San Diego Veterans Magazine July 2022

V

SAN DIEGO

The Month

of Independence

Vol. 5 Number 7 • JULY 2022

MAGAZINE

MNC MEMORIAL AMPHITHEATER VIRTUAL GALA July 1st to 31st

TRANSITION

Strategies & Expectations

When Music Speaks: MILITARY FAMILY

RESOURCES

Traumatic Brain Injury

MENTAL HEALTH WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2020 GEICO #0G11150

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Our Members Are the Mission Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.

1 Credit and collateral subject to approval. 2CARFAX is a registered trademark of CARFAX, Inc. TruStage® Auto & Home Insurance Program is made available through TruStage Insurance Agency, LLC and issued by leading insurance companies. The insurance offered is not a deposit, and is not federally insured, sold or guaranteed by Navy Federal. Product and features may vary and not be available in all states. Discounts are not available in all states, and discounts vary by state. Certain discounts apply to specific coverages only. To the extent permitted by law, applicants are individually underwritten; not all applicants may qualify. Navy Federal Credit Union is in no way responsible for any products or services provided by or through TruStage, Liberty Mutual or their affiliates, subsidiaries and insurance company partners. AUT-4210544.1-01220224 4Navy Federal Credit Union is in no way responsible for any product, service, purchase or lease provided by or through CARFAX, TruStage, Liberty Mutual, SiriusXM or the Navy Federal Car Buying Service operated by TrueCar. © 2022 Navy Federal NFCU 14083 (4-22) 3

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WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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EDITOR’S

LETTER

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

Contributing Writers Holly Shaffner Veteran Advocate

David Koontz Midway Magic

RanDee McLain, LCSW A Different Lens

Jenny Lynne Stroup Real Talk: Mental Health

Barbara Eldridge Business For Veterans

CJ Machado SD Vets & Homeland Photojournalist

Kelly Bagla, Esq. Legal Eagle

Tana Landau, Esq.

www.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com

Legally Speaking

Joe Molina Veterans Chamber of Commerce

Greetings and a warm welcome to San Diego Veterans Magazine!

Eve Nasby

Please take some time to get to know the layout of our magazine.

The Magazine focuses on San Diego resources, support, community, and inspiration for our veterans and the military families that keep it together.

Amber Robinson

Our magazine is driven by passion, vision, reflection and the future.

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 San Diego veteran organizations, resource centers, coalitions, veteran advocates, and more.

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

San Diego Veterans Magazine is a veterans magazine for veterans by veterans.

We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of San Diego Veterans Magazine.

Mike Miller Editor-In-Chief

mikemiller@SDVetsMagazine.com mikemiller@HomelandMagazine.com 4 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

What’s Next - Transitioning Arts & Healing

Paul Falcone Human Resources

Dr. Julie Ducharme Successful Transitioning Stories

*Guest Writers Includie Local & National Veteran Organizations, & Advocates San Diego Veterans Magazine 9528 Miramar Road, #41 San Diego, CA 92126

(858) 275-4281

mikemiller@SDVetsMagazine.com San Diego Veterans 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.

JULY

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 7 MNC MEMORIAL AMPHITHEATER 8 Midway Magic - Memories Last a Century 10 Flashback: Lost Watch of D-Day 12 Korean War Legacy 15 Independence Day 16 Forget Me Not: Coronado 4th of July 19 Vietnam Veterans Never Forget Their Own 21 Warrior Picks up the Beat 24 Real Talk: PSC Season 26 Caregiving TLC: Treasured Holiday 29 Veterans Association of North County 30 Guide Dogs of America 31 San Diego Veterans Coalition 33 Courage to Call 34 A Life Recovered: The Comeback 36 Make July your Month of Independence 38 What’s Next: Transitioning Mach 10 40 Army Invites Innovators 42 Off-Base Transition Training 44 HR: Fostering Independence 46 Successful Transitioning Stories 48 Business for Veterans: Freedom 50 Legal Eagle: Rules for Business 52 Legally Speaking: Hiring an Attorney 54 National Veterans Chamber of Commerce 56 Inside the Monthly Columns WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Veterans facing the challenges associated with an advanced, life-limiting illness can rely on The Elizabeth Hospice for the medical and emotional support they need and deserve.

800.797.2050 http://elizabethhospice.org

The Elizabeth Hospice is proud to be a We Honor Veterans Level 5 Partner, the highest level of distinction in this national program.

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MNC MEMORIAL AMPHITHEATER Please join us for a Virtual Gala to build an Amphitheater at Miramar National Cemetery.

Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation will be hosting a Virtual Gala from July 1st to 31st to raise the remaining funding needed for construction of the MNC Memorial Amphitheater.

A Vision for Miramar National Cemetery

Make the Vision a Reality!

Contributions from corporations, veteran’s groups, civic organizations, local government, and the public are needed to make this project a reality at Miramar National Cemetery.

Every dollar helps!

Every donation has an opportunity to take home 1 of 2 paintings by local artist Tom Baldauf!

Please visit our website at: www.miramarcemetery.org to donate online. Checks can be mailed to: Miramar National Cemetery Support Foundation, Attn: Amphitheater Fund, 6906 Miramar Road, Ste C-142, San Diego, CA 92121.

VIRTUAL GALA July 1st to 31st www.miramarcemetery.org

The Support Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Tax Identification number 65-1277308.

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Midway Memories Last a Century Military service profoundly impacts the lives of many veterans through a deep-seated sense of patriotism, enduring friendships and lasting memories.

1942

For Lee Owen, his tour of duty on the USS Midway is as vivid in his mind today as it was more than 75 years ago when he actually walked the carrier’s flight deck.

“I am prideful to be able to say I served on the Midway and I feel I was lucky to have served on the biggest ship in the world at the time,” said Owen, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday. “Just the fact that I served our country, all those years ago, to make us truly free, yet today.”

Owen attributes a decades-long fitness program to his longevity, but he also knows that reaching life’s centennial was also guided by fortune’s smile early in his naval career. He was originally assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Benjamin Franklin (CV-13) that saw significant combat in the Pacific theater during the later stages of World War II. On March 19, 1945, the Franklin was struck by two 550-pound bombs dropped from a Japanese warplane resulting in extensive damage to the carrier and a tremendous number of casualties amongst its crew.

Nearly 1,000 of the ship’s officers and sailors were killed or wounded in the attack.

Before being sent to the Franklin, however, Owen’s assignment was changed and instead, he became a member of the original crew, a plank owner, of the soon-to-be-commissioned Midway.

“I was lucky I didn’t go on that ship,” reflected Owen, who joined the Navy in 1942. “I lost some dear friends who were on that ship and, to this day, I still cry and get very upset when I tell this story.”

Owen reported aboard Midway in March 1945, seven months before the ship was commissioned.

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An aviation machinists mate, he worked on F4U-4 Corsairs as part of Bomber Fighter Squadron 74 (VBF-71), one of the first squadrons to operate from the carrier. He served on board the ship until he left the Navy a year later.

Although it’s been nearly eight decades since he last set foot on the ship, the sounds, smells and sights of Midway remain fresh in his psyche. One of his most vivid memories was when an aircraft from his squadron crashed into the ocean.

“I was waiting on my plane to come in and it wasn’t in the groove,” remembered Owen, a native of Millerstown, Pa. “The pilot waited too long to keep going and he was too low. His plane went down right beside the ship, and I could see the pilot climb out and get into his raft. Luckily, a destroyer picked him up.”

While his memories continue to thrive, Owen has very little memorabilia from the ship that has survived the last 77 years. A few months before his birthday, his daughter, Anne Revitsky, contacted Midway for some help.

“I really wanted to reach out to the Midway in search of some special photos of him on deck of the Midway with his flight crew,” said Anne. “I worked closely with Karen Garst and she was wonderful in assisting me. While we never found a picture of dad with his flight crew on deck, she sent out a package and also had his plank owner certificate reprinted for him.”

“Lee Owen working on Midway’s flight deck in 1945.”

“It was my honor to help with Lee’s big birthday,” said Karen Garst, the museum’s membership coordinator and Midway veteran liaison. “I was so glad to see that he enjoyed his Midway gifts, most especially his plank owner certificate.”

www.midway.org

“You all have been so kind and thoughtful,” said Anne upon receiving the Midway gifts sent for her dad’s birthday. “I was just beside myself.”

Surrounded by multiple generations of his family, Lee celebrated his centennial birthday at the BellwoodAntis Community Park near Altoona, Pa. The surprise gifts from Midway included a personal letter from the museum’s CEO, a Midway baseball cap and challenge coins, and a reprinted plank owner certificate that is traditionally presented to members of a ship’s original crew. Lee had, unfortunately, lost the original certificate years ago.

“He choked up and a tear came to his eye as he struggled to finish reading the letter thanking him for his service and wishing him happy birthday,” said Anne, a computer operator and human relations specialist who retired in 2021. “He’s always been very emotional, and this letter really moved him. But when he got to the plank owner certificate, that was the icing on the cake. His smile went from ear to ear and his excitement was indescribable.”

With his 100th birthday now in the rearview mirror, Lee said he’s ready to make a trip from Pennsylvania back to Midway.

“I’d love to visit,” said Lee, who retired as a tool and die maker in 1988. “And my daughter is going to make that happen, hopefully this year.”

www.midway.org/give-join/volunteers www.midway.org/give-join/volunteers

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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FLASHBACK “JULY 2020”

“The Lost Watch of D-Day”

By CJ Machado

Local Coronado resident, WWII paratrooper, Tom Rice jumped in Normandy on D-Day. He served in “Operation Overlord,” the largest allied invasion made by land, air and sea against Adolf Hitler and his German Forces.

In the early morning of June 6, 1944, “Screaming Eagle” Tom Rice was number #1 in his paratrooper stick, ready to exit at the door. However, due to intense enemy fire

by German DCA, his aircraft was forced to accelerate to 164 mph (54 mph above the recommended jump speed). Suddenly, 1800 pounds of para pack bundles prematurely dropped causing the aircraft to elevate about fifty feet and with the centrifugal force of the plane, it contributed to Tom’s disastrous exit.

The accelerated speed and force of the winds, wedged Tom in the lower left corner of the door. It was only after several desperate attempts that he was able to break free and was forced to drop at accelerated speeds at less than 500 feet carrying over 200 pounds of pack against constant enemy fire. His arm up to his wrist was literally torn by the metal of the door and his favorite wrist watch, a brand new A-11 was ripped off and lost in the Normandy night.

Thomas took such an interest in Tom’s watch story that he encouraged his friend and watchmaker, Remi Chabrat to perhaps consider creating a replica. Remi being a grateful Frenchman did not hesitate; he felt it was a great opportunity to thank his Liberator, the very man that contributed to saving his country from Nazi Germany. It took almost a year of research and craftsmanship to recreate.

Tom was to be surprised in Normandy, France at the 76th D-Day commemoration ceremonies with a gift from the Praesidus watch company owners, Remi Chabrat and Guillaume Laidet. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, all commemoration ceremonies were postponed.

Instead, Casey Miles with America First Spirits sponsored a local event called “Operation D-Day 76” involving the Commemorative Air Force Inland Empire Wing, D-Day Doll DC-3 aircraft. The aircraft, D-Day Doll, served on June 6th, 1944 by carrying paratroopers and towing gliders. For “Operation D-Day 76,” D-Day Doll flew Tom above his hometown of Coronado, CA with members of “Team Tom Rice,” Executive Director of the San Diego Veterans Coalition Ray Flores and Honor Flight San Diego volunteers as a tribute to Tom’s service.

