Welcome to Be Connected Virtual Event
2025-05-28 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:

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/

PTSD Awareness Month
2025-06-01 - 2025-06-30
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness Month is observed during June to raise awareness about the impact of PTSD and promote efforts to support those affected by it. PTSD is a condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat, sexual assault, or a natural disaster. The month-long observance aims to increase awareness of the symptoms and effects of PTSD, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health disorders and support, and promote access to resources and support for those with PTSD and their families. The significance of PTSD Awareness Month lies in its recognition of the importance of understanding and addressing the mental health needs of those who have experienced trauma and supporting their recovery and well-being. The month is marked by events and activities that aim to educate the public about PTSD, reduce stigma, and promote initiatives to help those affected by it, including veterans, first responders, and others who have experienced trauma.
Support is Available at No Cost
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.
Learn More:

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/crisis_help.asp
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Coaching into Connection
2025-06-01 - 2025-06-30, 2025-07-01 - 2025-07-31
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

Veterans of the Military Pilgrimage
2025-06-02
When: June 2 – 10, 2025
Cost (Airfare is included)

Veterans: $3,300.00
Non-military persons: $4,600.00 (for example, spouses)

Offered by: The Franciscan Renewal Center, 5802 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Contact 414.427.0570 x246 for more information.
Information & Registration
The Franciscan Renewal Center is offering a pilgrimage to Rome for veterans of the military.
Sample Itinerary
Note: The itinerary will vary based on dates of travel and reservation availability.
Trip Includes:

Daily Mass
Transfers as per itinerary.
Clean, modern hotels or pensioni staffed by religious congregations.
Transportation with coach bus and taxis
Most breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
Full services of staff
Daily input with lectures
All tips to driver, hotel, and tour guides.

St. Francis of Assisi knew from his experience that re-entering society after living in a life-threatening place is the most difficult journey for a human to make. St. Francis had to learn this painful lesson in his own life. The journeys of St. Francis and St. Clare may help you and your loved ones in trying to make sense of all the good and bad that you have witnessed and felt while in the military.

Salary Negotiations Workshop
2025-06-03 11:00 - 13:00
Salary Negotiations Workshop
Date: 06/03/2025
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 Midway
2025-06-04
The Battle of Midway, fought from June 4 to June 7, 1942, was a decisive American victory in World War II and a turning point in the Pacific Theater. Located north of Midway Atoll, the battle pitted U.S. forces led by Admirals Chester W. Nimitz, Frank J. Fletcher, and Raymond A. Spruance against Japanese forces commanded by Admirals Isoroku Yamamoto, Chūichi Nagumo, and Nobutake Kondō. The U.S. Navy, using dive bombers from the carriers Yorktown and Enterprise, destroyed four Japanese aircraft carriers—Hiryu, Soryu, Akagi, and Kaga—while losing only the Yorktown. This victory shifted the military initiative to the United States, crippling Japan’s ability to launch large-scale offensives. Preceded by the Battle of the Coral Sea, Midway demonstrated the strategic importance of aircraft carriers and marked a significant turning point in the war.
Learn More:

80 Year Reflection: Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Battle of Midway: History.com
Battle of Midway: The National WWII Museum
Battle of Midway: Wikipedia Entry
Bill Roy, Del Wiley: USS Yorktown: Firsthand Account, The National WWII Museum
Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
The Battle of Midway: NSA.gov
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.

D-Day
2025-06-06
D-Day is not a United States holiday, but rather a significant event in American history. It refers to the day of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944, during World War II. On that day, Allied forces, including American troops, launched a massive invasion of German-occupied France by sea and air. The operation was a critical turning point in the war, as it allowed the Allies to establish a foothold in Europe and begin to push back against the Axis powers. The significance of D-Day lies in its role in the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany and the liberation of Europe from tyranny. The sacrifices made by the soldiers who participated in the invasion are remembered and honored, as their bravery and determination helped to shape the course of history. Observing D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II, is an opportunity to remember and honor the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers who fought and died for freedom.
Learn More:

80 Year Reflection, Firsthand Accounts (2024): PBS NewsHour
D-Day Fact Sheet: DoD
D-Day Photography: Naval History and Heritage Command
D-Day: History.com
D-Day: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
D-Day: PBS
D-Day: The Allies Invade Europe: The National WWII Museum
Les Schrenk, WWII Veteran Visits Normandy (2024)
Operation Overlord Historical Overview: Army.mil
Remembering D-Day: Defense.gov
The National D-Day Memorial: DDay.org
Why D-Day Matters: DDay.org
World War II: D-Day, The Invasion of Normandy: 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.

National Women Veterans Day
2025-06-12
National Women Veterans Day is observed on June 12. This day recognizes and honors the service and sacrifices of women veterans. Even though women have served in the U.S. military since the Revolutionary War, their contributions have often been overlooked or undervalued. National Women Veterans Day seeks to correct this by highlighting the important role that women have played in defending the country and protecting its freedoms. It also aims to raise awareness of the unique challenges that women veterans face, such as gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and lack of access to female-oriented resources. By recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of women veterans, National Women Veterans Day honors their service and inspires future generations of women to pursue careers in the military and to advocate for gender equality in all aspects of society.

