Thank You Women in Service

The Newspaper for Veterans and All Who Love Them.

VOLUME 8 NUMBER 2 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

THANK YOU WOMEN IN SERVICE

UNIFORM OF THE DAY

4 Some Headlines, Some Comments 13 The Friends of Cleveland Fisher House Mail Call Fun, Travel, Adventure Get on board, good buddy! 5 Dominion Energy Wants to Talk with You: Job Recruitment Events 14 VA Needed Only Three Years to Create VA ID Cards 6 Women in the Vietnam War: Lynda Van Devanter 15 Cleveland’s Robert P. Madison fought for country, equality; An Honorable Man Lessons We Have Learned the Hard Way 16 Changed Lives 7 Marine Veteran Faced Enemy Dominion Energy Awards $50,000 to at Home Cuyahoga Community College to Support Veterans’ Educational and Employment 8 Last to Die in World War II Efforts 10 Belgian War Bride Recalls Female Truck Driver Traveled Wartime Romance, Marriage 18 Rough Road - With Good Companions 12 Freshman at Kent or Trooper in A Budding Career Mideast? Trooper! Education as an art form Enlisting was WW II WAC’s True Battle 19 The Long Run: Rocky Bleier’s Inspirational Journey

Navajo Code Talker, Marine Veteran George B. Willie Sr. remembered for heroic service to the nation

WASHINGTON – Today Navajo Code of the Second Marine Division as training in the States, they were sent performances prevailed throughout Talker, Marine Veteran George B. part of a specially chosen Navajo- to the Pacific for assignment to the the war and came from commanders Willie Sr. passed away after a storied speaking contingent of Marines. The Marine combat divisions,” the MCU at all levels.” life of service to our nation. He en- “Code Talkers” spoke in their Native history says. “In May 1943…[in a] “Our nation will continue to honor listed in the U.S. Marine Corps as a American tribal language that was request for a report on the subject, and pay tribute to the Navajo Code 17-year old in 1943. effectively a code that the enemy was the various division commanders Talkers, such as George Willie Sr., for The U.S. Department of Veterans unable to crack throughout the war reported to the Commandant that countless generations to come.” said Affairs (VA) honors the heroism, despite many efforts to do so. excellent results had been achieved VA Secretary David Shulkin. “Their commitment and dedication of Willie According to Marine Corps [by] Navajo code talkers in training unique contribution to the Marine and his comrades that made up the University history of the Navajo Code and combat situations, and that they Corps and the Army during World elite Navajo Code Talkers. Talker Program, it was established in had performed in a highly com- War II provides an enduring symbol Willie’s wartime service began September 1942. mendable fashion. This high degree of pride for the families of these as a private in the 10th Battalion “Once the code talkers completed of praise concerning the Navajos’ great Veterans and of the nation.” www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩3 Some Headlines, Some Comments

Mom wants to stop daughter The Newspaper for 5 from opening credit accounts to Veterans and pay for heroin All Who Love Them.

Dealers take credit cards? PUBLISHER EMERITUS Ohio Wesleyan biologist blasting Terence J. Uhl 6 plants into space PUBLISHER AND EDITOR Good idea, but harvesting is John H. Tidyman going to be a bitch. (216) 789-3502 [email protected] Trump is considering calling 7 Jerusalem Israel’s capital, MANAGING EDITOR officials say Ann Marie Stasko (216) 704 -5227 Benjamin Netanyahu retaliates: We’re considering calling ART DIRECTOR America’s capitol Podunk. Laura Chadwick

Steve Bannon battles Republican CONTRIBUTING EDITORS 8 leaders for the soul of their party JC Sullivan Eli Beachy Now this battle ain’t gonna last Jerri Donohue long. Darlene Johnson Nancy Peacock Cleveland Clinic raises $50 million to Opossum gets drunk after breaking into Barry Goodrich honor outgoing CEO Toby Cosgrove liquor store 9 1 DD 214 CHRONICLE IS PUBLISHED BY

Somehow, I can’t see Toby on his knees, Big deal — it was all bottom shelf. John H. Tidyman praying: 3280 Glenbar Drive Viagra factory is turning men in this town Fairview Park, Ohio 44126 A PHYSICIAN’S PRAYER into walking stiffs 2 Lord, Thou Great Physician, I kneel before For subscription information Thee. Since every good and perfect gift must Real estate prices skyrocket in town. call (216) 789-3502 come from Thee: I Pray Penn State football recruit charged with Give skill to my hand, clear vision to my mind, robbing a Wawa of $13,600 Editorial Statement 3 kindness and sympathy to my heart. Give

me singleness of purpose, strength to lift at DD214 Chronicle is committed to its readers: Expected to be red-shirted. least a part of the burden of my suffering Veterans of every generation and all who love fellow men, and a true realization of the rare Famed conductor James Levine accused of them. The printed newspaper is delivered privilege that is mine. Take from my heart all sexual abuse; complaints date back to his 4 guile and worldliness, that with the simple across northern Ohio without charge: More time in Cleveland faith of a child I may rely on Thee. than 60 libraries, colleges and universities

Amen that welcome veteran students, VFW and It’s clear he didn’t use his good looks to charm anyone. American Legion posts, city halls, Veteran Administration offices and health care facilities, organizations in support of veterans, advertisers, political offices, and Veteran Service Commissions. DD214 Chronicle also MAIL CALL maintains dd214chronicle.com and DD214 Chronicle/Facebook. appened to be in the library last night where • I picked up a copy of the latest Chronicle. I The Chronicle would not exist without its Hadmired the cover photograph of the Veterans advertisers. Make the effort to patronize them. Section at Lake View Cemetery, and then I spotted John H. Tidyman, editor Dad’s headstone in the background! Mom is right next th to him with her own marker because she also served in 198 Light Infantry Brigade the WACs as a nurse. It’s a wonderful historic cemetery.. Americal Division Christine Kriha Kastner (216) 789-3502 forgedironstidyman@gmail

✩4 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com Dominion Energy Wants to Talk with You: Job Recruitment Events

ominion Energy Ohio is hosting four job Date: January 9, 2018 recruitment information events on Janu- Session One: 2:00PM-4:00PM D ary 9 and January 10, 2018. The company Session Two: 6:00PM-8:00PM is recruiting individuals for Field Metering Servic- Location: Holiday Inn Akron-West Fairlawn es Helper positions. These positions are full-time 4073 Medina Road, Akron, Ohio 44333 opportunities and start at $21.10 an hour. These Akron Recruitment Session Eventbrite positions require the following: Registration www.eventbrite.com/e/dominion-energy- · Strong customer service skills recruitment-session-tickets-41346510526 · Desire to learn and perform advanced tasks · Strong mechanical skills Date: January 10, 2018 · Willingness to work overtime, shifts and Session One: 2:00PM-4:00PM call-outs Session Two: 6:00PM-8:00PM · Valid driver’s license Location: Holiday Inn Independence · High School Diploma or GED 6001 Rockside Road · Ability to work outdoors in extreme weather Independence, Ohio 44131 conditions · Ability to pass a physical assessment and Cleveland Recruitment Session Eventbrite mechanical aptitude test Registration www.eventbrite.com/e/dominion-energy- Interested applicants should consider attend- recruitment-session-tickets-41345785357 ing one of the recruitment sessions to meet with supervisors and hiring managers to discuss For additional questions please contact qualifications. Sessions will be held on the fol- Ruth Rachel Przybojewski at rr.przybojewski@ lowing dates at two separate locations: dominionenergy.com or at 216-386-0381.

