G.I. Jess

Phoebe Therese Salon

2012-02-18T18:56:00.001-07:00

I just heard about this great salon in the Denver area that is going way above and beyond the call of duty in the services they offer.

While cutting the hair of a military wife who's husband had just returned from the Middle East that same day, the owners of Phoebe Therese Salon, decided they wanted to give back to the military community.

In an effort to recognize the sacrifice that not only the troops, but the spouses also make, this salon is opening their doors (and their hearts) on a day of the week they're normally closed to the public.

Spouses and women in the military have the opportunity to get their hair cut, colored and styled one Sunday every quarter. Tipping would be optional and appreciated, however, this service is free and requires no spending.

The offer is primarily for service wives of deployed husbands but also includes recently returned husbands, enlisted and commissioned service women scheduled for deployment (or have recently returned), and Gold Star Wives.

The purpose is to provide a service they might consider but cannot necessarily afford. The owners want them to know they are appreciated for the hard work and the stress they live with.

"It's a day just for them," co-owner Therese told me.

If you would like to take part in this generous opportunity, they ask that you call the salon to get on the list so that their hairstylists know how many people to expect.

The number is 303-757-7940 and they are located at 3037 E. 3rd Avenue Cherry Creek North Denver, CO 80206. Parking is free on Sunday.

The next date is March 11, and they still have several spots available. They open their doors at 9:30 a.m.

Blackwell Becoming

2012-02-04T10:03:00.001-07:00

Photo courtesy of Erin Blackwell Studio, LLC

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and I can think of no better personalized present for the special man in your life than a gorgeous picture of ... you!

My friend Erin Blackwell is an amazing photographer that lives in the Denver area (but works in other cities as well). Before I got married, I had the opportunity to get dolled-up and present my soon-to-be husband with some gorgeous photos as a groom's gift on our wedding day.

Now the reason Erin is the subject of my blog post is two-fold. First, she is very patriotic and supports the military in her personal life and her business. Second, I'd like to inform my readers that she offers a military discount of 25% off the sitting fee for not only women who serve in the military, but for female military spouses as well.

If you are engaged and are in the market for a great photographer to capture your engagement photos and big day, I'd like to recommend her. But right now I'm here to tell you about her newest venture, called Blackwell Becoming. She works with a professional make-up artist and together they capture your best facial features in a photo-shoot. If you'd like to get a gorgeous headshot to use for yourself or to give as a gift, she is booking now. Becoming is also a perfect photo session for mothers and daughters, sisters and best friends.

Erin's a lot of fun and works with women of all ages, with a natural ability to make you feel at ease.

Happy Valentine's Day! And don't forget the 25% percent discount for veterans and their spouses.

Paws and Stripes

2011-12-29T16:11:00.000-07:00

If you have never heard of the non-profit Paws and Stripes, you are in for a treat. It is truly one of the most noteworthy organizations I have come in contact with.

They pair rescue dogs (that they train at no cost to the veteran) with the person suffering from PTSD or TBI. The veteran and dog essentially end up saving each other's lives, such a simple yet powerful concept.

I met the co-founder, Jim Stanek in Albuquerque, NM when I was there a couple of months ago on active duty orders for the Navy. I was drawn to his own story and how his rescue dog became his loyal friend and defender, constantly "watching his back."

These companions are trained to deal with each person's specific issues, and being on alert for them is a trait that someone with PTSD might need.

I talked to Jim almost every day that I was in town, each time growing more impressed with the work Paws and Stripes does, even meeting a couple of vets and the dogs that were paired together. What's amazing is that they become legitimate service dogs, and they go everywhere with their owners.

I am still in awe of the genuine work Jim and his team are doing for those that sacrificed for our freedom, and returned home with "invisible wounds" and lives that will never be the same.

I look forward to do doing anything I can to assist them in getting sponsors and donations so they can continue giving comfort to dogs and veterans.

Hero's Wish

2011-12-26T21:58:00.009-07:00

Many people are aware of the Make a Wish Foundation and its mission. It's an incredible organization that grants "wishes" for children with life-threatening illnesses, making their special dreams come true, if only for a day.

Veteran Tickets Foundation, or Vet Tix, the popular non-profit that provides free tickets to concerts and professional sporting events to veterans (I have been a lucky recipient) has created a similar concept geared towards servicemembers. It's called Hero's Wish and our men and women who are fighting for our country can request a dream outing to a concert or game prior to or upon return from a deployment. Many of these guys/gals are away for as long as a year, so the chance to go to the game of their dreams with the entire family, their spouse, or a few friends can be an experience of a lifetime. Vet Tix is all about enhancing the morale of our warfighters, who have the unique experience of not only being away from their families for extended periods of time, but have the risky profession of being in harm's way on a daily basis while deployed.

There are so many great organizations that make a difference in the lives of veterans who protect our freedom. I can't think of a better way to express my gratitude than scanning that wish list to see if there's something on there I can contribute to.

National Press Club Event: Helping Returning Vets

2011-11-14T09:43:00.006-07:00

For those of you in the D.C. area, I just found out about this. It's a "must-attend" if you can make it! My personal friend (and phenomenal woman!), Kathleen Gagg, co-founder of Camp Better America, will host a panel to discuss how volunteer organizations can help returning veterans reintegrate into society at a National Press Club Newsmaker.

Camp Better America is a volunteer organization that helps veterans and their families bond and reconnect after long, sometimes multiple deployments overseas. Experts brought in by Camp Better America provide inspiration to the families, help veterans heal both physical and emotional wounds, and let veterans and their families know they are appreciated.

Date/time: November 15, 10:00 a.m. at the National Press Club in Washington D.C. (Zenger Room)

Panelists include: Colonel David Sutherland, Special Assistant, Warrior & Family Support Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff as well as Captain Brad Cooper (Executive Director) from Joining Forces

I've moved!

2011-10-10T10:27:00.001-06:00

I'm sorry I've been M.I.A. for nearly a year now. I've gotten married and moved from D.C. to Denver, so look out for a re-branding! I haven't lost my passion for military charities, if anything, they are even more a part of my life now.

Standby for more posts soon ...

V/r,
Jess

Award-winning Journalist Discusses PTSD in New Book

2010-11-30T09:30:00.009-07:00

The army unit from Fort Carson, Colorado that was once known as the “Band of Brothers,” was later renamed “Lethal Warriors.”

Deployed to some of the worst regions in Iraq for multiple tours of duty, many of these soldiers suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and some, undiagnosed or untreated since returning from war, have become involved in a series of violent crimes.

David Philipps investigates this particular unit from their actions overseas and the broader issue of PTSD in returning veterans throughout the country.

The December 13th event is free for Club members, $5 for non-members. Those presenting Military ID will be admitted free. The book will be available for $25, and Philipps will sign copies.

As this is a fundraiser for the Eric Friedheim National Journalism Library, outside books are not permitted.

Reservations are required at the National Press Club in D.C. opus@press.org or 202-662-7523.

Watch the G.I. Film Festival on TV all Veterans Day weekend

2010-11-05T10:44:00.005-06:00

DC's award-winning GI Film Festival announced today that it has established a ground-breaking new partnership with The Military Channel, the nation’s only cable network dedicated to military programming, which will provide unprecedented exposure for films that honor American warriors. Beginning on November 12th, the Military Channel, which is currently available in more than 57 million homes, will begin featuring weekend blocks of the festival’s award-winning productions. (See opening weekend schedule below.)

"This effort between the GI Film Festival and the Military Channel will be invaluable in putting the heroism and the sacrifice of the nation's bravest men and women on full display for all of America to witness. This has been the Festival's core mission from day one," said GI Film Festival Chairman Stephen K. Bannon.

The G.I. Film Festival is the first and only film festival in the country dedicated to honoring the successes and sacrifices of American GIs. The festival’s documentary and narrative films showcase themes ranging from the courage and ingenuity on battlefields throughout history to the struggles of homelessness and post-traumatic stress on the home front. The G.I. Film Festival block runs on Military Channel from 9-11 PM ET on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout November starting on Friday, November 12, the day after Veterans Day.

"We are proud to provide our filmmakers with a nationwide audience on one of the nation's most respected television networks," said GI Film Festival Co-Founder Brandon Millett. "We know Military Channel viewers will be touched and inspired by this programming. And we hope through our films that they gain a greater sense of appreciation for our nation's men and women in uniform."

"This national television program is a landmark event in the history of the GI Film Festival," said GI Film Festival Co-Founder Laura Law-Millett. "With this ground-breaking new series, we now move from a DC-based event to a national organization fostering a positive image for American GIs."

“The diverse lineup of the G.I. Film Festival is a natural fit for Military Channel, which prides itself on highlighting the full spectrum of human drama, courage and patriotism intrinsic to the armed forces,” said Henry Schleiff, president and general manager of Military Channel. “By providing the G.I. Film Festival a national platform, Military Channel invites its viewers to explore these beautifully produced films that resonate with the creative passion of each independent filmmaker.”

The opening weekend of G.I. Film Festival programming on Military Channel includes:

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12 from 9-11 PM ET

• SHAKEY’S HILL

In 1970, CBS News cameraman Norman Lloyd followed a battalion of American soldiers into the jungles of Cambodia. The mission was to seek out substantial weapons and supply caches being used by the North Vietnamese Army during the Vietnam War. As the battalion closed in on the location of the caches, they encountered a growing resistance from the North Vietnamese forces. Rarely seen footage and first-hand accounts take the audience through each firefight leading up to the operation’s climax, which came to be known as the infamous taking of Shakey’s Hill. By melding field interviews from 1970 with retrospective interviews from 35 years later, SHAKEY’S HILL explores not only the events leading to this successful mission but the effects of war decades later. SHAKEY’S HILL, winner of the 2007 GI Film Festival’s Best Documentary Award, is produced and directed by Norman Lloyd.

• THE SURGE: THE UNTOLD STORY

THE SURGE: THE UNTOLD STORY, the Military Channel Documentary Award winner at the 2010 GI Film Festival, offers a look into the real story of the troop surge in Iraq, as told by top U.S. military commanders, policy makers and soldiers on the ground. These never-before-seen interviews move beyond Washington politics to explore how a failing mission transformed into one of the most successful military operations in a generation of war fighting. This documentary honors the sacrifice, courage and ingenuity of the military personnel who confronted nearly impossible circumstances, but found success through their dedication and hard work. THE SURGE: THE UNTOLD STORY is presented by the Institute for the Study of War, in association with The Stevens & Schriefer Group with Kim Kagan and Russ Schriefer as executive producers and Jason Killian Meath as director.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 from 9-11 PM ET

• TRIANGLE OF DEATH

First-time filmmaker Marine Sergeant Folleh Shar Tamba tells the story of a foreign land engulfed in daily combat in TRIANGLE OF DEATH, winner of the 2009 GI Film Festival Founder’s Choice Award. Living day-by-day and seeing a country that wants to change, the 2nd Battalion 24th Marines’ struggles are chronicled in this poignant film. TRIANGLE OF DEATH is a story of people helping people, regardless of politics, presidents or public opinion. Told by the Marines who saw it firsthand, this is the story of the triangle of death and how its people chose to participate in Iraq’s first democratic national elections. TRIANGLE OF DEATH is produced by Wolf Dog Films with Folleh Tamba as director, Juan Montelongo and Thomas Hartmann as producers.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14 from 9-11 PM ET

• L-BIRD: THE LITTLE PLANE THAT DID

They weighed less than 800 pounds and were completely unarmed – but these cloth-covered spotter planes, the L-Birds, created more chaos than any other aircraft used in WWII. Flying low and slow to see enemy movement, the L-Birds would call in artillery fire to rain death and destruction onto their targets. Thanks to an innovative suspended landing system that hung above trees or over the sides of ships, pilots of these unique planes could land and take off without even touching the ground. Hosted by Academy-award winning actor Cliff Robertson, L-BIRD: THE LITTLE PLANE THAT DID profiles this little-known but heralded warplane, which earned a reputation as the deadliest plane used in WWII. L-BIRD: THE LITTLE PLANE THAT DID is produced by On Air Media from the Drury TV Studios with Brian Shipman as director.

• GOD AND COUNTRY

In the spring of 1942, the world was at war. Hitler had swept unchecked across the European landscape and was pounding at the doors of Great Britain. The United States learned of a plot by the Germans to break the stalemate with Great Britain. The German’s plot involved the use of diabolical new chemical weapons that were being developed at a research facility in Poland. GOD AND COUNTRY is a dramatic film portraying a team of three Americans who put their lives on the line to stop this plot by putting their lives on the line. GOD AND COUNTRY, winner of the “Best Narrative Short” at the 2008 GI Film Festival, is executive produced and directed by Daniel Piatt.

About G.I. Film Festival

The award-winning G.I. Film Festival, which is entering its fifth year, is held annually in Washington, D.C. each May. The festival has featured nearly 150 narrative and documentary full-length and short films that entertain, captivate and inspire audiences by featuring the full range of human emotions experienced by American G.I.’s. From world premiere screenings, panel discussions, congressional receptions, and Filmmaker Boot Camps, the G.I. Film Festival provides the production community, the armed forces and festival attendees with an exciting slate of events each year. In 2010, The GI Film Festival was honored with the American Legion National Commander’s PR Award for its efforts to foster greater understanding of the successes and sacrifices of American GIs. Past recipients include Tim Russert, Tom Brokaw and Lou Dobbs. For more information on the 2011 G.I. Film Festival, please visit www.gifilmfestival.com.

About Military Channel

The Military Channel brings viewers compelling, real-world stories of heroism, military strategy, and significant turning points in history. Currently available in more than 57 million homes, the network takes viewers “behind the lines” to hear the personal stories of servicemen and women and offers in-depth explorations of military training, aviation technology and cutting-edge weaponry. As the only cable network devoted to military subjects, it also provides unique access to this world, allowing viewers to understand the full spectrum of experiences intrinsic to the armed forces, as well as the long-held traditions of the military. For more information, please visit military.discovery.com.

Additional press information, including photos and online screeners for review, can be found on Military Channel’s Press Website at: http://press.discovery.com/us/mil/

Interview with award winning "Restrepo" filmmaker Sebastian Junger

2010-10-20T16:24:00.008-06:00

I am thrilled to present my guest blogger, Marlene Hall and her interview for G.I. Jess with filmmaker and author Sebastian Junger! I promoted his screening of Restrepo when it was shown here in D.C. back in June. Thank you, Marlene for the great interview!

Sebastian Junger on the Frontlines of Afghanistan
By Marlene Hall

Sebastian Junger is a contributing editor for Vanity Fair and is a New York Times best seller with “The Perfect Storm,” which was turned into a movie with George Clooney. Now he has written the book “War” and co-produced, along with Tim Hetherington, the Sundance film festival award winning documentary “Restrepo."

"War” and “Restrepo” capture the war in Afghanistan’s deadliest fighting area the Korangal Valley, from American military soldiers’ point of view. Junger spent on and off about 12 months, from 2007-2008, with the Second Platoon of Battle Company, part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, based in Vincenza, Italy.

