Posts tagged with "Veterans"

Harley-Davidson Museum × Veterans Day via 360 MAGAZINE

Harley-Davidson Museum × Veterans Day

Help celebrate and salute those who serve and have served at the 
Harley-Davidson Museum’s annual Veterans Day appreciation

And beginning this month, the new Harley-Davidson Factory Shop is open seven days a week!

Harley-Davidson’s history with the U.S military dates back more than a century. The Motor Company’s “iron horses” were a part of General “Black Jack” Pershing’s 1916 efforts to chase Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa around the Mexican desert on the heels of the Mexican Revolution. Harley-Davidson has always been on the front lines – right next to the troops. In fact, the first American to enter Germany after World War I did so on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle.

And in what has become an annual tradition of expressing gratitude for those who serve and those who have served, all active military, veterans and their families will enjoy complimentary admission to the H-D Museum on Friday, Nov. 11. Plus, MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant is also looking to say thanks by offering veterans a free meal on Nov. 11. That’s right, all veterans and active military personnel will receive a free meal (up to $12.95 with the purchase of a beverage). It’s a great time to check out a recent acquisition: an original, unrestored 1969 Model XLA military Sportster with only 11,873 miles on the odometer. This XLA was specifically built on specification for military use and is in its original olive paint and military trim after serving on Fort Lewis, Washington for Military Police duty.

Also this month, the new H-D Factory Shop is now open seven days a week, 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. The official H-D outlet is your source for savings on end-of-season gear and discounted products. With the Harley-Davidson Shop and the new H-D Factory Shop, the H-D Museum campus now boasts more than 13,000 square feet of Harley-Davidson premium retail experience – just in time for holiday shopping.

And have you enrolled in MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant’s new Rev Rewards program? If the monthly specials weren’t enough to entice you (see below) in for lunch, dinner, a Friday fish fry or BBQ & Blues, you can now earn rewards every time you dine at MOTOR.

This will also be the last call for “Building a Milwaukee Icon: Harley-Davidson’s Juneau Avenue Factory,” before it departs the Bridge Gallery later this month. Stay tuned for exciting news on a new family-friendly, bilingual exhibit set to go up in December. 

Finally, mark your calendars for Dec. 7 – Dec. 18 for a new Harley tradition, 12 Days of Holiday Fun at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Make reservations for Breakfast with Santa. And look out for exclusive after-hours shopping at the Harley-Davidson Shop and the Factory Shop. The campus will provide the perfect backdrop for fun family photo ops and so much more.

PROGRAMMING / EVENTS  
Veterans Day Appreciation, Nov. 11, 10 – 5 p.m.
We salute you! On November 11, the Harley-Davidson Museum will offer free Museum admission for all active Military, Veterans and their families*. Learn more about H-D’s military involvement that dates back more than a century. Active military and veterans also enjoy discounts throughout the H-D Museum™ campus. Learn more about H-D’s storied military history during Military Gallery Talks on November 11th at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
*Free admission with valid Military or Veterans ID for one (1) additional adult and up to four (4) children (under age 18). Valid on November 11, 2022, for in-person use at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Not valid for online purchases. Non-transferable. Cannot be redeemed for cash or cash equivalent. Offer not valid on previously purchased Harley-Davidson Museum tickets. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Offer is subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.

Annual Pass
Looking for interesting things to do and ways to fully enjoy our programs and exhibits? Maybe doing a little holiday shopping for those who love the adventure only Harley-Davidson can bring? The Harley-Davidson Museum’s new Annual Pass offers individual, family and VIP levels to fit your lifestyle. Just some of the perks of the new Annual Pass include: virtual access to the H-D Museum with various Harley history topics covered in our Virtual Gallery Talk series, admission discounts, free admission for children under age 18, merchandise discounts at The Shop, dining discounts at MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant and more. Visit H-D Museum.com for details and other terms and conditions.

