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In this update:
National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day: Honoring the “Forgotten War”
Each year on July 27, we observe National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day to honor the brave Americans who served during the Korean War and remember the sacrifices they made in defense of freedom. On July 27, 1953, an armistice agreement ended active fighting on the Korean Peninsula, though no formal peace treaty was ever signed. Often called the “Forgotten War,” the Korean War was anything but forgotten by the men and women who served. More than 1.7 million Americans answered the call to duty, with more than 36,000 giving their lives and thousands more wounded or listed as missing in action. As we mark the 73rd anniversary of the armistice, I extend my deepest gratitude to Korean War veterans for their courage, service and sacrifice. Their legacy reminds us of the enduring cost of freedom and our responsibility to ensure their contributions are never forgotten. Support Local Veterans Through the YCVO Golf Invitational
The York County Veterans Outreach Golf Invitational will be held Sept. 16 to support local veterans and their families. More than just a day on the course, the event raises funds to provide critical programs and services to veterans throughout York County. Businesses and community partners can help make a difference by becoming a sponsor and supporting those who have served our nation. New Podcast Highlights Pennsylvania’s Military Community
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is launching The Front Line, a new podcast featuring conversations with veterans, service members, military and civilian leaders, subject matter experts and the dedicated professionals who support Pennsylvania’s military community. Beginning July 15, the podcast will share real stories and meaningful discussions highlighting the people, programs and resources that make a difference every day for those who have served. Follow the department’s Facebook page for updates and to listen to each episode as they are released. Free VA App Helps Manage Anger and Stress
Managing anger and stress can be challenging, but a free mobile app developed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers practical tools to help. AIMS (Anger and Irritability Management Skills) was created by the VA’s National Center for PTSD and Mental Health Services for veterans and service members. The app allows users to track anger triggers, practice calming techniques such as deep breathing, redirect negative thoughts, learn about anger management and connect with sources of support. While AIMS is a valuable self-care resource, it is not intended to replace treatment from a qualified health care professional. Get Assistance with State Services at a Satellite Office Near You
In addition to my Harrisburg and district offices, I maintain satellite offices in Cumberland and York counties to make it easier for residents throughout the 31st Senatorial District to access state services closer to home. Residents can stop by for assistance with:
Below are my satellite office locations, hours and days of operation. Residents are welcome to stop by or schedule an appointment with my staff.
My team is committed to providing the assistance and resources you need. If you would like to set up an appointment at one of my satellite offices or have questions, please call 717-432-1730. We look forward to serving you. Displaying the POW/MIA Flag at Public Schools
In June, the Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 835, which would require the display of the official POW/MIA flag when space permits, at public schools during times the U.S. flag is also flown. To read more about the legislation, click here. PA Guard Military Family Education Program
As students begin preparing for the fall semester, Pennsylvania National Guard members are reminded their families could be eligible for assistance to offset the cost of higher education. The Military Family Education Program is for Guard members who completed an initial service obligation on or after July 1, 2019, and are eligible to reenlist in the PA National Guard for a period of six years. The grants can be used for a degree-granting or certificate-granting curriculum, course of study, or training program required for entrance into a specific career at an approved Pennsylvania institution of higher learning. Read more details and find applications here. Beware of the “Veterans Savings Program” Postcard Scam
Veterans and their spouses are being targeted by a new postcard scam advertising a fraudulent “Veterans Saving Program.” The mailer claims eligibility for an extra $185 monthly payment and dental benefits, but the program does not exist. More information about this scam is available here. Posting of Veterans’ Benefits
With the enactment of Act 31 of 2025, Pennsylvania businesses with at least 50 employees are now required to display the benefits and services available to veterans from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs along with contact information for veterans’ resources. Veteran Benefits Assistance
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) provides veterans and their beneficiaries with free and safe assistance when applying for benefits. Seeking free help from the DMVA can help veterans avoid scams and exploitation from people looking to profit from veterans’ earned benefits. For more information about pension poaching, click here. Veteran Burial Benefits
Eligible veterans and their spouses can receive no-cost burial benefits at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national cemeteries. These benefits include burial in a VA National Cemetery, headstone or marker with inscription included and gravesite maintenance in perpetuity. Veterans’ spouses are still eligible for these benefits if they pre-decease the veteran or if the veteran is interred in a non-VA cemetery. For more information on veteran burial benefits from the VA, click here. National Parks Military Lifetime Pass
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and members of Gold Star Families are eligible for a free Military Lifetime Pass at national parks, which will admit the passholder and accompanying passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas, or the passholder and up to three additional people over the age of 16 where per person fees are charged. Passes cover entrance and day-use fees at lands managed by the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. To request a free digital pass, click here. To request a physical pass, which requires a $12.50 shipping and handling fee, click here. |
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