Back in May of 2015, we told you about the upcoming movie Prisoner of War, a collaboration by Blackside Productions, Hand Crank Films, and the veteran charity Gallant Few. This month marks a year since the movie was officially released.Several big names in the veteran community were involved in this film both in front of and behind the camera, giving it the kind of … [Read more...]
The Dangers of Incentivized Volunteerism
The Dangers of Incentivized Volunteerism by Andrew FisherThe concept of volunteering and helping others less fortunate is the hallmark of what made America great. No other country donates more money, time, and effort than the USA. Many schools, both undergraduate and graduate, along with some employers ask about what the prospective student/employee has done for their … [Read more...]
Medicinal Marijuana Use by Veterans and Law Enforcement
For years I wallowed in the depths of my own soul. A child cried out from within to speak out against the unspeakable memories I’d lived through. My facade was that of a bully, the guy who willing to swing the big stick whenever told so. The duality of my MOS (job assignment) complicated things even more; a Ranger medic has to be prepared to take life, and also give everything … [Read more...]
In Defense of Slurs
In Defense of Slurs by Christopher Paul Meyer I love slurs. A good slur is a poetic combination of the right consonants, choice syllables and a strong dose of bad-intentioned meaning. Is there a better way to succinctly sum up your derisive opinion of another person than to call her or, especially him, a “cunt?” (Which reminds me of the Ricky Gervais quote, “There are only … [Read more...]
Motherhood and Brotherhood: A Simple Heartfelt Thank You From A Ranger Mom
Motherhood and Brotherhood: A Simple Heartfelt Thank You From A Ranger Mom by Scoti DomeijThis article was originally published in November of 2016.It’s been five years and 20 days since my son Kristoffer was killed and I still don’t know who you are. Your names were redacted out of a report (plus everything else I wanted to know) and I still want to personally thank … [Read more...]
What is a “Veteran?” Why Should it Matter to You?
What is a "Veteran?" Why Should it Matter to You? by LTC Cris SimonEarlier last year, I met up with my old high school athletics director when I went to my 25th reunion. “Coach” mentioned to me that he thought that the students would benefit from getting a perspective on the world outside their campus. I told him that it would be a pleasure, just to tell me … [Read more...]
What Should I Put In My Bug-Out Bag?
by David AllenMost people have at least heard of a bug out bag, but not many really know what to put in one. Well according to the FEMA website, your bug out bag should be stocked with enough supplies to keep you alive for 72hrs. This is a good place to start because a bug out bag isn’t supposed to be your end all for survival. A good bug out bag should be used to get you … [Read more...]
Agrotherapy: Conditioning Veterans to their New Normal (TEDx Talks)
Ever heard of Agrotherapy? Jon Jackson tells his very personal story struggling with depression as a veteran and the therapy he found that helped him heal. Join Jon in better understanding how agriculture can be used to help returning soldiers acclimate to life at home in this TEDx Talk.Follow his Agrotherapy movement on Facebook and check out his non-profit! … [Read more...]
How Baseball Prepared Me to be an Army Ranger… and My Life After
How The Game of Baseball Prepared Me for Life as an Army Ranger… and What Came After by Vincent VargasEditor's Note: Vincent Vargas is many things: a father, a husband, a veteran, an actor, a philanthropist, and a former Army Ranger. He is also passionate about veterans' issues... and the game of baseball.In this article, Vince explains how he developed his love for … [Read more...]
Veterans Who Never Met, But Said The Last Goodbye
by Jason Rogers originally published in October of 2017On a Friday morning at the Northern Nevada Veterans Cemetery my wife and I, along with prominent Warfighter Rights activist Boone Cutler and our brother in mourning, Troy Kilpatrick, accompanied family and friends to lay to rest Mark Kilpatrick, Troy's father. It was a beautiful and well deserved ceremony for Mark, … [Read more...]