Small All White in the Forest — Poet: Post No. 125: For Veterans Day 2010

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Post No. 125: For Veterans Day 2010 — A Sacred Trust

A Sacred Trust

There is A Sacred Trust that "We,
The People" owe to Those Souls who
sacrificed themselves to keep us free
from the time that we are born!

And "We, The People" can know This
Sacred Trust in our hearts—with all
of our heart and mind, body and soul,
we can know This Sacred Trust!

It is A Sacred Trust to support and respect
Our Veterans, who bravely served here
at home and abroad—and especially to
respect Our Veterans who have gone on!

So, if you are Military Personnel, you
know The Sacred Trust absolutely, for
you would truly move Heaven and
Earth to support Our Veterans!

And if you are A Grassroots Patriot, you
know The Sacred Trust completely,
since you would reach across Our
Country in order to say "Thank You!"

And if you are An Everyday Patriot,
you know The Sacred Trust entirely,
because you would give "Thanks From
Everywhere" to support Our Veterans!

For, there is A Sacred Trust that "We,
The People" owe and know in Our Souls:
It is The Sacred Trust to support, respect
and serve Our United States Veterans!

-Paul Whiting
(a.k.a., Small All White in the Forest)
"I am no barrier to its; sun the light and I are as one!"

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"We have a sacred trust for people who put on the uniform of the United States. They serve us. They're willing to put their lives on the line. And that means when they come back, we've got to serve them." –Barack Obama (September 30th, 2010)

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My Poetic Notes:

The reason that I wrote this poem can be summed up with the following statement: "We have a sacred trust for people who put on the uniform of the United States. They serve us. They're willing to put their lives on the line. And that means when they come back, we've got to serve them."

By the way, I also did a rewrite of this poem that I wrote for Memorial Day that is titled, "A Sacred Respect," which published on this blog. (Please see "A Sacred Trust-Style Poem" in labels for the poem.)

And this poem was also published on my "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blog (please see the hyperlink below for the blog), since I feel that the message in this poem applies to the message that I am trying to convey through "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer."

This poem was written in Portland, Oregon.

-Paulee

https://paulwhitingwriting.blogspot.com

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November 11th, 2021 Update, Written Sometime After Midnight: I signed up on Charity Navigator yesterday, November 10th, 2021, to make donations for holidays, special occasions, or current issues, to highly-rated charities—including with the intention of making donations for Veterans Day to several highly-rated veterans' charities. However, I started having problems with being able to process the donations! Although, I used a smartphone, so that could be the issue. Anyway, I did attempt to donate to veterans' organizations for Veterans Day, but it's not going to work right now. So, I am going to hold off on donating until I can donate through a personal computer, since I may be having issues donating through my smartphone, if that is what was causing me to not be able to donate... –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022, revised November 11th, 2022, revised March 21st, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 11th, 2021 Update, Written Just After 9:00 AM: Success! I tried again later on in the day to donate to veterans' charities for Veterans Day on Charity Navigator and it worked! Plus, I also included a donation to Charity Navigator, because they are a charity too. And I really appreciate being able to utilize Charity Navigator's charity rating system in order to assess which charities receive their 'give with confidence' rating. I also appreciate being able to donate to multiple charities at the same time—all in one convenient transaction, rather than having to process individual donations on each charity's website—which makes supporting veterans' organizations via Charity Navigator that much more worthwhile! –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022, revised June 18th, 2022, revised November 11th, 2022, revised March 21st, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 11th, 2021 Update—Summary: I signed up on Charity Navigator yesterday, November 10th, 2021, to make donations for holidays, special occasions, or current issues, to highly-rated charities—including with the intention of making donations for Veterans Day to several highly-rated veterans' charities. However, I started having problems with being able to process the donations! ... But, I tried again later on in the day to donate to veterans' charities for Veterans Day on Charity Navigator and it worked! Plus, I also included a donation to Charity Navigator, because they are a charity too. –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022, revised June 18th, 2022, revised November 11th, 2022 and revised March 21st, 2023)

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November 11th, 2022 Update, Written On November 11th, 2023: I made one-time donations for Veterans Day to Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). –Paul Whiting (written December 7th, 2022 and turned into an 'update' from my 'July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022—Follow-Up No. 5, Written On December 7th, 2022' from my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog on November 11th, 2023)

P.S.: I feel like I need to clarify why I didn't write an 'update' for Veterans Day 2022! You see, creative writing takes a lot of time and energy—and I was really busy with blogging toward the end of 2022, because of the Midterm Elections. Now, I did manage to create a "My Writing About Donating To Veterans' Charities On Veterans Day (for 2022)" for my "Thank You For Your Service!" post on both of my "Small All White in the Forest" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs. However, I didn't manage to write an 'update' about my Veterans Day donations for 2022! And I did not notice this error until I was searching for a "November 11th, 2022 Update," which I assumed would be available for me to utilize as a basis for my "November 11th, 2023 Update." Thus, I did find a reference to the donations that I made for Veterans Day 2022 on my 'July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022—Follow-Up No. 5, Written On December 7th, 2022' from my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog, so that is why I turned that reference into my 'update' for Veterans Day 2022. (I hope that makes sense!)

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September 6th, 2023 Update: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, September 6th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "⋆ Connect ⋆ Serve ⋆ Empower ⋆", which stated the following:

[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]

Dear Mr. Whiting,

When [name redacted] looks back on his service to our nation, he remembers the powerful bond that formed with his fellow U.S. Marines.

"The best part was the camaraderie and the love we had for each other."

I know how [name redacted] feels. I served this nation for three decades, and I felt a bond with the men and women I commanded — and served beside. We were connected by blood, sweat, and service.

