Showing posts with label veterans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label veterans. Show all posts

King County partners with University of Washington to open free veteran civil legal services clinic

Monday, September 9, 2024

King County Executive Dow Constantine and the University of Washington School of Law announced a new partnership to open a free civil legal services clinic for veterans, servicemembers, and their families.

Starting in early 2025, law students will work with the Veterans Clinic to provide free legal advice, representation, and services to veterans seeking benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and other legal assistance.

“The Veterans Clinic not only provides free civil legal services for veterans and their families, helping those who have served our country secure the benefits they deserve, but it helps to train and create a network of qualified attorneys specializing in the needs of veterans,” said Executive Constantine.
“After completing their training, with the expertise gained by working in the clinic, these future lawyers can continue to serve King County’s veteran community.”

Filing a claim for veterans’ benefits can be a complex process. It involves navigating intricate paperwork, understanding eligibility criteria, and meeting specific documentation requirements. Veterans with disabilities may also encounter further difficulty navigating the claims process and require the assistance of someone trained to file or appeal claims or request the correction of documents or military records.

The law students will be trained to understand the complexities of the veteran service system to ensure claims are accurately and completely filed, reducing the likelihood of delays or denials.

“As the first law school in Washington state, now in our 125th year, our Clinical Law Program has a 45-year history of service to communities in need, including the veteran population.
"Through the new UW Veterans Clinic, twelve to fifteen law students each academic year will engage in direct, continuous pro bono representation of King County veterans,” said Tamara F. Lawson, Toni Rembe Dean and professor of law at the University of Washington School of Law.
“Our Clinical Law Program is well situated to handle veterans’ cases that require extensive factual and legal research, and we are well positioned to handle complex cases, work with accredited VSO representatives in support of initial claims and prepare subsequent appeals.”

Veterans can schedule an appointment with the clinic to receive benefits claims assistance and support in obtaining and correcting military records, including the corrections necessary to substantiate benefit claims or correct an injustice in the military record, such as separation due solely to gender or sexuality.

The clinic will also help veterans, current servicemembers, and their families with eligibility requirements and available benefits, submission of initial claims, gathering the necessary documentation, navigating the appeal process for denied claims, and connection to resources to address other legal issues outside of Veterans Affairs claims.

The Veterans Clinic is funded by the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy, VSHSL. The VSHSL was renewed by King County voters for the fourth time in August 2023, by the highest approval rating in its history.

This new investment will help meet the increasing need for legal assistance in obtaining veteran benefits.

Details on how veterans can connect with the Veterans Clinic and make an appointment will be shared on the University of Washington School of Law’s website.


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Forgotten Union Veterans of the Civil War are honored in ceremony at Evergreen Washelli

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Honor Guard by the Sons of the American Revolution
Photo by Doug Cerretti

By Doug Cerretti

I had the distinct privilege to honor 29 veterans who served during time of war and 31 women who supported them at Evergreen-Washelli Funeral Home (11111 Aurora Ave N Seattle, WA 98133) on Wednesday, August 21, 2024. 

While we honor all veterans equally, these veterans are unique. For one, these cremated remains were unclaimed. We do not know the machinations that occurred when these veterans and spouses died but no one, not even family members claimed them.

Cremated remains of 29 Union Veterans of the Civil War and 31 Spouses
Photo by Doug Cerretti

With the support of Dignity Memorial, parent company of Evergreen-Washelli, the Missing in American Project (MIAP) discovered these unclaimed cremains on shelves in the basement of local funeral homes. 

After many research hours, volunteers from MIAP validated the identity of these cremains and that they were veterans. 

As MIAP Vice-President Clyde Taylor said, 
“Veterans signed a blank check to the United States when they enlisted which include payment up to and including their life. In return they are promised a dignified and honorable military burial.

"Through the effort of MIAP and Dignity Memorial, these unclaimed cremains are now claimed fulfilling that obligation. 

"The finding of so many unclaimed cremains is sad but I believe even worse for those who have served our country." 

This happens more often than many of us are aware of; two years ago, Dignity Memorial and MIAP reclaimed 123 veterans as was described in the Shoreline Area News

The other unique thing about these cremains is that they are Union veterans of the Civil War and their cremains have been unclaimed for over 100 years! 

