East Cobb Veterans & Military

Former East Cobb resident embarks upon Mt. Everest trek

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Last week we heard from Brian O’Malley, a former East Cobb resident we talked to recently about his upcoming attempt to scale Mount Everest.

On Tuesday he began that journey to Nepal, and taped this message on his Facebook page before heading off.

He and his wife Shelley, who raised their three children here—all Lassiter High School graduates—recently relocated to the Northern Virginia area to be closer to them for the next couple of years.

O’Malley is using the trip with his brother-in-law to raise funds for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which provides mortgage-free homes for the families of fallen first responders, Gold Star families, and catastrophically injured veterans and first responders.

They’re calling it the “Boomer Veterans  and First Responders Mt Everest Summit Expedition 2025” and they’ve raised more than $16,000 thus far, about two-thirds of their goal (you can donate here).

Here’s more about his “why” that he furnished to us, with details on his family’s long history of military service, including two of his three children. Luke O’Malley is currently attending the U.S. Naval Academy, like his parents and one of his sisters:

Why am I attempting to summit Mt Everest? 

“Because it’s there.” Famous quote by early English Everest mountaineer George Mallory. 

Since my latest successful back surgery about a year ago which has resulted in me feeling better than I have in 40+ years, I made a decision to attempt one of the ultimate physical and mental endeavors on this earth. I’ve always been enthralled by Mt Everest. The “records” of oldest Navy Veteran, top 10 oldest ever, etc, are also contributing factors that helped push me during training and helped me get both my physical body and my mind in a positive attitude and direction while attempting one of the most challenging endeavors out there, summiting Mt Everest. 

Why do I want to support Tunnel to Towers Foundation, “T2T”?

Simple…T2T’s mission to assist first responders and our military when they are most in need for our support. Few really know exactly what our first responders and military personnel experience on a continuous basis, especially when extreme tragedy strikes them and their families. Frank Siller and T2T is the absolute best resource for these people in their deepest moments of need. There are so many examples of what T2T actually does for our National Heroes who protect us domestically and internationally that I hope to bring awareness to throughout my expedition to summit My Everest. I wholeheartedly want to bring continued awareness and financial support to this incredible helpful organization, T2T.

With the utmost humility and sincerity, God has blessed me and my life with so much; the most loving wife in the world, amazing kids and family, special loved ones, incredible friends, great leaders and some personal somewhat decent physical abilities. I feel that it is my obligation, while I still can, to do His will and to help those who need it most.

I’ve also been extremely blessed to have incredible parents, family, friends (especially my Aurora, IL buddies from elementary school, the “Click”, my teachers, squadron mates (especially my F-14 Tomcat Black Knight squadron mates), teammates, military and civilian leaders and peers whom have supported me and have offered continued encouragement during my life of service and always doing my very best with my God given talents. We have all experienced and know that life on this earth can be very fragile and God often calls his Angels (our loved ones and friends) at anytime…many times when we least expect it. I am so blessed and I truly believe that life on this earth is but a nanosecond in time and that we will all be together again in His Majesty’s Grace for Eternity. While I can, I want to continue to challenge the talents blessed upon me by God and do what I can to help those true heroes in our Nation whom protect all of us at home (first responders) and abroad (military service personnel). 

What connection do I have to T2T? 

T2T has been one of our family’s favorite charities mainly due to our immediate connection to the very people T2T supports. Namely:<

Myself: 1986 U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Naval Flight officer for approximately 10 years. 

My wife of 35+ years, Shelley O’Malley: 1987 U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Naval Aviator for about 10 years. I owe everything to my wife, Shelley. She has always supported me and has been the “rock” of our family. Shelley, among other incredibly great life accomplishments, was the first female Aircraft Carrier Landing Signals Officer “LSO”. I could not do what I’m embarking on without the support of my beautiful, loving, caring, tough, dedicated (not enough positive acronyms to describe) love of my life! Shelley is the main reason that I can focus and do what I can to both challenge myself and to help others through organizations such as the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. 

My children:

Shannon McKinney: U.S. Naval Academy “2015” Naval Academy recruit and “Academy Summer Seminar Attendee and candidate”; University of Georgia College All-American and 2 x National Champion; 2 x Olympic Trials Qualifier and World Ironman Triathlon Championship qualifier conducted in Helsinki, Finland. 

Lauren O’Malley Stephenson: U.S. Naval Academy 2019 graduate and Brigade Commander (highest student leadership position at the Naval Academy); Naval Surface Warfare Officer; Served high-level Naval leadership in daily analysis of combat operations and readiness. 

Luke O’Malley: U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman (Class of 2027) and future U.S. Naval Officer and Leader. of 2027)

Son-in-Law: Jared Stephenson, U.S. Naval Academy 2018 graduate and active Marine Corps Infantry Officer. 

