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© 2013 KentuckyGuard
Kentucky hosts survivor outreach event for families of fallen Service members
Story by Sgt. Lerone Simmons, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Alan Bernstein, co-owner of B&B Riverboat Company and captain of the Belle of Cincinnati, poses with his daughter Terri Bernstein, co-owner, after receiving awards, coins, and congratulations from General Frank J. Grass, Chief of the National Guard Bureau (left), Pat Grass, his wife, and Brig. Gen. Benjamin Adams III, Chief of Staff for the Kentucky National Guard, in recognition of their commitment to the Survivor Outreach Services boat ride, Newport, Ky., June 15, 2015. More than 600 Gold Star family members attended the event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lerone Simmons)
NEWPORT, Ky. — The Belle of Cincinnati hosted 600 Gold Star family members for a cruise along the Ohio River, June 14, in an effort to provide support, assistance and care.
For Terri Bernstein, co-owner of B&B Riverboats which operates the Belle, the Ohio River cruise is somewhat of a family reunion. Bernstein is a Gold Star Wife whose husband, Kentucky National Guard Staff Sgt. Nicholas Carnes, died Aug. 26, 2007, in Afghanistan. He was assigned to Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery Regiment, and was a captain for B&B Riverboats.
“Fallen families are near and dear to my heart,” she said. “Supporting them makes me feel better.
David Orange, a support coordinator with Survivor Outreach Services, wishes a surviving family member farewell after returning from a Survivor Outreach Services boat ride at Newport, Ky., June 14, 2015. The boat ride is intended to bring families together who have lost an immediate family member in the line of military duty. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lerone Simmons)
“We’ve had more attendance than last year and I plan on putting this on (every year) if families keep coming,” she said.
Click here for more photos.
Mark Grant, the Kentucky National Guard Survivor Outreach Services coordinator, said the SOS program exists to help serve the surviving families of the fallen by keeping them connected with the Army, and Kentucky National Guard, for as long as they desire.
“This boat ride allows survivors to have the opportunity to have a good time, while being together with other families that share their pain, but giving them the chance to have fun,” said Grant
This is the second year for the SOS cruise, and passengers agreed that the one-day event is somewhat like a therapy session.
For Leslie and James Groves III, natives of upstate New York, the Flag Day cruise was to honor their son, Chief Warrant Officer 3 James E. Groves III, an active duty helicopter pilot assigned to 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, who died in 2013, in an OH-58 Kiowa helicopter crash.
“James decided that the Army was the best choice for him and we are very proud of his service,” said the elder James, a former Army Reservist.
That pride, according to Leslie, is something that was shared by each of the survivors; along with the grief.
BB Riverboat’s Belle of Cincinnati pulls into the Newport dock to board Gold Star family members and military dignitaries for a Survivor Outreach Services boat ride, Newport, Ky., June 14, 2015. The event, in its second year, hosted more than 600 surviving family members and friends. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Lerone SImmons)
“We’ve all been through the process of getting that call, receiving a flag, and going through the grieving process,” she said. “This actually makes for a much stronger bond and support group.
“This boat ride has allowed us to get together and meet new families and build friendships, and we are very grateful for it,” she said.
The cruise was free, and included food provided by the Cincinnati-based Gold Star Chili restaurant. Surviving family members from eight states participated in the event, which also included activities from the Kentucky National Guard Youth and Family Programs. Among the honored guests were Gen. Frank J. Grass, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, his wife, Pat, and assistant adjutants general from Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio and Indiana.
The Gold Star tradition dates back to World War I, when mothers of fallen Service members would change their blue service stars, in the windows of their homes, to gold.
For more information about the Gold Star programs, log on to www.goldstarfamilyregistry.com.
For information about Survivor Outreach Services, visit www.sos.army.mil.
