out of the vehicle, and it was just a bright light, and then just dirt instantly everywhere. I could not see anymore, and it was just cloudy and smoky. All you could hear was screaming.”

Carla and another soldier in her vehicle were taken by helicopter to a military hospital in Baghdad, shrapnel and shards of metal protruding from her legs. She remembered screaming back and forth with her fellow soldier, telling each other they’d be OK. At the hospital, she reunited with her brother, who stayed with her for six hours as the siblings cried together. As the clock ticked past midnight, it was her brother’s birthday.

Welcome to Ward 57

Carla served in the U.S. Army from 2000-06.

A persistent pain in Carla’s shoulders is something the Army veteran lives with, and she’s not alone. In fact, according to the Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) Warrior Survey, 76% of warriors said pain moderately or severely interfered with their ability to enjoy life. But for Carla — and many others — it’s not the only injury she lives with, and it’s far from her original injury.

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When Carla was stable enough to fly, the Army sent her to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where she spent two years with other injured service members. Initially, doctors tried to save her legs, so she had knee fusion surgery with an external fixator attached to her left leg.

“Pain management at that point was a lot of drip medications from the hospital,” Carla recalled. “I was on fentanyl, fentanyl patches, suckers that had fentanyl in them; they were just throwing a bunch of medications at whatever they could because the pain was so intense.”

The soldier who was injured in the same explosion in 2004 had his leg amputated and began learning how to walk with a prosthetic. After 18 surgeries, with the hopes of being able to become active again, Carla asked for her left leg to be amputated above the knee.

“I have really bad phantom pain from that,” she said.

“I have bad muscle spasms, even when I’m not doing anything, my leg will just start jumping because of the muscle spasms. I have problems sleeping because of the phantom pains.”

“It snapped me out of my funk because I was in a very bad place mentally, so that was definitely a lifesaver,” Carla said. “I can’t always do sled hockey, it’s very physically demanding, so I started doing other adaptive sports like pickleball and anything I can do that’s safe.

I love team sports right now.”

Carla is now very involved in the Colorado Sled Hockey Association and wants to create opportunities to play for other veterans and even children who would benefit from the sport.

Carla’s left leg was amputated in 2006. The blast in 2004 also destroyed 40% of the muscles in her right leg.

Much of her shoulder pain is caused by using crutches because she lost her leg after the 2004 explosion in Iraq, a pain that has evolved over two decades.

Life According to Opioids Carla left the Army after her left leg was amputated in 2006, but that’s when her pain began to take multiple forms. Physically, her legs hurt every day, and treating that pain created a new type of pain: addiction.

“I would literally take my pills, and that was the only thing I thought of and focused on,” Carla said as she recalled a life of consuming pills at all hours of the day.

“My biggest fear is that I would run out of pills, and I would run out of pills all the time because I’m dropping pills, I’m taking pills when I’m not supposed to be taking pills. My whole life revolved around pills.”

A life on opioid painkillers was not the life Carla wanted to live. Her legs still hurt, she was gaining weight because she was inactive, and she shut herself off from society.

After nearly 15 years on opioids, she decided to make a change.

A Healthy Type of Pain In December 2023, Carla signed up for a Wounded Warrior Project sled hockey clinic. She never watched hockey, knew nothing about hockey, but found a welcoming community of people with similar injuries and military experiences.

“That first step back into movement and activity is so important,” said Randa Osman, a WWP adaptive sports specialist, who organized the 2023 sled hockey clinic.

“The hardest part is taking the first step out the door. Once you get fresh air, movement in the muscles, and get the blood flowing, it all falls into place.”

WWP hosts dozens of adaptive sports events every year across the country.

Carla started playing sled hockey after a WWP adaptive sports program in 2023.

“I really don’t wear my prosthetic leg the way that I would like to because of the pain that it causes, so it’s a matter of having choices and knowing what my limit is for the day,” Carla said.

Carla said that sled hockey is strenuous, especially on shoulders that are already in pain. But the thrill of competing, the freedom from addiction, the joy of being around teammates, and the sense of accomplishment she feels by being active make this new type of pain productive.

“It’s a good pain because it’s the pain you’re getting from the satisfaction of playing,” said Carla. “Normally, pain is a very isolating thing; you’re in your house, hiding in your room. So being around people who are amputees, in wheelchairs, or have mental limitations, we’re all playing the same sport, so it makes it worth it.”

To learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org or call 888.ALUM (997.2586) to connect with the WWP Resource Center.

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Camp Corral Summer Camp for MilitaryConnected Kids Registration Opens Jan. 14th!

The sunny days of summer may seem far away, but at Camp Corral, plans are well underway to give militaryconnected kids the summer camp experience of a lifetime.

Registration opens January 14th for Camp Corral’s 15th annual Summer Kids Camp, with 23 sessions across 19 states scheduled from mid-June through early August.

Participation is free of charge to the camper’s family and is open to children (ages 8-15) of wounded, ill and fallen veterans.

Camp registration is on a first-come, first-served basis at www.campcorral.org/camps.

Camp Corral is a national nonprofit whose mission is to transform the lives of children of wounded, ill and fallen military heroes. Summer Kids Camp is the organization’s signature program and 38,000 children, from every state in the nation, have participated in camp since the organization’s creation in 2011.

“We are proud to support thousands of children from military families and honored to provide an opportunity for them to experience the transformative power of summer camp,” says Camp Corral CEO Phil Kowalczyk. “This is a camp military-connected kids can call their own, a place to have fun while trying new adventures, learning some independence, and making friends with other kids who have similar life experiences.”

Camp Corral’s week-long sleep-away Summer Kids Camp sessions are designed to support the unique needs and challenges of children who have endured the trauma of having a parent become wounded, ill or fallen as a result of military service.

Camp Corral also holds a series of Family Camp Weekends each spring and fall, with seven camp weekends across six states planned for this year. The all-inclusive camp retreats support the needs of wounded warrior families and provide opportunity for respite, connection, growth and healing as a family.

For dates, locations and registration information: www.campcorral.org/family-camps.

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In addition to camp programming, Camp Corral offers the SALUTE Leadership Program for teens ages 16-17 years old, and is a national leader and provider of educational resources, research and advocacy related to the challenges faced by children of wounded, ill or fallen military heroes.

For more information about Camp Corral, their programs and how to support their mission: www.campcorral.org.

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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One Suicide is Too Many Empowering soldiers with the mental health skills and tools to reinforce suicide protection

WARRIOR

Fight Stigma Provide Peer Support Access to Counseling

@GiveAnHour

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Real Talk: Mental Health

By Tami Brown, MAnCase Manager, The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinicat VVSD, San Diego www.cohenveteransnetwork.org

Investing in Your Mental Wellness I retired from the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman in March 2025. I was always preparing for the unexpected.

Being attached to Marine units, I knew I had to stay ready, so I didn’t have to get ready: keeping myself physically and medically ready; and investing a lot of time, energy and effort into everything but my mental health. During my transition from military to civilian life, I recognized a familiar pattern among veterans; we feel a strong sense of duty to others, simultaneously neglecting to prioritize ourselves.

“it’s okay to not be okay.” Providing kindness and grace to ourselves (i.e. “We did the best we could with what we had” or “It’s okay, I’m still learning”) are ways to invest in our mental wellness.

Practicing self-compassion is another great way to invest in our mental wellness and a strong start to improving our overall well-being. When we start investing in our mental wellness, our overall wellbeing and quality of life can improve. When we can understand ourselves better, we can better engage with others and find a new purpose outside the military life that has consumed us.

January marks the start of a new year, offering a fresh slate and an opportunity to prioritize what truly matters—our mental wellness. As we set goals and intentions for the months ahead, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we’re caring for our emotional and psychological health. Whether it’s seeking support, building healthier habits, or simply taking moments to recharge, focusing on mental wellness in January can set a positive tone for the entire year. It’s a reminder that investing in ourselves is not just a resolution but a commitment to living a balanced and fulfilling life.

Mental wellness can be described as the way we manage stress, regulate our emotions, connect with others and how we adapt to change. Being in the military requires prolonged periods of hypervigilance, sacrifice and responsibility over others. Over time, these demands slowly chip away at our sleep, relationships, and overall quality of life. By investing in our mental wellness, we can address these effects, begin to manage them before they become overwhelming and consume our being.

Mental wellness is more than just going to therapy or meditating. It’s about how we engage with others, how do we take care of our bodies in a physical manner, and the way we talk to ourselves on a daily basis. One way to invest in our mental wellness is to have self-compassion.

