Veterans Day Meals & Restaurant Discounts

Veterans Day Free Meals

To honor members of the military, these restaurants are offering veterans free meals on or around Veterans Day, November 11.

110 Grill -- Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary lunch from a select menu from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on November 10.

151 Coffee -- Veterans and their families get a complimentary coffee or beverage of their choice on November 11.

Another Broken Egg Cafe -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free Patriot French Toast, topped with strawberries, blueberries and fresh whipped cream, and Barista House Blend Coffee on November 11 with a valid ID. Dine-in only.

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free 12″ Cheese Pizza on November 11. Dine-in only. Guests must present their military ID.

Applebee's -- On November 11, active-duty military, veterans, reserves and National Guard that dine in-restaurant get a complimentary full-size entrée from a special menu. They will also receive a $5 Bounce Back Card to redeem for dine-in, To Go, or delivery within a three-week redemption window.

Army & Air Force Exchange Service -- On November 11, Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers various deals, including free gourmet fry at Charleys with the purchase of any cheesesteak and drink.

Aroma Joe's -- Veterans get a free 24 oz. drink on November 11.

Au Bon Pain -- Veterans get a free breakfast sandwich and small coffee on November 10. Offer in-cafe at participating locations only. 

Bandana's BBQ -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free pulled chicken or pulled pork Budget Buster or a pulled chicken or pulled pork sandwich on November 11 with proof of service or military ID. Dine in only.

Bar Louie -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free Craft Burger on November 11 with a valid ID. Dine-in only.

Benihana -- Active-duty military members and veterans get a free appetizer with any lunch or dinner entrée purchase on November 11.

Biggby Coffee -- Veterans and active-duty service members receive a free 24oz brewed coffee on November 11.

Bill Gray's -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military get a free World's Greatest Cheeseburger, regular fries and a soda with proof of service.

Biscuit Belly -- Veterans get a special free lunch menu on November 10 from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dine-in only.

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse -- On November 11, veterans with a valid military ID can dine in and enjoy a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® with any $9.95+ purchase. In addition, veterans who spend more than $14.95 for dine in or takeout will receive a bounce back coupon for a free appetizer to redeem between November 12 and December 31, 2023.

Black Angus Steakhouse -- Current and past members of the military get a free meal on November 10 from 12pm to 3pm with ID. This deal is not available to-go.

Bob Evans -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a select menu on November 11. Dine-in only.

Bombshells Restaurant and Bar -- All locations in Texas will provide free entrees for veterans on November 11. Other items will be discounted 20%. Families accompanying veterans, and active-duty service members and their accompanying families, will receive a 20% discount on entrees and other items on Veterans Day. Alcoholic beverages are excluded.

Bonefish Grill -- Active-duty service members and veterans get a complimentary order of Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage on November 11 with valid ID.

Bruegger's Bagels -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free hot or iced coffee (any size) with a purchase in-store on November 11.

Buffalo Wild Wings -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free order of 10 Boneless Wings and Fries on November 11 with valid ID. Only available for dine-in. Buffalo Wild Wings GO locations will be included for walk-in/order at the counter only. 

Buffalo's Cafe -- All dine-in veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary entree from the menu (up to a $17.99 value) on November 11. Must present military ID or wear military uniform.

Burntwood Tavern -- Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary meal on November 11.

Calhoun's -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free lunch from 10:45am to 4pm on November 11. Military ID required. 

California Fish Grill -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel get a complimentary taco and soft drink.

California Pizza Kitchen – Veterans and active-duty military members get a complimentary meal November 11. They will also receive a BOGO offer to redeem for a pizza, pasta or salad of equal or lesser value that can be redeemed from November 12 to November 21. 

Caribou Coffee -- Veterans, active-duty military members and their spouses with a valid ID receive a Small Hot Brewed Coffee of the Day or Cold Press, excluding nitro on November 11.

Carolina Ale House -- Veterans and military members receive a free half rack rib platter with coleslaw and fries on November 11 at participating locations.

Carrabba's -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert paired with a soft beverage with show of ID.

Casey's General Stores -- Casey’s is offering any size complimentary coffee or fountain drink to all veterans on November 11.

Cattlemens -- Active, non-active, and retired military personal get a complimentary sirloin steak dinner with proof of service. Sign up on their website on or before November 11, 2023 to receive your steak certificate. The offer will be emailed on November 12, 2023. Offer valid November 12 to 22, 2023 during regular business hours for dine-in. Offer valid at California Cattlemens locations only.