As the colors were carried in for the ceremony by the Washington National Guard, Ashokan Farewell was played. 

Ashokan Farewell was written in 1982 by Jay Ungar and was played several times in Ken Burns’ PBS Civil War miniseries in 1990 and this song will forever be linked to the Civil War. The song tugs your emotions of loss, longing and sorrow as you think of those that fought in the War Between the States. (Listen to it here)

Union Veterans and Spouses whose remains were unclaimed for over 100 years
Each one was honored at the ceremony
Photo by Doug Cerretti

Many Union veterans moved west after the war to start a new life away from the horrors they experienced and many of them traveled to Washington State. 

They included George L. Camp (1835-1918) a soldier of the 92nd Ohio Infantry who survived being shot during the Battle of Missionary Ridge in 1863 and lived in Seattle until 1918, along with his wife, Ernestine. 

William O'Neal (1846 - 1919) a soldier of the 45th Ohio infantry who was a survivor of the horrors of the notorious Andersonville prison camp.

Emeline Mattice (1831 - 1913), is representative of the toll taken by war on families and the home front. Her husband survived the war but he died shortly after. She lost her two brothers in the war, one died of disease in 1862 and another died in battle in Virginia just before Lee's surrender at Appomattox in 1865.

Richard Heisler from Civil War Seattle said that in 1880 there were 75 Union veterans in Seattle and by 1905 there were 2000 in King County and 3000 in Washington State, more per capita than any state in the Union. And here they lived the rest of their lives. 

The last Seattle Union veteran, Hiram Randall Gale, passed away in 1951 at the age of 104.

Remains of Chauncy Roscoe and his wife Bessie
are carried at Tahoma National Cemetery
Photo by Doug Cerretti


On Thursday August 22, 2024, the claimed cremains of these Union veterans and their spouses were transported to Tahoma National Cemetery (18600 SE 240th St Kent, WA 98042) for their final honors and final resting place. 

Their names were spoken as they were carried from the hearse individually or as husband and wife through an honor line of the Sons of the American Revolution. 

 21-Musket Salute by the Historical 4th Infantry Regiment
Photo by Doug Cerretti

The Union veterans were finally honored with a musket volley by the Historical 4th Infantry Regiment, taps by Debbie Dawson, Peninsula Veteran Honor Guard and Flag Folding Ceremony by the Washington Army National Guard. 

As Matt Fox, Dignity Memorial, said, “It is long overdue that these veterans and their spouses are laid to rest and as we speak their names, they live a little longer with stories and memories of families we will never know.”


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Remains of World War I Soldier to be buried in Lake Forest Park

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Acacia Memorial Park Cemetery in Lake Forest Park

FORT KNOX, Ky. – The remains of U.S. Army Pfc. Charles McAllister, a Soldier killed during World War I, will be interred Aug. 21 at Acacia Memorial Park Cemetery, Lake Forest Park WA. Acacia Memorial Park Funeral Home will perform graveside services preceding the interment.

Pfc. Charles A. McAllister
A native of Seattle, McAllister was assigned to Company I, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, American Expeditionary Force, U.S. Army, in France. 

He was reported missing in action July 19, 1918, and subsequently presumed killed in action during the 1st Infantry Division’s advance in the Aisne-Marne offensive in France.

In 2002 a French archeology company discovered two individual sets of what appeared to be WWI remains in the village of Ploisy, which the company turned over to U.S. government personnel. Years later, McAllister was accounted for by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency April 15, 2024, after his remains were identified through laboratory analysis.

The Past Conflict Repatriations Branch, under the Army Casualty and Mortuary Affairs Operations Division at the U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky, plays a key role in the process of locating Family members of missing Soldiers from WWII, the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

The process begins with locating the Family member most closely related to the missing Soldier, known as the primary next of kin, followed by a request for Family reference samples or DNA, which are used as a main source in identifying remains.

Once a Soldier has been identified by the Armed Forces Medical Examiner, the PCRB notifies and briefs the Family about the results of historical, forensic and DNA reports, benefits and the mortuary process including burial with full military honors.

Anyone interested in obtaining more information about the funeral and interment should contact the Army Casualty Office at (800) 892-2490 and/or Acacia Memorial Park Funeral Home, (206) 814-7224.