Acknowledging how we are feeling, managing it the best way we can (reach out to a trusted source, peer, etc.) and understanding that we don’t need to “fix it” are ways to invest in our mental wellness. Understanding it is human for us to feel anger, guilt, shame (just to name a few) allows us to give space to better comprehend the saying 24

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About the Author

Tami Brown, MA, APCC, is a Navy Hospital Corpsman Veteran and Case Manager at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD in San Diego, where she connects veterans, active service members, and their families to essential resources such as employment, mental health services, and education. With a BA in General Studies focused on Psychology and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University, Tami brings extensive clinical experience from her work at Alvarado Parkway Institute and the Community Research Foundation’s Halcyon Crisis Center. Passionate about serving the military community, Tami values the Cohen Clinic’s mission to enhance mental health care and quality of life for service members and their families. Coming from a proud military family, Tami is dedicated to making meaningful connections and supporting those who have served. For more information, visit vvsd.net/cohenclinics

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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

Trauma and women Veterans Historically, what we have termed post-traumatic stress disorder since 1980, went by a number of names and was almost exclusively linked to combat.

From the Civil War’s ‘Soldier’s Heart’ to World War I’s ‘Shell Shock’’ and War Neurosis’ to World War II’s ‘Battle Fatigue’, the condition was almost exclusively associated with the consequences of intense wartime exposure. Catch-22, a memorable black comedy of World War II, featured a variety of stress reactions to war, including Hungry Joe’s screaming nightmares after every combat mission. Little recognition of the psychological impact was given to nurses who were exposed to the horrors of the injuries and death they encountered caring for soldiers.

As the numbers of women reaches approximately 10% of the veteran population, both the extent and impact of PTSD has thankfully been realized. In the Iraq and Afghanistan theatres, women were increasingly exposed to the traumas of war zones. Over and above this source of trauma, however, military sexual trauma has played an outsized role in the health of women service members and veterans. Sexual trauma ranges from sexual assault to unwanted sexual advances or comments. As we know in general about PTSD, trauma may often not be confined to a single event but may involve an accumulation of smaller traumas along with exposure to one or more ‘index events’, or more extreme traumas.

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A recent review of multiple studies suggests that sexual assault may be the most likely of all traumas to result in PTSD, with most survivors immediately experiencing PTSD symptoms such as nightmares, re-experiencing, hyper-vigilance, and avoidance behaviors. Stigma, irrational self-blame, understandable perceptions that the world is dangerous, and avoidance behaviors are common and all of these features can interfere with the healing processes that lessen the impact of trauma over time. Victim blaming is common and adds to the negative beliefs that can interfere both with accessing care as well as recovery.

Work on the aftermath of trauma suggests that intervention within the first three months following trauma may be particularly beneficial in lessening impact before thoughts and behaviors become entrenched. In recent decades, trauma-informed therapies have been developed, extending both awareness and availability of evidence-based treatments for both veterans and civilians. There are also some indications that female veterans may be more likely to respond favorably to talk therapies than male veterans even if initial symptom severity is worse. We found this trend in recent research on the use of our Freespira treatment for PTSD and panic attacks.

The Veterans Administration in recent years has increase specialty programs for female veterans, including Women’s Mental Health Champions at every VA Center and specialty trauma recovery programs.

Dr. 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

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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WALKING THROUGH FIRE Even with annual labs, Army veteran’s cancer diagnosis was missed until it had progressed to Stage 4

By Liz Stetler

O

n a March evening in 2025, DAV life member and Army veteran Jeff Slotnick began to hiccup. His hiccups intensified to the point where he couldn’t breathe, and by 11 p.m., his wife, Nancy, had to rush him to the medical center on Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

After stabilizing him and reviewing his X-rays and CT scan, the doctor found the cause of his hiccups: a 9-centimeter tumor on Slotnick’s liver pressing on his diaphragm.

Things moved rapidly from there. Results of a biopsy came back positive for liver cancer. But that wasn’t the worst part.

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Slotnick had Stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma, or bile duct cancer.

“The prognosis presently is incurable but treatable,” he explained. “That means if I survive, I will probably need to have chemotherapy for the rest of my life.”

As a Gulf War veteran with 21 years of service, Slotnick has care that’s covered through the Department of Veterans Affairs under the PACT Act, a landmark law signed in 2022. The PACT Act expanded VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic hazards or materials.

But Slotnick’s case underscores a troubling gap. He visited his VA primary care doctor for annual screenings and labs, yet his cancer wasn’t detected until it had already progressed to Stage 4.

“It has since been determined that my cancer was most likely caused by toxins that I was exposed to in the military,” Slotnick said. “I wasn’t thinking about it in my 20s.”

Slotnick’s case isn’t singular. Gulf War and postJeff Slotnick served as an Army 9/11 veterans were exposed combat engineer and deployed to burn pits, oil fires, all over the world, including Honduras and the Middle East, pesticides and other toxins. where he was exposed to While the PACT Act ensures explosives residue, chemicals coverage once a presumptive and contaminated soil. Now, he advocates for toxic-exposed condition is diagnosed, veterans to learn their risk factors veterans aren’t routinely before it’s too late. screened for these diseases.

By the time cancers like cholangiocarcinoma are discovered, surgery is often no longer an option. Even when surgery is possible (for localized, non-metastasized cases), it often doesn’t completely remove the cancer.

Once the disease reaches Stage 4, the cancer has spread into other organs, and treatment focuses on slowing progression, not curing it.

In early 2024, Slotnick’s annual blood work from the VA showed high cholesterol, diabetes and liver issues.

Later that year, persistent abdominal aches drove him to see a civilian specialist. Even with an ultrasound, the tumor on his liver went undetected. His doctors attributed symptoms to lifestyle. In reality, cancer was advancing.

Now, between chemotherapy treatments at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, Slotnick’s new mission is to advocate for earlier detection through regular screenings for presumptively exposed veterans and ensuring the VA, Department of Defense and civilian providers can seamlessly share medical records so no clues are missed.

“Veterans shouldn’t fall through the cracks because one system can’t see what another already knows,” said Jon Retzer, deputy national legislative director at DAV. “Full electronic health record integration and interoperability between the VA, DOD and community providers isn’t just about modern health IT—it’s about ensuring safety; supporting seamless care coordination; and delivering comprehensive, quality health care.

“When every provider has the full picture, veterans get faster diagnoses, better treatment options, and the care they deserve and earned.”

Despite the grueling treatments, Slotnick remains positive.

“Combat service prepared me for what I’m going through now,” he said. “I have to walk through live fire to get to the other side.”

His wife, Nancy, who is also a veteran, has been with him through the treatments and long nights.

“I couldn’t do this without her,” Slotnick said.

He refers to his new routine as his “battle rhythm,” finding strength in moments with family, practicing gratitude and finding hope that his advocacy can spare others.

“When I wake up in the morning, I look outside, I see the trees, I see the birds. I’m more aware of the good things that I have. I’m more aware of the little moments,” Slotnick said. “I can’t change my diagnosis, but I can make sure other veterans don’t get theirs too late. That’s my mission now.”

Slotnick’s story is a sobering reminder that while the PACT Act has expanded access to care for toxic-exposed veterans, early detection remains the missing piece.

DAV and MOAA’s Ending the Wait for Toxic-Exposed Veterans report (endingthewait.org) calls for systemic improvements in how the VA identifies, screens and cares for veterans with toxic-exposure-related conditions.

For veterans who served in areas where they may have been exposed, the message is clear: Don’t wait, advocate. Talk to your provider about screenings, and visit benefitsquestions.org for help filing a claim. n

Nancy and Jeff Slotnick’s love story began in the military. Decades later, Nancy’s support and encouragement throughout Jeff’s illness have been steadfast.

WHAT VETERANS SHOULD KNOW • Know your risks: Burn pits, oil fires, pesticides or other environmental exposures correlate with higher risks of certain cancers and respiratory illnesses.

• Don’t wait for symptoms: Request annual blood screenings to catch early cancer indicators—and don’t take no for an answer.

• Share your history: Make sure every doctor you see (VA, military or civilian) knows your service history and potential exposures.

• Get support: Accredited service officers with DAV can help you understand your benefits, file claims and access the care you’ve earned.

Learn more at benefitsquestions.org.

dav.org dav.org HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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PTSD and the Military: Overcoming Stigma to Find Hope in Recovery

By Lt. Cmdr. William Reynolds, USN, (Ret.), PA-C

with coping strategies and support systems, facilitating their return to duty or transition to civilian life.

It’s also important to look at underlying physical comorbidities. Some programs, like the Sierra Tucson Red, White, and Blue Program, start with a physical examination complete with appropriate lab work which is essential to identifying physical issues that may mask as psychological problems. Hypothyroidism, for example, often presents as depression.

