Today we celebrate #NationalMakeaFriendDay, a fitting time to ask you: Are you creating a ‘Veteran Champion Community’ where you live? I invite you to consider how you might better anticipate and support the needs of the military-connected people in your neighborhood. Use this as your guide.
Category: Key Issues Important to the Military Connected Community
How do you address people who serve(d) in the armed forces?
When his aircraft exploded. U.S. Navy Captain Dave Harris overcame impossible odds. His story illuminates key aspects of military culture: resilience, “can-do” attitude, servant leadership, and that “We are not all Soldiers.” He insisted caretakers knew he was a Sailor – NOT a Soldier. Listen to his full story here. Knowing that the six branches of the military are […]
Military transition into civilian life is stressful. Do you know why?
Nearly 3/4 of Veterans say post-military transition is tough. 55% of Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans feel disconnected from mainstream America Click here to learn more about post-military transition. There are three primary reasons military transition is challenging: 3. We experience a great deal of loss when we leave military service. Some of these losses include: […]
How are you recognizing ‘Civilian Veteran Champions’ in your community?
Appreciating civilians who go above and beyond supporting those who serve and sacrifice for freedom is important. Showing your gratitude refuels them and inspires others. All are welcome at the annual Patriotic Awards Luncheon. Learn more, here. Below are ways Vanguard Veteran, LLC recognizes civilian Veteran Champions who create mutually-beneficial activities and services that promote […]
U.S. Afghanistan War Veterans Value Community Support
With the unfolding of current events in Afghanistan, Veterans may question the meaning of their service, whether it was worth the sacrifices they made and/or may feel increased affects of moral injuries they may have experienced. This information was adapted from guidance published by VA on Aug. 16, 2021 from veteransaffairs@messages.va.gov. **What you might see: Veterans […]
How do I start a “Military Ministry?”
One of the most impactful ways you can support military families, is to start a “Military Ministry” within your congregation. A “Military Ministry” is a volunteer-led grassroots, practical and spiritual place for military-connected people to belong inside a place of worship. These volunteers are not therapists or counselors – they are caring people who want […]
When a Veteran Needs Help: How to Listen, Support, and Connect
Don’t deny their feelings, instead, help the Veteran feel and express his/her feelings. The best way to support someone in emotional pain is to validate their suffering. You might say: Allow a safe place for tears. You might say: Platitudes minimize feelings. Things NOT to say: A Veteran’s struggle may include thoughts of suicide. If you fear […]
How to connect with Veterans
Questions? Contact Kathy@VanguardVeteran.com or 270-945-7286. Register for Vanguard Veteran’s monthly newsletter, here.
Join the Veteran Champion Movement!
I invite you to partner with Vanguard Veteran and become a Civilian Veteran Champion. These special citizens make it easy for former military professionals (and their families) to return home and thrive in civilian life. Everybody can do something. No action is too small. – Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz, LtCol, USAF, Retired Veteran Champions engage with and […]