Once Tom reached the ground, he was disappointed to realize the loss of his expensive wrist watch that took many weeks of pay to earn. It wasn’t until seventy five years later, when Tom returned to Carentan, Normandy for the commemoration ceremonies that the fate of his prized watch and Tom would re-connect. At ninetyseven years old, Tom impressed the world and jumped into the same drop zone as he did on D-Day which harbored over 20 million views internationally. His monumental jump with the Round Canopy Parachuting Team and “The Lost Watch of D-Day” story was documented in the film Libertas (Normandy Jump 2019) where Tom would end his story by mentioning, “...And I sure hope a good Frenchman found it!”

It was during the 75th Anniversary commemoration ceremonies that many came to know “The Lost Watch of D-Day” story including world renowned photographer Thomas Goisque with Paris Match Magazine.

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THROWBACK “JULY 2020”

Honor Flight San Diego helped organize the event and carried large poster boards of those WWII D-Day veterans who could not participate in the event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Seventy-six years later on June 6th, 2020, in commemoration of D-Day, a good Frenchman, Christophe Dugas, the leader of Team Tom Rice and team member of the Praesidus watch company, presented Tom with a re-creation of his A-11, “The Lost Watch of D-Day.” If you’d like to wear a part of history and honor Tom Rice, you can purchase your A-11 wristwatch at: www.Praesidus.com. Pre-order sales are being taken now for Fall 2020 delivery just in time for Christmas (while supplies last).

Praesidus will donate 10% to veteran organizations that have supported Tom Rice and our “Greatest Generation” throughout the years.

Honor Flight San Diego (HFSD) is one of those veteran organizations that will benefit from your purchase and an HFSD promotional package featuring Tom Rice’s replica A-11, “The Lost Watch of D-Day,” a Libertas DVD and an autographed Honor Flight San Diego Program signed by Tom Rice.

If you’d like to wear a part of history and honor Tom Rice, you can purchase your A-11 wristwatch at: Tom Rice’s “The Lost Watch of D-Day” https://praesidus.com/?rfsn=4892503.092a49

You can purchase this package at: www.call-to-service.com

Photo by Greg Siller THROWBACK “JULY 2020”

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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The Congressional Gold Medal was presented to the 65th Infantry Regiment “Borinqueneers” at a ceremony on April 13, 2016, at the U.S. Capitol.

Source: U.S. House of Representatives

Borinqueneers:

Korean War legacy remembered

DAV chapter honors segregated Puerto Rican regiment

By Chris Mayhew

T

hanks to a DAV chapter’s work, the service of the U.S. military’s only segregated Puerto Rican regiment has gained special recognition in the state of Texas.

The Army’s 65th Infantry Regiment was nicknamed the “Borinqueneers” in honor of the native Taino name for the island, Borinquen. According to the Center for Puerto Rican Studies, the regiment was barred from front-line service during World War II and suffered minimal casualties during the conflict. By the time the Korean War broke out, the combat regiment had become “superbly trained and well-disciplined.” It was activated and mobilized to the peninsula.

Roughly 61,000 Puerto Ricans fought in the Korean War, many serving with the 65th. Among those numbers, 3,540 Puerto Ricans became casualties of war, with 747 killed in action. The regiment was the military’s last segregated unit.

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Luis Cortes, commander of DAV Chapter 114 in Helotes, Texas, recognized the importance of honoring the Borinqueneers’ sacrifices and unique service. He successfully advocated for the creation of the license plate in Texas, as well as naming a 2-mile stretch of Texas highway for the unit and the DAV chapter.

In March 2022, retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Angel Rosario was among the first to obtain a Texas license plate bearing the unit’s name and an image of the Congressional Gold Medal that was bestowed upon the regiment on April 13, 2016—the date is now recognized annually as National Borinqueneers Day. Rosario, a 92-year-old Yauco, Puerto Rico, native and a longtime Killeen, Texas, resident, is a Purple Heart recipient. He served in Korea from 1951 to 1952.

He remembers being aboard a ship from Puerto Rico to Korea for 35 days and starting to fight, in the snow, almost immediately after landing.

“I am so happy to know that we, and the history of the 65th Infantry Regiment, will not be forgotten thanks to DAV,” Rosario said.

In December 1950, Borinqueneers defended the frozen, rocky hilltops above the port city of Hŭngnam

A painting by Dominic D’Andrea depicting soldiers of the 65th Infantry Regiment from Puerto Rico engaged in the last battalion-sized bayonet attack by the U.S. Army. The bayonet attack came on the morning of the third day of battle, when two battalions of the regiment fixed bayonets and charged at the enemy positions. Artwork: Department of Defense

from encircling Chinese forces. The regiment’s actions helped 105,000 service members and more than 100,000 civilians board ships at Hŭngnam at the conclusion of the 1st Marine Division’s valorous breakout from the Chosin Reservoir. And 1951, the 65th Infantry famously led the last battalion-sized fixed-bayonet charge in U.S. Army history.

The unit also faced discrimination. In 1952, nearly eight dozen of the unit’s members were court-martialed and subsequently punished for failing to obey orders and take a series of objectives known as Jackson Heights—Hill 391—in Korea. A number of elements led to the mission failure, including the intense barrage of enemy artillery and mortar fire, heavy casualties and severe language barriers. By 1954, Army Secretary Robert Stevens had overturned the convicted soldiers’ sentences.

“It’s so important we find ways to enshrine the legacies of our veterans,” said DAV National Commander Andy Marshall. “This helps us to ensure we are not losing the experiences of these brave individuals to the pages of history.”

While the regiment was deactivated in 1956, a battalion of the Borinqueneers remains active as part of the Puerto Rico Army National Guard.

Korea is often called “the forgotten war,” so it’s no surprise that the sacrifices of the Borinqueneers was often left out of news accounts and histories, Cortes said, adding that the honors touch the hearts of the veterans, their families and their descendants.

“These individuals have been waiting for years of their lives to be acknowledged,” Cortes said. n

Left: Retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Angel Rosario proudly turns the final screw to affix a new Texas license plate on his car that recognizes his service as a member of the only U.S. military segregated regiment from Puerto Rico. Right: Rosario and his wife, Luz, who has since died, gather at a sign recognizing a 2-mile stretch of state Highway 16 for DAV Chapter 114 of Helotes, Texas, and the 65th Infantry Regiment “Borinqueneers,” with whom he served during the Korean War.

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Independence Day Independence Day is annually celebrated on July 4 and is often known as “the Fourth of July”.

It is the anniversary of the publication of the declaration of independence from Great Britain in 1776. Patriotic displays and family events are organized throughout the United States.

On July 4th, 1776 the United States laid down its claim to be a free and independent nation by adopting the Declaration of Independence.

Today, Independence Day is celebrated and honored in many forms such as fireworks, BBQs and parades. It is an opportunity for Americans to express patriotism and love of country including reflecting on the sacrifices from those in the military.

Independence Day History On June 11th, 1776 the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to formally sever ties with Great Britain. Thomas Jefferson, who considered an esteemed writer, was selected to draft the document. After 86 revisions and on July 4th, 1776 the Continental Congress signed the final version.

The first readings of the document included ringing of bells and band music. The following Fourth of July Congress was adjourned in Philadelphia and everybody celebrated with bells, bonfires and fireworks. Soon these customs spread to other areas within the 13 colonies and new customs began to develop such as picnics, speeches, games, military displays and of course fireworks. These traditions continued for almost a century before Congress finally established Independence Day as a holiday.

Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration states, “We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness….”

Independence Day Facts • The original copy of the Declaration is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. and July 4 has been designated a national holiday to commemorate the day the United States • Independence Day 2015 is the 239th Independence Day. • 56 People signed the Declaration of Independence.

• John Hancock was the first signer and famously had the largest signature.

• In July 1776 there were an estimated 2.5 million people living in the Colonial United States.

• Currently there are approximately 316 million Americans.

• The Declaration of Independence was revised 86 times.

• The first Independence Day was celebrated on July 8, 1776.

• Thomas Jefferson and John Adams both died on the Fourth of July, 1826.

Things to do on the Fourth of July • Barbecue with friends and family • Watch a fireworks show • Go to a blockbuster movie release • Have a block party • Light some fireworks (safely & legally of course) • Attend a baseball game • Find water – Boating, beaching and water skiing • Rent a 4th of July themed movie • Find a National Park hosting a July 4th event

Patriotic Things to do on the Fourth of July • Fly the American Flag • Wear Red, White and Blue • Volunteer to help our veterans • Take a trip to a special fort, park or monument near you.

• Go to a Fourth of July celebration • Attend a Revolutionary War reenactment • Send Letters, Care Packages, and Other Ways to Support the Military WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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“FORGET ME NOT” The annual Coronado Fourth of July Parade introduces Force-Con 2022, the inaugural 3-day superhero military convention and art festival involving action/adventure, animation, film, comics and literary works coming to San Diego and Coronado this September 23-25. In partnership with Army Week San Diego, Force-Con 2022 is expected to be the largest convention of its kind launching in Southern California.

Trailing the jeep will be a set of magnificent steel wings displayed with engraved dog tag feathers representing the 1,584 MIA Vietnam veterans. If you look closely, each engraved dog tag reveals the POW/MIA veteran’s name, place of capture or location last seen, place of birth and rank of service. The dog tags are much like the POW bracelets worn by concerned citizens and loved ones during the Vietnam War in remembrance of those captured. The POW/MIA steel wings displayed were welded by artisan Jay Stargaard and belong to the Purple Foxes United lead character, LT Williams.

The Coronado Fourth of July (CFOJ) Parade welcomes all patriots who love our country and our veterans to attend the traditional community event held on Coronado Island, Monday, July 4, 2022. The parade begins at 10:00 a.m.

“The Coronado Fourth of July is proud to be a partner with Force-Con this year to bring praise and recognition to our American hero’s that fight for independence.

The town of Coronado being a Navy town has the most patriotic parade this side of the Mississippi and proudly salute our past, present, and future military members,” expressed Todd Tanghe, President Coronado Fourth of July.

Force-Con 2022 is inspired by the “Purple Foxes United” screenplay based on the Prisoners of War and Missing in Action (POW/MIA) from the Vietnam War era. The historical fiction story was created and written by Producer CJ Machado, the CEO/Founder of Force-Con. The animated tale involves female heroines that join together to save their brothers in arms held captive during the Vietnam War. The superhero characters highlighted in the project are based on our real-life heroes, our service members, and Honor Flight San Diego (HFSD) alumni veterans.

Two of those HFSD distinguished patrons are WWII child POW Tom Crosby and Coronado’s Hometown Hero WWII paratrooper Tom Rice that you may recognize riding in an Army green vintage jeep during the Parade.

Tom Crosby 16 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

”The story was created to ignite a surge of patriotism, a duty of remembrance and the revival of the American Spirit that would inspire curiosity among our youth and instill a sense of deep gratitude and amazement toward our real-life superheroes and their service to country,” stated Producer CJ Machado.

Force-Con 2022’s featured artist and U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Joe Pisano’s POW “Forget Me Not” artwork will also be visible at the rear of the jeep trailer and was selected as a significant tie in with the project.

