Be Connected

Coaching into Connection
2025-02-01 - 2025-02-28, 2025-03-01 - 2025-03-31
Coaching into Connection Services Available for AZ Service Members, Veterans & Their Families
If you’re a service member, veteran, or military family member in Arizona, the Be Connected Coaching into Connection program is here to help you enhance your social connections. Our experienced Connection Coaches, who are veterans living right here in Arizona, can help. They offer personalized support to get you connected with your community and find meaningful activities. Services are offered at no cost and are available statewide. Remember, we’re here to support you.

Download the Flyer
Get Started: Fill Out This Form
Watch the Video

Learn more at www.ConnectVeterans.org/Connection
Have Questions? Call 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387) or email riskreduction@arizonacoalition.org

LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
2025-02-18 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Phoenix)
LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
Date: 02/18/2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop walks attendees through how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile that can be used to build a professional brand and highlight experience.
About the Facilitators
The Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), in collaboration with the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, offers live-facilitated virtual workshops to support your career goals. Learn best practices from the DOL’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses in the pursuit of their employment goals.

To Sign Up

Visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/obtt-arizonacoalition#/
Click the box to the right to select each workshop you plan to attend, and then click the ‘Submit and Sign Up’ button at the bottom of the screen to complete your registration.

Questions? Fill Out This Form or call 866-4AZ-VETS.

Battle of Iwo Jima
2025-02-19
The Battle of Iwo Jima was a World War II battle that took place from February 19 to March 26, 1945. The United States Marine Corps and Navy fought the Imperial Japanese Army to capture the island of Iwo Jima. The battle was one of the bloodiest in the history of the Marine Corps. The battle took place on the eight-square-mile island of Iwo Jima, which was made up of volcanic rock and sand. The U.S. wanted to control the island to use it as a staging facility for an invasion of mainland Japan, which was 750 miles away. The battle resulted in 24,053 casualties for the U.S., including 6,140 deaths. This was the highest single-action loss in Marine Corps history. A famous photograph by Joe Rosenthal captured the moment when Marines raised a second flag on Mount Suribachi, becoming an enduring symbol of American resolve. Military historian Dr. Norman Cooper estimated that nearly 700 Americans died for every square mile of Iwo Jima.

27 Medals of Honor were awarded to Marines and Sailors, many posthumously. View the recipient list.
The entire cost of the Marine Corps War Memorial and developing the Memorial site was $850,000, donated by U.S. Marines, former Marines, Marine Corps Reservists, friends of the Marine Corps, and members of the Naval Service. No public funds were used for the monument.

Learn More:

75th Anniversary (2020): National Museum of the Marine Corps
78th Anniversary (2023): Marines.mil
Battle Details: Naval History and Heritage Command
Battle of Iwo Jima: Wikipedia Entry
Charles Cram: Firsthand Account
Historical Footage: Marines.mil
Navajo Code Talkers Narrated by Peter MacDonald
Presentation (Maps & Photos): USMC.edu
The U.S. Marines on Iwo Jima: Marines.mil

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-02-20 10:00 - 14:00 | 2020 N. Central Avenue, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: February 20, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 2 PM MT
Where: Vitalyst, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Plaza Level, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Register Here

Registration is required.
Lunch and a welcome gift will be provided for all attendees.

By attending this training, you will become a part of the Be Connected Community Corps and receive ongoing support for your role as a helper from the Be Connected team.
Learn about:

Arizona’s military & veteran population and risk factors
Tools to use as a community helper
Who to call when someone needs further help
The importance of self-care as a helper
The Be Connected Ecosystem of Support and how to tap into it for yourself as a helper and for those you are helping

There is no cost to participants for this training and everyone is welcome. Assistance with mileage may be available if the participant would otherwise be unable to attend. Directions and parking information will be emailed to registered participants.
Questions? Email BCCC@arizonacoalition.org

Federal Hiring Workshop
2025-02-20 11:00 - 13:00
Federal Hiring Workshop
Date: 02/20/2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop covers the basics of federal hiring, civil service, www.USAJobs.gov, special hiring authorities, and other resources for a federal job search.
About the Facilitators
The Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), in collaboration with the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, offers live-facilitated virtual workshops to support your career goals. Learn best practices from the DOL’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses in the pursuit of their employment goals.

