The Southern Nevada Healthcare system ( or Las Vegas VA) is hosting a Welcome Home event for Veterans of OIF and OEF This month.
When: May 16th, 2008
From: 09.00 to 17.00 hours
At: The Texas Station Casino
2101 Texas Star Lane
Las Vegas Nv 89032
In: The Dallas Ballroom
The Program will include:
VA benefits
VA Health Care
Job opportunities
Educational Opportunities
Housing and mortgage information
Light refreshments and beverages will be served.
For more information contact Cathine Sines at (702) 636-3000 Ext.4525
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Spaghetti and Meatball Fundraiser to benefit the Blinded Veterans Assosciation
The Nevada Silver State Regional Group of Blinded Veterans Assosciation are running their first annual fundraiser!
They are having a Spaghetti and meatball dinner at THE MARVELOUS, an Italian - American Supper club on Friday, May 30th 2008
The marvelous is located at:
2333 E. Sahara Ave (near Eastern Blvd)
The evening kicks off at 5 pm with a social hour and a no host bar, then dinner follows at 6pm.
Music is provided by Keith Jorgensen Music Center.
Theer is a requested donation of $15 per person, the donation will go towards locating Blinded veterans who need service and providing role models who can demostrate that the challenges of blindness can be successfully overcome.
See you there!
They are having a Spaghetti and meatball dinner at THE MARVELOUS, an Italian - American Supper club on Friday, May 30th 2008
The marvelous is located at:
2333 E. Sahara Ave (near Eastern Blvd)
The evening kicks off at 5 pm with a social hour and a no host bar, then dinner follows at 6pm.
Music is provided by Keith Jorgensen Music Center.
Theer is a requested donation of $15 per person, the donation will go towards locating Blinded veterans who need service and providing role models who can demostrate that the challenges of blindness can be successfully overcome.
See you there!
Unserviceable Flag Retirement Ceremony and Luncheon
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Valley of Fire Chapter are holding a unserviceable Flag Retirement ceremony and Lucheon on
Saturday, May 3rd 2008 at 10.00 am
The ceremony will be held at the Southern Nevada Veterans Cemetary in Boulder city.
All are welcome to attend!
Saturday, May 3rd 2008 at 10.00 am
The ceremony will be held at the Southern Nevada Veterans Cemetary in Boulder city.
All are welcome to attend!
Reno VA wish list for April
The Reno VA wish list has bot changed much over the last couple of months. However they are requesting donations of season specific clothing, summer clothing and these requested items:
Personal Hygiene Items
Shampoo
Soaps
Lotions
Razors
Combs
Brushes
Nail Brushes
Nail clippers
Emory boards etc
Beverages
Teas
Coffees
Sugar
Sugar alternatives
Creamers
Cups
Spoons
Misc. Items
Socks (all sizes)
Underwear ( all sizes)
They also have a special request for prizes to give to volunteers who will be honored at the annual awards banquet. I have taken care of this request already however if you wish to donate gift cards for local restaurants or floral arrangements I am sure they would be gladly accepted.
Send all donations to :
Voluntary services
1000 Locust Street
Reno NV
Please make all checks payable to "agent cashier and mark in the memo space what you want the funds used for. For example "Beverages for Veterans" Also please include a note that you are part of Soldiers Angels so that SA can be "Credited" the donation from the VA.
Thank you for your support of this awesome
Personal Hygiene Items
Shampoo
Soaps
Lotions
Razors
Combs
Brushes
Nail Brushes
Nail clippers
Emory boards etc
Beverages
Teas
Coffees
Sugar
Sugar alternatives
Creamers
Cups
Spoons
Misc. Items
Socks (all sizes)
Underwear ( all sizes)
They also have a special request for prizes to give to volunteers who will be honored at the annual awards banquet. I have taken care of this request already however if you wish to donate gift cards for local restaurants or floral arrangements I am sure they would be gladly accepted.
Send all donations to :
Voluntary services
1000 Locust Street
Reno NV
Please make all checks payable to "agent cashier and mark in the memo space what you want the funds used for. For example "Beverages for Veterans" Also please include a note that you are part of Soldiers Angels so that SA can be "Credited" the donation from the VA.
Thank you for your support of this awesome
Las Vegas VA wishlist for April
Hot Needs:
Summer clothing
Hats
sun screen
Drinking Water (bottled) For CBOC and Geriatrics
Needs:
Phone cards, Funds for bus passes, gas vouchers and money orders to Obtain DMV ID's.
SPECIAL NEEDS:
20 sets of Hand weights ( approx costs $12 per set)
30 sets of Wrists weights (Approx $10 per set)
50 sets of sweat bands
30 Arthritis Assosciation Excercise DVD's ( approx cost (15 per DVD)
10 Community gym Memberships
5 Excercise head phones and radio or MP3's ( approx cost $25-$300 each)
20 Clothing certificates ( approx cost ($30-$50 each)
300 Calorie king books (Aprrox $7 each book)
1000 Stickers (approx cost $24)
The special needs list is to support the brand new Healthy Veterans program called MOVE. The program is so new that the need for items is holding up classes being held due to lack of equipment.
If you can help with any of these items or wish to donate funds to support these projectssend direct to the VA at:
Voluntary services
South West clinic
3880 S. Jones Blvd Suite 2300
Las Vegas NV
Checks should be made payable to "agent cashier" and in the memo section mark what you want the funds to be used for. For example 1 set wrist weights. Please include a note that you are a Soldiers' Angel so that SA receieve "credit" for your donation from the VA.
Thank you.
Summer clothing
Hats
sun screen
Drinking Water (bottled) For CBOC and Geriatrics
Needs:
Phone cards, Funds for bus passes, gas vouchers and money orders to Obtain DMV ID's.
SPECIAL NEEDS:
20 sets of Hand weights ( approx costs $12 per set)
30 sets of Wrists weights (Approx $10 per set)
50 sets of sweat bands
30 Arthritis Assosciation Excercise DVD's ( approx cost (15 per DVD)
10 Community gym Memberships
5 Excercise head phones and radio or MP3's ( approx cost $25-$300 each)
20 Clothing certificates ( approx cost ($30-$50 each)
300 Calorie king books (Aprrox $7 each book)
1000 Stickers (approx cost $24)
The special needs list is to support the brand new Healthy Veterans program called MOVE. The program is so new that the need for items is holding up classes being held due to lack of equipment.
If you can help with any of these items or wish to donate funds to support these projectssend direct to the VA at:
Voluntary services
South West clinic
3880 S. Jones Blvd Suite 2300
Las Vegas NV
Checks should be made payable to "agent cashier" and in the memo section mark what you want the funds to be used for. For example 1 set wrist weights. Please include a note that you are a Soldiers' Angel so that SA receieve "credit" for your donation from the VA.
Thank you.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Guidelines for Listening to War Veterans
by Al Siebert, Ph.D., Director of The Resiliency Center
author of The Resiliency Advantage
The main problem for many war veterans and survivors of torturous experiences is not what they went through. Their problem is that very few people have the emotional strength to listen to them talk about what they went through. The poor relationships that survivors often have with spouses, children, relatives, neighbors, employers, and co-workers are not merely a result of delayed reactions to stress. The feelings of isolation and poor relationships with others are, in part, from having bad experiences with people who are poor listeners.
