Be Connected

Battle of Basra 2003
2025-03-21
The Battle of Basra was a key early battle in the 2003 invasion of Iraq, lasting from March 21 to April 6, 2003. The battle was part of the U.S.-led coalition’s campaign to secure Basra and its strategic seaport, Umm Qasr. The coalition’s goal was to reduce the risk to civilians by drawing Iraqi forces out of the city. The battle damaged Basra’s infrastructure, including its water system. The Iraqi Security Forces were able to reclaim control of the city from Shi’a militias.
Learn More:

Battle of Basra 2003: Wikipedia Entry
Beyond Baghdad: Frontline PBS February 2004
Detailed Report: Iraq Report
Historical Footage: ABC News
Iraq War: Wikipedia Entry
Timeline of the Iraq War: Council on Foreign Relations
U.S. Marines in Iraq: 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.

National Medal of Honor Day
2025-03-25
National Medal of Honor Day is a holiday observed annually on March 25. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration that can be awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces,. National Medal of Honor Day is a day to recognize and honor the brave individuals who have received this prestigious award. The Medal of Honor is awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves through acts of valor and heroism above and beyond the call of duty, often at great personal risk. National Medal of Honor Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by these individuals and to honor their legacy of service and sacrifice in defense of our nation. It is also an opportunity to recognize and thank all members of the U.S. military for their service to our country.
Learn More

Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Medal of Honor Recipients
National Medal of Honor Day
National Medal of Honor Museum

Welcome to Be Connected Virtual Event
2025-03-26 09:00 - 10:15 (America/Phoenix)
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:

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/

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-03-26 09:00 - 13:00 | Campe Verde Community Library, 130 Black Bridge Loop Road, Campe Verde, AZ, 86322
Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: March 26, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM MST
Where: Camp Verde Community Library, 130 Black Bridge Loop Road, Campe Verde, AZ 86322
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

Verde Valley Veteran StandDown
2025-03-26 09:00 - 14:00 | 555 W. Middle Verde Road, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, AZ, 86322
DATE: March 26, 2025
TIME: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
PLACE: Cliff Castle Conference Center, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
VIEW THE EVENT FLYER

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

Vietnam War Veterans Day
2025-03-29
Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29 to honor the sacrifices and service of the men and women who served during the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War lasted from 1954 to 1975. Many Vietnam veterans were not properly recognized or appreciated upon their return home, and this day serves as an opportunity to thank them for their service and to recognize the sacrifices they made. On this day, Americans are encouraged to fly the American flag and participate in ceremonies and events to honor Vietnam veterans. It is also a day to reflect on the lessons learned from the war and to promote healing and reconciliation among veterans, their families, and the nation as a whole.
Learn More

Defense POW/MIA: Vietnam War
Vietnam Veterans Benefits: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Department of Defense
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: National Parks Service
Vietnam Veterans Research: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Military Child Month
2025-04-01 - 2025-04-30
Military Child Month is observed during April to recognize and honor the sacrifices and resilience of the children of military families. The month-long observance acknowledges the unique challenges that military children face, including frequent moves, deployments of parents, and other disruptions to their daily lives. Military children also shoulder significant responsibilities and often demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability. The significance of Military Child Month lies in its recognition of the important role that military children play in supporting their families and contributing to the nation’s defense. The month is marked by events and activities that celebrate military children and provide support for them and their families, as well as increased awareness and advocacy on their behalf.

Military Saves Month
2025-04-01 - 2025-04-30
Military Saves Month is a national campaign that takes place each year during April to encourage military service members, veterans, and their families to save money, reduce debt, and build wealth. The campaign is a partnership between the Department of Defense and the Consumer Federation of America and provides resources, tools, and support to help military families achieve financial stability and security. The month-long effort includes a variety of activities, events, and promotions designed to raise awareness about the importance of financial planning and saving for the future, and to help service members and their families take concrete steps toward achieving their financial goals. The ultimate goal of Military Saves Month is to promote financial readiness and resilience among military families and to support their overall well-being and success.

Coaching into Connection
2025-04-01 - 2025-04-30
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

Salary Negotiations Workshop
2025-04-01 11:00 - 13:00
Salary Negotiations Workshop
Date: 04/01/2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop is designed to take the mystery out of salary negotiation. Attendees are instructed on how to conduct salary research and the fundamentals of effective negotiation.
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 Baghdad
2025-04-03
The Battle of Baghdad, occurring from April 3 to April 9, 2003, was a pivotal engagement during the Iraq War, leading to the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime. U.S. forces, primarily the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division and the 1st Marine Division, advanced into Baghdad, encountering resistance from the Iraqi Special Republican Guard, Republican Guard units, and other forces. Significant events included the “Thunder Runs,” armored raids testing Iraqi defenses, and the toppling of Saddam Hussein’s statue in Firdos Square, symbolizing the regime’s collapse. The battle resulted in approximately 34 coalition and over 2,000 Iraqi military fatalities. Baghdad suffered extensive damage to its infrastructure and cultural heritage, exacerbated by subsequent looting and unrest.
Learn More:

10 Year Reflection (2013): Defense Intelligence Agency
20 Year Reflection: Firsthand Accounts, ABC News
Battle of Baghdad 2003: Wikipedia Entry
Case Study of Battle of Baghdad: Army University Press
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Historical Footage (2008): Firsthand Accounts, 60 Minutes
Iraq War: Wikipedia Entry
Jason Grammer: Firsthand Account
Medal of Honor Recipient: Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul R. Smith
Roland Fayssoux: Firsthand Account
Shoshanna Johnson POW: Firsthand Account
Stephanie Ramos: Firsthand Account, ABC News
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.

Battle of Fallujah (First)
2025-04-03
Also known as Operation Valiant Resolve, this operation was launched on April 3, 2004. The operation was a response to the in response to the March 31 killing of four U.S. Blackwater contractors in Fallujah. The contractors were ambushed and burned, and their bodies were hung from the King Faisal Bridge in Fallujah. The images and videos of the incident spread around the world, causing outrage. The operation began with the Marines launching an assault on Fallujah. The operation involved infantry battalions, tanks, aviation units, and U.S. Navy Seabees. The U.S. forces took over a third of Fallujah within a week. However, the Iraqi government pressured the U.S. to withdraw on May 1 due to the destruction of the city and heavy civilian casualties. The U.S. handed over control of the city to the Fallujah Brigade, a Sunni security force, but they quickly disbanded and surrendered their weapons. The operation resulted in the deaths of 27 U.S. service members.
Learn More:

20 Year Reflection: The War Horse
Ambush on Blackwater
Case Study: Modern War Institute
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Documentary: Frontline PBS
First Battle of Fallujah: Wikipedia Entry
Historical Footage: 20 Year Reflection PBS NewsHour
Iraq War: Wikipedia Entry
Remembering Fallujah: Shawn Ryan Show

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.

Gold Star Spouses Day
2025-04-05
Gold Star Spouses Day is observed annually on April 5 to honor the surviving spouses of fallen service members. The day recognizes the sacrifices made by Gold Star Spouses who have lost their partner in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The Gold Star is a symbol of the sacrifices made by military families, and the spouses of fallen heroes bear a significant burden of loss and grief. On this day, the nation pays tribute to the strength, resilience, and courage of these spouses who have endured the ultimate sacrifice. It is a day to show support for these families and to honor the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

NESCO Resource Hiring Event
2025-04-08 09:00 - 12:00 | 3725 E. Ft. Lowell Road, 3725 E. Ft. Lowell Road, Tucson, AZ
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 – NESCO Resource Hiring Event. Goodwill Career Center, 3725 E. Ft. Lowell Road, Tucson, AZ. 9am to 12pm.
NESCO Resource Hiring Event 04-08-2025

Community Job Fair
2025-04-08 13:00 - 16:00 | 2805 E. Ajo Way, 2805 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, United States
Tuesday April 8, 2025 -Community Job Fair, Kino Event Center. 2805 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ. 85713. 1pm to 4pm
Community Job Fair 4-8-2025

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day
2025-04-09
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day is observed on April 9 each year to honor and recognize the sacrifices and courage of Prisoners of War (POWs) and their families. This day commemorates the brave men and women who have endured the hardships and atrocities of being held captive during times of conflict. It also acknowledges the sacrifices and strength of the families who have supported and waited for their loved ones to return home. On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, Americans are encouraged to fly the POW/MIA flag and participate in ceremonies and events to honor and remember these veterans. It is also a reminder to support and care for those who have returned home as well as those who are still missing in action or held as prisoners of war.

Fall of Baghdad
2025-04-09
On April 9, 2003, during the U.S. invasion of Iraq, a 12-meter statue of Saddam Hussein in Baghdad’s Firdos Square was toppled by Iraqi civilians with assistance from U.S. Marines. This event, broadcast worldwide, came to symbolize the fall of Hussein’s regime.
Learn More:

Historical Footage: AP News
Saddam Hussein Statue Destruction: Wikipedia Entry

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.