Father: James O’Malley, Retired Aurora / Chicago area Firefighter 

Mother: Edna Mae O’Malley: Retired Nurse

Father-in-Law: James Laurilla, U.S. Airforce Veteran 

Brother-in-Law: Steve McDaniel, U.S. Airforce Veteran, State of Georgia police officer and accompanied me on the approximate 100 mile trek through the Himalayas to Everest Base Camp. Steve is an incredible inspiration and high-achiever and loving husband to my sister, Kari McDaniel (a Naval and Airforce Officer spouse and nurse). 

Best Man and Life Brother: Steve Wisotzki, 1986 U.S. Naval Academy graduate; U.S. Navy Special Operations (Seal)

Brother-In-Law: JP Aragon, U.S. Naval Aviator 

Niece: Natalie Aragon, U.S. Naval Medical Nursing Corps Officer

Nephew: Camden Aragon, U.S. Naval Aviator

Special consideration and appreciation to our incredible lifelong community of friends in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, in the Chicago / Aurora area and the Norfolk / Virginia Beach, Virginia area, my loving family, teammates, squadron mates, professors, and much loved peers whom have always supported me and our family throughout our life’s journey. 

 

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Cobb Veterans Memorial group to hold fundraising gala

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Submitted information:Cobb Veterans Memorial groundbreaking

Celebrate veterans with a VIP reception, dinner, dancing, and silent auction, 6 p.m., Saturday, May 17, at the Marriott Atlanta Northwest at Galleria, 200 Interstate North Parkway SE, Atlanta. Tickets are now available on the website. Proceeds will help build the Cobb Veterans Memorial. Email cvmfmilitaryballgala@gmail.com for more information.

The Cobb Veterans Memorial is a project planned as a park to honor veterans, teach history, and inspire future generations to live meaningful and purposeful lives of service. 

Steps you can take right now to support the project are:

  • Click Facebook.com/CobbVetMemorial to “Like” the project on Facebook

  • Make a donation HERE to help raise the funds to start construction of the Memorial. Every dollar helps!

  • Want to do even more? If you would like to host a fundraising event, make a corporate/foundation donation, or help some other way, please email contact@cobbvmf.com.

 

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Connecting Cobb Veterans renamed Connecting Georgia Veterans

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Submitted information:

The organization formerly known as Connecting Cobb Veterans is proud to announce its official rebranding to Connecting Georgia Veterans. This exciting transition reflects the organization’s commitment to broadening its impact and serving veterans throughout the entire state of Georgia.

Since its inception, Connecting Cobb Veterans has been a vital resource for veterans in Cobb County, offering a range of services, including career assistance, mental health support, and community-building initiatives. By expanding its focus and adopting the name Connecting Georgia Veterans, the organization aims to extend these services to a wider audience, ensuring that veterans from all corners of the state have access to the support they need to thrive.

Quote from Tyler Bowser, Program Director: “This rebranding marks a significant milestone for our organization. While we will always honor our roots in Cobb County, we recognize the growing demand for statewide support. Connecting Georgia Veterans represents our dedication to serving as a trusted partner and resource for all veterans across Georgia. Together, we can create stronger, more connected communities that honor and uplift those who have served our country.”

The transition includes a refreshed logo, updated branding materials, and a new website designed to provide easy access to resources, events, and support services for Georgia veterans. The organization will also be launching statewide outreach initiatives to connect with veterans and their families in underserved areas.

Connecting Georgia Veterans will continue to collaborate with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses to offer programs and services tailored to the unique needs of veterans. By fostering these partnerships, the organization ensures that every veteran has the tools and opportunities they need to lead fulfilling lives.

To learn more about Connecting Georgia Veterans and its mission, please visit www.cgvets.org or contact Tyler Bowser at 470-479-1551.

About Connecting Georgia Veterans Connecting Georgia Veterans is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families across the state of Georgia. Through a comprehensive range of programs, the organization addresses VA benefits, mental health, housing, and community engagement, ensuring that veterans receive the resources and benefits they deserve.

 

 

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Chamber to honor veterans, name East Cobb Citizen of the Year

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The final East Cobb Area Council of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce breakfast of 2024 takes place Thursday.

Chamber to honor veterans name East Cobb Citizen of the Year
Travis Ellis

The event takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Indian Hills Country Club (4001 Clubland Drive) and features a special tribute to veterans.

The 2024 East Cobb Citizen of the Year also will be named.

The deadline to register is Monday and can be done by clicking here. The cost ranges from $30 for Cobb Chamber members to $40 for non-members.

