Homeland Veterans Magazine October 2018

Vol. 5 Number 10 • October 2018

Homeland Veterans Magazine

So You Want To Be A Cop? Overcoming Transition

Stress

VETERANs

Working Together

Layers of the Warrior Artist

Meet “CHATO” Hinojosa

TRANSITIONING

Military Service Spawning Careers in Law Enforcement Careers

Climbing Back to Support Veterans

From U.S. Marine to Artist, Singer, Songwriter, Husband, Dad, and Champion for Warriors

VETERAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

HOMELAND / October 2018 1

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HOMELAND / October 2018

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HOMELAND / October 2018 3

EDITOR’S

LETTER

Greetings and a warm welcome to HOMELAND Magazine!

Please take some time to get to know the layout of our magazine. Homeland Magazine focuses on real stories from real heroes; the service member, the veteran, the wounded and the families that keep it together.

Our magazine is driven by passion, vision, reflection and the future. The content is the driving force behind our magazine and the connection it makes with service members, families, veterans and civilians. Homeland is about standing your ground, resilience, adaptation, inspiration and solidarity.

HOMELAND is inspirational, “feel good” reading; our focus is on veterans, military and civilians alike. I believe HOMELAND is where the heart is, and our publication covers a wide variety of topics, and issues about real life and real stories.

We are honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people.

Publisher Editor-In-Chief Mike Miller Contributing Writers CJ Machado Vicki Garcia - Enlisted Holly Shaffner Honor Flight Joe Molina - VCCSD Lori Boody - VANC Shelter to Soldier Eva M. Stimson Boot Campaign Barry Smith Wounded Warrior Project Vesta Anderson John Roberts • Jennifer Silva DAV - Steven Wilson USO - Sharon Smith Andrew McClure American Warrior Jim Lorraine Operation Homefront Stephen Thomas Chris Martin Kelly Bagla. Esq. Billieka Boughton Public Relations CJ Machado Thomas McBrien Marketing/Sales Mike Miller Gina Henderson

Homeland Magazine is published monthly.

Submissions of photographs, Illustrations, drawings, and manuscripts are considered unsolicited materials and the publisher assumes no responsibility for the said items.

All rights reserved.

We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of HOMELAND Magazine.

Homeland Magazine 9528 Miramar Road, Suite 41 San Diego, CA 92126

With warmest thanks, Mike Miller, Publisher

858.275-4281 Contact Homeland Magazine at:

info@homelandmagazine.com 4

HOMELAND / October 2018

TRANSITIONING

inside this issue 8 Climbing Back to Support Veterans 12 Layers Of The Warrior Artist 16 From U.S. Marine to Artist, Singer...

20 Leadership - Veterans in Transition 22 VANC - Veterans Come Together 24 ENLISTED TO ENTREPRENEUR 26 Overcoming Transition Stress 27 What Was Your Moment?

28 Protecting Your Assets 29 How much does your family know?

32 So You Want To Be A Cop? 33 Military To Law Enforcement 36 Military Spawning Careers

DIGITAL VERSION AVAILABLE WWW.HomelandMagazine.com

HOMELAND / October 2018 5

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U.S. AIR FORCE MAJOR (RET.) ELIZABETH STEVENS CLIMBS BACK FROM TBI TO OPEN PRIVATE PSYCHIATRIC PRACTICE SUPPORTING VETERANS

by Barry Smith Boot Campaign From a very early age, U.S. Air Force Major (Ret.) Elizabeth Stevens had a burning desire to be a medical professional. She wanted to help soldiers and veterans get their minds and lives back together if the traumas of war knocked them off track.

Now, as a board-certified psychiatrist, she has an advantage as a treatment provider: the personal experience of a debilitating traumatic brain injury (TBI) that nearly robbed her of her life-long career passion.

“I knew that I wanted to help military members since I was in middle school,” recalls Dr. Stevens, a product of Indianapolis, Ind. “I was inspired by my family members and their sacrifices to serve our country, and I know how much trauma can dismantle people’s lives. I wanted to be part of post-traumatic growth and help people tap into their resilience.”

Serving as her role models, Stevens’ grandfather Paul Sherron fought for the U.S. Army in World War II and her uncle Fred Walker also served in the Army as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. Their courage inspired her to enter the military after receiving her undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis.

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Stevens enlisted in the USAF in 2007. She went on to complete officer training school, aerospace medicine training and medical school at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. Medical school rotations at the 59th Medical Wing’s Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center in 2009 and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in 2010-11 helped narrow her career focus.

“I decided to go into Psychiatry because, as a physician, I wanted to treat the whole person, and not just put a Band-Aid on the issues,” explains Dr. Stevens, a former college basketball player and outdoor enthusiast, who enjoys hiking, rock climbing, mountain climbing and even tornado chasing.

“I love figuring things out and getting to the heart of the matter. In psychiatry, I have been able to see dramatic transformations happen working with a patient to help chip away at the layers and see holistic healing happen.”

Her career was taking off as she started her general psychiatry combined residency in 2011 at the San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA). She received their Resident of the Year award for her second-year work in 2013 and was later offered a scholarship for a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry.

She transferred to Buckley Air Force Base in Denver where she started the fellowship via the University of Colorado Denver.

Then in 2015, one year after starting her Colorado fellowship, Stevens suffered a traumatic brain injury during a non-military hiking accident in Rocky Mountain National Park. The TBI knocked her career trajectory immediately off course to the point where all her training, experiences and future aspirations in the field of psychiatry could have been rendered useless.

“I learned about Boot Campaign from a friend, Matt Bessler, who spoke very highly of this program,” she reflects. “I was hoping to be able to start back to work after the program, gain confidence in my physical abilities, and experience a better quality of life.”

Her first step in that direction was a six-day trip to Dallas, Texas, to see neurologists for specialized brain evaluation through UT Dallas and UT Southwestern.

The next phase of her Boot Campaign treatment program continued with a 30-day stay in Virginia Beach, Va., where specialists at Virginia High Performance customized a program for her to address her strength training, nutrition, relaxation and sleep techniques.

“When I went to Virginia, I was able to become stronger and more physically fit,” says Dr. Stevens. “I actually gained over 10 pounds of muscle in a month, which I did not think was possible. The food was really good and healthy, and my sleep improved.”

She returned to Dallas for 16 days of further work with neurologists who she says discovered, on top of her regular migraines, she was having vestibular migraines that can include a number of debilitating vertigo-causing symptoms affecting the ears, vision and balance. Doctors set her up with a highly effective non-drug, non-invasive migraine treatment device called a “Cefaly” to help prevent and abort the frequent migraine attacks.

“I was medically retired from the military after having sustained a TBI and the complications associated with daily migraines, insomnia, and the inability to read without getting a migraine due to vestibular migraines and my eyes not tracking correctly,” reports Dr. Stevens, whose 10-year military career officially ended in 2017.

“I was unable to read for almost three years without having a crippling migraine, which prevented me from practicing as a psychiatrist,” she adds. “I felt helpless, hopeless, and in despair. Every morning I would wake up thinking that maybe something would change, but it never did. My desire is to help people, and I felt a strong sense of worthlessness and shame.”

Fortunately, thanks to the recommendation of a friend she met at a TBI treatment center, her road to recovery took a positive turn in early 2018 when she was accepted into the Health and Wellness Program of Texas-based national military non-profit Boot Campaign.

The program specializes in working with veterans struggling with TBI and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and partners with top-tier treatment and training providers across the country.

