Important Month Of Celebrations, Grateful First Year As Adjutant General |
We began February by proudly honoring Black History Month and the service, sacrifice and enduring legacy of African-American service members and veterans. Their dedication to duty, commitment to country and steadfast resilience have strengthened our armed forces and helped shape the nation we are today.
This month, we also reminded Pennsylvanians that tax time is a good time to support service members, veterans and their families. Anyone can donate all or a portion of their tax refund in support of two very important trust funds: Veterans’ Trust Fund and Military Family Relief Assistance Fund. Both provide support to members of our military community during times of crisis. One hundred percent of donations go directly to those in need.
Valentine’s Day did not go uncelebrated at the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). We partnered with Blue Ridge Cable to provide 1,000 handmade Valentine’s Day cards to members of the Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) and residents at the Southeastern Veterans’ Center (SEVC).
We are thankful for this partnership, and to everyone who took the time to express their love for our guardsmen and SEVC residents through the Touch A Heart program. Special thanks to the cadets at the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy who helped to sort the cards for delivery.
At the PANG, we held a pre-deployment ceremony for the 131st Transportation Company as they prepare to head to Poland in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve. They will be the backbone of the mission, moving critical equipment and showing our allies in Europe that we stand with them.
The 131st is no stranger to important missions, as they have a long legacy of answering the call, from the Korean War, to Iraq and Afghanistan. We wish them well and await their safe return home.
Our European PANG state partners celebrated the Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania. This celebration honored the courage and foresight of the 20 signatories who, Feb. 16, 1918, signed the Act of Independence, declaring Lithuania a sovereign, democratic state. It was a beacon of hope in a dark time -- an assertion of national identity that could not be suppressed.
That same spirit of freedom is what has bound PANG and Lithuanian Armed Forces together for more than 30 years. We wish the Lithuanians a lifetime of freedom and are proud to serve alongside them through the state partnership program.
Lastly, this month culminated my official first year as the adjutant general of Pennsylvania. It has been an extreme honor to lead the PANG and DMVA, serving our veterans, active-duty service members and their families. Over the past year, we have strongly advocated for our service members and veterans, turning priorities into meaningful action and measurable achievements that strengthen our force and the communities we serve.
I am looking forward to helping deliver continued excellence, strengthening our readiness, and ensuring that everyone knows they are supported by an organization committed to serving with integrity, dedication and purpose.
Major General John R. Pippy
Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA |
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Heart Health Awareness For Women Veterans |
While February is American Heart Month, the focus on cardiac health is a constant issue, particularly for women veterans. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), women veterans have higher rates of some heart disease risk factors, like diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking, than the general population and face added risks due to stress, trauma and other service-related factors. After being separated from the military for two to five years, a woman's risk for developing heart disease increases. The VA offers proactive health care tips that can help to mitigate many of these risk factors. Primary care providers can work with veterans to assess their needs and come up with a plan, including referrals to cardiologists if needed. In addition, a veteran service officer can provide assistance with the application process for VA health care. |
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Employers Join The Effort To Provide Contact Information For Veteran Benefits And Services |
Beginning this month, all employers with more than 50 employees are required to physically display or post on their websites a notice from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, providing contact information for veterans’ resources and information regarding federal and state benefits and services for veterans. Veterans can access free assistance with applying for benefits or assisting with existing benefits through their local county office of veterans’ affairs, or through DMVA. “It is important for all veterans in the commonwealth to know that they can reach out to accredited veteran service officers for assistance when it comes to everything from filing claims to finding rides to medical appointments,” said Keith Graham, executive director of veterans programs. “Equally important is the fact that this assistance is available to them at no cost.” |
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Veteran Staff Outreach At SCI Camp Hill |
As a former corrections officer at the state correctional institution (SCI) at Muncy, I have a deep passion for supporting veteran staff members who continue to serve within Pennsylvania’s State Correctional Institutions. Having walked in their shoes, I understand both the demands of the profession and the importance of ensuring veterans have access to the resources and support they deserve.  I was honored to participate in two veteran staff outreach events: one at SCI Camp Hill Jan. 28, 2026, and another at the Department of Corrections Central Office on Jan. 29, 2026. These events provided an invaluable opportunity to connect directly with veteran staff and offer counseling, guidance and resources tailored to their needs.