Guided Tours
All new in ’22. Our guided tour portfolio has been updated with new experiences and content. Choose from the Spotlight Tour, the Beyond the Gate Tour or the VIP Tour. Some tours are available to the public; this schedule will vary. Public tour offerings now include a Spotlight Tour in Spanish and an occasional Beyond the Gate Tour. Guests are invited to check out the calendar when planning their visit to sign-up in advance for an unforgettable guided experience. To book a private group tour, please call 414-287-2799 or email for more information. Advance reservations and prepayment required at least 2-weeks prior to tour date. Please note: Tour fee does not include General Admission.

Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 10:15 a.m. and 2 p.m.)
All scouts are welcome to come earn their Engineering Merit Badge at the Harley-Davidson Museum! This experience will be launched by our merit badge counselor. Then, scouts will explore the history of Harley-Davidson as well as the engineering of motorcycles as they complete the nine merit badge requirements. Advance registration is required. Program registration closes one week prior to the scheduled program date. Ticket includes: downloadable activity booklet used for the program, welcome and orientation by program facilitator, blue card signed by the facilitator (one blue card per scout registration) and an exclusive H-D Museum™ patch.

Scout Virtual Engineering Merit Badge (Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.)
This new 90-minute online program is open to scouts from all over the country. Our program facilitator will guide the troops and explore the role an engineer plays while creating a Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle. Nine requirements for the Engineering Merit Badge will be discussed during this virtual, interactive program. Advance registration is required. Program Fee: $20 per Scout, which includes an activity booklet used during the program and a special H-D® patch upon completion of the program.

MUST-SEE EXHIBITS AND INSTALLATIONS
Experience Gallery
 (on display now)
With inspiring stories from riders who have turned their dream of learning to ride into reality, a look at the epic journeys you can only experience behind the bars of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, plus the chance to throw a leg over a new Harley-Davidson #FreedomMachine, the reinstalled and all-new Experience Gallery shows the world how United We Ride! 

Google Arts & Culture: Take a Trip through Time (on display now)

Lillian Hauerwas began riding in 1911 when she was 19 years old. In 1914, she and a friend took a sidecar rig on a week-long trip. Check out a photo album from their ride and find out more about this early advocate for women motorcyclists on the Museum’s Google Arts & Culture site.

Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (on display now)
The four founders of Harley-Davidson were recently inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. Learn more about this prestigious honor now on view in the H-D Museum.

Linda “Jo” Giovannoni (on display now)
This year the world of motorcycling lost a prominent voice, Linda “Jo” Giovannoni. As a co-founder of Harley Women magazine, she shared her love of the sport through articles in newspapers and magazines, and in national television interviews and documentaries. Learn about how Giovannoni inspired riders for over 40 years.

1977 FLH “Blackula” (on display now)
Milwaukee man about town Freddie Franklin purchased his Electra Glide® motorcycle from its original owner, 95-year-old Wallace Brzezinski, with only 4,500 miles on its odometer. And in short order, he completely re-envisioned the bike to reflect his timeless style. The motorcycle incorporates some hallmarks of Franklin’s disparate tastes. A dash of the Coney Island-style bikes – decked out with lights and reflectors – he adored mixed in with elements of Willie G.’s seminal Knucklehead and topped off with details that harken to the 1970s blaxploitation films Franklin watched back in the day. A clear statement of Black pride via the language of vintage motorcycles, this is a bike you must see in-person.

Keith Brammer (Die Kreuzen) leather jacket (on display now)
Perhaps no other genre of music is so closely associated with the classic black leather jacket than punk rock. Keith Brammer, of Milwaukee’s hardcore punk band Die Kreuzen, has graciously lent his well-worn leather to the H-D Museum. The jacket was purchased in New York City in the 1980s and was a constant companion for Brammer throughout his touring days. Check out the Custom Culture gallery to view this piece of Milwaukee music history.

Revolution® Max Engine (on display now)
The brand-new Revolution® Max 1250cc engine powers a new generation of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. See the liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-Twin that delivers for the Pan America® adventure touring model and the performance cruiser Sportster® S motorcycle. On view in the Museum lobby.

