U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs CWV – News Update

Do you feel discomfort, pain or stiffness from sitting or being in one position for too long? We spend a lot of time using computers or handheld devices, driving or cooking with our hands and arms in front of us, and our heads bent forward in a slouched position. Being aware of our posture – and stretching to ease tight muscles – with yoga stretch can help restore balance. [From VAntage Point]

The Women’s Health Services Office at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), is hosting a Women’s Health Transition Training #WHTT. The training will provide servicewomen with a deeper understanding of the women’s health services available to them within the VA health care system.

The Beyond MST app was created for survivors of military sexual trauma (MST). MST is VA’s term for sexual assault or sexual harassment that occurred during military service. Veterans of all genders and backgrounds have experienced MST. The app offers information and resources to help survivors cope with challenges related to MST and improve their health, relationships and quality of life. [From National Center for PTSD]

If you’re looking for easy, convenient ways to help boost your health, you might want to check out the many free mobile apps available to Veterans. The apps are either from VA directly or from third-party developers whose Veteran-facing apps go through VA quality checks for efficacy, security and safety. Check out all the apps available to you. They’re free, optional and secure. [From VAntage Point]

Ever tasted a dish and thought to yourself how flavorful it was? Herbs are often used to enhance a dish and raise the flavor profile to a new level. Herbs are sometimes an afterthought when it comes to meal planning and preparation. [From VAntage Point]

During Hispanic Heritage Month, today’s #VeteranOfTheDay is Army Veteran Rocio Garcia, who served as a human resources specialist in Iraq. Born in Mexico, Rocio Garcia moved to San Francisco, California, at the age of 14. Graduating high school in 2002, Garcia joined the California National Guard. In November 2002, she completed basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. [From VAntage Point]

We honor your service, Rocio!

This week’s America250 salute is Navy Veteran Joy Bright Hancock, who served in both World Wars and was director of the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES). In 1918, Joy Bright Hancock decided to enlist in the Navy. As a yeoman first class, she was among the first group of women to serve in the Navy. [From VAntage Point]

U.S. Marine Corps #WWII Vet, Helen Bonomini, turns 100. Happy Birthday Helen. [From Ocala StarBanner]

U.S. Navy CDR Christine Reilly, 1943-2021, Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Otis Corum, 1957-2019, U.S. Army Pfc. George Komarowski, 1952-2020, and Sgt. Jackie Bryant, 1953-2020 momentarily forgotten, were given a proper interment at Quantico National Cemetery, thanks to the efforts of the Missing In America Project. [From Inside NOVA]

Sometimes we need some extra support while working toward health goals. VA created the Annie App for Veterans for that purpose. Annie sends automated text messages to Veterans to help them focus on self-care. The texts may include health-related notifications, reminders or motivational messages based on your goals or health conditions. [From VAntage Point]

VBA partnered with Stars and Stripes to create a special edition insert for the publication called “The Veterans Benefits Guide.” The print and digital publication, which highlights VA benefits and services available for transitioning service members and their families, is available now. [From VAntage Point]

With wildfires in the west, storms like Hurricane Ida in the Gulf coast and northeast, and humanitarian crises like the Afghan refugee situation, there are plenty of worthwhile causes to donate to – and no one knows how to give back quite like Veterans. Unfortunately, scammers often target the generosity of donors by trying to trick them into donation scams and fake causes. [From VAntage Point]