Many of the legendary heroes featured in the Purple Foxes United story were discovered on Coronado Island, and many WWII aviator icons make a dramatic appearance. Local Coronado residents include Vietnam veteran fighter pilots and Golden Eagles U.S. Navy Commander and the President of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society Chuck Sweeney, USMC Major General Bob Butcher, and WWII paratrooper Tom Rice who served on D-Day-Operation Market Garden-Battle of the Bulge-Berchtesgaden.

Force-Con 2022 will benefit many veteran organizations including Honor Flight San Diego to help fund their next flight taking Vietnam veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorials. Force-Con 2022 affiliate partners include Coronado Island Film Festival, Hotel del Coronado, Army Week San Diego, Beyond the Teams, The League of Wives, San Diego Air & Space Museum, Liberty Station Art District, Gary Sinise Foundation, Honor Flight San Diego, Us 4 Warriors, STEP-Support the Enlisted Project, San Diego Veterans Coalition, American Legion Baseball, Resurrecting Lives Foundation, Helmets to Hardhats, MOWW-Military Order of World Wars, Homeland Magazine, San Diego Veterans Magazine, and many more...

We hope to see you and your family there!

MEET THE HEROES WWII PARATROOPER TOM RICE To learn more about this epic event and see our schedule of events, visit: www.Force-Con.com For sponsorship opportunities: info@Force-Con.com To follow on Facebook, please visit: www.facebook.com/SuperheroMilitaryForcesUnite OR www.facebook.com/operationcalltoservice Search by: #ForceCon #TeamForceCon #PurpleFoxesUnited #OperationCallToService For Coronado Fourth of July Parade schedule of events: https://coronadofourthofjuly.com/

www.FORCE-CON.COM WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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

Rogelio “Roger” Rodriguez, Jr US Navy (1987 – 1993) US Air Force (1993 – 2013)

PTSD treatment can turn your life around.

For more information visit: www.ptsd.va.gov/aboutface

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Vietnam Veterans Will Never Forget Their Own

By Holly Shaffner The statistics of the Vietnam War are overwhelming – over sixteen years of combat action, over 2.7 million U.S. military men and women served in country, more than 58,000 personnel were killed, and more than 300,000 were wounded. Our nation should never forget the sacrifices of the men and women who served during this time and one organization is going to make sure they are not forgotten. Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 472 (San Diego) recently installed and dedicated a beautiful black granite memorial at Miramar National Cemetery that honors the men and women of the Vietnam War.

From conception in October 2019, it took over two years to design, build, fund, and receive approval from the Department of Veterans Affairs for installation at the cemetery. The memorial is constructed of the same black granite that was used for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall) in Washington, D.C. On the front of the memorial is the outline of the country of Vietnam with key cities such as Saigon, Me Kong Delta, Hanoi, Da Nang, and has the DMZ listed. The back of the memorial displays the Vietnam Veterans of America logo.

There are ten National Cemeteries in the state of California with only one other Vietnam Memorial located at a National Cemetery (in Riverside). With over 8,800 Vietnam Veterans interned at Miramar National Cemetery, the location for the memorial was ideal as the first cemetery in San Diego County and the second in the state. There are plans for a similar memorial at Ft. Rosecrans Cemetery in the future.

San Diego Vietnam Veterans choose the cemetery over other public areas to place the memorial because they knew it would be well-protected and well taken care of on the hallowed grounds.

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 472 President Glenn Vandrew said, “This memorial is our legacy. We want people to remember the men and women of the Vietnam War. They say that people die twice – once when your body physically dies, and again when no one remembers you. We didn’t want that to happen.”

The dedication ceremony was attended by Vietnam Veterans from the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force, and many local organizations. The San Diego Vietnamese Community honored the veterans with a wreath and a few words – “Thank you. Thank you to the men and women who gave so much for our freedoms.”

Miramar National Cemetery is located at 5795 Nobel Dr in San Diego. You can view the memorial in the Memorial Walk portion of the cemetery from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. seven days a week. San Diego County is home to approximately 60,000 Vietnam Veterans. For more information about Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 472, go to: www.vva472.us.

To learn more about Miramar National Cemetery, go to: www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/miramar.asp WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Saturday, August 13, 2022

Be Light

5:00 pm: Registration and Meet & Greet 5:30 - 9 pm: Be the Light Gala

THE

CHARITY GALA

WITH SPONSORS:

EVENT PARTNERS

Join us...

for an evening under the stars at the breathtaking Inn at Rancho Santa Fe where guests will enjoy live music, exquisite small bites and seated dinner, exciting silent and live auctions by Clint Bell, and memorable moments with service dog trainees and graduated veteran/service dog teams. Be the Light for veterans and shelter dogs served by the Shelter to Soldier service dog training program as we expand our impact and continue “Saving Lives, Two at a Time™.”

Sponsors, tickets and table reservations: bit.ly/BETHELIGHT10 20 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

When Music Speaks: Warrior Picks Up the Beat Again After Traumatic Brain Injury

By Raquel Rivas, Wounded Warrior Project Army veteran Paul Delacerda has played drums since age 9. He started touring with his first band at 17. So, after an IED attack in Iraq sidelined his Army career, he thought he would pick up music again.

Not so easy after a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Paul remembers his first open mic after being injured. “The club owner came up to tell me I was playing behind the beat,” Paul said. “He didn’t close the door, though; he just told me to practice and come back when I was better.”

“After playing again, I realized other warriors should have a chance to do this,” Paul reflected. “Being on stage gets you over the fear of being in front of people. It’s also a positive way to express your talent. When words fail, music speaks. If you can’t say it, then play it.”

Playing His Way Back to Life and to Heritage

Paul was determined and taught himself to play drums all over again. He returned in eight months to much praise. He even said that relearning allowed him to develop better habits. Within three years, he founded a new rock band comprised of veterans.

“Drumming is very physical, and with a TBI, you tend to get hyperactive, but when I play, I sleep like a baby,” Paul said.

Drumming is way more than music therapy; Paul found a new mission through his music. If he could do it, other veterans could do it.

Paul has music in his blood. His dad was a mariachi singer and guitarist in Houston, Texas. His maternal grandfather was a composer, and an uncle played the drums – inspiring Paul to play. Military service is part of his heritage as well: Paul’s dad served in the Air Force and Paul’s brother and uncle both served in the Army.

Paul first joined the Army in 1995. He reenlisted after 9/11 and was deployed to Iraq in 2005. During most of his 15 years of active duty, he served as an infantry paratrooper, logging 128 jumps.

He hurt a knee in a jump and had to briefly leaveactive duty. Within a few months, 9/11 happened and Paul rehabbed his knee so that he could reenlist.

Paul had a total of nine deployments. The day of the TBI injury, Paul and his unit were clearing a road of IEDs. Continued on next page >

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He was in the lead vehicle that took the brunt of the IED detonation and the shock wave. Paul didn’t know it immediately, but he would end up with tinnitus and TBI. A fellow soldier had a ruptured ear drum.

“It took two or three months before I realized I had TBI,” Paul said. “I was back home at a Walmart parking lot back and could not remember where I was or why.”

After that episode of memory loss, Paul saw a doctor and was diagnosed with TBI. He realized PTSD triggers were affecting him as well. He noticed he felt as if someone was switching channels in his head, and each channel had a different memory – indicating flashbacks to combat situations.

But Paul approaches life with a “never quit” attitude.

“There’s no option but to not quit,” Paul said.

His persistence with music brought along other benefits.

“When I play music, I focus on the beat,” Paul said. “All the bad noise, including PTSD, goes away, and all the good noise that I need stays there. I get rid of all the bad; it just disappears while I’m playing.”

Paul also reached out for assistance. He had heard about Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) while still in the Army’s Warrior Transition Battalion in 2006.

“Over the last 15 years, Wounded Warrior Project has been there for me in a lot of different ways that I didn’t know I needed until it happened,” Paul said. “The fact that Wounded Warrior Project staff show support for

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my band and my music is one of the best things. They also check in and call me and make sure I’m OK. They support my ventures and that helps me, and it helps other warriors. What I do for my community is a product of what Wounded Warrior Project does for me.”

Paul formed the first nationally recognized veterans rock band. Through several band iterations, Paul pulled together other veteran musicians to visit military bases, playing rock for active-duty personnel. He has also provided music therapy opportunities for veterans in the Houston area.

Paul invites other veterans to express themselves through music, expanding on their connections, and fostering creativity. The camaraderie is spontaneous.

“Just being around other veterans, you connect on a different level. You don’t even know these guys, and you end up congregating in a circle and talking about shared experiences,” Paul said.

“The connection is really important and it’s already there,” he said. “Music brings all that together. You can be veterans from different eras, but when you’re all in the same room, it’s remarkable how everything else just goes away, you become fast friends. Sometimes you connect on a level where you become best friends. And you stay connected for years on end after that.

“The best part is also the family element of it, because Wounded Warrior Project also has a way of connecting families so they can understand what their warrior is going through. I’ve met a lot of veterans that, to this day, stay in touch.”

Empowering Other Veterans Paul started a podcast called “Warriors Voice Radio” and a music therapy nonprofit in Houston called Rock4Recovery. “As a wounded warrior, that was my call; to connect with warriors through music,” Paul said.

Warrior Care Network® has helped countless veteran families take back their lives.

The icing on the cake was when Paul and his band, Vetted, performed at the 2016 Invictus Games, hosted

by Prince Harry. It was a moment that brought together all the good things Paul had been working toward. The band played live in front of 50,000 people, and it was broadcasted on ESPN and BBC. Music has brought Paul out of the dark each time he needed it and he generously pays it forward. After a pause from touring and public speaking, Paul has regrouped around music and acting. He plans to continue giving a voice to veterans through music and movie castings.

“I want to help put veterans to work in the movie industry through a talent agency that helps veterans and former first responders polish their skills and have good representation,” Paul said.

From Paul’s first tour as a drummer at age 17 to his reconnection to veterans through music and to his own musical roots, his commitment to connecting veterans is unwavering.

JENNA MALONE, WOUNDED WARRIOR CAREGIVER for U.S. NAVY VETERAN

I’M STILL STANDING HERE BECAUSE OF WARRIOR CARE NETWORK.” Facing physical and mental injuries after his deployment to Afghanistan, Jenna’s husband, Isaac, returned an unrecognizable man. “It was like war came to our house,” Jenna says. Overwhelmed by the weight of caring for her husband and three young children, she began to experience mental health challenges of her own. That’s when she reached out to Wounded Warrior Project® and the Warrior Care Network.

Jenna found the resources and support she needed to reclaim herself, her marriage, and her family. In partnership with four worldrenowned academic medical centers, Warrior Care Network provides first-class treatment tailored specifically for veterans living with the invisible wounds of war. The program features unique and specialized treatments and offerings tailored to helping participants manage the difficulties with their injuries.

“My goal is to empower others through music and a rediscovery of their talents,” Paul said.

Learn more about how WWP helps warriors connect with each other and their communities in meaningful ways. Visit https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org About Wounded Warrior Project Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition.

Find the treatments, connection, and support you need to heal.

www.WarriorCareNetwork.org

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Real Talk: Mental Health

By Hope Phifer, Cohen Veterans Network The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD www.vvsd.net/cohenclinics

It is PCS Season. Time to Declutter.

How did I get here? It’s a question many of us ask ourselves when we suddenly notice that we’re sitting in our home, surrounded by stuff – childhood memories, clothes long past their prime, houseware and décor that we have a million versions of, a closet or two filled with things we haven’t looked at in years, and yes, I’m going to say it, junk.