Clubs & Competition (on display now)
In the early part of the 20th century, motorcycle culture was a homegrown phenomenon. It grew out of the passion of riders for their evolving sport. The camaraderie that developed around riding and attending competitive events led to the formation of motorcycle clubs that hosted destination rides, family picnics with motorcycle games and other riding competitions. 
The newly reinstalled display case in the Clubs & Competition gallery highlights clothing from club members from primarily the 1930s and 1940s. The clothing selections on view include full dress uniforms, shirts, sweaters, jackets and caps, customized by the owners with their club’s name and logo, and pins or patches indicating membership in the American Motorcyclist Association. The H-D Archives collection includes Motorclothes® apparel sold in H-D® product catalogs but also non-H-D produced clothing items that have been proudly customized by riders. 

Harley Fox (on display now)Gail Anderson’s 1986 Softail® Custom motorcycle, “Harley Fox,” built by her partner Bob Burrows, took top prize at the first Ladies of Harley® (LOH) ride-in show during Daytona Beach Bike Week in 1987. With her custom bike and themed riding gear, Anderson presented a striking image that fit the growing visibility and exciting new options for women riders in the 1980s.

Alfonso Sotomayor’s 1957 Model FL (on display now)
The Harley-Davidson Museum is proud to announce its collection has recently grown with the addition of a 1957 Model FL that was ridden by famed Mexican stunt rider and racer Alfonso Sotomayor Canales.
Harley-Davidson’s history in Mexico dates back to at least 1913. In the 1920s, the brand was more frequently spotted throughout Mexico City as the motorcycles proved popular with the local traffic police who would also perform stunts with their Harley-Davidson® bikes. After racing from the 1930s into the 1960s, Sotomayor launched his own stunt riding career by performing the famed “Salto de la Muerte” or Jump of Death. Learn more about Sotomayor’s feats of derring-do and Harley-Davidson’s early entry into Mexico with this new display located in the Custom Culture area.

“Off-Road Harley-Davidson” (on display now)
In the decades before America paved its highways, early riders had to be prepared for all sorts of terrain: sand, clay or dirt – and wandering those makeshift byways were Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Today, it’s called off-road or adventure touring; back then it was just called riding. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson® motorcycles proved their toughness by riding over wooded hills, through stone-choked creek beds and up mountain sides. “Off-Road Harley-Davidson” tells the history of motorcycles designed for rough roads, the people who rode them and the adventures they shared. 

“Building a Milwaukee Icon: Harley-Davidson’s Juneau Avenue Factory” (closing soon!)
A recently recovered cache of architectural drawings includes plans for the original Juneau Avenue facility. The pencil drawings, along with archival photographs, demonstrate the whirlwind pace of the company’s early growth. While building an international business—going from producing just over 1,000 motorcycles in 1909 to manufacturing 27,000 motorcycles in 1920—the company’s Milwaukee factory experienced near-constant expansion. Construction through this relatively brief period created the buildings that today, a century later, are still the proud home of Harley-Davidson.
“Building a Milwaukee Icon” provides a snapshot of Harley-Davidson’s formative years and illustrates a chapter of Milwaukee history when the city was known as the “Machine Shop to the World.”

The Harley-Davidson® Shop
Have you seen the expanded offerings at the all-new H-D™ Shop? More than 150 new items can be yours to help outfit your collection, including new collaborations! Check out the fresh Harley-Davidson Museum™ headwear and socks designed and made in the USA by Ampal. Beginning on Black Friday (Nov. 25), be sure to check out the H-D Shop gift bundles. Available for men, women and kids, these are a great way to knock out your holiday shopping early and share more smiles.

Factory Shop
Harley-Davidson’s first and only Factory Shop is now open on the Harley-Davidson Museum campus! Bonus: It’s open seven days a week! The Factory Shop is the official company outlet for premium, end-of-season H-D clothing and gear that have limited inventory. Products include helmets, gloves, jackets and so much more. Inventory is refreshed often, so be sure to check out what’s on the rack today!

