Message from the Adjutant General
A New Year is Upon Us
On the eve of a brand-new year, I’d like to take a moment to wish you peace, happiness, and prosperity. I am humbled by the dedication of our staff at DMVA and of our service members in uniform.
To our veterans and their families, we will continue to recognize and honor all who served and sacrificed while keeping our country free and safe.
Throughout the last few weeks of the year, we have been celebrating, visiting, and honoring service members both past and present.
At our Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home (PSSH) in Erie we hosted an annual Wreaths Across America event on Dec. 14. Staff joined by community volunteers laid wreaths on 1,364 veterans graves that date back to the Civil War. The PSSH is the only Pennsylvania veterans home which maintains an active veterans cemetery.
Concurrent to that event, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the Wreaths Across America program at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, where thousands of wreaths were laid at the graves of our military heroes. Also supported greatly by the local community, this event featured special guests who are WWII veterans, including a few who fought during the Battle of the Bulge.
This made the event even more special as this year is the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, a battle that hastened the ending of WWII.
The DMVA hosted a special Battle of the Bulge commemoration at Fort Indiantown Gap on Dec. 16. During the event, we also recognized the valiant effort the 28th Infantry Division demonstrated in this battle by defending against the Germans and setting the framework for the allied victory that hastened the end to the war.
Also in December, DMVA began its yearly winter visits to our six veterans homes. Members of the Pennsylvania National Guard, DMVA staff and local dignitaries spread holiday cheer among the residents and staff. These visits allow us to let those who sacrificed on our behalf know that they are not forgotten
On the eve of a New Year, I ask that you reach out to the veterans in your lives from time-to-time and let them know that their legacy of service and sacrifice will always be remembered.
I wish you a very happy and healthy 2025.
Veterans Affairs
DMVA Assists Operation Desert Storm Veterans With Claims, 34 Years After War
Jan. 17, 2025 marks the 34th anniversary of the start of Operation Desert Storm, which began with an aerial bombing campaign against Iraq in 1991 and ended with the liberation of Kuwait one month later. This is considered the second key phase of the Gulf War, with the first phase being Operation Desert Shield, which involved the build-up of military forces from August 1990 to January 1991.
In Pennsylvania, the total Gulf War veteran population is 220,770, according to PA Veteran Population and Wartime Service data from 2023, released by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs projected for September 2024. That’s out of a total statewide veteran population of nearly 700,000.
One ongoing takeaway of the Gulf War was the potential health impact of exposure to toxic substances. Since enactment of the PACT Act, which expanded VA health care benefits for Gulf War veterans and other veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances, the DMVA has assisted Gulf War veterans, and other veterans from across the Commonwealth who were exposed to toxic substances during service in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras.
The VA provides more information about the PACT Act and VA benefits. If you have questions about filing a claim, please contact a DMVA veterans services officer at 717-861-8910 or 800-547-2838 (toll free).
Veterans Programs and Services
Financial Assistance for Higher Education to Eligible Dependents of Disabled and Deceased Veterans
With winter break upon us, now is a good time to look into educational benefits for the children of severely disabled and deceased veterans offered by the DMVA.
The Educational Gratuity Program supports children of veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and who have 100% permanent service-connected disabilities incurred during a period of war or armed conflict, as well as the children of veterans who died in active service during a period of war or armed conflict.
Educational Gratuity payments are based on the need remaining after application of all other financial aid, not to exceed $500 per term or semester per qualified child. Payments are issued directly to the educational institutions over a total of eight terms or semesters.
To apply for Educational Gratuity, contact the County Director of Veterans Affairs for the county in which you reside.
The surviving spouses and children of Pennsylvania National Guard members who died or were killed in the line of duty on state or federal orders may also be eligible for a waiver of tuition and fees at all state-owned (PASSHE), state-related, and community colleges and universities, as well as certain state-supported trade schools.
To apply for the Pennsylvania National Guard Survivors’ Tuition Waiver, contact a DMVA veterans services officer at 717-861-8910 or 800-547-2838 (toll free). Casualty assistance officers may inquire with the department on the survivors’ behalf as well.
Veterans Homes
Celebrities Bring Holiday Cheer to DVVH
On December 9, Governor Josh Shapiro joined Brig. Gen. John Pippy and Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Dr. Debra Bogen for a visit to the Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home where they spoke with residents and thanked staff for their service. They also met with three WWII veterans, ages 99, 100 and 101.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians hosted a luncheon for the residents of DVVH on Dec. 7 featuring special guest, Tim Witherspoon, two-time heavy weight world champion boxer. Witherspoon shared stories and highlights of his boxing career and posed for pictures with residents. The luncheon was filled with comradery, food, fun, and appreciation.
