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Staying Connected: A Lifeline for Veterans’ Health Week

As veterans, we’ve all faced our fair share of challenges. Some days, we feel like we can conquer anything; on other days, it’s a struggle just to keep going. One key factor in navigating these ups and downs? Staying connected. It might seem simple, but maintaining strong social ties can be a game changer for both your mental and physical well-being.

It’s more than just firing off a quick text or liking a post on social media. True connection means having meaningful conversations, sharing experiences, and knowing that when things get tough, someone’s got your back. Research shows that a solid support network can improve your mood, boost your immune system, and help stave off feelings of loneliness. In fact, it can even reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

Why Connection Matters

Whether it’s catching up for a BBQ, attending local events, or just checking in with a mate, staying connected directly impacts how you feel day to day. Here’s why it’s so important:

1. Emotional Support: We all have moments when life feels overwhelming. Reaching out to others can pull you out of those tough spots. Simply knowing someone’s there makes a world of difference.
2. Physical Health Benefits: Your social connections can have a profound effect on your physical health, too. Studies show that veterans who stay engaged with others tend to have lower blood pressure, healthier hearts, and even live longer.
3. Sense of Belonging: During service, being part of a team was ingrained in us. Finding that sense of community in civilian life is just as crucial, whether it’s through veteran groups, social clubs, or reconnecting with family.

Preventing Isolation Through Online Veteran Networks

In today’s digital age, staying connected isn’t limited to face-to-face meetups. Online communities and veteran information services offer a wealth of resources to help veterans stay informed and engaged. Platforms like DVA’s Veteran Services Online, RSL’s Connect or Frontline Veterans Network not only provide valuable news and updates but also give veterans an easy way to find support networks, mental health resources, and local veteran-friendly events. This digital connection helps bridge the gap for those who may feel isolated or unable to physically connect.

Take Action During Veteran Health Week

Veteran life doesn’t have to be a solo mission. We’ve all been through a lot, and sometimes just knowing there’s someone who truly understands can make all the difference. As Veteran Health Week approaches, take the opportunity to reach out—whether it’s reconnecting with an old mate or exploring a new online veteran group. Staying connected is good for the mind, body, and spirit. It’s a vital part of maintaining health, and it’s something we all deserve.

Remember, you’re not alone—there’s a community out there, waiting to welcome you.

Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary (ROGUE) – Fires vehicle with Forterra’s self-driving system called AutoDrive navigates off-road terrain. (Photo courtesy of Forterra)

Manned missile batteries face significant risks in modern warfare. Once fired, these systems become highly visible to enemy sensors, making them vulnerable to counter-battery fire. Autonomous, unmanned systems offer a solution by mitigating these risks. The use of such systems allows for faster, safer operations, keeping human operators at a safe distance.

For example, an enemy warship can detect an anti-ship ballistic missile’s launch and rapidly return fire. Even small quadcopters can transmit a missile battery’s position to adversaries, increasing the threat to human operators. Scott Sanders, former Marine Special Operations Officer, emphasized the danger: “If you don’t move fast enough, you risk losing both equipment and personnel.” This highlights the urgent need for systems that can fire and relocate autonomously, reducing the exposure of soldiers and marines.

Currently, field artillery teams operate quickly, but advanced enemy capabilities in the electromagnetic spectrum make them vulnerable before they can retreat. Autonomous systems, like Forterra’s Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary (ROGUE) Fires under the Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), provide a critical advantage. These unmanned platforms can manoeuvre and fire faster than crewed systems, allowing for quick response while reducing the risk to human life.

The benefits of autonomous systems extend beyond just missile operations. These systems can support counterterrorism, logistics, reconnaissance, and infrastructure protection. Autonomous platforms minimize the risk to soldiers in hazardous environments like urban warfare or areas with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. By operating without humans onboard, these systems allow for greater firepower projection and sensor deployment without risking personnel.

Forterra, a leader in ground-based autonomy, has been at the forefront of developing these systems. Their technology has been integrated into various defence vehicles, providing unmatched reliability and scalability. Forterra’s unmanned systems, like the ROGUE Fires, allow the Marine Corps and Army to enhance their logistics and combat capabilities without putting additional personnel in harm’s way.

As military forces continue to evolve, autonomy will play an essential role in keeping soldiers safe while maintaining operational effectiveness. These systems are not only functional but are already being deployed, proving that autonomous technology is ready to transform modern warfare.

