One Veteran’s Special Mother’s Day Tribute

Events
LinkedIn
John Register poses with his arm around his mother both smiling

By John Register, Silver Medal Paralympian and Combat Veteran

A post to the gentle giant slayer and the best mother a boy, youngster, and man could ever hope to have had, my mother E. Dolores Register (October 23, 1933 – December 9, 2021).

The journey of grief is not easy, especially when the person you lost is your mother. The absence of a mother is one of the hardest pains in life. Today is a wonderful time to remember that mothers hold their children’s hands for a while, and in their hearts forever. While I miss her dearly, I remember how fortunate I was that she was in my life. She was my protector. I would not trade those moments for the world.

We move forward toward a greater expected hope. Hope may not be a plan, but without it we sink into despair. It is a dynamic essence that allows us to actuate a better state to realize a better existence is on the way.

As the world changes day to day, the love and memory of my mother, E Dolores Register shall never pass. – John Register

World War II veterans return to Utah Beach to mark D-Day anniversary

EventsGovernment
LinkedIn
World War ll veterans lined up to salute

By Sylvie Corbet and Jeffrey Schaeffer, The Associated Press

ON UTAH BEACH, France — World War II veterans shared vivid memories of D-Day and the fighting as dozens returned to Normandy beaches and key battle sites to mark the 79th anniversary of the decisive assault that led to the liberation of France and Western Europe from Nazi control.

Looking at the vastness of Utah Beach, its sand blowing in strong wind and bright sunshine, 99-year-old Robert Gibson remembered: “it was tough.”
 

U.S war veterans salute during a ceremony outside the Pegasus Bridge memorial in Benouville, Normandy, Monday, June 5, 2023. (Thomas Padilla/AP)

Gibson landed there on June 6, 1944 alongside more than 150,000 other Allied troops.

He said there were “lots of casualties. We had almost run over bodies to get in the beach. Never forget we were only 18, 19 years old. … I’m glad I made it.”

The first job of his battalion, he said, was “to guard an ammunition dump and the first night it got struck. You didn’t know where you were to go. Bullets were going all over the place. But we ducked it.”

On Monday, veterans have been greeted to the sound of bagpipes at the Pegasus Memorial, where they attended a ceremony commemorating a key operation in the first minutes of the D-Day operations, when troops had to take control of a strategic bridge.

World War II veterans Jake Larson, a 100-year-old American, and Bill Gladden, a 99-year-old British national, met at the memorial where they had a close discussion.

“I want to give you a hug, thank you. I got tears in my eyes. We were meant to meet,” Larson told Gladden, their hands clasped.

Larson, who has more than 600,000 followers on TikTok, explained with enthusiasm: “I’m just a country boy. Now I’m a star on TikTok. You can see me all over: ‘Papa Jake.’ I’m a legend! I didn’t plan this, it came about.”

Larson landed on Omaha Beach, where he ran under machine-gun fire and made it to the cliffs without being wounded.

“I’m 100 without an ache or a pain. You can’t fake that,” he said.

U.S. veteran Andrew Negra returned for the first time to Utah Beach this year. The last time he stood there was when he landed on July 18, 1944.

He was “amazed” by the warm welcome from local French people: “Every place we went, people are cheering, clapping, and they’ve been doing this for I don’t know how many years.”

At age 99, Negra is the only member of his battalion who is still alive. Braving the wind to walk on the beach for a few minutes, he said, “So many we lost. And here I am.”

Negra participated in combat operations until his division reached eastern Germany in April 1945.

Cheerful crowds applauded, calling out “Merci” and “Thank you.” Children waved, and many families asked for a photo with the men.

Read more of the article on Military Times here.

Memorial Day Freebies and Discounts for Veterans and Servicemembers

EntertainmentEvents
LinkedIn
Remember and honor words with flag in background for Memorial Day observance

As part of Military Appreciation Month and Memorial Day, several businesses and organizations across the country are offering free and discounted services to servicemembers and veterans this month.

Check out the list below to see the ways in which others are supporting and appreciating our troops.

Unless otherwise specified, these deals apply to all branches of the military for active-duty, retired, and veteran members.
 
 

Meal Deals: Memorial Day 2023

Bob Evans: As a general rule of thumb, Bob Evans offers a 10% discount for active, veterans and retired military every day. While they’ve offered more menus and specials in the past, it’s unclear if there will be anything extra for Memorial Day 2023.

Café Rio: Participating Café Rio restaurants give a 25% discount nationwide to veterans from Tuesdays through Sundays with a military ID. Plus, locations in Virginia and Maryland offer 50% off on Military Mondays.

Cici’s Pizza: Cici’s Pizza offers military and veterans’ discounts at participating locations. The discounts vary by eatery.

Cracker Barrel: all active duty service members and Veterans can enjoy a free sandwich on their designated day during Mission’s annual Armed Forces Week.