In fact, one of my great honors was presenting medals and other commendations to them for service above and beyond the call of duty. It was always a moment of pride!

Today, I hope YOU will take great pride in receiving this exclusive 20 Year Supporter Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) lapel pin. For two decades now, you have shared a bond with our nation's wounded warriors, and I want you to have this lapel pin in recognition of your exceptional commitment.

Please wear it on Veterans Day and other patriotic holidays. When people ask you about it, tell them you got it for helping severely injured veterans transform their lives over the last 20 years!

Paul, we had your 20 Year Supporter lapel pin minted for our most loyal, long-term donors like you. Naturally, I want to make sure your pin has reached you safely ...

That's why I'm asking you to return your Delivery Confirmation Form to me so I'll know your new pin has arrived at your Portland address.

When you reply, please also send your Veterans Day gift of $15, $18, $21, or more to help another warrior like [name redacted] heal and find hope again.

You see, while [name redacted] looks back on his service with pride, he also remembers the devastating pain and loss he experienced.

In 2006, he lost two of his fellow Marines and an interpreter to a roadside bomb. The loss weighed on him. As their platoon sergeant, he felt guilty, sad, and angry.

His survivor's guilt and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) led [name redacted] on a downward spiral. For more than a decade, he abused drugs and alcohol to try to case his pain. He even considered suicide.

Thank goodness you were there for [name redacted] when he needed help. By supporting WWP, you helped ensure that our crucial support was there for him when he needed it most.

You helped him find community. You helped him secure the benefits he'd earned. You supported him through his recovery, and helped him find a sense of purpose again — helping other wounded warriors get the help they need. "I know this is what I'm supposed to be doing." he says with certainty. He adds:

"I know without a doubt I would not be here today if it were not for WWP."

Those are powerful words. To me, they speak to [name redacted's] strength — and also to your impact.

You see, you helped make his story possible. And I'm so very grateful for your continued commitment.

Veterans Day is almost here. I'm asking for your strongest possible financial support now so we can respond to the urgent needs so many heroes are facing — as they cope with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), PTSD, and other severe wounds of war.

Please send a Veterans Day gift today. But don't stop there! Please also show a veteran you care by signing the enclosed Veterans Day card.

Include it along with your Delivery Confirmation Form, and your donation, to let me know your lapel pin has reached you. Thank you for your generous support and enduring partnership. Don't forget to wear your WWP lapel pin proudly as a symbol of your commitment and impact!

With gratitude,

[Name redacted]
Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, Retired
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project

P.S. Veterans Day is coming soon. The time is now to honor heroes like [name redacted] and support other wounded warriors who urgently need your help. Please send your most generous gift today!

P.P.S. I want you to note one detail about [name redacted's] story. Eleven years went by between the roadside bomb that killed his buddies and the day he got help from WWP. Veterans, even those whose service ended years ago, are still coming forward for help, and we must be there for them. That's why your enduring partnership means so much. Our critical mission began 20 years ago, and because we are still needed it continues today thanks to partners like you. Thank you!

And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to "send [my] Veterans Day gift of [$7] ... to help another warrior like [name redacted] heal and find hope again." Plus, I also "show[ed] a veteran [I] care by signing the enclosed Veterans Day card," which I plan to mail back to WWP when I "return [my] Delivery Confirmation Form" within the next few days. –Paul Whiting (written September 6th, 2023, revised September 21st, 2023 and revised November 12th, 2023)

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October 24th, 2023 Update No. 7 [My Writing About How I Have Changed The Way That I Label My Blog Posts 'Updates' For Any Additional 'Updates' That I Write, After The First 'Update,' By Using A Simple Numbering System, Which Starts With The First 'Update' (Originally From My Blog Post Titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," Which Is On My "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" Blog)]:

I have changed the way I label the blog post 'updates' that I write because I oftentimes write more than one 'update' per day!

And in the past, I have labeled the second, third, fourth and fifth 'update' with the following extensions—on the days that I write more than 'update'—to differentiate any additional 'updates' from the first one, as follows:

[1st] Month Day, Year Update
[2nd] Month Day, Year Update—Continued
[3rd] Month Day, Year Update—Continued Further
[4th] Month Day, Year Update—Continued Further Some More
[5th] Month Day, Year Update—Continued Further Some More Than Before

However today, October 24th, 2023, I actually had more than five 'updates' to write, so I decided to change how I differentiate any additional 'updates,' from the first 'update,' by using a simple numbering system, which actually starts with the first 'update' that I write, as follows:

Month Day, Year Update No. 1
Month Day, Year Update No. 2
Month Day, Year Update No. 3
Month Day, Year Update No. 4
Month Day, Year Update No. 5
Month Day, Year Update No. 6
Month Day, Year Update No. 7

Therefore, that is why this 'update' is the seventh one for today! –Paul Whiting (written October 24th, 2023 and revised October 28th, 2023)

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November 6th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) today, November 6th, 2023, with the subject line "This Veterans Day is about more than thanks", which stated the following:

Paul,

Veterans Day is right around the corner, and this year is an opportunity to channel gratitude into action.

Our country is at a pivotal moment, and the pressing challenges we face both at home and abroad can only be solved with two things: LEADERSHIP and UNITY.

My fellow veterans have stepped up to fight for all Americans, regardless of any real or perceived differences. We’ve united in service to our country, demonstrated that we know how to put the mission first, and we need our leaders on the national stage to follow our lead now more than ever.

IAVA is leading on behalf of America’s veterans — and we need you to join us.

This Veterans Day, will you commit to leading with us? We need your voice in the fight too.

