Freedom Sisters Magazine | Sisterly Love | February 2021

FREEDOMSISTERS F E B U R A R Y

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• AMPLIFY WOMEN VETERANS •

SISTERLY LOVE FROM A DISTANCE.

• MAGAZINE•

‘SECRET SAUCE’ TO SUCCESS CHARLYNDA

SCALES

WAVES OF RELIEF: ALPHA STIM® THERAPY

FOLLOWHERS, LEADHERS, MENTHERS OH MY!

OUR HEARTS AND MINDS

MOM COMES HOME: REDISCOVERING MOTHERHOOD POST-DEPLOYMENT

FreedomSisters Magazine

Feb2021 | Vol. 1 | Issue 2 Publisher Freedom Sisters Media, LLC

EditHER-in-Chief Managing EditHER Contributing WritHERs HER Life MentHERship HERstory FoundHER LeadHER HER Next Mission Woman Warrior

HighlightHER SHEro Activation Cover Photographer

Click to Subscribe Letters to the Editor Marketing Opportunities

KerriJeter E.V. Moore

Naviere Walkewicz | Aaliyah Al-Mahdi | Amber Markland Jennifer Rodriguez | Carrie Hammer | Jacqueline Zappey Amy Forsythe | Amanda Huffman | Diali Coll-Mercado Kerri Jeter Kerri Jeter Laura Jones | Joanna Sweatt Kerri Jeter | Elis Salamone | Andrea Rathbun Amber Valencia | Kori Yates Brandi Pitt | Jennifer Ballou

E.V. Moore Kerri Jeter Tammy Brown

inside Magazine or App editHERs@freedomsisters.com info@freedomsisters.com

Copyright | 2020-2021 | Freedom Sisters Media LLC Freedom Sisters Media respects the rights of all writeHERs, Photographers, Artists, and copyright holders. Consequently, all works that appear on this platform do so with the consent of the writeHER/s or the copyright holder. No image or information display on this site may be reproduced, transmitted, or copied without the express written permission of Freedom Sisters Media. Contravention is an infringement of the Copyright Act and its amendments and may be subject to legal action.

FreedomSisters, MentHERship, EditHER, SuperSHEro, highlightHER, WriteHER, FoundHER, LeadHER are trademarks of Kerri jeter.

CONTENTS

WWW.FREEDOMSISTERS.COM

HER LIFE

6 Five Reasons to have an online personal trainer.

8 Woman Kind: A sweet twist on Valentine's Day. 11 Show sisterly love from a distance.

MENTHERSHIP

15 18 22

Advice from a RecruitHER FollowHERs, LeadHERs, MentHERs, Oh my!

Education is a 'combat multiplier' of your service

Pag e4 Lett er fr om the Edit HER

HERSTORY

26 31 34

Cathay Williams: Just one of many you should know.

How to pee standing up.

Mom Comes Home: Rediscovering motHERhood post-deployment

SUPER SHERO FoundHER 38 Having a heart for others is the 'secret sauce' to success

LeadHER 48 Fob Hope: Rest, resupply, ready for next mission HER NEXT MISSION 58

59 65 68 70

Get the J-O-B: Convert military skills into 'civilianese'.

Participatory Democracy: Veteran Voices.

Showing up and asking "what if..."

How to be the MVP of your education post-service Hearts and minds.

WOMAN WARRIOR 73 Unseen battle scars: not all wounds are visible.

76 True Identity: Fearfully and Wonderfully made.

79 Waves of relief: Alpha-Stim therapy 81 Why yoga and meditation for Veterans.

HIGHLIGHTHER 84 Women Veteran emerging businesses we love!

BEHER 88 Love in Action

Page 38

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.

Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! info@freedomsisters,com

SistHERly Love

- Harriet Tubman

Welcome to the February Issue 2021, the month of hearts! I hope January was a great launch into the new year for our ReadHERs. What a HERstorical moment in our nation's history with the Presidential Inauguration.

I don't know about you but witnessing Madam Vice President Kamala Harris, swear in was a moment I will never forget.

At that moment women now have a seat at the highest table in the most influential conversations to shape the future of this country and we are here for it!

Then for Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (Go Army!), taking initiative to stamp out sexual assault in the military and hopefully, weeding the ranks of toxic leadership. I would say 2021, is already light years better than the whoa and worries that 2020 brought.

What do we have in store for you in the Freedom Sisters magazine?

A to-die-for chocolate cake recipe, great benefit information, a peek into Charlynda Scales' life, and gain a deeper understanding of the harrowing homeless issue plaguing veterans, as we sat down with FOB Hope's LeadHER, Monique Brown.

As you journey through February, think about what makes your heart happy. and then do more of that.

Then think about what makes others happy, and extend some sistHERly love (some cools ways found in our HER lIfe section).

And lastly, take a moment to appreciate and honor our black sisters-in-service. These special women have changed the face of America’s armed forces.

Black women have always been active participants in the military. They were always there!

Thank you for your valiant service!

Kerri Jeter YOUR

LEAD

SISTER

HER Life

Part memoir. Part survival guide. Part self-help. Readers join Tonnisha & TG in their battle for survival, success, and solace in war and at home. An empowering tale of perseverance, womanhood, friendship, and the resilience that comes with soldiering on.

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Tonnisha B and TG have so much to say and we have so many reasons to listen; after hosting a podcast, they decided to write a book, Combat Divas Chronicles: Survival Guide.

Freedom Sisters Media had the privilege of reading an excerpt and just like the podcast, we were hooked and wanted more.

TG, writes about her screws ups in the early part of her Army career entitled, "Surviving Losses", with her story when she learned to shoot an M-16 automatic rifle.

We rapidly train our young troops to be fighting machines and many never touched a weapon before they joined the Army and then within 8-weeks of basic training are expert marksmen. A huge undertaking in addition to all the other disciplines required to survive, with the hope of thriving among the ranks.

TG’s vivid recounting of the story, pulled us into the foxhole with her, feeling our own unconfidence with pulling the trigger for the first time, the smell of charcoalsulfur in the air, and the ‘tink tink’ of bullets striking the targets downrange.

Even though the stories are rooted in their military experiences, civilians and veterans alike can learn from this book.

This book is ultimately about sharing personal experiences in everyday life, just amped up with military jargon.

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The book talks about life, trauma, and how to overcome the trials. TG says that going back to the dark places, specifically in the chapter “Broken but not forgotten”, was the hardest part of the writing process.

It bears the soul and the book does an incredible job of teaching us all how to survive. Chapters like “Broken but not forgotten”, are things we need to read on purpose, especially on a bad day, it rebuilds faith in self and helps build connection.

It is important for us to all know that we can live through some really hard things and lean on one another.

After all, that is why sharing stories of hardships are so important because your hardships can one day be someone else’s survival guide.

This book here could be just the guide you need to help you move forward aka “charlie mike”, continue your mission, and live a life worth living.

Order your copy today.

BY: AMBER VALENCIA

Online personal training is growing dramatically right now, especially since the start of the CoronaVirus pandemic.

Online training is accessible anywhere! You can have your personal trainer/coach in your pocket at all times.

However, gyms are opening now in most states so you may be wondering if you should be taking advantage of online training or going to in-person training at a gym.

There is no worry about missing workouts or not being able to access your trainer if you cannot make it to the gym.

You also may be scared to take the leap to inperson training or be looking for another option. Here are five reasons why online training is an awesome option and may work for you to help reach your fitness and wellness goals.

You can workout from the comfort of your home or hotel room or even on the beach during your vacation. (continued on next page).

Army vet | Fitness Coach IG:@livingfitandwell

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FIVE REASONS TO HAVE AN ONLINE PERSONAL TRAINER

Trainers are also able to negotiate their own rates depending on the circumstances of individual clients if someone may be interested but has a tighter budget.

In most cases in-person training range from $45 - $150 per session, which adds up quickly.

Scheduling is easy! You can workout whenever you can fit it into your day.

Accountability and Motivation. Online training makes it so much easier to get in contact with your trainer if you have questions or need assistance on the spot.

If you want to do video training with your trainer their schedule is often more flexible online as well.

You are also able to get almost immediate feedback when you're tracking your meals and workouts in your fitness app with your trainer.

This also helps to avoid having to pay for a session if you missed it because you were stuck in traffic or had to stay late at work.

It's easier for your trainer to also reach out to you during the day when you may hit a pain point to help you get through it.

Other things to consider when looking for an online trainer: Does the trainer have a certification from an accredited program (NASM, ACE, or others)?

Does the trainer have insurance?

Does the trainer have a consultation process?

Do you feel safe and comfortable with your trainer?

Is there value in the service the trainer is offering?

There are numerous benefits that come with having an online trainer!

RESULTS! Everything is trackable at the palm of your hand. Most fitness apps make it super simple for you to track your progress pictures and body stats all the way to how many pounds you are lifting and reps you are completing.

This also allows your trainer to make super fast adjustments to your program depending on if you are seeing progress or not.

If you need an online trainer, I would love to help you meet your goals. I am a NASM certified Personal Trainer, Weight Loss Specialist, and Corrective Exercise Specialist.

I offer a private coaching app that gives you direct contact with me 24/7 and helps me to change your program and cater it directly to you. I offer many different pricing options to help fit your budget and the amount of coaching you desire.

My clients get results! If you want to know more, click here!

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Online training is mostly cheaper than in-person training.

Oftentimes online training is considerably cheaper than inperson training.

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By Amber Markland

AF vet | Baker Extraordinaire IG:@siftandgather

ome say Valentine’s Day is for lovers. We

endured a lot in 2020, and it spilled over into 2021.

So, as we move into a month traditionally spent expressing our affections towards our lovers… I challenge you to spread some love and kindness to the wonderful women you hold dear.

Some of us have gone months without seeing the special woman in our lives, and what better way to say “Hey, I miss you and you are loved” than baking them this decadent Chocolatey Chocolate Cake Loaf.

Not too rich, but insanely moist. It is decadent without being overly sweet.

It will keep fresh for days and freezes well for those that want to save some for later.

(Not me)!

Wrapped up with love, the most perfect gift to let the woman in your life know you are thinking of them this Valentine’s Day.

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S

DIRECTIONS Add the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar to a bowl and whisk until completely combined.

In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry and whisk until the batter is smooth.

Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir until

INGREDIENTS: 1 ¾ C + 2 TABLESPOONS

combined.

Pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan.

ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until a

½ CUP COCOA POWDER

cake tester Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 15 minutes.

1 ½ TEASPOONS BAKING POWDER Remove from the pan and let cool completely

1 TEASPOON BAKING SODA

before wrapping.

½ TEASPOON SALT

Once cooled completely, sprinkle a light dusting with powdered sugar over the top of the loaf.

1 ½ CUPS SUGAR 2 LARGE EGGS 1 CUP WHOLE MILK

Just like a Christmas gift, wrap the loaf in parchment paper before wrapping in something beautiful and festive. Tie a string around the outside with a sprig of greenery or a fresh flower

½ CUP VEGETABLE OIL ½ TEASPOON VANILLA 1 CUP BOILING WATER

to give it that special touch.