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Find out more about the Cuyahoga Land Bank HomeFront Program today! www.cuyahogalandbank.org OR CALL 216.698.8853 www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩5 Women in the Vietnam War: Lynda Van Devanter By Kristine Meldrum Denholm

hough overlooked in history Assigned as a surgi- “When you don’t with in ‘Nam. She wore a sweater lessons, 11,000 women were cal nurse for the 71st have any sanity around over her nurse’s uniform, hiding her stationed in Vietnam, 90% Evacuation Hospital you, you try to find silver bar. Tserving as nurses. One was Lynda in Pleiku, she soon normalcy, comfort, As she tried to readjust, it’s here Van Devanter, who chronicled her felt the heavy combat communication with that Van Devanter does not hold memoirs in Home Before Morning: and casualties were another person on a back, recounting alcohol abuse, re- The Story of an Army Nurse in Vietnam unending. She detailed level removed from curring nightmares, PTSD, difficulty (University of Massachusetts Press, the constant barrage the environment of in jobs, a marriage and divorce, and 1983, 2001.) It was the first published of rocket attacks, destruction. You want engulfing depression. book by a female Vietnam veteran. then the helicopters to share moments of But what is triumphant in the Personal narrative drives any and call: “Incoming happiness,” she wrote. story arc is the resilience of the story, gives history a face. And no wounded.” They read- Van Devanter was also human spirit; a VA counselor offered one knows war’s face like a nurse ied gurneys, plasma, buoyed by tapes from therapy, offering a “structured pro- repairing the wounded, comforting morphine, prepped her parents. cess for understanding the most dif- the dying. What’s powerful is in this for surgery. Then the When the year was ficult experience of my life.” Under autobiography, Van Devanter didn’t horror began. Daily. over—she recalled this umbrella of validation, she paint herself a hero; instead, she “No warning could the elation when began to see how they saved lives. shows her humanness. She was— have prepared me for the sheer num- they cleared air space—she shared Writing this book was another way quite simply—real in her book. bers of mutilated young bodies that the same harsh homecoming as to heal, “to exorcise the Vietnam Growing up in Arlington, Virginia, copters kept bringing to the 71st,” she many male veterans. Dropped off War from my mind and heart.” and hearing Kennedy’s 1961 “no wrote. at Oakland Army Terminal to find She learned “war doesn’t have to dream unattainable” speech, she The book is not for the faint of their own way to San Francisco own me; I can own it.” She became understood her generation was “cho- heart. Van Devanter wrote of grue- Airport, “as if you’ve outlived your the founding executive director of sen to change the world.” In nursing some injuries: usefulness,” the Women’s Project of Vietnam school, Van Devanter and a friend burn cases, Her no-holds-barred memoirs, she hitchhiked. Veterans of America, 1979-1984, eagerly signed contracts with an Napalm, frag- “Home Before Morning, the Instead of rides, testifying before Congress for 7,465 Army recruiting sergeant, then were ments, infected Story of an Army Nurse in she got the finger women. nd commissioned as 2 lieutenants in bullet wounds, Vietnam,” revealed her life at from a carload, ob- She got sober in 1983, married the Army Nurse Corps. She learned bellies de- the 71st Evacuation Hospital in scenities from an- the love of her life in 1984, native how to fire an M-16, set up a field stroyed after other. One threw Ohioan Tom Buckley (disclaimer: hospital, work emergency tracheoto- falling on Viet Pleiku and was the basis for a carton of trash, he’s my late dad’s good friend) and mies-- and mass casualties. Though a Cong mines, the TV show “China Beach.” hitting her with a they had a daughter, Molly. She returning sergeant told her Vietnam VC’s barbarism, soda can. Another credited Tom, Molly, and stepdaugh- “sucked, don’t do it,” others assured separated body parts. One soldier’s passerby taunted: “We don’t take ter Bridgid, with giving her life her as a female she’d never be sent prom picture slipped out of his Army pigs,” then spit on her, calling strength, meaning and love. into danger. She still chose Vietnam pocket as he died. Gene and Katie, it her a Nazi [expletive.] “What had I Van Devanter Buckley died in for service. It was 1969. read. 1968. done to them?” she wrote. “Didn’t 2002, at age 55, from systemic col- As her plane descended into Saigon She wrote the book to tell these they realize those of us who’d seen lagen vascular disease, which she hours after First Lieutenant Sharon families they tried to save their kids, the war firsthand were probably attributed to Agent Orange. Though Lane, a 26-year-old Army nurse from how they held their hands. Gene more antiwar than they were? That the book was released long ago, it’s a Canton, Ohio, was killed by shrapnel, wasn’t forgotten. we had seen friends suffer and die?” compelling read, because history is she learned of 6 more Army nurses The author paced tragedy by step- She stopped revealing her about the faces…of men and women. who died in helicopter crashes; she ping out of the OR: cheering for man Vietnam service. Instead of ques- A native Clevelander, Kristine soon realized medical personnel landing on the moon, and enjoying tions about medicine in the war, Meldrum Denholm is a writer based in “were being sent home in body bags.” alcohol, parties and love affairs. men would ask her who she slept Washington.