Dairy Queen: Certain Dairy Queen locations offer military and veterans discounts, some up to 50% off select items or orders. But the discounts can vary by store; check with your local DQ for more information.

Fogo de Chao: On Memorial Day this year, Fogo de Chao is offering 50% off a meal for active and veteran military personnel and 10% off up to three guests’s meals.

Fuddruckers: Select Fuddruckers locations 10 to 15 percent off with military ID at participating locations. Contact your local restaurant for more information.

Hard Rock Cafe: Hard Rock Cafe offers 15 % off all food, non-alcoholic beverage and retail purchases with valid military ID.

Home Chef: Military personnel and veterans can get 50% off of their first purchase from Home Chef and 10% off all additional boxes.

Hooters: Just show a valid form of ID at any Hooters restaurant, and 10% will be taken off of your bill, 20% off on Tuesdays. This discount applies to all military personnel and is for food only, not alcohol.

Joe’s Crab Shack: At Joe’s Crab Shack, they are offering 15% off to US military members and veterans on Memorial Day.

Kolache Factory: Kolache Factory restaurants offer a year-round 10% discount to veterans and active military members. Just present a current ID at the register and enjoy a sweet or savory pastry treat!

Logan’s Roadhouse: Logan’s Roadhouse offers active-duty and veteran military service members a 10% discount on their meals every day with valid military ID or proof of service.

Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon: All veterans and active-duty personnel get a 20% discount every Monday and 10% off every other day at Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon.

Long John Silver: The restaurant offers a 10% military discount all year long at participating Long John Silver locations when you show your valid military ID. And on Military Mondays—like Memorial Day 2023—that discount increases to 20% off your order.

Melting Pot: Participating Melting Pot locations offer military appreciation discounts throughout the year—often increasing the discount around Memorial Day. Check your local restaurant for details.

Omaha Steaks: Omaha Steaks offers a $10 military discount on online orders for active-duty military, retirees, veterans, spouses and dependents who verify online.

Outback Steakhouse: Through Outback’s Heroes Discount, you can get 10% off of your entire check while dining in or for takeout when you show a valid ID.

Pie Five Pizza: Last year, Pie Five Pizza restaurants saluted America’s heroes by giving a free pizza to active, veterans and retired military personnel who presented proof of service or military ID. Check with your local Pie Five Pizza restaurant to see if they are offering that freebie deal again for Memorial Day 2023.

Texas de Brazil: Texas de Brazil offers military members, veterans, first responders, nurses and teachers a 15% discount off of regular dinner and lunch prices, good for up to four guests per visit with valid ID.

TGI Fridays: TGI Friday’s has offered a 25% off on all family meals and platers during the Memorial Day weekend.
Wendy’s: Members of Veterans Advantage will get special coupon savings on patriotic holidays, including Memorial Day, as well as qualify for other Wendy’s discounts all year long.

Retail: Memorial Day Discounts for Veterans

Academy Sports + Outdoors: Through July 4, Academy Sports is offering a 10% discount online and in stores to military members and first responders.

Adidas: Military personnel, veterans, first responders teachers, medical professionals and nurses can get 30% off at Adidas online or in-store as well as 20 % off at Adidas factory outlet stores after verifying their status.

Alpha Industries: Alpha Industries offers 30% off for active duty, reserve and retired military personnel. Exclusions apply.

Armitron: The watch company offers active duty, veterans and dependents 10% off an online purchase. Verify online and receive a single-use code via email that can be applied at checkout. You can even verify for additional codes from Armitron for future purchases, but there is a limit of one code per day.

Asics: Asics offers 40 percent off full-price purchases online for military personnel, medical professionals, teachers, students and first responders.

Blanquil: Get a better night’s sleep with a 40% discount off all regularly-priced items at BlanQuil. Verify your status and you’ll receive a promo code to apply at checkout

Clarks: Clarks offers a Troop Discount for active duty, retired and veteran military personnel as well as spouses, plus teachers and first responders.

Converse: All active, reservist, veteran and retired US Military personnel, as well as the spouses and dependents of active personnel can get a 10% discount from Converse.

Dell: Military personnel can get 10% off select Dell and Alienware PCs and accessories and 15% off during Military Appreciation Week.

DiscountContactLenses.com: Score 20% off DiscountContactLenses.com when you verify your status.

DiscountGlasses.com: At DiscountGlasses.com, get 30% off after verifying your status.

Eyemart Express: There is a year-round 20% discount on eyewear at Eyemart Express offered to active and non-active military members, veterans and dependents. The discount only applies to optical eyewear and sunglasses (not contact lenses or eye exams) and all you have to do is show a valid ID card at the time of purchase.

Home Depot: Apply online at Home Depot and active military and veterans can enjoy a daily 10% discount in stores and online—up to $400 a calendar year. The discount is also available to current spouses of service members enrolled in the program.