Here’s more on the veterans’ portion of the program, involving the Shepherd’s Men organization:

“Ten years ago, a movement was born in Cobb County. Travis Ellis and his friends had a dream to create something bigger than themselves in support of our nation’s veteran heroes affected by the hidden injuries of war. That dream came to life in the form of Shepherd’s Men. Their mission is simple. They would raise funds and awareness for the SHARE Military Initiative, a life-saving program for post-9/11 military veterans at Shepherd Center in Atlanta. Each year, they set out on grueling multi-state runs and rucks, symbolically sharing the burden these veterans face each day. Ten years later, Shepherd’s Men has run more than 5,000 miles and raised over $11 million for SHARE, covering the annual clinical budget of $1.2 million and growing the number of veterans served each year.
 
“Join us for this moving program featuring a fireside chat with Shepherd’s Men co-founder, Travis Ellis, and a long-time supporter and Marine Veteran, Mitch Rhoden. Travis and Mitch will reflect on ten years of life-saving impact through Shepherd’s Men, what’s on the horizon, and how you can help amplify their impact. In addition to their roles with Shepherd’s Men, Travis and Mitch are local business owners and long-time Chamber members. Travis runs Mobilized Fuels in Marietta, GA and has served as a Chairman for the Cobb Chamber’s Honorary Commanders Program. Mitch is the President and CEO of Futren Hospitality and is a Past Chairman of the Cobb Chamber Board of Directors.”

KSU ranked highly in survey for military veterans

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KSU ranked highly in survey for military veterans

Submitted information and photo:

Military Times has recognized Kennesaw State University as one of the nation’s top schools for veterans in its 2024 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings.

The annual Military Times list spotlights the top colleges and universities for military service members and veterans. The 2024 ranking reflects Kennesaw State’s commitment to providing resources and opportunities to the university’s more than 2,000 military-connected students, including nearly 600 veterans.

“Kennesaw State University is proud to support our nation’s veterans in pursuit of their academic and career goals,” KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig said. “This recognition from Military Times reflects our priority to provide a world-class education to students who have served their country, and we will continue to offer support systems that help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.”

Kennesaw State was the first University System of Georgia institution to open a Military and Veteran Services (MVS) department, in 2009, which continues to serve as a comprehensive, easily accessible resource hub for service members, veterans and dependents who want to start or continue their college education. Part of Student Affairs, Military and Veteran Services assists military-connected students with enrolling at KSU, applying for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs educational benefits, and tapping into resources such as counseling services and career planning.

Along with the resources available on campus, KSU Military and Veteran Services partners with more than 20 community organizations to support veterans. MVS also awards several scholarships, has an active Student Veterans of America chapter, and hosts programming throughout the year to engage all students and connect them with the resources they need.

“We understand the unique challenges that veterans face when transitioning to college life, and we are here to ensure they have the tools and support they need to succeed,” said Stacey Dixon, the director of KSU Military and Veteran Services and a 20-year Marine Corps veteran. “Our team is committed to empowering veterans and military-connected students by providing resources, guidance, and a strong community to help them achieve their aspirations.”

To determine its Best for Vets rankings, Military Times surveys hundreds of colleges and universities across the country about their offerings for veterans. The survey responses are factored along with a scoring rubric that evaluates data from multiple sources.

According to Military Times, student success metrics are the most important factor in determining the ranking of schools, followed closely by the range of military-specific resources and the level of financial assistance schools offer. Admissions and registration policies, human resources, and “assorted miscellaneous considerations” also factor into the scoring rubric.

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Cobb Veterans Day events include parade, East Cobb luncheon

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A veterans' appreciation at East Cobb ParkSubmitted information:

Cobb County Government offices, libraries, and PARKS facilities will be closed Monday, Nov. 11 in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. Events celebrating the day will be held throughout the county this week, including:

★ A Tribute to Veterans, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7 at West Cobb Senior Center. Free. Learn the history behind Veterans Day and honor those who served.

★ Bravo to the Brave at North Cobb Senior Center – Coffee and sweets, 1 – 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8. 770-975-7740

★ Kennesaw Veterans Day Luncheon, noon Friday, Nov. 8, at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. No registration needed.

★ Acworth Veterans Day Ceremony, 2 p.m. Nov. 11 at Patriot’s Point in Cauble Park, 4425 Beach Street, Acworth

★ Marietta Veterans Day Parade, The Horace Orr Post 29 American Legion and City of Marietta invites the public to honor the community’s veterans at the annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, Nov. 11, on the Marietta Square. The parade will start at 11 a.m., proceed down Roswell Street to the Square and at approximately 11:11 a.m., an observance will be held with a gun salute and Taps.

★ Smyrna Veterans Day ceremony, 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, at the Veterans Memorial (next to City Hall).

★ Veterans Day Lunch, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 13 at Tim Lee Senior Center. Free. Register here. 770-509-4900

 

 

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First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

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First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

Submitted information and photos:

How many times has a first responder positively impacted your life without you even realizing it? Probably more times than you can count. Recently, the Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team hosted three events in one week focused on the mental health of our local heroes to thank them for their services.