Updated with photo of Pfc. Charles A. McAllister


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Shoreline Veterans Association selling memorial bricks at Shoreline Farmers Market

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Shoreline Veterans Association at the Shoreline Farmers Market

The Shoreline Veterans Association (SVA) is sponsoring a booth at the Shoreline Farmer Market this Saturday, to display engraved bricks that are installed at the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza to honor veterans.

The Recognition Plaza has five benches where you can sit, relax and contemplate the names engraved on the bricks. The Plaza is located at Shoreline City Hall, at the base of the flagpole, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133.

Please visit the SVA this Saturday and learn about the stories behind the engraved bricks and consider having a brick installed at the Plaza to honor a veteran past, present or future in your family so that the Plaza can tell new stories.

For a donation of $100 (tax deductible) an engraved brick will be placed in the Plaza to honor a past, present or future veteran.


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Veterans booth at Shoreline Farmers Market displayed engraved bricks honoring veterans at the Recognition Plaza

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Veteerans bricks at the Shoreline Farmers Market

Story and photos by Doug Cerretti

The Shoreline Veterans Association (SVA) sponsored a booth at the Shoreline Farmer Market this past Saturday, June 29 to display engraved bricks that are installed at the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza to honor veterans. 


For a donation of $100 (tax deductible) an engraved brick will be placed in the Plaza to honor a past, present or future veteran.

It is a joy meeting people at the Market and telling them about the Plaza and how they can honor a veteran. What I am amazed at is how many people have visited Shoreline City Hall but have not seen the Plaza???

Veterans RecognitionPlaza at City Hall
This was hard to fathom but it may be that people have not seen the Plaza because you enter City Hall from the east and west.

The Plaza is on the northside of City Hall at the base of the flag pole flying the American Flag. 

I would suggest the next time you visit City Hall or if you are in the vicinity, visit the Plaza. 

There are five benches where you can sit, relax and contemplate the names engraved on the bricks. 

To paraphrase, “If only the Bricks could talk.” 

There is a brick honoring WWII veteran Dwight Stevens, who piloted a B-17 for 33 combat missions at the ripe old age of 20. 

Dwight honored 14 family members with engraved bricks at the Plaza including J Dwight Stevens, Union Army, 1862 to 1863. Think of the stories these bricks tell. 

Three bricks honor veterans who paid the ultimate price in WWII. 

Starr Sutherland, Jr., namesake of The American Legion Post 227 in Shoreline, 

Alfred Turgeon whose remains were identified 78 years after his death, and Ralph Henry Keil who perished 12 minutes after WWII came to the United States December 7, 1941.

Think of the stories. 

On rare occasions the SVA will honor non-veterans who served veterans. Mother and daughter, Barbara Alvarez and Bessie Bellecourt served in the USO and Avis Schwab served as a Donut Dolly in Vietnam

Please visit the Plaza and think about the stories behind the engraved bricks and consider having a brick installed at the Plaza to honor a veteran past, present or future in your family so that the Plaza can tell new stories. 

The SVA will again be at Shoreline Farmers Market July 20 and August 17. Come visit us.

The Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza is on the north-side of Shoreline City Hall located at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

Engraved Bricks can be purchased here. You can order engraved bricks online or an order form can be printed, fill out and mailed with a check or credit card number. Questions: call 206-546-9603 and leave a message.

Shoreline Farmers Market is held from 10am to 2pm Saturdays: June 1 - Oct 5, Harvest Oct 26 + Dec 14 at Shoreline Park & Ride, 18821 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline WA (192nd St N & Aurora Ave N).


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World War II Veteran Merlin Staatz celebrated his 98th Birthday

Sunday, June 30, 2024

98 year young Merlin Staatz
Photo by Doug Cerretti
By Doug Cerretti

WW2 veteran and Shoreline resident Merlin Staatz celebrated his 98th birthday this past Saturday, June 22, 2024. His actual birthday is on Flag Day, June 14. 

Several dozens of Merlin’s family, friends and neighbors attended the Birthday Party. Party guests were well fed and given the envious task of choosing from several different birthday cakes. 

Merlin was born in Woodbine, Kansas in 1926 and enlisted in the US Army in 1944 at age 18. He soon joined the 43rd Infantry Division in the Philippines and was immediately assigned as a scout. 