Charleys Cheesesteaks -- Veterans and active-duty military get free Gourmet Fries in-store with no purchase necessary on November 11 at participating locations with a valid ID.

Chelo's Hometown Bar & Grille -- Veterans with a valid military ID get a free meal from a select menu on November 11.

Chicken Salad Chick -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military will receive a free meal at all locations.

Chili's -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free meal from a select menu on November 11 with proof of service. Available for in-restaurant only.

Cicis Pizza -- Veterans and active-duty military personnel get a free Adult Buffet with a valid military ID for Veterans Day. The Veterans Day offer may be available at your local Cicis on November 10 or November 11. It’s valid for dine-in only and does not include a drink. Contact your local Cicis Pizza to learn more.

Circle K -- On November 11, Circle K is offering free coffee through the Circle K app to thank veterans and active-duty military personnel. To redeem, download the Circle K mobile app and follow the instructions under Deals tab. Valid at participating stores.

Claim Jumper -- Veterans and active-duty military receive a free dine in meal from a special menu on November 13.

Coco's Bakery Restaurant -- Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Homestyle Breakfast on November 11. Available for dine-in only.

Cody's Original Roadhouse -- Active and nonactive service members and veterans get an 8oz. Top Sirloin or 8oz. Chicken Breast for free with a valid military ID on November 10. 

Colton's Steak House & Grill -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free entrée on November 11 until 4 pm from a select menu at participating locations. Available for dine-in only with valid military ID.

Cotton Patch Cafe -- Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Chicken Fried Steak or Chicken on November 11. Dine-in only. Must present valid military ID.

Craft Republic -- Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal from a select menu on November 11. 

CRISP & GREEN -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free Salad or Nourishing Grain Bowl on November 11 at all Dallas locations.

Crooked Pint Ale House -- Veterans and active-duty military can choose one free item on November 11 with proof of service. Choose from Chicken Pot Pie, Classic Lucy, Grilled Clubhouse, or Bourbon Cranberry Chicken Salad for dine-in only.

Davanni's Pizza and Hot Hoagies -- On November 11, active-duty military and veterans get a Free Solo 1-item Pizza and Regular Pop.

Dave & Buster's -- Veterans get a free entree (up to $20) and a free $10 Power Card with a valid veterans ID card on November 11.

Denny's -- Veterans and military personnel receive a free Original Gran Slam on November 10 from 5 a.m. (Store Open) to noon. Dine-in only. Must show valid Military ID or DD214.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free Pulled Pork Sandwich on November 11. Valid in-store, and online/app for carryout.

Duffy's Sports Grill -- Veterans get a free meal on November 11 from 11am to 4pm. Dine-in only.

Dunkin' -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free donut of their choice on November 11 at participating locations. Offer available in-store only.

East Coast Wings + Grill -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a select menu on November 11 at participating locations.

Einstein Bros. Bagels -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free hot or iced coffee (any size) with a purchase in-store on November 11.

El Chico -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free entrée on November 11at participating locations. Limit $25. Proof of service required. 

Emmet's Social Table -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal up to $15 on November 10 with a valid military ID. 

Eureka! -- Active and retired military members get a complimentary American Cheeseburger all day on November 11.

Farmer Boys -- Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Big Cheese burger on November 11 at participating locations with proof of service. Not valid on delivery or mobile ordering.

Fazoli's -- Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Regular Spaghetti with Meat or Marinara on November 11. Must present military ID or wear military uniform.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill -- Dine with a veteran or active-duty service member on November 10 and their meal is free. Dine in only. 

Food City -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from the Deli Hot Bar on November 11.

Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers -- Veterans and active-duty military personnel who visit on November 11 will receive a free Freddy’s Original Double with Cheese combo meal card that can be redeemed through November 30.

Freebirds World Burrito -- Active military personnel and veterans get free burritos on November 11 with a valid military ID.

Fricker's -- Veterans get 10 free wings on November 11. Dine-in only. Show proof of service.

Gold Star Chili -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary meal of their choice up to $12 off their order with proof of service. For dine-in, carry out or drive-thru.

Golden Corral -- Golden Corral is hosting their Military Appreciation Night on November 13 from 5pm to close. This includes a free “thank you” meal when dining in.