Continued on next page >

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“The Cefaly device is a migraine treatment that works better than any medications I’ve tried,” she happily confides, “and worked well enough for me to be able to function and become more hopeful that I could start working again.”

psychiatrist has launched her own part-time practice, Eden Psychiatry, in the Denver area, and is excited for the opportunity to share her brand of mental health and wellness care with more of the military community moving forward.

In addition to vestibular migraines, there was another important revelation that doctors identified while she was in Texas and their prescribed treatment has been extremely beneficial in her recovery.

“I no longer blame myself or God, and I can see the entire situation as a means for growth, empowerment, and equipping me to help others through their struggles and trauma,” says Dr. Stevens. “The Boot Campaign program was a vessel to help me find my way back to the life I was meant to lead.

“While in Dallas, they uncovered that I had an underlying PTSD from a sexual trauma that occurred a month after my TBI,” she explains. “I had minimized it and avoided it for over two years. They recommended cognitive processing therapy, which I started and finished after treatment, and this helped me tremendously.”

Although she still continues to follow an outpatient plan, Stevens is happy to report her medical career is back on course. The Arvada, Colo., resident and board-certified

Learn more about Boot Campaign and its Health and Wellness Program at www.BootCampaign.org

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“I feel more equipped than ever to care for veterans and those who have suffered trauma, and emotional and physical distress,” she adds. “Right now, half of my patients are veterans, but I would love for my entire practice to be veterans one day.”

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HOMELAND / October 2018 11

“Layers of the Warrior Artist”

By Holly Shaffner

For the “Dog Days of Summer” edition in August, Homeland Magazine profiled San Diego Artist Ruben Chato Hinojosa Jr. in a short article. The focus of the article was about an original painting he created called, “The Brotherhood” which captured the bond service dogs have with their handlers. This month for the transition edition we want to expand on Ruben’s talents and talk about his transition from the U.S. Navy and what advice he gives to other artists leaving active duty.

Being an artist is in Ruben’s DNA – his grandfather and father were both artists. In fact when Ruben was a child, his grandfather gave him his first set of paintbrushes. His grandfather, Neto, was his role model as he was growing up and the lessons he learned from his grandfather some 50 years ago still stick with him today. His grandfather taught him American Indian traditions and also how to be humble and help people.

Military Art

One of Ruben’s favorite quotes is, “Be

a peaceful warrior in the path of life but be a fierce warrior in the path of fight” and his grandfather was the inspiration for that. When Ruben

joined the Navy in 1988, his grandfather told him to “be a warrior” and that is exactly what he did.

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Ruben draws much of his creative inspiration from his heritage including the first of his four series of significant times in his life. His first series is the “Nalwodi” series which in his Apache language means strength or power. You will find many eagles in this series including his first eagle painting called, “Eagle Vision” which reflects a young eagle maturing to an adult eagle. He painted it in 2000 as an art student and in 2020 when it is 20 years old he will sell it as he looks to the future of his family.

Layer One – The Warrior. Petty Officer Hinojosa spent the majority of his career with the special warfare community, first as a Navy SEAL candidate at BUDS and then as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist doing missions and operating around the world. Even though Ruben did not finish the SEAL training due to an injury he sustained, he channeled his love for the water and for serving his country through a U.S. Navy Special Boat unit known as Naval Special Warfare Combatant Crewmen.

Ruben spent 10 years on active duty operating high performance boats until he was medically discharged.

During his time in the special warfare community, he developed bonds and friendships unlike any other.

He continues to stay connected with his brothers by volunteering as the Director of Public Relations for the Combatant Craft Crewman Association (CCCA) and by painting one-of-a kind gifts for retiring members. To give back to his brothers, he donates proceeds of his military art to the CCCA so they can continue to help support their community.

Layer Two – The Sculptor. The eagle sculptures that sit on his counter in his studio are for the upcoming San Diego International Film Festival Arts awards. The Golden Eagle awards are for the “best of” categories including film, director and actor. He hand sculpted them, hand paints each and every one of the 24 eagles for the awards. In previous years, winners of these awards were internationally-recognized actors, so we can say that his work is displayed all over the world.

When organizations commission the Artist Chato to do unique creative works of art or he designs art for a charitable cause, he draws the inspiration for each piece through nature, wildlife and the power of the universe. When he was in college his sculptures won several first place awards in competitions and exhibitions.

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Layer Three – The Actor. You may have seen the

actor in television and film. He has been a member of the Screen Actors Guild since 2001. His favorite acting jobs were “The Invisible Man” where he fought against himself and his favorite film was “Sierra Nevada Gunfight”.

Layer Four – The Painter. On September 26, 2018

a collection of Ruben’s creations was unveiled at the California State Capitol for the celebration of Native American Day. The day is to honor the tribal men and women from California who served in the Armed Forces.

The artistic masterpiece is constructed of three wood panels and there are hundreds of details in this painting.

There’s the American Flag, California State Flag, a bald eagle that touches all three panels and service medals – the Purple Heart, World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Southwest Asia medal which was the last service medal awarded during wartime. All five branches of the military are represented.

The most striking part of the painting is how he captured the American Indian traditions of youths becoming adults with a boy gourd dancing before joining the military and a young Indian girl in her regalia while proudly carrying a basket on her head. The painting will be on exhibit at the capitol before it tours to several universities and makes it last stop at the Rincon Indian Reservation.

Layer Five – The Writer. It has taken 18 years to

create and it is almost complete. It is his first novel, an action/adventure novel about two American Indian youths who become superheroes. Not like Batman or Superman but as Special Forces brothers who return after losing their lives in war. The novel will be grounded in camaraderie, diversity, brotherhood and sisterhood (there’s a female character too!) and in the end, man’s best friend saves the day. His inspiration in writing this novel came from the growing up as an American Indian and wanting to give today’s youth a superhero of their own. He hopes for this literary work to be published later this year.

Layer Six – The Donor. “You have one shot at

life; how will you be remembered?” says Ruben. Ruben would like to be remembered for his passion, creative soul, his humility, and most of all for his giving heart.

This accomplished artist gives back to his community in so many ways. His most recent donation is to the San Dieguito American Legion – Post 416. Ruben designed a special, unique painting to be auctioned in order to raise money to help the Legion build a new Veterans Center.

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The Legion was established in WWI and continues to serve our active duty, veterans and their families. Their current building is deteriorating and without a physical location to provide services, they are not able to service the North County military population.

Over the past few years, Ruben has donated his amazing works of art to San Diego Humane Society, Alzheimer’s Foundation, Autism Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation and so many more. In the past five years the Artist Chato has created paintings and sculptures for charitable causes and donated close to $40,000 of appraised pieces. That’s how he will be remembered, for being altruistic and showing the world how he loved life and existed.

There are many layers to this Warrior Artist. For him, art is his life, it is healing, keeps him grounded and gets him excited about he is going to create next. His work is reflected in the four directions of Mother Earth to provide him four series of art. The first two series have been about strength and happiness - he is looking forward to finding the last two series in the pages of his life.

All of these layers led to his transition from warrior to accomplished artist. Ruben would find great pride in helping today’s active duty transition to civilian life. His biggest pieces of advice are to find a mentor, surround yourself with inspirational people and find something

that you love to do. Leaving the military whether it is two, twelve or twenty years is hard. Most young service men and women join straight out of high school and the military is the only life they know. Every day there is structure, routine, camaraderie with your military family and security for life’s essential needs. When you leave the military this is gone and some members find themselves in dark places – all the more reason to involved and surround yourself with people who support you. He says, “You are the happiness” and you have to create your own.