This little loaf of heavenly chocolate is perfect to drop off on the porches of the ladies you love this Valentine’s day!

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CHOCOLATEY CHOCOLATE CAKE LOAF

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SHOW SISTERLY LOVE FROM A DISTANCE.

BY: AALIYAH AL-MAHDI February is a month focused on love, not just between romantic partners, but with our female friends and family members. This year it will require a lot more creativity to stay connected with your squad.

Of course, if you live in an area that doesn’t have restrictions for in-person gatherings, you can still plan a girls’ weekend, Galentine’s brunch, or girls’ night out.

If you don’t live near your besties, or you’re in an area where in-person events just aren’t possible right now, that’s okay.

You may be bummed thinking about missing out on connecting with your girls, but you don’t have to miss anything. Instead, plan a virtual get together.

The perfect Galantines' gift for your girlfriends!

The trick to making virtual events a success is applying a little innovation and having the right technology to bring it all together.

Read on for some tips to get your virtual event on the right track.

ARMY VET | EXPERT PARTY PLANNER @THEPEOPLESPARLOR

BY: AALIYAH AL-MAHDI

Send out a snazzy e-vite or save the date.

Plan a virtual happy hour or brunch.

Host a virtual game night.

Just because you can’t do your celebrations in the usual way this year doesn’t mean you should skimp on the details.

Grab your go-to drink, dress in your favorite outfit, and pick a time to meet up with your friends online.

Who says you can’t unleash your competitive side just because you can’t host an in-person game night?

Once the date is set, log in and get ready to gab, laugh, and catch up with your friends over drinks or maybe even a meal.

You can use Jackbox Games to play a game virtually.

Get your girl gang excited about your event beforehand with a pretty invitation. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be an artist or design guru to make this happen.

Use a free graphic design site like Canva to create a digital invite or save the date card.

How fun would it be to plan the menu ahead of time this way everyone could share the same meal!

Just because you can’t do your celebrations in the usual way this year doesn’t mean you should skimp on the details.

All you need is one person to purchase a Jackbox product so they can be the host, then each person streams the game on their TV and uses a mobile device or tablet as their controller to play.

FREEDOMSISTERS MAGAZINE

SHOW SISTERLY LOVE FROM A DISTANCE.

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Have a virtual movie night.

Set up a virtual gift exchange.

Pick your favorite rom-com, classic flick, or break out of your comfort zone and watch a movie in a totally ’new to you’ genre.

Buy and send gifts to your gal pals and plan a time for you all to open your presents together.

Hosting a Facebook Watch Party makes it incredibly easy to watch a movie virtually, but the titles available are limited to what’s already available through Facebook.

A video call works best here so everyone can show off their presents to the whole squad and of course, express their gratitude with air hugs, virtual high fives, and grins.

Discord is another route and gives you the flexibility of sharing your screen, so your movie choices are only limited by your ability to decide on what to watch as a group.

Apps and sites that help keep the party going.

Even though it seems like we’ve been doing things virtually forever, it can feel overwhelming to try to figure out the technology behind planning an online event.

There’s no shortage of ways to connect via video these days, from FaceTime, Facebook Messenger, Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts, Discord just to name a few.

Think you’re ready to plan a virtual event for you and your girls? Start by exploring some of the sites or apps mentioned in this article, and then let the planning begin.

Remember that we’re all craving connection right now, so share these tips with your friends and family who are near and far.

M E N T

Her

S H I P

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A

L I T T L E

P RE P ARAT I ON CAN

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UP

S UCCE S S .

Advice from a RecruitHER In the civilian world, you might

By: Allaina Rapps In recent years, the enlistment

show up for a job interview with

process changed. Those wanting to

some research in-hand and

serve are required to meet stricter

knowledge in mind to ensure you

criteria. The old saying, “the military

made the best impression possible.

will take anyone”, is no longer

Meeting with a recruiter should be

applicable. There are many factors

no different.

that can prevent someone from being eligible to enlist and those

This is why people interested in

reasons vary amongst the branches

joining the military should arrive at

of service.

the recruiter’s office prepared for a “job interview” of sorts. The right

My experience as a recruiter has

preparation provides the foresight

provided me with insight as to how

to have a more productive meeting,

a little bit of preparation can set

and prevent a delayed enlistment

you up for success and help make

process.

your dream of serving become a reality.

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HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR INITIAL MEETING WITH A MILITARY RECRUITER:

Identify your purpose. What is it that motivates you to join the military: service to

country; follow your family’s footsteps; free education or healthcare; career opportunities; world travel?

Know your interests. What are you naturally good at? What do you enjoy doing? Job

satisfaction comes from choosing a career you qualify for, that also matches your skills.

Influencers buy-in. Those closest to you can persuade your decision-making and

ultimately dictate your career choice, or even your desire to serve. Communicate why serving is important to you.

It’s not grandpa's military. What used to work then doesn’t work now. Understand

that just as times have changed for the better, so has the military.

Physical health. Don’t unintentionally disqualify yourself. While the saying goes,

“Mother knows best,” it doesn’t always mean your mother is a doctor. You only need to disclose medical conditions that have been diagnosed by a medical professional and have supporting documentation.

Height/weight. Standards for initial entry are different from across the branches and

can even vary within the branch between the active-duty components and the reserve components.; however, one standard is the same across all branches—basic physical wellbeing.

the requirements. If you are outside the physical margins, recruiters can also let you know what you need to get there and some recruiters are even willing to help put you on a diet and exercise plan to help you reach your goals.

It is important to remember that just how no two people are exactly alike, no two recruiting experiences are the same and this is not an exhaustive list. However, a little bit of preparation can serve you, and your military job interview, well by providing a timely recruiting experience that enables you to fulfill a satisfying career!

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With this in mind, consistent, healthy eating habits and exercise will help you meet

Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test. Have you taken the ASVAB test

within the last two years? If not, use these tools: March2Success (or app), ASVAB Mastery app, ASVAB for Dummies book (or app). The higher the score, the more careers you qualify for. An Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score determines careers you’re eligible for, not the GT score (as most people think). An AFQT score of 50 or higher allows for the most career options. Recruiters will let you take a practice test to get an idea of how well you will do.

Most people do not enlist into the military initially with intentions of committing 20 years of service to our country. But many (like me) end up making military service a career of choice after experiencing what the military has to offer.

So share these interview tips with those exploring the military as a career path. By doing this, not only will you make a positive, direct impact on their enlistment process, you also help them achieve their goal of serving.

A l l a i n a i s i n h e r 2 0 t h y e a r o f a c t i v e d u t y s e r v i c e t o t h i s g r e a t n a t i o n .

A n a v i d l o v e r o f c o f f e e , m i n t c h o c o l a t e c h i p i c e c r e a m , a n d b e i n g a s o u r c e o f p o s i t i v i t y , i n s p i r a t i o n a n d e n c o u r a g e m e n t t o o u r y o u n g e r g e n e r a t i o n s .

S h e i s a l s o a w i f e a n d m o m .

FREEDOMSISTERS MAGAZINE

A CHALLENGING DVIDSHUB

FollowHERs, LeadHERs, By: Carrie Hammer

MentHERs —OH MY! As a woman serving in the U.S. Air Force as a medical technician, in my twenties and working in a hospital that was mostly women, I would not have admitted that I felt alone during my service. In retrospect, I felt more alone during my time working in the hospital than when I served with an aircrew squadron with mostly men.

I believe the solitude I felt working with women was due to my leadHERship needing to lead like their mentHERs led, who were mostly men.

While I served with a squadron of mostly men, I was appreciated for leading authentically. When I was accepted to the role of First Sergeant I struggled with performing as well as my predecessor.

A fellow First Sergeant advised me to become the First Sergeant I was meant to be.

I believe that naming our careers defines how we serve and lead and how to adjust and learn.

Surrounding ourselves with strong women watching them lead and learn from those placed in their circle.

This sentiment is true for life—claim your life, claim your military service.

If you have chosen to serve, regardless of your reason to serve, you need to claim it as yours.

What does it mean to claim your military career?

No one will care more about your career than you. No one will look out for your path more than you.

Claiming your military career looks different for everyone and will vary based upon what stage of commitment you are in of your service time.

Claiming it means you take ownership, seek out people to support you and identify ways you can continue to serve.

You will have mentHERs and leadHERs who care, you will have friends who support you and the career you selected.

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I started college at 40-years old with students as young as my children. During my Convocation I heard the phrase, “You are a scholar. Claim your education.”

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Ask women around you who are two ranks ahead of you, and you admire their method of leadHERship, for how they defined their service.

Research the process to build your career, learn the pathways and requirements to your next rank, research the next level of education within your military service available to you.

PHOTO

BY

AMANDA

KRAUS

RODRIGUEZ

These actions will take you in a direction to determine what it is you dream of. Most importantly believe that you are worth the military career you dream of.

Find women leadHERs. There is much to learn from watching others in leadHERship positions, including how their subordinates respond to their particular leadHERship styles.

Be a leadHER. LeadHERship may not be your primary reason for enlisting or commissioning; however, we can learn from one another by sharing our insights, viewpoints, and experiences.

Whether you served one term or were a “lifer” who served until retirement, you gained experiences that are uniquely yours and can provide you with an arsenal of leadHERship weapons to help you neutralize any situation on the battlefield of life.

So What, Now? Well, you can start by being a friend and a mentHER to one woman. Show her love and support, and share your experiences with her.

You can also ask for the opportunity to shadow women you find empowHERing. Prepare for that shadowing experience, know what you want to absorb from a mentHER, and watch how other leadHERs lead and support other women.

You may also see women not leading well, but there is something to glean from that experience as well. Remember that to be a good leadHER you must be a good followHER—let’s be both to one anotHER.

AIR

FORCE IG:

VET

|

MENTOR

AND

MORE

@CARRIE_A_HAMMER

PHOTO

BY

LANCE

CPL.

JESSICA

QUEZADA

THE FREEDOM

SISTERS

PODCAST

LISTEN MONDAY

WOMAN

EVERY

FOR

A

NEW

VETERAN'S

Soulful STORY HELP

TO

OTHERS

overcome, heal, thrive.

By: Brittany Lara

All of us joined the service wanting

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EDUCATION IS A 'COMBAT MULTIPLIER' OF YOUR SERVICE Photo by Nell King of DVIDSHUB.

something more from life. Some of us joined to find better opportunities, serve others, or become the best version of ourselves.

While there are countless opportunities for growth within our military occupational specialties, civilian careers, as well as in our personal lives, there is one particular program that can directly assist in long-term goals for life outside of the military— Tuition Assistance.

Tuition assistance, or TA, is a program that helps Service Members pursue a college degree while still serving. If approved, your branch will pay tuition to the school for your course.

Tuition assistance does not use up any of the G.I. Bill benefits, leaving that available to use after service.

The program may be subject to changes, so keep that in mind as you read about the current coverage of the program.