(216) 521-5775 Fax (216) 521-5880 [email protected] LESSONS WE HAVE LEARNED THE HARD WAY DIGITAL COLOR & B/W COPIES OFFSET PRINTING Telling the waiter, on a first date, “Separate checks, please.” Training your parrot to squawk, “Eat shit and die!” BROCHURES ● NEWSLETTERS Robbing a thrift store. Leaving a saloon at closing and saying, “I’m fine to drive.” FLYERS ● BUSINESS FORMS BUSINESS CARDS ● LETTERHEAD Buying anything made in Communist Red China. Drawing to an inside straight. ENVELOPES ● LABELS Believing anything said by a politician. Believing any doctor who says, “You’ll feel just a little pinch.” CUSTOM T-SHIRTS Buying tomatoes in a supermarket. Starting any sentence with, “Well, when I was a kid ... “ WEDDING INVITATIONS LAMINATING ● RAFFLE TICKETS Wearing shorts to a wake. BOOKLETS ● POSTCARDS Dennis Little 14528 Detroit Avenue President Lakewood, Ohio 44107

✩6 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com Marine Veteran Faced Enemy at Home By Jerri Donohue

aura Oluich tapped her re- a coping mechanism.” Although Oluich’s Institute in Monterrey, California, serves of courage years after She speculates husband had never and then worked as a Russian lin- Lshe left the Marines. that the episodes struck her, she guist and analyst. At Tri-C, she is Oluich, who was named Cuyahoga eventually co- realized his abuse studying sign language and major- Community College’s 2017 Student alesce into the was escalating. ing in Deaf Interpretive Services. Veteran of the Year, fled an abusive woman’s sudden In addition She will finish an associate degree husband in South Carolina in 2015. realization that to verbal at- this spring but hasn’t decided where She waited until he fell asleep, and she is mired tacks, he to complete her bachelor degree. then, at one o’clock in the morning, in an abusive threw things, Oluich’s dream is to land a posi- she slipped out with their 9-week relationship. punched doors tion in rehabilitation services at a old son and her dog. Somehow she While in the and walls, and Veterans Administration facility. also managed to lug a blanket, a dia- Air Force, wouldn’t let Despite working part-time and per bag and a tote stuffed with baby Oluich’s sis- her leave the raising a toddler, Oluich maintains clothes. ter had dealt house except to a 4.00 GPA while carrying a full Although her husband refused to with domestic work. Because course load. (She’s taking seven find a job, he controlled her earn- violence cases. he spent every classes this semester and eight ings. She had worked until a week During a visit “Every time he lashes out is a dime she next semester.) Her honors from and a half before their son’s birth one month separate memory your brain earned, she hid Tri-C included a proclamation from but left with less than $20. That before Oluich’s small amounts Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson night, Oluich’s sister paid for a hotel baby was born, boxes off in separate instances.” of cash for at City Hall, a plaque from the col- room while their father drove from she listed the — Laura Oluich emergencies. lege and a written tribute from the Ohio to retrieve the little family. alarming signs He usually Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps. In her speech class at Tri-C, she noticed, found them. Chronically strapped for time, Oluich gave a presentation on do- and urged her sister to get out of the Today Oluich is glad she followed the single parent allows herself one mestic violence. She explained why marriage. Because leaving and its her sister’s advice to leave. She indulgence each month, the meeting women stay with their tormentors. immediate aftermath are the most rebuilt her life in Ohio under her of the Marine Corps League. “Every time he lashes out is a sep- dangerous time for the victim, she maiden name. “I like being around other arate memory your brain boxes off warned the new Mom not to tell her In the Marines, she had studied Marines,” Oluich said. “I really miss in separate instances,” she said. “It’s husband if she decided to leave. Russian at the Defense Language that camaraderie.”

It’s Your Future. Get Started Now! Veterans Service Center at Lorain County Community College

The Student Veterans and Military Members Center at LCCC assists all veterans, guardsmen, reservists and their dependents transitioning to a successful educational career. You’ve done your duty, now let us help you prepare for your future.

LCCC’s Veterans Service Center is a one-stop shop where you can: • Learn how to maximize your veteran’s benefits “LCCC was my best choice because I knew there was a military and veterans • Learn about other scholarships available presence here.” • Talk with a Veterans Certifying Official Anna Lupson, Navy veteran and LCCC • Meet with a Counselor psychology student who is using her • Explore all that LCCC has to offer veterans benefits to attend school. She plans to continue her education through Call LCCC’s Veterans Service Center at 440-366-7685 LCCC’s University Partnership program. or visit www.lorainccc.edu/veterans or email our office at [email protected].

LCCC Veterans ad July August 2016 ad.indd 1 6/6/16 2:21 PM www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩7 Last to Die in World War II A book review by JC Sullivan

tephen Harding is a New York wind of the story of Sergeant Tony the heavily-Italian, south end Army Air Force, later to become our Times bestselling author of Marchione, the last to die in com- of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, his U.S. Air Force. Like so many who, Seight books. He began kicking bat in World War II. parents, Raffaelle Marchione and then and maybe now, he was pressed around the idea for this one over Born into a first-generation Emelia Ciancaglini into a different Military thirty years ago when he first got Italian-American family from had emigrated from Occupational Specialty. the Abruzzo region On August 18, 1945, of Italy; he from San three days after the war Buono and she from supposedly ended, he Scerni. Although born was a gunner/photog- VETERAN nine miles apart in the rapher’s assistant on a Miles Teller and Beulah Koale OWNED same week of June, photo reconnaissance 1877, they married flight over Tokyo in a June 25, 1922 in St. B-32 Dominator from Aloysius Church in the 386th Bombardment Pottstown. Squadron. A Japanese Tony grew up fighter pilot who feared there, graduating the plane was on a mis- from Pottstown High sion to drop another School in 1943. He atom bomb attacked the was a talented guy, plane. Marchione was hit already an accomplished design and died on the floor of the aircraft. draftsman and trumpeter, playing In Pottstown, his family has never in the high school band as well as a forgotten him. small group that earned extra cash Sullivan is a U.S. Army veteran who for them by playing local gigs. served with the 2nd Armored Division Tony wanted to be a flier from (Hell on Wheels). an early age. When World War Two He resides in Northfield Village, broke out he enlisted in the then-US Ohio.