On October 9th, Janice opened her office’s front doors to all Firefighters, Police, Sheriff’s Deputy, Veterans, and local community heroes alike for the semi-annual First Responders Appreciation Lunch. These heroes were hungry for barbeque and appreciation, being the largest turnout of the semi-annual lunch in five years. Sitting down with officers who put their lives on the line every day, Janice heard their stories, laughed with them, and offered the well-deserved rest from protecting our community.

Leftover sweets from the event were not wasted, instead delivered to the Cherokee County 911 center, one of the first 911 Centers in the nation to create a foundation specifically for the mental health and overall nutritionment of the dispatchers.

The Cherokee County 911 Center has even adopted an office dog, named Ruby, to help lighten the emotional weight of the difficult conversations they face daily. Emergency operators are an often neglected aspect of crisis responding, but with this 501(c)(3) foundation, the community can give back to those on call for us 24/7. GA Senator John Albers explains that other public safety offices have established foundations for officers in times of need, which is revolutionary for the holistic health of first responders.

“Let’s say a dispatcher gets cancer, this is where we can help them out personally and internally.” The foundation acknowledges a budget gap hindering the ability to rightly serve our first responders in their times of need without additional tax burdens.

Janice also interviewed U.S. Congressman Rich McCormick about the lack of first responder mental health awareness that exists at the “Fireside Chat” on October 15th.

As an ER Doctor and a U.S. Marine, Congressman McCormick has a vital perspective on the physical and mental challenges first responders face on a daily basis. Working with community members, business owners like Janice Overbeck, and a U.S. Congressman was a great start to serve our local heroes and make lasting change in Metro Atlanta. This change can take form through policy initiative, supporting foundations, or simply saying thank you to a local hero.

For more information on community events at the Janice Overbeck Team office, visit The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/JaniceOverbeckRealEstateTeam/

First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

First responders, veterans treated to appreciation lunch

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East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

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East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

Submitted information and photos:

To his patients in and around East Cobb, he’s Dr. Brian Nadolne. But in Kosovo this spring and summer, Lt. Col. Brian Nadolne served with the 48th Brigade of the Georgia National Guard.

Dr. Nadolne was part of a U.S.-led NATO group at Camp Bondsteel, teaching fellow medical professionals.

“It was overall a good experience, and I think I represented Northside really well,” he said. “I think the mission, which is basically to maintain peace there, was a huge success.”

Dr. Nadolne joined Northside in 2016 when East Cobb Family Medicine became part of the Northside network. After serving as president of the Georgia Academy of Family Physicians, he looked for a new challenge and opportunity to serve.

“I said, ‘What else is there? What else can I do?’” He got his answer with the Georgia National Guard, where he found a leadership position that gave him the chance to represent fellow physicians.

“They needed family docs especially,” he said. “I joined and then in ’19 I was deployed to Iraq. I was in Camp Al Asad for three months and then a couple of years later, they needed me to go to Kosovo.”

While Dr. Nadolne was at Al Asad, the airbase sustained a ballistic missile strike in retaliation for the U.S. drone strike five days earlier that killed Iraq Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Quds force.

More than 100 troops were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries as a result.

“That was scary,” Dr. Nadolne said. “We always had our weapons with us. That was a much different deployment. We were always under threat of trauma.

“Even though it was a combat mission (to Kosovo), there was never really threat of combat.”

At Bondsteel, Dr. Nadolne taught search-and-rescue operations and the importance of speaking to patients.

“Don’t just jump to technology,” he said. “Technology’s important but I think there’s an overreliance on it.”

And he said there are lessons in return for the American medical professionals who go overseas with the military, like him.

“I think Army medical in general teaches you to think outside the box,” Dr. Nadolne said. “God forbid we have a major problem here, like a terrorist attack, you already have doctors in the Georgia National Guard that are already doing a lot of field medicine, how to deal with triaging.

“It kind of keeps you on your toes, with the importance of the true practice of medicine.”

Dr. Nadolne also served as the de facto brigade surgeon for troops in the Balkans.

“That was really nice,” he said. “Here, back at the 48th, I had been a battalion surgeon back in Cumming. Now I’m going to be the brigade surgeon out of Macon. My role’s going to change to be a little more operational.”

Outside his Guard service, Dr. Nadolne sees patients at the practice at 1121 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 100, in Marietta. He’s accepting new patients.

He thanked Dr. Amy Fallen and Rebecca Davis, CNP, for helping carry the load at home in his absence, as well as office manager Shalonda Burks and the East Cobb Family Medicine staff.

And Dr. Nadolne said Northside was supportive of his service.