Pictures of the war in Iraq did not show the gruesome carnage caused by the bombing. "Most people would go weird," one combat veteran says, "when they hear about what I saw."
People who have survived highly distressing experiences will usually talk with a good listener who will take time to hear the whole story. If you are willing to listen to someone speak truthfully about all their experiences, here are useful guidelines to follow:
Don't ask about a person's experiences unless you can handle honest answers. When Vietnam combat veterans returned home they found that very few people had the emotional strength to listen to their stories. Don't open someone up and then "chicken out" when the story gets too rough. Tell yourself that a reasonably strong human being ought to be able to at least listen to what another person has lived through. Survivors of horrifying experiences will usually talk to a person who has the courage to listen.
Give the person lots of time. Vietnam veterans found that the average person could listen for only several minutes. When a veteran is willing to talk to you, it is important to allow him or her plenty of time to talk. Don't interrupt to state your feelings about the war. This is not a time for discussion! Plan to listen for hours. Expect to have some follow-up sessions. When people open themselves up to relive strong emotional experiences, additional details and feelings may flood into their minds in the days that follow. It is typical for combat veterans to have nightmares and periods of emotional turmoil.
Be an active listener. Ask for details. Ask about feelings. Ask questions when you feel puzzled about facts or incidents.
Remain quiet if he or she starts crying. It may help to touch or hold the person if it feels right to both of you. Don't tell the person to not feel what he's feeling. Don't suggest a better way to look at it. Leave his or her thoughts and feelings alone. Your quiet presence is more useful than anything else you can do.
Listen with empathy, but minimize sympathy. It is easier for combat veterans to reveal what they went through if they don't have to put up with sympathy. ("What a horrible experience! You poor man!") Survivors of horrible experiences talk more easily to a person with calm concern. Control your imagination and resist letting their feelings become your feelings. Don't make the veteran have to handle your emotional reactions as well as his or her own. If you need emotional support, seek it elsewhere.
Ask if he or she sees anything positive about being in combat. It is not accurate to think of most war veterans as having a post-traumatic stress disorder. Some do. The majority do not. Research shows that many who served in Vietnam became significantly more mature and developed a healthy personal identity. The same extreme circumstances that cause emotional trauma for some people cause others to become stronger.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Al Siebert has studied highly resilient survivors for over thirty years. He is author of the new book The Resiliency Advantage: Master Change, Thrive Under Pressure and Bounce Back From Setbacks, andThe Survivor Personality: Why Some People Are Stronger, Smarter, and More Skillful at Handling Life's Difficulties...and How You Can Be, Too.
author of The Resiliency Advantage
The main problem for many war veterans and survivors of torturous experiences is not what they went through. Their problem is that very few people have the emotional strength to listen to them talk about what they went through. The poor relationships that survivors often have with spouses, children, relatives, neighbors, employers, and co-workers are not merely a result of delayed reactions to stress. The feelings of isolation and poor relationships with others are, in part, from having bad experiences with people who are poor listeners.
Pictures of the war in Iraq did not show the gruesome carnage caused by the bombing. "Most people would go weird," one combat veteran says, "when they hear about what I saw."
People who have survived highly distressing experiences will usually talk with a good listener who will take time to hear the whole story. If you are willing to listen to someone speak truthfully about all their experiences, here are useful guidelines to follow:
Don't ask about a person's experiences unless you can handle honest answers. When Vietnam combat veterans returned home they found that very few people had the emotional strength to listen to their stories. Don't open someone up and then "chicken out" when the story gets too rough. Tell yourself that a reasonably strong human being ought to be able to at least listen to what another person has lived through. Survivors of horrifying experiences will usually talk to a person who has the courage to listen.
Give the person lots of time. Vietnam veterans found that the average person could listen for only several minutes. When a veteran is willing to talk to you, it is important to allow him or her plenty of time to talk. Don't interrupt to state your feelings about the war. This is not a time for discussion! Plan to listen for hours. Expect to have some follow-up sessions. When people open themselves up to relive strong emotional experiences, additional details and feelings may flood into their minds in the days that follow. It is typical for combat veterans to have nightmares and periods of emotional turmoil.
Be an active listener. Ask for details. Ask about feelings. Ask questions when you feel puzzled about facts or incidents.
Remain quiet if he or she starts crying. It may help to touch or hold the person if it feels right to both of you. Don't tell the person to not feel what he's feeling. Don't suggest a better way to look at it. Leave his or her thoughts and feelings alone. Your quiet presence is more useful than anything else you can do.
Listen with empathy, but minimize sympathy. It is easier for combat veterans to reveal what they went through if they don't have to put up with sympathy. ("What a horrible experience! You poor man!") Survivors of horrible experiences talk more easily to a person with calm concern. Control your imagination and resist letting their feelings become your feelings. Don't make the veteran have to handle your emotional reactions as well as his or her own. If you need emotional support, seek it elsewhere.
Ask if he or she sees anything positive about being in combat. It is not accurate to think of most war veterans as having a post-traumatic stress disorder. Some do. The majority do not. Research shows that many who served in Vietnam became significantly more mature and developed a healthy personal identity. The same extreme circumstances that cause emotional trauma for some people cause others to become stronger.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Al Siebert has studied highly resilient survivors for over thirty years. He is author of the new book The Resiliency Advantage: Master Change, Thrive Under Pressure and Bounce Back From Setbacks, andThe Survivor Personality: Why Some People Are Stronger, Smarter, and More Skillful at Handling Life's Difficulties...and How You Can Be, Too.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
We met the Thunderbirds helping Veterans!
The VA team really stuck gold this time. We had been trying to visit the VA hosiptal on Nellis Air Force Base for a while as you can imagine security is tight, but a good friend of the VA team sponsored us on base. We got to meet so many wonderful veterans Who were so excited that they had not just one vistor but three! Thw VA team arranged for Gina, from pin ups for vets to come along too, as we think she's lots of fun. The veterans loved her too. They also loved her calendar! Soldiers' Angels provided a vet pack for each of the veterans staying at the hospital and for the injured active miliatary service members. They were all thrilled! After our visit to the hospital , our contact Pamela Robinson, had arrqanged a very special suprise for us. A visit to the home of the Thunderbirds. We had a private tour around the museum, and then we were taken into the hanger to see the Thunderbirds! And after that we got to see the "perch" the very exclusive, not to be seen by the public, private Thunderbird bar. It was seriously cool!
Thank you Pamela for arranging the visit we really enjoyed our visit!
Thank you Pamela for arranging the visit we really enjoyed our visit!
Soldiers Angels Visit the Armory
The VA tean got invited to host a booth at the "In celebration of women in the Military" event. We went and gave out information about Soldiers' Angels, the VA team and talked to spouses of deployed service men and women. It was a fun day for all. And we are looking forward to next year!
