Message from the Adjutant General |
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Honoring Service And Sacrifice This Holiday Season |
I hope you are all having a happy holiday season, taking time to spend with loved ones and creating special memories that last a lifetime.
As we gather this season to celebrate with family, we must also remember those who cannot be home. More than 260 members of the Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG) remain deployed, spending the holidays apart from their families while selflessly serving to protect our freedom.
Earlier this month, we held a send-off ceremony for 10 members of the 109th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD) who are headed overseas in support of U.S. Special Operations Command Europe. We wish them well and look forward to their safe return in one year.
Knowing that so many troops can’t be home for the holidays, the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) partnered again this year with the Department of Agriculture and local tree farms on the Trees for Troops program. Through this effort, Christmas trees were delivered to service members and their families across the nation and abroad. This annual tradition helps service members stay connected to their families and the comforts of home.
The PANG also helped deliver a special Christmas by volunteering to assist the Department of Human Services with the annual Holiday Wish Program. By working together as one team, we were able to bring joy to hundreds of less fortunate individuals at a time when everyone should feel the spirit of the season. This program reminds us all what the holidays are truly about.
This month, I had the privilege of visiting our six veterans homes, joined by members of the PANG and the Pennsylvania legislature, to meet with residents and spread holiday cheer. The spirit of the season is evident at these homes. From the volunteers and staff to the residents and visiting families, it is clear that everyone appreciates the freedom our veterans fought so hard to preserve.
Of course, we have not forgotten the men and women who are no longer with us. The DMVA participated in Wreaths Across America events at the State Capitol, Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, and the Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery at the Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home in Erie. By laying a wreath and speaking each name, we help ensure that the legacies of those who served and sacrificed continue to live on.
At headquarters in Annville, we congratulated 75 Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy cadets on their graduation from the 22-week program. Designed to give at-risk teens a second chance to earn their basic education, the program emphasizes leadership, self-discipline and personal responsibility while helping cadets complete their schooling and build a better future. This class marks the largest graduating cohort in the academy’s history.
As we close out 2025 and look ahead to a new year, let us renew our gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our veterans, service members and their families. Your resilience, strength and dedication inspire us every day.
On behalf of the DMVA, I wish all who serve, all who have served and the families who support them a happy, healthy and safe New Year.
Major General John R. Pippy
Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA |
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VA Caregiver Support Programs Provide Valuable Resources For Veterans Families And Loved Ones |
As military families navigate the holiday season, it’s important to consider the well-being of veterans and those who support them. That’s where the federal department of veteran affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) can be of assistance, offering clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. The program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for veterans, through education, resources, support and services. The VA offers two programs:
General Caregiver Support Services provides peer support mentoring, skills training, coaching, telephone support, online programs and referrals to available resources to caregivers of veterans. Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers offers enhanced clinical support and services for caregivers of eligible veterans who have a serious injury or illness and require in-person personal care.
“Our veteran service officers consider all aspects of a veteran’s needs when they meet with them in the field and at our Lickdale Veterans’ Outreach Center,” said Keith Graham, executive director of veterans affairs. “Support for their caregivers, who often visit us along with their veteran loved one, is important in the overall well-being of our veterans.” |
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Consider Holiday Donations To Programs For Veterans, Service Members And Their Families |
Pennsylvanians looking for a patriotic way to donate during the holiday season are reminded that they can give to programs that support the commonwealth’s nearly 700,000 veterans, service members and their families. There are several tax-deductible programs managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), including:
Veterans’ Trust Fund, which issues grants to statewide charitable organizations that assist veterans, veterans service organizations and county directors of veterans affairs to help veterans in need of shelter and necessities of living. Military Family Relief Assistance, which provides financial assistance in the form of grants to eligible Pennsylvania service members and their eligible family members who have an immediate financial need based on circumstances beyond their control. Pennsylvania Veterans’ Memorial Trust Fund, which supports DMVA’s efforts in maintaining this monument located at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery honoring veterans from all eras from the Revolutionary War forward.
