Commission for Veterans

and Military Families

February 2025 Newsletter

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the immense contributions of African Americans to our nation’s history, including their military service and sacrifices. From the Revolutionary War to today, Black service members have played a vital role in defending the freedoms we hold dear.

In the face of discrimination and adversity, many Black Americans joined the fight for liberty even when their own rights were restricted. During the Civil War, the famed 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment became one of the first African American units to serve in combat for the Union Army, showcasing extraordinary courage and resilience.

World War II brought the historic contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators. These skilled pilots defied prejudice and flew over 15,000 combat missions, paving the way for desegregation in the armed forces.

In 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed the executive order desegregating the U.S. Armed Forces. This landmark decision was influenced by the exceptional service of Black soldiers during both world wars. Leaders like General Colin Powell, who served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and later as Secretary of State, demonstrated the heights of achievement possible for Black Americans in the military.

Today, Black service members continue to excel across all military branches, contributing to national security and advancing diversity in leadership. Organizations like the National Association of Black Veterans (NABVETS) advocate for equity in veteran services, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed.

To learn more about the contributions of African Americans in the military, visit www.history.army.mil or www.nabvets.org.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us honor the sacrifices of Black military heroes and recognize their lasting impact on our nation. Their courage, perseverance, and commitment to service are a testament to the strength of diversity in our armed forces.

Find current and past CVMF agendas online.

Following military service, John pursued a career in security, ultimately earning a master’s degree in criminal justice. He worked at the National Security Agency (NSA) in Columbia, Maryland, before joining Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. Initially employed as a contractual security guard, John transitioned to BG&E Security, where he continued to help ensure the safety of the facility’s critical infrastructure until his retirement in July 2017.

Today, John serves as the CVMF's American Legion Post 220 representative. In addition to his civic involvement, he serves as President of Trustees Administration at Mt. Olive Church, coordinating maintenance activities for the church facility. In retirement, he values spending his time with his wife of 38 years and his son. He appreciates the flexibility to pursue his interests as a Philadelphia Eagles season ticket holder - a particularly happy circumstance in light of the team's recent playoff victory.

Caregiving is a noble and selfless role that comes with unique challenges. Did you know that over 5.5 million Americans serve as military and veteran caregivers, offering unwavering support to their loved ones? Whether managing day-to-day tasks, navigating healthcare systems or providing emotional care, your efforts make a difference.

As you continue this journey, remember that you’re not alone. Resources and communities are ready to support you, offering tools to lighten your load and connections to others who truly understand. Below are details about two upcoming events designed to inspire, educate, and connect veteran caregivers. Take time to invest in yourself—you deserve it!

Are you a caregiver in the DMV region? Don’t miss the opportunity to connect, learn and build a supportive community at the next ServingTogether Caregiver Connect meeting! This free virtual gathering is designed to support caregivers like you by providing valuable resources and fostering connections with others who understand your journey.

What You Can Expect:

• Learn about community resources tailored to caregivers
• Build a network of support with others in similar roles
• Connect with a community of caregivers in the DMV region

Event Details:

• When: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025
• Where: Virtual
• What Time: 7–8 p.m.

Visit bitly.cx/VfhuG to secure your spot today.

For more information, visit EveryMind.org/ServingTogether or contact Aimee Stoddard, Regional Manager, at astoddard@EveryMind.org.

Take this opportunity to strengthen your caregiving journey with a community of support!

This conference provides a variety of classes and resources for caregivers of older adults. Three breakout sessions are available with 15 classes to choose from. There will be vendor/exhibitor tables from agencies in the tri-county area.

• When: Friday, April 11, 2025
• Where: Southern Pines Senior Center; 20 Appeal Lane Lusby, MD 20657
• What time? 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Contact Lisa Caudle at 410-535-4606, ext. 8755 or lisa.caudle@calvertcountymd.gov for more information. If you plan on attending, you must register in advance.

The Veterans Crisis Line provides 24/7 free, confidential support for people in distress.

Text: 838255

TTY for hearing loss: 800-799-4889

www.VeteransCrisisLine.net

www.SuicidePreventionLifeline.org

Applications remain open for the UMGC Pillars of Strength Scholarship Program, which includes full tuition, fees, and course-required resources for each term during the academic year—for caregivers of recovering service members and veterans.

Applications must be submitted before April 30, 2025.

Veterans Coffee

• Tuesday, Feb. 4, 10 a.m. – Calvert Pines Senior Center
• Tuesday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m. – Southern Pines Senior Center

History Programs

• Thursday, Feb. 6, 1 p.m. – Calvert County’s U.S. Colored Troops; Join Chris Sperling for a presentation and discussion on U.S. Colored Troops during the Civil War at Southern Pines Senior Center.
• Tuesday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m. - Tuskegee Airmen; Join U.S. Veteran Barry Briscoe as he offers a presentation and discussion exploring the lives and legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen at, Southern Pines Senior Center.

Film Presentation

• Friday, Feb. 21, noon – The Tuskegee Airmen at Calvert Pines Senior Center

Follow the Office on Aging on Facebook for more events at the North Beach Senior Center, Southern Pines Senior Center and Calvert Pines Senior Center.

The Calvert County Office on Aging is partnering with ServingTogether to assist veterans and their families in navigating benefits and connecting them to services.

Events are at Southern Pines Senior Center every second Wednesday and fourth Friday of the month from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary, and drop-ins are welcome and highly encouraged to get connected to needed support without leaving the county.

Mark your calendars for the following ServingTogether events:

• Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025
• Friday, Feb. 28, 2025

Contact ServingTogether at 240-240-9259.

Southern Pines Senior Center is located at 20 Appeal Lane in Lusby.

ServingTogether Regional Manager Donny Williams sends bimonthly emails with dozens of veteran-centered events throughout the broader area. To receive this email, fill out the form at bit.ly/veteran_events.

To submit an event flyer or other information to be included in an upcoming email, write dwilliams@everymind.org.

Follow the Calvert County Community Resources Facebook page to watch for, like and share ServingTogether posts and military observances on...

• Feb. 3 – Four Chaplains Day
• Feb. 4 – USO Day
• Feb. 12 - April 4 – “Operation Homecoming”
• Feb. 19 – U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Birthday

Calvert Library proudly supports our veterans. Check out their resource page to discover national and local resources, library events and veteran-themed fiction and non-fiction reads.