For the artists, he has a few pieces of advice – do your research on patents, non-disclosure agreements, hire a business attorney for contracts and most importantly, surround yourself with people you trust.

In future years, Ruben will make 111 limited edition prints of his most prized art. The 111 is significant to him as that is the numbers in his birthday. (11/1) To learn more about Ruben and his artistic talents or to request a donation for an upcoming fundraiser, go to: www.chato.com.

To learn more about the Combatant Craft Crewman Association (CCCA), go to: www.combatantcraftcrewman.org.

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From U.S. Marine to Artist, Singer, Songwriter, Husband, Dad, and Champion for Warriors You see, Sal is a vital member of Warriors Speak® – a

By Jennifer Silva – Chief Program Officer, Wounded Warrior Project

group of wounded veterans and caregivers who share their motivational stories of service and sacrifice with the public to raise awareness for the needs of this generation’s injured military service members.

Sal is one of many warrior speakers who share how WWP aided in the recovery process and transition back to civilian life.

A Warrior Speaks Music was part of Sal’s upbringing in East Los Angeles, where his dad first taught him to play guitar and where he heard his mom sing. But his parents were busy with work and family, and their art took a back seat to more pressing needs, including running a family restaurant.

Sal performed music throughout his school years. Then, the tragedy of September 11, 2001, inspired him to join the military.

Sal Gonzalez knows a thing or two about speaking up.

The singer, songwriter, husband, father, and injured veteran finds new ways to speak up for wounded warriors every day. Finding his voice as both warrior and advocate was not unlike finding his voice as an artist and as a human being.

“The fact that I come from a family of immigrants propelled me to want to join. I wanted to give back for all this country has given us,” Sal says.

He joined the Marine Corps at age 18, right after graduating high school. Sal was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines as a machine gunner. A year later, he found himself in Ramadi, Iraq, where he gave back much more for his country than he anticipated.

“I was hit by an improvised explosive device and was in a coma for about a week,” Sal says. “I woke up at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

Months later, my left leg was amputated below the knee.”

Fulfilling multiple roles is not easy for most of us, yet Sal makes it look easy. For him, it comes naturally and flows seamlessly from his core.

It was during his stay in Bethesda that Sal first became involved with WWP.

“I just try to make beautiful art,” Sal says. “I don’t make music for particular altruistic versus selfish reasons. It’s super important to live my most authentic life. Music is life to me. I do my hardest to live as happily and as heartfelt as I can, because there are those who are counting on me.”

“When you get injured in combat, they cut every piece of clothing off your body and send you to a very sterile hospital room that is good for your recovery but maybe not so good for mental health. Having something there to call my own meant a lot to me in the hospital.

Wounded Warrior Project staff showed up with a backpack, a shirt, and personal items.”

Those who are counting on him include his family, his music fans, his fellow veterans, and his Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) teammates, who like me, feel inspired by his persistent courage and wisdom.

After a long recovery, Sal was ready to get out of the hospital. WWP was standing ready for him with open arms.

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“I had been in a hospital for a year, and I was ready to get out and start my civilian life,” Sal recalls. “My first outing with WWP was actually an adaptive sports trip to Colorado. I went white-water rafting and rock climbing with the group. Learning to do those things after you lose a limb teaches you that yes, you can do anything – not only if you put your mind to it, but also if you have the ingenuity to figure it out.”

That early experience inspired him to stay involved with WWP and continue his focus on music, both of which were vital to his recovery.

A Warrior Sings

“You can never forget that life has inspiration all around us. Just look at all the wounded servicemembers registered with Wounded Warrior Project who are such good role models. Those are the men and women I admire most.”

“I do think about friends who never had an opportunity to come back, to meet a girl, to get married, to have a child. I have been fortunate.”

Like his song “Heroes,” Sal downplays his sacrifice and honors the memory of those who didn’t come home. He honors them daily with the way he lives his life, and the way he gives back. Yet, he always remains down-to-earth and generous.

“Music is what I’ve always done; it’s home to me,” Sal says. “My goal is to continue to make music and support warriors. If I spend the rest of my life doing what I’m doing now, I’m happy. And I can continue to go to the grocery store like a regular person.”

Lately, Sal is busy working on an album and caring for a new baby. He still makes time to share his story with other warriors and to bring warriors’ stories to audiences through his musical storytelling.

“I believe in warriors. I think I would have turned out OK even without Wounded Warrior Project.

But having Wounded Warrior Project there takes a gigantic burden away from the warriors. To have an organization like Wounded Warrior Project opens up your vocabulary and lets you know that depression, post-traumatic stress, and other things are happening to others. It’s important to acknowledge that and to realize you’re not alone.

For Sal, there’s no question that music is life.

“The question is not whether music helped my recovery, it’s that without music I wouldn’t be around.

It’s who I am. It’s necessary in my life – just like food and water,” Sal says without hesitation.

“Playing and writing music has always been my passion, and luckily, my injury has not affected that at all. I’m always striving to improve my skills both as a speaker and as a musician.”

“Although I would have been fine, there are thousands of other warriors who might not have been. I have music – and have the purpose of helping others through speaking about Wounded Warrior Project.”

Sal’s talent with music garnered him an appearance on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” in 2014, and the television show “Nashville.” He recently performed with country music star Keith Urban, which was a highlight of his career. His motivation comes from his fellow injured warriors.

I am honored to know Sal and to be able to count on him as I work on WWP’s mission to honor and empower wounded warriors.

Continued on next page >

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About the featured warrior

Sal Gonzalez – Lance Corporal, U.S. Marines (Ret.) & Warriors Speak Teammate, Wounded Warrior Project.

Sal Gonzalez was born and raised in East Los Angeles. He kept himself out of trouble by playing music and working at his family’s restaurant in his spare time. Sal proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a machine gunner for two years and was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon and Purple Heart for wounds received in combat.

Sal currently makes his home in Nashville, Tennessee, where he writes and performs music.

Because of his musical talents, Sal has appeared on “America’s Got Talent” and “Nashville.” He has also performed with Keith Urban.

About Wounded Warrior Project Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers – helping them achieve their highest ambition. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), top rated by Charity Navigator, and holding a GuideStar Platinum rating.

To get involved and learn how WWP connects, serves, and empowers, visit http://newsroom. woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.

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About the author

Jennifer Silva – Chief Program Officer, Wounded Warrior Project As Chief Program Officer, Jennifer oversees strategy and innovation as it relates to current and future WWP programs. She leads the organization in creating cutting-edge programs that assist warriors as they transition to civilian life. Through the years, Jennifer has led the way in creating several new programs and business teams at WWP. Jennifer is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and served in the Army as a logistics officer. Before coming to WWP, Jennifer worked in the financial field, owned her own business, and was a secondary school educator.

Connect with Warriors Speak Warriors Speak® is a group of wounded veterans and caregivers who share their motivational stories of service and sacrifice to raise awareness for the needs of this generation’s injured military service members, their families, and caregivers. Warrior speakers share how Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) aided in their recovery process and helped in the transition back to civilian life. Caregiver spokespeople share the oftenuntold stories of what it’s like on the other side of that life-changing experience and how WWP was there not only for their loved ones, but for them as well. To request a spokesperson or to learn more about Warriors Speak, please visit https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ mission/warriors-speak.

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HOMELAND / October 2018 19

Community Leadership Is Essential for Veterans in Transition

By Jim Lorraine, President and CEO of America’s Warrior Partnership

There are more than 200,000 U.S. service members who transition to civilian life every year, and each one of these veterans faces their own unique challenges in adjusting to the next stage of their lives.

