All posts by Michael Brewer

Retired Commercial Property Manager and Private Investigator. Disabled Combat Veteran of the U.S Marine Corps/ Vietnam. Raised in Dixon, Illinios and moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1959. Very happily married with 3 children and 3 grandsons. Blessed with treasured friends. LIfe long interests have been broad and exciting. Owned a semi-pro soccer team for 4 years. Freelance journalism has been stimulating. Civically involved with both municipal and veterans fraternal organizations. Moved to Apple Valley, Ca. in July, 2010 to be near children. Our daughter is a therapist in Santa Monica and son a multi-media digital ats maven. My wife loves her loom and us! Past Commandant of Apple Valley Marine Corps League,. Currently their Chaplain and Veteran Service Officer. Member of California Writers Club where we occasionally volunteer at the Federal Prison. An overall content hombre.
Veterans Benefits

New Diagnostic Criteria For PTSD

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PTSD new diagnostic info: Classification and subtypes
The risk of exposure to trauma has been a part of the human condition since we evolved as a species. Attacks by saber tooth tigers or twenty-first century terrorists have probably produced similar psychological sequelae in the survivors of such violence. Shakespeare’s Henry IV appears to meet many, if not all, of the diagnostic criteria for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as have other heroes and heroines throughout the world’s literature. 

Because of studies of Vietnam Vets suffering, finally in 1980, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) added PTSD to the third edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III) nosologic classification scheme (2). Although controversial when first introduced, the PTSD diagnosis has filled an important gap in psychiatric theory and practice. From an historical perspective, the significant change ushered in by the PTSD concept was the stipulation that the etiological agent was outside the individual (i.e., a traumatic event) rather than an inherent individual weakness (i.e., a traumatic neurosis). The key to understanding the scientific basis and clinical expression of PTSD is the concept of “trauma.”

Now, in the new DSM book, there is a PTSD Preschool Subtype which applies to children six years old and younger; it has fewer symptoms (especially in the “D” cluster because it is difficult for young children to report on their inner thoughts and feelings) and also has lower symptom thresholds to meet full PTSD criteria.

Importance of traumatic events
In its initial DSM-III formulation, a traumatic event was conceptualized as a catastrophic stressor that was outside the range of usual human experience. The framers of the original PTSD diagnosis had in mind events such as war, torture, rape, the Nazi Holocaust, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, natural disasters (such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcano eruptions), and human-made disasters (such as factory explosions, airplane crashes, and automobile accidents). They considered traumatic events to be clearly different from the very painful stressors that constitute the normal vicissitudes of life such as divorce, failure, rejection, serious illness, financial reverses, and the like. (By this logic, adverse psychological responses to such “ordinary stressors” would, in DSM-III terms, be characterized as Adjustment Disorders rather than PTSD.) This dichotomization between traumatic and other stressors was based on the assumption that, although most individuals have the ability to cope with ordinary stress, their adaptive capacities are likely to be overwhelmed when confronted by a traumatic stressor.

PTSD is unique among psychiatric diagnoses because of the great importance placed upon the etiological agent, the traumatic stressor. In fact, one cannot make a PTSD diagnosis unless the patient has actually met the “stressor criterion,” which means that he or she has been exposed to an event that is considered traumatic. Clinical experience with the PTSD diagnosis has shown, however, that there are individual differences regarding the capacity to cope with catastrophic stress. Therefore, while most people exposed to traumatic events do not develop PTSD, others go on to develop the full-blown syndrome. Such observations have prompted the recognition that trauma, like pain, is not an external phenomenon that can be completely objectified. Like pain, the traumatic experience is filtered through cognitive and emotional processes before it can be appraised as an extreme threat. Because of individual differences in this appraisal process, different people appear to have different trauma thresholds, some more protected from and some more vulnerable to developing clinical symptoms after exposure to extremely stressful situations. Although there is currently a renewed interest in subjective aspects of traumatic exposure, it must be emphasized that events such as rape, torture, genocide, and severe war zone stress are experienced as traumatic events by nearly everyone.

Revisions to PTSD diagnostic criteria
The DSM-III diagnostic criteria for PTSD were revised in DSM-III-R (1987), DSM-IV (1994), and DSM-IV-TR (2000) (2-5). A very similar syndrome is classified in ICD-10 (The ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders: Clinical Descriptions and Diagnostic Guidelines) (6). One important finding, which was not apparent when PTSD was first proposed as a diagnosis in 1980, is that it is relatively common. Recent data from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication indicates lifetime PTSD prevalence rates are 3.6% and 9.7% respectively among American men and women (7). Rates of PTSD are much higher in post-conflict settings such as Algeria (37%), Cambodia (28%), Ethiopia (16%), and Gaza (18%) .

DSM-IV Diagnostic criteria for PTSD included a history of exposure to a traumatic event and symptoms from each of three symptom clusters: intrusive recollections, avoidant/numbing symptoms, and hyper-arousal symptoms. A fifth criterion concerned duration of symptoms; and, a sixth criterion stipulated that PTSD symptoms must cause significant distress or functional impairment.

The latest revision, the DSM-5 (2013), has made a number of notable evidence-based revisions to PTSD diagnostic criteria, with both important conceptual and clinical implications (9). First, because it has become apparent that PTSD is not just a fear-based anxiety disorder (as explicated in both DSM-III and DSM-IV), PTSD in DSM-5 has expanded to include anhedonic/dysphoric presentations, which are most prominent. Such presentations are marked by negative cognitions and mood states as well as disruptive (e.g. angry, impulsive, reckless and self-destructive) behavioral symptoms. Furthermore, as a result of research-based changes to the diagnosis, PTSD is no longer categorized as an Anxiety Disorder. PTSD is now classified in a new category, Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders, in which the onset of every disorder has been preceded by exposure to a traumatic or otherwise adverse environmental event.

 

PTSD is no longer considered an Anxiety Disorder but has been reclassified as a Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorder because it has a number of clinical presentations, as discussed previously. In addition, two new subtypes have been included in the DSM-5. The Dissociative Subtype includes individuals who meet full PTSD criteria but also exhibit either depersonalization or derealization (e.g. alterations in the experience of one’s self and the world, respectively).The Preschool Subtype applies to children six years old and younger; it has fewer symptoms (especially in the “D” cluster because it is difficult for young children to report on their inner thoughts and feelings) and also has lower symptom thresholds to meet full PTSD criteria.

