Sound of Freedom is published bimonthly by Times Media Group, a private publishing company. Times Media Group is in no way affiliated with Luke Air Force Base or the United States Air Force. Arizona Opera ‘A Experience’AwesomeTotally Veteran appreciatedfeelsa er Honor Flight CHANGE COMMANDOF 56th Fighter Wing welcomes Brig. Gen. Rueschho
Military life and deployments create experiences that bring about different challenges unique to those serving.
Nicole Warren saw those challenges firsthand through her brothers’ military service, and it inspired her to get involved in programs supporting service members stationed at Luke Air Force Warren’sBase.interactions with Luke AFB began while working for Marriott Hotels, where she handled housing needs for incoming Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps reservists for their drill weekends.
It gave dorm residents the chance to socialize, play games and win prizes. Attendees competed in multiple events, including video game tournaments, a wing-eating contest and a dance competition.
Nicole Warren is changing lives one breath at a time BY SUSAN GLADSTEIN Sound of Freedom
That’s where the Root to Rise Challenge was born. As owner of The Foundry Avondale, Warren challenged her members to complete 30 yoga, Pilates, HIIT, barre, meditation or cycling classes in 45 days, and the proceeds were donated to Fighter Country Foundation to support the Luke AFB Chiefs Group’s Dorm Dwellers event.
After serving two years as an honorary commander with the 56th Maintenance Group, Warren got involved with Fighter Country Foundation.“OnceIcompleted my two years, I knew I didn’t want to stop, so I joined the Blue Blazers,” Warren says. “It’s been an amazing eight-year relationship with Fighter Country Foundation and being involved in connecting what goes on in the public sector and what’s going on base.”
Dedicated to the Community
Nicole Warren says the local fitness community is already asking when the next opportunity to volunteer at Luke AFB is.
“We had 70 people participate in the Root to Rise Challenge, and the winners were put into a drawing for five of them to come out and participate in the Dorm Dweller event,” Warren says. “It was a great opportunity for them to interact with the airmen and ask them their story. If you don’t have a military background, you don’t have any idea what they go through and what their families go through. It affects layers of people in their lives. I wanted our community to have a different appreciation for the base.”
Nicole Warren was inspired to get involved in programs supporting service members at Luke AFB.
The Root to Rise Challenge asked The Foundry Avondale members to complete 30 yoga, Pilates, HIIT, barre, meditation or cycling classes in 45 days. (All photos courtesy of Fighter Country Foundation)
2 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
When Warren found out that the Luke AFB Chiefs Group was hosting a Dorm Dwellers Summer Bash, she jumped at the chance to help make the event a success.“Everything starts at the root,” Warren says. “We wanted to dig in and show how we can give back to the community.”
PAGE 6
Warren says the local fitness community is already asking when the next opportunity to volunteer at Luke AFB is.
Contributing Writer
SEE DEDICATED
“There are not enough words to describe the feeling of knowing that you can make a positive difference in their life,” Warren says. “You don’t know what an airman is going through. I may say the right sentence or word in that moment that’s a game changer for them. TO THE COMMUNITY
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Rueschhoff, 56th Fighter Wing commander. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Mason Hargrove) Fighter Wing welcomes Brig. Gen. Rueschho
4 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 2 Dedicated to the Community Nicole Warren is changing lives one breath at a time 8 Change of Command 56th Fighter Wing welcomes Brig. Gen. Rueschho 14 ‘A Totally Awesome Experience’ Veteran feels appreciated a er Honor Flight 18 Stories of Sacrifice Soldier’s skills conceive of work at Arizona Opera 21 Desert Dogs Breeds Success Valley company o ers housing, employment for vets in need 24 Preserving the Past underbird Field II Veterans Memorial shares airport’s history 28 Military Hero Giveaway Vet, active-duty service member could receive free AC 30 Coming Together Winning the WWII manufacturing victory Publisher Steve T. Strickbine Vice President Michael Hiatt Associate Group Publisher Laura Meehan, lmeehan@star-times.com623-777-1042 Executive Editor Christina christina@star-times.com480-898-5631Fuoco-Karasinski Staff Photographer Dave Minton Contributors Allison Brown, Tech. Sgt. Jenna Bigham, Susan Gladstein, John Heckenlaible, Laura Latzko, Bill Quehrn, Bridgette M. Redman Graphic Design Veronica vthurman@timespublications.comThurman Production Manager Courtney production@timespublications.comOldham Advertising Representatives Barbara Duran, Conniebduran@star-times.com623-847-4608Williams,623-847-4601cwilliams@star-times.com Circulation Sound of Freedom is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at Soundaaron@azintegratedmedia.comofFreedomsetshighstandards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. This issue was printed on recycled fibers containing 10% post consumer waste, and with inks containing a blend of soy base. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards. Statements, opinions, and points of view express written consent by the writers and advertisers and are their own, and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers, editors, or Sound of Freedom staff. Although Sound of Freedom has made every effort to authenticate all claims and guarantee offers by advertisers in the magazine, we cannot assume liability for any products or services advertised herein. No part of Sound of Freedom can be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the express written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter at any time. Postmaster: Please return all undeliverable copies to Sound of Freedom 1900 W. Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282. All rights reserved. ®2022 Affluent Publishing LLC. Printed in the USA. Contents
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14 21 24 30 Arizona Opera ‘A Experience’AwesomeTotally Veteran appreciatedfeelsa er Honor Flight CHANGE COMMANDOF 56th
The Luke AFB Chief’s Group Dorm Dwellers event gave attendees a chance to participate in a dance competition.
“It’s a gift,” she says. “The gift of movement. A gift of a positive affirmation or mantra that they will take with them when they’re in a different country or share with their child. It’s a ripple effect that’s profound.”
When the world shut down in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Warren reached out to the base to see about bringing yoga to the Luke“Thcommunity.at’swhere the seed got planted,” she says. “(Luke leadership) loved the idea and weren’t sure how the airmen would respond. They loved it. I started doing yoga and meditation three times a week on the lawn and they opened up a room for us, but we could only have six to 10 people max.” When restrictions prohibited in-person gatherings, Warren got resourceful and offered online“Initiallyclasses. it was just open to airmen, but we opened it up to spouses and veterans,” she says. “It was a time where many were isolated, and I know it’s so important to have meditation and movement. They’re excited to be there, and it’s my favorite. It’s one more tool that will help them connect the mind and body.”Inher recent class on base, Warren left them with these words: the difference between ordinary and extraordinary that little — extra. “Let your unique and positivity inspire confidence in others.
Nicole Warren’s Foundry Avondale 3145 N. Dysart Road, thefoundryyoga.com/AvondaleAvondaleItfeatures11modalities,includingyoga,cycling,HIIT,Pilatesandmeditation. A competedattendeesofcontestwing-eatingisonetheeventsin.
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… No matter where you go, no matter what the weather — always bring your own sunshine. If you want light to come into your life, you have to stand where the sun is Warrenshining.”saysshe likes knowing she helped the Luke community move their body in a different way or even just helped them slow their mind down.