A photo of the the Nevada Armory building
A photo of the Soldiers' Angels booth
Another photo of our booth and our poster boards explaining some of the Soldiers' Angels programs
Soldiers'Angels Jody S. and Lou K. Talking to a deployed servicemans wife. We have signed her husband up for much needed support and we offered the wife some too!
A photo of the the Nevada Armory building
A photo of the Soldiers' Angels booth
Another photo of our booth and our poster boards explaining some of the Soldiers' Angels programs
Soldiers'Angels Jody S. and Lou K. Talking to a deployed servicemans wife. We have signed her husband up for much needed support and we offered the wife some too!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Soldiers' Angels Partners with The Catholic War Veterans
Soldiers angels and the Catholic War veterans came together to help local deployed airmen get adopted. Soldiers' Angels and the Catholic War Veterans have been working together on a few projects recently including the VA food pantry which they maintain and deliver to veterans in need.
On this night both Felicia Gaines and Lou Kastendick went to speak to the Catholic war veterans about Soldiers' Angels adn introduced ourselves adn the Soldiers' Angels programs to them. And then we met with the Ladies auxillary. The ladies wanted to adopt a group of service people for the duration of their deployemnt overseas. Soldiers' Angels arranged for them to "unofficially adopt" a group of 12 airmen currently deployed in the middle east. We know these men and women will be well cared for by this group.
A huge Thank you to Jim and Kelly M. From Catholic War Veterans for allowing us to come talk to your group. We look forward to working with you on many more veterans projects.
Las Vegas Angels help hungry Veterans.
It came to our attention a few weeks ago that the VA food pantry was running low on supplies so the Vegas angels have been helping keep the pantry stocked. The food is donated by individuals and organizations such as Soldiers' Angels. It helped struggling veterans get food that they might have to go without if the pantry wasn't avaialble. When a veteran lets the Va know they have no money for food, they give a call to the pantry and a whole months worth of food is delivered. Too many veterans here in Nevada this is a real lifeline.
A special Thank you to Soldiers Angels for the latest donation and a huge Thank you for Lizz P. For helping me do the neccessary shopping to help the Vegas veterans.
The back of my car full of goodies for Vegas veterans.
Close up of all the good and healthy food for veterans.
The donation of food after being transferred to bigger vehicle!
A special Thank you to Soldiers Angels for the latest donation and a huge Thank you for Lizz P. For helping me do the neccessary shopping to help the Vegas veterans.
The back of my car full of goodies for Vegas veterans.
Close up of all the good and healthy food for veterans. 
The donation of food after being transferred to bigger vehicle!
Sunday, April 6, 2008
The first 100 Rub-a-dub-dub back packs were stuffed and delivered last week. Each back pack contained a blonaket of hope, personal hygiene items, clothing, cereal bars and cards and messages of support.
The first 100 back packs were donated to women veterans of Nevada, they were a huge success. The oldest female veteran in Nevada (at a sprightly 92 years old!) was so thrilled with her back pack she kept asking if it was for her!
The next round of Rub-a-dub-dub back packs will be ready by April 30th 2008 for the Las Vegas stand down. We are still in need of many items, especially toothbrushes, shampoo and soft soap. If you can help with any of these items email us direct at VACTLNV@gmail.com
A huge thank you to Patti Bader from Soldier's Angels for the donation of the camo back packs the veterans are loving them!
Lou
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Volunteers needed for the Boulder City Retirement Home
It has come to my attention that the Boulder City Veterans retirement home in Nevada is in desparate need of volunteers to help out with various activites. Current Positions available are:
Breakfast, lunch and dinner serving assistance
Friday Mornings Coffee socials (at 9.00am -10.30 am)
1st Friday of the month Bingo! (1.30-3.30pm)
Gift shop volunteers
Chapel Volunteers
Day trip outing volunteers
The list goes on...............
If you would like to help out please email me direct at VACTLNV @ GMAIL.COM
so that I can send you out the application. There is a required background check and fingerprints will need to be taken, also a TB test, however there is no charge for any of these things for the volunteer. ALso please note that Reggy R. is the team leader for this for the angels who volunteer and there is a 6 month commitment requirement.
Thank you so much for helping Nevada's Veterans it is appreciated more than you know.
Lou.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner serving assistance
Friday Mornings Coffee socials (at 9.00am -10.30 am)
1st Friday of the month Bingo! (1.30-3.30pm)
Gift shop volunteers
Chapel Volunteers
Day trip outing volunteers
The list goes on...............
If you would like to help out please email me direct at VACTLNV @ GMAIL.COM
so that I can send you out the application. There is a required background check and fingerprints will need to be taken, also a TB test, however there is no charge for any of these things for the volunteer. ALso please note that Reggy R. is the team leader for this for the angels who volunteer and there is a 6 month commitment requirement.
Thank you so much for helping Nevada's Veterans it is appreciated more than you know.
Lou.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
America's Favorite Mom.... Patti Bader Patton from Soldiers' Angels?
March 11, 2008, Pasadena, CA- The nation is patiently awaiting the results of the Teleflora America's Favorite Mom contest airing on Mother's Day, May 11, 2008 on NBC "The Today Show". Thousands of moms have already been nominated and anyone can vote for the nominees online at www.americasfavoritemom.com. Patti Patton - Bader, the founder of Soldiers' Angels is one of those moms that are patiently awaiting the results.
Bader's son, Brandon Varn recently nominated her for America's Favorite Mom for her innovation in starting the non-profit organization Soldiers' Angels in March 2003 to offer support to deployed and wounded service members. "My mom is one of the most amazing women in the world. She started an organization called Soldiers' Angels when I was deployed to Iraq. The organization is there to ensure "may no soldier go unloved." It is the largest non-profit independent military support organization that has started since the onset of 'The War on Terrorism.' She puts her whole self into helping Soldiers, Airmen, Seamen, and Marines everyday." says Varn.
In the summer of 2003, Varn wrote home expressing his concern that some soldiers did not receive any mail or support from home. Being a caring and loving mother, Bader decided not to allow a situation like that to continue. She contacted a few friends and extended family to ask if they would write to a soldier or two. Within a few short months, Soldiers' Angels went from a mother writing a few extra letters to an internet community with over 200,000 Angels worldwide.
Now this ordinary mother's youngest son, Bretton Varn, is serving his country in Iraq as he continues his family's legacy of bravery, honor and commitment.
2008 is the 100th anniversary of Mother's Day and America's Favorite Mom contest is designed specifically by Telefora for this anniversary celebration. The top 15 nominees from the three categories (Most Humorous, Most Inspirational and Most Loved) will appear on NBC's "Today Show" and viewers will vote for their favorite at the end of each show. The top five finalists will appear on the "America's Favorite Mom" special, where the winner will be crowned.
The winner will have a rose named in her honor, and will receive thousands of dollars in cash and prizes, including an 18-karat gold heart-shaped "America's Favorite Mom" pendant trimmed in diamonds. USAA, partnering with Telefora to help raise awareness about the contest in the military community, will give the winner a $2,500 cruise gift certificate from Explore Cruise Travel and a free yearlong financial strategies plan.