 

 

 

PTSD  and Vietnam, combat trauma, the American Psychiatric Association

“Since 1980, there has been a great deal of attention devoted to the development of instruments for assessing PTSD. Keane and associates working with Vietnam war-zone Veterans, first developed both psychometric and psychophysiological assessment techniques that have proven to be both valid and reliable. Other investigators have modified such assessment instruments and used them with natural disaster survivors, rape/incest survivors, and other traumatized individuals” (Friedman, 2013, n.p.).

Research partner, Jeremy Bourret.  This treatise was sent to me in an email with author unknown.

Veterans Benefits

Veterans Across America Black Out Walmart Black Thursday

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There really is no need  for narrative or a rationale for veterans to boycott the trumping, and tromping of corporate greed. 

Is this why we put ourselves in harms way? To be able to tell our grandchildren that the largest employer in the United States is Walmart?  Do you really want to tell them?  Do you really want to tell them that the bargain toys you buy for them are checked out by clerks on Food Stamps?  We are such guppies, the next step will be to take food to the poor people who work at Walmart and get a discount on a Tonka Truck.

So lets get this straight, our veterans served our nation to come home to the celebration of a big Walmart tent party that promotes more of the already rampant consumerism that has become our new moniker, and only exists on the back of the exploitation of global labor.  America the beautiful……buyers.

Our water supplies are being bought up by international investment groups, like the Carlyle Group.  Forty-eight percent the resale homes in Los Angeles area were purchased by foreign investors for the new rental profiteering market, with the same investors entering secondary markets like Tucson. I am not certain this is what Adam Smith intended when he penned, “The Wealth of Nations.”

Walmart takes pride in their hiring of veterans.  A Staff Sergeant with maybe 5 years in grade, makes near $45.ooo. oo with benefits. So that soldier is going to come home from the war and be tickled about a $12 @hr job.? Not only can that soldier not afford a one bedroom apartment on that pittance, but good luck with having a family. Walmart would have to hire the whole family to bring any integrity to the table.

Is this what we fought for?  Maybe  their computerized cash registers will all go down at the same time tomorrow, right in the middle of the Macy’s Day Parade.

God and the Pope could deliver the message in a breaking news interruption.  God would say, “Don’t make me come down there!”  “Walmart is not where you get my gifts.”

Veterans Benefits

Warning: VA ID Cards Are Easily Scanned

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Lest we not forget, there has never been a follow up story on the missing VA laptop from five years ago. I say, it went to a Pharmeceutical company in Canada.

Warning: VA ID Cards Are Easily Scanned

 November 25, 2013,  Military.Com

Anyone with a smart phone and a bar code app can scan any Department of Veterans Affairs identification card issued since 2004 and the cardholder’s Social Security number immediately pops up on the screen. The Department of Veterans Affairs published warnings about the veterans information cards (VIC’s) on their web site in 2011 and again in July, 2013. The alert states, “Some barcode readers, including those available as applications on cell phones, can scan the bar code on the front of the card, and reveal the veteran’s social security number.” VA has begun to work on a new type of card, which will not contain a Social Security number. Meanwhile, veterans should treat their current ID cards as just a careful as they do their Social Security card to prevent identity theif.

Larry

 

Larry R. Brown, Commandant
Marine Corps League
White Tanks Mountain Det. #1246
P.O. Box 8252
Surprise, AZ 85374-0120
H. 623.546.3335, C. 602.821.0054

Veterans Benefits

Veteran Fraud Alert

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With 1.5 million military transitioning to the veteran status in the next 2 years, look out for more of these.

I would also encourage you to keep your charitable dollars in your local community. The needs are immense right where you live.  I take umbrage with the  methodologies of major non-profits who turn store clerks into de facto fund raisers, involuntarily. It seems to be  marginal employment abuse, as these employees are sort of indentured servants to these charities. Circle K and Chevron are the worst.  Moreover, those major corporations who are collection boxes for charities with exorbitant salaries, will not even permit the smaller local charities to play the game.  So LOOK LOCAL, for your veteran assist programs, they are abound.  Esperanza and Escalante Homeless program. The Merritt Retreat Center Veterans program in Payson, that is free to all veterans.  You will be showered with blessings from a God who is also local!

ALL:

The Department of Veterans Affairs has issued a fraud alert about a marketing scam that is targeting veterans who misdial the VA National Call Center (800-827-1000) or the GI Bill Call Center (888-442-4551) phone numbers.  A marketing company created two phone numbers that differ from the real VA numbers by one digit.  If a veteran misdials and calls the bogus number, the answering party will offer a gift card and try to obtain sensitive personal data, to include credit card information.  Please note that the VA will “never” ask for credit card or banking information over the phone.  

The two bogus numbers are 800-872-1000 and 888-442-4511.  Please forward this information to all your members, Posts and friends, and share it on your websites.  The bottom line is make sure you know who you are talking to before providing personal information over the phone.  The VA has notified law enforcement authorities. 

For a list of toll-free VA phone numbers, go to the VA’s Inquiry Routing & Information System webpage at https://iris.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1703.

Regards,

Joe Davis

Public Affairs Director

VFW Washington Office

Veterans Benefits

Death/ Loss Grief For Teens and Children

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I do know that this blog does not bring forth the frothy exciting news of sports pages, but we do try to keep things anchored in the real world, and that world  is at war, presenting a sad array of issues for families, and the communities where our veterans domicile.

This material is provided by Jeremy Bourret, the son of a Marine combat veteran. Jeremy has first hand knowledge of loss in his life.

I do hope this material is received well and provides some form of consolation to our nations fallen warriors.

Death/Loss, Grief and Children, 1 of 5 or 6 documents

 

Child and Teen Developmental Grief Responses

Age 2-4

Developmental Stage/Task
Egocentric. Believe world centers around them. Narcissistic. Lack cognitive understanding of death and related concepts. Limited language skills.

Concept of Death
Death seen as reversible, as abandonment, not permanent. Common statements: “Did you know my mom died? When we she be home?”

Grief Response  
Intensive response but brief. Very present oriented. Most aware of changes in patterns of care. Asking questions repeatedly.

Signs of Distress
Regression: changes in eating and sleeping patterns, bed wetting, general irritability and confusion.

Possible Interventions
Short, honest answers, frequent repetition, lots of reassurance and nurturing. Consistent routine. Play is their outlet for grief.

Age 4-7

Developmental State/Task
Gaining a sense of autonomy. Exploring the world outside of self. Gaining language. Fantasy wishing and thinking. Initiative phase seeing self as the initiator. Concerns of guilt.