YES, I’M WITH YOU!

https://iava.org/become-a-veteran-advocate

Together, we can make this Veterans Day — and all of Veterans Month — about more than just thanking vets.

When you add your voice to our fight, you help us build the future for our country that we put our lives on the line for.

Thanks so much for being a part of Team IAVA.

Onward!

— [First name redacted]

[Name redacted]
Iraq War Veteran
IAVA [Title redacted]

And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:

IAVA

BECOME A VETERAN ADVOCATE

We fight and win for veterans every day, but we can’t do it without you. Commit to supporting veterans and we’ll keep you updated about our important work and let you know how you can help.

Contact Details

First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
Postal Code: [redacted]

Submit

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IAVA'S POLICY PRIORITIES

Thank you so much for your commitment to addressing the issues that matter most to post-9/11 veterans. We’ll send you an email when it’s time to contact your representatives. In the meantime, click on the topics below to learn more about our most pressing policy priorities.

Commit to Take Action Big 6: "IAVA’s members have identified 6 priority issues that matter most to them."

COMBAT SUICIDE

IAVA is committed to ending the veteran suicide epidemic.

https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/combat-suicide/#combat-suicide

[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "COMBAT SUICIDE AMONG TROOPS AND VETERANS."]

BURN PITS & TOXIC EXPOSURES

Burn pits are the Agent Orange of our generation. Our members see burn pits as a critical, urgent and growing threat.

https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/burn-pits-toxic-exposures/#bpte

[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "BURN PITS & TOXIC EXPOSURES."]

MODERNIZE VA [Veterans Administration]

We must ensure that our veterans receive the best possible care.

https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/modernize-va/#modernize-va

[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "MODERNIZE VA."]

WOMEN VETERANS

As the number of male veterans is expected to decline in the next decades, the population of women veterans will continue to increase.

https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/women-veterans/#women-veterans

[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "WOMEN VETERANS."]

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES

Civilians and veterans should have the same standard of care. Our veterans must have the same right to pursue alternative therapies while under VA care.

https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/cannabis-alternative-therapies/#canalt

[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES," which includes the action to "Urge Congress to cosponsor and work to enact the bipartisan VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act (S. 326/H.R. 1003) that states that the VA can conduct research into the efficacy of medical cannabis as a treatment for veterans with chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions," as outlined below*]

EDUCATION BENEFITS

The Post-9/11 GI Bill has now sent more than one million veterans and dependents to school. We must ensure veterans and their dependents have access to education benefits.

https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/education-benefits/#education-benefits

[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "EDUCATION BENEFITS."]

By the way, all of the individual webpages above are actually contained within the main webpage that is titled, "IAVA'S BIG 6: IAVA’s members have identified 6 priority issues that matter most to them." Therefore, you will see each one of the above-mentioned categories, including "COMBAT SUICIDE," "BURN PITS & TOXIC EXPOSURES," "MODERNIZE VA," "WOMEN VETERANS," "ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES" and "EDUCATION BENEFITS," on every one of the webpages. It's just that the individual webpages above highlight each particular topic listed above within the "IAVA'S BIG 6" main page.

*And, after I read the webpage above, regarding ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:

EMPOWER VETERANS WHO WANT TO USE MEDICAL CANNABIS (S. 326/H.R. 1003)

Who You're Contacting:

[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
[Phone number redacted]

[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
[Phone number redacted]

[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
[Phone number redacted]

What You're Saying

Subject: Begin VA Research on Benefits of Medical Cannabis for Veterans

[Decision Maker]:

Veterans have passionately stated that medical cannabis has helped them tackle some of the most pressing war injuries veterans face such as PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Eighty-eight percent of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) members surveyed support the additional research on medical cannabis. Policies are outdated, research is lacking, and stigma persists. IAVA has set out to change that and launch a national conversation underscoring the need for bipartisan, data-based solutions that can bring relief to millions.

I stand with my fellow IAVA members and urge you and Congress to cosponsor and work to enact the bipartisan VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act (S. 326/H.R. 1003) by Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester and Sen. Dan Sullivan, and Reps. Lou Correa and Peter Meijer, states that the VA can research the efficacy of medical cannabis as a treatment for veterans with chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions.

[Your name]
[Your email address]

Contact Information

First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
Address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Country: [redacted]
ZIP Code: [redacted]

SEND IT!

HELP SPREAD THE WORD:

Facebook

Twitter

SUPPORT VETERANS TODAY

Our country has an obligation to fulfill its promise to honor and support vets. Make a donation today to help IAVA fulfill its mission to connect, unite, and empower post-9/11 veterans.

DONATE

So, I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:

Empower Veterans Who Want to Use Medical Cannabis (S. 326/H.R. 1003)

https://act.iava.org/empowerveteransmedicalcannabis

Thus, I become a Veteran Advocate with the IAVA (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America) in order to show my support for our U.S. Veterans! Plus, after I sent the letter above to my Senators and Representative in Congress, via the IAVA website, I made a one-time donation to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), because "our country has an obligation to fulfill its promise to honor and support vets." –Paul Whiting (written November 6th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023 and revised April 10th, 2024)

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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 1: In order to respect and honor the many sacrifices made by those who served their country in the U.S. Military, I made one-time donations for Veterans Day to Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). –Paul Whiting (November 11th, 2023)

P.S.: For a detailed description of my Veterans Day donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), please see my 'November 11th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023' that can be found below.

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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) sixteen days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR AMERICA'S INJURED HEROES!", which stated the following:

[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]

WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS

Paul, Use your NEW patriotic stickers to show your support for America's heroes on Veterans Day!

