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Presentation by Colonel Ben Findley, USAF-Retired December 14, 2024 Thank you Captain Newman, Buster, and my other Wreaths Across America friends. It is my privilege to be here today for this Wreaths Across America Ceremony and to lay wreaths here to honor our heroes. Thank you both for what you do. It has been 55 years since I volunteered for my 30 years of military service and took the Commissioning Oath: · to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign & domestic, and · to bear true faith & allegiance to the same. This Oath of Allegiance is more than a formality for commissioning or a promotion ceremony, it provides the foundation of our military and our nation as a whole... and our freedom. Those laid at rest here took that Oath and made the ultimate sacrifice to DEFEND OUR COUNTRY against all enemies, as they promised. Sadly, some of my friends and yours in arms took this Oath and sacrificed their lives for our great country and this Oath and our freedoms, like so many here did as well. If I could put today's ceremony in ONLY 3 WORDS, it would be REMEMBER, HONOR, and TEACH. Today, not only here in Pensacola, but all across our United States of America, we show national unity as we Remember the Fallen, Honor those Who Serve, and Teach our children and others The Value of Freedom. This is also the MISSION of Wreaths Across America TO: 1) Remember the FALLEN, 2) Honor those WHO SERVE, and 3) Teach the NEXT GENERATION the value of freedom. Like some of you, I have visited Newark, OH, Galveston, TX, Stillwater, OK, Prescott Valley, AZ, Ft. Pierce, FL, and even here in Pensacola. All of these cities have about 50,000 net civilian population. Can you imagine if each of these cities and their citizens were gone? What a terrible tragedy! Well here are some facts for you. There are well over 50,000 INTERMENTS of heroes on the 95+ ACRES here at Barrancas, including 4 MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS (one each from the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air force), about 700 UNION and CONFEDERATE SOLDIERS, the WIFE OF APACHE CHIEF GERONIMO from 1887, and several casualties from the Second Seminole War of 1835. Plus so many more brave men & women from many wars & conflicts. Here at Barrancas for this NATIONAL Wreaths Across America Day, we join the almost THREE MILLION VOLUNTEERS and SUPPORTERS who will gather today to Remember, Honor & Teach at about 5,000 participating locations, Cemeteries, and Memorials IN ALL 50 STATES, at sea & abroad. This program has been granted permission to place Wreaths at Normandy in France to honor those who died during World War II's D-Day invasion. We place Remembrance Wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes, in memory of those who served and serve in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Reserve components, and servicemen and women whose last known status was as a prisoner of war or missing in action. THANK YOU for attending and participating in this honorable, respectful, and patriotic event. Quoting our 40TH UNITED STATES PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States when men were free.” MOMENT OF SILENCE My fellow Americans, please join me in a MOMENT OF SILENCE to Remember the fallen, the prisoners of war, the missing in action, and to Honor those who have served and are serving our great nation’s armed services. THINK ABOUT THE MESSAGE A WREATH PROVIDES The traditional and simple message for a Wreath, like in a memorial ceremony, is: · May your HEART & SOUL FIND PEACE AND COMFORT, · May you REST IN PEACE & IN OUR LOVING MEMORY, and · GONE FROM OUR SIGHT, BUT NEVER FROM OUR HEARTS. FREEDOMS WE ENJOY COME WITH A PRICE The precious freedoms we enjoy today have not come without a price. FREEDOM IS NOT FREE. Lying here before us and in cemeteries throughout our nation are men and women who GAVE THEIR LIVES SO THAT WE CAN ENJOY OUR LIBERTY, LIVE IN FREEDOM, and WITHOUT FEAR. WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE: Such Simple Words, But so honorable and very meaningful. Many of you here are veterans of wars and conflicts that America has had to fight to protect the innocent and oppressed. America has always been the first nation to stand up for the freedom of people from around the world. Many of you here today have answered that call and served your country well. You have VOLUNTEERED TO REPRESENT ALL OF US and left loved ones for various periods of time for a greater good, our nation and its freedoms. We are here today to say “Thank You” and we are honored to know you. Such simple words, but they carry a grateful message and a deep meaning of honor and respect. When you see or meet a veteran or an active duty member of the armed services, take a moment to say "Thank You." I know myself as a retired military veteran that it means a lot to me. And the simple gesture of wearing an American Flag pin proudly communicates so much to veterans... the