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Veterans Day

Veterans Day

Veterans Day carries powerful memories of noble service and courage. United States’ military history is deeply rooted in values centered around placing country before self to protect the safety and security of others. Some may never appreciate the depth of Veterans Day. Still, there is one way we can all feel more connected and united this year – through demonstrating our civilian responsibility to support our veterans whose days in uniform have ended. 

Reaching beyond “Thank you for your service” – An example of our impact 

Veterans Day carries powerful memories of noble service and courage. United States’ military history is deeply rooted in values centered around placing country before self to protect the safety and security of others. Some may never appreciate the depth of Veterans Day. Still, there is one way we can all feel more connected and united this year – through demonstrating our civilian responsibility to support our veterans whose days in uniform have ended.  

Reaching beyond “Thank you for your service” – An example of our impact 

Each veteran’s journey is unique, shaped by their personal experiences and circumstances. But reintegrating back into civilian life and the workforce can be challenging. Through collaboration and partnership with the Minority Professional Truckers Association (MTPA), the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ), and Task Force Movement, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services is creating the Driven By Equity (DbyE) initiative, a program and pathway to entrepreneurship that addresses barriers to entry that many veterans face breaking into the transportation sector. This program will provide women, minority- and veteran business owners training, mentorship and tools tailored to becoming successful independent trucking owner/operators.   Ultimately, it will address the challenges that veterans face reintegrating back into civilian society. 

“Skills developed while in the military, translate well into becoming a business owner.” Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services 

By leveraging their skills and unique strengths, the DbyE initiative will play a crucial role in driving veterans’ desire to innovate and excel. Building upon our experience and the experience of our partners in building comprehensive training programs, we are ensuring that new and existing drivers and employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to be successful entrepreneurs.  Our goal is to create a program that includes mentorship, safety training, and ongoing education, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. 

 This proactive approach not only honors their service but helps ensure veterans can successfully navigate the transition to civilian life, contributing to a stronger and more inclusive society for our veteran and military families.  

“Trucking remains a critical driver for the U.S. economy, employing over 3.4 million truck drivers and contributing to a $725+ billion industry,” Teresa Watson, CEO of Minority Professional Truckers Association. 

Entrepreneurship in the trucking industry can be a bridge to financial independence and wealth-building for minorities and underserved communities, including veterans. With the help of the 150 partners and experts serving on Task Force Movement, Dixon Center is using our influence, ideas, and actions to build the capacity of other organizations, maximizing their ability to integrate veterans and their families into their programs and activities. Our mission is to ensure veterans and military families can succeed where they live and that every organization, across all sectors of society, effectively integrates veterans and their families into their organization and programs. 

“This opportunity is a better pathway for veterans and their families—it’s a generational transformation,” says Viv Harmon, Executive Director, Training and Development Institute, African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey 

As we recognize the commitment of veterans and the legacy that maintains the benefits of peace, let us also take collective action toward the shared goal of quality of life. Join us in our commitment to improving the lives of veterans and their families today and every day. 

Ways that you can Reach Beyond “Thank you for your Service:” 

  • Acknowledge and Recognize Veterans not just only on Veterans Day, but every day.  
  • Make a Donation to Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services 
  • Learn more our how our capacity building in our three pillars of Work with Purpose, Heal with Honor and Live with Hope improves the lives of veterans and their families.  
  • Follow Us on Social 

To learn more about the Driven by Equity initiative, please tune in to Episode 27 of the Service Before Self Podcast. 

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Arlington National Cemetery Visit

Arlington National Cemetery Visit

On 12 December, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services toured Arlington National Cemetery.

Fourteen of our leaders participated in a walking tour of our nation’s most hallowed ground. Throughout the day, our group paid tribute to those who served and sacrificed—leaders who set standards and our culture that today’s military still recognizes.