Dear Mr. Whiting,

Military heroes show their exceptional courage, character, and bravery on the battlefield as they fight to keep us safe and free.

You show you honor them by the actions you take. You've helped so many heroes! And I'm hoping you'll demonstrate your support once again today.

Veterans Day is coming soon. It's so important to let American heroes — including our brave wounded warriors — know that their service has not been forgotten.

Please sign and send back the thank-you card I'm enclosing. and I'll make sure your gratitude and warm wishes are shared with an injured veteran.

Your gratitude could reach a hero like [name redacted], who served our country with honor for 22 years!

We can't let wounded warriors like [name redacted] feel forgotten on Veterans Day. We also must make sure they continue to get the critical help and support they need.

So, as you send back your signed card today, please also include your generous gift of $15, $18, or even $21 to help more heroes in our 2023 Portland-Area Veterans Day Fund Drive.

Paul, your support for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) means warriors and their families never pay a penny for our programs. After all, they paid their dues on the battlefield!

Thanks to you, WWP is fighting just as hard for our American herons as they fought for us. Just ask [name redacted]...

[Name redacted] struggled in school. But that's just because he hadn't found his true purpose yet! Once he graduated, he went right into the U.S. Army, and that's when [name redacted] began to excel.

Soon, he was discovering leadership qualities and a deep sense of pride. "I became proud of not just being in the Army, but being an American."

[Name redacted] was an excellent soldier. He risked his life for his country. But his service in Iraq took a toll on him. He was targeted in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack and developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Soon, it began to take over his life.

His sense of pride turned to fear and distrust. His marriage fell apart, and he moved back in with his parents. For the longest time, [name redacted] wouldn't even leave the house unless he was carrying a gun.

PTSD affects different veterans in different ways. But what [name redacted] experienced is all too common.

That kind of hypervigilance, worrying the enemy is around every corner, can make it hard to readjust to civilian life ... hard to be a parent ... and even hard to get through the day.

[Name redacted] was in a dark place. But in his darkest moment, he got the help he needed. It came from WWP and good people like you. [Name redacted] credits WWP with saving his life!

He says, "WWP helped me realize that there's always going to be someone there. Don't ever think that you're alone."

Our wounded warriors aren't alone. You're there for them! And I hope you will continue to be because your support is urgently needed now!

That's why I urge you to send the most generous Veterans Day gift you can today.

Help our heroes get the urgent help they need to face all the challenges before them. When they're ready to start their next mission, we stand ready to serve!

With gratitude,

[Name redacted]
[Military rank and status redacted]
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project

P.S. This Veterans Day, please honor Sean and all the military heroes in your community in every way you can. Write your words of gratitude on the enclosed thank-you card and send it back to me. Use the WWP patriotic stickers as another way of showing your support. And make sure injured veterans get the crucial support they need now by donating to WWP today. Thank you.

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2023 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors

To donate online, go to supportwwp.org

[✓] YES, I received my stickers, and I'll help wounded warriors! To show our nation's injured veterans, like Sean, they can count on me, I'm unclosing my tax-deductible Veterans Day gift of:

[  ] $15

[  ] $18

[  ] $21

[✓] My best gift of $7.00

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Straight from the heart...

"To the donors of Wounded Warrior Project, the only thing I can say is, "Thank you. You've changed my life."

— [Name redacted] Wounded Warrior

And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to show my support for the WWP Portland-Area Veterans Day Fund Drive! Plus, I also wrote "words of gratitude on the enclosed thank-you card," which I plan to mail back to WWP when I return my "2023 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors" delivery confirmation form within the next few days. –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2023, revised November 12th, 2023 and revised December 28th, 2023)

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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from Native American Rights Fund (NARF) today, November 11th, 2023, with the subject line, "On this Veterans Day", which stated the following:

On this Veterans Day, we celebrate and remember our Native American military veterans. We thank you! —Native American Rights Fund

Dear Paul,

On this Veterans Day and in the midst of Native American Heritage month, we celebrate and remember American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian military veterans. We thank you.

Over the years, Native American veterans have consistently dedicated themselves to protecting and serving all American citizens. Native Americans have served proudly and courageously in every major U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War.

This Veterans Day, we celebrate, remember, thank, and honor veterans, past and present, for all that they have done and given. We are grateful for you, not just this day, not just this month, but always.

NARF
Native American Rights Fund

DONATE NOW

And so, I made a one-time donation to Native American Rights Fund in order to "celebrate and remember American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian military veterans," because "Native Americans have served proudly and courageously in every major U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War." –Paul Whiting (November 11th, 2023)

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September 22nd, 2024 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses September 16th, 2024: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) six days ago on September 16th, 2024, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "SOME WOUNDS ARE HARD TO SEE ... Suicide Awareness September 2024", which stated the following:

[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]

WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS

Paul, do you know the importance of these teal and purple stickers that I'm enclosing for you? Veteran [name redacted] does . . .

Dear Mr. Whiting,

"Wounded Warrior Project saved my life."

That's US. Army veteran [name redacted], talking about the life-changing help he has received from Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) — thanks to YOU.

Finding a supportive community is so important in helping wounded warriors overcome their injuries and thrive in our communities as parents, spouses, workers, and business owners.

But tragedy can result when injured veterans don't get the help they need. September is National Suicide Awareness Month, and we must raise awareness about the hundreds of veterans who take their own lives each month.

[Name redacted] was nearly one of them. There were days when his traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were more than he could bear.

"I was trying to deal with all this trauma, all at once, all by myself," [name redacted] remembers. "Not asking for somebody's help almost cost me my life."