Why is it so important for Patti Patton Bader to win? The obvious reason is, she deserves it. The secondary reason is the funds go to the favorite charity of the winner, which obviously would be Soldiers' Angels! It also provides another level of public awareness for Soldiers' Angels at the national level.
Soldiers' Angels is recruiting all members and friends to go to America's Favorite Mom contest and vote for Patti Patton-Bader. Registered members may vote once a day in the Most Inspirational Mom online contest ending March 31 and the Most Loved online contest ending April 30, 2008. Don't delay, sign up and "Vote for Bader!" Soldiers' Angels celebrates its' 5th anniversary in the month of March. What a great gift this would be. www.americasfavoritemom.com
Soldiers' Angels currently supports tens of thousands of American service members stationed wherever the American flag is raised. Soldiers' Angels is dedicated in supporting the military during and after their deployment. In the time honored tradition of civilian support of American soldiers, Soldiers' Angels sponsors programs which provide support to American soldiers and their families. Soldiers' Angels' programs include first responder packs, support, and laptop computers to wounded soldiers who are receiving treatment at American military hospitals; care packages, letters, and support to deployed soldiers; armored blankets to military ambulances; items shipped for deployed soldiers to give children in the war zone; and memorial trees for the families of soldiers who have died in the service of their country. There are several ways to support our troops through Soldiers' Angels, for more information please go to our national website www.soldiersangels.org or contact Soldiers’ Angels at (615)676-0239 or soldiersangels @ gmail.com.
A tribute to all Moms from Teleflora: America's Favorite Mom is presented by Teleflora, America's leading floral wire service, known for the famous Teleflora Difference: Every bouquet is arranged and hand-delivered in a vase by a trusted local Teleflora florist. No overnight shipping, no boxes - just the freshest possible flowers delivered in the most delightful way.
"May no soldier go unloved, may no soldier walk alone, may no soldier be forgotten, until they all come home." ~ Patti Patton-Bader
Bader's son, Brandon Varn recently nominated her for America's Favorite Mom for her innovation in starting the non-profit organization Soldiers' Angels in March 2003 to offer support to deployed and wounded service members. "My mom is one of the most amazing women in the world. She started an organization called Soldiers' Angels when I was deployed to Iraq. The organization is there to ensure "may no soldier go unloved." It is the largest non-profit independent military support organization that has started since the onset of 'The War on Terrorism.' She puts her whole self into helping Soldiers, Airmen, Seamen, and Marines everyday." says Varn.
In the summer of 2003, Varn wrote home expressing his concern that some soldiers did not receive any mail or support from home. Being a caring and loving mother, Bader decided not to allow a situation like that to continue. She contacted a few friends and extended family to ask if they would write to a soldier or two. Within a few short months, Soldiers' Angels went from a mother writing a few extra letters to an internet community with over 200,000 Angels worldwide.
Now this ordinary mother's youngest son, Bretton Varn, is serving his country in Iraq as he continues his family's legacy of bravery, honor and commitment.
2008 is the 100th anniversary of Mother's Day and America's Favorite Mom contest is designed specifically by Telefora for this anniversary celebration. The top 15 nominees from the three categories (Most Humorous, Most Inspirational and Most Loved) will appear on NBC's "Today Show" and viewers will vote for their favorite at the end of each show. The top five finalists will appear on the "America's Favorite Mom" special, where the winner will be crowned.
The winner will have a rose named in her honor, and will receive thousands of dollars in cash and prizes, including an 18-karat gold heart-shaped "America's Favorite Mom" pendant trimmed in diamonds. USAA, partnering with Telefora to help raise awareness about the contest in the military community, will give the winner a $2,500 cruise gift certificate from Explore Cruise Travel and a free yearlong financial strategies plan.
Why is it so important for Patti Patton Bader to win? The obvious reason is, she deserves it. The secondary reason is the funds go to the favorite charity of the winner, which obviously would be Soldiers' Angels! It also provides another level of public awareness for Soldiers' Angels at the national level.
Soldiers' Angels is recruiting all members and friends to go to America's Favorite Mom contest and vote for Patti Patton-Bader. Registered members may vote once a day in the Most Inspirational Mom online contest ending March 31 and the Most Loved online contest ending April 30, 2008. Don't delay, sign up and "Vote for Bader!" Soldiers' Angels celebrates its' 5th anniversary in the month of March. What a great gift this would be. www.americasfavoritemom.com
Soldiers' Angels currently supports tens of thousands of American service members stationed wherever the American flag is raised. Soldiers' Angels is dedicated in supporting the military during and after their deployment. In the time honored tradition of civilian support of American soldiers, Soldiers' Angels sponsors programs which provide support to American soldiers and their families. Soldiers' Angels' programs include first responder packs, support, and laptop computers to wounded soldiers who are receiving treatment at American military hospitals; care packages, letters, and support to deployed soldiers; armored blankets to military ambulances; items shipped for deployed soldiers to give children in the war zone; and memorial trees for the families of soldiers who have died in the service of their country. There are several ways to support our troops through Soldiers' Angels, for more information please go to our national website www.soldiersangels.org or contact Soldiers’ Angels at (615)676-0239 or soldiersangels @ gmail.com.
A tribute to all Moms from Teleflora: America's Favorite Mom is presented by Teleflora, America's leading floral wire service, known for the famous Teleflora Difference: Every bouquet is arranged and hand-delivered in a vase by a trusted local Teleflora florist. No overnight shipping, no boxes - just the freshest possible flowers delivered in the most delightful way.
"May no soldier go unloved, may no soldier walk alone, may no soldier be forgotten, until they all come home." ~ Patti Patton-Bader
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Free Admission at Anheuser-Busch (Sea World) Theme Parks
What: Free Day's Admission
Where: SeaWorld/Anheuser-Busch Theme Parks
When: Throughout 2008
"Here's to the Heroes" the military tribute program that provides free admission to SeaWorld and other Anheuser-Busch Worlds of Discovery parks, has been extended through 2008.
FREE DAY'S ADMISSION Here's to the Heroes provides a single day's free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE Any active duty, active reserve, ready reserve service member or National Guardsman is entitled to complimentary admission under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.herosalute.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a Department of Defense photo ID. Also included in the offer are members of foreign military forces serving in the coalitions in Iraq or Afghanistan or attached to American units in the U.S. for training.
ANHEUSER BUSCH SAYS THANK YOU "This is our small way of paying tribute to the sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, soldiers and airmen for their dedicated service to our nation," Fichthorn said. "It is gratifying to all of us at that so many members of our armed forces have already taken advantage of this program and we're looking forward to them visiting again in 2008."
THE TRIBUTE PROGRAM The tribute program has provided free admission to nearly 4 million members of U.S. and coalition armed forces and their families. Anheuser-Busch launched "Here's to the Heroes" in February 2005 to acknowledge the service of military men and women and the sacrifices made by their families. Here's to the Heroes is the fourth tribute to military personnel offered by Anheuser-Busch since Yellow Ribbon Summer welcomed service members home from the Gulf War in 1991.
