Dave Venell
From Air Force Aircraft
Technician to Celebrated Sculptor
A Letter from the Publisher
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the latest edition of Veteran Transition Advocate Magazine.
We are thrilled to present another issue packed with valuable insights and resources for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Our mission is to provide useful information that can support you on this important journey.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our advertisers and supporters. Your continued partnership is crucial in making this publication a valuable resource for our audience.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Annamarie Buonocore and
Eli Stepp
(Co-Publishers)
Veteran Transition Advocate Magazine
Co-Publishers Eli Stepp (702/465-2027) and Annamarie Buonocore (650/504-8549)
Managing Editor Vickie Buonocore
Associate Editor Jerry Whetsone
Production Editor Matt DuBois
Advisory Board Member Nick Trotta
One Veteran’s Gratitude
By Michael Nichols
Airports do not have a reputation of being the most pleasant experience: delayed flights, crowds of people, and necessary, yet sometimes inconvenient security.
Some airport experiences are not only pleasant; the memories stay with you for the rest of your life.
I should start by introducing myself. My name is Michael Nichols. I served in the United States Army from November 2000 until April 2012. I was stationed at Fort Drum, New York in the 10th Mountain Division.
Even though almost 17 years have passed since my last deployment to Iraq, memories of flying home standout in my mind: The countless “thank you for your service,” “welcome home,” and endless hugs from the wonderful Red Cross volunteers as I went to my connecting flight in Atlanta.
The Red Cross Volunteers at the Atlanta Airport are some of the most wonderful people I have ever met. They gathered near the International Arrival gate at the Atlanta Airport. As soon we exited, a roaring welcome
awaited. Avoiding hugs was an impossible task; like the scene from Jurassic Park Lost World when the velociraptors found everyone. I have told my son the stories many times. To this day, I swear I said “clever girl.”
Experiencing that level of gratitude from strangers was overwhelming. It is safe to assume not everyone that hugged me, or shook my hand welcoming me home agreed with U.S. involvement in Iraq. In that moment, it did not matter. Their appreciation and patriotism was unquestioning. Maybe some of them served in the military themselves, or had a loved one that served.
One of the benefits of redeploying in uniform is getting the privilege of meeting countless veterans from Desert Storm, Vietnam, Korea, and World War II. They shared stories and memories of their time in service. In that moment, I wondered if they received the same welcome home, I did.
Airline employees often went to great lengths, such as
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Alexios Security Solutions, A “Veteran Friendly” Company:
Insights from Founders Antonio Guadagni and Evan Levitt
By Eli Stepp, Co-Founder Veteran Transition Advocate Magazine
In the world of security services, few names resonate as strongly as Alexios Security Solutions. Founded by Antonio Guadagni and Evan Levitt, this Las Vegas-based company has carved a niche in executive protection, special operations, and a variety of security services tailored for high-profile clients. They both confirm Alexios is a “Veteran Friendly” company and encourage Veterans to consider Alexios as an employment option. In a recent conversation, we delved into the backgrounds of these two industry veterans, their company’s inception, and their commitment to excellence.
Meet the Founders
Evan Levitt: Chief Executive Officer
Evan, co-founder of Alexios, has over 16 years of experience in security. at the Venetian/Palazzo Hotel, the largest 4 Star, 5 Diamond hotel resort casino in the world. His career trajectory accelerated as he moved into management being responsible for a staff of 60 uniformed officers and EMT’s covering a property with 7,000 guest suites, 120,000 square feet of gaming, 35 restaurants and 150,000 square feet of retail space. In addition, Evan was also the Supervisor/Operator of an undercover Counter Surveillance Team, the first of its kind for any Las Vegas strip property. This team was tasked with counter surveillance threat detection and mitigation, active shooter response, as well as armed dignitary, VIP and corporate executive protection. During his tenure, Evan was promoted three times, culminating with being assigned to the Executive Protection Team protecting the Chairman of the Board and family, one of the highest net worth families worldwide. After 9 years of service, Mr. Levitt returned to the private sector supporting various assignments in protective services, including operations and administrative support roles. His education credits include, Professional Security Operations Certification, Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) for Executive & Dignitary Protection, Vehicle Protective Driving Certification, CPR/AED/First Aid Provider Certified,
Sim munitions Scenario Instructor and Safety Certification, Trap Wire Terrorist Pre-Attack Operations Certification, and Trap Wire Terrorist Pre-Attack Operations Program User Certification.