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Change of Command you.”
Rueschhoff, a command pilot with more than 2,800 flight hours in the F-35A, A-10C, AH 64-E, T-38 and T-37, including more than 250 combat hours, arrived at Luke AFB following a position as the deputy commander of the 7th Air Force at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea. He earned his commission and a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1997, in addition to master’s degrees in military operational art and science, airpower art and science, and one in strategic studies.U.S.Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, presided over the ceremony, welcoming Rueschhoff.
U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, passes guidon to U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Rueschhoff, 56th Fighter Wing commander, after assuming command from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Gregory Kreuder, 56th FW outgoing commander, during the July 29 56th FW change-of-command ceremony (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Mason Hargrove) 56th Fighter Wing welcomes Brig. Gen. Rueschhoff
BY TECH. SGT. JENNA BIGHAM 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
U .S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Gregory Kreuder, 56th Fighter Wing commander, relinquished command to U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Rueschhoff during a change-of-command ceremony at Luke Air Force Base on July 29.
“I am thrilled to be able to stand here and take command of this wing, but I know who is really running this — it’s you all,” Rueschhoff says. “You are the ones making it happen. I look forward to meeting all of you, look forward to working with all of you, look forward to learning fromWillsyou.”also praised Kreuder for his accomplishments and thanked the wing for their commitment over the past two years.
8 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 NEWS
U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, awards U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Gregory Kreuder, 56th Fighter Wing outgoing commander, the Legion of Merit for his accomplishments as commander on July 29 at Luke Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Mason Hargrove)
“One of the great things about our Air Force is that we are one great family and when an airmen steps aside, there’s another one standing right there to take up the flag and take it to new heights,” Wills says. “We are very fortunate to welcome Brig. Gen. Reuschhoff and his family to the 56th Fighter RueschhoffWing.”thanked everyone in attendance and those who supported him in the path to get here, and addressed the wing.
SEE CHANGE OF COMMAND
PAGE 10
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“Freddy (Kreuder), your dedication has been truly world class,” Wills says. Kreuder welcomed Rueschhoff and expressed gratitude to the men and women of the 56th Fighter Wing.
“To the men and women of the 56th Fighter Wing, I am truly grateful to have had the honor to serve with you these past two years,” Kreuder says. “I could not be more proud of all you do every single day to train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready airmen. You’ve both figuratively and literally built the future of air power right here at Luke Air Force Base. I know you will continue to reach even greater heights with Brig. Gen. Rueschhoff at the helm.
CHANGE OF COMMAND FROM PAGE 8
U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, delivers a speech during the July 29 56th Fighter Wing change-ofcommand ceremony at Luke Air Force Base. Wills officiated the ceremony in which command of the 56th FW was transferred from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Gregory Kreuder to U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Rueschhoff. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Mason Hargrove)
“I cannot think of anybody that is better equipped, better trained, or a better human being to take this 56th Fighter Wing,” Kreuder continued. “The men and women of the 56th Fighter Wing are going to serve our nation well and will take care of you as you take care of them.”
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Fifty years later, he received the welcome he deserved as part of Honor Flight, locally sponsored trips led by nonprofits that trans port veterans to see the war memorials in Washington, D.C. The trips are free to the veterans.“Tohave the recognition of people was amazing,” Lancaster says. “The high school kids and teachers who came up to us and said, ‘Thank you for your service,’ was a totally awesome experience.’”
Honor Flight Arizona recognizes World War II veterans (served between Dec. 7, 1941, and Dec. 31, 1946), U.S. armed forces Cold War veterans (served between Jan. 1, 1946, and Feb. 27, 1961), U.S. armed forces Korean War veterans (served between June 25, 1950, and Jan. 31, 1955), and U.S. armed forces Vietnam War veterans (served be tween Feb. 28, 1961, and May 7, 1975).
Honor Flight, which uses locally sponsored trips led by nonprofits to transport veterans to Wash ington, D.C., honored Michael Lancaster for his service in the Vietnam War. (Enrique Garcia/Contributor)
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Sound of Freedom Executive Editor
“We came out of the bathroom, and a group of about 10 people called us horrible names and threw a bucket of pig’s blood on us,” says Lancaster, who lives in Peoria. “It ruined our uniforms.”
Veteran feels appreciated after Honor Flight
“Honor Flight Arizona is thrilled to con tinue flying into June of this year,” adds Robert Krug, Honor Flight Arizona vice president.“Wehave a long waiting list of veterans after the COVID-19 pause, and it’s import ant to keep the flights going. Many veterans have told us it was the trip of a lifetime.”
‘A Totally Awesome Experience’
14 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 FEATURE SEE HONOR FLIGHT PAGE 16
hen Michael Lancaster re turned from serving in Vietnam in 1970, he was met with a disgusting re sponse at a West Coast airport.
The memorial was dedicated in 1993 and includes a sculpture by Texas artist Glenna Goodacre depicting three women caring for a fallen soldier. Eight yellowwood trees surround the sculpture in honor of the eight servicewomen who gave their lives in Vietnam.“Iwent over to the nurse memorial,” he says. “There were a couple nurses we lost in Vietnam. It was an awesome memorial. One nurse has a soldier lying across her lap. One is looking up at the helicopter. It’s a very, very moving memorial.”
16 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
YOUNGTOWNAZ.ORG ★ LET FREEDOM RING ★ FEATURE HONOR FLIGHT FROM PAGE 14 Honor Flight honorflightaz.orgArizona
On the return trip home, the group was once again met with clapping and applause.
Honor Flight Arizona took its first flight of 11 World War II veterans in November 2009 and has now flown more than 2,400 World War II, Korean War and Vietnam WarTripsveterans.havealso included more than 1,600 guardians assisting the veterans along the way. Honor Flight Arizona has a base of many active volunteers. Honor Flight Arizona is part of the nation wide Honor Flight Network. The nonprofits accept private donations and corporate sup port. This trip’s sponsor was Daughters of the American Revolution-Yavapai Chapter.
Now 73, Lancaster was an Army medic from 1968 to June 1981, so he was especially moved by the women’s memorial.
Salutes typically involve two firefighting rigs spraying arcs of water over an arriving or departing flight. The two-minute display is a sign of respect, honor and gratitude.
“About an hour and a half before we land ed at Sky Harbor, we had one last mail call. In Vietnam, the mail call was one of the most important things,” Lancaster says. “On the plane, they read each person’s name, and they had letters from family members. I was in total tears when I opened the letters. It was a very moving, cleansing experience. I would highly recommend this to anyone else.
“They had the honorary water cannon spray our plane,” he says. “They did it in San Antonio and Sky Har bor.”The water salute honors military veterans, foreign dignitaries and new airline service.
“It was a welcome I had never had before. There were tears from the start.”