This “Aha!” moment of clutter oftentimes comes during the most inconvenient moments for military families – PCS season (dun-dun-duuun!).

Before you start feeling guilty. Do not. You are not alone. There are many reasons for clutter.

Items can have meaning beyond their value, says Kirsten Alfaro White, M.A., NCC, APCC, Associate Director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD in Oceanside, California. The Cohen Clinic, part of Cohen Veterans Network, provides high-quality, evidence-based mental health care for post-9/11 veterans, service members and their families.

“Oftentimes, people find deeper meaning in an object beyond its actual value. This can be in the form of sentimental or nostalgic value,” White said.

“For example, parents might look at their children’s things as ‘special,’ like their first pair of shoes, or the first picture they drew. Items can also be seen as having possible value in the future. Like, you may view something that ‘could be really helpful in the future, so I better hang on to it.’”

Another reason you may find yourself in a clutter predicament is because you simply just may not know where to start. White’s examples show how clutter could have started, but then it accrues and then it feels like it is too much to tackle.

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Military families particularly face these challenges because they deal with frequent moves as part of PCS transitions. A military family may have to downsize to a new home, having more than the space comfortably allows. Or they may move into a bigger home, which means buying more items to fill the space.

“Military families don’t always have control over where they are moving,” White said. “In attempt to ‘fit in’ with their new community, in a new state, they might buy certain items that align with the community better so that they can feel more adjusted with their peers.”

Additionally, she said the accumulation of items from various places should be considered. “Those items hold a deeper value because they are tied to a deeper memory.”

Facing clutter during PCS moves can present mental health challenges for military families, including: • Anxiety when attempting to declutter - This can occur when items are thought to have meaning beyond their value. Therefore, the thought of getting rid of items that have sentimental value can cause anxiety.

- Similarly, if someone thinks that items could hold value in the future, they might feel anxiety around letting go of them.

• Distress when feeling overwhelmed or embarrassed - Decluttering, no matter the size of the task, can feel very daunting, especially if it has to do with meaningful items.

And the thought of the task itself can be overwhelming, even more so if someone does not know where to start or how to organize.

- Someone could also feel embarrassed by how many items they need to sort through, how it all looks, or the things that they have kept—this feeling of embarrassment could lead to, or mix with, the feelings of anxiety and/or depression.

• Depression - letting go of an item that holds significant sentimental value could lead to a state of depression.

- Also, being overwhelmed with emotions can lead to depressive symptoms such as the lack of energy or motivation to declutter.

Therapy for Veterans, Service Members, and their Families Cohen Clinics provide therapy to post-9/11 veterans, service members, and their families, including National Guard / Reserves.

CVN Telehealth, face-to-face video therapy available statewide.

LEARN MORE vvsd.net/cohenclinics

As overwhelming as it seems, there are many solutions to overcoming these mental health challenges. White outlines a few of them below: • Include everyone. That means the entire family, friends, and other loved ones. This can help with the nostalgic part of addressing the value of items.

However, be sure to set the stage for those involved; share with them that the items may be hard for you to let go and/or that it might bring you anxiety.

• Ten-minutes sweeps. Break up the decluttering in small increments and be sure to include timed breaks or moments for selfcare, deep breaths and mindfulness. Set small goals and achieve those to build a big win!

• Donate! Donating is a wonderful way to add meaning to something while letting go. A military spouse friend of mine told me recently that something that helped her with letting go of some items was donating them to someone in need and knowing they were going to be cherished by someone else.

• Manage expectations. When embarking on tasks that can be overwhelming, manage your expectations of the process and your end goal.

• Give yourself grace. Remember, it is okay to have a tough time with challenges. Guidance and tips can help, but that does not mean that they will make the process easy for everyone. Consider seeking a mental health professional to help you cope.

OUR LOCATIONS San Diego 8885 Rio San Diego Dr. Suite 301 Oceanside 3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd.

Suite 120 Los Angeles Coming Soon WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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CAREGIVING TLC

By Kie Copenhaver CSA, RHIA, SHSS, RCFE www.agingwellpartners.com

The Fourth of July

A Treasured National Holiday We have just finished celebrating the 4th of July.

It’s a special time for Americans, with our backyard barbeques, friends, families and the night sky filled with fireworks of all shapes, sizes, and colors. But how many of us will really pause and reflect on the rich history of this treasured national holiday?

So, everytime you light up a sparkler on the 4th of July, pause for a moment and give thanks to all the men and women who bravely fought for these Rights, those service members who currently wear the uniform, and the caregivers who give of their heart and soul daily to ensure our veterans are cared for properly.

P.S. the Declaration of Independence was officially signed into law on August 2, 1776…doesn’t quite have the same ring as 4th of July, does it.

In 1776, the founding fathers of our great nation drafted the Declaration of Independence. The original 13 colonies were tired of “taxation without representation” by the British; said another way, they were under British rule and paying taxes, yet were not given a voice in the very government to which they paid their taxes. Thomas Jefferson drafted the document, and it was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.

So, what exactly does it mean to “declare” something?

How did our founding fathers go from being under British rule in one moment and in the next, they were governing themselves? To declare something means to make a “formal announcement of the beginning of a state or condition” according to the Oxford dictionary. Some present-day declarations include marriage, divorce, war, and peace. However, such declarations are not without action – the founding fathers made a declaration of independence from the British Crown then set about taking actions that were consistent with that declaration. A declaration without conviction and action is merely a statement.

Our service members – both retired and currently serving – are continuously taking the actions consistent with keeping the Declaration of Independence alive for all of us. They have fought – and continue to fight – for us all to maintain our “inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness”. And beside many of our veterans are caregivers; the wives, husbands, sons, daughters, friends, and neighbors who take on the role of caregiver for those veterans needing extra assistance with their activities of daily living.

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Aging Well Partners was founded on the premise that everyone deserves to age well; and aging well involves planning well. Whether it’s customized daily call service, a trusted and vetted electrician or plumber, or a referral to a geriatric physician who specializes in illness and ailments more commonly seen as we age, we can point you in the right direction.

FREE FREEConsultation Consultation Call us Call usto toget get started started (619) (619)7879-1839 789-1839

www.agingwellpartners.com WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / MAY 2022 33

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COMMITTED TO

VETERANS

As a partner of the We Honor Veterans Program, Hospice of the North Coast is dedicated to providing optimal end-of-life care to the honored men and women who have fought for the freedom and security of our nation.

Veterans Program Call 760.431.4100

2525 Pio Pico Dr., Suite 301, Carlsbad, CA 92008 | www.hospicenorthcoast.org 28 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

Welcome to the Veterans Association of North County HERE FOR YOU WHEN YOU NEED US Here you will find several resources, programs, services and opportunities for Veterans, Service Members and their families. Our goal is to be your one stop shop for all things, so don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.

Programs and services vary, and include additional information for each. We have two Veteran Services Representatives (VSR) here at VANC, read all about them below in Addtional Services at: (www.vanc.me/services-programs) OUR MISSION VANC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created and operated by Veterans as a one-stop resource center for all active-duty military, Veterans, and their families. We centralize services from diverse agencies to assist with jobs, education, finances, health, and wellness.

OUR VISION We seek to honor and support those who have served our country, bridging the past, present, and future. VANC is a vibrant gathering place in North San Diego County, where all Veterans, active-duty military, and their loved ones can reach out for help and community. VANC engages and informs local Veterans organizations, service providers, and individuals, helping them work together.

VANC seeks to be a model for other organizations that serve the military community.

JOIN US FOR AMAZING UPCOMING EVENTS There’s always engaging things happening at VANC and with our partners. Check our calendar here for regularly scheduled events, meetings and opportunities here at VANC (www.vanc.me/events#calendar) WE LOVE OUR ASSOCIATION MEMBERS AND THEY’RE HERE FOR YOU TOO. VANC is open to all military, veterans and friends of the military. If you would like to become a Veterans Association member, Contact Lori at lori@vanc.me to learn more.

www.vanc.me WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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How Service Dogs Can Help Veterans Reach the Peak of Independence A discharge date should be the signal of promise and opportunity in a hero’s life. However, for some, this date could be the beginning of an invisible war known as PTSD. At Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, our service dogs for veterans are customtrained to help wounded warriors gain independence and reintegrate into their families and society.

Luis, a graduate from our veterans’ program, achieved a significant milestone because of his service dog, Shield.

“For some reason, hiking has been something I stopped doing due to the ever-growing lack of solitude and the large groups of people,” he said.

Even though it made him uncomfortable, Luis knew he and Shield could conquer a hike with some perseverance and teamwork. The COVID-19 pandemic left his neighborhood streets lonely and quiet — a silver lining of opportunity to work on being outside with no one around. Eventually, their walks progressed and the trust Luis put into Shield prepared them for the milestone ahead.

“With plenty of snacks, treats, and water, we made our way to the top of Iron Mountain and spent a few hours at the peak,” Luis said. “As a team, we continue to break barriers I couldn’t have done alone. We are always growing together.”

Our service dogs for veterans are provided at no cost to the recipients across the U.S. and Canada. They become trusted companions and help their partners gain greater confidence, mobility and independence.

RAISE A PUPPY...

CHANGE A LIFE! Open your home and your heart, to a future service dog in-training

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Text “PUPPY” to 51555 Or Call: (818) 362-5834 www.guidedogsofamerica.org 30 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

Serving Veterans and their Families!

The San Diego Veterans Coalition was organized in 2009 and using the Collective Impact Model, SDVC is a premier San Diego County-wide monthly convener of over 160 unique member and participating organizations, businesses, and agencies. The Collective Impact Model is based on leveraging relationships with other veteran and family serving organizations so that we may provide veterans and their families with www.warriorresourceproject.org a complete array of services and other opportunities.

The purpose of the San Diego Veterans Coalition (SDVC) is to serve the needs of San Diego regional Veterans, their families and significant others. We intend to improve collaboration and coordination among community service providers so that delivery of services is more comprehensive and Veteran Family-centric.

The vision of the SDVC is to honor the nation’s commitment to veterans, their families and significant others by leading collaboration among all potential partners, making the San Diego region a national model for a comprehensive, integrated system of community services.

The SDVC is a catalyst that inspires collaboration and cooperation among service partners to deliver premier support for Veterans in the San Diego region.

At the SDVC we have found that collaboration is the key to addressing the needs of San Diego Veterans, their families and significant others. We have four Action Groups:

SAN DIEGO VETERANS COALITION COLLABORATING TO BETTER SERVE OUR COMMUNITY’S VETERAN FAMILIES

COMMUNITY • COLLABORATION • COOPERATION

www.sdvetscoalition.org www.sdvetscoalition.org FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

• Physical and Emotional Health Action Group (PEH) • Family Life Action Group (FLAG) • Veterans: Empowered, Successful, and Thriving Action Group (VEST) • Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship Action Group (E3) Through these Action Groups we are identifying gaps and creating measurable outcomes to resolve them. These groups are made up of our members and together we are working to strengthen our community.

www.sdvetscoalition.org

@SDVeteransCoalition

@sd_vc

@SDVetsCoalition

LIVE WELL SAN DIEGO COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

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www.Courage2Call.org Career Resources Available Now Hiring Management and Direct Service Positions - www.mhsinc.org/career-resources 32 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

COURAGE TO CALL is dedicated to improving mental wellness for Veterans, Active Duty, Reservists, National Guardsmen, and their families via countywide outreach and education, a 24/7 peer line, as well as individual short-term, solution focused prevention-oriented plans.