From four stars to privates as well as sites including the resting place of James Parks, a masonry vault containing the remains of 2,111 soldiers gathered from the fields of Bull Run (Manassas, VA) and the route to the Rappahannock River, Robert Todd Lincoln, John F. Kennedy and individuals we served with on the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan…and so many more.

As always, it is a chance for reflection and humility. Our group also had the opportunity to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Sentinels and participate in a wreath laying ceremony.

This leadership tour of Arlington National Cemetery becomes cherished moments. As Dixon Center Co-Founder, Daniel Forrester, said, “It was a day I will never forget.” A Dixon Center Command Council Member said, “Such a unique and thought-provoking opportunity.”

The purpose of this tour is to not only pay homage to those individuals resting there but also to link experiences from the past to current day behaviors and principles – ultimately, helping to shape and develop leaders.

 

We shared reflections from this special day that will hold true for years to come:

  • Inspiring others to action
  • Individual and team success
  • Leading by example
  • Relationships and trust
  • Indirect Versus Direct Leadership
  • Recognizing others and their contributions
  • Innovation from below
  • Tyranny of the Mundane

The lessons we have learned from those who came before us are still alive today.

 

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Congratulations to Our Annual Awardees

Congratulations to Our Annual Awardees

“These leaders are making a positive difference on a daily basis.”

– David Sutherland,
Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services 

On 12 December Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services recognized organizations and individuals working to enhance the lives of veterans and their families. 

Eugene & Ruth Freedman Leadership Award 


The award is named in honor of Eugene and Ruth Freedman, whose lifetime of philanthropy continues through their family foundation and their three children, Penny Freedman, Nancy Remak and Rick Freedman. 

This year’s recipient, Hope for the Warriors, received the Freedman Award for award in recognition of the organization’s commitment to addressing the well-being of veterans and military families. Hope CEO/Co-Founder, Robin Kelleher said, “I love what I do and my staff loves what they do, and we are in partnership with Dixon Center.” 

Herbert & Carolyn Metzger Service Award 


Herb and Carolyn Metzger epitomized service and purpose in one’s community. This week, hundreds of people joined us as we presented the Metzger Award to US Army Veteran and Registered Nurse with the Coatesville VA, Jennifer Grubb. 

Jennifer’s leadership has made her community and our nation a better place, and she is a vocal advocate for veterans and their families.  

Dixon Center Chair, David Sutherland claims, “Jenn makes us all want to be more and want to do more. She is enthusiastic because improving the lives of veterans is in her soul.” 

Michael “Mick” Yauger Point Man Award 


The Honorable Patrick J. Murphy is Chair of Task Force Movement. He has served our nation in one role after another—as a soldier, as America’s first Iraq War veteran elected to the U.S. Congress, and as the 32nd Under Secretary of the Army. Today, as an entrepreneur and advocate, Patrick harnesses the power of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to help veterans find jobs, start businesses, and secure quality health care and mental health services.  

In an Army formation on patrol, the point man takes responsibility for others and assists them as they move through challenging terrain. This award, named for the role and responsibilities displayed by Mick Yauger, recognizes the recipient’s forward leadership in supporting others through challenging times and/or transitions.  

According to Dixon Center Vice President Colonel Sam Whitehurst, “Bottom line: Secretary Murphy epitomizes the character, skills, knowledge and abilities that Mick Yauger spoke of when he discussed the Point Man in an Army formation.” 

Lou Lowenkron Commitment to Veterans Excellence Award  
  

Presented annually by Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, the Lou Lowenkron Commitment to Veterans Excellence Award recognizes an individual or organization for their support of veterans and their families in higher education, certification, licensing, or training.   

The 2023 Lowenkron Award recipient is FourBlock.

FourBlock is a nation-wide community of veterans and employers dedicated to transforming the veteran transition process. As an innovator, FourBlock looks beyond transition to equip our veterans to achieve their potential. They look beyond landing jobs to equip our veterans to pursue careers that fit their calling. They look beyond the now and are shaping the future for a new generation of veterans. Their programs focus on building meaningful professional relationships and prepare veterans for a successful military transition through their comprehensive suite of in person and online career readiness programming for veterans.   

