2019 MF SEPTEMBER

We Do Right By You

We Remember

I was a newlywed of the Marine Corps for just two months when that Tuesday morning happened. Growing up in New Jersey, the New York skyline was a staple of my life. I had known people who worked in those buildings, I had known someone who died in those buildings, and I have known people who sacrificed their lives in response to the acts that took those buildings.

Every September, as the calendar approaches that day, its significance screams at me. Not only because of the unimaginable loss attached to it, but because of the impact it continues to have on this nation every day since. I have watched as friends try to forge ahead with a forever empty seat at their table, and I have mourned for children who will only ever know

their parent through stories told by strangers.

When our team was crafting this issue, it seemed fitting to marry symbols of a country that refuses to falter. You will read the stories of service members who were in elementary school when the 9/11 attacks occurred, and today knowingly renewed their oath to a wartime force. It is admirable and brave and the very best way to honor the lives cut short.

I remember. Today, tomorrow, always.

Bianca M. Strzalkowski Managing Editor

About the Cover

Correction: In the July issue of Military Families, an article titled “Pet owners find support in times of need” misspelled Alisa Johnson and referenced the incorrect service branch for Shawn Johnson. It has been corrected in the digital version.

Marines and Sailors render honors while passing the Freedom Tower from aboard San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Arlington during the parade of ships for Fleet Week New York. Photo by Sgt. Samuel Guerra.

New York City firefighters deliver a steel beam from the World Trade Center to the Marines of Camp Lejeune on July 4, 2003. Photos by Monika Szanto.

20

Teachers overcome licensing obstacles

by Rebecca Alwine

by

Military Families Magazine by AmeriForce Media, LLC, is published 12 times a year for active duty service members and their families. Copies are available through participating family service centers, relocation offices, transition offices, base lodges, libraries, daycare centers, MWR activities and other locations by request. Unit distribution requests can be made online at www.AmeriForceMedia.com/ mf/print-magazines/

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Army tweens share

military life hacks

Campbell and Caitlin Chase have become ambassadors of United

Through Reading’s mission to connect military families experiencing separation. And they are also somewhat of military life experts after having a front row seat to the Army career of their dad, Lt. Col. Jeff Chase. The sisters light up as they talk about the positives of being a military child, but they also know it can be tough — especially for their younger peers.

The Army tweens shared their top tips on moving, deployments, and developing a love of reading:

On PCS moves

The Chase family PCS’ed from Fort Bragg, North Carolina to Fort Belvoir, Virginia about three years ago.

Campbell, 12, is very active in each community she lives in, participating in theater, robotics, band, and a church youth group. She embraces the opportunity to explore different areas of the country.

“I like moving sometimes because you get to see new things, especially moving to Virginia, there’s so much you can do in the D.C. area. We love to go see the Capitol and go to the big mall,” Campbell said.

Caitlin, 11, also has her own myriad of interests ranging from dance to sports to STEM, which makes her favorite part of relocating to Virginia no surprise.

“And [going] to the museums, like the aerospace museum and stuff like that,” she added.

On making new friends

It is a known fact that military kids can move every two-to-three years, making them quite the professional new kid on the block. Though it can be challenging to know how to

develop friendships at a new school, Caitlin encourages other military kids to just be themselves.

“For making new friends, all you really got to do is just be yourself; just start a conversation like, ‘Hi, I’m Caitlin and stuff like that.’ The one thing that gets a lot of people talking is, ‘what’s your favorite thing to do’ or talking about school,” Caitlin said.

On deployments

Campbell and Caitlin’s dad has deployed more than 11 times across his 22-year military career with the Army. They have learned some creative — and comforting — ways for getting through the days and months of military separations.

“There’s this trick called the “Daddy Kiss” and it’s where you get Hershey Kisses, and you put them in a jar and that’s how long your dad is going to be away, so like three months you’re going to have the amount of days. You eat one piece of candy a day — and it’s a visual example of how much longer you have,” Campbell explained.

She also recommends keeping a piece of mom or dad’s clothing close to have the familiar scent nearby.

“Another thing is, I know a lot of kids — especially when they’re young — they miss that physical — the touch, the hug — and they really miss that. What we do sometimes is we take one of our mom’s shirts or our dad’s shirt and we put it over a pillow and then we hug the pillow or sometimes we sleep with them on. The pillow trick works a lot,” she added.

Caitlin uses a super-sized bear at home for her pillow trick.

“It’s really, really useful for about ages 3-7. It’s more of a reminder and a visual for younger kids in that age, like

me and my older sister we know time a lot better [now that we are older] and stuff like that,” she said.

On discovering United Through Reading

The Chase family has continually looked for ways to keep the kids connected to their dad, which is how they found United Through Reading. Campbell says the program has not only created “a young joy of literature at a very young age,” but it has given them a sense of stability and safety.

“Reading a book is something part of an everyday activity; it’s part of the nightly routine of reading a story and it’s like no difference to a young child. Your dad’s safe when he’s reading the story,” Campbell shared. “You can read through the book with them. I felt like he was actually there. We would put a different disk in every night and it can be like a new and exciting story every night.”

As she’s gotten older, Campbell has been able to watch how United Through Reading provides the same benefits for her younger siblings, which she calls “a privilege.”

Favorite books to read using the UTR app

Campbell: Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

Caitlin and Campbell joined then-Sgt. Maj. of the Army Dan Dailey at United Through Reading’s Tribute to Military Families event. Photo by Trish Alegre-Smith.

Caitlin: What Daddies Do Best by Laura Numeroff

Contributors

We asked this issue’s authors:

What advice would you give children about middle or high school?

Middle and high school can be the best of times or the worst of times for kids. As a parent whose children experienced both extremes, my best advice is to remind your kids that quality — not quantity — matters most when it comes to friends. “Popularity” is fleeting. True friends are not.

You can’t control what other kids do or say, so try not to spend too much energy there. Decide who you are and who you want to be, and make choices that align with your inner values. Having integrity and living in accordance with your inner compass will help you develop confidence and true character, which are essential for living a full and meaningful life.

Find your own path to success. There are a lot of paths that are wellworn, tried and true, but they may not be for you. Others around you will make you think you are headed in the wrong direction, but those people are not a part of your story. Work hard, love others and don’t listen to those who tell you “NO.”

Always take life one chapter at a time. Remember that every good life like every good novel, has turmoil, joy, adventure and character development. Keep forging ahead and love the story you have to tell.

Middle and high school are both a great place to learn who you are, and who you don’t want to be. Remember that what others do or think of you is not what defines you. And, read as much as possible about as many topics as you can!

There’s a lot of pressure to know what you want to do with your life for young people, but it’s okay if you don’t know yet, plenty of us change our minds throughout life. Follow your interests through reading, school clubs, and more to explore.

Remember that the tough experiences you face will only be on a few pages of your story, not the whole book. Always be yourself; be proud of who you are, there’s only one you!