Green Mill Restaurant and Bar -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military can choose a free item from a select menu with proof of service. Dine-in only.

Greene Turtle -- Veterans receive a free meal up to $15 with valid ID on November 11. Dine-in only.

Grillsmith -- Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary entrée on November 11.

GuacAmigos -- Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal from a select menu on November 13.

Hacienda Mexican Restaurant -- Veterans with proof of ID get a Large Wet Burrito for free when they dine-in or carryout on November 11.

Hamburger Stand -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free hamburger, regular fries and a small soda on November 11 at participating locations.

Hard Rock Cafe -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free Legendary Burger on November 11. Dine-in only with valid ID. 

Hawaiian Bros -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free classic plate lunch with ID on November 11. This offer is for dine-in, drive-thru, and carry-out only (excluding ghost kitchens).

Hickory Tavern -- Veterans and active-duty members receive a free meal of equal or lesser value with purchase of another meal on November 10. Dine-in only, limit of one free meal per U.S military service member. Proof of military service is required. 

Hof's Hut -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free Hofburger OR Buttermilk Pancakes Comb November 10 and 11 with military ID card or proof of service. For dine in only. Active-duty military and veterans will also receive a $10 thank you card that is redeemable from November 24 to December 3, 2023.

Hopdoddy Burger Bar -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free classic burger on November 11. Available for dine-in only.

Hooters -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free entrée from the Hooters Veterans Day Menu with purchase of a beverage at participating locations on November 11. Dine-in only.

Huddle House -- Active-duty military members and veterans get a free MVP meal on November 11 with valid ID.

Huey Magoo's -- Veterans and active-duty military members get a free 5-piece tender meal when you buy a 5-piece meal and 2 beverages on November 11. Must show military or veteran ID, or DD-214 form to redeem. Offer valid for in-restaurant orders only. Offer not valid at UCF (Student Union), FL, Fremont Hotel & Casino, NV or Milledgeville, GA locations.

Hurricane Grill and Wings -- Veterans and active-duty military who dine-in get a complimentary entree from a special menu on November 11. Must present military ID or wear military uniform.

Hy-Vee -- Veterans, military members and their families get a free fresh breakfast on November 10 between 6 and 10 a.m. Plus, veterans and military members receive 15% off grocery purchases on November 10. Shop in-store or Hy-Vee Aisles Online and use promo code HOMEFRONT15 at checkout.

IHOP -- Veterans and active-duty military get free Red, White, & Blueberry Pancakes or Pancake Combo on November 11 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dine-in only, at participating restaurants.

Insomnia Cookies -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free 6-pack of Classic cookies with any purchase until November 13 at 3 a.m. PST. Excludes all online pick-up/delivery orders and nationwide shipping orders.

IKEA -- From November 10 to 12, veterans and active-duty military members with a valid ID can dine for free in the restaurant.

Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant -- Veterans and active-duty service members receive a complimentary meal off a special menu along with a non-alcoholic beverage on November 11.

Jefferson’s Restaurant -- Veterans and active-duty military can visit any location with a valid ID on November 11 to get a free entree.

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice -- On November 11, anyone with a military ID gets a Free Small Menu Item.

Juice It Up -- Veterans and active-duty service members get a free Medium Classic Smoothie on November 11. The offer is available in-store only and requires proof of service.

Kings Family Restaurant -- Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal from a select menu on November 13.

Kolache Factory -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free kolache and a cup of coffee on November 11 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. with valid ID.

Krispy Kreme -- Veterans get a free doughnut and coffee on November 11 at participating locations.

Kwik Fill -- Veterans receive a free large coffee on November 11.

Lab Bakery & Coffee Bar -- Active-duty service members and veterans get a free cup of coffee and a slice of vanilla pound cake on November 11 with ID.

LaMar’s Donuts -- Veterans receive a free 12 oz coffee and donut on November 11.

Lion’s Choice -- Active-duty and retired military members get a free original roast beef sandwich on November 11. Guests can request their free sandwich at check-out by stating they are a veteran or showing a valid ID. 

Little Caesars -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free Lunch Combo at participating stores on November 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. In-store only.

Logan's Roadhouse -- Veterans and active-duty military personnel get a free meal with a valid ID from a special menu at participating locations on November 11. This offer is available for dine-in only from 11 a.m to 3 p.m.

Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ -- Active-duty military and veterans get a dine-in complimentary meal on November 10 and 11. There are two complimentary entrees to choose from. Plus, receive a $10 Thank You card. Must show proof of service or military ID.