Thankfully, there is a powerful community giving wounded heroes the caring and compassionate support they need, when they need it most. And you're a big part of it.

Paul, the teal and purple stickers I'm enclosing for you today are to help raise awareness about suicide — to help prevent another tragic loss of life.

In addition, Veterans Day is coming, and that's a time when your life-changing support for our wounded warriors really means the most.

Please send your Veterans Day gift of $15, $18, $21, or more to help another warrior like [name redacted] heal and find hope!

As you know, many veterans have injuries you can see, like missing limbs and severe burns. But some also have invisible wounds that can be just as devastating . . .

[Name redacted] served as a combat medic. For months, he treated injured soldiers on a daily basis.

Sniper fire, mortars, and blasts from improvised explosive devices (IED) were a daily occurrence. It takes a terrible emotional toll. [Name redacted] recalls, "I cradled a warrior in my arms as he died. You grow up fast."

It took [name redacted] attempting to end his life, and the urging of his wife, for [name redacted] to seek out the help he urgently needed. Thank goodness he did.

He went to a WWP Project Odyssey event, and discovered camaraderie and support programs that he didn't know existed.

That was the day his journey of healing began. Since then, he's attended many other WWP events. He's sharing his story now in the hope that other wounded warriors will read it and know that help is available . . . thanks to partners like you.

"Wounded Warrior Project saved my life. I appreciate every day that I wake up, because a lot of men and women didn't get that extra day."

I often tell you that your support for WWP can have a life-changing impact. But as [name redacted's] story reminds us, your gifts can even have a life-saving impact.

Your support is needed again today. Veterans Day is almost here, and the need for our free programs and services for wounded warriors is increasing. More heroes contact us for help every single day!

We must help warriors learn to live their best lives despite their invisible injuries.

And we must prevent the further loss of life that can happen when invisible injuries go untreated, or when warriors don't know where to turn for help.

Please send your Veterans Day gift to help more wounded warriors find hope, purpose, and healing. Thank you, once again, for being part of our family of caring supporters.

With gratitude,

[Name redacted]
Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, Retired
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project

P.S. Veterans Day is coming soon. The time is now to honor wounded heroes like [name redacted] and support other wounded warriors who urgently need your help. Please sign the enclosed Veterans Day card for a wounded hero and return it with your most generous gift today. And please display your teal and purple stickers all during National Suicide Awareness Month to help others learn about our work, and about your inspiring commitment to our heroes!

---------------------------------------------

Text of the enclosed Veterans Day card

Outside of the card:

Thank You

Inside of the card:

Please know that the gift you've given me
— my freedom —
is the most cherished gift of all.

I will never forget what you've done
for me and for our country. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Paul Whiting
Signed on 09/22/2024

---------------------------------------------

2024 Portland-Area
Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors

To donate online, go to supportwwp.org/wwp

[✓] YES, I will use my free stickers to show my support for wounded warriors. To help more American heroes battle back from wartime wounds, I'm making my tax-deductible gift of:

[  ] $15
[  ] $18
[  ] $21
[  ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $7.00

[  ] My check is enclosed and made out to Wounded Warrior Project.
[  ] Please charge my credit card.
(Please complete form on reverse.)

Every gift makes a difference!
Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law.

Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]

Wounded Warrior Project
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]

And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, September 22nd, 2024, in order to show my support for the 2024 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors. Also, I displayed my "teal and purple stickers ... during National Suicide Awareness Month to help others learn about [WWP's] work, and about [my] inspiring commitment to our heroes!" Plus, I signed "the enclosed Veterans Day card for a wounded hero." And I am planning to mail the Veterans Day card as soon as I get a chance to drop off the return envelope at my local post office. –Paul Whiting (September 22nd, 2024)

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November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1 [My Writing About No Longer Being An 'Online Activist' In Any Way, Shape Or Form]: Due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election—and until further notice—I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in any way, shape or form, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, and no longer sending letters to my Representative and Senators in Congress, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes. Full stop! I am also unsubscribing from any of the emails that I used to receive from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations. In fact, I am even cancelling all of my monthly political donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating organizations, as well as to the USO (United Service Organizations), in addition to cancelling all of my monthly news organization subscriptions, or news organization donations, because I am absolutely terrified of this second Trump administration. And I fully expect that democracy in America as we know it will be over! So, I am choosing to not engage in any 'activism' whatsoever—plus, I am not even sure that I will be exercising my 'civic duty' by voting in any upcoming elections because, as a (formerly) donating and a (potentially former) voting Democrat, I totally fear the retribution of President Donald J. Trump. Full stop!

P.S.: It's July 31st, 2025, and I feel like I need to provide an addendum (that is, "an item of additional material added at the end of a book or document, typically in order to correct, clarify, or supplement something") to this November 6th, 2024 'update!'

You see, a couple of days ago, on July 29th, 2025, I copied the text of this update to use as my reason for unsubscribing from a particular political email that I received that same day!

And so, I actually bothered to read this update—in order to verify that it made sense for me to use as a response to the request on this political email's unsubscribe page which stated, "Please tell us why you are leaving"—during which I realized there was a typo (that is, 'a typographical error') in the text of the update, as I have highlighted below, with the correction in brackets:

"And I fully expect that democracy in America as we know [it] will be over!"

Thus, I accidentally left out the word "it" in the sentence above. Hence, I corrected said typo on July 29th, the verification of which can be seen reflected in the addition of the date "revised July 29th, 2025" after my name.

