Message from the Adjutant General
Celebrating Veterans and Their Families
This November, I had the extreme privilege of attending various events across the commonwealth throughout the month to recognize veterans and your families for your service and sacrifice to this nation.
One of my favorite parts of the job is meeting with veterans, shaking your hands, and listening to your stories of patriotism and valor.
Thank you once again to everyone in Pennsylvania who served in our armed forces, and to all who supported their efforts. The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) will continue to honor you not just when November rolls around, but all year long.
Also in November, the DMVA hosted its first Open House in 10 years, and it was a huge success. It was our way of showing the public how we are one team with one mission in support of service members, their families and those who work every day to support the veterans of Pennsylvania.
The day featured live demonstrations, flyovers, displays of military equipment and vehicles, food trucks, live music, an appearance by Miss Pennsylvania and resources for veterans and military families.
We had great weather and an incredible turn-out. I am thankful to everyone who attended, and to all who worked to put together a fun-filled day for the community.
Speaking of being thankful, it is my sincere hope that Thanksgiving brought you love, laughter and togetherness with family and friends. For me, it’s another opportunity to reflect on the great men and women who have served this nation in uniform. If not for you, none of us would be free to celebrate with our families.
Enjoy this special time of year, and I wish you a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season.
Veterans Affairs
Military Service Branch Anniversaries
Several service branches are celebrating birthdays in December, one dating back to colonial days while another was created to address 21st century defense needs.
The Civil Air Patrol (CAP), an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, was created on Dec. 1, 1941, to mobilize the nation’s civilian aviation resources for national defense service. Today, CAP has evolved into a public service organization that still carries out emergency service missions.
The Massachusetts General Court established an official militia for the first time in North America on Dec. 13, 1636, in Massachusetts, and the Army National Guard was born. Today, this state-based military force becomes part of the U.S. military’s reserve components of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force when activated for federal missions. Fort Indiantown Gap is a primary training site for the Pennsylvania National Guard.
Celebrating five years of service, the U.S. Space Force, established on Dec. 20, 2019, was the first new branch of the U.S. armed forces created in 73 years. The establishment of the Space Force was a direct response to threats arising from Great Power Competition in the space domain.
Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Day
What started as a peaceful Hawaiian morning at Hickham Airfield on Dec. 7, 1941, quickly turned into a nightmare of Japanese planes, machine gun fire, and concussive bombs. Left in their wake were 2,343 deceased United States service members, six sunken battleships, and a lifetime of experiences the remaining witnesses to this attack carried with them the rest of their lives.
It was 83 years ago that the U.S. Pacific Fleet was attacked by aircraft of the Imperial Japanese Navy. We honor those individuals and their memories on Dec. 7 every year as part of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.
The Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg, PA, is hosting an event on Dec. 7, 2024, from 12:45-1:45 p.m. A ceremony will be held beneath the guns of the USS Pennsylvania, which was a witness to the attack.
Veterans Programs and Services
DMVA Highlights Veterans’ Temporary Assistance Grants for Unexpected Hardships that Come with Harsh Winter Weather
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) offers resources for veterans who face unexpected financial hardships during the upcoming winter months. The Veterans' Temporary Assistance (VTA) program provides eligible Pennsylvania veterans and their families with financial assistance in the form of a grant for necessities of life such as food, shelter, fuel, and clothing.
Cold and severe weather can present a challenge for veterans with low or fixed incomes. Frozen pipes, roof damage, water leaks, flooding, and furnace problems are all common issues encountered during harsh Pennsylvania winters.
Eligible veterans or their survivors can qualify for an amount not to exceed $1,600 in a 12-month period. Eligible veterans include those with honorable or under honorable conditions discharges from active duty in the U.S. armed forces or any veterans contending with service-connected disabilities. The surviving dependents of these eligible veterans or of veterans who died in service are eligible as well. To apply for VTA, eligible veterans and survivors should contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs.
In addition, unanticipated increases in the cost of heating fuel have presented a special challenge over the last few winters. DMVA encourages veterans struggling with heating costs to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) online or at their county assistance office. LIHEAP provides cash grants from $200 to $1,000 based on household size, income, and fuel type.