Concept of Death
Death still seen as reversible; later as avoidable. Personification of death. Feeling of responsibility because of wishes and thoughts. Common statements: “It’s my fault. I was mad and wished she’d die.”

Grief Response
More verbalization. Great concern with process. How? Why? Repetitive questioning. May act as though nothing has happened. General distress and confusion.

Signs of Distress
Regression: nightmares, sleeping and eating disturbed. Possible violent play. Attempts to take on role of person who died.

Positive Interventions
Symbolic play using drawings and stories. Allow and encourage expression of energy and feelings through physical outlets. Talk about it.

 
Age 7-11

Developmental Stage/ Task
Concrete thinking. Self-confidence develops. Beginning of socialization. Development of cognitive ability. Beginning of logical thinking.

Concept of Death
Death seen as punishment. Fear of bodily harm and mutilation. This is a difficult transition period, still wanting to see death as reversible, but beginning to realize that it is final.

Grief Response
Specific questions. Desire for complete detail. Concerned with how others are responding. What is the right way to respond? Starting to have ability to mourn and understand mourning.

Signs of Distress
Regression: school problems, withdrawal from friends. Acting out. Sleeping and eating disturbed. Overwhelming concern with body. Death thoughts (desire to join one who died). Role confusion.

Possible Interventions
Answer questions. Encourage expression of range of feelings. Explain options and allow for choices. Be available but allow alone time. Symbolic plays. Allow for physical outlets. Listen and allow for talk about the death.

Age 11-18

 Developmental Stage/Task
Formal operational problem solving. Abstract thinking. Integration of one’s own personality.

Concept of Death
A more “ADULT” approach. Ability to abstract. Beginning to conceptualize death. Work at making sense of teachings.

Grief Response
Extreme sadness. Denial. Regression. More often willing to talk to people outside of family and peer support. Risk taking .Traditional mourning.

Signs of Distress
Depression. Anger often towards parents. Suicidal thoughts. Non-compliance. Rejection of former teaching. Role confusion. Acting out.

Possible Interventions
Encourage verbalization. Allow for choices. Encourage self motivation. Listen. Be available. Do not attempt to take grief away.

 

 

 

There are many feelings that we have when someone dies. It’s different for everybody. There is no right or wrong way to feel. It’s okay if you cry and it’s okay if you don’t cry. You may feel sad or angry or shocked or confused or nothing at all. You may hurt in your body or feel dizzy or tired. All feelings are normal.

Here are some things you can do to help you express your feelings. 

 
Activity:  Finish the sentences

Finish the following sentences.

The thing that makes me feel the saddest is …..

If I could talk to the person who died I would ask….

Since the death my family doesn’t….

My worst memory is….

If I could change things I would….

One thing that I liked to do with the person who died was…

When the person died I….

Since the death my friends….

After the death, school….

When I am alone….

Is there anyone you want to share this with?

————————————————————————————————————————————–
 

 

The Bill of Rights of Grieving Teens
by Teens at The Dougy Center

A grieving teen has the right….

…to know the truth about the death, the deceased, and the circumstances.
…to have questions answered honestly.
…to be heard with dignity and respect.
…to be silent and not tell you her/his grief emotions and thoughts.
…to not agree with your perceptions and conclusions.
…to see the person who died and the place of the death.
…to grieve any way she/he wants without hurting self or others.
…to feel all the feelings and to think all the thoughts of his/her own unique grief.
…to not have to follow the “Stages of Grief” as outlined in a high school health book.
…to grieve in one’s own unique, individual way without censorship.
…to be angry at death, at the person who died, at God, at self, and at others.
…to have his/her own theological and philosophical beliefs about life and death.
…to be involved in the decisions about the rituals related to the death.
…to not be taken advantage of during this vulnerable period of mourning.
…to have guilt about how he/she could have intervened to stop the death.

This Bill of Rights was developed by participating teens at The Dougy Center and does not represent “official” policies of the Center.

Warning Signs of Abnormal Grief in Children                            

 

The following are warning signals but may not warrant professional intervention unless the intensity and duration of them are excessive.

 

 

*The absence of grief—showing no emotion

 

*Acting much younger for an extended period

 

*Prolonged self blame or guilt—overly worried or anxious

 

*Aggressive or destructive outbursts

 

*Depression with suicidal thoughts or action (excessive loss of interest in or      loss of ability to do one or more of the following: daily activities/events, friends, sleep, eating, tolerate being alone)

 

*Unwilling to speak of the deceased

 

*Verbalizing only positive or negative feelings about the death

 

*Persistent dysfunction in school (drop in performance/attendance)

 

*Overly indulging in a caregiving role

 

*Prone to accidents

 

*Commencing one or several illegal acts

 

*Exhibiting addictive behavior: drugs, food, certain behavior, or activity

 

 

 

 

                                                         #

Veterans Benefits

113th Congress Veteran Legislation

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113th Congress Veteran Legislation  November 2013

 

As of  12 NOV, of the 3445 House and  1676 Senate items of legislation introduced in the 113th Congress, the following are of interest to the non-active duty veteran community.  A good indication on the likelihood of a bill of being forwarded to the House or Senate for passage and subsequently being signed into law by the President is the number of cosponsors who have signed onto the bill. An alternate way for it to become law is if it is added as an addendum to another bill such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and survives the conference committee assigned to iron out the difference between the House and Senate bills. At http://thomas.loc.gov you can review a copy of each bill’s text, determine its current status and number of cosponsors, the committee it has been assigned to, who your representative is and his/her phone number, mailing address, or email/website to communicate with a message or letter of your own making, and if your legislator is a sponsor or cosponsor of it.  To separately determine what bills, amendments your representative has sponsored, cosponsored, or dropped sponsorship on refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/d111/sponlst.html.  To review a numerical list of all bills introduced refer to http://thomas.loc.gov/bss/111search.html.

 

 

H.R.32 : Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act.  A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan for military surviving spouses to offset the receipt of veterans dependency and indemnity compensation.

SUMMARY AS OF:

1/3/2013–Introduced.

Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act – Repeals certain provisions which require the offset of amounts paid in dependency and indemnity compensation from Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities for the surviving spouses of former military personnel who are entitled to military retired pay or who would be entitled to retired pay except for being under 60 years of age.

Prohibits requiring repayment of certain amounts previously paid to SBP recipients in the form of a retired pay refund.

Repeals the optional authority of (and instead requires) the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay an annuity to a member’s dependent children when there is no eligible surviving spouse.