There are more than 200,000 U.S. service members who transition to civilian life every year, and each one of these veterans faces their own unique challenges in adjusting to the next stage of their lives. The process can seem overwhelming for many veterans, and we at America’s Warrior Partnership believe the key to empowering these warriors is to provide proactive, holistic support at the community level. The importance of the community to veterans in transition was a focus of our Fifth Annual Warrior Community Integration Symposium, which took place from Sept. 5 – 7 in Atlanta, Georgia.

More than 500 representatives from veteran-serving organizations, corporate foundations, public

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universities, nonprofits, government agencies, and national and local businesses gathered together to learn how they can better connect veterans with needed resources, educate them on available opportunities, advocate for their needs within the community and collaborate to ensure they achieve a high quality of life as a civilian.

Sebastian Junger on Veterans Town Halls Renowned journalist and filmmaker Sebastian Junger has covered the U.S. military for more than 20 years, and he provided a keynote address to Symposium attendees to share his insights. In particular, he emphasized the importance of empowering veterans to share their stories and experiences with their community in a way that is therapeutic and helpful.

Mr. Junger observed that veterans often struggle with losing the close bonds they formed with fellow service members. It can be jarring to go from the tight-knit structure of the military to the relatively isolated structure of civilian life in the U.S. Helping to reform those close connections with friends and neighbors can go a long way towards facilitating a more seamless transition.

One idea is for communities to hold regular “Veterans Town Halls.” Mr. Junger attended one such event in a small town in Massachusetts on Veterans Day. The community opened up its town hall to provide all local veterans with the opportunity to share their stories.

Any veteran from any era could participate regardless of the capacity in which they served. Throughout the day, Mr. Junger saw and heard local veterans tell their stories to fellow residents and share their feelings of sorrow, anger and pride.

At the end of the day, local veterans were able to help unburden themselves of these overwhelming experiences while local civilians took the first step towards helping these veterans form a closer bond with their community. Mr. Junger argued that every town and city across the country has a civic center where it can hold its own Veterans Town Hall, and that it will truly take a collaborative effort between veterans, community groups and veteran-serving organizations to help warriors thrive after they leave the service.

The Importance of Veteran Family Members and Caregivers In addition to veterans themselves, family members and caregivers are an important element of the transition to civilian life. The Symposium shed light on this topic when Fox News anchor Jon Scott moderated a panel to share the perspectives of caregivers, survivors and civilian advocates who have helped service members return home from war.

The panelists emphasized that there is no handbook for family members and caregivers to understand how they can overcome their own challenges in addition to helping the veterans in their lives.

Veteran-serving organizations and advocacy groups need to be leaders in providing proactive, holistic support services that educate community members on how they can help caregivers successfully take on their new role, or help surviving family members grieve the loss of a loved one.

Connections come in many forms within a community, and they matter to the veterans, family members and caregivers who are transitioning to civilian life.

U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Robert Wilkie also stressed the importance of family members and caregivers during the Symposium’s final keynote address when he announced a new VA center that will be dedicated to providing resources to veteran caregivers. The first National Center of Excellence for improving veteran and caregiver services will be named after former U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole, one of the country’s strongest advocates for veteran caregivers.

Ms. Dole’s leadership was also recognized during the Symposium when she received the Leo K. Thorsness Leadership award. Named for Medal of Honor recipient Col. Leo K. Thorsness, the award honored Ms. Dole for her continued leadership in service to veterans and caregivers.

Continuing Opportunities to Support Veterans The insights shared at this year’s Symposium are examples that everyone should take to heart. There are many opportunities for individuals to support stronger services and create welcoming communities for veterans transitioning to civilian life.

At America’s Warrior Partnership, our annual I Am A Warrior campaign is open to all who wish to donate funds to support veteran services in their community as well as share their stories on social media by using the hashtag #IAmAWarrior.

More information on participating in the campaign is available at AmericasWarriorPartnership.org/IAmAWarrior.

About the Author Jim Lorraine is President and CEO of America’s Warrior Partnership, a national nonprofit that helps veteran service organizations connect with veterans, military members and families in need.

Learn more about the organization at www.

AmericasWarriorPartnerhip.org.

HOMELAND / October 2018 21

“The men and women who serve our Nation deserve our support — Today, Tomorrow, Always —” www.vancnorthcounty.org

Come Together!

Imagine what we could accomplish together…

There are so many Veteran Service Organizations all over San Diego County. Every one of these organizations has a mission to help veterans in various ways through funding, caring for, driving or just sitting and talking with our veterans. Each group in its own way and, with its own resources, tries to make a difference; and in many ways they do make a difference.

But imagine if we were all working together. What could we accomplish if the various groups were linked together in a way that provided broad support, multiple funding options, and a constancy of care?

We ask this question because it is part of our mission to link together the services provided by all of the nonprofit organizations under one roof…The Veterans Association of North County (VANC). How many more people could be served if the location of services was consistent? How much better would communication be if a regular meeting of the Association helped to raise the funds, increase the number of veterans impacted and provided the venue for the activities?

Homeless Veterans of San Diego, managed by Kelly and Rich Luisi, saw the opportunity to provide their support of homeless veterans each week under our roof. They meet with new volunteers here, they see veterans every Monday and Wednesday and the veterans come by any day of the week now to get on the schedule.

We see great value in reducing the overhead costs of other 501c3 organizations, consolidating services under one roof and providing a one stop shop for our veterans and active duty families.

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We continue to meet with veterans, provide classes and transition services and look for additional classes and services to add to our venue regularly. We would like to meet with the veteran service organizations leaders, like Kelly and Rich Luisi to see how we can provide them the support they need to grow their outreach while making VANC the one stop resource that veterans throughout the county consider for all of their needs. Would you like to be a member of the Veterans Association of North County?

Come talk to us during our meeting on the First Monday of every month at noon. You can meet other veteran service organizations and see what a great venue VANC is for your events, activities and classes.

There is an amazing culture of service in the San Diego County Area. We are so proud to be part of the veteran service community. Every year we look for ways to link our efforts together and provide a bigger, stronger Association of veteran service providers for our community, join us, and let’s do this together.

Please highlight the first Monday of every month on your calendar. Come visit us at the Veterans Association of North County, grab a slice of pizza, or a cup of coffee and listen to, and participate in a great networking meeting. It is our objective to provide our veteran service community a venue to meet, have events and serve our veterans. We home to see you soon.

If you are a veteran or an active duty military family member, there is a lot of things we can do for you at VANC. If you live in our community, we would love to see you at VANC. You can volunteer, you can donate, or just come and enjoy our events. If you are a member of the veteran service community, join us on the first Monday of each month at noon for an opportunity to network with others serving our veterans. And when you walk in the door, sign in to our guest book.

Welcome to Veterans Association of North County.

HOMELAND / October 2018 23

ENLISTED TO ENTREPRENEUR

By Vicki Garcia

9 Reasons You Should Blog for Your Business

It used to be that small businesses had to spend a lot on advertising and hope for customers responses. Not that advertising is a waste of money now, but the onus has been moved to the owner/ marketer to spend time on “content marketing.” Costs less, but it moves the responsibility to your ability to grab attention.

The strategy is very different. With advertising you place your ad in a place where the target customer might see it, a practice called “interruptive marketing.” Think of billboards, radio, and television. With content marketing, you place your information (not perceived as an ad) in the path of the target customer who is seeking it out. Content marketing uses content to draw attention to a company, product, or service online. This “inbound” content marketing practice might share a similar goal to traditional marketing, but there are major differences as well. It is especially important that the content is not perceived as selling something.