respect and honor to those who have served. Our heroes at rest here served under that flag with pride & honor. When I get a thanks, I always respond with "YOU ARE WORTH IT." Remember, that wreaths and flag pins are tangible symbols of gratitude, honor, and respect... and a visible public reminder of freedom and liberty for Americans. They recognize all military lives lost in defense of our national freedoms... and all those who NOW serve our country. They are real Americans with families, mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, rather than just statistics. These heroes have and are VOLUNTARILY standing in your shoes to represent you. Let this ceremony remind us of the TRUE COST OF FREEDOM and how FOREVER FRAGILE it is... and inspire us to live in a way that honors the memory of these heroes and MAINTAINS OUR CONSTANT VIGILANCE and COMMITMENT to preserve it. I have been a member of the Sons of the American Revolution for 58 years and at every meeting we say the AMERICAN'S CREED: It is our duty to those heroes and to our country: 1) To Love it 2) To Support our Constitution 3) To Obey its Laws 4) To Respect our Flag, and 5) To Defend it against all Enemies. Let us never allow the memory of their service to fade and our commitment to waiver. To all those who attend today, volunteer their time, efforts and money to Wreaths Across America, its Mission, and all the Veterans' causes to help preserve the freedoms of our nation, WE AND OUR GRATEFUL NATION THANK YOU! AND SALUTE YOU! (Hand Salute rendered.) Dr. Ben Findley, Colonel, USAF- Ret Colonel Ben is a retired Colonel in the U.S. Air Force with 30 years of service, including experience as the Reserve Provost at Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, where he taught at Air War College and other schools there. He is the author of the first Air Force Supervisor's Course at Air University. As a Psychological Operations Staff Officer with HQ, U.S. Special Operations Command, Ben wrote the Department of Defense book "Psychological Operations," used by all military departments. Colonel Ben received a teaching excellence award as a PSYOP instructor at the U.S. Air Force Special Operations School at Hurlburt Field, FL. Ben was selected by Florida's Governor and Cabinet for the Florida Veterans' Hall of Fame in 2023. He was awarded the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Outstanding Counselor award for Academy liaison officers where he served as Deputy Commander for NW FL & AL. He was also awarded the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Tallman Outstanding Leadership/Service Award & the Department of Defense's Legion of Merit medal. He is a Vietnam Era, Persian Gulf War Era, Somalia, Bosnia, and Kosov War Era veteran. Ben helps veterans by serving on the FL Department of Veterans Affairs' Ambassador Council, the Florida Veterans Foundation Board, the FL Veterans' Hall of Fame Society Board as President, the Sons of the American Revolution Pensacola Chapter as President, the Veterans Memorial Park, Pensacola, Board- 2023, and other veterans' organizations. Ben's doctorate degree is in Business and Education. He taught financial and human resources management, serving as Dean of the College of Business and Professor of Management at the University of Sarasota. He retired from Pensacola State College FL where he served as Dean of the School of Business, Human Resources Director, & Director of Legal Affairs & Risk Management.

FLA-MOM is a first come, first served clinic.  We can ONLY take pre-registration appointments for the Veterans Dental Event (Veterans’ First Initiative) during the afternoon of Thursday, May 30, 2024 beginning at 2pm.  Veterans can register via the QR code listed on the Save the Date Veterans Dental Clinic Flyer, or by calling 800-877-9922.  Patients at the Veterans’ First Initiative will arrive at their appointment time and begin the registration process at the clinic but they will NOT receive treatment at this appointment.  The appointment will allow the veteran to complete all necessary paperwork and visit with the following departments: Medical triage Radiology Dental triage Routing – a dental treatment will be presented at this time Veterans will need to return at 6:30am on Friday, May 31 to begin treatment. If a veteran is not able to attend the Veterans’ First Initiative during the afternoon of May 30, they may still receive dental treatment at the clinic, but they will need to arrive with the general public and will be seen on a first come, first served basis on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, June 1.  The clinic doors will open at 7am on May 30 and June 1.  The clinic will treat patients until capacity is met.  Patients are encouraged to arrive early and plan on being at the clinic for several hours.  Complete information can be found at www.FLAMOM.org  Patients are encouraged to click on the blue “Patients FAQs” button.  Additional information can be obtained by calling 800-877-9922.