To Sign Up

Visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/obtt-arizonacoalition#/
Click the box to the right to select each workshop you plan to attend, and then click the ‘Submit and Sign Up’ button at the bottom of the screen to complete your registration.

Questions? Fill Out This Form or call 866-4AZ-VETS.

Journey of A Resilient Warrior Retreat
2025-02-21 - 2025-02-23
Journey of A Resilient Warrior Retreat
When: Friday, February 21 – Sunday, February 23, 2025
Cost: Free for Veterans
Offered by: The Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Information & Registration: Contact macleishlinda@gmail.com

This retreat is designed to offer healing insights and will explore the call of the warrior and the intersection of spirituality.

The Casa Veterans Ministry is hosting our St. Francis: Journey of A Resilient Warrior Retreat which will feature Fr. Conrad Targonski and Greg Masiello.

Conrad, OFM, is a Catholic Franciscan friar and served 22+ years with the Navy & Marine Corps as a supervisory chaplain in Operation Phantom Fury.
Greg Masiello, PhD, is a psychologist at the Albany Veterans Center in New York where he worked to assist combat veterans with their reintegration to civilian life and served 23 years in the New York Army National Guard. More than 200 AZ veterans have attended this retreat at the Franciscan Renewal Center since 2013.

MOAA Birthday
2025-02-23
The Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) is a professional, nonprofit, and nonpartisan organization that advocates for a strong national defense while supporting policies that benefit military members and their families. Its membership includes active, retired, and former commissioned officers and warrant officers from all U.S. uniformed services. Founded in 1929 as the Retired Officers Association, MOAA initially aimed to provide guidance and foster relationships among military officers. In 2002, the association adopted its current name. Today, with over 380,000 members, MOAA is the largest military officers’ organization in the U.S. and offers services such as benefits counseling, career transition assistance, and educational aid for military families. Additionally, MOAA actively advocates for improvements in military pay and healthcare benefits. Learn more at https://www.moaa.org/

Liberation of Kuwait City
2025-02-24
The liberation of Kuwait City occurred between February 24 and 28, 1991, during the Gulf War. After Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait on August 2, 1990, to seize its oil reserves, a U.S.-led coalition responded with a large-scale air campaign followed by a ground offensive involving 650,000 troops from 42 nations. Within three days, coalition forces reclaimed Kuwait City, fully liberating the country by the end of February. The campaign concluded with a ceasefire after a swift 100-hour advance into Iraq. The Gulf War’s victory set a precedent for modern military operations and introduced live news coverage of war. Kuwait annually commemorates its liberation on Liberation Day.
Learn More:

25 Year Reflection (2016): Army.mil
Army Reservists: Firsthand Accounts
Historical Footage: Firsthand Accounts: C-SPAN
Liberation of Kuwait: Wikipedia Entry
Michael Corcoran: Firsthand Account

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-02-25 09:00 - 13:00 | 1977 W. Acoma Boulevard, 1977 W. Acoma Boulevard, Lake Havasu City, 86403
When: February 25, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM MST
Where: Mohave Community College, Lake Havasu City Campus
1977 West Acoma Blvd. Building 600
Lake Havasu City, Az 86403
Register Here

Registration is required.
Lunch and a welcome gift will be provided to all attendees.

