November is one of the most rewarding months of the year for me. We all honor November 11th as Veterans Day, but with so many veteran events I would like to see all of November proclaimed as “Veteran’s Month” to adequately honor our veterans who gave their youth and lives in support of our great country! Please give an extra dose of gratitude this month to our veterans, especially when you come across veterans who proudly display their military caps and attire. I’m reminded that as we head into the holiday season, there are some who are vulnerable trying to cope with memories of those who are no longer here. Please reach out and give an extra “Buddy Check.” November is also National Family Caregivers Month. I would like to recognize our military caregivers who not only cared for their loved one while in military service, but who work tirelessly as we all advance in age to give an extra dose of TLC. Caregivers often do not recognize the signs that they too need extra support to cope with the daunting task that comes with caregiving. We have included an article for support and education so that you don’t burn yourself out. Caregivers are sometimes the last to seek help, but the first to need a helping hand.
I’d like to deviate from having a guest speaker at our Veterans Day luncheon on November 11th. It occurred to me that if you totaled up all the years of service our military members have, and the years our spouses have been right there with us, we will discover a camaraderie of mutual support that has kept our MOAA family going strong since 1959! I would like to give those that choose to speak the opportunity to take a few minutes and enlighten our lunch crowd about some of their significant experiences in the military or supporting our service member. With the uncertainty of our food challenged veterans that rely on SNAP, please consider bringing canned goods to our luncheon-I will make sure they get to our Orlando Soldiers Angels that feeds 200+ veterans and military on the 3rd Friday of the month at Lake Baldwin. I’m looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible on Nov 11th, and for those of you that can’t, I thank you all for getting out of your comfort zone to serve our Nation and proudly share the title of “Veteran.”
It’s that time of year again when we need to review our Board of Directors and Chapter Leadership. Like any successful organization, we need new eyes and ears to help steer us into the future to keep our Chapter alive and vibrant. Please make yourself known at the November and December Chapter events so we can put your name forward to fill Chapter positions of leadership.
Cheers, Lorraine