Saturday, February 24, 2024 8:00 a.m. | Lake Leon Pavilion at Tom Brown Park Proceeds benefit the Florida Veterans Foundation. Join Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez for the Race for Our Heroes 5K on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. EST at Tom Brown Park. Start and Finish Line Activities will take place at the Lake Leon Playground Pavilion in Tom Brown Park (off Conner Boulevard). Bring the family and your four-legged friends to run, walk or ruck with us and help honor Florida's military Veterans, first responders and their K-9s! Registration Pre-registration closes Friday, February 23, at 5:59 p.m. EST The first 100 registrants are guaranteed a T-shirt. - $25: Pre-registration with T-shirt (First 100 registrants are guaranteed shirt) - $35: Onsite Registration Challenge Coins will be awarded to the top three male/female runners, walkers, ruckers and K-9s. Proceeds from the race will benefit the Florida Veterans Foundation, which serves Florida Veterans and their families.

​​ The Veterans Day event held for Point Brittany V:eterans was the first official event for this retirement community. They are an association but have not received their full certification so they are operating under the Lakewood Ranch Association of Veteran and Military Supporters charter. There are roughly between 60-70 Veterans living within this community from WWII era thru Vietnam era Veterans. We presented eight medals during the ceremony: 2 Korean War Vets; 1 WWII Vet; and 5 Vietnam Vets. Their names are: Airmen 1st Class Michael Bonavia, Captain John Davison, Seaman 3rd Class Fonseca, Staff Sgt Robert Francis, Dr. John Lanigan, Seaman 1st Class Schwartz, 1LT John Stoeffler, and Airman Bill Thompson. I presented 14 coins to Veterans that were from conflicts after the Vietnam War after the formal ceremony. Also gave a coin to Ms. Rebecca Westfall and her husband for their work on putting together this event and for their support to the Point Brittany Veterans. Sequence of events are below: 1. Wait for everyone to arrive & be seated. “Thank you everyone for coming to today’s event. We are grateful to have all of you here today to help celebrate the Veterans of Point Brittany. Can we have everyone silence their phones and stand for the posting of the colors & the National Anthem which will be sung today by Mr. Terri Orr.” 2. Color Guard march in prior to song. with military flags & stand at position of attention. Terri Orr will sing Nat’l Anthem. CG positions flags, goes to seats. 3. “Please take your seats. Thank Mr. Orr for singing one of the most patriotic songs in history.” 4. “And now I would like to introduce Rev. Margaret Rountree. She is the associate minister at St. Petersburg 1st United Methodist Church and studied at both the University of Florida and Emory University. She will be providing today’s invocation.” 5. Afterwards—"Thank you Rev. Margaret for being with us here today.” 6. “Our guest speaker today is here to talk about SERVICE and HONOR. Alfred (“Al”) Carter is Chief of Staff of the FL Dept of Veterans’ Affairs. He’s a Retired Army Colonel currently appointed as Agency CoS following his retirement of 28 years of military service. He served in U.S. Army command and leadership positions as a Military Police Officer with assignments in over 40 countries including combat tours in Qatar, Afghanistan and Iraq and received over 30 individual, joint and unit medals during his Army career. AL is married to LT. COL. (Retired) Marlené Carter who is sitting up front and they have two children. Thank you for being here today.” 7. Mr. Carter will begin subtext about the Veteran’s Medal and its significance. He will cue me to call members names to come to the front to be awarded. 8. “Now we would like to recognize the individuals who have served, etc. Will the following individuals please report to the stage? Airmen 1st Class Michael Bonavia, Captain John Davison, Seaman 3rd Class Fonseca, Staff SGT Robert Francis, Dr. John Lanigan, Seaman 1st Class Schwartz, 1LT John Stoneffler, and Airman Bill Thompson.” 9. Afterwards presentation, everyone claps. 10. “Gentleman, please remain standing as we want to recognize our other Point Brittany Veterans for their military service. Please stand as I call your name: Read from list. 11. After Vets stand: “Let’s give a hand to ALL THOSE STANDING who’ve made sacrifices to our country.” (Applause). 12. Please be seated as we watch A SHORT VIDEO RECOGNIZING THE VETERANS WHO HAVE STOOD HERE TODAY. (Dave turns off lights and plays video while music plays). 13. Lights on.

Medal of Honor Recipient Gary Littrell supports the Florida Governor’s Challenge to prevent suicide among service members, Veterans, and their families. Former MLB Player and Marine Reservist Rick Monday supports the Florida Governor’s Challenge to prevent suicide among service members, Veterans, and their families. To succeed, we need everyone to join us and spread the word. Help Save FL Vets!

