Message from the Adjutant General
A Privilege to be Officially Confirmed as your 55th Adjutant General
I am truly honored to address you this month as the 55th adjutant general of Pennsylvania. I am grateful to Gov. Josh Shapiro and his administration for showing the confidence in me to lead both the Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG) as its adjutant general, and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) as its head executive.
This position is a privilege that I hold with the utmost respect. I look forward to continuing to work with our service members, families, veterans, and DMVA employees to ensure that we are Always Ready and Always There when our commonwealth or country needs us.
Speaking of Always Ready, Always There, earlier this month family and friends gathered at the Zembo Shrine in Harrisburg for a deployment ceremony for 140 PNG soldiers. These troops with the 3622nd Sustainment Maintenance Company will spend a year-long deployment in the Middle East to help U.S. Central Command and other allied partners with equipment maintenance.
In total, the PA Army National Guard has nearly 1,184 members mobilized overseas, while the PA Air National Guard currently has 88 members mobilized supporting various missions overseas and within the continental United States. We will continue to support our deployed troops and their families, and await their safe return home.
On the veteran front, this month we had some extra excitement at two of our veterans homes. The Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home and the Southeastern Veterans’ Center residents received Philadelphia Eagles jerseys provided by the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors in conjunction with the Philadelphia Eagles. The residents proudly wore their jerseys during the Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
While the residents of those homes were deemed VIPs during the Super Bowl, so, too are all of Pennsylvania’s nearly 700,000 veterans. We continue to work diligently every day on your behalf to deliver programs and services earned in service to our nation.
I look forward to bringing you more fun and exciting updates of our veterans and National Guard, and how DMVA is working as one team with one mission of serving those who serve\ed all of us.
Veterans Affairs
Honoring Veterans as We Recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day
On March 29 we recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day, but thanks and honors for these warriors will continue throughout the year, as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of when the last U.S. personnel were evacuated from Vietnam.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that today there are between six and seven million U.S. Vietnam veterans throughout the world. In Pennsylvania, this number is nearly 217,000 Vietnam-era veterans.
“This anniversary gives us greater opportunity to thank our Vietnam veterans for their service, and to welcome them home,” said Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) Executive Director of Veterans Programs Keith Graham. “This is one of our largest war-era veteran populations in Pennsylvania and we recognize the importance of providing programs and services to this population.”
One way the DMVA assists veterans is by helping them locate lost military documents, particularly their DD Form 214 (DD-214), which is vital when it comes to receiving the benefits they deserve. Anyone needing assistance from the DMVA to locate their DD-214/215, or other military documentation, can call toll-free 1-800-547-2838, email RA-REQ@pg.gov, or visit the Records Request Program on the DMVA website: www.pa.gov/agencies/dmva.
Veteran Programs and Services
Benefits and Assistance are Available for Blind and Low-Vision Veterans
Veterans who experience issues associated with low vision or blindness have a number of options for assistance and benefits that can help to improve their quality of life.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the leading cause of vision loss in veterans are age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, neurologic vision loss and glaucoma. The VA offers vision rehabilitation programs for individuals who may be having trouble driving, or may have increased falls, both side effects of vision loss.
The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) also administers a Blind Veterans Pension program that provides eligible veterans with a monthly pension of $150, in addition to their VA disability compensation. Eligibility requirements include residency in Pennsylvania on entry into service, discharge under conditions other than dishonorable, and service-connected visual impairments rated at 90-100% permanently disabling.
Veterans interested in applying for this pension should contact their County Director of Veterans Affairs in the county where they reside.
Veterans Homes
“Four Chaplains Day” Ceremony at PSSH
Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home held a ceremony on Feb. 3 in their chapel to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the sinking of the USAT Dorchester where 672 men paid the supreme sacrifice, including four chaplains. This tradition draws an audience of residents, active service members, and community stakeholders to honor an extraordinary example of faith, courage, and selflessness.
Just after midnight on Feb. 3, 1943, the 368-foot ship USAT Dorchester, carrying approximately 900 as part of a convoy, heading from New York enroute to Greenland, was struck by a German U-Boat torpedo off Newfoundland in the North Atlantic.
Amid the chaos, Lt. Alexander Goode (a Jewish rabbi), Lt. John Washington (a Roman Catholic priest), Lt. George Fox (a Methodist), and Lt. Clark Poling (a Dutch Reformed minister) helped soldiers board lifeboats and distributed life jackets. As the ship began to sink and the supply of life jackets ran out, the chaplains gave up their own to those who had none, staying behind. The chaplains were last seen on the deck of the ship, arms linked together, and their heads bowed in prayer as they went to their watery graves. Each chaplain was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart.