Honoring Our Veterans

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✩8 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com 1230 N Abbe Rd., Elyria, OH 44035 • www.LorainCountyVeterans.com VA CLAIMS ASSISTANCE TRANSPORTATION Our Veterans Service Officers (VSO’s) Transportation is provided to and serve as a liaison to the Department from the VA Medical Facilities in of Veteran’s Affairs (VA). VSO’s advise Wade Park & Parma and the VA Clinic and assist Vets and their family in Sheffield Village. Availability is on members of their rights and/or a first-come, first-serve basis. obtaining possible benefits through A morning shuttle is available to the VA, the State of Ohio and Lorain Wade Park & Parma. Home pick-ups County. are provided for appointments at Services include processing claims for: the VA Clinic in Sheffield Village. • Non-service Connected Pension for Wheelchair accessible service is Wartime Vets (Aid & Attendance/ available. Housebound Pension, and Survivors Pension). TO SCHEDULE A RIDE CALL • Service Connected Compensation. 440.284.4624 • Ohio War Orphans Scholarship. • Notice of Disagreements & Appeals. Departs LCVSO ...... 7:15 a.m.*1 VSO’s also submit application for: Departs JFS...... 7:30 a.m.*1 • Military Awards and Medals. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Departs Valor Home ..... 7:45 a.m.*1 • H.S. Diploma for Wartime Vets. Temporary financial assistance may Departs Elyria ...... 8:00 a.m.*1 • Upgrading Discharges. be available to Veterans or their Arrives W/P ...... 9:15 a.m.*2 • Requests for Discharge (DD 214). widow who show a need and meet Departs W/P ...... 3: 00 p.m.*3 eligibility requirements. Benefits may include but not limited to: Arrives LCVSO ...... 4:30 p.m.*3 • Education Benefits Assistance may be given for rent, PICK-UP & DROP OFF LOCATIONS • VA Home Loan mortgage, property tax, utilities, car LCVSO: 1230 Abbe Rd., Elyria • Burial Benefits payment, insurances, and food or JFS: 42495 North Ridge Rd. personal items. Valor Home: 221 W 20th St., Lorain. Elyria: Admin. Bldg., 226 Middle Ave. Household income, living expenses, *1 May depart earlier if all riders are present. available assets, medical expenses, *2 Approx. time, add 20-30 min. if shuttle goes to Parma. and the special needs of each *3 May depart earlier if all riders are done with their appts. VETERAN ID CARD applicant are considered when ID CARDS are ISSUED ON determining eligibility. THURSDAY & FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Veteran must have been discharged • REQUIREMENTS • under honorable conditions and RESOURCE ROOM RESIDENT OF LORAIN COUNTY served on active duty for purposes Clients are welcome to utilize the HONORABLE DISCHARGE or other than training. Applicant must printer and computers (with internet UNDER HONORABLE CONDITIONS also be a resident of Lorain County access). We also send faxes and have DD214 • VALID PHOTO ID for 90 days prior to application. a notary available for our Veterans. Belgian War Bride Recalls Wartime Romance, Marriage By Jerri Donohue

rom a window in her grandpar- had spotted Corporal Charles raised Simone and her sister after ents’ home in Theux, Belgium, Malachosky in the schoolhouse their mother’s death, did not want FSimone Decoun watched an where Americans distributed food them to associate with soldiers. But American soldier stagger through to ration-weary villagers. it was January 1945, the later stages knee-deep snow, his weapon slung Charlie Malachosky noticed the of the Battle of the Bulge. Americans over a shoulder. stunning teenager, too. He learned were fighting in bitter cold. Simone’s “Oh, no!” she told her sister. her address from another civilian grandfather took pity on Charlie and “Here comes that good-looking G.I.” and came calling. let him come inside. That morning, the 18-year old Simone’s grandparents, who had Thereafter, the Yank visited the Simone Malachosky family everyday. (He later claimed that Simone helped him cheat when they played cards.) They communi- Charlie sailed for the States in the cated with help from an Army-issued spring of 1946. Simone and their phrase book and improvised sign infant daughter followed on the SS language. Brazil, a troop ship carrying war Charlie saw that the pretty Belgian brides. was also feisty and cheerful, and Her husband’s large family gath- Simone realized that her handsome ered in Akron to welcome Simone. suitor was kind and respectful. By The couple initially lived with his the time the Fifth Armored Division mother but soon bought their own moved on to Holland, the two were home when she accused Simone of in love. Charlie promised to return breaking things. and marry Simone. Charlie sponsored Simone’s grand- True to his word, he turned up on parents to come to America, and they furloughs and by briefly going AWOL. stayed for several years. Simone got He had his sister send his baptism a job and her grandmother babysat papers, necessary for a church wed- the Malachoskys’ three daughters. ding, and an engagement ring. He A coworker once triggered Simone’s bought satin for Simone’s wedding wrath by claiming that all war brides gown, and he studied French. had been prostitutes. Meanwhile, Simone worried about Over the years, the Malachoskys her fiancé. As a machine gunner on attended many reunions of the Fifth a half-track, he made an easy target. Armored Division and Veterans of She often went to a nearby chapel the Battle of the Bulge, and they to light a candle for him. One of the returned to Belgium, too. They had nuns eventually greeted her with, been married 69 years when Charlie “Mademoiselle, you have come to died in 2014. pray for your American.” Now 90 years old, Simone attests When the war in Europe ended, to the health benefits of Belgium’s Charlie had the points needed to go Leffe beer (dark only, please) and home, but he volunteered to stay enjoys flipping through photographs on with the Occupation Army. His of her life with Charlie. She happily disapproving major had delayed the recalls the first time she saw the wedding by refusing to sign required curly-haired mustachioed G.I. papers. In the man’s absence, a sympa- “I thought he looked like Clark thetic officer finally completed them. Gable,” she said.

He served his country with honor, now he needs your help.

Community Service Alliance serves northern Community Service Alliance Ohio veterans emerging from homelessness. Fulton House These veterans need our support. 3387 Fulton Road Cleveland, OH 44109 This holiday season, help a veteran by donating 216.351.0655 to Community Service Alliance. Your gift is 100% For more information or to tax deductible. donate online, you can visit No veteran should be homeless. comservealliance.org

✩10 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com

Freshman at Kent or Trooper in Mideast? Trooper! By Nancy Peacock

y the time Ariane Hawkins She was still in boot camp at Fort in the desert heat was daunting and graduated from high school in Leonard Wood in Missouri when they Ariane Hawkins the lengthy fuel convoys took no BZanesville, she was already en- announced her unit was going straight restroom breaks. But the stress of rolled to enter Kent State University in to mobilization in Indiana. From being in a war zone was the hardest the fall of 2003. And that might have there, it was on to Iraq as the second adjustment. been the next phase of her life, had she wave of American forces with the Big “A year after my deployment I was not tagged along with her brothers to Red One, 1st Infantry Division. still experiencing the shock of it, the recruiting office. “The first wave went in and took just trying to calm my body down. “Behind my parents back, I ex- out the regime,” Hawkins said. “In Now I feel totally normal but it took pressed interest to the recruiter that I my wave, the Iraqis were still recover- a while after for me to settle back was interested in doing it myself,” she ing from the shock of what had just into civilian life.” said. “I asked if I could call my parents happened in their country. By the She graduated from Ohio State before I signed and they said sure. My time we left, they had started getting University with a degree in sociol- parents were not home. My mom keeps more creative with their improvised ogy. But it was her truck driving bringing up that day: ‘If we had been at explosives.” experience in the Army that helped home, we would have talked you out of Her unit’s primary mission was her land her first research job. it.’ So I joined.” driving fuel trucks that supplied other Other service benefits? The VA Hawkins admits she was looking for bases. To keep from getting com- loan for her first house, the vet- something more exciting than fresh- placent, her unit rotated jobs every eran discounts at Home Depot and man year at Kent. month. On base, they did perimeter her Humvee. The gunner who normally Lowes, and the free admissions to “The appeal of the adventure and the guard and gate guard. Off base, they would have been standing was sitting zoos and museums she uses as a appeal of getting college paid for were did convoy protection and main line down to eat and missed the shrapnel stay-at-home mom with her two calling to me,” she said. “I thought why fuel supply. that flew up in the explosion. The other small children. not go experience something crazy “It was pretty crazy work,” she said. two times her unit was attacked, she Would she encourage her own and get money for it and then go to “I felt relatively safe on our base, but I was on R&R and on leave. children to do a hitch in the service? college?” was hyper vigilant when I was out of “We were a pretty lucky unit,” she “I would be OK with it,” she said, Hawkins signed up for an eight-year my base.” said. “We never had any losses due to smiling. “What I found with myself contract in the Army Reserves, but She was driving the convoy com- enemy forces.” is that it really isn’t the parents’ spent her first three years active duty. mander when an IED exploded under Wearing 50 pounds of equipment choice.”