When Lancaster left for his Honor Flight trip, TSA agents were dressed in special uniforms, and patrons rose from their seats to applaud and thank the veterans for their service.Upon their arrival in Baltimore, Lan caster and his peers were thanked for their service, sending the veterans into a pool of tears.“There’s a video of me shaking hands with a young man,” Lancaster says. “It was a very moving time. We went to the Vietnam Me morial and got very emotional.”
Hailing from Parker, Lancaster left for Vietnam with 14 others. Only six returned. With Honor Flight, Lancaster and his peers also visited the Korean War Veterans Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, Air Force Memorial, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, the Pentagon and Fort Lewis.
Youngtown proudly supports Luke Air Force Base and our brave aviators who put themselves in harm’s way while protecting our freedoms. Fulfillment of their mission is critical to our region, the state and the nation.
Soldier’s skills conceive of work at Arizona Opera BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer
STORIES
Sgt. Ben Hilget’s path to the military might seem unusual to some, but it led to the creation of a work of art designed to help civilians understand the life of a soldier and the sacrifices that are made.
“The Falling and the Rising” is an opera centered around an injured soldier who is in a medically induced coma after she was injured by a roadside IED. As she goes in and out of a dream-like state, she experiences the stories of other soldiers. The stories are based on real experiences injured soldiers shared at Walter Reed National Medical Center, soldiers who were part of what was then called the Warrior Transition Brigade. The opera, which premiered in New York in 2018, is coming to Arizona Opera
“I loved different cultures,” Hilget says. “It was just this way of stepping into this fabulous grand world where you are mixing great literature, great stories, great art — visual art, theater and music. There’s just something about the unamplified human voice carrying over an orchestra and filling an opera house.” He even confesses that part of him still misses the opera world. There was something special about traveling the world and always honing one’s craft. But he felt like he was missing something by just serving his own artistic growth.Hehad just returned from a tour in Germany when an earthquake hit Haiti. He wanted to volunteer to help but was told that he didn’t have the skills. It was a turning point for him. When a friend of his joined the services, he was inspired.“The idea of representing something that is greater than the sum of its parts — service to your country, it really stuck with me,” Hilget says. He told his friend to let him know if there was a spot for him. “And so I found myself in basic training later that fall.” He says he hasn’t looked back, but he also hasn’t left behind his skills as an opera singer. The idea came to him to create an opera about injured soldiers. He reached out to Chicago writer and director Jerre Dye and composer Zach
“ThRedler.eFalling and the Rising” breaks ground in its goals and its staging. There are only five characters, and projections play an important role in the production. It is filled with humor — the usual opera-going audiences might blink at the full-voiced, passionate operatic performance of such lines as “You’d better get your ass in gear.”
Based on true stories of injured soldiers, “The Rising and the Falling” tells their tales in operatic format. (Ziggy Mack/ Opera Memphis) the world and always Projections help set the scene for the opera performers in “The Falling and the Rising” about injured soldiers. (Ziggy Mack/Opera Memphis)
Hilget says he was impressed with Dye and fromgrowth.atour OF SACRIFICE
FEATURE
Friday, October 14, to Sunday, October 16, in Phoenix and Saturday, October 22, and Sunday, October 23, in Tucson. Before enlisting in the Army, Hilget was an accomplished opera singer who had toured the world. He had done musical theater in high school, but opera became his passion.
18 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
Regardless of who comes, she said the music and score draw in audience members whether they are civilians or soldiers. She describes it as being accessible and melodic.
WHERE: Herberger Theater, 222 E. Monroe Street, Downtown Phoenix; Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson COST: Visit website for ticket information INFO: azopera.org
“Then it’s about this wonderful triumph of the rising of how they somehow find this miraculous strength to overcome any sort of emotional or physical pain. It honors their sacrifice.”Assomeone committed to producing transformative storytelling, Darling says he is honored that he gets to direct it.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | Sound of Freedom 19 FEATURE Redler’s work.
“It’s meant to help us appreciate and acknowledge the sacrifices that are made, the good parts and the bad parts about enlisting and the hardships of it,” Altiveros says. Hilget says the opera captures better than anything else he’s ever seen on stage the sacrifices that modern service members make. He says he and the other opera creators were immediately floored by the stories they heard at Walter Reed.
The cast of the original opera “The Rising and the Falling” sing of injured soldiers and their recoveries.
A namedwomanonly Soldier experiences flashes of whileandservicemenotherwomeninacoma. (Ziggy Memphis)Mack/Opera
“I don’t think I’ve ever heard to date more powerful stories of resilience and strength,” HilgetOnesays.ofthe first interviews was with a specialist who had been in a coma after being thrown from a Humvee. He dreamt a life that he didn’t have. Even six months after he woke up, he was still trying to figure out what was real and a dream.
Dennis Whitehead Darling had just finished serving as the inaugural McCleave Fellow in Directing at Opera Memphis, a fellowship designed to fostering the careers of directors of color, when he saw Opera Memphis’ production of the opera.
“He gained the power of speech back through music therapy — he actually learned to sing before he could speak,” Hilget says. “He spoke with a profound wisdom for someone of his age and still in the middle of trauma.”
In three days, they spoke to so many people that, he says, they could have written 10 operas.
(Ziggy Mack/Opera Memphis)
“It’s quite beautiful and poignant and painful and emotional and rich with beautiful themes of sacrifice and pain,” Darling says. He is now directing the Arizona Opera production. As someone who contemplated going into the military and whose father, uncle, brother and stepsister are veterans, this opera touches him. He says he feels people get a better understanding of what it takes to serve in the military and the sacrifice, duty and honor involved.
The Arizona Opera’s “The Falling and the Rising” by Zach Redler, libretto by Jerre Dye
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 14, and Saturday, October 15, and 2 p.m. Sunday, October 16, in Phoenix; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, October 22, and 2 p.m. Sunday, October 23, in Tucson
“When you see this piece, you will understand how beautifully written it is and how universal it is,” Darling says.
“There are no live scenes of people being shot at, but it does deal with injury and that sort of falling that the soldier goes through emotionally and physically,” Darling says.
Tess Altiveros, a soprano, performed the role of Soldier for the Seattle Opera production and is looking forward to reprising the role in Arizona.“Ihave a hunch it will feel different doing it in a place like Arizona versus a place like Seattle,” Altiveros says. “I think that perhaps we might find the ratio of service members in the audience in Arizona is higher than in Seattle.”
“I’m still stunned to this day when I see the show at how well they realize the aspirational goals of this endeavor — bridging the civilian/ military divide,” Hilget says. “That’s the weird, strange place I’m currently in; I live with a foot in both worlds. I’m still opera singer, Ben, but I am active duty, sergeant first class in the United States Army.”
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“We work with the Phoenix Veterans Administration to hire veterans who are displaced, who are coming home and having a hard time transitioning,” Calderon says. “Many of these that we work with have had prior drug offenses or other felonies that have precluded them from getting other jobs. But our motto is that we care about who you are today, not who you were yesterday.”DesertDogs launched in January 2020, and Calderon says it was an immediate success. The company landed contracts with local home builders to do cleanup and compliance. Since then, Desert Dogs has expanded in every way — its employees, its services and its coverage area.