Relayed by Lou Lowenkron during last Tuesday ceremony. “This Commitment to Veterans Excellence Award touches my heart. It represents the potential of our service members, our veterans and their families, Congratulations to FourBlock and their leadership, Mike Abrams, and Lisa Stern.”   

We congratulate all honorees and thank them for their efforts to enable veterans and military families to succeed where they live.

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Healing with Honor: Honor Court

Healing with Honor: Honor Court

“A glimpse into what Healing with Honor really looks like” a visit to Stark County, Ohio Common Pleas Honor Court, by Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services team member, Vanessa Stergios

The majority of our veterans return home strengthened by their military services, but some veterans face tough challenges— some a result of trauma. America has seen an epidemic of veterans dying by suicide, a sharp rise in opioid addiction, and other serious health issues impacting those touched by military service.

Adjusting to civilian life after military service and managing mental health and substance use issues can be difficult for some veterans, especially those who have served in combat zones, and experienced injuries, and/or emotional trauma. Veterans who do not successfully manage these conditions may experience increased homelessness, violent behaviors, and involvement with the justice system.  

Last Friday, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, team member Vanessa Stergios had the honor and the privilege of attending a session of Stark Count Veterans Honor Court.   It was a unique and rare chance to see individuals who have become involved with the justice system to have their dignity restored.  

Stark County Honor Court is a specialized treatment court for veterans and active-duty service  members that have been charged with felonies in the Common Pleas Court.  Like the civilian drug and mental health courts that pull offenders with documented medical issues out of the traditional criminal court dockets, veterans treatment courts apply the same principles to former and current service members. 

The first Honor Court in Ohio was started by Judge Taryn Heath in 2011and has served over 160 participants, as well as other veterans in Stark County since its inception.  In addition, the Stark County Honor Court program has been a model program throughout the State mentoring many of the 24 other VTC’s certified by the Ohio Supreme Court’s Specialized Dockets.  In 2017 and 2018, Judge Heath and her team, were presenters at the National Association for Drug Court Professionals’ Justice for Vets Conference and had the opportunity to showcase its peer-mentor training program, which until then was an uncommon practice and is now a standard in implementing the program.

“Giving dignity back to the soldiers that have served our country and found themselves in challenging times, is my favorite part of my job.” Stark County Common Pleas Court Judge Taryn Heath on working with veterans to change their mistakes into new beginnings through Stark County Veteran’s Honor Court. 

 “As I watched Judge Heath go through the docket, I was impressed with the genuine sense of compassion, individualized attention, standard of accountability and sincere pride and gratitude that she and her team expressed to each veteran in each case”  said Dixon Center team member, Vanessa Stergios.  

As each veteran’s case was called to the podium to provide a status update on their progress, it was apparent that this court knows, what we at Dixon Center have also known all along – that these men and women are strong, powerful human beings, and given the right support are willing to reconnect with society and have meaningful relationships, and contribute positively. 

Dixon Center is partnering with the Court to offer an additional resource to Honor Court participants, the New York Times best seller, Atomic Habits, courtesy of one of our supporters.  A small token of gratitude for their service and a tool to assist them in their continued success. 

At Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, our emphasis is on the positive. We are working with organizations able to support veterans to heal with honor. We partner with local and national organizations to help them find and focus on the overall well-being of veterans and their families. We help them develop programs that work, making them even more impactful.

The Stark County Honor Court Program attempts to bridge the gap to the services available to veterans and create a network of support systems to help them through their probation, and continue on as productive members of the community. The combination of services, supervision, and mentoring is intended to foster completion of probation and draw upon the codes of honor and service instilled in the participants during their military service to our nation.  

Our mission at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services aligns with the goals of Honor Court, and what we know about the need for veterans to feel connected to successfully re-integrate into their communities.  