The documentary is called “Restrepo” because the platoon built an outpost named after their fallen medic Pfc. Juan Sebastian “Doc” Restrepo, who is briefly in the movie in the beginning. Junger describes the Restrepo Outpost in his book as, “the most vulnerable base in the most hotly contested valley of the entire American sector.” The Korangal is a hotbed of al-Qaeda and insurgent activity as the enemy would leave Pakistan on their way to Kabul via the valley. Every time the soldiers would leave their outpost they would always be engaged in enemy fire.
The Korangal Valley is so deadly that the military pulled out of the 6 mile valley that is 25 miles from the border of Pakistan in April 2010. Nearly 50 soldiers lost their lives in the 5 years the US fought in the Korangal Valley from 2005-April 2010.

Junger took time out of his busy schedule to discuss his experiences, Americans’ contributions to Afghanistan, and his ties to nominated Medal of Honor Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta.

Please explain your involvement with Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta being nominated for the Medal of Honor as I feel that you’re the reason he is receiving it!

(Sgt Giunta fought off several Taliban and ensured they did not drag off one of his soldier buddies).

More on Staff Sergeant Giunta’s heroics here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/10/AR2010091002712.html

We are not the reason he is getting it. The rumors about him getting it started immediately after the combat incident. I really don’t think the selection process factors the press in. He also takes up some pages in my book “War”, but he is not in the movie we made. I really don’t think that’s the reason (my writing about it).

We are putting together a mini-video of Sgt Giunta that can be seen on my website in the next couple of weeks. It is about what he did and footage of the action. It will not be seen anywhere else.

You don’t think any of your documentation helped at all?
The documentation I got from the military and from interviewing him. Presumably he told the military the same story he told me. I didn’t have any information that the military didn’t have.

So you weren’t around during Giunta’s medal of honor combat incident?
No. I mean I was around in the valley, but not during Giunta’s incident. I wasn’t part of the military board’s deliberation on who gets the Medal of Honor.

Why do you think it’s been so rare for the Medal of Honor to be Awarded for combat in Iraq and Afghanistan?
Sgt Giunta is the only person that survived the action. There are two other Medal of Honor recipients in October, but it is posthumous for action in Afghanistan.

*The two posthumous Medal of Honor award went to: Sergeant First Class Jared Monti (Army) and Lieutenant Michael Murphy (Navy).http://www.history.army.mil/html/moh/afghanistan.html

How do you stay in such great physical shape and keep up with the soldiers? That must have been brutal.
I exercise a lot. A lot of physical capability is mental willingness. I was an athlete in college. I am used to telling my body to do things it doesn’t want to do. A lot of it is mental. I think it would have been very hard to do what we (Tim Hetherington, his partner in filming “Restrepo”) did without having a background as an athlete. Once you learn that trick of ordering yourself to do something that is painful, I was a long distance runner in college, once you learn that trick, it doesn’t really go away.

You tore your Achilles right? (on patrol in the Korangal Valley, Junger hurt his Achilles tendon, but still had to walk miles to get back to the outpost.)

I ruptured my Achilles, which wasn’t really a fitness problem, it can happen to anyone. I ruptured my Achilles on my second trip to the Korangal Valley. I had to crawl around for the next two weeks. Tim went back by himself, which was Oct, and 3 weeks later that’s when OPERATION ROCK AVALANCHE happened and Sgt. Giunta’s got his medal.

How did you maintain your safety without in a gun in the very dangerous Korengal Valley?
Well I’ve been to a lot of war zones without a gun as I can’t have one since I’m a journalist. Most the other places, I’ve been I was sort of on my own in a very chaotic situation like Liberia, Sierra Leone. Here I felt quite safe as I was with a very, very well trained unit. This was way easier than what I’ve mentally done before.

What does your wife think about all this? I know she must worry!
Yeah. She knows I’m going to be careful. I’m not going to be doing this thing over and over again. This was a very exceptional project, frontline situation. You don’t have to do that every time. I did it this time and I probably won’t do it again. She is really understanding. I wasn’t away for 15 months (like the troops he was following were) I was away month at a time which makes it easier.

I know your truck hit an IED, any other close death experiences? (the IED hit was captured on film).
We were in a lot of small arms fire and a lot of that is pretty random. Several times extremely close to me, so not sure if you can call that near death, but sure. But yeah it made me think for sure.

Do you feel sorry for the Al-Qaeda/ Taliban?
I momentarily feel sorry for those guys, but not the commanders who are making fully conscious choices and have a lot of options for them. The locals who fight for 5 bucks a day, they don’t have a lot of choices. So yeah I sometimes feel sorry for them.

What do you want your book “War” and documentary “Restrepo” to convey to your readers?
War is a very political thing. People have very strong opinions about it. What is lost in that intense debate is the soldiers’ experiences. When people see my movie, hopefully they see the spirit of the movie to understand the soldiers’ experience. The audience will hopefully leave their political experiences behind in the lobby of the cinema. Sit down and watch and spend 90 minutes in the reality of the soldiers in combat or understand their incredible efforts. Appreciate the soldiers, while having a political conversation in some other space.

Should we be in Afghanistan?
I’m a journalist, so I don’t make policy recommendations. I can list the upsides and downsides of every strategic decision our country has made. I can’t really boil it down to if we should or if we shouldn’t.

Were you seeing progress?
I mean I was there in 1996, but my god yes. Kabul was a bombed out ruin in 1996, but now it’s a pretty thriving city. It has cell phone towers, ATMS, certain amount of health care, etc. You can’t compare them.

What kind of reception are you getting from your movie Restrepo?
We have grossed over $1 million, which is huge for a documentary, any type of documentary, which is rare especially about a war. The soldiers have really liked it and recognize what we did. Civilians who have no connection to the US military have appreciated being able to look through the key hole to a world they will never experience directly. We have had an amazing reception. We won the Sundance best documentary award. It has been an incredible experience.

Any more documentaries up your sleeve you think?
Probably eventually. Not exactly sure when.

What are your ties to the military? How did you end covering wars?
I was covering wars long before my connection to the US military. I was a war reporter. I went to Bosnia in ’93 and kind of fell in love with the work and kept doing it. In 2005 I had my first experience with the US military when I was embedded with the US military in Zabul province and then I thought if that unit goes back I would follow one platoon for a deployment and that’s how I got the idea.

Covering war is very dramatic. It feels like if people don’t cover these wars, then the world won’t know how to make the decisions to stop them. Most of the wars I covered, they were ended by collective action: Sierra Leon, Liberia, Kosovo. In some ways you can say the civil war in Afghanistan was stopped as well by collective action. The level of violence in Afghanistan is at its lowest point in 30 years. People don’t realize that. What was going on in the 90s with the Soviets in Afghanistan pales in comparison to what is going on now in Afghanistan. One million civilians died in the 80s; 400,000 civilians died in the 90s under Taliban rule that ended with 9/11. Now with the NATO and US involved 30,000 civilians have died with 2/3 from Taliban attacks. Still as bad as it is, and I’m not saying this is acceptable, but this is as good as it has been since 1979 with civilian deaths.

So you plan to go back to Afghanistan and keep covering the war?
Yeah, I’m going back there to cover the civilian side and what might happen if NATO pulls out. People talk about it in a very cavalier way, but things will happen. I want to explain the changes to the Americans.

How has your book been received?
It has been received very well, sort of like the movie. The soldiers really felt it captured their experience. One of the guys from the platoon I wrote about said to me, “You’ve explained ourselves to ourselves.” That’s an incredible thing to hear someone say. I’ve had Vietnam Vets come up to me and thank me for telling their story. I am obviously writing about now, but they felt what they read in my book represented their experience 40 years ago equally well. I had an 80 year old gentleman come up to me after a talk I gave, I signed his book and he said, “Having heard you talk this afternoon, the first time I understand the feelings I had in Korea.” He then started crying and walked away.

You can catch Junger and Hetherington’s documentary “Restrepo” in limited theaters and it will be on DVD in November. http://restrepothemovie.com/screenings

Junger’s website to his book “War”: http://www.sebastianjunger.com/page/war-on-sale-now

Pics of the Korangal Valley: http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1890204,00.html

Go Navy, Beat Air Force!

2010-09-28T09:41:00.006-06:00

In the spirit of friendly competition ...
enjoy this video.

Benefit for wounded warriors at George

2010-09-03T12:39:00.005-06:00

From my friends at Formula Sports and Entertainment:

Put on your best biker gear and come out to George on a night they are not normally open, yeah we got clout. This is a special night where the bad ass bikers take over the preppy bar for a good cause, "Operation Sand Flea" and SEALs Bike America.

Better come looking like you belong. Harley T-Shirts or your favorite Dealership or HOG. There will be prizes for the best dressed biker chick, a 50/50 raffle, photos on bikes, special drinks, Combat Balm care packages for our Troops, and of course the season premier of "Sons of Anarchy."

USO Metro will be providing transportation for our wounded warriors. Just $5 from your chain wallet gets you in the door and helps our Troops or text "SEAL" to 90999 to donate $10.

RSVP YES on the Facebook invite now!

Academy Women Workshop

2010-08-31T10:34:00.007-06:00

Sign up for the AcademyWomen Career Workshop and Symposium to be held 24-26 September, 2010 at the Women's Memorial in Arlington, Virginia! Cost for the Career Workshop is $15 and Cost for the Symposium is $200. Attend both for only $205. Take advantage of this Early Bird Pricing, which ends 31 August, 2010! Find local events in your town or across the nation that are of importance to military and veteran women.

For more on both the workshop and Symposium, click here.

The District Dish

2010-08-05T17:17:00.002-06:00

I had so much fun "dishing" with hosts Kate, Ebong and Sonya at Burma restaurant in D.C. about this blog and my involvement in the military.

See my interview on The District Dish.

IAVA and the Washington Nationals

2010-08-05T17:06:00.003-06:00

WASHINGTON NATIONALS TEAM UP WITH MILLER HIGH LIFE AND IAVA TO HONOR LOCAL VETERANS

The Washington Nationals have partnered with Miller High Life and the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) to honor local military veterans on Wednesday, August 11 as part of the “Give a Veteran a Piece of the High Life” program.

The evening will begin with a special pregame event from 4:30pm to 7:00pm on the Rooftop Party Deck. The veterans and their families are then invited to watch as the Washington Nationals take on the Florida Marlins at 7:05pm.

Miller High Life deliveryman Windell Middlebrooks will join the veterans during the Nationals game, while IAVA Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff will throw out the Ceremonial First Pitch and select veterans will participate in various pregame activities.

Operation Back to School

2010-08-05T16:59:00.004-06:00

OPERATION BACK TO SCHOOL WITH USO-METRO & MICROSOFT

Events at Fort Belvoir & Fort Meade

Fort Meade, VA and Fort Belvoir, VA – The USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro), in partnership with Microsoft, will host Operation Back to School events and back pack giveaway for the children of active duty service members. Children will participate in school day themed events, receiving a report card and grade for each interactive station they complete. Children will also receive a back pack stuffed with school supplies when they turn in their report card at the end of the event. As part of the Microsoft and USO-Metro ‘A Salute to Our Troops’ program, more than 5000 backpacks were stuffed with school supplies for children of military service members.

Saturday, August 7, 2010
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

FORT BELVOIR
Castle Park/Tompkins Basin
Warren Road, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060

FORT MEADE
Fort Meade Pavilion/Fort Meade Youth and Sport Plex
Llewellyn Ave, Fort Meade, MD 20755

Children of Active Duty Service Members

Volunteer opportunity - Walter Reed

2010-07-28T08:47:00.004-06:00

Volunteers: Here's an opportunity for you if you have the time.

We have a special opportunity on August 4th to help the Paralympic Committee host a Handcycling Clinic at WRAMC. We need 5 volunteers to assist in this clinic. Below is the event iformation. Please arrive at the MATC at 9:30 AM if you decide to sign up. (spots are open on volgistics)

Event Info:

Date: Wednesday, August 4th
Location: Walter Reed, MATC
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm

Here's what they need help with:
•Event set-up - unloading of crank bikes
•Help serving lunch
•Course Guides & Bike Assistance - course is set up outside of the MATC. Vols need to direct flow of course and assist with use of bikes.
•Clean up/breakdown

Contact: Meghan Hardgrove
Hospital Services Communications Coordinator
USO Of Metropolitan Washington
703-696-0717

Hometown Heroes National Tour

2010-07-28T08:28:00.012-06:00

I've been anxiously awaiting this great tour that the founders of the G.I. Film Festival have been planning - now they're taking the G.I. Film Festival around to military bases and communities all over the country so everyone can enjoy what they have to offer!

See you at the kick-off party!

Join Washington Wizards Ledell Eackles, Washington Bullets Bob Ferry, Washington Redskins Mike Nelms, Heisman Trophy winner and San Diego Chargers Running Back Johnny Rodgers and Dallas Cowboys Hall of Fame Tony Dorsett for a day of golf at the Potomac Ridge Golf Course on Wednesday, September 8, 2010. Shotgun start begins at 10 am. Dress is casual for the daytime golfing event.

On Saturday, September 11th, join The GI Film Festival for a celebrity cocktail reception and short film screening, where we will honor a Hometown Hero in our nation's hometown at the Capital Hilton in Washington DC at 7:00 pm. Valet parking is available. Dress is cocktail attire for the evening reception.The GI Film Festival is a non-profit 501-c-3 organization and the only film festival in the United States whose mission is to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform through the medium of film and television.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Golf at Potomac Ridge 10:00am Shotgun
Potomac Ridge
15800 Sharperville Road
Waldorf, MD 20601

Saturday, September 11, 2010
Reception at Washington D.C. Hilton 7:00pm
Capitol Hilton
1001 16th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20036

Click here to register.

2010 Military Challenge

2010-07-22T10:45:00.002-06:00

Now through August 1, Bodybuilding.com is seeking entries from those who demonstrate the ability to be in prime physical shape and who can motivate fellow soldiers to do the same. One grand prize winner will receive the title of "Bodybuilding.com Military Spokesperson of the Year" as well as a feature in MUSCLEMAG.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/military 

Washington Kastles and Anna Kournikova!

2010-07-17T10:14:00.007-06:00

Hey vets! The Washington Kastles are hooking you up with a great deal, to see Anna Kournikova play during their Military Family Appreciation Night next Wednesday, July 21st. Anna will be taking on the St. Louis Aces in their regular season finale.

First, they'll be hosting groups from Pro vs. GI Joe, Walter Reed and Operation Second Chance. During the match, they'll make an on-court presentation of a donation to Operation Second Chance alongside Comcast Sportsnet with some wounded veterans and a few members of the Washington Redskins. They’ll also have the USO Mobile Canteen on site.

But best of all, they'll be offering buy one, get one free tickets for all active duty personnel. The details on that deal are below.

Washington Kastles
Military Family Appreciation Night

Wednesday, July 21st
Gates open at 5:15 pm
Match starts at 7 pm
Kastles Stadium, CityCenter, DC (11th and H Streets, NW)
Washington Kastles vs. St. Louis Aces (featuring Anna Kournikova)

Special offer for all Active Duty Military & their families; Buy one Get One Free!
Reserved Grandstand Seats (buy one ticket at regular price $30 and get the second ticket for free)
Reserved Chairback Seats (buy one ticket at regular price $50 and get the second ticket for free)
Use the TicketMaster Code: USA10
Only Valid for July 21st Match. Tickets are limited
All kids 16 & under receive autographs from every player on both teams after the match!

Pre Screening of Real Housewives of DC at the Navy Memorial

2010-07-16T08:26:00.015-06:00

** UPDATE ** THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
UPDATE: Screening will be rescheduled for another date. Check back for any announcements!
Watch The Real Houswives of DC before the rest of the world ...

