New Year Off To Great Start Honoring Our Veterans, Welcoming New Partners |
I hope the start of the New Year has been everything you hoped for, and that 2026 brings you great health, special memories and many successes.
At the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), we hit the ground running to start the New Year. We kicked off the month by reminding veterans that while the new year is looked at as a fresh start by most people, it is also a good time for veterans to apply for or re-visit their benefits.
A change in health status or financial means could make a difference in your eligibility. Be sure to visit your local veteran’s affairs office for a review of your benefits status at no cost.
Of course, nothing says new year like the Pennsylvania Farm Show, and this year it served as the official kickoff for a year of America250PA commemorations celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. America250PA emphasizes Pennsylvania’s pivotal place in U.S. history as one of the original 13 colonies and its contributions to the nation’s founding, democratic traditions and future prosperity.
We once again partnered with the Department of Agriculture for Military, Veterans and Families Day during the Farm Show. In addition to honoring the service, sacrifice and leadership of military veterans, active-duty service members and their families, we also recognized a veteran farmer with the inaugural Veterans Ag Entrepreneurship Award. Thirty-year Marine veteran George Lake, owner of Thistle Creek Farms in Huntingdon County, won the award.
The special military appreciation day at the Farm Show culminated with the annual Army-Navy cookoff. Maj. Gen. Terry Koudelka, deputy adjutant general-Air and I were asked to serve as judges. Both dishes were delicious; but in the end, Army prevailed as this year’s winner!
Furthering our support this month of veterans, I had the privilege of attending the PA American Legion Housing for Homeless Vets in my hometown of Moon Township.
Because of efforts like this, veteran homelessness has seen a recent decline. That does not happen by accident. It happens because together we care enough to show up, to give and to act.
On the Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) side, this month we joined Côte d’Ivoire military officials and announced that the PANG has been selected to partner with Côte d’Ivoire, an African nation, through the National Guard State Partnership Program (SPP). Through the SPP, the National Guard builds military partnerships while also working with government, economic and community leaders to strengthen cooperation beyond the military.
This is PANG’s second SPP partnership, having partnered with Lithuania since 1993.
The PANG also showed again how we are Always Ready, Always There when more than 375 PANG service members were activated last week at multiple locations around the commonwealth in preparation for Winter Storm Fern. These Pennsylvania Guardsmen were positioned with equipment at 28 locations to respond at the request of civilian authorities should the need arise.
As we look to the months ahead, there is no shortage of work to be done, but there is also great opportunity to make a real difference. The DMVA will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen benefits and expand support programs, ensuring that veterans, service members and their families receive the care, respect and resources they have earned.
Major General John R. Pippy
Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA |
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Veterans And Their Families Flocked To DMVA’s Booth During The 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show |
Staff from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) supported public outreach efforts during the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show. In keeping with this year’s show theme of “Growing a Nation,” DMVA staff members were there to assist veterans and families who have served our nation. In all, DMVA interacted with more than 600 veterans and family members during the weeklong event, making them aware of benefits they may be qualified for and providing direction for those seeking health benefits from the VA or inquiring about residency at one of DMVA’s six veterans homes. “We interact with veterans and their families throughout the year, but our week at the Farm Show gives us the opportunity to speak with a broader demographic of veterans who might not be aware of services offered by DMVA,” said Brian Natali, director of the Bureau of Veterans Outreach and Reintegration. “We explain the importance of working with a veteran service officer and work to get them started on the right path to acquire the benefits they deserve for their service to our country.” Visitors to the DMVA booth were also able to learn more about PA VETConnect, where veterans and their families can access resources and support that meet their specific needs. |
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Post-Holiday Blues Can Be A Sign Of Seasonal Affective Disorder, Says DMVA Mental Health Team |
 In the northeast, January can bring some of the coldest weather of the year. With cloudy skies and limited sunshine, along with coming off the heels of the holiday season, climate changes like this can spur a case of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), triggering symptoms of depression.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a condition associated with periods of sadness and can lead to a clinical depression diagnosis. The impact can be even greater for veterans suffering with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or dealing with the effects of service-related traumas. Treatments, including light therapy, can provide some relief, but sufferers may also want to seek medical advice. "Simple daily acts of self-care—like pausing for a mindful breath, savoring a nourishing meal or stepping outside for fresh air—can have a powerful impact on your mental, emotional and physical health. Just as vital is cultivating self-awareness to recognize when you’re struggling, as well as the openness to seek and receive support when it’s needed," said Patti Tanner, DMVA mental/behavioral health program manager. “Anyone seeking help can call the Military/Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing one.” Take a proactive approach in caring for your mental health with the tools provided below.
