Through July 14, 2012, when you shop for supplies at Walt Churchill’s Markets, you will see store employees wearing the badge you see on this page. You will be asked to make a two-second decision that could make a lifetime of difference.
At dozens of sites every summer, Feed Lucas County Children (FLCC) provides more than 242,000 meals in about 11 weeks. FLCC Executive Director Tony Siebeneck said the meals are recognized as some of the healthiest in Ohio, using fresh fruit, whole wheat bread and low sodium.
Inspired by an initiative suggested by Columbia Gas of Ohio Communications and Community Relations Manager Chris Kozak, Toledo Free Press is again partnering with Columbia Gas of Ohio and Walt Churchill’s Market to do more than talk about this crucial problem; we are going to actively try to make a difference.
Through July 14, there will be a “Round Up Hunger” drive at the Walt Churchill’s locations at 3320 Briarfield Blvd. in Maumee and 26625 Dixie Hwy. in Perrysburg (currently, there is no program similar to FLCC in Wood County, a situation Siebeneck is assessing).
During the “Round Up Hunger” campaign, when you purchase groceries at a Walt Churchill’s Market, you will be asked if you can “round up” your purchase to the next dollar. That change, from 1 cent to 99 cents, will be donated 100 percent to FLCC.
We are in great debt to our partners for recognizing the need to help FLCC and for stepping up with their time, energy and resources.
We are not so naive to think we can eliminate hunger in our county, but we can, in cooperation with you, make a difference in thousands of lives during these challenging economic times.
We hope you are compelled by our series to offer whatever you can during the “Round Up Hunger” campaign, to help us show these children they are not invisible to us — that we know they need us, and that we are here for them.
Thomas F. Pounds is president and publisher of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Contact him at [email protected].
Round Up Hunger sponsors Tony Siebeneck, Chris Kozak and Walt Churchill. Toledo Free Press Photo by Joseph Herr
After last year’s Round Up Hunger campaign raised $5,975 for Feed Lucas County Children (FLCC), Executive Director of FLCC Tony Siebeneck is excited to see its return and hopefully, growth.
“I think we’re going to see more funds raised because the public is getting more informed on the child hunger issue,” Siebeneck said.
The campaign will occur over over a two week period, July 1-14. During this time, customers at both of Walt Churchill’s Market locations (3320 Briarfield Blvd. in Maumee and 26625 Dixie Highway in Perrysburg) will be asked if they want to “round up” their total purchase amount to the next whole dollar, with the difference going to help FLCC build their new community kitchen.
Columbia Gas of Ohio, Toledo Free Press and Walt Churchill’s Market partnered to sponsor this campaign.
“It gives everyone the chance to feel like they’re making a difference. Even if it’s a small amount out of someone’s budget, when we put it together, it can make a difference,” said Chris Kozak, communications manager at Columbia Gas.
Kunal Dawar, assistant store manager and grocery director at Walt Churchill’s Market in Maumee said that last year, one customer donated $50.
“You can definitely give more if you so choose,” Dawar said.
FLCC aims to feed children that live below the poverty line in Lucas County by serving free, nutritious meals at various community locations throughout the day. FLCC serves the community all year long, but its busiest time of the year is summer. Since 2002, the organization has fed more than 700,000 children 18 and younger. This summer, FLCC is serving from over 80 countywide locations.
“I was so impressed with what [Tony] does, and the impact he has on the lives of children across Lucas County. It’s inspiring to see someone do something that has that impact. We’re honored to be a part of the program,” Kozak said.
FLCC had made such an impact on the area that the organization was recently called upon to speak to the state Senate on child summer hunger.
“I did a conference call when the Senate was in session because they wanted a real understanding of the summer hunger issue and they were impressed by the Lucas County program,” Siebeneck said. “Out of the [88] counties in Ohio, about 10 have no food program in place during the summer for kids.”
Siebeneck said that with the creation of the organization’s new community kitchen, where all the meals are prepared and distributed, FLCC could possibly be the first county in Ohio to end summer hunger. Twenty-four thousand kids live at or below the poverty line in Lucas County, and this kitchen would be able to feed 20,000 children a day, Siebeneck said.
“We already have the building (for the new kitchen) identified,” Siebeneck said. “Right now we just need every living soul to re-direct their philanthropy to this kitchen, just for one year. It will give back for decades down the road.”
The new kitchen will continue to provide healthy, FDA-approved meals, Siebeneck said.