Make sure to mark your calendars for the Aug 2nd Real Housewives of DC Red Carpet Screening, US Navy Memorial, 7:00 PM.

Cast member Mary Amons hosts a red carpet screening of the premiere of Bravo’s #1 show the Real Housewives to benefit local military charities.

The US Navy Memorial and the HD Theater will be the site of the screening, cocktail reception and art exhibit. Guest will be reminded how they can assist the military community with donations, volunteer projects and other life changing support.
(Photo courtesy of Bravo)

USA Today Military Writer Discusses New Book 6:30 p.m., July 12

2010-07-01T16:15:00.001-06:00

USA Today’s Jim Michaels will discuss his latest book, “A Chance in Hell: The Men Who Triumphed Over Iraq’s Deadliest City and Turned the Tide of War,“ at 6:30 p.m., July 12, in the Conference Rooms at the National Press Club.

“A Chance in Hell” describes how one brigade turned Iraq's most violent city into a model of stability. Colonel Sean MacFarland's brigade arrived in Iraq's deadliest city with simple instructions: pacify Ramadi without destroying it. The odds were against him from the start. What followed was one of history's unlikeliest -- and most successful -- partnerships. Together, the Americans and Sattar's growing band of fighters drove al-Qaeda from Ramadi. “A Chance in Hell” is a compelling tale of combat leadership and how a handful of men turned the tide of war at a time when it looked most hopeless.

As a fundraiser for the Eric Friedheim National Journalism Library, no outside books will be permitted. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing for $26.

The event is free for Club members, $5 for non-members. Reservations are required at opus@press.org or call 202-662-7523 202-662-7523.

USO Care Package Stuffing Party at the Pentagon‏

2010-06-28T09:55:00.002-06:00

The USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) and ADM Michael Mullen will host an Operation USO Care Package stuffing party at the Pentagon for military leadership and Pentagon personnel.

Friday, July 2, 2010 10:00 a.m.

Conference Room B6
Pentagon Conference Center
The Pentagon
Arlington, VA 22202

ADM Michael Mullen and Mrs. Deborah Mullen

Pentagon personnel
USO Volunteers

MEDIA RSVP: Media seeking to cover this event and must RSVP in advance to receive information on Pentagon access. Please RSVP to Patrice Cameau at 703-908-6422/571-228-7582 or pcameau@uso.org by 12:00 noon on Thursday, July 1, 2010.

USO Care Packages provide a “touch of home” to service members away from home. Operation USO Care Package enables individuals to express their support for our troops by sponsoring a Care Package and including a personal message. The Operation USO Care Package program began in 2003 and has stuffed more that 1.9 million care packages. The USO sends approximately 25,000 packages a month to deployed service members. USO Care Packages are distributed to boost morale among troops participating in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The care packages contain an assortment of items that our military have specifically requested, such as prepaid international calling cards, disposable cameras, toiletries, and entertainment items. At a minimum, each care package specifically includes: shampoo, conditioner, hand sanitizer, tooth paste, a tooth brush, sunscreen, wet wipes, reading material, playing cards, powdered drink mix, gum, snacks, lip balm, travel toilet tissue and a personal message of support from the donor.

About USO of Metropolitan Washington
USO-Metro is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to “Serving those who serve, and their families” in Washington D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. It is through the generous financial support of individuals and organizations in the local community that USO-Metro is able to fulfill its mission. With the help of nearly 5,000 devoted volunteers, USO-Metro provides programs and services for active duty troops and their families at area military hospitals; through its Mobile USO program; at four USO Centers, four USO airport lounges and through Operation USO Care Package. For more information please visit www.usometro.org.

Guest Blogger: Theresa Donnelly Women's Leadership Symposium

2010-06-25T09:24:00.006-06:00

Last year, LT Theresa Donnelly was a guest blogger from the Sea Services Association's Women's Leadership Symposium. She attended and blogs again this year about the event that is specifically geared towards females in the military. Hope to see you there next year!

Women’s Symposium Attracted Record Crowd and Builds Lifelong Friendships
LT Theresa Donnelly

The 23rd Annual Sea Services Association Symposium-held June 2-3-was a fascinating experience. This was my second time attending the conference and it was just as inspirational as the one the year prior. Why? Simple. Participants got to spend time with some of the most accomplished women in and out of the military.

In a huge ballroom with more than 1,000 people, there were at least ten female flag /general officers and numerous retired flags, some now filling the corporate ranks of the most prestigious corporate and non-profit organizations. We were also in the company of the top enlisted women in the military, women who come each year, or as much as their hectic schedules permit, willing to share their wisdom, guidance and mentorship.

On the first day, an awards ceremony showcased the work of many women in the service. Their contributions to service and community were amazing.

As a public affairs officer, I am in a field where the make up of people I work with is pretty diverse; men, women, civilian, and all cultures; people from all walks of life. But, gender wise, many women at the conference are in the minority in the workplace and often don’t meet the women leaders we interacted with at the symposium.

Sea Service Leadership Association (SSLA) is geared towards active-duty Navy, Marines and Coast Guard women interested in career issues affecting them. But, really much of what was discussed had a much broader appeal. Topics such as work-life balance or ways to challenge yourself intellectually at work or at home are good lessons for everyone. The coordinators of the symposium pointed out the large number of men who attended. Next year, the venue will change from DC to San Diego to accommodate those far from the beltway who cannot make the long trip to DC. And the Air Force is invited, making the event even more inclusive than any year prior.

Some of my favorite aspects of the conference were hearing life stories from the many of the guest speakers over the course of the two-day conference. Many had overcome serious setbacks to get to where they are today. Many shared their leadership challenges and successes.

I also enjoyed the opportunity to hear Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead give a speech on where the Navy is going in regards to policies affecting women. His answers were honest and clear, when commenting on his commitment to allowing women to serve on submarines to his decision not to focus on the repeal of the combat exclusion during his time as CNO.

There were enduring themes highlighted by several of the speakers throughout the conference, such as the need to give back to the community. A joint panel consisting of women serving in humanitarian missions was especially interesting, as women spoke of their relief efforts in Haiti, humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, and engineering projects in Iraq.

Although these women did outstanding things overseas, there was also an emphasis on community service and finding ways to become involved on the home front. Award recipients and many of the guest speakers spoke of their commitments to outreach in their local neighborhoods. Often, it is through these projects we find our passions and build lasting ties with the community.

What was also refreshing to hear through interviews with the women is that most do not experience gender discrimination. Many just enjoy these chances to socialize with others and build life-long friendships. These days, it’s not about what opportunities are not open to women; it is about enhancing the opportunities we already have.

2010 was a great year for female leadership, as the Navy celebrated a year of firsts. Vice Adm. Ann Rondeau's selection as the first female three-star officer, the selection of the first female flag officer to lead a carrier air wing and strike group and the selection of women for all four 2010 Sailor of the Year awards are wonderful accomplishments. They are a true testament to the caliber of people serving in the armed services. In addition, the Navy Chaplain Corps and Civil Engineering Corps celebrated their first female flag officers.

I highly recommended going to this conference, or any other diversity conference. Even if you may not be a women, a Latina, or a Filipino-to name a few examples. Such events broaden your perspective and give insight into areas of common ground, and ways to better relate to one another. And, really there are just so much fun.

For more information on SSLA, or to see additional media coverage (not contained via the hyperlinks) of the 2010 symposium, visit: http://www.sealeader.org/

Work It, Girls! Lunch, Laugh, & Learn starring Skincando's Sara Damelio

2010-06-22T13:20:00.006-06:00

I've written about D.C. gal Sara Damelio's great work before, with her creation of Combat Ready Balm for the troops serving overseas suffering from sand flea bites. Sara is still going strong with her organic creations and is getting great press. She'll even be featured in O Magazine this September!

Now, there's a great opportunity to meet her and network with other professionals that are doing great things!

Ticket information can be found at: http://saradamelio.eventbrite.com/

It's this Thursday in Reston, VA from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, so get your ticket today!

Free museum admission!

2010-06-15T08:18:00.003-06:00

Blue Star Museums is a partnership among Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts, and more than 750 museums in all 50 states to offer free admission to military personnel and their families from now through Labor Day, September 6, 2010. Get your family in tow and go check out these museums!

To find one near you go to http://arts.gov/national/bluestarmuseums/index.php.

Special screening of RESTREPO

2010-06-14T16:38:00.001-06:00

See the trailer here.

Vineyard Vines Supports Wounded Warriors‏

2010-06-14T16:17:00.001-06:00

Women's Leadership Symposium

2010-05-20T07:47:00.003-06:00

Ladies, you're invited to attend the Sea Service Leaders' Association 2010 Women's Leadership Symposium, the largest annual gathering of women in uniform from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard!

The annual symposium routinely attracts a joint audience of more than 700 service women and has become a crucial component in the professional growth and development of women in the sea services and has featured speakers from both industry and the military. The 2010 theme is "Leading from the Front and into the Future," which will focus on leadership development and profile women who have succeeded in male-dominated career fields.

The symposium's second day, June 3, will be Service Day and in the afternoon the Navy, USMC and Coast Guard will each have breakout sessions for each community to use that time to discuss important issues and relevant topics with their community members.

Command-funded travel is authorized! This will be a great chance to connect and network with your fellow ladies in uniform. Register at http://www.sealeader.org/. Hope to see you there!

Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at 8:00am
Thursday, June 3, 2010 at 4:30pm
Washington Hilton
1919 Connecticut Ave., NW
Washington, DC

Special moments at G.I. Film Festival

2010-05-20T07:17:00.011-06:00

Being a blogger is a very special privilege. You really get a behind-the-scenes access that you wouldn't normally get. The G.I. Film Fesitval tends to attract celebrities that are genuinely passionate about the military.

Besides having the opportunity to discuss the new Army reality show "Starting Strong" with actor Rick Schroeder, I was pleasantly surprised to see Karri Turner walk in, whom I just adored in the television show JAG!

We had a fun chat about her USO tours (she's been on a ton, and is writing a screenplay about them), and her nine years on the hit TV show. She told me she played an Ensign ("Harriet Sims") for nearly eight years (Ensigns in the Navy only hold that rank for the first two years upon getting commissioned). That sounds about right for Hollywood! When the show ended in its ninth season, she was finally a Lieutenant.

She was awesome and I look forward to seeing any upcoming projects of hers. It would be especially cool if she could join her former cast member Catherine Bell in this season of Army Wives!

Thanks to Moshe Zusman for capturing these moments!!

Casino Night

2010-05-18T11:09:00.003-06:00

Find your inner Bond/Bond Girl for a great cause -- Luke's Wings!

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLY AT http://www.lukeswings.org BY MAKING A $40 DONATION ANYWHERE ON THE WEBSITE. ADD $40 FOR EACH GUEST YOU WANT TO BRING.

Luke’s Wings is pleased to announce its first annual Casino Royale Night:

May 28 from 8:00 pm – 2:00 am

L2 – 3307 M Street, Washington DC (in Caddy’s Alley)

Attendees of the event will enjoy specialty cocktails, gourmet hors d'eourves from Leopold’s Café, a luxury raffle table, and a night of casino gambling complete with tables, games, and dealers. All proceeds go towards Luke’s Wings to purchase airplane tickets for hospitalized wounded warriors and their families. Our 2010 host is WUSA 9’s Angie Goff. Luke’s Wings Casino Royale 2010

You will enjoy a night of casino gambling, specialty drinks, mixologists, delicious fare, and a luxury raffle auction.

Luxury Raffle prizes include: Neiman Marcus, Miller’s Furs, Mona Taner, Queen Bee Designs, and Adeler Jewelers.

Casino Gambling 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Luxury Raffle 10:30 pm

Winners Announced 11 pm

Dancing and Drinking Until 2 am

Black Tie Encouraged

Best Dressed Bond Girl Award

We are only selling 150 tickets. That’s it – period. Tickets are $40 if purchased before May 12. $60 after May 12, and $80 at the door (should there be any left)The first 20 uniformed service members will get in for free (we’d allow more but capacity is always an issue)

Flying high from the G.I. Film Festival

2010-05-18T09:53:00.008-06:00

Everyone who had the opportunity to attend this year's G.I. Film Festival in D.C. knows that it didn't disappoint! The movies in this year's line-up were riveting. So much to discuss!

Bravo Zulu to Laura and Brandon Millet, the founders of this amazing organization. They flawlessly executed an event with fantastic films/filmmakers, great honorees, and amazing hors d'oeuvres.

I had the pleasure of meeting up with my friend Kathleen De Pol-Gagg, who is the Executive Director of Got Your Back Network, for families of fallen service members. She is a very kind and caring woman with such compassion for the military. She told me about another recent project she is involved with, Camp Better America. I am always so moved by her selflessness and I'm already scheming as to how I can help further these great causes. Camp Better America is brand new, a camp that she and her team created for families in the military to bond, decompress and have great resources at their disposal. Speakers, celebrities, and entrepreneurs all come together to help celebrate service members and offer their guidance.

On Friday evening of the festival, I had the opportunity to interview Rick Schroeder, of Silver Spoons (and later NYPD Blue) fame! He was premiering his reality show, Starting Strong. Each 30 minute episode takes an everyday civilian whose considering joining the Army, and shows them what life would be like if they were to enlist in that particular career field. At the end, they show if the person decides to remain a civilian, or swear-in into the Army.

Rick told me that he attempted to enlist in the Army a couple of times in his life. He tried to in his younger years, but his agent and family weren't very supportive. He again felt compelled after 9-11, but a physical deemed him unqualified when they discovered he had asthma.

He still wanted to contribute in some way, so he met with Army officials at the Pentagon and offered his connections and support to start a project that would show a positive portrayal of life in the Army. Thus, his show Starting Strong, which I hope gets picked up by a network.

He also tearfully accepted an award at the G.I. Film Festival, for his involvement. He is truly a patriot.

More to come about the amazing week! Thank you to the most fantastic photographer I know, Moshe Zusman for the awesome shots!

Covering Disaster: The Tragedy in Haiti

2010-04-08T10:20:00.006-06:00

This is going to be a great Spring lecture event, told by the newsmakers who covered the tragic earthquake in Haiti, brought to you by the Georgetown University Master of Professional Studies in Journalism. They certainly will have compelling stories to tell. Just make sure that you register.

Spring Newsmaker Lecture

Covering Disaster: The Tragedy in Haiti

Dr. Nancy Snyderman
NBC News Chief Medical Editor

Byron Pitts
CBS News Chief National Correspondent and
60 Minutes Contributing Correspondent

Marisa Peñaloza
National Public Radio Producer

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 14, 2010

Georgetown University

Please note: Event location specifics to follow

37th and O Streets, NW Washington, DC 20057

6:30 p.m. Reception (in ICC Galleria)

7:00 p.m. Lecture

RSVP Required:

(202) 687- 8700 or online

Martinis and Makeovers

2010-03-30T08:41:00.003-06:00

Dr. Andrew Baldwin is proud to host Martinis and Makeovers for the second year in a row! His non-profit, Got Your Back Network, is rolling out the red carpet for the widows of our fallen servicemen. Please join us in toasting our military heroes and their families.

The Martinis and Makeover Event is a wonderful evening to relax, have fun and honor the widows of many of our fallen heroes. The night will be filled with pampering by Saks, appetizers, music, a silent auction and of course with some special signature Martinis sponsored by Patrons Ultimat Vodka and served by our surprise celebrity bartenders. Hope to see you all there!

