Posted on Apr 11, 2017
What's Your Motivation for helping Veterans?
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Victory for Veterans/Veteran March on America do it for soldiers/veterans like SGT Michael Thorin, one of our very own RallyPoint Members and a very close friend of mine! He means the world to me and others here at VFV/VMOA! Send out a Big Prayer Request for Michael in his upcoming Lung Transplant! The Power of Prayer is Strong! It's Strongest here on RallyPoint!
I work hard for veterans in memory of my father-in-law who committed suicide on December 8, 2015 and men like Sgt Michael Thorin that are fighting the good fight to stay alive!
Here is his story!
"It is comforting to know that the VA and UAB are working together to build a better me. I thought the most I would be worth in this life was linked to my SGLI. However, between the oxygen, power chair, lifts, stair lifts, braces, medicines, concentrators, testing equipment, canes, crutches BIPAPs, CPAP's, nebulizers, hearing aids, glasses, and other assorted equipment and supplies, I feel that I have far outgrown the SGLI payout.
I've got no complaints. I have 6 wheels to get around on now. My corrected vision is now better than over 3/4 of the population of the United States (I made this statistic up, so just let me have this moment), with my hearing aids I can hear more than most, I have more oxygen which is purer than any other person I know, and I can answer my phone through my hearing aids. The VA is essentially turning me into Steve Austin from the 6 Million Dollar Man! Why complain, at the very least I feel like I am worth a million dollars now, even if my health doesn't concur with my assessment." SGT Michael Thorin
I joined the Army at 17, did a split op program, we to Basic Training in the summer between my junior and senior year in high school. Graduated, spent 4 on active duty, then got out and into the Alabama Army National Guard in 1995, and began my fire service career.
After 9/11, like many others, we started getting deployed regularly. I participated in many deployments, both Title 32 and Title 10. My Title 10 deployments were to Fort Stewart in 2003, Afghanistan 2003, Anniston Army Depot in 2004, and Iraq in 2005 - 2006.
While I was actually stationed at CSC Navstar, Kuwait (Iraqi and Kuwaiti border), our mission was convoy security and route reconnaissance. Route recon roughly covered the area of Safwan to Kuwait. Convoy security took us as far south as Basra, and as far north at Mosul. We made many trips to Fallujah, al Taqaddum, Balad, Tallil, Taji, Scania, FOB Orion, Tikrit, Mosul, Basra, and BIAP.
During this time, we operated in M1114 up armored HMMWV's. Of course, they were better than the "hillbilly armor" that was so prevalent prior to the M1114's, so in that respect we were very fortunate.
During this year and a half deployment, we would spend most of our time on the road. Making trips to all of these FOB's and COP's kept us hopping, and we were running op's sometimes as long as 17 hours at a time. During my time in country, our HMMWV would be hit 3 separate times by IED's. Of these times, none led to any immediate injuries, other than a staved up back and a terrible desire to light something up. We endured, however, and there is no doubt in my mind that God had His hand of protection over us.
While in Iraq, I developed a chronic cough, hypertension and severe nausea. I went to the TMC once and was put on bed rest for 3 days and issued out some Ranger Candy. Of course, it fixed absolutely nothing, so I just did what I knew best and avoided the TMC from that day on and sucked it up and moved on. Life is hard, you can own it or you can let it on you; the choice is ALWAYS as simple as that.
After returning home, I went back to work in the fire service. During this entire time, I was battling the cough, hypertension, back pain, chronic nausea, severe joint pain, muscle pains, pain in my long bones (femur and humerus), and of course, PTSD. I reported these symptoms to my regular doctor, and he said I was too young to be having these problems, so he labeled it "exercise induced asthma" and gave me an albuterol inhaler. Needless to say, that was not the cure.
Presently, after several tests, I have been diagnosed with a myriad of medical problems. Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome, Constrictive Bronchiolitis Obliterans, Cardiac asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, fibromyalgia, and congestive heart failure. There is no good prognosis for any of these, and a lung transplant is the best option. After consulting with the doctors, they told me my heart may not be strong enough to stand the procedure, so now we are being evaluated for a heart transplant too.
We have lost our house, cars, and as for me, a bit of my dignity and self-respect because "I am man, listen to me Our lives are only temporary, and I refuse to sit around my house idly and
Having said that, I have no regrets.