Antonio
Guadagni:
Chief Operating Officer
Antonio brings a wealth of experience from the hospitality and security sectors. Starting his career in the restaurant industry, he transitioned into executive protection, gaining invaluable experience alongside some of the top bodyguards in the world. After completing executive protection training in 2014, Antonio has protected A-list celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs, specializing in residential security and international tours. His education credits include Kaplan University A.A.S. Criminal Justice, Executive Protection Institute Personal Protection Specialist, Black Box Security Inc. Executive Protection II, ICON Global Celebrity Protection, Executive Security International Behavioral Intelligence, Rescue Task Force Bleeding Control Basics/Stop the Bleed, and American Heart Association CPR/AED.
The Birth of Alexios Security Solutions
Alexios Security Solutions was formalized in 2019, but its origins can be traced back to a chance meeting between the two founders at a cigar lounge. The name “Alexios” derives from Greek, meaning “protector” or “guardian,” which perfectly encapsulates the mission of the company.
“Our passion for security and safety was the driving force behind starting Alexios,” says Evan. Antonio adds, “We wanted to create a service that not only protects but also educates the next generation in this industry.”
A Comprehensive Range of Services
Alexios Security Solutions offers a diverse array of services tailored to meet various security needs:
Source: GAO. | GAO-24-106248
Service Members Transitioning to Civilian Life:
Agencies Can Improve Warm Handovers for Additional Assistance
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be difficult for some service members as they may lose access to housing, pay, healthcare, and more. DOD provides certain at-risk service members with a person-to-person connection—known as a “warm handover”—to support agencies like VA.
But DOD doesn’t ensure that warm handovers take place. From April 2021-March 2023, more than 4,300 at-risk service members didn’t receive this assistance. Also, DOD hasn’t assessed whether warm handovers are helpful. As a result, the program may be missing opportunities to best meet service members’ transition needs.
We recommended addressing this, and more.
Highlights
What GAO Found
To assist certain service members who may be at risk
for a difficult transition from military to civilian life, the Department of Defense (DOD) provides them with a person-to-person connection, known as a “warm handover,” to other agencies. These other agencies include the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Labor (DOL), which can help the service members obtain additional transition services. Through its Transition Assistance Program, DOD ensures these service members receive agency contact information, but does not ensure that a connection with a person actually occurs (see figure). DOD provided at least one warm handover to about 41,000 service members, according to available data from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2023. However, during this same time period the agency did not provide a warm handover to over 4,300 other service members who were also considered at-risk of having a challenging transition. DOD officials said the agency has not analyzed the reasons why these service members
Members Transitioning
Continued from Page 6
did not receive a warm handover. Without developing a written plan to analyze its data, DOD cannot ensure that the thousands of service members transitioning annually have access to the additional assistance they need and the benefits they have earned.
DOD’s Warm Handover Process Does Not Ensure Service Members Connect with Agencies for Additional Assistance with Their Transition to Civilian Life
Transition Assistance Program counselors and others told GAO that warm handovers could be helpful to some service members, but DOD has not assessed their helpfulness. DOD has recently worked with VA and DOL on pilot projects that will provide some additional information, but these efforts are expected to provide limited information on warm handovers, and other agency efforts to assess the Transition Assistance Program do not focus on warm handovers. Without a plan to assess the helpfulness of warm handovers, program officials may be missing opportunities to ensure they are meeting the needs of service members.
Agencies generally collaborated effectively to implement pilot projects aimed at refining warm handovers, but they have not identified criteria to make decisions about scaling all of the piloted approaches. Without identifying specific criteria, these agencies risk not collecting data needed to decide whether and how to scale the piloted approaches to the broader Transition Assistance Program and warm handover processes.