The Florida Veterans Foundation Service Medal is a small, medallion-like token, adorned with the organization’s name and the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Its design, is both classic and simplistic and gives reverence to both the Services and the United States. The front of the medallion, struck on gold metallurgy, shows a waving flag encircle by an intertwined rope. The wavering flag symbolizes the commitment and dedication to the cause of freedom and democracy. The intertwined rope symbolizes the tight knit bond that each individual and each brand of service holds for one another. Emblazoned on the back of the medallion, also encircled by intertwined rope, is the emblem of the six services that comprise our Armed Forces. The two large stars mounted vertically on opposite sides of the coin are symbols of the protection, comfort, and hope our nation reflects across the globe. The nine smaller stars encircling the Armed Forces emblem have dual symbology. Its numerology based, and denotes the spiritual growth, universal love, and compassion the Florida Veterans Foundation shows to Veterans and their Family Members and the Armed Forces radiates or projects as it supports operations and causes across the World. There is a red, white, and blue ribbon that harnesses the medallion. Just like the American flag, according to custom and tradition, white signifies purity and innocence; red, hardiness and valor; and blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. Service Medals, alike Challenge coins serve as a symbol of membership, belonging, and camaraderie, forging a strong bond among those who possess them. Know that in receiving the Florida Veterans Foundation’s Veteran Service Medal, you are among a brotherhood of arms, who served selflessly and valiantly in the Armed Forces of the United States. -Al Carter

Hello Veterans, Reminder that the deadline to file for PACT ACT benefits ends today, August 9th, 2023. The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. The PACT Act will bring these changes: Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras Adds 20+ more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures Adds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation Requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care Helps us improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures If you’re a Veteran or survivor, you can file claims now to apply for PACT Act-related benefits. Learn more at https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/ or visit https://www.va.gov/res.../the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/ to sign up.

by Col./Dr. Ben Findley Jumper Suicide in Texas More than four in five organizations (88%) believe all workers are more stressed than they were just two years ago, according to Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Benefits: 2021 Survey Results. Here are some of the Study results. Note that some conditions and barriers exist more than once and are treatable. Prevalent Mental Health Conditions · Depression (53%), · Anxiety Disorders (48%), · Sleep Deprivation (32%), · Alcohol Addition (22%), · Adult Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (20%), · Prescription Drug Addiction (19%), · Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (18%), and · Non-Prescription Drug Addiction (17%). Barriers to Treating Mental Health Conditions · Fear about impact on job relations and job security (36%) · Concern about confidentiality (35%) · Not ready to address the issue (29%) · Supervisors fear uncomfortable addressing (28%) · Breach of individual privacy (25%). Veterans and Mental Health The high stress level, long work hours, challenging and quick response times, and frequent life-and-death situations that military members experience have a significant impact on Mental Health. This carries over for veterans when they leave the service. Since the United States was drawn into a global war on terrorism by the attacks of September 11, 2001, Americans have made commitments to support the military men and women who have served on the front lines of conflicts, assisting veterans and their families. Today, more do support efforts to aid our troops in uniform or those transitioning out of service, because they are grateful for their great sacrifices made. But, we need to do more. Thank you veterans, past, present, and future for your service. We as citizens will forever be indebted to you for shaping our history and preserving our freedom, liberty, rights, and American way of life. However, many do not truly understand how much our current veterans especially have suffered and are continuing to suffer, with both physical and mental health issues, and meeting basic needs. So, it is important to show your support for those who protect our freedom and rights... not to just recognize the problems, but to take action to help. Significant Facts About Veterans' Transitioning In 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported: 1) Every year, approximately 200,000 military members transition out of active duty service and return to civilian life; 2) Studies indicate that from 44% to 72% (an average of 64%- higher than civilian stress level average) experience high levels of stress during transition from the military to civilian life; and 3) Approximately 5.2 million transitioning veterans experience a behavioral health condition or problem. Veterans Are Experiencing Physical and Mental Health Problems A shocking 45% of veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have physical and mental health problems requiring treatment. This