“We began with one truck and about four people,” Calderon says. “Today, we have 64 employees and 22 trucks.”While continuing to work with the Phoenix VA, Desert Dogs recently expanded to Prescott and the Prescott Valley VA. It also partners with U.S. Vets, a nonprofit organization that runs homeless shelters for veterans, to find veterans looking for work. Desert Dogs offers more than jobs. Veterans are offered a Valley company offers housing, employment for vets in need BY ALLISON BROWN Sound of Freedom Staff Writer
Desert Dogs was founded in 2020 and has grown from about four people and a single truck to over 60 employed veterans and 22 trucks. (Desert Dogs/Submitted)
Desert Dogs was founded by Anthony Calderon, a Navy veteran, and Lacey Rank, who served in the Phoenix Police Department, to provide veterans employment, housing and support. (Desert Dogs/Submitted)
Desert Dogs Breeds Success
Desert Veterans started as an idea between two colleagues who saw a way to fill a need. Also known as Desert Dogs, the concept was simple — people need to get rid of their junk, and veterans who have a hard time adjusting need work. Why not put them together?
Calderon and Rank worked together at a company with a similar vision. When that company went under, Calderon and Rank opened Desert Dogs to continue that mission.
Navy veteran Anthony Calderon and Lacey Rank, who served in the Phoenix Police Department, founded Desert Dogs to provide veterans employment, housing and a long-term opportunity to work and grow with a company that understands that the transition from military to civilian life can be difficult.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | Sound of Freedom 21 FEATURE
22 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 FEATURE
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“We can put them in our home and charge them rent — a low rent — but they are able to build up their credit. Then, by working with us, they make money, and they usually stay in our house around six to eight months before they’re able to save up enough money and improve their credit enough to get an apartment on their own,” Calderon says. “And then they continue working with us and obviously hopefully continue to build that life back. So, that’s kind of our goal, not just to employ them, but if they need housing then to provide them housing and help them get back on their Calderonfeet.”served in the early ’80s, outside of conflicts, and did not have problems transitioning to civilian life. That’s not the case for many, and Calderon says most of the veterans he works with have PTSD.
“We do random drug tests, and if they don’t pass the drug test then we will put them through rehab,” Calderon says. “If they refuse rehab, we have to let them go just for legal reasons, but if they go to rehab and they get better, their job is there for them when they get back.
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We understand that it’s not always the first time you quit that you actually quit for good. … Those that want to be helped, we absolutely doThit.”e goal is to help veterans get back on their feet and set them up for success. Even within the company, Calderon says there is a lot of opportunity for growth. Most people start on Co-owner Anthony Calderon says the company is a “second chance” employer, understanding that life is a roller coaster. (Desert Dogs/Submitted)
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Desert Dogs is forgiving of past issues and even tries to help employees work through current issues.
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“I’m not sure if it’s a military thing or just personal, but there’s a lot of pride in who you work for and a lot of devotion for those who have shown you the type of respect that maybe other people didn’t,” he says. More so, Calderon says a lot of the veterans just appreciate being around like-minded people who are going through similar struggles.
Seeing how successful the company has been with jobs and in its mission of helping veterans, Calderon says they are looking to replicate that success within and beyond Arizona. Desert Dogs plans to have a Tucson location open by the end of the year. On a bigger scale, Calderon says VA offices in Portland and Eugene, Oregon, have proposed part nerships. Calderon says he hopes to move into other areas where the company can partner with the Veterans Administration.
Desert Dogs 18009 N. 41st Street 602-560-5364Phoenixdesertdog.dog
“Our goal is to celebrate them any chance we get,” Calderon says. “So, if there’s a reason to have a party, we have a party.”
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Both veterans, Stevan Cunningham, left, is the vice president for marketing com munications, and Benjamin Brown, right, is a mechanic. (Desert Dogs/Submitted)
In fact, the human resources, operations and skilled labor directors all started on the ground level and grew into management positions.
According to Calderon, about half of the employees don’t have a driver’s license, so every morning, they are picked up in the truck and ride to work together. They have a lot of time to talk, and Calderon says a lot of them find it therapeutic.
Once the employees get training and experience under their belt, Calderon says it’s common for them to get job offers from other com panies. Some choose to stay with Desert Dogs — even with lower pay.
a truck doing junk removal for $16 an hour, but they can do training to move up to more skilled labor services, where they can make $23 to $25 an hour.
In addition, Desert Dogs has Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts ev ery year. It also provides fun outings like bowling and ax throwing just to remind everyone that they are valued and appreciated.
The training facility peaked in November 1943, when there were 615 cadets flying an average of two hours a day. Overall, Thun derbird Field II pilots flew nearly 26.5 mil lion miles. A little more than two years later, Thunderbird Field II was closed after the end of TheWWII.airport then had a number of owners, who continued to use it for flight training, un til it was purchased by the city of Scottsdale in 1966 for a whopping price of $100. The Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memo rial is a nonprofit that was founded in 2014 to ensure the area’s history was not left behind.
Scottsdale Airport is fourth in the world for business aviation departures, often chosen as a base for leisure, too, due to its proximity to award-winning resorts, restaurants and championship golf courses. But what many don’t know is that the airport began in 1942 as Thunderbird Field II, with the sole purpose of training WWII Army Air Corp pilots.
“It’s important to know the history here, because it’s people like all of these people, these veterans, it’s because of them that we’re able to talk like this and be free. It’s all about that.”Ziomek was formerly a member of the Scottsdale Airport Advisory Commission and says during monthly meetings he heard frequent complaints about the noise. He thought if residents knew the history of the airport and its contribution to U.S. freedom, then maybe they wouldn’t be so quick to
Board member Nolan de Graaff, left center, says many are unfamiliar with the history of Scottsdale Airport. (Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial/Submitted)
Thunderbird Field II graduated more than 5,500 students, making it one of the largest training facilities in the world, de Graaff says.
Preserving the Past
“I think it’s important to preserve that, be cause if you remove all those remembrances, you’ll never know how or where we’re going. It’s important, too, to have a place for veter ans. They come from near and far to come here and … they sacrificed a lot for us.”
“The intent of having a Thunderbird Field Veterans Memorial is to commemorate the rich history of this field,” says Stephen Ziomek, the memorial’s president and chair man and a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard.
“A lot of people never knew that this was a training ground for WWII and that’s how it actually originated,” says Nolan de Graaff, a board member of the Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial.