“A year after my deployment I was still experiencing the shock of it, just trying to calm my body down. Now I feel totally normal but it took a while after for me to settle back into civilian life.”

Enlisting was WW II WAC’s True Battle By Jerri Donohue

ouella McIntosh’s real wounded soldiers arriving by plane backside. A laughing doctor directed battle occurred before from both theaters of war, cheerfully her pull it out with pliers. L she enlisted. calling out, “Where are you’s from?” One of McIntosh’s brothers served When she graduated Hearing her Pennsylvania accent, in the Pacific theater and another in from high school in 1941, a double amputee replied, “Oh, thank Europe; she was reunited with them the Pennsylvania teenager God! I’m home!” Unbeknownst to in Pennsylvania after the war. wanted to join the WAVES, McIntosh, the traumatized soldier had She met her future husband at the but until she turned 21, she Louella McIntosh refused to speak until then. local American Legion post and the needed her parents’ permis- “The doctors and nurses congratu- couple later moved to Ohio. One of sion. They refused, and so she lated me,” McIntosh said. “They couldn’t their three sons went to Vietnam forged her father’s signature McIntosh’s father keep him quiet for a while.” with the Marines, and another on the papers. had tried to keep The man returned to Pennsylvania. served in the Army. Unfortunately, the Navy detected her out of high school but a truant McIntosh eventually encountered him McIntosh’s husband died shortly her ruse and informed McIntosh’s officer intervened. again in the Aspinwall VA facility where before their 46th anniversary. Dad. An Army veteran of World War “I got to finish high school, but her father was hospitalized with black Children and grandkids gath- I, he held a low opinion of women in it was a fight all the way through,” lung disease. ered from around the country military service. More importantly, he McIntosh said. At Kearney, McIntosh worked on a when McIntosh was chosen Grand wanted McIntosh at home to help care She then received nurse’s training medical ward with patients suffering Marshall of Medina’s Memorial Day for her numerous siblings. The family through the Red Cross. from pneumonia, sore throats and flu. parade two years ago. ultimately numbered 13 children. On her 21st birthday, McIntosh She took vital signs and administered Now 94 years old, the former “It seemed like everything was enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps. shots, and for the non-ambulatory ones, WAC reflects on the benefits of her put on my shoulders to take care of She went to boot camp in Georgia and she wielded bedpans and gave bed baths. military service: work she enjoyed, the kids,” McIntosh said. Her two then reported to the hospital on the One day, she injected a patient with life-long friendships, and most of all, older sisters fled into West Virginia Army airbase in Kearney, Nebraska. penicillin but when she removed the escape from a life of drudgery. and married at age 15 and 16. As part of her duties, she greeted syringe, the needle remained in his “I got away from home,” she said.

✩12 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com VA Prioritizes Improving Veterans’ Access to Pro Bono Legal Services

WASHINGTON — Today, the foreclosure, child support, or drivers’ Centers and other VA facilities to en- legal clinics in its VA Medical Centers, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), license revocations — that can affect gage with their local communities to es- Community Based Outpatient Clinics together with the American Bar their ability to gain or maintain em- tablish legal clinics and Medical Legal and Vet Centers across the country by Association, The Veterans Consortium ployment and housing or focus on Partnerships to address Veterans’ legal partnering with external, legal-service and National Law School Veterans medical treatment. In VA’s annual needs that threaten their health and providers, such as local bar associa- Clinic Consortium, signed a Community Homelessness well-being,” said VA Secretary Dr. David tions, legal-aid organizations and law Memorandum of Agreement aimed at Assessment, Local Education and J. Shulkin. “By signing this agreement, school clinics. improving Veterans’ access to free Networking Groups survey, legal as- we are documenting a shared commit- More information on VA’s coordination legal services. sistance repeatedly tops the list of ment to better facilitate Veterans’ ac- of legal services for Veterans at VA facili- Veterans often face stressful legal homeless Veterans’ unmet needs. cess to legal services.” ties may be found at www.va.gov/OGC/ problems — such as eviction, “We are encouraging VA Medical Currently, VA hosts at least 165 free LegalServices.asp.

FUN, TRAVEL, ADVENTURE GET ON BOARD, GOOD BUDDY! ver see an 18-wheeler cruising down the interstate and tell yourself, “Man, I Understand Ethat’s a good life. On the road, making good money, doing a vital job ... Your Benefits. wonder where he’s going. “ Who among us hasn’t? Cuyahoga Community College, maybe the most innovative community college, is offering Let’s Get You A a training program, its Truck Driving Academy. There is lots to learn. For the CDL-A license New Home! from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the training program is 160 hours. Regan Longstreet

Here is the curriculum: Army Veteran • Driver safety • Combination vehicles Mobile: 216-205-9973 • Transporting cargo safely • Tank vehicles and Fax: 440-331-2840 • Air brakes hazardous materials Each ERASM Office is Independently Owned and Operated [email protected]

We provide two basic services:

1. Temporary emergency financial aid and assistance to eligible veterans and family members who have demonstrated a need as set forth by the Commission. 2. Assist veterans, family members and survivors when applying to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for benefits.