MARINE VET | BLOGGER AND MORE IG: @4THEBROKENPODCAST

Active Duty members of all service branches, including Coast Guard. National Guard or Reserve members may have access to Tuition Assistance or depending on your eligibility and branch regulations.

What does it do?

Covers up to 100% of the cost for a course, up to $250 per credit hour. It can be used for: vocational/technical programs, undergraduate/graduate programs, independent study and

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Who can use TA?

distance-learning programs. Pays for course-specific fees such as lab or online-course fees.

What are the limitations?

Limit of $250 for each semester credit hour or $166 per quarter credit hour. Limit of $4,500 each fiscal year, October 1st through September 30th. It will not cover the cost of books and materials.

It will not cover retaking a course, if you fail or drop a class then you will have to pay back TA for the course cost. For active duty, the class you enroll in using TA must be completed before you leave active service in order to be covered under TA.

Are you eligible? Want to find out more?

Click MARINES to view USMC Voluntary Education Programs Click ARMY to view GoArmyEd Click AIR FORCE to view USAF education programs Click NAVY to view Navy Credentialing Opportunities On-Line Visit your local Educational Center on your base or post.

Visit MilitaryOneSource.com Speak to your chain of command and let them know you are interested in pursuing higher education utilizing TA. They can help point you in the right direction in your organization.

REAL EXPERIENCES OF FEMALE MARINES USING TA. When asked how she used her Tuition Assistance during active duty, (SGGT) Alana Karp, who served as a Tactical Switching Operator and Network Administrator from 2012-2019, stated that she earned her associate degree in general studies from Arizona Western College.

After getting out, she is now continuing her education using her G.I. Bill! “My goal is at least a bachelor’s in business finance and then to get certified as a Financial Planner.” She enjoys helping people plan and manage security.

While serving active duty as a Financial Technician from 2013-2020, (SGT) Crystain Becker earned her bachelor’s in psychology from Hawaii Pacific University. “The best part of TA is just still being able to pursue a degree while active duty. Finishing my degree while active duty gives me more opportunities to also gain [certifications] with the leftover of my G.I. Bill after my masters. I’m now going for my master’s in clinical Mental Health Counseling.” She is hopeful to someday provide counseling services at the VA. An active duty Traffic Management Specialist since 2014,

That's her!

(SGT) Samantha Alexander Active shared, “I began utilizing TA in 2016 and obtained my associates degree in general studies, utilizing only TA, from AMU. I began the bachelors program at AMU in October 2020, utilizing TA for class costs at AMU while also utilizing FAFSA for any additional school necessities (laptop, notepads, Microsoft Office package).

Her long term goals for education? “To obtain my bachelors utilizing TA/FAFSA in psychology, and then once I am out of the military and settled, I plan to apply to law school using my G.I. Bill.” Her favorite benefit of using TA? “Getting my degree with no out of pocket costs.”

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their finances and wants to help others achieve financial

HERstory

CATHAY WILLIAMS JUST ONE OF MANY WE SHOULD KNOW

Artist William Jennings’ fictional illustration of Cathay Williams PUBLIC DOMAIN; COURTESY BUFFALO SOLIDER MONUMENT COMMITTEE

By: Diali Coll-Mercado

But if you are like many, the name and history of William Cathay may be unknown. Unfortunately, I did not know about Cathay for most of my life.

Although all women from the military are important, I thought it was appropriate to mention memorable Black women from the military during Black History Month.

FREEDOMSISTERS MAGAZINE

Have you heard of William Cathay? If you have, then let me provide you virtual applause for being one of the few educated on history.

I’d want to mention many of them all year long, but this opportunity presented itself almost perfectly.

William Cathay is actually Cathay Williams, the woman Buffalo Soldier who changed her name when enlisting in the Army as a woman was not an option, as the Army did not require full medical exams during this time.

She was the first African American woman to serve from 1866-1868. She has also been known as the only known female Buffalo Soldier (National Park Service, 2020).

Although the enlistment was made under a guise, Williams’ paved the way for African American military women.

Black women have been a part of the military in many ways since the Revolutionary War. Phillis Wheatley wrote about the many roles black women played to either serve alongside the men against the British, in disguise, because they were promised freedom as well as ‘keeping’ the homes allowing white women to go be with their husbands during specified times of war or engagement.

Cathay Williams Public domain image, Courtesy US National Archives

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And there was Susie Baker King Tayloran African American woman born in Liberty County, GA, and raised as an enslaved person whose mother was a servant to the Grest family. Although the Civil War brought her freedom, it was not immediate. In 1862, Taylor found herself on St. Simons Island.

Due to her immense knowledge from being taught by black women at a secret school in Savannah, GA, the Army officers offered her a position teaching children on the island . By day she taught children and at night she instructed adults.

Susie King Taylor in 1902 Library of Congress

Baker met and married her first husband, Edward King, a black non-commissioned officer in the Union Army while teaching at St. Simon Island (NABMW, 2020).

She traveled with her husband's regiment for three years working as a laundress and also teaching black union soldiers to read and write and also served as a nurse, helping camp doctors care for injured soldiers.

Maybe you aren’t well informed regarding black women in all aspects of the military, such as the black women who were nurses with the Red Cross, the black women serving in the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC), the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), and the only unit of black WACs to serve overseas, who are well known to have handled the backlog of mail in England and in France (NABMW, 2020).

The National Archives

But you may know a black woman who has served in the past or is presently serving who has made an impact on you.

Was it a Drill Sergeant at Basic Training, a Commanding Officer of a unit overseas, a physical therapist who helped you get back on your feet after an injury or even a lowerranking member of our military who was able to lend an ear when you really needed to chat?

Who do you remember?

I recently received a medical discharge from the Army National Guard, after dealing with injuries incurred on my last two deployments. There was one black female who really made an impression on me.

She may be younger and have slightly fewer years of service than I did during our time serving together, but I loved her passion, her intelligence, her dedication, her skills, and her might. Even at her less-than-5ft height, she could probably kick an entire platoon of men’s butts.

She was a Marine before switching over to the Army and has been able to provide a lot of insight, military or real life, to many of her soldiers and peers. She is highly educated and has a life full of experiences, with many more to have in the future.

Women like her are in all branches—from the beginning of the military up to today. And there will continue to be women who are complete BadAsses!

I love female BadAsses!

So, when I think of Cathay Williams, I think—I need to Remember Her! I need to remember that there are many like her that are brave enough to do what can be considered the impossible. Those who stepped out of their comfort zone, disguised themselves to serve, jumped at the chance to defend freedom and enter the danger zones of war.

Army vet | American BadAss IG:@thecharliemike

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A Few of our FreedomSisters WriteHERs we celebrate this month!

AIR FORCE VET | MOTHER AND SO MUCH MORE. IG: @CYNTHIA__CLINE

By: Cynthia Cline

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MOM COMES HOME: REDISCOVERING MOTHERHOOD POSTDEPLOYMENT

I knew what to expect coming home from a deployment in the Middle East.

After all, I had a Master’s Degree in Human Services Counseling specializing in Military Resilience.

I knew it could be a difficult transition. I knew my husband and I would struggle to reintegrate being a couple again rather than two separate individuals.

Yet, I felt confident that we would escape all of the trials that come with “coming home” simply because I had the knowledge and experience from previous deployments.

And then, after six months, I returned home and was sorely mistaken.

Not even 24 hours after arriving home, my husband caught some sort of bug that laid him up in bed for 48 hours. (continued on next page)

PETTY OFFICER 3RD CLASS LAUREN DEAN; COURTESY OF DVIDSHUB

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SENIOR AIRMAN JILL NEUFELD; COURTESY OF DVIDSHUB

This meant I went from deployed mom to solo parent of a 20month-old in less than a day. Want to know what’s more terrifying than deploying?

Coming home to be a solo parent.

I was prepared for my daughter to not want to come to me, I even bought an Elmo doll to bribe her.

What I was not prepared for were her clinginess and attachment. I failed to realize how much my daughter would need the immediate bonding and nourishment only a mother could provide.

As the hours passed while my husband lay dying of the man-flu, I struggled to navigate being a mom all over again.

I had no idea what she preferred to eat or how much to serve her.

What does she do for fun? Oh shoot, she can reach the counters now? Let me be careful where I place the butcher knife. When does she eat meals? When is nap time? What is her bedtime routine?

Affects war has on our kids: More than two million United States children have been affected directly by a parent’s deployment.

More recent findings with deployed service members with children have shown problems with sleeping, higher stress levels and anxiety, declining grades.

A survey showed 20 percent of military spouses reported increases in problem behavior exhibited by their children at home in response to parental deployment Also, 21 percent reported increased levels of fear and anxiety with their children. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/articles/PMC3312898/

SPC. KRISTINA ERIKSON; COURTESY OF DVIDSHUB

Not only had she entered her terrible twos early but also faced a lot of change in a short amount of time and didn’t have the capacity to deal with it. Those first 48-hours home were filled with incessant crying and tantrums.

My shoulders began to raise and my throat tightened, I hated being home. We both sat on the floor bonding over our frustrations and chaos of the unknown. I immediately wanted to go back. Go back to the place that had been home for six months.

The place where they cooked and cleaned for me. The place I had a bed all. to. myself.

Filled with desperation, I yearned to run away as guilt overtook me.

What kind of motHER would want to leave her child, again? What was wrong with me?

I wish I saw then what I see now. It took a few weeks to realize that nothing was wrong with me. I had been far too confident in my education and past experiences that I failed to recognize the commonness of this experience amongst moms deployed.

The desire to escape and return to deployment was in fact common. After 72-hours home, my husband recovered as the guilt and fear slowly dissipated, my confidence in motHERhood grew again.

Sister, remember, no amount of knowledge will prepare us for reintegration with our family.

Relearning to be a motHER is a necessary part of returning home.

Instead of allowing guilt to swallow us up, we have to accept that there is no shame in struggling to reintegrate and there is no shame in being a motHER that enjoys deployment.

We must accept that time is the only solution.

Time to assimilate into the home we’ve previously run. Time to familiarize ourselves with our children and time to fall in love with the life we once lived.

AIRMAN TAYLOR PHIFER; COURTESY OF DVIDSHUB

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That first year of parenting went out the window as I had to rediscover how to be a mother, but this time to a 20-month old girl who was going through her own emotional turmoil.

FoundHER

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CHARLYNDA SCALES Air Force Veteran, TEDx Speaker, Award-Winning Entrepreneur, Seasoned Brand Ambassador, Girl Scout Gold Award Winner

FoundHER

Make travels much easier for you

PHOTO BY: TL BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Written By: Kerri Jeter Interviewed By: Annette Whittenberger There has been incredible growth in entrepreneuHERship in the military community, including a 295% growth of women veteran owned business since 2007. (veteranentrepreneurship.org) As more women exit the military, we see many choosing to begin the journey of entrepreneurship and we are here for it. In communities across America, many women veterans feel invisible so, when we see a woman veteran accelHERating in the entrepreneur game, looking fabulous in the spotlight; many become enamored with the idea of success.