Inactive, standby and retired reserve members, military retirees, U.S. Merchant Marine and civilian Department of Defense workers are ineligible for the program. The program does not include Discovery Cove or SeaWorld's new water park, Aquatica.
Three Anheuser-Busch parks – SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld San Diego – operate year round. The company's remaining parks are seasonal, with varying opening dates this spring. Each park's operating schedule is available online. SeaWorld San Diego is one of 10 Worlds of Discovery parks operated by Busch Entertainment Corporation, the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. Other Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, Fla. and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa, Fla. and Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia; Aquatica, SeaWorld's water park in Orlando; and water parks Adventure Island in Tampa and Water Country USA in Williamsburg.
Where: SeaWorld/Anheuser-Busch Theme Parks
When: Throughout 2008
"Here's to the Heroes" the military tribute program that provides free admission to SeaWorld and other Anheuser-Busch Worlds of Discovery parks, has been extended through 2008.
FREE DAY'S ADMISSION Here's to the Heroes provides a single day's free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE Any active duty, active reserve, ready reserve service member or National Guardsman is entitled to complimentary admission under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.herosalute.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a Department of Defense photo ID. Also included in the offer are members of foreign military forces serving in the coalitions in Iraq or Afghanistan or attached to American units in the U.S. for training.
ANHEUSER BUSCH SAYS THANK YOU "This is our small way of paying tribute to the sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, soldiers and airmen for their dedicated service to our nation," Fichthorn said. "It is gratifying to all of us at that so many members of our armed forces have already taken advantage of this program and we're looking forward to them visiting again in 2008."
THE TRIBUTE PROGRAM The tribute program has provided free admission to nearly 4 million members of U.S. and coalition armed forces and their families. Anheuser-Busch launched "Here's to the Heroes" in February 2005 to acknowledge the service of military men and women and the sacrifices made by their families. Here's to the Heroes is the fourth tribute to military personnel offered by Anheuser-Busch since Yellow Ribbon Summer welcomed service members home from the Gulf War in 1991.
Inactive, standby and retired reserve members, military retirees, U.S. Merchant Marine and civilian Department of Defense workers are ineligible for the program. The program does not include Discovery Cove or SeaWorld's new water park, Aquatica.
Three Anheuser-Busch parks – SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld San Diego – operate year round. The company's remaining parks are seasonal, with varying opening dates this spring. Each park's operating schedule is available online. SeaWorld San Diego is one of 10 Worlds of Discovery parks operated by Busch Entertainment Corporation, the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. Other Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, Fla. and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa, Fla. and Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia; Aquatica, SeaWorld's water park in Orlando; and water parks Adventure Island in Tampa and Water Country USA in Williamsburg.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Super Bowl Party!!!!!!!!
Greetings Everyone,
Angela Metcalf, Volunteer Coordinator of the Nevada State Veteran's Home has ask that we send about 5-8 volunteers to assist at the Super Bowl party on 02/03/08. The location is the Nevada State Veteran's Home located at 100 Veteran's Memorial Drive, Boulder City, Nevada 89005. She is asking volunteers to arrive at 2:30pm. Game starts at 3:00pm. Volunteers would be assisting the residents with food and visiting with them.
Felicia
Angela Metcalf, Volunteer Coordinator of the Nevada State Veteran's Home has ask that we send about 5-8 volunteers to assist at the Super Bowl party on 02/03/08. The location is the Nevada State Veteran's Home located at 100 Veteran's Memorial Drive, Boulder City, Nevada 89005. She is asking volunteers to arrive at 2:30pm. Game starts at 3:00pm. Volunteers would be assisting the residents with food and visiting with them.
Felicia
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
National Salute to Hospitalized Veteran's
Feb. 10-16 is the National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans week. You are invited to visit your local VA hospital and spread some Valentine Angel Love!! Organize a group and call the Volunteer Services office and let them know you are coming. It is such a fulfilling thing and just think about how many lives you will touch! Be sure to check with your VA State Leader (listed on the VA/None Forgotten forum) and see if there is a contact angel at your nearest facility. They might have something organized already and would LOVE to have your help! Be sure to not forget our VA Nursing Homes. Be careful though...that group has a tendency to steal YOUR heart and keep it forever!! If there is no contact angel...visit anyway! This is an open invitation from the VA to visit!! And if there isn't a contact angel there, be sure to tell Volunteer Services allllllll about SA!! You can give them my information if you would like and I will be more than happy to fill them in!
Go here to read about it: http://www1.va.gov/volunteer/nshv.cfm
The Southern Nevada Angels will be visiiting the veterans in the michael Callaghan Hospital on February 10th. If you would like to be a part of our visiting group contact Lou at VACTLNV@gmail.com and she will give you all the details.
Go here to read about it: http://www1.va.gov/volunteer/nshv.cfm
The Southern Nevada Angels will be visiiting the veterans in the michael Callaghan Hospital on February 10th. If you would like to be a part of our visiting group contact Lou at VACTLNV@gmail.com and she will give you all the details.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
New Flat Rate Boxes
Starting March 3rd, the USPS will offer a larger Priority Flat Rate box. It is 50% larger than the current boxes and will cost only $2.00 more when shipped to a military address.
The new Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box (12" x 12" x 5½") can be used for both domestic and international shipments. This extends the flat-rate price and ease-of-use benefits to international shippers. There is also a 5 percent online discount.
There will be a special version of the box for the military, with a $2 discount, if shipped to an Army Post Office or Fleet Post Office (APO/FPO) address.
The new Priority Mail Large Flat-Rate Box (12" x 12" x 5½") can be used for both domestic and international shipments. This extends the flat-rate price and ease-of-use benefits to international shippers. There is also a 5 percent online discount.
There will be a special version of the box for the military, with a $2 discount, if shipped to an Army Post Office or Fleet Post Office (APO/FPO) address.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Reno VA Wish List
Reno Has given me this wish list so if you can help them even on a couple of items it would be greatly appreciated.
They are mostly requesting Lip Balm at this time.
Other needed items are:
Personal Hygiene Items
Shampoo
Soaps
Lotions
Razors
Combs
Brushes
Nail Brushes
Nail clippers
Emory boards etc
Beverages
Teas
Coffees
Sugar
Sugar alternatives
Creamers
Cups
Spoons
Misc. Items
Socks (all sizes)
Underwear ( all sizes)
The Nevada VA team thanks you for you support of this VA. To send items to this VA please use this address, include a note stating you are a soldiers Angel and if you could drop us an email too that would be great at ctlnv07@gmail.com so that we know what has been donated to this VA facility.
The address is
Voluntary services
Reno VAMC
1000Locust St
Reno, NV 89521
Thank you,
Jessica
They are mostly requesting Lip Balm at this time.
Other needed items are:
Personal Hygiene Items
Shampoo
Soaps
Lotions
Razors
Combs
Brushes
Nail Brushes
Nail clippers
Emory boards etc
Beverages
Teas
Coffees
Sugar
Sugar alternatives
Creamers
Cups
Spoons
Misc. Items
Socks (all sizes)
Underwear ( all sizes)
The Nevada VA team thanks you for you support of this VA. To send items to this VA please use this address, include a note stating you are a soldiers Angel and if you could drop us an email too that would be great at ctlnv07@gmail.com so that we know what has been donated to this VA facility.