Four Chaplains Day is a time to honor and reflect on the courage, unity and sacrifice of four military chaplains from different religious backgrounds who came together during one of the deadliest moments for a U.S. convoy during World War II.
Celebrating National Salute to Veteran Patients Week: Feb. 9–15
National Salute to Veteran Patients is observed annually during the week of Valentine’s Day.
The purpose of National Salute to Veteran Patients Week is an opportunity to pay tribute and express appreciation to a special group of men and women – the more than nine million veterans of the U.S. armed services who are cared for in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers, outpatient clinics, domiciliaries, state veterans homes and other nursing homes. It not only provides an opportunity to visit hospitalized veterans, but it also serves to encourage youth groups, community organizations, members of the public and veteran service organizations to become more involved as volunteers.
To celebrate National Salute to Veteran Patients Week, volunteers from Rivers Casino and the American Red Cross joined the residents at Southwestern Veterans’ Center for an Ice Cream Social on Feb. 13.
BVH Residents Enjoy Super Bowl Parties
The residents and staff at Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home enjoyed Super Bowl parties with appetizers, beverages, and viewing of the classic football movie “The Replacements” to get excited for the big game!
Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center enjoyed boneless wings, calzones and pizza while watching the game during their Super Bowl party.
Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home Philly fan residents were all geared up, dressed in green having their pictures taken in front of a football stadium backdrop, and ready to cheer on the Philadelphia Eagles in the game of the year!
Director of Joint Staff
All About the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program
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 the member’s 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 (1 & 2) 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 the transition home. It helps both 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.
PA National Guard Army
Another Successful Year Participating in PA Trees 4 Troops
Recently, during the annual winter meeting of the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association (PCTGA), Maj. Gen. Laura McHugh, deputy adjutant general - Army, thanked the members for their participation in the PA Trees 4 PA Troops program. This program is a collaboration between the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) and the PCTGA to provide donated Christmas trees to veterans and service members in need. This past holiday season, 75 trees were generously donated by Christmas tree farms across the commonwealth. Pictured with McHugh is Paige and Chris Arader of Arader Farm in Collegeville. The Arader Farm has been a tremendous supporter of the PA Trees 4 PA Troops program since its inception.
Operation Spartan Shield Send-off Ceremony
Service members, families and friends of the 3622nd Support Maintenance Company were honored at a send-off ceremony as they depart for their upcoming deployment in support of Operation Spartan Shield. The 3622nd will be supporting U.S. Central Command and partner forces with security objectives in the region. Additionally, during the ceremony, First Sergeant Jesse Rexroth received the Ordnance Order of Samuel Sharp Award for his excellence in leadership within the maintenance community! Our soldiers and their families sacrifice much during deployments and we look forward to their safe return.
PA National Guard Air Force
Continuing the Legacy of Service – 171st Air Refueling Wing
A story of family legacy and community service, Brady Ellis is following in the footsteps of his father, a renowned fire chief, by enlisting in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. With a childhood spent surrounded by the camaraderie of the firehouse, Ellis' decision to join the Guard is driven by a desire to serve and make a difference.
https://www.dvidshub.net/news/489831/continuing-legacy-service
New Chief – 193rd Special Operations Wing
Join us in congratulating CMSgt. Amy Snyder on her recent promotion! The rank of “chief” bears the honor and responsibility of being the ninth, and highest, enlisted rank in the U.S. Air Force.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/12Fpi2BB4gZ/
Strengthening Our Partnership – 193rd Special Operations Wing
Our Pennsylvania Air National Guardsmen are continually collaborating on our enduring partnership with Lithuania. The Pennsylvania National Guard and Lithuania have partnered through the National Guard’s State Partnership Program since 1993 and since then have forged stronger bonds and advanced our readiness for the challenges of tomorrow.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15nP9t6U64/
Awareness and Prevention – 111th Attack Wing
Every guardsman is responsible for holding themselves and their wingmen to the highest standards, and that means understanding the danger and consequences involved in driving while impaired. The 111th Attack Wing is reminding members to stay vigilant, no matter the circumstances, to ensure the care, safety, and wellbeing of those around them and the greater community.
https://www.dvidshub.net/video/950678/bringing-awareness-driving-while-impaired-prevention
Keystone State Challenge Academy
KSCA Welcomes Class 25-1
On Jan. 12, 2025, the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA) welcomed the newest class of cadets, Class 25-1. The academy brought in 58 young adults to start this challenging yet rewarding program. The candidates started strong and motivated and progressed quickly toward the crossover ceremony to officially become cadets. During this class, the cadets will practice life skills and focus on specified training that they require to function independently and effectively within society.