is more than twice the application rate of service members who served in the Gulf War. But, less than 50% of returning veterans in need receive any mental health treatment at all for service-connected disabilities, according to the National Council for Behavioral Health. While there are very serious concerns about veterans' physical problems, serious mental health issues also exist. It is sad to learn that our veterans have almost double the civilian suicide rate and that mental health issues are frequent. No wonder considering that regularly, if not daily or hourly, they were being shot at or laying their life on the line for us and our freedom and rights. America's veterans, particularly those with disabilities related to their service, deserve our respect and help with their expensive and urgent physical and mental health conditions and other basic needs. Veterans' Mental Health Conditions The Veterans Administration classifies and provides support for a variety of mental health conditions. Here are just some of these conditions and concerns: · Anxiety · Depression · Bipolar Disorder · Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury- TBI · Post Traumatic Stress Disorder- PTSD · Suicide (Prevention) · Schizophrenia · Substance Use · Sexual Trauma · Tobacco Psychological Effects in Transitioning Understanding the military reserve personnel system, I know that the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have involved record levels of Reserve and National Guard forces. These troops are typically somewhat older, maybe left an entrenched civilian job for duty, and because of their available circumstances may have more education than the active force. These men and women were usually more fully integrated into civilian life, before leaving for duty. Today's veterans have mostly operated in battle theaters with no front lines and where civilians have been mixed in with combatants. These veterans can more easily identify with civilians, since they were recently civilians. So, this means that they have been more exposed to civilians suffering, death, near-death experiences, and less certainty of their enemies. Anxiety, depression, and mental stressors prevail. This frequent exposure to deadly situations and suffering in combat or combat-related warfare has produced very definite psychological effects and mental health-related concerns for veterans, which dramatically affect transitioning back to civilian life and employment. So, there is an obvious need to target assistance for these veterans who are genuinely struggling with the transition. I'll mention ways you can help veterans below. Executive Order 13822 Provides Mental Health Resources for Transitioning Veterans The first year of transition is critical for veterans and service members moving from the military to civilian life. To help with this, President Trump signed Mental Health Executive Order 13822, “Supporting our Veterans During Their Transition from Uniformed Service to Civilian Life” in 2018. This is designed to help eligible veterans and service members in the short run for about one year after their discharge from military service. The Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Veterans Service Organizations, Congress, and community organizations are partnering to provide support. There is a need for more intermediate and long-term help. To emphasize what I said above, less than 50% of returning veterans in need receive any mental health treatment. There is a reluctance to seek related treatment due to the possible stigma associated with mental issues, confirmation and acceptance of the specific diagnosis, knowledge of what treatments are specifically available and where they are offered, and uncertainty about treatments and costs. But, there are readily-available mental-health treatments that help and usually at moderate to low/no costs to the qualified veteran. There is a Critical Relationship Between Mental Health Conditions and Suicide for Veterans and Everyone Mental health issues and mental illness are major risks for suicides, according to the American Psychological Association. The World Health Organization estimates that 90% of all suicide victims have some kind of mental health condition. And sadly, a very large percentage of these victims are veterans and military members. Veteran suicides are occurring at a rate higher than non-veterans, at about double the suicides. The 2022 research from Policy Research Associates reports 31.7 veteran suicides per 100,000 troops, compared to 16.1 civilian suicides per 100,000. This is staggering data and research shows that these conditions and risks are preventable with our commitment and help. Just one related death is not acceptable. Caution: Associating mental illness and mental health conditions with violence reinforces stigma and unwarranted fear of people with mental health issues. These people need support to recover from these mental health conditions. Crucial Mental Health Actions Are Urgently Needed to Help Our help and actions are urgently needed, more so than just a recognition of the mental health problem for veterans, military members, and civilians. The American Psychological Association gives some research-based conclusions: · Treatment of mental illnesses can reduce mental health and suicide risks through therapy and medications; · Easy access to Suicide-Intervention and Mental-Health programs is essential; · Communities should work toward reducing the stigma and increasing public awareness; and there are existing local, community, and state organizations for doing this. National Studies About