To donate online or by mail for any of these tax-deductible programs, or to learn more about each one, go to www.donate.dmva.pa.gov. |
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County Veterans Affairs Offices Help With State, Federal And County-Level Benefits |
County veterans affairs offices across Pennsylvania are expanding their efforts to provide veterans and their families with personalized, comprehensive guidance regarding state, federal and county-level benefits. With accredited veterans services officers (VSOs) serving in every county, the commonwealth continues to lead in delivering accessible, community-based support to those who have served. 
Pennsylvania’s county VSOs are fully accredited professionals trained to assist veterans with filing and managing claims for disability compensation, pensions and education, along with training benefits, survivor benefits and more. Their accreditation ensures they are qualified to interpret regulations, prepare documentation and advocate directly with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on behalf of veterans—all at no cost.
County VSO’s are also well-versed in Pennsylvania’s programs, including the Veterans Temporary Assistance, Blind Veterans Pension, Amputee and Paralyzed Veterans Pension, Disabled Veterans Real Estate Tax Exemption and educational benefits for eligible dependents. Many counties also provide their own supplemental services, such as transportation to VA medical appointments, burial allowances and emergency financial assistance.
“Our goal is to build a claim experience that reflects each veteran’s service and circumstances,” said Jesiah Schrader, Pike County director of veterans affairs and president of the PA State Association of County Directors of Veterans Affairs. “No two veterans are the same, and their benefits shouldn’t be treated as one-size-fits-all.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, veterans are urged to contact their county veterans affairs office and explore the support available close to home. |
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Wreaths Across America At PSSH’s “Litte Arlington” |
Wreaths Across America is a nationally choreographed event at cemeteries and veterans’ cemeteries around the world. The simple mission of the organization is to: remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom. Learn more here: Our Mission - Wreaths Across America Pennsylvania Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Home (PSSH) is the only veterans home in the commonwealth to operate an active veterans cemetery. Additionally, it’s the only veteran exclusive cemetery in Northwest Pennsylvania, making it Erie’s “Little Arlington.”  This event was only ceremonial at PSSH up until 2016 when it became a full participant, placing wreaths at the gravesites on all veterans buried in the PSSH Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Full participation started with humble beginnings, only about a dozen volunteers spending hours commemorating over 1,300 gravesites. Wreaths Across America at PSSH has grown to become one of the signature events in Erie for the community to pay their respects and show gratitude for our veterans’ service and sacrifice to our country.
Wreaths Across America has special significance at PSSH Veterans Memorial Cemetery, many of the graves date back to the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. These veterans have long-been disconnected from friends or family that pay their respects. This event guarantees on at least one day during the year that someone will honor their sacrifice and that their service to our country has not been forgotten. Volunteers are asked to speak the veteran’s name aloud before placing a wreath at their gravestone. |
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HVH Participates In Altoona’s “Spirit of Christmas Parade” |
On Saturday, Dec. 6, Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home (HVH) residents, staff, family members and friends participated in the “Spirit of Christmas Parade” in downtown Altoona. The theme of their parade float was “R.E.D.: Remember Everyone Deployed, Until They All Come Home.” It featured a staff member’s antique truck, affably dubbed “Big Red,” carrying military service branch flags and a trailer full of Christmas trees, accompanied by hand-made décor alongside their staff and family members -- plus two vans carrying their residents!
The HVH staff also honored three members of their nursing staff who passed away this year, with signs featuring their names on the float.
