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General Orders #3
September 2025
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MONTHLY ZOOM MEETING
Thursday, September 18, 2025
8 PM EST / 7PM CST / 6 PM MST/ 5 PM PST
All Members and Patriots Welcome
LOGIN ONLINE: https://zoom.us/j/4981732263
Meeting Code - 2020
Call in via telephone: 1-929-436-2866
Enter this Meeting ID: 4981 732 263
| | NOTE: Some browsers offer condensed versions of General Orders. If your version is shortened, click on the "expand" or "show more" hyperlink on the bottom of this email. | |
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National President
Fran Holtgreven
Let's "Fall" in love with MOPHA!
Fall does not arrive until Monday, September 22, 2025, at 2:19 pm Eastern, 1:19 pm Central, 12:19 pm Mountain and 11:19 am Pacific Times. For me, September 1st or Labor Day, whichever comes first, always marks the end of the summer season and the real beginning of Fall.
WHY? I can’t put my finger on the question, but I have several thoughts on this question: (1) school for me would always start after Labor Day, (2) pumpkins, warmer clothing and Halloween costumes and candy are in stores, (3) the weather starts to change, (4) this is the time of harvest, (5) Bill and I were married the 2nd of September. So, for me, Fall feels more like a new beginning and a new challenge!
So, let’s “Fall” in love with the MOPHA and their new beginnings and new challenges in the Fall months. A new Bylaws ad hoc committee has been started to look over the Bylaws to make them more updated, easier to understand, etc. The committee will report to the National Bylaw Committee. This committee will be chaired by the Sr. Vice President, Teviah Gilliard, and will include PNP Barbara Hale-Ray, Kristy Gray, Herlinda Sifuentes and Joan Sylvester. The Finance committee will be meeting regarding the 501(C)3.
Fall is a time of harvest and a perfect time to gather new members and contact members you have not heard from. Please reach out to your members with a card, phone call, or email to let them know that they are not forgotten and update their information. Fall is a perfect time to also gather new membership. There are a lot of Fall activities in our communities and if you meet a possible new member, always have a membership application in your possession. Invite them to attend your next meeting and show them what the MOPHA does to help their local Veteran population. Remember to send new membership information and updated information to the National Membership Officer, Cheryl Perez.
Embrace Fall and think of all the new beginnings, the new challenges and opportunities this new season can bring for the MOPHA and yourself.
Fran
Fran.MOPHA@gmail.com
| | MESSAGES FROM OUR AUXILIARY LEADERSHIP | | |
National Senior Vice President
Teviah Gilliard
As the leaves begin to FALL may our commitment continue to RISE...
Greetings and Salutations, members and friends of the Auxiliary—
As Labor Day has ushered in the “BER” (BRRR) months, I’ve come to realize that September is a month of quiet power. It whispers and nudges us to remember, to reflect, and to recommit. The air grows cooler, but our hearts grow warmer with purpose. This is the season where we lean into our mission.
We begin with remembrance. This month, as we mark the anniversary of 9/11, we pause to honor the families of Operation Freedom Patriot Day reminds us of the lives lost and the courage shown. The United States Air Force Birthday- September 18, [1947] marks the day America’s air power took flight as an independent branch, dedicated to defending freedom from above. POW/MIA Recognition Day calls us to honor those who never returned. The last Sunday in September (9/28) is Gold Star Mothers’ Day. On this day, we remember their grief & resilience, their daughters’ and sons’ ultimate sacrifice. We will never forget, and their resilience inspires us. And throughout the month, Suicide Prevention awareness urges us to be vigilant and compassionate, especially toward our veterans. Prevention starts with connection. If you see something, say something. If you feel something, reach out.