Why GAO Did This Study
Hundreds of thousands of service members transition from military service to civilian life each year, and some can be at risk for unemployment, homelessness, or gaps in medical care. To help them succeed, DOD provides certain service members with a warm handover to other
agencies and organizations for additional assistance. Senate report 117-130 includes a provision for GAO to review DOD’s warm handover process. GAO’s report addresses the extent to which DOD: (1) ensures that service members receive a warm handover as appropriate, (2) assesses information on the helpfulness of warm handovers, and (3) collaborates with VA and DOL in their efforts to refine the warm handover process.
GAO analyzed DOD program data for April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2023, the most recent available. GAO also reviewed relevant federal laws, policies, and agency documents, and interviewed officials from relevant federal agencies and five military installations selected for diversity in numbers of transitioning service members, geographic location, and service branch.
Recommendations
GAO is making eight recommendations, including that DOD develop plans to analyze warm handover data and assess the helpfulness of warm handovers, and that DOD, VA, and DOL coordinate to identify criteria for scaling piloted approaches. The three agencies agreed with the recommendations.
One Veteran’s Gratitude
Continued from Page 2
getting us an earlier flight. Once specific occasion, I was on mid-tour leave in May 2007. The airline employee checked our tickets. A moment later, she handed us new tickets. I did not have to wait four hours before I flew home after nine months into the deployment.
The flight attendants and pilots welcomed us home, usually by making an announcement. Impossible to describe the emotions of receiving a welcome home from everyone on the flight clapping. To this day, I cannot remember how many hands I shook. Most flights, my ticket upgraded to First Class.
Buying a drink at an airport bar while redeploying also proved to an impossible task. Often times, if people had a flight to catch, they would clear the bar tab. Other times, they approached, and introduced themselves… the joy and pleasure of sharing a drink with a stranger.
Those acts of kindness and memories remain with me today. Even though, they probably do not remember, I would like to take this moment to thank everyone I encountered. It meant the world to me then, it means the world to me today. Thank you.
Unveiling the Artistic Journey of Dave Venell: A Story of Military Service and Sculpting Mastery
by Eli Stepp, Co-Publisher, Veteran Transition Advocate Magazine
In the picturesque town of Prescott Valley, Arizona, resides an artist whose journey is as compelling as his creations. Dave Venell, a native Arizonan, has seamlessly transitioned from a dedicated military serviceman to an accomplished sculptor, capturing the essence of historical and military themes with unmatched precision. We had the privilege to sit down with Dave and delve into his fascinating life story.
From Military Aspirations to Service
Born and raised in the vibrant landscapes of Phoenix and Tempe, Dave’s early life was marked by a deep fascination with the military. After a stint as a barber, he decided to pursue his passion for mechanics and aviation by joining the Air Force in the early 1980s. “I always loved tinkering with mechanics and knew I wanted to
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Dave Venell pictured with his sculpture. Photo courtesy of Dave Venell.
Artistic Journey
Continued from Page 8
work on aircraft,” Dave recalls. His exceptional aptitude led him to specialize in jet engine mechanics, specifically on the F-15 aircraft.
His military journey took him to Germany, where he and his wife, Opal, started their life together. “We were the only Americans in a small German town, and the experience was incredible,” Dave shares. Learning to speak German and being immersed in the local culture, Dave’s time in Europe was both professionally and personally enriching.
A Seamless Transition to Civilian Life
Upon returning to the United States, Dave continued his service with the Air National Guard, contributing to operations during Desert Storm. His post-military career saw him working in various aviation-related roles, including turbine engine builds at Allied Signal and Apache Helicopter Flight control systems at McDonnel Douglas. Also notable tenures at Evergreen, and Falcon Field Museum in Mesa, Arizona where he had the opportunity to work on World War II aircraft at both locations, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
In the late 1990s, Dave’s career took an unexpected turn. He ventured into the world of jewelry making and tattoo artistry, leveraging his innate craftsmanship and attention to detail. His skills as a jeweler in Scottsdale earned him a reputation for creating intricate wax models and custom pieces, a profession he dedicated over two decades to.
The Sculpting Revelation
Dave’s journey into sculpting began serendipitously. A commission for a custom gas cap led him to Arizona Bronze, a foundry in Tempe. The visit ignited his passion for sculpting, and he began experimenting with clay. His initial works were inspired by a World War II book his father had given him, and the results were astounding. “I sculpted four pieces from memory, and when I later found the book, I realized I had nailed the details,” he reminisces.