Face it. We all have become publishers. Publishing a business blog is an important part of your marketing now.

Most business owners hate the thought of writing a blog post every month (that’s all you need, but more frequently is better).

Here Are the Reasons to Create and Manage Your Blog 1. It Drives Traffic to Your Website. A blog post is like a worm on your hook. Visitors who read your blog are 97% more likely to click around on other pages in your website.

2. Blog Posts with Embedded Keywords Improve Your SEO. Know your keywords! With those keywords your website is more likely to rise to the top of organic searches. The more you blog, the more traffic you get.

3. Think of It as Educating Your Market. An informed customer is a better customer. The more they know about what you’re selling the more they will appreciate your expertise.

4. Blogging Creates Trust. People buy from people, not companies. Blogging can create relationships and trust.

Relationships turn into buyers. Be sure to include a call to action in every blog post.

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5. Establish Yourself as an Expert. Want customer loyalty? Want people to look to you to solve everyday problems? Be the authority in your field. Blogging can help you win speaking engagements and devoted buyers.

Look to the geniuses like Steve Dotto (https://dottotech. com/) and Ray Edwards (https://rayedwards.com) for inspiration. (They may be great resources for you as well).

6. Learn to Use the Metrics. By using the right analytics on your blog posts, you can discover who is coming to your website and what interests them.

You can’t manage something you can’t measure, so let the blog metrics tell you what to do. I’m not a fan of Google Analytics. Try www.kickfire.com instead. (Get in touch with me and I’ll give it to you for free for 6 months) 7. Use Your Blog Posts Over and Over. Repurpose your blog post on Linkedin, FaceBook, your email newsletter, and so on. Turn it into a video with PowToon (https://www.powtoon.com).

8. Use a Video Instead. This may be a good alternative for the non-writer. The latest term is vlogging,” using video as a blog post. Google it. Or, even better, look it up on YouTube.

9. Consider “Curating” Posts Written by Others. You don’t have to write every word in your blog. You can curate content that you think your audience would find value in, add your own commentary, and publish it on your blog.

Think of it like an art gallery. The gallery doesn’t paint all the art, they just give us a place to view it. “As long as you don’t plagiarize, break any laws, publish duplicate content, or fail to attribute the source with a backlink to the original content, then content curation is a viable way to bring interesting content to your audience and increase your blog post publishing schedule.” (That last sentence comes from Susan Gunelius at Lifewire https://tinyurl.com/y7cah8h4) For more info on curating, look at https://www.scoop.it/, where you can find curated content in minutes and even publish your topic page and distribute it automatically to your contacts and build your brand in it. My friend Karen Dietz has thousands of followers and has become a bestselling author, TEDx & Vistage speaker using Scoop.it.

See https://www.scoop.it/u/karen-dietz/community Vicki Garcia is the Co-Founder of Operation Vetrepreneur & President of Marketing Impressions, a 30+ -year- old marketing consulting firm. Apply to join Operation Vetrepreneur’s FREE Think Tank Groups at www.veteransinbiz.com or visit www.operationvetrepreneur.vet for more info.

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IN THE TRENCHES . . .

What You Can Expect Certification & Supplier Diversity Concept Review for Startups Perfecting Your Pitch Speaker Training Brainstorming with Experts Publishing Knowhow Personal Branding Mind Mapping Crowdfunding Writing a Business Plan Branding, Graphics & Visuals Internet Marketing Social Media & SEO Legal Issues Budgeting Where & How to Get Money High Velocity Growth Strategies Employees & Contractors

HOMELAND / October 2018 25

Overcoming Transition Stress

By Joe Molina www.vccsd.org Veterans Chamber of Commerce veteransccsd@gmail.com

We often think ourselves that ‘change is the only constant thing in life’, these changes usually Play tricks on us, and often messes with our minds, actions, and inactions. However, transitions do happen regardless of how ‘prepared or unprepared we are’. Life makes sure we transition from childhood to teenage hood, adulthood, marriage, parenthood, careers, etc.

Thankfully, we don’t have to be knocked down by the stress of each of these phases. Here are tips to help us overcome transition stress: Moving away from Self Denial Like many of us, the scariest part of transitions is probably the thought of losing control over possible outcomes. Rather than engaging in self-denial or trying to wish the reality away, a better response is to accept or admit how vulnerable we really feel. The acceptance that we are in a transitioning process is powerful and helps us create a sense of freedom and opens our minds to new ways of looking at possible options.

Doing so also helps put in better perspective the related feelings of anxiety, crippling fear and in many cases feelings of feelings of uncertainty.

Leverage on Past When dealing with transition stress, ‘what is past is never truly in the past’. Moving on to a new phase doesn’t automatically erase past memories or experiences. In fact, they are very present in the new phase, but these experiences could serve as leverage as we work on dealing with the transition.

It is always best to reminisce on the successes enjoyed in the past. How did we achieve them? What challenges were successfully overcome? Let each positive memory create a blue print that will navigate through your new phase and your new adventure.

Taking Each Day in Stride Every day in a new phase has its fair share of challenges. The one great thing is that “The future isn’t set in stone” the future is for us to shape and create our new reality.

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Transition stress could be reduced by removing the sense of expectations that we have placed on us. we also want to move from focusing on large picture, setting goals that will take a long time to come to fruition, and pay more attention to the little pixels of today. Focus on short term achievements that could be accomplished in a day, a week maybe a month.

Exercise some more More than just keeping our body in shape, exercising routinely is one great way to relief stress. Exercise, especially aerobic exercises not only stimulates the release of endorphins which elevates our mood. It also reduces the level of stress-induced hormones like adrenalin and cortisol.

Sleep Often the first thing that transition stress robs our of, healthy sleeping habits are very central to our physical and mental health. Knowing this, we should take proactive steps in rekindling our romance with sleep.

We can begin by creating a new sleeping routine, restricting exercises to day time, avoiding long naps during the day, and more importantly, put off or keep electronic device out of our sleeping area, (this last one is hard to do for many of us ) Expect and plan for transition Going through life without expecting detours or changes is no way possible and not the way life works.

The only constant is that changes are taking place, that new environments need to be conquer, and that life is one exiting journey with many stops. Having back up plans is important, it helps to create a “safe sensation” a sense that we can focus on moving forward and feel that we are more in control and work to ensure that we not just get by but thrive.

‘Life as we know it’ will always change. Transitory periods will ever characterise our life and be part of us.

We may not control or have a choice on when change will come, but we can decide how we approach the change once arrives.

What Was Your Moment?

I know the exact moment I decided I was not going to re-enlist. It wasn’t when we did 45 day field exercises in negative 10-degree weather. It wasn’t when I learned my fiancé cheated on me. It wasn’t when our Leave was cancelled. It wasn’t even when I learned we were going to deploy to war – after all combat is what we had been trained to do.

I’d only been in the Army for about 2 years when we deployed to Operation Desert Storm. For the most part, the mission was well organized and orchestrated. There were some unforeseen circumstances such as mechanical failures and a sweeping chronic lack of communication to the lower ranks, but nothing completely debilitating for the Army. I was a good Solider, sucked up all that nonsense and moved on – just as I had been trained.

This one particular moment was different. We’d been mobilized through the war zone, through a mine field, past the burning oil fields that scorched the sky, past the blown out towns, villages, and tanks and most of us had managed to survive. We had POW’s surrender at our camp that were so starved they tried to eat the cardboard boxes of the MRE packages we gave them. I observed the costs of war. They were deep and mighty. Many were beyond the grasp of my comprehension. But still, I held fast to the idea that we were fighting to free a country and to save the lives of the innocent people of Kuwait.