1903 EVENTS
Who’s down to add a little extra jingle to your holiday parties? The team at 1903 Events is ready to take your event to the next level. Our unique spaces – including the all-new, 8,200-square-foot Garage – can accommodate parties from 10 to 10,000. Reach out to the world-class sales team at 1903 Events now to make sure your party ends up on the nice list. Be sure to ask about 1903 Event’s special winter booking incentive – all clients who book between Nov. 20 and Feb. 28, 2023, can receive customized lighting at no additional fee.

MOTOR® BAR & RESTAURANT 
MOTOR’s monthly specials feature hearty fare to help fight any chill coming this season. Enjoy Classic Meatloaf (an American classic served with buttered corn and mashed potatoes, $16.95), Milly Roast Beef, MOTOR’s take on the classic Philly cheese steak (shaved roast beef topped with peppers, onions and cheddar cheese on a pretzel bun, served with french fries and a pickle spear, $14.95) or Bananas Foster Cake (vanilla crunch cake dressed with rum caramel and sliced bananas, $7.95) as you leave the cooking to the pros at MOTOR. 
And now there’s even more incentives to bring your appetite to MOTOR. The MOTOR® Rev Rewards program is MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant’s loyalty program. This program is a way for us to show our appreciation to our loyal guests! The goal is to make the program fun and easy for guests to use. Diners at MOTOR who sign up for the program will earn points for every dollar they spend on their meal. $1 equals 1 point, and for every 100 points that you accumulate, you get $5 towards your next meal. In addition to earning rewards, we also have incentives for our members such as a birthday reward, anniversary reward, and more. It’s simple and fast to sign up – join us today!

About the Harley-Davidson Museum
Discover culture and history through stories and interactive exhibits that celebrate expression, camaraderie, and love for the sport at the Harley-Davidson Museum. A visit to the H-D Museum is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. With an unrivaled collection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and memorabilia, a 20-acre, park-like campus, and a calendar full of activities, the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations for visitors from around the globe. Make your plans to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum at H-DMuseum.com.

Budgeting article illustration by Rita Azar for 360 MAGAZINE

The Invictus Games

Invictus Games competitors were greeted by the Duke of Sussex as they competed for the first medals of the event at the Land Rover Driving Challenge.

The France team took gold in the first medal event in which sixteen nations went head to head in a test of driving, navigation skills and team work.

Competitors tackled tough terrain on a specially built off-road course with water obstacles, a rock crawl and steep inclines.

The Duke awarded medals to the top finishers, with the team from France taking gold, Romania finishing second, and Georgia claiming bronze.

The Invictus Games The Hague 2020 presented by Jaguar Land Rover is a multi-national adaptive sporting event for wounded, ill and injured servicemen, servicewomen and veterans, and includes archery, athletics, cycling, indoor rowing, powerlifting, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby.

Laura Wood, Head of Global PR Brand and Partnerships, Land Rover, said:

“The long-awaited Games began in true Invictus style today – with passion, team work and sheer dedication. The commitment shown from every competitor was unprecedented. We celebrate each one of them and all those who played a part in their journey here today. I know everyone at Jaguar Land Rover wishes each of them the very best of luck for the rest of the Games.”

The Land Rover Driving Challenge is the first medal opportunity of the Invictus Games The Hague 2020 preceding the opening ceremony on 16 April.

Protected: Bob Evans Farms Announces Grant Program for Veterans

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Airplane illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

Milwaukee Air × Water Show

Milwaukee Air & Water Show Cancelled for 2021

The welcome sounds of thunder, and the spectacular military and civilian precision acrobatics over Milwaukee – will again be silent and unseen this summer. The 2021 Milwaukee Air & Water Show, scheduled for July 24-25 this year with the US Air Force Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Squadron, “America’s Ambassadors in Blue,” will not be held, due to several major factors affecting the event.

“It is unfortunate families in our community will not be able to enjoy the Milwaukee Air & Water Show again this year,” said Doug Gordon, President/CEO of WaterStone Bank. “But we look forward to getting together next year to watch the Blue Angels, and other performers, at the lakefront.”

“This was a hard decision that impacts so many involved with the Milwaukee Air & Water Show, but it is the right decision during this unprecedented time,” said Milwaukee County Parks Executive Director Guy Smith. “We are eager to be a part of the show’s return in the future.”