As we reflect on September’s many observances—from honoring our POW/MIA heroes to celebrating Grandparents, Daughters, and even Pancakes—it’s clear that remembrance and connection are at the heart of everything we do. And that brings us to the heartbeat of our Auxiliary: membership. Membership is the lifeblood of our mission—it’s how we ensure that no veteran, no family, no patriot stands alone. Membership is also how also how we know who’s active, connected and in good standing! As we approach the October 1 deadline, your outreach takes on even greater importance. Whether you’re welcoming new members or reconnecting with longtime patriots, every handshake, phone call, and shared story strengthens the fabric of our Purple Heart family.
To keep that fabric strong, don’t forget:
1. Life Membership Verification (LMV)
2. IRS 990 Postcard
3. Financial Reports
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary group of doers! Your dedication is the soul of our bottom line. Together, we’ll once again rise above every challenge, honor every sacrifice, and build a future rooted in faith, patriotism, and harmony. So, as the leaves begin to turn and we gather for Zooms, fundraisers, and fall festivities, let’s keep that spirit of connection alive. Happy Fall, y’all!
Teviah
Teviah.G.MOPHA@yahoo.com
| | Finance Reports, Life Member Verification Forms, and instructions on filing a 990 can be found on our website at www.PurpleHeartAuxiliary.org. Hover over "Members Only" tab on the menu bar, and then click "FORMS". Scroll down until you see the information regarding forms due by October 1st. | | |
National Jr. Vice
Linda Bellis
September is here. Fall is coming. I heard that in Northern MN the leaves have started to change. TOOOOOO Early!! School has started, we have gotten the grand kids and our own children off. I'm back at school also, Week 3 and I miss my naps.
Unit meetings are starting back. Plan out what your needs are to help your veterans in the VA homes and hospitals. Check out the grants online on our website. A good time to plan viola events.
P.H. Still is without a proper name. We will be making more of our friend. They locked us in to the price. So P.H. is $15.00 plus shipping. Please email me with name ideas for us to vote on. Lindab.mopha@gmail.com.
Ways-n-means had a meeting to discuss options for a fund raiser. We will have a new product to put out, hopefully by November.
Bylaws committee has met twice. We are working on new resolutions to better understand them.
Enjoy the fall weather.
Linda "Bellis"
LindaB.MOPHA@gmail.com
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National Secretary
Judy Fiddler
Happy Fall to All...Every year at this time, the 990N "Accepted" copy from the IRS, the Finance report and the Life Membership Verification form is due. October 1 is just 2 weeks away. Have you submitted them? Without these reports, you do not qualify for a rebate...YES...a rebate!
National is still looking for someone to be the next Secretary. I will not continue after the 2026 National Convention. Please consider "rising to the challenge" and step up.
Birthday info: October 17...Joan Walsh, PNP will celebrate her 90th birthday. Let's fill her mailbox with cards of joy. Her address is 4716 Rohrway Ave. NW, Massillon, OH 44647
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National Treasurer
Tracy Derr
Please email or postally mail all Finance Reports and ACCEPTED 990 forms by October 1, 2025 to either mophatreas2021@gmail.com or 320 S Hughes Rd, Lot 107, Howell, Mi 48843.
Thank you,
Tracy
MOPHAtreas2021@gmail.com
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National Membership Officer
Cheryl Perez, PNP
The Life Membership Verification (LMV) form verifies Unit member count and must be received by the National Membership Officer by Oct 1st as one of the requirements for a Unit to be considered in good standing (active).
The LMV form is completed using the June 2025 Unit roster that was sent to Unit Presidents and Secretaries (that had an email listed on their Installation Report) the beginning of July.
Included in that email was the Regular, Associate and Junior Member count that National has on record. These numbers match what is on your June 30th roster.
TO FILE YOUR LMV ONLINE OR BY PAPER COPY:
File online: click on the link below, fill in the form, hit submit at the bottom of the form and your LMV is filed. No further action is needed. You will receive an automated email that your form was received.
To file LMV Form Online: LMV Online
To fill in, print and mail or scan LMV Form: MOPHA website LMV Form
IF NO CHANGES TO THE JUNE 30TH ROSTER:
Whether filing online or by paper copy, if Unit records match National records for member count as noted in the chart above, just check the box in section 1 “No Changes” to report to the June 30 roster and submit your form.