Rebecca Alwine

Jennifer Barnhill

Samantha Peterson

Meredith Flory

Andrea Downing Peck

Jessica Manfre

Jenn Bedard

GET

A HEADSTART ON YOUR

COLLEGE CAREER

The average college course is roughly $1,800 and takes 100 hours of time to complete, but options exist to reduce both of those.

The College Level Examination Program through the College Board provides an outlet to save time and money. CLEP is a test-forcredit program that shows what information students already know before they even have to sit through a traditional class.

“The military does a great job of teaching the principles of business management to people as they rise up in the ranks,” said Bruce Shahbaz, senior director of Strategic Military Initiatives at the College Board and also a 23year Army veteran. “Things like personnel management; schedule and deliverables are things that the military’s really, really good at. And so those service members just need to translate their military education and training into the civilian

academic language in order to take and do well on the CLEP Principles of Business Management exam.”

As a matter of fact, by taking CLEP exams, a person can knock out a large portion of a school’s general education requirements, and ultimately fast-forward two years of their education.

“Depending on the school you choose to go to, you can reduce by one to four semesters how long you spend at that school by careful use of the CLEP exam,” Shahbaz said.

The College Board works with military families on an ongoing basis, too. Shahbaz adds that over 40,000 CLEP exams are given to service members each year. Plus, certain personnel and dependents qualify for the program at no cost: https://clep.collegeboard.org/earncollege-credit/military-benefits

In the likeness of preparing for an

Army Expert Field Medical Badge, to be an aircraft commander or any other test required in one’s military career, studying is key to passing. Shahbaz urges everyone to take the time to prepare for CLEP exams, even if they feel confident.

“The number one most important thing is that you get out of it what you put into it and you need to spend the time to be ready for the test,” he advised.

Nearly 2,000 test centers exist to include aboard military installations

Search https://clep.collegeboard.org/ test-center-search for location sites.

By utilizing free resources to help study, like modernstates.org or tutor.com, passing a CLEP exam becomes more likely. Shahbaz added that if people pass one of the exams, they “are more likely to finish their associate’s or bachelor’s degree, and we know that they do better in latter courses.”

Getting a headstart in one’s college career is as easy as visiting the CLEP site for initial research to see what institutions and courses are part of the program.

“If you’re looking to start your college education, there is no better way of jumpstarting that college than beginning with CLEP to knock out those general education requirements,” Shahbaz said.

INTERSECTIONS OF 9/11

By Bianca M. Strzalkowski

There are certain dates in history that Americans will forever remember where they were at the exact moment an event unfolded. Sept. 11, 2001 is etched in the memories of those — young and old — who lived through the unprecedented attacks. Do you remember where you were on that September day?

Navy Lt. Travis Greenaway, 25, recalls being sent home early from school on 9/11 and watching his mom, Vicky, react emotionally.

“I remember this day. I was in the third grade and I was coming home … and my mom was in the living room, you know she was crying and I was looking at the TV and I see the plane going. I don’t know if it was live or a rerun, and I remember she

was crying because my dad was in New York stationed on the Kennedy — he’s a retired [Navy] chief — so I remember that and once that happened and as soon as I stepped foot up here [9/11 Memorial] that came back to mind,” he said.

Greenaway, who currently serves aboard the USS Jason Dunham, was among a group of Naval officers and enlisted members attending a promotion and reenlistment ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial during this year’s Fleet Week New York. He described the opportunity to participate as “very special.”

“… all the guys who lost their life here — and their families are still struggling — and I remember that and that encourages me and keeps me going serving my country,” he aded.

Growing up as a military kid, Greenaway benefitted from a strong support system. It was on full display during the ceremony as a large group of his family members attended, holding banners to send messages of pride. His father, Stephen Greenaway, is a retired Navy chief who also experienced an intersection of emotions as he realized the gravity of where they were.

“… it’s our first time here at the 9/11 Memorial — very first time — and as I approach the memorial itself, as I got closer to it, there was an internal feeling. And it was like everything was coming back because, as you mentioned earlier, I was serving at that time of 9/11 and I felt this certain distress within me that wow, and just seeing the names and everything was really bringing me back to where it was almost 18 years ago,” he said. “To have Travis here, as far as the promotion and everything else that’s going on, it’s very significant. It’s a happy, kind of sad feeling, but overall, we’re very proud of him.”

Family members place the new rank onto Lt. j.g. Nicole Hetzer during a joint reenlistment and promotion ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial during Fleet Week New York 2019. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ignacio D. Perez.

Navy Lt. Travis Greenaway had a large family presence from the Bronx-area at the ceremony. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ignacio D. Perez.

Junior enlisted from the Navy and Coast Guard were also on hand. The formation stood in front of the Freedom Tower with their right hand raised to recite the enlistment oath being administered by Navy Adm. Christopher Grady. Many participants, like Electronics Technician 3rd Class Alex Houston, were just elementary school students in 2001.

Houston grew up in Alabama and said, though he was far from what was happening in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C., he remembers the confusion about what was happening. Now, being a part of America’s Navy, he was honored to recommit his service at this location.

“Like Adm. Grady was saying earlier, he said people choose where they want to reenlist for a reason, whether it be significant. Some people do it on their boat or wherever they want, but this

place — to be here, this far — to do something that’s so meaningful to me at this location is just spectacular,” he said.

Newly-promoted Lt. j.g. Nicole Hetzer shared a similar sentiment. She commissioned two years ago after attending the Naval Academy.

“I was recruited by the Naval Academy to go swim for them and

Marines and Sailors reflect upon the 9/11 Memorial during the Freedom Run as part of Fleet Week New York in New York City, NY, May 23, 2019. Fleet Week NY is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard service members and experience America’s sea

when I did my first visit there, I fell in love with the school. Everybody had the same mentality as me, they wanted to do something bigger than themselves and they were just really driven and hardworking and I wanted to be in that environment myself, so I joined the Navy,” she said

The Long Island-native grew up not far from the site of the World Trade Center and her dad was on duty at the time as a deputy sheriff. She was speechless about the chance to stand in uniform at the same site.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better spot. All the meaning and just, I can’t even describe it. It’s amazing,” Hetzer said.

As the 18th-year mark approaches, those too young to comprehend the meaning of the tragedy in 2001 are now old enough to willingly comprehend what it means to join a wartime force. Lt. Greenaway encourages others to commit their life to something that involves helping others, whether that be a “guidance counselor at a high school or a basketball coach,” or serving in the military.

“If they’re serving their country, their country’s going to serve them,” he said.

services firsthand. Photo by Cpl. Adrian Delgado.

Adm. Christopher Grady, commander, United States Fleet Forces Command, gives the oath of enlistment to Sailors from various commands at the 9/11 Memorial during Fleet Week New York 2019. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan Seelbach.

By Benjamin Rawald

Be the change spark for

meat and live off the grid. Instead, it means we buy the product that takes refills, we repurpose old items into new items and we actively participate in recycling programs. We are the spark for change.

