We are going through our database updating records. If you registered with GallantFew as a veteran or volunteer, you should receive a message from Heidi K. The link will take you to our Salesforce.com database. It's secure and we appreciate your help!
If you DIDN'T register with GallantFew, what are you waiting for? Whether you are a veteran going through transition, a veteran willing to help another veteran, or a civilian volunteer, do it here!
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
TDRL Address Changes
Received from an AW2 rep. Please share with anyone pending or receiving medical retirement from the US Army.
Hi Friends,
It is critically important to keep the Army updated with your current address, phone number, email… you are TDRL
Do not ignore the letters they send you! If you do you will be dropped from the retirement list. The Army does not attempt to figure out your address at all. One department might have it but it does not matter … the Physical Disability Agency (PDA) is the only agency that will contact you… they do not ask the AW2 branch, or even HRC (Human Resource Command), Not DFAS, nobody… YOU must contact them through the address, or phone number below.
Send change of address information to:
Headquarters,
Physical Disability Agency,
ATTN: TDRL Branch,
2530 Crystal Drive,
Arlington, Virginia 22202;
Or call toll free to 1-855-863-0426;
Or email:usarmy.pentagon.hrc.mbx.usapda-tdrl@mail.mil
I personally would verify that they have the correct information if I were in TDRL status. You have too much to lose!
They are processing these physicals with less delay than in the past…
Monday, April 28, 2014
VA Failure - Where is the national outrage?
Ranger medic veteran Leo Jenkins published this blog post over the weekend. It deserves your time, especially note the unacceptable delay for his treatment at the VA in Colorado.
About a month ago, Ranger Up published this video: The Wizard of VA
There is a major problem in the VA. Veterans are dying waiting for care, and the system is so overwhelmed it can't handle the volume. Rather than admit it can't handle the volume and ask for help through local medical centers, the VA hides secret waiting lists they are not permitted to maintain. I experienced it myself at the Robert J. Dole Regional VA Hospital in Wichita Kansas a few years ago. They couldn't schedule me an appointment within two weeks, so they said they "would call me back when they could schedule an appointment within two weeks". "So you're putting me on a waiting list" says I. "Oh no, we aren't allowed to have waiting lists" was the response.
So how do you know to call me when you can schedule me within the next two weeks, unless you have a waiting list?
Vietnam Veterans have long claimed the VA's unofficial motto is "Delay, deny until you die". A quick google search this morning turned up this piece, from 2010.
Veterans die awaiting benefits - from 2012
Here's a story about a widow and her deceased husband's struggle with the VA - from 2013.
These are all different VA's, with the same result. Dead Veterans, unresolved or ignored, or lost, claims.
The VA continues to assert that claims processing time and pending claims are being reduced, the latest aptly enough released on April 1st.
But the VA doesn't talk about the backlog created by the appeal of denied claims.
Sadly enough, it seems the Nation little understands, or cares about the terrible treatment of and injustice done to our Veterans. There should be a national outcry, demanding the system be fixed - truly fixed, not pencil-drilled.
Want to fix this quickly? Close every VA care facility and allow Veterans to have their service-connected condition treated by a local medical facility, similarly to private health insurance.
Until that happens, we Veterans have to take care of ourselves. Check out this piece written about a Marine transitioning:
I was hoping to save this content for the book I am finishing on the process of exiting the military after years of war to reclaim your position in society, however my tea kettle has just officially boiled over. First, let us start with one of the most contemptuous things to be hurled at a soldier since the advent of the grenade - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Like most of my fellow war fighters I despise this term. The term "disorder" doesn't just imply that there is something tangibly wrong with you; it flat out states it. This in and of its self has been reason enough for many veterans to avoid seeking help. Sadly, the hurdles do not cease with nomenclature. The negative stigma of being labeled as having a disorder has kept countless veterans away from mental health facilities resulting in self-medicating in the form of drugs and alcohol. read moreCNN published this piece last week. A fatal wait: Veterans languish and die on a VA hospital's secret list.
About a month ago, Ranger Up published this video: The Wizard of VA
There is a major problem in the VA. Veterans are dying waiting for care, and the system is so overwhelmed it can't handle the volume. Rather than admit it can't handle the volume and ask for help through local medical centers, the VA hides secret waiting lists they are not permitted to maintain. I experienced it myself at the Robert J. Dole Regional VA Hospital in Wichita Kansas a few years ago. They couldn't schedule me an appointment within two weeks, so they said they "would call me back when they could schedule an appointment within two weeks". "So you're putting me on a waiting list" says I. "Oh no, we aren't allowed to have waiting lists" was the response.
So how do you know to call me when you can schedule me within the next two weeks, unless you have a waiting list?
Vietnam Veterans have long claimed the VA's unofficial motto is "Delay, deny until you die". A quick google search this morning turned up this piece, from 2010.
Veterans die awaiting benefits - from 2012
Here's a story about a widow and her deceased husband's struggle with the VA - from 2013.
These are all different VA's, with the same result. Dead Veterans, unresolved or ignored, or lost, claims.
The VA continues to assert that claims processing time and pending claims are being reduced, the latest aptly enough released on April 1st.
But the VA doesn't talk about the backlog created by the appeal of denied claims.
Sadly enough, it seems the Nation little understands, or cares about the terrible treatment of and injustice done to our Veterans. There should be a national outcry, demanding the system be fixed - truly fixed, not pencil-drilled.
Want to fix this quickly? Close every VA care facility and allow Veterans to have their service-connected condition treated by a local medical facility, similarly to private health insurance.