The address is
Voluntary services
Reno VAMC
1000Locust St
Reno, NV 89521
Thank you,
Jessica
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Calling All Angels
Hello Nevada Angels,
We have an Angel Alert!!!
I have an urgent request for ALL of you. On Saturday January 26, 2008 there is a Funeral for SSG. Sean Gaul. He was killed in Iraq on January 9, 2008. The Westboro Baptist Church will be there to protest the funeral and I would like to get as many angels as possible to please attend this funeral on behalf of the family to show support and out number the protestors.
Funeral Services for this Fallen Hero will be on January 26th, 2008. They are scheduled to begin at 11:00 A.M. and will be at Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 100 Bishop Manogue Drive, Reno, 89511.
If you are able to come I welcome you with open arms. If you need help with directions, hotels anything, please feel free to contact me day or night. I will do everything I can to make sure as many Angels are there to support this family that has made the ultimate sacrafice.
Thank you,
--
Jessica Bezanson
CTL of Northern Nevada
VA-CTL of Reno NV
Member of Wounded Soldier TLC Team
I wish you just enough....
May no soldier go unloved.
May no soldier walk alone.
May no soldier be forgotten,
Until they all come home.
We have an Angel Alert!!!
I have an urgent request for ALL of you. On Saturday January 26, 2008 there is a Funeral for SSG. Sean Gaul. He was killed in Iraq on January 9, 2008. The Westboro Baptist Church will be there to protest the funeral and I would like to get as many angels as possible to please attend this funeral on behalf of the family to show support and out number the protestors.
Funeral Services for this Fallen Hero will be on January 26th, 2008. They are scheduled to begin at 11:00 A.M. and will be at Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 100 Bishop Manogue Drive, Reno, 89511.
If you are able to come I welcome you with open arms. If you need help with directions, hotels anything, please feel free to contact me day or night. I will do everything I can to make sure as many Angels are there to support this family that has made the ultimate sacrafice.
Thank you,
--
Jessica Bezanson
CTL of Northern Nevada
VA-CTL of Reno NV
Member of Wounded Soldier TLC Team
I wish you just enough....
May no soldier go unloved.
May no soldier walk alone.
May no soldier be forgotten,
Until they all come home.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Project Rub-a-Dub-Dub
The idea for "project Rub-a-dub-dub" came from something my Las Vegas VA Contact Katherine said in one of our meetings, so I have tried to expand upon her idea and incorporate some of the already exisiting SA programs. Katherine said and I quote" these homeless guys are so grateful for anything they are given even a bottle of water is a big deal" I agree with Katherine, water will be an important part of Rub-a-dub-dub, especially in our 120 degree summer days. However the other items we have decided to include will also be useful and helpful to the veterans.
The Team and I have set a D-day of April 30th for the first recipents of "project Rub-a dub-dub" however our general feeling is that this project should be ongoing as we have so many homelss vets to help. By the way this project is aimed at homeless vets but if it takes off we may expand it to vets who are struggling financially also.
The basic premise of Project rub-a dub-dub is to provide homeless vets with the basic supplies to keep clean, have a little something to eat, give them hope and most of all let them know their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
To do this the VA team has come up with this project outline.
We propose to involve the community in this project in as many ways as possible so our plan is to provide the homless vet with a pack of things (listed below) that they may find useful and that we hope will let the Nevada vets know that they have support.
The Pack we are hoping will be some sort of back pack.
These back packs we are hoping to get donated by Children in the school district, sort of a way to recycle back packs they are no longer using. They do not have to be new but in good condition.
Blankets of Hope - this is our biggest item in the bags, I have posted in the sewwing forums asking for donations but we are also asking girlscouts, churchs and other veterans groups to help donate the materials and to help make them.
Gift cards- We're planning to sit outside local grocery stores with flyers and request items like $5 gift card to fast food restaurants like McDonalds, TacoBell and Jack in the box And also write to these plus other companies for donations such as Dunkin Donuts
Personal Hygiene Packs- This is to be the main focus of the pack. Items to be included are combs, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, soap, shampoo, wet wipes, lotion, sunscreen and chapstick, washcloths (possibly a small towel), shaving kits for men and famale products for women. Al items to be trail sized. Oral Hygiene products we are asking dentist offices to provide. Other items to be collected in tradional donation drives.
Clothing - T-shirts, underwear, socks. Items to be included in each pack. Items to be donated from local church groups, veterans groups and from donation drives.
Food stuffs- Bottled water, crystal lite, ceral bars and other no cook easy open foods. The idea behind this os to give homeless vets a healthy snack that they can eat when they might not have anything else and as an alternative to fast food, whoch is neither healthy or nutricious.
Pet Products-[color=][/color] This item is still under review however as all the VA CTL's are huge dog lovers we felt it had to be addressed. many homeless vets ahve companion animals, especially dogs so we thought we might ask our respective vet clinics if they would donate a couple cases of canned dog food to provide to these homess vets with dogs.
Cards of support- This is the final item we have discussed adding to the pack. We felt it was important to include a card letting these vets know that they have support and that their sacrifices have not been forgotten, however it can also be used as a good tools for sponorship. We discussed this evening that by including a card a fmily or individual could donate monetary funds to this project to cover the cost of putting this pack together and could simply signt he card from the Jones family for example. or from our insurance companies. We plan to target companies we work for for monetary help, especially Prudential for who I am a Realtor and all the mortgage companies I work with.
Other ideas-
Traditionally these projects have items donated from individuals at venues like outside the local grocery store but the team feels that this project would be better co-ordinated working directly with companies, while acknowledging that someof these types of fundraisers will still need to be done. The biggest partnership we hope will come from Prudential, as I am one of their Realtors but also because simply with 1200 Prudential agents in the valley and 6 offices we have the perfect place for individuals to drop off items or being to a Prudential Open house for the agent to bring back to their respective office. I am currently working with my company to get an interivew with the CEO, who works out of my office.
We also felt that by asking dentists, vets, chruches and boys and girls clubs to help with this project we could raise awareness in our local communities of the veterans needs and inspire more people to sign up and become VA Angels.
In addition to these ideas we have decided to implement money raising ideas such as loyalty cards for grocery stores such as Albertson's who give non profit groups like us a pack with 100 cards that when swiped will donate a portion of the monies spent to a fund like the VA team that we in turn would send to SA.
Potential Problems- The one place in our entire plan that has in our opinon the biggest weakness is the Blankets of Hope, mostly because the blankets are fairly expensive to make (Around $10) we really need to figure out if we could get support from angels accross the country to help us make the amount of balankets that we would require as because of the size of this project, expecting them to all be donated from Nevada ( for this year at least) would be extreamly difficult.