TO REPORT CHANGES TO THE JUNE 30TH ROSTER:
The only changes to report on the LMV form are changes that affect the Regular, Associate or Junior member count.
Deceased members should only be included if they are noted on the June 30th roster as Active or Bad Address.
To report a member’s contact information update use Membership Data Change Form: CLICK HERE
Cheryl
Members.MOPHA@gmail.com
| | Welcome Sue Kocourek from Wisconsin Unit 164! | | |
National VAVS Officer
National Sgt at Arms
National Americanism Officer
Linda Varejcka
"Rising for the Challenge" Your Challenge for the Month!
"It's not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It's necessary." Mary Hale.
"A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything!" Irish Proverb
"There are only four kinds of people in this world. Those who have been caregivers. Those who are currently caregivers. Those who will be care givers, and those who will need a caregiver". Rosalyn Carter
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9/11
"YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN"
Those of us that were alive will never forget that day. I can remember where I was and what I was actually doing. First the thought of fake news (not funny) but them realizing it was for real. Nor must we let that memory of the day fade from history. Being able to go to the 9/11 memorial this August, is definitely something I will never forget nor can I actual put into words the feeling I was having, of being there at that spot. Yes, I'd seen a lot of pictures but it was quite different. Many of you know someone that was impacted by that tragedy. Still praying for the families, and all those impacted and our Nation!
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9/19 (third Friday in September)
National POW/MIA Recognition Day
"YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN"
This is a day dedicated to remember and honoring the U.S. Service members who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action.
Below are the numbers I found from the "Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. (DPAA) (2025) (although different sources have different #'s in the same range, these are #'s I found in source I used)
Approximately 81,000 Americans remain unaccounted for from past wars.
Vietnam War: Approximately 1,544
Korean War: Over 7,446
World War II: 71,986 with more than 41,000 presumed lost at sea.
Cold War: 126
Gulf Wars and other conflicts, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation El Dorado Canyon: 7
As you know and also heard at our National Convention the task of locating and returning remains to the families is ongoing.
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September "Suicide Prevention Month"
Although the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and there partners focus on raising awareness of suicide prevention all year long, September is the designated month for raising awareness.
Training is available through your locale VA's but you don't need special training to make a difference and show a Veteran that you care about them and what they might be going through during a challenging time. Many events in life cause stress. But your VA is always there to assist. Just ask!
Remember
24/7/365 (24hours/7days a week/365 days of the year)
Dial 988 then press 1 or Text 838255
(Please do me a favor: If you were able to go encourage or help someone display a MIA/Pow table please let me know, who, where, please even thought you might not have taken a picture. OR did you go to a school and talk with the students regarding MIA/POW's or 9/11, OR did you go to your locale VA and get items and info to distribute regarding suicide prevention, or talk with a group. Please reply and let me know, I care and I want to SHARE!
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We will continue to do the "Hidden Object" in the General Orders. Just remember to let me know that you have found it and where you found it. Drawing will be at the end of the Thursday night Zoom meeting.
Please continue to read the General Orders and hunt.
Share the information with other members. Use the information you read to include in letters/emails to members. Get some great ideas for your units and departments. Let's keep everyone informed. A lot of time and information goes into these General Orders and it is for ALL our members. If this organization is going to continue it is up to all of us, doing our part. Enjoy and have Fun.
"I look like this so FIND ME!"
Linda
JfVarejcka@Windstream.net
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National Co-Chaplain
Gwendolyn Gilliard, PNP
FROM THE DESK
of the
MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART AUXILIARY CHAPLAIN 2024-2025
SEPTEMBER 2025
Greetings Y’all! Fall is in the air! Before it’s totally gone, you are encouraged to exhale that last Summer breeze as you inhale and welcome the refreshing crispness of the cool Fall air. With gratefulness, receive it as the gift of breath from God for bringing us through the hot, humid (in some areas dry) summer months to the beauty that the Autumn season brings and reflects (although some of us remain in the atmosphere of Summer for a while longer-whew!). It is suggested to intentionally choose to enjoy while we can-yeah.