Being in the constant spotlight when owning a business as a female and mother can put quite a bit of pressure on a person. What is not in the spotlight are the long hours spent behind the scenes and the hard work it takes to gain success.

It can be easy to idolize or romanticize what entrepreneurship means but at the end of the day it boils down to determination, grit, and sacrifice.

We think Charlynda Scales, FoundHER of Mutt’s Sauce, is the embodiment of entrepreneuHERship. So how does she do it all?

Scales, FoundHER of Mutt’s Sauce is an energetic, dynamic, and full-of-life woman who wears multiple hats, in addition to being a successful entrepreneuHER. Since human-to-human connections are the heart and soul of success in the business world, we want to give you a peek at the woman, motHER, and U.S. Air Force Officer behind the sauce.

"human-to-human connections are the heart and soul of success..."

Photo provided by Charlynda Scales

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HAVING A HEART FOR OTHERS IS THE ‘SECRET SAUCE’ TO SUCCESS.

You’ve probably heard the term “Southern hospitality” used to describe the charm of the South and the down-home goodness. The tea is a little (or a lot) sweeter, life is a bit slowerpaced and the people are more down-to-earth-country.“ I’m just a country girl from Tennessee,” explains Scales. “But I am my very own worst critic...Imposter syndrome is real and it is severe. It gets into my head,” explained Scales.“Oftentimes when I start to become too critical out loud, people will stop me.”

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Just a Country Girl From Tenneesse

One of those people was her grandfather, Charlie “Mutt” Ferrell, Jr. He believed in Scales competency and entrusted her with his complicated secret coveted sauce recipe. Even though she has created a successful enterprise, turning her grandfather’s recipe into an over $80,000 venture, she still struggles with celebrating her accomplishments.

“It is not about the accomplishments, I don't focus on everything that I have accomplished.” Scales said. “My brain is hardwired to think about the checklist that hasn't been done and the projects that I haven't completed.”

This is a classic manifestation of imposter syndrome, which is so real for so many people, no matter who you are.

As mothers, women, or entrepreneurs, we often get caught up in comparing ourselves to other people's lives. We are afraid of what others may think and often get caught up in second-guessing ourselves.

The things that might have looked flawless to others are not seen Photo provided by Charlynda Scales the same to her. She often reanalyzes the day’s events, recalling all the things she forgot; whether it was something she was supposed to state during a speaking event or a paragraph of something that she wrote. In her mind, the list goes on.

But thankfully her purpose and focus keep her showing up, in spite of her inner critic.

“I’m focused on carrying on a positive legacy for my family. I never stop until I know my family is taken care of,” she continued.

Even when things were going well for the business, she silently lived through the ending of her marriage. As a growing business venture, she had no choice but to drive on for the legacy she had envisioned for her family. Her private heartache has proven her incredible resilience.

So when you are feeling overwhelmed, remember Scales’ advice that you are supposed to be part of the next day. You woke up, you are alive and you are here, so keep moving forward and see what God has in store for you next.

And she did in fact, keep moving forward and Mutt’s Sauce, LLC., continued to grow--from one sauce recipe to four signature sauces and three seasoning flavors. As her business continued to grow, so did her family.

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“One of the lowest points in my life was my divorce. I was so sad and so dejected that I had no idea how I was going to get through the day,” Scales recalled. “My mom gave me advice, she said that whenever I feel like I can’t make it through the day, take a nap and God will wake me up the next day.”

New MotHERhood in a Pandemic In March 2020, at the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Scales welcomed a precious baby boy, David, into the world.

David has changed everything for the better when it comes to how Scales cares for herself.

Before her son was born, Scales admits to travelling nonstop, across several states in a week while living out of hotels.

She would attend back-to-back conferences and stay up for 20 plus hours just to get stuff done.

“I had no one to worry about except for myself. So, I would use a Saturday to turn off all of my devices and sleep between 16-18 hours,” Scales said. “I would crash and let my body rest.”

Those of us who are mothers, can attest that our time could more easily be catered to our personal needs, pre-motherhood. The demands of being a business owner and motHERther can be taxing, especially when you are a go-getter like Scales and work 20-hour days.

Throughout life we have all heard the old adage that if you don’t take time to slow down at some point you will be forced to, right?

Photo provided by Charlynda Scales

“The biggest shift was my time management as I transitioned to motherhood. Working 20hours without rest, to having to stop every 2-hour to keep my milk supply up and feed David,” said Scales. “Plus I have now started to take better care of myself because of David. His health depends on me and my actions. I have a different mindset knowing that my actions truly do affect someone else’s life.”

Connection is so important for mothers. It’s why we have play dates when our kids are young.

Sure socializing is good for the kid but the mom needs love, connection and support too!

Being a first-time mom during a pandemic has left Scales without some traditional experiences, but she has an incredible knack for wanting to encourage others who may be feeling isolated and overwhelmed.

Motherhood also brought unexpected expenses, as a result of a break in service in conjunction with an administrative error, there was a gap in medical cover under Tricare Reserve.

Her son was born with some health issues, which triggered a series of unexpected medical bills that she thought Tricare would cover.

That’s when she discovered the administrative error and was told in order to re-qualify for coverage, after 11-years in service, she would have to find a recruiter at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

As part of her motherly responsibility she swore back into the Air Force Reserves in April 2020.

“So, I went to the recruiter and he found me a job in acquisitions at Wright-Patterson within twoweeks,” said Scales. “I swore back into service and prayerfully will stay in until I'm eligible for retirement.”

Photo provided by Charlynda Scales

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Well now, Scales is home with a 9-month old son, who has a demanding eating schedule. Due to health concerns for her son, Scales has been doing the incredible and time-consuming task of expressing her breast milk with a pump, carefully measuring it and then feeding David the contents from a bottle.

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Scales has a heart for service and to better her community through service to this nation, but now she has another level of the value military service has for her growing family, medical care is a crucial benefit she now has a greater appreciation.

Scales, has a vision for a Youtube Channel, to talk about all the behind-the-scenes of business, invite others into her chaos of love and most importantly share her uncanny way of inspiring others through her vulnerability. She longs for others to see her as she really is.

Yes, a successful business woman is a part of that, but as an influencer, she wants us to see the real her.Recently, Scales posted a raw and candid video diary entry on Facebook, detailing how she was stuck in the evolution of the project.

“I was being honest about how I was just trying to figure out how to be consistent with my videos. The truth of the matter is, it is not easy. I purchased all this fancy equipment yet hadn’t touched it. I was told countless times to just press record but in my mind I wanted more,” Scales shared. “I want people to know that the struggle is real. There is chaos in my home. My hair may be wrapped with a baby blanket and I may be in the basement for the only minutes of quiet time I have before the baby wakes up.”

She continued to admit to feeling stuck and how hard it really was to just start.

“I admit to feeling pressure over something that may seem simple but to me it is much more than that,” she confessed.

And this is where that heart-to-heart connection of business success blossoms for us relational beings called women. We can see parts of ourselves in her and realize that behind every successful woman are some frazzled, unsure parts—and it is okay to be vulnerable.

Scales reminds us that we need to sit with our emotions long enough to connect with the world around us and that, as women, we should support each other not just our success but the process of getting there. We are so gracious for her real and raw honesty about life behind the scenes of such a powerhouse that we have known and loved.

Just like her service, Scales has some other long-term plans for Mutt’s Sauce and the community she now calls home.

“My next project is my love letter to the community,” Scales began. “To pay it forward and get other emerging entrepreneurs back on their feet and start the cash flow to grow their foodservice businesses.”

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EmpowHERing a community

The Arcade Kitchen is a Kitchen Incubator and Fresh Food Market (10,000 SF): The creation of a kitchen incubator will feature commercial grade equipment, storage, and preparation areas.

It will be designed for maximum flexibility for local food startups to economically scale their businesses.

She will be pitching her startup that will cost approximately $2.5 million. She has been called to help the people and small businesses in Dayton, Ohio who have been affected by COVID. She launched Mutt’s sauce from Dayton and knows it is important to help other Entrepreneurs get their jobs back.

It will also help with local tourism and overall make positive impacts across the community.

Another passion project that will empowHER women and our allies is her movement called “Be In The Room.”

It was an idea that was formed as part of a program that she was graduating from.

Her class was asked how they were going to make an impact as women.

So, in a class of 20 different women, they decided to start Be In the Room. It is a way to say a lot without really saying anything.

You can wear a shirt and people will know that you believe in inclusion and empowerment.

As we can see there is a powerhouse in the public eye who is doing incredible things for her community, women and small businesses, but behind it all is just a woman who has a heart for others.

PHOTO BY: TL BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Scales has certainly learned a lot over the few years she has been in this world of entrepreneurship, but it took a pandemic for her to adjust her business model.

Her business mentors had been telling her for some time to get into the e-commerce game but Scales loved driving around to festivals, independent grocers and stocking her product in big-box stores.

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A Business Attitude Adjustment

But there is a lower profit-margin with that business model—everyone takes a cut of the sale from fulfillment to the checkout person. Not only is it not lucrative but it is also not consistent income, as distributors only pay out quarterly or annually on purchase agreements.

“It took a pandemic for me to listen, but ecommerce has really been better for my family,” said Scales. “There is less to worry about, there is a better profit margin and most importantly there is better customer engagement.”

As a result of shifting to this new model, she gutted her garage and created a fulfillment center.

Her dad dons his personal protective equipment and gets to work, then the postal service comes to pick up the product to send to customers nationwide—all without leaving the house.

It has afforded more quality time for her to be with her family, as a mother and a daughter, making this dream come true, togetHER. Moving her business in this new direction was one of the best decisions she could have made.

It has provided her family more stability and has given her a much better understanding of her customers.

One happy customer with her custom package shipment box from Mutt's Sauce.

Photos provided by Annette Whittenberger

There is a constant thread that connects Scales to others and it is service before self—a core value that carries from her time in the Air Force.

She really believes in others and wants success to be obtained by those who come to her for advice.

Especially as others feel like they are not enough.

“The work is in progress and to start forgiving yourself. Tell yourself this didn’t roll out the way that you wanted it to, but that doesn't mean that you are a failure,” advised Scales.

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MentHERship to OtHERs

Women really get caught up trying to attain the ideal work-life balance, which Scales says is nonexistent. When it comes to relationships and being entrepreneurs, to find balance in the demands of work, quality time, tasks and so on, Photo provided by Charlynda Scales

“As an entrepreneur, at some point, the people around you are going to need their cup filled. They are going to need time from you,” said Scales. “We all need it, but trying to find the perfect balance between giving your business and all of your activities, attention, and making sure that kids and your spouse and everyone else gets adequate attention just may not always work. The only way to find that balance is communication.”

With Communication comes the difficult part of not always having the time to hang out with friends.

They may be your biggest supporters, but there are times where you have to have boundaries.

Another challenge Scales has had is asking for help.