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial shares airport’s history BY ALLISON BROWN Sound of Freedom Staff Writer
What is now the Scottsdale Airport was formerly known as Thunderbird Field II, where thousands trained to become WWII Army Air Corp pilots. (Thunderbird Field II Memorial/Submitted)Veterans
24 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 FEATURE
complain.Whena new Aviation Business Center was being built at the Scottsdale Airport in 2018, the organization was in the process of creating a memorial exhibit. Ziomek says the timing worked out perfectly for the Thunderbird Field Veterans Memorial to partner with the city of Scottsdale to create a memorial exhibit there. The centerpiece of this exhibit is a vintage Boeing-Stearman PT17, the exact aircraft used for training Thunderbird Field II, which is hung outside the business center. Ziomek says the plane was manufactured in 1941, and he has records of the plane dating back to 1960. Ziomek flew the antique, open-cockpit plane from its previous location in Arkansas to Scottsdale. The plane was flown a few more times for fundraisers before being retired in 2018 and permanently hung onIndisplay.thesame outdoor courtyard, visitors can learn about various aspects of the aviation industry through two 55-inch touchscreen kiosks that have videos, articles and photo galleries. There is also a monument in honor of all who served and plaques for all of the military services as well as one for the POW/MIA. Inside the business center is the Memorial Wing, which houses original pictures from the ’40s featuring pilots and aircraft and various memorabilia, most of which Ziomek says was donated by veterans or their families.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | Sound of Freedom 25 T H E C I T Y O F L I T C H F I E L D P A R K P R O U D L Y S U P P O R T S L U K E A I R F O R C E B A S E 623 935 9040 litchfield park org F O R T H E S A C R I F I C E S Y O U M A K E A N D T H E R I S K S Y O U T A K E W E T H A N K Y O U
There is also a special tribute to WWII-era Capt. Jerry Yellin, who is known as the last fighter pilot. Ziomek says Yellin flew the last combat mission of WWII, which actually took place about three hours after The focal point of the Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial is a Boeing-Stearman PT-17, the exact type of aircraft used for training during that time. (Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial/Submitted)
The Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memo rial aims to do more than just preserve the past, though. It also offers scholarships.
FEATURE Japan had surrendered. However, due to ra dio malfunctions, Yellin was unaware, hence theYellinnickname.trained at Thunderbird Field II and was invited back to see the memorial.
De Graaff says one of the organization’s biggest fundraisers is Swing Time at the air field each Veterans Day. The event is a throw back to the ’40s, when Thunderbird Field II started, complete with a swing band, WWII memorabilia, Army Jeeps, bagpipers and cos tumes. The evening starts with champagne and hors d’oeuvres outside under the air plane, and moves upstairs for dinner, dancing and an auction. Marshall Trimble, a veteran, Arizonan, historian and author, will be a spe cial guest at this year’s fundraiser. Tickets and sponsorships are available for purchase at the Thunderbird Field II website, tbird2.org.
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial 15000 N. Airport Drive, 480-664-6604Scottsdaletbird2.org
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“We provide six scholarships a year, twoto four-year schools and four- to two-year schools,” Ziomek says. “They have to be Ar izona students going to Arizona colleges and enrolled in some sort of aviation program. We sponsor pilots, mechanics, aviation techni cians, air traffic control, aircraft and airplane management, and airport management.”
Ziomek says Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial organization wanted to be able to provide an actual service to veterans, in ad dition to the memorial. In researching ways to help, Ziomek says he discovered that there are roughly 95,000 veterans in Arizona and a third of them are disabled. Dogs4Vets pro vides lifetime service animal training and support for veterans. To provide these services and maintain the memorial, the organization is always trying to raise money. De Graaff adds that 100% of proceeds go toward the scholarships, Dogs4Vets and preservation of the memori al — the board is completely volunteer-based and there is no payroll.
“The main point of doing this (memorial) is to raise awareness. There’s a lot of people that just don’t even know this exists, and it’s a great way for veterans and people who are descendants of veterans, like myself, to share in the memories,” De Graaff says.
“When we had our first Veterans Day par ty, we invited him out and he was our guest,” Ziomek says. “I flew him in that Stearman airplane, which was neat because his first flight ever was in a Stearman identical to that at this exact airport in 1942. I got to give him his last ride ever; he passed three weeks later.” Yellin’s uniform and hat were donated by the family to the Thunderbird Field II Memo rial, where it remains on display, along with a photo of him in his last ride.
“Secondly, we raise money as an organiza tion to do things like scholarships and sup porting other veterans organizations. Our Swing Time event is a great way for us to bring the community together and raise money for our organization and the preservation of the memorial.”
In addition, the organization financially supports Dogs4Vets, an Arizona nonprofit that helps disabled veterans live a more pro ductive life with the use of service animals.
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Monell also recognized industry partners, MORSCO HVAC/Bush Supply and Smiley Crane Service, whose generous contributions again this year made it possible to run the contest. Cameron Davis, president of Razor Thin Media, will also present a $500 gift card to the winner.
Forrest Anderson Plumbing and Air Conditioning will give away a free AC unit and installation to one deserving veteran or active-duty service member nominated by the public.
OF FREEDOM
AC SOUND STAFF
Temple Beth Shalom of the West
GiveawayHeroMilitary
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The giveaway is open to active-duty military, retired service members, and veterans who were discharged under general or honorable conditions, who own a home in Maricopa County.
orrest Anderson Plumbing and Air Conditioning is sponsoring its seventh annual Military Hero Air Conditioning Giveaway in an effort to honor men and women who bravely served or are currently serving in the U.S.Forrestmilitary.Anderson is a Glendale-based, family-owned business that has served the greater Phoenix metro area since 1961. Its 2022 Military Hero AC Giveaway will share the stories of local Maricopa County military heroes and award one veteran or active-duty service member with a free air conditioning system with installation.
28 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 FEATURE
Since 2016, Forrest Anderson has worked with local partners to sponsor the Military Hero A/C Giveaway each year around Veterans Day because they see the health risks of living without air conditioning in Arizona.
Vet, couldserviceactive-dutymemberreceivefree
“The Military Hero Giveaway is an incredible program,” says Olga Tucker, a U.S. Army veteran and winner of the 2021 Military Hero Giveaway.
“This is our seventh year running the Military Hero Giveaway, and it is still one of my favorite events of the year. It is so encouraging to see our communities rally behind the men and women who serve our country and remind them how appreciated they are.”
Five finalists will be announced Friday, October 14, and the public will be encouraged to vote for a winner daily through the company’s website through October 28. The winner will be announced by Veterans Day, Friday, November 11.
“This summer has been the most comfortable one we’ve had in our home, and our electric bill actually went down. The system has been amazing. We are so grateful for Forrest Anderson Plumbing and AC.”Anyone can nominate a military hero by filling out a short application on the Forrest Anderson website from Thursday, September 1, to Wednesday, September 28. From those nominations, a company panel will select up to five finalists and share their stories on Forrest Anderson’s website and Facebook page. Members of the public can then vote for their favorite from Friday, October 14, through Friday, October 28.
BY
(Forrest Anderson/Submitted)
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The deadline to nominate a veteran is Wednesday, September 28, 2022. Part of the nomination is describing why the nominee should receive a free air conditioning unit, as well as including a photo of the person being nominated. A person may only be nominated one time. The application, official contest rules, eligibility criteria and further information can be found at Forrest Anderson’s website.