G.I. Jess' guest blog for the USO

2010-03-05T08:05:00.003-07:00

I was honored to be asked by the USO to guest blog. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Military family appreciate day at the Circus

2010-03-03T12:35:00.002-07:00

Join hundreds of unformed U.S. military members and their families who will fill the Big Top at “Military Family Appreciation Day” on Saturday, March 6, at the 4:30 PM performance of the Big Apple Circus – Bello is Back!

The Big Apple Circus and JP Morgan Chase have partnered with the USO-Metropolitan Washington to bring this free performance to honor and to recognize the courageous men and women who serve our nation.

To kick off the performance, Miss Maryland, Brooke Poklemba, will sing the National Anthem. Following her performance, Brigadier General Timothy Hanifen (representing General James T. Conway, 34th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps) will welcome the families. Special guests will include State Senator Mark R. Herring from Virginia and Delegate Robert Marshall from Virginia.

The Big Apple Circus - Bello is Back! plays under the Big Top at Dulles Town Center, March 6-27.

Papa Johns and USO

2010-02-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

Spread the word - Papa John’s Pizza supports the USO! You can join in Papa’s pledge! Order online from a D.C. area Papa John’s, look for the USO button to get a large pizza with up to seven toppings for $13.99 and $1.00 goes directly to USO-Metro!

Sea-Air-Space

2010-02-18T07:20:00.005-07:00

Sea-Air-Space 2010
RESPONDING GLOBALLY
Engaged at Sea & Ashore

Showcasing the Latest National and International Sea Power Technology and Development

Sea-Air-Space is the largest maritime exposition in the world. Featuring industry exhibits, professional seminars and top civilian and military leaders from the U.S. Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, Maritime Administration and the defense industry, Sea-Air-Space is dedicated to providing up to the minute developments on policy and programs.

May 3-5, 2010
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
National Harbor, Maryland

TO REGISTER, PLEASE GO TO: www.seaairspace.org

Invited Keynote Luncheon Speakers

The Honorable Robert M. Gates, Secretary of Defense
The Honorable Ray Mabus, Secretary of the Navy
The Honorable Ashton B. Carter, Under Secretary for Acquisition, Technology & Logistics

Professional Development Seminars

Service Chiefs Panel: Sea Power and America's Security
International Maritime Operations Panel: Partners Against Piracy
Combatant Commanders Panel: Smart Power
Resources & Logistics Panel: Energy - The Next Wave
National Security Panel: Cyber Warfare and Security

Wounded Warrior program partnership

2010-02-17T11:17:00.006-07:00

Fort Myer, VA – The USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) and Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation today announce a partnership to bring wounded warriors from area military hospitals to Whitetail Resort for adaptive ski and snowboarding excursions. Six trips have been planned for the 2010 ski season. The first wounded warrior ski and snowboard trip is open only to media who RSVP in advance.

WHEN: Friday, February 19, 2010
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Whitetail Resort
13805 Blairs Valley Road
Mercersburg, PA 17236

MEDIA RSVP: Please RSVP to Crystal Benton, USO-Metro communications manager at
703-696-4839/703-864-6429 or crystal@usometro.org by 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 18, 2010.

“This partnership with Two Top Adaptive has given us the opportunity to expand the types of therapeutic and adaptive programming we are able to offer to troops recovering at local military hospitals,” said Elaine Rogers, president of USO-Metro. “We are grateful for Two Top Adaptive’s commitment to deliver a truly exciting and restorative activity to our wounded warriors.”

Bill Dietrich, Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation executive director, added, “Adaptive skiing is an excellent recreation opportunity for these troops because gravity doesn’t care if you’re standing up or sitting down. The USO of Metropolitan Washington has a long-standing tradition of serving wounded warriors and their families and we’re honored to partner with them.”

USO-Metro supports service members and their families who are recovering and receiving treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, National Naval Medical Center, and Warrior Transition Units at Fort Meade, Fort Belvoir and the Hunter Holmes McGuire Richmond VAMC. USO-Metro supports these military heroes and their families through programs including celebrity handshake tours, emergency food and housing assistances, on-site concerts by well-known entertainers, excursions, as well as therapeutic and adaptive activities. Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation, a nonprofit based at Whitetail Resort in Mercersburg Pennsylvania, is one of the nation's newest adaptive sports programs for people with disabilities. This past year, Two Top Adaptive expanded its programming to include summer activities such as fly fishing, kayaking, cycling and golf.

About USO of Metropolitan Washington

USO-Metro is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is “Serving those who serve, and their families” in Washington D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. It is through the generous financial support of individuals and organizations in the local community that USO-Metro is able to fulfill its mission. With the help of over 5,500 dedicated volunteers, USO-Metro provides programs and services for active duty troops and their families at area military hospitals; through its Mobile USO program; at four family support centers and four USO airport lounges. For more information please visit www.usometro.org.

About Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation

Two Top Mountain Adaptive Sports Foundation, a nonprofit based at Whitetail Resort in Mercersburg Pennsylvania, is one of the nation's newest adaptive sports programs for people with disabilities. This rapidly growing program services wounded troops in the nearby Baltimore/Washington region, as well as civilian athletes with a wide range of disabilities. For more information please visit www.twotopadaptive.org.

Who is your hero? Here's your chance to honor them in D.C.!

2010-02-16T13:48:00.005-07:00

GI Film Festival is pleased to announce its first ever “Real GI Hero contest.” Write to us in 300 words or less who is your real GI Hero and why. The person can be a current or former member of the US Armed Forces who served honorably. All entries must be received by 12pm noon EST on April 5, 2010.

Finalists will be announced April 7, 2010. Winners will be honored at the 2010 GI Film Festival and will receive a GIFF VIP experience to the 2010 GI Film Festival.

To enter go to www.gifilmfestival.com/hero

Happy Hour for Hands Together Haiti

2010-01-20T08:07:00.005-07:00

Here's an opportunity to help Haiti. Hands Together was founded in 1986 and has consistently received 4 out of 4 stars on Charity Navigator. Their facilities were damaged and destroyed in the earthquake.

Friday, January 22, 2010
Time: 6:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Fly Lounge
Street: 1802 Jefferson Place NW
Washington, D.C.

We will be collecting suggested donations of $20 at the door to help Hands Together help the victims of the devastation in Haiti.

Hands Together will use its remaining school campus buildings as outreach centers to organize feeding, clothing and hygiene outreach programs. They will partner with Mary’s Meals from Scotland to provide food, shelter and emergency cash microgrants to families in greatest need. HT backhoe loader and dump trucks will clear debris and help with rebuilding efforts.

Fly has generously offered the following "Pre-Flight" specials on rail drinks and beers:

$2 from 6:00 - 7:00
$3 from 7:00 - 8:00
$4 from 8:00 - 9:00
$5 from 9:00 - 10:00

Skyy Flavored shots - 3 for $10
Skyy 375 ml bottles $25

To find out more about Hands Together (or contribute if you can't make it to the happy hour), please see http://www.handstogether.org/

HERO - Haitian Emergency Rebuilding Operation

2010-01-17T17:02:00.003-07:00

Please donate to HERO -- an important cause that needs our assitance. Go to: www.haitianheroes.org

About: Jillian Thorp, a missionary stationed in Haiti, was caught in the rubble of the earthquake January 12, 2010. Jill had been working for Haitian Ministries for the Diocese of Norwich, Inc. before the earthquake. Jillian intends to continue her work with the people of Haiti who are now so desperate for aid.

With the help and support of family, Jill's husband Frank has established an emergency relief fund in the name of Haitian Emergency Rebuilding Operation to take donations.

Valentine's Day drawing for ladies

2010-01-17T07:32:00.007-07:00

From my friends at Sweethearts for Soldiers -- sign up now (I did!)

Attention all Active Duty FEMALE service members! Want a way to Sweet'n up your Valentines Day? We are holding a drawing to give out Gift Baskets full of pampering items for females that make a lady feel special. Facials, Mani/Pedi's, Hair products, etc. Enter on our website at www.sweetheartsforsoldiers.org for free and we will be drawing names on Valentines Day! Thank you for all that you do!!

Fashion Takes Flight: The After-Party

2010-01-14T13:40:00.004-07:00

Be there for the after party, too! 10pm-2am at Tattoo Bar, 1413 K Street

Join us for the Fashion Takes Flight Official After-Party, the kickoff to the 2010 campaign and the beginning of Luke's Wings third anniversary celebration.

Luke’s Wings is an organization dedicated to the support of service members who have been wounded in battle. Recognizing the immediate need for families to be with their loved ones during such a difficult time, Luke’s Wings provides families with the means to visit during the service member’s hospitalization and rehabilitation. By purchasing travel agency services and travel tickets for loved ones, Luke’s Wings provides an immediate and invaluable service to the families of our men and women at arms while also helping to encourage and motivate the service member’s recovery.

No cover with Fashion Takes Flight wristband -- or a suggested donation at the door! Open bar from 10 to 11 p.m. -- Miller Lite and Absolut Vodka!

2nd Annual Fashion Takes Flight

2010-01-14T13:09:00.008-07:00

Last year I had the honor and pleasure of being a guest military model for "Fashion Takes Flight," for Luke's Wings, and it was such a huge success that they're putting it on again this year! It was my inaugural post on G.I. Jess and my favorite event that I've modeling in.

Here are the deets from my friends at Luke's Wings:

Join us for Fashion Takes Flight, the kick off to the 2010 campaign and the beginning of our third anniversary celebration.

Attendees of the event will enjoy cocktails, gourmet hors d'eourves from some of the Washington area's best restaurants, as well as a luxury silent auction. Models and military service men and women ‘take flight’ in a swank, high energy runway exhibition highlighting cutting edge fashion from Washington’s best boutiques and collections by the District's premier designers. Our 2010 host is WUSA 9’s Angie Goff.

DETAILS:

Long View Gallery - 1234 9th Street

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

VIP Reception - 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Open Reception & Silent Auction - 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Fashion Takes Flight - 9:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Silent Auction Items include, but are not limited to: Fur Coat from Miller's Furs, Dinner for 4 at Sesto Senso, Professional Teeth Whitening, Sky Box at the Verizon Center, The Boomerang Bus, and Diamond Earrings.

Dress code: Fashionable Cocktail Attire - Service Uniforms welcomed and encouraged. We will have a premium "Service Members Only" bar just for uniformed service members.

TICKETS::VIP………………………………………….. $100

VIP cocktail reception with event hosts, models, honored guests, government leadership, sponsors

Reserved Seat for runway show

Open Champagne Bar by Barefoot Wine

Gourmet fare by Peacock Cafe Georgetown

VIP gift bag, access to the silent auction and designer trunk show as well as access to event after party.

Access to the designer trunk show for one full hour before the doors open to general admission ticket holders.

General Admission……………………… $50 3 premium open bars

Gourmet fare

Access to trunk show, fashion show, silent auction, and event after party.

Tickets can be purchased at http://fashiontakesflight2010.eventbrite.com

Additional Notes:

1. There will be a "Service Members Only" Premium Bar for active duty uniformed service members

2. The first 50 uniformed service members get in (general admission) for free

3. This is a exclusive limited event. We will not oversell or crowd the event

4. On-line ticket sales will end at 350 total ticket sales

5. There will be no tickets sold at the door

6. There will be no exceptions at the door - we do not crowd our events or create issues with the lines for bars, bathrooms, auctions, etc.

Luke's Wings: Luke’s Wings is an organization dedicated to the support of service members who have been wounded in battle. Recognizing the immediate need for families to be with their loved ones during such a difficult time, Luke’s Wings provides families with the means to visit during the service member’s hospitalization and rehabilitation. By purchasing travel agency services and travel tickets for loved ones, Luke’s Wings provides an immediate and invaluable service to the families of our men and women at arms while also helping to encourage and motivate the service member’s recovery. Luke's Wings is a full disclosure, completely volunteer based, 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. Independent Audit Results, Filings, and additional information about Luke's Wings can be found at www.lukeswings.org

Milblog Conference

2010-01-14T12:54:00.005-07:00

I am relieved that this year I don't have military duty during the annual Milblog Conference, here again in Washington D.C. April 9-10, 2010.

Registration for the Fifth Annual Milblog Conference and Party is now open. I am looking forward to meeting my favorite milbloggers!

Here's the rundown:

Seating is limited and registrations are on a first-come/first-served basis. The conference registration fee is $50.00 per person and is non-refundable, but is transferrable.

The fee gives you access to all events:

Friday, April 9, 2010- Kick-Off Panel- Opening Night Cocktail Reception (light fare)

Saturday, April 10, 2010- Pre-Conference Breakfast- Conference- Awards Ceremony and Party (full dinner and two drink tickets)

They have reserved a block of rooms at The Westin Arlington Gateway hotel, site of the 2010 MilBlog Conference and Party. The rooms are $150 per night. There are a limited number of rooms and they are on a first-come/first-served basis. You may want to reserve your rooms as soon as possible because the conference will be held during The Cherry Blossom Festival this year, so rooms will fill quickly. To book your rooms under the block rate, click here. In the coming days and weeks, they will be making announcements re panels, speakers, sponsors and other information regarding the conference, so stay tuned on the Announcement section of Milblogging.com.

Follow Milblogging.com on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/milblogging)
Follow Military.com on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/militarydotcom)

Brothers at War now on DVD!

2010-01-14T11:53:00.005-07:00

I am thrilled to announce that Brothers at War is now available on DVD! You may remember back when I saw it in the theater, and now I will be buying it to watch at my leisure.

BROTHERS AT WAR (www.brothersatwarmovie.com), a brother’s-eye view of today’s US soldier overseas, debuts Jan. 12, 2010, on DVD from Summit Entertainment (www.summit-ent.com) alongside the award-winning HURT LOCKER, with an exciting list of bonus features.

Moved by the film, Gary Sinise signed on as executive producer. This first-person account of why soldiers go to war (and go back), also reveals the wives’ and children’s sacrifices, insights so true to troops and families that the Veterans Administration is looking into building a curriculum around it.

In BROTHERS AT WAR, filmmaker Jake Rademacher of Decatur, Illinois, twice embeds with his two brothers’ units in Iraq, filming their returns to the US and subsequent return overseas. Military viewers, from the under-reported National Guard to Marines and Army, gave major thumbs-up to the first war film in years to “get” the soldiers’ and families’ sacrifices.

Often humorous but sometimes downright lethal, BROTHERS AT WAR is the remarkable journey of a brother willing to risk it all, who gains unprecedented access to US and Iraqi combat units. Rademacher goes behind the camouflage curtain with secret reconnaissance troops on the Syrian border, into sniper "Hide Sites" in the Sunni Triangle and through raging machine gun battles with the Iraqi Army.

Website: www.brothersatwarmovie.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/brothersatwar
Twitter: twitter.com/BrothersAtWar
MySpace: www.myspace.com/brothersatwarYouTube: www.youtube.com/user/BrothersAtWar
Directed by Jake Rademacher, Produced by Norman S. Powell and Jake RademacherExecutive Producers: Gary Sinise and David Scantling

Poker fun!

2009-12-04T22:52:00.005-07:00

On Tuesday, Dec. 15, join DC PR Flacks member Veronica Brown as she heads up to Walter Reed Army Medical Center to deal poker for the wounded veterans there during one of the facilities' regular Texas Hold’em tournaments.