However, as I got to thinking about the fact that I had originally said I may not be voting in any upcoming elections, I realized that, in fact, I did vote in Portland Oregon's Multnomah County Special District Election on May 20th, 2025, just like I usually do! [I always vote in every election (even 'special elections') and I always vote Democrat, which is why I was worried about voting in any upcoming elections given President Trump's clear disdain for Democrats.]

Therefore, I decided to write this "P.S." today, July 31st, as a way to clarify that I am still voting in elections (even 'special elections'), it's just that I am no longer engaging in any 'Online Activism,' during Trump's Presidency, as I explained in great detail above. (I hope that makes sense!)

–Paul Whiting (written November 6th, 2024, revised November 7th, 2024, revised July 29th, 2025 and revised July 31st, 2025)

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November 11th, 2025 Update No. 1: For Veterans Day 2025, I decided to create playlists on YouTube Music in order to remind everyone in the United States of America that November 11th is Veterans Day...

...And so, in honor of all those who served in the United States Military, I created the following three playlists on YouTube Music in order to say, "THANK YOU" to all of the military veterans:

"'Veterans Day Celebration Music, Part 1' by Various Artists of Marching Band Style Music" (on YouTube):

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5ASnKWDRID1lezaVbcXBMMNuyMQD1Qzq&si=F2PzLYmnd73jVhp6

"'Veterans Day Celebration Music, Part 2' by Various Artists of Instrumental Piano Music" (on YouTube):

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5ASnKWDRID3F_1Guy0ffP3id38l-Xh3J&si=DzzHF8anTKILjXfQ

"'Veterans Day Celebration Music, Part 3' by Various Artists of Marching Band Style Music, Plus Popular, Rock and Country Music" (on YouTube):

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5ASnKWDRID0r4a2BD4CZxL1zivMoFCZs&si=yMSgjB0j-aldIt6V

Here is the description from all three of those playlists:

Veterans Day is November 11th! So, I decided to remind everyone in the United States of America that November 11th is Veterans Day, as explained from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia—which is funded primarily through donations from millions of individuals around the world, including this music lover (I make a totally affordable one-time donation if they are requesting donations when I am on their website):

"Veterans Day (originally known as Armistice Day) is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11, for honoring military veterans of the United States Armed Forces. It coincides with holidays in several countries, including Armistice Day and Remembrance Day, which also occur on the anniversary of the end of World War I. Major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 when the Armistice with Germany went into effect. At the urging of major U.S. veteran organizations, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954."

Thus, in celebration of all that United States Military Veterans have done for us, I created this playlist in order to say, "THANK YOU" to all of the military veterans!

–Paul Whiting (November 11th, 2025)

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[Blogger's Note: The following updates — 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1' and 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026]’, as well as 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 2, Written On April 19th, 2026)', in addition to ‘April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 3, Written On May 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026, Part 2]' — are NOT related to Veterans Day, but they are relevant to explaining that I have restarted donating to the USO (United Service Organizations) as of April 2026.]

-------------------------------------------------------------------

April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1: I received a text message today, April 16th, 2026, from the USO (United Service Organizations), which stated the following:

[Image of the 2026 USO T-shirt design.]

USO T-shirt alert: Paul, we're so excited to share that the exclusive 2026 USO T-shirts are here! As a thank you for being a top supporter, we're giving you early access before the T-shirts are available to the general public. So please, get yours now before they're gone! 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 $𝟮𝟵 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁 — 𝗼𝗿 $𝟱𝟮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘀?***

As the official uniform of military supporters, this exclusive USO T-shirt is one of the best ways to show your pride and support our nation's service members. Please, don't miss your chance to be among the first to get yours.

𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗨𝗦𝗢 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁:***

—The USO

Help support our troops — and claim your 2026 USO T-shirt today!

Wear your support for our troops — support they can see. Every donation helps support critical programs for our brave soldiers that keep them connected to home as they serve worldwide. This year's T-shirt also celebrates America's 250th birthday, so supplies won't last long! Please donate $29 for one or $52 for two collector's edition 2026 USO T-shirts before they're gone.

Your donation will be used where it is needed most.

Secure donation

[✓] $29
[  ] $52
[  ] $100
[  ] $250
[  ] $500
[  ] $1,000

Select your thank-you gift

[  ] Donate without thank-you gift

[✓] 1 T-shirt
For $29+ one-time
View details
Size: 2X

[  ] 2 T-shirts
For $52+ one-time
View details

Enter your details

First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
Email address: [redacted]
Phone number (optional): [redacted]
Donate as an organization: N/A

Enter your address

Street address: [redacted]
Apartment/suite/floor: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Zip code: [redacted]

You donate $31 USD

[✓] Cover transaction costs

Donate

And so, I made a one-time donation on the USO.org website in order to support the USO's following statement: "Wear your support for our troops — support they can see. Every donation helps support critical programs for our brave soldiers that keep them connected to home as they serve worldwide. This year's T-shirt also celebrates America's 250th birthday, so supplies won't last long!"

In addition to that, I used to make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel. Besides that, I also formerly made one-time donations to the USO as often as I could manage whenever they requested a donation via email or text message. However, I am currently on an "Activist Sabbatical" due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election. Please see my 'November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1' (that also appears as 'My Writing About No Longer Being An 'Online Activist' In Any Way, Shape Or Form'), which can be found on this blog post for a complete explanation of this "Activism Sabbatical," so to speak, that I am currently taking.

By the way, did you know that the USO is a not-for-profit organization and not part of the Department of Defense (DoD)? The following description of the USO is from their 'About Us' webpage:

"The USO is not part of the federal government. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection."