Facing the facts of reality of our world today, we, the people, are still going through challenging, unpredictable, and unprecedented events in the USA and of the world. However, as these trying times and events continues, you are encouraged to reflect on the following Word: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) As patience is a virtue, we are also encouraged to “Wait on the Lord,” He’s where strength and courage is found-my thoughts are to stand firm and trust in the Lord, that after all, everything is in His timing according to His will and purpose-just know that He has not forgotten about us-He keeps His promises!
Chaplain’s Note and Zoom: A date is to be determined for the Chaplain’s Zoom. Requesting to keep in prayer.
September Birthday Celebrants
The birthstone for September is the Sapphire, a gem symbolizing wisdom and purity. The birth flowers for September are the Aster and the Morning Glory. Asters, or "star" flowers, represent patience and wisdom, while morning glories symbolize affection and love. September celebrants, we hope you had/have very Happy and Blessed Birthday Celebration!
September Special Observances, Commemorative and On the Lighter Side Fun Days:
National Suicide Prevention Month/Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, National Recovery Month, Sexual Health Awareness Month, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month, Better Breakfast Month, National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, Atrial Fibrillation Month, Blood Cancer Awareness Month,
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month, Healthy Aging Month, National Cholesterol Education Month, National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Self-Care Awareness Month, Food Safety Education Month, National Preparedness Month
Weekly:
• 01 – 07 September: National Childhood Injury Prevention Week
• 07 – 13 September: National Suicide Prevention Week
• 08 – 14 September: Sexual Health Awareness Week
• 15 – 21 September: National Rehabilitation Awareness Week
Day:
1: Labor Day
4: Mawlid an-Nabi, National Lazy Mom’s Day, National Golf Lover’s Day
5: International Day of Charity, National Food Bank Day, National Be Late For Something Day
6: Fight Procrastination Day
8: Pardon Day, Star Trek Day
9: International Day to Protect Education from Attack, National Teddy Bear Day
10: World Suicide Prevention Day (first observed on September 10, 2003, as a joint initiative by the International Association for Suicide Prevention and the World Health Organization)
11: Patriot Day-9/11 aka National Day of Service and Remembrance 24th Anniversary
14: Grandparents’ Day (first celebrated Sept 1961. According to Goggle, a proclamation is made by the President to declare the Sunday after Labor Day the next National Grandparents Day. Also, there is an official song by Johnny Prill. Website: Grandparentsday.org
15: Start of Hispanic Heritage Month (to 15 October), National Sober Day, International Day of Democracy
16: National Stepfamily Day
17: Constitution/Citizenship Day, International Country Music Day
18: National First Love Day, National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day, Air Force Birthday (was established as a separate military branch with the signing of the National Security Act by President Harry Truman)
19: National Prisoner of War (POW)/Missing in Action (MIA) Recognition Day, Gone but not Forgotten (established 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter), National Concussion Awareness Day.
20: Oktoberfest, Eat an Apple Day, Locate an Old Friend Day, National Cleanup Day
21: World Gratitude Day, Wife Appreciation Day (National Wife Day), World Alzheimer’s Day
22: Falls Prevention Awareness Day, Autumn Equinox (start of Fall; full moon known as “Harvest Moon”)
22: National Centenarian’s Day, National Family Day, National Girls’ Night in Day
23: National Voter Registration Day, International Day of Sign Languages
24: Rosh Hashanah, National Brave Day, National Cherries Jubilee Day, National Women’s Health and Fitness Day
25: National Daughters Day (first celebrated 1932, revived 2007 to celebrate daughters every day empowering them)
26: International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, *Johnny Appleseed Day (a real person known for planting the first apple trees), Native American Day (CA and NV), Better Breakfast Day, World Contraception Day
27: National Family Health and Fitness Day USA
28: Gold Star Mother’s and Family Day (a day that recognizes the mothers and families who have lost a son or daughter while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.)