Over recent decades, an unofficial rule has emerged within the Australian Defence Force (ADF) discouraging personnel from wearing their uniforms in public. Concerns about eliciting negative reactions from civilians, internal perceptions of public uniform display as “cringeworthy,” and fears of intense media scrutiny have contributed to this trend. While these concerns are valid, they have hindered the positive promotion of the ADF’s image—at a time when such visibility is sorely needed.

The ADF faces significant recruitment challenges, with its personnel numbers well below target. The Defence Strategic Review (DSR) in 2023 called for a faster recruitment process and a strategic overhaul, including a review of the Reserves. Yet, with Australia seeking to grow its forces to 80,000 uniformed personnel by 2040, achieving this goal will require more than just policy shifts. A national culture shift is needed to reframe how Australians view their military.

Historically, Australia’s treatment of uniformed personnel has been mixed. Vietnam veterans were instructed to hide their service due to public hostility. More recently, ADF personnel have been discouraged from wearing uniforms in public during the Afghanistan conflict, out of fear of terrorist targeting. However, as those threats have waned, so too should the reluctance to allow uniformed presence in everyday life.

In contrast to this cautious approach, other nations proudly showcase their military. The US, for example, has long embraced the sight of uniformed soldiers in public, promoting a sense of unity and patriotism. For Australia, allowing and encouraging ADF personnel to wear their uniforms outside of strictly controlled environments could foster similar national pride and inspire future recruits.

With recruitment numbers falling, it’s essential that Australians see their military as part of the community, not just on Anzac Day. The ADF has an opportunity to lead a national reset, allowing soldiers to wear their uniforms with pride, reflecting the honour of their service. It’s time to embrace a new era where military service is celebrated and normalised, fostering both recruitment and a stronger, more united nation.

ABC NEWS

The conduct of the Deputy Prime Minister’s office has left many feeling deeply disappointed. Jo Tarnawsky, a respected career public servant and chief of staff to Richard Marles, has come forward with troubling claims that she was pushed out of her job after raising concerns of bullying among her colleagues. Despite remaining officially employed, Tarnawsky says she has been denied access to her office since June and has had no communication with the Deputy Prime Minister for months.

While she does not accuse Mr. Marles of directly bullying her, Tarnawsky feels she has been systematically “bullied out of her job.” In a rare public statement, she expressed her frustration at being frozen out, saying, “No fair process has been followed. I continue to be employed officially as the deputy prime minister’s chief of staff, but I have been prevented from doing my job.” Tarnawsky made these comments at a media conference, where she declined to take any questions.

Accompanied by her lawyer, Michael Bradley, Tarnawsky explained that she had privately raised concerns about bullying in the office while returning from a trip to Ukraine with Marles. She claims that, instead of addressing the issues, the Deputy Prime Minister suggested she start looking for other employment and forced her to take several weeks of leave. Upon trying to return to work in June, she was informed she could not return to her role or office, further deepening her sense of betrayal.

Tarnawsky has been outspoken about the emotional toll of the past months, detailing how she has suffered from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts. “I had none of these symptoms before May 2024,” she shared. “The way I have been treated has been cowardly, cruel, and completely unnecessary.”

Despite these harrowing revelations, neither Tarnawsky nor her lawyer provided details about the original bullying allegations, leaving the public in the dark about the specific concerns she raised. The Deputy Prime Minister’s office, while contesting parts of Tarnawsky’s account, insists that she has been treated with “respect and courtesy” and that the Albanese government is committed to improving workplace culture.

However, the failure of the Minister to engage directly with his chief of staff during these tumultuous months raises serious questions about the Department’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and the well-being of its employees. While Marles expressed his sadness over the situation, his statements lack any real sense of accountability or willingness to address the deeper cultural issues at play.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has called Tarnawsky “incredibly brave” for coming forward, adding to the growing sentiment that her claims warrant serious scrutiny. Tarnawsky’s heartbreaking account has left many asking if this is yet another example of power being wielded unjustly in Parliament, leaving those most vulnerable without recourse or protection. The lack of clear action and transparency is deeply disappointing, casting a shadow over those who are supposed to lead by example.

The Captain called the Sergeant in. “Sarge, I just got a telegram that Private Jones’ mother died yesterday. Better go tell him and send him in to see me.”