So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' through one-time donations to the USO—even during my "Activist Sabbatical"—for special occasions, such as America's 250th Birthday! –Paul Whiting (written April 16th, 2026 and revised May 21st, 2026)
---------------------------------------------
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026]: Yesterday, April 16th, 2026, I wrote about receiving a text message from the USO (United Service Organizations) regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt design! And I explained that I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt, but I also clarified that I am not currently donating to the USO on a recurring monthly basis, like I used to do, due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election.

Now, today, I realized that I shouldn't really be withholding monthly donations just because Donald Trump is President, since the USO is providing really important support to Our Troops, who are putting themselves in harm's way in order to Protect Our Country and Defend Democracy!

So, what got me to thinking about restarting my recurring monthly donations to the USO is the fact that I received an email from the USO yesterday, after I opened the donation webpage from their original text message referenced in my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1,' which can be found above, to get the correct phrasing from that donation webpage in order to represent said page as accurately as possible for the description that I provided in my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1.' And, in doing so, I entered the information in each box, just like I was planning to make a donation! However, I was simply capturing the formatting of the USO's donation webpage text, so that I could replicate it.

Then—lo and behold—yesterday, April 16th, 2026, I received an email from the USO, with the subject line, "You are so close to providing help & support," which stated the following:

[Picture of "a soldier sitting against a fence, looking pensive while holding a small object in his hands. The background features trees and grass, indicating a calm outdoor setting."]

Don’t leave your impact unfinished

You can make a powerful impact for service members and their families.

By making a donation today

• You give our heroes a lifeline: The USO is the only nonprofit dedicated to keeping service members connected to loved ones and the comforts of home — from free Wi-Fi calls to connections home and holiday meals that remind them their sacrifice is valued.
• You make sure no one serves alone: No matter how far, remote or dangerous the deployment, the USO shows up — just like our service members show up for us. But 6 in 10 service members don’t even know the full range of programs available. Your support ensures they can find and use the help they deserve.
• You help power $230,000 of care every single day: It takes $230,000 a day to provide these life-changing programs. Your generosity makes it possible for every hero to feel the comfort of home no matter where duty takes them.

Every day the USO is on the frontlines with our service members. We couldn't do this critical work without generous friends like you.

For the People Who Serve,

– [Names redacted], USO

Complete your donation***

The USO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and acknowledges that no goods or services were provided to you in return for your contribution. Donations to USO are tax deductible to the extent provided by law.

***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]

And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, however—in order for me to clarify something—this is where I usually say in these kinds of updates, "the relevant text of which can be found below," but when I opened that page, I realized that I would simply be making another donation for the 2026 USO T-shirt!

Therefore, I decided to refer to my own previous blog post updates where I extol the virtues of making recurring monthly donations as part of the USO Home Team, the text of which can be found below:

So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' as a member of the "USO Home Team" through a recurring monthly donation, as well as through one-time donations to the USO each month!

And, after I read my own blog post update text, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, which can be found below:

Donate to support our service members

Our service members keep our nation safe. And we work hard to keep them connected to home — but we can't do that without support from military supporters like you. Our heroes are counting on you to be a part of this important work for our country. So please, donate now.

By donating, you agree to allow the USO to use your gift, combined with others, in a matching gift fund.

Secure donation

[  ] Give once
[✓] ❤ Monthly

[  ] $100
[  ] $55
[  ] $25
[✓] $20
[  ] $10
[  ] $5

Upgrade to quarterly donations

Would you consider switching your $20 monthly gift to a quarterly support? Your quarterly commitment helps us plan ahead and make an even greater impact every season.

[  ] ❤ Upgrade to $60/quarter
[  ] Upgrade to $57/quarter
[✓] Keep my $20 monthly donation

Enter your details

First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
Email address: [redacted]
Phone number (optional): [redacted]
Donate as an organization: N/A

Double your impact

Many employers have a donation matching program that will double or triple the value of your donation. Just enter the name of your employer, and we'll see if your impact can be amplified!

Your company (optional): N/A

Enter your address

Street address: [redacted]
Apartment/suite/floor: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Zip code: [redacted]

You donate $20 USD/month

[  ] Cover transaction costs

Donate

And to clarify another thing: I decided to increase what I donate to the USO on a monthly recurring basis to $20.00, since I used to donate $10.00 per month—which was increased from $5.00 per month—as explained below, from my 'April 17th, 2023 Update,' which can be found on this blog:

"...In addition to that, I already make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel:

01. USO: United Service Organizations recurring donation of $10.00 (which used to be $5.00 per month, but I increased it by an additional $5.00 per month; so starting on August 17th, 2022, the USO recurring donation is now $10.00 per month)..."

Then, after I made said donation, I received an email from the USO today, April 17th, 2026, with the subject line, "Welcome to the USO Home Team, Paul", which stated the following:

[Graphic image of "a red heart on a blue watercolor background."]

Thank you for becoming a recurring supporter

Thank you Paul!

Thank you for your monthly recurring gift of $20.00 USD.

Your Recurring ID is: [redacted]

On behalf of all of us at USO, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to you for your recent recurring donation and your support. Our mission depends on the support and compassion of donors like you.

– Your friends at the USO.

Thus, I made a recurring donation on the USO.org website in order to support the USO's following statement: "Our service members keep our nation safe. And we work hard to keep them connected to home — but we can't do that without support from military supporters like you. Our heroes are counting on you to be a part of this important work for our country."

By the way, did you know that the USO is a not-for-profit organization and not part of the Department of Defense (DoD)? The following description of the USO is from their 'About Us' webpage:

"The USO is not part of the federal government. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection."