VTA is supported by the donations of generous Pennsylvanians. Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Veterans’ Trust Fund online at pa.gov/dmva/donate
Indiantown Gap National Cemetery to Host Annual Wreaths Across America Event Dec. 14, 2024
Tractor trailers full of fresh balsam wreaths will soon be making their way from Maine to Indiantown Gap National Cemetery for the annual Wreaths Across America event, scheduled for Dec. 14, 2024.
The day will start at noon with a ceremony at the Pennsylvania Veteran’s Memorial. From there, volunteers will disperse across the cemetery grounds, placing wreaths on headstones and in the columbarium areas.
There will be limited handicap parking available at the cemetery. All volunteers should park at 80 Micro Dr., Jonestown, PA, or at 100 MSC Dr., Jonestown, PA. Shuttles will be provided to bring participants to and from the parking areas and the cemetery.
Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit organization that conducts wreath-laying ceremonies at cemeteries across the county to remember, honor, and teach the public about the services and sacrifices of the nation’s military veterans.
The program is funded through donations. Individuals can purchase wreaths to donate by visiting the Wreaths Across America website.
Veterans Homes
Veterans Day Light Show at the Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center
On Nov. 8, the sky above the Gino J. Merli Veterans' Center (GMVC) in Scranton was decorated with lights to pay homage and respect to our veterans.
“To kick off our 30th Veterans Day celebration, we wanted to do something spectacular for our veterans, so we decided to light up the sky, and it's a one-of-a-kind display for a one-of-a-kind facility," said Vito Ruggiero, GMVC commandant.
Rather than using fireworks, organizers decided to enlist the help of a Texas-based drone company.
"I'm glad we can come out here and celebrate a day where veterans have risked their lives for our country. And we take it for granted every day, our freedom, and it's nice to come out here and show our appreciation for them," said Yosef Dandis, a Sky Elements Drone Shows pilot.
The sky was filled with images of the American flag, a flying bald eagle, and a soldier saluting. Sitting in the courtyard were friends and families of veterans taking in the sights.
"This will be in everyone's minds for a long time," said Harold Raybould, a GMVC resident.
"This was probably one of the most amazing things they've had here in Scranton. It brought a tear to my eye to see the veterans smile and clap, and no fireworks with noise. It was just a great show for the veterans," recalled a GMVC volunteer.
Front Row Access at Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade
The 10th annual Philadelphia Veterans Day Parade was a great time for some of our Delaware Valley Veterans' Home and Southeastern Veterans' Center residents! The residents had front row seats and had a special meet and greet with celebrity chef and parade host, Robert Irvine.
Retired Army Lt. Col./Retired Commandant Returns to GMVC
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Carl Weinschenk, U.S. Army, and a retired commandant of the Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center (GMVC), was the guest speaker at the home on Nov. 11, 2024.
Weinschenk began his medical administration career in 1971, in the U.S. Army. In 1978, he served as administrative assistant to the chief, Army Nurse Corps, Office of the Surgeon General at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. This gave him the broad view of hospital administration and set the tone for the remainder of his career. Afterwards, he oversaw a multitude of military hospitals all over the U.S.
A native of northeastern Pennsylvania, his association with GMVC started rather unexpectedly. While home on leave from Fort Wainwright, Alaska, Weinschenk noticed the construction of a new building across from a gas station while he was filling his car. After asking some questions, he discovered the new building would be the Northeastern Veterans’ Center, being run by the state. The facility was later re-named after a local veteran and Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, Gino J. Merli.
After 23 years of active-duty military service in the U.S. Army, Weinschenk retired and took the opportunity to re-settle in his hometown. In 1993, he began at GMVC as the institutional business manager and was the second person hired on the staff of the new facility. He spearheaded the effort to get the facility licensed by the state of Pennsylvania. He developed the young organization of 261 employees, establishing the training and job development programs for the facility. He was directly involved in the facility’s construction and design and managed a budget of $14.1 million dollars.
In 2002, Weinschenk was chosen as the commandant, responsible for all the clinical and administrative operations of the facility. He retired as the commandant on April 2, 2010.