“While I was gone, I nominated Steve Hudson (Northside’s director of physician and strategic development) for a Patriot Award,” Dr. Nadolne said. “I nominated him because I could not have done this without Steve Hudson. He supported me. He’s a former Marine. He supported me 100 percent, which means Northside supports me 100 percent.”

Dr. Nadolne said his work with the Guard is about more than seeing patients, but about serving Georgia.

“I feel like I represent Northside when I’m out there,” he said, “and I mean it.

“Because I treat patients like that, we’ve had a large influx of patients who’ve come because they’ve gotten to know me at the battalion level. I could not have done it without Northside and Steve Hudson.”

East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

East Cobb physician completes National Guard duty in Kosovo

 

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First responders, military, veterans invited to luncheon

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East Cobb public safety appreciation luncheon

Submitted information:

The Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team is proud to host its 11th semi-annual First Responders & Military Appreciation Lunch on Wednesday, October 9th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This event, held twice a year, is dedicated to honoring our local heroes in Cobb County, including police officers, firefighters, EMTs, military personnel, and veterans.

Join us for a full-spread BBQ lunch featuring delicious pulled pork and pulled chicken, provided by PRIME Lending. Attendees can enjoy their meal on our spacious patio, network with fellow first responders, or take their food to go.

As well as many of our other wonderful sponsors will be supporting our heroes. Arrows Exterminators will provide beverages, First American Home Warranty will provide sweet treats, All Atlanta Ameri Spec and Perrie & Associates will be giving away fun swag items as a gift to those who tirelessly serve the Marietta community.

This heartfelt event is free for all first responders from Cobb County and the surrounding areas, including police, fire, detective units, and active/retired military personnel. We look forward to celebrating and expressing our gratitude to those who serve our community with dedication and bravery.

For more information on community events at the Janice Overbeck Team office, visit www.JaniceOverbeck.com/events and RSVP on our Janice Overbeck Real Estate Team facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/JaniceOverbeckRealEstateTeam/.

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Cobb Chamber’s Honorary Commanders seeking 2025 nominees

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Submitted information:Cobb Chamber annual golf tournament

The Honorary Commanders Association, a cooperative effort involving the Cobb Chamber, Dobbins Air Reserve Base (ARB), General Lucius D. Clay National Guard Center, Georgia National Guard, Coast Guard, National Defense Force, and the Navy and Marine Corps, is seeking nominations for members of its 2025 class.

The Honorary Commanders Association annually selects community and business leaders and pairs them with military personnel in a yearlong program designed to give leaders an opportunity to learn about military activities, their impact on the economy and the various aspects of the national defense system.

Created by the Cobb Chamber in 1983, the association has grown over the years to include units of our nation’s Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Georgia National Guard, Coast Guard and National Defense Force. Each program covers a branch of service and includes a behind-the-scenes tour of local and regional military assets.

The deadline for nominations is July 8. Fill out the nomination form at www.cobbchamber.org/hca. The Honorary Commanders Association is sponsored by Atlanta Marriott NW at Galleria, Capital City Bank, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and The Veterinary Clinic.

For more information about Honorary Commanders Association, contact Joel Blockton at 770-859-2348 or jblockton@cobbchamber.org.

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Cobb veterans group to hold meeting at East Cobb VFW post

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Submitted information:

Connecting Cobb Veterans will be holding its Q2 Meeting at VFW Post 2681 at 140 Powers Ferry Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067.Cobb veterans group East Cobb VFW post

Doors open at 8:30 AM on June 12th for sign-in, breakfast pastries and coffee as well as an opportunity to network with other advocates/supporters of the Veteran community. Our meeting starts at 9 AM  and ends promptly at 11.

This quarter’s topic is the services that the Georgia Department of Veterans Services (GDVS) provides to Veterans. Our guest speaker will be Kareem Reddick, a GDVS certified Veteran Service Officer (VSO) who will share what GDVS can do for Georgia Veterans. He is also quite knowledgeable about VA benefits. I can promise that you will come away from this meeting with information you did not have before the meeting.

There will also be an opportunity for all attendees to give a 30-45 second introduction of themselves, want they do and if you have an upcoming event you would like to share. Also, feel free to bring a one-page literature sheet

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Groundbreaking held for Cobb ‘Veterans Village’

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Groundbreaking held for Cobb 'Veterans Village'

Submitted information and photo:

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting America’s first responders, Gold Star families and military veterans, is bringing its commitment to eradicating veteran homelessness to the Atlanta area. The organization held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new “Atlanta Veterans Village” on May 17, 2024 in Mableton. When completed in 2025, the location at 65 S. Service Road will provide permanent and transitional housing to nearly 100 veterans in Atlanta and surrounding areas. 

At the groundbreaking, Tunnel to Towers (T2T) announced details of its plans to turn the former Wingate by Wyndam hotel into a Veterans Village. 