Veterans, Civilians, Mental Health Issues, and Firearms Veterans understand, own, and use firearms more than the typical civilian, due to their military firearms training, armament and warfare background, exposures to battlefield situations and dangers, defensive equipment understanding, and firearms use. Ponder the type and extent of the relationship between the typical veteran profile and mental health conditions and problems. We often hear that "mental illness" and those with serious mental conditions are dangerous and cause violence, but an American Association of Medical Colleges report by Rozel and Swanson in January, 2023 disagree. They conclude that most violence is not "causally" linked to mental health issues. Those using a gun in most violent situations is not caused by mental health problems. A 2018 F.B.I. study concludes that even mass shooters, who might seem most likely to be driven by mental illness, do not necessarily suffer from major mental health disorders... and that only 25% of such assailants had a diagnosed mental illness. The Rand Corporation and Ramchand and Ayer in 2021 report that a major limitation to researching mental health and gun violence is that only approximately half of those with a mental illness have a recognized diagnosis or are undiagnosed. So, they say it is difficult to ascertain mental health prior to violent events with a firearm. Further the Rand Corporation research concludes that the prevalence of mental illness may be lower among those who use a firearm to end their lives. Skeem and Mulvey in their 2020 research conclude that only approximately 20% of mass violence with a gun is committed by a person with a mental health disorder. A recognized National Firearm Survey by E. Cleveland of a nationally-representative and statistically-valid sample of U.S. veterans reports the prevalence of firearm ownership and the veterans' reasons for firearm ownership. Results indicate that about half of all veterans own one or more firearms, with male veterans more commonly owning firearms than do female veterans. About 70% of veterans say they own a handgun, with over 66.6% of veterans saying they own more than one gun, including 29% who own five or more guns. Most veteran firearm owners own both handguns and long guns. According to U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs data, there are about 19 million veterans age 18 and older now in the United States, with about 13 million age 50 and older. So, if a veteran has two firearms, then that is 38 million guns on average in existence in the U.S. for veterans. Three firearms owned by veterans means about 57 million guns in the U.S., just for veterans and not counting civilian gun ownership. I know several instructors that own more than 20 firearms each. There are a lot of firearms owned by veterans. More than half of veterans living in the Southern states own a firearm, about 59%. Prevalence of firearm ownership does not differ substantially by service branch, service era, or use of VA health care services. Study results also show that about 65% of veterans firearm owners report that protection against people is the primary reason for firearm ownership. Facts that Support Mental Health Actions for Veterans: 1) An average of 64% of veterans experience high levels of stress during transition from the military to civilian life. 2) Approximately 5.2 million transitioning veterans experience a behavioral health condition or problem. 3) Frequent exposure to deadly situations and suffering in combat or combat-related warfare has produced very definite psychological effects and mental health-related concerns among veterans. 4) Veteran suicides are occurring at a higher rate than civilians, at about double the suicides. 5) About 70% of veterans say they own a handgun, with over 66.6% of veterans saying they own more than one gun. The answer is not to take away the veterans' and civilians' guns, but to get them the therapy and medications needed for their mental health issue. 6) Studies conclude that most violence is not "causally" linked to mental health issues. Those using a gun in most violent situations is not caused by mental health problems. 7) Less than 50% of returning veterans in need receive any mental health treatment at all for service-connected disabilities, according to the National Council for Behavioral Health. 8) Treatment of mental illnesses can reduce mental health problems and suicide risks for veterans through therapy and medications. Win-Win-Win-Win Opportunities for Supporting Veterans and Civilians There are very many worthwhile and effective organizations that support our veterans and civilian mental and health concerns; too many to even list here. There is a large number of veterans and they have unique needs. But I want to share with you three organizations that I work with and support now and how they help our veterans, particularly with mental health conditions, like anxiety, depression, suicides, and PTSD. You may want to volunteer your time or donate to these 501(c)(3) charitable organizations yourself. Believe me there is a Win-Win-Win-Win result for all: the veteran, their family, the charity, and you for your participation and support. FLORIDA VETERANS FOUNDATION Mission: To serve, support, and advocate for Florida veterans to improve their quality of Life! The Florida Veterans Foundation serves as the statewide lead organization for Florida veterans and their families by providing direct services and partnering with state and local governments, veteran service organizations, and educational institutions to improve their physical, financial, mental, emotional, and