Until that happens, we Veterans have to take care of ourselves. Check out this piece written about a Marine transitioning:
It may not seem like much, but sometimes a casual conversation can be the start of a journey towards healing. After 4 combat deployments, 3 in Afghanistan and 1 in Iraq, George found the transition adjusting to life stateside a little more challenging than the other times he came home. Nightmares, fits of rage, disproportionate emotional responses and flashbacks had become common but certainly not welcome parts of his life. As he was recovering from an IED rollover incident and assigned to a new unit, he met Alex. It was the genuine support from Alex that ultimately was going to be just what he needed; knowing that he could share and not be judged. Stopping by to chat one day turned into a long discussion that allowed both men to share their experiences and common struggles. Seeing where he needed guidance to work through his post-traumatic stress was a gateway to a new life with a hope of recovery and a brighter, happier future...read more.
The hope for our Veterans lies not in the VA system, it lies in community. The community of local Veterans helping each other. Get involved.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Invisible Wound and the National Gulf War Resource Center
Today's TNAV featured Diana Veseth-Nelson of Invisible Wound and Ronald Brown of the National Gulf War Resource Center. Watch here (or below) or listen here! You can also find the show in the iTunes podcast directory (search GallantFew).
Diana talks about her personal experience as spouse of a soldier with PTSD (we also had a great discussion about whether "D" should be dropped). This is one dynamite gal who has the bravery and personality to take the challenges she and her husband face and share them with us, while working to raise awareness and make things better for others.
Following that, Karl spoke with Ronald Brown about his campaign to get certain symptoms recognized by the Secretary of the VA as presumptive. Ronald has posted templates of letters at this link, all you need to do is download, add your signature block and drop it in the mail.
Be sure and "Like" the TNAV Facebook page so you can stay up on the latest.
Diana talks about her personal experience as spouse of a soldier with PTSD (we also had a great discussion about whether "D" should be dropped). This is one dynamite gal who has the bravery and personality to take the challenges she and her husband face and share them with us, while working to raise awareness and make things better for others.
Following that, Karl spoke with Ronald Brown about his campaign to get certain symptoms recognized by the Secretary of the VA as presumptive. Ronald has posted templates of letters at this link, all you need to do is download, add your signature block and drop it in the mail.
Watch TNAV now!
Dear Veteran, (a message from the VA)
I could save you the effort of reading this entire message by merely posting the link to the new employment site, but where's the fun in that? km
Dear Veteran,
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is working to improve the job seeking capabilities of both Veterans and Employers. The new Employment Center on eBenefits provides Veterans, Servicemembers and their beneficiaries with a seamless career search experience that connects with public and private-sector employers. This new tool integrates functionality previously found inVetSuccess.va.gov and the Veterans Job Bank.
Because the tools available on VetSuccess.va.gov have now been integrated into the new, seamless career experience available at the Employment Center, the VetSuccess.va.gov website will only be available for a limited time longer.
( *The link for Vetsuccess.va.gov access has also been relocated and can now be accessed by visiting the Employment Center, clicking Job Seeker Resources and Services, and selecting Partnered Resources.)
In the new Employment Center, you can use the Skills Translator to translate your military skills to civilian skills or skip directly to building a resume with the Resume Builder tool. Uploaded resumes will be seen by both private and public sector employers who are specifically looking to hire Veterans. Please, visit www.ebenefits.va.gov and click on the Employment Center tab on the top navigation bar to create your resume. This will ensure that employers looking to hire Veterans like you continue to have access to your resume online.
If you need any assistance with this process, you can find contact information on eBenefits, under Contact Us. VA encourages all job seekers to check out the new Employment Center and create a resume today!
Very Respectfully,
Department of Veterans Affairs
Veterans Benefits Administration
Office of Economic Opportunity
Employment Team
OK, OK. Here's the link: https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/jobs
|
Monday, April 21, 2014
TNAV with Invisible Wound Executive Director Diana Veseth-Nelson April 23rd 2014
The New American Veteran on Vets On Media is live again this week!
This Wednesday's show features an interview with Diana Veseth-Nelson, Executive Director of the 501(c)3 Invisible Wound.
Diana's bio:
Diana Veseth-Nelson, a Military Spouse and Veterans advocate, is a non-profit professional with experience in executive management and program development. Her husband, Army Captain (RET) Adrian Veseth-Nelson returned from combat a decorated hero with three bronze stars for Valor, and a thousand yard stare. Discovering a desperate and shared need in the Veteran community to provide a voice for those suffering from the invisible wounds of war, they founded Invisible Wound. A rising advocate of Veterans and their families, she has been involved in several speaking engagements and panel discussions as an expert on the topic. These include participation in several PTSD focused documentaries, participation in panels for the Mental Health Alliance, Theatre of War, Military Pathways and an expert witness at a 2012 congressional hearing. As Executive Director of Invisible Wound, Diana’s focus is to work on healing, reconnection and relief for those suffering in silence. Invisible Wound is currently working towards implementing a retreat and continued care model, providing Veterans and their families with real solutions for treating the Veteran and the families of those who served.
This Wednesday's show features an interview with Diana Veseth-Nelson, Executive Director of the 501(c)3 Invisible Wound.
Diana's bio:
Diana Veseth-Nelson, a Military Spouse and Veterans advocate, is a non-profit professional with experience in executive management and program development. Her husband, Army Captain (RET) Adrian Veseth-Nelson returned from combat a decorated hero with three bronze stars for Valor, and a thousand yard stare. Discovering a desperate and shared need in the Veteran community to provide a voice for those suffering from the invisible wounds of war, they founded Invisible Wound. A rising advocate of Veterans and their families, she has been involved in several speaking engagements and panel discussions as an expert on the topic. These include participation in several PTSD focused documentaries, participation in panels for the Mental Health Alliance, Theatre of War, Military Pathways and an expert witness at a 2012 congressional hearing. As Executive Director of Invisible Wound, Diana’s focus is to work on healing, reconnection and relief for those suffering in silence. Invisible Wound is currently working towards implementing a retreat and continued care model, providing Veterans and their families with real solutions for treating the Veteran and the families of those who served.
