Tag Archives: American Legion

The Heinzen-Ditter & American Legions Veterans Program was a Success!

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On Nov. 9, 2019, Dean Sherman and I attended the VFW and American Legion Program.  As usual, the program was well attended with representation from all age groups.  The breakfast was tasty.  And the strength of character and service readily apparent at the VFW.
The Speaker, Major Derek J. Plymate, Ret. reviewed his extensive military history  and some of the  “why” for his service. He served in many dangerous combat zones with temperatures ranging up to 140 F.   On his “safe” days he supervised and moved explosives and munitions of all types. His presentation contained important reminders about service, sacrifice, loss as well as humor.
The many Scouts in attendance listened carefully to Major Plymate’s reflections on service  and his profound respect for other Veterans.  His simple reminder was to always express appreciation to Veterans when possible with “Thanks for your Service ” as this is appreciated.  Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon clearly agrees with his reminder and observation.
Kudos to Jim Heimerl, VFW Commander and his crew in making this program a success.
Gary Goldetsky, Psy.D, LP, President, Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

The American Legion’s national online mental health survey

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As you are well aware, we are in the midst of a crisis involving the high rate of veteran suicide. The American Legion is focused on understanding the causes and ensuring that effective treatments and resources are available to all veterans.

That is why the Legion is conducting a national online mental health survey, which was launched on May 16, 2019, in an effort to find effective ways to reduce and prevent veteran suicide. Hundreds have responded so far, but many more are needed.

Now, The American Legion needs your help to address this issue. Learn more about why this survey is so important.

We need to understand the causes and ensure that effective treatments and resources are available to all veterans. The American Legion is dedicated to help all veterans suffering from thoughts of suicide regardless of where they live. Traumatic Brain Injury, depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are some of the serious issues that this survey can help us better understand.

I implore you to take a few minutes of your time to fill out the mental health survey. All responses are confidential, and no personal information is collected.

This research is critical in our effort to address this crisis and improve mental health treatment for veterans and their caregivers. Our policy and resolutions on these important issues have the power to save the lives of our brothers and sisters. Encourage other post members, veterans, and caregivers in your community to take the survey as well, because the only way forward is together.

Veterans, servicemembers and caregivers can go directly to the online survey here.

Thank you for potentially saving lives and giving this your full support. And remember if you or a loved one are having thoughts of suicide, the VA crisis line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line at (800) 273-8255 and press 1. Or text 838255.

For God and Country,

Brett Reistad
National Commander

 

American Legion Mental Health Survey. Take It Now.

PBYR assists service member with temporary housing

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On December 27, 2017 the Bloomington Family Assistance Center (FAC) encountered a Service Member that needed temporary housing for 3 weeks prior to starting National Guard Training.  PBYR and The American Legion quickly partnered to house the Service Member at an Extended Stay Motel.  The Service Member was very pleased that she  was protected from homelessness prior to starting training, especially with the severe winter weather upon us in Minnesota.

Kudos to all that were able to agree to effectively partner in such a helpful manner!!  PBYR wishes the Service Member well in her future training and a Happy and Healthy New Year. We thank her for her planned service! And PBYR acknowledges the assistance and support from our partners –the American Legion and John Wagle, Bloomington FAC Representative!

Gary Goldetsky, Psy.D, LP, PBYR President

PBYR Participates at Plymouth Home Depot’s Military Appreciation Day Event

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We were able to visit  with fellow vendors and shared several tables with the Heinzen-Ditter VFW,  Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve and the American Legion.   There was a  light stream of folks visiting our tables.

Several people decided to join our network on Saturday and will be added to our mail distribution list soon.  We received a very small amount of donations, however the real purpose of the event is for  PBYR to express appreciation to Vets and Service Members and support our partner Home Depot in the event.  Jim Heimerl expertly demonstrated flag folding and gave some history about handling the flag.