The tournaments are a great way to help our veterans enjoy a fun evening while they’re in recovery, especially during the holiday season when so many of them can’t be at home.

No experience playing or dealing poker? No problem. A brief training session is given right before the tournament begins. If you’re interested in participating, contact Veronica for more details at veronica.brown@yahoo.com.

BAE Systems AND USO-Metro donate 100 Christmas trees to military families

2009-12-04T21:47:00.003-07:00

BAE Systems and its employees will donate 100 Christmas trees and trimmings to the USO of Metropolitan Washington on Sunday, December 6th, at the Smokey Glen Farm in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

USO-Metro has selected 100 military families from area bases to receive the trees, stands and decorations. Each family can cut down a tree or choose from 50 pre-cut trees.

The event also will include complimentary hayrides, craft tables and refreshments.

Sunday December 6, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Smokey Glen Farm
16407 Riffleford Road
Gaithersburg, Maryland

Forrest Leamon Memorial Fund

2009-11-21T07:19:00.003-07:00

From one of my friends:

"Jess, I know one of the DEA agents that passed away Oct 26th in Afghanistan. A Forrest Leamon Memorial Fund was set up for his unborn child and wife. This man, Forrest Leamon was a very decent, compassionate, selfless individual. It is very heartbreaking that he has died. Forrest was a newlywed of about a year and his wife was four months pregnant. The service for Forrest was beautiful and dignified. The US Attorney General Eric Holder attended as well as the acting DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/14/AR2009111402548.html?hpid=sec-metro

Many of you have expressed interest in providing some support for Ana and the baby. We have set-up a fund to help manage this for Ana.Contributions Can Be Sent To:

Forrest Leamon Memorial Fund
P.O. Box 710952
Oak Hill, VA 20171

*Please Make Checks Payable to:
Ana Laura Lopez Valdenea
Contributions are not tax deductible

Brianne Beaty and the Sweethearts for Soldiers

2009-11-17T11:43:00.012-07:00

Singer/Songwriter Brianne Beaty is in town with the Sweethearts for Soldiers this week.

Wednesday they will be appearing at Operation Rising Star, dubbed the "American Idol for the Army." The performance is at Ft Belvoir, and tickets are still available!

Prior to the show, the Sweethearts will be interviewed and then performing live at 9:45 a.m. the Fox affiliate for D.C., (view it on http://www.myfoxdc.com/) and then visiting wounded service members at Bethesda Naval Hospital.

To hear Bri's music, go www.briannebeaty.com and to download her latest songs, go to itunes and search Brianne Beaty.

Her patriotic song "Parades" is my favorite. Parades is a song that she was inspired to write after visiting the troops in Iraq. "I think when they come home, often times they're forgotten about. Sometimes they are lucky enough to get a parade, or a warm welcome. But the love and the outreach of support sometimes doesn't last long," said Bri.

Brianne comes from a long line of military in her family. Every man in her family has served in a different branch. She feels passionately about supporting the troops, and I love that she is able to do this with her music as well.

Be sure to stop by Operation Rising Star on Wednesday to meet Bri and the rest of the girls!

Congressional reception honoring today's heroes

2009-11-17T09:17:00.008-07:00

A congressional reception honoring heroes of today, 10 decorated veterans and active duty personnel who have served with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. This reception also celebrates the introduction of a congressional resolution honoring all those American forces who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

November 17, 2009
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Rayburn House Office Building Foyer

(in this photo: Staff Sergeant Marco Martinez)

USO-Metro Celebrates its 10th Anniversary at BWI Airport

2009-11-11T19:44:00.003-07:00

The USO on Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) will celebrate its 10th anniversary at Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport on Monday, November 16, 2009. USO-Metro will commemorate this anniversary while hosting, in partnership with BWI Airport, the 6th annual Salute to Veterans and Families.

Since the USO lounge at BWI Airport opened in 1999, over 600,000 service members and their families have walked through the doors. Every month, through the support of more than 200 dedicated volunteers, this “home away from home” welcomes an estimated 10,000 military personnel and family members who are traveling through BWI.

As part of the celebration, Miss America 2009 Katie Stam will perform the National Anthem and Lieutenant General Carroll Pollett, Director of the Defense Information Systems Agency, will serve as the keynote speaker. Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown and Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger will also participate in the ceremony. In addition, USO-Metro and BWI Airport will welcome senior military leadership, military families, local veterans’ organizations, corporate community partners and dedicated USO volunteers.

A reception in the USO lounge will follow the ceremony.

Monday, November 16, 2009
10:00 a.m. Ceremony
11:00 a.m. Reception

Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport
Ceremony: Upper Level of International Pier
Reception: USO Lounge at BWI on the Lower Level of International Pier

MEDIA RSVP: Please RSVP to Crystal Benton, USO-Metro Communications Manager at
703-696-4839/703-864-6429 or crystal@usometro.org

Luke's Wings: A Toast to Our Veterans

2009-11-09T08:28:00.002-07:00

From my friends at Luke's Wings:

EMERGENCY FUNDRAISER FOR FORT HOOD VICTIMS

Dear Friends, in addition to hosting our annual Veteran's Day party at Rhino Bar, we are also using this time to raise money for airplane tickets for the families and friends of those wounded in last Thursday's shooting. We have close to 30 wounded warriors and we want to help them all.

We're going to have an amazing party.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 9:00pm
Rhino Bar
3295 M St NW
Washington, DC

Free Admission with Military ID or uniform;

50/50 raffle

Veteran Owned Business

$3 Miller Light Bottles

$5 Vodka Redbulls

$15 entry at the door or simply donate $10 at www.lukeswings.org to be auto-added to the VIP list

Free Luke's Wings t-shirts with donation of $20 or more

Special Appearance by the U.S.A. Cheerleaders.

BECAUSE OF THE NATURE OF THIS EMERGENCY, WE ARE ASKING ALL SUPPORTERS WHO CAN'T ATTEND THE EVENT TO PLEASE DONATE $10 IMMEDIATELY AT WWW.LUKESWINGS.ORG

Go Navy Beat Army!!

2009-11-09T00:01:00.003-07:00

Whichever team you support - If you can't be in Philly this is the place to be! The Navy Memorial has graciously opened its entire museum for the day. We will have pregame festivities and broadcast the game in the HD theater, see CBS College Sports original programing, and a host of guest speakers. Come out and see how you can get involved with several military charities in the area.

Saturday, December 12, 2009
2:30pm - 7:00pm
United States Navy Memorial
701 Pennsylvania Ave
Washington, DC

Special thanks for Formula Sports & Entertainment Group for arranging this viewing party!

American Veterans Center 12th Annual Conference

2009-11-08T23:51:00.002-07:00

The American Veterans Center invites you to join us for the nation's premier Veterans Day event with a long weekend of amazing activities and special guests!

General Davis Patreaus, Bob Dole, Buzz Aldrin, Marcus Luttrell, Band of Brothers, Enola Gay, Black Hawk Down, Battle of Iwo Jima, and Tuskegee Airmen and many others.

Thursday Nov 12th: Cocktail Reception at the Navy Memorial with a special screening of WWII in HD.

Friday Nov 13th: Conference of Speakers/Topics at Navy Memorial include The Seabees, Gen Petraeus, WWII Heroes of the Air, Battle of Iwo Jima, Black Hawk Down, Contribution of Women in the Military, Wreath Laying Ceremony, and an Evening Reception at the Army Navy Club

Nov 14th Saturday: Conference of Speakers/Topics at the Navy Memorial include:The Band of Brothers, The Tuskegee Airmen, WWII the Pacific, Col Buzz Aldrin, Medal of Honor, Purple Heart and Today's Heroes followed by the 12th Annual Awards Banquet at the Renaissance Hotel

Full Conference rate is $305 or $265 for Veterans and $175 for Active Duty or studentsTo register please call (703) 302-1012 ext 227 space is limited!

National Guard and Reserve members and families encouraged to nominate supportive employers

2009-11-08T15:27:00.004-07:00

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, announced the opening of the nomination season for the 2010 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. National Guard and Reserve members and their families are eligible and encouraged to nominate employers who have provided exceptional support of military employees above the federal law requirements. Nominations will be accepted at www.FreedomAward.mil from November 2, 2009 to January 18, 2010. The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their outstanding support of their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

The 2010 recipients will be announced in the spring and honored in Washington, D.C. at the 15th annual Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award ceremony on September 23, 2010. Recipients of the 2009 Freedom Award met privately with President Barack Obama and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. Dr. Jill Biden, Deputy Secretary of Defense William Lynn and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs Dennis McCarthy presented the awards at a ceremony attended by members of Congress and senior government and military officials.

Almost one-half of the U.S. military is comprised of the National Guard and Reserve. The Department of Defense shares these citizen warriors with their civilian employers, many of whom provide significant support to their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. 2009 honorees ranged from AeroDyn Wind Tunnel, LLC, a small automotive racing wind tunnel testing company in North Carolina to large businesses including Microsoft and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals to Santa Ana, California Police Department, a public sector employer. Past recipients of the Freedom Award have provided significant support including full salary, continuation of benefits, care packages and family assistance to employees fulfilling their military obligation.

The Freedom Award was instituted in 1996 under the auspices of ESGR to recognize exceptional support from the employer community. “There is much excitement surrounding the 15th anniversary of the Freedom Award,” noted acting ESGR Executive Director Ms. Polli Brunelli, “and we’re enthusiastic to begin selection of the 2010 recipients from amongst all of the heartfelt nominations that will be submitted by thousands of proud Citizen Warriors.”

ESGR is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. Its mission is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law and resolving conflicts through mediation.

For questions regarding the Freedom Award nomination process, please visit www.FreedomAward.mil or contact Maj. Melissa Phillips, ESGR Public Affairs, at 703-380-9262.

Support military families in need this Thanksgiving

2009-11-08T14:13:00.004-07:00

The USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) is experiencing an unprecedented number of requests for Thanksgiving food baskets from military families in need. USO-Metro has already received 300 requests for Thanksgiving baskets. Through a generous contribution from Rolling Thunder, USO-Metro is currently able to provide 150 baskets and is now calling on the community for help in the form of grocery store gift cards to meet the need.

Using donated grocery store gift cards, USO-Metro will provide active duty military families in need with holiday baskets that include: turkey, milk, assorted vegetables, turkey pan, butter, stuffing, potatoes and yams, gravy, pie. The suggested donation to help a family of six have a holiday meal is $50.00.

“Holidays are especially important for military families who often experience extended separations,” said Elaine Rogers, president USO-Metro. “It is critical that we meet this need, and we’re calling on the generous community for support.”

Mail grocery store gift cards to:
Holiday Food Baskets
P.O. Box 1710
Fort Myer, VA 22211

*To make a cash donation to support this program, please visit www.usometro.org/donate and click on holiday programs.

All cards must be received by November 14, 2009

For more info contact Lauren Ross, program specialist, at 703-805-4277 or via e-mail, Lauren@USOmetro.org

The Messenger

2009-10-30T12:01:00.001-06:00

Vets eat free at Applebees on 11 Nov.

2009-10-30T09:35:00.000-06:00

Yum!!

http://www.applebees.com/vetsday/

Thank the Troops & First Responders Launch Event

2009-10-29T09:12:00.002-06:00

The hottest ticket in town November 3rd is at the Sprint Store, 1208 18th St. NW Washington DC, from 3pm-6pm and at Public Bar (next door) from 6pm to 9pm!3pm to 6pm - Sprint Store, 1208 18th St. NW Washington DC Come get autographs from former Redskins and Super Bowl legends Gary Clark, Ricky Sanders, Rick “Doc” Walker, Daryl Grant, Dexter Manley, Ricky Ervins, and Andre Collins.

Show support for Sprint Federal and the official launch of their “Thank the Troops & First Responders” promotion. As Federal Government employees and Military members, Sprint offers you and your families 15% off new activations every day. However, this special promotion, which runs from Nov. 1st-Jan 9th, 2010, will not only offer you 15% off, it will include free activation AND a $25 credit on your first month’s bill. 6pm-9pm - Blackberry sponsored Post Event Party next door at Public.

Blackberry will also be raffling off phones and promoting their new buy one get one free offer through Sprint on all Blackberry Curves!! The who’s who of the Federal government and Military branches will be present. Stay after the main event and network at Public, where a suggested donation of $10 to Luke’s Wings charity at the door will be greatly appreciated.

Looking forward to seeing you all there!!
Raffle for free phones!!!
15% off new activations
Free Activation
$25 credit on your first month’s bill

United Thanks Our Troops

2009-10-29T07:15:00.002-06:00

Special fares exclusively for our Armed Forces & family - extended through December 31, 2009!

United continues to support our Armed Forces and their eligible family members, by offering reduced domestic fares applying to U.S. point-of-sale only, for travel through December 31, 2009. These fares are for active-duty members of the Navy, Marines, Army, U.S. Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and the Reserves. In addition, your spouse and dependent children are also eligible.

To purchase contact United Reservations at 1-800-241-6522 and identify yourself as eligible for military fares. All passengers eligible for these and other military fares must carry proper identification. In markets where these fares apply, please use the "MIL" discount code. For identity verification purposes, these fares are not available on united.com.

For more details visit http://www.united.com/page/article/0,6722,51098,00.html

MICROSOFT AND THE USO’S 2009 “A SALUTE TO OUR TROOPS” COMES TO D.C.

2009-10-28T10:08:00.006-06:00

Program to Include Entertaining 8200 Troops with Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Partnering with Washington Capitals to Host 50 Wounded Warriors for Season Game

Washington, D.C. (October 27, 2009) -- Microsoft Corp.’s third annual A Salute to Our Troops program will take place in Washington, D.C. this fall, filled with multiple activities to brighten the season for U.S. troops and their families. The A Salute to our Troops program, founded in 2007 by Microsoft in cooperation with the USO of Metropolitan Washington and the USO of Metropolitan New York, is dedicated to showing Microsoft’s continued support of the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

Microsoft will kick-off the program on November 9th with an Operation USO Care Package Day with the NHL Washington Capitals Captain Chris Clark and Brian Pothier and WTOP 103.5 FM and Federal News 1500 AM Radio. Over 100 volunteers from Microsoft and local technology partners, WTOP 103.5 FM and Federal News 1500 AM Radio and the Washington Capitals will come together to prepare Care Packages for the troops who are serving overseas. The care packages will include Microsoft Zune trial Cards, prepaid international phone cards, sunscreen, travel size toiletries, lens wipe cloths, CDs, DVDs, playing cards, magazines, and personal messages of support from the donors and volunteers.

On Veteran’s Day, November 11th, Microsoft, and the NHL Washington Capitals, through the USO of Metropolitan Washington, will host more than 50 Wounded Warriors and their families to see the Caps take on the New York Islanders at the Verizon Center. At the game, the Washington Capitals will announce the Courage Caps program which will take place throughout the 2009-2010 season. The Courage Caps presented by Microsoft, will raise funds to help the courageous men and women who protect and defend our country, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the USO of Metropolitan Washington, a private, non-profit organization. Courage Caps and Courage T-Shirts will be available starting at online at WashingtonCaps.com, at the Fan Gear store and stands throughout the Verizon Center.

On December 5th, design expert and on-air personality Kelley Moore will team up with Microsoft to give the Fisher House in Bethesda a holiday make-over. Kelley will make over the common areas of the facility to brighten the day and boost the morale of the troops and their families.