28: International Daughter’s Day, National Son’s Day, National Neighbor Day, Ask a Stupid Question Day, International Day for Universal Access to Information
29: National Coffee Day/National Starbucks Day, World Heart Awareness Day, International Day of Food Loss and Waste, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Day
30: National Love People Day, World Maritime Day, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, International Podcast Day
… Additionally in closing, join in please
Father God, we come to You with the most humble reverence that we know how to give and thanksgiving with the greatest measure that we know how to express for Who YOU are, What You’ve done; the greatest faith in What You are doing with the greatest Hope in the anticipation of what You are going to do, thank You! Thank You for showering us with so much love, being our ultimate Healer, unchangeable Encourager, Sustainer and Promise Keeper. Heavenly Father, as the different elements are presented in the aforementioned prayer requests, we thank You for Your understanding and deliverance, trusting that as You have Your finger on the pulse of each concern-working it out for Your purpose and glory-we bless and give thanks to You Lord. Abba, please protect and encamp Your Guardian Angels over and around our children-our future-in their coming and going as they look forward to the plans You have for their future, we are so grateful to You that You look ahead with such amazing power and love. Thank You for patience and hearing each of our prayers. We ask You to fill us with Your peace and guide our steps into the path of righteousness. We declare honor and victory to Your will being done in Your Mighty Name, Amen!
I will say of the Lord:
“He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in Whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:2)
God’s Blessings to you and yours.
Humbly and In HIS Love,
National MOPHA Co-Chaplain
(Numbers 6:24-26)
Gwendolyn
Chaplain.MOPHA@gmail.com
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In Sympathy and Memoriam
Almighty God in His Infinite Wisdom called to their Eternal Reward the following Members:
(Always sad to share but never too late to send card, if possible)
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Bobbie Pickering MS 690 (7/3/2023)
Lillian Black NML (10/10/1920)
Mary Jeanette Adams OH 3620 (3/20/2023)
Ione Belden TX 1919 (5/12/2006)
Evelyn Morgan NML (5/25/2003)
Novalene Manley NML (8/21/2022)
Mary Mockrud WI 550 (2/14/2013)
Esther May Powell OR 72 (7/2/2015)
Thelma L Woodall GA 492 (10/24/2023)
Margaret Misho MN Unit 8 (12 Aug 2012)
Yvonne Victor OH DML (8 May 2006)
Marjorie Benkovics MN Unit 5 (11 Dec 2016)
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Ida Mae Walter OH DML (5/17/2023)
Esperanza Munoz CA 49 (11/12//2024)
Dorothy Morris OH DML (11/27/2004)
Frances Siewert MN Unit 8 (11/17/2013)
Viola Treadway OH 31 (2/5/2021)
Rosemary Hinds OH 31 (9/12/2021
Vicki Feinhor OH 31 (9/24/2024)
Leatrice Wirtz MN 194 (12/21/2024)
Eillen Sell MN 194 (1/30/2023)
Ana Maria. Gagnon NML (9/16/2004)
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Prayers Requests:
Requesting to continue in prayer for each other, our organization and Veterans, those grieving, the homebound/hospitalized/ sick and shut-in; the survivors of all incidents of terrorism, violence, devastating environmental and societal effects, and other changes. Please remember to include our Nation, the United States of America government, religious and political leaders as well as other worldly affairs and changes negatively affecting lives; support for our military, protectors (police, firemen, etc.),volunteers, front line workers, caregivers; health care heroes, educational professionals, field workers in other services giving a helping hand for people (missionaries); the unhomed, needy and hungry; those who are lonely, disenfranchised, demoralized or incarcerated; those unspoken requests with many other needs including concerns for health, families-our children, our organization and Patriots, for healing, finances other matters; those prayers known and unknown to only God.
