Military In Our Community Brigadier General Deborah Carter New Hampshire National Guard Air Chief of Staff 23 Sep 10

Overview BackgroundCulture Returning from War Tips

Use of Guard & Reserve 3,000Vietnam 267,300Desert Shield/Desert Storm 581,324Iraq & Afghanistan

Since 911 More than 2,000,000 US Military (all ) served in Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) 581,324 (29%) are Guard and Reserve Over 75% of the NH National Guard has deployed As of September 21, 2010

Since 911 Killed in Action –Forty four total US Military from NH Killed in Action (KIA) –Four NHNG KIA Medals –1 Silver Star –1 Bronze Star with V Device –More than 50 Purple Hearts have been awarded to members of the NHNG As of September 21, 2010

Since 911 Estimated key family members affected by Guard and Reserve deployments over 4 million. Those in combat – “highest risk” population since Vietnam

Guard & Reserves in NH Over 5,000 Includes –Army Guard –Army Reserves –Naval Reserves –Marine Corps Reserves –Air Guard

Military Culture

Common Military Values Selfless Service IntegrityExcellence Personal Courage Leadership

Generally Speaking….. Self-reliant community TeamworkLeading Self Sacrifice Commaradier Distrusting of Civilians Reliable

Returning From War

CITIZENCITIZEN WARRIORWARRIOR

Multiple Points Of Reentry Spouse/Significant Other ChildrenFriendsWorkRelativesCommunity Military Units Others

A Core Strength of the military Self Reliance

When the Self-Reliant Culture becomes a weakness Out Of Control Crisis Near Crisis At Risk Self Reliance

Weeks to Months Months to Years Years to Decades 100% 50% 0% Typical Course of Post-Trauma Responses PTSDUnremitting PTSDTransition Manchester VA Medical Center Mental Health Service Dr. Mark Gilbertson Ext 6453

Tips Tips Thanks -- are always appreciated Even if you don’t support a war, support the warrior We view our role as keeping America “free” and do not need to be saved/”brought home” We are a “proud” group Be patient when scheduling Vet to Vet bond is always therapeutic Military/Mission Understanding goes a long way Avoid relating “non”-combat experience to a “combat” experience

Tips Tips Careful not to group all deployments together as the same - simple recognition there is a difference Ask about a buddy/our fellow soldiers and it is easier to talk about our experience Giving thanks and appreciation VS sympathy More than a JOB!!! We thank and appreciate you for caring

Questions ?