a memorial day salute to wounded warrior caregivers
A Special Report Prepared by The Washington Times Advocacy Department How America is rallying around the ‘hidden heroes’ who care for our wounded warriors
While we still have a very long road taking to simplify the tremendously busy members of Congress to share their front- ahead of us, the accomplishments we lives of those caring for our wounded, line stories of what they have gained for have made in support of our caregivers and offer them better guidance and sup- themselves and for their loved ones, and have been remarkable. Our response has port. We also heard from Tom Hanks, via what they still needed. been holistic in the issues it has ad- a special video message, that he is com- I think back to the days when I first dressed and the organizations that have mitted to leading a national awareness met these hidden heroes, anchored to the offered support, and coordinated to es- campaign to tell every American about side of their loved ones yet humbly blend- tablish common priorities, build partner- the service and value of our military and ing in with the background. I couldn’t ships and collaborate on the way ahead. veteran caregivers. help but sit on the stage at this week’s We knew a societal issue of this signifi- Our foundation began this week with summit with a smile on my face and a cance would never be solved with a single a private reception for our Dole Caregiver tear in my eye, witnessing the progress donation, a newly established program or Fellows with Donald Trump, who had we’ve made and the caregiver voices that the swift stroke of a pen. Rather, it would asked to meet some of our caregivers are now heard at the highest levels of our be born from the cooperation of people after I shared their extraordinary stories nation. from all sectors willing to break down with him. Donald was so moved by what Military families have served our na- barriers and come together to pursue a he heard that he announced a gener- tion for nearly 240 years, and it is truly cause greater than themselves. ous donation to our foundation to help inspiring to see America come together This week, my foundation gathered us continue our work to better support around the loved ones caring for our By Elizabeth Dole with caregivers, private and public caregivers. wounded, ill and injured warriors in the experts, government officials, nonprofits, The week concluded with an inspir- ways that they need and deserve. It’s hard to believe it was just over a leaders of faith and philanthropists at the ing interfaith and congressional prayer As we look ahead to a weekend that year ago that we released an eye-opening Ronald Reagan Building and International breakfast reception with Pastor Joel honors the men and women who gave report from the RAND Corporation Trade Center in Washington, D.C., to take Osteen, Sen. Johnny Isakson and the their lives for our freedom, we know identifying the needs and gaps in support stock of the progress already made and co-chairs of our Hidden Heroes Congres- that we are truly blessed to have hidden facing the “hidden heroes” of America’s address the work that still needs to be sional Caucus, House Minority Leader heroes comforting and caring for the war- wars: the spouses, family members and done. We shared stories of allied groups Nancy Pelosi, Sens. John McCain and Jack riors who are thankfully still with us. friends who have dedicated their lives to working together, funders teaming with Reed and Rep. Jeff Miller. Pastor Osteen caring for our wounded, ill and injured service providers and ideas, resources was our first faith leader to pledge his Elizabeth Dole is a former U.S. Sena- warriors. These brave women and men and best practices being shared across the commitment to our military and veteran tor from North Carolina, a former U.S. — just like the heroes they are caring for board without pride of ownership. caregivers, and this year he brought pas- transportation secretary under Presi- — are making a commitment of service Our nation’s top leaders turned out tors from across America to join him in dent Ronald Reagan, a former U.S. labor tment that will stretch for decades. And yet our to assure caregivers that they too stood supporting our mission. secretary under President George H.W. nation overlooked their critical role for at their side. First lady Michelle Obama We enjoyed the company of many Bush and the founder of the Elizabeth far too long, leaving them to care for our shared how she has continued to fulfill national leaders this week, yet the stars Dole Foundation, which created the Car- wounded without the support they need her promise to America’s caregivers of these events, though you may not ing for Military Families program. o cacy d e par or deserve. through her Joining Forces initiative. know them by name, were the caregivers I am proud to say, one year later, Veterans Affairs Secretary Bob McDon- themselves. They took to the stage and to America is beginning to close those gaps. ald outlined the steps his department is the media and to the offices of nearly 200 Ti mes adv sh i ngton
Every day, military and veteran caregivers are serving our nation. Spouses, parents, children, and other loved ones are helping our wounded warriors live with and recover from multiple and serious wounds, illnesses, and injuries, At the Foundation, we are always both visible and invisible. looking for innovative ideas that Five and a half million of these military and veteran caregivers are day-in and d by the Wa e d by t P r e par day-out providing emotional and physical support and tending to the daily will uplift military families at a time lives of the men and women who have served our nation. For too long, we – for many of them – when they have overlooked the immeasurable contributions of these caregivers. ey NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A cial r e p o are truly our nation’s hidden heroes. need help the most
A Sp e e Elizabeth Dole Foundation seeks to both raise awareness of this societal THE W - Senator Elizabeth Dole
| crisis and strengthen the services a orded to our military and veteran caregivers through evidence-based research, innovation and collaboration.