The residents at DVVH have been busy celebrating throughout the month of December. Events included the annual Christmas dinner with a visit from Santa and an ugly sweater contest, along with a Hannukah celebration. Each resident received a wrapped gift from various volunteer organizations throughout the community. This annual tradition at is about spreading joy and love to all that call DVVH home.
Holiday Fun at SEVC
A few ladies from The Villas at Linfield (a 55-plus community) in Royersford, PA visited the Southeastern Veterans’ Center (SEVC) for a wreath-making Ladies Club event. The wreaths looked professionally done and they had fun making them!
Christmas carols filled the main hall thanks to The Knights of Columbus and the Boy Scouts.
The residents and staff at SEVC displayed their holiday spirit and creativity by decorating their own gingerbread house and participated in a few games of Bingo!
The SEVC will closeout 2024 with a New Year’s casino day -- “cha-ching”!
Philadelphia Eagles Pep Band Performs at SEVC
The Philadelphia Eagles Pep Band performed for the residents at the Southeastern Veterans’ Center (SEVC). It just so happens that the saxophone player, Bobby Mansure, is the son of resident Bob Mansure. (located in center of pic)
Yes, they performed the famous “Fly, Eagles Fly” chant!
GMVC Gets Visit From Santa, Mrs. Claus and More
The residents at Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center (GMVC) were all on Santa’s “nice list” this year….so the elves (staff) and residents have been busy!
There was a ride on the Santa’s Express Train, a few trips to see local Christmas lights, holiday luncheons, a Secret Santa Day with a DJ which included photo ops with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch and elves, holiday movies and pizza, and coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts.
Students from Scranton University visited with the residents and decorated their doors.
Local schools, community bands and other performers entertained the residents with Christmas carols and Christmas shows.
Residents sported their Ugly Christmas sweaters.
Christmas day consisted of distributing gifts to the residents, Christmas day mass and then a musical performance with special treats.
The home will close out 2024 with a New Year’s Eve party featuring a band, special treats, party hats and noise makers!
Community Spreads Holiday Spirit at HVH
The residents at Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home (HVH) have been adorned with the views and sounds of the Christmas holiday by taking part in many activities.
Both residents and staff participated in a Christmas play called the “The Grinch”.
A holiday tour by the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary, art students from Penn Cambria High School showed off their painting skills on the windows in Arnold Hall, and various church and school choirs, personal performers, and a group of Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts visited with the residents to sing Christmas carols and distribute Christmas cards.
Not only were there sugar plums dancing in their heads, but there were also dancers from Charlene’s School of Dance performing in Eisenhower Hall.
Altoona Symphony Orchestra ensemble also provided a performance.
Residents and their families gathered for a Christmas family social.
PSSH Has Busy December, Holiday Season
The Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home (PSSH) has had its share of snow (and then some) in December, almost like being in a snow globe! It certainly set the stage for some holiday spirit.
The residents have enjoyed their trips around town to view the Christmas lights and displays, in addition to visiting live reindeer at Apthorp Reindeer Farm.
The PSSH staff, residents and community took part in the Wreaths Across America ceremony on Dec. 14, laying 1,364 wreaths at graves throughout the home’s cemetery.
Students from Waterford Elementary brought holiday cheer, entertaining the residents with Christmas carols.
On Dec. 20, Burton Funeral Home hosted a stocking party.
Miss. Pennsylvania visited PSSH on Dec. 22.
Director of Joint Staff
Task Force Strong Supports Operation Lake Effect
In late November and early December, Task Force Strong, based around the 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry, supported the City of Erie during major winter storms. Task Force Strong supported the city and county by transporting stranded motorists, recovering stuck civilian, commercial and rescue vehicles, transporting first responders and essential personnel to their workplaces, and executing health and welfare checks in the community.
For eight days in late November and early December, Task Force Strong, based around the 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry in Cambridge Springs, along with members of the 107th Field Artillery and 128th BSB, supported Erie throughout major winter weather events. Task Force Strong, serving alongside first responders and emergency services of Erie County, provided direct support to the residents and county by transporting stranded motorists, recovering stuck vehicles, transporting first responders and essential personnel to their workplaces, and conducting health and welfare checks.