There is Strength in Surrender and Acknowledging a Problem

Military personnel face significant mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and substance use disorders. In 2022, approximately 17.6% of active-duty service members sought treatment for psychological health concerns. Servicepeople, though, often encounter significant stigma when seeking mental health treatment. This stigma, deeply rooted in a military culture that emphasizes resilience and self-reliance, leads many to perceive seeking help as a sign of weakness. It takes tremendous courage to ask for help, but recovery is possible, and veterans and military personnel do not need to live with PTSD symptoms.

Going To Treatment Is Not Necessarily a Career-Ender The military emphasizes the importance of mental readiness and resilience, recognizing that untreated mental health issues can adversely affect an individual’s performance as well as military unit cohesion. The Department of Defense has implemented policies to encourage mental health care while minimizing career repercussions. The Brandon Act, for example, was enacted in May 2023 and aims to improve access to mental health services, encouraging early intervention and allowing service members to seek help confidentially without fear of negative career impacts.

Residential Treatment is Akin to a Wellness Retreat Residential mental health treatment provides a structured, 24/7 environment for individuals requiring intensive care beyond outpatient services. These programs incorporate therapies addressing trauma and stressors specific to military service and are tailored to the unique needs of those whose lives have been disrupted by various mental and behavioral health concerns. This comprehensive, personalized approach aims to equip service members 30

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Recognizing the existence of a mental health problem is a crucial first step toward successful treatment and recovery.

Denial often serves as a barrier, preventing service personal from recognizing the severity of their condition and ultimately delaying the necessary help. By confronting the reality of their struggles, military members can move beyond denial and open the door to therapeutic support systems. Acceptance also enhances the effectiveness of treatment by increasing an individual’s commitment to the recovery process. When veterans and military personnel acknowledge their problems, they are more likely to participate actively in therapy, adhere to prescribed treatments, and implement coping strategies. Plus, this acknowledgment also plays an important role in reducing the stigma associated with mental health and addiction issues.

For additional resources, active duty and veteran members of the military are encouraged to visit: the National Center for PTSD (www.ptsd.va.gov), Military OneSource (www.militaryonesource.mil), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Mental Health websites (www.mentalhealth.va.gov).

PTSD is a diagnostic code that the healthcare industry uses, but the word “disorder” in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder stigmatizes a very normal, human response to abnormal situations. PTSD has also been with us since the invention of warfare. Fortunately, with advances in mental health care, treating this potentially debilitating condition is highly effective. There is hope for active duty and military veterans to return to living well in recovery.

Lt. Cmdr. William Reynolds, USN, (Ret.), PA-C, is Director of the Military and First Responder Trauma Recovery Program at Arizona-based mental health treatment facility Sierra Tucson.

For more information, visit: www.sierratucson.com/programs/military

Beyond Sticker Shock: A Q&A on the Veteran Medication Access Crisis Homeland Magazine sat down with Alexandra Robertson, Senior Vice President of Growth at Visory Health, to discuss the challenges of medication access and affordability faced by Veterans.

Homeland: Alexandra, 40% of Veterans, battle chronic conditions like hypertension, plus service-related injuries and PTSD. What is their most significant health management challenge today?

Alexandra: The biggest hurdle is the consistent, day-today management of chronic conditions like the ones you mentioned. More pressing, however, can be the challenge of medication access and affordability. It’s not enough to have a prescription; patients must be able to access and afford their medications month after month. That’s why at Visory we’re working to inform communities like Veterans about choices they have available to them.

Alexandra: Everyone might not know that when using a prescription discount card, the prices may vary by pharmacy. Prescription discount cards, like Visory Health, work best on generic medications, and for those who are prescribed brand drugs, I recommend seeing if Patient Assistance Programs are available.

Homeland: How can modern health-tech platforms and price transparency tools help bridge these gaps in access?

Alexandra: The key is removing the lack of transparency that often drives up costs. By using digital tools to compare prices in real-time, Veterans can bypass hidden fees and find the price of their medication with ease. These platforms empower patients with information to find affordable and accessible options.

Homeland: We’ve seen news about “pharmacy deserts.” How do pharmacy closures impact the Veteran community?

Alexandra: Pharmacy deserts are a major barrier, especially for Veterans in rural areas or with limited mobility. When a local pharmacy closes, a 20-minute trip can become a 60-minute one. Many won’t make that drive, which leads to “prescription abandonment.” For a Veteran managing a chronic condition, that’s a direct threat to their health.

Homeland: What’s the most effective, actionable step a Veteran can take to avoid “sticker shock” before leaving their doctor’s office?

Alexandra: Some Veterans may have benefits, such as TRICARE, which can help provide medications at a reduced cost. However, many Veterans experience gaps in their healthcare, including prescription coverage. So when a provider prescribes a medication, ask: “Is there a generic version available? Does my insurance cover this? Are there lower-cost alternatives?” Initiating that conversation is a crucial part of the treatment plan. A prescription you can’t afford isn’t an effective one.

Homeland:: What other resources or strategies can lower costs once they have the prescription?

Homeland: Alexandra, this landscape is complicated.

What does Visory Health do to help Veterans navigate these challenges?

Alexandra: Our mission is to create access to affordable medications for underserved communities, especially Veterans. We eliminate “sticker shock” through our price transparency and free prescription discount card, which can give Veterans up to 80% off their medications. We also work closely with Veteran service organizations such as Folds of Honor to help reach as many Veterans and their families as possible. We empower Veterans with information like we’re doing today to let them know what affordable, accessible options are available to them and their families, so they never face an impossible choice between their health and other essentials. We believe no one, especially our Veterans, should go without their medications. For more information please visit www.visoryhealth.com HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Reflections and Lasting Lessons San Diego Veterans Magazine spoke with Vietnam veteran and playwright Mike Vopatek Army, Cap (ret) about his reflections on the New Year, the lasting lessons of his military service, and how those experiences continue to shape his life and passion for playwriting, as well as his well wishes for the Armed Forces Community.

SDVM: What's next in 2026 for you? Will people have the opportunity to experience your 2 act play at The Hacienda or somewhere else?

Mike: In 2026, I hope to invite play producers to The Hacienda to witness a reading of my play. My goal is to receive referrals to producers and provide them with a copy of the script for consideration in future theater seasons.

SDVM: What challenges do you think service members and veterans face today?

Mike: For some, the transition to civilian life and not giving themselves credit for the skills they have in leadership or technologies that will secure civilian employment. Also, staying in denial that they are OK when they may have PTSD symptoms.

SDVM: What lessons from your service stayed with you?

Mike: Accomplish the organization's mission while taking care of employees. Always live up to West Point's motto of "Duty, Honor, Country.”

SDVM: How did Vietnam and West Point shape your creative and community work?

Mike: I always had a hidden creative talent that emerged once I retired and took a playwriting class. The final exam was creating a oneact play, a comedy about two West Point plebes trying to avoid demerits. A professional director and actors brought my script to life, and the “civilian” audience laughed.

I was convinced this was a meaningful way to entertain people.

Next, I decided to take on something more challenging: a two-act play about how my fellow soldiers and I survived repeated attacks in Vietnam.

I asked the Community Life Director at The Hacienda Mission San Luis Rey, where I live, if they would stage it, and they agreed. With their support, I presented the play with a professional director and local actors. It resonated with residents, many of whom have their own memories of the Vietnam era.

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SDVM: What matters most during life transitions?

Mike: Having confidence in oneself to overcome any obstacles to achieve your goals. That means setting your goals, and getting a second opinion from someone you trust. Don't burn out - take breaks along the way. For me, the "power of prayer." The old saying was evident while in combat, "No atheists in foxholes”.

SDVM: Your wish for the Armed Forces Community for 2026?

Mike: Continue with the same determination, belief in yourself, and energy you used while serving our country while on active duty. Have a plan on how to secure a second career taking advantage of your skills while in uniformed service. You may not ever be thanked for your service, but be proud that you served our nation. You follow in the footsteps of many who helped make our country what it is today.

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Homeland Magazine January 2026 Issue

TRANSITION To Civilian Life Reflections and Lasting Lessons Lessons from Louis Zamperini (After Military) Establishing Your Online Presence New Dreams After the Final Salute Imagination, Identity, & Mission After Service Military-Connected Talent: Voices from the Field Former Marine finds Academic Excellence From Silent Service to Storefront Priceless Relationships: Behold Your Customer New Year - New Business Legal Eagle: Business Plans for Your Company Managing Expectations for 2026 Careers in Law Enforcement

VETERANS IN TRANSITION

For editorial & monthly columns regarding transition, career advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, straight-forward legal tips for military and veteran business owners and more, visit Veterans In Transition. www.homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition 34

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Military Life Is Unpredictable.

Your Education Shouldn’t Be. Earn Your Degree Anytime, Anywhere. Flexible, Affordable, and 100% Online!*

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ilitary life comes with constant changes—deployments, PCS moves, and unpredictable schedules. But your education doesn’t have to wait. At Los Angeles Pacific University, we understand the unique challenges military members, spouses, veterans, and dependents face. That’s why our fully online programs offer the flexibility you need to study at your own pace, no matter where life takes you. Whether you’re on base, deployed overseas, or at home, your degree moves with you!