Directs the Secretary concerned to restore annuity eligibility to a surviving spouse who earlier agreed to transfer such eligibility to a surviving child or children of a member.

Sponsor: Rep Wilson, Joe [SC-2] (introduced 1/3/2013)            Related Bills: S.734

Cosponsors: 184

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 1/3/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

 

S.734 : Military Surviving Spouses Equity Act.  A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to repeal the requirement for reduction of survivor annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ dependency and indemnity compensation.

SUMMARY AS OF:

4/16/2013–Introduced.

Repeals certain provisions which require the offset of amounts paid in dependency and indemnity compensation from Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) annuities for the surviving spouses of former military personnel who are entitled to military retired pay or would be entitled to such pay, except for being under 60 years of age.

Prohibits recoupment by the Secretary of Defense (DOD) of certain amounts previously paid to SBP recipients in the form of a retired pay refund.

Repeals the optional authority of (and instead requires) the Secretary of the military department concerned to pay an annuity to a member’s dependent children when there is no eligible surviving spouse. Directs the Secretary concerned to restore annuity eligibility to a surviving spouse who earlier agreed to transfer such eligibility to a surviving child or children of a member.

Sponsor: Sen Nelson, Bill [FL] (introduced 4/16/2013)                             Related Bill.:  H.R. 32

Cosponsors:  31

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/16/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

 

H.R.303 : Retired Pay Restoration Act.  A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit additional retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation and to eliminate the phase-in period under current law with respect to such concurrent receipt.

Sponsor: Rep Bilirakis, Gus M. [FL-12] (introduced 1/15/2013)     Related Bills:  S.234

Cosponsors:  81

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/15/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.  2/4/13:  referred to Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

 

S.234 : Retired Pay Restoration Act of 2013.  A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 2/7/2013)      Related Bills:  H.R.303

Cosponsors:  20

Committees: Senate Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 2/7/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

 

H.R.333 : Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act.  A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to permit retired members of the Armed Forces who have a service-connected disability rated less than 50 percent to receive concurrent payment of both retired pay and veterans’ disability compensation, to eliminate the phase-in period for concurrent receipt, to extend eligibility for concurrent receipt to chapter 61 disability retirees with less than 20 years of service, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Bishop, Sanford D., Jr. [GA-2] (introduced 1/22/2013)     

Cosponsors:  110

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.  2/4/13:  referred to Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

 

H.R.543
Latest Title: Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2013.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify presumptions relating to the exposure of certain veterans who served in the vicinity of the Republic of Vietnam, and for other purposes.

Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2013 – Includes as part of the Republic of Vietnam its territorial seas for purposes of the presumption of service connection for diseases associated with exposure by veterans to certain herbicide agents while in Vietnam.
Sponsor: Rep Gibson, Christopher P. [NY-19] (introduced 2/6/2013)
Cosponsors:  154

Latest Major Action: 2/15/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.

 

H.R.569 :   Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013.  A bill to increase, effective as of December 1, 2013, the rates of compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Runyan, Jon [NJ-3] (introduced 2/6/2013)      Related Bills: H.R.570

Cosponsors:  51

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  4/16/13: Sub-Committee hearing held.  4/25/13: referred to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

 

H.R.570 :  American Heroes COLA Act.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for annual cost-of-living adjustments to be made automatically by law each year in the rates of disability compensation for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for survivors of certain service-connected disabled veterans.

Sponsor: Rep Runyan, Jon [NJ-3] (introduced 2/6/2013)      Related Bills: H.R.569

Cosponsors:  39

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/6/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  5/21/13:  reported out of Committee on Veterans Affairs.  5/21/13: Passed House.  5/22/13: Referred to Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

 

S893:  Veterans Compensation Cost –of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013

5/8/2013–Introduced.

Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2013 – Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase, as of December 1, 2013, the rates of veterans’ disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled veterans, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children.  Requires each such increase to be the same percentage as the increase in benefits provided under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act, on the same effective date.

Sponsor:  Senator Bernard Sanders

Cosponsors: 17

Latest Major Action:  6/12/13: hearing held by Committee on Veterans Affairs; 7/24/13: ordered to be reported favorably without amendment; 9/4/13: placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders.  Calendar no. 165.   10/29/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  11/12/13: passed in the House.  11/14/13: presented to the President.

 

H.R.679 : Honor America’s Guard-Reserve Retirees Act.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law.

Sponsor: Rep Walz, Timothy J. [MN-1] (introduced 2/13/2013)      Related bills: S. 629

Cosponsors:  58

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 2/22/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. 4/17/13: subcommittee hearings held.

 

S.629 : Honor America’s Guard-Reserve Retirees Act of 2013.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to recognize the service in the reserve components of the Armed Forces of certain persons by honoring them with status as veterans under law, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Pryor, Mark L. [AR] (introduced 3/20/2013)                   Related bills:  H.R.679

Cosponsors:  24

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/20/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  6/12/13: hearings held by Committee on Veterans Affairs.

 

H.R.1134 :  Vet Rural Health Care Improvement.   A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to carry out a grant program and pilot program designed to improve the delivery of health care to veterans residing in rural areas, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Gallego, Pete P. [TX-23] (introduced 3/13/2013)     

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/13/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  4/2/13: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

 

H.R.1494 :  Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act.  To direct the Secretary of Defense to review the operation of certain ships during the Vietnam Era, and for other purposes.

SUMMARY AS OF:

4/11/2013–Introduced.

Blue Water Navy Ship Accountability Act – Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to: (1) review the logs of each Navy ship known to have operated in the waters near Vietnam during the Vietnam Era (January 9, 1962, through May 7, 1975); (2) determine, for each such ship, the date(s) so operated and its closest proximity to shore during such operation; and (3) provide such information to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA). Requires the VA Secretary to make such unclassified information publicly available.

Sponsor: Rep Gibson, Christopher P. [NY-19] (introduced 4/11/2013)     

Cosponsors:  38

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 4/11/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.   4/26/13: referred to Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs.  6/28/13:  Subcommittee hearings held.  7/23/13:  Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs discharged.  7/23/2013 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs Discharged.

 

H.R.1520 : POW/MIA Accounting and Recovery Support Act of 2013.  A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to allow civilian employees of the Department of Defense to delay furloughs until returning from a deployment in support of accounting and recovery efforts by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command.

Sponsor: Rep Lynch, Stephen F. [MA-8] (introduced 4/12/2013)     

Cosponsors:  5

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 4/23/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Readiness.