social well-being. The Foundation supports the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs’ mission of advocacy; and, advocates for Florida veterans through local and statewide outreach to educate the public and governmental entities, increasing awareness on veteran-related issues. Contact: Email: FVF@FDVA.state.fl.us Email Ben: colbff@gmail.com Phone: 850-488-4181 Website: No Florida Veteran Left Behind - Help Florida Veterans (helpflvets.org) Some Services Provided: Emergency Financial Assistance; VA Registration; Medical Needs- Mental and Physical; Homelessness; Jobs and Employment; Food; Help with Bills; Disabled Assistance; Suicide Prevention; Opiod Addiction; Veterans Ride Program; Seminars & Workshops, etc. GULF COAST VETERANS ADVOCACY COUNCIL Mission: To be a voice for all veterans concerning mental and medical health care; to advocate needed changes in the veterans health care system; and to improve the quality of life for veterans and their families. The objective is to serve those who have served this country. The physical geographic area covers 7 Florida counties, 4 Alabama counties, and 8 Mississippi counties on the Gulf Coast. Contact: Email: GCVACFlAlMs.org@gmail.com Email Ben: colbff@gmail.com Phone: 1-888-838-6694 Website: www.gcvacflalms.org Some Services Provided: VA Registration; Community Providers; Medical Needs- Mental and Physical; Homelessness; Food; Clothing; Disabled Assistance; Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan & Operation Iraqi Freedom- Iraq Assistance; COVID Shots; Haircuts; Seminars & Workshops, etc. AMERICAN LEGION Mission: As the world's largest veterans organization, the American Legion provides information and assistance to veterans on a wide range of topics. Vision: "The American Legion: Veterans Strengthening America." The American Legion embraces all current and former members of the military and endeavors to help them transition to their communities. Contact: Email: AMLPost340@gmail.com Email Ben: colbff@gmail.com Phone: 850-477-8094 Website: www.legion.org Some Services Provided: Health, education, pension, burial, and other benefits, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Gulf War illnesses, VA home loans, Agent Orange exposure, youth education, responsible citizenship, etc. Advocates for upholding and defending the U.S. Constitution, American values and patriotism, equal justice and opportunity for everyone and discrimination against no one. Conclusion There are many unique relationships and factors that affect civilians and veterans, related mental health problems, and destructive firearms use that heighten the need to support and help veterans and civilians in many areas of need. Those using a gun in most violent situations is not caused by mental health problems, according to studies. Treatment of mental illnesses can reduce mental health problems and suicide risks for veterans and civilians through therapy and medications. The answer is not to take away the veterans' and others' guns, but to get them the treatments and medications needed for their specific mental health issue. Veterans have unique needs and there are many worthwhile organizations that support our veterans, especially their mental and health care and related problems. Hope you consider volunteering time or donating to 501(c)(3) charitable organizations that help with mental health conditions. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons, Creative Commons 2.0 Generic. * This personal opinion article is meant for general information & educational purposes only and the author strongly recommends that you seek counsel from an attorney for legal advice and your own personal certified weapons trainer for proper guidance about shooting & using YOUR firearms, self-defense and concealed carry. It should not be relied upon as accurate for all shooters and situations. The author assumes no responsibility for anyone’s use of the information and shall not be liable for any improper or incorrect use of the information or any damages or injuries incurred whatsoever. © 2023 Col Benjamin Findley. All Rights Reserved. This article may not be reprinted or reproduced in whole or in part by mechanical means, photocopying, electronic reproduction, scanning, or any other means without prior written permission. For copyright information, contact Col. Ben Findley at ColBFF@gmail.com. ABOUT COL. BEN Col. Ben is retired with 30 years service in the U.S. Air Force, with joint services weapons training, Special Ops duty at various bases, and is Air Force qualified as “Expert” in small arms. He is a Vietnam-era veteran and serves on the Board of Directors for the Florida Veterans Foundation of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, the Veterans Memorial Park Foundation Board, Pensacola, the Gulf Coast Veterans Council, the American Legion, and other veterans' organizations. Ben is an experienced NRA-Certified Pistol Instructor, NRA Range Safety Officer, and FL Concealed Carry License Instructor. His doctorate is in business and education and he has served as director of legal affairs for an organization and taught university business law. He is a graduate of two law enforcement academies for civilians. Ben has written five books, including Management Processes and Paradigms; Psychological Operations (for the Department of Defense); Job Application, Interviewing, & Resume Preparation; Principles of Finance & Investing; and Concealed Carry & Handgun Essentials for Personal Protection (second printing.) His reference book is endorsed by several organizations and instructors. Contact him at ColBFF@gmail.com.

