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© 2013 KentuckyGuard
Story by 2nd Lt. James Killen, 123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Nine-year-old Dawson Barr and his family visit the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing to view aircraft that will be flown in the annual Thunder Over Louisville Air Show, in Louisville, Ky., April 18, 2015. Dawson has been battling cancer his entire life and currently has an inoperable brain tumor, making him legally blind in both eyes. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. James W. Killen)
KENTUCKY AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Members of the Kentucky Air National Guard welcomed a 9-year-old boy with cancer to the base Saturday as aircraft from around the world prepared to perform in the Thunder Over Louisville air show.
Dawson Barr, accompanied by his sister, mother and father, toured the flight line with Chief Master Sgt. Joe Dawson, superintendent of the 123rd Operations Group here.
“Dawson had an absolute blast!” Chief Dawson said. “We visited every aircraft on the flight line, met and talked with several people along the way, and we also got to watch a C-17 Globemaster taxi out and take off.”
Nine-year-old Dawson Barr and his family visit the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing to view aircraft that will be flown in the annual Thunder Over Louisville Air Show, in Louisville, Ky., April 18, 2015. Dawson has been battling cancer his entire life and currently has an inoperable brain tumor, making him legally blind in both eyes. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by 2nd Lt. James W. Killen)
Dawson toured the Operations Building, ate lunch supplied by the 123rd Security Forces Squadron, and watched several aircraft take off while observing from the 165th Airlift Squadron Heritage Room, which offers one of the best views on base.
Dawson was diagnosed with cancer at just 6 months of age. Doctors were cautious about his life expectancy, primarily because of the number of tumors he has — seven on the brain and three on the spine — and their severity.
He has defied the odds, though, and according to his mother, Aimee Barr, “He’s an amazing little kid with a magnetic personality; he’s a fighter, too.”
Dawson endured five years of chemotherapy, ending his treatments in February 2012. He currently has one inoperable tumor that severely impacts his vision, making him legally blind in both eyes. The chemotherapy and other treatments have left Dawson with a number of challenges, from hormone imbalances to osteoporosis.
Aimee says that doesn’t stop him, though.
“He’s a normal 9-year-old boy. He wants to play soccer, he wants to be a professional football player, and if that doesn’t work, he’s going to be a professional baseball player.”
Dawson made an impact on several of the people he met at the Kentucky Air Guard, with many noting how positive and upbeat he was, and how he asked so many great questions.
Two F-16 Fighting Falcons from the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds aerial demonstration team perform in the Thunder Over Louisville air show April 18, 2015, in Louisville, Ky. More than 650,000 people lined the banks of the Ohio River for the show. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Maj. Dale Greer)
“I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and spending time with Dawson, his sister, Lauren, and their parents, Aimee and Shane Barr,” Chief Dawson said. “That young man is a fighter in the true sense of the word, with the most positive attitude and the most uplifting spirit that you will ever see in a little boy.”
Dawson has a message for those who may be struggling with challenges or illness. In a calm and steady voice he said, “If you’re going through something, just keep going. Eventually something good will happen, and it will be okay.”
Staff Report
Flags flutter in the breeze at the Kentucky War Memorial in Frankfort Cemetery, Frankfort, Ky.
FRANKFORT, Ky. — President John F. Kennedy said, “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers.”
Today, we remember and honor the American Servicemembers, ordinary men and women, who died while in military service.
Since 1866, when the people of Waterloo, New York dipped their flags to half mast and decorated their village to remember the Soldiers who died during the Civil War, our nation has paid tribute to those lives of all service men and women who have fallen in the line of duty.
Flags whip in the wind over the graves of Kentucky Service members at the War Memorial in Frankfort Cemetery in Frankfort, Ky.
In the 100 years since the organization became known as the Kentucky National Guard, hundreds of its Citizen-Soldiers have given the last full measure of devotion to the Commonwealth and the Nation.Names such as 1st Sgt. William C. Liles from Hartford, Ky., who died during the Mexican Border Campaign in 1917 and Pvt. Robert Brooks of Sadieville, Ky., the first U.S. Armored forces casualty of World War II, tell of the past sacrifices of Kentucky and a nation at war. Since Sept. 11, 2001, more than 16,000 Kentucky Guardsmen have deployed overseas in support of operations in the War on Terror — 18 did not return.
Sgt. Jonathan Hughes of Lebanon, Kentucky, who was killed in Iraq in 2005, and Sgt. Daniel Wallace of Dry Ridge, Kentucky, who died in 2008 in Afghanistan, are among the newest names added to the alter of freedom.