The joke was that “scouts only last about three days, and then we need to replace them.” 

On Merlin’s second day of patrol as a head scout, he was wounded by a grenade. After recovering from his wounds, Merlin returned to active duty as a scout. 

A choice of birthday cakes
Photo by Doug Cerretti
When WW2 ended, Merlin used the GI bill to obtain a bachelor’s degree at Emporia Teachers Collage and a master’s degree from Pittsburg State College. 

With degrees in hand, Merlin taught industrial arts in schools in Kansas, Oregon and Washington including King’s High School in Shoreline. 

He retired from teaching after 25 years.

Photo by Doug Cerretti

For his service to his country, Merlin received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantry Badge. 

Philippine Liberation Medal
Photo by Doug Cerretti

He was recently awarded the Philippine Liberation Medal from the Philippine government. 

Congressional Gold Medal
Photos by Shelly Staatz

A special honor was bestowed when he received the Congressional Gold Medal as a member of the United States Army Forces in the Far East. In the accompanying letter, Washington Senator Patty Murray said,

 “There is no higher honor Congress can bestow than the Congressional Gold Medal. Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. 
"With this recognition, know that your sacrifice and service will be remembered for years to come - both here and in the other Washington.” 

Merlin is an active member of the Starr Sutherland, Jr. Post 227 of The American Legion and attends Heroes Café in Shoreline and Lynnwood. 

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Senior Center partners with Post 227 to provide free assistance to veterans filing for benefits and disputing denied claims

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Certified Veterans Benefits Advisor
Sean Contreras
Thanks to our partnership with Shoreline American Legion Post 227, we have secured appointments with certified veterans benefits advisor Sean Contreras effective immediately! 

Sean will be available via Zoom to assist veterans with filing for benefits and disputing denied claims. 

Veterans familiar with Zoom can do so from home. Additionally, we provide a private room at the senior center and a staff member or volunteer to operate Zoom for those needing computer assistance. 

All staff and volunteers adhere to HIPAA Confidentiality Policies, ensuring your private information and claim remain secure.

Frequently sought benefits include medical coverage, spousal benefits, burial rights, etc. We highly recommend that anyone with a denied benefit claim schedule an appointment with Sean, as he can access your veterans and benefits records.

NOTE: Veterans of all ages may schedule an appointment by contacting the reception desk at Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center at 206-365-1536. You will be sent an intake form that needs to be completed prior to your appointment.

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Art by Whitney Potter: Memorial Day

Monday, May 27, 2024

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2024 will occur on Monday, May 27.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.

--History.com


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Memorial Day programs in Edmonds

Sunday, May 26, 2024

Photo courtesy FindAGrave.com
Edmonds Cemetery

Members of the Edmonds Cemetery and Columbarium Board invite the public to attend the annual Memorial Day Observance at 11am Monday, May 27, 2024 at the Edmonds Memorial Cemetery and Columbarium 820 15th St SW, Edmonds, WA 98020

This year's speaker is Greg Copeland, King 5 News anchor. 

He will be sharing the story of his grandfather, WWII Naval Officer, Rear Admiral Robert W. Copeland. Click HERE to view the story aired on King 5 News.

The Edmonds Memorial Cemetery was placed on the Washington State Register of Historic Places in 1972 and has 625 veterans interred. In honor of Memorial Day graves of all veterans will be marked with a white cross and a miniature US flag.

Edmonds Veterans Plaza
Photo courtesy City of Edmonds
Edmonds Veterans Plaza

2024 Edmonds 
Memorial Day Program 1:30pm 
Monday May 27, 2024
Edmonds Veterans Plaza
250 Fifth Ave N, Edmonds WA 98020

Remarks: Michael Reagan

Gold Star Families Bench Dedication

Adjourn to American Legion Post 66, 117 6th Ave S, Edmonds WA 98020


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Memorial Day at Evergreen Washelli in North Seattle

Saturday, May 25, 2024

WWI Doughboy statue at Evergreen Washelli
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
Memorial Day
Monday, May 27, 2024 
Evergreen Washelli -Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 

10 AM Flag Placement at Veterans Memorial Cemetery

11 AM Memorial Day Service to be held at the WWI Doughboy Statue


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Acacia Memorial Day service Monday May 27, 2024

Memorial Day, May 27, 2024 at 11:00am PDT

Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home

Please join us this Memorial Day Monday for our annual service at 11:00 AM on the grounds of Acacia Memorial Park. It is good that we gather as community to remember, honor, and celebrate those who gave their all in service to our country along with those whom we love who are no longer with us in this physical realm. 