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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WHAT’S NEXT Transition to Civilian Life

By Eve Nasby eve@infused.work

Finding Your Anchor: Lessons from Louis Zamperini for Life After the Military Louis Zamperini’s story begins like many of ours: a spirited individual full of energy and a hint of rebellion, with a drive that refused to be ignored. At just 19, he ran in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, a long-distance runner chasing a dream with relentless discipline. His athletic prowess would later serve him in ways no training could truly prepare for.

During World War II, Zamperini served as a bombardier. In 1943, his plane went down over the Pacific. For 47 days, he survived adrift on a small raft, subsisting on rainwater, raw fish, and birds. Storms raged, hunger gnawed, and danger was constant. Yet even in the most extreme conditions, he learned a vital lesson: surviving physically begins with surviving mentally. The mind must be disciplined, anchored in hope, and steadfast in courage.

As if the ocean wasn’t enough, Zamperini was captured by the Japanese navy and endured brutal POW camps.

Starvation, relentless torture, and despair could have broken him—but they did not. He drew upon the mental toughness honed in his youth and at sea, holding tightly to memories of home, the promise of freedom, and a refusal to surrender hope. After the war, Zamperini wrestled with anger and trauma but eventually found redemption through faith.

Forgiving those who had harmed him, he dedicated his life to helping others overcome adversity, inspiring countless people as a motivational speaker. His story, immortalized in Unbroken, stands as a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of hope.

Now, consider this: your transition from military service into civilian life might not put you on a raft in the Pacific, but it can feel just as uncertain. Storms of rejection, unanswered job applications, and the unease of starting anew can test your mental toughness. The good news? The same courage, discipline, and resilience that carried you through boot camp and deployment will carry you now.

“All I want to tell young people is that you're not going to be anything in life unless you learn to commit to a goal. You have to reach deep within yourself to see if you are willing to make the sacrifices.”

- Louis Zamperini

Louis Zamperini with his son, Luke, at the end of his presentation during resilience training at the Edwards AFB - U.S. Air Force photo by Jet Fabara

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

Here’s how to navigate this journey: Be Courageous

Did you know?

1. Be Courageously Intentional.

Ask yourself where you want to be in 3–5 years— professionally, geographically, personally. What kind of work will energize you? Where will your family thrive?

Consider your lifestyle needs and financial goals. Like Zamperini, who trained with purpose every day to reach the Olympics, approach your transition with deliberate intention. Each day should have a clear goal, a step forward toward the life you envision.

Your military discipline, leadership, and unique skills are highly valuable assets, not just memories; focus on transferring that mission-driven mindset, building new habits, and actively seek out a renewed sense of purpose, and remember, you are well-equipped to thrive.

2. Ask Courageous Questions.

Courage isn’t just for the battlefield—it’s for life. What skills do you need to develop? Which opportunities align with your values and goals? Who can guide you? Seek mentors who have walked this path before. Need help with resume writing, interviewing skills, or networking?

Explore free resources like VetCTAP, Veterans Beer Club or Reboot. Asking for help is not weakness—it’s a mark of wisdom and strength.

3. Make Courageous Decisions.

Treat your job search with focus. Engage in it like a mission: dedicate time, sharpen your skills, and leverage free coaching or online classes. Take calculated risks.

Apply for positions that stretch you, even if they seem intimidating. Thinking of the trades? Why not check out Workshops for Warriors Need a coach? check out: Hire Heroes USA Zamperini sought out coaches to guide him; you too can access mentors and experts who will help you succeed.

4. Be of Good Courage and Hold Fast to Hope.

Storms will come. You may feel adrift. But remember the anchor within you: the training, perseverance, and mental toughness that carried you through military life is still alive inside. Trust it. Lean into faith, resilience, and the support around you. Step by step, day by day, you will navigate this new chapter.

Louis Zamperini’s life shows us that courage is not the absence of fear—it’s the determination to rise despite it. Your transition may feel challenging, but it is also an opportunity to embrace the next chapter with focus, faith, and courage.

You are not alone, and with intentionality, courage and resolve, you will find your anchor and thrive.

Need help with your transition? Reach out to Eve via LinkedIn or email eve@infused.work www.linkedin.com/in/eve-nasby-given-hiring-expert

HomelandMagazine.com

Transitioning out of the Military into the Civilian Workforce?

Finding a job in the civilian workplace 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 In fact, it can be downright depressing, demotivating, and you may feel totally disillusioned. We can help.

In our Veterans In Transition archives you will find helpful and informative articles about what’s next in transition, veterans in business, career, advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, veteran franchises, legal tips & resources for veteran businesses and much more...

For assistance in your journey please visit:

Veterans-In-Transition https://tinyurl.com/vet-in-transition

homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition

VETERANS IN TRANSITION HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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5 LinkedIn Tips

By Sam Falcone

Establishing Your Online Presence is Easier Than You Think For veterans transitioning into the private sector workforce, the task of building an online and social presence can seem daunting.

It’s easy to hesitate at the thought of building a digital portfolio through websites such as LinkedIn, but the truth is, those who are not taking full advantage of LinkedIn’s services are missing out on an incredibly powerful tool to advance their careers. As a LinkedIn and digital marketing strategist, I’ve seen outstanding LinkedIn profiles and not-so-memorable ones, but one thing’s for sure: LinkedIn represents your online resume and business card, your professional “best self.”

Unlike other social media websites, LinkedIn is strictly business, and it’s the first place that prospective employers look once they’ve received your resume and are considering you for an interview. So, let’s take a few simple steps together to transition into the digital marketing and social media world, highlighting your greatest strengths and putting your experience in the best light. Whether you’re constructing a LinkedIn profile from scratch or dusting the cobwebs off of a previously inactive account, here are five easy steps to help enhance your LinkedIn profile and catch the eyes of recruiters and hiring managers.

Step 1: Upload a Professional Photo

LinkedIn automatically applies a generic avatar icon to newly established profiles, but profiles without your smiley (but professional) face have far fewer hits. You don’t have to spend money on a professional photographer for a formal headshot—instead, take a snapshot of yourself in professional business attire (neck up only!) using your smart phone and upload it to your LinkedIn page. This one step alone will catapult the views you get and interest in the content that follows.

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Oh, and while you’re there, be sure to complete your “Contact Info” with as much information as possible— cell phone and email, primarily—to make it easy for prospective employers to contact you.

Step 2: Customize Your LinkedIn URL

Once you establish your account, LinkedIn will automatically assign an address (AKA “Universal Resource Locator,” or URL) to you. However, it will look like a scramble of letters and numbers that reflect random computer code. You’ll want to create what’s known as a “vanity URL” so that it closely matches your name and can easily be added to the top of your resume. For example, my vanity URL is linkedin.com/ in/samfalcone1, which makes it easy enough to find me and has a much cleaner and more professional look.

(Feel free to send me an invite once you’re logged in to your LinkedIn account!)

To learn how to customize your URL quickly and easily, click here: https://bit.ly/2HbgULi. Step 3: Headline

Just below your headshot is your LinkedIn headline, where you can use a call-to-action to catch a recruiter’s attention. Try something like this: “Military veteran transitioning into the private sector and looking for full-time employment” or equivalent. You can be more specific, for example, by writing: “Navy commander looking to transition into a private sector position in technical operations or engineering leadership.”

Whatever you decide, make sure you emphasize your goal of transitioning into a private sector career path.

Likewise, let recruiters know you’re actively looking for work by following the steps in the attached LinkedIn article titled, “How to Flag Your LinkedIn Profile to Notify Recruiters you are OPEN to new Opportunities,” which you can find here: https://bit.ly/2EgCNHY. Step 4: The About and Experience Sections

Think of the “About” section as your 60-second elevator pitch. Who are you and what’s important to you in finding your next employer? What leadership, communication, and technical skills will easily transfer to the private sector? What achievements and accommodations have you received that demonstrate how you stand out as a rarity among your peers?

Likewise, in the “Experience” section, display your previous titles, reporting relationships, primary and secondary responsibilities, and the resulting achievements (unless they are classified or restricted, of course). In both sections, be sure to translate your military achievements into their civilian equivalents using a military translator tool like the one found at Military.com (https://bit.ly/3ksXcsO) and similar sites.

Step 5: Skills / Endorsements & Recommendations Finally, select the skills that you believe you’re best known for and encourage your peers and contacts to endorse you (and which you should, in turn, do for them). Categories include Industry Knowledge, Tools and Technologies, Interpersonal Skills, Foreign Languages, and others. Likewise, in the Recommendations section, ask others to write about how you’ve solved problems, led effectively, communicated through difficult times, and the like. If possible, ask your prior leaders, managers, and supervisors to endorse you here for the equivalent of an “online letter of recommendation.”