Video by Spc. Cody Cooper, 133rd MPAD
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Surviving family members of fallen U.S. Service members are joined by Heather French Henry, Commissioner of Kentucky’s Department of Veterans Affairs, the Vice Chief of the National Guard, Lt. Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel, Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini in the winners’ circle at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 4, to present a trophy to the winning jockey of a race race named in honor of the fallen. The families gathered at the track for the fifth annual Survivors Day at the Races organized by Survivors Outreach Services. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Scott Raymond)
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — For the fifth year in a row, Churchill Downs was the setting for the largest event in the Nation honoring surviving family members of fallen military Service members. More than 800 brothers, sisters, moms and dads of those lost since 9/11 were treated to a day at the races at the storied horse racing track in Louisville, Nov. 2.
Heather French Henry, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs speaks to surviving families of fallen U.S. Service members at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., Nov 4, 2014. Henry was among several guest speakers at the fifth annual Survivors Day at the Races, an event to recognize the family members and their sacrifices. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Heather French Henry joined Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini in recognizing the family members during an afternoon luncheon in Millionaires’ Row. Henry told the families that remembering the fallen is one of the most patriotic missions for Americans, and days like this one are about legacies that we will not forget.
“It’s so important for us to have you here today,” said the former Miss America. “Not only for us to say thanks for your sacrifice and service, but by having you here today to be able to talk with other families, see each other and share stories is how the legacy of your loved ones live on.”
Click here to see more photos from the event.
Family members from 10 states, Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, West Virginia and Kentucky were present for the emotional day, full of camaraderie and friendship. Churchill Downs partnered with Humana Government Services and the Kentucky National Guard to support Survivors Outreach Services (SOS) in the unique event.
A highlight of the afternoon was a race named in honor of the Survivors of Fallen Military Heroes. Joann Lake from Elizabethtown, Kentucky was among the Gold Star Family members chosen to present the trophy to the winning jockey and owners in the winners’ circle. Lake’s son, Navy Chief Warrant Officer Jonathan Gibson was lost over the Red Sea last September. The day at the races was Lake’s first Survivors Outreach event.
The Kentucky National Guard, Humana and Churchill Downs supported the 2014 Survivors Outreach Services’ Day at the Races at the track in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 2, 2014. More than 800 surviving family members of fallen military heroes from 10 states attended the fifth annual event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
“I’m really blessed to be surrounded by so many heroes’ families, moms, dads, wives and children,” she said. “Those families gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation. Its just amazing to see so many people showing their support.”
Becky Lambert was also in the winners’ circle and attending the day for the first time. She lost her son, Marine Sgt. Jonathan Lambert in Iraq in 2003 and has found strong support through SOS.
“SOS helps us to get the benefits and the service available for us and that the families are not forgotten, our loved ones are not forgotten,” said the New Site, Mississippi-native.
“This is a gathering of families that have the same bond, that have gone through the same situation we have. And we look at each other, they know what you’re feeling in your heart where that place is missing. Some people don’t understand your feelings, here we interact, make friends and build relationships to support one another.”
A child gets his face painted during the 2014 Survivors Day at the Races in Louisville, Ky., Nov. 4, 2014. As part of the event honoring the surviving family members of fallen U.S. Service members, children were treated to face painting and arts and crafts. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Raymond)
In addition to the races, the meal and the interaction, children were treated to face-painting and arts and crafts. SOS organizers expanded the event this year for the growing interest and attendance, which increased by nearly 200 people over last year’s event.
A variety of senior military leaders from the National Guard, Reserves and active duty were also on hand to support the event, including the Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Lt. Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel. He praised the families members for their courage and expressed his gratitude for the fallen heroes with a pledge of support.
“Our military, our National Guard is about strong units, strong families and strong communities and nothing makes that more evident that this event here today,” said Lengyel. “We will never forget what your loved ones have done for us and our nation. Our bond to you and support to you is life-long and everlasting.”
Click here for more information on Survivors Outreach Services.
Story by Sgt. Brandy Mort, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Lynn Romans, along with her mother and father, attended a Survivors Outreach Services event in honor of the late Sgt. Darrin Potter, June 14 in Newport, Ky. More than 400 family members of fallen Service members attended the event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Brandy Mort)
NEWPORT, Ky. - More than 400 U.S. Military “Gold Star” family members set sail for a riverboat ride on the Ohio River June 14 in Newport. A “Gold Star” family is one that has lost an immediate member in conflict or in support of certain military operations. The term originated during World War I and continues today.