“What most people believe is that we come home to a grateful nation,” said Col. David Sutherland, co-founder and chairman of the Dixon Center and a former special assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,  “And the reality is we come home to our families, neighbors, community –and that’s where the connections are.”  

The nation’s first-ever veterans treatment court was developed in 2008 by Judge Robert Russell in Buffalo, NY developed the in 2008. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veterans Justice Outreach (VJO) Program is a prevention focused component of VA’s Homeless Programs Office. Since the program was founded in 2009, VJO specialists at all VA medical centers have provided outreach to justice-involved Veterans in various settings, including jails and courts. As of December 2021, VJO specialists report serving in 623 Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs) and other Veteran-focused court programs across the U.S.

To learn more about Dixon Center’s approach to increasing the impact of community-based organizations, and to find out how you can support our work, contact Vanessa Stergios, at vstergios@dixoncenter.org

*Pictured Above:

Photo 1: Honorable Judge Taryn Heath, Stark County Common Pleas Court, and Vanessa Stergios DCMVS Team Member

Photo 2: “Whatever it takes”  Honorable Judge Taryn Heath came off the bench to meet with a defendant on zoom to work with him to get him into a residential treatment facility

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COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS

COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS

 “Addressing the needs of veterans and their families begin in the communities where they live.” Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, VP, Programs & Services, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services.

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services’ approach is built around the idea that the most effective solutions to the challenges that veterans and their families face are bottom-up driven. They start in the local communities where veterans and their families live and they are initiated by local leaders who best understand the needs of veterans in their communities. They provide veterans and families in their communities the inspiration, mentorship, resources, and focus to ensure they succeed in post-Service life.

Since it’s inception, the Center has identified, partnered, and through our influence, ideas, and actions, empowered community-based organizations, increasing and scaling their impact. Whether it’s organizations that are supporting the needs of young Army familes at Fort Liberty, NC or organizations raising awareness and education about veteran suicide in southern California, Dixon

Center for Military and Veterans Services knows that the solutions the challenges that veterans and their families face doesn’t originate in Washington, D.C., but comes from the communities where veterans and their families live.

To learn more about Dixon Center’s approach to increasing the impact of community-based organizations, contact Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst, Vice President, Programs & Services, at swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

Photo One: Volunteers in Cornelius, NC supporting the Susan M. Tillis Foundation build baby bundles for expectant mothers at Fort Liberty, NC

Photo Two: Angel Force USA band raising awareness about the impact of veteran suicide in Riverside, CA.

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The Power of Collaboration

The Power of Collaboration

 “People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defenses, or the problems of modern society.” Vince Lombardi, NFL Football Coach (5 NFL Championships, 2 Super Bowls)

Suicide is one of society’s most complex problems, especially suicide as it relates to veterans and their families. Service members and veterans die from suicide at rates greater than their non-veteran counterparts. This problem, while difficult and multifaceted to say the least, is not insurmountable.

On December 6, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services gathered organizations dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of veterans and their families at the Angel Force USA “Stop SuiSilence” Summit.

The summit focused on finding solutions to SuiSilence, Angel Force USA’s term highlighting the lack of discussion around veteran suicide and the lives impacted by veterans taking their own lives. Attendees committed to tackling the issue head-on in an effort to combat and ultimately bring an end to SuiSilence.

Throughout the summit, Dixon Center’s partners, Utility Workers Military Assistance Program, FourBlock, Vets4Warriors, Hope for the Warriors, PsychArmor, Dept. of VA, Veterans Plus, and K9s for Warriors presented solutions built on the eight dimensions of wellness – solutions aimed at increasing the wellbeing of veterans and their families and preventing the isolation and disconnection that precedes suicide.

To learn more about empowering veterans and their families to succeed where they live, check out our website: dixoncenter.org.