Note that once you reach “500+ connections,” LinkedIn stops advertising the number of connections you have.

So, whether you have 501 or 50,001, LinkedIn will only show “500+.” Therefore, make it your goal to reach the 500-connection mark over the next year or few years.

Along with your personal contacts, your connections could include professionals in your industry or particular discipline, such as Human Resources, Finance, or Marketing, as well as like-minded veterans and connections made at external events. Look to LinkedIn to establish your online presence and serve as your job search calling card. It’s easier than you think, more fun that you might otherwise imagine, and well worth the effort.

Sam Falcone is a Digital Marketing and Social Media Strategist in Chicago.

www.HarperCollinsLeadership.com

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Chasing New Dreams After the Final Salute: How One Veteran Found a New Mission and Career After the Air Force San Diego Veterans Magazine sat down with Dan Taylor, a U.S. Air Force Veteran and former Command Chief Master Sergeant, who wanted to share his insights to help fellow veterans navigate this pivotal transition.

Transitioning from the U.S. Air Force to civilian life brings excitement and uncertainty. For Dan, who rose from jet engine mechanic to command chief, this shift meant finding a new mission, team, and purpose. Dan is now part of RiverTech, an Akima company.

1. Finding A Company That Aligns with Your Values "My biggest factor was finding a company that aligns with what my core values were.”

After leaving the Air Force amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan faced a tough job market and sought a workplace that reflected his core values: integrity, service, and teamwork. He found that alignment in Akima and its subsidiary RiverTech, where strong veteran support and a mission-driven culture made it an ideal fit.

Tip: Before you apply, research company values and culture. Ask yourself: Does this organization support veterans? Do they care about their people? Will I feel like part of a team?

2. Leverage Your Network, Especially on LinkedIn “I didn’t use [LinkedIn] to its full potential, but now I get on LinkedIn and search for candidates and build connections.”

Dan credits his successful transition to strong networking. LinkedIn proved invaluable for building connections and finding opportunities.

Tip: Build your LinkedIn profile early. Connect with veterans, recruiters, and industry professionals for advice and referrals.

3. Translate Your Military Experience “Don’t just build a resume, build relevance showing your experience in meeting what the company needs.”

Military resumes often include jargon and acronyms employers don’t understand. Dan stresses translating your experience into clear, relatable terms and 40

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Tip: List your primary roles, special duties, and leadership assignments. For example, instead of “Flight Chief,” explain that you “led a team of more than 50 technicians maintaining multi-million-dollar aircraft in a deadline-driven environment.”

4. Prepare for Interviews and Speak from the Heart “You can teach anybody anything... but do they have the right mindset?”

Dan values conversational interviews that highlight passion and team fit over technical skills. He advises veterans to research the company, prepare for common questions, and be themselves when sharing experiences and goals.

Tip: Practice mock interviews, such as those offered through the DoD’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP).

Show how your military experience adds value and let your passion shine through.

5. Maintain Your Security Clearance “Once you leave the military, if you have had a 24-month or more continuous break in federal service, employers will need to submit you for a new background investigation. Keep this in mind since it could hinder you from being selected for positions that need an active clearance.”

A security clearance lapses after two years, costing veterans valuable career opportunities, especially in defense roles.

Tip: If you have a clearance, seek roles where you can use it right away. Don’t let it expire.

6. Know Your Benefits and Research State Differences “Each state has different benefits. It’s important to understand this.”

Veterans’ benefits vary by state and company. Dan recommends doing your homework to understand what you’re entitled to, especially if you’re a retiree or relocating.

Tip: Check federal and state veteran resources. Ask potential employers about their veteran support programs, training, leave, and family benefits.

Did you know?

7. Find Your New Mission and Keep Serving “I just love taking care of people, and it’s very enjoyable.”

Dan’s passion for leadership and mentorship continues at Akima/RiverTech, where he guides younger teams toward their career goals.

Tip: Seek roles that let you help others grow through mentoring, training, or leadership.

8. Be Patient and Know Your Boundaries “You’re not going to find a perfect company; the goal is to find a role that aligns with your passion and values.”

Tip: Transitions take time. Dan urges veterans to be patient, flexible, and focused on what matters most to them and their families.

Dan’s Final Advice Transitioning to civilian life means making the most of resources, from TAP programs to veteran support networks. Stay connected with your military network, as former colleagues can open doors. Mentorship can also shape your career.

By following these tips, veterans will be on their way to a successful civilian career: “one that’s mission-driven, meaningful, and uniquely yours.”

Launch your next career at https://www.akima.com/veterans/ Daniel Taylor, a 30year U.S. Air Force veteran and former Command Chief Master Sergeant, led thousands in aviation, logistics, and global mobility missions supporting national security. Now a Program Manager at RiverTech, an Akima company, he continues that legacy, overseeing aircrew operations and ensuring mission success for DoD leadership worldwide.

Veterans are a great fit for companies because they bring unparalleled discipline, work ethic, leadership, and adaptability, honed through rigorous military training, translating to mission focus, teamwork, integrity, and problem-solving.

HomelandMagazine.com

Transitioning out of the Military into the Civilian Workforce?

Finding a job in the civilian workplace 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 In fact, it can be downright depressing, demotivating, and you may feel totally disillusioned. We can help.

In our Veterans In Transition archives you will find helpful and informative articles about what’s next in transition, veterans in business, career, advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, veteran franchises, legal tips & resources for veteran businesses and much more...

For assistance in your journey please visit:

Veterans-In-Transition https://tinyurl.com/vet-in-transition

homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition

VETERANS IN TRANSITION HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Imagination, Identity, and the Mission After Service What Neville Goddard and Lou Tice Teach Veterans About Reinvention, Purpose, and Career Transition

By Maurice D. Wilson, MCPO USN (Ret), President/Executive Director, NVTSI.org For many veterans, leaving military service is not simply a career change—it is an identity disruption. The uniform provided structure, shared language, rank, and a clear sense of mission. When that framework disappears, veterans are often encouraged to focus on résumés, certifications, and job searches. Yet those strategies frequently fall short when the deeper internal shift has not occurred.

At National Veterans Transition Services, Inc. (NVTSI), years of transition and reintegration work have revealed a consistent truth: Career transition succeeds only when identity transition comes first.

That understanding is why the foundation of REBOOT’s Week One curriculum is built on the work of Lou Tice and The Pacific Institute, and why REBOOT later integrates complementary insights from Neville Goddard to address the deeper questions of identity and purpose veterans face after service.

Though Goddard and Tice come from very different traditions—mystical New Thought versus applied cognitive psychology—they converge on an insight critical to veterans in transition: Inner images, beliefs, and self-talk shape outer results.

Lou Tice: The Cognitive Foundation of REBOOT Week One Lou Tice’s work forms the backbone of REBOOT’s opening week because it gives veterans a practical, evidence-based framework for understanding how mindset influences behavior and outcomes.

Tice taught that thoughts accumulate into beliefs, beliefs drive behavior, and behavior drives results.

His concept of Smart Talk helps individuals identify and replace limiting internal dialogue, while his emphasis on self-efficacy reinforces a powerful conviction: “I can cause, I can bring about, I can make happen.”

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In REBOOT Week One, veterans are guided to: • Examine inherited beliefs formed during military service • Identify internal narratives that limit confidence or possibility • Reframe self-talk to support civilian performance • Clarify meaningful goals that define a clear “from here to there” For veterans accustomed to structure, accountability, and measurable outcomes, Tice’s framework resonates immediately. It translates abstract ideas about “mindset” into tools veterans can apply in interviews, classrooms, and new workplaces.

Neville Goddard: Identity and Imagination Beneath the Goals While Lou Tice explains how belief change drives results, Neville Goddard explores who the individual must become for those results to feel natural and sustainable.

Goddard emphasized imagination as the creative power of life. His practice of “assuming the wish fulfilled” asks individuals to mentally and emotionally inhabit the identity they seek before external evidence appears. His wellknown phrase, “feeling is the secret,” highlights the role emotion plays in embedding assumptions into the subconscious.

For veterans, this work addresses a common but unspoken challenge: identity lag. A veteran may be doing all the “right” things—networking, applying, training— yet still internally feel like they do not belong in civilian spaces. Goddard’s teachings speak directly to this inner state, encouraging veterans to move from “I was” to “I am.”

Where the Two Models Align Despite different language and philosophical frames, the overlap is striking. Both Goddard and Tice treat the inner narrative as causal.

Goddard describes this as “assumption hardening into fact.”

Tice explains it as beliefs shaping behavior and results.