Hulu: If you sign up for Hulu through MyExchange, you can get a 25% off each month of the streaming service if you sign up for a monthly subscription through MyExchange. This is only for Hulu with ads. Hylete: Hylete offers up to 30% off on all orders after military verification  (including active duty, reserve and honorably discharged), veterans, first responders and hospital staff with a GovX ID.

Jiffy Lube: Active duty, retired and veteran military personnel can score 15% off year-round at select Jiffy Lube locations.

Life Extension: Veterans Advantage members can get up to 70% off pampering Life Extension products.

Lowe’s: Active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses can get a 10% discount on eligible items all year long online and in stores after verifying their status with Lowe’s.

Mattress Firm: Verify your status online and you will be emailed a coupon code for an extra 10-20% off at Mattress Firm. Spouses and registered dependents are also eligible to enjoy the discount! You can apply for a new single-use discount every 90 days.

Related: Military Retirement Gifts

Midas: With a valid government ID, active military and veterans can receive 10% off at participating Midas locations.

Nike: Nike offers a 10% discount for active, veteran, retired and reservist military.

O’Reilly Auto Parts: Eligible active duty, retired and veteran military personnel and their immediate family members can get 10% off the retail price of in-store items at O’Reilly Auto Parts, with some exceptions. Just present proof at the register.Related: These Dogs Are Having the Best Memorial Day

Rack Room Shoes: Rack Room Shoes offers a 10% military discount every Tuesday for personnel who present a valid ID—and that discount doubles to 20% on Memorial Day, 4th of July and Veterans Day! Available in-store only.

Reebok: Military personnel, government employees, teachers, medical and hospital workers can get a 50% off Heroes Discount from Reebok.

Restore Hyper Wellness: Restore wellness studios offered 20% for single services, packages and memberships to veterans and military service people all year long last year. Treatments offered include Cryotherapy, IV Drip Therapy, Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Compression, Red Light Therapy and Infrared Saunas (among others) as well as skincare services like Cryoskin and HydraFacial. Check with your local Restore studio for details.

Rosetta Stone: Rosetta Stone offers a 10% military discount to active duty, retired and veteran military personnel. Verification is required through ID.me.

Sherwin-Williams: Paint the town red, white and blue! Sherwin-Williams offers a 15% military discount to active duty, retired and veteran military personnel and spouses year-round.

Shoney’s: Shoney’s has a 15% off discount for all military and veterans, as well as first responders, in uniform or with valid ID.

Sleep Number: Through June 5, 2023, military and veterans can apply for Sleep Number’s Hero Discount. Verify your status and receive a promo code for 20% off.

T-Mobile: Active-duty military, veterans and their families can take 40% off of family lines with T-Mobile‘s Go5G Military unlimited plan (with 5G access included).

Tuft & Needle: Tuft & Needle offers 15% off for military personnel, veterans, healthcare workers and first responders.

Uncharted Supply Co.: Uncharted Supply Co. offers a discount to all active-duty military, veterans and dependents. You can verify every 24 hours to receive a one-time promo code.

Under Armour: Under Armour offers a 20% discount for active duty and retired military and veterans as well as their families. First responders, nurses, teachers, doctors and EMTs are also eligible for the discount, which is sometimes upped to 40 percent off for a limited time.

Walgreens: Veterans, military members and their families who have a myWalgreens membership can enjoy a 20% discount (with proof of service) from May 26 through May 29 at Walgreens stores. Restrictions apply.

Zenni Optical: Zenni Optical offers a 10% military discount for active duty, veterans, reservists and military spouses all year long.

Activities: Memorial Day Freebies for Military Members

Blue Star Theaters: Military families can get complimentary and discounted admission to Blue Star Theaters.

Busch Gardens Theme Park Admission: Busch Gardens theme parks offer active-duty military members and veterans and their families special ticket pricing and free admission through its Waves of Honor program. Offers differ by park but include SeaWorld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens, Sesame Place and Discovery Cove locations. Visit Waves of Honor for details.

Colonial Williamsburg Admission: On either Memorial Day Weekend or Veterans Day Weekend, active-duty military, retired military personnel and veterans can receive free admission (once annually) for themselves and up to three direct dependents to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. Colonial Williamsburg also offers other discounts throughout the year. Must show proof at the ticket office when purchasing.

Free Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Admission: For members of the Veterans Advantage rewards program, the regular adult admission will be waived when you show your VetRewards card at the ticket office and tickets for family members will be discounted to 20% off.

Magic Springs Admission: Magic Springs Theme Park and Water Park in Host Springs, AR, has designated Saturday, May 27, through Sunday, June 11, as HERO Appreciation Days—and is giving free admission to military, police, correction officers, healthcare workers and other heroes who show their professional ID at the ticket window. Heroes can buy discounted tickets for their family members who join them for $36.99.

Museum Admission: Through Blue Star Families and the National Endowment for the Arts, museums across America are offering free admission for active-duty military members and their families all summer long. The program runs from Armed Forces Day (Saturday, May 20) through Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 4). Check out the list of Blue Star Museums for more information.