By attending this training, you will become a part of the Be Connected Community Corps and receive ongoing support for your role as a helper from the Be Connected team.
Learn about:

Arizona’s military & veteran population and risk factors
Tools to use as a community helper
Who to call when someone needs further help
The importance of self-care as a helper
The Be Connected Ecosystem of Support and how to tap into it for yourself as a helper and for those you are helping

There is no cost to participants for this training and everyone is welcome. Assistance with mileage may be available if the participant would otherwise be unable to attend. Directions and parking information will be emailed to registered participants.
Questions? Email BCCC@arizonacoalition.org

Battle of 73 Easting
2025-02-26
The Battle of 73 Easting, fought on February 26, 1991, during the Gulf War, was a decisive tank battle between U.S. armored forces, primarily the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, and Iraq’s Republican Guard. Named after a north-south coordinate line used as a phase line by Coalition forces, the engagement resulted in a significant Coalition victory, with U.S. forces destroying numerous Iraqi tanks and armored vehicles, effectively crippling the combat capabilities of the Republican Guard in the area.
Learn More:

Battle of 73 Easting: Wikipedia Entry
Mission Command by Master Sgt. Dustin Denney, U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy
This Day in History: U.S. Army Center of Military History
Tim Gauthier: Firsthand Account
S. Army SPC Robert Thomas “Tommy” Sims: Firsthand Account

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

Welcome to Be Connected Virtual Event
2025-02-26 09:00 - 10:15
Join us for this live online training to learn about the Be Connected ecosystem of support for service members, veterans, and their families and how you can be an open door to help someone connect!

Download the Flyer
Register to Attend

Join the ranks of thousands of Arizonans who have taken this training to help support the 500,000+ service members, veterans, and their family members who call Arizona home. Your participation in this training is an important aspect of ensuring our state welcomes and supports service members, veterans, and their family members into our communities. You will learn more about:

Arizona’s military and veteran community
Our statewide efforts for upstream prevention
The stress continuum and social determinants of health
A simple, one-step way to connect those in need to Be Connected
The ongoing support Be Connected provides to service members, veterans, and their families

You’ll leave feeling more connected and well-prepared to assist any service member, veteran, or family member who may need support.
This virtual event is open to everyone and is offered at no cost. Registration is required.
Join us virtually at any of these upcoming events held from 9 – 10:15 AM MST:

February 26
March 26
April 30
May 28
June 25
July 30
August 27
September 24
October 29
November 19
December 17

Questions? Please email bccc@arizonacoalition.org
Learn more at https://connectveterans.org/welcome-training/

Battle of Norfolk
2025-02-27
The Battle of Norfolk, fought on February 27, 1991, during the Gulf War, was a significant tank engagement between U.S. and U.K. armored forces and Iraq’s Republican Guard in southern Iraq’s Muthanna Province. Key participants included the U.S. 1st Infantry Division, 2nd Armored Division (Forward), and the British 1st Armoured Division, opposing Iraqi divisions such as the Tawakalna, 10th, and 12th Armored Divisions. The coalition forces achieved a decisive victory, destroying approximately 850 Iraqi tanks and numerous other combat vehicles, effectively crippling the Republican Guard’s capabilities in the region. This battle is recognized as one of the largest tank engagements in U.S. military history.
Learn More:

Battle of Norfolk: Wikipedia Entry
How Tanks Played a Critical Role in the Persian Gulf War: History.com
Veteran Voices: Four Firsthand Accounts

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

Gulf War Ceasefire Declared
2025-02-28
The Gulf War was a conflict between Iraq and a coalition of 42 countries led by the United States. The war began with Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990. The coalition’s efforts were carried out in two phases: Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. On February 27, President Bush announced that the coalition would cease hostilities at midnight on February 28. Iraq accepted the 12 U.N. Security Council resolutions on February 28, and the cease-fire took hold. As part of the peace terms, Iraq agreed to recognize Kuwait’s sovereignty and get rid of all its weapons of mass destruction. The ground war officially concluded with the signing of the armistice on April 11, 1991.
Learn More:

25 Year Reflection: Air Force Firsthand Accounts
30 Year Reflection: Marines.mil
Address to the Nation: George Bush February 27, 1991
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Colonel Lewis Harned Personal Reflection (Served in WWII through Gulf War)
Dennis McHawes: Firsthand Account
Gulf War Chronology: National Desert Storm War Memorial
Gulf War Era Veterans Report (February 2011): VA.gov
Gulf War Overview: History.State.gov
Gulf War Veteran Resources: VA.gov
Gulf War: Wikipedia Entry
Historical Footage – Start of Persian Gulf War: ABC News, January 16, 1991