Downloadable PDF Resources
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SEVC Residents Treated To Cuts And Conversations |
A group of barbers from Iron’s Edge Barber Co. in Phoenixville, visited Southeastern Veterans’ Center to provide engaging conversation and free cuts for our veterans. The event, which was sponsored by East Vincent Township, left residents looking sharp! |
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Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program Supports Well-Being Of PANG, Families |
The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP) is designed to support the well-being of Pennsylvania National Guard service members and their families throughout the entirety of the deployment cycle. The program connects service members and their families with valuable resources while educating them about the benefits and entitlements they've earned through their service. The program is divided into four phases, each addressing unique challenges at different stages of the deployment cycle:
Pre-Deployment Events focus on providing education and information to ensure the readiness of the unit, families, employers and communities affected by the demands of deployment and family separation. These events proactively address potential issues, fostering resilience and knowledge about available resources.
During-Deployment Events are specifically for the family members of deployed service members. These events emphasize enhancing family resilience while reinforcing access to key resources, including spiritual and mental health services, outreach programs, family support and youth programs. They offer families a space to connect with others facing similar challenges, often leading to supportive relationships among attendees.
Post-Deployment Events (one and two) occur after the service member returns from deployment and focus on helping with reintegration. The first post-deployment event addresses potential challenges and behaviors related to their transition home. It helps both the service member and families understand the adjustments needed and the difficulties of reintegrating into civilian life. The second post-deployment event continues to emphasize the resources available, equipping service members and their families with the tools and contacts they need to ensure a smooth, and successful, reintegration. |
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Recognizing Firefighters For Saving A Life |
Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) firefighters Benjamin Condran, Jesse Berdanier and Assistant Chief Travis Duncan were recently given the Emergency Health Services Federation Clinical Save Award during a ceremony at Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG) Dec. 30, 2025. The Clinical Save Award is awarded to Pennsylvania first responders who display an exceptional service and dedication to their profession. Responding to a call for assistance along Interstate 81, they encountered a medical emergency that left a woman unresponsive with no breathing or pulse. The firefighters worked alongside responding Trooper Brody Myers, of Pennsylvania State Police, and together their quick action led to her resuscitation and, ultimately, full recovery. Their courageous actions and collaborative teamwork are yet another example of the commitment and dedication of our commonwealth employees. The great working relationships our employees have developed exemplifies DMVA’s core principle, “One Team, One Mission!”
The FTIG Fire Department falls under the Army Garrison Command. |
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New Beginnings For Latest Class At The KSCA |
Welcome Class 26-1 to the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA). We look forward to a great 22 weeks with this new class as they grow from candidates, to cadets to graduates. We have 77 candidates eager to graduate. This class brings new challenges and excitement as we are now in full stride with the program and have the chance to really identify what these young adults need to better themselves in order to prepare for their future. This class has several events that will need support from across the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), such as cadet mock interviews, support for Military Day and participation at all drill competitions. Additionally, we are planning flights on UH-60s, the rappel tower course, 12-mile ruck march, cross-over ceremony, tours to USS New Jersey BB-62, a Gettysburg field trip and many community service projects. The KSCA staff is both proud and honored that we can support these young adults with the resources they are lacking and be part of their development in this short time. It is always emotional at the beginning and end of a class as we watch their transformation from under-resourced youths to productive young adults. |
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FTIG Could Anchor The Future Of Army Drone Training In Pennsylvania |
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), in partnership with the Pennsylvania National Guard, is advancing a focused effort to position Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG) as a National Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Training and Testing Center for the U.S. Army. As outlined in a recent PennLive report, the initiative recognizes FTIG not only as a premier training installation, but as a national asset capable of supporting the Army’s expanding operational, testing and evaluation requirements for unmanned systems.
