GATHER Veterans Magazine July/August 2021

July/August 2021

Michigan Dental Association Restoring Veterans Smiles Affordably

A Loving Farewell

A Token of Appreciation

Ron Smith’s passion for veterans

TABLE OF 08 CONTENTS July/August 2021

22 24 2 – GATHER Veterans

28

06

Publisher’s Note

08

THE SENIOR CHIEF IS ON DUTY

11

VA Update

12

MICHIGAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION

16

PERFECT BARBECUED RIBS

18

Coffee Table Coach DEALING WITH DESPAIR

20

HISTORY OF THE ICONIC AMERICAN FLAG

22

EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY -VETERANS FIND HELP WITH HORSES

24

A LOVING FAREWELL - A TOKEN OF APPRECIATION

26

22 2 NONE

28

SWEAT EQUITY

30

OUR NATIONAL SYMBOL THE AMERICAN BALD EAGLE

32

THE COAST GUARD AND OUR COMMUNITY

Real Estate for Real Heroes Ben

illiams REALTOR ®

SCHMIDT Realtors

522 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 231-929-2300 Office

Healthy vets start with a healthy smile.

Let us help!

For more information or to apply today visit www.smilemichigan.com/dds or call 517-346-9455 (Southeast Michigan) or 517-346-9454 (Rest of Michigan)

Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS) 231-632-7888 • Ben@LakeLifeRealEstate.com

GATHER Veterans – 3

Gather Veterans Team “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” - Helen Keller

Hannah Bouwmeester Owner/Publisher Gather Veterans

Pamela McCormick Managing Editor Gather Veterans

Deb Dent Account Executive

Pete Lathrop Contributing Writer

Amanda Renkiewicz Contributing Writer

Karen Rieser Contributing Writer

Tom Dalluge Contributing Writer

Mike Kent Contributing Writer/ Photographer

Debra Ankerson Content Coordinator/ Contributor

Kirsten Kubert Contributing Writer

In Memory Of

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If you’d like to share the legacy of your Veteran friend or family member that has passed away, please contact us at pam@gathermichigan.oom with your story and photos of your loved one.

Happy

Independence Day From

PUBLISHER

EDITOR Contributing Photographers

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ADVERTISING SUBSCRIPTIONS

GATHER Media LLC Hannah Bouwmeester - Owner Traverse City, MI 49696, (231) 492-7870 PAMELA MCCORMICK Bill O’Rourke Mike Kent Shelby Blodgett

Tom Dalluge Mike Kent Kirsten Kubert Brandon Lohr Pete Lathrop Amanda Renkiewicz Jan Stump Karen Rieser Michael Roof Ray McDaniel G. Roy Jayden Designs hannah@gatherveterans.com Visit gatherveterans.com/ subscribe-today to subscribe.

Subscription Rates: One Year, 6 issues, $19.95.

Allow six weeks for first issue to be received.

Note: Veterans can pick up a free copy at various locations. Please email hannah@gatherveterans.com for details in your area.

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Copyright @2020 GATHER Media LLC. All rights reserved. Individual works also copyrighted by their originators. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without prior written permission. We do not assume any liability for errors or omissions. GATHER Media LLC does not necessarily endorse any of the attractions, products or services contained within.

GATHER Veterans – 5

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Publisher’s Note Celebrating Freedom

C

elebrating our Independence every July has become a rote thing for me over the past 50 years of my life. But I have to admit, 2020 changed things for me. It changed my perspective and it most definitely changed my appreciation for my freedoms and the independence of the country I live in. It changed the gratitude I feel for the men and women who have fought or died to protect those freedoms. I am a changed person because of 2020 and here is why.

In 2020 I learned: 1. Being American no longer means autonomy and independence.

2. The Constitution of the United States is under attack and so are my liberties.

3. There is a potential day coming when my right to say no will be stripped from me.

4. Cancel culture exists and is even celebrated.

5. Virtue Signaling is a weapon in the hands of some.

6. There is an effort to sanitize, rewrite or wipe entirely our history and change the narrative.

7. God may one day remove His blessing from the USA and Lee Greenwood will have to go back to the drawing board.

Now I am aware that there will be readers who disagree with me. That is what is so great or has been so great about the good old US of A.

Freedom to have opposing opinions and express them freely. I will hold space for you to disagree. As a matter of fact, celebrating the 4th of July and our Independence, I will raise a toast to the fact that we CAN still disagree and I CAN still express my individual view in this Publisher’s Note. I don’t usually get too personal about these emotive topics, but this is important and if we don’t speak out, we WILL lose freedoms. We already have. Too many of us have stood on the sidelines and passively allowed this. I am not able to enlist in the military and take up arms in that fashion, but I can stop standing quietly by. And I am taking up arms of sorts, my pen is my weapon and my words are my ammunition. Today, I stand and fight.