Dixon Center Partners Making a Difference! (from L to R: Rick Passarelli, UMAP; Eric Stetson, FourBlock; Joshua Zabler, Vets4Warriors; Erin Lester, Hope for the Warriors; Tina Atherall, PsychArmor; Derric Brown, Dept. of VA; Sam Whitehurst, Dixon Center; Chris Fitzpatrick, VeteransPlus; Damion Cook, K9s for Warriors
Colonel Sam Whitehurst, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services addressing the Angel Force USA Stop SuiSilence Summit
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A Veterans Day Message from Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services

A Veterans Day Message from Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services

“I would go to war with these guys!”

This weekend, I heard a well-known college football coach proclaim this as he discussed his team following their victory over one of their most competitive rivals. It’s easy to dismiss this as just part of the natural exuberance and hyperbole that many coaches engage in following a thrilling victory.

But for veterans, this is not exaggeration or an overstatement—it’s not hypothetical, but part of the reality of what it means to serve, an example of the commitment and trust that veterans have in each other, and the level of resolve that is inherent in our veterans.

This is who I think about on Veterans Day, the men and women that I have served with, men and women that I did go to war with; men and women from different parts of the country and different backgrounds, diverse experiences but who all share one thing—an unwavering commitment to person to their left and right, an uncompromising belief in the fidelity of brotherhood and sisterhood.

Veterans Day is a time to reflect and consider how all of us can contribute to that brotherhood and sisterhood, how we can best support veterans and their families. It’s more than just thanking them for their service but exploring how we can more effectively integrate veterans and their families into existing programs to address their evolving needs. Working together to ensure that veterans find Work with Purpose, Heal with Honor, and Live with Hope. The goal, quite simply, is to prevent the isolation and disconnection that burdens some of our veterans and leverage those qualities that we see in veterans from all generations—resiliency, duty, perseverance, and a strong sense of community.

Supporting veterans and their families starts with connecting with Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, a member of the Fedcap Group. Our noble purpose is to make the lives of veterans and their families better and ensure they reach their full potential. But a “one size fits all” approach doesn’t work—it takes a community of partners who share in that noble purpose.  Dixon Center is uniquely positioned to understand the challenges that veterans face in different communities and forge those partnerships.

As we reflect on the service of our veterans on this Veterans Day, join Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services in developing solutions that enable veterans and their families to succeed where they live.

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Dixon Center is Paving the Way for Veterans and Their Families Into the Trucking Industry

Dixon Center is Paving the Way for Veterans and Their Families Into the Trucking Industry

Dixon Center continues to spread the message about opportunities for transitioning service members, military spouses, and veterans in the trucking industry. We recently participated in Tank Truck Week in Houston, sponsored by National Tank Truck Carriers. Watch an overview of Tank Truck Week and Dixon Center’s role here.

It was a great opportunity to connect with industry partners and employers who are providing meaningful careers—careers that are purposeful and critical to our country’s economic security.

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services looks forward to sharing data and research in the near future on how careers in the trucking industry help our veterans reach their full potential.

Another example of how Dixon Center is a proven leader in assisting organizations in recruiting, integrating, training, and retaining veterans and their families into their workforce. Dixon Center and our partners have been instrumental to the expanding efforts to provide career-specific training throughout the country. Dixon Center has ensured that these programs provide a pathway into the middle class for veterans and ensured a level playing field with their civilian counterparts.

Learn more about our work here and contact Colonel (Ret.) Sam Whitehurst at swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

Dixon Center leading a discussion with Jim Anderson, Florida Rock and Tank Lines, and Ryan Streblow, National Tank Truck Carriers

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Powerful Leadership Reflections from Arlington National Cemetery

Powerful Leadership Reflections from Arlington National Cemetery

Two weeks ago—as part of the International Union of Elevator Constructors laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—I was honored to lead a group of men and women on a walking tour of our nation’s most hallowed ground. Throughout the day, our group paid tribute to those who served and sacrificed—Audie Murphy, James Parks, a masonry vault containing the remains of 2,111 soldiers gathered from the fields of Bull Run (Manassas, VA) and the route to the Rappahannock River, Robert Todd Lincoln, John F. Kennedy…and so many more. As always, it was a chance for reflection and humility.