Here's an interview with Diana and her husband on Imus in the Morning (video).
Invisible Wound on Facebook
Invisible Wound on Twitter
Invisible Wound on Facebook
Invisible Wound on Twitter
If you have any questions you'd like me to ask Diana, please email them to me before the show.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
This Easter Sunday - Special Significance in Marauder History
UPDATE APRIL 21 2014. Received word from the family that this morning Roy Matsumoto passed away peacefully in his sleep. His 101st birthday is May 1st. Rest easy, Ranger. km
~~~~
Received this morning. RLTW km
FYI --- Just wanted to share the following email I sent to my fellow Merrill's Marauders Proud Descendants board members about the significance of this Easter Sunday to Marauder history (actual date of Nphum Ga rescue was April 9, 1944 - but this is the 70th Easter Sunday.) It also includes two of the working Power Point Anets I did for the National Ranger Memorial Foundation's email newsletter, the Anet..
Hope you all have a Happy Easter!!
Jonnie Melillo Clasen
MMPD Liaison Officer
~~~~~
Hello all,
This is the "70th Easter Sunday anniversary" of Merrill's Marauders 2nd BN being rescued after they were surrounded for almost two weeks by the Japanese at the Battle of Nphum Ga. Among those left from the second battalion, Daddy - Vincent Melillo - and Roy Matsumoto come to mind. I hope there are more. We all know what an important role Roy, who turns 101 May 1, played at the bitter Battle of Nphum Ga. Daddy, who had been friends with his Nphum Ga foxhole buddy Eddie Eiskant for four years, still remembers the meal airdropped to them Easter Sunday after they were rescued --- fried chicken and bread, which he said was the best meal they'd had in a long time.
Our Sunday "breakfast bunch" here in Columbus, Ga., (which includes Ericka Loze-Hudson, director of Ft. Benning's Donovan Research Library, who some of you know from our reunions) will all be at Ft. Benning's Easter Sunday brunch. Daddy doesn't know it, but we're going to present him with a special cake with the Merrill's Marauder patch saying it's the "70th Easter Sunday anniversary" of the 2nd BN being rescued at Nphum Ga. Ericka's "magic baker" made the cake.
Below is a letter I sent out in December 2011 as editor of the National Ranger Memorial Foundation's email newsletter, the Anet. It was written in 1944 by then 1st LT Logan Weston to the mother of Dan Carrigan telling her how her son died fighting his way up the trail with the 3rd BN to rescue the 2nd BN at Nphum Ga. That letter was brought by Carrigan's niece, Mary Miceli, to a moving December 2011 ceremony held by 1st Ranger Battalion in Savannah honoring the families of 31 Marauders killed in action whose awards were not ever presented to their families. Carrigan was one of those. That ceremony would not have happened and that letter probably wouldn't have ever become available to us if it weren't for the tireless efforts of our Marauder spokesman, historian and editor of the "Burman News," Bob Passanisi. Working with the awards and decorations branch at Ft. Knox, Bob was able to bring to fruition a decades-long effort to present medals and awards to the 31 Marauder families who had not ever received them.
For this "70th Easter Sunday anniversary," let us be thankful for those Marauders who made it off the hill at Nphum Ga and be forever grateful for the heroism of the many who died "along the trail." We can also remember the lives of the many China Burma India veterans who are no longer here.
Take care - Jonnie Melillo Clasen
MMPD Liaison Officer
FYI - LT Logan's letter - below - is part of the digitized historical documents at Ft. Benning's Donovan Research Library
Please read the Anet I did that follows the Carrigan letter, since it is related to another 70th Marauder anniversary that will happen this year. On May 23, Bob Passanisi will be the guest speaker at an Arlington National Cemetery memorial service honoring the lives of the seven-man C-47 airplane crew (including three Marauders) who crashed 70 years ago - May 23, 1944 - in Burma while resupplying the Marauders. Those men were Missing In Action until their remains were located and positively identified before they were interred at Arlington in July 2010.
~~~~
Received this morning. RLTW km
FYI --- Just wanted to share the following email I sent to my fellow Merrill's Marauders Proud Descendants board members about the significance of this Easter Sunday to Marauder history (actual date of Nphum Ga rescue was April 9, 1944 - but this is the 70th Easter Sunday.) It also includes two of the working Power Point Anets I did for the National Ranger Memorial Foundation's email newsletter, the Anet..
Hope you all have a Happy Easter!!
Jonnie Melillo Clasen
MMPD Liaison Officer
~~~~~
Hello all,
This is the "70th Easter Sunday anniversary" of Merrill's Marauders 2nd BN being rescued after they were surrounded for almost two weeks by the Japanese at the Battle of Nphum Ga. Among those left from the second battalion, Daddy - Vincent Melillo - and Roy Matsumoto come to mind. I hope there are more. We all know what an important role Roy, who turns 101 May 1, played at the bitter Battle of Nphum Ga. Daddy, who had been friends with his Nphum Ga foxhole buddy Eddie Eiskant for four years, still remembers the meal airdropped to them Easter Sunday after they were rescued --- fried chicken and bread, which he said was the best meal they'd had in a long time.
