WEBVTT

00:00:00.001 --> 00:00:02.001
[Captioned by DHS Office of
Accessible Systems & Technology]

00:00:02.438 --> 00:00:04.438
[Introduction music playing]

00:00:04.439 --> 00:00:17.267
♫

00:00:17.638 --> 00:00:18.850
Good day!

00:00:18.850 --> 00:00:23.260
I am Lieutenant Commander Elizabeth Gills
from the U.S. Coast Guard.

00:00:23.260 --> 00:00:27.710
Thank you for joining us for this year’s
DHS Veterans Day Ceremony.

00:00:27.710 --> 00:00:33.570
We’re here today to honor our service members
and to remember the sacrifices they have made

00:00:33.570 --> 00:00:39.079
and the courage it takes to
defend honor, duty, and country.

00:00:39.079 --> 00:00:44.096
Although we cannot meet in person today,
we hope you will enjoy this year’s recorded ceremony.

00:00:45.522 --> 00:00:49.748
To begin, please enjoy the following
Presentation of the Colors

00:00:49.748 --> 00:00:52.210
and a performance of the National Anthem

00:00:52.210 --> 00:00:55.396
by Michelle Mills of the
Customs and Border Protection.

00:00:55.396 --> 00:01:02.369
Following the National Anthem, Chaplain Hoyle
from the U.S. Coast Guard will deliver the Invocation.

00:01:02.369 --> 00:01:06.690
Please stick around at the end of today’s
ceremony for a special presentation from the

00:01:06.690 --> 00:01:09.310
U.S. Coast Guard Silent Rifle Team.

00:01:09.310 --> 00:01:12.000
And now, the U.S. Coast Guard Color Guard.

00:01:27.691 --> 00:01:29.691
♫

00:01:42.416 --> 00:01:52.359
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ O say can you see, by the dawn's early light,

00:01:52.359 --> 00:01:58.161
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ What so proudly we hailed

00:01:58.161 --> 00:02:03.691
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ at the twilight's last gleaming,

00:02:03.691 --> 00:02:09.187
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ Whose broad stripes and bright stars

00:02:09.187 --> 00:02:13.936
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ through the perilous fight,

00:02:13.936 --> 00:02:19.874
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ O'er the ramparts we watched,

00:02:19.874 --> 00:02:24.318
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ were so gallantly streaming.

00:02:24.318 --> 00:02:28.389
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ And the rocket's red glare,

00:02:28.389 --> 00:02:33.071
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ the bombs bursting in air,

00:02:33.071 --> 00:02:37.277
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ Gave proof through the night

00:02:37.277 --> 00:02:45.013
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ that our flag was still there;

00:02:45.013 --> 00:02:55.091
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

00:02:55.091 --> 00:03:04.865
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
♫ O'er the land of the free

00:03:04.865 --> 00:03:14.054
[Singing "The Star-Spangled Banner"]
and the home of the brave. ♫

00:03:16.256 --> 00:03:18.426
[Shouting out commands]

00:03:25.625 --> 00:03:27.625
[Shouting out commands]

00:03:49.690 --> 00:03:51.690
Please join me in prayer.

00:03:52.682 --> 00:03:55.565
Almighty God and
most welcome Father.

00:03:55.565 --> 00:03:58.583
Today, we recognize all
of the service members,

00:03:58.583 --> 00:04:02.450
who have served our country
in our nation's armed forces.

00:04:02.450 --> 00:04:07.301
Thank you for every individual who
has heard the call answered boldly

00:04:07.301 --> 00:04:12.627
and placed his or her life on the line
to defend liberty and freedom,

00:04:12.627 --> 00:04:15.000
standing against
tyranny and oppression.

00:04:15.802 --> 00:04:18.447
Today, we honor these
brave souls among us.

00:04:19.030 --> 00:04:24.000
We commend their selfless service,
their noble courage, and their resolute dedication.

00:04:24.656 --> 00:04:29.439
We acknowledge that, as a nation,
we owe them a debt of gratitude.

00:04:30.202 --> 00:04:33.235
As we reflect on the
tremendous impact of our veterans,

00:04:33.235 --> 00:04:38.269
I pray that you would fill our hearts
with a deep sense of appreciation,

00:04:38.269 --> 00:04:41.223
giving honor to whom honor is due,

00:04:41.223 --> 00:04:46.838
for those who are even now standing in
the face of danger in defense of our freedom.