“Given all the factors affecting our ability to put on a quality event, there was no other choice,” Milwaukee Air & Water Show President Paul Rogers said. “We will come back stronger, safer and ready for the 2022 Milwaukee Air & Water Show, which is scheduled with the US Navy Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron, as well as many other world-class military and civilian air show performers,” he added.

The Milwaukee Air & Water Show,  presented by WaterStone Bank, is unique in Milwaukee’s history and provides affordable, wholesome entertainment for the entire family. From its grassroots beginnings in 2002, the air & water show has grown into Wisconsin’s largest free event, providing a substantial economic impact to Milwaukee’s local economy.

The Milwaukee Air & Water Show is Milwaukee’s masterpiece of sound and color that showcases the role of aviation & technology in the community, the history of air power, and provides a forum for educating young people about aviation and encourages the natural excitement these upcoming generations have for flight.

The Milwaukee Air & Water Show, proudly honors our armed forces and veterans, provides the community with a meaningful understanding and tribute to our nation’s armed forces and supports military veterans, provides Wisconsinites the value and commitment that our country’s armed forces provide to keep our residents safe.

Memorial Day illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

The Meaning Behind Memorial Day

THE MEANING BEHIND MEMORIAL DAY

By: Heather Skovlund-Reibsamen

“How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes.” – Maya Angelou

Memorial Day, once referred to as Decoration Day, is an American holiday in the United States that honors military personnel along as well as mourn those that we have lost along the way. Decoration Day was for decorating graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags. Memorial Day is formerly observed on the last Monday of May each year. It is a solemn day, but it is also important to reflect upon, appreciate and be thankful for the freedom that we all get to enjoy every day in the United States of America.

Many gather with friends and family for barbeques and celebrating the beginning of summer while others visit cemeteries and memorials to remember their loved ones lost. Each year a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. It is important to remember that we are not celebrating the wars, instead we are remembering those who served and those who gave their last breath in order to ensure that the freedoms of our country would be passed on to the next generations. We remember for the price they paid for the cost of our freedom – their lives given so ours could go on.

Memorial Day was originated after the American Civil War, where the United States faced the task of burying and honoring 600,000 to 800,000 Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the bloodiest military conflict in American history. The first commemoration of Memorial Day was held in Arlington National Cemetery on May 30, 1868. On this day, both Union and Confederate soldiers were laid to rest. Over the years, cities across the United States host Memorial Day parades that involve military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Americans sometimes wear a red poppy in remembrance of their loved ones, which is a tradition that was born from a World War 1 poem.  

In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Memorial Day has a different meaning behind it for every American. Here at 360 Magazine, we were able to get a few opinions from veterans in the United States.

  • Kyle Skovlund: United States Air Force – Memorial Day has a different meaning for me. Growing up, my parents would travel to Brookings, South Dakota each year to put flowers on the graves of those they had lost. When my own daughter passed away, I began doing the same thing. Memorial Day, for me, is a day to reflect on those that have been lost.
  • Michael Miller: United States Air Force – Memorial Day means remembering and celebrating. Remembering the great men and women that gave their life for our great nation and celebrating the freedoms their sacrifices have given us.
  • J.M. Skovlund: United States Army  – “Memorial Day means exactly what it was intended for, to remember and honor our fallen. They went above and beyond for our country, for the soldier on their left and right, and that’s something not everyone can say.” “Go out and remember the fallen the way you see fit. Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing. If it’s having a drink in their honor, do that. If it’s going to their grave to chat, do that. Either way, remember the fallen the best way you can, don’t disgrace them.”
Golf illustration by Nicole for use by 360 Magazine

Folds of Honor Tennessee Celebrity Golf Tournament

The Executive Board of Folds of Honor, Tennessee, is set to host their first annual celebrity golf tournament on Monday, June 21st, at the Governors Club in Brentwood, TN. Folds of Honor, is a 501C-3 national nonprofit dedicated to providing educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled American service members.