Our assistance includes but is not limited to: • Financial Assistance: Our Pledge • Rent and mortgage payments When you come into the County Veterans Service Office you will be • Utilities: Gas, Electric and Water assisted by one of our knowledgeable associates. The people that work • Food and personal Hygiene items in the Medina County Veterans Service Office have a compassionate • Certain Medical understanding of the problems which confront veterans, widows, • Transportation to and from VA Medical Centers in Cleveland (Louis Stokes widowers, and their families. Hospital), Parma and Akron CBOC’s, Ohio Sincerely, • Grave markers and flags Veterans Service Staff • Free Notary for Veterans & Families

Service Assistance: • Preparations of forms and paperwork • Documentation of claims and pertinent data • Proper submission of claims to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs thru a service organization Contact us: • Submission for awards decorations and medals • Notary Public & DD 214 Certification 210 Northland Dr. ‐ Medina, Ohio 44256 [email protected] Our services are FREE of charge! www.medinacountyveterans.org www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩13 WALSH UNIVERSITY VA Needed Only Three Years to Create Serving those that Served our Country VA ID Cards

For Six Straight Years, Walsh Has Been WASHINGTON — Today the U.S. Department of Veterans Recognized as a Military Friendly School Affairs (VA) announced that the application process for the national Veterans Identification Card (VIC) is now available for Veterans — yet another action honoring their service. This has been mandated through legislation since 2015 to Yellow Ribbon honor Veterans, and today’s rollout of the ID card fulfills that Program Partner overdue promise. Only those Veterans with honorable service will be able to Military Tuition apply for the ID card, which will provide proof of military ser- Discounts vice, and may be accepted by retailers in lieu of the standard DD-214 form to obtain promotional discounts and other ser- Early Registration vices where offered to Veterans. Options for Veterans “The new Veterans Identification Card provides a safer and more convenient and efficient way for most Veterans to show Book Vouchers School for proof of service,” said VA Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin. Professional (to help defray the cost of texts) Studies “With the card, Veterans with honorable service to our nation will no longer need to carry around their paper DD-214s to *For those that qualify obtain Veteran discounts and other services.” For more information, contact Zachary Burkey The VIC provides a more portable and secure alternative for at 330.490.7650 or [email protected]. those who served the minimum obligated time in service, but did not meet the retirement or medical discharge threshold. Veterans who served in the armed forces, including the reserve components, and who have a discharge of honorable or 4.875x6_Veterans ad bw_16_2.indd 1 8/4/16 3:54 PM general (under honorable conditions) can request a VIC. To request a VIC, Veterans must visit vets.gov, click on “Apply for Printed Veteran ID Card” on the bottom left of the page and sign in or create an account. Please Like DD214 Chronicle Veterans who apply for a card should receive it within 60 days and can check delivery status of their cards at vets.gov. A on Facebook! digital version of the VIC began online last month.

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✩14 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com CLEVELAND’S ROBERT P. MADISON FOUGHT FOR COUNTRY, EQUALITY; AN HONORABLE MAN By Barry Goodrich

Madison would go on to become such projects as the Rock and Roll Hall seeing the gangplanks that led to Western Reserve’s first African of Fame, FirstEnergy Stadium and the slavery ships. American graduate and the first licensed Great Lakes Science Center. “During the war, we had to be quicker black architect in the state of Ohio. Madison himself designed the U.S. and more alert, better than anyone else,” Today, Robert P. Madison International Embassy in Dakar, Senegal, a project said Madison of his unit. “As my mother Inc. is one of the country’s top archi- near and dear to his heart. While in used to say, we had to be twice as good Robert P. Madison tectural firms, collaborating locally on Senegal, he was deeply moved after to be equal.”

s a member of the U.S. Army’s African American 92nd A Infantry Division during World War II, Robert P. Madison fought two wars – one for his country and another for his dignity. Madison’s unit, often referred to as the Buffalo Soldiers (a group of black soldiers first known for their bravery during the American-Indian wars), was segregated from the Army’s other units. During training at Fort Huachuca, Arizona and Fort Benning in Georgia, Madison and his fellow soldiers were not allowed in the same barracks as the white soldiers and had to ride in separate trucks. “We were traveling on a troop train in Virginia and stopped in a town but we were not allowed off the train,” remembers the 93-year-old Madison. “We had to wait until the train went into the woods before we could get off and relieve ourselves.” Madison, a graduate of East Tech High School, joined up with the ROTC program at Howard University in Washington, D.C., where he was studying to become an architect. In September, 1944, his 92nd Infantry unit was sent to Italy, where they would soon liberate the town of Lucca. “The white soldiers had told the villagers the black monkeys were coming,” he said. “But they came out and greeted us as heroes. That was the turning point in our morale.” Following a Christmas celebration in December, 1944, Madison’s driver was too hung over to drive so the officer took his Jeep out on his own. He ended up being blown out of the Jeep when it was struck by a German artillery shell, receiv- ing shrapnel in his stomach and ankle. Soldiers from an outpost just 100 yards away would save his life. “That shell hit the side of the Jeep where I should have been sitting,” Madison said. “And if it had missed, the Germans would have been waiting for me right down the road.” Following the war, Madison was told he could not enroll at Western Reserve University (Case Western Reserve today) in Cleveland. He did not accept that ver- dict lightly. Madison returned to campus and appeared before the school’s dean of admissions, this time wearing his Army uniform and Purple Heart medal. www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩15 It was a joyful celebration for Courage to Change graduates Michael CHANGED Schneider, Ebony Croom, Carl Cook (Program Director) and Mary Travers.

LIVES now have been reunited with their “Having that strong base helps us families, have their own homes, and to learn to deal with practical issues he Metanoia Project has been for many, steady employment. like finding permanent housing and helping shelter-resistant Recent program graduates shared a job. It saved my life.” homeless men and women their thoughts on how Metanoia “Metanoia” literally means a rever- Tsince it was established in 2008 has helped them. Mary and Ebony sal in thinking, and The Metanoia using the principles of Dorothy Co-Founder and Program Director, described themselves as loners, Project does look differently at their Day’s radical hospitality. Each year Carl Cook, who said, “We meet people and both suffered from illness. Life guests as they attempt to develop from November through April, the exactly where they are at, and when improved for these single moms who personal relationships with them, first floor of St. Malachi School is they are ready, we walk with them were inspired by their children to and also helps their guests to look transformed into a hospitality center to help them improve the quality of help them through the hard work differently at themselves, too. where men and women have the their lives as they focus on core issues the program calls for. “There defi- Megan Crow, Executive Director, opportunity to eat, sleep safely in a and often, the development of new nitely is a spiritual foundation that states, “We are very proud of the warm space, and take advantage of values.” Carl Cook has a real passion runs throughout the program – and work that we do here by helping the many services that The Metanoia for Metanoia and his heart lies in it helps you find yourself again.” people in an atmosphere of respect Project offers its guests to help them serving and giving back. He sees the Ebony added, “The people in the pro- and acceptance. We all wish to thank put their lives back together. changes in people take root every gram are like a family, and together Community West Foundation for One of the most important ser- day as they regain their self-reliance. we help each other with the pain we their continued support and belief in vices offered is the opportunity to Carl has worked with hundreds of have in our lives, and help each other the work that we do. Thanks to this participate in The Courage to Change men and women who have partici- as we find a new faith, and hope.” wonderful partnership we are chang- Program, facilitated by Metanoia pated in this program, many of whom Graduate Michael Schneider added, ing lives for a brighter future.”