In 2006, a major milestone marked Dave’s sculpting career. The Marine Corps National Museum in Washington, D.C., recognized his talent, inviting him for a dedication of four his pieces. “It was surreal. We were pinching ourselves, wondering if it was really happening,” Dave says.
Recognition and Notable Works
Dave’s sculptures have garnered attention from prestigious individuals and institutions. His rendition of
the iconic Iwo Jima flag raising, based on Joe Rosenthal’s photograph, found its way to President Trump and was displayed in the Oval Office. Another significant piece entitled “The First Wave” was purchased by Alan Coors, former president of the NRA. Dave was also the recipient of The Colonel John W. Thomason, Jr. Award in 2014 for his body of work depicting Marines in multiple conflicts.
An Ongoing Artistic Mission
Today, Dave operates from his home studio in Prescott Valley, where he continues to create and innovate. His studio, a dedicated space within his home, is a testament to his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Dave also works full time at a foundry in Prescott Valley, further honing his skills and contributing to large-scale projects.
Despite his success, Dave remains humble and grounded, constantly exploring new ideas and themes for his sculptures. His future projects remain shrouded in mystery, driven by a list of concepts that he is eager to bring to life.
An Ongoing Artistic Mission
Today, Dave operates from his home studio in Prescott Valley, where he continues to create and innovate. His studio, a dedicated space within his home, is a testament to his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. Dave also works full time at a foundry in Prescott Valley, further honing his skills and contributing to large-scale projects.
Despite his success, Dave remains humble and grounded, constantly exploring new ideas and themes for his sculptures. His future projects remain shrouded in mystery, driven by a list of concepts that he is eager
Discovering Dave Venell’s Art
For those interested in experiencing Dave’s remarkable work, his pieces can be viewed and purchased online at DPVStudios.com. Additionally, Dave is active on Instagram at @Dave.Venell, where he shares glimpses of his creative process and latest creations.
Conclusion
Dave Venell’s journey from an Air Force mechanic to a celebrated sculptor is a story of passion, dedication, and artistic brilliance. His work continues to inspire and captivate, serving as a poignant reminder of the profound connections between history, service, and art. As we conclude our interview, Dave’s words resonate deeply: “Art is a journey, and I’m just getting started.”
Contact Information
Those interested in Dave Venell’s art sculptures, or those who wish to commission him for custom art pieces, can contact Dave at +1 602-448-3354 or email him at dpvstudios1@gmail.com
Source: Department of Defence
Military Spouse Employment:
Part-Time Workforce Characteristics and Perspectives
GAO-24-106263 Published: Feb 08, 2024. Publicly Released: Feb 08, 2024.
For spouses of military service members, finding or keeping a job is a top concern. This Q&A report examines the demographics, employment experiences, and well-being of military spouses who worked part time.
Of approximately 270,000 military spouses who were employed, about a third worked part time in 2021, based on our estimates from DOD data.
Military spouses we interviewed said they worked part time because they needed flexible schedules to care for children and to accommodate frequent military moves. They reported challenges like being underpaid, working outside their career field, and lacking opportunities for career advancement.
Highlights
What GAO Found
In 2021, about a third of employed military spouses worked part time, based on GAO’s estimates using data
from the Department of Defense’s (DOD) most recent survey of military spouses. Overall, GAO estimates that there were about 540,000 civilian spouses of active-duty military service members. The vast majority—around 90 percent—were women. Additionally, GAO estimates that about half of all military spouses (270,000) were employed in 2021. Of those individuals who were employed, about a third (88,000) worked part time.
Military spouses GAO interviewed who worked part time reported various employment challenges, including being underpaid or overqualified for their job, lacking opportunities for career advancement, and not earning retirement benefits. Although many other civilian workers may experience similar challenges, military spouses discussed how military life—including frequent moves— contributes to their employment challenges.
In DOD’s 2021 survey, military spouses who worked part time reported levels of satisfaction with military life that
Spouse Employment
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were similar to military spouses who worked full time. However, DOD reported that, overall, military spouses’ satisfaction with military life has been decreasing since 2012.