If we succeeded in pushing back the enemy forces, their Country would be free again. Of course, I was also aware of the impact that Iraq owning the oil supplies would have on the manufacturing and transportation industries of the rest of the world, but I had to hold onto something more personal that held more meaning for me, the preciousness of life.

I was standing in front of my best friend’s boyfriend.

They hadn’t seen each other in months, but my team landed in the same coordinates as his team post-war.

Several hundred of us set up a huge camp in the middle of nowhere-desert-Saudi Arabia and were all impatiently waiting for our orders to return home to our duty stations.

I was standing there, in front of David about 2:00 O’clock in the afternoon, in the 110 degree heat and he was talking about how he had missed his ETS date and how much he could not wait to get out. I asked about Diana.

The sun was filtering through the green camouflage netting, a near Vegas sized advertisement target for the enemy in this tan desert.

I was strong, but not bulletproof. The people I cared about were safe for the time being, and he reported Diana was safe. He’d just spoken to her on the phone yesterday.

I was wondering what would happen to them now (my relationship had ended at the beginning of the war, the pain of it seemed very far away just 6 months later).

Would they make it on the outside?

I asked, “What are you going to do when you get out?”

He said, “I don’t know. I do know this; smart people like you and me don’t stay in.” I said, “Some smart people obviously stay in. Strategists, linguists, engineers…”

“Yes,” he said. “But not like you and me. We’re different.

We’re got other important work to do…and these people are going to need us when they get out.”

I had absolutely no idea what he could have possibly meant by that. But something about it felt true in my stomach. Somehow my body knew that he was correct.

I stood there, still, knowing that this moment was paver stone on my life’s path. I asked myself, “Well? What are going to do? Stay in or get out? Get out. I have to get out.

I never want to go to war again, so obviously, I have to get out. It’s comical how clear it seems now, when 5 minutes ago it was still an undecided mystery to me.”

What was your moment?

Billiekai is an Army Veteran, Poet, Columnist, Speaker, Mentor, and Chair of the San Diego Women Veterans Network

HOMELAND / October 2018 27

legal

By Kelly Bagla. Esq.

5 THINGS YOU MUST DO TO PROTECT YOUR ASSETS

Every year I’m in practice, I’m further convinced that fundamental asset protection begins with implementing affordable, tried and true strategies and simple habits.

There are laws on the books you can easily implement that will provide you with incredible protection in the event of a claim or lawsuit.

Here are 5 critical strategies to consider as part of your personal asset protection plan: 1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT BUSINESS ENTITY. There will certainly be multiple tax-planning considerations, but operating as a sole proprietorship definitely isn’t your best choice for asset protection. As a sole proprietorship, your personal assets are completely exposed to a potential lawsuit. Setting up an entity, such as an S corporation or a limited liability company is an important step in the development of your business and protection of your assets.

2. MAINTAIN YOUR CORPORATE VEIL. If you’ve set up an entity, don’t think that just having the entity’s articles of incorporation in your drawer will save you when a lawsuit comes knocking. You need to maintain a separate bank account, use the company name on all documents, title the property in the name of the company, and most important, maintain corporate records and along with the minutes of your annual meeting.

3. USE PROPER CONTRACTS AND PROCEDURES. One of the easiest ways for creditors to pierce the corporate veil and attack your personal assets is if you act negligently or fraudulently. This can be avoided by having good lease agreements for your rentals, placing property and equipment titles in the company name, having independent contractor agreements and if hiring employees, make sure you know the employment laws for your State.

4. PURCHASE BUSINESS INSURANCE. Insurance is an important part of your business and should be included in your startup budget. Insurance gives you the ability to take care of an incident in your business, which could cost you thousands of dollars you don’t have. Make sure you get the correct insurance policy for your business as insurance policies are not all the same.

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HOMELAND / October 2018

5. CONSIDER THE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION. One of the most powerful exemptions available is the protection afforded to our individual personal residence, commonly referred to as the homestead exemption. This is a statutory exemption available in most states that protects a certain amount of the value of a person’s home from a creditor or bankruptcy.

For more information on how to legally protect your business please pick up a copy of my book: ‘Go Legal Yourself’ on Amazon or visit my website at www.baglalaw.com Contact Kelly at: (760) 784-9109 Kelly@baglalaw.com

NOTHING COMPARES at this price to Go Legal Yourself ® Startup Essentials Package. This specialized, customizable package of legal contracts and documents includes everything a startup company needs to protect its assets from the beginning. You won't find these contracts online anywhere but here.

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FINANCIAL

By Chris Martin

How much does your family know?

- Does your family know where your important papers are located?

- Do they know where your bank account and/or investments are located?

- Have you designated beneficiaries on bank accounts, investment accounts, final paychecks, IRAs, etc.?

- Do you own real estate? What about mortgages or lines of credit?

- Have you completed a will or a trust?

This article is going to deal with an uncomfortable subject for some people, but I feel it is necessary to have these kinds of discussions before it is too late to make decisions. If something happens to you (death, incapacitation, dementia, etc.) does your family know where your important documents are kept and what your wishes are?

Several years ago my mother developed dementia and her health was rapidly declining and I was forced to move her to a memory care facility. I am so happy that we had multiple conversations over the years about quality of life and end of life decisions. When she developed pneumonia for the last time, the nurses asked me what to do and my response was “make her comfortable and let her go”. I felt very comfortable with that decision as I knew she did not want to live the way things were going. Not all family members are able to have these discussions. Please consider making these decisions known and having the proper paperwork completed long before it is too late. Once someone has been diagnosed as being incapacitated, they may no longer be able to sign legal documents.

When it comes to a will, probate or a trust, does someone in your family know where this paperwork is located? Most importantly, is this paperwork upto-date? I have seen instances where the deceased’s current family (of over 15 years) was saddled with all of the final bills while the ex-wife received the life insurance money because the deceased never got around to changing the beneficiary. If the discussions are too uncomfortable, then consider writing them down and placing in an envelope to be opened later.

Do not leave your loved ones to wonder what you want or where everything is located.

Discussions such as these are a necessary part of life. There are many funeral planning guides available but here are some things to consider:

- Is there an executor or someone you want handling all decisions?

- Do you have a safe deposit box or safe at home and does someone know where to find the key or the combination?

- Do you have a paid funeral plan with a funeral home?

- Do you have a cemetery plot or know where you want to be buried? Or do you want to be cremated and your ashes scattered?

- Have you expressed your desires for what you want to be worn, such as a military uniform or a favorite dress or suit?

- What about your obituary? Is there something particular you want mentioned? Do you want it to be short or funny?

- Is there someone you want to speak at your funeral such as a clergy or a lifelong friend?

- What about a headstone? Is there something you want or don’t want it to say? Marble or bronze? Do you qualify for one from the VA? - Where is your life insurance paperwork? Do you have more than one policy? Has that policy been updated recently?

These are only some of the considerations to think about. The important thing is that you make decisions and make those decisions known.

Chris Martin, Army veteran, spent 32 years working for IRS as a Revenue Officer, Collection Manager and Fraud Specialist before retiring. She currently works for an national bank as a senior fraud investigator.

HOMELAND / October 2018 29

JOBS FOR VETS

Careers In Law Enforcement Visit Today For Law Enforcement Profiles & Job Openings

HomelandMagazine.com JOBS FOR VETS LAW ENFORCEMENT 30

HOMELAND / October 2018

www.homelandmagazine.com

Military service can be a perfect entrance into a law enforcement career.