So many women can relate to this, we feel asking for help means we can’t do it or we are perceived as weak or not enough. But asking for help allows others in your story, that connection so don’t be scared to seek advice or mentors who can help you in many ways, even though it is hard to ask for help.

“In all transparency, 90% of the advice that she gives to others is advice she is trying to give to herself.The most important advice Scales offers others is to offer yourself grace," explained Scales.

We are so hard on ourselves that it can lead to burnout—and burnout can be catastrophic to your business, relationships and life.

Over the years, numerous interviews and stories have covered the success of Mutt’s Sauce and the woman who runs it; however, Scales rarely gets to tell the story on her own terms. This dynamic, hardworking woman from Tennessee is just a mom who loves her family and community.

She loves others so much that she is willing to reveal the hardships and challenges she has faced to soar her business to new heights while continuing to sow love.

LeadHER

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Photo provided by Monique Brown

LeadHER Make travels much MONIQUE BROWN easier for you Army Retiree, Homeless Veteran Advocate, Award-Winning Nonprofit, Motivational Speaker, Women Veterans Advisory Committee Member

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By: Kerri Jeter

FOB HOPE: REST-RESUPPLY- READY FOR NEXT MISSION Veterans sacrifice so much for our country but when a veteran becomes homeless they are often forgotten. One woman has made it her mission not only to remember them but also help them.

Monique Brown, a 26-year Army Veteran, is on the front lines in the streets of Pierce and King Counties in Washington state, where she has been an advocate for Homeless Veterans since her exit of military service in 2014.

Brown began serving homeless veterans as a Veterans Outreach Specialist with El Centro De La Raza in Seattle by conducting outreach to find homeless veterans and beginning the process to find them safe housing.

Much to her surprise, many didn’t want to go into shelters, so she went to a few to figure out why not.

“I visited a couple of shelters and they were crowded. One, in particular, reminded me of county jail with all of the bunk beds and footlockers just kind of on top of each other,” described Brown.

“There's a lot of fighting among the occupants in the shelters, a lot of mental health issues, and they [veterans] just didn't want to be involved in that, especially veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, it’s just hard to be in that environment.”

However, there is a gap in services for those that want to stay out of the shelters but need help to survive on the streets.

“I had some success with Gilbert coming to appointments and starting rehab but he got kicked out of the program for not keeping his appointments,” recalls Brown. “He was upset about that, but I kept embracing him and bringing him items he needed to stay warm and safe on the streets. Then one day, I stopped seeing him.”

A few months went by, Brown was conducting outreach in a well-known hub where all homeless gather when she happened to see a white flyer hanging on a pole from the Homeless Remembrance Project. The flyer read: deceased Gilbert Lopez reason for death hypothermia, found in a park.

“I was devastated, Gilbert, a 100% service-disabled veteran who tried to self-medicate got caught up in the heroin game,” This is the flyer, Brown saw on the pole when she learned of explained Brown.

Gilbert's death Provided by Homeless Rememberance Proj ect.

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After Gilbert Lopez, a 100% disabled-veteran, who was a homeless heroin addict tragically died on the streets, Brown knew a different approach was needed to meet homeless veterans where they are; instead of forcing them to use a bureaucratic system that is broken and fails to reach those who really need the care.

That’s the moment, I was like never again, not on my watch.

“A man I gave things to, still froze to death. That’s the moment, I was like never again, not on my watch. So I started going full speed. Then I made my outreach a nonprofit.”

Forward Operating Base Hope has an important mission: to solve the tragedy of death among veterans experiencing homelessness.

FOB Hope, is a reflection of Brown’s experience while deployed. The concept of a FOB in a deployed environment is to provide a safe place for troops to rest and resupply in between missions.

“They can rest their problems with me, which hopefully frees up a little bit of mind-space. Then we resupply them with food, snacks, gear,” explains Brown. “Then we can work on their next mission together, whatever that happens to be, rehab, housing, medical care. Lastly, Hope is what we are giving the veterans we meet and serve.”

What is hope exactly?

To have hope is to want an outcome that makes life better in some way. It not only can help make a presently tough situation more bearable but can also improve lives.

Envisioning a better future can be the motivation to take the steps necessary to make it happen.Whether we think about it or not, hope is a part of life.

Everyone hopes for something. It’s an inherent part of being a human being. FOB Hope allows homeless veterans to hope by providing the necessary things to change their current situation for the better, giving hope that an even better situation lies within reach.

By giving homeless veterans the means to improve their today and giving them a glimpse of a better tomorrow they don’t just find hope, they find FOB Hope.

FOB Hope was selected by the Seattle Seahawks to be a part of the Task Force 12 Project, which allows veterans from 12 local nonprofit organizations to work together to improve post-military life for veterans in Washington state.

Photo courtesy of Seattle Seahawks ®

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That is the idea for FOB Hope—homeless veterans can find rest by sharing some of the load with Brown and her team, who provide a resupply of items they may need in order to survive on the streets and ready them for their next mission.

“Well, this one man was just so overwhelmed and happy.

We gave him a backpack with toiletries, COVID-19 protection stuff, along with a wet weather jacket and wet weather bottoms. We also gave him a blanket, a sleeping bag, a tent, and a tarp,” proclaimed Brown. “He was starting to get overwhelmed, you know, but the very last thing I handed him was a hundred dollar gift card to go to Safeway and get some food.”

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At a recent event, Brown recalls a very tear-filled day, tears of relief and joy. A homeless older black gentleman in a wheelchair stood out to Brown as she recounted the event.

At that moment, he could no longer hold back the tears welling up in his eyes, even his friend who was helping push the wheelchair was shocked and impressed with the level of care given to him.

At that moment, there was hope in his heart, because he felt that others do see him and truly care for his well-being.

COVID-19 and Systematic Breakdown of Trust.

As a result of COVID-19, the U.S. poverty rate has surged over the past five months after government aid dwindled, with 7.8 million Americans falling into poverty, the latest indication of how deeply many are struggling.

According to The Washington Post, this surge in numbers will only continue to cripple a system meant to help those in need due to being inundated with mistrust.

The distribution of homeless veterans is disproportionate amongst some subsets of the veteran population.

Roughly 45% of all homeless veterans are African-American or Latin-American, despite only accounting for 10.4% and 3.4% of the U.S. veteran population, respectively.

Additionally, homeless veterans are younger on average than the total veteran population. Approximately 9% are between the ages of 18 and 30, and 41% are between the ages of 31 and 50. Conversely, only 5% of all veterans are between the ages of 18 and 30, and less than 23% are between 31 and 50.

FOB Hope helps the community of homeless veterans and has the capabilities to verify veteran status to ensure they are making a difference for those who served.

Photo provided

by Charlynda Photo provided

by FOB Hope. Scales

But the VA is sending me packets for their people like crazy,” stated Brown.

The Department of Veteran’s Affairs is reaching out to FOB Hope to get assistance for veterans because the VA lacks funding to take care of these veterans.

Prior to COVID, the VA had never reached out to FOB Hope for help.

“I can't tell you how many they've sent me because the client needed their rent paid or they needed some food,” Brown explained. “Just the other day I had two different social workers from the VA send me two separate names of veterans who rent from the same apartment complex.”

When Brown met up with the landlord to pay for these two veterans’ rental fees, she learned that there were numerous veterans living in this complex who are struggling tremendously.

She asked the landlord for apartment numbers and began knocking on their doors.

“So, I had these gift cards that I was using for Operation Winter Warmup and went to like 10 or 11 doors where the veterans lived in that complex. Most of them using the HUD VA housing vouchers and just struggling,” describes Brown. “I was able to give each of them a gift card, but really it got me wondering how many more are out there, struggling that hard and not knowing that there are these resources out here?”

There is a disproportionate amount of folks in need and a lack of resources to help make ends meet.

Most might think the VA is the only source of hope, but Brown is proving otherwise.

Various supplies FOB Hope has on hand, so they never go out into the community without items for homeless veterans.

Photos provided by FOB Hope.

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“COVID has really changed things. A lot more people need help. I have received some grants from Seattle Foundation and from the greater Tacoma Community Foundation for COVID relief.

Much like the military, rapport is necessary so when a common ground of trust is established with a homeless veteran, it can lead to the veteran opening up and resources to help improve their situation can be identified more quickly.

Some need employment, some need education, some need to help with substance abuse, some need housing. T

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“Most Veterans don’t want to go to a non-veteran organization for help, they feel those people never served, they don’t know what it feels like to serve,” said Brown. “Trusting another veteran because they know what you've been through. Talking that talk, walking that walk. It's really what a veteran needs.”

he sooner rapport and trust can be established, the sooner the veteran can get back on track.

So, if the VA is overwhelmed and cannot help a veteran, please look to grassroots organizations led by veterans like FOB Hope for additional care.

Faith. Hope. Love.

Brown has a deep spirituality, which is her source of strength and the foundation in her life. Rather than focusing on a specific religion, Brown is guided by spirituality based on love and the thought that there is something greater than her that guides her work.

One particular verse that encourages her is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

She recalls feeling terrified and unsure on the plane to her deployment to Iraq, in which she prayed and prayed the entire plane ride there.

Once in Iraq with the difficulties of war—sirens, explosions, scorching hot nights—she drilled deep into her faith to overcome her fears and see the good around her.

This guidance of love and strength during the most challenging moments of her life also inspires her mission at FOB Hope.

PHOTO BY: TL BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

In addition to appreciating moments of growth and perseverance, Brown’s positivity allows her to focus on the good in people. She is not distracted by appearances or imperfections but is always motivated to help people from a non-judgmental place.

Using love and faith as her guide, Brown makes others feel safe and seen.

“That guiding spirit led me and saved me; I want to be that strength and foundation for others,” Brown explains. “I am able to share that love with others through the outreach I do with FOB Hope.”

Never leave a fallen comrade.

Brown has the vision to build a real FOB. A destination for veterans to come and live, grow, and get back on the right track.

Just like military FOBs, Hope is a place to come when ready for rest, resupply, and get ready for the next mission.

Tiny home villages have been popping up all over the nation but FOB Hope will be a veteran exclusive community combined with onsite services to get homeless veterans off the street and transition them to permanent housing.

In contrast to shelters, a tiny home provides veterans with privacy, a sense of security, and the ability to reintegrate at a comfortable pace.

The plan for veteran services would include an onsite community center that provides veterans with mentoring, case management, counseling, and linkage to other programs and services.

Monique Brown was honored by the Seahawks and gifted tickets to the Superbowl. She was named nonprofit of the month, November 2020 by the Seattle Seahawks and is one of 12 nonprofits on the Task Force 12.

Photo provided by Monique Brown.

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Brown loves to share this philosophy with those who visit FOB Hope and enjoys the special moments when others come to realize the love and silver lining within their own challenges.

I will always place my mission first.

I will never accept defeat.

I will never quit.

I will never leave a fallen comrade.

It is knowing that you are a part of something larger than yourself that makes adherence to the strict military regulations possible. It fosters a culture of honor and a community of belonging.