This program is staffed by veterans and their family members.

What does Courage to Call provide?

Every day in San Diego County, current and former service members and their families deal with the complex maze of issues that accompanies military life.

Often the most difficult problem is not knowing where to turn when you need help.

Courage to Call is a free, confidential, veteran-staffed program dedicated to assisting active-duty military personnel, veterans, reservists, guard members, and their families, regardless of discharge status, through information, guidance, and referrals. A peer line is available 24 hours /7 days a week staffed by veterans.

We offer an optional deeper level of care with an option to work with a veteran peer navigator. Navigators can provide guidance, resources, and advocacy.

Types of assistance include • Access to resources or referrals • Employment services • Food, housing, and shelter • Rent and utility assistance • Counseling/mental health services • Family and legal resources • VA and other benefits and information • Veterans transition services • Low-cost or no-cost recreation PEER SUPPORT All Courage to Call Peer-Support Specialists have been in the military and understand the rigors of the military and military family life. Peer-Support Specialists provide a “first contact resolution” by ensuring that client needs are addressed to the best of their ability during their first contact with Courage to Call.

PEER NAVIGATION Courage to Call Veteran Peer Navigators provide oneon-one peer support in navigating the service system through information and referrals, proactive check-in,

follow-up assistance, program enrollment and advocacy with the ultimate goal of connecting military/veterans to services they need.

All Veteran Peer Navigators are trained social workers with the essential knowledge to provide resources and support to reduce stress and improve overall wellness.

To learn more about Courage to Call visit our website at: www.courage2call.org If you are seeking help Call 1-877-698-7838 or dial 2-1-1 option 4 To contact us about collaboration, presentations, or trainings. couragetocall@mhsinc.org COURAGE TO CALL – ONLINE DONATION You can help us continue to provide support to current and former service members and their families in San Diego County. Make your secure, tax-deductible donation today to Courage to Call.

Thank you for your generosity! www.courage2call.org/donate-now/ WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Living A Life Recovered

By Matthew Ward mward@cbhssd.com @aliferecovered

The Comeback

back to treatment for the fourth time on March 6th, 2019, with the nudge from my girlfriend at the time.

My name is Matthew Ward, I’m 34 years old and I’m in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. I will be sharing a little bit of my experience, strength and hope on what I went through with my drug and alcohol addiction and how I found a way out. My goal is to help the next man or woman who still suffers and let them know they are not alone.

I completed 58 days of treatment at the Lighthouse in Anaheim and went to sober living. I started putting my resumé together. It was tough because I had no work history for 18 months, no car or driver’s license and a criminal record. The odds were against me. Even with the uncertainty, I knew I was smart, capable, honest, and possessed a great work ethic. I wouldn’t let alcohol and drugs define me for another moment.

Moving forward, I will be writing a monthly column, “Living A Life Recovered”. My goal is to help the next man or woman who still suffers. You are not alone.

Please feel free to email me if you want to share your story or if you have any questions.

I discharged from the Navy in January 2018. Although mentally and physically taxing, the Navy taught me several invaluable things. I learned the importance of being on time, looking presentable, and that the right attitude can get you through the most difficult situations. I reflect on my time in the military and am thankful and proud for the opportunity to serve my country.

There are, however, certain aspects I am glad are over.

I do not miss 18-hour days of manual labor while at sea. I do not miss getting so stressed out and then realizing that I’m in the middle of the South China Sea. The way I coped with the stress of active duty for over 7 years was with alcohol. By the time I discharged I was in active alcoholism and using drugs. I moved to East County, San Diego and I began to spiral after being introduced to methamphetamine.

I had major legal trouble in early 2018 and I narrowly missed prison time after two DUI’s and possession of a large amount of cocaine with intent to sell. I got lucky and received no felonies after they reduced some charges, but I was deep in my addiction. I asked the Judge for mercy instead of justice. I had a slew of commitments and programs to now attend including an 18-month DUI program. I sold my car to help pay for the fines. Despite all of these consequences, I still continued to drink and use and ended up going 34 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

I started applying and was turned down by nearly every single one. Some were government jobs, I knew it was a longshot. I started losing hope. I had applied to other financial and sales-type positions as well, insurance companies, banks, etc. I was always great with numbers and communication so I thought I might be good at it.

I wanted to break the stigma that manual labor is your only option after criminal convictions. I finally got a call from a man who was an agency owner at a Fortune 500 insurance company. He saw my resume on Indeed and asked me to come in for an interview. I was psyched.

I had a jacket and tie for the interview with a pair of slacks and dress shoes that I borrowed from housemates. I was ready. When we sat down,

I let him know my goals, answered his questions honestly and told him a small part of my current situation. He called me a few days later and hired me.

To my surprise, the background check cleared due to me having no felonies or financial related crimes.

I passed my state license exam the first time up in August 2019.

Unfortunately, the Department of Insurance for California sent me a letter saying, “Due to your criminal history, we will not be issuing you a license to transact insurance in the state of California.”

I appealed the decision. They sent me a letter saying I would have a court hearing in April of 2020.

I was going to be going up against lawyers from the Department of Insurance. My job is to prove why I deserve a license, their job is to show why I am unfit.

I got my documents in order. I had proof of rehabilitation, letters from therapists and sober houses, proof of AA meetings, a letter from my sponsor, completion of my 18-month DUI program with fines paid, and several other documents from the military. My boss was present as a witness and testified to the court that I was a guy he trusted and wanted on his team. Three months later, I got a letter from the Department of Insurance. They issued me an insurance license.

It took me one full year to become licensed and I was eventually promoted to head of the Sales Department in 2021. The state that almost sentenced me to 5 years in prison is the same state that gave me an insurance license to do business with a Fortune 500 company. I say this not to boast but to let anyone in a similar situation know to stay vigilant and not take no for an answer. When one door closes, another opens.

After two and a half years in the insurance industry, I realized my true passion was in the recovery field.

In March 2022, I started as a Case Manager and Counselor at Confidential Recovery, an Intensive Outpatient Clinic in San Diego. (www.confidentialrecovery.com) We provide treatment to those with substance use disorder.

San Diego Veteran Resources & Organizations

Navigating the resources available to veterans can be confusing, but San Diego Veterans Magazine believes no veteran should have to go it alone.

At San Diego Veterans Magazine you can find Veteran organizations and private nonprofits with resources for veterans that can help ease the process of attaining earned benefits, coping with the lasting effects of service-connected injuries and finding programs and services that meet your specific needs.

San Diego Veteran Resources & Organizations available at:

I am pursuing my master’s in clinical counseling and manage a sobriety inspired Instagram account (@aliferecovered).

www.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com

“My goal is to help those as I have been helped”

San Diego Veterans Magazine

- Matthew Ward

A Veterans Magazine for Veterans by Veterans WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Before you listen to all these voices, ask yourself these three questions: • Have you given this goal your best effort?

• If you have – what are the reasons you could not be successful? Is it a lack of resources, knowledge or skill?

• How can you learn from where you are and make a plan to acquire what is missing – the resources, knowledge or skills – to allow you to be successful?

The great Roman general Marcus Aurelius asked the question a different way: “Does what’s happened keep you from acting with justice, generosity, self-control, sanity, prudence, honesty, humility, straightforwardness?”

Make July your Month of Independence In the United States we have just finished celebrating the 4th of July. It’s a special time to Americans.

Not only are there picnics and parades, there is an understanding that over 200 years ago people got fed up with the way things were and pledged their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor” to making the changes they saw necessary for long-term success as a nation.

July is also halfway through the calendar year, six months away from the hopeful exuberance of New Year’s resolutions. This makes it a perfect opportunity to make July a month to declare your personal independence from the things that are standing in the way of your resolutions and goals. Revisit those grand dreams and declare your independence from the tyranny holding you back – pledging with the same revolutionary fervor as the patriots did to make the changes necessary for your success.

Declare your independence from failure.

How are you doing on the goals you made at the first of the year? Have you fallen so far behind that you have shoved them back into a corner, pointedly ignoring them because you feel that you have failed?

This is the tyranny of failure. It stalks along beside you, assuring you that each and every time you try something new it will not work out and you will not be successful. Often it has helpers – your friends, coworkers, possibly even those closest to you. Regardless, the largest ally of failure is the voice inside of you.

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In other words, does what you perceive as failure change your basic nature as a human being? If not, don’t waste time being held back by the failure. Instead use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Take that learning and growth into the future and continue on to achieve your goals.

Declare your independence from fear.

Television personality Mike Rowe tells a story when he stood before the camera to begin his first night as a host on the shopping channel QVC. He had a product he knew nothing about, he had no experience in live television, and he knew that QVC was not interested in on-air personalities who could not sell products.

In his story, Mike points out a key in declaring your independence from the tyranny of fear: Don’t hide your fear. Acknowledge that you are scared to yourself and to those around you. In Mike’s case, he started out his segment letting the entire television audience know that it was his first time, he didn’t know anything about what the product did, and then he asked them to get involved and help him out.

The audience responded by filling the phone lines to talk about their experience with the products, encouraged by Mike’s willingness to be truthful and authentic with them. Most importantly, they were willing to purchase the products being pitched.

What Mike Rowe did was eliminate the best weapon of fear, which is the uncertainty that comes with doing something that you have not done before. By openly acknowledging the fear he made it clear that he was committed to success and was able to tap into those who were waiting for an opportunity to make that success possible.

Declare your independence from going it alone.

The story that Mike Rowe tells also shows the futility of trying to go it alone. Many people set goals – whether they are related to education, fitness or career – then attempt to achieve those goals in the absence of any type of support system.

The self-made man is a myth. Throughout history, leaders who have been successful have had carefully developed support systems around them.

Whether they are formal advisors, technical assistants, or just sounding boards who can help in the development of ideas, a support system is invaluable in helping you reach a goal.

Make yourself accountable to those who care about you. It does not have to be a formal accountability framework; something as simple as online social media can be very powerful. When I first started a fitness program, I posted each day’s run to my Facebook account. This was not so much that I wanted to be sure that my friend saw me run, rather, it was my motivation when I did not want to go run.

Make this July your personal “Independence Month” – a month to recommit to the goals that you want to achieve this year.

Adjust where necessary, learn from the attempts of the first half of the year, banish your fear, and re-engage with your support system.

You have the second half of the year to make your goals a reality, and the experiences of the first half of the year to get you there.

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

37

WHAT’S NEXT Transition to Civilian Life

By Eve Nasby & Kristin Hennessy

Kristin & Eve

TRANSITIONING Mach 10 Style

“Remember, the Navy needs Maverick!

Companies need you”

In full disclosure, your authors over here

have quite an, errrm, semi-obsession with Top Gun Maverick. Between the 2 of us, we’ve seen it 12 times in the theater.

Combine that with a passionfor helping our transitioning military be preppedand ready, an we’ve got a relatable one for you this month!

If you haven’t seen it yet, we won’t spoil it. But either way, you can probably relate. You are good at what you do in the military. But transitioning out could seem like your toughest assignment ever. If you think you’re not qualified or don’t have the skills for the civilian world, remember you’ve been well-trained. With the right preparation and mindset, you’re on a mission to success.

Maverick was the MAN in Top Gun. He thought he was coming back to fly the MOST dangerous adventure yet.