So, the Sergeant calls for his morning formation and lines up all the troops. “Listen up, men,” says the Sergeant. “Johnson, report to the mess hall for KP. Smith, report to Personnel to sign some papers. The rest of you men report to the Motor Pool for maintenance. Oh by the way, Jones, your mother died, report to the commander.

Later that day the Captain called the Sergeant into his office. “Hey, Sarge, that was a pretty cold way to inform Jones his mother died. Couldn’t you be a bit more tactful, next time?”

“Yes, sir,” answered the Sarge.

A few months later, the Captain called the Sergeant in again with, “Sarge, I just got a telegram that Private McGrath’s mother died. You’d better go tell him and send him in to see me. This time be more tactful.”

So, the Sergeant calls for his morning formation. “Ok, men, fall in and listen up.” “Everybody with a mother alive, take two steps forward.” “Not so fast, McGrath!”

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, North Korea has moved to cut off all remaining connections with South Korea. This unprecedented step, including the blocking of roads and railways, follows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s decision to halt efforts toward peaceful reunification. The move highlights the deepening divide between the two Koreas, as Pyongyang intensifies both its rhetoric and border security measures.

Since January, North Korea has been reinforcing its border with the South, deploying a series of aggressive security measures. These include planting land mines, establishing anti-tank traps, and dismantling key railway infrastructure that once connected the two nations. Pyongyang has also ramped up its verbal attacks, referring to South Korea as its “primary foe.” This shift in tone marks a significant departure from previous diplomatic overtures aimed at reducing tensions.

Much of North Korea’s latest actions are seen as a response to recent US military activities in the region. Pyongyang has long objected to US military exercises and the deployment of strategic assets near the Korean Peninsula. These moves are perceived by the North as provocative, prompting threats of nuclear retaliation if any attack on their nation occurs. However, analysts suggest that while the heightened rhetoric is alarming, it is not entirely unexpected given the longstanding animosity between the US and North Korea.

Experts are divided on the implications of North Korea’s actions. Leif-Eric Easley, a professor of international studies, argues that Kim Jong Un’s threats are a calculated strategy to deflect attention from internal issues and maintain regime stability. On the other hand, Hong Min, a senior researcher, warns that North Korea’s formal separation from the South could have severe long-term consequences, potentially isolating the North even further and increasing the risk of conflict.

In conclusion, while the situation remains fluid, North Korea’s decision to sever ties with South Korea marks a dangerous escalation in an already volatile region. The international community will be watching closely as the two Koreas, once again, find themselves at the brink of conflict.

Photo: Northrop Grumman M230 Link Fed (M230LF) dual-feed Bushmaster chain gun will be on display at the Association of the United States Army’s annual event. (Northrop Grumman)

Northrop Grumman is set to unveil its latest iteration of the M230 Link Fed (M230LF) dual-feed Bushmaster chain gun at the Association of the United States Army’s (AUSA) annual conference on 14 October. While the Bushmaster series is already deployed in U.S. Maneuverer-Short Range Air Defence (M-SHORAD) platforms, John McCollum, Northrop Grumman’s program lead, indicated that the initial market for the M230LF will likely be international due to the current lack of domestic requirements.

The new M230LF, developed under an internal research and development (IRAD) initiative, targets the growing demand for counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) technology. The dual-feed capability is a standout feature, enabling operators to switch seamlessly between two distinct ammunition types: XM1211 proximity-fuzzed rounds designed for C-UAS engagements, and XM1198 high-explosive, dual-purpose rounds optimized for anti-armour operations. McCollum highlighted that the M230LF is the “first medium-calibre chain gun in the world” to offer this dual-feed capability, setting it apart from its predecessors.

While there are currently no U.S. Army requirements for the M230LF, McCollum noted that international interest, particularly from European defence sectors, is already strong. “We’re positioned to support our allies and partners abroad, and should the U.S. Army’s needs shift, we are ready to fulfill those requirements as well,” he said during an 8 October briefing.

Despite the enhanced functionality, the M230LF weighs only about 20 pounds more than the single-feed version, a negligible difference when factoring in the approximate 1,000-pound total system weight, including the weapon, remote weapon station (RWS), and ammunition. Performance-wise, the gun maintains an effective range of 1,500 to 1,700 meters against ground targets, and approximately 1,000 meters for aerial threats, thanks to its 30×113mm calibre.