U.S. Army Birthday
2025-06-14
The U.S. Army’s birthday is an annual observance that commemorates the formation of the United States Army on June 14, 1775. The day recognizes the Army’s contributions to the nation’s defense and its enduring commitment to protecting American values and interests at home and abroad. The U.S. Army’s birthday also provides an opportunity to honor the sacrifices and dedication of the soldiers who have served and continue to serve in the Army, as well as to celebrate the spirit of service and commitment that is at the core of the Army’s mission. This observance is an important reminder of the Army’s vital role in safeguarding the nation and its citizens. Learn more at https://www.army.mil/

Flag Day
2025-06-14
Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the American flag on June 14, 1777. The flag is a symbol of national unity, pride, and freedom. The observance of Flag Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have fought for and defended the flag, as well as the values and ideals it represents. To honor the flag on this day, it is important to follow proper flag etiquette. Here are the five American flag etiquette rules:

Display the flag from sunrise to sunset, unless it is illuminated during the night.
Do not let the flag touch the ground or floor.
Raise the flag briskly and lower it ceremoniously.
Do not use the flag as clothing or decoration.
When the flag is no longer in good condition, it should be disposed of in a respectful manner, such as by burning it in a special ceremony.

Battle of Ramadi
2025-06-17
The Battle of Ramadi took place from June to November 2006 as part of the Iraq War (2003 – 2011). U.S. forces, along with Sunni tribal fighters (part of the Anbar Awakening), fought to reclaim the city of Ramadi from al-Qaeda insurgents. Coalition forces used a strategy of establishing Combat Operation Posts across the city to secure key locations like the Government Center and General Hospital. The battle was a turning point in the Anbar province and played a major role in reducing the influence of al-Qaeda in Iraq.

U.S. Navy SEAL Michael Anthony Monsoor was killed during the Battle of Ramadi when he dove on a grenade.
U.S. Navy SEAL Marc Alan Lee was the first SEAL to lose his life in Operation Iraqi Freedom, when he was killed in Ramadi. Lee’s story is highlighted in The Warfighters by The History Channel and in the movie American Sniper.

Resources:

Anthony Deane: Army Officer, Author of Ramadi Declassified
Bastard’s Road: Marine Veteran Jonathan Hancock Walks 6000 Miles
Kevin Lacz: SEAL Team Member, Author of The Last Punisher
Military Times: Photo Gallery, Battle of Ramadi
Presentation by Dr. Louis DiMarco
Video Documentary: Battle of Ramadi
Wikipedia Entry: Battle of Ramadi (2006)

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.

Mental Health First Aid Training
2025-06-17 08:00 - 17:00
When: June 17, 2025
Time: 8 AM – 5 PM MT
Where: TBD in Prescott, Arizona

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
2025-06-19 11:00 - 13:00
Federal Hiring Workshop
Date: 06/19/2025
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.

LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
2025-06-21 10:00 - 12:00
LinkedIn Profiles Workshop
Date: 06/21/2025
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.

Korean War Begins
2025-06-25
The Korean War (1950–1953) was a significant conflict between North Korea, supported by China and the Soviet Union, and South Korea, backed by United Nations forces led by the United States. The war began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces invaded South Korea, crossing the 38th parallel. In response, UN forces launched a counteroffensive, including the notable Inchon Landing, pushing into North Korea. However, Chinese intervention in late 1950 resulted in a stalemate near the original border. After prolonged negotiations, an armistice was signed on July 27, 1953, establishing the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) but leaving the peninsula divided, as no formal peace treaty was concluded. The war caused significant devastation, with millions of military and civilian casualties, and set the stage for ongoing tensions between North and South Korea.
Learn More:

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
U.S. Enters Korean Conflict: 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.

Welcome to Be Connected Virtual Event
2025-06-25 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:

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
2025-06-25 09:00 - 13:00 | Arizona State Veterans Home – Flagstaff, 21oo N. Gemini Road, Flagstaff, AZ, 86004
Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: June 25, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 1 PM MT
Where: Arizona State Veterans Home, 2100 N. Gemini Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
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

PTSD Awareness Day
2025-06-27
PTSD Awareness Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the condition and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event and can affect anyone, including military service members, first responders, and civilians. The day is observed on June 27 each year, and its purpose is to encourage people to learn about the symptoms of PTSD, seek help if they need it, and support those who are living with the condition. The observance also works to reduce the stigma associated with seeking support for mental wellness and promote understanding and compassion for those affected by PTSD.
Support is Available at No Cost
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.
Learn More:

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/crisis_help.asp
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Military/Veteran Helper Training
2025-06-27 10:00 - 14:00 | 2020 N. Central Avenue, 2020 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85004
Military/Veteran Helper Training
When: June 27, 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

Operation Red Wings
2025-06-28
Operation Red Wings was a U.S. military mission in Afghanistan’s Kunar Province from late June to mid-July 2005, aiming to disrupt Taliban-aligned insurgents led by Ahmad Shah. A four-member Navy SEAL reconnaissance team was deployed to locate Shah but was ambushed, resulting in three fatalities. A quick reaction force’s MH-47 Chinook helicopter was then shot down by insurgents, killing all 16 U.S. personnel aboard. The sole survivor, Petty Officer Marcus Luttrell, was later rescued. This operation marked one of the deadliest days for U.S. Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan.
Learn More:

Marcus Luttrell: Wikipedia Entry
Operation Red Wings: Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum
Operation Red Wings: Wikipedia Entry
SEAL Team 6 Operator Remembers Red Wings: Shawn Ryan Clips

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.

Social Determinants of Health Training
2025-07-01 - 2025-07-08
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.

Market Yourself to Employers Workshop
2025-07-01 11:00 - 13:00
Date: 07/01/2025
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.

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 | 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