After all, he was the best. Due to a little ego inflation and pushing the Mach 10 limits against all orders, he’s put in his place. He finds out he’s not flying it.

He’s been recruited to TEACH others to fly it. With no opportunity to negotiate, he had to suck it up and trust the commander. Was it a success? (We said we wouldn’t spoil it.)

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“Coach? Sir?” Life may not deliver exactly what you expected. As you transition out you may be asked to do something you don’t feel prepared to do, or even want to do. Do it anyway. Don’t be afraid to take yourself outside of your limits. You just may find out that if you do it, the outcome will be rewarding.

“I don’t like that face, Maverick.” “It’s the only one I got.”

You are you - a unique blend of skills, talents, experiences. Your past and present experiences shape your future, so use those to decide what you want your future to look like. Where do you want to live? What kind of work excites you? Research your options before transitioning out and stick to what speaks to only YOUR unique self.

“You got us into this. How are you going to get us out?”

So, you feel like you’re flying with a fellow F18 taunting you from above. How will you respond? Do you stubbornly dive below the hard deck? Are you too distracted thinking about your past? Let your past accomplishments AND failures propel you to make your future more successful.

“It’s time to let go.”

“You’re grounded. Permanently” There will be times where the future seems bleak.

Mentally look beyond what is happening now. Imagine yourself in your ideal job and the present agony will become tomorrow’s memory. Use the challenges you face today as motivation to propel you into a great career opportunity.

“He couldn’t keep up.”

Don’t dwell on the wins or the mistakes. Accept you have a new future and a new adventure ahead. Some things will inevitably change. Some things you can’t control. You CAN control your attitude and you CAN control the direction that you decide you want to go.

Don’t leave your wingman. In many cases, this means your spouse. Their opinion is just as important as yours as you decide what’s next. Make sure your wingman (or wingwoman!) is considered, appreciated and treated as your rock throughout this transition process.

“You’re not serious.”

“It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot”

In your next career you may not have the opportunity

You’re the pilot of your own destination! Know that companies need you and want you, as do other fellow employees. You have a ‘can do, ‘team oriented ‘ mindset not often found in the civilian work sector.

to steal an F-14 and take off from a “very short taxiway” but you do need to have more than a very short time to plan your transition. Start early and plan accordingly so you hit the career target that coincides with your aim.

“Don’t think, just do.”

This applies to overthinking and procrastinating.

Stop thinking about getting help with your resume or networking with people about jobs. Just do it. Don’t think about getting a mentor. Just do it.

Just trust your gut and trust yourself. If you’re interviewing for a job that starts to feel off, then it is.

Don’t fear asking the right questions to determine if it’s the right fit. And, don’t take just the first thing that comes your way. The first available job may not be the best for your career. Keep “doing” until Jim it’s right.

Remember, the Navy needs Maverick!

Companies need you. There’s no autopilot in this process. Put forth your best energy and efforts as you transition.

But for Pete’s sake, keep it below Mach 10.3!

Gruny

“I graduated second in my class. Just want to set expectations, Sir.” Don’t overestimate your skill level. Don’t underestimate it either. You’ll probably need additional training to get the job you want, so get it.Use your GI bill for your own self-improvement! There are plenty of educational programs that partner with the government to provide free or low cost classes that get you the certifications you need.

“No idea what they’re saying.”

Sometimes you may not have any idea what’s going on.

Maybe civilian speech doesn’t resonate with you. Or the interview process doesn’t make sense. Your mentors and your network will help you. If you don’t have any idea what they’re saying, just ask to clarify. Or, pull a Maverick. Just smile and wave while you admit that you have no idea what’s going on.

Reach out to Eve at: eve@bandofhands.com www.linkedin.com/in/eve-nasby-given-hiring-expert WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

39

Army Invites Innovators to Enter 7th Dragon’s Lair

By Sgt. Maxine Baen, XVII Airborne Corps Public Affairs For the first time ever, the XVIII Airborne Corps will partner with Army Futures Command to co-host the seventh installment of the innovative series Dragon’s Lair. This next edition of the “Shark Tank”-style competition will take place August 16 in Austin, Texas.

In August 2020, the XVIII Airborne Corps, known as America’s Contingency Corps, developed Dragon’s Lair as a way to give soldiers of any rank across the corps a platform to convey their innovative ideas and concepts to civilian technical experts and senior military leaders.

This new partnership with AFC will now bring ideas to the forefront of the Army’s premier institution, which is charged with modernizing the Army and its future readiness at a faster rate.

After five successful iterations of the program, the XVIII Airborne Corps realized that Dragon’s Lair could go beyond the Army’s reach and decided to open it up to all military service members across the Defense Department to seek more innovators and diversity of ideas across the joint force.

The partnership with AFC brings an opportunity to unlock new ideas for the advancement of the U.S. military. In the past, Dragon’s Lair has taken the previously unsought ideas of a cooling apparatus for body armor, an algorithm to predict a building’s layout, an app for the exceptional family member program, and an armored vehicle safety system, and it has elevated them to the next level for the betterment service members.

DOD service members can submit their innovative ideas on the Dragon Innovation website. https://unum.nsin.us/xviii-airborne Users must create an account, which does not require a Common Access Card and is available from civilian systems.

All concepts must have a description of the innovation and the problem being addressed. Ideas must be submitted to the site by July 24, 2022, to be eligible for consideration for Dragon’s Lair 7.

Photo By: Army Sgt. Marygian Barnes

Army 1st Lt. Mahdi Al-Husseini, assigned to the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, pitches his presentation on artificial intelligence pilot performance feedback at Fort Bragg, N.C., Sept. 27, 2021. Al-Husseini was one of seven soldiers taking part in Dragon’s Lair 5.

The program was established in October 2020 to help increase innovation across the XVIII Airborne Corps.

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Contact Eve Nasby, Band of Hands president and passionate military supporter to get started today. eve@bandofhands.com WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

41

Employment Focused Workshops to Help You Reach Your Goals Author: Tim Winter, Director, Transition Assistance Program, Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service Perhaps you’re trudging back and forth to the same office or signing on for a day of work in a job that shows no sign of changing or improving: the long hours, the ongoing meetings, the lack of fulfillment.

The job itself is mind-numbing; your talents forgotten and the potential you had in abundance when you first transitioned out of the military feels like it has been sucked out of you.

If you’re reading this and thinking, yeah, that is me, then the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS) has just the thing for you.

DOL VETS has a new pilot program to help veterans, veterans currently serving in the National Guard and Reserve, and their spouses to take control of their careers.

The Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT) pilot program consists of ten two-hour workshops designed to help you to prepare to meet your employment goals.

These no-cost workshops, both in-person and virtual offerings, will fit any schedule and can give you an advantage over your civilian counterparts.

The Workshops Your Next Move: Your Next Move is designed to help anyone unsure of what they want to do next with their career. This workshop explores interest profiling, skills matching and general labor market information.

It is designed to introduce the basic tools needed for career exploration and identification of high-demand occupations.

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Marketing Yourself and Other Job Search Tactics: Marketing Yourself and Other Job Search Tactics explains how essential it is to present skills, knowledge and abilities that meet the employer’s needs. This workshop provides proven tactics to help job seekers get noticed and hired.

Understanding Resume Essentials: Understanding Resume Essentials explains the importance of a wellstructured resume that highlights relevant skills and experience to potential employers. This workshop covers the elements of a resume and provides job seekers with techniques to create an effective document that employers will notice.

Creating Your Resume – Writing Workshop: Creating Your Resume – Writing Workshop builds on the Understanding Resume Essentials. During this workshop attendees will have time to craft an initial resume or revise a current one.

Interview Skills (virtual only): Interview Skills aims to provide attendees with the tools and confidence they need to ace a job interview. Learning how to prepare for an interview and practice answering questions will give attendees an advantage in landing a job. During this workshop, interview basics, potential questions and interview techniques are presented.

Federal Hiring (virtual only): Federal Hiring covers the basics of gaining federal employment. Veterans have a distinct advantage when applying for federal positions with veterans’ preference.

During this workshop, the basics of civil service, USAJobs, special hiring authorities and other resources for attendees’ federal job search are discussed.

LinkedIn Profiles (virtual only): This workshop walks attendees through how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile that can be used to build a professional brand and highlight experience.

LinkedIn Job Search (virtual only): This workshop explains how to proactively use LinkedIn for job searches and pulls back the curtain to show how recruiters use LinkedIn to find potential employees, which you can use in your employment opportunities.

Salary Negotiations (virtual only): Salary Negotiations explores the tools and techniques to handle salary negotiations. This workshop is designed to take the mystery out of salary negotiation and walks attendees through how to conduct salary research to position yourself effectively during negotiation.

Employment Rights (virtual only): Employment Rights cover basic employment protections as well as those protections specific to veterans. It provides essential information on the American Disabilities Act, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. Information on reasonable accommodations and selfadvocacy will also be presented.

Thinking about changing careers? It’s time to find your passion and make that your priority.

OBTT will help you reach your employment and career goals. You served, you earned it; find your next victory with OBTT. Explore and register for OBTT in-person or virtual workshops online at: www.dol.gov/obttworkshops

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

43

HUMAN RESOURCES Transition to Business

By Paul Falcone

Fostering Independence and Autonomy at Work Independence, agility, and change management skills are likely the most cherished worker competencies in today’s workplace. The need is clear: we’re experiencing evolutionary change at revolutionary speed and being able to adapt to shifting demands and pivot in light of your organization’s changing needs is more critical than ever. How do you build those skills and abilities for the teams you lead and for yourself?

First, understand that inertia is real, and it often shows itself in the form of fierce resistance to change. That’s just the way many of us are wired: we naturally get comfortable with the way we do things, especially if they’re repetitive in nature. But in the business world today, agility and flexibility are the coin of the realm.

So, if you or a member of your team recognizes that you’re resisting change at every turn, consider changing your perspective just a bit, both for your organization’s sake and for the benefit of your own career and professional development.

Second, goal setting can help. Goals may be set annually and measured at the time of the annual performance review. But in reality, things change too

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quickly to simply set annual benchmarks for yourself or for your team. Quarterly one-on-one touch-base meetings with your boss or staff members are a more practical way to carve out some quiet time to truly listen to where the other person is coming from.

Ask questions of your staff members like, what can I do from a mentoring and coaching standpoint to help you excel in your career? How are you progressing toward your professional development goals, and do we need to pivot in light of supply delays, changed priorities, or upcoming deadlines?

What would you change about our way of operating or communicating that you feel would provide the biggest bang for our buck? Would you be willing to take the lead in making that change happen?

Third, you can use delegation as a skill to both lighten your workload and develop your team’s leadership and performance muscle, but delegation has to be done right. Don’t delegate the repetitive work that’s necessary but lacks value; instead, delegate what you’re good at and that’s meaningful.

Provide “stretch” assignments to those under your care to help them build career muscle in new areas.

For example, if you’re great at public speaking,

delegate the next presentation coming your way to a member of your team who may shy away from public appearances. Use the delegation assignment as the glue to build trust and to celebrate success. Delegation can likewise focus on technical, analytical, or managerial skills.

When delegating, ask questions like these to keep the exercise on course: What exactly are your expectations in overseeing this project? What’s your initial plan of attack in assuming responsibility for your new project? What parameters or boundaries would you place on this project in terms of your availability and time commitments, and how often would you plan on keeping me informed with status updates? Finally, what are the measurable outcomes and benchmarks so that you’ll know you’ve achieved success?