Central to this effort has been strong advocacy from Pennsylvania’s Congressional Delegation (CODEL). Members of the delegation have formally communicated their support to Army leadership, highlighting FTIG’s existing infrastructure, restricted airspace access, joint-training environment and long-standing role in supporting Army total force readiness. Their support underscores the strategic value of locating a National UAS Training and Testing designation at FTIG to accelerate innovation, readiness and operational integration of emerging drone technologies.
Complementing this federal support, Pennsylvania’s General Assembly has demonstrated unified, bipartisan backing. Members of both the house and senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness (VAEP) committees have transmitted letters of support emphasizing FTIG’s importance to national defense, the Guard and the commonwealth. This support reinforces that investment in FTIG strengthens military readiness while leveraging decades of state and federal partnership.
Together, this coordinated advocacy reflects a clear message: FTIG is uniquely positioned to serve as a National UAS Training and Testing Center, enhancing Army capabilities, while reinforcing Pennsylvania’s role in shaping the future of military aviation and unmanned systems.
(Photo provided by Sgt. 1st Class Shane Smith) |
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PA Governor’s Challenge Team’s ‘Ask the Question’ Initiative Underway |
Beginning January 2026, the Governor’s Challenge began work with the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA)’s Policy, Planning and Legislation (PPL) Team and the GAC-VS on the ‘Ask the Question’ initiative. This initiative focuses on formalizing veteran status as a standard demographic variable for data collection across the commonwealth, particularly within medical and mental healthcare settings, by standardizing the best practice of asking one simple question at every intake or initial interview: Have you or a loved one ever served in the military?
Asking patients about their military service is a critical first step for community healthcare and mental health providers to deliver safe, effective and culturally competent care. Approximately 66% of all U.S. veterans, representing roughly 12 million individuals, are not enrolled in the VA health system. As of late 2025, approximately 40% of all medical care coordinated by the VA is now provided through the Community Care Network (CCN) of community providers. Since veterans are widely distributed across the civilian healthcare system, community providers are often the first or only point of contact for service-related issues.
Although nearly 75% of community providers believe knowing a patient's veteran status is important, only about 19% regularly ask this question during intake. Failing to identify a patient’s military history can lead to significant clinical errors, missed diagnostic opportunities and life-threatening outcomes. Because veteran-specific conditions often mirror common civilian ailments, a lack of awareness can compromise the entire trajectory of care.
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Full Article |
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FTIG Transforms Former Tank Range Into Multi-Purpose Gunnery Range, Meeting Training Needs |
The Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG) Directorate of Plans, Training and Security (DPOTS) Range Maintenance Section, along with the division of installation maintenance (DIM), USMC reserve engineers and first army engineers, performed an impressive fete during the 2025 spring range maintenance period. Transforming Range 27, a facility used as a tank gunnery range until the early 2000’s and, more recently, for non-live fire multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES) training, into a multi-purpose range complex, specifically added the capability to conduct infantry squad live-fire exercises. This addresses a growing demand for dismounted infantry training and enhances the opportunities available to units visiting FTIG.
Armed with a plan and a multi-talented, motivated group of workers, numerous changes were made to the existing range infrastructure. Range improvements included re-orienting the lanes of fire, repositioning existing pop-up targets, construction of bunkers made from recycled utility poles to be used as machine gun targets and the emplacement of two retired medical variant Stryker vehicles as long range targets.
The whole project was completed at minimal cost, using readily available materials and manpower organically available at FTIG and military engineer personnel who used the project as a training event. No outside civilian contractors were hired for the project which kept the cost down as well.
Although more additions are planned for the range, including the construction of trenches, it is fully operational and was first utilized by a United States Marine Corps reserve infantry unit. |
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