Why GAO Did This Study
House Report 117-397 includes a provision for GAO to examine the characteristics and experiences of military spouses who work part time. GAO is providing information on the size, demographic characteristics, employment experiences, and health and well-being of this workforce.
To provide this information, GAO analyzed data from DOD’s 2021 Survey of Active Duty Spouses, the most recent and comprehensive data available on the employment status and well-being of military spouses at the time of GAO’s review. GAO also analyzed 2021-2022 DOD administrative data on military spouses who were employed by DOD in federal civil service positions or positions at individual military bases. Finally, GAO conducted five discussion groups with a non-generalizable sample of 17 military spouses who were selected based on whether they had part-time employment experience while their spouse was on active duty, and whether they had children.
For more information, contact John D. Sawyer at (202) 512-7215 or SawyerJ@gao.gov.
Alexios Security Solutions
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1. Uniformed Security: This includes both armed and unarmed guards for regular client engagements, special events, and corporate functions.
2. Special Operations: Focusing on high-risk environments, Alexios provides rapid response teams for hostile terminations and workplace violence situations.
3. Executive Protection: Catering to high-net-worth individuals and corporate executives, this service encompasses close protection, secure transportation, and concierge-level services.
4. Business/Private Aviation Focused: Safe transportation to/from airport flight line working closely with
business aviation FBO (fixed-based-operation) security personnel and staff.
5. Concierge-Level Service: Serving all clientele as VIP’s meeting their every need while providing professional protective services.
Antonio explains, “Our aim is not just to provide security, but to ensure our clients can move about their business freely and without disruption.”
Unique Value Proposition
What sets Alexios apart is their commitment to a concierge-style service model. Both Antonio and Evan emphasize that they view their clients as partners, ensuring not just safety but comfort and convenience. This involves anticipating client needs, making reservations, and providing seamless transitions between various modes of transport, including aviation.
Evan states, “It’s not just about protecting a person; it’s about enhancing their experience while they are in our care.”
Training and Certifications
An essential aspect of Alexios’s operation is its commitment to training. The company runs Alexios Training Solutions, which provides certifications in first aid and active violence emergency response. Antonio highlights that all employees are required to undergo these certifications within their first 90 days, fostering a culture of preparedness and professionalism across the organization.
Looking Ahead
As Alexios Security Solutions continues to grow, the founders remain dedicated to their vision of providing top-tier security while mentoring the next generation of security professionals. Their approach combines industry expertise with a deep understanding of client needs, positioning Alexios as a leader in the field.
In closing, Antonio encapsulates their mission: “We’re not just security agents; we’re security solutions partners. It’s a ‘we’ process, not a ‘me’ process.”
With their unique blend of experience and passion, Antonio and Evan are poised to redefine the landscape of security services, one client at a time. Further detailed Alexios Security Solutions available at their website www.alexiossecuritysolutions.com.
VTA Magazine wishes all the best to Evan, Antonio, and everyone at Alexios Security solutions.
VA Health Care Outperforms Non-VA Care In Two Independent, Nationwide Quality And Patient Satisfaction Reviews
On Sept. 3, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced that VA hospitals outperformed non-VA hospitals in two major independent, nationwide reviews for patient satisfaction and care quality:
• Patient Satisfaction Survey: VA outperformed nonVA hospitals in the most recent Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems star ratings, with 79 percent of VA facilities receiving a summary star rating of 4 or 5 stars compared to 40 percent of non-VA hospitals. This represents the ninth consecutive quarter in which VA facilities have outperformed non-VA counterparts.
• Hospital Quality Ratings: In this year’s CMS Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings, more than 58 percent of VA hospitals included received 4- or 5-star ratings compared to 40 percent of non-VA hospitals. This is only the second year VA hospitals have been included in this review, and VA has outperformed non-VA health care in both years.
These findings come at a time when Veteran trust in VA outpatient care has reached an all-time record high of 92 percent based on a survey of more than 440,000 Veterans. Additionally, these findings are consistent with a recent systematic review that found that VA health care is consistently as good as — or better than — non-VA health care.
