Blog Post

Daily News Brief 02.21.12
Posted by Jacob Worrell on February 21 2012

Here are some of today's top stories and happenings at IAVA. Prefer to receive real-time updates about major stories and legislation that IAVA is tracking? Follow us on Twitter @IAVAPressRoom and click here to get the News Brief delivered to your inbox every morning.

MUST READS

1)IAVA Partners with Veterans Crisis Line

IAVA is proud to announce a new partnership with the Veterans Crisis Line to help more Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in their toughest times of need. Backed by more than 200 dedicated professionals, the VCL offers free confidential crisis support 24/7 through phone, text and line online chats. The partnership will provide a direct warm-line for IAVA staff helping members inside Community of Veterans. Learn more about the Veterans Crisis Line here.

2) NAVY Seals: Obama's Secret Army

Newsweek offers an inside look at how the Navy SEALs have gained recognition and an increasing mission count during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The President is reportedly assessing the operational effectiveness of U.S. special operations--and calls to double down investment and expand their role in South America, Asia and Africa.

3) Why Veterans are a Good Fit for Tech Jobs

In an economy where veterans’ unemployment remains higher than the national average, tech leaders like Google and Microsoft are doing their part to bring vets into the workforce. Check out the infographic highlighting tech jobs commonly filled by veterans and skills most commonly sought here.

AFGHANISTAN

Furious protesters fired petrol bombs with slingshots at the largest US-run military base in Afghanistan after reports NATO troops set fire to copies of the Koran.
Four U.S. airmen returning from an Operation Enduring Freedom reconnaissance mission were killed in an air crash near a U.S. military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa.

IRAQ

Idaho lawmakers are rallying behind an Idaho soldier who was severely wounded in a 2005 attack in Iraq by asking President Obama to consider him for America's highest military honor.

MILITARY AFFAIRS

At least 100 military families will receive homes this year under a partnership between JPMorgan Chase and the nonprofit group Operation Homefront.
A veteran who sought help through the Veterans Crisis Line is being prosecuted in Virginia for carrying a manufactured weapon.
50 years ago this week, U.S. Marine John Glenn became the first American to orbit the earth. Glenn flew combat missions during World War II and Korea.
Army moves to act fast on battlefield brain injuries.

NEW GREATEST GENERATION

After ten years of war, veterans take their skills into the world and embark on starting their own businesses.
A 51-year-old woman has finished basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and has become one of the oldest people to go through the 10 weeks of physical and tactical drills.

INSIDE WASHINGTON