And to be sure, all of you Veterans out there, regardless of your views on what I have said, I am so incredibly grateful for your sacrifice to protect our freedoms, all of them! Without you, your selfless service, and for some their very lives, we would not be the America I have known and enjoyed my whole life.

Happy Independence Day! May we, like the colonists of old, revolt against the dogmatic rule of any governing body that will steal our freedoms and cancel our opinions and views!

In The Trenches, Hannah Bouwmeester Publisher

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Featured Veteran

The Senior Chief is on Duty

Ron Smith’s passion for veterans Written By Mike Kent The shadow box sits at one end of the garage under an American flag. In it contains the relics of 22-years of Ron Smith’s life. They include medals and a list of Navy duty stations that started in June 1974 and ended July 1996. It was 22-years of honorable service to this country that began as a parachute rigger and ended as a survival training instructor and counselor.

R

on Smith is now retired in a comfortable Central Lake, Michigan home surrounded by his wife, Julie, and a whole bunch of drop-ins that includes three daughters, 12 grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. He also has a bunch of veterans that stop by to take advantage of Ron’s offer to go fishing or maybe do a little duck hunting. Although Smith is officially retired, he never really retired from caring about the military and veterans.

He is currently on the board of directors for Reining Liberty Ranch that operates a Horses 4 Heroes equine program for veterans. His name is associated with a wide variety of programs that not only serve veterans but also the youth. The list includes: Honor Flight, TC Patriot Game, Veteran to Veteran, Jobs for Vets, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Ron has no hesitation to roll up his sleeves and do whatever he can.

“He’s a rock, he’s an anchor,” said Reining Liberty Ranch Director, Becki Bigelow. Bigelow has not only seen Smith in action on her board; she has seen him in action helping troubled veterans.

Becki recalls one struggling vet who was near the breaking point. She remembers how Smith was able to talk him out of suicide. “I give Ron credit,”

8 – GATHER Veterans

said Bigelow. “What value do you put on that one life? He listens with a military ear but acts with his heart.”

Smith is reluctant to take credit for lifesaving action but acknowledges his work as a Navy counselor has helped him with veterans in need. “When I hear them talk, a light goes on in my head,” said Smith. “I want to make sure they are OK. There are signals that are loud and clear.

Most of the time I befriend them and if things are not going well, offer to give me a holler.”

Smith spent most of his civilian career with the Bill Marsh Auto Group in Traverse City, Michigan.

He used his Navy training as the human services director. Again Smith made hiring veterans a top priority. He also trained the owners that veterans brought value to the business. “Ron always flew his Navy flag pretty

high,” said partner Jamie Marsh.

“I look more favorably on the opportunity to hire veterans. They turn out to be good employees.

They are mission-driven and open to training.”

But in the military, that mission depends on working as a unit.

Smith says in the civilian world,

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He has one of the biggest hearts of any man I’ve been around. ~ Jamie Marsh

they work as individuals. “They are horribly underprepared to return to civilian life,” said Smith. But Marsh said Smith played a key role to help with that transition in his business. “He has one of the biggest hearts of any man I’ve been around,” said Marsh.

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Today in retirement, Smith has cut back on his veteran responsibilities. But he just acquired a couple of miniature horses, named Chablis and Maple. He feeds the horses carrots and ponders how he can use these friendly beasts to help veterans and their families.

Clearly, his mission to help is far from over.

VA Update

By Michael Roof

Director, Dept. of Veteran Affairs, Grand Traverse County

We are getting back to normal!

Businesses have had to change the way that they interact with clients several times throughout this pandemic. Many companies are dealing with staff and supply shortages, leaving clients upset.

Michigan is loosening restrictions, and counties are opening up to in-person appointments.

County, state, and Veterans Affairs employees have been working remotely for some time and now are transitioning back to provide full

service. Now is the time, more than ever, for everyone to utilize some patience and grace in dealing with each other as we get back to normal life.

One of the burdens of short staffing has really put the National Personnel Records Center behind in sending out veterans’ records and DD214s. The VA has provided staff to assist with getting the documents out, but the current wait time is over four months. Be mindful of this fact if filing for VA benefits and let the VA get your records.

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Behind the Brand

Michigan Dental Association Written By Amanda Renkiewicz

E

veryone knows that a smile speaks volumes! No one knows this better than the Michigan Dental Association, a group consisting of devoted professionals who were born to create beautiful smiles. Yet their services have gone far beyond the norm, expanding into philanthropy and donations that have changed countless lives. Since 1995, the program has provided nearly $25 million in donated treatment to more than 6,800 Michigan residents through their network of approximately 800 volunteer dentists and 200 volunteer dental laboratories.

