Independence Day
2025-07-04
July 4th, also known as Independence Day, is a federal holiday that commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Declaration of Independence announced the separation of the 13 American colonies from British rule, marking the birth of the United States of America as a new nation. The day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, picnics, and other festivities that honor our country’s history and values. The significance of July 4th lies in its recognition of the American ideals of liberty, democracy, and self-determination, which have become a cornerstone of our nation’s identity. The holiday is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for American independence and to renew the country’s commitment to upholding the principles enshrined in the Declaration of Independence.

Battle of Osan
2025-07-05
The Battle of Osan, fought on July 5, 1950, was the first engagement between U.S. and North Korean forces during the Korean War. Task Force Smith, comprising 540 American soldiers, was deployed near Osan, south of Seoul, to delay the North Korean advance. Facing approximately 5,000 North Korean troops and 36 tanks, the under-equipped and outnumbered Task Force Smith suffered significant losses, including 60 killed, 21 wounded, and 82 captured. The North Koreans incurred 42 killed and 85 wounded. This encounter exposed deficiencies in U.S. military preparedness and underscored the need for improved training and equipment, influencing subsequent U.S. military strategy.
Learn More:

Battle of Osan: Wikipedia Entry
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Korean War Chronology: U.S. Army Center of Military History
Korean War: History.com
Korean War: National Archives
Korean War: Wikipedia Entry
National Archives: Korean War

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.

Potsdam Conference
2025-07-17
The Potsdam Conference, held from July 17 to August 2, 1945, in Potsdam, Germany, brought together U.S. President Harry S. Truman, British Prime Minister Clement Attlee, and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin to negotiate the end of World War II. Key discussions included Japan’s fate, Germany’s reconstruction, and the division of European territories. During the conference, Truman informed Stalin of the successful detonation of the first atomic bomb, and the leaders issued an ultimatum demanding Japan’s unconditional surrender. Some historians see the conference as a turning point that deepened tensions between the Soviet Union and the West, paving the way for the Cold War.
Learn More:

Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Potsdam Conference Report: PDF
Potsdam Conference: History.com
Potsdam Conference: Wikipedia Entry
Radio Address: Harry S. Truman, August 9, 1945
The Potsdam Conference: The National WWII Museum
WWII 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.

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-07-17 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Phoenix) | 2020 N. Central Avenue, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: July 17, 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
2025-07-17 11:00 - 13:00
Federal Hiring Workshop
Date: 07/17/2025
Time: 11 AM – 1 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.
Sign up for this and other free workshops at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/OBTT-ArizonaCoalition#/

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.

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

LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
2025-07-19 10:00 - 12:00
LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
Date: 07/19/2025
Time: 10 AM – 12 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.
Sign up for this and other free workshops at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/OBTT-ArizonaCoalition#/
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.

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

National Hire a Veteran Day
2025-07-25
National Hire a Veteran Day is observed on July 25 to encourage employers to consider hiring and supporting veterans in the workforce. The day is an opportunity to recognize the valuable skills, experience, and dedication that veterans bring to the workplace, as well as the unique challenges they may face in transitioning to civilian careers. National Hire a Veteran Day serves to raise awareness about the importance of hiring veterans and to encourage businesses to provide support and resources for veterans as they enter the civilian workforce. By hiring veterans, businesses not only gain skilled and dedicated employees but also contribute to the successful transition of veterans to civilian life and support the ongoing well-being of our service members and their families.
Resources & Support

For Employers: ASU Certificate in Veteran Employment
For Employers: Fostering Equity for Female Veterans
For Employes: Arizona Veteran Supportive Employer
For Supervisors: Being a Veteran Supportive Supervisor
For Supervisors: Supporting Military/Veteran Families
For Veteran Spouses: Free Tuition
For Veterans: Career Navigation Services
For Everyone: Call 866-4AZ-VETS for Resources, Referrals & Support

Rim Country StandDown
2025-07-26 10:00 - 14:00 | Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, Highway 87, Mile Marker 251, Payson, AZ, 85541
Rim Country StandDown
DATE: Saturday, July 26, 2025
TIME: 10 AM to 2 PM
PLACE: Mazatzal Hotel & Casino (Highway 87, Mile Marker 251, Payson, AZ 85541)
VIEW THE 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
Mental wellness
Housing
Legal support
Pet services
Veteran benefits & much more
Free hot lunch
Health services, dental, vision
Hair cuts