Praise God! Thank God for what He is/has/will do. Please join in prayer and according to your faith, even that as small as a mustard seed: This is your Time-it will be ‘Your Prayer’:
“They were all continually united in prayer.” (Acts 1:14)
| MONTH Birthdays: Happy, Happy Birthday to all of our September Birthday Celebrants! May the good Lord keep on blessing you with many more birthdays to come with abundant favor and the desire of your heart. Share your birthday or anniversary date so we can join in your celebration. | |
Publicity Officer
Colleen Orfanello, PNP
A few weeks ago, I was privileged to attend the final Gary Sinese sponsored Soaring Valor Mission Trip with Sr. Vice Teviah Gilliard. 22 WWII Veterans arrived in New Orleans with all of the Pomp and Circumstance they duly deserved. The Veterans will spend 3 days touring the WWII Museum. It was such a festive occasion! One lucky Veteran received several kisses from the "Victory Belles" singing trio!
Unfortunately, due to the lack of participants, that was the last time the trip will be sponsored. However, the National Purple Heart Honor Mission, which was inspired by the Soaring Valor" program has been providing amazing experiences like that to our Purple Heart Recipients - except they travel to New York and see places such as Military Academy at West Point, the Statue of Liberty, and much more. on Patriot's Day, I was thinking about the mission and the Patriot's experience in New York. on 9/11. I have seen the Towers dozens of times when I briefly lived on Long Island, but I have not been back since that fateful day. Being the daughter of a fireman, my heart aches each September 11th.
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For those of you who would like to encourage restaurants and other businesses to display a POW MIA table but need a symbology sheet, simply visit our website at www.PurpleHeartAuxiliary.org and hover over the "EVENTS" tab in the menu bar. Click POW MIA RECOGNITION TABLE" and you will find information about the POW MIA flag and history. A copy of the symbology is also available. CLICK HERE to print out your own form and pass it out to businesses in your area. If your state has a restaurant association, please reach out to them as well.
Colleen
Colleen.MOPHA@gmail.com
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National Region 2 President
Angie Foster
In the picture below you will see Region 2 President Angie Foster and Unit 632 President Barb Meyer at the Old West Balloon Festival in Mitchell, Nebraska.
Angie
angiefoster214@gmail.com
PO Box 93, Osceola, NE 68651
"Hug A Veteran"
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National Region 5 President
Doris Williams
Greetings from Region 5
Let’s not forget POW/MIA Day, 19 September 2025
The United States observes National POW/MIA Recognition Day every year, typically on the third Friday in September. This day honors former prisoners of war and those who are still missing, as well as their families, and renews the nation’s promise to bring home or account for all service members left behind.
Prisoners of War (POW)
A Prisoner of War is a member of the armed forces who is captured and held by the enemy during an armed conflict. International law, particularly the Geneva Conventions, outlines the rights and protections afforded to POWs. These laws are meant to ensure humane treatment and provide for their eventual release and safe return.
Missing in Action (MIA)
A service member is classified as Missing in Action when their whereabouts are unknown after a combat situation. They may have been killed, captured, or wounded, but their status cannot be confirmed. The MIA designation remains until the individual's fate is determined, either by recovery, identification, or conclusive evidence.
The POW/MIA Symbol and Its Importance
The black and white POW/MIA flag is a powerful symbol in the United States, representing the nation’s commitment to accounting for all service members who have not returned from war. The flag is flown at government buildings, military installations, veterans’ organizations, and during commemorative events to honor and remember those who have not come home.
Remembering POWs and MIAs is an important aspect of military tradition and national honor. It reflects a commitment to service members and their families that no one will be forgotten, and every effort will be made to bring every service member home. The phrase “You are not forgotten” is closely associated with the POW/MIA movement.
Let’s not forget the sacrifices that these brave men and women gave to this country and the sacrifices that their family members endured.