Free Rings: Qalo accessories is celebrating Military Family Appreciation Month by giving free silicon rings from the Military Heroes collection to those that serve and have served. Just verify status at checkout.

Silverwood Theme Parks Admission: Memorial Day Weekend—May 27, 28 and 29, 2023—is American Heroes’ Weekend at Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach in Athol, Idaho. With identification, all military personnel, veterans, police officers, firefighters and medics will receive free admission and their joining spouses and children can purchase discounted tickets at the front gate.

Zoo Tickets: Many zoos around the country have special discounts all year long for veterans and active-duty military members in addition to free ticket deals in May. All military members—active or retired—will receive free admission to the Cincinnati Zoo on Memorial Day, July 4th and Veterans Day, and up to six half-price admission tickets for immediate family. The Indianapolis Zoo offers current and former military members free admission on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Last year, the Birmingham Zoo offered veterans, retired and active military and up to six family members free admission throughout Memorial Day Weekend; they seem to offer military discount on these special days, yearly, so check this year for 2023’s deals. Look up your local zoo to see if they are offering free tickets, too!

Be sure to go online, or call your local restaurant, retailer or entertainment spot to make sure they are participating!

For more deals, visit Parade.com.

NASA names naval aviator to lead next moon mission

Eventsmilitary
LinkedIn
Capt. Reid Wiseman smiling wearing Astronaut suit

NASA announced Monday a naval aviator will lead an upcoming mission around the moon, bringing humans deeper into space than has been achieved in more than five decades.

Navy Capt. Gregory “Reid” Wiseman will serve as the commander for the Artemis II mission, scheduled for November 2024 at the earliest.

The journey will mark the first crewed lunar mission for the space agency since the Apollo program ended in 1972.

(NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman is selected to lead the upcoming Artemis II mission around the moon.

(Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center via NASA)

Wiseman is set to be joined by Navy Capt. Victor Glover, who will serve as the flight crew’s pilot, as well as NASA astronaut Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut JeremyHansen, a colonel in the Canadian Armed Forces.

“Together, we are ushering in a new era of exploration for a new generation of star sailors and dreamers — the Artemis generation,” NASA administrator Bill Nelson said at a news conference at NASA Johnson Space Center’s Ellington Field in Houston, Texas.

On their roughly 10-day mission, the crew will orbit the moon aboard an Orion spacecraft using a Space Launch System rocket. NASA test launched the space capsule back in November 2022.

The Artemis program looks to build toward further moon missions later this decade, which NASA says will include landing the first woman and person of color on the lunar surface. The space agency is targeting a 2025 launch date for that mission, known as Artemis III.

Before being selected as an astronaut in 2009, Wiseman commissioned to the sea service through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps in 1997, according to his NASA biography. The Baltimore, Maryland, native deployed twice to the Middle East and later served as a Navy test pilot. More recently, he held the most senior position among NASA’s astronaut corps.

This will be Wiseman’s second trip to space after serving aboard the International Space Station in 2014. It will also be his fellow naval aviator Glover’s second space flight, having previously piloted NASA’s SpaceX Crew-1.

Read the complete article originally posted on Military Times.

The 1st & Goal Project Celebrity & Veterans Golf Invitational Wrap-Up

Events
LinkedIn
Club hosts Pat and Kathy Aitro with the Mayans M.C. (Joseph Raymond Lucero, Emilio Rivera, Michael Irby). (Courtesy of The 1st & Goal Project)

The 1st & Goal Project hosted its inaugural Celebrity & Veterans Golf Invitational at Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club in Coto de Caza, California, on March 20, 2023. The vision of Dave DesRochers, founder and CEO of The 1st & Goal Project and president of the NFLPA OC Chapter, was to create an event that would generate awareness and funds for local veteran assistance programs.

The event raised funds in support of CarePossible, Veterans Legal Institute, Patriots & Paws and MVP (Merging Vets & Players).

Each nonprofit provides a wide range of programs and support for those who have served our country. DesRochers and his fiancé, AnnMarie, were surrounded by his club sponsors Pat and Kathy Aitro, co-hosts Anthony Munoz (HOF NFL) and Nate Boyer (Green Beret, NFL and co-founder of MVP).
 

Pictured: Club hosts Pat and Kathy Aitro with the Mayans M.C. (Joseph Raymond Lucero, Emilio Rivera, Michael Irby). (Courtesy of The 1st & Goal Project)

Numerous celebrities from the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB, plus actors, sponsors, vendors and, of course, veterans that were sponsored to play, attended the event and demonstrated their skills.

Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club was the perfect venue to hold the invitational, with two Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed courses. The picturesque scenery of the courses is spectacular, accented with windmills, gorgeous rolling hill backdrops and beautiful homes. The greens were rolling pure, even with all the recent rain, and the courses provided plenty of challenging holes even for the avid golfer.