Whatever the mission, soldiers fight together, persevere together, and sacrifice together—creating a bond like no other.

This strong commitment to others solidifies Brown to focus on helping others, her new mission since transitioning out of the Army. “In the Army, I was so used to having a mission and now outreach has given me a new mission,” she explains.

Her new way of life is her outreach mission. With Brown leading the charge with love and full of hope, no Veteran will die cold and alone on the street because they have no place to call home on her watch.

Photo by James Frid from Pexels

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Brown’s Dedication to the mission and her appreciation of her fellow veterans can be credited to the Warrior Ethos, the Army’s set of principles each soldier forever lives by:

Whether you are soon to transition out of the military, or your service ended a long time ago, there is one critical skill that the military doesn’t adequately train you to do—translate your military occupational specialty (MOS) skillset into “Civilianese”.

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Photo From ETS Facebook page

Get the J-O-B: convert military skills into 'civilianese'. By: E.V. Moore

I know, many of you reading this may be thinking that a meeting with a career specialist is part of the checklist for transitioning out of the military; however, now is an especially precarious time to be job searching?

With a global pandemic still wreaking havoc in the United States, the economy suffering, and upwards of 5.4 million jobless since this time last year (as of 08 January 2021 reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics), competition has never been stiffer but especially for women. The BLS data showed that all of the job losses in December 2020 were jobs held by women!

Thankfully, fellow veteran Martha Lozano has created a staffing solution to help prior service members reach their full potential by “providing workforce development services and resources to transitioning military personnel for all branches of service, including veterans”, as presented on her website.

Lozano is a veteran, having served in the California Army National Guard for eight years in August as a Human Resource Specialist. She has one overseas deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). She has sixteen years of Workforce Development and Talent Acquisition experience in both the private and government sectors. She started her consulting business, Employment Transitional Services (ETS) © in 2016 because the percentage of Veterans has never been higher, and veterans often struggle with obtaining sustainable employment post-military service.

Lozano says her mission for ETS Consulting is “to bridge the gap between military and civilian employability” and we are here for it!

Leaving the military comes with enough hurdles and, as women, we don’t need anymore.

Whether you transition soon, now, or did long ago and are looking to make a career change, and want to ensure your experience is represented in the best light. Thanks to her time-in-service, Lozano will help you translate your MOS skills and military experience into résumé lines, helping you get your dream job. So trust your civilian résumé with someone you know ‘has your six’ and trust ETS consulting to lead the way.

ARMY VET | PROFESSOR | EDITOR

REFERENCES: HTTPS://WWW.BLS.GOV/ HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ETSLOZANO HTTPS://WWW.CNN.COM/2021/01/08/ECONOMY/WOMEN-JOB-LOSSES-PANDEMIC/INDEX.HTML

IG: @EMPASSIONEDLIFE

HER NEXT

Mission

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PARTICIPATORY DEMOCRACY: VETERAN VOICES By: Joanna Sweatt

Right: On July 13, 1932, Brig. Gen. Pelham D. Glassford, superintendent of the Washington, D.C., police, asked a group of war veterans on the Capitol grounds to raise their hands if they had served in France and were 100% American.

Photo from AP

Have you ever heard of the Bonus Army?

Marine vet | Freedom Fighter IG:@jsweezybreezy

Six years after the end of World War I, Congress responded to vet’s demands that the Nation fulfil promises to compensate them by passing a bill granting “adjusted service compensation” to veterans of that war.

The legislation was passed over the veto of President Calvin Coolidge, who declared that “patriotism which is bought and paid for is not patriotism.”

By the terms of the new law, any veteran who had served in the armed forces was due compensation at the rate of $1 a day for domestic service and $1.25 for each day spent overseas.

Those entitled to $50 or less were to be paid immediately, the rest were to receive certificates to be redeemed in 1945—13 years later and well, most of them just could not wait that long.

(Smithsonian Magazine Article, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/marching-on-history75797769/) The Bonus Army organized and marched to Washington D.C. to protest for their owed pay but instead were attacked by force by order of the President to the National Guard. Even still, they persevered and stood their ground regardless of the violence besieged on them by the U.S. President at the time.

They were determined to use their rights as veteran citizens to demand recognition although they were deemed disenfranchised, they were motivated and ready to sacrifice it all again for their inclusion and to survive.

Democracy in the United States has always been a little messy since the creation of our constitution and its enactment in June 1788. In those early days, women and non-whites were omitted from certain unalienable rights afforded to the “equal” men that included such beautiful sentiment: “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” (Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776).

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Needless to say, nonpayment was not an option for our veterans, especially in the aftermath of the Great Depression.

This idea of moral equality was taken up and spread by the earliest days of Christianity, which held that each person has an immortal soul and that each person is equal in the sight of God. The Apostle Paul (5AD-67) famously expressed this egalitarianism, saying, “There is neither Jew or Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:23) (civiced.org/9-11-and-the-constitution-terms-to-know).

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This Democracy our forefathers created, negated true Christian history and philosophy concerning moral equality for all mankind.

Because our forefathers endorsed exclusion; it has been an uphill battle for centuries correcting the mistakes made by a privileged class of men.

Thankfully, the constitution has always included a process for which improvements can be made through the amendment process.

Our constitution was never meant to be stagnant or firm but instead provided us a framework to constantly improve upon as our country developed, remembering that it was about, “We the People…”

As individuals, we have the power to participate wholly in our government. Individual participation is when citizens partake in political decisions and policies that affect their lives, especially directly rather than through elected representatives.

Democracy is powerful. Those of us from the military and veteran communities know this to be true—especially if you have ever deployed to another country where democracy doesn’t exist.

AS A SYMBOL OF TRUTH, JUSTICE AND EQUALITY TO PEOPLE EVERYWHERE.

Then, By 1944, during WWII, Congress passed the GI Bill as the country took a new pride in celebrating and elevating American servicemembers.

We the People truly have a right to participate and when we do—we help garner the acknowledgment, inclusion, and justice that matters to those who are not receiving it.

Organizing is key when injustices are identified. The narratives we share are critical to motivate the positive changes towards equality and justice we deserve to all have in the United States.

We have many relatable examples of the Bonus Army’s legacy showing up today in our current military-political climate.

Namely and specifically are the many organization efforts born out of the disappearance and murder of Army Spc. Vanessa Guillen in early 2020 at Ft. Hood, TX. We are finally seeing on-demand actions that are being discussed, explored, and implemented to protect service members from military sexual trauma and violence while they serve our country and to ensure that the aggressors of these crimes are immediately removed from commands and held accountable to the letter of the law.

Protest is just one stop on the organizing trail that leads to collectivizing the voices of disenfranchised people that only want the same access to Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness that the majority has been afforded.

Learn about political organizing at Common Defense’s Veterans Organizing Institute (VOI).

Joanna is an alum of VOI Class Oct. 2019 NY and currently a volunteer VOI class facilitator. https://commondefense.us/voi/

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Now back to the Bonus Army. Four years later in 1936, the veterans of the Bonus Army did in fact get their bonus, when Congress voted the money over President FDR’s veto.

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SHOWING UP AND ASKING “WHAT IF….”

By: Amy Forsythe

MARINE VET | MEDIA EXTRAORDINAIRE IG: @AMYFORSYTHE760

FREEDOMSISTERS MAGAZINE courtesy photo

Master storyteller Nancy Harrity has spent the past 30 years sharing stories for government agencies and corporations with international, national and local media, as well as with financial and industry analysts and other influencers.

She’s now embarking on a new project to help others master their own narrative through her business What If Transformation, LLC, where she’s equipping professionals who have hit a wall or are getting in the way of their own success to unleash their confidence and voice to rewrite their personal stories, so they can move forward with their careers and lead the change!

Harrity spent the past 30 years developing her communications expertise.

She began her journey as an enlisted U.S. Navy photojournalist who later earned a commission and served as a public affairs officer.

She served on both active duty and in the reserves in places like Japan, Ukraine, Hungary and Germany.

She holds a BA in Business Administration from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Science in Management of Information Technology from the University of Virginia, and an MBA in Strategic Management from DePaul University.

She’s also credentialed as a Strategic Communications Management Professional (SCMP), from the International Association of Business Communicators.

She’s using social media to slowly build her following and gaining influence with audiences who are craving uplifting and positive messages.

How are you using social media to share your story?

I haven’t shared too much of my story on social media…yet! I started sharing daily tips on how to be happier based on what I’ve learned over the years during the pandemic.

What has surprised you about the response from people?

courtesy photo

It’s true what they say about showing up every day—it’s important and while everyone may not engage every day or ever even, people are noticing. Several of my friends near and far have commented on how much they appreciate the tips and that I should write a book with them..

What are your key messages on social media?

Tips on how to be happy, one small action at a time.

How do you feel that your 'influence' has helped others?

I started sharing the tips for a happier life as a way to put myself out there and to share what I’ve learned during my personal growth journey, both helping me. From what I gather, the tips help my friends and family, too. If nothing else, it is a small bit of positivity in what is a stream of negativity in some people’s feeds.

What are your goals for 2021?

I am a Veteran in Residence with BunkerLabs and WeWork for the first half of the year, which will help me build my network of fellow entrepreneurs and provide some structure to my weeks. I am one of eight in the Wash., D.C. cohort and of 200+ across the U.S. A partnership of WeWork and Bunker Labs, Veterans in Residence is a sixmonth in-person/virtual incubator and leadership program that provides veterans and military family member entrepreneurs the community, business support, and workspace to help launch and grow their businesses.

The goal is to share more about my journey online and to launch a virtual class or two.

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Q&A with Nancy:

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Courtesy DVIDSUB

J

oining the military is a life-changing decision.

Choosing to leave the military is another one.

There are usually two types of people who join the military; those who want to see what happens and those who want to make a career out of it.

I began as the former and quickly became the latter. My dream to make the Navy a career changed as I met my husband, Jake, we started our family and had to be away from our oldest daughter as we both went out to sea.

The time was quickly approaching for Jake and me to decide whether to stay in or re-enlist.

How How to to be be the the MVP MVP of of your your Education Education post-service post-service

By: Jacqueline Zappey

Many service members are faced with this dilemma and the tug of which choice is best for their unique life circumstances.

My husband had reenlisted once previously and this was my first time having to make this decision.

Although it was tough, we exited the service in 2011 and 2012, respectively. Transitioning from a service member to a civilian is already hard enough, why not make it easier with a plan to get the career you want.

Accessing your educational benefits is imperative if you choose to attend college. To help create my plan for post-military service, I utilized the Military and Veterans Programs (MVP) while obtaining my Associate’s Degree. There are a plethora of resources about MVP. The knowledgeable staff helped me develop a plan, which later enabled me to graduate debt-free. I used Tuition Assistance while I was serving and my GI Bill when I was a civilian.

When my GI Bill ran out during my Master’s Degree, I then applied for a Veteran’s scholarship and paid very little out of pocket.