by Brooke Dennison | Feb 08, 2023 Hello Veterans! The VA-311 Hotline is no longer connected to Veteran Affairs. Upon calling this number you will notice the line will try to sell you an "exclusive deal for select callers" and prompt you to enter your information. Do not provide the number with any details as it may be putting your information at risk. The VA Hotline in use is VA-411: 1-844-698-2411. The VA-411 Hotline was established in 2020 "to help Veterans, their family members, caregivers, and survivors understand and access the broad spectrum of VA benefits and services" and is the point of contact to access your VA resources. For more information visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs official website: https://www.va.gov/ve/myva411.asp

by Helping Florida Veterans | Nov 9, 2022 Tallahassee, FL — The Florida Veterans Foundation is giving Floridians an opportunity to honor their loved ones who are Veterans by having them featured in the credits of a new documentary film, A State At War: Florida During WWII. The documentary, which will air on Public Broadcasting Stations (PBS) in Florida and around the country beginning next Veterans Day, highlights Florida’s transformative role during World War II. The Honor a Veteran Program allows individuals to choose their donation and level of recognition for their Veteran, which could include having their name, photo and military credentials featured in the film’s credits. Donations from the Honor a Veteran Program are tax deductible and will help fund Florida Veterans Foundation programs that assist Veteran’s in need. “Almost 250,000 Floridian men and women served in the armed forces during World War II, and this film will help preserve their legacy as a reminder of what they have done through their service and sacrifice,” said Lew Wilson, President/CEO of the Florida Veterans Foundation. The Florida Veterans Foundation has partnered with 82° West Productions to produce A State At War: Florida During WWII. The goal of the film is to highlight the role Florida played during the World War II in establishing bases and hosting thousands of military recruits who came to train for their roles in the war. The film features interviews with Florida Veterans who served during World War II, each sharing their experiences and helping paint a historical picture of Florida during those pivotal years through in-depth interviews. Sponsorships are also available to support the production of the documentary. More information, including an online donation link, can be found on our site under: Get Involved > PBS Film The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) assists Florida veterans and their families by partnering with organizations to improve veterans’ physical, mental, emotional and social well-being. Among the FVF’s programs is an Emergency Crisis hotline geared specifically for veterans, offering 24-hour help to prevent veteran suicides and support veterans suffering from opioid addiction. Contact Information: Florida Veterans Foundation 850-488-4181 fvf@fdva.fl.gov

by Helping Florida Veterans | Dec 14, 2022 Funding for this program was provided through a grant from Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this (publication) (program) (exhibition) (website) do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities. https://floridahumanities.org/

by Commander Dennis Baker, Chairman, FVF | Aug 31, 2022 The Florida Veterans Foundation is here to set the record straight about Florida’s newest license plate featuring the Gadsden Flag. In 2019, the Florida Legislature gave Floridians a way to help better meet the needs of Florida’s veterans through the passage of a new specialty license plate. The Gadsden Flag plate will raise funds for the Florida Veterans Foundation and give the nonprofit organization greater opportunities to serve the state’s more than 1.5 million veterans in need and enhance their quality of life. Regardless of your political affiliation, it should be noted that the Gadsden Flag was designed and flown by Continental Marines during the American Revolution. It symbolizes liberty — period. When it comes to raising funds for the good of veterans, the license plate symbolizes that effort. The Florida Veterans Foundation is the direct support organization of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. The funds garnered through the Gadsden Flag plate will help fight veteran suicide, homelessness and opioid addiction, while also providing transportation and emergency financial relief to veterans who have been impacted by job loss, homelessness or other issues caused by the pandemic. The foundation also provides outreach to ensure veterans have access to their Aid and Attendance benefits, which helps keep aging veterans in their homes where they belong. Other projects of the Florida Veterans Foundation include outreach in the rural areas to meet the needs of veterans affected by past toxic exposures, along with educating veterans who seek relief from the Veterans Administration. This is done through disability compensation and/or subsidizing the veteran and their family from the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Our state leaders are working hard to make Florida the most veteran-friendly state in the nation and we’re thankful to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for leading this charge. With 1.5 million Florida veterans residing in our local communities, it will take resources to ensure these heroes continue getting the services they need and deserve. The Gadsden Flag license plate is the fundraising vehicle that can make that happen with total transparency. As a Florida resident, it provides you a method to support those who defended our nation while also giving you a way to proudly say, “I support our state veterans,” when you display your plate. Other states offer a similar Gadsden Flag license plate and the response has been very successful. This effort is not about political views. It’s about supporting an important cause and making an impact on the lives of those who served a nd sacrificed for our freedom. We can all be proud of that. Whether it’s a loved one, a neighbor or a friend, you likely have a connection to a veteran. Honor their service, their memory and the memory of all those left behind by helping to support this important cause. The Florida Veterans Foundation and our state’s more than 1.5 million veterans will thank you.