So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' as a member of the "USO Home Team" through a recurring monthly donation! –Paul Whiting (written April 17th, 2026, revised April 18th, 2026, revised April 19th, 2026, revised May 16th, 2026 and revised May 21st, 2026)
---------------------------------------------
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 2, Written On April 19th, 2026): Three days ago, on April 16th, 2026, I wrote about receiving a text message from the USO (United Service Organizations) regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt! And I explained that I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt, but I also clarified that I am not currently donating to the USO on a recurring monthly basis, like I used to do, due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election.

Then, on April 17th, 2026, I wrote about restarting my recurring monthly donations to the USO due to the fact that I received an email from the USO two days ago, on April 17th, 2026, because I realized that I shouldn't really be withholding monthly donations just because Donald Trump is President, since the USO is providing really important support to Our Troops, who are putting themselves in harm's way in order to Protect Our Country and Defend Democracy!

Then today, April 19th, 2026, I received an email from the USO, with the subject line, "Will your employer match your donation?", which stated the following:

[Graphic image showing a USO logo, then a "+" (plus sign), followed by a gift box emoji with the word "You" written under it, then another "+" (plus sign), followed by another gift box emoji with the words "Company Match" written under it, then the "=" (equals sign), followed by a much larger gift box emoji with the words "Double the impact" written under it.]

Hi Paul,

We’re so thankful for your recent donation!

Did you know that thousands of companies match donations made by their employees to organizations like the USO? Please visit our matching gift page to see if your company will match your gift and to access the forms, guidelines, and instructions that you need to complete your submission.

[ ] Step 1: See if I'm eligible! Click here***

We want to know when you’ve submitted your matching gift request! Once you’ve submitted, click the link below to let us know.

[ ] Step 2: I've submitted my matching gift request! Click here***

If your company doesn't offer a matching gift program or won't match your donation, click the link below to help us keep our records up to date.

[✓] I'm not eligible for a matching gift.***

For the People Who Serve,

[Name redacted], [name redacted] and [name redacted]

USO Matching Gift Team

Sent on behalf of United Service Organizations., Inc.

Let us know why your gift is ineligible

Thank you for notifying us that your donation is not eligible to be matched by your company. To note this in our records, please select one of the reasons below. Your selection will not be saved until you click "Submit" below.

[  ] I'm retired.

[✓] I am self-employed, a government employee, or not currently working.

[  ] I'm self-employed.

[✓] I'm not currently working.

[Blogger's Note: The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so that is why I indicated that "I'm not currently working."]

[  ] I'm a stay-at-home parent.

[  ] I'm in the public sector.

[  ] I work for a nonprofit.

[  ] I work part-time.

[  ] My company doesn't offer a matching program.

[  ] I don't work for the company you sent info for.

[  ] My donation doesn't meet my company's matching gift program requirements.

[  ] I don't want to submit a match request for this gift.

[  ] I prefer not to say.

Submit

---------------------------------------------

Thank you for your response. We have updated our records.

Thus, I responded to the USO's request to see if my donation could be matched, by indicating that "I'm not currently working."

By the way, did you know that the USO is a not-for-profit organization and not part of the Department of Defense (DoD)? The following description of the USO is from their 'About Us' webpage:

"The USO is not part of the federal government. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection."

So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' as a member of the "USO Home Team" through a recurring monthly donation! –Paul Whiting (April 19th, 2026)
---------------------------------------------
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 3, Written On May 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026, Part 2]: This update is a follow-up to my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026)', wherein I explained, in part, that I made a donation on April 16th, 2026, to the USO (United Service Organizations) on the USO.org website regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt design!

Plus, I clarified that—even though I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt—I am not currently donating to the USO on a recurring monthly basis, like I used to do, due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election.

And I go on to explain that I shouldn't really be withholding monthly donations just because Donald Trump is President, since the USO is providing really important support to Our Troops, who are putting themselves in harm's way in order to Protect Our Country and Defend Democracy!

Therefore, I explained that I decided to restart my recurring monthly donations, as part of the USO Home Team, on April 17th, 2026!

And I also clarified that I decided to increase what I donate to the USO on a monthly recurring basis to $20.00, since I used to donate $10.00 per month, which was increased from $5.00 per month.

Thus, that first recurring monthly donation started today, May 17th, 2026!

You see, I usually make one-time donations to the USO—as often as I can manage when they request a donation via regular mail, email or text message. (I also donate for particular calendar observances, such as Armed Forces Day, or Armed Forces Month!) Therefore, I am planning to continue making one-time donations to the USO in the future, as often as I can manage, in addition to making the aforementioned recurring monthly donation.

By the way, did you know that the USO is a not-for-profit organization and not part of the Department of Defense (DoD)? The following description of the USO is from their 'About Us' webpage:

"The USO is not part of the federal government. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection."

So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' as a member of the "USO Home Team" through a recurring monthly donation! –Paul Whiting (written May 17th, 2026 and revised May 18th, 2026)

P.S.: It's May 18th, 2026 and early this morning, after checking my regular mail, I received a postcard from the USO, which stated the following:

★★★ USO ★★★ Home ⋆ Team

Thank you for joining the USO Home Team! Your ongoing commitment is deeply appreciated. Your generosity ensures that we can continue providing vital support to our service members and their families.

For the people who serve,

[Name redacted]

Welcome to the USO Home Team, Paul!

And so, I wanted to share this postcard with you, my readers, as part of this update regarding my USO Home Team recurring monthly donations!

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This "Small All White in the Forest" Post No. 125 was edited on May 28th, 2026.

"Poetry is using the fewest words possible in order to describe all that is possible to describe." –Paul Whiting [June 1st, 2022]

Small All White in the Forest — Poet

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Post No. 125: For Veterans Day 2010 — A Sacred Trust

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