  • Long-term living spaces will include apartments with a bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom
  • The renovated facility will also have a gym, business center, great room, cafeteria and commercial kitchen
  • Male and female veterans will be able to live in the facility

The facility in Mableton is part of a nationwide Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s Homeless Veteran Program. In 2023, the Foundation provided housing assistance and services to more than 3,000 veterans. It also provides mortgage assistance to catastrophically injured Veterans, Gold Star families and Fallen First Responder Families with prior military experience. 

“This new Homeless Veterans Village in greater Atlanta is a part of Tunnel to Towers’ commitment to eradicating veteran homelessness nationwide. In a few short months, this facility which was once a blight on this community, will soon serve as a beacon of hope, says Gavin Naples, Vice President of the T2T Homeless Veteran Program. “We want to ensure that the men and women who served our country have a dignified home they can call their own and facilities like this one are the least we can do for those who sacrificed so much. We will not let our heroes down.”

Ted Decker, President and CEO of The Home Depot, also attended the groundbreaking. The Home Depot Foundation is one of the nonprofit’s earliest partners, supporting the T2T mission from the start. The Home Depot Foundation pledged to donate $500,000 to the new facility in Austell as renovations get underway.Tunnel to Towers is in the process of several transformative projects aimed at making a tangible difference in the lives of those it serves. A similar project was completed by T2T last November in Houston, TX where the Foundation converted a former hotel into a high-end, affordable apartment complex. It now provides permanent and transitional housing to more than 100 veterans in the greater Houston area. 

The Foundation’s Homeless Veteran Program currently provides housing to Veterans in Riverside, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Austin, TX, and Phoenix, AZ. Additionally, it is in the process of creating homes for Veterans in twenty other cities including Las Vegas, NV, Denver, CO, and Orlando, FL. 

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Cobb New Horizons Band to perform Memorial Day concert

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Submitted information and graphic:Cobb New Horizons Band Memorial Day concert

In the spirit of honoring our fallen heroes, the Cobb New Horizons Symphonic Band is proud to present a special musical performance on the 27th of May, 2024. The band, under the direction of Dr. Charles R. Jackson, will be performing at The Park at City Center, located at 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, GA 30188.

The event will commence at 9:30 am with the special musical performance, followed by the main ceremony at 10:00 am.

The Cobb New Horizons Symphonic Band is renowned for its exceptional musical prowess, and this Memorial Day, they will be showcasing their talent with a special performance. The band will be playing a selection of patriotic and classical music to honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed for their country.

We invite you to join us for this heartfelt and meaningful ceremony. Let us come together to honor and remember those who have given their lives for our country.

 

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Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation to hold military ball/gala

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Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation to hold military ball

Submitted information:

In support of and inspired by our Veterans, Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation, Inc. is hosting its inaugural “Building To Honor” Military Ball & Gala—an uplifting event that creates greater awareness of the Veterans Memorial, and celebrates the remarkable service and sacrifices of our Military and Veterans in Cobb County. The Military Ball & Gala will be attended by dignitaries, community leaders, friends, supporters, and Veterans from all wars – including six (6) Veterans who served in World War II.

Mark Your Calendar:

  • April 20, 2024 at 5:00 PM
  • Atlanta Marriott Northwest at Galleria (200 Interstate N Pkwy SE, Atlanta, GA30339)

Keynote Speaker:

The well-known and highly respected Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient and Four-Star General Jack Keane (Ret.) has an outstanding military career of 37 years. He is a frequent National News Media Contributor and currently serves as the Chairman of the Institute for the Study of War. He serves as an advisor to presidents, cabinet officials, members of congress, international leaders, CEOs, and business leaders.

Intel:

5:00 – 6:00 PM Pre-Dinner Reception (Cash Bars) – Auction and Fun with Bagpiper Scott McAliley

5:15 – 6:15 PM VIP Reception with General Jack Keane and Special Guests

(ticketed event)

6:15 – 10:00 PM Toasts, Dinner, Keynote Speech, Dance to the Live Music of Atlanta Seventeen, Live Auction, and More!

(ticketed event)

Dress: Military Uniform, Business, Semi-Formal

For media inquiries or additional information about the “Building To Honor” Military Ball & Gala, please contact Donna Kosicki, Chair of the event, at (678) 472-1802 or via email at Cvmfmilitarygala2024@gmail.com.

Follow our Journey on Social Media:

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/CobbVetMemorial

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobb-veterans-memorial-foundation/

About the Foundation:

The Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our Military and Veterans. Through various initiatives, including the construction of a Memorial, the Foundation aims to create a lasting legacy that celebrates the bravery and dedication of our nation’s heroes, starting right here in Cobb County, Georgia.