I am extremely grateful to the executive and upper management teams at these institutions for their commitment to caring for veteran staff. Their willingness to grant gate clearances and provide access was essential to the success of these events. Without their cooperation and support, delivering these critical resources to the men and women working inside our institutions would have presented significant challenges. The impact of the veteran staff outreach event at SCI Camp Hill is reflected by the following outcomes:
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Full Article |
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DVVH Residents Connect With Ireland |
Residents at Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home (DVVH) were invited to join a pen pal club writing to students at Saint Andrew’s College, Junior School in Blackrock, County Dublin, Ireland. Each resident’s card responded to a specific student in Ireland discussing favorite foods, sports and hobbies. |
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GMVC Resident Celebrated 102nd Birthday |
George Liparini turned 102 years young Feb. 19. Liparini served in the Army from 1943 to 1945, where he earned the Good Conduct Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with four bronze stars, American Campaign Medal, two Overseas Service Bars and the WWII Victory Medal. He was married for 51 years to his late wife, Ruth, and he was a firefighter in West New York for many years. He had one child, and has three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Liparini is very outgoing and enjoys watching sports, playing bingo, music programs, socials and singing. He enjoys talking to his family on the phone. The residents, staff and his close friend/caregiver, Lucy Jankowski, gathered to celebrate Liparini’s 102nd birthday with cake, while being entertained with live music by “Millenium.” Happy 102nd birthday and thank you for your service! |
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Valentine’s Day Family Social At HVH |
 Love was in the air Feb. 11 as the Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home (HVH) hosted its annual Valentine’s Day Family Social in all three resident buildings. Families and friends joined residents for delicious hors d'oeuvres, sweet treats and live music entertainment to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Balloons were once again donated by generous community members through a partnership with local Dollar Tree |
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PSSH Residents Pucker-Up For Party Piggies |
Tree Family Party Piggies, a small family of three from Cochranton, Pennsylvania who fell in love with and raise mini pigs as their beloved pets, visits Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Soldiers’ Home (PSSH) on a quarterly basis. The mission of Tree Family Party Piggies is to delight people of all ages with a unique and interactive mini pet pig experience, bringing joy everywhere they go and creating memories that will last forever. Their piggies are born and raised in a home and have been around children their whole lives. They are socialized by certified therapy pet handers daily, trained not to bite and take treats gently. The piggies are bathed before events, potty-trained and trained to walk on a leash with a harness. They are the size of a medium-sized dog and have a clean bill of health. The mini pigs, Birch and Cedar, like to dress up, paint with their snouts and perform tricks. Birch enjoys being held by the residents, while Cedar provides the kisses. Both the residents and staff at PSSH love when the pigs come to visit. |
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2026 PSSH Winter Olympics |
To commemorate the opening ceremonies of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy the residents and staff took part in the 2026 Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Soldiers’ Home (PSSH) Winter Olympic Torch Run Feb. 6. With the assistance of activities staff, the PSSH Olympic torch made its way through the halls to its final resting place in the Olympic Cauldron, located in the home dining room for two weeks of PSSH’s Winter Olympic Games. There were a variety of events which took place throughout their Winter Olympics. A snowball fight was held between the residents and staff which consisted of beach balls and fuzzy pom-poms. “Hockey” and “curling” were also played. The residents watched the movie “Cool Runnings,” a comedy inspired by the real-life Jamaican bobsled team’s debut at the 1988 Winter Olympics. The live airing of the Olympics could be seen on the TVs in the dining room and resident lounges. A closing ceremony for the 2026 PSSH Winter Olympics was held Feb. 19 with the playing of the National Anthem followed by awarding singles and teams in a medal ceremony. Who knows what the staff will have up their sleeves for the 2028 PSSH Summer Olympics! |
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Valentine’s Day Dinner At SEVC |
Residents at Southeastern Veterans’ Center (SEVC) and their families were treated to a delicious prime rib and lobster dinner for Valentine’s Day. Even in their golden years, Valentine’s Day should still be a special time for a veteran and their special someone. Thank you to our dedicated staff for all you do to support our residents and make holidays like this one special! |
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National Guard Domestic Planners Unite To Sharpen Readiness |