“When the Ohio Department of Education released higher standards (for school meals) in January and February, we were already meeting or exceeding 95 percent of the standards,” Siebeneck said.
On any given day in June, the number of meals delivered may be 3,400, but it drastically increases to about 6,000 in July, for no identified reason, Siebeneck said.
He said the organization has outgrown its Downtown rented space in the old Macomber High School building on Monroe Street. Siebeneck said they will keep their old equipment and purchase some new, bigger machines, along with two more prep tables and two unloading docks for semi trucks. The approximately 200 volunteers that FLCC uses will remain the same, Siebeneck said.
The Perrysburg location of Walt Churchill’s Market is in Wood County, which will soon be receiving assistance from FLCC.
“Next year we already know we’re going to be feeding kids in Wood County, south of Rossford,” Siebeneck said. “The percentage of kids eligible for reduced and free lunches is climbing in Perrysburg and Wood County schools. We have already had two groups contact us, so we will be feeding kids there next summer. So the campaign will benefit Wood County as much as Lucas.”
Siebeneck said hunger doesn’t have any boundaries.
“Even if we take other communities like Sylvania, Maumee, Oregon, the number of kids falling into the category (of poverty) each year is increasing,” Siebeneck said.
Siebeneck said by supplying food to be served at area community organizations such as churches, schools and other centers, FLCC is providing the foundation for them to grow and increase its visibility in the community.
“It’s a win-win for everybody,” Siebeneck said.
For store hours and more information, visit waltchurchillsmarket.com and feedlucaschildren.org.
Veteran Jim Hansen waves flags in time to music at the June 20, 2012, welcome home ceremony for Honor Flight at Grand Aire at Toledo Express Airport. Toledo Free Press photo by Sarah Ottney
Beaming from ear to ear and waving two American flags to the music of a concert band, World War II veteran Jim Hansen expressed himself perfectly, even though he can no longer talk.
The 90-yearold Toledoan, who served with the Navy in the South Pacific, exuded joy during a June 20 welcome home celebration at the Grand Aire hangar at Toledo Express Airport in Swanton following Honor Flight Northwest Ohio’s most recent trip.
The nonprofit organization flies veterans to Washington, D.C., free of charge to visit the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial and other military memorials. Each veteran is accompanied by a guardian.
“He found out he was going on his 90th birthday,” said Hansen’s daughter
Yielding of Sylvania. “It was his 90th birthday present.”
Linda’s husband, Wayne Yielding, was Hansen’s guardian for the trip, which included 74 World War II veterans and two Korean War veterans.
Two of the World War II veterans also served during the Korean War.
“The reception in D.C. was wonderful,” Wayne said. “It was pretty moving to say the least.”
Cherie Mourlam, assistant superintendent at Washington Local Schools, agreed.
“You just bawl all day,” said Mourlam, who accompanied 86-year-old World War II veteran Grover “Gene” Thorp of Fremont. “Then you walk in here and there’s the whole crowd and they’re clapping. He’s just so appreciative. He can’t believe it.”
Thorp, who served with the Army in the South Pacific, said he couldn’t pick a favorite part of the trip.
“Oh golly, all day,” Thorp said. “It was great. I can’t believe it.”
Don Marten is greeted at the June 20 Honor Flight welcome home ceremony. Toledo Free Press photo by Sarah Ottney
World War II veteran Donnan “Don” Marten, 90, of Bowling Green said he had a great trip, despite a heat index higher than 100 degrees.
“It was hotter than the devil, but they (Honor Flight) deserve a lot of credit,” said Marten, who served with the Army in Africa and Italy. “It was nice. It was beautiful, especially the Iwo Jima Memorial (United States Marine Corps War Memorial).”
Marten’s daughter, Deb Marten of Bowling Green, said her dad considered backing out of the trip because of the extreme heat, but was glad he decided to go. Marten’s grandson, Dane Fisher, stationed at nearby Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, even took the day off to meet up with his grandfather.
“It was wonderful he got to make that trip,” Deb said. “He’s been really excited. He went back and forth with the heat, ‘Should I go?’ But it’s a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity. I’m glad he did. He’ll never forget it.”
Heroes’ welcome
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 606 is among the local veterans organizations whose members attend each Honor Flight send-off and welcomehome celebration.