The Kentucky Guard is in the process of funding their own memorial to be dedicated to those names and others who we honor today.
The Kentucky National Guard Memorial will create a sacred space for families, friends, and comrades to reflect and remember. So far, 464 potential names have been discovered that may one day be honored on the memorial and 145 have been confirmed for inclusion who died while in the line of duty from March 19, 1912 to present. That date is significant because it is when the state of Kentucky made an official name change from the “Kentucky State Guard” to the “Kentucky National Guard.”
An artist rendering of the future Kentucky National Guard Memorial to be built in Frankfort, Ky. (Courtesy of KYNG Memorial Fund)
The memorial will be built in Frankfort at the Boone National Guard Center with a ground breaking ceremony scheduled for today. Funding for the memorial has been provided entirely through private donations.
To find out more about the project visit www.kyngmemorial.com.
Story by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann, ADT 5 Unit Public Affairs Historian Representative
Col. Bob Hayter, commander of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 presents Ginger Munden the Family Readiness Award during the unit’s Yellow Ribbon Program in Louisville, Ky., Dec. 14, 2013. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Just like the Soldiers and Airmen in the Kentucky National Guard, a Family Readiness Group is a unit. The FRG’s mission is to provide support not only to the deploying troops, but unto themselves. Families unite together for meetings and workshops that focus on addressing stress, issues regarding finances or children, or just coming together to talk about the good things and make morale packages for the Soldiers.
Ginger Munden served as the Family Readiness Group leader for Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 during the unit’s deployment to Afghanistan in 2012-2013. ADT 5’s leadership presented her with the Family Readiness Award during the unit’s Yellow Ribbon ceremony, Dec. 15, 2013.
Members of the unit returned home in September, but due to logistical issues the Soldiers and Airmen arrived at different times and locations. The scattered return didn’t detract from the families awaiting them at the gates of the airports.
Master Sgt. Connie Gwinn is greeted by her grandchildren at Louisville International Airport upon her return home from Afghanistan, Sept. 6, 2013. Members of Kentucky’s Agribusiness Development Team 5 spent nearly a year in Afghanistan and is the last scheduled ADT for the Kentucky Guard(U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Sidney Hoffmann)
“It feels good to know I have such an amazingly supportive family. I was proud of being a part of a great team, but I am definitely glad to be home now,” said Master Sgt. Connie Gwinn, who was met with an entourage of family members.
Supportive families have said to be the key to a successful deployment for military units and Munden wanted just that for the men, women and families of ADT 5 in running the FRG
“FRG teaches families they are not alone and are aware of the benefits available, share in frustrations and life changes, and group events like Red Cross training,” she said. “It was a great experience, and I could not have done it without the support and help of the Service members’ families.”
Col. Bob Hayter and Lt. Col. Dallas F. Kratzer presented Ginger with an etched glass memento containing the iconic National Guard minuteman figure.
Hayter praised the efforts of Ginger and the families by saying, “The FRG was the full-time connection to home. With the morale packages the FRG team had put together, it made the deployment more manageable and served as a reminder we were well thought of in our absence.”
Other family members were recognized as well for their efforts and participation in events such as Ralene Kratzer, Heather Steele and their three children, and Lynn and Sarah Fox.
Unfortunately, Sgt. Maj. Munden was away for training in Texas for his newly acquired position with the Wounded Warrior Transition Unit at Fort Knox. However, the ceremony was ended with his signature slow but strong clap by the entire unit, noting the profound respect the team had for him and his wife, Ginger.
ADT 5 was a joint operation consisting of both Air and Army National Guard members. During the nine months they were able to rebuild relationships between the people and their government by implementing programs such as the Youth Agriculture program and strengthened the current veterinary services. Among those programs, local farmers increased their management and marketing skills to be able to bring in more money for their community.
“Our team members served with honor, discipline, and integrity,” said Sgt. Maj. Munden prior to the ceremony. “Their performance was outstanding and their efforts brought hope to the people of Afghanistan. I am very proud to have been a member of this team.”
Staff report
Families are the unsung heroes of the US armed forces. They often suffered similar stress and loneliness as their deployed loved ones. It’s the job of the Family Assistance Center and Family Programs to provide support and guidance during both wartime and peacetime service. (U.S. Air Force photo by Maj. Dale Greer)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Each year the President signs a proclamation declaring November Military Family Month. Last year President Obama said that our nation owes “each day of security and freedom that we enjoy to the members of our Armed Forces and their families. Behind our brave service men and women, there are family members and loved ones who share in their sacrifice and provide unending support.”