Providing the world-class care that Veterans deserve is a top priority for VA and the entire Biden-Harris administration. Over the past year, VA has ensured that as many Veterans can access this care as possible by increasing night and weekend clinics, decreasing wait times, and making millions of Veterans newly eligible for VA care. VA encourages all eligible Veterans to apply for VA care today.
“We’ve made millions more Veterans eligible for VA health care under the PACT Act – and now, we want to make sure that every one of them gets timely access to the world-class care they deserve,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “Whenever a Veteran sets foot in a VA facility, we want them to know that they are getting the very best care this nation has to offer – and we won’t ever settle for anything less.”
“It’s our commitment that every eligible Veteran not only can choose VA health care, but when they do, that they get the very best and safest care possible,” said VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, M.D. “For the second year in a row, VA care has been shown to be some of the best in the nation. We are dedicated to continuously improving as we strive towards always providing the highest quality of care to Veterans.”
These ratings come as VA continues to deliver more care to more Veterans than ever before. In the two years following the enactment of the PACT Act, nearly 740,000 Veterans have enrolled in VA health care, representing a 33 percent increase over the previous two-year period. VA is on pace to deliver 127 million health care appointments in 2024, surpassing last year’s record of 120 million.
Both CMS ratings aim to improve patients’ ability to make informed decisions about where they receive care. CMS awards Overall Star Ratings to hospitals based on five categories: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience, and timely and effective care. CMS’ HCAHPS summary star ratings combine information across ten measures of patient experience, including staff communication and responsiveness, hospital environment, willingness to recommend the hospital, and overall hospital rating. This year’s Overall Star Ratings are based on data collected between July 2019 and March 2023, and this quarter’s HCAHPS star ratings are based on data collected between October 2022 and September 2023.
VA is committed to delivering the timely, world-class health care Veterans deserve and will stop at nothing less. The rating of your local VA hospital can be found via CMS’ Care Compare tool (https://www.medicare. gov/care-compare/).
For more information about VA care, visit VA’s health care website (https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/). For more information about Veteran trust in VA, visit the VA trust website (https://www.va.gov/initiatives/veteran-trust-in-va/). To enroll in VA care, visit https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/. General information about the VA is available at va.gov.
Discover “Plane Ole Knowledge”:
A New Website For Fascinating Historical Insights
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) announced on Aug. 23, the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) launch of a brand-new webpage that promises to be a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, educators, and anyone with a passion for learning. This site features a collection of captivating articles that delve into the personal stories of individuals who played pivotal roles during World War II, many of which are drawn from the American Airpower Heritage Museum (AAHM) Oral History Collection.
These articles, penned by the Commemorative Air Force’s Vice President of Education Nathan Huegen, shine a light on the diverse experiences of those who contributed to the war effort, offering readers a glimpse into the lives and sacrifices of people from all walks of life. Guest authors will be writing some of the future en-
tries, including an upcoming post from Desiree Benipayo, the Vice President of the Philippines WWII Memorial Foundation. She will be writing about the Filipino’s appreciation for the Aztec Eagles, the Mexican Air Force pilots who served there during World War II. The blog series, aptly named “Plane Ole Knowledge,” is more than just a collection of written stories; it’s a unique educational tool designed to engage and inform.
One of the standout features of these oral history blogs is the inclusion of coordinating infographics. Each infographic is carefully crafted to visually narrate the stories, making complex historical events and personal experiences more accessible and understandable. These visuals are particularly valuable for educators, who can use them to illustrate key aspects of each story in their classrooms.
Image Courtesy of www.flynaec.org - Infographic from NAEC.
Regaining her dignity
By Kevin C. Miller
With the rising cost of housing nationwide, the practice of couch surfing or doubling up with friends, family or loved ones has become more common. But these temporary living arrangements can leave someone just an argument away from being on the streets.
That was the case for Navy veteran Stephanie Duncan. After losing her husband, Ken, in 2019, Duncan began to drin k. Her alcohol consumption steadily increased over time to the point where she became hooked.
“I knew I was no longer in control, so I decided to leave my job and take early retirement,” said the Cincinnati native. “But with alcoholism in control at that p oint, my finances and life went to shambles.”
a hotel when she could afford one and even rehab centers where she tried to get sober.