I sat down with Tatiane Simons, the Transition Manager for the MVP at Olympic College which is located at the heart of Puget Sound and has the second-highest veteran population in Washington state.

Let's get social!

TS: The program is designed to connect students with educational benefits and resources to succeed in college. On-campus, the Veteran & Military Support Center is unique to the program and provides an environment where veterans, military members, and their families feel welcome. MVP also provides space for interaction with other veterans and family members of veterans. This space is a way for veterans to connect with each other and representatives from support services and departments.

JZ: How do you help Veterans utilize their educational benefits?

TS: MVP ensures that military-connected students have the highest level of support by offering programs and services that include: •Professional and student staff with a wealth of knowledge and experience regarding military benefits and the transition from service into higher education. Our department is fully staffed with veterans and militaryconnected staff.

•Advocacy and supportive Photo by Natalia Ocasio services for academic, psychological, financial, vocational, and academic challenges.•Information on college policies and procedures, federal and state education benefits, and all changes to legislation that affect veterans and their families.

•Camaraderie, peer-to-peer mentoring, and peer tutors with the PAVE (Peer Advisors for Veterans Education.

•Referrals to the Veterans Administration, other OC departments, and community organizations such as Combat Veterans International.

JZ: What is your number one tip for Veterans transitioning from the military to civilian life?

TS: My number one tip for veterans transitioning from military to civilian life is to enjoy your time at the college/university you are attending by getting involved in networking opportunities such as student clubs and career fairs. Camaraderie is an important part of our culture and a battle buddy can help you navigate new challenges and opportunities and make the world of higher education a little less scary and a bit more fun.

If you are ready to take that next step in education after transitioning out of the military, set up an appointment with your local MVP Coordinator to discover the right benefits for your educational goals.

Navy vet | Educator https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-zappey-a84aa3120/

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JZ: What is the program designed for?

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By Andrea Rathbun

My brother is a veteran. He is not a male veteran; or a brother veteran, he is simply a veteran.

I am not that simple. As it turns out, I am a women veteran, a sister veteran. When I left the military I did not know there was a difference.

I did not know that my classification as a member of the veteran community would always come with an asterisk. For years the ramifications of this asterisk were almost always negative.

Due to this, I like many with this designation avoided seeking benefits for years, 13 to be exact. During this time, I bought into the term “women veteran,” while never truly owning the impact of my service.

I was “just.” I was just a women veteran. And that just came before any description of how I had served, what I had done, trauma I had suffered or the benefits I deserved.

The VA’s Women Veterans Health Program and the Center for Women Veterans (CWV) are striving to change this.

The Women Veterans Health Program was established in 1988 to help address the unique health needs facing a small, but growing population of women veterans.

ARMY VET | BENEFIT EXPERT @THEPEOPLESPAR

Through these programs and initiatives, I hope we can find a way to remove the qualifier of “women” veterans while also

In 1994 congress established the CWV which focuses on a three-prong mission. This mission is meant to

increasing awareness for the unique needs of all of my sisters.

positively impact the VA’s interaction with our sisterhood, transform the societal perception of “women veterans,” and increase awareness for the equally respectful treatment of our often overlooked ranks of awesomeness.

In doing so, the overall goal is to increase the utilization of veteran benefit among this group of service members while creating a community that supports long term healing, health, and wellbeing.

In order to do this, we as a community must remove “just” from our vocabulary while increasing our utilization of these programs.

So sister, what does this mean for us? In short, the VA is after our hearts and minds. Along with having a dedicated Women Veteran Program Manager available at each VA medical center, there are also programs and resources that have been built exclusively for this population.

These include, but are not limited to, reproductive health care, mental health care, and support for Military Sexual Trauma.

In addition, there are specialty care programs for conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and rehabilitation therapies.

Our service to our

There is also a focus on homeless women Veterans providing emergency shelter, transitional housing

country was relentless, let’s give the same devotion to the care of

programs, and permanent housing.

our hearts and minds.

Information on all of these benefits and additional resources can be found by accessing the Women Veterans Health Care page on the US Department of Veteran Affairs website.

https://www.va.gov/womenvet /resources/mentalHealth.asp.

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In order to serve this community the program is meant to provide primary care, to deal with gender-specific needs in a supportive manner, and to ensure all care is accessible, in line with medical advancements, and is equal to male veterans.

Woman

Warrior

By: E.V. Moore

In a Rumor of War, Philip Caputo writes, “We had survived, but in war, a [wo]man does not have to be killed or wounded to become a casualty. [Her] life, [her] sight, or limbs are not the only things [s]he stands to lose.”

Essentially, everyone who goes to war comes home a casualty. But in today’s day and age, not all women serving need to deploy to become a casualty of their time in service.

Yes, we’re looking at you Ft. Hood! Many injuries are deep and unseeable by the naked eye. They pervade every aspect of your life akin to an oil spill in the ocean, having lingering effects that are unknown until they rear their ugly heads asking to be acknowledged.

So how do we begin to heal from deep traumas when our battle scars cannot be seen and easily acknowledged by others?

How do we explain exactly why we are suddenly on edge after an unannounced jet fly-over to amp up a football stadium?

How do we explain our detest for someone’s Big Gulp cup underneath our vehicle, regardless of the fact that we are now in suburban America?

Simply, we don’t. Sis, you don’t owe anyone an explanation but you do owe it to yourself to acknowledge your trauma and work towards healing.

In the olden times of ancient Greece, war was different. During a time when war was more personal in many ways enemies had rules of war that involved giving each side respite during war to grieve their fallen and deal with their traumas in the moment.

If you have ever attended a “Ramp Ceremony” on a forward operating base, I can assure you that you were not given this chance.

This is one of the primary reasons why post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as we know it is attributed to the dehumanizing of modern warfare and the lack of emotional processing warriors are allowed on the battlefields.

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Unseen battle scars: not all wounds are visible

Just as there is an intelligence quotient (IQ), there is also an emotional quotient (EQ) and much like intelligence, it varies greatly from person to person.

Our EQ affects how we process our own emotions and how we make sense of others’ emotions. Hidden emotional trauma comes in many forms as do its correlating symptoms and coping mechanisms.

The first step to healing is first acknowledging that you are hurt.

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It is important to understand that emotional trauma will require emotional healing and that not all humans are emotionally equipped to help you.

A doctor would (hopefully) never put you in a cast to heal a fracture without first confirming the fracture and the best course for setting the bone.

Mental and emotional trauma is no different. Before we can heal, we must first identify what hurts and why.

This can be extremely difficult as many health insurance companies view mental health as a specialty versus a necessity; however, there are steps we can take to provide mental and emotional support to ourselves to begin the healing process.

In the military, you learn how to properly discharge every weapon you are assigned or may need to use during a combat tour with the exception of the weapon that is never taken away from us—ourselves.

Veteran-owned Yoga Business Owner, Clarizza Paz Telford is based out of Portland, Oregon but available to Veterans anywhere looking to discover a life not consumed by pain.

Need to destress?

Watch this yoga video

https://allshapezyoga.com/

Understanding the impetus for why we experience post-traumatic stress is key in unpacking our own trauma(s) and being able to discuss them with ourselves—let alone a friend, loved one, significant other or mental health professional.

When we learn what triggers our reaction(s), we are able to aim and discharge at a target rather than having accidental discharges because we aren’t sure how to process our feelings in a healthy way.

The next step is finding your best and healthiest release of these feelings and emotions.

Emotional release is specific to each individual and trauma, and not all traumas will have the same release even for the same person.

For some, post-traumatic stress may be best released through exercise, whilst for others, it may be through good conversation with a trusted loved one or perhaps cooking a fantastic meal to be slowly enjoyed.

You may not know what your release is yet, but I can assure you that there is a healthy one to facilitate your healing process. We must collect the trauma so we can then release it.

The worst thing we can do is tell ourselves that no one will understand, no one will care, or there is no respite from our feelings.

I assure you that is not true! While self-care and self-healing are wonderful so is speaking to a mental health professional; however, both of these options include first acknowledging our trauma and deciding that we are ready to heal.

When your mission shifts to healing, remember The Warrior Ethos: I will always place the mission first.

I will never accept defeat.

I will never quit.

I will never leave a fallen comrade.

There is true strength in your journey to healing and we are here to march alongside you and, in the moments, when you are too tired to march, we will carry you.

ARMY VET | PROFESSOR IG: @EMPASSIONEDLIFE

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Our words and actions, especially the ones we speak to ourselves and conduct in private, are our lifelong weapons and we owe it to ourselves to learn what triggers us.

By: Kori Yates

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well” (Psalm 139:14).

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True Identity: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

This is a phenomenon you may have experienced as well. Up close and personal, they knew exactly who I was and what I looked like.

In a sea of camouflage, I looked just like everyone else. Sometimes I have struggled with the same thing inside myself.

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I have no video of my graduation from Marine Corps training. My family was present and super proud.

They even took video and pictures, just not of me.

Orders with my name on them in black and white, designating my location and job assignment, and a uniform with rank on my collar that identifies who I am have sometimes caused me to lose myself and my purpose.

I am tempted to determine my worth by evaluations and my purpose by orders.

God has a much better plan.

As proud as I am of my military service, worth and purpose do not come from it. Tying ourselves to achievements and accolades, we will find ourselves on a roller coaster of identity in a fog of purpose.

Our foundation of who we are and what we were made to do has to stand firm on a foundation that is infinitely more secure.

Scripture tells us, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well” (Psalm 139:14).

I love this because there are no conditions. I am wonderfully made regardless of my choices today or how much I accomplish. Having worth that is unchanging is the secure place I long to stand.

Scripture also tells us, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

Purpose bigger than what I see on orders or assignments, more lasting than simply making a difference in the here and now are the longing of my soul.

Paul reminds us that God has a purpose and plan for each of us in every place and every season – no exceptions.

One of my favorite quotes is by Helen Keller. She said, “I long to accomplish great and noble tasks, but it is my chief duty and joy to accomplish humble tasks as though they were great and noble.”

I’m with her. Recognizing that God can take the humble tasks of today and multiply them for a grander purpose helps me take the next step forward wherever He calls me.

Today, if you’re struggling with worth or purpose, know that you’re not alone. We all do.

Reminding ourselves of truth is key to taking the next step forward. Have courage, sisters, God sees you and has plans for you.

Looking for a community of faith where you can be encouraged and equipped in your walk with Jesus?

I would invite you to check out Planting Roots, a community of women in uniform and military wives in pursuit of Christ. Bible-based resources, virtual and in-person events, and consistent community, at Planting Roots, you’ll find it all.

Kori Yates is the Founder and Director of Planting Roots (www.plantingroots.net), a growing organization that is building a community of Christian military women worldwide. Also an author ("Olive Drab Pom-Poms") and speaker, Kori is a former Marine and current Army wife. Kori is married to Kyle, an active duty Soldier, and homeschooling mom to two children. The Yates' currently live in Lexington, Kentucky. To connect with Kori, stop by her website at koriyates.com.