This world class event will bring together some of Nashville’s most recognizable celebrities, in a friendly exhibition for a great cause. Talent committed to participation includes Titan’s head coach Mike Vrabel and chart-topping country artists Lee BriceTyler FarrJamey Johnson, Chase Rice, Charles Esten, Randy Houser, Mitchell Tenpenny, Michael RayJelly Roll, Dee Jay Silver amongst many, many others. Over two dozen celebrities from the worlds of sports and entertainment will be in attendance at the one day fundraiser. The event schedule is as follows:

  • 9:30 Registration
  • 11:30 Shotgun Start
  • 4:00 Happy Hour with music by Dee Jay Silver
  • 4:30 Auction/Awards/Special Guest/Dinner
  • 5:30 Concert by the Steel Drivers

A few notable auction items include:

  • Two VIP passes to join Danica Patrick aboard the super yacht Ocean Pearl at The 2022 Monaco Grand Prix
  • A round of golf in Las Vegas with Lee Brice and LPGA pro-golfer Danielle Kang
  • A once-in-a-lifetime 4-day Dove Hunt in
  • 7 day vacation in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, Mexico with a two bedroom suite at the oceanfront Diamond Resort.
  • Signed guitars and celebrity memorabilia

“We are excited to bring together our friends from the worlds of sports, entertainment, and corporate America for the common cause of helping military families who paid the ultimate price to preserve our freedom,” said Christopher King, President for Folds of Honor, Tennessee. “We can’t all serve in the military, but we can support the families of those who protect our country.”

If you or someone you know is interested in purchasing a foursome or becoming a sponsor of the Folds of Honor Celebrity Golf Tournament, please email jkreifels@foldsofhonor.org. Each partnership allows Folds of Honor to ensure that no family member of a fallen soldier goes without a scholarship this year. Folds of Honor is committed to maintaining and growing relationships within the community to support companies and individuals who value our military and our mission to educate the legacy of those who keep us free. Sign up link for teams and sponsorship here.

About Folds of Honor TN

Folds of Honor is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization, rated a four-star charity by Charity Navigator and platinum on GuideStar, that provides educational scholarships to the families of military men and women who have fallen or been disabled while on active duty in the United States armed forces. Our educational scholarships support private educational tuition and tutoring for children in grades K-12, as well as higher education tuition assistance for spouses and dependents. Founded in 2007 by Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, a PGA Professional and F-16 fighter pilot in the Air Force Reserves who served three tours of duty in Iraq, the Folds of Honor is proud to have awarded nearly 24,500 scholarships in all 50 states and some US territories, including approximately 4,500 in 2019 alone. For more information or to donate in support of a Folds of Honor scholarship, please visit here.

Kaelen Felix illustrates Veterans Day for 360 Magazine

“Don’t Shoot Your Future Self” By Eric Power

Veterans face incredible challenges after leaving the military. From coping with mental health issues like depression and PTSD to finding employment, re-establishing relationships, and more – readjusting to civilian life is not easy. After putting their lives on the line in service of our country, veterans deserve more support than what they are getting.

The pandemic has only made this issue worse over the last year with the surge of loneliness, unemployment, and an increase in mental health cases among all Americans. A survey done by the Wounded Warriors Project found that more than half of veterans said their mental health had worsened during the pandemic.

Fortunately, a new book from recent military veteran, Eric Power can help. “Don’t Shoot Your Future Self” is a powerful story of self-discovery that shares the keys to overcoming some of life’s greatest challenges and the wisdom and insights in this book are more timely and relevant than ever before.

“This pandemic has set a shocking and much greater feat for veterans (and all Americans for that matter) to rise above thier mental health challenges. Yet, I am very optimistic about the future and hope to provide support, advice, and my personal experience to help save someone’s life…” said Power, whose mission is to provide a valuable resource and life-changing advice to veterans, their families, and all struggling Americans.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Blurring the lines between fiction and nonfiction, “Don’t Shoot Your Future Self” is a powerful story that shines light on the unique challenges veterans face after leaving the military. As an active combat veteran, Eric Power knows the sacrifices and struggles of civilian veterans. As a mentor and a self-development student, he also knows the keys to overcoming some of the greatest challenges in business and in life.