T H E PAUL FALCONE LEADERSHIP SERIES WORKPLACE ETHICS EFFECTIVE HIRING NEW MANAGERS LEADERSHIP OFFENSE LEADERSHIP DEFENSE

Most workers have an innate need to feel like they’re thriving, that they’re achieving results that they can call their own. Whether they’re leaders or independent contributors, project management exercises based on delegation go a long way in fostering an achievement mentality and a sense of self-confidence that builds autonomy and independence. Look for opportunities to assume greater responsibilities. Manage your career purposefully and create a foundation of trust and mutual respect with your team members. You’ll likely find that people will exceed your expectations when given a chance to shine, and you’ll enhance your own reputation as a people and team developer.

You can connect with Paul on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/paulfalcone1 Paul Falcone (www.PaulFalconeHR.com) is a leadership consultant, trainer, and bestselling author on hiring, performance management, and leadership development.

www.HarperCollinsLeadership.com

WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Successful Transitioning Stories

By Dr. Julie Ducharme www.synergylearninginstitute.org

I have had the opportunity this year to work with Niurka Castaneda during our She Talks speaking tour and listen to her story, love for our country, her militaryservice, and her new business ventures as a transitioning veteran. It is inspiring and I just had to share her journey.

Niurka is a single mom a Vetpreneur, a worldtraveler and a TV host, author, and course creator. “I grew up in Cuba and came from a family of entrepreneurs and artists. My grandfather was a poet, my parents are Cuban entrepreneurs. They were very resourceful people, and therefore I believe I have been so enterprising and artistic”.

Start preparing early for your transition: • Put your finances in order, save enough money to live comfortable for at least 6 months, payout any debts you have.

• Clean your credit and raise your credit score.

• Invest in your future by using your BAH to secure real estate during your service time and build up your equity.

• Renew or obtain a security clearance before transitioning out.

• Have full copies of your medical records, dd214, awards, etc. you will need them.

• Translate your military skills and job duties to create a resume.

Mentality

“I felt the call to serve my new home a year after arriving to the U.S. I joined the Army to serve this great country for the next 20 plus years. The miliary offered me many new experiences and I learned skills like resilience, flexibility, self-motivation, determination, self-discipline, goal setting and risk tolerances”.

• Stay humble, keep an open mind, listen, learn, adjust as necessary, and take advantage of every opportunity to drive on.

“Entrepreneurship was my way to find a new identity after transitioning from military and I did this by building a product and brand out of a heart shaped bright red umbrella. It was a defining moment for me because it showed me, I wasn’t limited to just being a veteran, yes, I was a veteran but so much more. I also learned it does take a village to build a business from the ground up and you cannot build it on an island by yourself. I learned to grow and be successful, I must have the right environment and be surrounded by the right people to bring out the best in me”.

• When you apply for a job or network, don’t sell your military rank. Sell your skills and the impact that you have made during your service.

“As a female veteran entrepreneur, I realized that my story could help others that are facing the same kinds of issues. Because I understand the difficulty of transitioning out of the military as a female, I share my story on so many venues like my podcast and TV series to help others who might be going through the same struggles I did. Here are some of the tips that really helped me successfully transition”:

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• Wherever you choose to transition to a job or into a business, networking is key. Remember, it’s not what you know, or where you have been; it’s who you know, so keep expanding your network.

• Leverage your GI-Bill benefits to explore a career you want to work or as another tool to build up your business, don’t use it as another paycheck, to just get by.

• Choose the classes that are interesting and useful for your end goal • Choose professors that really care to teach and that have theprofessional experience to talk about the topic they are teaching.

To get education from Dr. Tiffany click link below https://drtiffanytajiri.com/meet-dr-tiffany/ To watch the Dr. Tiffany live interview click the link below https://youtu.be/oeWm4Oa3keA For more help on active duty transition, education, and more click the link below www.synergylearninginstitute.org

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WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

47

BUSINESS FOR VETERANS

By Barbara Eldridge www.mindmasters.com

How Can Planning Enhance Your Freedom to Succeed?

It is mid-year, when was the last time you looked at your business plan? Or have you, like many other small business owners who created a business plan only to let it gather dust on a shelf? Experts believe that a business plan is a useful management tool that should be referred to on an ongoing basis. For that reason, it’s best to update it regularly.

A good business plan is much more than just a plan, according to Tim Berry, the author of Lean Business Planning and founder of Palo Alto Software. Done right, it can be an ongoing management process. The business plan is more than a tool because it creates the freedom to direct your business, freedom to decide how much you want to earn, freedom to set your own hours, freedom to be in control.

Planning helps you run the business better so you build an asset that will generate the greatest ROI should you choose to sell your business someday and creates the order and structure that will produce your intended product or service.

Trouble is, small business owners are busy, and it’s not easy to find the time to update a business plan. That should not be a problem, according to Berry. “You don’t need a big, formal business plan like we did decades ago,” he explains. Instead focus your planning on the 4 major areas of the business, management, marketing, financial and leadership (personal/personnel). You will be able to better focus, review and update these areas at least once a month.

A monthly review makes it possible to look at the difference between what you planned for and what’s actually happening. Your business plan provides a dashboard for making changes when the unexpected happens.

“A business plan is not just a map. It’s also the GPS that shows you where you are on the map—and the real-time information about what has changed,” Berry explains. “It’s like having the map, weather and traffic.”

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“A business plan is not just a map.

It’s also the GPS that shows you where you are on the map—and the real-time information about what has changed” It’s mid-year. This should be a time when you review your market and the competition, and then evaluate what’s changing. Your business plan areas should include key strategies, tactics, concrete milestones and essential numbers (projected sales, spending and cash flow). Adding a lot of text isn’t necessary unless you’re pitching to the bank. Instead, think of your business plan as an internal management tool for you, the small business owner.

Finally, a strong business plan that you refer to at least monthly helps you stay on track. “It’s easy to get lost in the daily details of running a business. You’re always looking down at the next step,” Berry explained. “But sometimes you need to look up at the horizon. A good business plan can help you do that.”

Don’t ignore your business plan. Use it as a flexible tool to help you stay focused and map out your business success.

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

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WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

49

legal Eagle

Straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners

By Kelly Bagla, Esq.

ESSENTIAL ADVERTISING RULES FOR BUSINESSES

FTC ADVERTISING RULES Under the FTC, the following general advertising rules must be followed: • Ads must be truthful and non-deceptive • Businesses must have evidence to back up their claims

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Award-winning attorney, Kelly Bagla shows you how to avoid legal pitfalls FROM DAY ONE! The last thing an entrepreneur wants is to spend valuable time and resources on legal issues, which is why they often drop to the bottom of the pile. But this can be a COSTLY MISTAKE—and Go Legal Yourself is here to make sure it’s one you avoid.

• Gather the right documentation • Protect your brand • Avoid expensive legal pitfalls • Plan and manage growth competatively Rest assured that no nasty legal surprises will stand between you and your success.

www.GoLegalYourself.com

As we celebrate the birthday of America (Happy Get your copy at amazon today!

Birthday America!), we will all be inundated with sales advertisements and as a business owner, you’ll also want to send out your own advertisements for your products or services for July 4th. Whether your business is a mom and pop operation or has a multistate presence, it is important to be familiar with the applicate state and federal advertising laws.

ADVERTISING RULES The advertising rules that dictate what businesses can and cannot say in ads come from applicable state and federal laws. Typically, these laws focus on truth in advertising, deceptive advertising practices, and unfair advertising. State and federal laws aim to prohibit these advertising practices, require businesses to be truthful about their products or services, and to substantiate claims that they make in advertisements.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces advertising laws at the federal level, and every state also has a consumer protection agency which enforces state advertising laws. Additionally, the state attorney general has the power to litigate against companies whose advertising harms citizens within their jurisdiction.

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• Ads cannot be unfair, meaning the advertisement cannot cause substantial injury to consumers that consumers cannot reasonably avoid. For example, ads cannot make claims about health benefits that will lead reasonable consumers to buying a product, who only find out later that the product is actually harmful.

STATE LAW As mentioned, each state also has its own set of consumer protection laws which protect consumers against unfair competition and deceptive advertising practices. Whereas under federal law consumers have very limited rights to sue, under state laws, consumers typically have more power to privately sue companies for false or deceptive advertising. For example, it you own a business and you believe a competitor is using a deceptive ad that could lead consumers to falsely believe that the product they are selling is actually coming from your company, you have several options.

You could report the ad to the FTC and they could deal with it, you could sue under the Lanham Act, whether for false advertising or trademark infringement, or both, or you could sue under your state’s unfair competition laws.

DECEPTIVE PRICING All bargain ads tout extra low sale prices and this is of course allowed. Just be certain that the sale price is actually a lower price than the regular price of the item. If you are selling a shirt on sale for $50, it had better be the sale price and not the regular price.

Making up a fictitious regular price in order to say you have lower sales prices is deceptive and you risk not only being sued but losing the faith of your customers.

Additionally, do not advertise that something is “free” unless it really is free. If a customer has to pay for any additional service to obtain the free item, state this fact clearly in the advertisement. Advertising that something is free but then charging customers more for regularly priced items in order to collect the free item is deceptive and illegal.

BAIT AND SWITCH Related to deceptive pricing is the classic bait and switch, where an advertiser lures customers into the store with an offer but does so with no intention or desire to sell that item at that price. All advertisements must be part of a bona fide effort to sell the advertised product. Consumers are very smart so do not insult their intelligence by trying to sell them a substandard product rather than the one advertised.

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YOUR COMPETITION Mentioning your competition in an advertisement in order to compare the products is fine. However, when you make claims about a competitor that has not or cannot be proven, you crossover into dangerous grounds.

Your competitor may be able to sue under a variety of federal and state laws.

TESTIMONIALS AND ENDORSEMENTS Whether you use celebrity endorsements or testimonials of regular customers, make sure that what they are saying is true. Unless the endorser is a celebrity or expert, it you are paying an endorser, it must be disclosed.

Additionally, when using a testimonial of a normal user of your products, when showing the product’s use, it must be during the normal use of the product. If you have retouched an important part of a photo or the product is being used in any other manner than its normal intended use, it must be disclosed POLICY OF TRUTH Telling the truth is the simplest rule. Slight exaggerations and boasting are expected and for the most part allowed in advertisements, but do not get too tricky with your wording or rely on technicalities to remain truthful. While an element of exaggeration in advertising typically comes with the territory, you must make sure that your claims are not factually false or otherwise unsubstantiated.

Happy Advertising!

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

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

Award-winning attorney, Kelly Bagla shows you how to avoid legal pitfalls FROM DAY ONE! The last thing an entrepreneur wants is to spend valuable time and resources on legal issues, which is why they often drop to the bottom of the pile. But this can be a COSTLY MISTAKE—and Go Legal Yourself is here to make sure it’s one you avoid.

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WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Legally Speaking Military Focused Family Law Facts

By Tana Landau, Esq.

What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring an Attorney?

3. What is the retainer you charge ad how does billing work?

You will want to know what the initial retainer is and

No one anticipates a divorce when they get married.