My life has taken me down many winding roads. My two goals in life were to be a firefighter and a soldier. I nailed them, and if there is one thing in this life that I proud of, it's my lineage.
Finally, on April 1, 2016, I passed out on our job tasks at the fire department, and awoke to find two brothers standing beside me. I have been blessed to find a group of people; on here at RallyPoint and Victory for Veterans. Thanks
CPL Roger CopelandSPC Amy Harris]Joni Kelley(Join to see)
I work hard for veterans in memory of my father-in-law who committed suicide on December 8, 2015 and men like Sgt Michael Thorin that are fighting the good fight to stay alive!
Here is his story!
"It is comforting to know that the VA and UAB are working together to build a better me. I thought the most I would be worth in this life was linked to my SGLI. However, between the oxygen, power chair, lifts, stair lifts, braces, medicines, concentrators, testing equipment, canes, crutches BIPAPs, CPAP's, nebulizers, hearing aids, glasses, and other assorted equipment and supplies, I feel that I have far outgrown the SGLI payout.
I've got no complaints. I have 6 wheels to get around on now. My corrected vision is now better than over 3/4 of the population of the United States (I made this statistic up, so just let me have this moment), with my hearing aids I can hear more than most, I have more oxygen which is purer than any other person I know, and I can answer my phone through my hearing aids. The VA is essentially turning me into Steve Austin from the 6 Million Dollar Man! Why complain, at the very least I feel like I am worth a million dollars now, even if my health doesn't concur with my assessment." SGT Michael Thorin
I joined the Army at 17, did a split op program, we to Basic Training in the summer between my junior and senior year in high school. Graduated, spent 4 on active duty, then got out and into the Alabama Army National Guard in 1995, and began my fire service career.
After 9/11, like many others, we started getting deployed regularly. I participated in many deployments, both Title 32 and Title 10. My Title 10 deployments were to Fort Stewart in 2003, Afghanistan 2003, Anniston Army Depot in 2004, and Iraq in 2005 - 2006.
While I was actually stationed at CSC Navstar, Kuwait (Iraqi and Kuwaiti border), our mission was convoy security and route reconnaissance. Route recon roughly covered the area of Safwan to Kuwait. Convoy security took us as far south as Basra, and as far north at Mosul. We made many trips to Fallujah, al Taqaddum, Balad, Tallil, Taji, Scania, FOB Orion, Tikrit, Mosul, Basra, and BIAP.
During this time, we operated in M1114 up armored HMMWV's. Of course, they were better than the "hillbilly armor" that was so prevalent prior to the M1114's, so in that respect we were very fortunate.
During this year and a half deployment, we would spend most of our time on the road. Making trips to all of these FOB's and COP's kept us hopping, and we were running op's sometimes as long as 17 hours at a time. During my time in country, our HMMWV would be hit 3 separate times by IED's. Of these times, none led to any immediate injuries, other than a staved up back and a terrible desire to light something up. We endured, however, and there is no doubt in my mind that God had His hand of protection over us.
While in Iraq, I developed a chronic cough, hypertension and severe nausea. I went to the TMC once and was put on bed rest for 3 days and issued out some Ranger Candy. Of course, it fixed absolutely nothing, so I just did what I knew best and avoided the TMC from that day on and sucked it up and moved on. Life is hard, you can own it or you can let it on you; the choice is ALWAYS as simple as that.
After returning home, I went back to work in the fire service. During this entire time, I was battling the cough, hypertension, back pain, chronic nausea, severe joint pain, muscle pains, pain in my long bones (femur and humerus), and of course, PTSD. I reported these symptoms to my regular doctor, and he said I was too young to be having these problems, so he labeled it "exercise induced asthma" and gave me an albuterol inhaler. Needless to say, that was not the cure.
Presently, after several tests, I have been diagnosed with a myriad of medical problems. Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome, Constrictive Bronchiolitis Obliterans, Cardiac asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, fibromyalgia, and congestive heart failure. There is no good prognosis for any of these, and a lung transplant is the best option. After consulting with the doctors, they told me my heart may not be strong enough to stand the procedure, so now we are being evaluated for a heart transplant too.
