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By Charlene Rubush, February 1, 2013 5:26 pm

The national salute kicks off each year with the VA’s popular “Valentines for Vets” program.

Individuals, Veterans groups, military personnel, civic organizations, businesses, schools, local media, celebrities and sports stars traditionally deliver valentines or visit the more than 98,000 Veterans of the United States armed services who are cared for every day in Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) medical facilities, outpatient clinics, domiciliaries, and community living centers.

While the National Salute kicks off in mid-February, Americans can show their appreciation to our Veterans all year long, by volunteering their time or donating to VA medical facilities.

No medical experience is necessary and volunteers are encouraged to share ideas on using their unique skills. To find opportunities, visit your nearest VA medical facility or visit http://www.volunteer.va.gov

Citizens can also make a difference through E-Donate, an online donation option at

http://www.volunteer.va.gov/apps/VolunteerNow/

I know myself how much volunteers contribute to the VA. When my husband (former Army vet- 14 years of service) and I must travel long distances for medical care, we often take advantage of the VA’s shuttle service.

We are so very grateful for the many volunteer drivers who give of their time to see that we make it to and from our appointments. I can’t imagine what we would do without them.

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By Charlene Rubush, May 19, 2010 10:59 pm

In a May 20^th, 2010 article by Scott Williams (greenbaypressgazette.com) we learn that there was an emotional and patriotic ceremony in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, to greet the traveling Vietnam War memorial. The event kicked off a three-day tribute to Vietnam veterans.

The scaled-down version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. will stand just west of Lambeau Field throughout the LZ Lambeau event this weekend. Continue reading 'The Moving Wall Pays Tribute to Vietnam Veterans in Wisconsin'»

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By Charlene Rubush, May 13, 2010 10:21 pm

Never underestimate the power of music to change the world.-

 A quote from a wise man

 Who They Are:

Project Troops was founded by Tamra Lynn Smith, in 2008. Tamra is the Proud Mother of an Army son. Wanting to make a difference for her son and others through music, she started writing music to support her son while he was in Iraq.

Soon, other fellow artists such as LanternLane, Randall Johns, Carmella Inchinchiera, Rich Owen, Iam Nelson, Dave Sanford, and other good friends joined together to help write and create very special and unique songs for our military.

The music tells their stories in a way people can understand.

Unless you have walked in the boots of a soldier or have been a loved one left behind to worry every single day they are away, and knowing they are put in harm’s way…

It is hard to understand the realities and hardships of war and the challenges that our Military Members, Families, and our veterans face.

The challenge doesn’t stop when they come home either, because “every soldier who has seen war is changed for life.”

Their Mission:

Project Troops is dedicated to making a difference through their music. Their goals are to raise awareness of hard hitting issues like PTSD, what the families go through and feel while worrying about their loved ones or how our Veterans feel after they come back home. They are dedicated to standing up for our veterans and for Veterans and Soldiers Rights.

 Their Goals:

Project Troops goal is to raise money for charities that support our Military, Veterans and families through the sales of their songs and also to share their music with as many military people as they can.

Their Message:

“Project Troops keeps growing as do the artists who join us to make a difference. It is only in numbers that we can make a difference and have a voice when needed. We hope you will join us in our support and take time to listen to our music.”

http://www.projecttroops.startlogic.com

Charlene’s Note:

I continue to be amazed by the many wonderful organizations helping our returning combat vets and their families. It is most important to make them aware of these resources. The beauty and power of blogs to raise awareness and impart information!