Here at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, several military families run a monthly glass bottle recycling program. They drive three hours to San Antonio and drop off boxes and boxes of glass bottles, just because we don’t have that recycling service here. They are the spark for change!

Military kids are not like other kids because of the kinds of challenges we face. In some ways, many of us are more prepared for adulthood than our peers in the civilian world. I say that because we are raised in a culture of diversity rather than a location rooted with monotony. When provided the opportunity, we embrace other cultures and communities as our own.

Sadly, we also encounter the loss of close relationships with each annual PCS season. But it’s OK because military kids are great at networking. We find new friends each transitional period. Hardship and struggle are part of everyone’s life, but transitioning during one’s adolescence requires great individual perseverance.

Military families are special people,

and it is essential that we “buy in” to the preservation of our natural world. Our families are not just protecting our nation; we are protecting our nation’s natural resources.

I have been a Scout since I was 5 years old. Scouting gave me a platform to learn about environmentalism in practice. What is environmentalism in practice? It’s easy to do. You premake decisions about what you will buy or consume, and how it will be used and disposed of long before you ever purchase it. Conservation isn’t easy because it requires that we go against a “buy-use-dispose” economic status quo.

Being an environmentalist in practice does not mean you need to plant a family garden, give up

Somewhere deep inside, I have always been an environmentalist. In second grade, I did a science project on an invasive species of fish called Plecostomus or Pleco. Plecos are algae eaters from the Amazon, and they are great at keeping fish tanks clean and healthy. At some point, someone emptied a Pleco from a fish tank into local San Felipe Creek. There are now millions of Pleco endangering other species dependent on algae as part of their food chain. I teamed up with a biologist, and we did educational programs to teach kids about the dangers of invasive species. I was 8 years old, but I had the spark for change.

Military kids are great at networking. By age 13, I decided to act on some of the environmental issues which most hurt my heart. First, I tried to ban plastic bags. I wrote letters, appeared in front of the city council and begged people to help me. We didn’t ban the bags, but now the city recycles them, and I convinced the big-box businesses to maintain long term plastic bag recycling. Since 2013, they have recycled over 25,000 bags.

By high school, I had new projects in progress. One day on the base, I

Benjamin recently received a Hornaday medal that recognizes Scouts who complete exceptional conservation projects. Submitted photo.

noticed how many toner cartridges ended up in the trash. After teaming up with an on-base agency, we started a toner recycling program. Since then, Laughlin AFB has recycled over 12,000 disposable printer parts. But I didn’t stop there, because military kids persevere.

When I was little, there used to be clouds of Monarch Butterflies passing through the border city of Del Rio. Monarchs are on their way to being extinct for a variety of reasons, the greatest of which is the decline in the growth of their host plant Milkweed. I created the formula for perfect gorilla gardening seedballs. What started as a 500 seed project turned into a 15,000 seed project that plants and grows milkweed over three Texas counties. We are the spark for change!

Find those things you are passionate about and find solutions, share ideas, help with trash pickups, use reusable bags and just think before you buy. We are the protectors of our nation, but we have a domestic enemy, and it is the slow decline of our nation’s natural resources. Be the spark for change!

A message from Benjamin’s mom, Kat:

Ben was awarded the Boy Scouts of America Silver Hornaday Conservation Medal in 2019, giving closure to his personal goal of earning every Scout merit badge and award. As a result, he has been recognized as one of the top 3% most decorated Scouts in the nation. The Silver Hornaday is very rare and was created to recognize Scouts who’ve made significant contributions to conservation. Since the award was created 80 years ago, only 1,200 Scouts among millions have earned this honor. He is the spark for change.

From the editor

In addition to his many achievements, Benjamin Rawald is also Operation Homefront’s 2019 Air Force Military Child of the Year.

Benjamin poses with military leadership after being named Operation Homefront’s 2019 Air Force Military Child of the Year. Courtesy photo.

Real world experiences net career

success

By Samantha Peterson

Workplace fulfillment is possible when the focus becomes less on titles and more on leading a life of meaningful contribution.

That might be easier said than done when modern military spouses are constantly seeking opportunities to blend into the local workforce. Finding the next career branch to climb can often mean navigating the workplace jungle up, down and even sideways.

In the overall professional ecosystem, spouses can realize their true potential of diversification by thinking outside the box: Are degrees really required to branch out into new fields? What value should be put on unpaid experiences? What makes the most sense and how does it all fit together?

Volunteering pays off

“Don’t ever discount what you’re learning,” said Abby Himes, a bird keeper aide volunteer at the Smithsonian Zoo. Unknowingly to her

at the time, the volunteer work she began on Guam a decade earlier helped distinguish her among a sea of career professionals time and time again.

Originally, Himes volunteered to clear trash, count snails and do whatever was needed to help native wildlife while stationed at Andersen Air Force Base with her husband. Volunteering began as a way to get out of the house and stay busy in the outdoors.

Himes enjoyed her time working with native bird species and sought out similar volunteer positions at their next three duty locations. The opportunities offered through internships and volunteerism eventually equaled unparalleled work experience, which placed her on par with studied experts. She developed her knowledge of biology firsthand rather than in the classroom. Equally as important as a paycheck, she was completely happy with the balance in her life, especially after becoming a new mother.

“I had gusto; I was hungrier,” Himes said about her ability to marry casual interest with her undergraduate degree in psychology. After a few years, she realized that her professional background could be applied to her new path. Plus, permanent change of stations had placed Himes at the doorstep of top facilities around the country.

Equip employers with a vision

Hanah Ehrenreich, founder of Revolutionary Coworking, is also not a stranger to adapting careers to fit the location one finds themselves in. She is a visionary entrepreneur, small business mentor and former military spouse employer in her former position as director of Sustainable Sandhills.

She encourages spouses to have no fear in negotiating the art of employment.

“We need to eliminate turnover rates from the employment discussion,” Ehrenreich proclaimed after discussing the common question faced by spouses interviewing for positions with any teeth. “Proactive visionaries maximizing their potential bring unrivaled energy to organizations. Succession plans offer opportunities to hire within, while vetting candidates to limit vacancies.”

Ehrenreich values innovation and energy over consistency when it comes to choosing candidates. Equipping a potential employer with that type of vision is a powerful tool, she says. Realizing the value of relationships in hiring, Ehrenreich clearly designates when volunteering makes sense.

“Negotiating opportunities for yourself that bring growth is the formula to use when determining a position as a volunteer or intern.”

Ehrenreich adds that vigilance in ensuring the relationship remains mutually beneficial also prevents burnout and a negative experience.

Be malleable and resilient

Nurturing over 200 small business owners from conception to launch is a way to learn the art of the deal.

Hanah Ehrenreich has adapted to many careers to fit each duty station, and has found long-term success despite the mobile lifestyle. Submitted photo.

Abby Himes started volunteering at a bird rescue more than a decade ago and now finds career fulfillment in the same industry. Submitted photo.