Main Event -- On November 11, active-duty military and veterans get a free double cheeseburger and 30 minute Fun Card with ID.

Max & Erma's – Max & Erma's offers veterans and active-duty military a free Cheeseburger, Endless Fries, fountain drink and a cookie on November 11at participating locations. Show proof of military service. 

Menchie's -- Veterans and active-duty military get their first 6 oz of froyo free on November 11 with valid ID.

Mission BBQ -- Veterans get a free sandwich on November 11.

MOD Pizza -- Buy one MOD-size pizza or salad, get one MOD-size pizza or salad free on November 11 with proof of military service. Valid in-store only.

Native Grill & Wings -- Veterans and active-duty military who dine-in on November 11 get a choice of ½ LB Stripper Combo, ½ LB Boneless Combo or Native Burger w/ fries for free. Must present military ID or wear military uniform.

Ninety Nine Restaurant and Pub -- On November 10 from opening to 5pm, veterans and active-duty military get a free lunch from a special menu with the purchase of another entrée. Available for dine-in only.

NORMS -- Those who serve and have served get a complimentary Four Deuces with a valid ID on November 11 for dine-in or to-go.

O'Charley's – O’Charley’s offers veterans and active-duty military a special free lunch menu on November 10 and 11. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, veterans can order one free entrée from the special menu and/or receive a free slice of pie at dinner. Both offers are for dine-in only.

Old Chicago -- Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary lunch entree from an exclusive menu on November 11.

Outback Steakhouse -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entree in-restaurant on November 11.

Paisano's Pizza -- Veterans get a free medium cheese pizza when presenting a valid military ID on November 11.

Parry's Pizza -- Veterans and active-duty military get a full-size entrée and fountain drink from a special menu for free on November 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Show a valid military ID or proof of service. Dine-in only.

Peet's Coffee -- Active-duty military and veterans get one free drip coffee or tea on November 11 at participating locations with proof of service.

Perkins -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free Magnificent Seven Meal on November 11 with valid ID.

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free pork chop on November 10. Dine-in only from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm. Offer available when accompanied by a guest purchasing one lunch or dinner entree. On November 11, get a 3-course menu for $39, dine-in only from 4 pm to 6 pm. Reservations and military ID are required for both deals.

Pilot Flying J -- Service members and their families get a free meal at participating locations November 10 to 12 through a special offer in the app.

Playa Bowls -- Veterans get a free bowl with a military ID on November 11. This will be in-shop only at select locations.

Polly's Pies -- Veterans and active-duty military personnel get a free slice of pie, no purchase necessary, on November 10 and 11 with military ID. In-store only.

Primanti Bros -- On November 10 and 11, active-duty military and veterans receive a free classic Primanti Bros. sandwich. Dine-in only. Not applicable at FL, Airport, Stadium or Kennywood locations.

RA Sushi -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free shareable on November 11.

Red Lobster -- Veterans, active-duty military and reservists get free printed meal vouchers for Veterans Shrimp & Chips from 11:00am to 4:00pm local time on November 11. Guests need to show a valid military ID or proof of service. The voucher can be redeemed beginning November 13 through December 10 for dine-in only.

Red Robin – Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger on November 11 with valid ID. Dine-in only, not valid for online or to-go orders. The free meal also comes with an endless side of steak fries.

Rock and Brews -- Active-duty military and veterans get complimentary “We Salute You” Pulled Pork Sandwich or Strawberry Fields Salads on November 11. 

Scooter’s Coffee -- Veterans get a free handcrafted drink of any size on November 11 with a valid military ID at participating locations. Not available for Order Ahead through the Scooter’s Coffee Mobile App.

Seven Doors Kitchen & Cocktails -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal on November 11.

Shane's Rib Shack -- Active, inactive, and retired military personnel get a free BBQ Pork or Chopped Chicken Plate November 9 to 11. Proof of service required, in-store only.

Shari's -- Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Homestyle Breakfast on November 11. Available for dine-in only. 

Sheetz -- On November 11, veterans and active-duty military get a free half turkey sub and a regular size fountain drink at any location. Sheetz will also provide a free car wash to veterans and active-duty military. This offer only applies to the $9 car wash option and is only available at stores that have a car wash. Military ID or proof of service must be presented.