Finally, in keeping with the USO tradition of entertaining the troops, on Sunday, December 20th, Microsoft will treat 8,200 troops and their families to a private showing of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes at D.C.’s Verizon Center. Ticket information can be found at http://www.salutetoourtroops.org/

About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

A Salute to Our Troops is a national program honoring the many faces of courage and inspiration belonging to individuals who demonstrate selfless dedication to our country.

About USO of Metropolitan Washington
USO-Metro is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is “Serving those who serve, and their families” in Washington D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia. With the help of over 5,500 dedicated volunteers, USO-Metro provides programs and services for active duty troops and their families at area military hospitals; through its Mobile USO program; at three family support centers and four USO airport lounges.

ThanksUSA Gala

2009-10-15T09:42:00.004-06:00

Yesterday was the Third Annual "Treasure Our Troops Gala" by ThanksUSA at The Newseum in Washington, DC. The event celebrated the awarding of scholarships to spouses and children of those serving in our nation’s armed services. The Gala was attended by Members of Congress, the Administration, corporate and community leaders, military personnel and scholarship recipients.

My friend Makeda Saggau-Sackey, editor-in-chief of the hit website "The Glamazon Diaries," got to meet General George Casey Jr., Chief of Staff of the Army. Go Makeda!!

Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund Receives $3 Million Donation from TV Icon Bob Barker

2009-10-13T13:27:00.007-06:00

Donation completes $60 million fundraising goal for TBI Center in Bethesda

BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 7 -- The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF) announced today that with the help of American TV icon Bob Barker, it has reached its goal of $60 million to complete its current project, the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE), an advanced facility dedicated to research, diagnosis and treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) suffered by U.S. military personnel.

The announcement comes after Mr. Barker, the long-time host of TV's "The Price is Right" and a Naval aviator who served during World War II, pledged to personally contribute the final $3 million needed for the construction aspect of the project. Additional funds will be raised for research and other related items.

"I am very happy to do whatever I can to support the brave men and women who have given so much in service to our nation," said Barker. "They have given so much for us; all Americans owe them a debt of gratitude for their tremendous service and sacrifice."

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund has been fundraising for this project since late 2007, and in recent months, the Fund has pulled to within $3 million of the goal. While it has reached the $60 million goal, the Fund is still working to raise additional funds for research and other related efforts for wounded troops.

"This amazing gift puts us over the top," said Bill White, President of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. "Thousands of Americans have given to this important effort, and Bob Barker has today stepped up to the task. We are immensely grateful for his wonderful generosity and his support for our nation's servicemen and women."

"We have much more work to do to help our brave young men and women in uniform," said Richard T. Santulli, Chairman of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. "But reaching our goal for NICoE is a great step forward in our mission."

NICoE, located in Bethesda, Maryland, adjacent to the new Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, will be the Department of Defense's premiere facility for the study of TBI, which according to some estimates afflicts more than 300,000 veterans of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Set to open next year, NICoE will be a 72,000 square foot, two-story facility. The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund is building the Center and equipping it with the most advanced medical equipment for TBI research, diagnosis and treatment. Once complete, the Center will be turned over to the Department of Defense for operation.

About Bob Barker:

Bob Barker retired in 2007 from a long and notable career in television, hosting shows such as Truth or Consequences and, most famously, the Price is Right, which he helmed for 35 years. He has made numerous other television appearances throughout his 51-year career, including hosting The Rose Parade, The Miss USA and Miss Universe Pageants for 21 years. He made his motion picture debut with Adam Sandler in "Happy Gilmore" in a comedy sequence that has become part of movie folklore. He is also well known as a leading supporter of animal rights.

About the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund:

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund was established in 2000 to provide financial support for the dependents of United States military personnel lost in performance of their duty. Originally operated as a program of the Intrepid Museum Foundation in New York City, the Fund was established as an independent not-for-profit organization in 2003. Through 2005, the Fund provided close to $20 million to families of United States military personnel lost in performance of their duty, mostly in service in Iraq and Afghanistan. In January 2007 after only 16 months of fundraising and with the generous support of over 600,000 Americans, the Fund completed construction of the Center for the Intrepid, a $55 million world-class state-of-the-art physical rehabilitation center at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. This Center serves military personnel who have been catastrophically disabled in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and veterans severely injured in other operations and in the normal performance of their duty. In June 2008, ground was broken on the Fund's current project, the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE).

SOURCE Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund

(photo courtesy of AP)

Happy 234th Birthday, U.S. Navy!

2009-10-13T13:19:00.002-06:00

http://www.navy.mil/navydata/featurePlay.asp?id=27

Shared via AddThis

Need a Mentor?

2009-10-11T12:56:00.008-06:00

From http://www.academywomen.org/

eMentor Leadership Program

The greatest good you can do for another is not just to share your riches ... but to reveal to him his own. ~ Benjamin Disraeli

How important was the role of a mentor in shaping your life? Did you have a teacher, coach or colleague who made a dramatic impact on your personal or professional development? AcademyWomen believes that mentoring is a fundamental, irreplaceable factor in helping individuals develop exceptional skills, character and leadership capabilities. This perspective has led us to develop our eMentor Leadership Program, a cutting-edge mentoring program where Mentees receive guidance, career counseling and support from more experienced active duty and veteran women leaders.

AcademyWomen has also created the NavyWomen eMentor Leadership Program through a partnership with the Navy’s Office of Women’s Policy to support ALL uniformed women U.S. Naval personnel in achieving their full potential as leaders. The eMentor Leadership Program will be implemented through a state-of-the-art eMentor website which will pair Mentees with Mentors for one-one-one, email-based mentoring (e-mentoring) relationships. Visit the links to the left of this page to learn more about the eMentor program and find out ways you can get involved…today!

How it works:

Mentors and Mentees are matched through a state of the art virtual mentoring website:

Step 1: Mentors and Mentees complete an electronic profile which includes areas in which they desire guidance and/or are willing to give guidance.

Step 2: The Mentee completes an online mentor search and is presented with a list of mentor profiles that offer the closest match to her mentoring needs.

Step 3: The Mentee then chooses her preferred mentor from among the profiles. The Mentee has the option of immediately extending an invitation to possible Mentors to begin the mentoring relationship. Or, if desired, the Mentee can contact prospective Mentors for an informal “interview” before deciding to extend an invitation.

Step 4: The mentor pair establish goals, develop an action plan and are aided in measuring progress against stated objectives.

The relationship takes place over email although mentor pairs may choose to connect on the phone or meet in person. The relationship is supported with periodic email discussion topics, online training opportunities for Mentors and Mentees, and the availability of phone or online coaching on any aspect of mentoring. Sign-up today to become a Mentor and/or Mentee.

Travel for Troops

2009-10-11T12:50:00.004-06:00

I got this notice from my Pentagon network:

Travel for our Troops - Save Time & Money by booking your next vacation or cruise through me or my site 50% of my commission will go to Supporting our US Military men & women. Trains, planes, car rentals, Vacation packages, Honeymoon packages, Cruises for groups, non-profits & couples.

www.dellastravels.com

Operation Rising Star

2009-10-11T12:01:00.009-06:00

VIP SEATING AVAILABLE FOR OPERATION RISING STAR FINALS!

(The "American Idol" of the Army!)

Be part of the studio audience at the Wallace Theater, Fort Belvoir, VA this November.

Pick up a free reserved VIP ticket for one round or all four rounds of the Operation Rising Stars finals.

The finals will take place at on November 14th, 16th, 18th and 20th at 8 p.m.

FREE VIP tickets are available now… while they last at the following locations:
Fort Belvoir ITR
Pentagon ITR (Room 1D645, Pentagon)
Fort Myer ITR
Walter Reed ITR (Delano Hall Rm 1-123) At the GM Camero Display at
Fort Myer (Nov. 10-12) and at Fort Belvoir (Nov. 14, 19-20th)

SHOW SCHEDULE:

Saturday, November 14th @ 8 p.m. (90 minute show--finalists will go from 12 down to 6)

Monday, November 16th @ 8 p.m. (60 minute show--finalists will go from 6 down to 3) Meet the Washington Wizards Cheerleaders and the celebrity judges!

Wednesday, November 18th @ 8 p.m. (60 minute show--three finalists perform for the last time). Meet the "Sweethearts for Soldiers" (current and ex-NFL Cheerleaders) and the celebrity judges!

Friday, November 20th @ 8 p.m. (60 minute show - winners are revealed). Meet the Washington Wizards Cheerleaders! Special performance by Joyce Dodson, 2008 Operation Rising Star winner.

Be part of the live studio audience! Finals will be broadcast on the Pentagon Channel.

Celebrity Judges, Audience Prizes Nightly, Special Guest Appearances!
Win prizes! Gifts for first 75 VIP ticket holders each night.

If you miss out on a VIP ticket...don't worry! No tickets are required for general admission seating...and there are plenty of seats. Seating is on a first come first seated basis.

Doors for all performances will open at 7 p.m. Come early for a good seat! VIP ticket holders must be seated 15-minutes prior to the show start or seats will be released.

Semi Final Rounds
Saturday, November 14th
Monday, November 16th
Final Round
Wednesday, November 18th
Reveal of the Winners Show
Friday, November 20th

Pull-up Contest by VT Group Raises $3,375 for USO-Metro

2009-10-10T09:00:00.002-06:00

Washington, D.C. – VT Group hosted “Pulling for the Troops” a pull-up contest that raised $3,375 to support USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) programs and services for troops and their families. The contest was held at VT Group’s booth during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) conference on October 5th and 6th. Conference participants were challenged to complete as many pull-ups as they could. With each pull-up, VT Group donated $2.50 to USO-Metro. A total of 1,350 pull-ups were completed.

Cheryl Hall, USO-Metro’s chief operating officer, accepted the check and thanked VT Group for their donation, “This was truly a creative and fun way to show support for our troops and their families. On behalf of USO-Metro I want to thank VT Group and all the participants who took the challenge.”

VT Group is a leading defense and support services company, providing engineering and other support services to governments and large organizations around the world. Primarily based in the United Kingdom and the United States, VT Group employs over 12,000 people and has doubled in size over the past five years.

Special Flight Request - Call to Action

2009-10-10T08:32:00.003-06:00

Just received this -- this is what Luke's Wings is all about! Please help if you can.

Special Flight Request - Call to Action

Dear Luke's Wingers: Yesterday we received a request from a California family to visit a wounded warrior at Walter Reed. We are asking for your support to answer this request for travel. The soldier, Christian, was on patrol in Afghanistan with his team and with a team of Afghani security forces. They set up a perimeter for the night and hunkered down. While our heroes slept, one of the Afghans snuck up on them and opened fire with an AK47. It made the news at http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/SP459159.htm

This incident occurred one week ago today. Christian was shot 2 times in his left leg. He was shot 2 times in his right leg. He had fluid in his lungs and possibly traumatic brain injury. They rushed him to Walter Reed for surgery and hopeful recovery. Please help us pay for Christian's family to come see him. It was only a week ago that he was shot and we want to put his father on a plane this weekend, and then fly his mother and three sisters as often as they'd like. Won't you help us with this special case? Please donate whatever you can right here on our cause page or on our website at www.lukeswings.org Thank you! The Team at Luke's Wings

Luke’s Wings provides travel planning, tickets and services to the families of wounded veterans hospitalized at the Army Medical Center.

Armed Forces Appreciation Day on CBS College Sports

2009-10-10T07:35:00.009-06:00

Come on out to Public Bar to see your favorite military teams play ALL day today!! I'll be there hosting -- Go Navy! :)

CBS College Sports Network, the broadcast home of U.S. service academy football, will salute our nation’s Armed Forces and service academy football teams: Army, Navy and Air Force.

Coverage is highlighted by a tripleheader featuring each of the academies this Saturday, Oct. 10:•12:00 Vanderbilt at Army •3:30 Navy at Rice •7:30 TCU at Air Force Come out and support our troops and your academy or school.

Public Bar has graciously opened its doors to host this event and honor our heroes. Also see how you can get involved and help Luke’s Wings and Vet Tix; two wonderful charities that serve our Nation’s veterans!

http://www.lukeswings.org/
http://www.vettix.org/

Army’s flag and football will arrive from the Multi-National Corps-Iraq headquarters at the Al Faw Palace in Baghdad. Navy’s football comes from the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz deployed in the Indian Ocean where it flew on a Navy combat mission over Afghanistan. Air Force’s flag and football began its journey to the game at the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan.

Special thanks to Formula Sports & Entertainment Group for arranging the viewing party!

USO Fun!

2009-09-29T10:07:00.011-06:00

I posted all the great things USO-Metro was doing for the troops this month in the DC area, now here's all the proof!

The Rockettes and even Santa, made an early appearance in the area for a meet and greet with the troops at Ft. Myer. (above photo taken from USO Facebook fan page)

Here is a live clip of Angie Goff's segment on WUSA 9 of last week's Casino Night. Miss DC, Miss VA, Miss MD, World Series of Poker's Rhett Butler, The Bachelor Andy Baldwin, Kate Michael of kstreetkate.net, WUSA's Angie Goff and Surae Chinn attend the The USO Casino Night.

Become a Facebook fan of USO-Metro here.

Great deal!

2009-09-24T07:42:00.001-06:00

Skincando is the Groupon.Com (Washington, DC) side deal today.

The entire line of Combat-Ready products is 50% off. Time to stock up for the winter!

Get the Combat-Ready Balm, Lip Balm + Soap including shipping for $28.00

Check out the deal: http://www.groupon.com/washington-dc/

G.I. Fabulous

2009-09-23T12:55:00.006-06:00

Got any camo-flaws?

If you do, turn to the Fabulous Factor for help, they support the troops big time, and offer great deals for the DC-area military that want style help.

The Fabulous Factor provides image consulting and fashion solutions. They seek to assist you in enhancing your fashion style through diagnostic assessment, consultation, and personalized style assistance. Whether you desire to update your wardrobe or have a great look for that special occasion, their team is available to assist you. Based in Fairfax, VA, they provide services in Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia.

They help make your style and your wardrobe reflect who you are, whether classic, modern, traditional or unconventional, creative and adventurous. They will help address your needs, and create goals and themes that are perfect for you, and they vow to carry out your vision with care.You deserve to have stylists who will assist you with the many details involved in enhancing your personal style or creating the perfect outfit.

They've got a team of experienced consultants who will ensure everything happens according to your plans and desires, so you can start journeying on to the path of fabulousness.

Help Our Military Vote

2009-09-23T09:57:00.011-06:00

Military Absentee Voting Speaker Howell and House Republicans are committed to protecting the voting rights of the men and women serving in uniform who protect all the rights Virginians hold dear. The laws and regulations surrounding absentee voting by members of the Armed Forces and Virignians living overseas can be complicated to navigate. And the mail delivery to these voters can be very slow.

To address these problems, House Republicans led the way to reduce the time official election materials spend in the mail, and the Dominion Leadership Trust has prepared this guide to absentee voting for military and overseas citizens that can be viewed on the website as well as printed out and distributed.

Please encourage any Virginians you know in the military to take advantage of this expedited absentee voting procedure and ask your friends and family to do the same. You can use our convenient "Help Our Military Vote" application to have an absentee ballot application sent to them. Working together, we can ensure that every Virginian serving in the military can cast their vote and have that vote counted in this Election.