Forrest Anderson Plumbing and Air forrestanderson.netConditioning
“My grandfather served in World War II before he started this company, and this is a special way to honor his legacy and recognize the sacrifices veterans have made for our communities,” says Audrey Monell, president of Forrest Anderson.
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During WWII, the unprecedented need for everything from boxer shorts to B-17s to provide troops with the tools to win fell on the shoulders of American workers. (Airbase Arizona Flying Museum/Submitted)
SEE COMING TOGETHER PAGE 32
Winning the manufacturingWWIIvictory
Labor Day has been celebrated in the United States since the late 1800s. But there is one period of American history when workers were not just an important cord in the fabric of the nation. During World War II, they played a vital role in ensuring there would continue to be a nation called America.
BY BILL QUEHRN Airbase Arizona Flying Museum Docent
On December 29, 1940, President Franklin Roosevelt delivered his famous Arsenal of Democracy speech. He called on Americans, many still hesitant to see the United States embroiled in a world war, to roll up their sleeves and start producing war materials to support our allies. That emphasis shifted overnight on December 7, 1941. It was now a fight America could no longer avoid and could not afford to lose.
Of course, it was the combat troops on whose shoulders victory would rest. But the unprecedented need for everything from boxer shorts to B-17s to provide troops with the tools to win fell on the shoulders of American workers.
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With incredible determination and despite enormous sacrifices, workers answered the call. By 1945 American workers had produced 300,000 airplanes, over 87,000 ships, nearly 200,000 tracked and wheel vehicles, over 300,000 artillery pieces, 87 million tons of ordinance, 40 billion
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In January 1942, Roosevelt started cre ating boards and commissions to direct and supervise the bewildering universe of levers and controls needed to make it all happen. Two boards in particular had thunderous impacts on workers. The War Production Board required many companies to immediately stop mak ing consumer products and switch to pro duction of war materials. Led by the range of products made by automobile com panies, firms like Lionel Train Company started making components for warships. A company that made upholstery nails called Mattatuck Manufacturing made cartridge clips for rifles. Frigidaire turned from making refrigerators and freezers to 50-caliber machine guns and aircraft pro pellors. An airplane engine in our muse um’s collection sports an exhaust manifold displaying a Maytag logo, and at least two of our planes were made by car companies.
The other agency that touched every American worker was the Office of Price Administration, the OPA. Price controls were slapped on many products and se vere rationing of food and other staples was ordered for the duration of the war. To pay for it, all workers were urged at every turn to buy war bonds with their defense plant paychecks and salvaging of metal and other useable items was insti tuted. Americans were urged to grow vic tory gardens to provide fresh vegetables, and gasoline was restricted to only a few gallons a Beyondweek.that, changes in the workforce were staggering. With so many men called to military duty, first women and then mi nority, handicapped, aged-out and other wise formerly unemployable people filled countless defense plant jobs. Some 30 mil lion Americans relocated during the war, many from the south to the north and west, creating social and cultural interactions that would have been unimaginable before. That massive movement meant workers had to share cramped living spaces and crowded public transportation in overwhelmed cit ies ill equipped to serve their needs. All that barely touches the whole amazing story. This Labor Day let’s certainly appreciate our workers of today. And then let’s remem ber the sacrifices, struggles and overwhelm ing accomplishments of those workers in WWII who did their share to make sure there would be an America to celebrate La bor Day this year.
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32 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 LUBE, OIL & FILTER $6999 Most cars & light trucks. With coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 11/03/22 +FREE TIRE ROTATION & BRAKE INSPECTION Up To 5Qts Premium Oil, OilFilter & Chassis Lube (If Applicable) ALIGNMENT $20OFF Most cars and light trucks. With coupon Not valid with any other offers. Expires Expires 11/03/22 ON ALIGNMENTANY Insist on Auto Service that is... Guaranteed Nationwide 12 Months or 12,000 Miles ServiceShuttleFREE• Air Conditioning/Service Repair • Batteries and Electrical System • Brake Service • Computerized Diagnostics • Radiators • Scheduled Maintenance • Factory Maintenance • Engine Service • CV and Drive Axles • Transmission Service • Suspension, Shocks & Struts • And Much More! Services We Offer: M-F 8:00am-6:00pm, Closed Sat & Sun SPECIAL OFFER Must present coupon.Does not apply to other specials. Max value $50. Expires Expires 11/03/22 FOR MAINTENANCENON-SCHEDULEDSERVICE Maximum discount $5025%OFF Apply online for financial credit solutions. FullSEEKINGTimeTechs & General ApplyEmployeesServiceinPerson! AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR Coyote If Repairs Done on Same Day Diagnostic Charge Is Reduced 50% DIAGNOSTIC SPECIAL Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 11/03/22 BRAKE SERVICE $50OFF Most cars and light trucks. With coupon Not valid with any other offers. Expires 11/03/22 Per Axle see dealer for details FEATURE rounds of small arms ammunition, plus all the food, medical supplies, uniforms, lo gistics, and countless parts and pieces that eventually overwhelmed enemy forces.
Airbase Arizona Flying Museum is brimming with airplanes, exhibits and stories covering 100 years of military air plane history from WWI to the Vietnam era, and our docents will be happy to en hance your visit with more information about our collection. FROM
COMING TOGETHER
Airbase Arizona at Falcon Field 2017 N. Greenfield Road, Mesa azcaf.org For museum/PX store: 480-924-1940 For rides/flights: 480-462-2992 For admission details, visit the website Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Saturdays
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | Sound of Freedom 33 OUR MISSION Support the men, women, families, and mission of Luke AFB. You can show your support with the F-35 Sound of Freedom custom license plate. https://fightercountry.org/plate Support the men, women, families, and mission of Luke AFB. You can show your support with the F-35 Sound of Freedom custom license plate. OUR MISSION fightercountry.org/plate THANK YOU The City of El Mirage is proud of the steadfast relationship with our neighboring Luke Air Force Base Y O U R S E R V I C E A N D P A R T N E R S H I P A R E A P P R E C I A T E D Mayor Alexis Hermosillo Vice Mayor Monica Dorcey Councilmembers: Roy Delgado Mike Hutchinson Anita Norton David Shapera Donna Winston T HE CIT Y OF GLENDALE THANKS THE BRAVE MEN & WOMEN OF LUKE AFB WE SALUTE THEIR TIRELESS DEDICATION TO SERVING OUR NATION & COMMUNITY. Glendale is proud to be the home of Luke Air Force Base and its mission to train the world’s best fighter pilots!
yan Newman served in the U.S. Army for seven years, including two devastating tours in Iraq. Then, he was medically chaptered and could no longer serve, which is when, Newman says, he “fell apart.” “I went into a really bad depression. For about 16 months, I couldn’t find a job. I just didn’t fit in anymore,” Newman says. “I hit rock bottom. I had been taking all the mental health meds and pain pills. We lost our house, our cars — I felt like a complete failure. I was driving home one day and I tried to kill myself. And I pulled over and thought, ‘What am I doing?’ I needed help.”