roughout May, as our nation commemorates Military Appreciation Month, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation is ensuring that America also pauses to honor these hidden heroes who care for those who cared for us. Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday 2 For more information and why we must help, please go to www.elizabethdolefoundation.org A salute to homefront heroes By Oliver North expenses they incurred while in the and Tom Kilgannon hospital. After Deane was cleared to travel, Freedom Alliance sent them to ats off to The Washington the beach in Florida for a much-needed Times for using Military Ap- respite. preciation Month to shine a “The whole trip was amazing,” Stacy light on the war on terror’s told us. She said they enjoyed their unsung heroes — military favorite activities and shared some caregivers. These selfless in- overdue laughs. But the best part came dividuals are the parents and siblings — later in the week. Hbut more often the spouses — of soldiers, A baby-sitter was arranged so sailors, airmen and Marines recovering Deane and Stacy could spend time from the painful and horrific wounds of alone. It was the first time Stacy and war. her husband enjoyed a dinner to- As The Times’ monthlong series gether — just the two of them — in reveals, many of these homefront years. After dinner, they went for a heroes are forced to leave their jobs walk on the beach. They walked and and endure lost income to serve as the talked. They were relaxed and uninter- primary health care advocate for the rupted and able to enjoy each other’s one they love. Very often a caregiver’s company. own health deteriorates as a result of They found a dock in a quiet spot, the around-the-clock attention given to sat down in the moonlight and contin- their combat-wounded loved one. ued their conversation. Stacy explained Like too many women in our soci- it this way: ety, they don’t get the recognition they “Magic happened out there that deserve. Because of the incompetence night. You have to understand that in the Veterans Affairs Department, the Deane had been through so much [dur- astronomical cost of health care, and ing his deployments and injuries] and I the complexity of navigating the bu- didn’t understand it. But that night was reaucracy of military medicine, wives picturesque — we just sat on the dock of the wounded perform not only the and talked. We reconnected.”
role of devoted spouse, but they also For the first time since he returned A Sp e take on responsibilities of various home, Deane told Stacy some of what
medical professionals. he had experienced in war. They talked c ia l r e p o Her roles are not limited to that for hours under the stars. They con- of wife and best friend. She is also a fided in one another and confronted counselor, nurse, therapist, encourager their fears. They recommitted them-
and enforcer. She often acts as the selves to each other. t P r e p traffic cop who adjudicates conflicting By the time they headed home, their
advice from multiple doctors and spots relationship was on a better path. Their a r e d by T he W the dangers presented by prescribed, love for one another was as strong as but incompatible, medicines. She’s on ever. Deane — a man of few words — call 24/7. There is no shift change and explained it this way: “That trip saved no overtime. She performs these roles my marriage!”
with love and care and compassion. When young men like Deane choose ashington T imes Adv She exercises diplomacy and patience to serve our country, they face the and still finds time to pen a thank-you tranquility of a few days on the river. children. Deane and Stacy love each possibility of losing life or limb. But it note to those who help her out. Other times they realize their own other very much, but the wounds of shouldn’t mean losing their families, If Hollywood wanted to inspire us, stress levels inhibit them from giving war can threaten even the strongest too. That’s why Freedom Alliance is they would capture these stories in a the best care and call us to confess, “I relationships. doing all we can to keep military fami- series called “The Real Housewives of just need a few days to myself — do After the terrorist attacks of Sept. lies together. Recovering Heroes.” you have a hunting trip he can attend?” 11, 2001, Deane felt called to serve his Stacy’s role as a caregiver began THE WASHINGTON TIMES
At Freedom Alliance, we’ve met Under different circumstances, country. He went to see a recruiter and long before Deane was wounded. She o c a
these amazing individuals through the it’s not time apart — but quality time enlisted in the Army Reserves. Before took care of the house, the chores, De p cy programs we offer to recovering ser- together — that is most beneficial for that he was working as a heating and and the kids by herself. There were vice members and their spouses. their relationship. We’re not about to air conditioning contractor. He was things she had to do — yard work and For example, our Hero Hunts are let terrorists break up another Ameri- making a good living and providing for small repairs — which Deane normally a r a popular respite for rehabilitating can family, and that’s why Freedom his family. But the attacks on American handled when he was home. She never tment troops. A few days in God’s beautiful Alliance gives military caregivers and soil angered him, and he wanted to complained. Her husband was doing
outdoors can lift the soul and rejuve- their husbands vacations and marriage serve. his duty and she was proud of him. | nate the spirit. Service members who retreats. As a Reservist, Deane deployed to Military wives like Stacy are un- Friday • May 22 • 2015 join us on these outings benefit from When Deane Messex came home both Iraq and Afghanistan. While fight- derappreciated. They are women of the mentorship and informal counsel- from Afghanistan, he was badly ing in Operation Enduring Freedom, immense character and courage and an ing of fellow veterans. On more than a wounded. His injuries were obvious, he fell from a Chinook helicopter and important reason why America’s mili- few occasions, wounded troops were and hard work was needed to reha- suffered injuries to his back and legs tary is the greatest in the world. invited to attend an activity after our bilitate his battered body. But Deane that left him physically disabled and team received a phone call from their had other problems. His marriage was confined to a hospital bed. Oliver North is the founder and hon- caregiver-spouse. Recognizing the strained and being tested. We met Deane and Stacy while orary chairman of Freedom Alliance increased levels of anxiety associated Deane is married to Stacy — a Deane was recovering at Brooke and the host of “War Stories” on the with post-traumatic stress, they tell us beautiful and devoted wife and a Army Medical Center in San Antonio. Fox News Channel. Tom Kilgannon is their husband could benefit from the wonderful mom to their two young Freedom Alliance helped with some the president of Freedom Alliance. 3 What caregivers need: A plea from one hidden hero