 

H.R.1725 : Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for unlimited eligibility for health care for mental illnesses for veterans of combat service during certain periods of hostilities and war.

SUMMARY AS OF:

4/25/2013–Introduced.

Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act – Makes any veteran who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations during World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam era, the Persian Gulf War, Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom, or any other period of war after the Persian Gulf War, or in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities, eligible for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for any mental illness through the Department of Veterans Affairs (V
A), notwithstanding insufficient medical evidence to conclude that the mental illness is attributable to such service.

Sponsor: Rep Cartwright, Matt [PA-17] (introduced 4/25/2013)     

Cosponsors:  82

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/8/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health. 

 

H.R.1770 :  Correct Reserve SBP Inequities.   A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to eliminate the different treatment under the Survivor Benefit Plan accorded members of the reserve components who die from an injury or illness incurred or aggravated in the line of duty during inactive-duty training compared to members of the Armed Forces who die in the line of duty while on active duty.

Sponsor: Rep Chaffetz, Jason [UT-3] (introduced 4/26/2013)

Cosponsors:   9 

Committees: House Armed Services

Latest Major Action: 5/6/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Military Personnel.

 

H.R.1774 : Wounded Veteran Job Security Act.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the reemployment of certain persons following absences from a position of employment for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment for certain injuries and illnesses, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Doggett, Lloyd [TX-35] (introduced 4/26/2013)      Cosponsors (18)

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/8/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

 

H.R.2056 : Veteran Employment Transition Act.  A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the work opportunity credit to certain recently discharged veterans, to improve the coordination of veteran job training services between the Department of Labor, the Department of Veteran Affairs, and the Department of Defense, to require transparency for Executive departments in meeting the Government-wide goals for contracting with small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Schwartz, Allyson Y. [PA-13] (introduced 5/20/2013)                 Related Bills: S.140

Cosponsors: 73

Committees: House Ways and Means; House Veterans’ Affairs; House Armed Services; House Small Business; House Education and the Workforce

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs, Armed Services, Small Business, and Education and the Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.  7/8/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Training.

 

S.140 :  Vet Work Opportunity Credit.  A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the work opportunity credit to certain recently discharged veterans, to improve the coordination of veteran job training services between the Department of Labor, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense, to require transparency for Executive departments in meeting the Government-wide goals for contracting with small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, and for other purposes.                                                                        Related Bills: H.R.2056

Sponsor: Sen Baucus, Max [MT] (introduced 1/24/2013)

Cosponsors:  3     

Committees: Senate Finance

Latest Major Action: 1/24/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.

 

H.R.2519 : Assistance to Agent Orange Exposed Individuals.  A bill to direct the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide assistance for individuals affected by exposure to Agent Orange, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Lee, Barbara [CA-13] (introduced 6/26/2013)

Co-sponsors:  12   

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Energy and Commerce; House Foreign Affairs

Latest Major Action: 6/26/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Foreign Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.  7/8/13: referred to Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs

 

H.R.2882 :  Improving Opportunities for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses Act of 2013.   A bill to amend the Small Business Act and title 38, United States Code to provide for a consolidated definition of a small business concern owned and controlled by veterans, and for other purposes

Sponsor: Rep Coffman, Mike [CO-6] (introduced 7/31/2013)   cosponsors: 6    

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs; House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 7/31/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Small Business, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.  8/13/13: referred to House Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

 

H.R.2906 :  Fairness to Veterans for Infrastructure Investment Act of 2013.   A bill to amend MAP-21 to improve contracting opportunities for veteran-owned small business concerns, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep Fitzpatrick, Michael G. [PA-8] (introduced 8/1/2013)     cosponsors: 1    

Committees: House Transportation and Infrastructure; House Small Business

Latest Major Action: 8/2/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Small Business, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.  8/13/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.

 

H.R.3098 : Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Relief Act.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to enhance the treatment of certain small business concerns for purposes of Department of Veterans Affairs contracting goals and preferences.

Sponsor: Rep McNerney, Jerry [CA-9] (introduced 9/12/2013)Cosponsors: 6                      Related Bills: S.430

Committees: House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 9/12/2013 Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

 

S.430

Latest Title: Veterans Small Business Opportunity and Protection Act of 2013

Sponsor: Sen Heller, Dean [NV] (introduced 2/28/2013)      Cosponsors (2)

Related Bills: H.R.3098, S.495

Latest Major Action: 6/12/2013 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

 

S.495

Latest Title: Careers for Veterans Act of 2013

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 3/7/2013)      Cosponsors (6)

Related Bills: S.430, S.492

Latest Major Action: 6/12/2013 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

 

H.R.3181 : Defending Veterans from Sequestration Act of 2013.  A bill to amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to clarify the treatment of administrative expenses of the Department of Veterans Affairs during sequestration.

Sponsor:  Rep Michaud (Maine); co-sponsors: 1

9/25/13: referred to House Committee on the Budget.

 

 

H.R.3225 :  Vet Benefit Appropriations During Shutdown.  A bill to Make continuing appropriations for veterans benefits in the event of a Government shutdown.

Sponsor: Rep Salmon (Arizona)           Cosponsors: 46

10/1/13: Referred to the House Committee on Appropriations

 

 

H.R.3230 : Pay Our Guard and Reserve Act.  A bill to make continuing appropriations during a Government shutdown to provide pay and allowances to members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces who perform inactive-duty training during such period.

Sponsor: Rep Rogers (KY)        Cosponsors: 2

10/5/13: read 2nd time; placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders

 

 

H.R.3241 : Pay our Guardsmen and Civilian Defense Personnel Act.  A bill to amend the Pay Our Military Act to provide for continuing appropriations for defense civilian personnel (including military technicians (dual status)) and members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces performing inactive-duty training.

Sponsor: Rep Scott (GA)          Cosponsors: 30

10/3/13 referred to House Committee on Appropriations

 

H.R.3274 : Fallen Heroes and Families Assistance Act.  A bill to amend the Pay Our Military Act to make appropriations available to continue the payment of a death gratuity and certain other death-related compensation in the event of the death of members of the Armed Forces and certain other persons who pass away during a Government shutdown.