For more information call 206-362-5525


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Memorial Day services at Garden of Remembrance at Benaroya Hall

Friday, May 24, 2024

The Garden of Remembrance at Benaroya Hall
Photo courtesy Seattle Symphony

The Garden of Remembrance, located at Benaroya Hall on Second Avenue between Union and University streets in the heart of downtown Seattle, will hold its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 27, 2024, at 10am. 

The ceremony honors the Washington State fallen heroes who have died while in service to their country. 

The overarching theme for this year’s commemoration is “Where Heroes Live Forever.” The distinguished keynote speakers will be Gold Star Parents, Brian and Shellie Starr, the parents of LCpl. Jeffrey Starr, who was killed in action in Iraq on Memorial Day, May 30, 2005. Additionally, the ceremony will honor and remember the 20th Anniversary of the Battle of Fallujah, Iraq, Operation Vigilant Resolve and the battle Operation Iraqi Freedom, which all happened during the Iraq War.

The observance will include a presentation of wreaths following the tolling of the bell, a performance by the Mountlake Terrace Brass Ensemble, and the performance of “Taps” by Seattle Symphony Trumpet Michael Myers. 

The ceremony is sponsored by the Garden of Remembrance Advisory Board, Benaroya Hall, the City of Seattle, the Gold Star Families of Washington and the Northwest Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America. This event is ADA accessible, and there will be free parking in the Benaroya Hall Garage accessible on Union Street and Second Avenue. For additional information please contact: Facilities@benaroyahall.org.

GARDEN OF REMEMBRANCE
The Garden of Remembrance is an official state memorial dedicated to the more than 8,000 Washington State citizens who have given their lives in the service of our country since 1941, including those who served in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War and post-9/11 conflicts. 

Every year on Memorial Day, families are invited together at the garden to honor their fallen loved ones. Some bring photos and other mementos to leave at the wall. The Garden of Remembrance is a half-acre, L-shaped space designed by landscape architect Robert Murase (1938–2005), and it lies along the south and west sides of Benaroya Hall. 

Memorial walls of granite, lined by slender reflecting pools, are oriented so that the names face the western sun. In addition to the walls, excerpts from poems honor veterans who died in our nation’s wars, while lines from letters remind us of the personal connections with home that each name represents. 

The reflecting pools honor those missing in action, and a waterfall honors those who died in peacetime and other national service. The golden oak tree that centers the garden symbolizes remembrance of the cycle of life and honors the fallen and their families. The garden was dedicated on July 4, 1998.


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Memorial Day Service Purdy & Walters at Floral Hills in Lynnwood

Floral Hills Veterans' Memorial
photo courtesy Purdy and Walters

Memorial Day Service
Purdy & Walters at Floral Hills

  • Monday, May 27, 2024, at 11:00am, veterans, their families, and the public will gather for a Service of Remembrance at our Veterans Memorial site located in the cemetery at 409 Filbert Rd. Lynnwood, WA 98036
  • Saturday, May 25 at 10:00am, volunteers will place flags on the graves of veterans. This provides great photo opportunities and a chance to hear compelling stories.
  • Monday, May 27 at 10:30am, the Service of Remembrance begins with a band concert performed by the Eagles and Letter Carriers Band. Our guest speaker this year is Dennis Gibb, Army (Retired).

Members of the Sno-King Chapter #423 Vietnam Veterans of America, and Purdy & Walters at Floral Hills present the program.

This event is open to the public.

For additional information, contact Brenda McCoy


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Starr Sutherland, Jr. Post 227 of The American Legion hosted a Blood Drive Friday, March 22, 2024

Thursday, March 28, 2024

The postage stamp “Giving Blood Saves Lives” was Issued March 12, 1971 at a time when blood donations were not keeping up with demand. This stamp was meant to raise awareness of blood donor programs, thus increasing needed donations.