By Emery A. Popoloski ⦁ Workplace Support Why support military caregivers? here are 5.5 million Americans Because, quite frankly, we need your who have stepped up to become help. More than 80 percent who have caregivers for wounded war- served since 9/11 are under the age of 60, riors, saving our nation $13.6 which makes them ineligible for many billion yearly in health care already-established programs such as costs. These hidden heroes are the National Caregiver Family Support simultaneously losing $5.9 billion in their Program. Twenty percent of pre-9/11 Town productivity by putting their careers, military caregivers and 40 percent of education and life as they knew it on hold post-9/11 caregivers are without health when their loved one was injured or suf- care coverage. Like myself, many of the fered from a medical illness due to serving post-9/11 caregivers are younger, with- in the military. out the long-term established support Some care for a service member who of a more traditionally viewed role of a was injured in a training accident, others caregiver, such as a child caring for their care for someone who was injured by an Since moving back home, my husband empirical nationwide study of military aging parent. I was 25 when my husband IED or lost a limb many years ago in Viet- began to receive treatment for his TBI, caregivers in a report called “Hidden was hospitalized; a friend of mine was 23 nam. These 5.5 million spouses, siblings, PTS, seizures and other physical ail- Heroes: Military Caregiving in the United when her husband, injured in Iraq, was parents and friends are our nation’s un- ments. I have had to put off furthering my States.” The findings in this report are admitted to Walter Reed. sung heroes. It is time that we as a nation education, reconfigure my professional most recently being used to support Our older, pre-9/11 caregivers are step up to support our military caregivers goals and organize our family’s schedule federal legislation titled “The Military struggling as well. For example, by not — so that they in turn can successfully and structure so that it is conducive to my and Veteran Caregiver Services Improve- having access to the VA Caregiver Pro- support our nation’s wounded warriors. husband’s recovery, as well as the general ment Act,” which will be the focus of the gram, they are left without basic support I became a military caregiver before well-being for our family. My life’s motto next blog. for their roles as military caregivers. It is I even knew what my “role” was called. has become: “God doesn’t give you only The RAND report, whose statistics are imperative that this program be expanded When my husband first returned home what you can handle, you’re given the cited in the piece, helped to identify seven to include them as well. from a deployment to Iraq, I noticed tools to handle any situation that you’re main areas in which military caregivers he would stop breathing for long pe- in.” are in need of support: Emery A. Popoloski, a mom, resides riods during his sleep. Other medical Last year, I became the Massachusetts ⦁ Financial and Legal Issues in the Boston area with her husband, symptoms emerged, which I now know Caregiver Fellow for the Elizabeth Dole ⦁ Education and Training Charles, who served in Iraq. She is the tment are related to his post-traumatic stress Foundation and am now also employed ⦁ Community Support at Home Massachusetts Caregiver Fellow and the (PTS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). I by the foundation as their Caregiver ⦁ Interfaith Action and Ministry Caregiver Community Program coordi- originally thought that these were normal Community Program coordinator. The ⦁ Mental and Physical Health nator for the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. symptoms for someone who just came foundation commissioned the RAND ⦁ Respite Care She has started a blog at The Wash- o cacy d e par home from war. Corp. to do the first comprehensive ⦁ Employment ington Times for military caregivers. For soldiers, man’s best friend is a great healer Ti mes adv sh i ngton By Jennifer Harper And about those pups — Bo, Lib- be recognized by the people who love me The Washington Times erty, Maverick, Justice and all the rest the most in this life?” — they are, by nature, service dogs, Another vet credits his dog for saving There was a noble tribute this week for carefully trained to help with recovery him from suicide. hero humans and hero dogs just a block and provide steadfast companionship to “I went to grab my pistol, and before from the U.S. Capitol. The famous, pow- their vet partners. About 95 percent are my hand even touched it, my service erful and political gathered to celebrate rescue or shelter dogs. “We rescue the dog started barking nonstop, which is
d by the Wa e d by t P r e par K9s for Warriors, a nonprofit that pairs dogs, they rescue the warriors,” notes the not like him. He was jumping in my face rescue dogs with military veterans who group, which has paired up 160 warrior- and wrapping his head around the arm must deal with post-traumatic stress and canine teams so far. The program itself I was going to grab the gun with. When traumatic brain injury. Among the many brings the vets to train with their dogs in I finally pulled away, he stopped barking NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A cial r e p o who attended was retired USMC Captain Florida for three weeks, complete with and just stared at me,” the vet recalls. Jason Haag and Axel, a splendid German free accommodations and meals. A wish Find information about the organiza- A Sp e THE W Shepherd who was there for him in some list is particularly compelling: Donations tion here: K9sforWarriors.org.
| very dark moments. cover such things as service dog vests And among those who came to honor Captain Haag was deployed to Iraq and hands-free leashes, dog bowls and the pups and their partners: Republican twice and Afghanistan once; he was toys, welcome boxes, plus new bedding Reps. Gus M. Bilirakis, Mike Coffman, wounded and survived both small arms for arriving warriors. Ryan K. Zinke and Martha McSally; CBS fire and an improvised explosive device. The program has created some per- letter to a canine companion. “Did you chief White House correspondent Major Coming home was a challenge: The vet manent bonds. know your unique personality, demeanor, Garrett; the inimitable Irish tenor An- was on multiple anxiety medications “Did you know you were made just character and your gentle spirit would thony Kearns; and retired USAF Briga- when he finally reached out to K9s for for me, by a God whose work is mighty heal wounds that were believed by me to dier General Steve Ritchie, an ace fighter
Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday Warriors. It was a timely moment for the and ever so powerful? He did not miss never heal? Did you know you would be pilot who flew 800 combat hours and 339 dog too as Axel was only days away from one detail when He chose YOU to heal this loved, cared for and adored; and did missions in the Vietnam War. 4 being put down. my hurts!” wrote one veteran, in an open you know your faithful endurance would This Memorial Day, The Elizabeth Dole Foundation honors those who gave their lives in service to our country, and salutes the hidden heroes caring for those who returned home wounded, ill and injured. The Dole Caregiver Fellows represent almost every state in the nation and Puerto Rico. In addition to their very demanding roles as caregivers, they provide information, expertise, resources, and wise counsel to the Foundation and to their fellow caregivers. They are the heart and soul of the Foundation’s mission. We thank them for their service to our nation by caring for those who cared for us.