The size of this project is also difficult but we have set a goal of at least 5,000 but not to exceed 10,000 of these packs to be donated to homeless Nevada Veterans this year, this first ones being donated at the Las Vegas Stand down on April 30th 2008, after that we plan to distribute them through the VA and the CBOC with another big push at Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is our goal that this project put the NV VA team in the spotlight and increase our overall numbers for the VA team along with Soldiers Angels.
Please let me know if there is anything you think we can improve upon and if you have any suggestions. The current plan is to lauch this project tomorrow on forums with the NV VA team newsletter to be mailed out this week alerting all NV angels of the project even those not on forums. Donation letters will be mailed out early next week.
Thank you for your help, support and guidance it's appreciated more than you know.
Lou and the Nevada VA Team
The Team and I have set a D-day of April 30th for the first recipents of "project Rub-a dub-dub" however our general feeling is that this project should be ongoing as we have so many homelss vets to help. By the way this project is aimed at homeless vets but if it takes off we may expand it to vets who are struggling financially also.
The basic premise of Project rub-a dub-dub is to provide homeless vets with the basic supplies to keep clean, have a little something to eat, give them hope and most of all let them know their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
To do this the VA team has come up with this project outline.
We propose to involve the community in this project in as many ways as possible so our plan is to provide the homless vet with a pack of things (listed below) that they may find useful and that we hope will let the Nevada vets know that they have support.
The Pack we are hoping will be some sort of back pack.
These back packs we are hoping to get donated by Children in the school district, sort of a way to recycle back packs they are no longer using. They do not have to be new but in good condition.
Blankets of Hope - this is our biggest item in the bags, I have posted in the sewwing forums asking for donations but we are also asking girlscouts, churchs and other veterans groups to help donate the materials and to help make them.
Gift cards- We're planning to sit outside local grocery stores with flyers and request items like $5 gift card to fast food restaurants like McDonalds, TacoBell and Jack in the box And also write to these plus other companies for donations such as Dunkin Donuts
Personal Hygiene Packs- This is to be the main focus of the pack. Items to be included are combs, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, soap, shampoo, wet wipes, lotion, sunscreen and chapstick, washcloths (possibly a small towel), shaving kits for men and famale products for women. Al items to be trail sized. Oral Hygiene products we are asking dentist offices to provide. Other items to be collected in tradional donation drives.
Clothing - T-shirts, underwear, socks. Items to be included in each pack. Items to be donated from local church groups, veterans groups and from donation drives.
Food stuffs- Bottled water, crystal lite, ceral bars and other no cook easy open foods. The idea behind this os to give homeless vets a healthy snack that they can eat when they might not have anything else and as an alternative to fast food, whoch is neither healthy or nutricious.
Pet Products-[color=][/color] This item is still under review however as all the VA CTL's are huge dog lovers we felt it had to be addressed. many homeless vets ahve companion animals, especially dogs so we thought we might ask our respective vet clinics if they would donate a couple cases of canned dog food to provide to these homess vets with dogs.
Cards of support- This is the final item we have discussed adding to the pack. We felt it was important to include a card letting these vets know that they have support and that their sacrifices have not been forgotten, however it can also be used as a good tools for sponorship. We discussed this evening that by including a card a fmily or individual could donate monetary funds to this project to cover the cost of putting this pack together and could simply signt he card from the Jones family for example. or from our insurance companies. We plan to target companies we work for for monetary help, especially Prudential for who I am a Realtor and all the mortgage companies I work with.
Other ideas-
Traditionally these projects have items donated from individuals at venues like outside the local grocery store but the team feels that this project would be better co-ordinated working directly with companies, while acknowledging that someof these types of fundraisers will still need to be done. The biggest partnership we hope will come from Prudential, as I am one of their Realtors but also because simply with 1200 Prudential agents in the valley and 6 offices we have the perfect place for individuals to drop off items or being to a Prudential Open house for the agent to bring back to their respective office. I am currently working with my company to get an interivew with the CEO, who works out of my office.
We also felt that by asking dentists, vets, chruches and boys and girls clubs to help with this project we could raise awareness in our local communities of the veterans needs and inspire more people to sign up and become VA Angels.
In addition to these ideas we have decided to implement money raising ideas such as loyalty cards for grocery stores such as Albertson's who give non profit groups like us a pack with 100 cards that when swiped will donate a portion of the monies spent to a fund like the VA team that we in turn would send to SA.
Potential Problems- The one place in our entire plan that has in our opinon the biggest weakness is the Blankets of Hope, mostly because the blankets are fairly expensive to make (Around $10) we really need to figure out if we could get support from angels accross the country to help us make the amount of balankets that we would require as because of the size of this project, expecting them to all be donated from Nevada ( for this year at least) would be extreamly difficult.
The size of this project is also difficult but we have set a goal of at least 5,000 but not to exceed 10,000 of these packs to be donated to homeless Nevada Veterans this year, this first ones being donated at the Las Vegas Stand down on April 30th 2008, after that we plan to distribute them through the VA and the CBOC with another big push at Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is our goal that this project put the NV VA team in the spotlight and increase our overall numbers for the VA team along with Soldiers Angels.
Please let me know if there is anything you think we can improve upon and if you have any suggestions. The current plan is to lauch this project tomorrow on forums with the NV VA team newsletter to be mailed out this week alerting all NV angels of the project even those not on forums. Donation letters will be mailed out early next week.
Thank you for your help, support and guidance it's appreciated more than you know.
Lou and the Nevada VA Team
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Funeral Services for SSG. Sean Gaul
Funeral Services for this Fallen Hero will be on January 26th, 2008. They are scheduled to begin at 11:00 A.M. and will be at Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 100 Bishop Manogue Drive, Reno, 89511.
SSG Sean Michael
GAUL
Staff Sergeant Sean Michael Gaul, 29, of Cresco, IA, was killed in action January 9, 2008 in Sinsil, Iraq. Sean was born June 25, 1978 to Christine M. Minear and Michael F. Gaul. He moved to the Reno area as a child in 1985. He attended local schools and was a member of JROTC at Reed High School. He joined the US Army in November, 1999. He was a career soldier first serving with B Co., 1/505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, and 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC. He then transferred to a Stryker Brigade at Ft. Lewis, WA and currently was stationed in Vilseck, Germany as a Recon Platoon Squad Leader. He attended Ranger School, sniper school, and was also trained as a paramedic. This was his 5th deployment.
Sean was a very enthusiastic athlete. He trained in kenpo, aikido and ninjitsu. He ran many races, participated in triathlons, biked, swam, and loved to hike. He loved the outdoors.
Sean was a family man. Married in June 2000, he is survived by his wife, Jessica L. H. Gaul and daughter. His love for work was second only to his joy while being home. He will also be missed by his mother; father; four sisters; three grandparents; seven uncles; nine aunts; numerous cousins; much family and many friends. An incredible man and grandfather Irvin J. Minear and cherished baby boy Ian Michael Gaul precede him in death.
Memorial services are scheduled for 11 a.m, Saturday, January 26 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 100 Bishop Manogue Drive, Reno, 89511. At Sean's request donations may be made to the SSG Sean Gaul and Family benefit at Wells Fargo Bank. He hopes to be honored by helping many others. The family would like to thank everyone everywhere for their support. May God bless you and keep you. We invite you to send a condolence message in the family guestbook at www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com Sean we will always love you as we always have. POW, MIA, KIA Gone but never forgotten.