To death do us part. But the reality is many marriages fail for several different reasons. If you have made the decision to file for divorce and regain your independence, you likely will find yourself in need of an experienced attorney to help you through the process and assist in custody and visitation, support, or division of marital property issues. But how do you choose the right attorney for you?

what it covers. Make sure that you ask what the billable rates are for the attorneys working on your matter as well as any paralegal or support staff. They often bill at different rates based on position or experience. Another question to consider is whether or at what point the firm would require a replenishment of that retainer. You also want to consider how a firm bill. Some attorneys bill in 6-minute increments while others bill in quarter hour increments. Additionally, some attorneys or firms bill for each phone call, email or letter, with a minimum charge.

At your initial consultation, there are several important questions to ask.

4. Do you handle military cases?

1. Does the firm specialize in family law?

It is important to hire an attorney who is experienced in family law. There are several firms that practice in many areas of law versus firms that focus only on one area. A firm that only handles family law matters may not only have more experienced attorneys to handle your divorce, but also may be more known within the family law community. As such, they may have relationships established with other family law attorneys which could aid in settling any disputed issues in your case.

2. How many years have you been practicing?

It is important to know how long an attorney you are considering hiring has been practicing family law. This will help you decide which attorney has more experience which can be very important if your divorce involves high conflict issues or if you have a high asset case.

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It is not only important to hire an attorney that specializes in family law, but also one that has experience with military family law matters if you are active duty military. Military family law cases have unique issues that require a specialized knowledge of both state laws and federal laws, including but not limited to jurisdictional issues, military retirement division, child custody and deployment.

5. What is your experience with cases similar to mine?

Even if you are not military, not all family law cases are alike, and hiring someone who has experience with your type of case is important. Working with a family law attorney who has helped clients in similar situations, whether your case involves a restraining order, custody issues or support issues etc. will provide you with the skilled legal services you need. Inquiring as to the attorney’s experience with similar cases will help you decide if the attorney you are hiring is a good fit.

Time for a Fresh Start.

Move forward without breaking the bank. Our military expert family law attorneys are ready to push your case to the finish line.

6. Who will be working on my case and how involved will you be?

Most family law attorneys have a team of people to assist on a matter which can include various paralegals and other associate attorneys. If you are seeking to hire a specific attorney based on reputation or referral, you will want to ask how involved they will be and who else will be assisting on your case, including the experience of other attorneys that may work on your matter.

7. How do you prefer to communicate with clients?

It is important to know in advance how an attorney handles communications. You want to make sure you are comfortable with their method of communication before hiring a family law attorney. Be sure to hire a family law attorney who communicates in a way that aligns with your preferences. Do they prefer to meet in person or on zoom? Do they have a preferred form of communication, like email or telephone calls? What are their policies and procedures for response times to emails and phone calls? One of the biggest complaints I hear from client about prior attorneys is that they were too non-responsive.

8. How familiar are you with the judges?

If you cannot settle your matter and your divorce is litigated, you want an attorney that is not only comfortable taking your case to trial but who is also familiar with the local judges. This type of experience can help provide insight as to what issues you are likely to succeed on in court and possible outcomes should an issue be litigated at a hearing. It can also help decide those matter that you should seek to settle.

Military Divorce and Retirement, 20/20/20 Spouse, Survivor Benefit Plans, Support Orders, and more.

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

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

Legal Experts with Humanity WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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Foods Good for the Body = Foods Good for the Soul

reducing inflammation, metabolizing cortisol, and relaxing the body and mind:

By: Joseph Molina National Veterans Chamber of Commerce veteransccsd@gmail.com

• Bananas

FEEL BETTER FOODS If you’re trying to lower your stress levels, you probably already know to start with the basics: self-care, better sleep, exercise, etc. But did you know that some foods lower stress levels, too? Dietitian Courtney Barth, MS, RDN, LD, CPT, explains how certain foods can help reduce levels of cortisol — the primary hormone responsible for stress.

The Role of Cortisol Cortisol plays several roles in the body, including: • Regulating sleep cycles • Reducing inflammation

• Avocados • Broccoli • Dark chocolate • Pumpkin seeds • Spinach Gut-Healthy Foods Seventy to 80 percent of our immune system is reliant on our gut, so if we correct our gut, we correct a lot of our immunity. These probiotic-rich and fermented foods can help balance blood sugar and reduce cholesterol, like Greek yogurt, for example.

In contrast, some foods raise cortisol levels, causing stress on the body. They include foods like alcohol, foods high in sugar and foods with simple carbs.

• Increasing blood sugar

Weight Loss: Follow a Diet or Change a Lifestyle?

• Managing how the body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins

Losing weight is on the minds of many people. It seems that there are thousands of opinions, diets, and recommendations out there. Well, here is a “summary” of what I found. One study found that some foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and yogurt, related to weight loss. In the same study, potato chips, sugary beverages, red meats, and processed meats were associated with weight gain.

• Controlling blood pressure Notably, cortisol is sometimes known as the “stress hormone” because your adrenal gland releases it when you’re in a stressful situation or when your body is under physical stress. It’s the key to helping your body manage its fight-or-flight instinct — which is a good thing. “Cortisol is healthy for a short period of time as a protective mechanism,” Barth says. “It gives your body the energy you need to respond to a short-term stressful scenario.”

In the long-term, though, too much cortisol actually creates stress in your body, leading to more inflammation and increasing your blood pressure — essentially, the opposite of all the good things it does for you in short-term scenarios. I found this video from Dr. Berg that explains it better and in more detail. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ii_OWTqn1rw Foods that Reduce Stress Levels One good way to lower cortisol in the body is to focus on an anti-inflammatory diet, which means fewer processed foods and more whole foods.

The goal is to eat foods that reduce inflammation in your body, thus reducing cortisol levels.

Magnesium-Rich Foods Magnesium is greatly beneficial when it comes to 54 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

I found the topic of the Keto diet and Intermittent Fasting (IF) from Dr. Berg (LINK) — again, I found this to be informational and helpful in maintaining a well-balanced eating lifestyle. I hope you enjoy the information.

Summary: I hope you found the information useful, and of course, there is plenty more out there to learn and research.

Let me know if you find something that will be useful to share with the Veteran Community.

Nominate a Hero: The National Veterans Chamber Radio Show • Would you like to Nominate a Hero? Let us know, and we will announce it on the show.

• Would you like to share your story? Then, be our guest on the show — here is the REQUEST FORM. www.vccsd.org/radioshow.html • If you have any ideas or a project that you would like to develop in collaboration with the National Veterans Chamber, send your ideas to: veteransccsd@gmail.com

www.NationalVeterans.org

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https://www.vccsd.org/training.html

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INSIDE THE MONTHLY COLUMNS San Diego Veterans Magazine features monthly columns & articles on topics of interest for today’s veterans, transitioning military personnel, active military, and the families that keep it together.

• Real Talk: Mental Health • A Different LENS Mental Health Monthly • Arts & Healing Arts Arts for Military Veterans

San Diego Veterans Magazine

• What’s Next Transition to Civilian Life • Human Resources Transition to Business • Business for Veterans • Legal Eagle Legal Business Tips • Legally Speaking Military Family Focused Law • National Veterans Chamber of Commerce Feel free to review & bookmark our supportive & resourceful monthly columns:

---------------------------------------------------------------Real Talk: Mental Health

By Outreach and Clinical experts from the Cohen Clinic at VVSD Deployment, transition, reintegration – as a veteran, service member or military family member, you’ve likely had to face all three. The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD, part of Cohen Veterans Network, provides high-quality, evidence-based mental health care to the military community. Our Mental Health Column provides advice on various topics related to these challenges.

Learn more: www.cohenveteransnetwork.org 56 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

A Different LENS Mental Health Monthly

By Randee McLain, LCSW A Different Lens reflects on RanDee’s personal experiences as former law enforcement, Veteran, military spouse, and clinician. A Different Lens explores all things mental health related and the struggles our veterans and their families may face.

Connect with Randee at www.linkedin.com/in/randee-mclain-lcsw-8335a493 -------------------------------------------------------------Arts & Healing

Arts for Military Veterans

By Amber Robinson Arts & Healing is a reflection of Amber’s personal experiences in healing through the arts as a disabled combat veteran as well as a reflection of our San Diego veteran artists and how they are using art to transform and heal, too.

You can read Amber’s columns at www.tinyurl.com/SDVM-Art

What’s Next

LEGAL EAGLE

Transition to Civilian Life

By Eve Nasby & Kristin Hennessy

Legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners

By Kelly Bagla, Esq.

Transitioning from the military into the civilian work world can be anxiety-producing, depressing, and demoralizing without being prepped with the right mindset and tools for success. What’s Next shares stories, insights, tips, and resources from those who have transitioned, so those in the process (or thinking of starting the process) are armed and ready to find rewarding opportunities, ace the interview, and embark on a successful career journey.

Business Formation and Asset Protection Expertise.

An all-inclusive comprehensive overview, of common expensive pitfalls business owners are subjected to, that YOU need to know about. Asset protection musthaves and unparalleled guidance through the Shark infested waters of Business Formation. Kelly Bagla, Esq. is an international award-winning corporate attorney who has been in the business of turning passion projects into profits for more than two decades. Trust an Expert.

You can connect with Eve at

www.linkedin.com/in/eve-nasby-given-hiring-expert/ or eve@bandofhands.com ----------------------------------------------------------------

Contact Kelly at www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-bagla-esq Websites: www.BaglaLaw.com www.GoLegalYourself.com

Human Resources

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Transition to Business

By Paul Falcone

National Veterans Chamber of Commerce

Moving from the military into the private sector isn’t going to be seamless. The transition process can be difficult, particularly because the job search, interview, and onboarding processes are relatively new territory for many veterans. The HR Column offers a unique perspective on hot topics and relevant issues in corporate leadership and management today.

You can connect with Paul at www.linkedin.com/in/paulfalcone1 or via his website at www.PaulFalconeHR.com ----------------------------------------------------------------

By Joseph Molina The National Veterans Chamber (NVCC) helps connect Military/Veterans Community by housing organizations that serve the Veteran Community. We write about Entrepreneurship, Employment, Education, Wellness, Family and Faith.

The NVCC was founded in 2017 with the simple goal of Empowering Individuals and Organizations that offer programs that will have a positive impact on the Veteran Community.

Business for Veterans

You can connect with Joe at josephmolina@nationalveterans.org or visit www.nationalveterans.org

By Barbara Eldridge

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The Business for Veterans column is by Barbara Eldridge who has built a solid reputation as a Success strategies specialist, within industry and business over the past 40 years. Her unique message, since starting Mind Masters 30 years ago for entrepreneurs and small business owners, continually stresses vision, purpose and values as the key elements of business philosophy.

Lean more at www.mindmasters.com -------------------------------------------------------------Legally Speaking Military Family Law

By Tana Landau

SanLegal Experts with Humanity. For more information visit our website: www.frfamilylaw.com or call (858) 720-8250 and ask to speak with military family law attorney Tana Landau.

San Diego Veterans Magazine Current & Past Issues are available at: www.sandiegoveteransmagazine.com/archives/ WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

ENTERTAINMENT

Resources Support Transition HEALTH Community

SAN DIEGO San Diego Veterans Magazine A Veterans Magazine by Veterans for Veterans

Voted 2020 & 2021 Best San Diego resource, support magazine for veterans, transitioning military personnel, active military, military families & veteran organizations

www.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com

Get Tickets at www.ShenYun.com/SD 60 WWW.SanDiegoVeteransMagazine.com / JULY 2022