Alabama Idaho Missouri South Dakota Kathleen Causey Jeanette McKinney Melody Slusher Tobian Kills In Water Brannan Vines* Melissa Johnson* Kevin Polosky* Illinois Montana Sami Anderson Ariana Del Negro Tennessee Alaska Alexandra Wilhelm* Jessica Allen Maria Davis Nebraska Cheryl Gasner* Indiana Sara Lease Arizona Glenda Leary Texas Izabelle Meda-Gibson Jennifer Mackinday Nevada Julio & Sonia Alvarado Heidi Woodring Alain & Rosalinda Babin Arkansas Iowa Amber Linder Roxana Delgado Natalie Tarte Trish Simester Deidre Blascyk
New Hampshire Brenda Machacek A Sp e California Kansas Jennifer McNail Renee Ayres*
Danny & Faun O’Neel Tiffany Prowant JaNelle Casson* c ia l r e p o Nikki Stephens Allyson Bowers* New Jersey Betty Easley* Melissa Comeau Ann Marie Pacciano Debra Schulz* Debbie Sprague Kentucky Ivonne Thompson*
Chasity Tuggle New Mexico t P r e p Colorado Christine Schei Utah Elizabeth Huddleston Louisiana Amber Edelman Christie Girard New York Jennifer Henkel* a r e d by T he W Connecticut Sandra Touchet* Valence Scott Megan Swanson Teresa Henning Virginia Blair Hughes* Maine Tammie Gillums Ora Freeman North Carolina Patty Horan
Delaware Sarah Verardo Joe Briseno* ashington T imes Adv Paulette Mason Maryland Shannon Maxwell* Rebecca Porges North Dakota Andrea Sawyer* DC Elizabeth Rotenberry ShelleAberle Nodira Murodkhujaeva Michael Marrocco Washington Jessica Klein Ohio Liz Hunt Florida Jenny Jeffery Patti Katter Massachusetts West Virginia THE WASHINGTON TIMES
Brian Vines Emery Popoloski Oklahoma Kristi Williams-Dumas o c
Seneca Hart Sandra Ownbey* a
Precious Goodson De p cy Lauren Levin Michigan Oregon Wisconsin Shannon Tuimaleali’ifano Joey Caswell Carrie Fisher Megan Stewart Kelli Landis a r
Cara Folkers tment Georgia Minnesota Pennsylvania Stephanie Smith Theresia Ditto Wyoming Pam Busenius Kimberly Dub Jordyn Hatfield | Friday • May 22 • 2015 Mississippi South Carolina Puerto Rico Hawaii Virginia Peacock Emily Emmons Sue Kirk Edna Dumas
* Emeritus Fellows
5 A Month-Long Celebration of Wounded Warrior Caregivers
Donald Trump wrote a $100,000 check to the Elizabeth Dole First lady Michelle Obama speaks at the Hidden Heroes Coalition Summit this week as Elizabeth Dole and Foundation after meeting with Mrs. Dole and wounded Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald look on. Credit: AP. warrior caregivers. Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images tment ar y d ep c a voc Ti mes ad sh i ngton
Pastor Joel Osteen shares some inspiration at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation Focus on Faith prayer breakfast on Capitol Hill. Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images d by the Wa ar e d by t Pr ep NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A ia l r epo A S pec THE W
|
Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi addresses wounded warrior caregivers. Country star Sunny Sweeney performs for wounded warriors and their caregivers at a pri- She is co-chair of the Hidden Heroes Congressional Caucus. Credit: Lynn Dykstra, vate concert held at The Washington Times. Credit: Khalid Naji-Allah/Washington Times. 6 Focused Images A Month-Long Celebration of Wounded Warrior Caregivers A S pecial r epo
Sen. Dole updates attendees at the Hidden Group shot of the Dole Caregiver Fellows, joined by Sen. Dole and Donald Trump, during a welcome reception co-hosted by the U.S. t Pr epa r ed by T he W Heroes Coalition Summit : Progress and Promise. Chamber of Commerce. Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images Credit: LynnDykstra, Focused Image ashington T imes A d THE WASHINGTON TIMES v ocac y D epa r tment | Friday • May 22 • 2015
Sen. John McCain, a war hero himself, hugs Mrs. Dole after meeting with caregivers. Sen. McCain is a co-chair of the Hidden Sen. Dole with Dole Caregiver Fellows participating in Summit program. Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images. Heroes Congressional Caucus. Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images 7 The Honor Roll of Caregivers
Shelle Aberle Jessica Allen Deidre Blascyk Pam Busenius Bismark, N.D. Clarksville, Tenn. Fort Hood, Texas Columbus, Ga. Shelle is caregiver for Jessica is caregiver for Deidre is caregiver Pam is caregiver for her husband, Michael. her husband, Chaz. for her friend. her husband, Joe.
A special salute to 34 Dole tment Caregiver Fellows who have joined in the effort to raise awareness about the needs of families o cacy d e par supporting wounded warriors.
Melissa Comeau Ariana Del Negro Flagstaff, Ariz. Missoula, Mont. Melissa is caregiver for Ariana is caregiver for
Ti mes adv sh i ngton her husband, Stephen. her husband, Char. d by the Wa e d by t P r e par NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A cial r e p o A Sp e THE W
|
Theresia Ditto Kimberly Dub Cara Folkers Ora Freeman Pittsburgh, Pa. Owatonna, Minn. Pewaukee, Wis. Gorham, Maine Theresia is caregiver for Kimberly is caregiver for Cara is caregiver Ora is caregiver for her husband, Michael. her husband, Rob. for her friend. her husband, Harold, Jr.
Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday Photo Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images 8 The Honor Roll of Caregivers
Izabelle Gibson Teresa Henning Patty Horan Jennifer Jeffery Phoenix, Ariz. Fort Drum, N.Y. McLean, Va. Harrison, Ohio Izabelle is caregiver for Teresa is caregiver for Patty is caregiver for Jennifer is caregiver for her husband, Alexandre. her husband, Michael. her husband, Pat. her husband, Mark. A Sp e c ia l r e p o t P r e p a r e d by T he W
Sue Kirk Jessica Klein Kelli Landis Glenda Leary Grenada, Miss. Bethesda, Md. Beaverton, Ore. Charlestown, Ind.
Sue is caregiver for her son, Jim. Jessica is caregiver for Kelli is caregiver for Glenda is caregiver for her husband, ashington T imes Adv her husband, Flip. her husband, Chris. Joshua. THE WASHINGTON TIMES o c a cy De p cy a r tment | Friday • May 22 • 2015
Sara Lease Lauren Levin Amber Linder Brenda Machacek Omaha, Neb. Miami, Fla. Henderson, Nev. Wheatland, Wyo. Sara is caregiver for Laura is caregiver for Amber is caregiver for Brenda is caregiver for her husband, David. her husband, William. her husband, Wesley. her husband, Richard. Photo Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images 9 The Honor Roll of Caregivers
Jennifer Mackinday Jeanette McKinney Emery Popoloski Tiffany Prowant Bloomington, Ind. Idaho Falls, Idaho Woburn, Mass. Stockton, Mo. Jennifer is caregiver for Jeanette is caregiver for Emery is caregiver for Tiffany is caregiver for her brother, James. her husband, Hugh. her husband, Charles. her husband, Jeff. tment o cacy d e par
Christine Schei Trish Simester Stephanie Smith Debbie Sprague Rio Rancho, N.M. Muscatine, Iowa Columbus, Ga. Redding, Calif. Christine is caregiver for Trish is caregiver for Stephanie is caregiver for Debbie is caregiver for
Ti mes adv sh i ngton her son, Erik. her husband, Michael. her husband, Tom. her husband, Randall. d by the Wa e d by t P r e par NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A cial r e p o A Sp e THE W
|
Megan Stewart Natalie Tarte Ivonne Thompson Shannon Tuimaleliifano Coloma, Mich. Dardanelle, Ark. Houston, Texas Kapolei, Hawaii Megan is caregiver for Natalie is caregiver for Ivonne is caregiver for Shannon is caregiver for her her husband, Tim. her husband, Chris. her husband, Anthony. husband, Sualauvi Malua.
Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday Photo Credit: Lynn Dykstra, Focused Images 10 THE WASHINGTON TIMES AND THE NATIONAL WEEKLY EDITION CONGRATULATE ® A Sp e c ia l r e p o
ROLLING THUNDER t P r e p ON CELEBRAT ING 28 YEARS a r e d by T he W
$ .95
Subscribe Today for 99 ashington T imes Adv t 52 weeks of the National Weekly Edition t 1 year of e Washington Times News App t $28 donation to Rolling under Charities THE WASHINGTON TIMES o c a To Subscribe Visit De p cy
www.washingtontimes.com/RT2015NW/ a r tment or Call 800 277-8500 | Friday • May 22 • 2015 Send mail inquiries to : e Washington Times/National Weekly /FX:PSL"WF/&t8BTIJOHUPO%$
NATIONAL WEEKLY 11 The Memorial Day Parade: A tradition of honor that stretches back 150 years By Tim Holbert
single shot rang out in Washington at 9 a.m. on May 23, 1865. With that, 80,000 men of the Army of the Potomac, led by Gen. George Meade, marched from Capitol Hill toward the White House. AThere would be no battle, however. The Civil War had finally come to an end, with Gen. Robert E. Lee’s sur- render a month earlier and the armed rebellion nearly extinguished. Rather, the procession was to be a great parade saluting those who had served and honoring those who had died. “The Grand Review of the Armies,” as it was called, was conceived by Pres- ident Johnson as a way to honor those who had fought so hard, for so long. Yet the two-day procession, which was reviewed by Johnson and General- in-Chief Ulysses S. Grant, was not a gleeful celebration. How could it be? More than 620,000 Americans — Union and Confederate — had died in four years of fighting. One month earlier, just a few blocks from the parade route, President Lin- tment coln had been assassinated. The tribute to those who had served was also an closed World War II. occasion to remember those who had, On Monday, as the National Memo- in Lincoln’s words, given “the last full rial Day Parade celebrates its 10th anni-
o cacy d e par measure of devotion.” versary starting at 2 p.m. along Consti- In the years that followed, the tradi- tution Avenue, we also commemorate tion of adorning graves of the fallen other moments that shaped our coun- coalesced around a single holiday in try’s history: the 150th anniversary of May that initially was called Decora- the end of the Civil War and the Grand tion Day. We know it today as Memo- Review, and the 70th anniversary of rial Day. the victory in World War II.