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Sights And Sounds Of Christmas At HVH |
Throughout the month of December, the hallways of Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home (HVH) were filled with the sights and sounds of Christmas with the help of some special visitors. Various groups, such as Cub Scouts Pack 3332 of Hollidaysburg and the Blair County Christian School, strolled through Eisenhower Hall, donning their Santa and Elf hats singing Christmas carols for the residents. |
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Scranton Tomorrow Spreads Holiday Cheer At GMVC |
Volunteers from Scranton Tomorrow, led by Steve Ward, affiliate coordinator, started off December spreading cheer with the residents at Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center (GMVC). The community made snowflakes of different sizes and colors, which they hung throughout the facility, while conversing with residents. Scranton Tomorrow is a volunteer-based organization whose members are as diverse as the greater Scranton community. Volunteers and supporters include business leaders, public officials, entrepreneurs, property owners, developers, educators, artists and community partners. All volunteers are united in a love for the Scranton community and a commitment to aid it in reaching its greatest potential. |
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GMVC Deputy Commandant Retires |
After a remarkable career, one spanning 18 years, Kathleen Ambrose, a respected deputy commandant at Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center (GMVC), has officially retired.  Marking the end of an era defined by dedication, leadership and a deep commitment to excellence, Ambrose began her journey with GMVC in 2007, starting as an
accountant 3. Over the years, she climbed through the ranks thanks to her strong work ethic, problem-solving skills and ability to connect with colleagues across all levels of the organization. Under Ambrose’s leadership, GMVC successfully handled several challenges, including the outbreak of the Covid-19 Pandemic, countless department of health inspections and new construction to the facility. Her calm demeanor during challenging times and unwavering focus on team success made her a trusted figure within the organization. Outside of work, she is looking forward to spending more time with her family and traveling. Ambrose leaves a legacy; one of integrity, hard work and genuine care for the residents and employees she worked with every day. Her presence will be greatly missed, but Ambrose’s impact will be felt for years to come. |
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GMVC’s Lunch And A Movie - “Wicked” |
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Residents from Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center (GMVC) enjoyed a trip to the movies Dec. 4. The group made memories eating lunch while watching Wicked: For Good, on the big screen. |
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28th Infantry Division Support Accelerates Lithuanian First Division Operational Development |
The recent engagement between the Lithuanian First Division and the 28th Infantry Division (28 ID) significantly impacted the establishment and operational readiness of the Lithuanian First Division. From Oct. 20-31, 2025, a seven-member subject matter expert (SME) team from the 28 ID provided critical support to the Lithuanian First Division in refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and enhancing warfighting functions. This collaboration not only facilitated knowledge transfer, but also fostered a collaborative learning environment, essential for improving interoperability with NATO allies. The emphasis on bolstering the first division’s capabilities as a multinational corps – northeast (MNC-NE) response cell underscores the strategic importance of multinational partnerships in enhancing regional security.
The 28 ID SME team assisted in establishing a structured daily battle rhythm and dedicated forums for comprehensive enemy analysis. In addition, the team assisted the staff in preparing and conducting battle update briefs and commander’s update briefs to increase the division's situational awareness and operational effectiveness. The team integrated into the division staff filling vital positions to advance interoperability among U.S. and NATO partners, implementing suggested SOPs and staff processes that facilitate better synchronization across all warfighting functions, thereby improving overall operational coherence. |
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PA Guard Soldiers Selected For International Best Squad Competition |
Seven Pennsylvania Army National Guard soldiers completed tryouts Oct. 22, 2025, earning their place in a best squad competition scheduled for March 2026 in Lithuania. The grueling day began at 5 a.m. as soldiers completed five demanding events over 14 hours, with minimal downtime between each.
“Morale was high; everyone was lighthearted but determined,” said Sgt. First Class Paul Almquist, a candidate for the squad. “Everybody was super competitive and strived to give it their all while also pushing one another.”
By day’s end, soldiers had completed an Army Combat Fitness Test, a nine-event obstacle course, a Ranger Physical Assessment (RPA), a land navigation challenge with 15 points across mountainous terrain and a six-mile, 35-pound ruck march. The RPA alone required carrying 40-pound kettlebells and dragging an 180-pound SKEDCO rescue system for 100 meters and running multiple miles on a winding, uneven trail while carrying a sandbag.
“We put in nearly 20 miles over the course of the day,” said Sgt. First Class Erich Friedlein, another tryout competitor. “This tryout was designed so that these demanding events were stacked back-to-back. You need to sustain high levels of physical exertion and mental fortitude to perform well across the board.”
The endurance required to excel in the tryouts and upcoming competition also prepares soldiers for real-world missions and challenging operational environments. “It proves you’re able to put in long hours across multiple days, while remaining physically and mentally sound enough to function during intense combat operations,” Friedlein said. |
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A Holiday Message Of Gratitude And Renewal To The Pennsylvania Army National Guard Community |
Soldiers, veterans, families and members of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard,
As we gather for the holidays, thank you for your service, sacrifice and steadfast commitment to our mission. Whether you’re supporting operations, at home or abroad, or have served in years past, your dedication strengthens our guard and communities.