The Michigan Donated Dental Services program (DDS), a part of the Michigan Dental Association, provides donated dental treatment to those in need of extensive care who are elderly, have a chronic health condition (such as cancer or transplant patients), or who have a permanent disability, and are low income without insurance and without access to critically needed dental treatment through any other means. “We realize most veterans do not qualify for dental services through the VA, but many veterans have a need for extensive dental care and lack the resources to get that care,” they explain. “Our volunteers are excited to help support Michigan’s veterans and restore their smiles.”

Access to dental care is a crisis in the United States that does not receive the attention it

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Our volunteers are excited to help support Michigan’s veterans and restore their smiles. should. A healthy mouth is an important part of a healthy body, and studies have shown that improving oral health can have a positive impact on a person’s overall health and wellness. April Stopczynski, manager of the Donated Dental program, explains that improving dental care options for veterans is personally important to her since her brother is a retired Marine who experienced difficulty in obtaining the care he needed after discharge. “I have many friends and family who are or have served in the military, so I am very aware of the personal sacrifice they and their families have made. Ensuring they can speak, eat, and smile seems such a small thing we can do to improve the lives of veterans,” she says. In fact, the DDS program has two full time caseworkers who help patients, and their volunteers navigate through the

GATHER Veterans – 13

treatment process from start to finish to ensure successful treatment.

“If you have a need for dental care, please don’t hesitate to apply!” Donated Dental encourages. “If you qualify, treatment is fully donated even if you need lab or specialist services.

We do not require VA

service forms. If you end up not being eligible for our program, our caring coordinators are able to help identify other resources to help you get the care you need. You do not need to live with long-term dental pain and dental infections that negatively impact your overall health. We are proud to be able to serve you.”

Reach out to Donated Dental to apply today, and remember as the old song goes, “You’re never fully dressed without a smile!”

Southeast Michigan Residents: 517-346-9454 Rest of the State Residents: 517-346-9455 https://www.smilemichigan.com/dds

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Military Kids

By Shelby Blodgett Photography

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In the Kitchen

Perfect Barbecued Ribs

By Kirsten Kubert (comfortablydomestic.com – Mother of an Active-Duty Military Son)

Perfect Barbecued Ribs are slow roasted until so tender that the meat falls right off the bone, then finished on the grill to caramelize that sweet and sticky barbecue sauce for ribs that are finger lickin’, lip smackin’ delicious!

Ingredients • 5 1/2-6 lbs. (2 full slabs) baby back ribs • 2 Tbs. smoked paprika • 1 Tbs. kosher salt • 1 tsp. onion powder • 2 Tbs. light brown sugar • 1 tsp. chipotle chili powder • 1/2 tsp. dried thyme • 1 C. Stubb’s Sweet Heat Barbecue Sauce (or favorite bbq bottled sauce), to taste

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Instructions

Ready for my #1 Barbecue Tip of All Time?

Never walk away from the grill!

Fire has a habit of flaring up to lick that sweet barbecue sauce right off the ribs, causing it to burn.

Keep diligent watch to move the slab around and temper those pesky flame ups, as necessary.

1. Lined a rimmed half sheet pan with heavy duty aluminum foil; briefly set it aside.

2. Rinse the baby back ribs then pat dry with paper towels.

3. Trim the excess fat from the top of the ribs, being careful not to cut through to the bone.

4. Flip the ribs over to expose the underside so that the bones appear to be curling upward.

5. With a sharp knife, gently loosen the white membrane on one end of the back of the bones. Once an “edge” of the membrane is loosened, firmly grasp the membrane and pull it across the bones to remove it. The membrane should come off in one large sheet.

6. Sprinkle half of the rib rub onto both sides of one slab of ribs, rubbing it in well so that it adheres to both sides. Repeat with the other half of the spice rub and second slab of ribs.

7. Place the ribs onto the prepared sheet pan and cover with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.

8. When ready to cook the ribs, preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. 9. Slow roast the ribs, curled side up, for 90 minutes.

10. Turn the ribs over with long kitchen tongs so that curled side is down.

11. Slow roast the ribs for an additional hour or until tender. When gently lifting a loose bone on the end of the slab, the bone should want to pull apart from the rest of the slab.

12. Remove the ribs from the oven.

13. Preheat the grill to medium high heat. If using a charcoal grill, begin preparing the coals 30 minutes prior to removing the ribs from the oven.