Shoney's -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free breakfast on November 11 until 11 a.m. at participating restaurants. Proof of military service is required. Dine-in only.

Shrimp Basket -- Veterans, active-duty military and Reserves get a free popcorn shrimp basket from any location on November 11 with valid military ID. Dine-in only.

Sizzler -- On November 11, participating locations are offering a free lunch to active-duty military and veterans until 4:00pm. Choose between a free Half Dozen Crispy Shrimp, Malibu Chicken, or 6oz Tri-Tip Steak entree.

Smokey Bones -- Active duty and retired military personnel get a free Create Your Own Combo on November 11. The offer is valid for dine-in only with a valid military ID.

Smokey Mo’s -- Smokey Mo’s offers military one free breakfast taco from 7 a.m. to 10:30 am on November 11.

Smoothie King -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free smoothie from one of three red, white, and blue smoothies at participating locations on November 11 with a valid ID.

Sonny's BBQ -- Veterans and active-duty military get a Free Pork Big Deal November 11. Go to their registration page to verify your military status and get your coupon. Available for dine-in, takeout and drive-thru.

Starbucks -- Starbucks is honoring those who have served with a free tall (12-ounce) hot or cold brewed coffee for veterans, military service members and military spouses who visit participating U.S. stores on November 11.

Sugarfire Smoke House -- Sugarfire Smoke House offers active-duty and retired military members a free cheeseburger special on November 11.

Sweet Buzz Bean & Bistro -- Active-duty military, veterans and their spouses get a choice of complimentary meals (Egg, Cheese, Bacon or Sausage Sandwich with tater tots, Triple Decker Club & side dish or Cobb Salad) on November 10 and 11.

Tap House Grill -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal on November 11. Dine-in only.

TCBY -- Veterans and active military personnel get their first 6 oz. of frozen yogurt for free on November 11 at participating locations.

Texas Roadhouse -- At participating locations, active-duty military and veterans can dine in or receive a meal voucher on November 11 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with a form of military ID. These vouchers are good for dine in or carry out at a later time. The voucher is good until May 30, 2024. If you choose to dine in on November 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m, there will be a specific menu to select from.

Tijuana Flats -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free entrée with the purchase of a medium drink (or minimum purchase of $2.79) on November 11with valid ID. Use code VETSFREE to redeem. Offer is valid for in-store and to-go orders only.

Tucanos Brazilian Grill -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free Churrasco meal with the purchase of another Churrasco meal, November 9 through 11. Proof of service required.

Tuscan Brands -- On November 10, veterans eat for free at Tuscan Kitchen, Tuscan Sea Grill, and Toscana Chop House. Call to make your reservation.

TXB -- TXB offers military a free medium coffee or cappuccino at any location on November 11.

Uno Pizzeria & Grill -- Veteran and active-duty military get a free meal on November 11 with proper ID at participating locations.

Wendy’s -- Active-duty military and veterans get a free breakfast combo on November 11 at participating locations during breakfast hours with valid ID.

White Castle -- Veterans and active-duty military get a free individual combo meal or a breakfast combo meal when dining at a participating restaurant on November 11.

WOB Bar & Kitchen -- Veterans and active-duty service members receive an order of one of WOB’s limited time Fall food items, the Crispy Chicken Sliders for free at participating locations, November 9 to 12. Present a military ID, VA card or proof of service.

Zaxby's -- Zaxby's offers a free Signature Sandwich (Sandwich Only) on November 11 for Zax Rewardz members, redeemable through Zaxby’s app. Eligible Signature Sandwiches for the offer are the Zaxby’s Signature Sandwich and the Zaxby’s Spicy Signature Sandwich. The offer is unique to each Zax Rewardz account and redeemable one time for a free Signature Sandwich. Valid at participating locations and redemption is subject to availability.

Ziggi’s Coffee -- Veterans and active-duty military members with a valid military ID or other proof of service get a free 16oz drink November 11. This offer is available at all Ziggi’s Coffee locations and cannot be redeemed through mobile app orders.

Saint Philip Neri Award

November 6, 2023

A message from the Special Forces Association National Secretary: 

SFA Members,

 

I wanted to send a quick reminder that the nominations period for the 2024 Saint Philip Neri gold and silver awards opened on November 1st, 2023 and will remain open until February 29th, 2024. Nominations will not be accepted after February 29, 2024.  Please take a few minutes to review the nomination packet requirements, background information on the Saint Philip Neri Award and an overview of some of the history of the Patron Saint of Special Forces on our public website at https://www.specialforcesassociation.org/, located towards the bottom of the landing page.