(L-R) Isaac Curtis (NFL, Cincinnati Bengals Ring of Honor) with Byron Scott (NBA player and head coach). (Olivia Sullivan)
(L-R) Isaac Curtis (NFL, Cincinnati Bengals Ring of Honor) with Byron Scott (NBA player and head coach). (Olivia Sullivan)

The festivities kicked off the night before the invitational at the Sponsor, Veteran & Celebrity Meet and Greet at Great American Craft Bar in Santa Margarita, California. It was a fun-filled evening, and the venue was a fantastic fit providing top-shelf spirits from American-distilled and American-based companies. The food was provided by Chef Leo Razo of Villa Roma in Laguna Hills, California.

Nate Boyer (honorary host, Green Beret, NFL, Founder MVP), Mikal Vega (Navy Seal, Purple Heart recipient, 2 bronze Medal of Valor, actor and director Call of Duty) and Dave DesRochers (host, CEO of The 1st & Goal Project, president NFLPA OC Chapter). (Olivia Sullivan)
Nate Boyer (honorary host, Green Beret, NFL, Founder MVP), Mikal Vega (Navy Seal, Purple Heart recipient, 2 bronze Medal of Valor, actor and director Call of Duty) and Dave DesRochers (host, CEO of The 1st & Goal Project, president NFLPA OC Chapter). (Olivia Sullivan)
A large number of celebrities attended the invitational. (Olivia Sullivan)
A large number of celebrities attended the invitational. (Olivia Sullivan)
Autographed footballs on display
Autographed footballs on display. (Olivia Sullivan)
Tyree Washington (retired sprinter, awarded the 400m Gold Medal). (Olivia Sullivan)
Tyree Washington (retired sprinter, awarded the 400m Gold Medal). (Olivia Sullivan)
Actor Joseph Lucero. (Olivia Sullivan)
Actor Joseph Lucero. (Olivia Sullivan)

“My vision is to hold this event annually and to grow it each year to provide more funds for our local programs here in Orange County. Based on initial responses, I can assure you that next year will be huge. So, if you missed this year, get in early,” said DesRochers.

Visit the 1st & Goal Project website at: https://the1standgoalproject.com

National Medal of Honor Day 2023

Events
LinkedIn
SPC 5 Dwight Birdwell receives the Medal of Honor from President Biden at the White House

On National Medal of Honor Day coming March 25, we will honor the valor that the most courageous servicemen and servicewomen in the United States military have displayed. Awarded by the President of the United States, only military members who have gone above and beyond the call of duty will receive this distinction.

There are actually three different versions of the Medal of Honor, for the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force, though Coast Guard members and Marines are also eligible to earn the Navy version.

It was in 1863, during the Civil War, that the first Medal of Honor was given. A Union raiding party had recently destroyed Confederate railways and important transportation in Tennessee and Georgia – these six men became the first recipients of the award. The only woman ever awarded the Medal of Honor was Mary Edwards Walker, who served during the Civil War as a surgeon in the Army.

To date, there have been 3,468 Medals of Honor awarded to those who fight to keep our country safe – and March 25, 2023 is the day to honor their exemplary service.

Past awardees include four Vietnam veterans that President Biden awarded for risking their lives to defend fellow service members in the jungles of South Vietnam. Read the article in U.S. Veterans Magazine‘s digital issue here.

To commemorate Vietnam Veterans, a special day is dedicated every March 29th to honor all the Vietnam veterans who fought during its time.

Photo: SPC 5 Dwight Birdwell receives the Medal of Honor from President Biden at the White House. Photo Credit: U.S. ARMY/SGT HENRY VILLARAMA

Source: National Today

FOX Nation’s 4th Annual Patriot Awards Ceremony Benefitting the American Red Cross is Tonight

AdvocatesEventsGovernment
LinkedIn
Fox Nation Patriot Awards

By Kellie Speed

FOX Nation is hosting its fourth annual Patriot Awards at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, tonight. You can catch the patriotic show live at 7 p.m. ET on FOX Nation, and it will also be offered in a repeat presentation on FOX News Channel on Sunday, November 27, at 10 p.m. ET.

Each year, the awards show honors standout Americans who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in support of this great nation. The event gives true American heroes the recognition they deserve.

“It is the awards show that America needs and that America deserves,” said FOX & Friends Weekend co-host and Iraq and Afghanistan war veteran Pete Hegseth, who will return for his fourth year as the emcee.

Hegseth will join FOX News Media personalities Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham, Jesse Watters, Greg Gutfeld, Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, Brian Kilmeade, Judge Jeanine Pirro, the cast of The Five, Harris Faulkner, Will Cain, Rachel Campos-Duffy, Dan Bongino, John Rich, Mike Rowe, Nancy Grace, Lawrence Jones, Johnny Joey Jones and Abby Hornacek.