14. Place the ribs on the grill, curl side up, basting the curl side with barbecue sauce.

Grill the ribs for 3 to 4 minutes or until the sauce begins to dry and caramelize.

Turn the ribs over and baste the topside of the ribs with more barbecue sauce.

Continue to grill for 3 to 4 minutes or until the sauce begins to caramelize. Be sure to continuously watch the ribs on the grill to avoid “hot spots” and flare ups that can burn the barbecue sauce.

15. Transfer the ribs to a large, heat proof cutting board and tent with aluminum foil. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting to serve.

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Coffee Table Coach

Coffee Table Coach Dealing With Despair

By Hannah Bouwmeester

URGENT: If you are having suicidal thoughts, please stop immediately and call the Veterans’ Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 Press 1 or Text 838255

Some of the prevailing mental health issues Veterans deal with today are depression, PTSD, despair, survivor’s guilt, or other negative emotional states. People generally deal with these states more and more in our argumentative, emotionally charged, social media-driven, negative news and the overall culture of divisiveness and derision we live in today. We can wake up feeling in total despair, and that isn’t even taking into account personal turmoil we may have to deal with at home with family, friends, or work.

Negative emotions and

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circumstances can pile upon us until we feel we may be crushed under the weight of it all. We wake up each morning feeling desperate for a reason to even get out of bed, and sometimes we may just throw the covers over our head and hide. The dark cloud of despair threatens us; we feel frozen. We endure the slog and have no idea the length this season will last.

Many ask, “How do I pull myself out of this state??”

I don’t want for a moment to minimize the reality that feelings of despair can be tied to our physiological

makeup as much as our circumstances or emotional state. The suggestions I am about to share are certainly NOT a comprehensive list, nor should they be used for self-diagnosis or treatment if you need professional help. Seek your professional healthcare provider’s help before trying or following any recommendations.

That said, there are some things we can do to help us deal with despair or feelings of depression or anxiety.

1. “Change your physiology change your state.” I am a huge fan of Tony Robbins and have taken Tony’s coaching program as well.

First, let me say that this is huge! When you stop slouching, sit up straight, take deep breaths, or stand up and jump around like a lunatic, IT CHANGES THE WAY YOU FEEL! Now,

Pray to God when you are feeling that life is spiraling out of control. you cannot wait to feel like doing it, you have to just get up and do it, but it works!

Let your emotions out as verbal sounds. Wail if you have to, but let them out.

Shout, scream, let a stream of profanity flow. Whatever helps get the toxic out, do it. Then breathe deeply.

Keep moving. If you have to sit, sit straight, shoulders back, have a position of purpose. Try it! You will be amazed.

There is something settling, comforting, and even relieving when you can talk to God who knows all, sees all, and is powerful enough to sustain you even in the hardest of times.

Again, not a comprehensive list by any means, but these three very small steps can make a huge difference if you are willing to take baby steps to stand against despair in your life.

2. Meditate. Tony also says where focus goes, energy flows. So stop thinking all about the negative things that are creating the internal storm! Instead, begin to change your focus by meditating on what you are grateful for. What positive things can you find? Even if it is just the sunshine or the sound of the birds chirping. Your children. Your ability to walk, breath, love! The reality is this; if you focus on what you are grateful for, it is hard to stay in despair.

3. Pray. Well, if you believe in prayer, that is. I do. I am a spiritual person. I am not religious; please don’t confuse that. But I do believe in the power of prayer. Pray to God when you are feeling that life is spiraling out of control.

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History

History of the Iconic

American Flag Written By G. Roy

The American flag instills love among American citizens and fear among its enemies. Every American loves the American flag, and our heart fills with pride when we see our flag flying high. But, do you as an American know the history behind our beloved flag. Its history is as fascinating as that of our country itself. Let’s dive into this interesting story of how our flag became the shining example of hope today.

A World Icon The modern American flag is not less than a cultural icon on its own. It represents a symbol of hope, freedom, justice, and prosperity. Do you know what the most interesting thing about it is? It has gone through a change for sixty-three times over its entire existence until today, according to gettysburgflag.com. Some of its past designs would be almost unrecognizable to

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an average American citizen. What if I tell you that some of its previous designs even featured the British Jack? This fact may come as a shock to you, but it is as true as the day and night.

Who gets the Credit for the First American Flag?

What will the school-going American children tell you if they are asked about the first

The modern American flag consists of 13 stripes, of which seven are red, and it alternates with six white stripes.

person to sew the American flag? The answer would be Betsy Ross, without a doubt. Is this the correct answer, though? Maybe or maybe not.

As per legend, a team of three secret committee members of the Continental Congress visited Betsy Ross in May 1776.