Veteran and Wife, Residents at PA Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home, Celebrate 72nd Wedding Anniversary
At the age of 12, Lilian became best friends with Don Donovan’s sister, Patricia. Lilian spent a lot of time around the Donovan’s home. During one dinner, Don kept looking at Lilian; his father said to him “Why don’t you take a picture!”
Lilian and Don started dating when they were 17. They both graduated high school in 1949. He asked her if he could walk with her during their Baccalaureate ceremony. They gained love for one another spending endless amount of time with one another.
Right before Don joined the Army, at the age of 20, they drove to Dearborn, MI, and got married on Nov. 10, 1952. They celebrated and honeymooned in Niagara Falls, N.Y.
Lilian became a registered nurse while Don was stationed in Austria for two years; they wrote each other letters.
Don and Lillian have three daughters, one son, eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Unfortunately, Don did not make it home when their first daughter was born in 1953. Lilian showed her photos of Don while calling him “daddy”, so when he got off the plane at home, his daughter walked towards him and said “daddy”.
After living in Arizona with their son for 16 years, Don and Lillian decided to move back to Pennsylvania to be near their daughters, where they now reside at the Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors Home.
Don and Lilian’s advice for being married 72 – “You gotta let each other be themselves. You have to be free to express themselves. Don’t tell me what to wear and always talk about stuff, don’t keep secrets.”
Director of Joint Staff
3rd CST Teams Up with U.S. Secret Service HAMMER Team
The 3rd Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team (CST) continues to enhance its expertise through advanced training, ensuring readiness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) incidents. This mission-critical preparation enables rapid, decisive support to civil authorities during emergencies. Collaborations with local, state, and federal partners further solidify the team's role in protecting public safety.
Recently, the team has supported the U.S. Secret Service Hazardous Agent Mitigation & Medical Emergency Response (HAMMER) team during presidential campaign stops throughout Pennsylvania. This involved events such as the Philadelphia Presidential Debate and the 9/11 Memorial in Shanksville, PA attended by President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former President Donald Trump. The CST’s role in safeguarding these high-profile gatherings augmented HAMMER team capabilities in CBRN detection and mitigation.
The Philadelphia Presidential Debate posed significant security challenges, requiring comprehensive protective measures for not only the political candidates but for large crowds as well. The 3rd CST provided critical support, ensuring that hazardous threats were quickly identified and mitigated. These coordinated operations reflect the team's commitment to its mission while fostering greater synergy between local, state and federal agencies.
The 9/11 Memorial event in Shanksville, commemorating the heroic passengers of Flight 93, emphasized the importance of security and readiness, particularly during moments of national reflection. The team’s involvement ensured the safety of attendees, demonstrating the importance of interagency coordination. Similarly, throughout various and ongoing campaign stops, the 3rd CST provides an essential layer of defense, ensuring rapid response capabilities against any potential CBRN threats.
Military Share Event
The Pennsylvania National Guard’s J9 Family Program’s Military Share Event is a partnered-program with local food banks to provide supplemental food to our communities’ service members and veterans and their immediate family members in need.
“Military Share is a great opportunity to help service members, veterans and their families stretch their money a little further in difficult times,” said Monica Koontz, Soldier and Family Readiness Specialist, Region 7. “Money that may be spent on food can now be put toward utilities or savings to get back on the road to financial health. It’s more of a hand-up monthly rather than a hand-out.”
There are a number of these events across the state throughout the year. Financial information is not a determining factor for receiving food when signing up with the Soldier and Family Readiness Specialists (SFRS) or a Military Share program they support. A Military Share calendar is sent out monthly along with the J9 Newsletter, or simply call your regional SFRS for more information.
PA National Guard Army
PAARNG Collaborates with Academy Cadets During Recruiting Event
One team one mission was on display when the PAARNG and the Keystone State Challenge Academy (KSCA) teamed up to speak to the Berks County Intermediate Unit director and other high school representatives during a recent recruiting event. The collaboration saw Maj. Gen. Laura McHugh and current KSCA cadets speaking about the two unique organizations and how they can benefit students from Berks County. Another great example of our teams working together towards a common goal – programs that protect, serve, and benefit Pennsylvanians.