Looking ahead, Northrop Grumman plans to conduct live-fire demonstrations in 2025 to showcase the M230LF’s C-UAS capabilities, further solidifying its role in the evolving counter-drone warfare landscape.

ED: The link below is an article published in the Sydney Morning Herald

RSL NSW president accused by Jacqui Lambie for overcharging veterans for legla advice (smh.com.au)

In a surprising turn of events, Hezbollah has expressed its willingness to engage in ceasefire discussions with Israel after suffering devastating setbacks. However, their statement notably excludes any mention of a ceasefire related to Gaza, sparking speculation about the group’s true motivations. Was their missile campaign really centred around Gaza, or has it always been driven by other objectives?

Hezbollah’s leadership has been severely impacted by recent Israeli military actions. The most significant blow came with the death of the group’s chief, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in a targeted strike on September 27. His successor, Hashem Safieddine, also met a similar fate in what was likely an airstrike shortly after taking over. In total, more than a dozen senior Hezbollah officials have been eliminated, leaving a noticeable void in the group’s command structure.

Despite these losses, Hezbollah remains defiant, continuing its missile barrages on Israeli cities. Just this past Tuesday, over 100 rockets were launched from Lebanon, targeting Haifa, Israel’s third-largest city. The attacks caused injuries, including a woman in her 70s, underscoring Hezbollah’s intent to maintain pressure on Israel despite its leadership crisis.

For the first time, Hezbollah has put forth a ceasefire proposal that is not contingent on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, a shift that has left observers perplexed. Following a massive rocket barrage from Lebanon, Hezbollah signalled its readiness to halt hostilities but demanded that a ceasefire be agreed upon before any details are discussed. This approach—begging for an immediate truce while insisting on discussing specifics later—appears to be an attempt to maintain the illusion of strength.

Interestingly, this is a major departure from their previous rhetoric, which often linked their actions to defending Gaza. The group’s reluctance to tie the ceasefire to the Gaza conflict raises questions: has Hezbollah’s missile campaign been driven by reasons other than solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza?

Hezbollah’s refusal to condition the ceasefire on Gaza could indicate that its recent attacks were never entirely about the Palestinian cause. The absence of any mention of Gaza in their ceasefire statement adds fuel to the theory that Hezbollah’s missile launches were part of a broader regional agenda, possibly to assert dominance or retaliate for losses rather than to defend Gaza as they previously claimed.

While Hezbollah may be presenting the ceasefire as a strategic offer, the reality is that the group is reeling from significant losses, especially at the leadership level. Whether their ceasefire proposal gains traction or not, one thing is clear—Hezbollah’s ability to dictate terms has diminished. The group may be seeking to buy time while trying to recover from the decimation of its leadership, all while attempting to appear unshaken.

In conclusion, Hezbollah’s sudden willingness to discuss a ceasefire without mentioning Gaza leaves much open to interpretation. Their losses are undeniable, and this could be the beginning of a new chapter in the group’s long-standing confrontation with Israel. But as their attacks continue, the question remains: What are Hezbollah’s true goals, and how will this shift in tactics influence the broader regional dynamics?

This year, Veterans’ Health Week (VHW) will take place from 13 to 20 October 2024. Organized annually by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), this initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about the health and wellbeing of veterans, current-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, their families, and carers. VHW serves as a platform to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and ensuring that those who have served our country are supported in living well.

The theme for Veterans’ Health Week 2024 is “Keep Connected,” emphasizing the crucial role that social connections play in overall health and wellbeing. By encouraging individuals to foster and maintain meaningful relationships, the theme underscores how being socially engaged helps improve mental, emotional, and physical health, particularly among veterans and their families. Whether it’s through friendships, community groups, or family ties, staying connected can reduce feelings of isolation, enhance support networks, and ultimately contribute to a better quality of life.

Throughout the week, RSL Sub Branches across Australia will host a wide range of events to commemorate VHW. Veterans, their families, and carers are invited to join in the many free and enjoyable activities, designed to strengthen community bonds while promoting health and wellness. These events not only offer an opportunity to connect with others but also create a supportive environment where veterans can share experiences, learn about available health resources, and take part in engaging activities that encourage physical fitness, mental resilience, and social interaction.

Everyone is encouraged to participate, as these local gatherings provide a chance to honor the sacrifices of our veterans while focusing on improving their overall wellbeing.