Rangers Schlitz and Melillo, July 2011
Our Sunday "breakfast bunch" here in Columbus, Ga., (which includes Ericka Loze-Hudson, director of Ft. Benning's Donovan Research Library, who some of you know from our reunions) will all be at Ft. Benning's Easter Sunday brunch. Daddy doesn't know it, but we're going to present him with a special cake with the Merrill's Marauder patch saying it's the "70th Easter Sunday anniversary" of the 2nd BN being rescued at Nphum Ga. Ericka's "magic baker" made the cake.
Below is a letter I sent out in December 2011 as editor of the National Ranger Memorial Foundation's email newsletter, the Anet. It was written in 1944 by then 1st LT Logan Weston to the mother of Dan Carrigan telling her how her son died fighting his way up the trail with the 3rd BN to rescue the 2nd BN at Nphum Ga. That letter was brought by Carrigan's niece, Mary Miceli, to a moving December 2011 ceremony held by 1st Ranger Battalion in Savannah honoring the families of 31 Marauders killed in action whose awards were not ever presented to their families. Carrigan was one of those. That ceremony would not have happened and that letter probably wouldn't have ever become available to us if it weren't for the tireless efforts of our Marauder spokesman, historian and editor of the "Burman News," Bob Passanisi. Working with the awards and decorations branch at Ft. Knox, Bob was able to bring to fruition a decades-long effort to present medals and awards to the 31 Marauder families who had not ever received them.
For this "70th Easter Sunday anniversary," let us be thankful for those Marauders who made it off the hill at Nphum Ga and be forever grateful for the heroism of the many who died "along the trail." We can also remember the lives of the many China Burma India veterans who are no longer here.
Take care - Jonnie Melillo Clasen
MMPD Liaison Officer
FYI - LT Logan's letter - below - is part of the digitized historical documents at Ft. Benning's Donovan Research Library
Please read the Anet I did that follows the Carrigan letter, since it is related to another 70th Marauder anniversary that will happen this year. On May 23, Bob Passanisi will be the guest speaker at an Arlington National Cemetery memorial service honoring the lives of the seven-man C-47 airplane crew (including three Marauders) who crashed 70 years ago - May 23, 1944 - in Burma while resupplying the Marauders. Those men were Missing In Action until their remains were located and positively identified before they were interred at Arlington in July 2010.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
The Spartan Race, Legion OTG and Hope for the Warriors on TNAV April 16 2014
This week on The New American Veteran talk show:
Anne Barnwell, the Senior Director for Communications of Hope for the Warriors joins Karl in the TNAV Studio.
We'll get Joe De Sena, Founder and CEO of the Spartan Race on the line to talk about his new book being released soon, "Spartan Up!: A Take-No-Prisoners Guide to Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Peak Performance." I love this quote by Joe:
Following our conversation with Joe, we'll call up Legion Operator Training Group to talk about Legion and an upcoming Turkey Hunt they are holding to benefit Hope for the Warriors.
The Youtube episode of today's show - click to watch
Anne Barnwell, the Senior Director for Communications of Hope for the Warriors joins Karl in the TNAV Studio.
Anne Barnwell
We'll get Joe De Sena, Founder and CEO of the Spartan Race on the line to talk about his new book being released soon, "Spartan Up!: A Take-No-Prisoners Guide to Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Peak Performance." I love this quote by Joe:
"Death is the price we pay for life, so make it worth it."
Spartan Race Founder and CEO Joe De Sena
Following our conversation with Joe, we'll call up Legion Operator Training Group to talk about Legion and an upcoming Turkey Hunt they are holding to benefit Hope for the Warriors.
Legion Operator Training Group Promo Video
While you're waiting, go watch the broadcast Karl did at Best Ranger Competition last Friday evening.
Karl interviewed these Rangers: COL (Ret) Tex Turner - former Commander of Ranger School, 1SG (Ret) Bill Block - original 1SG of Co B 2/75, Tom Amenta - COO of Ranger Up, MAJ (Ret) Marc Messerschmidt - winner of the 2000 Best Ranger Competition, CSM (Ret) Dennis Smith - first CSM of the STB, former CSM of RTB and now small business owner, LTG (Ret) David L. Grange - WWII, Korea and Vietnam, former Commander of the Ranger Department and the namesake of the Best Ranger Competition, and SFC (Ret) Mike Schlitz - one of the most inspirational soldiers you'll ever see.
We're looking for a veteran in the Dallas/Fort Worth area interested in helping run the sound board on TNAV! Let Karl know if you are interested.
Check out this sticker by Ranger S5. It contains the names of every 75th Ranger Regiment combat casualty. Ranger S5 is donating proceeds of the sale to GallantFew. Hurry though, limited edition and only this week!
Check out this sticker by Ranger S5. It contains the names of every 75th Ranger Regiment combat casualty. Ranger S5 is donating proceeds of the sale to GallantFew. Hurry though, limited edition and only this week!
And don't forget - tomorrow night is the TUF Nations Finale: Bisping and Kennedy. Watch today's faceoff!
Monday, April 14, 2014
Did Meriwether Lewis (Lewis & Clark) Have PTS?
Boone Cutler sent this to me last month, I'm behind on messages but catching up. km
Meriwether Lewis, 35 years old and back from a deployment for only two years, committed suicide alone in a room far from home.
DID MERIWETHER LEWIS HAVE PTSD?
After studying the Lewis and Clark expedition I'm convinced by the evidence that Lewis (a Warfighter prior to the expedition) had PTSD.
Lewis, after the war, battled alcohol and depression until he was tasked out by President Jefferson to find the NW Passage. During that mission, equal to landing on the moon, he was a leader.
He was fine when he had a mission.
After he returned from the expedition his problem was again "alcohol and depression", he tried to marry several times but never did, he never followed through on his memoir of the expedition and he used morphine and opium for a long time allegedly for malaria.