Korean War Ends
2025-07-27
The Korean Armistice Agreement, signed on July 27, 1953, in Panmunjom within the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), officially stopping active hostilities and ended the Korean War. The agreement was signed by William K. Harrison Jr. for the United Nations Command, Nam Il for the Korean People’s Army and Chinese People’s Volunteer Army, and Peng Dehuai for the Chinese forces. It established the DMZ, enacted a cease-fire, and allowed prisoners of war to choose repatriation. The agreement took effect 12 hours after signing, concluding the conflict that began in 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea with Soviet support, escalating into a Cold War flashpoint involving the U.S., China, and the Soviet Union. The Korean Peninsula remains divided along the 38th parallel.
Learn More:

71 Year Reflection (2024): VFW
Armistice Agreement: National Archives
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Korean Armistice Agreement: Wikipedia Entry
Korean War Chronology: U.S. Army Center of Military History
Korean War: History.com
Korean War: National Archives
Korean War: 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.

Welcome to Be Connected Virtual Event
2025-07-30 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:

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/

Social Determinants of Health Training
2025-08-01 - 2025-08-08, 2025-09-01 - 2025-09-08
Learn how to support Arizona’s service members, veterans, and their families by enrolling in the free, self-paced Social Determinants of Health training. This virtual course is offered at no cost and is open to everyone. Enroll now and work through modules at your own pace.
The training includes:

10 self-paced modules focused on the Social Determinants of Health
Engaging videos and downloadable handouts with key points and space for notes
An online community to ask questions and connect with fellow learners and moderators

By completing the series, you’ll earn the Be Connected Community Corps certificate and gain access to new opportunities to serve and support the military and veteran community.

Enroll today at ConnectVeterans.org/BCCChelper.
To explore additional training opportunities, visit ConnectVeterans.org/Workshops.

Coaching into Connection
2025-08-01 - 2025-08-31, 2025-09-01 - 2025-09-23
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

U.S. Coast Guard Birthday
2025-08-04
This annual observance celebrates the establishment of the United States Coast Guard on August 4, 1790. This day recognizes the dedication and service of the Coast Guard’s brave men and women who have protected the country’s maritime interests for over two centuries. The Coast Guard is responsible for enforcing laws at sea, protecting maritime borders, conducting search and rescue operations, and preventing environmental hazards. As such, the day is an opportunity to honor the Coast Guard’s contributions to national security and to express gratitude for their unwavering commitment to protecting the country’s coastlines and waterways.

Market Yourself to Employers Workshop
2025-08-05 11:00 - 13:00
Market Yourself to Employers Workshop
Date: 08/05/2025
Time: 11 AM – 1 PM Mountain Time
Location: Virtual
About the Workshop:
This workshop helps you master the art of selling your skills, abilities, experience, and education to an employer. Apply marketing strategies to be more effective in your job search.
Sign up for this and other free workshops at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/OBTT-ArizonaCoalition#/
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.

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

Purple Heart Day
2025-08-07
Purple Heart Day is observed on August 7 to commemorate the creation of the Purple Heart. The Purple Heart is a military decoration awarded to those who have been wounded or killed in action, and it is the oldest military award still given to U.S. service members. On Purple Heart Day, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of those who have been wounded or killed while serving their country, and we recognize the ongoing impact of their service and sacrifice. Purple Heart Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those in the U.S. military, and the importance of supporting and honoring our service members and veterans.

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-08-14 10:00 - 14:00 | Vitalyst, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
August 14 Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: August 14, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 2 PM MT
Location:
Vitalyst | 2020 N. Central Avenue – Plaza Level, Phoenix AZ 85004
Register Here
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-militaryveteran-helper-training-tickets-1207629816289?aff=oddtdtcreator

Lunch and a welcome gift will be provided for all attendees.
Registration is required.
🌿Please register only if you plan to attend since we order meals, print materials, and arrange staffing in advance for everyone who registers.​

Want to make a difference in your community? Join us for a free, in-person training designed for anyone who wants to support Arizona’s service members, veterans, and their families. Whether you’re a neighbor, coworker, family member, or just someone who cares, this training will give you practical tools and knowledge to be a trusted resource.
Learn about:

Military culture
Upstream prevention
How to connect people to support

You’ll also get to know the Be Connected Ecosystem of Support and how you can be part of a statewide effort to improve well-being and reduce suicide among our veteran community.
All participants will receive lunch, a welcome gift, and ongoing support from the Be Connected team. There’s no cost to attend, and assistance with mileage may be available – just reach out if you need it!
>>> This training is free and open to everyone, but registration is required.
Come join us and become part of something bigger.
Questions? Contact: BCCC@arizonacoalition.org

LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
2025-08-16 10:00 - 12:00
LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
Date: 08/16/2025
Time: 10 AM – 12 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.
Sign up for this and other free workshops at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/OBTT-ArizonaCoalition#/
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.