Both emphasize the same triad: • Imagery: mental pictures of self and future • Self-talk: the language used internally • Emotion: the feeling tone that reinforces belief In both models, identity shifts first—outcomes follow.

Why REBOOT Integrates Both The primary difference between the two lies in metaphysics versus empiricism.

Goddard frames imagination as a universal spiritual law, often placing less emphasis on outward action. Tice grounds change in empirically supported frameworks such as goal-setting theory and social cognitive theory, explicitly linking belief change to new behaviors and performance outcomes.

REBOOT integrates both intentionally.

Veterans begin with Tice’s structured, evidencebased curriculum to establish clarity, confidence, and momentum. As the program progresses, Goddard-style imaginal work deepens identity transformation, helping veterans emotionally internalize who they are becoming— not just intellectually pursue goals.

In practice, REBOOT participants: • Use imaginal scenes to define future identity • Align daily self-talk with that identity

• Anchor change in clear, personally meaningful goals • Translate mindset into consistent civilian action Continuing the Mission Through REBOOT NVTSI offers REBOOT seminars and workshops on a monthly basis at various locations, providing veterans with structured opportunities to engage in this work alongside peers who understand the transition experience. Veterans and family members are encouraged to visit nvtsi.org to check the latest REBOOT schedule, locations, and program offerings.

Transition is not about abandoning the past—it is about rebuilding purpose on a new foundation.

By grounding REBOOT in Lou Tice’s proven cognitive framework and reinforcing it with Neville Goddard’s insights on imagination and identity, NVTSI helps veterans move from mission completion to mission creation.

The mission after service is not discovered.

It is imagined, believed, and built—one thought, one choice, and one action at a time.

About NVTSI National Veterans Transition Services, Inc. (NVTSI) is a San Diegobased nonprofit dedicated to helping service members, veterans, and spouses successfully transition from military to civilian life.

NVTSI is transforming how America integrates its veterans into the workforce.

Learn more at www.nvtsi.org.

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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READY TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CAREER? Talk to our friendly veterans admissions counselor today! admissions@icohs.edu (858)581-9460 www.icohs.edu Become a certified IT professional in 15 weeks with no prior experience necessary!

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Military-Connected Talent as a Part of the Strategic Solution for the 2026–2027 School Year Voices from the Field

By Dr. George Ann Rice Patriots to Education School districts across the country are beginning to plan their recruitment strategies for the 2026–2027 school year. While that academic year may seem distant, successful recruitment requires early, deliberate action.

Districts that begin planning now will be better positioned to recruit, qualify, and place high-quality candidates across a wide range of roles, including teachers, counselors, school nurses, occupational therapists, school safety officers, information technology specialists, skilled trades staff, operations staff, bus drivers, etc.

One largely untapped talent pool consists of militaryconnected individuals—Veterans, National Guard members, Reservists, service members preparing to separate within the next one to two years, military spouses, and spouses of active-duty personnel. For many of these individuals, public education represents a meaningful second career that allows them to continue serving our Country by strengthening local communities and supporting the next generation.

As discussed in previous columns, military-connected professionals bring a unique and valuable skill set to public education. Veterans and other service members offer integrity, discipline, teamwork, leadership, accountability, and strong problem-solving abilities developed through service in complex, high-stakes environments. They are accustomed to working with people from diverse backgrounds and bring a deep sense of responsibility and empathy to their roles.

Military spouses contribute resilience, adaptability, and perseverance honed through years of navigating relocations, deployments, and changing professional environments.

An important question often raised is whether those who transition into public education find the work fulfilling and sustainable. The answer, based on the experiences of those currently serving in schools and districts, is a resounding “yes.”

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Erin O’Hara-Lee, a 10th-grade English teacher with the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, Nevada, served nine years in the Army Reserves and six years in the Navy Reserves before retiring in 2023. Using her GI Bill benefits, she earned a master’s degree in education. She describes her transition into teaching as an excellent decision, noting her passion for instruction and training, as well as helping students recognize and achieve their potential.

Angel Vazquez, Executive Director of Maintenance Operations for Miami-Dade Public Schools in Florida, retired from the U.S. Coast Guard after 20 years of service. His extensive leadership, technical training, and operational experience made him a natural fit to lead maintenance operations for one of the nation’s largest school districts.

Jennie Escobedo, a military spouse for 19 years during her husband’s Air Force career, is now a school counselor with Travis Unified School District in Northern California.

She values the opportunity to support students’ social and emotional development, academic progress, and postsecondary and career planning.

Arnold Murphy II served four years on active duty in the U.S. Army and four years in the National Guard, including deployment to Iraq with Air Defense Artillery. He is now an assistant principal with Killeen Independent School District in Texas. After nine years as a classroom teacher, he moved into campus leadership, where he mentors both students and teachers. He describes his work as deeply rewarding, noting that former students regularly return to share how his guidance helped change their lives.

These stories illustrate the significant value militaryconnected professionals bring to public education—and why early, intentional recruitment of this talent pool is a strategic imperative for districts nationwide.

To learn more, visit our website www.patriotstoeducation.org Follow us on Instagram@patriotstoeducation

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

47

Former Marine channels discipline, curiosity into academic excellenc Alex Holt defined his path to graduate school by resilience, discipline and an unwavering commitment to growth.

Before stepping into the classroom, Holt spent four years serving in the Marine Corps as an infantryman and scout sniper, earning four meritorious promotions and leading teams built around precision, accountability and mental toughness.

When he transitioned out of the military, Holt carried those values with him into his academic journey — first at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in finance with special distinction, and now at Arizona State University as a Master of https://www.asu.edu/ Science in finance student, where he graduated this December with a 4.0 GPA. “Along the way, I’ve learned that resilience keeps you moving forward, but it is curiosity that allows you to grow,” said Holt.

As a student, Holt quickly gained recognition for his leadership, service and dedication to the community.

Outside the classroom, Holt passed two levels of the Chartered Financial Analyst program, attended professional conferences and got involved in the local community. Holt was both a mentee and a mentor in an organization called Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE), where he saw firsthand the difficulties that can come from the transition from military to civilian life.

Homeland Magazine sat down with Holt to discuss his transition from the Marine Corps to civilian life.

Homeland: How did the skills you developed in the Marine Corps translate to your educational pursuits?

Holt: The Marine Corps taught me how to learn under pressure, stay disciplined and take ownership of outcomes — skills that carried directly into the classroom. In the military, you’re constantly solving problems with limited time and information, which builds a level of focus and accountability that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. It can be difficult to translate specific hard skills into civilian life, but the soft skills and experiences from the military are incredibly valuable.

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Homeland: Why did you choose to study at ASU?

Did you know?

Holt: I was looking to move back West, where a lot of my personal community lives, to go back to school to focus on the Chartered Financial Analyst program and develop other relevant skills. I chose the https://wpcarey.asu.edu/ W. P. Carey School of Business at ASU for its unique third-semester option, which blends CFA finance curriculum with computer science coursework.

I had a lot of questions about finance but needed the technical tool kit to explore them. Learning to use AI, Python, SQL and other technologies gave me the ability to test ideas and get the answers I was looking for.

Veterans go back to school to ease their transition to civilian life, gain better career opportunities with higher earning potential, develop new skills, find a supportive community, and translate their valuable military experience into a meaningful civilian path.

Homeland: Did you encounter any difficulties coming out of the service, and how did you overcome them?

Holt: The hardest part of leaving the Marines was losing that built-in sense of purpose and community.

You go from being surrounded by people who share the same mission to suddenly having to find that on your own. What helped was finding new ways to serve and reconnect with that sense of belonging.

In undergrad, I started hosting an informal Marine Corps Birthday celebration each year for student veterans — it became a small but meaningful way to bring people together and keep that tradition alive. Getting involved with veteran organizations on campus and in the community also made a big difference. Over time, I realized that service doesn’t end when you take off the uniform, it just takes on new forms.

Homeland: What advice would you give to transitioning veterans who are looking to pursue a degree?

Holt: First, give yourself permission to be new at something again. Transitioning out of the military can be disorienting because you go from being highly competent in one environment to starting fresh in another. That’s normal. Lean into curiosity, ask questions, and seek out mentors early. Also, use your discipline to stay consistent — not just in studying, but in building relationships. Your network, both student peers and professors, will open doors you might not even know exist yet. Lastly, take advantage of the resources available for veterans. The GI Bill is an incredible asset to be leveraged and gives vets a great opportunity and space to transition to the civilian world. Schools like ASU have incredible support systems that make a huge difference.

HomelandMagazine.com

Transitioning out of the Military into the Civilian Workforce?

Finding a job in the civilian workplace 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 In fact, it can be downright depressing, demotivating, and you may feel totally disillusioned. We can help.