Surviving family members from six states, including Kentucky, enjoyed a riverboat ride provided by B&B Riverboats and a meal courtesy of Gold Star Chili.
“I am honored to be able to serve Gold Star Chili to Gold Star families,” said Beverly Phillips, Manager of catering for Gold Star’s corporate office. “My son is a lieutenant in the Army and I always love giving back to those who give so much.”
The Stiles family attends a riverboat ride in Newport, Ky., June 14 to honor the late Staff Sgt. William Culp of Ohio. Surviving family members came from six states to the event which is the second largest SOS event in the country. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. Brandy Mort)
This event was organized by National Guard and Active Duty Survivor Outreach Services coordinators, the riverboat ride is the second largest such event in the country.
Terri Bernstein, Captain of the B&B Riverboats, is in charge of all the operations of the vessel including hosting events and coordinating food. Her late husband, Staff Sgt. Nicholas R. Carnes, a Kentucky Guardsman who was killed in Afghanistan in 2007 was a Ludlow, Kentucky, native and also served as a riverboat captain.
“Events like today are priceless,” said Bernstein. “After attending an event myself I was eager to get involved and see how I could offer my help.”
The riverboat ride was a first time event for Kentucky. Bernstein hopes to continue to provide the event for years to come.
Click here to see more photos from the event.
While many enjoyed the event, today was also a moment to remember their lost loved ones for a few.
“I think days like today are very rewarding,” said Lynn Romans, mother of the late Sgt. Darrin Potter, who died in Iraq in 2003. “It’s great to know that people remember the sacrifices our service members make.”
SOS coordinators organize events like these to recognize the surviving family members of military service members who have given their lives in defense of our nation.
“I like to attend events like these to share my story,” said Romans. “I feel safe at these events. When you come to an event you know that you’re amongst people who feel the same way you do and it’s great to have such a wonderful support system.”
David Orange, a Kentucky National Guard SOS coordinator and retired Air Force chief master sergeant said the event was destined to happen with Cincinnati, Ohio-based Gold Star Chili and Newport-based B&B Riverboats, a Gold Star family-owned company involved in a Gold Star event.
“It was meant to be,” he said. “Whether on the grounds of Churchill Downs or here on the Ohio River, Survivor Outreach Services and the National Guard are always willing to support it’s Gold Star Families however we can.”
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 David Altom, Kentucky National Guard Public Affairs
Mark Grant and David Orange are responsible for the creation of the Survivor's of American Heroes quilt.
FRANKFORT, Ky. — A unique quilt honors the memory of fallen Kentucky troops and pays tribute to their Families.
The “Survivors of American Heroes” quilt was commissioned by the Kentucky National Guard’s Survivor’s Outreach Services as a symbol of the Guard’s dedication to the families of Soldiers and Airmen who have died in service to our nation.
Retired Chief Master Sgt. David Orange works with the SOS program. He is also responsible for the quilt’s design
“We wanted something that honored the fallen members of all our armed forces,” said Orange. “The idea of a quilt has been very popular with military families, so it seemed natural to combine the two.”
The prototype quilt was put together by Quilters Alley of Paducah, Ky. and measures four by six feet. The design includes an American flag background with a ribbon bar depicting the service stars associated with the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard. Embroidered words proclaiming “Survivors of American Heroes” and “Because Someone Cared” send a clear message of gratitude.
“It’s made in Kentucky by Kentuckians for Kentuckians,” said Orange.
“That quilt is very impressive,” said retired Chief Master Sgt. Mark Grant, who works with Orange in the SOS program. “We think it’s going to attract a lot of positive attention and give our survivor families some comfort when they attend our events.”
The first Survivors of American Heroes Quilt was "made in Kentucky by Kentuckians for Kentuckians."
The new quilt will make its formal debut this weekend in Louisville when Churchill Downs and Humana Military hosts the second annual Survivors Day at the Races, a gathering of more than 350 surviving family members of fallen Kentucky uniformed service members.
For more information about the quilt’s design and manufacturing as well as Survivor’s Outreach Services, please contact David Orange at 502-607-1099 or e-mail him at david.orange@us.army.mil.