00:04:46.838 --> 00:04:50.494
Grant them safety and protection, I pray.

00:04:50.494 --> 00:04:53.644
May your hand of blessing be on today's events.

00:04:53.644 --> 00:04:55.332
In your holy name, I pray.

00:04:55.570 --> 00:04:56.490
Amen.

00:05:00.158 --> 00:05:05.870
Thank you to all the members of the Color Guard,
Michelle Mills, and Chaplain Hoyle.

00:05:05.870 --> 00:05:12.470
Next, Acting Secretary Chad Wolf and
Deputy Under Secretary for Management R.D. Alles

00:05:12.470 --> 00:05:15.323
have special Veterans Day
messages to share with you.

00:05:19.600 --> 00:05:20.600
Good morning.

00:05:20.600 --> 00:05:25.920
I want to express my gratitude this Veterans Day
to the more than 56,000 veterans working

00:05:25.920 --> 00:05:30.620
at the Department of Homeland Security
who bravely served or are currently serving our country.

00:05:30.620 --> 00:05:35.930
You all are irreplaceable assets to our Department
and I am incredibly grateful that you have

00:05:35.930 --> 00:05:40.520
chosen to continue to serve your country
at DHS as we work together to secure the Homeland.

00:05:40.520 --> 00:05:44.364
I'd like to thank Deputy Under
Secretary for Management “Tex” Alles,

00:05:44.364 --> 00:05:46.544
a 35-year veteran of the Marine Corps,

00:05:46.544 --> 00:05:50.339
for putting this event together so that
we can honor our veterans virtually

00:05:50.339 --> 00:05:54.586
as we continue to protect the Homeland
during the COVID-19 pandemic.

00:05:54.586 --> 00:05:57.704
I am also grateful to
Chief Human Capital Officer Angie Bailey,

00:05:57.704 --> 00:06:01.111
DHS Veterans Program Manager
Paul Plasencia,

00:06:01.111 --> 00:06:03.549
an Army veteran of more than 21 years,

00:06:03.549 --> 00:06:06.729
and all the DHS component
veterans program managers,

00:06:06.729 --> 00:06:10.755
for everything they do to
support our veterans each day.

00:06:10.755 --> 00:06:14.570
It takes a very special person to
answer the call to fight for our country.

00:06:14.570 --> 00:06:19.005
In fact, only about 7% of
U.S. adults are military veterans.

00:06:19.005 --> 00:06:23.252
More than 650,000 American
service members have died in battle,

00:06:23.252 --> 00:06:27.758
and more than 1.4 million have
suffered wounds preserving our freedom.

00:06:27.758 --> 00:06:30.464
There are 19 million
veterans still living today,

00:06:30.464 --> 00:06:34.768
who served our country in the
Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force,

00:06:34.768 --> 00:06:36.883
and our very own
Coast Guard.

00:06:36.883 --> 00:06:39.937
One of the greatest privileges
I have as Acting Secretary

00:06:39.937 --> 00:06:42.727
is also serving as the
Coast Guard’s service secretary.

00:06:42.727 --> 00:06:46.126
These brave men and women
secure the Homeland each day and

00:06:46.126 --> 00:06:51.018
assist our Department of Defense military
partners in protecting our interests abroad.

00:06:51.018 --> 00:06:53.644
From the Barbary Coast to the Persian Gulf,

00:06:53.644 --> 00:06:55.058
the Coast Guard has been there,

00:06:55.058 --> 00:07:00.126
fighting in every major armed conflict
the U.S. has been involved in since 1790.

00:07:00.126 --> 00:07:01.938
They truly live up to their motto:

00:07:01.938 --> 00:07:04.282
Semper Paratus — always ready.

00:07:04.282 --> 00:07:08.633
All of our men and women in uniform put
their lives on the line to defend our values,

00:07:08.633 --> 00:07:12.001
the American way of life,
and our national prosperity,

00:07:12.001 --> 00:07:18.508
and we must always remember to pay them the respect
and gratitude they have earned with blood and sweat.

00:07:18.508 --> 00:07:22.701
The history of Veterans Day is rooted in
what was once called "Armistice Day",

00:07:22.701 --> 00:07:26.274
which was established by President Wilson
to commemorate the end of World War I -

00:07:26.274 --> 00:07:28.493
the “war to end all wars.”

