
Talking Points
These are the things we are talking about right now

V4W Ambassadors Newsletter
Issue #1: July 2021
As a V4W Ambassador, you are our highest-ranking representative out in the world and a most valued member of our community. This newsletter was created exclusively for you.
The items in this issue have all been selected based on what is most impacting our military community right now; that will help us create a stronger a connection with you, and that will help you create stronger, more genuine, and productive connections with your own growing local military community.
Here are some things to talk with them about
Top Reasons Vets are Calling
In the last 90 days, these are some of the top reasons people are calling Vets4Warriors.
As you connect with veterans, service members, family members and caregivers, you may come across people who have had had experiences that are causing them to struggle with some of the same issues.
Let them know they are not alone.
- Depression/Anxiety
- PTSD – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Loneliness
- Substance use
- Relationship issues

Noteworthy Events in the News
Items in the news that impact veterans and the military can be triggering for many in our community. Being aware of the topics that are making headlines can help you better connect and be prepared to talk about how our peer support specialists can help. We are here 24/7 to provide assistance as people process these events and figure out how their lives may be directly impacted by them.
Headlines
Legislation Introduced to Overhaul Military Handling of Sexual Misconduct
Lawmakers introduced legislation Thursday that would change the reporting process for sexual harassment and assault in the military and allow service members who are victims to seek monetary damages from the Defense Department.
Proposed True Cost of War Recognition Act to Grant Benefits for Illnesses Related to Burn Pits and Agent Orange
Nearly all veterans who served in overseas conflicts in the last 31 years would be granted presumptive benefits status for a host of respiratory illness and cancers under a sweeping proposal to be introduced by Senate leaders next week.
Behavioral Health Check-ups Could Soon be as Routine for Soldiers as Teeth Cleanings
At the most recent “Dragon’s Lair” competition one soldier suggested mandatory behavioral health checkups for troops that would occur every six months.
Need a Job? Post-COVID, VA Focused on Expanding Current Programs, not Creating New Ones
VA Secretary Denis McDonough said officials want to improve current offerings for post-pandemic employment help rather than try to launch new initiatives.
Service Members and Police are Teaming up to Stop Suicide
Operation Better Together, a new suicide prevention program, pairs police officers and service members for training.
Traumatized Veterans Heal Through the Power of Nature
Veterans take their own lives in extraordinary numbers. Despite rates declining among those that receive care, much work remains to be done.
For first time, some burn pit victims will get presumptive status for disability benefits
An estimated 3.5 million veterans suffered some burn pit exposure overseas during deployments in the last 20 years.

Featured Ambassador
In every issue, we will introduce to you to one of our Ambassadors so you can get to know better the people you are working alongside.
Introducing…
Name: | Brenda Webb |
Service: | U.S. Army, Tactical Wire Operations Specialist, ’74 – ’75, Ft. Hood |
Events: | National Vietnam War Veterans Day – Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 1032, Memorial Day & York State Fair |
Why I am an ambassador:
I have a great desire to reach out to other veterans and assist them in any way that I can. I have a certified service dog Luna who goes everywhere with me, including the Lebanon VA Medical Center where I get my medical care. Luna is small and adorable and she often attracts the attention of other visitors to the hospital. This gives me a chance to connect with them and watch their faces light up as they tell me stories about dogs in their lives. Plus, Luna always brings out a smile.
*if you would like to be a Featured Ambassador in an upcoming issue, let us know!
Upcoming Holidays, Observances & Events
Dates to keep in mind
July
7/4 Independence Day
7/25 Hire A Veteran Day
727 Korean War Veterans Armistice Day
7/28 Buffalo Soldiers Day
7/29 Army Chaplain Corps Anniversary
August
Antiterrorism Awareness Month
8/4 Coast Guard Day
8/6 Hiroshima Day
8/7 Purple Heart Day
8/10 Agent Orange Awareness Day
8/14 Navajo Code Talkers Day
8/16 National Airborne Day
8/19 National Aviation Day
8/29 Marine Corps Reserve Birthday
September
National Suicide Prevention Month
9/2 Victory over Japan (V-J) Day
9/6 Labor Day
9/11 Patriot Day
9/17 Constitution Day
9/17 POW/MIA Recognition Day
9/18 Air Force Birthday
9/18 Air National Guard Birthday
9/26 Gold Star Mother’s Day
Upcoming Events
August 5, 9am-5pm (EST)
Hiring Our Heroes Virtual Career Summit
Transitioning service members, military spouses and veterans can connect with American businesses hiring for both in-person and remote opportunities.
August 10 10am-1pm (EST)
Virtual National GROW
Organizations hiring for roles nationally. Military spouses, military caregivers, veterans and transitioning service members are invited to this virtual hiring and networking event.
August 12, 1pm-3pm (EST)
Virtual Hiring Fair: Construction and Skilled Trades
Organizations hiring for construction and skilled trades and transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses and military caregivers are invited to this virtual hiring fair.
August 25, 4:30pm-5:30pm (EST)
Hiring Our Heroes #DiscoverTheTalent Virtual Orientation
Hiring Our Heroes has launched an exciting initiative, #DiscoverTheTalent, which engages employers to increase economic opportunity for the military spouse community.
Talk to us
If you have any questions about being an Ambassador, need assistance with any of your outreach efforts, or if you would like to be a Featured Ambassador in an upcoming issue, please complete the form below and let us know.
Materials?
Know someone who would make a great Ambassador?
Are you a member of our AMBASSADORS ONLY group?