By Doug Cerretti, Blood Program Leader

Starr Sutherland, Jr. Post 227 of The American Legion hosted an American Red Cross blood drive Friday, March 22, 2024. 

“Hosting a blood drive coincides with The American Legion’s core values of giving back to the community, not only to veterans and their families but also to the community in which we live. With a simple blood donation, we have the ability to help save the life of someone who could be a coworker, loved one or neighbor,” said Post 227 Commander Charles Grenard.

Last Friday was the 16th blood drive Post 227 has hosted since 2021. During this time 640 units totaling 80 gallons of much needed blood have been donated. Commander Grenard continues, “We always look forward to working with the wonderful people from the American Red Cross in organizing these blood drives.”

The donated blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients and trauma victims. 

“The short amount of time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood,” says the American Red Cross. 

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative; type O negative is the universal blood type that can be safely transfused to anyone and is often used to treat trauma patients.

Volunteers donating blood. Photo by Doug Cerretti

Blood supplies are low so please consider donating blood. You can sign up for future American Red Cross Blood Drives. By using the sponsor code "Shoreline," you can sign up for future blood drives at Post 227 on Friday, May 17, 2024 and Friday, July 26, 2024. 

The Red Cross Blood Drives at Post 227 are spaced at least eight weeks apart, the minimum time required between blood donations. Reserve your slots now. The Starr Sutherland Jr. Post 227 of The American Legion, 14521 17th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155.

--Doug Cerretti

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AG Ferguson request bill to help more than 35,000 Washington veterans access state benefits passes legislature unanimously

Saturday, March 2, 2024


OLYMPIA — Today, the Washington state Legislature unanimously passed Attorney General request legislation sponsored by Rep. Mike Volz, R-Spokane, that will expand state benefits to more than 35,000 Washington veterans. It now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

Most of the Washington veterans affected by the bill, House Bill 2014, already qualify for federal benefits. Due to Washington state’s narrower definitions, they are unable to access state benefits.

The Attorney General Request legislation changes state law to ensure veterans who qualify for federal veterans benefits also qualify for state benefits. In addition, the bill ensures any veteran discharged solely for their sexual orientation or gender identity can qualify for state benefits after a review, even if they do not qualify for federal benefits.

Ferguson estimates the bill will allow more than 35,000 additional Washington veterans to access state benefits, based on census and other federal data. State benefits include things like admission to state veterans’ nursing homes, veteran preference in state job applications or down payment assistance for a new home.

Sen. John Lovick, D-Mill Creek, sponsored a Senate version of the bill.

“If Washington’s veterans can get benefits from the VA, then they should be able to get critical benefits from the state they live in,” Ferguson said. “This simple and long overdue change will improve the lives of tens of thousands of Washington veterans. I appreciate Rep. Volz’s partnership on this bill.”

“This legislation is simply trying to define what the standard is to qualify for benefits and under what circumstances, said Volz. "Any service member with any discharge other than a dishonorable one should have access to all veteran benefits and programs.”

Washington law currently only offers benefits to veterans who were discharged from military service under a very narrow set of conditions. This disproportionately impacts veterans who are BIPOC; identify as LGBTQ and were discharged before the military ended its restrictive policies like “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”; survived military sexual assault or had mental health conditions like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Examples of state benefits
  • Washington state offers veterans benefits such as:Home ownership assistance
  • Admission to state veterans nursing homes
  • Hiring preference for veterans in public employment
  • Protection against discrimination due to veteran status
  • Free license plates for veterans with disabilities

More information here


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Pearl Harbor Day Thursday December 7

Thursday, December 7, 2023

USS Arizona Memorial photo courtesy National Park Service

By Doug Cerretti

December 7, 2023 will mark 82 years since the attack on Pearl Harbor that started WW II for the United States.

Keil Brick at Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza
 Photo by Doug Cerretti

Seaman 1st Class Ralph Henry Keil, age 20
Photo courtesy Defense POW/KIA Accounting Agency
Last October, I had the opportunity to visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Hawaii. 

The attack on Pearl Harbor became a bit closer to us when the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza received an engraved brick order to honor Seaman 1st Class Ralph Henry Keil.

Keil was from Tacoma, Puyallup and Chimacum, WA.