Links: Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) DLT Military Voting Guide

Other Resources: Federal Voting Assistance Program http://www.fvap.gov/ State Board of Elections http://www.sbe.virginia.gov/

Red Hot Green and Gorgeous

2009-09-23T09:15:00.011-06:00

Join my gorgeous friend and creator of Skincando eco-friendly products for the troops, Sara Damelio. Proceeds benefit great charities including, Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund and Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Buy your tickets here.

Santa's coming to D.C.?

2009-09-21T16:28:00.004-06:00

“SALUTE” SANTA CLAUS TAKES TO DC STREETS, ANNOUNCES THE 2009 A SALUTE TO OUR TROOPS PROGRAM HOSTED BY MICROSOFT & USO METRO

Program Brings to DC Activities for Members of the Military Community and their Families

Washington, D.C. -- Microsoft and the USO of Metropolitan Washington will kick off the third season of the annual A Salute to Our Troops program on Wednesday, Sept. 23 with some help from Santa Claus. On Wednesday morning, Santa will be traveling around Washington DC on a pedicab, giving out goodies from his sack and promoting the A Salute to the Troops program.

After lunch, he will meet up with the Radio City Rockettes near the White House as they then travel together to see some DC sites and head to Fort Myer, Virginia for a meet and greet with troops and to kick off the excitement for December’s Radio City Christmas Spectacular show, which is coming to D.C.

“Salute” Santa Claus on a Pedicab (all morning)
The World Famous Radio City Rockettes (with Salute Santa, in the afternoon)

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Santa stops and times mapped out on http://www.salutesanta.com/

Locations include Pentagon Metro Station, Navy Memorial/China Town Metro Station, Union Station, Constitution Ave, 14th Street, K Street, GW Student Union, Kettler Iceplex, PA Avenue/Lafayette Park, Lincoln Memorial, Fort Myer

This year, A Salute to Our Troops will take place in Washington, DC and will include multiple activities to brighten the season for U.S. troops and their families. Activities will range from an Operation USO Care Package day with the Washington Capitals and WTOP/WFED Radio; to the USO of Metropolitan Washington “Courage Cap” program which will be announced at a special game of the Washington Capitals where 50 wounded warriors will be in attendance.

Finally, in keeping with the USO tradition of entertaining the troops, on Sunday, December 20th, Microsoft will treat 8,200 troops and their families to a private showing of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes at DC’s Verizon Center. Ticket information can be found at www.salutesanta.com.

Founded in 2007 by Microsoft in cooperation with the USO of Metropolitan New York and USO of Metropolitan Washington, A Salute to Our Troops program honors the many faces of courage and inspiration belonging to individuals who demonstrate selfless dedication to our country. For more information on the 2009 A Salute to Our Troops program, visit: http://www.salutesanta.com/.

Foot Soldier

2009-09-21T13:03:00.003-06:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Kenneth Wajda last week in the Pentagon, Director and winner of The Best of The Shoot Out 24 Hour Filmmaking Festival Boulder for "Official Selection Boulder Shootout 2007," "Winner, Best Director Boulder Shootout 2007" and "Winner Best Music Boulder Shootout 2007."

Take a look at the short and surprising 7 minute award winning film that he had 24 hours to make.

Are you being a good Wingman?

2009-09-20T11:10:00.003-06:00

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in the Department of Defense.

If you look to the left and to the right of you at work, do you know how your co-workers are doing? Are YOU being a good Wingman? Don't ignore the signs, don't think it won't happen to someone you know. Please take the time to view these videos and ask yourself, is there something YOU can do to save someone's life who may be hurting.

http://www.cowingmanproject.org/

Blackfinn Takes Flight for Luke's Wings

2009-09-17T09:52:00.003-06:00

Saturday, September 19, 2009
8:00pm - 11:00pm
Blackfinn DC
1620 Eye Street NW
Washington, DC

Blackfinn Restaurant has graciously offered to throw us a party! Complete with DJ, Free menu tasting, and drink specials. We'll also have a 50/50 Raffle and all the games on the televisions.

World Next Door

2009-09-15T17:47:00.008-06:00

I try not venture away from the theme of this blog which is, of course, military events and charities in and around D.C. ...but allow me to do so this time. Like many residents in the area, I have a love affair with D.C., and every day I discover something new and wonderful about this city.

I'm lovin' Sonya Lowery's "World Next Door." Let her do all the work for you in discovering cool new places to visit and explore ... no travel required.

It's like falling in love all over again!

Here are a couple of my favs ... you can sign up on the website so you don't miss a single episode.

Become a Facebook Fan

American News Women's Club: Meet Kimberly

2009-09-14T20:30:00.010-06:00

Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009
1607 22nd Street, NW
Washington, DC 20008

When I was enlisted in the Air Force, part of my reserve unit from the 302nd Aeromedical Staging Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, was doing their two week annual tour at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.

Little did they know, their images would be shown around the world, and their training would be kicked into high-gear, as they transported Ms. Kimberly Dozier when she arrived at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center after being airlifted out of Iraq.

I've met her before, and she is kind, gracious and brave. Her story is incredible, and one you don't want to miss.

The American News Women's Club presents, "An Evening with Kimberly Dozier", a CBS News correspondent, who worked primarily in Baghdad from August 2003-2006.

She now covers the White House and the Pentagon for CBS News' Washington bureau. She has covered Iraq and the Middle East extensively for the CBS Evening News, CBS's Sunday Morning, The Early Show and CBS Radio News.

Last year, she published a memoir, Breathing the Fire, Fighting to Report and Survive the War in Iraq, (love my signed copy) detailing her recovery from the car bomb that hit her team while covering a 4th ID patrol in Baghdad in May 2006.

The American News Women's Club, one of the nation's premiere press clubs, promotes professional pursuits; provides a place for members to find helpful assistance and encouragement their professional development and community endeavors and awards grants to outstanding journalism students and media professionals.

Members in ANWC include professionals in journalism, public relations, new media, and publishing.

Light fare will be served. Reserve by phone, (202) 332-6770, or e-mail: mail to: anwclub@comcast.net Members: $25 Nonmembers: $30 Students: $10

Celebrity Navy Doctor to Lead 420-mile Bike Ride Across Pennsylvania

2009-09-14T03:44:00.004-06:00

D.C.'s own Andy Baldwin: World-class triathlete and former star of "The Bachelor" to highlight childhood obesity crisis

U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Andy Baldwin, M.D., star of 2007’s The Bachelor: An Officer and a Gentleman, will lead a 420-mile bike ride across Pennsylvania in October to raise awareness of the serious health risks associated with childhood obesity. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, at least 20 percent of Pennsylvania children are overweight.

“Our nation’s epidemic of childhood obesity weighs heavy on the future of our youth - and on my heart personally,” said Dr. Baldwin, an eight-time Ironman finisher and three-time USA Triathlon All-American. “As committed citizens and neighbors, we can and must serve as important role models to our children and teach them the power of healthy habits.”

The Pennsylvania Health Ride and Kids Fitness Days will kick off with two assemblies in Pittsburgh schools on October 2. The bike ride will begin in Pittsburgh on October 4 and end in Philadelphia on October 10. Along the route, Dr. Baldwin and others will host public events for children that highlight physical fitness, healthy eating and bike safety. There will also be motivational talks and public forums for parents and educators.

“Studies show that overweight children risk serious health issues as adults, such as coronary disease, Type II diabetes, hypertension, arthritis and even cancer,” Dr. Baldwin said. “The Pennsylvania Health Ride is a fun, interactive way for me to encourage kids and parents to avoid these problems and live strong, healthy lives.”

The Pennsylvania Health Ride will follow the PennDOT S Bike Route and make several stops across the state. Some details are still being finalized, but the schedule is as follows:

· October 2 – Kickoff assemblies at two City of Pittsburgh schools
· October 4 – Ride begins with event in downtown Pittsburgh
· October 5 – Ride to Rockwood (Somerset Co.) Health Fair at Rockwood Elementary
· October 6 – Ride to Everett (Bedford Co.) Health Fair at Everett Elementary
· October 7 – Ride to Chambersburg (Franklin Co.) Health Fairs at Fayetteville Elementary and Cumberland Valley High School (Cumberland Co.)
· October 8 – Ride to Columbia (Lancaster Co.) Health Fair at Park Elementary School
· October 9 – Ride to Valley Forge, Health Fair at Hill-Freedman Middle School (Philadelphia Co.)
· October 10 – Ride into Philadelphia with celebration on Art Museum’s “Rocky Steps”
Dr. Baldwin is working closely with other prominent Pennsylvanians and sponsors to make the Health Ride a success. He will be joined by several VIP riders, including Rear Admiral Steven K. Galson, M.D., M.P.H., Acting U.S. Surgeon General; Everette James, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health; and other public officials and sports figures. Community organizations are encouraged to get involved to help spread the word about the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Riders are welcome to join the Health Ride at any point along the bike route and participate to their level of ability.

For more information about the Pennsylvania Health Ride and Kids Fitness Days 2009 and how you can participate, please visit www.healthride.org. For more information about Dr. Baldwin, go to www.andybaldwin.com.

U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Andy Baldwin, M.D. is a physician, humanitarian, and Navy diver at the Navy's Bureau of Medicine and Surgery in Washington, D.C. where he serves as a spokesman and advocate for Navy medicine. Additionally, as an Ironman Triathlete, and National Health/Fitness Specialist, he assists the U.S. Surgeon General with his initiative Healthy Youth for a Healthy Future - a national program that combats childhood overweight and obesity.

Cause - Comfort for America's Uniformed Services

2009-09-13T17:04:00.009-06:00

Cause - Comfort for America's Uniformed Services is a non-profit right here in the D.C. area that works to provide entertainment and recreation to our wounded military recovering at hospitals, such as Walter Reed.

Established in 2003 by four Vietnam-era West Point Alumni, Cause provides entertainment and recreation programs for wounded warriors returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and recuperating from their injuries at Walter Reed and other military medical centers across the nation. It is the only volunteer organization that provides programs seven days a week, 365 days a year at Walter Reed. Its programs have received support from military leaders, the the military medical community, the defense contractor community, and the private sector.

Cause programs take place on the campuses of military hospitals, in or near outpatient residential facilities. This close proximity encourages wounded military to leave the isolation of their rooms, connect with one another, and begin the re-entry process to home and community. In addition to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Cause programs operate at Brooke Army Medical Center, Texas; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; the Naval Medical Center, California; Fort Hood, Texas; and Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany.

Cause volunteers come from every walk of life: they are stay-at-home moms, senior executives, young professionals, sorority sisters, retirees, high school students, and firefighters. They are ordinary Americans who are moved by the service and sacrifice of the nation’s military men and women.

Join them at their upcoming gala, "Renewing Hope, Lifting Spirits. Helping America's Military Wounded."

Wednesday November 11th, with Fox News' Jennifer Griffin as emcee for the event.

The Galleria at Lafayette Centre
1155 21st NWWashington, DC 20036
Reception: 7:00 PM; Dinner: 8:00 PM
Civilian: black tie optional
Military: duty uniform, dress blues or mess dress

For more information, click here

MOAA Career Fair

2009-09-11T11:51:00.000-06:00

Active duty, retired, former, Reserve/National Guard service members, and their spouses are invited to attend a free Career Fair with more than 125 employers, career-development seminars, and on-site resume critiques in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, September 15, 2009.

Washington, DC’s largest military-focused and free career fair is hosted by the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), and Competitive Edge Services, Inc. (aka Corporate Gray). The two organizations are leaders in the military-to-civilian career transition field and have been helping military personnel obtain second careers for many years.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (seminars begin at 8 a.m.) at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington DC, Hall D. The Center is located at 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW, at the Mount Vernon Square/Convention Center Metro stop.

Employers from regional and national companies will look for people in virtually every job skill set. Businesses and organizations attending include L-3 Communications, Secret Service, Grant Thornton Global Public Sector, Lockheed Martin, Transportation Security Administration, educational institutions, financial institutions, and many more!

Several free, 60-minute Pre- Career Fair Transition Seminars will be offered including, How to Work a Job Fair and Military to Federal Resume Writing Workshop, held 8 – 9 a.m. and 9 – 10 a.m. The Interview: Rules of Engagement-Your Compelling Story, will be held 8 – 9 a.m. and 9 – 10 a.m. Another free seminar, Evaluating Employee Benefits will be held at 12 Noon – 1 p.m.

No pre-registration is required. For further information, call 1-800-234-6622 (toll free) or (703) 838-0547, email CareerFair@moaa.org, or visit MOAA Career Fairs on MOAA’s website at www.moaacareerfair.org.

Get a head start by attending MOAA’s Pre-Career Fair Networking Event. Meet with employers and other MOAA members who have successfully made their transitions. Event is open to all. Light refreshments will be served. For planning purposes, please R.S.V.P to lindas@moaa.org

US Navy Video Feature - 911 Never Forget

2009-09-11T07:54:00.001-06:00

US Navy Video Feature - 911 Never Forget

Shared via AddThis

Great book for military families

2009-09-09T12:59:00.007-06:00

My Twitter friend, Sue Hoppin co-author of A Family's Guide to the Military For Dummies, sent me a copy of this handy book for military personnel and their loved ones.

A Family's Guide to the Military For Dummies is for the millions of military dependents, family members, and friends who are looking for straightforward guidance to take advantage of the benefits and overcome the challenges unique to life in the military. This comprehensive guide covers such key topics as introducing military life to readers new to the armed forces, financial planning, relocation, deployment, raising kids alone while a partner is away, and taking advantage of the available benefits. It offers tips and advice for dealing with emotions that surround events like deployments, deciphering the acronyms used in daily military life, forming support groups, keeping track of a loved one's whereabouts, and surviving on a military base in a foreign country.

Looking for a clear, concise guide to military life? Whether you're new to the armed forces or planning your latest relocation, this plain-English handbook has expert tips for overcoming the challenges and taking advantage of the benefits unique to life in the military. From living on a base to financial planning to deployment, you'll see how to find all the support your family needs.

Grasp the boot camp basics — understand rank and military hierarchy, find your way around a base, and connect with others in the community

Take charge of your finances — decipher military compensation, handle your taxes, build credit, and invest for your family's future

Understand your military benefits — obtain health and dental insurance, utilize the family support centers, explore retirement benefits, and more

Raise a happy family — from housing and childcare to education and recreation, take advantage of all the military offers

Handle deployments — prepare for deployment, help children cope, stay connected with your loved one, and manage stress and anxiety

Transition out of the military — assess the financial benefits, retire from service, and plan for your next career

Open the book and find:

An overview of military versus civilian lifestyle

Your place in the military structure

Educational and employment opportunities

Family support centers, groups, and associations

The best benefits for military spouses

How to avoid scams against service members

A family's guide to military acronyms

Programs outside the military you can turn to for support

Become a Facebook fan here

Follow Sue: @slhoppin

Project 2,996

2009-09-09T09:49:00.010-06:00

As the anniversary of September 11th approaches this week, I am participating in Project 2,996.

Per the website: 9/11/09 will mark 8 years since the attacks of World Trade Center I and II, The Pentagon, Shanksville, American Airlines Flights 11 & 77, and United Airlines Flight 93 & 175.

On that day 2,996 people were ripped from their lives. But as the media and society tend to do, they have focused on the killers. We’ve all learned more about them than we wanted to. On that day many of us made a pledge to never forget what happened.