This year’s Patriot Awards include the Most Valuable Patriot Award, Heroism Award, Service to Veterans Award and Back the Blue Award. Additionally, The Five (weekdays, 5 p.m. ET), Tucker Carlson Tonight (weekdays, 8 p.m. ET) and Gutfeld! (weekdays, 11 p.m. ET) will present live shows at the venue.

Last year’s Patriot Award recipients included “Most Valuable Patriot” Olympic Gold Medalist Tamyra Mensah-Stock; Award for Heroism recipient Lt. Col. (Ret.), Former Green Beret Scott Mann for his work in Afghanistan with Task Force Pineapple; “Modern Warrior” recipient Army Sergeant First Class John Goudie, and the “Courage” award recipient posthumously awarded to Todd Beamer in United Airlines Flight 93 (accepted by his parents David and Peggy Beamer).

They also paid a humbling tribute to the nation’s 13 fallen heroes killed on August 26, 2021, during the United States withdrawal from Afghanistan – Marine Corps Lance Corporal David L. Espinoza, Marine Corps Sergeant Nicole L. Gee, Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Darin T. Hoover, Army Staff Sergeant Ryan C. Knauss, Marine Corps Corporal Hunter Lopez, Marine Corps Lance Corporal Rylee J. McCollum, Marine Corps Lance Corporal Dylan R. Merola, Marine Corps Lance Corporal Kareem M. Nikoui, Marine Corps Sergeant Johanny Rosario Pichardo, Marine Corps Corporal Humberto A. Sanchez, Marine Corps Lance Corporal Jared M. Schmitz, Navy Hospital Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak and Marine Corps Corporal Daegan W. Page.

Keep an eye out in the next issue of U.S. Veterans Magazine for a full feature on the event.

For more information, be sure to visit nation.foxnews.com

The NMSDC Equity Honors 2023–Applications Now Open

BusinessEvents
LinkedIn
gold cup winner on bokeh background, 3D illustration

The National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) Equity Honors awards are presented to corporate chief officers who have been recognized by their peers as the true leaders at the vanguard of economic equity and minority business integration.

Submit an application for your CEO, COO, CFO, CIO, CMO, CDO, and CPO of the Year. All applications* must be started** by Dec. 20 to be considered.

Submit Application Here!

*Qualified applications submitted for The Equity Honors in 2022 have been cloned for consideration for the 2023 Equity Honors. Simply log into the NMSDC Awards Portal and update your application, then submit. Previous winners of The Equity Honors are ineligible to apply again for a minimum of 3 years.

**We will reopen the applications in March of 2023 to collect 2022 comparative data that will complete the application. All applications that have been started by Dec. 20 will constitute The Equity Honors Nominees for 2023 with nominees highlighted on the Forum website and invited to the 2023 Minority Business Economic Forum.

For more information about NMSDC visit, nmsdc.org

Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference: Elevates Entrepreneurs

Events
LinkedIn
Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference

The Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference is embedded as an annual entrepreneur ecosystem event for transitioning veterans, disabled veterans, National Guard, active and reserve component members and military spouses who are interested in growing the U.S. economy and its employment base while adding value to the communities in which they live and serve.

The October 5‑7 three-day hybrid experience hosted more than 200 attendees from 15 states at the Sheraton Arlington Hotel in Arlington, Texas. This year’s conference included an exclusive and in-depth two-day pre-conference financial statement workshop facilitated by Steve Lefever, founder of ProfitMastery, for 20 selected military-connected business owners. Kimberly Henry, who attended the pre-conference workshop, stated, “the content was challenging, but I have a better understanding of how I need to manage and present my business financials to lenders and pitch competition judges.”

More than 30 conference speakers shared information to increase awareness of entrepreneurial resources, facilitate access to SBA resource partners and access to capital partners, and deliver a memorable experience. Dynamic speakers included SBA Associate Administrator Larry Stubblefield; Andy Williams, former HGTV Flip or Flop Fort Worth star and founder of Rehab Warriors; a lineup of SBA resources partners, including leaders from the Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, the Veterans Business Outreach Center Program and the Women’s Business Center. Existing veteran business owners shared their paths to success through panel discussions. “I attended BBBC19 and learned about franchise opportunities, and now I own two franchises,” said PK Kelley, who presented as part of the franchise panel.

In addition to the NFL Thursday Night Football watch party at TexasLive, the 2022 conference highlights included Melissa Washington presenting a check for $3,500 to Jaquelyn Garrick, who won the Women Veterans Giving Entrepreneur of the Year Award. BidExecs Franchising, LLC (BidExecs), the first and only franchise supporting government contractors to grow their business through robust business development, capture support and proposal solutions partnered with Business Beyond the Battlefield to identify highly qualified veterans to join their network. As such, Archie Smith was awarded a $30,000 BidExecs franchise. “Archie’s knowledge, experience and deep-rooted commitment to serving his local community businesses directly align with BidExecs’ servant leader values,” said Reena Bhatia, CEO of BidExecs, who sat down for a fireside chat at the conference.