That’s exactly what Jane Harvey did as a small business consultant for the Center for Economic Empowerment and Development in Fayetteville, North Carolina. With a bachelor’s in Spanish and Latin American studies, it was less about paper and more about competency.

“I’ve found military towns are more likely to let you prove yourself, show your grit,” Harvey said about the many doors opened in the Fort Bragg area. Natural aptitude aside, she credits an online certification in business administration earned at no cost as a military spouse, as a personally important tool.

“I’d urge spouses to [take] advantage of what is offered to us even if you’re not sure how it relates to you right now,” she said.

Along with assisting with SEO, business permitting, zoning issues and marketing at CEED, Harvey joined the Fayetteville Young Professionals network. The group focuses on advancement and enrichment through networking. Harvey’s passion project — Jane Loves Local, a blog dedicated to connecting people — gained the attention of Cityview magazine, where she became a contributing writer.

“All military spouses should just keep working on it. Even if nobody knows now, one day they will all see just how amazing you are.”

Post military life, Harvey says the dust has settled and a new path lies ahead. “It really took a year, and I’m glad I didn’t force it.”

With plans to open a mobile, seasonal bakery focused on local ingredients, six years in the entrepreneurially-rich climate at Fort Bragg area left its mark.

The most important takeaway in the military spouse career hunt is often to

embrace the ebb and flow of military life. Positions can be negotiated or even created. Taking opportunities when they arise may look different each time. Embrace the unique offerings of each location and never underestimate the value of learning something new.

“Just say, ‘yes,’” Himes said to those opportunities open to spouses while stationed throughout the world.

Because Jane Harvey took advantage of life experiences afforded to her at each duty station, her post-military life is set up for success. Photo by

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Lyndsey Murphy Photography.

How military families observe

By Jenn Bedard

In the year following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, then-President George W. Bush declared the day to be Patriot Day, calling on “the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services and candlelight vigils,” according to the proclamation. Americans continue to listen.

Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Ryan Cain, a chief culinary specialist, is one such individual. He hails from Long Island, New York, where his mom was a volunteer firefighter and his dad often worked in the World Trade Center.

In his youth, Cain spent time in firehouses. He formed important relationships with members of the fire department and other junior firefighters in high school. And he knows one first responder who died on 9/11 along with many more who have been affected by that day.

Aside from having a strong personal connection to the event, Cain recognizes the significant impact it had on military service and life as he knows it.

“[9/11] changed everything about everything,” he said. “For me, it’s why we wear a uniform.”

In his role as chief of barracks for Officer Candidate School at the Coast Guard Academy, Cain asks students to reflect on the events of 9/11. With each class of students, Cain shows a documentary about the day and facilitates a discussion. It’s important to him to address the day not only because of its value for service members but also because, for many

people, 9/11 seems abstract.

“A lot of it you saw on TV but you really never knew the magnitude of what happened because it was just on TV. And if it’s on TV and not personal to you, you can kind of forget it,” he said.

In 2017, Cain brought a class of officers to participate in the Tunnel to Towers 5k race in New York City to honor a firefighter who died helping others. After the event, the group laid a wreath at the survivor tree at ground zero.

For Cain, it isn’t possible to overemphasize the significance of that day in 2001.

“I don’t know how they teach it in schools nowadays but I know it’s more of, now it’s just another blurb in history books. … To me, it’s just

important to keep educating people and reminding people about it,” he said.

Education about 9/11 is a significant concern of Air Force spouse Amanda Trimillos.

Trimillos was teaching 7th grade English in northern Virginia at the time of the attacks. She remembers being at school, in a lockdown and undergoing an intentional information blackout.

“I didn’t know what was going on. I didn’t know the twin towers had collapsed. I didn’t know a plane went into the Pentagon; I just knew something had happened,” she explained.

As an educator, Trimillos regularly observes Patriot Day by inviting her husband into the classroom to share his experience of being at the Pentagon when the plane hit. In addition, she offers the school use of an American flag that was flown over the area

Chief Petty Officer Ryan Cain and his family. Submitted photo.

Jennifer Woodard and her husband at an Army Ball. Submitted photo.

Cain and a group of Coast Guard officers participated in the Tunnel to Towers 5K in 2017. Submitted photo.

on 9/11 for a special ceremony of observance and remembrance.

Trimillos says it is difficult to help students connect with events that happened years ago.

“A lot of the kids now weren’t born, especially the younger kids. … To them it’s just another history story,” she added.

Army spouse and educator Jennifer Woodard has noticed changes in the ways schools approach 9/11, seemingly devoting less time and attention to it every year since the start of her career. Woodard is concerned that, without consistent and reliable information from school, students are getting misinformation from other sources.

“We need to do a better job addressing it [9/11] as a country … so that people do remember it, they do know that it’s real, not just on Facebook with a post once a year,” Woodard said.

Founder and president of the 9/11 Promise Run, Jennifer DePoto, hopes to give people a chance not only to recognize the sacrifice and loss of that day, but also to experience a sense of healing through a three-day, 240-mile relay run from Washington to New York City.

DePoto had the idea for a run from the Pentagon to ground zero while she was training for a half Ironman in 2016.

“It was the 15th anniversary of 9/11 and it just kind of hit me. I think I’m being called to do something … something that’s bigger than myself for the greater good,” she explained.

That has taken on a form that combines her will to do good, while creating a connection to first responders and military. She also holds a belief that “athletics can be

really healing for people … and very unifying for communities.”

During the first year of the run, in 2016, DePoto and six others completed the course. This year, 65 athletes have already signed up to participate in the event, and a two-day bike event has also been added. DePoto explained that the money raised will “provide scholarships to kids of fallen or injured first responders, military, just to make sure

for the future, kids stay educated so we hopefully will never see another 9/11.”

Eighteen years ago, America experienced an unprecedented day of national tragedy, terror and loss. It also highlighted the best of humanity and unity. There are many ways to honor those who lost their lives and those who willingly died to serve others. May we never forget or take those sacrifices for granted.

alternative for the

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website outlines the types of trainings covered, but here is a more in-depth look at five other ways to use the Post9/11 GI Bill:

1. Border Patrol lodging

The Bill funds off-post lodging during U.S. Customs and Border Protection training. According to CBP’s website, approximately one-third of its staff have served in the military, and remains an appealing way to transition to civilian service for many. Luckily, the Bill can be used to offset lodging costs while training to become part of its forces. This falls under the Bill’s on-thejob training benefit that supports veterans learning trade skills or undergoing an apprenticeship.

By Maddie Dolan

While many militaryconnected students know the Post-9/11 GI Bill can fund undergraduate and graduate degrees, there are several alternative uses that may be overlooked. Traditional college is not required for all career paths and this education benefit helps veterans gain a competitive edge when seeking employment outside the military.

2. Pilot license qualifications

If a veteran has already obtained a private pilot’s license, they are able to use the Bill to gain supplemental qualifications including rotary wing, B747-400, Dual engine and flight engineer. Additional qualifications make getting the attention of major airlines that have a long history of hiring veterans, easier. The Bill will pay for the net costs of tuition at a college or university, or for training at a stand-alone pilot school, contingent on a yearly limit.