These leadership tours of Arlington National Cemetery have become cherished moments for me. I am always looking forward to the next one.

Arlington National Cemetery is a place where every American can find solace and reflect on the achievements, selflessness, and lives of those buried there. The purpose of these tours is to not only pay homage to their memories but also to link experiences from the past to current day behaviors and principles – ultimately, helping to shape and develop leaders adept at learning from the lives of others.

Veterans Services Bugler, Laying a Wreath at Arlington National Cemetery, I shared reflections from this special day that will hold true for years to come:

  1. Inspiring Others to Action. The character of our fallen inspires us – this includes their actions during their lives, as well as their personal presence both on and off the battlefield.
  1. Individual and Team Success. Leaders can’t (and shouldn’t) rest on their laurels. Should they do so, they are sure to find themselves disappointed by missed opportunities and delays.  
  1. Leading by Example. Real leaders earn the respect of their people by their personal presence and enduring pressure. Effective, trusted leaders never back down when things get difficult.  
  1. Relationships and Trust. We all want to work with people we admire, respect, and trust. Interpersonal relationships depend on trust. Therefore, a workplace culture built on trust is essential for success.
  1. Indirect Versus Direct Leadership. Leaders at all levels, either directly or indirectly, influence people by providing purpose, direction, and motivation to improve the organization or accomplish the mission. 
  1. Decision-Making. The best leaders understand how and why they make a decision, their individual level of comfort with decision-making, and how they best receive, process, and seek information when making decisions. Never fear decision-making; instead, embrace this critical aspect of being a leader. 

The lessons we’ve learned from those who came before us are still alive today. These lessons are relevant to every individual who wants to improve his or her performance, both as a leader and as a follower. If you are interested in a customized Leadership Walking Tour of Arlington National Cemetery for your employees, organization, or family & friends contact Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services.

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Task Force Movement & American Legion Conference

Task Force Movement & American Legion Conference

Dixon Center and other TFM-Trucking Partners at American Legion Conference in Milwaukee.
Dixon Center and other TFM-Trucking Partners at American Legion Conference in Milwaukee.

Several weeks ago, we introduced our readers to Task Force Movement: Life-Cycle Pathways for Veterans and Military into Trucking (TFM-Trucking), a coalition of veteran organizations, academia, and transportation companies with the mission to recruit transitioning service members, military spouses, and veterans into the trucking industry. As a coalition and steering committee member, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services has been leading a series of convenings of military and veteran service organizations to both identify the barriers to entry for those from military-connected communities and also highlight solutions that are providing pathways into these high-paying careers.

At the recent American Legion Annual Conference in Milwaukee, Dixon Center along with other partners in TFM-Trucking shared some of our initial findings and engaged in discussions to turn these findings into actionable items that will create real impact for service members, veterans, and their families. Findings that include informing people about the opportunities in the trucking industry, but also informing employers about the potential and unique needs of service members, veterans, and their families.  Dixon Center is looking forward to sharing more with our supporters when the final report is published on Veterans Day this year.

At the conference Patrick Murphy, TFM Chairman, also announced the creation of Task Force Movement-Cyber Security. TFM-Cyber Security, similar to TFM-Trucking will pave the way to high-paying careers in cyber security.

Careers that will provide middle-class salaries, healthcare, and benefits along with recruiting talent into an industry that is becoming increasingly important to our national and economic security each year.

As with TFM-Trucking, Dixon Center will be taking a leading role to ensure that our transitioning service members, military spouses, and veterans have a shot at this vital and growing industry.

Dixon Center shares initial findings at American Legion Conference.
Patrick Murphy announces the launch of Task Force Movement-Cyber Security.