At rock bottom, she finally decided to turn to the Depart ment of Veterans Affairs and checked into Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans at the Cincinnati VA Medical Center. The program provides stateof - the - art, high - quality residential rehabilitation and treatment to veterans with mental illness and addiction .
Pg 28, 29_ServiceStoryStephanieDuncan.docx To get back on the right path, Duncan moved in with her family, but a member of the household was also dealing with alcoholism, which made the living situation untenable. She soon found herself homeless again.
Duncan turned to anywhere she could to find shelter and help. She slept in her car, at local homeless shelters,
About three weeks into the program in October 2023, Duncan and other program residents attended the annual Homeless Veterans Stand Down at DAV National Headquarters in Erlanger, Kentucky. At the event, they had the opportunity to learn about employment, housing and treatment options and to speak with a DAV benefits advocate about benefits earned through service.
“That’s where I met my guy, Don, and my life began to change,” Duncan said. Don Inns, a DAV benefits advocate, was reviewing veterans disability claims at the event when Duncan approached him to review her claim. “I noticed an error in the rating decision
Article provided by Derpartment of Veteran Affairs
Photo courtesy of Kevin C. Miller - Stephanie Duncan outside of her apartment building in Cincinnati.
Photo courtesy of DAV - Petty Officer 2nd Class Stephanie Duncan with her father, Master Chief Petty Officer Richard Baumann (1990).
Regaining her dignity
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for her mental health claim and reached out to the VA to correct,” Inns said. “In less than two months, the VA fixed the error, and Duncan was aw arded the appropriate rating for her condition and received the compensation she deserved.”
Additionally, while at the stand down, Duncan was able to connect with the IRS to address her taxes; the Social Security Administration; and potential housing optio ns for when she completed the VA domiciliary program. This comprehensive system of support was able to provide the necessary resources Duncan needed to address multiple problems that she had been experiencing in her life.
“The [domiciliary] program and stand down saved my
life,” Duncan said. “The program had the treatment I needed to get sober, and the stand down had all the resources I needed at one event to help rebuild my life.”
“Our Homeless Veterans Stand Down provides veterans experiencing homeless ness with the necessary resources to obtain stable, permanent housing,” said DAV Voluntary Services Director John Kleindienst. “It’s heartening to hear stories like Stephanie’s and see the incredible impact DAV can have on veterans’ lives.”
With the holist ic support of the VA and DAV, Duncan has been able achieve and maintain sobriety, get access to the veterans benefits she earned through service, and find a place of her own. She now hopes to give back to the veteran community and has signed up as a DAV vo lunteer at her local VA.
“So many others have helped me regain hope, and now I want to be able to provide a bit of that for others who might need it,” she said.
Photo courtesy of Kevin C. Miller - Duncan receives the key to her new home from her landlord (March 2024).
Plane Ol Knowledge
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Here’s a taste of some of the remarkable stories recently featured on the site:
• The Oral History of Glider Pilot George F. Brennan: Explore the incredible experiences of George F. Brennan, a glider pilot whose daring missions were crucial to the success of Allied operations. The accompanying glider infographic provides a visual representation of his story, making it easier to grasp the significance of his role.
• Beryl Owens Paschich: A WASP Pioneer: In honor of Women’s History Month, this article highlights the trailblazing journey of Beryl Owens Paschich, one of the pioneering Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). The story is paired with a graphic that celebrates the contributions of women in aviation during the war.
• Ice Cream on the Frontlines: Sweet Treats of World War II: Discover the surprising importance of ice cream as a morale booster for troops on the frontlines. This delightful story is complemented by an infographic that brings to life the sweet treats that provided comfort during the war.
• Heroism in the Pacific Theater: This article honors the bravery of those who fought in the Pacific Theater during World War II, accompanied by an Asian Pacific Islander graphic that pays tribute to their heroism.
These stories are updated monthly and are available on the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center (NAEC) website. You can read the latest articles and explore the infographics by visiting https://flynaec.org/ newsletter/ or by visiting the CAF website, commemorativeairforce.org. To ensure you never miss a new story, consider subscribing to the NAEC newsletter, and have these fascinating histories delivered directly to your inbox each month.
Image Courtesy of www.flynaec.org - November 2024 infographic from NAEC website.