Doris
Region5MOPHAUX@gmail.com
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National Region 6 Liaison
Terri Shattuck, PNP
The Department of Michigan completed their annual "Backpack" project. 168 backpacks were filled with items to provide support and comfort to Michigan's homeless Veterans.
For more information about our grant programs, it can be read on our website or by clicking HERE. Scroll down until you see the GRANT section.
Terri
BTSHATTUCK@gmail.com
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Tracey Brown
National Commander
Military Order of the Purple Heart
(COPIED from her Patriot's Day Message on September 11, 2025)
Patriots and Auxiliary,
Today, on Patriots Day, September 11, 2025, we pause in solemn remembrance. We reflect on the events that took place on September 11, 2001, which forever changed the fabric of our nation and the world. We remember those lost, the countless acts of heroism that followed, and the unwavering resilience that has defined the spirit of the United States in the years since. The day was marked by unspeakable tragedy, but also by a profound response from ordinary people who rose to meet extraordinary circumstances.
On that fateful morning, the routine of daily life was torn apart by an act of terror that no one could have anticipated. Four planes were hijacked by terrorists with a devastating mission: to cause unimaginable harm. The attacks were executed with horrifying precision, targeting iconic landmarks—the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and a field in Pennsylvania, where the passengers of Flight 93 fought back and prevented even greater destruction.
Each moment that unfolded was a haunting reminder of the vulnerability of our world, but also of the unyielding strength of the human spirit. In the aftermath, the shockwaves reverberated far beyond those directly impacted, changing the course of history and uniting a nation in grief, resolve, and defiance.
As we reflect on this day, we acknowledge the profound emotional toll it has taken on so many. We remember not just the names of those lost, but also the lives forever altered—families, friends, communities, and entire nations. The effects of September 11 were felt in every corner of the globe, and the scars, both visible and invisible.
Patriots Day is not only a time to mourn the victims, but to honor the unsung heroes—those who rushed into danger when most were fleeing, those who worked tirelessly to search for survivors, and those who continue to bear the weight of that day in their hearts and minds. First responders, firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and countless others—many of whom were children of veterans or members of their communities—answered the call not for recognition, but because they knew it was the right thing to do. They put others before themselves, acting out of a sense of duty, compassion, and selflessness that defined the very essence of what it means to be a patriot.
As we look around today, we see the ongoing legacy of their courage. There are still individuals who, just as on that day, are serving others, doing what they can to make the world better, despite the challenges they face. They are the modern patriots, sometimes nameless, often unseen—but always giving more than they ever ask for in return. Their sacrifices continue, sometimes quietly, sometimes with great fanfare, but always with unwavering dedication to others.
This day is not just for the well-known heroes. It is also for the unsung ones, the many patriots who may not have their names etched in stone or in history books, but who did everything they could in the face of incomprehensible tragedy. They are the neighbors who opened their homes to displaced families, the volunteers who worked countless hours to help with recovery efforts, the doctors and nurses who tended to the wounded, the people who showed up to support and rebuild, and the countless others who, in big and small ways, proved that love and humanity can withstand even the most horrific challenges.
Patriots Day is a reminder that heroism isn’t always loud or visible. Sometimes it’s the quiet strength of a person who stands firm when others falter, who sacrifices their own well-being to ensure others are safe, who continues to give even when there’s little left to offer. These patriots, whether they were at Ground Zero or across the country, demonstrated a remarkable resilience that has shaped the nation’s identity in the years since.
On this Patriots Day, we honor those who were lost, those who responded, and those who continue to serve. We recognize that the true measure of patriotism isn’t found in grand gestures, but in the daily acts of kindness, courage, and sacrifice that define us as a nation. Today, we remember not just the heroes of September 11, 2001, but the heroes of every day—the ones who show up, who care, and who never stop working to make the world a better place.
Let us honor the legacy of that day by embracing the enduring spirit of resilience, compassion, and unity that has carried us forward. As we look to the future, we continue to draw strength from the memories of those who gave their all and from the shared commitment to one another that defines the heart of this nation.