Ti mes adv sh i ngton In a sense, the Grand Review of A moving timeline of American May 23-24, 1865, can be called our na- military history, the parade seeks to tion’s first Memorial Day parade. capture the dignity of the day while Eighty years later, Memorial Day creating a family-friendly environ- 1945 in the nation’s capital had a ment to pay tribute to our fallen heroes similar mood. Germany surrendered across the generations. Privately a few weeks earlier, ending the war in funded and organized by the American Europe. Though the end was in sight Veterans Center, the National Memo-
d by the Wa e d by t P r e par in the Pacific, battle still raged on rial Day Parade is a continuing ex- Okinawa and in the skies over Japan. ample of Americans’ desire to ensure With the Japanese surrender that sum- that our heroes are always honored, mer, World War II came to a close at never forgotten. We welcome your NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A cial r e p o the cost of more than 400,000 Ameri- men of the 442nd were presented with American Veterans Center in 2005 attendance Monday afternoon at this can lives. The jubilation of war’s end the Medal of Honor, and nearly 9,500 after several decades without a parade special tribute. A Sp e THE W masked a melancholy of mourning for Purple Hearts were awarded to those in Washington to commemorate the
| those lost. killed and wounded in battle. armed forces’ most sacred day. Tim Holbert is executive director of the Parades across the country marked Among the men marching with the Those of us who planned that first American Veterans Center, the 501(c) the end of World War II. In Washing- 442nd in that parade was Terry Shima. parade also made note that, across the (3) nonprofit foundation that produces ton, the men of the 442nd Regimental This year, Mr. Shima will return to country, many small-town parades the National Memorial Day Parade. To Combat Team marched along Constitu- Constitution Avenue with dozens of were fading away along with the World learn more about the parade, visit www. tion Avenue to the Ellipse in July 1946 surviving World War II veterans to War II generation that organized them. NationalMemorialDayParade.com. to be reviewed by President Truman. serve as grand marshals of the National The parade in Washington was in- The 442nd consisted of Americans Memorial Day Parade, participating in tended to create a truly national event,
Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday of Japanese ancestry who fought in honor of the 16 million who served and calling attention to the true meaning Europe to prove that they were proud in memory of those who died. of the holiday in the tradition of the 12 and loyal to their country. Twenty-one The parade was inaugurated by the Grand Review and the parades that HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH the eleventh annual national memorial day parade MAY 25, 2015 • 2PM
2015 Parade Route White House 14th St NW
Pennsyl vani a Ave.
23rd St . ELLIPSE
End Start 7th St NW
Event 17th St NW Constitution Ave. stage
NATIONAL MALL A Sp e c ia l r e p o Lincoln 2015 Parade Participants Grand Marshals: The Gary Sinise
Memorial Veterans of World War II Best known for his role as Lt. t P r e p Commemorating the 70th Dan in Forrest Gump and his Arlington anniversary of the end of World starring role during CSI: New
Independence Ave. a r e d by T he W War II, dozens of surviving York’s nine-season run. His veterans will serve as Grand band, the Lt. Dan Band, has Marshals, representing the 16 also played for American service million who served and more members around the world. Memorial Bridge than 400,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice. ashington T imes Adv
Joe Mantegna The Smashing Pumpkins Robert Irvine Tony Award-winning actor of The Smashing Pumpkins Chef Robert Irvine has appeared stage, screen, and television, have been a sensation in the in several Food Network programs currently starring in the CBS alternative rock world, with including Restaurant: Impossible, series Criminal Minds. 20 million albums sold in the helping to save struggling U.S. alone. The Smashing restaurants across America. He
P O T O M A C R IV E R THE WASHINGTON TIMES Pumpkins’ latest track began his cooking career upon
enlisting in the Royal Navy, cooking o c “Drum and Fife” raises public around the world and on the high awareness about veterans a seas. He has more than 25 years De p cy suffering from PTS. of culinary experience. a r
Caleb Johnson Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev tment Caleb Johnson, winner of American Idol’s A native of Manhattan, New York, Kira 13th season in 2014 is no stranger to the Kazantsev was crowned Miss America
music scene. In 2010, after graduating on September 14, 2014. Her personal | Friday • May 22 • 2015 from high school, Johnson would join a platform issue is protecting women rock band called Elijah Hooker, of which against domestic violence, with the goal he would become the lead vocalist. of pursuing a career in international Johnson’s album Testify was recorded in diplomacy following her reign. just three weeks – the quickest that any Idol winner has released a debut album.