We have lost our house, cars, and as for me, a bit of my dignity and self-respect because "I am man, listen to me Our lives are only temporary, and I refuse to sit around my house idly and
Having said that, I have no regrets.
My life has taken me down many winding roads. My two goals in life were to be a firefighter and a soldier. I nailed them, and if there is one thing in this life that I proud of, it's my lineage.
Finally, on April 1, 2016, I passed out on our job tasks at the fire department, and awoke to find two brothers standing beside me. I have been blessed to find a group of people; on here at RallyPoint and Victory for Veterans. Thanks
CPL Roger CopelandSPC Amy Harris]Joni Kelley(Join to see)
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Edited >1 y ago
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What is my motivation for helping veterans? That's a good question. It has me thinking about writing. If this sounds sentimental and long winded, it is. This is a difficult question to answer. Why? My grandfather and father were both vets. They were strong men who left a mostly positive influence on me as a boy. I played with GI Joes and little green Army men. We played hide and seek and had neighborhood wars with snowballs, walnuts, apples, rocks, and BB guns. My parents let me get it out. I'm a vet. After my first hitch on active duty, I was interesting in going to college and starting a family. However, I enjoyed much of what I was doing and continued in the reserves for another 9 years. I traveled, met many different people, learned to have respect and take care of myself, in both urban and wilderness environments. I loved that. I learned to work hard. I had a full time job and went to college full time while I was in the reserves. I know something about being committed enough to give up everything for the mission and the disappointments and anguish we sometimes experience after returning. As an older vet now, I understand pride of service, and that being a veteran doesn't guarantee anyone anything. It was an honor and I'm thankful that I survived. That alone should be enough. I like helping others, it's part of being a Christian. Military morals align with my Christian morals. I will still defend everyone and everything around me, including other veterans, up to and including my life. I often watch over veterans when they do not know I'm there or who I am. I like working and networking with other veterans. Sure we are passionate and sometimes conflicting but we will accomplish the mission, no matter what. That attitude is very helpful in the civilian world sometimes. I will not drive by a veteran hitchhiking or walk by a homeless veteran without reaching in my pocket. It is not who I am. Someday, I might be the father of another veteran. It would be a great honor to pass that legacy on to another generation. I am nothing unique. I am a soldier for life in all facets. I'll put my boots on right now and run with you. I am not the greatest soldier. I don't know why I am this way and have often wondered. It is not an easy lifestyle. The thing about vets is we all have some understanding for each other that transcends all generations and conflicts. We've all been there done that to some degree. Why not keep helping each other? It's a small fraternity.
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SPC Dwight Turner
small but growing todd !!!!! hey i think bonds stronger than you might not know !!!!!
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In 2001 I was in a car wreck and God saved me of the 3 women of a small town in Central Nebraska, I have always wondered "Why Me". Well in Dec 2010 I took my son to his unit to head to Afghanistan... On 7 Dec 2011 he came home, forever changed and physically injured. Since then I have learned how to deal with the VA system and who to call to get the help that Disabled Veterans need. If I would have been killed in that wreck when a grain truck full of corn ran a stop sign and ended up driving over my Geo Prism, I would not have been here to fight for him, give him a place to live and he would be a homeless Veteran on the streets. Actually by this time I'm sure he would be in Heaven also. I want help other Homeless Veterans have a warm bed, hot meals and a place to come to have someone listen to them and give them a Hand UP. I am just a Military MAMA who wants to help as many WARRIORS get the help and care they all deserve.
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SPC Dwight Turner
no matter what happens in life for some reason theres always a purpose i'm not sure why though !!!
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As I understand it from Veterans that were either separated or retired after the Viet-Nam War were pretty much given a thank you for your service handed there separation/retirement papers and see ya. When I retired in 1994 I had the opportunity to go to seminars to learn what was available for me as a veteran/retiree with education, the VA, occupations, etc and just about to have all your questions answered. Those classes were at least a week long. I salute you guys that are there for these veterans because probably there are a lot of out there not knowing. Ummm maybe that is why there is an ever increasing number of homeless veterans roaming the streets. Thanks to you for your time you can make a difference.