Hiring & Career Networking Event
2025-04-10 08:30 - 12:00 | Pima Community College, 7211 S. Park Avenue, Tucson
Thursday, April 10, 2025, 8:30am to 12pm – Focus on your future Pima’s Annual Hiring & Career Networking Event. Pima Community College Aviation Technology Center. 7211 S. Park Ave. Tucson, AZ
PCC Hiring & Career Event 4-10-2025

Pima Care at Home In-Person Hiring Event
2025-04-14 09:00 - 12:00 | 2797 E. Ajo Way, 2797 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ, 85713
Monday, April 14, 2025 – Pima Care at Home In-Person Hiring Event. Kino One-Stop, 2797 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ. 85713. 9am to 12pm
Pima Care at Home 04-28-2025

Purple Up! Day
2025-04-15
Purple Up! Day is a special day of recognition for military children observed on April 15. On this day, people are encouraged to wear the color purple as a symbol of support for military kids and their families. Purple was chosen as it is a combination of the colors of all branches of the military. Purple Up Day serves to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by military children, including frequent moves, deployments, and separations from their loved ones. It also serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of military kids, who often face challenges that are not experienced by their civilian peers. The day is an opportunity for everyone to show their appreciation and support for these brave young people, and to recognize their service and sacrifices for our country.

Disability & Rehabilitation Employment Awareness Month (DREAM) Job Fair
2025-04-15 10:00 - 13:00 | Kino Sports Complex, 2805 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 – Disability & Rehabilitation Employment Awareness Month (DREAM) Job Fair. Kino Sports Complex. 2805 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ. 10am to 1pm
DREAM Job Seeker Flyer – Spring 2025 4-15-2025

LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
2025-04-15 11:00 - 13:00
LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
Date: 04/15/2025
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.

15th Annual Statewide Symposium
2025-04-16 08:00 - 2025-04-17 17:00 | Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 East Cotton Center Blvd., Phoenix, AZ, 85040, United States
15th Annual Statewide Symposium in Support of Service Members, Veterans & Their Families
When: April 16 & 17, 2025
Where: Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 East Cotton Center Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85040
The Statewide Symposium in Support of Service Members, Veterans & Their Families hosted by the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, is the only statewide conference that brings together military, government, and community to focus on strengthening services and support for Arizona’s 500,000+ service members, veterans, and their families.
The event features breakout sessions, keynote speakers, exhibitors, and networking opportunities focused on providing knowledge, skills, and tools to serve and support the military and veteran community. Scholarships and more details can be found at www.ArizonaCoalition.org/Symposium

Federal Hiring Workshop
2025-04-17 11:00 - 13:00
Federal Hiring Workshop
Date: 04/17/2025
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.

Baboquivary Unified School District Job Fair.
2025-04-18 09:00 - 12:00
Friday, April 18, 2025 – Baboquivary Unified School District Job Fair. AZ HWY 86, Mile Post 115.5, Sells, AZ. 9am to 12pm
Baboquivari USD 04-18-2025

Page Veteran StandDown
2025-04-23 09:00 - 15:00, 2025-04-24 09:00 - 15:00 | 806 Aqua Avenue, 806 Aqua Avenue, Page, AZ, 86040
Page Veteran StandDown

Date: April 23 & 24, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM
Place: Page Elks Lodge 2498 806 Aqua Ave., Page, AZ 86040
VIEW EVENT FLYER
Veteran StandDown events are a fantastic 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
Hygiene kits
Haircuts
Veteran Court

For more information, contact: nazveteranstanddowns@aol.com or call 928-645-2498.

Corporate Gray Virtual Military - Friendly Job Fair
2025-04-23 11:00 - 14:00
Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 11 am to 2 pm (EST) – Corporate Gray Virtual Military – Friendly Job Fair
www.corporategray.com/jobfairs

Pima Care at Home In-Person Hiring Event
2025-04-28 09:00 - 12:00 | 316 W Ft. Lowell Road, 316 W. Ft. Lowell Road, Tucson, AZ
Monday, April 28, 2025, 9am to 12pm – Pima Care at Home In-Person Hiring Event. Ft. Lowell Office, 316 W. Ft. Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ. 85705
Register at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAazluJNpm9IMe2c6PlpIj-OTC-H5ogWvJPEe4k50o5DCnqg/viewform
Pima Care at Home 04-28-2025

Fall of Saigon
2025-04-30
The Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, marked the end of the Vietnam War and led to the reunification of Vietnam under communist control. North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, prompting a mass evacuation of American personnel and at-risk Vietnamese. This event resulted in significant political and social changes, including the renaming of Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City.
Learn More

40 Year Reflection: PBS NewsHour
50 Year Reflection: KGET
Fall of Saigon Historical Footage: ITN Archive
Fall of Saigon: Wikipedia Entry
Historical Footage: ITN Archive
John Valdez and Douglas Potratz Reflection: KPBS News
Last Flight from Saigon: U.S. DoD
Photo Gallery: AP News
Photo Gallery: CBS News
Saigon: The Final Hours: Firsthand Accounts WBUR
The Fall of Saigon: National Museum of American Diplomacy
Vietnam Veterans’ Reflections: Durango Herald

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.