Tracey
NationalCommander@PurpleHeart.org
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Copied from Patriot Joe Tormala's contribution to the Purple Heart Magazine
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) offers enhanced clinical support for Family Caregivers of eligible Veterans.
PCAFC is a key part of VA’s Caregiver Support Program. PCAFC offers enhanced clinical support for family caregivers of eligible Veterans who incurred or aggravated a serious injury in the line of duty on or before May 7, 1975, or on or after Sept. 11, 2001, and meet other eligibility criteria. Benefits under PCAFC include education and training, respite care, counseling, technical support, a monthly stipend and access to health care through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs and certain travel expenses. VA is on track to expand PCAFC eligibility to include eligible Veterans of all service eras effective Oct. 1, 2022.
Veterans may be eligible for this clinical program if they:
Sustained or aggravated a serious injury (or illness) in the line of duty in the active military, naval or air service during any service era. Among other applicable eligibility criteria, an eligible Veteran must:
- Have a single or combined service-connected disability rating by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of 70% or more, and
- Be in need of personal care services (requiring in-person personal care services) for a minimum of six continuous months based on any one of the following:
- An inability to perform an activity of daily living.
- A need for supervision or protection based on symptoms or residuals of neurological or other impairment or injury; or
- A need for regular or extensive instruction or supervision without which the ability of the Veteran to function in daily life, would be seriously impaired.
How do I apply for this program?
• Apply Online: VA Online Application (Equal to VA Form 10-10CG)
• Download and print the application here: VA Form 10-10CG (PDF).
Mail the form and any supporting documents to:
- 10-10CG Evidence Intake Center
PO Box 5154
Janesville, WI 53547-5154
• In Person: Bring your completed VA Form 10-10CG to your local VA facility’s CSP Team.
To find your local CSP Team, you can:
- Use the CSP Team Locator Tool, or
- Contact the Caregiver Support Line at 855-260-3274
Do not send medical records along with the application. VA will follow up after the application is received. If you need assistance with completing the application or would like to check the status of your 1010CG application please call 1-855-260-3274.
What services does this program offer?
Veterans can designate one (1) Primary Family Caregiver and up to two (2) Secondary Family Caregivers on the application. Secondary Family Caregivers serve as a backup support to the Primary Family Caregiver when needed. Services will depend on whether you are the Primary Family Caregiver or a Secondary Family Caregiver.
If you are the primary caregiver, you may receive:
· A monthly stipend (paid directly to you as the caregiver.)
· Access to health care insurance through Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA), if you do not already have health insurance.
· Mental health counseling.
· Certain beneficiary travel benefits when traveling with the Veteran to appointments. For specific details, please contact your CSP Team.
· At least 30 days of respite care per year, for the Veteran. Respite is short term relief for someone else to care for the Veteran while you take a break.
If you are the secondary caregiver, you may receive:
· Mental health counseling.
· Certain beneficiary travel benefits when traveling with the Veteran to appointments. For specific details, please contact your local CSP Team.
Be sure to check www.caregiver.va.gov for updates or subscribe to receive email updates and information about VA Caregiver Support Program services.
More Information about the program
PCAFC expansion Fact Sheets. (English)
· Caregivers PCAFC - Application Process Fact Sheet (PDF)
· Caregivers PCAFC - Eligibility Criteria Fact Sheet (PDF)
· Caregivers PCAFC - Monthly Stipend Fact Sheet (PDF)
· Caregivers PCAFC - CHAMPVA Fact Sheet (PDF)
· Caregivers PCAFC - Revocation and Discharge Fact Sheet (PDF)
Stipend Direct Deposit Enrollment Guide
· Caregivers PCAFC – Stipend Direct Deposit Guide (PDF)
PCAFC Roles, Responsibilities, and Requirements Fact Sheet. (English)
· Caregivers PCAFC - Roles, Responsibilities, and Requirements Fact Sheet (PDF)
Patriot Joe Tormala
POW/MIA Officer - MOPH
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