SSG Sean Michael
GAUL
Staff Sergeant Sean Michael Gaul, 29, of Cresco, IA, was killed in action January 9, 2008 in Sinsil, Iraq. Sean was born June 25, 1978 to Christine M. Minear and Michael F. Gaul. He moved to the Reno area as a child in 1985. He attended local schools and was a member of JROTC at Reed High School. He joined the US Army in November, 1999. He was a career soldier first serving with B Co., 1/505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, and 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC. He then transferred to a Stryker Brigade at Ft. Lewis, WA and currently was stationed in Vilseck, Germany as a Recon Platoon Squad Leader. He attended Ranger School, sniper school, and was also trained as a paramedic. This was his 5th deployment.
Sean was a very enthusiastic athlete. He trained in kenpo, aikido and ninjitsu. He ran many races, participated in triathlons, biked, swam, and loved to hike. He loved the outdoors.
Sean was a family man. Married in June 2000, he is survived by his wife, Jessica L. H. Gaul and daughter. His love for work was second only to his joy while being home. He will also be missed by his mother; father; four sisters; three grandparents; seven uncles; nine aunts; numerous cousins; much family and many friends. An incredible man and grandfather Irvin J. Minear and cherished baby boy Ian Michael Gaul precede him in death.
Memorial services are scheduled for 11 a.m, Saturday, January 26 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 100 Bishop Manogue Drive, Reno, 89511. At Sean's request donations may be made to the SSG Sean Gaul and Family benefit at Wells Fargo Bank. He hopes to be honored by helping many others. The family would like to thank everyone everywhere for their support. May God bless you and keep you. We invite you to send a condolence message in the family guestbook at www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com Sean we will always love you as we always have. POW, MIA, KIA Gone but never forgotten.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Funeral Services for Sgt. Drakulich
Services for this fallen Hero will be held on Saturday January 19th, 2008. They will be at St. Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, 310 West 2nd Street in Reno. The service will begin at 10:00 A.M.
David Drakulich
Sgt. David Joseph
DRAKULICH
Sergeant David Joseph Drakulich, son of Joseph and Tina, and eldest brother to Thomas and Dana Drakulich, bravely fought and died for his country in Afghanistan on January 9, 2008. David was born April 3, 1985 at St. Mary's Hospital in Reno, NV. Sergeant Drakulich graduated from Hug High School in 2003. After attending TMCC for two semesters he proudly joined the army in 2004. There he served as a forward observer, rifleman, and parachutist with the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division based out of Fort Bragg, NC. Sergeant Drakulich has been awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic efforts and his sacrifice for our country. After completing his third and final tour this May, to once again rejoin civilian life, he looked forward to returning to school to pursue art in the fall of 2008.
David was an avid artist who also enjoyed snowboarding as well as listening to rock and roll while smoking a tobacco pipe or good cigar with his father. He was ushered into heaven by his lovely grandmother, Jan Lesperance; great-grandmother, Josephine Caviglia; great uncle and aunt, Ceasar and Katie Caviglia. David leaves behind his proud and loving grandparents, Tony Lesperance and wife Nancy, as well as Ina and Duke Drakulich. He will also be greatly missed by aunts, uncles, cousins and friends too numerous to mention.
A rosary will be held this Friday, January 18, 2008 at 6 p.m. at Mountain View Mortuary, 425 Stoker Ave., Reno, NV. David's life will be honored through the celebration of Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Cathedral on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. Donations may be made to the David Drakulich Art Scholarship Foundation at Wells Fargo, as well as, “In Memory of David Drakulich“ TMCC Foundation at 7000 Dandini Blvd., RDMT 2001, Reno, NV. Any and all donations made are greatly appreciated and will go to support the arts and education. David's family finds great comfort in knowing that he will now and forever bask in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. May God Bless and Protect Our Troops.
David Drakulich
Sgt. David Joseph
DRAKULICH
Sergeant David Joseph Drakulich, son of Joseph and Tina, and eldest brother to Thomas and Dana Drakulich, bravely fought and died for his country in Afghanistan on January 9, 2008. David was born April 3, 1985 at St. Mary's Hospital in Reno, NV. Sergeant Drakulich graduated from Hug High School in 2003. After attending TMCC for two semesters he proudly joined the army in 2004. There he served as a forward observer, rifleman, and parachutist with the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division based out of Fort Bragg, NC. Sergeant Drakulich has been awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic efforts and his sacrifice for our country. After completing his third and final tour this May, to once again rejoin civilian life, he looked forward to returning to school to pursue art in the fall of 2008.
David was an avid artist who also enjoyed snowboarding as well as listening to rock and roll while smoking a tobacco pipe or good cigar with his father. He was ushered into heaven by his lovely grandmother, Jan Lesperance; great-grandmother, Josephine Caviglia; great uncle and aunt, Ceasar and Katie Caviglia. David leaves behind his proud and loving grandparents, Tony Lesperance and wife Nancy, as well as Ina and Duke Drakulich. He will also be greatly missed by aunts, uncles, cousins and friends too numerous to mention.
A rosary will be held this Friday, January 18, 2008 at 6 p.m. at Mountain View Mortuary, 425 Stoker Ave., Reno, NV. David's life will be honored through the celebration of Mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Cathedral on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. Donations may be made to the David Drakulich Art Scholarship Foundation at Wells Fargo, as well as, “In Memory of David Drakulich“ TMCC Foundation at 7000 Dandini Blvd., RDMT 2001, Reno, NV. Any and all donations made are greatly appreciated and will go to support the arts and education. David's family finds great comfort in knowing that he will now and forever bask in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. May God Bless and Protect Our Troops.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Updated Wishlist for Las Vegas VA
Hot Needs
Winter clothing
i.e Gloves, hats scarfs, cats, sweaters, socks, sweatshirts and thermal underwear.
Donations for funding of Annual Award Banquet
Need supporting funds for Paralyzed Veterans Of AmericaTo send team to the annual Wheelchair Games in Omaha Ne.
Everyday needs
Clothing
Personal Hygiene Products
Food / non perishable items
Phone cards
Gas Vouchers
Funds for bus passes ( to help vets attend job interviews)
Money Orders ( to help Vets obtain DMV I.D's)
If you can help with any of these items please email me at vactlnv@gmail.com
Thank you!
Winter clothing
i.e Gloves, hats scarfs, cats, sweaters, socks, sweatshirts and thermal underwear.
Donations for funding of Annual Award Banquet
Need supporting funds for Paralyzed Veterans Of AmericaTo send team to the annual Wheelchair Games in Omaha Ne.
Everyday needs
Clothing
Personal Hygiene Products
Food / non perishable items
Phone cards
Gas Vouchers
Funds for bus passes ( to help vets attend job interviews)
Money Orders ( to help Vets obtain DMV I.D's)
If you can help with any of these items please email me at vactlnv@gmail.com
Thank you!
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