“You’ll see some go up in wheelchairs and when they come back they’ll say they can walk off the plane,” said VFW Post 606 member Bob Newman. “They get so pumped up over there seeing that stuff. One guy this morning (June 20) said while boarding the plane, ‘Wait, wait, I want to walk.’ He used a cane and went very, very slowly, but he made it. So the guy behind him in a wheelchair said, ‘Well, if he can do it, so can I.’ That’s just the way it is.”
Jerry Newman, also of VFW Post 606, has flown three times as a guardian.
“It’s always nice to be out there by these guys. You hear a lot of history on these flights,” Jerry said.
Priority for Honor Flights is given to World War II veterans and those with terminal illnesses. Korean War veterans are put on a waiting list and taken chronologically by their application postmark date.
“It’s a wonderful way of giving back to the members of ‘The Greatest Generation,’ many of whom did not get a welcome home,” said Honor Flight Northwest Ohio board member David Chilson.
“Not everybody came back on a troop ship or through a train station. Many came back individually and were really never welcomed home or thanked for their service so this is a way of doing that.”
Chilson, a Navy veteran, has served as a guardian on nine Honor Flights.
“Honor Flight is much more than just seeing the memorials. It’s a chance to share the experience of the entire day with 70-some other veterans,” Chilson said. “What I hope they take away is that people still remember and are very appreciative for their service during World War II and during the Korean War and we still remember and honor them.”
World War II veteran Edward F. Lark of Toledo was scheduled to fly on June 20, but died in April. His folded flag was taken along in his honor and memory. His widow, Violet Lark, did not travel to Washington, D.C., but teared up as she carried the flag into the welcome home ceremony.
“They knew he wanted to go on this flight so bad and they said they would like to take the flag with them,” Lark said, adding that June 23 would have been the couple’s 67th wedding anniversary.
Army veteran Henrietta “Hank” Abrams, 87, said the trip was wonderful, but emotional.
“I cried so much today,” said Abrams, who served as a surgical technician in Texas and Iowa during World War II. “It was just wonderful. I really enjoyed it. It was amazing, it really was. I can’t really point out one thing. It was all just great.”
Navy veteran Marian Elfring of Swanton was a radio operator on the West Coast during World War II, while her husband, Marine Corps veteran Tony Elfring, served in the South Pacific, including at Iwo Jima. The couple made the June 20 trip together, accompanied by a mother-daughter team of guardians.
World War II veteran Walter “Bud” Rickheim Jr., of Temperance, said he loved the whole experience.
“It was a wonderful day, couldn’t be better,” said Rickheim, who served with the Navy in the Pacific. “It was all just great.”
The Honor Flight network, which includes 101 regional hubs in 39 states, was founded in 2005 and has flown more than 81,000 veterans to the memorials in Washington, D.C.
The Northwest Ohio chapter started in 2008 and has since flown 1,083 veterans. June 20 was the group’s 25th flight and the third of five scheduled for 2012. The next flights are Aug. 29 and Sept. 26.
For more information or to apply as a veteran, guardian or volunteer, visit honorflightnwo.org
They went through high school playing the same sports for the same team, and now that they’ve graduated, the Wawrzyniak brothers of Sylvania are still playing for the
same team — their country.
Nicholas, Jacob and Scott Wawrzyniak all played football and hockey at St. Francis de SalesHigh School and all three are now in training for the armed forces, earning their degrees and their commissions at two of the country’s prestigious military academies.
Nicholas, 21, is entering his senior year at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.; Jacob, 19, is studying at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn.; and Scott, 18, is about to join his oldest brother in Colorado Springs.
Nicholas said he was drawn to the military by the desire for something more challenging than a traditional college education. He found the combination of rigorous academics, military training and mandatory athletics appealing.
“I was looking for a challenge as far as education goes,” he said. He’s majoring in systems engineering management and hopes to fly helicopters after graduation — a passion he discovered during an Air Force Academy summer program between his sophomore and junior years when he had a chance to fly with the 10th Helicopter Squadron in the Washington, D.C., area.
“I just fell in love with the idea,” he said.
Jacob considered the Air Force as well — in fact, he said, he applied to all four service academies — but decided on the Coast Guard Academy because it offered an opportunity to play football.
He also likes the Coast Guard because of its purpose, he said.
“I like the humanitarian mission and the Homeland Security, the defense part of it — stopping the smuggling of drugs and saving lives,” he said.
Scott, the youngest of the three brothers, said his first choice was actually the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md., but the Navy told him he would need to attend a year of preparatory training before his four years of study, while the Air Force Academy would allow him to start right away. He said he hopes to cross-commission into the Navy after he graduates.