When serious events or disasters occur within the United States, citizens and emergency management agencies look to the soldiers of the National Guard for assistance. Members of the National Guard must be prepared to respond to both federal deployments overseas and events within the homeland. National Guard readiness doesn't happen by accident; it is forged through deliberate planning and collaboration. From Feb.10-12, National Guard planners, from each state and territory as well as the District of Columbia and National Guard Bureau, attended the 2026 National Guard Domestic Operations (DOMOPS) Conference at Camp Robinson, AK. This year’s conference was framed around readiness for "emerging (unplanned) events, emerging threats and planned events." Gatherings like this workshop provide an opportunity for leaders and planners to share lessons learned from recent floods, wildfires or civil support missions to help prepare others should they need to provide support to a similar crisis in the future. It also gives service members time to discuss updates related to the multitude of activities planned for this summer, from FIFA World Cup to America’s 250th Birthday. The Guard is planning ahead, ensuring the safety and security of major national events and our communities. Domestic Operations is a key event in the planning year, but the readiness of Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ) staff is honed year-round through multiple training events. These courses and workshops ensure planners are prepared for any contingency, from local emergencies to catastrophic national crises. |
Full Article |
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SEEM, The Newest J-9 Team Member |
The State Equal Employment Managers (SEEM) office is a newer addition to the J-9 team, though it has long been an integral part of the Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG). Consistent with the J-9's mission, the SEEM office is dedicated to the fair treatment of our soldiers, airmen and civilians, ensuring they have a voice to address issues of fairness, justice and equality. We are here to explain the processes available to resolve these issues, thereby building trust and enhancing readiness within the PANG. Our mission is to create and sustain effective units by eliminating discriminatory behaviors and practices that undermine teamwork, mutual respect, loyalty and the shared sacrifice of the men and women of the PANG. Our goal is to foster an environment of dignity and trust, anchored in a culture of professionalism and discipline. The SEEM office is the designated channel for handling complaints of discrimination based on race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), national origin, religion, reprisal, age and disability. While we strive to resolve issues at the lowest possible level, often through the chain of command, we are also a formal resource. We offer tailored in-person and online training for individuals, units and leaders at all levels. Furthermore, we provide expert advice to leadership on relevant regulations, policies and procedures to help correct problems and strengthen the organization. |
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Recent Video Spreads Love To Our Veterans |
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DMVA - "Touch A Heart" By Blue Ridge Communications |
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Shapiro Administration Reminds Pennsylvanians That They Can Use Their Tax Return To Help Military, Veterans, And Their Families In Need |
Pennsylvanians filing their 2025 state income tax returns can help Pennsylvania’s military personnel, veterans and their families by donating any amount of their refund to the state’s Military Family Relief Assistance Fund and/or Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF). Both trust funds are administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), which provides resources and assistance to veterans, military members, and their families across the commonwealth. One-hundred percent of the tax refund donations received go to the recipients of these trust funds. Pennsylvanians interested in donating should refer to the 2025 Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax Return Instructions (PA-40 IN). “Year after year, Pennsylvanians demonstrate their deep commitment to our veterans, active military and their families through the generous donations made to support DMVA’s grant programs,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA. “We are truly grateful for this continued generosity. These contributions are vital, as they ensure that people who have sacrificed so much for our country can access critical support when unexpected hardships arise.” Military Family Relief Assistance Program (MFRAP): The MFRAP helps Pennsylvania service members and their families by providing financial assistance to those with a direct and immediate financial need as a result of circumstances beyond their control. |
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The 3 E’s: Education Enlistment Employment |
Early in the 22-week residential phase of Keystone State Challenge Academy (KSCA), cadets are already planning their future. Under the guidance of the Post-Residential Department, they work on their post-residential plan focusing on the “three E’s,” education, enlistment or employment. Our graduates are supported for two years after graduation in reaching their goals. Every cadet takes an initial Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) to gain information for their post residential plans.  The ASVAB information is shared with military recruiters, who meet with cadets that are considering enlistment. About 13% of our cadets pursue enlistment. The photo shows a KSCA commandant secor with enlistee, Graduate Isaiah Brickman, of Class 25-1, paying our newest cadets a visit to encourage them in the program. We are very proud of him!