This annual proclamation marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of the Military Family in which the Department of Defense and the nation will honor the commitment and sacrifices made by the families of the nation’s servicemembers.
Throughout the month of November, military families serving around the world are honored through a variety of observances and recognized for their commitment and the many contributions they make every day in support of the military and our nation. Efforts to recognize the sacrifices of the military family by Active, Guard, and Reserve leaders are being joined and supported by DoD organizations to include the Army Air Force Exchange Service, Defense Commissary Agency, and others.
Community leaders, businesses, and military bases and posts are teaming up to recognize military families through special events such as: open houses, fun runs, family fun nights, and community dinners; discounts at MWR facilities, local business and sporting events; and special recognitions during community activities throughout the month of November.
A military family enjoying “Christmas in October” last year at the Kentucky Air Guard Base in Louisville, Ky. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Maxwell Rechel)
Family Support Program & the Family Assistance Center
Key to our state’s military community is the Kentucky National Guard’s Family Support Programs and the Family Assistance Center. This includes a State Youth Coordinator, Family Readiness Support Assistants, Family Assistance Center, Military Life Consultant, Personal Financial Counselor, Military One Source, Transition Assistance Advisor, Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, Survivor Outreach Services, and Community Outreach.
Joan Kivior serves as the Family Assistance Center Program Coordinator. A veteran of the Persian Gulf War and the war in Afghanistan, she knows the importance of families in the military community.
“For us military families are number one,” said Kivior. “I can tell you from experience that they are the heart and soul of the our armed forces. Without the support of our families the troops can’t do their job. It’s our job in the FAC to take care of the families so our soldiers and airmen can do theirs.”
According to Kivior last year the FAC provided assistance to both Army and Air Guard members and families experiencing personal and/or financial difficulties. Her team contacted 6,844 service members and their families, generating 2,243 cases to external agencies such as the American Legion, the Veterans Administration, USA Cares, the Military Family Trust Fund, Local Community Action Agencies and Church organizations and so on.
“It’s most definitely a team effort,” said Kivior. “We’ve worked hard to develop relationships throughout government and the private sector to help our families. There are very few problems we can’t solve one way or another.”
Kivior reminds us that the FAC provides assistance to family members from all branches of service residing in Kentucky, and not just the National Guard.
“While not everyone lives near an active duty base, we are scattered all across the state. We support all of our military families, active duty, Guard and reserve, Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines. We’ve even helped folks connected with the Coast Guard. We can do it all.”
Click here for contact information on the Kentucky National Guard Family Assistance Center or call 1-800-372-7601.
Story by Spc. Brandy Mort, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Dr. Jill Biden, Second Lady of the United States, speaks with family members of fallen Service members at the Survivors’ Day at the Races at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 3, 2013. The event coordinated by Kentucky’s Survivors’ Outreach Services brought together more than 600 friends and family members for a special day at the track, all sponsored by Humana. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Dr. Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, Gen. Frank J Grass, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Kentucky’s Adj. Gen., Maj. Gen. Edward Tonini and other general officers joined more than 600 friends and family members of fallen Service members during the 4th annual Survivor’s Day at the Races Nov. 3 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.
Annually, Kentucky’s Survivor Outreach Services, gather for the event to honor surviving family members of Service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.
“This event gives survivors the opportunity to interact with other survivors,” said Maj. Gen. Deborah Ashenhurst, adjutant general for the Ohio National Guard “It helps family members by hearing similar stories and know that they are not alone.”
Kentucky’s adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini presents a framed quilt to Dr. Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, during the Survivors’ Day at the Races event at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 3, 2013. Biden, also a military mother, spoke to the crowd complimenting them on their resilience. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
During the event, the survivors participated in different events such as face painting and craft projects provided by the Kentucky National Guard’s Family Programs. Survivors were also treated to a lunch and were able to watch the races from Millionaire’s Row, all provided by Humana Military Healthcare Services and Churchill Downs. The highlight of the day was a race named in honor of Survivors’ Outreach Services.
“It’s an overwhelming experience to see their faces when they see the effort we put forth in order to show their not left behind,” said Linda Jones, Child and Youth Programs Coordinator and a Survivor of her son, Sgt. 1st Class Charles Jason Jones.