Scott said he’s always been fascinated by the Navy SEALs and would like to work in special operations.
“I love the competition,” he said. “I love being pushed to my full potential at all times, and there’s no room for error. You’ve got to be at the top of your game and you’re going to be part of the best team in the world at what they do.”
Scott and Jacob, who are only 11 months apart in age, have been workout partners since middle school.
“We’ve been pushing each other since probably sixth grade when we started working out together,” Scott said. “It’s always competitive — who can run faster, who can lift more — but always in a positive direction.”
Their father, Jeff, is an attorney with Affinia Group in Ann Arbor, and their mother, Kathy, teaches English at Penta Career Center in Perrysburg.
Jeff said the boys have always pushed each other. “There’s definitely some competitiveness amongst the three of them,” he said.
Military service runs in the family. The brothers’ maternal and paternal grandfathers both served in the Army, one of their great-uncles served with the Marine Corps at Iwo Jima and two other great-uncles served in Korea.
“It’s really been kind of a family affair,” their father said.
For their parents, seeing their sons go into military training carries some worry — but also no small amount of pride.
“There’s a little bit of angst,” Jeff said, “but when you think of the things kids do today in terms of putting their time and their effort behind, this is a doggone noble thing to do, so we’re very proud of them.”
Jeff and Kathy’s youngest child and only daughter, Katie, will be a junior this fall at St. Ursula Academy. Her father said she’s considering military service too, possibly in the Coast Guard.
The oldest Wawrzyniak sibling, Nicholas, said the schools are selective and it’s not easy to get all the way through — which makes it even more meaningful to have both of his brothers and possibly his sister following in his footsteps.
“I’m very proud to be from that type of family,” he said.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Toledo Free Press invited several elected officials to share their thanks to past and present members of the U.S. military this July 4. True level of respect
It is difficult for me to express thetrue level of respect I have for you. My appreciation of your selfless commitment to the safety and well-being of our country is not easily put into words.
I acknowledge you as “the guardians on the wall,” the brave men and women who knowingly put themselves in harm’s way for the greater good. And I salute yourcourage and dedication to duty in the service of the U.S. military.
I thank you wholeheartedly for your devotion to our county and our citizens. Your service will never go unrecognized or unappreciated.
Mike Bell, Mayor of Toledo
Sincere thanks
As we prepare to celebrate another Independence Day this July 4, it is with a tremendous amount of gratitude that I extend a thank you to all the men and women who have served
in the military both past and present. The dedication and sacrifice it takes to put the needs of your community and country above your own is the ultimate form of public service. Veterans and active military personnel who have chosen to make this sacrifice are worthy of the highest praise from their fellow citizens.
Once again, it is an honor and a privilege to be given this opportunity to sincerely thank all of those who have served.
Edna Brown, State Senator
To our veterans
With Memorial Day, the 68th anniversary of the D-Day invasion and the 237th birthday of the United States Army in recent months, it is my privilege to express my gratitude to our men and women of the United States Armed Services, and to our veterans of all conflicts, past and present.
As servicemembers from Ohio, you make our state proud. To those currently serving abroad, I wish you a safe deployment and a quick return to your families and loved ones. To our veterans, I hope you take comfort inthe respect and satisfaction that comes
with knowing that when your country asked for a few to carry the burden of many, you did so honorably.
Because of your sacrifices, Americans can live in perpetual promise of freedom, liberty, peace and security. As you serve our nation, know that you and your families are in the thoughts and prayers of all Americans.
As a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I believe that supporting our veterans must be a clear and unmistakable priority. I will continue working to ensure that
veterans receive the health care and benefits they have earned. Thank you for all that you do for our nation, and may you have a safe and happy Fourth of July.
Sherrod Brown, U.S. Senator
Freedom is not free
We as citizens of this republic too often take for granted the freedoms we enjoy and the price which was paid sothat our quality of life exists. Our nation’s history is a chronicle of brave men and women who have served in defense of our republic and our Constitution.
Lest we never forget those who have given the last full measure of their devotion in that our freedom will continue. We must never forget the members of our armed forces, true Americans who have shed their blood by the millions for freedom, a freedom which stretches from the United States and
across the world. Semper Fi!
D. Michael Collins, Toledo City Council
Warmest wishes
The Board of Lucas County Commissioners extends our warmest wishes to the local brave men and women of the armed forces as well as veterans who have served in past conflicts. We appreciate the sacrifices they have made and continue to make to protect our freedom and to keep our country safe.