 

All nominations must be submitted through the SFA public website at https://www.specialforcesassociation.org/saint-philip-neri-award/

 

If you have any questions, please contact JD Campbell, SFA National Secretary, at secretary@specialforcesassociation.org  

 

DOL

 

JD Campbell

National Secretary

Drop Magazine

October 27, 2023

A message from the Special Forces Association:

As you probably know SFA is switching to a subscription model for The Drop. Current Life members can continue to receive a free copy if they indicate they want one. They make this choice by going into their profile and choosing to receive a paper copy in their basic information area. We need your help in getting the word out. Many of our life members have either no email addresses or bad email addresses. Many (24 in Chapter 76) have never logged into our website and updated their membership information. NOTE: If a member's current member type is Legacy Life, they have already been moved from Life to this type based on their preference for a paper copy in order to continue to receive a free paper copy.

There is an entry in the Teamhouse FAQ section on how to subscribe to a paper copy of The Drop.

DOL

Len Cummings

PS ~ Use this link for Teamhouse: https://teamhouse.specialforcesassociation.org/, then login, once you login, your name will appear at the top right of the page.  Hover over your name and you should see ‘Profile’ right below… click that and your Member Profile will show up. Scroll down and click on ‘Basic Member Information’ and you will see the ‘Contact Information’ headline and below that ‘General Information.’ Scroll down to ‘Other info’ where you will make a choice:  Newsletter:  ‘I want a printed newsletter’ or ‘I will download the newsletter from the website’

 

 

Joe Pruett on behalf of

Ed Pijuan

President

Passing of LTC(R) Ernest "Brian" Carroll-Update

 

October 21, 2023

From Ted Cooley and others,

Hello All, 

Sorry to say that I have sad news again. Another one of our SF brothers has passed.

I received a phone call from Frank Bray this morning, to notify me that Brian had passed away last night (Fri, Oct 20th), from advanced dementia Cathy (Brian's wife) said that Brian did not want any services and wanted to be cremated, and she would be honoring his wishes. At one point in Brian's military career, he served as the Battalion Commander for 3/20 SFGA. Please keep his family and friends in your prayers. If I receive any additional information I will send it out.

Ted Cooley

Another one gone.
Sad we are dropping like flies.
Anyone have any pictures of him to post???

Also he should get in the DROP magazine if someone can get a better bio on him.

Ed

Soldiers Freedom Outdoors Events

What is Soldiers Freedom Outdoors?

Soldiers Freedom Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 2011 and became a public charity in 2014. 

Soldiers Freedom Outdoors is dedicated to serving our active-duty and service veterans.  In 11 years of service, SFO has provided eco therapy (nature therapy) to hundreds of soldiers, regardless of gender, service branch or length of service.

Since our inception, we have helped change the lives of many suffering from post-traumatic stress and re-connected them with the healing power of Nature. Some of our heroes have said our program saved their lives… powerful testimonies like that make us work harder than ever to meet our soldier’s needs, and gives us confidence we are making a difference.

There is no charge for our retreats.

Retreats October 20-23            DAR women's retreat (Full) November 17-20        Yankee retreat December 8-11           Zulu retreat   Get away and let us serve you.    You can go hiking, fishing, horseback riding, throw some horseshoes or just relax in a hammock.    Lodging and home cooked meals provided.     Camp Freedom is your home away from home, where the healing begins.   Visit soldiersfreedomoutdoors.org to register. Blacksmithing 101   October 21-22 (Full) November 18-19 December 9-10   This is a great way for our Veterans to learn about blacksmithing.    Each person will be making a knife to take home.    This is a two-day class, and we only have 4 spots available for each class.    Carl Oliver will be the main instructor for the course.   Visit soldiersfreedomoutdoors.org to register. Horses 101 is for military children ages 8-18. Children aged 10 or younger must have a parent with them.    The children will learn basic horse grooming, the language of the horse and will be able to ride.    Lunch is provided.    Limited to 10 children   Visit soldiersfreedomoutdoors.org to register.

This Marine is taking challenge coins to new heights, crayons included

For over 100 years, the challenge coin has been a symbol of esprit de corps among troops around the globe, tracing its roots back to World War I.