On the night he died, he told people he was waiting on Clark while staying at a place far from home following a recent thwarted suicide attempt.
Clark had no meeting planned so it appears Lewis was reaching out for his Battle Buddy.
WE MUST ALL MAINTAIN A BATTLE BUDDY AND A MISSION. LIVE WITHOUT REMORSE.
TAKE THE SPARTAN PLEDGE
All the way, Boone
Written: March 14, 2014
Karl's note. Interesting when I pulled the links for this article, I saw a quote by Clark that could sum up virtually every instance of veteran suicide today:
Meriwether Lewis, 35 years old and back from a deployment for only two years, committed suicide alone in a room far from home.
DID MERIWETHER LEWIS HAVE PTSD?
After studying the Lewis and Clark expedition I'm convinced by the evidence that Lewis (a Warfighter prior to the expedition) had PTSD.
Lewis, after the war, battled alcohol and depression until he was tasked out by President Jefferson to find the NW Passage. During that mission, equal to landing on the moon, he was a leader.
He was fine when he had a mission.
After he returned from the expedition his problem was again "alcohol and depression", he tried to marry several times but never did, he never followed through on his memoir of the expedition and he used morphine and opium for a long time allegedly for malaria.
On the night he died, he told people he was waiting on Clark while staying at a place far from home following a recent thwarted suicide attempt.
Clark had no meeting planned so it appears Lewis was reaching out for his Battle Buddy.
WE MUST ALL MAINTAIN A BATTLE BUDDY AND A MISSION. LIVE WITHOUT REMORSE.
TAKE THE SPARTAN PLEDGE
Written: March 14, 2014
Karl's note. Interesting when I pulled the links for this article, I saw a quote by Clark that could sum up virtually every instance of veteran suicide today:
"Clark had also observed his companion’s melancholy states. “I fear the weight of his mind has overcome him,” he wrote after receiving word of Lewis’s fate."Read more: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/meriwether-lewis-mysterious-death-144006713/#Hi6LKEwMFdJ1oA4b.99
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Jobs!
We're not the contact, merely the messenger - dig that out of the job listed below. km
Recruiting Senior Situational Awareness (SAT) Trainers.
Recruiting Senior Situational Awareness (SAT) Trainers.
This is a mobile training team, they would travel and teach throughout CONUS and some OCONUS locations.
Need resume by 4/20/14
Candidates for this multi-year contract should possess the following skills and experience:
*Experience in the delivery of military instruction (Army Basic Instructor Course [ABIC] certified preferred).
*Demonstrate expertise in writing and speaking the English language, with an emphasis on speaking publicly to both large and small groups. Must be able to share stories related to combat and/or law enforcement experience.
*Demonstrate an ability to lead small-group instruction.
*Demonstrate proficiency in the use of automatic data processing (ADP) equipment and standard desktop publishing software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite), as to prepare briefing materials.
*Demonstrate expert knowledge of human behavior pattern recognition and analysis and situational awareness methodology.
*Successfully complete a training curriculum in behavioral profiling (e.g., the SAT course, United States Marine Corps [USMC] Combat Hunter course, etc.).
*One year of experience as an SAT senior instructor.
*Experience as a leading expert in the SAT field.
*Graduate/experience in Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT), Ammunition Handler, and/or Range Safety Officer.
*Combat experience that meets the following criteria:
o At least 5 years of service in Special Operations Forces, EOD, Infantry, Military Intelligence, or Military Police branches of the Army (or other service equivalent).
o Mission focused SOF combat service in support of full-spectrum operations that includes patrolling, surveillance, reconnaissance, key leader engagement, and/or humanitarian aid.
*Law Enforcement Experience that meets at least one of the following criteria:
o Certified law enforcement professional with a verifiable record of continuing personal and professional development (e.g., Field Training Officer [FTO], Special Weapons and Tactics [SWAT], Narcotics, Street Crimes, Police Training Officer [PTO], specialty schools, working as a member of a task force, etc.)
o Federal agent with experience working felony cases at the street level (e.g., violent crimes, gang unit, narcotics unit, homicide, Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations [RICO] cases, etc.) and with a verifiable record of continuing personal and professional development.
please send resume to lucy@military-civilian.com with job title and location in the subject line
==============================
Please visit F3EA.com for job opportunities. Look at the jobs tab for 21 job opportunities of various requirements. Send resumes to tsatterly@f3ea.com as soon as possible as the higher paying jobs will go fast.
Thomas Satterly
VP / Tactics and Training
F3EA
Find Fix Finish Exploit Analyze
==============================
Send resumes to: pat.savidge@droptestllc.com
2.2.12(U) Sustainment (Logistics, Acquisition, and Resource Management) Subject Matter Expert:
(U) Position Description. Subject Matter Expert on developing logistics, acquisition and resource management capabilities in the MoD and MoI to properly manage, acquire and maintain equipment, facilities and support infrastructure that meets the Afghan National Army’s (ANA’s) and Afghan National Police’s (ANP’s) operational requirements.
Principle Duties:
- Acts as the COMISAF Advisory and Assistance Team Subject Matter Expert on the actions of the Director of Acquisition, Technology, Logistics and Weapons, AMoD ATL.
- Provides support and expert advice in the areas of security assistance, international donations, and government to government official communication for policy, programs and procedures necessary to build and sustain the ANA and ANP using security assistance programs and international donations post 2014.
- The incumbent may be called upon to participate in or lead Organizational Product Teams (OPTs) and delegations, in solving logistics challenges, as well as, routinely partner and interact with International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), and Headquarters International Security Assistance Force Joint Command (IJC) counterparts to synchronize and coordinate advising efforts.