When the Second Lady heard of the event she got in touch with Gen. Grass and asked what she could do in order to help National Guard families. Biden is a mother of two Service members. One of her sons a member of the Deleware National Guard and the other is an officer in the U.S. Navy.
“After the inauguration, Michelle (Obama) and I both agreed that we needed to draw attention to our military and military families,” said Biden, “We pledged our complete support to the programs that benefit all Service members and their families.”
Biden was in awe with all the stories of family members taking positive strides after a tragedy.
“I am the Second Lady, but first and foremost I am a National Guard mother,” said Biden, “I know what it’s like to be away from my sons and I can only imagine how you feel. I am inspired by everyone turning grief into something positive.”
Dr. Jill Biden, Second Lady of the United States, spends time with children and family members of fallen Service members during the Survivors’ Day at the Races at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 3, 2013. Biden was the guest of honor at the 4th annual event held by the Kentucky Survivors’ Outreach Services. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
While this event remembers those who have fallen and the families left behind, it was also a chance to support families of all Service members.
“The last warrior ethos is: I will never leave a fallen comrade,” said Grass, “Honoring those today shows we will never forget those who have served, are serving and those who will serve.”
Grass and Tonini both made their way around the bustling room with Biden, speaking with all who had words and stories to share.
“The smiles I see today are very powerful and meaningful,” said Tonini. “As we remember our loved ones who are no longer with us, we celebrate their memories with family and friends here today. I am honored to be with everyone on this wonderful Sunday afternoon.”
[Note: All photos can be viewed at the Kentucky National Guard’s flickr page, or click on each link below.
SURVIVORS DAY PHOTOS, SET ONE
SURVIVORS DAY PHOTOS, SET TWO
SURVIVORS DAY PHOTOS, SET THREE
Click here for more information about Survivors’ Outreach Services.
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Staff Sgt. Aleksandr Vinogradov, a combat engineer with the 577th Sapper Company, stands at attention during the Outstanding Airman and Soldier of the Year Banquet in Louisville, Ky., on March 16, 2013. Vinogradov was named the Kentucky Army National Guard’s Outstanding Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for 2013. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Maxwell Rechel)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Vinogradov family has a long and distinguished history in the military. In Russia.
One of the newest Soldiers from the family is continuing the strong legacy in being the best at what he does. In the United States, with the Kentucky National Guard.
In 2004, Aleksandr Vinogradov moved from his home in Yoshkar-Ola, Russia to Ashland, Ky. A short three years later, he enlisted into the Kentucky Guard as a petroleum supply specialist. And after six years in uniform, Vinogradov was named Kentucky Army National Guard’s Outstanding Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year for 2013. He said he’s just continuing a tradition of military excellence in his family, it’s just what they do.
“I joined the Guard because the military was always something that I wanted to do,” he said. “Growing up in the military family I felt like this was a right job for a man to do to provide for his family.”
To see more photos from this story, click here.
Vinogradov is a third generation career-Soldier in a family that has seen many serve in the Russian military since before World War II. His father and grandfather both retired as colonels working with missile defense. His maternal grandfather retired from the Russian Air Force after a long career as a test pilot. According to Vinogradov, his grandfather piloted the plane that dropped the first Soviet Atomic bomb in the 1950s. He said his grandfather’s plane was badly damaged from the blast. He was a highly decorated pilot, but unfortunately died of cancer just after Aleksandr was born.
“All I knew of him was that it was his dream to see his grandson grow up and join the Army and ship off to boot-camp,” said Vinogradov.
Staff Sgt. Alexander Vinogradov, 75th Troop Command, prepares to throw a simulated grenade on the Individual Maneuver and Tactics Course at the Wendell H. Ford Regional Training Center in Greenville, Ky., Nov. 17, 2012. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brian Ewalt)
When he was younger, Vinogradov’s parents seperated. He and his sister, Lana, moved with their mother to the United States. With a master’s degree in English, their mother began working as a teacher for the Ashland Public School system.
It was Vinogradov’s sister who first joined the military, enlisting in the Kentucky National Guard and the 201st Engineer Battalion in 2006. After getting married, she moved to the Nevada Guard working as a budget analyst for the state’s Yellow Ribbon and Family Support Services.
Vinogradov said he didn’t have the patience to wait, he wanted to start his military career as soon as possible. He joined the Guard because of the split option which allowed him to go to basic training the summer of his junior year in high school.
Several years later, his role in the National Guard is an exciting part of his life. He enjoys drill weekends and all the training as a combat engineer with the 577th Sapper Company.