3. EMT certification

For those interested in being emergency medical technicians, the Bill is applicable to non-college certifications as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of EMTs is projected

Airman Dalton Shank, 5th Bomb Wing public affairs specialist, reads pamphlets on the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Photo by Airman 1st Class Alyssa M. Akers.

to grow by 15% through to 2026, a much higher average than all other occupations. Therefore, the emergency medical setting is an attractive post-military career option for veterans. The certification, though, can cost upwards of $2,000, which makes the Bill’s help with tuition, books and supplies helpful during transition.

4. Real estate fees

The real estate niche is an appealing career with brokers having a median average wage of $58,201 in 2018, plus BLS’s job outlook shows a steady increase over the coming years. While the Bill won’t pay for the actual licensing to become a real estate broker, it will fund the costs of test fees. In fact, getting reimbursed for test fees is applicable to all sorts of career choices ranging from veterinarian exams and adult nurse practitioner certifications, to pharmacist licensing exams.

TIP: The VA website offers a search tool to find out which tests are covered for licensing and certification. Users can search by keyword and/or state.

5. Tutors

Studying hard does not always provide the results one needs to achieve the final grade they want, and that is where tutoring comes in handy. While there are free resources likely available at colleges and universities, the Bill will pay $100 a month, up to $1,200, for a private tutor to help you succeed in whatever course you’re taking.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill allows students to think outside the box when considering a career outside the military. In addition to working toward a degree, beneficiaries can

train for a specific career, trade, or industry – including vocational training or apprenticeships. Visit Education and Training to learn more about alternative investments for the Post-9/11 GI Bill

Dr. Marc CB Maxwell, Education Services Specialist, U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach Education Center, explains the differences in education benefits that are available to veterans, service members and their dependents during a GI Bill community session. Photo by Amy Stork.

We protect your smile

As a military retiree, you now have choices in your dental coverage through the Federal Employees Vision and Dental Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Delta Dental has proudly provided dental coverage to the military retiree community for the last 20 years and is proud to offer you choices in FEDVIP.

Choose Delta Dental Here’s why:

• Choose from two high-quality, affordable plans designed to meet your needs.

• Preventive care shouldn’t cost you anything, that’s why it’s 100% covered when you visit a FEDVIP network dentist.

• Chances are, your dentist is already a part of our large, nationwide FEDVIP network. Learn more at deltadentalins.com/fedvip/tricare

Federal Employees Dental Program is administered by the Federal Government Programs division of Delta Dental of California through its subsidiary Delta Dental Insurance Company (DDIC).

Teachers push to overcome licensing obstacles

By Rebecca Alwine

For years, military spouses have been encouraged to find jobs in transferrable fields, like nursing and teaching. In fact, the 1951 version of “The Air Force Wife” by Nancy Shea states that if a spouse has time after caring for their husband and their home, “it would seem unreasonable for you to not take advantage of any professional training you may have. They are usually in need of extra teachers and nurses at the base schools and hospitals — even for part time.”

But anyone who has tried to “easily transfer” their nursing or teaching certifications from state to state when moving knows it is anything but easy.

It’s not impossible, though, because military spouses are determined. They’re also willing to share advice and suggestions on what worked for them, to help the next generation of teachers navigate their career paths.

Teaching wasn’t part of the plan

Army spouse Amy Trimble started

her professional career outside of the classroom as a merchandising assistant with Crate and Barrel, which was her dream job at the time.

“It exposed me to so much of what I had no idea I was lacking — workplace relationships, compromise, employee/supervisor relations — all things what would come in handy as a military wife who would move and replant myself 11 times,” she said.

When her youngest started kindergarten, Trimble decided to give substitute teaching a try, and continued after the next move. She was often asked if she wanted a fulltime job, but she liked the flexibility of subbing.

“I did two to three long-term sub jobs for teachers on maternity leave and then we moved to Washington State,” Trimble said.

Then her family moved back to Virginia and Trimble was hired by a former principal as a paraprofessional. After realizing her love for students, her passion for helping parents navigate their child’s

special needs, and her understanding of the transitions that affect military families she went back to grad school. Through yet another move, she was able to sub while taking classes and then was hired full-time when they returned to Virginia.

“Since special ed is a critical shortage, you can work in most states on a provisional license while you teach in your own classroom as long as you show progress toward your degree,” Trimble explained.

More moves, more states to teach in

It’s common for military spouses to rack up state teaching certifications, even though some states offer reciprocity. Coast Guard spouse Melissa Peterson is entering her sixth year in teaching, in her third state.

“I taught for three years in Massachusetts, one year each in Minnesota and Louisiana and we are back in Minnesota,” she said.

Trimble has also been able to teach in multiple states, without too much

Amy Trimble, a special education teacher, taught at Vernon Parish Middle School near Fort Polk, Louisiana.

trouble, which she credits to the shortage in special education. Since getting her master’s, she’s taught in Virginia and Louisiana and will start the next year in Maryland.

“I literally went to the interview straight from the gym, with no resume or anything. I had applied earlier that spring, and they called me in July while we were in temporary lodging waiting for a house. I had no interview clothes, no access to a printer. Nothing. But I was hired on the spot!” she recalled.

Financial aid now offered to spouses

In a recent change made to help teachers in their transition, all service branches now offer up to $500 in reimbursement for license fees due to a PCS. But it may not be enough. Peterson, who has a master’s in curriculum and instruction, thinks that money is only part of the battle.

“I think it removes a huge hurdle for many spouses who want to license in a new state. Many states require a myriad of tests which can be financially burdensome,” she said. “Establishing universal certifications for both teachers and nurses would do more to ease the stress and frustration felt by many spouses in these fields. With the exception of local state history, the tests are almost

identical.”

For those who love teaching, there’s no question they’ll do whatever it takes to be in the classroom advocating for and helping children. That mindset extends beyond the classroom into their role as a military spouse.

As Trimble said, “If you do teach while being a military spouse, be

prepared for people to stop you and ask you about your school, what you know about a certain teacher, principal, etc. Keep it professional. Be a champion for kids and the school, because they need you. Badly.”

To learn more about licensing and certification support for military spouses in the teaching profession, visit https://myseco. militaryonesource.mil.

UP TO 50% TUITION SCHOLARSHIP FOR MILITARY AND FAMILY

Since 1950, Troy University has proudly supported military service members and their families through discounted tuitionand flexible scheduling. And we continue that tradition today. Our Military and Family Scholarship caps the cost of tuition at $250 per credit hour for active military, Reservists, and National Guard for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Also, spouses and dependents receive up to 50% in tuition savings.

Learn more at troy.edu/oneandall or call 1-800-586-9771.

The Trimble Family enjoying their favorite hobby together, baseball.