This team also included the great George Washington, and they asked Betsy to sew the first American flag. It is believed that Betsy Ross and George Washington went to the same church according to history.com, and she had done sewing for him in the past.

Hence, some people allege that Betsy Ross got an opportunity to sew the first American flag because of her friendship with George Washington.

Is there actual proof Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag? Besty wasn’t even mentioned publicly until almost 100 years after the creation of the first American flag per the washingtonpost.com.

There are two more candidates who people claim to be the first person to sew the firstever American flag. Their names are Rebecca Young and Francis Hopkinson. Some of Rebecca’s children have claimed that their mother had created the first flag. On the

other hand, some Americans believe that Congressman Francis Hopkinson should be accorded with the honor of being the first person to create the American flag. No one, other than Hopkinson, claimed the title of creating the first American flag during their lifetime. However, Congress refused to acknowledge his claim based on the fact that the flag was designed with the contribution of multiple people.

Changed With Time?

Congress passed several acts between 1777 and 1960, which led to a change in the design, shape, and arrangement of the flag. It also allowed the addition of stars and stripes to the flag’s design. The stars and stripes reflected the admission of each new state.

The modern American flag consists of 13 stripes, of which seven are red, and it alternates with six white stripes. The stars depicted in the American flag represent the 50 states, and the stripes represent the 13 original colonies of the United States. The iconic red, white, and blue colors of the American flag are symbolic. Among them, the Red symbolizes hardiness and valor. White is for purity and innocence, whereas Blue is for perseverance, justice, and vigilance.

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Health & Wellness

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Veterans Find Help with Horses

By Jan Stump

‘It saved my marriage.’

‘I wouldn’t be here without it.’

‘Of all the things I’ve tried, this is by far the best.’

T

hese are quotes from veterans with complex PTSD who have participated in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP). EAP is an alternative mental health therapy for PTSD facilitated by a Master’s level therapist, an Equine Specialist with equine expertise and horses. EAP is experiential, hands-on, typically takes place in nature, and does not rely on talking. EAP professionals are certified and have ongoing education requirements.

So why horses? Many veterans with Combat Stress and other military-related trauma find it easier to connect with an animal rather than a person.

Horses in their natural state are highly regulated (calm) beings. Conversely, a person with Combat Stress is in a physiological state of ‘alarm’; their survival responses are outside of their conscious control.

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animals and wired for connection. They depend on healthy relationships and clear communication. They are honest and nonjudgmental.

During EAP sessions, horses provide clients with opportunities to practice these connections skills. Immediate feedback from the horse can affirm the veteran’s skills or offer a chance to try something different. As clients build connections with the horses, relationships at home and work improve due to increased capacity building in the limbic system. Veterans and their families are often surprised by how quickly they see improvement. A recent study validated the impact of EAP at the brain level. (Neural changes following equine-assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: A longitudinal multimodal imaging study.

Hum Brain Mapp. 2021;1–10.) https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.25360

When a person with trauma is near a horse, they begin to ‘sync’ physiologically with the horse.

Heart rate and breathing shift from the Sympathetic (fight/flight) system to the Parasympathetic (rest/digest) system. Clients experience increased relaxation, better sleep, and calmer responses.

‘Regulation’ is the critical first step in trauma recovery and often difficult to achieve by talking.

When regulation is consistently achieved, clients begin to re-build the area of the brain responsible for emotion, relationships, empathy, and self/other awareness (limbic system.) Left unaddressed, problems in the limbic system can create difficulty with connection – relationship difficulties, isolation, communication problems at home and work, and a sense of shame.

Horses are excellent relationship partners because they are herd

When seeking mental health treatment, be sure to find a program that includes a licensed mental health and equine professional in every session to ensure the best outcome.

EAP is a powerful modality that helps families, couples, individuals, or teams.

Most services are offered at no charge to veterans because they are supported by grants or available through the VA Community Care Network. There are several therapeutic equine activities available for veterans. When seeking mental health treatment, be sure to find a program that includes a licensed mental health and equine professional in every session to ensure the best outcome.

Jan Stump, MSW Program Director, Peace Ranch jan@peaceranchtc.org 231.499.4736

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Sponsored By Reynolds Jonkhoff

A Loving Farewell

A Token of Appreciation Written by Brandon Lohr Veterans Benefits Specialist at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home

I

f you have ever walked through a cemetery, you have probably noticed special mementos left behind by previous visitors and loved ones. The practice of leaving mementos at the graves of loved ones can be observed back to the beginning of time, not only as a way to pay tribute to the departed but also as a way for the living to carry on time-honored traditions.

