Unveiling the GIBill.com Pledge: A Powerful Story of Suicide Prevention

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Issue with the Department of Veterans Affairs' Domain Rights
3. The Importance of Memorializing Women in the Military
4. Recent Developments in Suicide Prevention
5. The Marine Corps' Reading List and the Importance of Reading
6. Recognizing the Sacrifice of Merrell's Marauders
7. The Viral Video of a Soldier Parachuting and Drinking Ocean Spray Juice
8. Shoutouts

Introduction

In this article, we will Delve into various topics related to the military and veterans, covering issues ranging from the Department of Veterans Affairs' domain rights to the importance of memorializing women in the military. We will also discuss recent developments in suicide prevention, the Marine Corps' reading list, the recognition of the sacrifice of Merrell's Marauders, and the viral video of a soldier parachuting and drinking Ocean Spray juice. Lastly, we will give shoutouts to individuals and groups making a difference in the military community.

The Issue with the Department of Veterans Affairs' Domain Rights

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently lost the domain rights to gi bill.com, causing concerns among advocates about potential scammers targeting veterans. The domain had been previously held by an organization that masqueraded as an official VA Website, misleading veterans and directing them towards for-profit colleges. Despite winning the rights to the domain in court, the VA allowed it to lapse after it was registered under the name of a VA employee who subsequently left. This negligence highlights the need for better accountability and oversight within the VA.

The Importance of Memorializing Women in the Military

The military women's memorial, often overlooked by visitors to Arlington National Cemetery, serves as a gateway to the cemetery and an educational center. In celebration of its 23rd anniversary, a life-size bronze statue entitled "The Pledge" was unveiled, symbolizing the honor and commitment of service women. This monument also recognizes the bond between service members and their canine companions. It is crucial to acknowledge and honor the contributions of women in the military who have often faced unique challenges and barriers.

Recent Developments in Suicide Prevention

The fight against veteran suicide has seen some positive developments. The approval of the 988 national crisis hotline, set to launch in fall 2021, will provide assistance to individuals in crisis. Additionally, the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act aims to enhance mental health care services for veterans. Notable provisions include improved access to care regardless of discharge status, grants for local collaborations, and new hiring rules to address staffing gaps. These measures reflect a growing recognition of the importance of mental health support for veterans.

The Marine Corps' Reading List and the Importance of Reading

The Marine Corps' reading list consists of 46 books for 2020, covering various subjects related to the military. This list includes both military-specific titles, such as "First to Fight: An Inside View of the Marine Corps" by Krulak, and more general works like "Unbroken" by Laura Hildebrand. The inclusion of diverse books reflects the aim to educate and inspire Marines by providing different perspectives and insights. Reading fosters personal growth, intellectual stimulation, and an expanded worldview, making it an essential activity for military personnel and veterans alike.

Recognizing the Sacrifice of Merrell's Marauders

Merrell's Marauders, a unit known for their actions in World War II, have been awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, a long-overdue recognition of their bravery and sacrifice. Despite facing extreme challenges and high casualty rates, these soldiers pushed through difficult terrain and navigated harsh conditions to achieve their objectives. Their story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel beyond combat situations, as they also battled illnesses and endured harsh environments. Honoring the legacy of Merrell's Marauders ensures that their sacrifices are not forgotten.

The Viral Video of a Soldier Parachuting and Drinking Ocean Spray Juice

A viral video surfaced showing a soldier drinking from an Ocean Spray juice bottle and lip-syncing to Fleetwood Mac's hit song "Dreams" while on a daytime parachute jump. The video gained popularity due to the combination of humor and unexpectedness. However, the Army is now investigating the incident as it may violate safety regulations and Create a hazardous situation. While the video may have provided entertainment, it is crucial to prioritize safety and adhere to military protocols.

Shoutouts

Shoutout to the military women's memorial for their efforts in preserving and honoring the stories of women in the military. Registering personal stories ensures that the contributions and experiences of women in the military are acknowledged and celebrated.

Shoutout to April Moffitt and Post 370 in Highlands, North Carolina, for their commitment to community involvement and veteran support. Despite being a small post, they actively organize events and stand-downs to assist veterans in their area.

Shoutout to the 181 veterans running for Congress in the upcoming elections. Regardless of political affiliation, their willingness to enter the political arena and advocate for their beliefs is commendable and deserving of recognition.

In conclusion, these stories and developments showcase the diversity and complexity of issues within the military community. From addressing administrative negligence to celebrating the contributions of women and recognizing the importance of mental health, these topics highlight the ongoing efforts to support, honor, and educate both veterans and the public.