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

Interview Skills Workshop
2025-03-04 11:00 - 13:00
Interview Skills Workshop
Date: 03/04/2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop aims to provide attendees with the tools and confidence they need to ace a job interview. During this workshop, interview basics, potential questions, and interview techniques are presented.
About the Facilitators
The Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), in collaboration with the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, offers live-facilitated virtual workshops to support your career goals. Learn best practices from the DOL’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses in the pursuit of their employment goals.

To Sign Up

Visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/obtt-arizonacoalition#/
Click the box to the right to select each workshop you plan to attend, and then click the ‘Submit and Sign Up’ button at the bottom of the screen to complete your registration.

Questions? Fill Out This Form or call 866-4AZ-VETS.

Tucson Veteran StandDown
2025-03-05 - 2025-03-06 | Ramada Inn, 777 W. Cushing Street, Tucson, AZ, 85745
DATE: Wednesday, March 5 & Thursday, March 6
TIME: TBD
PLACE: Ramada Inn, 777 W. Cushing Street, Tucson, AZ 85745
Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend and connect with other veterans, community leaders, and helpful resources. Veteran StandDown events offer resources related to:

Employment
Healthcare and mental wellness
Housing
Legal support
Pet services
Veteran benefits & much more

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-03-06 10:00 - 14:00 | 2020 N. Central Avenue, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
When: March 6, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 2 PM MT
Where: Vitalyst, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Plaza Level, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Register Here

Registration is required.
Lunch and a welcome gift will be provided for all attendees.

By attending this training, you will become a part of the Be Connected Community Corps and receive ongoing support for your role as a helper from the Be Connected team.
Learn about:

Arizona’s military & veteran population and risk factors
Tools to use as a community helper
Who to call when someone needs further help
The importance of self-care as a helper
The Be Connected Ecosystem of Support and how to tap into it for yourself as a helper and for those you are helping

There is no cost to participate and everyone is welcome. Assistance with mileage may be available if the participant would otherwise be unable to attend. Directions and parking information will be emailed to registered participants.
Questions? Email BCCC@arizonacoalition.org

Bullhead City Veteran StandDown
2025-03-07 | Bullhead Chamber of Commerce, 1251 Highway 95, Bullhead City, AZ, 86429
DATE: Friday, March 7
TIME: TBD
PLACE: Bullhead Area Chamber of Commerce, 1251 Highway 95, Bullhead City, AZ 86429
Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend and connect with other veterans, community leaders, and helpful resources. Veteran StandDown events offer resources related to:

Employment
Healthcare and mental wellness
Housing
Legal support
Pet services
Veteran benefits & much more

First U.S. Combat Troops Arrive in Vietnam
2025-03-08
The arrival of the 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade on March 8, 1965 under the direct order of President Johnson marked the first deployment of a major U.S. ground combat unit to Vietnam. It was a step in the U.S. transition from an advisory role to direct participation in the war.
Learn More:

1965 in the Vietnam War: Wikipedia Entry
50 Year Reflection: Council on Foreign Relations
Anonymous Veteran: Firsthand Account
Caeser Smith: Firsthand Account
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Chuck Percherke: Firsthand Account
Mike Patrick: Firsthand Account
Vietnam War Records: National Archives

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

K-9 Veterans Day
2025-03-13
K-9 Veterans Day is observed annually on March 13 to honor the service and sacrifices of military working dogs and their handlers. The day commemorates the first official use of dogs in the U.S. military during World War II. Today, dogs continue to play an essential role in the military, serving in a variety of functions including detection, patrol, and search and rescue. K-9 Veterans Day is an opportunity to acknowledge and show appreciation for the dedication, loyalty, and bravery of these furry heroes who have helped to protect and defend our country. It is also a day to honor the special bond between military working dogs and their handlers, who often develop a deep and unbreakable connection as they work together in dangerous and high-pressure situations.
Learn More