Dominion Energy Awards $50,000 to Cuyahoga Community College to Support Veterans’ Educational and Employment Efforts

ominion Energy en return to civilian life their first college de- ny’s more than 16,000 has presented a only to struggle with em- gree. Tri-C helps vet- employees are veterans. D$50,000 grant to ployment, financial hard- erans transition into “We have found that the Cuyahoga Community ships, housing or health student life with as- veterans possess many College (Tri-C) Foundation issues,” said Hunter A. sistance in preparatory of the skill sets we of Cleveland, part of an Applewhite, president coursework comple- seek in our workforce, overall $550,000 awarded of the Dominion Energy tion, college access and including safety con- to eleven nonprofit orga- Charitable Foundation. academic skills devel- sciousness, civic mind- nizations providing es- “These grants will help opment, all leading edness and a strong sential support services to to strengthen programs Tracy Oliver , Director, Media & Local Affairs, Dominion Energy to graduation and/or work ethic,” notes Jeff active duty, veterans and that provide an important Ohio, Matthew Miller, Manager, Veterans Program Services transfer to a four-year Murphy, vice president military families, in seven safety net for veterans at Tri-C, Dr. Donna Imhoff, President, Cuyahoga Community school. and general manager– states served by the com- and their families seek- College, Western Campus, Jennifer Kudla, Director of The Dominion Energy Ohio & West Virginia Development, Tri-C pany. The Dominion Ener- ing employment, shelter, Charitable Foundation Distribution Opera- gy Charitable Foundation, medical care and more.” to adaptive sports, fam- outreach programs, in- received proposals from tions, Gas Infrastruc- the company’s philan- The selected programs ily retreats, housing and cluding job fairs and 60 nonprofit organi- ture Group. thropic arm, administered offer a variety of commu- transportation. Dominion workshops on accessing zations for this com- Dominion Energy the veterans’ grants. nity-based services – from Energy recognized Tri-C benefits. petitive grant program. (NYSE: D), headquar- “Many of our brave ser- specialized workforce for its veterans’ initiatives “We appreciate the Dominion Energy em- tered in Richmond, is vicemen and servicewom- and financial training, and military community long-term partnership ployees who also are one of the nation’s larg- that Dominion Energy veterans participated in est producers and trans- Ohio has shared with the final selection. porters of energy. The Cuyahoga Community Dominion Energy is Dominion Energy Char- Elmwood College,” said Dr. Alex active in the recruit- itable Foundation is Richard G. Lillie, Ph.D. Johnson, president of ment and support of dedicated to improving Tri-C. “This gift in par- veterans in its work- the physical, social and Home Bakery Lawyer ticular will serve thou- force, as well as in the economic well-being of Specializing in the following: sands of veterans and community. The com- the communities served their families as they pany is a founding by Dominion Energy.  Grand Jury Defense and turn to Tri-C for high- partner in the national The Foundation sup- Investigations quality education and Troops to Energy Jobs ports nonprofit causes  Criminal Defense workforce training dur- program, which helps that meet basic human  White Collar Criminal Defense ing the transition back military members find needs, protect the envi- We Specialize in Wedding,  Commercial Litigation to civilian life.” rewarding careers in the ronment, promote edu- Anniversary, Birthday 216-861-1313 Since 1973, Tri-C’s energy industry. Cur- cation and encourage Veterans Education Ac- rently, one in five, or 20 community vitality. and Party Cakes Email: [email protected] cess Program has pro- percent, of new hires at For more information, 216-221-4338 75 Public Square, Suite 213 vided support services Dominion Energy is a visit the company’s web- 15204 Madison Ave., Lakewood OH 44107 Cleveland, Ohio 44113-2011 to eligible veterans in- veteran, and about 11 site at www.dominionen- [email protected] www.lillieholderman.com terested in pursuing percent of the compa- ergy.com.

✩16 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com VETERAN STUDENT + Are you ready to continue your education? BW offers a great adult learning community and all the resources of one of “America’s Best Colleges.” • Choose from programs for bachelor degree completion, accelerated BSN, Physician Assistant, MBA, or MAEd. • Classes are offered in Berea and at Corporate College East. Some courses are available online. • Your DD214 gives you up to 25 hours of college credit. Other military training and previous college credit may count toward degree requirements. • Post 9/11 Veterans: BW is proud to be part of the Yellow Ribbon program. Your G.I. Bill benefits may make your BW educationtuition free! Contact an admission counselor today! Go to www.bw.edu/military or call 440-826-8012.

Baldwin Wallace does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, age, disability, national origin, gender or sexual orientation in the administration of any policies or programs.

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www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩17 Female Truck Driver Traveled Rough Road - With Good Companions By Jerri Donohue hen the 762nd Transpor ing from morning to dusk rary bridges constructed by Army tation Company deployed before stopping inside engineers. W in 2003, Army reservist the gates of an American Her deployment delayed the re- Aneta Mullins took her turn at the camp. Some of their des- servist’s wedding by a year. She wheel during 10- and 12-hour shifts. tinations had good chow married her patient fiancé, another Like her driving partner, she slept on halls and hot showers; veteran, when she returned to the a cot beneath the trailer of their semi others did not. States. Mullins stayed in the Re- during long hauls, and she kept her “It’s just like camping,” serves until 2008. She credits the M-16 with her all the time. Mullins said. “Hence, I Army for her ability to calmly mul- Gradually Mullins earned the re- never camp now.” titask under pressure in her job as a spect of other soldiers in a male-dom- At Easter 2004, Mul- police dispatcher. inated MOS. lins was at Baghdad In- “Whatever I do on the civilian side “The first six months I proved my- Aneta Mullins ternational Airport is nothing compared to the situa- self,” she said. “I didn’t ask for help (BIAP) when insurgents tions we were in in Iraq,” she said. or shy away from any jobs.” She was attacked. Currently the president of Medina promoted to sergeant during her expectations. She didn’t object to “We were under siege,” she said. County Women of the Military, she deployment. Playboy pin-ups and conversation “Mortars were coming in and they enjoys comparing her experiences Mullins was aware of gender dis- other women would find offensive. [the enemy] were trying to come with those of older female veterans. crimination, sexual harassment and “As long as it wasn’t about me or over the walls.” “It’s interesting to see how much sexual assault in the military. to me, I didn’t care what they talked Mullins had trained as a combat things have changed,” she said. “It’s “But I was with really good people, about,” Mullins said. “I didn’t dis- lifesaver. also interesting to see what has not a really good platoon,” she said. rupt how they do things and so I “Convoys were getting hit out- changed.” While stationed at Camp Navistar think they accepted me.” side the gate,” she said. “When they Mullins encourages female vet- on the border of Kuwait and Iraq, the The company hauled supplies, ve- could actually get into the base, I erans from all branches to at- company’s 20 women could have oc- hicles and ammunition in convoys was helping treat the wounded.” tend the group’s social hour at cupied a females-only tent. Instead, that could include 60 vehicles. Because insurgents had blown Dragon Buffet in Medina on Sat- they opted to remain with their re- When on mission, the drivers up bridges, Mullins’s group was urday, January 27 at 11:30 and spective co-ed squads. sometimes left Camp Navistar for stuck at the airport for 17 days. to visit www.facebook.com/ Mullins said she was realistic in her 2-week stretches or longer, travel- The trucks finally left on tempo- MedinaCountyWomenoftheMilitary.