Soldiers Return from Deployment
More than 1,000 service members with Task Force Paxton recently returned from a nine-month deployment in East Africa. The task force, which is comprised of soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 56th Brigade Stryker Combat Team, provided operational security and crisis response operations throughout the Horn of Africa. Task Force Paxton’s mission was critical in building partnerships across East Africa in support of U.S. Africa Command. Maj. Gen. Brian Cashman, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa commanding general, commended Task Force Paxton for accomplishing its mission with incredible competence and proficiency. Task Force Paxton was replaced by another PAARNG unit, Task Force Associator which is comprised of service members from 1st Battalion, 111th Infantry Regiment, 56th Brigade Stryker Combat Team.
PA National Guard Air Force
New Mission Brings Parachute Rigging Back – 193rd SOW
With the new MC-130J mission at the 193rd Special Operations Wing, parachute rigging has come back to their routine fundamentals and capabilities. “Port Dawgs” from the 193rd Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron are rigging parachutes on a near-daily basis to stay up to speed with training missions.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8732298/new-mission-brings-parachute-rigging-back-wing
Always Ready – 193rd SOW
Tactical Air Control Party specialists from the 148th Air Support Squadron, train at Fort Indiantown Gap to remain sharp and deployment ready. Tactical Air Control Party specializes in using airpower to drive ground maneuvers and provide lethal firepower on the battlefield.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8733057/148th-asos-conducts-field-training
All-star Leadership Day – 171st ARW
The 171st Air Refueling Wing hosted more than 500 students and more than 50 chaperones from 33 high schools from Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania who attended the U.S. Air Force’s All-Star Leadership Day. This unique event was designed to offer hands-on leadership training and career exploration in an interactive military setting.
Team Biddle Trains in Germany – 111th ATKW
Members assigned to four different units from the 111th Attack Wing recently conducted a week-long exercise at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The training purpose was to empower multi-capable functioning airmen in a deployed environment and included both internal and hands-on learning.
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8725380/team-biddle-heads-germany
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8739915/international-internal-training
https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8737761/did-someone-say-mail-call
DMVA News and Events
DMVA Veterans’ Trust Fund Grant Applications Now Accepted
The 2025-26 Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF) is accepting grant applications for programs and services benefiting Pennsylvania veterans. The 2025-26 Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF) is accepting grant applications for programs and services benefiting Pennsylvania veterans. Grant applications must be received no later than 2 p.m. EST on Friday, December 16.
DMVA Now Accepting Veterans’ Trust Fund Grant Applications
DMVA Secures $600,000 Grant for Suicide Mortality Review Programs
The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has secured a $600,000 cooperative agreement grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to help develop Suicide Mortality Review (SMR) programs in two pilot counties, York and Westmoreland. Pennsylvania is one of only 10 states and two territories to receive this grant.
DMVA Helps Veterans Access $1.1B+ in Compensation and Pension Benefits
Over the last year, accredited veteran service officers throughout the commonwealth, supported by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, have handled more than 1,100 veteran queries a month and helped to connect veterans to more than $1.1 billion in compensation and pension benefits earned through their service.
DMVA New-look Website Launch: A Better Way to Serve You!
Next month, the DMVA will be launching a new and improved website to better serve our veterans and their families. Be on the lookout for this new-look website and we will be sure to include more information in the December issue of Together We Serve.
Keystone State Challenge Academy
Do you know someone who is ready to take the next step in a journey of academic excellence and leadership development? The Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA) is currently accepting applications for its next class starting in January 2025.
It has never been easier to take the first step to applying to the KSCA as you can now begin the process online through this link, by visiting the website, or by visiting Linktree.
The KSCA is a positive, high energy, learning environment designed to guide teenagers (ages 16-18) who are at-risk of not completing their education, by helping them to set themselves on a path to a bright future through a structured and disciplined 22-week long residential program followed by a year-long post-residential mentoring phase.
The KSCA is free to all participants as it is a jointly funded venture between the National Guard Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
For questions or more information, please contact the admissions office at 717-861-7767 or by email at RA-MVPACHALLENGE@pa.gov.