Keil was one of 429 sailors who perished on the USS Oklahoma during the attack on Pearl Harbor. His remains were not identified until 2019.

Marker at the USS Oklahoma Memorial
Photo by Doug Cerretti
After visiting the Arizona Memorial, we visited the USS Oklahoma Memorial where Seaman 1st Class Ralph Henry Keil is honored.

On December 7, 2019, Ralph Henry Keil was identified by DNA analysis with samples from family members.

This past August 30th would have been his 102th birthday. 

Keil attended high school in Tacoma and Puyallup, graduating from Chimacum High School in Chimacum, WA in 1940. 

Over 80 years later, Seaman 1st Class Ralph Henry Keil was finally laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery in Tacoma.

Battleship Missouri Memorial behind the USS Oklahoma Memorial
 Photo by Doug Cerretti

Behind the USS Oklahoma Memorial is the Battleship Missouri Memorial where on her quarterdeck, the surrender of the Empire of Japan was signed on September 2, 1945 which ended World War II. 

Let’s pause on this day to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

See previous article on Ralph Henry Keil:
Pearl Harbor soldier memorialized at Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza


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U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker Polar Star departs Pearl Harbor

Monday, December 4, 2023

The entire crew lined the railing to pay homage to the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor. 
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Ryan Graves

So long and farewell to Hawaii, after making our last logistics stop in the U.S. and enjoying some R&R, the crew of the Polar Star is headed to their next port call enroute to Antarctica.

As we departed Pearl Harbor, the Polar Star crew stood united in respect as they passed the hallowed waters of the USS Arizona. A poignant reminder of sacrifice, duty, and the strength of our nation.

Of the 2,403 U.S. lives that were lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor, 1,177, or nearly half, died aboard the USS Arizona.
 
The USS Arizona is one of only two sites where U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, and Merchant Marine vessels render honors to a fixed location.


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The Donut Dollies and the I Corp Wrestling Tournament

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Da Nang, 1968, Avis is kneeling in front
By Doug Cerretti

I have previously written about Avis Schwab and her service as a Donut Dolly in Vietnam from 1967 to 1967. 

Young, single and college educated women volunteer for a Red Cross program to support the GIs in Vietnam. Armed only with smiles and hand-made games, the Donut Dollies risked their lives every day to achieve their mission of cheering up and bringing a sense of home to the U.S. troops. 

The Dollies were always thinking of new projects to interact with the GIs. One day, Avis suggested that they organize a wrestling tournament. 

Wall to wall people attended the unadvertised event
Where did Avis get that idea, you may ask. Avis’s favorite professor at Western Washington University was also the wrestling coach. Avis was a physical education and health major and had a particular interest in athletics. She had attended many wrestling matches and thoroughly enjoyed the excitement of the sport. 

So, the Donut Dollies went to work... where can we have the tournament, can we get mats, etc. The wrestling tournament took on a life of its own with everything coming together. However, there was one thing they could not find in Vietnam, trophies. She wrote her parents and they contacted A-1 Trophy Co in Olympia and D & E Trophy Co in Tacoma and they enthusiastically donated the trophies.

Trophies awarded were donated from Washington companies

The D & E Trophy Co included a note, “We hope all goes well. Let us know what else we can do.” 

On June 16, 1968, the I Corp Wrestling Tournament was held at the Red Cross Center, Freedom Hill, Hill 327, Danang Run. It was standing room only with GIs spilling out the door. Avis was surprised by the number as they had no advertisement for the tournament; clearly word of mouth played a big role and they came from all over, some from the DMZ. 

Enlisted GI vs Officer
The match that elicited the most excitement pitted an enlisted versus an officer. Avis remembered that the referee was Marine Major Spinella and she wondered how he found a referee’s shirt. Also, one of the wrestlers actually had a singlet. Avis did note he (Navy) was the most accomplished wrestler. Not surprisingly most of the winners were Marines, OORAH! 

A very entertaining day for the troops and just another day of work for the Donut Dollies.

--Photos courtesy of Avis Schwab

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9-8-8- Lifeline has a hotline for veterans - dial 988 then press 1

Sunday, November 12, 2023

In Washington state, the three-digit dialing code 9-8-8 connects callers to suicide prevention and crisis support specialists.