In our Veterans In Transition archives you will find helpful and informative articles about what’s next in transition, veterans in business, career, advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, veteran franchises, legal tips & resources for veteran businesses and much more...

For assistance in your journey please visit:

Veterans-In-Transition https://tinyurl.com/vet-in-transition

homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition

VETERANS IN TRANSITION HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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From Silent Service to Storefront San Diego Veterans Magazine sat down with Michael B. Martinez, a San Diego-based Navy submariner veteran and new owner of Miramar Postal Plus, to explore his journey from confined underwater missions to leading a vital community hub supporting military families, veterans, and local businesses.

SDVM: What inspired you to join the Navy, and why submarines?

Michael: I enlisted to honor a deep family legacy. My grandfather dreamed of his ten children serving, but none did. My father carried that hope, yet among my siblings and 27 cousins, I was the first. Submarines drew me in—their intense demand for precision, teamwork, and endurance mirrored the standard I wanted to uphold. In those confined depths, every action mattered; we operated as one unit, relying on each other in high-stakes silence.

SDVM: What key lessons from service shape you today?

Michael: Submarine life forged unbreakable resilience and discipline. But it also planted challenges that surfaced later—isolation, the weight of responsibility.

Those experiences taught me that true strength lies in owning vulnerabilities, persisting through darkness, and emerging with deeper empathy for others facing silent battles.

SDVM: Transition to civilian life is tough for many veterans. How has yours unfolded?

Michael: It’s been profoundly difficult—and ongoing.

After separating in late 2017, I returned to college in 2018, retaking classes amid anger and self-pity, feeling invisible in an indifferent world. Belonging slipped away—at home with my wife and family, in school, in society. COVID intensified everything; the suicide of a colleague reopened old wounds, leading me to withdraw entirely.

We moved six times in five years while I supported my wife and four children. Overwhelming at times, yes—but I refocused through audiobooks (reading was hard), setting five-year goals within a ten-year vision.

Gratitude became my lifeline. Tracking failures, not just wins, fueled growth. Transition isn’t a destination; it’s a mission that demands daily commitment.

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SDVM: Your path included Tesla before ownership. What drew you there?

Michael: After 38 applications, I joined in late 2022, craving civilian integration and entrepreneurial spark.

Starting entry-level, I boldly shared ideas, applied internally 52 times, and advanced to Area Supervisor.

There, I honed public speaking, training, and program development—while cultivating gratitude to combat mental fog. Military precision translated directly: optimize, adapt, lead with purpose.

SDVM: As a business owner, how do you apply these experiences at Miramar Postal Plus?

Michael: This year, after over 272 applications, I became owner of this established store at 9528 Miramar Road— serving San Diego since 1984, conveniently near MCAS Miramar. We’re a one-stop shop for private mailboxes, package receiving, notary, live scan/digital fingerprinting, mailing, shipping (USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL), printing, shredding, and more.

Like submarine ops, it’s about reliable service in hightrust moments: protecting deliveries for deployed families, providing secure addresses for privacy-conscious vets.

We donate 1% of revenue to organizations supporting those who serve—because giving back isn’t optional; it’s our WHY. SDVM: Advice for fellow veterans eyeing entrepreneurship or tough transitions?

Michael: Prioritize tracking setbacks—they accumulate into breakthroughs. Let controlled failures compound into wisdom; 99 often precede the one success. Embrace your WHY tactically, stay mission-oriented, document struggles without shame—they’re fuel for growth. Vulnerability fosters connection; persistence transforms obstacles into opportunities. To transitioning vets: You’re not alone in the depths—reach out, rebuild, and lead with the empathy service built in you.

SDVM: What’s ahead?

Michael: This is the beginning. Vision: Expand to three stores, forge partnerships with local businesses, military bases, and organizations. Mentor more veterans, amplify community impact. From submarine silence to storefront service, I’m committed to creating belonging—one package, one mentorship, one ripple at a time.

Did you know?

Transitioning service members and veterans are well-suited for entrepreneurship and franchising, leveraging their military-honed skills like leadership, discipline, and strategic thinking.

www.HomelandMagazine.com

Transitioning out of the Military into the Civilian Workforce?

Finding a job in the civilian workplace 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 In fact, it can be downright depressing, demotivating, and you may feel totally disillusioned. We can help.

In our Veterans In Transition archives you will find helpful and informative articles about what’s next in transition, veterans in business, career, advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, veteran franchises, legal tips & resources for veteran businesses and much more...

For assistance in your journey please visit: homelandmagazine.com/category/veterans-in-transition https://tinyurl.com/vet-in-transition Veterans-In-Transition

For more information and or service visit us at www.miramarpostalplus.com.

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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BUSINESS FOR VETERANS

By Barbara Eldridge President/ Founder of Mind Masters www.mindmasters.com

Priceless Relationships: Behold Your Customer!

We are living in a world of change. Competition is engaging in price wars, customers expect more for their dollars. Businesses can no longer be in the business of selling products and services—you must be selling a “customer experience.” According to Bloomberg BusinessWeek Research Services “a customer experience is not one thing but many: It is the practical and emotional manifestation of how a company delivers on the promise it makes to its customers through … every direct and indirect customer encounter a company has across all its customer or enterprise functions”.

Ultimately, your business exists to do two things: • Attract customers • Satisfy customers If your business doesn’t perform these two fundamental functions, it doesn’t matter how well you do anything else.

What are your points of “value”?

• What is the promise that you’re communicating to your customers in your message?

• Can customers trust that you will fulfill that message to the best of your ability?

• What expectations will they have when they come to you?

• Are you listening so you can identify their problem?

• Do you treat customers as you would like to be treated?

Bloomberg Businessweek Research Services again found, that the companies which stand out in creating the customer experience believe that by focusing on customer value, ”they can become more profitable and sustain these profits longer than the competition”.

Many companies now ask customers to call or go online and answer survey questions about their 52

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experience, others use secret shoppers. Do some inspecting of your own; look at your business with a set of fresh eyes – the eyes of your customers.

What do they see? Walk through each step of their experience as if you were a new customer – from the initial visit to your website, to the time they leave your store or office. A great way to organize this is to create a checklist of every customer touch point. Make notes of each step in the process. Does their experience make you stand out from your competition? Are they apt to spend more, pay higher prices and recommend your company because they have become loyal and emotionally connected to you?

The Challenge: Thrive by developing loyal, engaged advocates who would not even consider a competitor, because they trust you.

Barbara Eldridge President/ Founder of Mind Masters where business owners tap the synergy of energy, commitment and excitement for each other to raise the bar for each other’s goals, brainstorm ideas, create solutions, and offer mutual support. Checkout how a Group help you create personal, professional and financial growth. www.mindmasters.com

www.dreammakerfranchise.com/veterans-franchising-opportunity

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Veterans Chamber of Commerce

By Joseph Molina veteransccsd@gmail.com www.vccsd.org

New Year – New Business Starting a business is often seen as a bold move, but it can also be one of the most rewarding decisions.

While entrepreneurship comes with challenges, the benefits far outweigh the risks in most cases.

Here is why starting a business in 2026 makes good business sense.

1. Independence and Control One of the most compelling reasons to start a business is the independence it offers. As a business owner, you make the decisions that shape your company’s future. You choose your goals, your team, and the strategies to achieve success. This autonomy allows you to align your work with your values and passions.

2. Financial Freedom Starting a business offers opportunities for financial growth that go beyond a fixed salary. While entrepreneurship involves risks, it also allows you to reap the rewards of your efforts directly. Successful businesses can build wealth and create long-term financial stability. Owning a business can provide multiple streams of income.

3. Personal Growth Running a business requires learning new skills, from marketing and finance to leadership and problemsolving. This continuous learning fosters personal growth, resilience, and adaptability. Entrepreneurs often develop a strong sense of self-confidence and resourcefulness, qualities that carry over into every aspect of life.

4. Making an Impact Businesses have the power to solve problems, meet needs, and contribute to communities. By starting your own business, you could create products or services that have the potential to improve people’s lives.

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5. Flexibility Owning a business can provide flexibility in your schedule and work environment. While the initial stages may demand long hours, over time, you can structure your business around your life, not the other way around. This flexibility can be particularly appealing for those balancing family and/or personal projects.

6. Building a Legacy Finally, starting a business allows you to leave a legacy.

Whether it’s a family-run business, an innovative product, or a brand known for excellence whereby creating value for future generations.

In conclusion, Starting a business is more than just a career choice, it is a pathway to independence, financial freedom and ultimately, personal growth.

New Year 2026 – New Business If you are interested in learning more on “How to Become an Entrepreneur”, just click this link to learn more: https://leadership.my.canva.site/entrepreneurship The Entrepreneurship Course is offered by the National Veterans Chamber (NVCC). You can join the Veterans Chamber. The NVCC offers Free Membership to Veterans and Military Families. Link to website: https://www.vccsd.org/

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HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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legal Eagle

Straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners

By Kelly Bagla, Esq. www.BaglaLaw.com

What Type of Business Plan Does Your Company Need?