Here are the rules for blogger participation:

Project 2,996 is a tribute to the victims of 9/11.

"On September 11, 2006, more than 3,000 bloggers joined together to remember the victims of 9/11.

Each year we will honor them by remembering their lives, and not by remembering their murderers.

If you would like to help out, by pledging to post a tribute on your own blog on 9/11 of this year, click the button at the top of the sidebar. Then, use the web to learn something about the life of the name you are given, and on 9/11, post your tribute your blog or website.

But, and this is critical, the tributes should celebrate the lives of these people–kind of like a wake. Over the last 5 years we’ve heard the names of the killers, and all about the victim’s deaths. This is a chance to learn about and celebrate those who died. Forget the murderers, they don’t deserve to be remembered. But some people who died that day deserve to be remembered––2,996 people."

I was assigned to honor Matthew Timothy O'Mahony. I found a link and picture of him on CNN.com

Name:
Matthew Timothy O'Mahony
Age:
39
Residence:
New York, NY, United States
Occupation:
Cantor Fitzgerald
Location:
World Trade Center

Dear Matthew,

I don't know if people called you "Matt," or "Matthew," but I'm guessing your friends called you Matt or some other kind of nickname.

Matt, I didn't know you, but my heart goes out to your family and loved ones. I sorted through your guest book tribute, and you are missed by so many.

I am in the military, and I am just one of hundreds of thousands who have been serving since 9-11. I am pleased to report that we have not been attacked here in the states since that horrible day. Our intel remains strong, and though not everything is disclosed to the public due to security reasons, we have been preventing attacks on large and small scales ever since.

Here was one left in 2007 that I liked in particular.

March 28, 2007 - "When I first found this page there was one entry. I left a note in hopes that someone in his family might see it and know by distance alone how Matty O managed to touch the lives of people he only met for short moments. Today he crossed my mind and I googled his name. Since I last posted many people left incredible stories. THANK YOU. It keeps him alive in spirit. And as one lady said...when I get to the Pearly Gates I want him to be my guide! I will keep him and his family in my thoughts. I hope to find more of his adventures when I check back!"

Your sacrifice remains in my heart,

Jessica

Here is a tribute to him published in the New York Times in 2001.

Thank you, readers!

2009-09-04T05:42:00.014-06:00

Today I hit my 100th posting!

Thank you to my readers for supporting my blog. It's a pleasure writing about the military, and the organizations that support it! If you're in D.C. this holiday weekend, come out and have some fun!

Adult Swim & Public Bar present
ADULT SWIM: A BLOGGER SUMMER SOCIAL
The official Adult Swim After Party

The creator's of DC's most popular pool party, Adult Swim, join forces with Public bar to present the first "Blogger Summer Social" - the Official Adult Swim after-party on September 6, 2009 from 10 pm- 3 am. Come out and mingle with some of Washington DC's favorite social media personalities, as they all get together for the first time to simply celebrate the “unofficial” end of summer.

Sponsor Blogs:
A Not So Capitol Idea
Ask Miss A
Deacon Does DC
G.I. Jess
Glitteratzi
Greg's List
Nightlife PR
Metromix
Oh My Goff

Host Committee:
Eric Lund, Walid Karim, Nicole Siobal, Ryan Litrakis, Anoosh Jahanian, Mathew Hebert, Mike Esterman, Andrea Rodgers, Angie Goff, Chandler Ramelli, Greg O'neil, Jessica Andrews, Nakeva Corothers, Metromix.

Featuring music by DJ Dirty Hands and DJ Kilo. Come enjoy the best rooftop bar in the city!

1 Bottle Table Service
Call: 202.487.6874or 703.597.3941
No Cover
No Dress Code(Swimwear OK)

Navy Racks

2009-09-04T05:18:00.003-06:00

Remember MTV Cribs?? This looks VERY familiar ... but it's NAVY Racks! Thanks to Navy For Moms for producing this! Good stuff! :)

Find more videos like this on Navy For Moms

USO Oktoberfest

2009-09-03T08:06:00.001-06:00

Festivities include traditional polka music provided by "The Memories", dancing, German food, prizes and fun. Proceeds from ticket sales and raffles help USO-Metro support military service members and their families in the Washington-Balitmore area. The Oktoberfest event is organized by volunteers from the USO International Gateway Lounge at BWI Airport. Skye Hospitality, a local award winning hotelier, is the Presenting Sponsor. Tickets on sale now. Email or call 410.859.1117 for more information.

Washington Nationals scoring a home run with veterans

2009-09-02T12:43:00.007-06:00

The Washington Nationals have given a very generous donation of 200 tickets to Veteran Tickets Foundation, or "Vet Tix" for next Thursday's game against the 2008 World Series champion Phillies.

"Veteran Tickets Foundation makes event tickets available to our active duty military, veterans AND their families. We are about creating good times, moments and memories for those that serve, have served and their loved ones," said Eddie Rausch, the organization's chief operating officer.

For G.I. Jess readers that are interested in attending the September 10th game, please email me at info@gijess.com by this Friday. Please use a ".mil" email address if possible. Tickets to this game will also be distributed to other military installation's in the D.C. area.

FRA kicks-off scholarship season

2009-09-02T12:32:00.003-06:00

Alexandria, VA – September is back-to-school month for most of the nation and the perfect time for the Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) to kick off its 2010 scholarship season. Applications are now available at www.fra.org/scholarship for students to apply for nearly 30 scholarships for the 2010-2011 academic year.

FRA’s scholarship program has been helping deserving students reach their educational and professional goals for decades, presenting annual awards of up to $5,000 to FRA members, their spouses, children and grandchildren who are pursuing college degrees. The awards are funded through private donations, established trusts and corporate sponsorships, and recipients are selected based on financial need, academic standing, character and leadership qualities. Scholarship applications must be mailed to FRA no later than April 15, 2010.

“We’re looking forward to expanding the reach of our existing scholarship program with the launch of a new education foundation in October,” explains FRA National Executive Director Joe Barnes. “Thanks to the generosity of our members, legacy gifts and corporate sponsors, the scope of the program has grown substantially since 2000; increasing the number of recipients by more than 50 percent and boosting the monetary value of the awards by more than 260 percent. We believe the FRA Education Foundation will allow us to assist even more scholars through the development of more and perhaps larger scholarships, as well as other educational programs.”

In addition to its generous scholarship program, FRA has been an outspoken advocate for enhanced education benefits for service members and veterans. For example, FRA was instrumental in ensuring the new Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit was available to VEAP-era military personnel who previously had no education benefits and allowed transferability of benefits to family members of career service members.

FRA is a congressionally chartered, non-profit organization representing the interests of current and former enlisted members of the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. In addition to its advocacy work on Capitol Hill in support of enlisted personnel, FRA aids its members with career issues by maintaining close relationships with government agencies and by educating lawmakers about the challenges facing those who serve in the armed forces. The Association also sponsors a national essay contest and assists its members with disaster relief grants.

Lone Sailor Awards

2009-09-02T10:35:00.013-06:00

2009 Lone Sailor Awards Dinner Tuesday, September 22, 2009 National Building Museum
Washington, DC

It's time for the U.S. Navy Memorial's "Lone Sailor Awards Dinner!

Via the Washington Times: Arnold Palmer, Sen. John McCain, former Sen. John W. Warner, Tony Curtis and Red Auerbach have won the honor. This year, it's Yogi Berra; Leonard Lauder, chairman emeritus of the Estee Lauder Companies; and Frederick Smith - CEO of FedEx. We're talking about the "Lone Sailor Award," presented to veterans who have excelled in civilian careers, while holding fast to such Navy values as honor, courage and commitment.

Mr. Berra and Mr. Lauder served in the Navy. Mr. Smith was a Marine.
"Our honorees are living examples of how service to country changes lives and helps develop leaders, whether it be in the world of sports, politics, government, the private sector or the arts," says retired Rear Adm. Edward K. Walker Jr., president of the United States Navy Memorial.

Lawrence Peter “Yogi” Berra Major League Baseball Legend and US Navy Veteran

Baseball legend Yogi Berra does not need much of an introduction. He holds numerous World Series records, including most games by a catcher (63), hits (71), and times on a winning team (10), first in at bats, first in doubles, second in RBIs, third in home runs and BOBs. Yogi also hit the first pinch hit home run in World Series history in 1947. He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972. Berra was 18 when he joined the Navy in World War II. He participated in the D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach and also served in North Africa and Italy.

Leonard A. Lauder Chairman Emeritus, The Estée Lauder Companies, Inc. and US Navy Veteran

Leonard A. Lauder is Chairman Emeritus of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., one of the world’s leading manufacturers and marketers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance and hair care products, with annual sales of nearly $8 billion. Its products are sold in more than 140 countries and territories under 28 well-recognized brand names. The Company is named for Lauder’s mother, who founded the company. Lauder served as President of the Company from 1972-1995 and as CEO from 1982-1999. He added the title of Chairman in 1995. Under his leadership, the Company launched many brands, including Aramis, Clinique, Prescriptives and Origins. Beginning in the mid-1990s, the Company also began expanding through acquisitions, including MAC, Bobbi Brown and Aveda. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, Lauder also studied at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business. He served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy’s Supply Corps.

Frederick W. Smith Chairman, President and CEO, Fed Ex Corporation and US Marine Corps Veteran

Frederick W. Smith is the chairman, president and chief executive officer of FedEx Corporation, a $38 billion global transportation, business services and logistics company. He founded the company in 1971. Smith is responsible for providing strategic direction for all FedEx Corporation operating companies, including FedEx Services, FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Freight. FedEx serves more than 220 countries and territories with operations that include 577 aircraft and more than 80,000 vehicles. More than 290,000 team members worldwide handle more than 8 million shipments each business day. He is a graduate of Yale University and he served as an officer in the Marine Corps 1966-1970.

The Lone Sailor Award
The Lone Sailor Award is given to Sea Service veterans who have excelled with distinction in their respective civilian careers while exemplifying the Navy core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. In receiving the Lone Sailor Award, Berra, Lauder and Smith join an impressive list of men and women who have distinguished themselves by drawing upon their military experience to become successful.

For more information, please contact:M.C. Dunn (202) 380-0728 or email: mcdunn@navymemorial.org

USO Gala

2009-09-02T07:25:00.004-06:00

The most anticipated military event in Washington D.C. is here. If you're lucky enough to work for a company that is sponsoring, or can afford the $1,000 a seat tickets, you are sure to have a great time. The Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders are also a regular staple at this event.

On October 7, 2009, the USO will hold its annual USO Gala in Washington, D.C. This star-studded event will feature well-known entertainers from USO celebrity entertainment tours and will recognize a special volunteer, as well as honorees selected by the Senior Enlisted representatives from each branch of the armed forces for their extraordinary bravery, loyalty, and heroism. An estimated 900 guests will gather to pay special tribute to our men and women in uniform. Guests will include Washington dignitaries, Members of Congress, military leadership, celebrities, members of the USO Board of Governors, USO corporate sponsors and the media. For over six decades, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. For more information, please contact the Director of Special Events & Projects.

Luke's Wings & George present "A Fall Opener"

2009-08-31T19:08:00.006-06:00

Get your tickets now for the Luke's Wings event, "A Fall Opener." I'll be there representing partner, Veteran Tickets Foundation (VetTix)!

Although we thought summer would never end, fall is just around the corner! Your favorite charity Luke's Wings and the newly-opened George in Georgetown will host "A Fall Opener" to make sure we kick off the season right. A significant portion of the proceeds of "A Fall Opener" will go directly to Luke's Wings. Please join us for an evening that promises to be fun while raising funds for a great cause!

“A Fall Opener"
@George
Thursday, September 10, 2009
9:00 PM sharp

RSVP: Due to venue policy, a guest list will be strictly enforced. Please donate $10 to Luke's Wings on www.lukeswings.org and your name will be secured on the list- $20 donation at the door. Please note, the Luke’s Wings guest list will only guarantee admission between 9-11pm so GET THERE EARLY!

Dress: Cocktail

Drink Specials: $4 Miller Lites, $4 Rails, $7 RBV's. Drink specials will go on until 11.**Please note, the Luke’s Wings guest list will only guarantee admission between 9-11pm so GET THERE EARLY!***

No "Plus 1's" will be permitted, as each person MUST have their name on the list or be prepared to pay a $20 donation at the door. No exceptions will be made.

New to the Pentagon?

2009-08-28T07:31:00.012-06:00

So you've just received orders to the Pentagon and you're new to the D.C./Virginia area. First of all, congratulations! A Pentagon tour is very interesting and rewarding.

Thankfully, the Armed Forces Hostess Association (AFHA) is here to help in your transition to the Nation's Capital. AFHA is an all-volunteer group of military wives representing all five of the uniformed services. They're recognized by the Department of Defense under the Office of the Secretary of the Army and have been "Providing information and service since 1949."

This group of wonderful volunteers is available to assist officers and enlisted personnel of all branches of the uniformed services and to authorized civilian personnel. They're located in the first floor of E-ring in the Pentagon, so be sure to stop in and help yourself to the wealth of information this office will provide you to get acclimated to your new city.

For more information, or to volunteer, call 703-614-0350 or visit www.army.mil/AFHA

Afghan Police Reform Webcast with The Foreign Policy Research Institute

2009-08-27T10:47:00.008-06:00

While the US military's mission in Afghanistan intensifies against an adapting insurgency, an equally complex problem looms large over the prospects for law, order, and the sustainable defense of the nation's burgeoning democracy. While significant strides have been made since 2001, the Afghan National Police (ANP) have, been unable to implement and maintain the kind of lasting reform that will allow them to effectively defend the institutions of democracy and civility that will undoubtedly remain under fire in the months and years post-conflict. In conjunction with the Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) and the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), DEF will host a live webcast from ROA's Minuteman Memorial Building. This live webcast will present the findings of a recently completed study addressing problems and potential solutions to this complex and fundamental subject.

Remarks: Mr. Michael Clarke, Director of the Royal United Services Institute for Defense and Security Studies Mr. Andrew Garfield, Senior Fellow at FPRI and US Director of RUSI Defense and Security Studies

Where: The Reserve Officers Association's Minuteman Memorial Building One Constitution Ave. NE Washington, DC 20002

When: Thursday, September 17, 2009, 2:00-3:30 PM

This is a live webcast event. To register to watch the event please visit the following link: Afghan Police Reform

An RSVP is required to attend this event. To RSVP please contact Mr. Alan Luxenberg at lux@fpri.org

MOAA wants YOU!

2009-08-26T14:41:00.004-06:00

Currently Serving Call for Nominations

Are you or someone you know looking to make a difference? If so, then MOAA wants to hear from you! MOAA President’s Currently Serving Advisory Council now is accepting nominations. They're seeking a representative mix of active duty and active status members of the National Guard/Reserve components from all seven uniformed services and all officer ranks up to 08 (W1-08). Submit your biography and contact information by Sept. 15 to CSAC@moaa.org. Concerned about allowable activities? View federal ethics guidance here.

Navy for Moms

2009-08-21T10:38:00.002-06:00

I just signed my mom up for this website, Navy For Moms. Every time I look at it, my heart melts. If you're lucky, your family is your biggest support system while you're in the military. I'm thankful for websites like these!

Visit Navy For Moms

I know some day when I'm deployed she and my family will appreciate a community of fellow Navy parents to go to with questions and concerns.

I love you, mom!