In Lucas County, we continually work hard to honor our local servicemen and women, past and present. Located at The Source in Downtown Toledo, the Lucas County Veterans Service Commission delivers crucial services for our veterans that can aid in difficult times by providing emergency aid and helping them to access benefits to which they are entitled through the U.S. Veterans Administration. Honorably discharged veterans can be issued a new veteran ID card at no cost. To date, over 1,000 ID cards have been issued and the number continues to grow.
As a token of our appreciation, each year we collaborate with community partners to host a free breakfast and resource fair for veterans, servicemen and women and their families on Veterans Day. Once again, this year’s breakfast will be held at University of Toledo’s Savage Arena on Veterans Day.
The men and women of the armed forces have sacrificed much to protect this country. We are pleased to honor the veterans who have served as well as active duty personnel who continue to defend our great nation.
Pete Gerken, Tina Skeldon Wozniak, Carol Contrada, Lucas County Commissioners
Proud veteran
As a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Ohio National Air Guard, I would like to thank all our veterans for serving our country in a time of unprecedented need. Fifty years ago, President John F. Kennedy said, “In an age that threatens the survival of freedom,
we join together to honor those who made our freedom possible.”
To those that made our freedom possible, it strikes me that words alone cannot truly convey what needs to be said, but still I offer my sincerest thanks for the staunch patriotism of our veterans.
Teresa Fedor, State Rep.
Honorable service
Each day as we enjoy our freedoms in this country we should pause to remember those who have fought to protect them. As a Marine Corps veteran with two tours in Iraq, I am
grateful for veterans who came before me and led by example to pave the way for future generations of Americans. I am equally grateful for all of the brave men and women who continue to defend our nation at home and abroad.
The honorable service and sacrifice of our troops has made America a stronger and safer nation.
Josh Mandel, State Treasurer
Never forget
Our nation is one that was founded on immigrants. For me that has a personal note since my parents, Emanuel and Evangela Sarantou, came to America from Greece in 1920. It was the lure of the American Dream that brought them here and that dream would
not be possible were it not for our military.
Thank you to those who have served in our armed forces. As we approach this July 4, let us never forget how important our freedom is and how our military in the United States and overseas serves and protects us.
George Sarantou, Toledo City Council
Safe and speedy return
As the loving son of World War II veteran Robert J. Steel, I appreciate the sacrifices asked of all those called to military service. In his memory, I therefore honor all military personnel past and present and humbly thankeach of you. Your efforts and commitment are appreciated. A special note to those currently in uniform: On behalf of the nearly 300,000 Toledoans we are privileged to represent on Toledo City Council, know that you arein our thoughts, and to those deployed abroad, we wish you a safe and speedy
return to the land of the free.
Steve C. Steel, Toledo City Council
Special thanks
I am pleased to extend special thanks to the brave men and women who previously served and who currently serve in the United States military. Away from your home and family for extended periods of time, your many sacrifices are significant and are appreciated. By risking your lives for our protection, you represent the very best qualities that our nation has to offer.
Every year, we celebrate the Fourth of July and revel in the greatness of ourcountry. Our joy in celebrating this national holiday is made possible by your courageous efforts which protect our freedoms and ensure that the causes of life, liberty and equality continue to flourish.
We honor you for your courage, your skill, your tenacity and your unshakable commitment. Once again, thank you for your great sacrifice and honorable duty to our nation. It is with great pride that I commend you for your invaluable contributions and salute you as Ohio’s finest citizens.
Matthew Szollosi, State Rep.
Continued sacrifices
The Fourth of July is an American tradition in which families gather to spend time with each other and to reflect on our great nation. Throughout our history, the United States has persevered due to the strength of our men and women in uniform, both past and
present. Their efforts and their willingness to serve have enabled our nation to overcome countless difficulties, in both peacetime and in war.
This Fourth of July, I encourage you and your family to remember the continued sacrifices of our veterans and active duty members of the military. To our veterans and current members of our armed services, thank you for sacrifice.
Mark Wagoner, State Senator
Bastion of freedom
While many parts of the world are unsecure, one of the main reasons our nation remains a bastion of freedom is the 1 percent of Americans who servein the military. Those who have served in the past and those who currently serve in our armed forces, whether at home or abroad, deserve the support of 100 percent of Americans.Let us also remember to support our military families; without their sacrifices, our military would not beas strong as it is today. We salute you and thank you for your service.