 

 

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East Cobb Quilters’ Guild provides holiday gifts for veterans

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East Cobb Quilters’ Guild provides holiday gifts for veterans

Submitted information and photos:

East Cobb Quilters’ Guild is proud of its long history of community service. Its members freely give their time and energy to create quilts, placemats,

Beads of Courage bags, and pillowcases for donation to area charities. This year it was decided that some of the placemats with a patriotic theme would be used by Cobb County Senior Services as gifts at their annual Veteran’s Christmas Luncheon.

“Our Veterans were so touched with having placemats that were especially made for them and loved being able to take them home as a keepsake. A heartfelt thanks from our Veterans and everyone at Cobb County Senior Services to the East Cobb Quilters’ Guild for their generous gift,” commented Andrea Rapowitz, Cobb County Senior Services Volunteer Services Manager.

In 2023, the Guild donated a total of 2,430 items to local organizations, an almost 100% increase compared to 2022. Donated items included: 344 quilts for Cobb County DFCS, for children who have been taken into foster care; 737 pillowcases for Ryan’s Case for Smiles, for children in hospitals in the Atlanta area and around the state of Georgia; and 524 placemats for Cobb County Meals on Wheels program, for older adults and disabled individuals who receive home meal delivery. A new recipient this year was Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The Guild donated 825 Beads of Courage bags to give to their patients who are coping with serious illnesses.

East Cobb Quilters’ Guild provides holiday gifts for veterans

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Cobb government offices closed Friday for Veterans Day

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Cobb tag offices reopening

Submitted information:

In honor of Veterans Day, Cobb County Government offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 10. This will give our employees, veterans and non-veterans alike, a chance to spend time with their families for the extended holiday weekend. Veterans Day, Nov. 11, celebrates all those who have served in the United States armed forces.

Starting today, Nov. 6, Cobb County is illuminating its buildings green as part of Operation Green Light. We encourage individuals and businesses to join us by changing one light bulb in the entryway of your house or business to a green bulb. By shining a green light, we intend to let veterans know that they are seen and supported.

Click here to see Veterans Day events happening this week.

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PHOTOS, VIDEOS: A veterans’ appreciation at East Cobb Park

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A veterans' appreciation at East Cobb Park

Warm sunshine bathed down on several dozen veterans, their families and supporters at East Cobb Park Saturday afternoon for an appreciation picnic.

Hot dogs, chips and cookies were available for all comers, and when a local band, the Tunnel Rats, wasn’t playing, patriotic and wartime music played on the sound system at the concert pavilion.

The tunes included Vera Lynn’s World War II classic, “The White Cliffs of Dover,” and when the “Star Spangled Banner” was played, many of the veterans in attendance stood at attention. Some placed their hands over their hearts, and others saluted.

The veterans ranged from more recent conflicts in the Middle East, Vietnam and even Korea.

Organized by East Cobb-based United Military Care and the Aviation History and Technology Center of Marietta, the event is meant to do more than show thanks and appreciation for those who served in the military.

It’s also part of a larger outreach project that involve other organizations to help connect veterans not just socially, but for services and support.

United Military Care has been doing that for more than a decade.

A newer group, Connecting Cobb Veterans, got going last year in association with the Cobb Collaborative non-profit, after spending time during the COVID-19 pandemic getting organized.

West Cobb resident Dan Valentine, one of the CCV leaders, said the group was founded because “we have so many great veterans’ service providers but we have so many veterans.”

With more than 40,000 veterans living in Cobb County, the need to connect them with all kinds of services—from housing and food assistance, to employment and education, and to navigate the Veterans Administration for benefits—is acute.

A handout at the picnic Saturday called a “family activity guide” provided information about how young people can become a “junior veteran ally” and encourages them to offer gratitude to veterans when they meet and encounter them.

A veterans' appreciation at East Cobb Park
“We’re doing a lot of outreach, getting veterans to reach out to other veterans,” said Dan Valentine of Connecting Cobb Veterans.

Another new initiative is the VECTR Center (Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center), on the campus of Chattahoochee Tech in Marietta. It’s designed a one-stop destination for veterans to visit, call, e-mail or contact otherwise to access a wide variety of service providers.

“The idea is that anyone who has some sort of challenge or problem, they can go there,” said Valentine, who was an active-duty infantry soldier and supply pilot in the Army for seven years and served 18 more in the Army Reserve.

He said United Military Care director Kim Scofi was involved in efforts to better streamline access.

“Our focus isn’t about to provide these services, but to help them get the services they need,” he said.

Part of the outreach is aimed at family members, friends and even veterans who know other veterans, when they’re unaware of what may be available to them or who may reluctant to ask for help,

“Some of them are still in their shell a little bit, they want to tough it out,” Valentine said. “All we’re trying to do is tell them, and those who know them, that ‘if you want to move forward, we’ll help you.’ ”

Veterans wishing to get in touch can contact Connecting Cobb Veterans by visiting its website, dialing 404-479-1551 (phone or text) and via e-mail at veteranhelpccv@cobbcollaborative.org.