Stan Popovich
Author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear”
How Veterans Can Manage Mental Health In Civilian Life
By Stan Popovich
Many veterans transitioning to civilian underestimate the impact that mental illness can have on an individual or family. It can be difficult to admit that you have a mental health problem in your life.
Secondly, it can be just as difficult in getting the people you know to understand your situation without making any kinds of judgments.
As a result, here are six reasons why you should make your mental health an important priority in your life.
1. Your situation will improve if you get help: Your anxieties and fears can be challenging to manage and more than likely you will need some help. Just as you talk to your doctor about your regular health, you should not be hesitant in seeking help for your mental health. If left untreated, your anxieties and fears may not go away.
2. Drugs and alcohol are not the answer: Drugs and alcohol can make your problems more complicated. Many people have said that drugs and alcohol will only add more problems to your situation. Be smart and learn how to cope with your mental health issues by talking to a qualified professional. There are many health pro-
fessionals in your area that can give you some ideas on where you can go for assistance.
3. You will save time and money: Eventually, you will have to confront your fears and mental health issues. Save yourself the time and heartache and confront your problems now rather than later. You will save months of struggling by getting help right away. The sooner you get assistance the faster you will start getting some relief.
4. You are not alone: Everyone deals with fear, stress, and anxiety in one’s life whether your friends and others care to admit it. In addition, do not be embarrassed that you are getting help. We all learn new things from others on a daily basis and learning how to manage your anxieties is no different. In addition, your goal is to get your life back on track and not to get everyone’s approval. If people start asking you questions, just say your dealing with stress. Most people can relate to dealing with stress and anxiety!
5. Do not make the mistake of doing nothing: There are many people who struggled with anxiety and other men-
Manage Mental Health
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tal health related issues, and they tried to ignore their problems. As a result, some of these people struggled on a daily basis and eventually things became more difficult. It can be scary asking for assistance, but the key is to take things one day at a time.
6. You have a variety of options: There are many mental health support groups, organizations, and counselors in your area that can help get your life back on track. Talk to your doctor to get more details on where you can go for some assistance. Help is available but you must be willing to make the choice of getting better. Remember that every problem has a solution. You just have to make the effort to find the answers.
So you decided to get help but your having a hard time in getting your family and friends to understand your situation.
Although most people may be understanding, there is usually one or two people who will make things more challenging for you.
As a result, here are six suggestions on how to deal with the people you know regarding your mental health.
1. Listen to the professionals: Your friends may mean well, but when it comes down to it, the professionals are aware of your circumstances more than anyone. It is important that you listen and follow the advice from your doctor or medical professional rather than following the advice from your friends and other people you may know.
2. Don’t argue with others: It is important that you do not get into arguments with those who are giving you a tough time. It is not your job to worry about how others may view your circumstances. Focus on managing your mental health rather than trying to get everyone’s approval. If people keeping asking you questions just tell them that your dealing with stress. Most people can relate to dealing with stress and will stop bothering you.
3. Choose your friends wisely: Distance yourself from those who won’t make an effort to help understand what you are going through. You need to surround yourself with positive and supportive people. If you have problems or issues with a particular person, then its best to keep your distance and hang out with those people are more supportive.
4. Attend a mental health support group: There are many mental health awareness support groups in any given area. Many hospitals, churches, and counselors in your area will be able to provide you with a list of these organizations. These groups will be aware of your situation and can give you additional advice regarding your concerns.
5. You are not alone: There are millions of people around the world who struggle with their fears, anxieties, and stress. Many of your relatives and friends more than likely struggled with anxiety and stress sometime in their life. Do not feel that you are alone when it comes to your mental health situation because there all kinds of people around you who can relate.
6. Your goal is to get better: Focus on how you can handle the anxieties and stresses in your life rather than arguing with others who are giving you a difficult time. This isn’t a public relations event where you need to get approval from everyone. This is your life, and you need to be more concerned about getting your life back on track rather than pleasing everyone else.
BIOGRAPHY
Stan is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers a variety of techniques that can drastically improve your mental health. For more information, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com
Cover of A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear by Stanley Popovich - Courtesy of Stanley Popovich