Sponsor: Rep Barber (AZ)        Cosponsors: 24

10/8/13: referred to the House Committee on Appropriations

 

H.R.3287 :  VSO Access to DVA Facilities.  A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide veterans service organizations with the same access to Department of Veterans Affairs facilities during the Government shutdown as such organizations had immediately prior to the shutdown, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Rep McNerney          Cosponsors: 9

10/11/13: referred to the House Committee on Veterans Affairs

 

 

H.R.3289 :   Military Death Benefits Payment During Shutdown.    A bill to provide funds during the lapse of appropriations for the payment of military death gratuities and funeral and related transportation and housing expenses through the transfer of unobligated amounts in the Health Insurance Reform Implementation Fund.

Sponsor: Rep Kimgston (GA)   cosponsors: none

10/11/13:  referred to House Committee on Energy and Commerce

 

S.1564 : Protecting Those Who Protected Us Act of 2013.  A bill making continuing appropriations for veterans benefits and services in the event of a Government shutdown.

Sponsor: Senator Sanders       cosponsors: 7

9/30/13: referred to the Senate Committee on Appropriations

 

S.6 : Putting Our Veterans Back to Work Act of 2013.  A bill to reauthorize the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011, to provide assistance to small businesses owned by veterans, to improve enforcement of employment and reemployment rights of members of the uniformed services, and for other purposes.

SUMMARY AS OF:

1/22/2013–Introduced.

Putting Our Veterans Back to Work Act of 2013 – Amends the: (1) VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011 to extend through March 31, 2016, the veterans retraining assistance program; and (2) Wounded Warrior Act to extend through 2016 the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) (Secretary) to provide the same rehabilitation and vocational benefits to members of the Armed Forces (members) with severe injuries or illnesses as are provided to veterans.

Extends through: (1) March 31, 2016, additional VA rehabilitation programs for certain disabled veterans who have completed a VA rehabilitation program and have exhausted their rights to state unemployment benefits; and (2) FY2015 the collaborative veterans’ training, mentoring, and placement program.

Directs the Secretary to develop a single, unified federal web-based employment portal for veterans to access information on federal programs and activities concerning veterans employment, unemployment benefits, and training.

Directs the: (1) Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to award grants to hire veterans as firefighters, and (2) Attorney General (AG) to award grants to hire veterans as law enforcement officers.

Requires the head of each executive and defense agency to consider favorably, as an evaluation factor in federal solicitations for contracts and task or delivery orders valued at or above $25 million, the employment by a prospective contractor of veterans constituting at least 5% of the contractor’s workforce.

Allows a veteran on whose behalf a complaint of a violation of employment or reemployment rights under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is made by the AG to intervene in such action, and to obtain appropriate relief. Requires the AG, within 60 days after receiving a referral of an unsuccessful attempt to resolve a complaint relating to a state or private employer, to notify the person on whose behalf the complaint is submitted of either the decision to commence such an action or of when such decision is expected to be made. Requires, in the latter case, such d
ecision to be made within an additional 30 days. Requires the AG to commence such an action when there is reasonable cause to believe that a state or private employer is engaged in a pattern or practice of resistance to the full enjoyment of such rights and benefits, and that the pattern or practice denies the full exercise of such rights and benefits.

Authorizes the suspension, termination, or debarment of federal contractors for repeated failures or refusals to comply with USERRA protections.

Provides the Special Counsel with subpoena power to require the attendance and testimony of, and production of documents from, federal employees, to be enforced through the Merit Systems Protection Board.

Authorizes the AG, in employment or reemployment rights investigations, to issue and serve a civil investigative demand for the production of documentary material.

Sponsor: Sen Reid, Harry [NV] (introduced 1/22/2013)      

Cosponsors:  25

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 1/22/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.  6/12/13:  hearings held by Committee on Veterans Affairs.

7/24/2013 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.

 

S.210 : Stolen Valor Act of 2013.    A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to fraudulent representations about having received military declarations or medals.

Sponsor: Sen Heller, Dean [NV] (introduced 2/4/2013)            cosponsors: 22

Related Bills: H.R.258

Latest Major Action: 2/4/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.  NOTE: became public law 113-12 on 6/3/13

 

H.R.258 : Stolen Valor Act of 2013.  A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to fraudulent representations about having received military declarations or medals.

Sponsor: Rep Heck, Joseph J. [NV-3] (introduced 1/15/2013)                     Related Bills: S.210

Committees: House Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 5/20/2013 Passed/agreed to in House. Status: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 390 – 3 (Roll no. 161).

Became Public Law No: 113-12 on 6/3/13

S.409 :  Vietnam Veterans Day Observance.   A bill to add Vietnam Veterans Day as a patriotic and national observance.

Authorizes the President to annually issue a proclamation: (1) designating March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day, (2) honoring and recognizing the contributions of veterans who served in Vietnam during war and peace, (3) encouraging state and local governments to establish a Vietnam Veterans Day, and (4) encouraging the people of the United States to observe such Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 2/28/2013)     

Cosponsors: 8

Committees: Senate Judiciary

Latest Major Action: 2/28/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

 

S.492 :  Vet State Licenses and Credentials.   A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require States to recognize the military experience of veterans when issuing licenses and credentials to veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 3/7/2013)                                  Related bills:  S.495

Committees: Senate Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 3/7/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

6/12/13: Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs; hearings held.

 

S.495 :  Careers for Veterans Act of 2013.  A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require Federal agencies to hire veterans, to require States to recognize the military experience of veterans when issuing licenses and credentials to veterans, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Burr, Richard [NC] (introduced 3/7/2013)           Cosponsors: 6     Related bills: S.430

Latest Major Action: 6/12/2013 Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Hearings held.

 

S.700 : Troop Talent Act of 2013.   A bill to ensure that the education and training provided members of the Armed Forces and veterans better assists members and veterans in obtaining civilian certifications and licenses, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Kaine, Tim [VA] (introduced 4/10/2013)            cosponsors: 18

Related Bills: H.R.1796

Latest Major Action: 4/10/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Armed Services.

 

H.R.1796 :Troop Talent Act of 2013.  A bill to ensure that the education and training provided members of the Armed Forces and veterans better assists members and veterans in obtaining civilian certifications and licenses, and for other purposes
Sponsor: Rep Duckworth, Tammy [IL-8] (introduced 4/26/2013           cosponsors: 99     

Related Bills: S.700

Committees: House Armed Services; House Veterans’ Affairs

Latest Major Action: 5/8/2013 Referred to House subcommittee. Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity.   6/26/2013 House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Subcommittee Hearings Held.