“I love the conference. I was able to come in here and [receive] a variety of information about franchising, government contracting, how to get capital…,” said one attendee. Another attendee said, “If you’re just starting out and you want to know how to operate a business, this is the place to be…” Like the attendees, Business Beyond the Battlefield Conference founder Patrick E. Alcorn said, “It was a great experience, and I can’t wait until next October.”

Check out the BBBC22 highlight video!

To find out more, visit bbbc.uta.edu/.

Veterans Day Freebies & Discounts for 2022!

Events
LinkedIn
Veterans Day Freebies and Discounts promo

In honor of Veterans Day, several businesses and organizations have come together to offer their best deals to military personnel and their families.

Take a look at some of the best deals you could use this month!

Unless otherwise stated all discounts will:

  • Apply to military veterans and active-duty servicemembers
  • Be obtainable on November 11th
  • Need a valid military ID or a Veterans Advantage card to obtain

 

 

 

Food and Drink

  • Applebee’s: Free meal from a select menu and a $5 Bounce Back Card to be used for a future visit
  • Big Boy Restaurants: Free meal voucher for a future meal
  • BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse:Free meal from a select menu when you dine-in
  • Bob Evans:Free meal from a select menu
  • Bombshells Restaurant & Bar: Offering free entrees for veterans at all 12 company-owned and franchised locations in Texas on Nov. 11. Other items will be discounted at 20%, and accompanying families will receive a 20% discount on entrees and other items. Note: This free meal doesn’t apply to active duty; but active duty will get a 20% discount. All other days of the year, active duty and other veterans can receive a 20% discount.. Check beforehand what identification can be used for the discount.
  • California Pizza Kitchen: Offering a free nonalcoholic beverage and choice of one entree from a special menu, to active duty and other veterans, on Nov. 11.
  • Chop House: 50% off entrees
  • Coco’s Bakery and Restaurant: Free slice of pie and BOGO free entrée
  • Dunkin’ Donuts: Free donut
  • Golden Corral: Free meal from 5pm to close on November 14th
  • Hawaiian Bros: Free plate lunch from 11am to 11pm. Also applicable to military families and friends.
  • IHOP: Offering free red, white and blueberry pancakes from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Nov. 11 to active duty and other veterans. Proof of service required.
  • Insomnia Cookies: Free six-pack of cookies with any in-store purchase
  • Krispy Kreme: Offering a free doughnut and a small brewed coffee to active duty and other veterans, on Nov. 11.
  • Little Caesars: Offering free lunch combo at participating locations while supplies last, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Nov. 11, to active duty and other veterans. Features four-slice deep dish pizza with pepperoni, and a 20-ounce Pepsi product. Military ID or DD214 required.
  • McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants: 50% off entrees on November 13th. Also applicable to Gold Star parents and Gold Star spouses.
  • Peet’s Coffee: Free drip coffee or tea. Also applicable to military spouses.
  • Red Lobster: Free Shrimp, fries, coleslaw, and other select items for dine-in and to-go orders placed between 11:00am-4:00pm
  • Red Robin: Free Red’s Tavern Double Burger for dine-in
  • Smashburger: One free burger or sandwich
  • Starbucks: Free tall hot brewed or iced coffee. Also applies to military spouses
  • TGI Friday’s: Free lunch for dine-in on November 11th from 11am-2pm from a select menu.
  • Tuscan Brands Restaurants: Offering a free family style meal to veterans and their guest from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Nov. 11, at their locations in Boston, Burlington and Newburyport, Massachusetts; and Salem and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. RSVP by calling the restaurant or online at tuscanbrands.com/veteransday. The restaurants include Tuscan Kitchen, Tuscan Sea Grill & Bar and Toscana Italian Chop House & Wine Bar.
  • Wendy’s: Free Breakfast combo order
  • White Castle: Free Combo Meal or Breakfast Combo Meal for dine-in
  • Yard House: Free appetizer when you dine-in

Shopping

Services

  • Crunch Fitness: Free seven-day trial from November 7-13th and discounted membership rates. Also applies to first responders. Free trial also eligible to military families. Other
  • Goodyear Tire: Free inspections on tires, brakes, and batteries. 10% off tires and services. Appointments must be made between November 10th-14th and services can be redeemed through November 17th. Also applicable to first responders.
  • Great Clips: Free haircut or a free haircut card for a future visit. Non-military members who visit on November 11th will be given a free haircut card to give to a veteran or servicemember in their life. These cards must be redeemed before December 9th
  • Hertz: 20% off base rental rate when you book between November 7th-November 11th
  • Jefferson Lines: Free tickets for travel. Must be obtained by November 11th and redeemed by November 23rd.
  • Just Tires: Free inspections on tires, brakes, and batteries. 10% off tires and services. Appointments must be made between November 10th-14th and services can be redeemed through November 17th.
  • La Quinta: 12% off best available rate. 1000 bonus points will be given for stays booked by December 11th and completed by December 12th
  • Magnolia Wash Holdings: Free Car Wash at Magnolia Wash Holdings, Whistle Express, Camel Premium Express, and The Wave Carwash locations
  • Red Roof: 15% off bookings from November 1st to December 30th. Must use code: VP 623095
  • Sports Clips: Free haircut
  • Super 8: 15% off best available rate. 1000 bonus points will be given for stays booked by December 11th and completed by December 12th