To our families, your support underpins everything we do and we are deeply grateful.
May this season bring you rest, safety and time with those you hold dear. Happy holidays and thank you for all you do.
Continue to check on our teammates daily and let’s come back healthy from the holidays with our batteries charged, some new goals and ready to crush 2026!
Maj. Gen. Mike Wegscheider, Deputy Adjutant General – Army |
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What Is SOS? |
The Survivor Outreach Services’ (SOS) mission is to provide dedicated outreach and long-term support to surviving families of fallen soldiers that embraces and reassures survivors that they are continually linked to the military family for as long as they desire.
The SOS program connects survivors with people who can help, regardless of a loved one’s military component, duty status, location or manner of death. Their services include, assisting with grief and financial counseling, survivor and educational benefits, serving as liaisons to department of defense agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), coordination with funeral home and burial services, support groups, legal services and VA referrals, to name a few.
Additionally, SOS coordinators host and partner with other organizations closest to where the families live, such as Wreaths Across America, March for the Fallen and the Gateway Clipper riverboat events.
The SOS coordinators serve all military families at SOS offices across Pennsylvania, with locations in Coraopolis, Duncansville, Tobyhanna, Johnstown, Carlisle, Annville and Philadelphia. There is no greater calling than to serve one’s nation with honor and dignity. For SOS, there is no greater duty than to support the families of those who died in service to our nation.
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Videos Share Holiday Greetings, Help Tell Our Story |
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Merry Christmas 2025 |
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2025 Christmas Tree Lighting at Ft. Indiantown Gap |
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Preserving History - Pennsylvania National Guard |
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1,000 New State Employees Honored In 2025 For Their Dual Military And State Public Service |
This year, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania agency officials recognized and thanked 1,000 new commonwealth employees who serve or have served in the Armed Forces of the United States, as part of the annual Pennsylvania State Employee Military Service Recognition Campaign.
“Military service cultivates strong leaders, highly capable workers, and dedicated professionals who are committed to serving the people of Pennsylvania,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). “I’m honored to stand alongside so many employees who have or are serving both in uniform and in public roles. Together, we operate as one team with a shared mission—to serve the commonwealth with purpose, integrity, and unwavering commitment to public service.”
Those honored throughout 2025 received a lapel pin featuring our nation’s flag and the commonwealth flag signifying their dual military and state public service. Employees who serve or have served in the Armed Forces of the United States – in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard or Space Force regardless of component are eligible for program participation and recognition. More than 20,000 state employees have been honored since 2019.
The Pennsylvania State Employee Military Service Recognition Campaign also raises awareness about federal and state veteran benefits, encourages registration in the Pennsylvania Veterans Registry, and informs state employees about mentoring opportunities within our veterans’ communities. Veterans, family members and people who work with veterans can register for the Pennsylvania Veterans Registry by going to www.register.dmva.pa.gov.
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Shapiro Administration Increases Education Funding Assistance As Children Of ‘Global War On Terror’ Veterans Become Eligible |
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) Educational Gratuity Program (EGP) received a critical funding increase in the 2025-26 budget just in time to meet a rapidly growing need.
As the children of veterans who’ve served in America’s longest war – the Global War on Terror - reach college age, EGP applications are rising. The grant money specifically provides help with tuition costs.
The program supports both children of honorably discharged wartime veterans with service-connected total and permanent disabilities, and children of veterans who died in service during a period of war or armed conflict.
“As a new generation of students becomes eligible for educational support, we are reminded that our commitment to veterans and their families must endure long after the battles have ended,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA.“ Access to higher education is one of the most powerful ways we can honor their sacrifice and open doors for their children’s futures. Strengthening programs like the Educational Gratuity Program ensures we meet growing needs and uphold the promise we owe to those who served.”
Over the last two years, DMVA has seen a 100% growth in applications. (195 to 390).
The 2025-26 budget signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in November increased the money available from $320K to $350K, which will help cover the additional students thus far, with the number of applications expected to grow even further than projected.