Pups and Warriors Side by Side, co-founded by disabled providesveterans,veterans and first responders service dogs at no cost. (P.A.W.S.S./Submitted)
Soldier’s Best Friend P.A.W.S.S. provides free service dogs to veterans and first responders BY ALLISON BROWN Sound of Freedom Staff Writer
The VA suggested a service dog, but Newman couldn’t afford it. A trained service dog costs upward of $70,000. But, he got involved with a local organization that provided service dog training for veterans. “It saved my life,” Newman says. “In the process of it, I realized I wanted to do something else in my life. I fully retired. I wasn’t meant to work anymore, and I just wanted to give back. I was kind of lost. Before, I didn’t have an outlet for anything. I didn’t understand normal society anymore. I didn’t fit in. But I would go to train my dog, and I understood everybody in there.” Realizing how helpful service dogs could be, Newman became certified at animal behavior college and worked with the same organization that supported him for about seven years. Then, COVID-19 hit and things got put on pause. Newman says he wasn’t sure if he wanted to continue training dogs, but his wife, Janna, reminded him that it’s what makes him happy.
34 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022
R
SEE SOLDIER’S BEST FRIEND PAGE 37
Ryan Newman says when he was at rock bottom,medicine nor therapy helped him get his life back liketraining his service dog. (P.A.W.S.S./Submitted)
FEATURE
Veteran Shelby Scalise was trained by Newman when she received her service dog. The two, along with Janna, came together and started their own nonprofit that provides service dog training as well as all the equipment needed to disabled veterans, first responders and their families at no cost. The organization is called Pups and Warriors Side by Side, or P.A.W.S.S., and held its first class in AprilWhen2021.a veteran or first responder comes to the Chandler-based program, Scalise says they discuss their needs. Any dog can be trained and Scalise says, for the most part, people bring their own dog, because a bond is established. The dog already knows its owner’s “baseline,” as Scalise calls it, which makes the dog quicker to understand when something is wrong. However, if someone doesn’t have a dog or if their dog pills. involved and what JanApril Chandler-based when
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 | Sound of Freedom 37 FEATURE doesn’t suit their needs (such as they need help with mobility but have a chihuahua), P.A.W.S.S. has breeders and rescue centers that donate dogs to the program. According to Scalise, it takes eight to 12 months of training for a dog to become certified as an official service dog team. While the American Disability Association only requires one service task to be considered a service animal, P.A.W.S.S. wants four. Dogs trained at P.A.W.S.S. can perform just about any task except serve as a seeing-eye dog, Scalise says. Her service dog, Raven, does compression therapy to help bring her out of nightmares.
SOLDIER’S BEST FRIEND FROM PAGE 34
Dogs trained at P.A.W.S.S. can perform just about any task except serve as a seeing-eye dog. (P.A.W.S.S./Submitted)
“We’re going to have stuff for everyone,” she says. “It’s open to everybody, not just veterans and first responders. And if you think you’ve got the goods, sign up and let’s see how good your brisket is.” ersdler.on-site,”
“When I start having a PTSD outbreak, he does compression therapy where he’ll lay on my chest or legs like a weighted blanket. He alerts me for diabetes. He does bracing, so he helps me on and off the ground when I fall. For mobility, he’s tall enough that I can put my hand on his back when I’m unstable,” Newman says. “He does a perimeter check on my house. When I got home, I couldn’t sleep at night because I was so paranoid that someone was going to come in my house at all times. I taught Gus to actually go outside about every hour on the hour when it starts to get dark outside, he goes out and turns on my solar lights and will bark at me from outside before he runs back inside. And that’s one of the coolest things, because it’s really helped with my sleeping.”Thesupport from P.A.W.S.S. doesn’t stop with certification; the training is lifelong. If someone’s needs change, they can help teach the dog a new skill. If a service dog needs to retire, the organization will provide the handler with a new dog and help them go through the training again.
Newman adds it’s therapeutic just being around like-minded people who are trying to heal. The organization has monthly coffee socials for current and past trainees, and Newman says several people have returned and told him the organization saved their lives.
Bark for Brisket Barbeque Fundraising Competition
INFO: pawss4vets@gmail.compupsnwarriors.com,
“Our passion is giving back. We concentrate mostly on the healing aspects of having a service animal through the training of the animal,” Scalise says. “We’ve seen so many veterans turn around from being suicidal to saying, ‘Hey, I want to do the speaking engagement for you.’ You know, night and day. We’ve seen that, and we’ve been able to provide that security forThethem.”price for a service dog that can do one task starts at around $17,000. Dogs fully trained at P.A.W.S.S. are worth upward of $60,000, according to Scalise. In Newman’s case, he couldn’t afford a house when he needed a service dog. For many veterans or first responders, spending that kind of money isn’t feasible. These people would not have their service dog if not for P.A.W.S.S.Thenonprofit covers these expenses solely through fundraising, donations and grants. This year, its main fundraising event is the Bark for Brisket barbeque competition Sunday, November 13, at Tumbleweed Park in Chandler.“We’ll have two industrial smokers on-site,” Scalise says. “Smoking a brisket takes anywhere from 12 to 15 hours, so the competitors that sign up, they have to provide their own brisket … and they start smoking their brisket at home. Then they finish the last four hours at the park.”
Newman has a variety of health issues that his service dog, Gus, helps him with.
There is a $50 fee to sign up to compete, but everyone gets a little reward. First place will take home $300, second place $200 and third place $100. The top three will also get trophies. Other participants will receive a ribbon and swag bag. Then, it’s time to eat. Scalise says a $10 plate will have brisket (which is donated from the competitors), three sides and a drink. In addition to the food, there will be music played from a veteran DJ who donated his time, a mobile dog groomer that will give out free nail trims, and a variety of other vendors. To help fundraise, P.A.W.S.S. will have T-shirts and other items for sale as well as a Moreraffle.than just raising funds, Scalise says the goal is also just to bring the community together, get the organization’s name out there and raise awareness.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, November 13 WHERE: Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Road Chandler COST: Free admission, $10 for a plate, $50 to compete
38 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 BUSINESS
Cox’s Rachel Aja is passionate about military BY LAURA LATZKO Sound of Freedom
Rachel Aja once served as an hon orary commander for the 310th Fighter Squadron at Luke Air ForceNow,Base.she is tackling a new challenge as the director of government af fairs for Cox’s Southwest region, which in cludes the Phoenix metro area, Southern Ar izona and Southern Nevada. Aja, who started her new role in May, pre viously handled government relations for the state of Arizona. Aja has also served as cochair for the Arizona Technology Council Public Policy Committee. Outside of work, Aja has volunteered for Luke Air Force Base and for the literacy non profit Read Better Be Better.