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I sometimes when reading Rally Point, that I must have been in some other worldly foreign Army. In 1970 I learned during my first week of Infantry School that I was on my own. My first month in Vietnam instilled that lesson deeper into my mind. By the end of my tour and then thru my last day over a year later, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was on my own. As of today I've been in contact with ten men I was in Vietnam with and only three actually remember my name. Those three aren't in and haven't been in contact with me for a year longer. The remaining seven are new to me as I am to them. Three are really great guys don't get me wrong and we FB daily. Ernie in Georgia actually visited last year and has invited me to a gathering in his hometown that includes the moving Wall and a mini-reunion of D 2/1 196th LIB Personel. Another guy Jerry sent me a 23rd ( AMERICAL ) Division cap. And Paul who I'm also in contact with.
U.S.Army 1969-1970
U.S.Army 1969-1970
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SPC Dwight Turner
glad to knowing you can keep in touch with them !!!! i lost my brother-in-law during the war that hurt me inside i was 12yrs old at the time
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We formed a 501 (C3) that takes post 911 vets to DC. We want to thank them for their service
http://warriorstowashington.org/
http://warriorstowashington.org/
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My motivation is that they have served this country with distinction and have paid the price for it. Helping them bridges the gap between the current generation and the the past war heroes. They are us. If we allow that pillar to fall, we are failing ourselves and the military as a whole
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I joined the American Legion and my post runs events for vets from neaby VA hospitals.Seeing the joy on their faces is mt motivatio.
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Jeff Haddick
I’m a very involved member of the Sons of the American Legion. My father was a Korean War vet. Among other events, my Squadron hosts two “Fishing Derbies” a year for the disabled vets from the local VA hospital. Seeing these wheelchair bound heroes being able to fish, get a boat ride, and then enjoy the meal we grill for them keeps me motivated for the whole year. The SAL’s mission statement is to serve veterans and their families through hundreds of outreach programs.
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I am a veteran and a retiree. I am fortunate to be pretty much intact. I now have a degree in Mental Health and I am thrilled to be able to work with my fellow veterans via Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces. I get to work with active duty, families and veterans. I am privileged to be able to do so.
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What being a Veteran means to me. I am so thankful and grateful and why I help other Veterans!
I have written to so many Congressmen and Senators all regarding issues facing Veterans. I am not selfish I am 100% Total and Permanent so I could just say forget it and no longer be concerned but I am not made up like that. I want what's right and fair for all Veterans.
I am thankful for my time in the military and the friends I made I am grateful for the Veterans Service Officer an Army Retired SFC that help me with my claims and get awarded 100% based on my injuries that occurred on active duty so I feel indebted to Veterans causes for the rest of my life it's in my heart.
I am Thankful that at 50 years old I was able to retire from a job as a Mid level Manager after 22 years with full medical benefits for me and my wife. Despite being rated 100% I can still work. Then was able to get another Mid level Management job with another government agency. The reason why there is so much thanks given because both of the jobs I got because I was a Veteran. So I am one to say I have much pride as Veteran and I care for Veteran causes. I often go on the base to the PX , Commissary, Gym and Library near where I live so I can see people in uniform and be around a military environment. It may sound corny but that's the type of guy that I am.
Peace!
I have written to so many Congressmen and Senators all regarding issues facing Veterans. I am not selfish I am 100% Total and Permanent so I could just say forget it and no longer be concerned but I am not made up like that. I want what's right and fair for all Veterans.
I am thankful for my time in the military and the friends I made I am grateful for the Veterans Service Officer an Army Retired SFC that help me with my claims and get awarded 100% based on my injuries that occurred on active duty so I feel indebted to Veterans causes for the rest of my life it's in my heart.
I am Thankful that at 50 years old I was able to retire from a job as a Mid level Manager after 22 years with full medical benefits for me and my wife. Despite being rated 100% I can still work. Then was able to get another Mid level Management job with another government agency. The reason why there is so much thanks given because both of the jobs I got because I was a Veteran. So I am one to say I have much pride as Veteran and I care for Veteran causes. I often go on the base to the PX , Commissary, Gym and Library near where I live so I can see people in uniform and be around a military environment. It may sound corny but that's the type of guy that I am.
Peace!
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SPC Dwight Turner
no way skip !!! lets say inside you deserve it gawd just getting access to needs hold your head high !!!!!! you get whats coming to you !!!! always think " why me??" well god works in strangest ways !!!! so my dad said so why though to all good ones??
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