(U) Minimum Experience/Qualifications.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a high profile post within an Acquisition or Logistics section of a 3 or 4-star headquarters
- Experience within a joint, interagency, multinational environment
- Understanding of the regional, political and cultural context of Afghanistan
- Motivated and have a high level of initiative, tact and diplomacy and interpersonal interaction skills
- Capable of operating in a culturally and religiously diverse environment and be sensitive to the Afghan peoples they serve with
- Highly Desirable: Acquisition/Logistics or Finance Level 2 certification
- Master’s Degree in Business or other related field to Acquisition and Logistics
- War College Equivalent Graduate (in-residence graduate required)
- Eligible for Secret Clearance
==============================
CHSi is seeking Pharmacy Specialist for Iraq
Tracking Code 714-120
This position is notional and will be filled upon future openings
Job Description
The Medical Services Support in Iraq (MSSI) Program Manager establishes a clinically safe and professionally managed healthcare environment and provides primary health care as well as resuscitative surgical care in accordance with U.S. or equivalent medical standards on a 24-hour basis, 365 days of the year to Chief of Mission (COM) personnel U.S. Embassy Baghdad, serving a population of approximately 14,000 adults.
SCOPE:
The Pharmacy Technician reports to the Deputy Program Manager and will be supervised while performing field work by a site medical director.
The Pharmacy Technician will deliver services in one of three settings: (1) Field Health Unit, (2) Small medical/trauma hospitals, (3) Large medical/trauma hospital and assists in the treatment of patients by dispensing drugs and related medical supplies under the direction of a physician.
Pharmacy technician is a staff member who works under the direct supervision of a licensed Physician or Surgeon or other authorized health care professional, and performs many pharmacy-related functions. Job duties include dispensing prescription drugs and other health care products to patients. Pharmacy technicians assist the pharmacists to participate and develop extended clinical pharmacy roles, such as independent prescribing by site Medical Directors and other licensed staff. A key role is ensuring the security of prescription drugs and pharmaceuticals and control of the pharmacy inventory.
All services shall be provided in accordance with established standards, principles and ethics of the profession, applicable professional specialty organizations, and the high-quality standard for which CHS is recognized
This position is notional and will be filled upon future openings.
REQUIRED CERTIFICATION, QUALIFICATIONS, AND EXPERIENCE:
Must have completed a formal Pharmacy Technician training program leading to a diploma, certificate or an associate’s degree.
U.S. Military Pharmacy technical school training certification (4P0X1, 68Q, or HM-8482) will also fulfill this requirement.
Must be registered in any state and/or be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ICPT).
Candidates who have completed an 'externship' in a pharmacy are desirable.
Two years’ experience as a Pharmacy Technician is required.
Must have and maintain current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
All health care providers and medical support staff must have recent clinical experience in patient care for at least 6 months out of the past year
This position is notional and will be filled upon future openings
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
Helps prepare prescription medications.
Receives prescription requests.
Retrieves, pours, counts, weighs, measures, and sometimes mixes medication.
Performs administrative functions such as answering phones and stocking shelves.
Prepares prescription labels, selects the type of container, and affixes the prescription and auxiliary labels to the container.
Once the prescription is filled, files the prescription, which must be checked by a pharmacist before it is given to the patient.
Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules and regulations.
OTHER DUTIES:
All Health Care Providers (HCPs) will document care delivered and follow up care required.
Attends and participates in a variety of meetings and task force groups to improve quality and outcomes, communicate issues, obtain approvals, resolve problems and maintain specific level of knowledge pertaining to new developments, new task efforts, and new policy requirements.
Shall understand and practice the precepts of the American Hospital Associations Bill of Rights for patients
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Pharmacy Specialists will require a favorably adjudicated Moderate Risk Public Trust (MRPT) investigation conducted by the Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security;
All Pharmacy Technicians will sign a CHS MSSI Foreign Service Agreement (FSA) and is bound to the terms and conditions of the FSA.
The normal workweek is established by the DoS Chief of Mission.
The following requirements apply to Pharmacy Technicians:
Shall be licensed/certificated in the United States
Participate in training, (including HIPAA training) that may be required by DOS or CHS prior to deployment to Iraq.
Must complete a Foreign Affairs Counter Terrorism training course prior to deployment to Iraq for work on the MSSI contract. Training will include: Combat First Aid, Weapons Familiarization, Defensive Tactics/Driving, IED recognition, Surveillance Detection and Hostage Survival and Personnel Recovery
Must have a valid, current U.S. Driver’s License
Must have a current U.S. Passport
Shall be proficient in the ability to speak, write and communicate in English.
Shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of basic word processing programs and the CHS Medical Management System software.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be confirmed by a medical examination to be medically and dentally fit in accordance with DOS requirements for service in Iraq
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment; travel in Iraq is required by surface or air;
The climate is desert-like, hot, and prone to dust storms.
Position Type Full-Time/Regular
Employment Type Full time Regular
please send resume to lucy@military-civilian.com with job title and location in the subject line
==============================
Pharmacy Specialist
Tracking Code
2500-120
Job Description
The Department of State (DOS) and the Department of Defense (DOD) will complete a transition from DOD-led U.S. presence in Afghanistan to a DOS-led U.S. presence under the The Afghanistan Life Support Services (AliSS) contract. The ALiSS establishes a clinically safe and professionally managed healthcare environment and provides primary health care as well as resuscitative surgical care in accordance with U.S. or equivalent medical standards on a 24-hour basis, 365 days of the year to Chief of Mission (COM) personnel in Afghanistan.
This position is notional to contract award.
Required Skills
SCOPE:
The Pharmacy Technician reports to the Deputy Program Manager and will be supervised while performing field work by a site medical director.
