May 2014: National Military Appreciation Month; RIP: The Heroism Of Army Nurse Captain Jennifer Moreno

"When  our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?"...George Canning

In 1999, Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month. It's purpose is to ensure the nation demonstrates its appreciation for the sacrifices and successes made by our military service members. The following are some ideas to show our appreciation for our men, women and their families for their service to our country:

• A Simple "Thank you" is greatly appreciated. In other words, give gratitude not sympathy.
• Lend an ear, a hand and your time especially to military families. The stress of deployment can take a toll on families. For example, a simple way to offer assistance to a military spouse is ask him/her if they need help with baby-sitting or watching their children for a few hours. Send the family a small gift, e.g. fruit basket, spa essentials, a gift certificate to a local restaurant, etc.
• If you have a business, offer specials and discounts to military personnel. If you plan on hiring additional staff, consider veterans too. Many possess the skills that can enrich your business or company.
• Drop by a VA medical center. A lot of veterans appreciate just talking with someone who appreciates their service.
• Attend many of the National Military Appreciation Month events taking place around the country. Pay a visit to the National Military Appreciation Month's website for a list of events around the country. For example, today I had the unique opportunity of attending the "Walk For The Wounded: Warriors 5K Run" in Media, PA. Attendance was awesome. Below is one photo of the event.

• If you are a teacher have your students sign a poster and deliver it to your nearest VA center.
• Ask an active military member and/or a veteran to speak to your classroom.
• Take a field trip to a military museum or other military point of interest.
• Display an American flag and POW/MIA flag on your front lawn or porch.
• Consider making a donation to organizations like the USO, The Wounded Warrior Project, The Fisher House. You can navigate this blog for information on more of these organizations.
• In your local church bulletin list the name, rank and organization of any parishioners serving.
• If you live close to a national cemetery, pay a visit.

Military.com, NMAM

Army Nurse Capt. Jennifer Moreno Died Trying To Save Others

On October 5, 2013, Army Nurse Captain Jennifer Moreno, 25,  spent the last moments of her life trying to save other wounded warriors.

Capt. Moreno was assigned to a special operations task force in Afghanistan. During a night raid, an explosion killed several soldiers and wounded others.  Hearing a call to help the wounded soldiers, Moreno moved to help "disregarding her own well being." In the course of the action, Capt. Moreno was killed in another explosion.  Upon her death, other soldiers followed her example to help retrieve the dead and wounded. Some of those soldiers also received fatal wounds. A total of 12 bombs exploded that night taking the lives of four other soldiers and wounding 25.

For her bravery and heroism, Capt. Moreno was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Meritorious Service Medal, and NATO Medal.

AllNurses.com