 

S.1602:  A bill to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs a national center for the diagnosis, treatment, and research of health conditions of the descendants of veterans exposed to toxic substances during service in the Armed Forces, to provide certain services to those descendants, to establish an advisory board on exposure to toxic substances, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: Sen Blumenthal, Richard [CT] (introduced 10/29/2013)      Cosponsors:  1

Latest Major Action: 10/29/2013 Referred to Senate committee. Status: Read twice and referred to the Committee

Veterans Benefits

Mindfulness Training Remains Free To Veterans.

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There is not much question about our daily exposure to a hyperkinetic world.  We all know well that many of those we deal with at work and socially are vibrating at a level that does not promote calm and level relationships.

The World Heath Organization reports that the cost of stress to American business is approximately $300 billion a year. The cacophonous milieu of politics has intruded the workplace and the sports arena’s and the kitchen table. We would do well to learn how to “chill” as our children used to advise.

Well there is a Chill Program in town. It called Mindfulness and it appears to be spreading across the nation. The classes like the ones offered here, have been taught to veterans for the past five years at the recommendation of VA Psychologists.  Thanks to Congressman Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), the author of Mindful Nation, the value of this instruction has spawned testimonies galore in the Veteran Community.

When Transcendental Meditation swept the college campuses in the early 1970’s,  the seeds were laid for the western culture to profit from ancient techniques like meditation and mindfulness. For myself it was a way to meet girls! Reading Alan Watts, about Zen and  Eastern ways was also a way to present myself in a fashion that was not quite as bellicose as a Marine.  It worked then and it works now.  Low blood pressure and a smile make for happy relationships, and Mindfulness training can deliver just those attributes.

 

 

 

 

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
Developed in 1979 by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn
at the University of Massachusetts
medical school, MBSR is a manualized,
evidence-based, 8-week program.
MBSR is highly participatory and
deeply engaging experiential learning.
Explore the interplay of mind and body
to mobilize inner resources for
learning, growing, and healing.
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS
open to all, free to veterans and their partners
REGISTRATION • Dec. 18 • 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Library, Ada McCormick Building
1401 E. 1st Street (at Highland Ave.)
8-WEEK CLASS • Jan. 8 – Feb. 26 • 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Saturday • Feb. 15 • 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Library, Ada McCormick Building
1401 E. First St. (at Highland Ave.)
Facilitator
Dr. Teri Davis has completed professional training
with Drs. Jon Kabat-Zinn and Saki Santorelli, as well
as training programs at the Center for Mindfulness
at UMass Medical School. A licensed naturopathic
physician, she is the founder of Purple Mountain
Institute and the Mindful Veterans Project.
WINTER 2014 • MBSR for vets • Jan. 3 – Feb. 28
REGISTRATION • Jan. 3 • 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Tucson Vet Center • 3055 N. 1st Avenue
8-WEEK CLASS • Jan. 10 – Feb. 28 • 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Saturday • Feb. 15 • 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tucson Vet Center • 3055 N. 1st Avenue
To Register:
Attend one of the Info & Registration
classes, 6 – 8 pm, Dec. 18 or Jan. 3.
Pick up registration packet.
Bring completed packet to Class #1.
Suggested Donation for MBSR Registration: $500
No one will be turned away due to lack of funds.
Free to veterans thanks to donations to the Mindful Veterans Project.
Purple Mountain Institute*
120 S. Houghton Road, 138 -174
Tucson, AZ 85748
Teri Davis, ND • Executive Director
teri@welcomehomefreeclinic.org
520/624-7183
Words From MBSR Graduates
“. . . complete change in my understanding of how I can participate in my
own wellness. I have specific, tangible methods for coping with stress
and challenges now, which I’ve never had before . . . . It was so very helpful
to me that I would recommend it unconditionally.”
“I learned how to be more compassionate with myself.
To note a thought as just a thought, an emotion just an emotion –
I do not need to act or react to them.”
*Purple Mountain Institute is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization, EID# 31-1733820.
www.purple-mountain-institute.org
MEDITATION
Mondays • 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Tucson Vet Center
3055 N. 1st. Avenue
TAI CHI
Wednesdays • 3:30 – 5:00 pm
Ada McCormick Bldg.
1401 E. 1st. St.
MBSR – WEDNESDAYS
Free to veterans
and their partners.
1401 E. 1st Street
MBSR – FRIDAYS
Free to women veterans.
Tucson Vet Center
3055 North 1st Avenue
Free to Veterans
FRIDAY EVENINGS
free, open to women veterans only
SPRING CLASS: MARCH 12 – MAY 2

Veterans Benefits

History Of Marine Corps Ball

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The United States Marine Corps begins its preparations for the annual Marine Corps Ball in the early summer. The formal commemoration of the Marine Corps birthday was first conducted on November 10th,1921. The date was selected because on that day the Second Continental Congress resolved to raise two battalions of Continental Marines.

Between 1798 and 1921 the birthday was celebrated on July 11th. At the close of the Revolution the Marines and Navy were nearly disbanded, but on July 11th 1798 President John Adams drafted a bill that recreated the Marine Corps.

On October 21 1921 Major Edwin Mclellan and officer in charge of the Historical Section sent a memorandum to the Commnadant General John A Lejeune suggesting that the date be returned to November 10th.

The request was granted and on November 1st, 1921 Major General Lejeune issued Marine Corps Order 47, Series 1921. The order summarized the history, mission and tradition of the Corps and directed it to be read to every command on November 10th of each subsequent year in honor of the Marine Corps. That order has been carried out to this day.

The first grand birthday ball was most likely held in Philadelphia in 1925. The main event was the presentation of a tablet showcasing the original founding site at Tunn Tavern. The gift was from the Thomas Roberts Reath Post of the American Legion whose membership was composed of all Marines.

It is not known when the first cake ceremony was held, but it is thought to have been at Quantico, Virginia in 1935.  Traditionally, the first piece of cake is presented to the oldest Marine present and the second piece to the youngest Marine present. When and how this tradition began is not recorded, but it remains as the centerpiece of all celebrations. All celebrations include the reading of that original Order 47, coupled with the current Commandants message to all those assembled.

Just like the Marine Corps itself, this Birthday Ball has evolved from simple beginnings to a polished totally class act that is celebrated world wide.

The best part of this day, is the phone calls and emails from Marines of all ages, simply wishing each other a Happy Birthday Marine! Camaraderie and respect like that is hard to match.

Semper Fidelis United States Marines!