Lindsay Webb , Toledo City Council
— Compiled by Brigitta Burks
I recently attended the wedding of one of my nephews in Bowling Green. As you enter the church, a brass plaque is prominently displayed with the names of 69 men who paid the highest and ultimate sacrifice in service to their country during the First and Second World Wars.
Testaments like these can be found across our nation, from courthouses to statehouses to congressional office buildings. We must never forget those who have answered freedom’s call, from our nation’s infancy at Lexington Green in 1775 to those who now serve in Afghanistan and other posts around the world.
Where would we be as a nation if we didn’t have our men and women in uniform? There are those in the world who hate the very foundations on which our nation was dedicated and founded.
Totalitarianism, dictatorship and censorship are means of controlling the people they rule. In the United States, we have a Constitution that includes a Bill of Rights that guarantees the blessings of liberty, which are admired by many oppressed people around the globe who see this nation as a shining city on a hill and a beacon that lights the night.
As a grateful nation, we should never fail to thank those who are now serving or have served. I have the privilege of being invited to ceremonies where Reserve and National Guard units are being called into active service. It never ceases to impress me when these men and women march into the hall to the cheers and applause of their families,
friends and employers.
These are volunteers. No one is forcing them to be there. The decision is their own. Families, friends, schooling and occupations are left behind for long periods of time. Many are on their third, fourth and fifth deployments. These are truly unique individuals. We
are blessed to have them in uniform.
All must be done to help them while they are away and when they return. Congress and state legislatures have acted, but constant review is needed.
For many, coming home is a challenge. I have the greatest honor at the Capitol when I meet and share a meal with our wounded warriors. Many have suffered horrible wounds that will be with them for the rest of their lives.
Let’s not forget them when they go through their grueling rehabilitation and when they are finally able to come home. Support also needs to be given to their families as well. We must always keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
This is truly a blessed nation. In the end, we owe an eternal debt of gratitude to these men and women, past andpresent, who have answered the call and served. If one were to reflect on this, where would we be as a nation without them? Would we even be a nation as we know it today?
Let’s always give honor to those who are serving or have served. Let’s remember those with lifelong injuries and the struggles they and their families must face every day. When you see a member of the armed forces or a veteran, go up to them and say thank you.
Rep. Bob Latta, a Republican, is the U.S. Representative for
Ohio’s 5th Congressional District.
The National Guard Combat Mental Health Initiative is the result of legislation I introduced in 2006 to study the effects of combat on our returning Ohio National Guard personnel who had been deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Launched four years ago, the Combat Mental Health Initiative is the first effort of its kind in U.S. history — and most of the work is being done right here in our area. The principal researchers are located at University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland and
right here at the University of Toledo.
The centerpiece of the initiative is an exhaustive study of Ohio Army National Guard soldiers who have been deployed in combat situations so we can begin to understand the long-term effects of their service and then apply the lessons learned on a national basis.
One result could be to learn the predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD ) and other mental illnesses so we can possibly prevent them or at least offer more effective treatment.
The study design involves initial mental health assessments by telephone of 3,000 soldiers, in addition to 500 detailed assessments conducted in person by a mental health clinician. Each soldier would then participate for up to a decade with annual assessments.
As the researchers measure risk and resiliency factors that affect the soldiers’ responses to deployment, they can also explore underlying genetic predispositions to PTSD and other illnesses.
When our Guard soldiers come home, they return not to an active duty base with nearby hospitals and medical care, but to home communities that often lack medical services for careful follow-up diagnosis and treatment.
The findings from the Combat Mental Health Initiative will lead to new and improved treatments for veterans in Ohio and across the country.
We have already seen some findings that will improve treatments:
— Alcohol abuse is the most common lifetime psychiatric problem faced by those who have been deployed. Soldiers with PTSD and depression are most likely to begin abusing alcohol. They have a 46.7 percent chance of abusing alcohol, whereas a soldier with depression
has only a 24.3 percent chance and a soldier with PTSD has only an 18.4 percent chance. A soldier with neither depression nor PTSD has only a 7.6 percent chance. These findings are from soldiers who had no prior history of alcohol abuse.
— The level of help and training unit receives before, during and after deployment with preparedness, unit support and post-deployment support is associated with the odds of the members of the unit developing PTSD . High levels of help and training with preparedness, unit support and post-deployment support led to lower levels of PTSD .