On the evening of Nov. 29, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency notified the DMVA of a need for support in the City of Erie during heavy snowfall from lake effect storms. Task Force Strong responded within eight hours, providing a liaison to the Erie County Emergency Operations Center and initially, five tactical vehicles to rescue motorists stranded in the storm and to recover heavy vehicles stuck on the Interstates. Over the next 48 hours, Task Force Strong grew to approximately 30 soldiers and 10 vehicles on duty, with additional support arriving from 1-107 Field Artillery and 128th Brigade Support Battalion.
Over the course of the eight-day operation the soldiers of Task Force Strong nested with Erie County Leadership, Emergency Services and numerous state, regional and local agencies involved in the operation. The soldiers not only provided immediate care during missions but, through close and continuous partnership with those agencies, also helped Erie County to ensure follow-on care was provided to our residents in need.
By the end of Operation Lake Effect, Task Force Strong had executed 341 separate missions in direct support of residents including 52 requiring high clearance vehicles, 14 requiring wrecker assets, 51 personnel escort missions, 27 AMBUL and 197 Health and Welfare Checks.
It is a privilege to support the communities where we live and serve, proving that the Guard is Always Ready, Always There.
Survivor Outreach Services’ (SOS) Program
The Survivor Outreach Services’ (SOS) mission is to provide dedicated outreach and long-term support to surviving families of fallen soldiers that embraces and reassures survivors that they are continually linked to the military family for as long as they desire.
The SOS program connects survivors with people who can help regardless of a loved one’s military component, duty status, location, or manner of death. Their services include assisting with grief and financial counseling, Survivor and educational benefits, serving as liaisons to DoD agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), coordination with funeral home and burial services, support groups, legal, and VA referrals to name a few.
In addition, SOS coordinators host and partner with other organizations closest to where the families live such as Wreaths Across America, March for the Fallen, and the Gateway Clipper riverboat events.
The SOS coordinators serve all military families at SOS offices across Pennsylvania with locations in Coraopolis, Duncansville, Tobyhanna, Johnstown, Carlisle, Annville, and Philadelphia. There is no greater calling than to serve one’s nation with honor and dignity. For SOS, there is no greater duty than to support the families of those who died in service to our nation.
PA National Guard Army
Colonel Carl Eifler Award Given to PAANG Member
Congratulations to CW3 Zack Norris on recently being awarded the Colonel Carl Eifler award! This is the highest award given annually by the National Military Intelligence Foundation to only one reserve component military intelligence (MI) soldier. CW3 Norris’ selection marks the 3rd time in four years that a Pennsylvania MI soldier has been selected for this prestigious award. We are extremely proud of Norris’ accomplishments and the entire Pennsylvania Army National Guard (PAANG) intelligence community for its hard work and commitment to excellence!
A Big Year of Deployments
As we begin to move into the new year, we would like to pause and reflect on the incredibly busy and productive year it has been for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard! The year culminated with the total deployment of more than 2,000 soldiers, with more than1,000 still away from home and their families.
PA National Guard Air Force
PPG Paints Arena Veteran’s Day Performance – 171st ARW
This Veterans Day, Pittsburgh welcomed members of the U.S. Air Force Heritage Band of America, joined by U.S. Army counterparts, to perform the national anthem at the PPG Paints Arena ahead of a National Hockey League game. In commemoration of the national holiday, their performance honored the service, sacrifice, and courage of all military veterans across the country.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8748676/ppg-paints-arena-national-anthem-nov-11-2024
New Wing Commander – 193rd SOW
Join us in welcoming the new commander of the 193rd Special Operations Wing (SOW), U.S. Air Force Col. Robert S. Noren, who now commands the wing’s more than 1,900 Airmen. His assumption of command ceremony took place in Middletown on Dec. 6, 2024.
The 193rd AOG Celebrates 75 Years
The 193rd Air Operations Group celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special celebration honoring its history of humble beginnings to its critical role in today’s global defense. During the celebration, members of the unit were recognized by distinguished guests, including state Sen. Cris Dush and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Edward Vaughan, who praised the group’s impressive growth and contributions to national security across numerous international conflicts.