In the past, tokens have formally conveyed symbols of unit history or accomplishments. More recently, however, some artisans have produced more creative variants tied to military culture and humor.

One such minter is Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Spencer Garvin, owner of Sven Smash Designs and creator of a devil dog favorite, the crayon-eater coin.

“The best coin of all time has to be the crayon bottle opener,” Garvin told Military Times, noting the service’s crayon-eating trope.

Garvin’s crayon creation may be both a challenge coin and a fun way to crack open a cold one, but it is not simply some venture born out of boredom. Rather, Garvin was tasked with making a challenge coin, saw room to diversify the space and jumped at the chance.

(Sven Smash Designs) 

“I was the commander’s driver in Marine Forces, Europe and Africa, in Stuttgart, Germany, and one of the tasks they had given me one day was that the commander needs a new coin,” he said.

Several rounds of edits with vendors ensued, but to no avail.

“After probably about 10 edits, [the commander] was like, ‘You know, we’re just gonna keep the one we have,’” Garvin said.

Garvin developed an idea for a separate coin on the side, however, and spent his own money to make it. He then sold his version among his unit.

“Everyone loved it,” he noted. “That was kind of the first coin that I designed.”

Now, years into the craft, Sven Smash has a catalog of coins inspired by everything from crayons to Pokemon, Harry Potter, and Funko Pop! designs — each with a military twist.

“The tradition of it has grown,” Garvin said, adding, “They’re [just] a little bit more eccentric than the classic challenge coin.”

We have lost one of our own:Howell Vernon Long, Jr

Hello Members and Friends of the Association, SGM(R) Vernon Long update per Ray Millican: If you can make the funeral,  it is not necessary to wear a uniform, but please bring your berets.     Joe Pruett on behalf of Ed Pijuan President   Howell Vernon Long, Jr. was born in Athens, Georgia, on March 26, 1941, to   Howell Vernon Long and Elizabeth Marjorie Hodges. He passed away peacefully   in his sleep on October 6, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marylee, as well as his son, Howell Vernon Long,   III (Melissa), Jacob David McKinney, Elizabeth Margaret Bowling, (Alan) and Michael   Allen Wayne McKinney, and 6 grandchildren. Vernon grew up in Athens where he helped in his parents’ candy factory. After graduating   high school, he joined the US Army. He returned to Athens and entered the University of   Georgia, earning a degree in finance and real estate. He worked for a time in the physical   plant at the university, learning the craft which served him the rest of his life. Vernon moved to Amelia Island in 1973 to work for the Amelia Island Plantation. He later   started his own construction business, specializing in new construction and renovations,   including several of the old residences in Fernandina Beach. He joined the Army National Guard   in 1979 and became Special Forces qualified, serving his country until his retirement in 2001. He loved the Lord, his family, his country and his garden. He really enjoyed reading and watching   the Georgia Bulldogs. Vernon’s family will receive friends Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at   Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. Funeral services will be held Friday, October 13, 2023 at 11:00 AM in the Burgess Chapel of   Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donating to Amelia Community Theatre,   209 Cedar Street, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

FYI -Sandy passed away yesterday evening

FYI -Sandy passed away yesterday evening 

Arrangements Brewer & Sons Funeral Home Brooksville FL

Sandra Jean Exum

May 11,1961-October 5, 2023

Annual event honoring all Veterans

October 2, 2023

Hello Members and Friends of the Association,

As usual, I know nothing about this event other that what is written below and I will try to forward any flyers as they arrive my station.

~  Thanks to Bill Sander of Chapter 85  ~

 

Good morning:

 

This is a great annual event honoring all Veterans. They provide a really nice lunch as well. 

 

Several of us have been there the last three years. You will not be disappointed.

 

"Please let me know if you plan to attend"

 

I received this from the Seminole Nation:

I wanted to let you all know that a date has been set to have our Veteran’s Day Celebration at the Florida Seminole Veteran’s Building in Brighton.

 

Thursday, November 9^th

 

Once we have a flyer I will email that to you.

 

Have a nice day.

 

Thank you,

 

Feather Micco

Administrative Assistant II

Florida Seminole Veteran’s Building

Brighton Building and Grounds

800 East Harney Pond Road

Okeechobee, FL 34974

Office (863) 357-7620

Fax (863) 467-2621

Email: feathermicco@semtribe.com

 

Joe Pruett on behalf of

Ed Pijuan

President