The Pharmacy Technician will deliver services in one of three settings: (1) Field Health Unit, (2) Small medical/trauma hospitals, (3) Large medical/trauma hospital and assists in the treatment of patients by dispensing drugs and related medical supplies under the direction of a physician.
Pharmacy technician is a staff member who works under the direct supervision of a licensed Physician or Surgeon or other authorized health care professional, and performs many pharmacy-related functions. Job duties include dispensing prescription drugs and other health care products to patients. Pharmacy technicians assist the pharmacists to participate and develop extended clinical pharmacy roles, such as independent prescribing by site Medical Directors and other licensed staff. A key role is ensuring the security of prescription drugs and pharmaceuticals and control of the pharmacy inventory.
All services shall be provided in accordance with established standards, principles and ethics of the profession, applicable professional specialty organizations, and the high-quality standard for which CHS is recognized.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education
Must have completed a formal Pharmacy Technician training program leading to a diploma, certificate or an associate’s degree.
U.S. Military Pharmacy technical school training certification (4P0X1, 68Q, or HM-8482) will also fulfill this requirement.
Experience
Two years’ experience as a Pharmacy Technician is required.
Job Specific Qualifications and Requirements
Hold and maintain a current unrestricted U.S. (State) license
Have and maintain current certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
All health care providers and medical support staff must have recent clinical experience in patient care for at least 6 months out of the past year.
Additional duties:
All Health Care Providers (HCPs) will document care delivered and follow up care required.
Attends and participates in a variety of meetings and task force groups to improve quality and outcomes, communicate issues, obtain approvals, resolve problems and maintain specific level of knowledge pertaining to new developments, new task efforts, and new policy requirements.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Must have a valid, current U.S. Driver’s License
Must have a current U.S. Passport.
Requires a favorably adjudicated Moderate Risk Public Trust (MRPT) investigation conducted by the Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security.
Must sign a CHS Foreign Service Agreement (FSA) and is bound to the terms and conditions of the FSA.
Shall complete a one week Foreign Affairs Counter Terrorism training course prior to deployment to work on the contract. Training will include: Combat First Aid, Weapons Familiarization, Defensive Tactics/Driving, IED recognition, Surveillance Detection and Hostage Survival and Personnel Recovery
Shall be proficient in the ability to speak, write and communicate in English.
Shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of basic word processing programs and the CHS Medical Management System software.
The normal workweek is established by the DoS Chief of Mission.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be confirmed by a medical examination to be medically and dentally fit in accordance with DOS requirements for service in Iraq
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment; travel in Iraq is required by surface or air;
The climate is desert-like, hot, and prone to dust storms.
Job Location
Afghanistan, , Afghanistan
Position Type
Full-Time/Regular
Employment Type
Full time Regular
please send resume to lucy@military-civilian.com with job title and location in the subject line
==============================
Walsingham Group is seek Sr. Multimedia Explotation Specialists. Location AFG.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Walsingham Group, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, is a premier service
provider of operational support and training to our Government clients.
With extensive backgrounds and recent relevant experience in Special Operations, Intelligence
and Homeland Security, our professionals fully understand our client's dynamic requirements and can respond quickly and effectively to reduce risk and meet their specific needs.
With integrity and commitment to excellence in service, we partner with our clients in their critical missions. Walsingham Group delivers solutions that increase the effectiveness of our clients in defense of our great nation.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Description
Performs all the duties of the Multimedia Exploitation Specialist as necessary and serves as a senior Multimedia Exploitation specialist to the ISAF/USFOR-A and other commands’ staff in support of the CJ2 Exploitation (CJ2E) and CJ2 exploitation requirements. The successful candidate will provide quality control over exploitation conducted by the Multimedia Exploitation Specialist. The Senior Multimedia Exploitation Specialist functions as a CJ2E liaison enhancing the flow of information between selective Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA) officials and designated ISAF/USFOR-A and other commands’ staff to ensuring support to site exploitation and forensics, including documents and media exploitation to enable rapid targeting and prosecutorial efforts.
The successful candidate will be responsible for researching, developing and presenting Multimedia Exploitation and/or Multimedia Exploitation intelligence products at the operational and strategic levels for senior leaders, to include counter-terrorism, HUMINT, SIGINT, counterintelligence, Afghanistan and South West Asia regional issues, political/military analysis and support to targeting.
Minimum Qualifications
This position requires 5 years of hands-on experience creating forensic or media exploitation tools on a Windows or Linux platform. Basic programming skills and Windows Server Sys Admin experience required. The successful candidate will be proficient in database/SQL applications and understand and utilize various audio and video editing software, as well as understand the popular media formats WMA, WMV, AVI, MPEG, WAV, MP3, and RM including conversion and various CODECs. They will understand and utilize net framework and redundant server storage.
This is an armed position and the successful candidate must be able to qualify with the M4 Rifle and M9 Pistol using basic military marksmanship standards. Must be able to carry a 60-lb pack in the field and the M4 Rifle for self-defense.
This position requires Master’s Degree or related experience in media exploitation or 4 years experience in conducting Multi-Media Exploitation in the operational environment. The operational environments include Iraq and Afghanistan with organizations such as JDEC-A and TAC DOMEX can waive the Master Degree Requirement.
This position requires 5 years of experience in computer forensic investigations using EnCase or similar commercial software on Windows Operating System file structures. The contractor shall be capable of providing analog to digital format conversion to .wav, .mp3, and .wma formats. The contractor shall be capable of utilizing various programs to convert VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Beta SP, Beta ¾ and Hi-8 into DVD, VCD and/or into WMV, MPG (PAL and NTSC) or AVI type files into this digital format in order to upload into the server.