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Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy For At-Risk Teens Graduates Largest Class In Program History, Offering Life Skills And Career Preparation |
Seventy-five cadets from the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA) graduated from the 22-week residential phase of the program Dec. 13, on their way to a brighter future. The group boasts the largest class size in the program’s history.
The KSCA is designed to give challenged teens a second chance at obtaining their basic education and the opportunity to learn leadership, self-discipline and responsibility, while working toward finishing their education and building a better life. The cadets participated in and completed 3,272 hours of community service throughout the program, including volunteering at food banks, assisting with the annual March for the Fallen, along with maintaining cemetery, park and military ceremony grounds.
Along with aiding the community, their efforts are estimated to have saved up to $93,382 in labor costs. The cadets will now complete a 24-month mentorship phase of the program throughout their various communities while they pursue their future endeavors.
“It was an absolute honor to see our cadets graduate from the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy today. The lessons accrued during their months-long commitment to the program is sure to carry them forward to a brighter future,” said Maj. Gen. John Pippy, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). “Thank you to the academy staff for your dedication to the program and professionalism working with the cadets.”
The opening of the academy at Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG) in Lebanon County in July 2022 formally established the National Guard Bureau’s Youth ChalleNGe Program in Pennsylvania.
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Compromise Fiscal 2026 NDAA Includes Guard Provisions |
Service members will receive a 3.8% pay raise beginning Jan. 1, 2026 under the final version of the annual defense policy bill announced by the House and Senate. The pay increase in the proposed fiscal 2026 National Defense Authorization Act worked out by the House and Senate is consistent with President Donald Trump’s proposed budget request.
The legislation authorizes $900.6 billion for the Defense Department (War Department), more than $8 billion over the president’s budget request. While the bill authorizes the higher amount, congressional defense appropriators, those who decide the actual funding, will determine final defense spending.
The National Guard Association of the United States is reviewing the always voluminous bill for language provisions that specifically impact the National Guard.
A few provisions already stand out, including:
Personnel Totals: The Army Guard will have an authorized end strength of 328,000 soldiers, an increase of 3,000 personnel over fiscal 2025. Authorized Air Guard end strength will be 106,300 airmen, a decrease of 1,400 personnel from fiscal 2025. Aviation Incentive Payments: The defense (war) secretary is required to implement and initiate aviation incentive payments no later than Jan. 1, 2027, to members of the Guard and Reserve. Equipment Shortfalls: The defense (war) secretary shall submit a report evaluating the impact of existing equipment shortfalls on the Guard’s ability to execute homeland defense operations. |
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Breaking Ground |
Construction at the new Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) West Site in Moon Township is underway. Currently, construction is finishing the foundation and  setting utilities for the new maintenance site. This new location will support Pennsylvania Army National Guard units in western areas of the commonwealth. The facility is projected to create a 50,000-square-foot maintenance facility and a 3,200-square-foot cold storage building. The project retains an expected completion date in the summer of 2027. |
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Fort Indiantown Gap Regains Title As Busiest National Guard Installation In The U.S. |
In October 2025, after a very busy training year, the Fort Indiantown Gap (FTIG), Training Center received confirmation from National Guard Bureau (NGB) that the post had achieved status as the busiest National Guard installation in all the United States and its territories. This is a title it had regained after falling to second place in Training Year 2024. Overall, FTIG has been the busiest National Guard installation for eight of the past 10 years!
Fort Indiantown Gap, the only Level II Training Center in the eastern United States, strives to be on the cutting edge of technology and innovation by providing its training audience, which ranges from all branches of the military to federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, the best training options for those organizations.
In Training Year 2025, the installation hosted a training audience of more than 132,200 personnel with a combined count of more than 985,514 man-days. The next highest number of man-days reported by a National Guard installation to NGB was Camp Shelby, Mississippi, which reported 536,138 man-days for the year.
For the first three months of Training Year 2026, FTIG has already exceeded last year’s training personnel numbers for the same time frame, and the number of organizations currently scheduled for the remainder of the training year looks very positive. Included in the scheduled training in May and June 2026, is Warfighter Exercise (WFX 26-3). This division level exercise is anticipated to draw more than 2,000 military and support personnel onto the post.
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