The next CCV meeting at the VECTR Center (980 South Cobb Drive) is Nov. 14.

The Marietta Veterans Day parade takes place next Saturday, Veterans Day, starting at 11 a.m. A ceremony follows at noon on the Marietta Square.

That event is organized by American Legion Post 29, the City of Marietta and the Aviation History and Technology Center.

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Cobb Veterans Treatment Court graduates two participants

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Submitted information:Cobb Veterans Treatment Court graduates two participants

Judge Robert Leonard led a celebration Friday where the Cobb County Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court (VATC) graduated two veteran participants during a ceremony at the Cobb County Superior Court Building with over 100 in attendance. This was the 19th graduating class of successful veterans, bringing 60 local participants who had completed the 18-month intensive treatment program. The Cobb County VATC began June 13, 2014, joining a nationwide surge of accountability courts specifically tailored for veterans, addressing issues of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and other mental health issues via counseling, job training, and additional needed services to achieve success.

The Veterans Accountability and Treatment Court’s mission is to increase public safety by reducing recidivism, alleviate the tax burden of incarcerating law-breaking veterans by assisting participants to become productive taxpayers versus inmates, provide intensive case management to address mental health issues and offer familiarity of structure and accountability, like what they encountered during military service.

An estimated 774,464 veterans reside in Georgia, with 47,000 living in Cobb County. Locally, 4,500 active duty/reservists are assigned to Dobbins Air Reserve Base. According to data collected from the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), nationwide, over 39 veterans attempt to commit suicide daily, and 20 a day take their lives.  Approximately 70% of veterans who took their own lives did not access services provided by the VA, which could have possibly prevented a majority of these suicides.  The tragic daily deaths of 20 veterans is potentially a number that is under-reported since many of these veterans were embarrassed or unwilling to report their veteran status before ending their lives. 

Together with the Atlanta VA, Cobb County VATC participants receive alcohol and drug treatment in Decatur and are given additional treatment locally via a private counselor. When a participant is stable in their recovery and treatment, the assigned VTC team addresses other issues that hinder an enrollee’s success, such as unemployment, lack of stable housing, the need for continuing education, or the benefits of family counseling. 

One of the most unique aspects of the VATC is the Mentor Program. Each VATC participant is paired with a veteran who understands the challenges encountered by their assigned veteran to succeed in the program and graduate.  VATC mentors must be honorably discharged from military service, have no prior criminal record, and are willing to commit to the duration of assisting a minimum of one veteran for the entirety of their 18-month VTC program. 

Two veteran participants graduated from the VATC on August 25. With their mentors by their sides, these veterans turned what once seemed like a dismal path into a very bright future for themselves and their families.   

 

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Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation to hold fundraising event

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Submitted information:Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation to hold fundraising event

The Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation Board of Directors is hosting Concerts & Cocktails, a fundraising event, 5 – 9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 25, at The Cowan Historic Hall, 4271 Southside Drive, Acworth. Proceeds will benefit the Cobb Veterans Memorial Park. This event is free for all veterans and $10 for non-veterans.
 
The park will feature a 142-foot “Star Tower” monument and honor walls listing names of veterans from each of the country’s military branches. It will also have a plaza for events, two reflection pools and a service hub providing information to veterans and their families. Construction is expected to be completed in 2024. 

This event is free for all veterans and $10 for non-veterans. 

Sponsorships are available for this event.
 
For more information and to donate, go to cobbveteransmemorial.com.

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Cobb Civil Air Patrol squadron to hold open house near McCollum

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Submitted information:

The Cobb County Composite Squadron, local unit of Civil Air Patrol, is hosting an open house at 6:30 pm on Thursday, 19-Jan-2023 at 1901 McCollum Pkwy, Kennesaw, GA 30144 (GA Army National Guard). According to Major Joshua Stultz, squadron commander, the entire community is welcome to attend and learn more about CAP as well as how to join.Cobb Civil Air Patrol

Members of the squadron will be present to greet visitors and explain CAP’s missions for America. CAP was founded on Dec. 1, 1941. The open house is part of the 82th anniversary  observance designed to create a greater awareness of CAP’s presence and contribution in the community. Please join us Thursday, to learn more about the Cobb County Composite Squadron visit www.ga090.cap.gov.

Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Force’s Total Force. In this role, CAP operates a fleet of 560 aircraft, performs about 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 80 lives annually.

CAP’s 58,000 members also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. CAP also plays a leading role in aerospace/STEM education, and  its members serve as mentors to 25,000 young people participating in CAP’s Cadet Programs. Visit www.GoCivilAirPatrol.com for more information.

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