10 Miles on Biddle – 111th ATKW
Guardsmen from the 111th Attack Wing strengthened fellowship and physical readiness by joining together for a 10-mile bike ride around the base. Participation in activities such as this fosters healthy work relationships, aids morale, and serves as a reminder for airmen to show up and perform their best, not only for themselves, but for the mission too.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8757696/10-miles-biddle
DMVA News and Events
DMVA Commemorates 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge
On Dec. 16, the DMVA held a commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Bulge and the PANG’s 28th Infantry Division’s role in the historic fight. The event highlighted the resolution drafted by Rep. Chris Pielli, designating Dec. 16 as "Battle of the Bulge Day" in Pennsylvania. The event also included the 28ID Band playing the National Anthem, a reading of the 28ID Battle Plan, a prayer for the fallen, a symbolic wreath laying, and Taps.
https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Military-and-Veteran-Affairs-Details.aspx?newsid=719
PA Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home Celebrates Wreaths Across America
On Dec.14, members of the community and volunteers from the DMVA’s Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home (PSSH) in Erie placed wreaths on 1,364 graves in its Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in coordination with the national Wreaths Across America program.
https://www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Military-and-Veteran-Affairs-Details.aspx?newsid=718
Keystone State Challenge Academy
Keystone State Challenge Academy Graduates 45 Cadets
On Dec. 14 45 KSCA cadets became graduates after successfully completing a very “challenging” 22-week program. Our graduates were justifiably proud as their families cheered them across the stage. The cadets arrived in July 2024 and through the almost six-months successfully completed all eight Core Components of the program, including – Academic Excellence, Service to Community, Physical Training, Health and Hygiene, Job Skills, Leadership/Followership, Responsible Citizenship, and Life Coping Skills.
The KSCA is part of the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe program. There are 39 other state programs, which together have graduated over 200,000 Cadets since 1993.
Supported by federal and state funds, KSCA is tuition-free, with home school districts retaining per pupil subsidy and membership. The KSCA works closely with parents and schools to ensure that each cadet receives what she/he needs to return to their home district on a path to graduation, enlist, be fully employed, or go on to higher education.
New classes begin every January and July. Class 25-1 begins Jan. 12, 2025. There is still time to seek enrollment for an eligible candidate.
For more information: Live on our website on the home page (under “Start the Application Process”) It can also be accessed at this link or on our LinkTree page.
Policy and Legislation
Staffer Takes on New Role, Responsibilities in Policy and Legislation Office
The DMVA is excited to announce that Anna Sassaman from our team is taking on a new role as a legislative specialist and will serve as our constituent services specialist.
Constituent services are central to DMVA’s mission. This critical function involves supporting elected officials in assisting service members, veterans, and their families in navigating the vast array of programs, benefits, and services available to them. From addressing matters to resolving issues brought forward by executive office inquiries and congressional or general assembly members, Constituent Services ensures prompt, efficient, and compassionate support.
Whether it’s accessing VA benefits, resolving military record issues, or connecting with state and federal resources, our goal is to ensure every service member, veteran, and their family receives the support they deserve.
Sassaman brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for serving those who serve or have served. As a primary point of contact, she will facilitate connections between constituents and resources, maintain open lines of communication, and provide timely updates regarding inquiries. Her expertise and dedication will strengthen our ability to serve constituents across the Commonwealth.
If you have questions, need support, or want to learn more about DMVA’s services, Sassaman and the DMVA Policy Planning and Legislative Affairs Office are here to help. Feel free to reach out via email at RA-MVDMVAlegislative@pa.gov.
Tools and Contacts for Finding Your Legislator
With new legislators taking office, it is a great time to ensure you can contact the officials who represent you. Whether you are advocating for veterans’ benefits, seeking assistance with a local issue, or simply staying informed, knowing your legislator is the first step in being an engaged and empowered citizen.
Your state and federal legislators play a vital role in crafting policies that impact veterans and their families, from military or veteran benefits to health care access. Staying connected with your representatives ensures your voice, and the voices of other service members and veteran, are heard when important decisions are made.
Here is how to find your Legislator:
Use Online Tools: The easiest way to find your legislator is through official websites. Visit https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/findyourlegislator/ and use the "Find Your Member" tool.
Contact Local Offices: Many county and municipal offices maintain directories of elected officials. Reach out to your local government for assistance in finding your representatives.
Ask Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs): Groups like the American Legion or VFW often maintain contact information for legislators and can help you navigate outreach efforts.
Once you have identified your legislator, take the next step by following their newsletters, attending town halls, or engaging on social media. Building a relationship with your legislator’s office can help ensure that veterans’ concerns are consistently prioritized.
Your voice carries tremendous weight, especially as a veteran. Take the time to find and connect with your legislator today—it’s an easy but powerful way to ensure you can advocate for veteran and military needs and perspectives are represented by those we elect.
Learn the Important Difference Between Tax Year versus Calendar Year
Navigating taxes can be complex, particularly when distinguishing between terms like "tax year" and "calendar year." For veterans, military service members, and their families, understanding these concepts is essential for effective financial planning, accessing benefits, and meeting tax obligations.