“I plan on staying in the guard for at least 20 years,” said Vinogradov. “I enjoy it so much that I cant really imagine what I would do if I was to get out. I honestly think someone will have to kick me out of the Guard because I am not planning on leaving on my own.”
He knows his father and grandfather are proud of him and his accomplishments, even if he isn’t on “their side.” While some differences remain, Vinogradov said the ideals are the same, and he is happy where is now now.
“To me a Soldier is a special person regardless of what country he is from, because standing up to fight for your country is the most honorable thing a person can do.”
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Soldiers of Detachment 11, Operational Airlift Support Command are greeted by friends and family members during a welcome home ceremony at Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Ky., July 24, 2013. The unit deployed to the Middle East in October, 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Family and friends honored the members of the Kentucky National Guard’s Detachment 11, Operational Support Airlift Command in a welcome home ceremony July 24 at Capital City Airport in Frankfort, Ky.
“I want everyone to know how successful these troops were, how well they represented the Kentucky National Guard and the great state of Kentucky,” said deputy adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Lonnie Culver, who was on hand to greet the unit as they stepped off the plane.
“These amazing Soldiers did some extraordinary things, the kinds of things the general public doesn’t know goes on behind the scenes in wartime,” said Culver.
Chief Warrant Officer Justin Frye is greeted by friends and family members during a welcome home ceremony for Soldiers of Detachment 11, Operational Support Airlift Command in Frankfort, Ky., July 24, 2013. The six-man-unit flew more than 2,000 flight hours in the Middle East region in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
During its nine month deployment Detachment 11 flew the C-12 Huron fixed wing aircraft, moving thousands of personnel and a half million pounds of cargo around the Middle East. They also conducted more than 50 combat sorties in support of the coalition forces in Afghanistan.
To see more photos from the ceremony, click here.
Det. 11’s commander, Chief Warrant Officer Stephen Hunnicutt said he’s not a man of few words, but did not know what to say upon their return.
“This unit is small, but they did the job of many,” said Hunnicutt. “They actually doubled performance of any other group before them. They are a true testament of this organization.”
“The Kentucky Guard, no matter where you go, always stands out, above everyone else,” he said. “And I am just thankful to be part of this organization.”
The unit mobilized in support of Operation Enduring Freedom on October 31, 2012 and operated with Army Guardsmen from Michigan and South Dakota during their mission.
Since 9/11, more than 16,000 Kentucky National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have mobilized in support of the Global War on Terror.
Story and photos by Spc. Brandy Mort, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Kentucky’s adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Edward Tonini, joins a group of boys waiting to learn about Archery techniques during the Kentucky National Guard 4-H Youth Camp July 15 at Lake Cumberland in Nancy, Ky. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
NANCY, Ky. — Children of Kentucky Army and Air National Guardsman participated in the annual Kentucky National Guard 4-H Youth Camp at Lake Cumberland in Nancy, Ky., July 14-19.
This is the third year that nearly 200 boys and girls come together for a week of fun and learning in this location. Members of the Kentucky National Guard, state Fish and Wildlife Department and University of Kentucky Agriculture 4-H program officials were on hand to assist the campers.
“The kids had an awesome experience and a lot of fun at Youth Camp,” said Chief Warrant Officer James Ford, who served as commandant of the camp. “It is an event like no other for the youth of the Kentucky National Guard.”
During the week, the children participated in marksmanship, archery, learned about hunting and received their hunting licenses at the end of the week. The campers enjoyed lots of swimming and canoeing during their lake time, and hiking in the area, including some local caves.
Chance Herrlein, son of Staff Sgt. Eric Herrlein, shoots clay pigeons with a shotgun during the Kentucky National Guard 4-H Youth Camp at Lake Cumberland in Nancy, Ky., July 15. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
Samuel Evans, son of retired James Evans, trades hats with Maj. Gen. Tonini, during the Kentucky National Guard 4-H Youth Camp July 15 at Lake Cumberland in Nancy, Ky. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
A participant of the Kentucky National Guard 4-H Youth Camp climbs a rock wall during the ropes course portion of the camp July 15 at Lake Cumberland in Nancy, Ky. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
Maj. Gen. Tonini speaks with some of the female participants of the Kentucky National Guard 4-H Youth Camp prior to their chance to climb the rock wall, July 15 at Lake Cumberland in Nancy, Ky. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Brandy Mort)
Advice by Regina Harris, Kentucky National Guard Joint Family Support Assistance Program, Military Family Life Consultant, Personal Financial Counselor
Photo by David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Fear drives people to action.