Rachel Aja is the director of government affairs for Cox’s Southwest region. She previously handled government relations for the state of Arizona. (Cox/Submitted)
Contributing Writer
Longtime supporter She got involved with Luke AFB while working for the Peoria mayor. In her honorary commander role, Aja pro moted the relationship between the military and their communities.
“For me, that meant attending events on base, supporting the fighter squadron, doing what I could to make sure they had what they needed, bringing other community members to events so they could experience it and be ing a liaison for the military members back in the community,” Aja says. She has also assisted retiring military members, helping them to transition and findAjaresources.isalongtime member of the Fighter County Partnership’s Blue Blazer Squadron. Through the squadron, she volunteered at and helped organize events for service mem bers, such as dorm dwellers Christmas par ties and gaming tournaments. In 2020, she was given the Blue Blazer Vol unteer of the Year Award. The following year, she served as the hon orary commander for the 161st Air Refueling
“I think that my freedom as an American is one of the things that I value highest, which leads me to an interest in the military,” she says.“I want to make sure that our military members are taken care of and are made to feel at home, even if it’s only their home for a short period of time. And then second to that and as part of that freedom is the ability to get a great“Beingeducation.ableto help people who may be struggling in that education system or need assistance to get ahead, it makes me really happy to be able to do that. … My mom read to us as children, and that’s something that has always stuck with me.”
Lifelong Supporter SEE LIFELONG SUPPORTER PAGE 40
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“I think that the pandemic really highlighted some of those issues, as people were forced to go to work and school from home during COVID,” Aja says. “Cox has been working with different government entities. As a company, we are funding expansions in the city of Maricopa, the city of Eloy, different areas of Pinal County, Desert Hills.
“When you think of right-of-way policy, that’s in the streets and along the streets, wherever you see power poles or you see somebody digging to put down a communication or water line,” Aja says.
As part of her job, Aja interacts with elected officials and staff mem bers in local jurisdictions. Recently, with election season, she has been meeting with candidates for office.
“A lot of people who are in the private sector haven’t had that public experience,” Aja says.
The
“We work really hard with schools, nonprofits and our government jurisdictional partners to come up with ways that we can make sure that families and individuals that qualify for those programs are able to take advantage of them.”
ConnectAssist offers broadband services to individuals on gov ernment programs, such as those on Social Security or on veterans’ benefits.Coxalso participates in the federal Affordability Connectivity Pro gram, which provides a $30 monthly credit on broadcast services for those who qualify.
“We are creating public-private partnerships. We were just award ed a grant from Yavapai County to build to Black Canyon City and Congress, to communities that don’t have access to high-speed broad band.”Her team is increasing awareness about programs available to low-income individuals. Among those is Connect2Compete, which provides affordable home internet service to eligible families with K-12 students who are on free or reduced lunch.
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Her team is also involved with legislative and municipal activity re lated to right-of-way and business policies.
40 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 BUSINESS
Aja says these positions helped prepare her for her work at Cox.
“That’s considered the right of way. Any work that Cox does in the streets or just outside of the streets is the right-of-way policy that we would be talking about. And business policies include regulations, permitting, taxation, those kinds of things.”
“It gave me a good opportunity to understand a better way to ap proach situations or a better way to frame my proposals. I understand the requirements and the pressures on those government staffers be cause I have been there with them before. It also gave me the opportu nity to build relationships that have been really instrumental to being successful with Cox.”
Before starting with Cox, she worked as the chief of staff for the now-late Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord, and intergovernmental af fairs coordinator and assistant to then-Peoria Mayor Bob Barrett and political consultant to state Sen. Kate Brophy McGee.
West Valley native’s new role Aja has also served as a mentor for Homeless Youth Connection, which helps unhoused children transition when they graduate. Now residing in Phoenix, she grew up in Buckeye in a family with ranching roots. A graduate of Buckeye Union High School, she went on to earn a degree in communications and journalism from the UA. With her new job, Aja will continue to serve her community but in a different way. She is leading Cox’s efforts to expand into new mar kets, which includes bringing services to unserved and underserved communities.Thedigital equity efforts ensure that everyone, regardless of eco nomic status, has access to broadband internet services.
“We meet with them to understand their priorities and to share our vision and our priorities for the community and the government,” Aja says.Aja has been with Cox for six years, starting as manager of govern ment and regulatory affairs. This job was focused on local policy for cities, towns and counties.
“There are a number of people who qualify but may not be taking advantage, either because they’re unaware of them or they have some concerns with those programs,” Aja says.
Wing for the Arizona National Guard. She has always had a deep respect and interest in Luke Air Force Base. As a child, she watched planes from the air force base passing by her “Growinghome.up in the West Valley, I think that it’s hard not to have a real sense of pride for Luke Air Force Base,” she says. “We did field trips there as kids, and we saw the jets flying over. That’s always been a real interest of mine to learn about them and to ensure that the history and the mission remain.”
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GCC assists veterans with a full range of support services
“Veterans can get jobs on campus, as long as they are enrolled as a student with a minimum of six-credit load,” Echeverria says.
Glendale Community College is proud to be the school of choice for such a large population of veterans. It will continue to serve veterans with the same pride that our veterans exhibited when they served the United States.
42 Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 EDUCATION
“We provide academic support and guidance, but we look at all of the needs of veterans and their families. That is why we team up with numerous support organizations, so we can help connect our veteran students to those organizations that can assist with basic needs like employment, food, housing and transportation.”
BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer
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“We understand that the transition can be challenging,” says Elvia Echeverria, manager of the GCC Veterans Services Center.
Veterans and their dependents who utilize the GCC Veteran Services Center can expect a full range of academic support services from the full-time advisers and part-time work study staff.
G
“In fact, the work-study employees in the Veterans Services Center are veterans enrolled at GCC.”
lendale Community College is fully committed to assisting those who have served and sacrificed so much for the nation. For that reason, GCC established the Veterans Services Center soon after the college opened in 1965. In 2010, GCC dedicated a new building to house the Veterans Services Center, which has state-of-the-art computers, a study room and a conferenceAllroom.ofthis was done with the singular goal of serving veterans and their dependents as they navigate their way from military life to civilian life and, more specifically, college life.
The GCC Veterans Services Center is a one-stop shop for veterans who want to improve their life through higher education. GCC provides a wide range of academic opportunities, from certificates of completion to degrees and from refresher classes to getting credits as they work toward transferring to a university, starting a career or climbing the ladder at their current workplace.
The academic advisers in the Veterans Services Center serve the role of VA certifying officials. The advisers assist in planning academic paths, identifying federal and state benefit options, certifying education benefits, and connecting veterans with services, both on campus and the surrounding community.
In addition to active-duty military tuition assistance, the GCC Veterans Services Center services six VA education benefits. They also guide student veterans through degree planning as well as class selection and registration. The academic advisers at the GCC Veterans Services Center are deeply knowledgeable on the countless scholarship and financial aid options that are available to veterans and can guide them on the most appropriate path.
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