One such tradition that exists if the deceased person

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was a veteran is the placement of coins on the fallen veteran’s headstone. This practice is thought to have originated in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. A coin, referred to as “Charon’s obol” in Greek mythology, was placed in the mouth of a fallen soldier and was intended to serve as payment to the ferryman Charon.

He assists the deceased’s soul in crossing the rivers Styx and Acheron into the afterlife.

Another more modern and increasingly popular tradition is leaving Challenge Coins at the grave of a veteran.

In modern times, a coin left on a veteran’s headstone conveys to the veteran’s family that someone who served with the veteran has visited their grave and paid their respects. Each denomination has its own special meaning: A penny simply signifies someone visited the veteran’s grave and paid their respects. A nickel indicates the person served with the veteran at boot camp. A dime specifies that they served with the veteran in some capacity. Finally, a quarter left on the grave signifies that the person who left it was with the veteran when they passed away.

Another more modern and increasingly popular tradition is leaving Challenge Coins at the grave of a veteran. A Challenge Coin is a small coin or medallion bearing the branch of service’s insignia or emblem and carried by their respective service members. The origin of these coins can be traced back to the Roman Empire, which rewarded soldiers with these coins for their achievements in battle.

The practice of awarding Challenge Coins became increasingly prominent in the United States during World War I. As a reward for his unit, a wealthy lieutenant presented his soldiers with coins made of solid bronze. Later, a member of that squadron was shot down behind enemy lines outside a small French town and was captured by German soldiers with no identification other than his challenge coin. The soldier managed to escape the German outpost only to be recaptured by a French patrol, who mistook him as a German saboteur. Facing execution, the soldier showed his challenge coin to his would-be executors, who instantly recognized the squadron’s insignia from past battles with their American allies. Instead of executing him, the French soldiers presented him with a bottle of wine.

Regardless of the origins or intentions of those leaving a coin, the practice of paying tribute and honoring veterans, even after death, can be done in any number of ways. Leaving these coins allows the veterans and their families to know that they are respected, revered, and visited by their comrades long after their call to service has ended.

Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home is honored to help care for fallen veterans and their families. We are proud to be the only funeral home in northern Michigan with a dedicated Veteran’s Benefits Specialist.

Do you have Questions? Call Brandon at (231) 947 - 6347

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Service Provider Spotlight

22 2 NONE Written by Ray McDaniel

OUR PURPOSE The number of veteran suicides is alarming. While on active duty and working side-by-side, everyone had each other’s backs, with the mentality of never leaving a man behind. Re-entering civilian life is a large adjustment for most, but some struggle more than others.

This organization was created to rally together in hopes of keeping our brothers and sisters in arms

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safe and to lend a hand, an ear, or even a shoulder when needed without judgment.

OUR MISSION

…is to stop the inconceivable number of veterans who take their own lives by reaching out, searching for, and supporting those who have sacrificed themselves both physically and mentally for this country, and now fight a daily inner battle with demons no one can see.

BELAY MY LAST BARRACKS In July of 2020, we purchased the former South Boardman Elementary School and are now bringing it back to life as Belay My Last Barracks.

The Barracks will not only serve as transitional housing and a community outreach center for veterans and their families but as a place for new beginnings.

We chose Belay My Last Barracks as a way to harken back to our time in service. Belay My Last is a phrase used in the military to cancel the request or command last given. It is our hope that when a veteran finds themselves at the end of their rope

and out of options, they would not give up hope and Belay My Last thought of giving up and turn for help with 22 2 NONE. Currently, we are focused on getting the Barracks up and running so that we can engage with veterans, their families, and the community.

Our hope is to have events, meal training, and activities occurring on a regular basis. Building relationships and community is one aspect of supporting each

other through a transitional time.

Creating space for veterans to enjoy community together is an important building block. As we get the building active, we will be working on the process of learning about the many requirements for converting classrooms to apartments and the needed permits, inspections, safety code requirements needed in order to develop our plan for moving ahead.

CURRENT PROGRAMS

We are now offering Peer Support Meetings, we have a lounge/game room, movie theater area as well as a workout room for veterans to take advantage of. In the future, we will be adding more programs designed to assist veterans with various aspects of life, work, and leisure.

GATHER Veterans is grateful to be partnering with 22 2 None in their vision to reduce the number of Veteran suicides and serving the needs of Northern Michigan Veterans.

We will be donating 10% of our net profits each issue to this amazing organization.

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Great Outdoors

Sweat Equity

By Pete Lathrop

Northern Michigan offers a few precious months where an outdoors person can meander through the bedrooms of whitetail deer and not be concerned.

So, lately – as in the last few years, I’ve practiced a little more forward-thinking by trimming the old apple tree in early March on the property where I hunt.