Source:MCL

Veterans Benefits

Traumatic Brain Injury And Veterans

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This article is written by Jeremy Bourrett,  a very enlightened son of my dear friend and fellow Marine Pete Bourrett.  Pete is a retired English teacher. I was his replacement on Hill 10 in Quang Nam Province in Vietnam. We did not meet until 1993 when the Tucson Citizen did an article on Pete and his combat experience on Hill 10. I just about dropped over when I read the article, because I had never known anyone who served where I did. And then to find out we must have passed on the hill! Such serendipity is rare. We have been pals to this day.
Some of the poetry posted at Veteran Veritas is offered by Pete Bourrett. There is more to come.
His son Jeremy is devoted to the cause of veterans.

Combat-related Traumatic Brain Injuries & Cognitive Disorders-Responding to Our Veterans Needs: Response by Jeremy Bourrét

Some have argued that it is very important for many reasons that our country, including new and future counselors, learn the most important and germane lessons from Vietnam (The Conversation.com, 2012). For counselors, it is important to know that PTSD was diagnosed too late for Vietnam Veterans so many who could have received the necessary care and treatment that they deserved. Also, Traumatic Brain Injuries occurred in Vietnam; but, how many Vietnam War Veterans were never diagnosed, misdiagnosed, or diagnosed and treated too late? So, the question is: have we learned anything about mental health and disorders that can also now affect our Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans?

If traumatic brain injuries can be related to dementia (Butcher, Mineka, & Hooley, 2012; Comber, 2010), which the American Psychiatric Association (2000) has acknowledged, some important questions should be asked. For instance, in both the civilian and in the Veteran populations, how are traumatic brain injuries assessed; what criteria are used? First a myth or misunderstanding needs to be addressed:

 “Many patients and clinicians assume that the terms mild, moderate and severe TBI refer to the severity of symptoms associated with the injury. In fact these terms refer to the nature of the injury itself… Moderate traumatic brain injuries entail loss of consciousness > 30 minutes, post-traumatic amnesia > 24 hours, and an initial GCS 9-12.  Severe brain injuries entail all of the moderate criteria listed above, but with a GCS < 9. [Regarding civilians who not Veterans] …about 80% of all TBI’s in the civilian population are mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI)… However, some 10-15% of patients may go on to develop chronic post-concussive symptoms. These symptoms can be grouped into three categories: somatic (headache, tinnitus, insomnia, etc.), cognitive (memory, attention and concentration difficulties…” (n.p.).

This can, then, sometimes lead to a person eventually developing any

of some of the various types of Cognitive Disorders  (American Psychiatric Association, 2000, Comber, 2010). Also, Summerall (2011), one of the Veterans Administration/Department of Defense’s sources, who has written about TBI’s,  has noted about the nature of  more intense traumas and injuries which civilians are less likely to experience than combat-Veterans; also, the diagnostic and treatment needs of those with serious TBI’s, like combat-Veterans, are complex:

“Moderate and Severe TBI Patients with moderate and severe brain injuries often have focal deficits and occasionally profound brain damage. …  The diagnosis of TBI, associated post-concussive symptoms and other comorbidities such as PTSD, presents unique challenges for diagnosticians” (Summerall, 2011, n.p.).

It has been recommended by the Veterans Administration’s guidelines (Summerall, 2011) that additional factors should be taken into consideration by diagnosticians of various professions, including psychologists, counselors, neurologists, and psychiatrists:

“…Another factor is that these injuries can occur in chaotic circumstances, such as combat, and may be ignored in the heat of events. Clinicians may be presented with vague concerns and little relevant detail about the original injury; whenever possible, clinicians and patients should attempt to obtain supporting documentation. At minimum clinicians should elicit as detailed an injury history as possible.  Once the injury history has been established, the patient’s course of recovery and remaining post-concussive symptoms should be documented. [And, given the complexity of diagnosing a poly-trauma client accurately] because of the considerable symptom overlap between post-concussive symptoms and symptoms of many psychiatric and neurologic disorders, this process can be challenging” (Summerall, 2011, n.p.).

It is true that family involvement (e.g., social supportiveness) is extremely necessary to help the poly-trauma patient to begin the process of recovery or the person to begin dealing with the traumas or for a partial recovery that may sometimes be possible with effort and encouragement as well as medical treatment, a team approach:

 “Education for the patient and family early in the course of recovery can improve outcomes in patients with TBI and help to prevent the development of other psychological problems. Unfortunately… many patients and their families do not receive education early in the course of illness and may require intervention after symptoms have become well established. Currently, the VA encourages a recovery message when prognosis is discussed, and inclusion of the family in treatment planning” (Summerall, 2011, n.p.). 

It is wise advice for treatment providers of returning Veterans and for the civilian population, as well, for providers to be careful in noting and documenting recent or past head traumas (Summerall, 2011). According to Summerall (2011) is an unfortunate fact that for injured Veterans including those who have recently returned from serving their country in combat in Iraq or Afghanistan or will be returning soon and need to seek out treatment by counselors and other professionals:

“…TBI of any severity can disrupt families, in no small part because of family members’ changing roles in response to the patient’s difficulties, even if these problems ultimately improve. Immediate family involvement and education about the course of illness is crucial, and ongoing attention should be paid to family needs as time passes. Supporting families can improve outcomes by ensuring that the patient’s recovery is not hampered by a deteriorating family situation. Many providers will not have the time or expertise to include families in all phases of treatment; again, clinicians should not hesitate to seek out available expertise and support groups early in the course of illness” (n.p.).

Last, for our country’s Veterans who had served their country but ultimately were injured by PTSD, TBI’s, and other polytrauma syndromes (and, in some cases, from Agent Orange or Gulf War Syndrome) who served in Iraq, Afghanistan and the baby-boomers who served in Vietnam, we should answer this question: What can we do for all Veterans as future counselors? That is the question as counselors, I believe, we need to raise.

 

References

         American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (IV-TR). Washington, DC: Author.

Butcher, J., Mineka, S.,  & Hooley, J. (2012). Abnormal psychology (14th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.

Comber, R. (2010).  Abnormal psychology. New York, NY: Worth.                                   

Summerall, E. (2011).  Traumatic Brain Injury and PTSD. [Veterans Administration/Department of Defense Website] Retrieved from: www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/pages/traumatic-brain-injury-ptsd.asp 

The Conversation.com (2012). Vietnam and Iraq lessons to be learned about mental health and war. Retrieved from: http://theconversation.com/vietnam-and-iraq-lessons-to-be-learned-about-mental-health-and-war-6661

Jeremy Bourrét

Mike, now go to this great article:

http://theconversation.com/vietnam-and-iraq-lessons-to-be-learned-about-mental-health-and-war-6661