The KSCA is recruiting for Class 26-2, which begins July 2026. If you know of a 16-18 year old youth that may be eligible for our program, let us know. |
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Pennsylvania State Awards: Recognition For Veterans And Civilians Who Serve The Commonwealth |
Pennsylvania maintains an official system of state medals, ribbons and awards to recognize individuals who provide meaningful service to the commonwealth. These honors are not limited to uniformed personnel. Veterans and civilians who contribute to the well-being, security and resilience of Pennsylvania may be eligible for formal recognition by the governor or the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). These awards exist to recognize service performed specifically for Pennsylvania, particularly when that service falls outside traditional federal recognition programs. Authorized under Title 51, Chap. 37 of Pennsylvania law and administered by DMVA, these awards honor acts of valor, distinguished leadership, meritorious service and noteworthy achievement. While similar to federal military decorations, Pennsylvania’s awards focus on contributions made in service to the state and its people. Veterans and civilians may be eligible for several commonwealth awards, including: the Pennsylvania Distinguished Service Medal; Pennsylvania Meritorious Service Medal; Pennsylvania Commendation Medal; Pennsylvania Achievement Medal; Pennsylvania Veterans Service Award; Major Octavius V. Catto Medal; Pennsylvania Outstanding Aeronautical Achievement Award. This is all dependent on the nature and impact of their service. Any individual with direct knowledge of a deserving veteran or civil servant may submit a nomination. These should clearly describe the individual’s actions, when and where the service occurred, along with how the commonwealth benefited. The DMVA reviews nominations, routing them for approval by the adjutant general or the governor, as appropriate. |
Full Article |
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Closing A Critical Gap In Care For Disabled Veterans |
Veterans who served our nation earned the right to dignified, high-quality care. Yet, a serious gap in federal policy puts some at risk. The VA covers high-cost, lifesaving medications for veterans, rated 50%+, living in VA nursing homes or private contract facilities. That same coverage does not apply when those veterans reside in veterans homes. As a result, veterans rated 70%+ can face delays in treatment, simply because of where they live and choose to receive their care. Veterans homes do not deny admission. However, the lack of VA reimbursement for high-cost medications makes care challenging. Some treatments, including chemotherapy and advanced biologics, exceeds $20,000 monthly. This creates ongoing strain on facilities that are committed to caring for our veterans. There is a straightforward fix. H.R. 1970, the Providing Veterans Essential Medications Act, would require the VA to reimburse veterans homes for high-cost medications that exceed 8.5% of the per diem rate; this is the same standard already applied to private contract nursing homes. This bipartisan bill protects veterans’ access to lifesaving care. The DMVA operates six veterans homes throughout the commonwealth. Call your member of congress and ask them to support and co-sponsor H.R. 1970: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member “I’m calling to ask Representative [Name] to support and co-sponsor H.R. 1970, the Providing Veterans Essential Medications Act. Disabled veterans in veterans homes are being denied access to lifesaving medications because VA doesn’t reimburse those homes the same way it does VA and VA contracted private nursing facilities. This is an unfair gap in care, and it needs to be fixed.”
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DMVA Continues Advocating For Veterans And Service Members |
Each February, the governor presents a proposed budget to the Pennsylvania General Assembly, officially beginning the commonwealth’s annual budget deliberations. For the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), this process is a critical opportunity to advocate for the resources needed to support Pennsylvania’s service members, veterans and their families. The governor’s proposal reflects months of planning and coordination across state agencies. The DMVA prioritizes sustaining Pennsylvania National Guard readiness, delivering high-quality care in state veterans homes, expanding veterans outreach to connect veterans with services, modernizing infrastructure, strengthening workforce stability and supporting the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy for at-risk youth. These investments protect those who serve and have served, while strengthening Pennsylvania’s future communities. Once introduced, the proposed budget moves to the general assembly’s review. Legislative committees, including the House and Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness committees examine DMVA’s needs, ask questions and consider how proposed investments align with statewide priorities. Throughout this process, DMVA’s Policy, Planning and Legislative Affairs Office works closely with legislators, the governor’s office and external stakeholders to provide information and highlight the impact of proposed funding. Budget negotiations continue through spring, with a final budget due June 30. While the process can be complex, its purpose is straightforward: Ensuring Pennsylvania honors its commitment to those who serve. As deliberations continue, DMVA remains focused on advocating for policies and funding that strengthen military readiness, support veterans’ independence and dignity, along with care for military families—because supporting those who serve is our responsibility.
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Assisting With The Snowstorm |
The department of installation maintenance was mobilized for the state emergency during  the January 2026 blizzard in order to keep Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG) roads both operational and clear. State workers stayed in post barracks, rotating shifts, which allowed for 24 clearing operations on post. Due to the commitment of these workers, there was no disruption of activities at FTIG and on-post employees were able to come back to work with clear roads and parking lots. |
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