Such classes and exercises include balancing a checkbook; doing individual taxes; establishing a savings or 401K; securing a loan; better business practices and applying for grants or student loans. We will also establish an ASVAB improvement course for those who are looking into following an enlistment path. This new schedule will not hinder their credit recovery or GED prep but improve their overall performance in this course and prepare them for their future.
Follow the KSCA Facebook to provide support as each day KSCA staff print and display those posts for the candidates.
https://www.facebook.com/KeystoneChalleNGe
Policy and Legislation
The Pennsylvania Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee: Championing Support for Veterans and Emergency Responders
The Pennsylvania Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness (VAEP) Committee plays a vital role in addressing the needs of veterans and emergency responders throughout the commonwealth. Active in both the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate, the committee focuses on critical issues such as benefits for commonwealth veterans, veterans homes, Pennsylvania National Guard, and ensuring robust support for first responders.
This year, the committee benefits from strong bipartisan leadership. In the House of Representatives, the majority chair is democrat Rep. Jared G. Solomon, and the republican chair is Rep. Mark M. Gillen. Over in the Senate, the committee is led by republican Sen. Doug Mastriano as Majority Chair, with democrat Sen. Katie Muth serving as the minority chair. Together, these leaders bring a wealth of experience and commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by Pennsylvania’s veteran and emergency services communities.
Additionally, the VAEP committee includes several veterans and Pennsylvania National Guard members, ensuring that firsthand experience guides its policymaking and priorities. The inclusion of lawmakers with military and emergency response backgrounds reflects a deep understanding of the needs of those who serve.
Through bipartisan collaboration, the VAEP committee works to advance initiatives that support Pennsylvania’s veterans, strengthen emergency preparedness, and ensure the wellbeing of those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
For more information on committee members, contact information, legislation being voted on, session schedules, and more, please visit: https://www.legis.state.pa.us/.
Important Updates on Veterans and Military Benefits: 2025 Compensation Rates and the Rudisill Decision
Veterans and their families have two major updates to look forward to in 2025. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to enhance benefits and support those who have served.
Compensation Rate Increase for 2025
Starting Jan. 1, 2025, VA disability compensation rates will increase by 2.5%, matching adjustments to Social Security benefits. This increase applies to disability benefits, clothing allowances, dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC), and other VA assistance programs, ensuring greater financial support for veterans and their families.
Military Pay Raises for 2025
Military service members will see pay increases starting in 2025, with junior enlisted troops receiving the largest percentage boost in decades. President Joe Biden signed the 2025 pay raises into law on December 23, 2024. Check the 2025 Military Pay Charts
E-1 through E-4: Junior enlisted service members will receive a 14.5% raise, which includes an additional 10% on top of the standard raise for all military personnel. The increase, effective April 1, 2025, will result in yearly salaries ranging from $27,828 for E-1s to $44,107 for E-4s with at least six years of service, depending on rank.
Most other ranks: All other service members will receive a 4.5% pay raise starting Jan. 1, 2025. Senior officers in grades O-8 through O-10, whose pay is capped by law, will see slightly smaller increases.
These pay adjustments reflect a compromise that prioritizes financial support for younger troops, addressing long-standing challenges for junior enlisted personnel who have struggled with basic expenses.
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) will increase by 5.4% for 2025, marking the second consecutive year of significant growth. Rates are calculated based on geographic duty location, paygrade, dependency status, and local housing costs.
Service members can review the updated BAH tables, including special allowances such as BAH Transit and BAH Type II, on the Defense Department’s website.
Basic Allowance for Housing: Check your 2025 BAH Rates
Rudisill Decision: Expanded Education Benefits
In a landmark April 2024 ruling, the Supreme Court expanded education benefits for veterans with multiple periods of qualifying service. Veterans who served under both the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and Post-9/11 GI Bill (PGIB) no longer need to waive MGIB benefits to access PGIB. Additionally, PGIB entitlement is no longer limited by remaining MGIB benefits, though the 48-month combined benefit cap still applies.
Veterans who last received an education claim decision after Aug. 15, 2018, will have their eligibility automatically reviewed. Those with decisions before that date must apply for additional benefits by completing VA Form 22-1995, and selecting “Rudisill review” on the application. To ensure benefits do not expire, veterans should apply only when ready to use them. The deadline for recalculating delimiting dates is Oct. 1, 2030.
For more information on eligibility, applications, or these updates, visit https://www.va.gov/. These changes highlight the VA’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of veterans and their families.