The loss of someone close often drives one to get life insurance. A heart-attack of someone, even distant, causes one to assess their diet, exercise and lifestyle.
Often, it isn’t fear that drives action but just a good ‘ol healthy dose of self-preservation! There are plenty of examples of this drive to act. For example, a safety net under a trapeze artist, harness worn by a window washer, and reflective gear on a biker.
What kind of call to action will motivate you to save now for later?
How about the drive to be different, to aspire higher, to not be a slacker?
The average Personal Savings Rate of an American adult is 2.5% of disposable income per month, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. We all must want to aspire, at least, a bit higher than 2.5% of savings per month. A family bringing home $2,000 per month less $1,600 for living leaves $400 disposable income. According to this current statistic, this family saves only $10 per month!
While I don’t love these ‘official’ statistics, the fact remains that we as Americans’ are by and large not saving enough. We are not saving enough to sustain our lifestyles. We are not saving enough to catch our emergencies or purchase our wanted items. This is evidenced by our over use of credit cards and other loans.
What can you do to beat the 2.5% personal savings rate?
Simply save more money! Save for the usual reasons, emergency, college and retirement. Also, save for those very special, specific items that only you want to purchase.
The key is to save money from your current income to pay for future items and expenses.
Do the check. Are you already saving enough? Conventional wisdom says save 10 -20 percent of your income. Divide that pot of money for emergency savings, college savings, retirement savings and any other saving you need. When you find the motivation to save or to increase your savings, save for specific reasons. Be sure to know why and for what you are saving.
I could spend the remainder of this article listing suggestions for finding the money to save. I instead chose to spend this space encouraging you to just start.
Here’s the plan:
1. Determine where to store the money. (Hint: bank, credit union)
2. Decide how much money to store. (Hint: 10% -20% of disposable income)
3. Decide how the money will get to the storage facility. (Hint: automate it)
4. Forget about the money and where the storage facility is located. (Hint: not close to home or work)
Later when the pre-determined event happens or it is time to purchase that special item; your memory will be triggered. You miraculously remember that you have the cash to pay for the event or item and you know where the money is stored. Ta Da! My job is done!
For year round help and encouragement, sign the Military Saves Pledge. When you sign the pledge check the box to receive the newsletter. Follow the suggestions, tips and advice that you receive from the newsletter to help you save more. Find the Savers Pledge at www.militarysaves.org
For more information email Regina at [email protected] or give her a call at 502-548-4836.
Story courtesy of Ashford University
Tom Hoffmann receives an Ashford University diploma on behalf of his daughter, Sidney, who is currently serving in Afghanistan. (PRNewsFoto/Ashford University)
SAN DIEGO -- A special pin complemented Tom Hoffmann’s cap and gown as he waited eagerly to cross the stage with nearly 1,200 graduates at the Ashford University spring commencement ceremony held earlier this month in Moline, Ill. The pin, which was given to him by his daughter Sidney Hoffmann just before she was deployed, was a yellow ribbon with a blue star banner pendant, indicating you have a child actively serving in the military. Tom traveled to commencement from just outside of Dallas to accept a diploma on behalf of Sidney, who is serving in the armed forces (Kentucky National Guard) in Afghanistan.
“It’s very exciting to be able to be a part of your child’s graduation, but to get it for her while she is serving our country is an honor,” said Mr. Hoffmann. “Like any father, I pushed her to complete her education and continued to push even when she was deployed. This is a big milestone. She was committed to getting a degree as well as serving her country.”
Tom Hoffmann accepts his daughter’s diploma during commencement ceremony in Moline, Ill., May 17, 2013. (Photo courtesy of Ashford University)
Sidney, 29, completed her bachelor’s degree in human resources management with magna cum laude honors. She began her college career at a traditional university; however, Ashford University’s progressive online platforms provided Sidney the flexibility necessary to continue her educational pursuits while being deployed overseas.
“This truly was a rewarding experience,” said Sidney. “The distance learning program allowed me the ease of working a full time job while providing the flexibility to participate on time with my classmates and instructors. I really appreciate everything Ashford has done for me and my family. I am truly grateful to the faculty and staff that made it possible for my father to take part in this momentous occasion.”
In a private ceremony prior to graduation, Ashford University President Dr. Richard Pattenaude presented Mr. Hoffmann with a challenge coin to present to Sidney when she returns home.
Click here to see the video of Mr. Hoffman accepting Sidney’s diploma.