A BUDDING CAREER Collegiate Landscape Competition. The opportunities in this field. I know there inner city. Nikki Barrett earns certificate in annual competition attracts the top are good jobs out there that I’m going to “I’d like to be the type of teacher landscape contracting horticulture and landscape schools in be prepared to take.” that inspires students and helps them to build professional credentials the country. through life’s inevitable uphill battles,” Barrett helped Tri-C place first among EDUCATION AS AN ART FORM he said. ikki Barrett spent the past eight community colleges and fifth overall at Pedro Torres moved from Mexico to Torres applied to Tri-C in 2011 Nyears tending to a community the 2017 competition, held in March at Cleveland’s west side with his family after graduating high school but ul- garden in her Cuyahoga Falls neighbor- Brigham Young University in Utah. in 2001. The youngest of six kids, he timately chose to join the U.S. Army. hood, adding beauty and a dash of color “We have a nationally recognized always had an artistic bent. “I loved His experiences as part of the 173rd to the corner of Curtis Avenue and program,” she said. “I don’t think people drawing and painting,” he said. Airborne in Italy equipped him with Anderson Road. realize what’s valuable skills and a drive to achieve Look for her work to be more wide- here.” orres at- that led him back to the College four spread in the future following her Barrett will Ttended years later. studies at Cuyahoga Community College compete again Max S. Hayes He credits Tri-C’s abundance of (Tri-C®). in 2018 as High School, resources and supportive instructors The 49-year-old U.S. Air Force veteran she continue where his for helping ensure his success over the graduated in December with a certificate her studies at art teacher past two years. He took all of his class- in landscape contracting through the the College helped secure es at the Western Campus in Parma. College’s Plant Science and Landscape this spring a scholarship “Small classes and a real community Technology program. Consider it a with classes for him to culture at Tri-C made me the student stepping-stone on a new career path. such as soil attend the I am,” Torres said. “Having access to “I always loved gardening,” Barrett technology and Cleveland programs like TRIO and Hispanic said, “but Tri-C showed me how to turn arboriculture. Institute of Council kept me focused, and I was that into a career.” She is working Art. That act never without a mentor.” She enrolled at the College in 2016 toward an Associate of Applied Science inspired Torres to become a teacher Though Torres has little time to after spending years at home raising degree and another graduation day. himself. devote to art these days, a sponsorship her two sons, Jack (15) and Joseph (13). Her long-term goal is to work within The 25-year-old graduated from awarded through Tri-C’s Hispanic Barrett said she immediately found a Northeast Ohio’s booming greenhouse Tri-C in December with an Associate of Council allowed him to create a piece family atmosphere within the program industry. Arts degree and plans to enroll in John for the Doors to My Barrio traveling art at Eastern Campus. “Tri-C has provided me an oppor- Carroll University’s education program exhibit this past summer. The project Within a year, she became part of the tunity to pursue a career I really like,” in the spring. He hopes to become an gave local artists the opportunity to team representing Tri-C at the National Barrett said. “There are many, many art and Spanish teacher in Cleveland’s show pride in their Hispanic heritage.

✩18 DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 www.dd214chronicle.com The Long Run: Rocky Bleier’s Inspirational Journey By Barry Goodrich

n 1968, Rocky Bleier was drafted He is a sought after motivational underwent a rigorous training twice -- in the 16th round by the speaker whose clients have includ- regimen and, by 1974, he was in the I Pittsburgh Steelers and in the ed AT&T, Time Warner and Alltel Steelers’ starting backfield. “When first round by Uncle Sam. and also has a construction firm I got back from Vietnam I weighed “I was walking out of a meeting in specializing in VA work. 163 pounds. By 1973, I weighed training camp and the head coach Recuperating from his wounds in 218 pounds and was benching 465 Bill Austin was standing there with Tokyo, Bleier was told not to expect pounds and squatting 600 pounds.” an envelope,” remembers Bleier. “It to play football again as his foot At the time of his retirement in 1980, was my 1A classification had lost most of its strength and Bleier had played on four Steelers’ letter.” Bleier’s improb- flexibility. “That sucked some hope Super Bowl teams, rushing for 3,865 By May of 1969, able success story out of me at that moment,” he said. yards and 25 touchdowns. Bleier found himself in defies description. “A couple of days later I got a post- Bleier says his athletic background Vietnam as a member of From the apart- card. It read Team’s not doing well. helped him during his adjustment to the 4th Division, 31st ment above his We need you…Art Rooney.’ That note Army life as well as his recovery from Regiment of the 196th father’s family bar in gave me hope.” the injuries that earned him a Purple Light Infantry Brigade. Appleton, Wisconsin During his first training camp Heart and Bronze Star. “Athletes In August of that year, Bleier was to the University of Notre Dame to back with the Steelers in 1970, Bleier can compartmentalize. You don’t wounded twice in Heip Duc when he Vietnam to Pittsburgh, his saga has suffered through practices. “Nobody feel sorry for yourself and you don’t was shot in the thigh and sustained been filled with enough achievement, ever expected me to come back and think about getting hurt. I was very a serious injury to his lower leg and despair and triumph for several life- play, not even the players,” he said. coachable…when a sergeant told me foot from an enemy grenade. times and was immortalized in the First-year head coach Chuck Noll was to do something I did it. “The grenade hit my CO in the back 1980 ABC movie Fighting Back: The forced to cut Bleier from the team. When asked about his remarkable and rolled towards where I was,” said Rocky Bleier Story. “I was emotionally devastated,” said life, the personable Bleier laughed, Bleier. “I jumped out of the way but it Today, the 71-year-old Bleier oper- Bleier. saying “I’ve been in the right place at blew up through my right foot.” ates Rocky Bleier Inc. in Pittsburgh. For the next two years, Bleier the right time.”

www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle January/February 2018 ✩19 GrowinG StronGer CommunitieS.

we’re putting down deep roots and giving back to the communities we serve.

we think it’s only natural to cultivate meaningful relationships volunteering over 130,000 hours of their time. From refurbishing in the communities where we live and work. And at Dominion, homeless shelters to replenishing local food banks to cleaning that means we do more than write checks. So while we’re up parks to helping soldiers and their families, we’re donating very proud to invest more than $20 million in our communities the most precious resource of all: our energy. Learn more by annually, we’re even prouder of Dominion’s employees for visiting dom.com/foundation.