O PTSD often does not occur alone — 61.7 percent of soldiers with PTSD also had at least one other illness, most commonly depression. Soldiers with PTSD were 5.4 times more likely to report having had thoughts of suicide than those without PTSD , but soldiers with PTSD and at least two other conditions were 7.5 times more likely to report having had suicidal thoughts than those with only PTSD .
“The Department of Defense has never conducted a long-term detailed mental health assessment of this cohort of soldiers,” said Dr. Joseph J. Calabrese, coordinating principal investigator of the Combat Mental Health Initiative along with Dr. Marijo Tamburrino, chairman of psychiatry at UT.
“Our returning soldiers benefit from this project because the knowledge obtained is quickly used to update training procedures. The leadership of the Guard uses this information to prepare soldiers to manage the mental health consequences of combat,” Calabrese said.
These findings and other results from the Combat Mental Health Initiative will help guide the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs as they provide service to the men and women who volunteered to serve our nation. They certainly deserve nothing less.
Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a Democrat, is the U.S. Representative for Ohio’s 9th Congressional District.
A Toledo author’s latest book was inspired by the sacrifices made by men and women in the armed services.
“The Town That Never Stared,” Terence O’Leary’s second young adult novel, is set in Grand Rapids, Ohio, and focuses on teenage brothers and high school football teammates Boomer and Cody Brennan.
O’Leary
As a lineman, Boomer protects his younger brother, the quarterback, on their high school football field. Boomer is good enough to play college ball, but decides to enlist in the Army instead.
After Boomer is severely burned trying to save fellow soldiers trapped in their vehicle by a roadside bomb explosion, Cody works to bring him home and help the town see past his disfigurement to celebrate his heroism.
Although the story is fictional, O’Leary was inspired by real soldiers, including Pat Tillman, an NFL player who enlisted in the Army after Sept. 11, 2001 and was killed in action in 2004.
“In the back of my mind was Pat Tillman,” O’Leary said. “Boomer is kind of cut from the same cloth. He wanted to be the warrior and he wanted to protect his village.”
He was also inspired by Marine Corps Sgt. Merlin German, who was thrown from his Humvee in Iraq when a roadside bomb detonated. Despite burns on more than 97 percent of his body, German fought to survive for more than 17 months and 100 surgeries, before succumbing to his injuries in 2008 at age 22.
The book is distributed in the burns and traumatic brain injury segments of Brooke Army Medical Center as inspiration for wounded warriors, said O’Leary, who speaks regularly about the book at high schools, libraries and local events.
O’Leary said he hopes the story helps people remember to honor the thousands of men and women who have been injured at war.
“These are heroes and I think that’s the way we need to treat and look at them, especially the ones with traumatic brain injuries. Some of them, their lives will never be the same,” O’Leary said. “But I also want to stress to people who look at this and say ‘I don’t want to read this; it’s a downer,’ that it’s really not. It’s a heart-warming, uplifting story. When you finish it, you feel good. You realize that one person can make a difference. Cody changes the way the whole town looks at his brother. You could even say
it’s inspiring.”
Northwest Ohioans will be familiar with many scenes in the book, including walleye fishing, changing seasons and Friday night football, said O’Leary, a graduate of Central Catholic High School and the University of Toledo.
“I think setting is really important to a story,” O’Leary said. “I actually fell in love with Grand Rapids, Ohio; I think it’s just a fantastic little town. It had the family values and the four seasons I wanted to incorporate into the story. It’s a very quick easy read and I’m very happy with it. I think the best fiction is based on fact.”
The book, published last year by Swan Creek Press, is available on Amazon.com in both print and Kindle versions. It can also be purchased through Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million.
O’Leary’s debut novel, “More Than a Game,” was a father/son baseball tale set in Toledo and centered around the Mud Hens. He is at work on his third novel, “Penalty Kick,” which will have a soccer theme.
Assembling this inaugural Toledo Free Press Military Yearbook has been a humbling experience. Talking about service, dedication and sacrifice is easy; working with the men and women who live those ideals inspires gratitude and humility.
There are an estimated 80,000 veterans in the eight-county area served by our regional Veterans Affairs offices. Add to that the number of active military members and guardsmen and you have more people to thank than you will ever be able to reach one at a time. In these pages, you will see scores of faces of local men and women who proudly wear the uniform of the United States military. You will see photos of servicemen and servicewomen in faraway deserts, a world removed from their family and civilian lives. We pray for the safe return of each and every one of them.