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

White Mountain StandDown
2025-08-16 10:00 - 14:00 | Show Low Elks Lodge, 805 E. Whipple Street, Show Low, AZ, 85901
White Mountain StandDown
DATE: Saturday, August 16, 2025
TIME: 10 AM to 2 PM
PLACE: Show Low Elks Lodge (805 E. Whipple Street, Show Low, AZ 85901)
VIEW THE 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. Proof of military service is required. Veteran StandDown events offer resources related to:

Employment
Healthcare and mental wellness
Housing
Legal support
Pet services
Veteran benefits & much more
Free hot meal
Health services
Hair cuts
Veterans Court

For more information, please call (928) 369.8455 or email fishersforveterans@gmail.com

Operation Starlite
2025-08-18
Operation Starlite, conducted from August 18 to 24, 1965, was the first major offensive by U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War. Based on intelligence about an imminent Viet Cong attack on the Chu Lai Air Base, the Marines launched a preemptive strike against the 1st Viet Cong Regiment near Van Tuong, approximately 15 miles south of Chu Lai. The operation involved a coordinated assault using ground forces, helicopter insertions, and amphibious landings. Despite facing strong resistance, the Marines inflicted significant casualties on the Viet Cong, with U.S. reports citing 614 enemy killed and nine captured, while U.S. forces suffered 45 fatalities. Both sides claimed victory, but the operation demonstrated the U.S. military’s capability to conduct large-scale offensive operations in Vietnam.
Learn More:

Casualty Summary: Defense Casualty Analysis System
Operation Starlite Documentary (Full): Marines.mil, 2015
Operation Starlite Documentary Trailer: Marines.mil, 2015
Operation Starlite: Wikipedia Entry
The First Fight: USMCU.edu
Vietnam War: 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.

ACMF Birthday
2025-08-19
We’re celebrating the founding of the Arizona Coalition for Military Families on August 19, 2009.
The Arizona Coalition for Military Families (ACMF) is a nationally recognized public/private partnership focused on building Arizona’s statewide capacity to care for, serve, and support service members, veterans, their families, and communities.

Explore Our Champions
Learn about Our Approach
Read up on Our History
Meet Our Team

Mental Health First Aid Training
2025-08-21 08:00 - 17:00 | 1800 E. Palo Verde Street, 1800 E. Palo Verde Street, Yuma, AZ, 85365
When: August 21, 2025
Time: 8 AM – 5 PM MT
Where: Arizona Department of Economic Security
1800 E. Palo Verde Street
Yuma, AZ 85365

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.

Federal Hiring Workshop
2025-08-21 11:00 - 13:00
Federal Hiring Workshop
Date: 08/21/2025
Time: 11 AM – 1 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.
Sign up for this and other free workshops at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/OBTT-ArizonaCoalition#/
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.

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

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-08-22 09:00 - 14:00 | 1800 E. Palo Verde Street, 1800 E. Palo Verde Street, Yuma, AZ, 85365
Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: August 22, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM MT
Where: Arizona Department of Economic Security | 1800 E. Palo Verde, Yuma, AZ 85365

Register Here

Registration is required.
Lunch and a welcome gift will be provided for all attendees.
🌿Please register only if you plan to attend since we order meals, print materials, and arrange staffing in advance for everyone who registers.​

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

Welcome to Be Connected Virtual Event
2025-08-27 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:

August 27
September 24
October 29
November 19
December 17

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

U.S. Withdraws from Afghanistan
2025-08-30
The United States completed its troop withdrawal from Afghanistan on August 30, 2021, ending nearly two decades of military involvement. This process began with the February 2020 U.S.–Taliban agreement, which stipulated the withdrawal of all NATO forces by May 1, 2021. The Biden administration extended this deadline to September 11, 2021, later moving it up to August 31. As U.S. forces withdrew, the Taliban launched a nationwide offensive, capturing Kabul on August 15, 2021, leading to the collapse of the Afghan government. The final phase of the withdrawal involved a massive airlift, evacuating over 120,000 people, including U.S. citizens and Afghan allies. The withdrawal marked the end of America’s longest war but drew criticism over its execution and the rapid resurgence of the Taliban.
Learn More:

2 Year Reflection: CBS News, August 29, 2023
3 Year Reflection: CBS News, August 15, 2024
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
News Coverage: DW News, August 31, 2021
News Coverage: France 24, August 31, 2021
News Coverage: PBS NewsHour, August 31, 2021
News Coverage: WHAS11, August 31, 2021
News Retrospective: THV11, August 31, 2021
Report: After Action Review: U.S. Department of State, March 2022
U.S. Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan: Wikipedia Entry
War in Afghanistan: Wikipedia Entry

Support is Available
Reflecting on significant moments 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.

Suicide Prevention Month
2025-09-01 - 2025-09-30
Suicide Prevention Month is observed during September to raise awareness of the issue of suicide and promote efforts to prevent it. The month-long observance works to increase awareness of the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help, and promote access to resources and support. The significance of Suicide Prevention Month lies in its recognition of the devastating impact that suicide has on individuals, families, and communities, as well as the importance of taking action to prevent it. The month is marked by events and activities that educate the public about suicide prevention and provide resources and support for those who may be struggling.
Support is Available
The Be Connected Support Line, offered by the Arizona Coalition for Military Families, provides confidential, no-cost support to service members, veterans, and their family members. Call 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387) to connect with a team ready to help you navigate the programs, services, and benefits available to you. If you are experiencing a life-threatening crisis, please contact 9-1-1, or for urgent mental health support, call 9-8-8 and press 1.
Here are some constructive ways you can contribute to suicide prevention efforts:
1. Take in facts about suicide.

Veterans are at a higher risk for suicide.
Veterans have an adjusted suicide rate that is 52.3% greater than the non-veteran US adult population. Source: SAMHSA
People who have previously served in the military account for about 13.7% of suicides among adults in the United States. Source: VA
In 2019, 1.6% of former active-duty service members aged 18-25 years reported making a suicide attempt during the previous 12 months. This was an increase from 0.9% in 2009. Source: SAMHSA

2. Act with compassion. Seek to understand, and avoid making assumptions and judgments.
3. Learn to recognize concerning behaviors and signs of suicide.
4. Know what to do and how to seek assistance.

Call 9-1-1 if the situation is actively dangerous
Call 9-8-8 for crisis support 24/7
Share knowledge about The Brandon Act with service members.

5. Start a conversation and stay calm if someone you know exhibits concerning signs.

Ask if the person is thinking about suicide.
Be there. Don’t leave the person alone.
Connect them to resources such as 9-8-8 or take them to the Emergency Room

Our Suicide Prevention Work

Veteran Suicide Mortality Review Team
Our VA Funded Suicide Prevention Work
Understanding Veteran Suicide in Arizona
Upstream Suicide Prevention

National Service Dog Month
2025-09-01 - 2025-09-30
National Service Dog Month is a time to recognize and honor the contributions of service dogs in the lives of people with disabilities, veterans, and others who rely on the assistance of these highly trained animals. This month-long observance every September also raises awareness about the need for more service dogs to help people with a range of disabilities, including those with physical impairments, hearing or vision loss, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Service dogs are trained to assist with everyday tasks, such as opening doors, turning lights on and off, and retrieving items, and they can also provide emotional support and a sense of security for their handlers. National Service Dog Month is an opportunity to show appreciation for the valuable work that service dogs do and to support organizations that train and provide these dogs to those in need.

AZDES Quarterly Informational Forums
2025-09-02
AZDES Quarterly Informational Forums
Date & Time:
Sessions are held monthly
Location:
Virtual session (details shared after registration)
Event Details:
Every day, the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) serves nearly three million Arizonans with programs that touch almost every part of life, employment, housing, food assistance, child and family support, and more. But with so many programs, it can be hard for community partners to know all the ways DES can help.
That’s where the Quarterly Informational Forums come in. These sessions are designed for community organizations and service providers who want to:

Better understand what DES offers and how to connect people to services
Get clear answers on eligibility, applications, and how to navigate the DES website
Learn where to find emergency help quickly
Build relationships with DES staff and get a direct point of contact for future questions

If your organization supports families, veterans, seniors, or anyone in need, this forum will give you practical tools and connections to make sure you can point people in the right direction.
Registration:
Submit a Statement of Interest (one per organization). Once reviewed, you’ll receive the registration link for your team lead or point person.