New program eases financial burden for Coast Guard spouses

By Jessica Manfre

Military spouses now qualify for some economic relief when they transition a professional license across state lines.

The Coast Guard announced in June the creation of a reimbursement program for spouses who incur certification costs due to a PCS move. “Qualified relicensing costs include examination and registration fees that are imposed by the state of the new duty station to secure a license or certification to engage in the same profession the member’s spouse engaged in while in the state of the

original duty station,” according to the USCG website. All service branches recently offered similar-style programs as well.

The Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Charles Ray, says it wasn’t a matter of if the program would happen, but rather a question of how.

“Every dollar in the Coast Guard is important, but this program was equally as important. It was never a question of if we would create it, but how,” he said.

The Arkansas-native has seen an evolution in the makeup of the force since he first graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 1981. He says leadership recognizes the need to focus on the entire family.

“The whole idea of spouse employment, childcare, or the Coast Guard focusing on supporting the family wasn’t on the radar like it is today,” Ray said. “The challenges associated with spouse employment are a big deal. There are very few single income families out there today and if we don’t find ways

Admiral Charles Ray said Coast Guard leadership is focused on the entire household.

Coast Guard photo/ Jetta Disco.

to support and accommodate that there’s another working member of the household, we may not have the household. We recognize it.”

And the topic is personal for him. He has watched as his own wife, Donna, encounter her own career struggles.

“My wife has reinvented herself many times. She’s done everything from work retail to work in schools, you name it. She had a wellestablished profession before we got married and has not been able to go back to that profession since we were married,” he explained.

The announcement of the license and certification reimbursement program for spouses is welcomed news for beneficiaries of the change, like Lacey Milligan who recently graduated from nursing school.

“This reimbursement means a lot to me. As an active duty family that sacrifices in many areas of our lives due to our spouse’s obligation to service and duty, it is nice to see the effort being made to help us get back to our own careers and not have to be out money in the process. It is expensive to move your career around and frankly it doesn’t always seem fair. I appreciate the reimbursement program immensely and am grateful that this has been recognized as an important part of PSC’ing that does affect so many

of our active duty families. It is reassuring to know that this is an option for the all the future PCS’es,” Milligan, a RN at Cape Regional in New Jersey, said.

For Hillary Laski, an elementary school teacher, the program means she will be able to remain in her profession. Her family recently executed orders to Coast Guard Station Oxford in Maryland.

“Receiving reimbursement when I PCS means that I can continue to follow my passion and help educate the future generations. All states have different tests and requirements that they require to get a teaching certificate. By receiving this reimbursement, I will be able to continue in my chosen job field without an added financial burden,” she said.

The Coast Guard also has a plan for combatting spouse unemployment by addressing other barriers, such as childcare costs. Currently, the childcare subsidy doesn’t reflect the higher cost of living in certain cities within the same state.

“We’ve taken some significant steps to streamline the child subsidy program. The current funds for this program are based on the state, but

very soon the Coast Guard will be able to give the subsidy based on the zip code,” Ray said.

While mission readiness is something that is frequently discussed by all branches of service, family readiness has garnered attention as an essential part of overall readiness in recent years.

“What we’ve done since day one of Admiral Shultz coming on as the Commandant and since Master Chief Vanderhaden became our Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, is made people the focal point of everything we talk about. People are what makes the Coast Guard ready and able to do its missions. Families are not a luxury. They don’t raise their right hand but they also serve. By paying attention to families, we are in fact increasing readiness of our Coast Guard to serving the nation,” Ray added.

The new program is retroactive to December 12, 2017. Visit the https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/ Our-Organization/AssistantCommandant-for-Human-ResourcesCG-1/Reserve-and-MilitaryPersonnel-CG-13/Military-Personnel/ Spouse-License-Reimbursement/ for more information on filing for the reimbursement.

Ray meets with Coast Guard family members. Coast Guard photo/Jetta Disco.

Admiral Charles Ray. Coast Guard photo/Jetta Disco.

JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM

benefits military children

By Meredith Flory

Nestled in the city of El Paso, Texas, within sight of a major border crossing and a short drive from Fort Bliss, is the Chamizal National Memorial. Chamizal is an urban park that tells the story of the borderlands and settlement of a border dispute caused by the changing flow of the Rio Grande. It’s one of many National Parks and monuments military families can visit for free with a valid America the Beautiful pass.

More than 100 National Park sites are connected to military history, and the National Park Service has a military engagement plan with goals that include contributing to the health and wellness of military families. One of the many programs helping the park service achieve its goal is the Junior Ranger program.

The earliest Junior Ranger program was the Yosemite Junior Nature School beginning in 1930, with tests of skills that park service Public Affairs Specialist Kathy Kupper explains were probably much more difficult than modern programs. Junior Ranger programs have developed and changed to fit the needs of the younger park visitors.

Kupper elaborated that “the activities designed for each park’s Junior Ranger program highlights the park’s identity and significance.”

In fact, the motto of the Junior Ranger program is, “Explore. Learn. Protect.”

Kupper said, “Families learning together are a powerful force. When families explore together, adults and children often share personal experiences that enhance the visit and make the time together more meaningful.”

Participation can lead adults and children to understand our heritage and natural resources, nurturing a desire to conserve these national treasures.

Parks develop a free booklet of activities for different age ranges, available by speaking with an employee at the visitor’s center. Upon completing and turning the booklet in, Junior Rangers are sworn in, earning certificates and badges. Some parks offer additional events, such as an annual or monthly Junior Ranger Day, and there’s also an online WebRanger program. In gift shops, families can choose to purchase stamp passports, junior ranger clothing and gear, or other souvenirs to help them track their participation.

Chamizal has an “every third Saturday” program that hosts special activities, as well as events for anniversaries, National Junior Ranger Day and Earth Day. Chamizal also claims to be the only park to have a full performance theater, which is an example of how the park service is not only connected to science and nature, but history, culture and the arts.

Chief Interpretation and Education Officer Anne Doherty-Stephan

shares how such events allow the program to expand beyond the booklet, and that she enjoys meeting military families, tourists, and “awesome, regular, participating families” that have attended for generations. Doherty-Stephan encourages military families to come explore, “all these amazing places that you get the opportunity to live and work.”

The Mastriani family, a retired military family in El Paso, has taken advantage of the Junior Ranger program since 2011. Parents Hannah and Todd, with Hailey, 10, and Dawson, 8, have completed 10 Junior Ranger programs at parks close enough for a day trip as well as during family vacations.

While Hannah Mastriani says that the Grand Canyon is breathtaking

Each National Park has its own badge that children can collect if they complete the Junior Ranger program. Photo courtesy of the park service.

and certainly a favorite of theirs, the family’s most memorable experience was at Fort Bowie, Arizona. She explained via email, “You have to hike 1.5 miles to the Fort. On the way you see lots of history; it was the kids first wooden badge and they love it.”

They have set a family goal to visit all major National Parks — there are 60 sites according to the park service — before their oldest turns 18. Mastriani encourages other military families to take advantage of being stationed near different parks.