Military and law enforcement personnel have had a long-standing relationship with overlaps in training exercises, equipment, and, most important, personnel.

It is not uncommon for a service member to make the jump from the military to law enforcement, as both professions look for the same characteristics; leadership, fidelity, chain of command, and teamwork are all common themes in both professions.

Quite understandably, many American military veterans often gravitate to a career in law enforcement when the time comes to rejoin the civilian workforce.

The two professions have many fundamental similarities; from the uniforms they wear with pride, to the firm command structure they serve under, to great personal risk they endure while protecting those who cannot protect themselves.

Opportunities in Law Enforcement

You’ve served your country, now serve your community!

The following agencies are actively hiring & proudly support our veterans, active military and the families that keep together.

We thank you for your service, to all the men and women in law enforcement around the world for your courage, your commitment & your sacrifice.

- Homeland Magazine -

www.homelandmagazine.com

HOMELAND / October 2018 31

So You Want To Be A Cop? Sergeant Matt Harrell Thinking about a career in civilian Law Enforcement following your Honorable Discharge from the Military – excellent choice for most!

Having been there myself I have some recommendations/advice that may help you make the right decisions and ultimately get a job in Law Enforcement. There are many traits, that those who have honorably served in the Armed Forces possess, that are desirable to civilian Law Enforcement Agencies.

Military veterans understand discipline, Chain of Command, proper wear of a uniform and grooming standards, an understanding of the rules of engagement for various situations, and firearms training to name a few. When going through discharge transition training, prior to being discharged, take the initiative and create a powerful resume (with an eye to law enforcement) and take advantage of the oral board and “Dress for Success” advice available to you.

Once you know your discharge date start researching multiple police departments and their testing timelines.

Unless you have your heart set on only one department you should look at applying for multiple departments because what you should be looking for is a “foot in the door.” Once you become a police officer for one department it is easy to transition to a more desirable department after a couple years. Once you are a police officer and POST (Police Officer Standards and Training) certified you become more marketable.

If you apply to multiple departments you will begin the hiring processes which will generally consist of an application, written test, oral board, medical exam, physical fitness test, oral board, psychological screening and a polygraph exam. As you start the testing process you will find that different police department’s testing/ screening is similar. This is to your advantage, especially as you take the written tests and participate in oral boards. Many departments will offer orientation sessions for prospective applicants which you should attend as they usually pass on valuable information regarding the testing process and how to prepare. Each time you take a police written test you will learn more and each test should get easier.

Oral Boards are similar in that each time you go through an Oral Board you will be able to learn and become better at oral boards.

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One thing to keep in mind is that most larger departments generally have Oral Board assessors that are not allowed to look at your resume or application so that all they know about you will be what you tell during the oral board. There will probably be a question or two that will give you an opportunity to let the assessors know your prior employment, education, significant accomplishments and other factors that will make you a desirable officer to hire – sell yourself. Don’t forget to do your homework on the department you are testing for to fully understand their makeup, priorities and vision.

The bottom line is that civilian Police Departments are struggling to hire quality applicants and the time to start preparing is while you are still in the Military.

Some things you can do to better prepare yourself for the hiring process is to take some Law Enforcement related college classes, go on some ride-alongs with any police departments (it doesn’t necessarily have to be the department you want to be hired by – but it helps if it is) and ask the officers you are riding with for testing/ hiring advice. Don’t forget about your veteran’s benefits, provided by the VA, especially regarding the on the job training compensation benefits once you get hired and are going through the police academy.

A career in law enforcement can be very fulfilling but you need the support of your families/loved ones to help make the transition easier.

You have skills civilian Police Departments want and need so make sure you are ready for the hiring process which can get overwhelming and drawn out but stick with it because it will be worth it in the end.

One last piece of advice, based on my own transition from Active Duty to civilian law enforcement is to look at entering/remaining in the Military Reserves, even if, at the time of your discharge, you have no interest in continuing to be associated with the military, because in the long run the retirement pay and Tricare medical coverage will be invaluable.

Transitioning from the military to civilian law enforcement Sgt James Allen Serving in the United States Army has been an incredibly meaningful and rewarding experience.

It has been a privilege and an honor to serve my country protecting others around the globe.

This experience has given me an exceptional foundation for protecting and serving citizens in my local community. Military service is unique among the diversity of career fields and professions. The military afforded me many great opportunities in various job assignments and operations. It also provided me with professional development as a leader and manager of personnel and equipment. I was drawn to the military service because it instilled discipline, provided relevant job experience, and gave me a sense of camaraderie with my fellow service members.

As a senior noncommissioned officer, I progressed through several levels of formal military education and leadership. As I promoted through the ranks, I was tasked with positions and duties of greater responsibility which allowed me to gain significant leadership and senior staff level experience. I enjoyed a high level of job satisfaction while employed as a military service member and knew that I would be looking for a civilian occupation that would give me a similar level of fulfillment and purpose.

Continued on next page >

HOMELAND / October 2018 33

As I began to search for a civilian profession that would compliment my military training and experience, I quickly discovered that a career in law enforcement gave me many of the same opportunities as my military career. The call to service runs in my blood and it is what drives me. There is a great sense of fulfillment knowing you’re doing something good for your community. Law enforcement agencies are modeled after a paramilitary structure utilizing a rank and file system and a chain of command. This is a natural transition for military service members and one that civilians are not accustomed to. A job in law enforcement requires discipline, standards, and attention to detail all of which are learned and developed in the military. I found my transition to law enforcement much easier than most of my peers with no military background. There was definitely an advantage when it came to learning police standards of conduct, drill and ceremony, and uniform wear and appearance. All of these fundamentals are strictly taught and enforced in the military.

I also excelled when it came to firearms training, tactical movements, and first aid. Having served in combat arms and special forces units, it gave me a wealth of practical training and experience that directly related to my career as a police officer. I often found myself imparting my military experiences to my fellow officers and supervisors as it related to police work. Veterans bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the workplace and are a force multiplier in many ways.

I have also served as a major crimes detective in our Investigations Division and served on the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Some of my ancillary duties included serving as a crisis/hostage negotiator, riot control team member, and adjunct training academy instructor. While employed as a police officer, I was able to complete my bachelor of science degree in criminal justice and I am currently working towards my master’s degree in homeland security. Policing offers a variety of promotional and self-improvement opportunities as well as specialized training. A job as a local police officer can also open other doors to state and federal law enforcement service.

I have had a very successful experience transitioning from the military to a civilian law enforcement career.

I attribute my successful transition to thoroughly researching the law enforcement career field and taking the necessary steps to prepare for the hiring process which can be extensive. I strongly recommend going on a ride along with an officer from the local police department to get first-hand experience and knowledge of the job and various opportunities within that specific organization. Stay motivated and even consider doing some volunteer work with your local agency. There are no other occupations or career fields that have a greater impact on the safety and security of our local communities. The law enforcement career filed is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling professions available for the transitioning veteran looking to stay in uniform and to continue serving.

Due to my Army training and experience, I excelled in several other areas and functions within law enforcement. I had the ability to work effectively in teams or individually with minimal or no supervision.

I had proven experience in problem solving, conflict resolution, and dealing with difficult situations.

To date, I have served as a patrol officer in all four patrol divisions in the City of Colorado Springs and currently serve as one of the senior Downtown Area Response Team (DART) Officers. The DART Unit is a specialized unit focusing on the downtown commercial district of the city. I serve the downtown area on foot, mountain bike, and unmarked police vehicle. In this unit, I get to apply many of my military skills such as surveillance operations, problem solving, and critical thinking on a daily basis. I get great job satisfaction by interacting with citizens of my community on a daily basis and knowing that I am making a significant impact on the safety and security of Colorado Springs.