Business plans are written road maps that guide business owners through the various stages of their business. Research supports the fact that businesses with a written and formalized business plan are more likely to achieve their financial viability goals compared to their non-planning peers. Writing a business plan can make a world of difference for entrepreneurs who desire external funding.

There are many forms of business plans that cater to various needs of the business. Here are 6 of the most common types of business plans: Startups Business Plans Many budding entrepreneurs start their companies without a business plan. They don’t know how to write one or think it’s too much work, but the truth is that having a plan always helps. A startup business plan outlines your ideas and strategies for launching, managing, and eventually exiting your new venture.

Startup business plans usually include an executive summary, marketing strategy, financial information, and operational information. This plan focuses on the steps of a new business, which describes the company, the products or services, the market, the financials, and the management team. It will also include the business vision, mission statement, definition of success and implementation of objective schedules.

A detailed startup business plan helps you set milestones for measuring success. You can share the plan with investors who may want some reassurance on the viability of their investment in your company.

Internal Business Plans Internal business plans target a specific audience within the business, for example, the marketing team who need to evaluate a proposed project. This plan will describe the company’s current state, including 56

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operational costs and profitability, then calculate if and how the business will repay any capital needed for the project. Internal business plans provide information about project market size and the market’s positive effect on the company income.

Strategic Business Plans A strategic business plan provides a high-level view of a company’s goals and how it will achieve them, laying out a foundational plan for the entire company.

While the structure of a strategic business plan differs from company to company, most include five elements: business vision, mission statement, definition of critical success factors, strategies for achieving objectives and an implementation schedule.

These types of business plans are used to evaluate the company’s current state, operational costs, profitability and what the company wants to achieve for the near future.

A strategic business plan brings all levels of the business into the big picture, inspiring employees to work together to create a successful culmination to the company’s goals.

Feasibility Business Plan A feasibility business plan answers two primary questions about a proposed business venture: who, if anyone, will purchase the service or product a company wants to sell, and can the venture turn a profit? Feasibility business plans include, but are not limited to sections describing the need for the product or service, target demographics, and required capital.

A feasibility business plan ends with recommendations for going forward.

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Operations Business Plan Operations business plans are internal plans that consist of elements related to company operations.

An operations business plan specifies implementation markers and deadlines for the company year.

The operations business plan outlines employees’ responsibilities.

Growth Business Plan Growth business plans are in-depth descriptions of proposed growth and are written for internal or external purposes. If a company’s growth requires investment, a growth business plan may include complete descriptions of the company, its management and officers. The growth business plan must provide all company details to satisfy potential investors. If a growth business plan does not need capital, then the company descriptions will not be needed, but the growth business plan will include financial sales and expense projects.

Business plans are critical when you start a business, and you should not overlook t hem. Yearly business plans serve as a road map to each state of the business and are essential to securing funding and bringing in partners. Business plans can be very beneficial for your company but before you spend time and money on drafting one think about what type of plan your company really needs.

If you need help with your business plan, we can help.

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.

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AFTER EARNED A CAREER IN JUST 4 MONTHS. ENROLL NOW AT WFW.ORG CAD/CAM Programming CNC Machining Welding DoD SkillBridge Organization HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Setting specific and measurable goals is crucial for tracking progress and achieving desired outcomes as goal setting enables you to track progress, fostering motivation and a sense of accomplishment as you achieve your defined milestones. By setting achievable and relevant goals, you can align your objectives with personal values and current circumstances, ensuring that your aspirations are both attainable and meaningful.

Time-bound goals encourage goal setters to establish deadlines, effectively promoting time management and reducing procrastination, enhancing your ability to achieve the goals in place.

2026: Managing Expectations for the New Year

By Bill Reynolds Sierra Tucson The New Year is here, a time when veterans and military personnel can take proactive steps to set meaningful, realistic resolutions that promote personal growth and well-being while also focusing on attainable goals.

Recognizing that significant changes don’t happen overnight prevents feelings of disappointment and failure.

By effectively managing expectations, you can set yourself up for a more fulfilling and less stressful 2026.

Take inventory of your previous year Reflecting on the past is a valuable exercise when planning for the new year ahead. Reviewing the previous year allows you to identify what strategies were effective and which were not, which helps in understanding successes and failures, enabling you to make informed decisions moving forward.

Reflect on how your military service has influenced your personal development and community contributions.

Reflecting on these positive aspects can provide insights into your legacy and areas for future growth.

By implementing these strategies of self-inventory and introspection, you can effectively reflect on the past year and prepare for the future, leveraging your experiences and resilience as a veteran or active-duty serviceperson.

Consider setting SMART goals for the year ahead The military emphasizes clear, mission-oriented objectives. Applying SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound – at the beginning of a new year provides a familiar structured approach to personal and professional development for military personnel, veterans and civilians alike.

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Avoid “all-or-nothing” thinking Rigid, all-or-nothing thinking often results in discouragement and abandonment of goals after only minor setbacks. All-or-nothing thinking is associated with increased anxiety and depression. By adopting a more flexible mindset, you can alleviate these negative emotions, leading to improved mental health. By allowing room for error, you can set more realistic, adaptable resolutions, leading to sustained personal growth and well-being.

The year ahead is unpredictable, and strict adherence to specific goals without flexibility can cause stress when unforeseen circumstances arise. Flexible thinking enables you to adjust your plans, maintaining progress even when challenges occur.

For additional support in managing expectations in 2026, connect with fellow veterans, service members, and community groups. Utilize programs and services offered by organizations like the Department of Veterans Affairs and military support groups such as Sierra Tucson’s Red, White, and Blue Program. These resources can assist by providing a safe environment with a strong support system unique to military members. Sharing experiences and support can provide a sense of camaraderie, aiding in the pursuit of your resolutions.

By implementing these strategies, veterans and military personal can set meaningful and attainable New Year’s resolutions while also fostering personal growth and well-being in the year ahead.

Lt. Cmdr. William Reynolds, USN, (Ret.), PA-C, is Director of the Military and First Responder Trauma Recovery Program at Arizona-based mental health treatment facility Sierra Tucson.

For more information, visit: www.sierratucson.com/programs/military/

For all your cartoon entertainment from one of the world’s most published cartoonists and army veteran, go to:

www.patreon.com/cw/jerrykingcartoons HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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Is Your Personal Information on the Dark Web? Here's how to Find out and what to do

if it is

2. Use Dark Web Monitoring Services: Dark web monitoring services are available that monitor for your email address, Social Security number, and other data on the dark web. These tools can alert you if your information has been compromised.

Why Hackers Want Your Information Personal information is valuable on the dark web because it can be exploited for various malicious purposes: • Identity Theft: Hackers can use your details to open credit accounts, apply for loans, or commit fraud in your name.

• Phishing Scams: Compromised emails are often targeted with scams designed to steal more sensitive data, such as passwords or financial information.

• Credential Stuffing: If you reuse passwords, hackers can use stolen login credentials to try to access multiple accounts.

DARK WEB With billions of records exposed in recent data

breaches, it’s safe to assume that, unfortunately, your personal information such as your name, Social Security number, and email address have been exposed.

There’s more bad news as veterans and active duty military members are 76% more likely to report identity theft than civilians, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). So where does your personal information end up? It can end up on the dark web.

What is the Dark Web? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet often associated with criminal activity, including the sale of stolen personal information. Knowing if your personal data is on the dark web is crucial for protecting your identity and your finances How to Check if Your Personal Information Is on the Dark Web 1. Watch for Warning Signs: A sudden influx of spam or phishing emails from unknown senders can indicate that your email address has been exposed on the dark web. Alerts for applications for credit cards or other lines of credit using your Social Security number that you didn’t authorize also are signs your information is exposed.

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• Resale of Information: Hackers frequently sell personal data to other criminals.

What to Do if Your Information Is on the Dark Web If you discover that your personal information has been compromised, take immediate action to mitigate the risks: 1. Change Your Passwords: Update passwords for all accounts, using strong, unique combinations. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.

2. Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for possible suspicious activity.

3. Consider a New Email Address: If your email is heavily targeted, switching to a new address and notifying trusted contacts may be a safer option.

4. Report to Authorities: File a report with local law enforcement and federal agencies such as the FTC to document the breach.

5. Invest in Identity Protection Services: Consider enrolling in identity theft protection and credit monitoring services for added security.

By staying vigilant and taking swift action, you can minimize the impact of having your information exposed on the dark web.

For more information visit www.identityiq.com

www.identityiq.com/veterans

HomelandMagazine.com / January 2026

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