The stories in this issue — the brainchild of Toledo Free Press media writer Jeremy Baumhower and the product of Toledo Free Press Special Sections Editor Sarah Ottney — offer a glimpse into the services offered to our active military members and our veterans, from several groups run by people who believe in their work with the same righteousness and generosity as the people they serve.
We greatly appreciate the people who shared stories, sent in photos and bared their souls to impart their wisdom. We thank the advertisers who supported this issue, and especially the specific sponsors — Clear Channel, Columbia Gas of Ohio, the Greater Toledo Chapter of the American Red Cross, Honor Flight of Northwest Ohio and the Veterans Center. Each of these groups made time and brainpower investments that helped us plan this special coverage.
At a time when free speech and First Amendment rights are under legal attack, we at Toledo Free Press are specifically aware what it means to stand against oppression in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
On the verge of our country’s July 4 birthday, we stop to reflect on our freedoms, liberties and the countless lives cut short so that we may carry on.
We stop to think about the families without fathers and sons, without mothers and daughters. We stop to think about the bodies without limbs and minds without peace. We stop to think about the men and women who enjoyed the greatest reunions and those who suffered through the ultimate loss. We think about Austin Pounds, pictured on this week’s cover, and the very real investment in freedom he represents.
This issue is our modest effort at saying thank you.
Thank you for your service, your dedication and your sacrifice.
Thomas F. Pounds is president and publisher of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Contact him at [email protected].
Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Contact him at [email protected].
In February 2012, I dedicated a column to reviewing the two remaining “Mug shot” publications in Northwest Ohio. They are everywhere, so I reviewed them like any other publication. I did not expect to hear the tales of success these “magazines” have in sales; the closer you get to the inner city, the more successful the papers are. That is when these Mug shot papers went from “fun” to “tragic” in my mind; I would no longer enjoy them. People were celebrating the blight of our area, purchasing and supporting publications that make money off of a fellow citizen’s low point.
I called Toledo Free Press Editor in Chief Michael S. Miller and gave him a quick pitch.
“Can you imagine how cool it would be if you dedicated an entire edition, like your incredible Mud Hens Opening Day guides, to just honoring the local military at home and abroad?” I asked.
I told Miller I was tired of seeing criminals’ mug shots every time I was cashing out of Speedway; I would like to just for once see something positive “like a Military Mug shot book.” I could hear Miller’s brain race and felt his tone instantly reflect that we shared a passion for the idea.
What Miller took from a 20-minute phone conversation and collaborated with his staff to bring to actual print is beyond astounding.
“Support our troops” almost feels cliché these days. Everyone jumps at the chance to scream their support for our troops, but few of us actually do anything to ever better their lives. July 4 is the perfect example. While everyone wears red, white and blue, the majority of us are more concerned about fireworks and barbecues than we are with reflecting on why and what the day celebrates. Just by picking up and reading this issue, you will see the faces that defend and protect our country and home.
During previous wartimes, a community knew exactly what boys were serving overseas and whom was stationed where. Stars on windows were closely monitored and gasps would occur when the military car carrying the chaplain and bad news drove into town. The smaller the town, the closer its people would get during times of war. Toledo is the biggest small town in the Midwest and that sense of community has long passed.
Knowing who serves in what branch and what part of the world they are stationed in is nearly impossible. There are no more stars on the windows, no more ribbons tied around the trees. This issue’s entire purpose is to put that “sense of community” back into ours.
The only thing worse than a soldier, local or not, coming home in a box, is that we, the citizens, rarely know who they were, or who their family is. We only learn the names of soldiers after injuries or deaths. Hopefully, this publication will help to change that.
I cannot imagine the pride, the emptiness the uncertainty a parent of a soldier must feel about having a child serve our country. I would hate the clichés these holidays have inspired. Although your son or daughter has a military family, a brotherhood, and is never alone, the families left behind have a constant wheel missing, an emptiness that would gnaw at any person’s soul.
I challenge you to read the names of those listed here, find a last name familiar to you from your church, your school days or simply from your neighborhood. You will find at least one … and when you do, shoot the family a quick “Thank you” in some form, whether through Facebook, text message, email or handwritten note. More importantly, involve a young person in this process. Share the gift of service and sacrifice with our children — put a specific name and face with the words “troops” and “military.”
This issue was not designed for the soldiers themselves, but to give a printed reminder and sense of pride to everyone else.
I hope this is the only Military Yearbook the Toledo Free Press ever gets to print. I pray all of our soldiers will be home watching the fireworks and enjoying the barbecues next year.