Power shares his success principles as he takes you through the challenges of David Little, a veteran facing personal and career challenges. Follow along as David meets his mentor, Ralph Power, who helps him discover his self-worth and shows him how to build life-changing relationships.

The statistics on veteran mental health are horrific. According to a 2020 report, roughly 17 veterans die by suicide each day in the US. This means meaning more veterans die by suicide every two days than were killed in action last year! This staggering statistic is why “Don’t Shoot Your Future Self” rings true to 24 million veterans around the world who have some type of personal struggle after returning home. As the Coronavirus surges forward, we have seen an increase in mental health conditions among all Americans. The wisdom and insights in this book are more timely and relevant than ever before.

Of course, this personal development is a must-read for military veterans, but it also appeals to non-veterans because it offers timeless and universal business and success principles applicable to all people. This book is a valuable resource for military families or anyone with loved ones in the service. It offers a glimpse into the reality of the veteran experience and readers can learn more about what their loved one is going through and how they can help.

Whether you are a veteran or not, “Don’t Shoot Your Future Self” is an unforgettable story about life, relationships, and the power we all have to create a lasting imprint on the people we meet and know.

The book was released December 28th, 2020 by Waterside productions and starts at $16.95 for the paperback edition. “Don’t Shoot Your Future Self” is available for purchase on Amazon HERE. 

ABOUT ERIC POWER:

Eric Louis Power is an author, speaker, entrepreneur, and social activist dedicated to helping military veterans and their families achieve a better quality of life. Power served honorably in the US Navy reaching the rank of Petty Officer First Class and serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Southern Watch. Power has a total of seven deployments, with 3.5 years in Active Combat zones. He is the founder of For Veterans By Veterans, a nonprofit that provides assistance to homeless vets, and he is the founder and CEO of Veterans Disability Help, LLC, a firm that manages VA disability claims and helps disabled veterans get the benefits they deserve. Since 2012, Power has been responsible for redirecting over 2.1 Million dollars a month recurring from the VA, back to the veterans in regard to their VA disability claims.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT https://veterandisabilityhelp.com

Kaelen Felix illustrates Veterans Day for 360 Magazine

Remembering Veterans During a Strained Time

By: Elle Grant

Wednesday, November 11th marks the annual commemoration of veterans in the United States, aptly named Veterans Day. This year, in the unprecedented context of coronavirus, as well as intense political and social strife, the day takes on an additionally sacred context as a reminder of those who have served our country.

Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary marking the end of World War I. Congress then passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, with the day becoming a national holiday beginning in 1938. Similar to Memorial Day, which is an annual federal holiday in May, it celebrates veterans of the United States. However, the difference between them is that Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, living and dead. Yet a particular focus is on those veterans still with us, who served their country with honor and distinction whether during war or peacetime.

Several countries have similar days commemorating their veterans that find their root in remembering World War I and World War II on or near November 11th. Canada has Remembrance Day, while Britain has Remembrance Sunday. World War I, as arguably the most brutal conflict in human history on the soldiers, is a devastating reminder of why countries celebrate those who serve.

2020 is a particularly remarkable year as it marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, the 70th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War, and the 30th anniversary of both the end of the Panama Invasion and the beginning of Desert Shield.

Veterans Day has been distinctly impacted by the coronavirus, still sweeping the nation especially in the Midwest. As such, celebrations and efforts of remembrance are being affected in large ways. Arlington National Cemetery, used to hosting hundreds of thousands of veterans, their families, and the families of veterans who have passed, has altered its yearly ceremony in context of the current pandemic. For the first time, it will be livestreamed, with certain areas closed off, and embracing social distancing and masked mandates. Furthermore, the beloved observance at Memorial Amphitheater has been closed off to the general public, yet the overall cemetery will remain open.

Yet it is no time to despair or to pause the nation’s respects. There are 18.2 milling living veterans who have served during wartime alive in the United States today, all deserving admiration.

Many businesses and restaurants salute veterans during this day with special deals for those who have served and their families. 360 Magazine thanks all veterans for their service.