Recreation

  • Aquarium of the Pacific: Free admission
  • Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Free admission, also applies for three guests of the servicemember
  • Knott’s Berry Farm: Discounted admission for themselves and five guests from November 1st-November 17th and November 18th– December 15th
  • Lindbald Expeditions: 20% off select itineraries for select departures. Bookings must be made by November 30th.
  • Mount Vernon: Free admission
  • National Parks: Free admission
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame: Free admission and parking for the Veterans Day Event and Expo, 20% off for the Hall of Fame store
  • Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: Free Park admission, parking, meal voucher, and swag items on Veteran’s Day. Four family members of the servicemembers are eligible for discounted tickets of $19.99
  • True REST Float Spa: Free 60-minute float therapy session. Available on the 11th of every month. All locations will be exclusively serving service members on Veteran’s Day
  • Winchester Mystery House: 30% off from November 11th – December 31st. Also available to family members
  • World of Coca-Cola: Free admission through November 13th. 50% off 4 additional tickets for friends and family members
  • Zoos: Many Zoos are offering free or heavily discounted admission, including rates for immediate family members. Inquire with your local zoo for details.

Navy Gold Coast Conference 2022 – Event Wrap Up

BusinessCareerEducationEventsGovernmentmilitaryResources
LinkedIn
Event floor with large screen and people watching the speaker facing away from the camera - NDIA Gold Coast 2022

This year’s Annual Department of the Navy Gold Coast Conference, held September 6-8, 2022, focused on “Thriving as a Department of the Navy Small Business in a World of Global Challenges.”

In its 34th year, the Navy Gold Coast Conference is the nation’s premier Navy-centered small business procurement event and the only procurement event co-sponsored by the Department of the Navy’s (DON) Office of Small Business Programs. The Navy’s primary purpose in co-sponsoring the event with the San Diego Chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) is to educate, guide and assist businesses in providing vital goods and services to meet government needs, particularly in the Navy and Department of Defense.

Navy Gold Coast Conference event photo of a small business defense contractor at a table with a woman who works for the navy to help grow his businessThis year’s Navy Gold Coast Conference attracted over 1,700 defense industrial base attendees, and almost 250 booths lined the exhibit hall with representatives from government acquisition offices and small, medium and large businesses. Many of these are owned and operated by service-disabled veterans (SDVOSBs) or participants in the federal government’s 8(a) Business Development Program. The federal government’s goal is to award at least 3 percent of all federal contracting dollars to SDVOSBs and 5 percent to disadvantaged businesses each year, and the Navy Gold Coast Conference

This year’s Navy Gold Coast Conference sponsors included Bank of America (Platinum), Unanet and Deltek (Diamond), Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, L3 Harris, BAE Systems, Raytheon Technologies (Gold) and over 40 small business sponsors.

Navy Gold Coast Conference photo of a large group of people standing and talking to each other in the event islesnavyNavyThe Keynote presentation was from the Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV), the Hon. Carlos Del Toro. Additional presentations included a discussion on Small Business and the Future by the Hon. Isabella Casillas Guzman, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA); a briefing on Getting Started in Government Contracting from Mr. Michael Sabellico, Senior Procurement Advisor of the San Diego Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC); and a round table discussion on DON Supply Chain Readiness including Mr. Jimmy Smith (SES), Director, DON Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) and RADM Peter Stamatopoulous, Commander of Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP).

In addition to professional networking and small business matchmaking, a wide variety of issues affecting small business federal contracting were covered, including Exporting, Accounting Requirements, Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR), Mentor Protégé Programs, Racial Equality and Support for Underserved Communities, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and How to do Business with the DON and Other Government Agencies

Navy Gold Coast Conference is also the venue for the NDIA San Diego Chapter’s “Twice a Citizen Award.” This award is given to Reserve Service or National Guard members from the San Diego Area. Nominees demonstrate leadership, self-sacrifice, commitment to service and outstanding overall performance. Nominees must also have provided exceptional professional performance while participating in contingency/support activities outside drill weekends. This year’s winners are Chief Petty Officer Joshua R. Berman, Chief Petty Officer Joseph A. Pisano, Chief Melanie A. Maldonado and Commander Ron Giusso.

Next year’s Gold Coast is scheduled for 26-28 July 2023 in San Diego.

Providing Business, DVBE. Employment & Educational Opportunities For Veterans

Leidos Video

USVM Commercial

Alight

Alight

About USVM

VIBN Conference

Robert Half