341st Training Squadron: Military Working Dogs
A Brief History of Dogs in Warfare
U.S. Department of Defense: Four-Legged Fighters

Maricopa County Veteran StandDown
2025-03-13 - 2025-03-14 | Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
DATE: Thursday, March 13 & Friday, March 14
TIME: 7 AM – 3 PM on March 13 & 7 AM – 2:30 PM on March 14
PLACE: Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend and connect with other veterans, community leaders, and helpful resources. Veteran StandDown events offer resources related to:

Employment
Healthcare and mental wellness
Housing
Legal support
Pet services
Veteran benefits & much more

LEGAL SERVICES
Veterans in Maricopa County can access legal support in advance of the Maricopa County Veteran StandDown. Call 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387) Mon – Fri 8 AM – 5 PM between Feb 3 and Mar 7 to get started with a screening call. If you qualify for no-cost legal services, a designated legal team member will contact you within 3-5 business days after the screening call.

Mental Health First Aid Training
2025-03-13 08:00 - 17:00 | 2020 N. Central Avenue, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
When: March 13, 2025
Time: 8 AM – 5 PM MT
Where: Vitalyst, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Plaza Level, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Register Here
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mental-health-first-aid-training-tickets-1087133628949?aff=oddtdtcreator
Gain the skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges. This evidence-based training teaches you how to provide initial support until professional help is available. Just like CPR for medical emergencies, MHFA equips you to assist in a mental health crisis or non-crisis situation.
By completing this course, you will:

Learn the common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.
Understand how to interact with someone in distress.
Gain strategies to provide initial support and connect individuals to professional help.
Explore expanded content on trauma, substance use, and self-care.
Practice using the Mental Health First Aid Action Plan (ALGEE).

There is no cost to participants for this training and everyone is welcome. Directions and parking information will be emailed to registered participants.
Visit www.ConnectVeterans.org/MHFA to see additional dates and locations for this training course.
Questions? Email info@arizonacoalition.org or call 866-4AZ-VETS.

Parker Veteran StandDown
2025-03-14 09:30 - 13:30 | VFW Post 7061, 516 South Hopi Ave, Parker, AZ
DATE: Friday, March 14
TIME: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
PLACE: VFW Post 7061, 516 S. Hopi Avenue, Parker, AZ 85344
DOWNLOAD THE FLYER
Call (928) 323-4401 for more information.
Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend and connect with other veterans, community leaders, and helpful resources. Veteran StandDown events offer resources related to:

Employment
Healthcare and mental wellness
Housing
Legal support
Veteran benefits & much more

American Legion Birthday
2025-03-15
The American Legion is a nonpartisan organization of U.S. wartime veterans that was founded in 1919. Its mission is to support and advocate for veterans, promote patriotism and national security, and support youth and community programs. Over the years, the American Legion has been instrumental in advocating for veterans’ benefits and services, including the GI Bill, and has provided support for veterans and their families through a variety of programs and initiatives. Learn more at https://www.legion.org/

National Women's Military History Week
2025-03-16 - 2025-03-22
National Women’s Military History Week is observed annually on the third week in March. This observance recognizes the contributions of women in military service throughout American history. The week-long celebration honors the women who have served in the U.S. armed forces in times of war and peace and highlights their sacrifices, bravery, and achievements. It increases awareness and understanding of the challenges that women have faced in pursuing military careers and how their service has shaped the country’s history and defense. By recognizing the important role that women have played in the U.S. military, National Women’s Military History Week seeks to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in the military and to advocate for gender equality in all fields.
Learn More

Military Women’s Memorial
U.S. Department of Defense: Women’s History Month

Supreme Sacrifice Day
2025-03-18
Supreme Sacrifice Day is observed on March 18 each year to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. This day recognizes the bravery and selflessness of military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and other first responders who have given their lives while performing their duties. The sacrifices of these individuals and their families are a testament to the true meaning of courage and dedication. On Supreme Sacrifice Day, people are encouraged to take a moment to remember and honor those who have given their lives for their country, and to show support for the families and loved ones of fallen heroes. It is also a reminder to appreciate the sacrifices made by those who continue to serve and protect our communities.

LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
2025-03-18 11:00 - 13:00
LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
Date: 03/18/2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop walks attendees through how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile that can be used to build a professional brand and highlight experience.
About the Facilitators
The Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), in collaboration with the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, offers live-facilitated virtual workshops to support your career goals. Learn best practices from the DOL’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses in the pursuit of their employment goals.

To Sign Up

Visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/obtt-arizonacoalition#/
Click the box to the right to select each workshop you plan to attend, and then click the ‘Submit and Sign Up’ button at the bottom of the screen to complete your registration.

Questions? Fill Out This Form or call 866-4AZ-VETS.

Employer Spotlight Event – APS & Palo Verde
2025-03-19 12:00 - 13:00
Employer Spotlight Event – APS & Palo Verde
When: March 19, 2025
Time: 12 – 1 PM MT
Where: Virtual Event
Register Here
https://calendly.com/randy-employerengagement/employer-spotlight-event-aps?month=2025-03
Join the Be Connected Employer Spotlight featuring Arizona Public Service (APS) and Palo Verde, two of Arizona’s designated Veteran Supportive Employers.
This virtual workshop is designed to support service members, veterans, and military spouses by providing valuable guidance, tools, and connections to help you explore professional journeys with APS.
What to Expect:

Learn about career pathways and opportunities tailored for service members, veterans, and military spouses.
Explore Veteran Employee Resource Groups and the support available for military-connected employees.
Receive expert advice on how to stand out during the interview process.
Learn about apprenticeship and internship programs at APS.
Gain insights into the APS SkillBridge application process.

There is no cost to participants for this event. Zoom link will be emailed to registered participants.
Support is Available
Need help preparing for your next career move? Our Career Navigation Team is ready to assist with resume reviews, interview preparation, and career tools. Contact us at careernav@arizonacoalition.org or call 866-4AZ-VETS.
We look forward to connecting with you!

Invasion of Iraq Begins
2025-03-20
The Iraq War began on March 20, 2003, when the US, joined by the UK, Australia, and Poland, initiated a “shock and awe” bombing campaign vowing to destroy Iraqi weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and end the dictatorial rule of Saddam Hussein. Following the bombings, coalition forces launched a ground invasion, defeating Iraqi forces and toppling the Ba’athist regime. Saddam Hussein was captured in 2003 and executed in 2006.
Learn More:

20 Year Reflection: VFW
2003 Invasion of Iraq: Wikipedia Entry
James C. Balserak: Firsthand Account
Eyewitness to War: Firsthand Accounts
Historical Footage: Shock and Awe Baghdad
Iraq War: Wikipedia Entry
Juan Hidalgo: Firsthand Account
Latoya Lucas: Firsthand Account
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Air Force History
Timeline of the Iraq War: Council on Foreign Relations

Support is Available
Reflecting on the significant battles in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.

Federal Hiring Workshop
2025-03-20 11:00 - 13:00
Federal Hiring Workshop
Date: 03/20/2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop covers the basics of federal hiring, civil service, www.USAJobs.gov, special hiring authorities, and other resources for a federal job search.
About the Facilitators
The Department of Labor (DOL) Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS), in collaboration with the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, offers live-facilitated virtual workshops to support your career goals. Learn best practices from the DOL’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to support transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses in the pursuit of their employment goals.

To Sign Up

Visit https://www.signupgenius.com/go/obtt-arizonacoalition#/
Click the box to the right to select each workshop you plan to attend, and then click the ‘Submit and Sign Up’ button at the bottom of the screen to complete your registration.

Questions? Fill Out This Form or call 866-4AZ-VETS.