The old, gnarly tree hasn’t produced much fruit in the last five years, so I thought it best to begin trimming the dead branches away and cutting back the tall spires that divert the sap away from the ends of the lowhanging branches. I also started using fertilizer spikes for my apple tree. I discovered that you could space out these spikes about four feet apart, about five feet away from the trunk, around the circumference of the tree.

The following year, the tree was healthier than before.

S

ummer is the time when prudent and responsible outdoors people work hard for the Fall payoff. But I can’t tell you how many times I could’ve kicked myself sitting in my deer blind in November, thinking how I frittered away the summer doing everything else but prepping my hunting property. It’s not like I didn’t have the time or the opportunity. Instead, I’m often lured away by scintillating diversions like sitting out on the deck in my Bermuda shorts, sipping iced tea in the sun. Profound. Reflecting on moments like that are what cause me to get off my behind and do something profitable before the next round of cold months come my way.

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My next project will be to put in a food plot on the property.

The first step is to choose a spot for your food plot where wildlife is active. Look for wildlife clues like deer trails, deer bedding areas, or choose a place near water. Plot location also helps determine which type of forage seed to plant. Small-seeded forages perform best when the seedbed can be tilled over. But some food plots are so remote that

Fertilize with a 13-13-13 mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, unless you tested the soil, then use the fertilizer recommended for your soil type or consult your county extension office. tillage equipment can’t be used. In that case, choose No-Till blend seeds, which don’t have to be tilled into the soil.

Then you need to test the soil. A successful planting begins with knowing the PH of your soil. When the soil is acidic, forage seeds have a harder time absorbing nutrients, hindering growth. Also, knowing the PH can help you easily correct soil issues before you plant. For example, low soil PH can be corrected by applying lime to your food plot. Soil test kits are available at most ag stores, or contact your local county extension.

Next, clear and prep the soil. Two weeks before planting, hand trim the grass and weeds and mow to prepare your food plot.

Use a non-residual grass and weed killer with 41% glyphosate to kill all unwanted plants. Till the plot once the vegetation is brown, working the dead vegetation back into the soil. This adds organic matter to the soil, giving it a greater ability to hold moisture and creating better contact between seeds and soil.

Now, plant and fertilize. Use a handheld spreader for smaller plots or a pull-type spreader for larger plots. After planting, work the soil lightly with a rake or pull a board across the surface to lightly cover the seed. Fertilize with a 13-13-13 mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, unless you tested the soil, then use the fertilizer recommended for your soil type or consult your county extension office.

It’s a lot of work, but if you love seeing deer when you are sitting in your blind, especially when it’s freezing cold, then get your behind out on your hunting property this summer and sweat a little.

GATHER Veterans – 29

Did You Know

Our National Symbol

The American Bald Eagle Strength, Courage, Freedom, Immortality

A

By Karen Rieser

s I round that particular curve near my home, I look to what I refer to as the eagle tree. Will it be there? I see it occasionally perched on a high branch extending over the water, watching for its meal. If I am fortunate enough to see this incredible Bald Eagle, I know it will be a special day.

Indigenous to North America the Bald Eagle and its companion eagles have found their way into a variety of cultures as representations of strength, courage, freedom, and immortality. The Roman military used the eagle as its symbol. The eagle’s presence is seen in the Bible as a sign of renewal and strength in thirty-four entries. For Native Americans, the Bald Eagle is known as a guide on their journey into the spirit world and saving humanity from destruction.

Shortly after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress felt the

need for a strong symbol to place on the Great Seal representing the fledgling republic they hoped to establish. Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams were assigned this noble task but failed to create an acceptable design. Two additional committees were formed and fared no better. The task ultimately fell to Charles Thompson, the secretary of Congress. After considering all previous designs, Thompson chose to switch out a small white eagle for the larger Bald Eagle and made this mighty raptor the central focus of the seal. On June 20th, 1782, Congress accepted the design that now appears on official documents, currency, flags, public buildings, and other representations of the United States government.

Why the Bald Eagle? This amazing raptor characterizes leadership possessing keen vision, a fearless nature, and a tenacious spirit. Living for twenty to thirty years in the wild exemplifies its physical strength and cunning. Soaring freely

Photo by Bill O’Rourke

30 – GATHER Veterans

As one looks to the skies and admires the Bald Eagle or appreciates its presence on our national seal, take pride in this choice. and floating on east winds denotes freedom and symbolizes spring, dawn, and rebirth. Additional admirable character traits are its beauty, bravery, courage, honor, pride, determination, honesty, and grace. What better metaphor to represent our country?