Policy and Legislation
Understanding Policy: A Framework for Action
At the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), our policy efforts serve as a critical framework for decision-making and strategic initiatives. Policies are the principles or guidelines we implement to tackle specific challenges and meet our goals. Whether they take the form of laws, regulations, or internal procedures, policies act as a roadmap for addressing societal issues and helping us better serve service members, veterans, and their families.
Policymakers at DMVA work to influence behavior, allocate resources, and create clear paths of action, all while staying true to our mission. Our policies range from broad national initiatives on veteran issues to targeted procedures designed to improve operational efficiency.
Creating effective policy is a team effort. It starts with identifying the key challenges facing our community, then engaging with stakeholders to gather input and draft actionable solutions. Transparency and inclusivity are essential throughout the process. We welcome public feedback to ensure that our policies reflect diverse perspectives and truly address the needs of those we serve.
At the DMVA, we understand that good policies do more than just solve problems—they drive positive change, protect rights, and align with our values. Through thoughtful policy development, we aim to enhance the quality of life for our service members, veterans, and their families, while also supporting our department’s operations.
If you’d like to contribute your ideas, we encourage you to request a proposal worksheet by contacting ra-mvdmvalegislative@pa.gov. Together, we can continue to make a lasting, positive impact.
DMVA and PDE Collaborate to Bring Career Exploration Opportunities to Pennsylvania Schools
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is proud to collaborate with the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) to expand the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Career Exploration Program (ASVAB CEP) to schools across the Commonwealth. This no-cost program provides students with personalized insights into their strengths and interests, guiding them toward potential career paths in military and civilian sectors alike.
The ASVAB CEP is more than a tool for military recruitment; it empowers students to explore a broad range of career options while making informed decisions about their futures. The DMVA’s mission in promoting this initiative is to ensure that every student has access to free, high-quality resources to support their post-graduation plans.
To further this effort, the DMVA will participate in PDE’s 2024 Standards Aligned System Institute (SAS) conference, serving on a panel dedicated to graduation pathways. This session will highlight the program’s benefits, practical implementation in schools, and its role in supporting diverse student pathways.
In addition to advocating for the ASVAB CEP, the DMVA is working closely with PDE to develop one-page resource guides tailored for school administrators, guidance counselors, and teachers. These guides will provide information about DMVA programs and services, equipping educators with the tools to connect students and families with valuable state resources.
Together, the DMVA and PDE aim to expand opportunities for Pennsylvania’s students, fostering a future workforce and military force that is well-prepared and inspired to succeed.
A Guide to Constituent Inquiries
At the Office of Policy, Planning, and Legislative Affairs, constituent inquiries are central to how we communicate with Pennsylvania citizens and government officials. Ensuring that legislative staff and constituents receive timely answers to their questions is a top priority for our team. Below, you will find helpful information that can streamline the process and save valuable time:
Have you contacted your County Office of Veterans Affairs?
County Offices of Veterans Affairs are the ideal first stop for assistance with veterans benefits, programs, and more! In fact, you can apply for several commonwealth programs through the county. They are also home to veterans service officers who can help you make a claim with the Federal VA. To find contact information for your county, click here.
Privacy Release Form
Does your inquiry include a disclosure of personal information to reach a solution? If so, a Privacy Release Form (PRF) must be completed before processing the inquiry. Save some time by completing this form prior to contacting our office and we’ll get started right away!
Standard Form 180
If you are requesting a copy of your discharge paperwork, please fill out a Standard Form 180 (SF180) in addition to your Privacy Release Form. This form collects information about your period of service that will help our team locate your paperwork.
For additional assistance, inquiries, or questions or concerns about the DMVA, Pennsylvania National Guard, or accessing benefits, please email us at RA-MVDMVALegislative@pa.gov or call our office at 717-861-8719. We’re here to help!
Facilities and Engineering
PNG Military Museum at Fort Indiantown Gap Open to the Public
The public is invited to visit the Pennsylvania National Guard Military Museum located at Fort Indiantown Gap. The museum is housed in a two-story barracks dating back from 1941 and showcases PA Guard historical items from the Civil War to present day. Items on display come from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, while other items come from private donations. The museum is open to the public on Mondays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. but will open if an appointment is coordinated with the staff on other days. There is no cost to visit the museum. For more information go to: www.pngmilitarymuseum.org.