Colorado Springs Police Department Sgt. Matt Harrell & Sgt. James Allen

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Military Service Spawns Careers in Law Enforcement and Life of Service

Quite understandably, many American military veterans often gravitate to a career in law enforcement when the time comes to rejoin the civilian workforce. The two professions have many fundamental similarities, from the uniforms they wear with pride, to the firm command structure they serve under, to great personal risk they endure while protecting those who cannot protect themselves.

Two Boot Campaign Veteran Ambassadors – J.W. Cortés and Jason Borne – have successfully made the transition from service in the U.S. Marine Corp to law enforcement, and both have pursued a life of service that goes well beyond their chosen professions.

Cortés is a 12-year Marine veteran who now serves as a police officer with the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTAPD), in addition to working in the entertainment business as an actor, singer and filmmaker. On the small screen, Cortés plays the role of Detective Carlos Alvarez in the hit FOX series “Gotham.”

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Borne is an eight-year Marine veteran who is currently a senior police officer in his native Central Texas.

But, unlike Cortés, he is not an actor and not the star of the action movies where the main character shares his name. That would be Matt Damon. But Borne believes the similarity in his name helps bring much needed attention to the variety of causes he advocates for every day, including the military, first responders, critically ill children and their families.

“The Jason Bourne character was a source of annoyance for several years, but now I just embrace it,” explains Borne. “I figured if this annoying name can help people remember what I’m trying to do, then it’s worth it.”

Borne has felt the deep sense of responsibility for protecting and serving others for most of his life.

During his early childhood, his father was a police officer and he had family members in the military.

“When I was eight years old I wrote a letter to my mother saying that I was going to go into the Army and then be a police officer because I liked their handcuffs,” he laughs. “She was probably in the next room when I was writing her these letters, and she still has them today.”

The terrorist attacks around the country on Sept. 11, 2001, also played a significant role in his calling to serve and protect.

“I was still in high school and I walked into my Spanish class when one building was smoking and the second plane hit the second tower,” he remembers. “Obviously, that was impactful for a sophomore in high school to watch.

“The desire was there before that though, so 9/11 was more of a fortification than an inspiration,” he adds.

“I’ve always been a very protective person by nature. I don’t know if it’s from having a little sister (Julia) or what, but I was always someone who felt like people need protecting and I want to be there to help protect them.”

At 19 years of age, he enlisted with the Marine Corp infantry in 2003 after completing just one college semester. In 2004, he was sent to Twentynine Palms, Calif., to get prepared for deployment overseas to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom. After seven months in Iraq, he returned to the U.S. and remained on active duty while going to college and working fulltime in an officer recruiting office. In 2006, he entered Officer Candidate School (OCS) himself, but after graduation he decided to withdraw and pursue a career in law enforcement.

“My daughter was born in February of 2006, and when I went to OCS in June, I didn’t like being way from her, even though it was only for six weeks,” remembers Borne, who was honorably discharged as a Marine Sergeant in 2011.

“Getting a taste of what it’s like to leave a child behind kind of changed my perspective on what I was going to do for the next 20 years.

I ended up moving on to my next life calling which was getting into law enforcement.

Now in his ninth year as a police officer, with two sons added to the family, his decision to change career paths is paying off just as he’d hoped.

What’s also paying off is Borne’s side business, a premium supplement company named MILLECOR® (millecor.com) that he founded in September 2015 as a vehicle to give back. The name is an abbreviation that reflects the company’s mission of support. MIL stands for the brave men and women of the U.S. military, LE is for law enforcement, and COR is short for Corps, or a group of persons associated together or acting under a common direction.

“I’ve always been into working out and have taken it seriously, because I think physical fitness is beyond vitally important for military and first responders,” says Borne, a resident of Cedar Park, Texas. “I also know a lot of veterans, first responders and active military are working out and taking supplements.

I wanted give them a company they could support that would deliver just as good if not better products, but also a bigger purpose that would in a way be supporting themselves, their families, and the causes that they care about.”

A portion of all company sales directly benefit MILLECOR’s MILLECARE Campaign, as well as nonprofits and other initiatives like Boot Campaign (Bootcampaign.org) and research for the childhood brain cancer called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.

DIPG affects the pons portion of the brainstem, rendering nervous system function impossible, and symptoms usually worsen quickly because the tumor is rapidly growing.

Borne has been inspired to give back and support many causes thanks to the influence and example of family members.

“A relative once told me, ‘if money could fix it, it’s not a problem,’” reflects Borne, “and the reason he has that attitude is because he knows what money can’t fix from a health standpoint. That’s kind of what fortified my desire to help people out financially.”

“Money can’t take away childhood cancer or a lot of things that healthy people or people with health kids can take for granted,” he adds. “But when people are in these situations when they’re dealing a dying child with no cure and they have to take one day at a time, it is in situations like these that I don’t want money to have be anywhere near the forefront of their thoughts from a stress standpoint.”

HOMELAND / October 2018 37

By contrast, Cortés’ journey to a life of military service and law enforcement was quite different from Borne’s, yet both have made the most of their circumstances and upbringing.

Cortés was born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y.’s primarily Puerto Rican neighborhood of Sunset Park on a street called by the NYPD as “little Vietnam,” that was surrounded by Methadone addicts and gangs. As an 18-year-old he realized he wanted more, and followed his father’s footsteps into military service.

He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for nearly 13 years, including tours for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, for which he attaining the rank of Gunnery Sergeant and earned a Combat Action Ribbon and Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals. His choice to follow-up his military service with career in law enforcement was aided by the extreme sense of trust he experienced as a Marine.

“After my time in Iraq I wanted to give life a chance and start a family and so that meant that I needed to find a new career,” Cortés explains. “I came to the realization that a career that included some sense of ‘service’ seemed the most appealing to me.

“An important factor in my decision was the culture of being in the Marine Corps where you really must learn to trust the person at your six and those who lead us,” adds Cortés, who joined the MTA Police in 2004. “I have found that being in the Police Department in many ways does mirror that sort of culture and foster that particular mindset.”

While developing a strong desire to serve his community and country at an early age, he also developed an interest in the arts at the same time, even performing in the musical The Wiz in high school Since leaving the military, he has served in law enforcement for more than a decade and, at the same time, become one of the most revered actors of Puerto Rican descent on television today.

“In the beginning I didn’t set out to do both careers simultaneously but I did want to at least explore the idea of acting,” recalls Cortes, who in addition to “Gotham” has had various roles on shows like STARZ’s “Power,” NBC’s “The Blacklist” and CBS’ “Blue Bloods.”

“The biggest take away from having this sort of career is the amount of empathy it has given me. That translates incredibly well and, in my opinion, has informed my acting.”

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When not acting, singing or patrolling New York’s Grand Central Terminal, Cortés is actively helping to raise awareness and funding for various charities and organizations including Boot Campaign, Autism Speaks, Got Your 6, among others.

“I remember my acting teacher explaining to us that actors are artists in service to their audience and that the craft of acting demands that we give it our 100 percent because folks pay good money and want to have an experience,” concludes Cortés.

“That really resonated with me when I look back and see that I’ve had a life of service, whether it be in the uniform of the Marine or police officer or in the costume of a character. It’s important that it involves a level of service.”

It’s also important that Americans can thank and celebrate the selfless lifeof-service commitments made by military and law enforcement officers like CortÊs and Borne, who continue to make us safe and proud.

HOMELAND / October 2018 39

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