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Purpose bigger than what I see on orders or assignments, more lasting than simply making a difference in the here and now are the longing of my soul.

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By: Brandi Pett Disclaimer: Freedom Sisters understands that many veterans are open to alternative therapies but the Alpha-Stim® is an alternative therapy that does require a doctor’s prescription in the United States. So, if you are interested you will need to discuss this treatment option with your care team.

In the world of post-service medical care must veterans only rely on relief in tablet form if we are suffering? Many depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress medications cause numerous unwanted side effects.

According to the Psychological Health Center of Excellence, female service members are more likely than their civilian counterparts to suffer from depression.

The Journal of Women’s Health reported that veterans with pregnancy were twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia compared to those without a pregnancy.

Most women are aware of postpartum depression, fewer may know that depression can occur throughout pregnancy; moreover, fewer still are aware of the greater risk women veterans may have while pregnant.

Believe it or not there are treatment options that are neither surgery nor medication with nasty side effects!

Alpha-Stim® is a drug-free treatment that is safe, effective and proven to relieve pain, anxiety, insomnia and depression through cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES)—a patented waveform technology. (alpha-stim.com) The Alpha Stim® device was created by Dr. Daniel Kirsch after combining elements of neurology, acupuncture and electromedicine to help a variety of ailments and was released for clinical use in 1981.

Since, he has conducted Grand Rounds at US Army, Navy, Air Force, Veteran Affairs Medical Centers (VAMC) and served as a research and practice expert at the Houston VAMC, San Antonio Military Medical Center and the US Army Institute for Surgical Research. (stress.org)

more public space.

How does it work, you ask?

Well, the waveform passes between two electrodes that you clip onto your earlobes. It provides vital treatment by sending a specific electrical signal to your brain similar to those found during deep meditation Dr. Josh Briley, is the current Science and Education Director at Alpha-Stim® managing medical studies, coordinating resources and information with potential researchers.

“The Alpha Stim® device works to balance the nervous system and achieve homeostasis through CES,” explained Dr. Briley.

Physician and patient surveys that show 90% of the people who use Alpha-Stim® devices get significant relief from pain, anxiety, depression or insomnia. That’s why over 200 Department of Defense (DOD) practitioners and over 92 VAMCs use Alpha-Stim® with military personnel for acute, chronic, and post-traumatic pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia treatment. (alpha-stim.com) Something else to consider is the timeliness of improved symptoms when comparing traditional medication with CES treatment. Traditional medications can take up to six weeks to show improvement of symptoms, however, some veterans report improvements after just one treatment.

“I had a Vietnam Veteran who hadn’t slept overnight in over thirty years that suffered from insomnia. He slept for twelve hours after the first treatment,” said Dr. Briley.

As a veteran, it is important to remember that there is no shame in struggling with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression. There are so many treatments that can provide relief and Alpha-Stim ® may be one of many options available for you to live a more pain-free life. https://www.stress.org/about/leadership-structure/boards/president Home - Alpha-Stim (alpha-stim.com)

Air Force vet | Alternative Therapy Advocate IG:@PettBrandi

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The device is smaller than a portable CD player, unless that reference ages me in which case it is smaller than an iPhone max (any edition). It looks quite similar to earbuds and fits easily in a pocket, purse, backpack or gym bag for those who may be self-conscious of using the device in a

By: Jennifer Ballou If you would have told me more than a few years ago that I would eventually become a Yoga Teacher, I would have laughed and given you the biggest eye roll ever. Yoga was not for me.

Or so I thought.

I tried yoga many times throughout the years and typically left the class feeling defeated, bored, sleepy or a combination of the three.

Not to mention, I am not very flexible, my body type is larger than those I typically noticed while attending class, many of the practices and traditions made me feel uncomfortable and I felt anything but peaceful.

Does any or all of this resonate with you?

A few years ago, a yoga class was taught to the participants of a conference I was attending. It was during that class that all of my misconceptions of yoga were either challenged or laid to rest.

I was able to do all of the poses, people of all shapes and sizes were participating, nothing felt uncomfortable or weird and I felt absolutely amazing when it was done.

So amazing, in fact, that I wanted more. More of whatever it was that I just experienced.

I felt energized yet at peace.

It was in that particular yoga class that I realized I was the one making judgments on what yoga was or was not without truly knowing. I was the one insecure and uncomfortable with myself.

I was holding on to so much that I had experienced during my 21 years in the Army and was simply afraid to lean into the healing that needed to happen.

Yoga means to unite and essentially bring a person to reality, to the present moment the only moment, which truly matters.

Yoga is for everyone, for every body, without judgment.

FREEDOMSISTERS MAGAZINE

Why Yoga and Meditation for Veterans?

So why yoga? How can it help Veterans? There are actually quite a few organizations dedicated to supporting Veterans’ healing and growth through the power of yoga and meditation. One of them is Warriors at Ease, led by Christina Hickey. Their purposeful mission is to bring the power of yoga and meditation to military communities all over the world through training, advocacy, programs and partnerships.

Certified Warriors at Ease Teachers are experts in delivering evidencebased techniques and trauma-informed protocols that support the health, resilience, and connection of the entire military family.

"The practice of yoga fuels the destiny of the warrior by cultivating the body, the mind, and the spirit,” Hickey naturally explains. “It is our collective duty to welcome home and continue to serve those who have answered the call."

Practicing yoga amongst other Veterans in an environment that is supportive and understanding of our community is a great way to explore the many benefits it can provide. To see if there is a Warriors at Ease Teacher near you, click here to enter your location.

Operation Remote Resilience is another option to explore if there isn’t a teacher in your area or if maybe in-person classes are currently canceled due to COVID-19.

You can check out their online classes that you can do in the comfort of your own home here.

Veteran-owned practice

Embrace and Love Yourself

Click Here for a Free Mini Session Jennifer Ballou is passionate about many things, Women Veterans being at the top of her list. She is an Army Veteran, Army wife and mother to three beautiful children, all of which were born in different decades

FREEDOMSISTERS MAGAZINE

Most people believe yoga is only about poses or Asana, which in fact is only one of the eight limbs of yoga. (You can learn about each of the eight limbs here.) Yoga has so many tremendous benefits that, somewhere along the way, have been lost or misunderstood by many people.

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HER

Highlight Woman Veteran Emerging Businesses you should know about!

Blog Cynthia Cline is a USAF Veteran and writeHER for this magazine, but she also runs a beautiful blog, called A Faithful Step. We’ve been given one life to live, and most of us want to live it right! If you’re looking for encouragement in marriage & motherhood, or if you are curious about faith and what it looks like to be a genuine Christian, then we recommend A Faithful Step to discover more. We love Cynthia's transparent, authentic, honest knack to be a real encouragement for women that need it most! https://www.afaithfulstep.com/

Speak Richelle Futch is a Veteran, Mil Spouse, Author, Licensed Counselor and Public Speaker. If you need a speaker or workshop presenter for your event, please consider Richelle.

Her workshop Unpacking Your Emotional Ruck is a big success!

She specializes in stress, burnout, moral injury, building a life worth living to reduce suicide, parenting, and have programs directly for military, law enforcement and their spouses. We love Richelle’s open, honest approach to tackling some hard topics. She is kind and courageous and will leave a lasting impression long after she concludes her presentation.

Find out more here: https://richellefutch.com/contact/.

Read Mahogany Clark is a young enlisted soldier, still serving in the activeduty Army, yet her poetic soul is as rich as Tony Morrison and deep as Maya Angelou.

I know that’s a huge statement to make, but truly Mahogany writes about the black experience, particularly the female black experience in a similar fashion as did Morrison: it's real, raw and vivid.

Similar to Angelou, Mahogany uses a direct, conversational voice, inviting readers to share in her stories and her secrets. The two books I have read captured my undivided attention. She has a children's book available as well, Somebody loves you, which reinforces love, self-worth, courage even when there is a lack of influence in your life.

What I most admire about Mahogany is her ability to take a very painful life and still find value in the journey, forgiveness and self-love to overcome and shine. A bright young voice, with a future of endless opportunity. Get your book today. Support this young sister as she taps into her creative art and explores the literary world.

Shop Wandering through the southern states then an Army career, finally settling in the Pacific Northwest, Chelsea Williams, lifelong journey manifested into this creative business.

Wandering Creations boutique creates amazing wearable art from inspirations from western fashion, 80's rock, southwestern décor, boho punchy hippie vibes, and the desert!

We love all her hats, turquoise jewelry and fringe!!!!

Each high-quality, unique pieces are hand made from the heart by this beautiful sister.

Check her out here.

If you are a woman veteran-owned business and want to be featured in our HighlightHER section, email us at info@freedomsisters.com

Podcast Tonnisha B and TG are the hosts of The Combat Divas Podcast.

These two women Veterans humorously co-host and share their life experience, which include time served in Afghanistan and Iraq. Their conversations highlight the ups and downs of being a female in the Army, combatting Post-traumatic Strees, navigating relationships, wellness, sex and current events. They talk about it ALL. This show will entertain, inspire, empower and most definitely entertain some more.

The first episode I picked to listen to was Entanglements, when TG and Tonnisha B weigh in on the conversation concerning The Red Table Talk host, Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith as Jada admitted to being in an entanglement with August Alsina. But they took it to another level and talked about the entanglements that they had experienced while in the military and their perspectives on the events. It brought a deeper perspective to the pop-culture conversation.

Over 170 five-star ratings and reviews on iTunes amplifies the sentiment that these two women are an incredible duo, bringing real-life experiences and military relatability to both veterans and nonveterans alike. Some of the conversations are heavy and hard to navigate but this duo’s knack for humor and breaking up the serious moments with spots of laughter make the show refreshing in the podcast space. I highly recommend adding this podcast to your must-to listening list today!

All up to date information is on our website at http://www.combatdivaspodcast.net or the following link @combatdivaspodcast

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Shero Activation

BE HER

“The best and most beautiful things in the world

cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.”

- Helen Keller

What a perfect time of the year to reflect on this quote.

I hope that February brings beauty and

love– not just the things you can see and touch, but feelings of inspiration, joy, happiness, and love.

We strive to help make that happen through

this month’s edition of SHEro Activation.

1. Head on over to Instagram, we want to show

one another love this month. Post a picture of

you and a sister-in-service, tag her (and us)!

For a chance to win some Freedom SIsters Swag #sistHERlyLove

2. It is black history month and we are so proud of the many sisters who have led the way, we learned about some unsung heroes in the

rememberHER article. Who is your favorite HERstorical black female who served?

Instagram. #blackHERstoryMonth

Tell us on

3. Galentine's Day is all about female

friendship, We have some great tips and ideas to celebrate virtually or in-person here. We would love to see how you

celebrated on February 13th with your girl gang! #Femalefriendships

4. If you need a good podcast that is all about the 'girl chat', look no further. Go check out the Combat Divas Podcast, tell them hello and that Freedom Sisters sent you! #combatdivaspodcast