In recognition of National POW/MIA Recognition Day, observed annually the third Friday in September, we would like to recognize our Former Prisoner of War Team for their meaningful outreach and dedication to honoring our Veterans. National POW/MIA Recognition Day is a U.S. observance dedicated to honoring former prisoners of war and remembering those who remain missing in action from all conflicts. The observance reinforces our nation’s enduring commitment to account for every unreturned service member, symbolized by the black-and-white POW/MIA flag and its powerful message: “You Are Not Forgotten.” On Sept. 18, the team had the privilege of visiting Mr. Wright, a 98-year-old Korean War-era former POW who served in the U.S. Army Infantry and endured 32 months in captivity. Following his release, he remarkably reenlisted and continued his military service. During the visit, the team spent time with Mr. Wright and his daughters, listening to stories, viewing photographs, and reading letters about his service. The family also shared memories of FPOW events they had attended over the years. Mr. Wright was presented with a commemorative frame, pin, recognition letter, and donuts, a fitting treat for someone who enjoys sweets. They also learned that he is a devoted Cubs fan who attended one of the historic 2016 World Series games. This visit was a wonderful example of what Veteran-centered care looks like — meeting the Veteran where he is and honoring his service in a personal, meaningful, and dignified way. Please join us in recognizing the FPOW Team for their compassion and commitment: Dr. David Rogers – FPOW Physician Eric Glessner – FPOW Advocate Debbie Rafael Shanley – FPOW Social Worker Team Lead Dr. Amin Daghestani – FPOW Compensation & Pension Kelley Alexander – FPOW VBA Patrick Grimes – Market Growth Coordinator Thank you for helping ensure that our former POWs and their families know they are valued, supported, and never forgotten. Pictured Below (left to right) Eric Glessner, Debbie Rafael Shanley, FPOW CL Wright, and Patrick B. Grimes

Stay connected to VA resources on the go. The VA: Health and Benefits app lets you refill prescriptions, send secure messages to your care team, review appointments, and find facilities near you. #VAMobile mobile.va.gov/app/va-health-….

Many #Veterans may not show obvious signs of suicide, but some of their actions, words, and behaviors might indicate they need help. Learn what to look for to help the Veterans you know who may be going through a difficult time: VeteransCrisisLine.net/signs….

National POW/MIA Recognition Day, observed this year Friday, Sept. 18, is important because if forces us to pause and honor Americans who endured the unimaginable as prisoners of war and to remember those who never came home. It is a day to recognize not just their service but their resilience under captivity, isolation, and hardship and to acknowledge the sacrifice carried by their families who lived for years without answers. First established by Congress in 1979 and now held on the third Friday of every September, it also reaffirms a national promise that we will never stop accounting for the missing. When we fly the black and white POW/MIA flag, attend a ceremony, or simply take a moment of silence, we tell Veterans, former POWs, and Gold Star families that their suffering and their loved ones’ service will not fade into history.

Vaccines can help protect from flu, RSV, COVID-19, and pneumonia. These vaccines are available at no cost to Veterans receiving care at VA. prevention.va.gov/

On Patriot Day, we gather as a community of Veterans, families, caregivers, and dedicated professionals to mark a solemn milestone — the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. On that fateful day, 2,977 lives were lost. For Jesse Brown Veterans, this anniversary carries a unique weight. Some of you answered the call to serve, your service, resilience, and sacrifice continue to inspire us.

Jesse Brown VA is looking for landlords in the Indiana (see counties below) and northside of Chicago area. If you are a landlord who have apartments to rent, we need you! Please email the HUD-VASH Landlord Group listed below for additional details. Note: This is not for shared housing, only individual units, one Veteran or Veteran and family per unit.

Join us for the Fourth Quarter Veteran Tele-health Town Hall Tuesday, Sept. 8 from 5 to 6 p.m. CDT.

Get support managing your VA prescriptions with the Ask a Pharmacist app. Learn how to read your prescription labels, review side effects, confirm your dosage, and locate VA pharmacies. #VAMobile mobile.va.gov/app/ask-a-phar….

Looking to take the next step in your health journey? The Live Whole Health app can help improve your well-being. Work with a virtual coach to set goals to support your wellness. #VAMobile #LiveWholeHealth mobile.va.gov/app/live-whole….

Wake up feeling more rested with the Insomnia Coach app. Track your sleep with a digital diary, follow a personalized sleep schedule, and try techniques like progressive muscle relaxation to improve your sleep over time. #VAMobile mobile.va.gov/app/insomnia-c….

Getting back to basics is easy—choose whole foods, drink water, and plan your meals and snacks. Learn more about meal timing and meet with your VA dietitian to learn more. at nutrition.va.gov/NUTRITION/d… #VANutrition.

Heat-related illnesses happen when the body can’t cool itself. This can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs. Beat the heat with these tips at myhealth.va.gov/ss20230815-s….

Are you caring for a Veteran? Let VA care for you. See if you’re eligible for the VA Caregiver Support Program at veteranshealthlibrary.va.gov….

Veterans who are part of VA’s Million Veteran Program (MVP) are helping us make life-changing health discoveries. sing MVP data, researchers discovered a gene variant that raises the risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart muscle disease and leading cause of heart failure. Become part of this important research at mvp.va.gov/pwa/?utm_source=s….

Join us for the Fourth Quarter Veteran Tele-health Town Hall Sept. 8 from 5 to 6 p.m. CDT.

Every Veteran’s health journey is unique, and VA social workers are here to make sure no one walks it alone. When health challenges, major life stressors, or complex care needs arise, social workers help Veterans navigate the moments that matter most. To learn more about VA social workers, visit socialwork.va.gov.

Give hope during this time in need. The August blood drive is happening here at Jesse Brown Friday, Aug. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in the Prescription Room. Appointments preferred; walk-ins welcomed. One pint of blood can save up to three lives. To sign up, please visit blood drive.

Every Veteran’s health journey is unique, and VA social workers are here to make sure no one walks it alone. When health challenges, major life stressors, or complex care needs arise, social workers help Veterans navigate the moments that matter most. To learn more about VA social workers, visit socialwork.va.gov.

Many Veterans may qualify for discounted phone and broadband service through the national Lifeline program. Learn more: lifelinesupport.org