“These parks are great educational resource as well as a great way to spend time with family outdoors,” she said. “Our family loves packing a picnic and enjoying all the programs the parks offer.”

While the word “junior” might imply that the program is only for kids, Kupper explains the program can work for all ages.

“Junior Ranger programs are ideally designed for co-discovery with children and adults,” she said.

Adults are welcome to complete the program as well.

Speaking on the connection between the park service and military, Kupper said, “National

Parks preserve and protect some of America’s most important scenic landscapes and cultural icons — places that stir patriotic pride and are tangible reminders of what our military stands for and protects.”

Therefore, the next time your family is planning a day trip, vacation or a Permanent Change of Station move, consider adding National Parks to the route as a stop.

Chamizal National Monument park rangers Rodney Sauter, Anne DohertyStephan and Claudia Santiago stand next to a Junior Ranger outfit.

Photo by Meredith Flory.

The Junior Ranger program encourages children to get outside and learn about their country.

Photo courtesy of the park service.

By Andrea Downing Peck

A year after teen tobacco use declined to a record low, the growing popularity of electronic cigarettes has sent that trend up in smoke. Vaping has become an epidemic among middle and high schoolers who can easily conceal their unhealthy habit as they head back to school this fall.

“We’re concerned e-cigarettes, and Juul, in particular, are addicting another generation of kids to nicotine and undermining decades of progress in reduced tobacco use,” said Vince Willmore, spokesperson for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. “E-cigarettes are definitely not safe for kids to use.”

The e-cigarette of choice for most

teens is Juul, a device that plugs into a USB drive for recharging. While a Juul vaporizer may look like a flash drive, parents will not find their child’s English paper stored inside. Instead, the rechargeable device uses a battery, charging unit and liquid-filled pod that can deliver about as much nicotine as 20 cigarettes, according to the Truth Initiative, a nonprofit health organization dedicated to stopping teen smoking. Not all vaporizer liquids contain nicotine, though; some brands might contain THC, the active compound in marijuana that gives pot its high.

“It’s hard to design a more kidfriendly tobacco product than Juul,” Willmore said. “Juul looks like a

computer flash drive so it is easy to hide, even in classrooms. It comes in flavors like mango and mint. It delivers a potent dose of nicotine so kids who use Juul can quickly become addicted.”

Navy spouse Lisa Haggerty of Poulsbo, Washington, learned firsthand about Juul’s popularity among teens after twice finding — and confiscating — her son’s devices. A fellow Boy Scout supplied her son with his first Juul device and “vape juice” refills.

“I feel scared because statistics show most kids who start with vaping at this age, at some point switch over to cigarettes,” said Haggerty, whose son was expelled from a

private high school after admitting to twice bringing e-cigarettes onto school property. “I’m also frustrated that advertising makes Juul and e-cigarettes sound like they are not dangerous when they are.”

According to the 2018 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 2.6 million middle and high school students were e-cigarette users in 2018, which is an increase of 1.5 million in one year. That timeline coincided with Juul’s skyrocketing popularity pushing sales up 800% between mid-2017 and mid-2018, a Wells Fargo analysis of Nielsen data showed. Though federal law prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes to minors, the U.S. Centers for Disease and Control Prevention estimates one in five high school students now vape.

That figure has alarmed physicians. The American Cancer Society points out that e-cigarettes not only can expose teens to high levels of nicotine but also serve as a gateway to traditional cigarettes. A University of Pittsburgh Schools of Health Sciences study found that teens who use e-cigarettes are nearly four times more likely to become smokers, while a 2018 study published in Pediatrics journal points out that e-cigarettes may double the odds of marijuana use. In addition, some sweet-flavored e-cigarette flavors can cause respiratory irritation and ultimately lung inflammation. Meanwhile, the aerosol in a vape “cloud” exposes users and bystanders to heavy metals and other harmful substances.

Dr. Rachel Boykan, clinical associate professor of pediatrics at Stony Brook University Medical School, wants parents to know e-cigarettes pose significant risks to teens.

Places to turn for more information:

Campaign for TobaccoFree Kids https://www. tobaccofreekids.org/what-wedo/industry-watch/e-cigarettes

Truth Initiative

http://www.truthinitiative.org/

Talk with Your Teen about E-cigarettes: A Tip Sheet for Parents https://e-cigarettes. surgeongeneral.gov/documents/ SGR_ECig_ParentTipSheet_508. pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https:// www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_ information/e-cigarettes/aboute-cigarettes.html

In response to the backlash over teen e-cigarette use, Juul in November 2018 closed its Facebook and Instagram accounts, discontinued brick-and-mortar store sales of fruity flavored pods, backed legislation aimed at raising the legal age to purchase tobacco products to 21 and outlined company efforts to develop technology-based solutions to prevent youth use of its products. The company’s action came in advance of a Food and Drug Administration crackdown on online and retail sales of flavored e-cigarette products to anyone under 21. Juul devices and tobacco-, menthol- and mint-flavored Juul pods can continue to be sold in retail stores.

Anti-tobacco groups argue the FDA has not acted fast enough. E-cigarette manufacturers have until 2021 to comply with FDA guidelines requiring them to undergo a review of their product’s public health impact to remain on the market.

“With the newest and most popular pod products, like Juul, teenagers are getting a lot of nicotine,” she said. “In our recent study, we measured cotinine — a breakdown product of nicotine — and found that the levels of cotinine in pod users were as high or higher than levels found in teens who smoked cigarettes.”

When low-nicotine e-cigarettes entered the U.S. market in 2007, they were billed as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes and a tool to help adults stop smoking. But the storyline changed in 2015 when Juul released its 5% nicotine pods in a variety of kid-friendly flavors. “Juuling” became the next adolescent craze, fueled in part by the device-maker’s strong social media presence.

“What we’ve learned from Juul is that it is very hard to put the genie back in the bottle,” Willmore argued. “The FDA has to try by banning all flavored e-cigarettes, but it also has to stop new products from being introduced that appeal to kids.”

Despite initiatives to educate teens about e-cigarettes’ health risks, a 2018 Truth Initiative survey showed 63% of Juul users ages 15 to 24 were unaware Juul contains nicotine.

Haggerty believes most parents are equally in the dark about vaping’s popularity among teens.

“I think there are a lot of parents who are clueless about what is going on with their kids,” she said.

EVOLVING VOICES

By Jennifer Barnhill

Advocating for military spouses is not limited to the highest levels of government; community groups, social media activity and individual participation have taken shape as tools for modernday advocacy.

Ongoing efforts for and by spouses reveal the increasing importance this role has taken on in recent times as the community continues to face a myriad of issues. For those with a passion for a specific area, experts share tangible options for engagement through multiple fronts.

Join local community groups

When Verenice Castillo began helping new Air Force spouses in 2011, she had no idea that nine years later she would be the founder and CEO of the Military

Spouse Advocacy Network. She started slowly by offering programs dedicated to helping those at the squadron level.