A calendar year runs from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. This is the timeframe most individuals, including veterans and service members, use for tracking income, benefits, and tax reporting. It aligns with key dates for filing federal and state taxes, ensuring consistency across personal and financial schedules.
A tax year, by contrast, is a 12-month period designated for reporting income and filing taxes. While individuals typically default to the calendar year as their tax year, certain organizations, such as veteran-owned businesses may choose a fiscal year that better aligns with their operational cycles. For example, a veteran-owned nonprofit might adopt a fiscal year running from July 1 to June 30 to match funding or program schedules.
Veterans and active-duty service members often have unique financial situations that require careful planning. For instance:
VA Disability Compensation: Non-taxable income that can influence tax planning and eligibility for certain benefits.
Combat Pay Exclusion: Active-duty service members deployed in combat zones can exclude combat pay from taxable income.
Property Tax Relief: Many states offer disabled veterans exemptions or reductions on property taxes.
Tax Credits for Veteran Entrepreneurs: Programs like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) incentivize hiring veterans and can be valuable for veteran-owned businesses.
For veteran-owned businesses, selecting a fiscal year that aligns with funding cycles or operational needs can optimize cash flow and simplify reporting.
Understanding whether a calendar year or a different fiscal year applies ensures timely filing, accurate reporting, and better long-term financial planning. If you’re uncertain about what applies to you, consult with a tax professional or your local Veterans Affairs office to ensure compliance and maximize benefits.
By staying informed, veterans and service members can take charge of their financial futures, ensuring they meet obligations while fully accessing the benefits they’ve earned through service.
Facilities and Engineering
Construction Begins on Veteran and Military Outreach Center
The DMVA Office of Facilities and Engineering has begun construction on the former Lickdale Elementary School building located off Fisher Ave in Jonestown to convert it to a Veteran and Military Outreach Center. This will provide the Office of Veteran Affairs a footprint within the community to provide resources to Pennsylvania veterans. The construction is slated to end in Spring 2025 and occupancy following shortly thereafter. This project is 100% state funded and is an initiative to provide resources for veterans more conveniently, without needing access to Fort Indiantown Gap Base.
Fort Indiantown Gap
Fort Indiantown Gap Holds 2024 Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG) Training Center held it’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and reception at the FTIG Community Club on the evening of Dec. 6, 2024, and it was attended by the largest number of guests to date!
This year’s ceremony featured:
Live Christmas music performed by the 28th Infantry Division Band Ensemble and Northern Lebanon Elementary School Choir;
Words of inspiration from Brig. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s acting adjutant general and head of the DMVA;
The appearance of Santa Claus who arrived in style in a M-ATV tactical vehicle that was brilliantly illuminated with holiday lights, and operated by two of his Christmas Elves;
An honor guard of elves from the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy forming a candy cane arch for Santa to walk through; and
The lighting of the giant Christmas Tree that displayed more red, white, and blue Christmas lights than ever before!
Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the FTIG Community Club Ballroom which was almost filled to capacity with guests, and children waiting patiently to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas. The reception also featured many different types of refreshments. FTIG USO provided face painting and small gifts were available for the children.
Preparation for this year’s ceremony started shortly after last year’s event, and a great deal of thought, planning and preparation by numerous organizations at FTIG ensured this year’s event was a great success!
Warfighter Exercises Return to Fort Indiantown Gap
After a brief interlude, Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG), is once again scheduled to host Warfighter Exercises (WFX), this time with two scheduled in calendar year 2025.
The WFX’s are training events that utilize computer simulations to train and evaluate Army division-size elements on Mission Command in large-scale combat operations.
The last WFX was held at FTIG in 2023, and it saw more than 2,100 soldiers participate in the exercise. While the main unit participating in this exercise was from New York, many other soldiers traveled from all over the U.S. to FTIG to participate in the exercise.
The FTIG Training Center in conjunction with the 213th Regional Support Group (213 RSG), the Mission Command Training Center (MCTC), and several DMVA organizations on FTIG, will be providing or coordinating all life support requirements (billeting, feeding, fuel etc.), as well as the computer simulation systems, training facilities and subject matter experts to support the exercises.
WFX 25-03 is scheduled to take place from Jan. 27-Feb. 6, 2025, with the 42ID being the primary training audience for the exercise. The second exercise, WFX 26-01, is scheduled for the 1st Quarter of FY26, from 25 Oct. 3-Nov. 3, 2025. The training audience for WFX 26-01 will be the 29ID.
In addition to bringing large numbers of training personnel and equipment onto the Installation for the exercises, the influx has a significant positive impact on the local economies and businesses surrounding FTIG, through the increased spending of those personnel.