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH 13
THE WASHINGTON TIMES Gary Sinise: An entertainer extraordinare for veterans
By Eric Althoff of “Forrest Gump.” He discovered that The Washington Times festival co-founders Laura Law-Millett and Brandon Millett had the same commitment ary Sinise began provid- as he did to serving active-duty service ing free performances and members and military veterans. dinners for Vietnam veter- “They were right in line with a lot of ans — what he called “vets the work I was doing, and I felt honored nights” — in the late 1970s, to be asked,” Mr. Sinise said. “I’ve been so long before he was a house- impressed with what they’ve done and hold name thanks to his Oscar-nominated how they’ve built it over the years, having Gportrayal of the man who loses his legs in watched it from the beginning.” the jungles of Vietnam. Mr. Sinise has attended nearly every Even before he portrayed Lt. Dan Taylor, year since the festival’s inception. the Vietnam commander saved by For- “I was always looking for ways to high- rest Gump from certain death in the 1994 light the positive things that our military Academy Award winner for best picture, and veterans community was doing,” he the Chicago native and co-founder of the said, “and when the festival began, it was in iconic Steppenwolf Theater knew he had the midst of a time where there were films to do something to give back to America’s coming out of the entertainment industry heroes. that were kind of portraying the military in “I have lots of veterans on my side of the Gary Sinise arrives at the Los Angeles Dinner : What You Do Matters at the Beverly Hilton not such a good way. I think that was one family and on my wife’s side of the family,” Hotel on Monday, March 16, 2015, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invi- of the catalysts for Brandon and Laura to Mr. Sinise told The Washington Times. sion/AP) address that issue and kind of highlight Despite a storied theater resume in films that were celebrating our defenders Chicago and on Broadway, to say nothing and some of the things they’ve had to do.” of a Hollywood career encompassing 50 a patron of the event since its founding trying to pick up work.” Additionally, his Lt. Dan Band performs film and television credits, Mr. Sinise is in 2007. Recalling the impression that the sum- at military hospitals and USO shows, proud that his greatest role is away from “I’m just a big, big supporter and a big mer stock production made on him at age bringing homegrown rock ’n’ roll to Ameri- the cameras — shining a light on those fan of [festival co-founders] Laura [Law- 16 — and mindful that a working actor cans serving around the world and raising who fight to keep America safe. Millett] and Brandon [Millett] and what must think about his next meal ticket — money for various military charities with “I spend all my time these days working they’ve done,” he said. Mr. Sinise asked for and received from every set list. tment with veterans,” Mr. Sinise said. The Milletts started the festival specifi- Steinbeck’s widow the rights to a film of “It’s a tight group; the music is great,” ar From the ashes cally to screen films that cast active-duty “Of Mice and Men.” he said. “The whole point is to give people
y d ep After 9/11, Mr. Sinise felt a calling to service members and veterans in a posi- Mr. Sinise returned to Los Angeles and a lot of fun, lift their spirits. So it’s a great c
a support the armed forces greater than ever tive light. “Everything over the years has quickly set up the production with himself joy to be out there on the stage seeing
oc before. He founded the Gary Sinise Foun- evolved in such a positive way, and I’m just as producer, director and star — with everybody have a good time.” dation, which proclaims on its website, a big fan of theirs and a big supporter and Mr. Malkovich reprising his Lenny to Mr. Laurels aren’t for resting upon “While we can never do enough to show love what they do,” Mr. Sinise said. Sinise’s George. Horton Foote wrote the Despite his extensive credentials, his gratitude to our nation’s defenders, we can In the wings screenplay, and Mark Isham penned the Oscar nomination for “Forrest Gump” and always do a little more.” Mr. Sinise knew from a young age that tender musical score. The film played at an Emmy win for portraying segregation- “I started doing USO tours right after the stage was where he belonged. As a the 1992 Cannes Film Festival to a standing ist Alabama Gov. George Wallace — who Sept. 11 as an actor, and I would go out there teen growing up in the Chicago suburbs, ovation and was a critical success when eerily died the night Mr. Sinise accepted
Ti mes adv sh i ngton and would shake hands and take pictures,” he was especially affected by a rendition released in theaters later that year. his award — Mr. Sinise is not one to relax Mr. Sinise said. of John Steinbeck’s Depression-era novel For Mr. Sinise, his professional acting on his heap of accolades. With a few Chicago-area friends, Mr. Si- “Of Mice and Men.” career already had come full circle. But two After his commitment to the GI Film nise even formed the Lt. Dan Band, whose “I didn’t know anything about Stein- years later, a supporting role in a whimsi- Festival, Mr. Sinise’s busy schedule takes y the Wa initial mission was to travel the world beck, knew nothing about the story,” he cal drama about a mentally challenged but him to New York for a fundraiser alongside to USO shows to entertain troops like a said, “and was just completely choked up well-meaning Alabama gardener, played by Bill O’Reilly. He will return to Washing-
ar e d b modern-day Bob Hope revue program. and sobbing at the end of it. I just starting Tom Hanks, would change his professional ton this weekend to co-host the annual “I just really wanted to entertain and do acting, and I thought, ‘That’s what I want to life and forever cement his focus on the National Memorial Day Concert on the
t Pr ep something,” Mr. Sinise said. “I talked the do; I want to be onstage and move people cause of veterans. Capitol lawn alongside fellow thespian Joe USO into letting me take the musicians like that.’” Life is like … Mantegna. Then it’s off to Korea with his with me on the tour, and that began a very, In 1980, Mr. Sinise and fellow Step- For his role as Lt. Dan Taylor, the career band for five scheduled concerts. very serious effort to entertain wherever penwolf actor John Malkovich starred in soldier who spends years recovering his “It’s a busy time,” the actor noted in a NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A I could.” the Terry Kinney-directed stage version soul from an internal pit of darkness, Mr. heavy understatement, adding that he has He estimates that he has performed in of “Of Mice and Men,” with Mr. Sinise as Sinise met with Vietnam veterans to get a every intention to return for the 2016 GI ia l r epo A S pec THE W over 150 USO shows at military hospitals George and Mr. Malkovich as his tragically sense of the physical and mental toll that Film Festival.