“Other squadrons heard about it and wanted to do the same. Out of that, people contacted me and I realized I couldn’t do it on my own. I brought in other Air Force spouses. And it then grew to other [military] branches.”

What started as helping a few individuals spread to an Air Forcesponsored outreach that introduces new recruits and their spouses to the realities of military life.

Oftentimes, change comes from advocates who have high rank or loud voices. MSAN focuses on the most junior spouses and military members.

“We need to advocate for them

as well,” Castillo said. “We are essentially welcoming the next chief of staff and their spouse on day one. [If] we can provide a strong foundation from day one, can you imagine what they can accomplish?”

The actions of one person spread because there was a need and others stepped up in support.

Get social

The military spouse community is not what it was 20 years ago. Spouses no longer expect their neighbors to deliver a homemade casserole with a side of community gouge. Both official and unofficial social media groups serve as virtual coffee tables over which to share communal knowledge. Babysitters, military discounts, housing questions, best date-night restaurants and more can all be accessed by virtually meeting hundreds of other spouses from the comfort of one’s current duty station.

“I fell into being a blogger. I didn’t really know the military lifestyle

Joanna Guldin-Noll of Jo, My Gosh! covered a Joining Forces military spouse hiring initiative announcement at the White House in May 2016. Submitted photo.

Joanna Guldin-Noll of Jo, My Gosh! with fellow blogger and coauthor, JD Collins, signed copies of Modern Military Spouse at Milspouse Fest 2016. Submitted photo.

and didn’t know anyone who had experienced that,” said Joanna Guldin-Noll, founder of Jo, My Gosh!, a popular military blog. “I went online to find information because I was in Baltimore and was a girlfriend and later, fiancée. I wasn’t a part of spouse groups or anything. I found message boards and read blogs.”

Guldin-Noll began by posting about care packages she made for her husband and things went viral from there. Today her blog reaches over 200,000, and she is not alone. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of military spouse-related blogs.

In 2015, she joined other military spouse influencers, JD Collins and Lauren Tamm, to leverage their reallife experiences and virtual presence to write “Modern Military Spouse: The Ultimate Military Life Guide for New Spouses and Significant Others.” By bridging beyond their blogs, those military spouses created virtual communities that provide resources 24/7.

Guldin-Noll continued, “Whenever you are writing based on your experiences in a memoir, blog post or opinion piece, you are sharing your story and that is its own form of advocacy.”

Blogging may be the next big form of advocacy, reaching diverse communities in an economic and immediate manner.

One person can make a difference

There is a temptation for people to think their individual contribution doesn’t matter, or that their efforts to cook a meal for a new neighbor or volunteer with their local spouse club will go unnoticed. As indicated by numerous surveys, though,

military lifestyle satisfaction is linked to community support.

The Military Family Advisory Network’s “Military Family Support Survey 2017” states, “when respondents described the support they most appreciate, family, friends and faith-based communities rose to the top. When they described the support they needed, they called for more networking, communication and support groups.”

Politicians are listening as proof by congressmen, like Sen. Tim Kaine, introducing the “Jobs and Childcare for Military Families Act of 2019.” Federal funds are flowing, as all branches of service are now supporting military spouse education through the 2019 updates to licensure certification reimbursements. Advocacy organizations, like the National Military Family Association, are fighting for safe living conditions for military members living in privatized housing

Therefore, it’s time an individual also takes steps to capitalize on the military spouse support momentum. Grassroots advocacy can start with steps like:

1. Reading about the benefits and challenges facing the spouse community.

2. Following blogs, podcasts, advocacy organizations and military spouse influencers that are inspiring.

3. Emailing or calling local representatives or a military advocacy group about concerning issues.

4. Running for office or supporting someone who is already fighting for worthwhile causes.

Many well-intentioned advocates fail to see success when their focus is the problem. Effective advocates must present thoughtful solutions born out of educated insights, not just constructive criticism.

Joyce Raezer, executive director of NMFA, emphasizes the importance individual military families have in this process.

“The key to successful advocacy is to never accept the first no,” she said. “If it’s important to you, fight for it. You don’t have to do it alone. [Let’s] tell our stories and work together.”

Natalie Ealy distributed information about MSAN at a Leadership Education Seminar at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. Submitted photo.

Culinary introductions in

Texas

By Amy Pottinger

Let’s play a game. When I say Texas, what words come to mind? Tex-Mex? Big hair? Long horn cows? As a chef, I think about the local cuisine and discovering my new home through ingredients. The Amy-way of immersing into a new assignment is figuring out the food culture, then adapting it into something uniquely my own. So, when the military brought us from Hawaii to Texas, I began sampling food like I was on a mission.

Remember that word association game we played a bit ago? Well we are going to turn it into a tasty, Texas-style meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The recipe is a mildly spicy, super creamy and ooey-gooey, cheesy-brisket stuffed poblano pepper. We are mixing the love of Tex-Mex and also smoked brisket. I can’t think of anything that screams Texas louder than that — besides the Dallas cheerleaders.

INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS

6 poblano chilis

1 yellow onion

8 garlic cloves

1 jalapeno

2 tsp salt, divided

1 tbsp olive oil

1 cup diced butternut squash (steam in bag preferred)

4 oz crumbled goat cheese

16 oz shredded Colby jack, divided

6 oz precooked smoked brisket (if you cannot find precooked brisket you can always use steak)

1 bushel cilantro

1 can diced fire roasted tomatoes

.7 oz can fire roasted green chilis

1 tbsp Mrs. Dash Fiesta Lime

seasoning

12 oz sour cream

1 can green enchilada sauce

1. Begin by roasting your poblano peppers for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. They need to tender enough to manipulate, but not fully cook.

2. While the poblanos are roasting, finely chop the garlic, yellow onion and the jalapenos (seeds removed) and sauté in them olive oil over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes.

3. Once the poblanos have been pulled from the oven and cooled, cut them lengthwise up the wide side of one half. We are going to stuff them, so do not cut all the way through to the other side. Once they are cut, scoop out the seeds and set the poblano peppers aside.

4. Add the chopped butternut squash to the onion/garlic/jalapeno mixture and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes on a medium high heat. Add salt to taste.

5. In a large bowl, mix together room temperature goat cheese, 8 oz shredded cheese, diced green chilis, chopped brisket, can of tomatoes (drained), ½ cup sour cream, chopped cilantro leaves, sautéed garlic/ onion/jalapenos/butternut squash, salt and Mrs. Dash.

6. Stir the stuffing mixture together so that everything is evenly mixed. Stuff each pepper until it is full.

7. In your desired baking dish, spoon in ¼ to ½ cup of the enchilada sauce. Lay the peppers on top and add the rest of the enchilada sauce.

8. Top with the rest of the shredded cheese and bake for 30 to 35 minutes at 350 degrees.

9. Top with more sour cream and cilantro if desired. Garnish with radishes, lime wedges or anything else you choose.