People can connect with the #988Lifeline to discuss a lot of things: drug use, anxiety, sexual orientation, economic worries.

Interpretation is available in 240 languages, and specific hotlines are available for veterans, Spanish-speakers, LGBTQ+ youth, and American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Call or text 988 or chat 988Lifeline.org


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Senator Murray commemorates Veterans Day at Evergreen Washelli Cemetery Veterans Day ceremony

Sen. Murray at Evergreen Washelli
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

On Veterans' Day, November 11, 2023, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Military Construction-Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee and a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, delivered remarks at the Evergreen Washelli Cemetery Veterans Day Ceremony in Seattle.

The daughter of a World War II veteran and the first woman to both chair and serve on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Murray has long focused on ensuring Congress lives up to its obligations to our veterans.

“My dad wasn’t one to call attention to his service—he didn’t do it for attention after all. Like so many others, he did it for his country. He did it to keep our nation safe. That’s something I think about often, because it’s something I see all the time in so many of the incredible veterans I meet,” Murray said at the ceremony today. 
“And it’s why Veterans Day is so personal, so precious, to me—because I know folks like my Dad so often don’t ask for the recognition they deserve, or the help they need—and they shouldn’t have to! That’s why we, as a nation, have to make sure that we never take our veterans for granted, and that we never let our debts to them go unpaid.”

As a voice for Washington state’s veterans in the Senate, Senator Murray has consistently fought to make sure our country fulfills its promise to our veterans and their families. While Chair of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Murray oversaw the initial implementation of the Caregiver Support Program, and successfully pushed to expand the program in the years since. 

Murray wrote the VOW to Hire Heroes Act, which was signed into law by President Obama and brought about major changes to lower unemployment among veterans and help transitioning servicemembers and veterans find good jobs. 

A longtime champion of federal investments in veterans’ housing, Murray successfully helped to restart the HUD-VASH program in 2008 and has consistently fought to fund the program since; including helping to secure $50 million in additional HUD-VASH vouchers in last year’s government funding bill.

Senator Murray helped pass the PACT Act into law last year, which expanded health care benefits for millions of veterans exposed to toxics in the line of duty. 

She takes her oversight role seriously, and is fighting to ensure VA is living up to its promise to provide high-quality care for veterans, including holding VA accountable for fixing the botched rollout of its Electronic Health Record (EHR) Modernization program. 

The NorthWest Junior Pipe Band played for the ceremonies
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Murray is pushing to pass her EHR Program RESET Act, which would restructure, enhance, and improve the new EHR program while increasing oversight — and she leads many other bills that would improve quality of life and care for veterans, including the bipartisan Expanding Veterans’ Options for Long Term Care Act and Helping Heroes Act, legislation to help veterans start their families by expanding access to fertility services, and the BUILD for Veterans Act, which would modernize and streamline the delivery of VA medical facilities and other infrastructure projects.

Senator Murray has also led Congress in establishing child care centers at VA facilities and military bases, and since 2019, she has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for new military child care center construction that has increased vital access to child care across all services. 

Senator Murray originally authored the VA child care pilot program in 2008 as part of her Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act in order to assist parents in need of child care during medical appointments at VA facilities. and she has consistently fought to fund the program and establish permanent reauthorization.

Earlier this month, the Senate overwhelmingly passed the Fiscal Year 2024 funding bill for military construction, the VA, and related agencies that Senator Murray wrote as Chair of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee. 

The legislation provides more than $582 million for specific Washington state veterans and military construction projects across Washington state and, among other national priorities, would increase funding for women veterans’ health care, veterans’ homelessness prevention, and veterans’ mental health —specifically to expand suicide prevention efforts — as well as boost funding to fully implement the VA Caregivers program and expand the national child care pilot program at VA that Senator Murray launched.

“We have to make sure we live up to the promise we made our veterans, and to the American ideals they fought for.

“So to all of the veterans here today, and their families—thank you for your service, thank you for your sacrifice.

“And know, I am working every day in the United States Senate to get you and your family the support you need. I am working every day to build the future you deserve. I am working every day to strengthen our democracy and the nation you fought to protect.

“I know that you would never stop fighting for our country, and I am going to make sure your country never stops fighting for you.”

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