As with our nation, the path of the Bald Eagle has not always been a smooth one. Once a common sight over continental America, this mighty bird dwindled to eight hundred mating pairs and found its way onto the endangered species list. DDT, human hunters, and habitat loss all contributed to the bird’s decline. The population strengthened with government regulations for the protection of eagles and the banning of DDT. On July 12th, 1995,

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service had the Bald Eagle move from the Endangered list to the Threatened list. On June 28th, 2007, it was delisted, and now large numbers fly freely in our skies.

As one looks to the skies and admires the Bald Eagle or appreciates its presence on our national seal, take pride in this choice. The eagle proudly clasps an olive branch in its right talons and a set of arrows in its left. This stance represents our country’s desire and our military’s duty to maintain a balance between peace and strength.

This unique raptor represents our activeduty military personnel and veterans through their courage, bravery, honesty, leadership, determination, honor, and pride.

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GATHER Veterans – 31

Coast Guard Station

The Coast Guard and Our Community

By Hannah Bouwmeester I have had an awe and respect of those men and women who choose to serve our country in the military all my life. But I have to be honest; I only had an awareness of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. The Coast Guard was never a branch I paid much attention to until moving to Traverse City. Even then, if I am candid, I was peripherally aware but not cognizant of their presence and impact on our community until I began GATHER Veterans.

32 – GATHER Veterans

No one is exempt from the need of the moment.

They work as a team to accomplish whatever is required of them.

A

s owner and publisher of this magazine, I am always looking for great stories to share, so when I met Commander Webb at the Veterans Day dinner in November of 2019, well, I knew there was a story there. Sure enough, I had the privilege of hearing his service story and how his Dad was such an integral part of him becoming the humble servant leader he is today. (Read his story in the Mar/April 2020 issue on gatherveterans.com/past-issues). That interview whetted my appetite to know more about this Air Station and how they serve the Northern Michigan community.

A Little Background on Coast Guard First of all, until recently, the Coast Guard was officially under the Department of Transportation (weird, right!) and was then transferred to the Department of Homeland Security. According to Military.com, “During times of war or conflict, the president of the United States can transfer any or

all assets of the Coast Guard to the Department of the Navy.” And that is exactly what they have done in almost every single conflict we have been involved in. Also, according to Military. com, “The Coast Guard is the nation’s oldest continuous seagoing service with responsibilities including search and rescue (SAR), maritime law enforcement (MLE), aids to navigation (ATON), ice breaking, environmental protection, port security, and military readiness.”

There are 120 “Coasties” serving at the Traverse City Air Station, and they are on a continuous rotation in and out. The average term a Coast Guardsman or Guardswoman serves in this location is four years. There are only around 43,000 active duty personnel currently serving in the Coast Guard total. However small they may be, the Coast Guard is mighty, and in Northern Michigan, they are mighty on our behalf! Our Traverse City Station is busier than most stations during our Summer months, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and slower the

GATHER Veterans – 33

rest of the year than other Coast Guard stations as well. However, our location makes our station one of the most desired posts to have.

Our tourist season gives our Coasties many opportunities to show how brave and dedicated they are to serving our community and rescuing people from the precarious positions they find themselves in.

I had the opportunity to visit the station and go up in a Coast Guard helicopter this past May. While there, I was able to not only experience time in the air with the team I flew with as they practiced maneuvers and got their flight hours in,

34 – GATHER Veterans

but I received a greater understanding of how this community of servicemen and women differ from other branches of the military. Not to mention I was blessed to enjoy the amazing beauty of our region from the open door of the helicopter as we flew from the Air Station to the Mackinaw Bridge and back.

Many of these men and women fill various positions in their service at the station. In other military branches, you are typically given a role, and that is the only one you focus on fulfilling.

However, the Coast Guard Station requires that members fill multiple roles to ensure all the

station’s needs are met. One moment a member might be working on a complete overhaul of a helicopter that is in the bay for maintenance and then finds themselves in a training exercise helping a mate get certified for a different position.

No one is exempt from the need of the moment.

They work as a team to accomplish whatever is required of them.

The truth is - this article is not sufficient to convey to our community what a huge value these amazing men and women bring to our community. From being there to save us from our stupidity on the sandbar in Torch (come on, you’ve seen it too), to serving in our community in various non-profits or community organizations, to spending their hardearned money in our locally-owned businesses, they are lifesavers. So, in an effort to shine the light on and strengthen the connection between our community and the air station, we will have a Coast Guard Station update each issue. We hope you enjoy it and that you take the time to learn more about why Traverse City has the distinction of being a Coast Guard City. Until next time.

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GATHER Veterans – 35

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