Veterans illustration by Kaelen Felix for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Postal Inspection Service Lists Scams Targeting Veterans

As Veterans Day approaches this Wednesday, Operation Protect Veterans is alerting more than 17 million U.S. veterans to scams that are specifically targeting them. OPV is a joint crime prevention program created by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and AARP.

Some of these scams are listed as: 

  • Secret Veterans Benefits Scam: Veterans are told they qualify for “secret” government programs or benefits that offer thousands of dollars. But first, they attempt to collect personal information or a fee.
  • Pension Poaching Scam: Scammers often offer veterans lump sum payments up front, in exchange for signing over all their future monthly benefit checks.  
  • Bogus Employment Scam: Scammers post fake job descriptions to collect personal information from a veteran’s job application, or they charge an employment fee.
  • VA Loan Scams: Offers to refinance VA loans at extremely low rates. 
  • Update Your File Scam: An imposter, claiming to be from a government agency, attempts to get a veteran’s personal information to “update their file,” so they can maintain their benefits.
  • Aid and Attendance Scam: Veterans (or their family members) receive an offer to move their assets into a living trust so that they can qualify for financial assisted Iiving benefits.

According to research conducted by AARP, veterans are twice as likely as the general public to be victims of scams. What can veterans – and those who care about them – do to prevent being taken advantage of by scammers? 

The Postal Inspection Service advises every veteran do the following:

  • Visit the Postal Inspection Service’s website (www.uspis.gov) to learn about scams targeting veterans and what they can do to prevent becoming a victim.
  • Check out any offer with a trusted family member, friend or your local veteran’s affairs office before acting. 
  • Don’t be pressured into acting immediately. If you are dealing with a legitimate outfit, they won’t try to pressure you to act before having a chance to check it out and think about it. If they do, just say “no” and hang up.
  • Get an answering machine and caller ID display. Then, let the machine answer the phone for you. If you don’t recognize the person leaving a message, don’t pick up the phone! 
  • Contact your telephone service provider, and ask them what kind of services they offer to help you block unwanted calls.
  • Report if you believe you have been the victim of a scam. Contact your local police or AARP (protectveterans@aarp.org or 877-908-3360).
  • Get credible information on how to qualify for veterans’ benefits by contacting your state veterans’ affairs agency. Visit www.nasdva.us, and click on “Links.”

“Veterans have access to special benefits and share a special bond that scammers know and use to take advantage of them,” said Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. “The Postal Inspection Service works hard every day to stop scams targeting veterans, but we need everyone to become better informed, so they can help spread the knowledge to the veterans they know and love. 

“I encourage all Americans to make this Veteran’s Day not only a day of remembrance and thanks for our veterans,” Barksdale continued, “but also to make it the start of learning about, and helping to spread information on scams targeting veterans.”

For more information on scams targeting veterans and other scams, visit www.uspis.gov. To learn more about the U.S. Inspection Postal Service, visit www.uspis.gov. You can also follow them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Juna N Joey – Heroes

Veterans Day arrives Wednesday, and to celebrate the brother-sister duo of Juna N Joey are releasing a brand new single titled “Heroes,” which you can stream by clicking right here.

With patriotic and uplifting lyrics, it tributes the heroes of our country with a classic, country sound. Their harmonies bring their passion for helping and celebrating others to life.

This is the follow up to Juna N Joey’s song “Anchor,” which you can hear by clicking right here. They also started the “Find Your Anchor” campaign for the prevention of bullying.

The two are coming off an exciting 2019, during which DreamWorksTV asked them to participate in the Netflix special “Spirit Riding Free” singing Keith Urban‘s “Somebody Like You.”

They also co-wrote their first single, “Stay Young” in Nashville, which caught the attention of Release Radar on Spotify and Country Radio. You can hear the song by clicking right here.

They then opened for American Idol star Cade Foehner on his Southern Hallelujah Tour. They also joined the Gratitude Tour with Michael Rouse’s ESF Camps.

They first started posting on YouTube, using guitar, piano, keyboard, and saxophone. They’re currently working on an EP.

You can learn more about them by clicking right here. You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.