| and bases around the world. His schedule dim-witted companion, Lenny. combat takes. Ever-gracious, Mr. Sinise said he doesn’t to do so opened up significantly when the Steinbeck’s work continued to haunt “[Playing] a Vietnam veteran in ‘Forrest mind when fans wish to run lines from TV show “CSI: New York,” on which Mr. Mr. Sinise’s proscenium career. In 1990, he Gump’ got me involved with the Disabled “Forrest Gump” with him. Sinise starred, went off the air in Febru- was Tom Joad in “The Grapes of Wrath” American Veterans organization and work- “It’s always amusing,” he said of obliging ary 2013. on Broadway — in a production blessed ing with our wounded and supporting the impromptu line-readings with those Now all of his efforts, he said, in one way by no less than Steinbeck’s widow, Elaine. them,” Mr. Sinise said. “And that’s led to who approach him on the street. “You or another, are for the veterans. “I was just standing backstage with the creation of the Gary Sinise Foundation know, it’s just one of those movies that kind Through Sunday, Mr. Sinise is lending her, and we became very good friends,” [and] support[ing] the GI Film Festival of just lives on, and new generations of
Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday his time to the ninth annual GI Film Festi- Mr. Sinise recalled. “The run was about each year.” kids have seen that film. So I don’t mind.” val at the Angelika Film Center & Cafe at to end, and I knew I was going to go back For the initial GI Film Festival in 2007, 14 Mosaic in Fairfax, Virginia. He has been to California and just hit the ground again Mr. Sinise was invited to attend a screening After helping vets all year, Rolling Thunder roars into DC for Memorial Day
By Emily Leslie resource.” and current wars. home they never got, especially those THE WASHINGTON TIMES Rolling Thunder, among other ad- Though the POW/MIA group was from Vietnam. This is a brotherhood and vocacy groups, promoted the Missing named after a U.S. bombing campaign a sisterhood. We are family.” olling Thunder has much Service Personnel Act of 1995, which re- during the Vietnam War, motorcycles in To complete the Memorial Day week- more to offer than motorcy- quires military authorities to investigate the yearly ride create a roaring, thunder- end of events honoring veterans, the Ride cles on Memorial Day: The the circumstances of prisoners of war ous sound, organizers say. for Freedom will leave the north parking nonprofit group provides and troops missing in action and allow “When the Harleys fire up, you’d think lot of the Pentagon at noon Sunday and year-round aid to veterans their families to review those investiga- a B-52 raid is going on,” Mr. Muller said, cruise around the area to demonstrate and their families to help tions — an outgrowth of the organiza- referring to the Air Force’s strategic support for troops. pay for meals, mortgages and other bills tion’s efforts to raise awareness of POW/ bomber. A speakers program at the Reflecting Rto prevent homelessness. MIA issues since its founding in 1987. This year’s events include a candle- Pool across from the Lincoln Memorial The group’s officials say their charity “We never thought this event would light vigil Friday evening at the Vietnam is scheduled shortly after the ride and work has become even more necessary last all these years, but we haven’t got- Veterans Memorial and a daylong barbe- will include actor Robert Patrick of the because budget cuts in the Department of ten anyone back from Vietnam alive. cue Saturday at Fort Washington. Emo- CBS-TV series “Scorpion,” former Wis- Veterans Affairs have limited the agency’s The government needs to do everything tions typically range from joy in seeing consin Gov. Tommy G. Thompson and resources and benefits to those who have they can to find out if a person is alive or old comrades to heartache in missing Lynn O’Shea, director of research for the served their country. dead,” said Mr. Muller, himself a Vietnam lost soldiers. National Alliance of Families. “We should help our own people War veteran. “It’s not just a barbecue; it’s about our A musical tribute after the speeches first. You’re [the VA] telling us you want When thousands of motorcyclists veterans. This is Memorial Day,” said will feature Nancy Sinatra, Ben Mason, to help [veterans], and then at the same rumble into the D.C. area this weekend Nancy Regg, Rolling Thunder’s national Sharon Lee Ruckle, the Sixth Generation, time you’re making them homeless [with for Rolling Thunder’s 28th annual Ride spokeswoman. “I’ve been doing this for Rockie Lynne and the Loch Rannoch budget cuts]?” said Artie Muller, ex- for Freedom, they will be demonstrating 19 years, and I still cry at least once. Yes, Pipes & Drums band. ecutive director of Rolling Thunder Inc. their commitment to help veterans and we have a good time, but there are a lot of “We need to have a fund in the VA as a to account for missing soldiers from past people reuniting and getting the welcome ROLLING THUNDER
Memorial Day weekend A Sp e G St.
F St. c ia l r e p o
White St. 14th House E St. under Alley St. 17th D St.
Pennsylvania Ave. t P r e p C St. 23rd St. 23rd ELLIPSE 21st St. a r e d by T he W Event stage Constitution Ave. U.S. Vietnam NATIONAL MALL Capitol Veterans Lincoln Memorial Memorial ashington T imes Adv Arlington Independence Ave. C St. Memorial Bridge TIDAL D St. Finish BASIN P O T O M A C R IV E R THE WASHINGTON TIMES
MAIN EVENT SCHEDULE o c
Some of the top events from the 28th anniversary Rolling under rally: a cy De p cy Friday 9 a.m. under Alley Opens. 9 p.m. Candlelight vigil at the Vietnam Noon Rolling under XXVIII First Veterans Memorial. Amendment Demonstration Run. a r 8 p.m. Memorial Day Concert at the tment Start Saturday Capitol. North 9 a.m. under Alley Opens. e o cial vendor site for Rolling under XXVIII is on Monday
Pentagon | Parking Lot 22nd Street and Constitution Avenue 11 a.m. Wreath-laying ceremony at the Friday • May 22 • 2015 Northwest. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery. Sunday 2 p.m. e Memorial Day observance at 6 a.m. Wake-up call for all riders taking part in Vietnam Veterans Memorial. the Rolling under XXVIII Run. Bikers rally in 2 p.m. National Memorial Day Parade. the North and South Pentagon parking lots at 7 a.m. for a noon departure. 3 p.m. National moment of remembrance. THE WASHINGTON TIMES
ILLUSTRATION: GREG GROESCH 15 tment o cacy d e par Ti mes adv sh i ngton d by the Wa e d by t P r e par NGTON T I MES SH I NGTON A cial r e p o A Sp e THE W
| Friday • May 22 • 2015 • May Friday 16