This position requires excellent writing skills utilizing MS Office, Excel Spreadsheet and Access database programs and a basic knowledge of networking.
Top Secret/SCI clearance required.
QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires 5 years of experience in computer forensic investigations using EnCase or similar commercial software on Windows Operating System file structures. The contractor shall be capable of providing analog to digital format conversion to .wav, .mp3, and .wma formats. The contractor shall be capable of utilizing various programs to convert VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Beta SP, Beta ¾ and Hi-8 into DVD, VCD and/or into WMV, MPG (PAL and NTSC) or AVI type files into this digital format in order to upload into the server.
This position requires excellent writing skills utilizing MS Office, Excel Spreadsheet and Access database programs and a basic knowledge of networking.
Top Secret/SCI clearance required.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Contact info
Moe Kader
Manager of Intel and Linguist Recruiting Walsingham Group, Inc.
Kelly George
Sr. Program Manager
Walsingham Group, Inc.
A Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business
1000 Centre Green Way, Suite 200, Cary, NC 27513
919-228-6472 office
919-228-6501 fax
Scholarships and Stones
There are a couple of places I make a point to visit every time I go to Fort Benning. The National Infantry Museum, the 75th Ranger Regimental Headquarters, and the Ranger Monument.
It's hard to describe the feeling when you stand over the name of a Ranger with whom you served, and who has passed on to the patrol base in the sky.
Ken Stauss was my Battalion Commander, killed on 29 Oct 92
It's comforting to see his name surrounded by hundreds and hundreds of other names - Ranger brothers past and present - and then you find yours.
I can't speak for anyone else, but to me being a Ranger means being a part of a community of warriors unlike any other. It means taking risks - personal and professional - because the likelihood of injury or failure are high, and you know that only a special caliber of person even attempts, let alone completes, that path.
Being a Ranger means living the Ranger Creed. It means never leaving a fallen comrade. It means never failing my country. There is no expiration date.
You're darn right I'm proud to be a Ranger. I'm proud of those men who followed the same path. I'm proud to have a stone there on the path, just past the Ranger arch towards the bayonet.
Go here to get the details - and next time you visit the Monument, hit Facebook or Google+ and check in. Upload your photo and we'll display it on both pages.
Oh, and did you know that the Monument is maintained by the National Ranger Memorial Foundation? That same organization gives out scholarships to deserving students who have chosen to dedicate themselves to the Ranger Creed as well as family members that have sacrificed to support all Rangers. Your stone purchase helps to keep this program alive.
The current scholarship application window closes 5/31/14 - and there's still money left for this year. Spread the word!
RLTW
Raider Project Website
The Raider Project, linking MARSOC and USMC combat veterans with previously transitioned USMC combat veterans to facilitate a peaceful and successful transition, now has its own website. Please visit and share - we need to get the word out to every transitioning Marine Corps veteran.
http://www.raiderproject.org/
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Traumatic Brain Injury - TNAV Talk Show
It's all the rage to talk about the signature injury of the Iraq/Afghanistan wars - Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
Here, NPR talks about it: Brain Wars - How the Military is Failing its Wounded
Today's TNAV talk show featured Dr. Jacob Shores, of the Dallas Carrick Brain Center. We talked about TBI, what is it, how does it affect a person, and what is the latest in diagnosis and treatment.
UPDATE: If you want to contact Carrick to learn more or to find out how to seek treatment there: (214) 771-8885 or at www.carrickbraincenters.com.
Currently Carrick's treatment is cash only. They have received grants in the past, one from the State of Texas just expired. If you want to support their work and help pay for another veteran to receive treatment, you can make a donation here:
Brain Treatment Foundation
C/O Kara Williams
105 Decker Court
#120
Irving, TX 75062
Following Dr. Shores was SFC (ret) Phillip Kitts who talked about his own TBI, including the reasons why it's not immediately treated in the military. Those reasons range from: Not wanting to show signs of weakness; not wanting to abandon comrades in the field, not wanting superiors to think you're not capable; even if you as a leader might not want to lose a capable soldier from the field so you ignore the symptoms.
We closed out with Mrs. Kitts, who talked about her experiences as a caregiver and offered her contact information to other caregivers. Watch the archive - it's valuable information.
Join us every week, 1pm Central time http://www.vetsonmedia.com/radio-shows/the-new-american-veteran/ .
Here, NPR talks about it: Brain Wars - How the Military is Failing its Wounded
Today's TNAV talk show featured Dr. Jacob Shores, of the Dallas Carrick Brain Center. We talked about TBI, what is it, how does it affect a person, and what is the latest in diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Shores bio
UPDATE: If you want to contact Carrick to learn more or to find out how to seek treatment there: (214) 771-8885 or at www.carrickbraincenters.com.
Currently Carrick's treatment is cash only. They have received grants in the past, one from the State of Texas just expired. If you want to support their work and help pay for another veteran to receive treatment, you can make a donation here:
Brain Treatment Foundation
C/O Kara Williams
105 Decker Court
#120
Irving, TX 75062
Following Dr. Shores was SFC (ret) Phillip Kitts who talked about his own TBI, including the reasons why it's not immediately treated in the military. Those reasons range from: Not wanting to show signs of weakness; not wanting to abandon comrades in the field, not wanting superiors to think you're not capable; even if you as a leader might not want to lose a capable soldier from the field so you ignore the symptoms.
We closed out with Mrs. Kitts, who talked about her experiences as a caregiver and offered her contact information to other caregivers. Watch the archive - it's valuable information.
Youtube archive of the show - audio only will be available soon.
Join us every week, 1pm Central time http://www.vetsonmedia.com/radio-shows/the-new-american-veteran/ .
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