00:07:28.493 --> 00:07:31.010
Sadly, that description proved inaccurate

00:07:31.010 --> 00:07:35.032
and our nation continues to call upon
brave young men and women to defend our country

00:07:35.032 --> 00:07:38.465
from a variety of enemies,
both past and present.

00:07:38.465 --> 00:07:41.456
Whether it was on the beaches
of Normandy in World War II,

00:07:41.456 --> 00:07:43.453
the Chosin Reservoir in Korea,

00:07:43.453 --> 00:07:44.692
the jungles of Vietnam,

00:07:44.692 --> 00:07:46.193
the deserts of the Middle East,

00:07:46.193 --> 00:07:48.217
or the mountains of Afghanistan,

00:07:48.217 --> 00:07:53.748
generations of brave Americans from across
our country heeded the call to defend the United States

00:07:53.748 --> 00:07:56.481
and we are a better nation
for their sacrifice.

00:07:56.481 --> 00:07:59.285
Millions more continue to do so today

00:07:59.285 --> 00:08:02.526
and so long as there are veterans
who have fought on our behalf,

00:08:02.526 --> 00:08:04.833
the American people
will always honor them.

00:08:04.833 --> 00:08:08.651
I want to extend a very special
thank you to the DHS employees

00:08:08.651 --> 00:08:12.367
who currently serve as military reservists and National Guard members.

00:08:12.367 --> 00:08:17.524
Many of you were activated over the past year
to combat the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

00:08:17.524 --> 00:08:21.087
This invisible enemy is challenging
our country as a whole,

00:08:21.087 --> 00:08:27.977
but I am proud to know there are DHS employees across
the country on the frontlines of this unconventional fight.

00:08:27.977 --> 00:08:29.263
Before I conclude,

00:08:29.263 --> 00:08:33.832
I would like to leave you all with this quote from
the famous news reporter, Elmer Davis, who said:

00:08:33.832 --> 00:08:39.569
“This nation will remain the land of the free
only so long as it is the home of the brave.”

00:08:39.569 --> 00:08:41.392
I believe these words ring true today.

00:08:41.392 --> 00:08:44.147
Our country does indeed
remain the land of the free,

00:08:44.147 --> 00:08:46.099
thanks to the
brave men and women,

00:08:46.099 --> 00:08:49.853
who have, and continue to, answer
the call of duty to defend our country.

00:08:50.362 --> 00:08:55.902
I encourage each of you watching today to join me in
honoring and thanking our veterans for the sacrifices

00:08:55.902 --> 00:08:59.954
they have made so that we can
continue to live safely and securely

00:08:59.954 --> 00:09:02.432
in the greatest country
the world has ever known.

00:09:02.432 --> 00:09:03.830
Thank you.

00:09:08.243 --> 00:09:11.787
Hello, I am Randolph “Tex” Alles,
Deputy Under Secretary for Management.

00:09:11.787 --> 00:09:16.883
Each year, on November 11, we honor the veterans who
have given so much to protect our freedom and liberty.

00:09:16.883 --> 00:09:21.025
As a former U.S. Marine Corp Major General
with 35 years of service,

00:09:21.025 --> 00:09:24.152
I have seen countless Americans
selflessly serve our country.

00:09:24.152 --> 00:09:28.602
And in my current position at DHS,
I see firsthand how much of a positive impact

00:09:28.602 --> 00:09:31.555
veterans’ have on carrying out
the Department’s mission.

00:09:31.555 --> 00:09:36.604
I attribute that to the Department’s mission sets
aligning with the deep sense of service and security

00:09:36.604 --> 00:09:40.447
that is fundamental to the men and women
who have served in our armed forces.

00:09:40.447 --> 00:09:45.288
At almost 56,000 strong and representing
22% of the Department’s workforce,

00:09:45.288 --> 00:09:48.365
veterans are an important and
essential part of our success

00:09:48.365 --> 00:09:51.643
in safeguarding our homeland,
our people, and our values.

00:09:53.340 --> 00:09:58.131
I take great pride in the work we do at
DHS to hire, retain, and support veterans

00:09:58.131 --> 00:10:01.412
through legislative initiatives, policies, and programs.

00:10:01.412 --> 00:10:05.237
This past year, we launched a
Veteran Resource Center on DHS Connect

00:10:05.237 --> 00:10:08.992
to provide the Department’s veteran workforce
a one-stop shop with information

00:10:08.992 --> 00:10:11.633
about federal veteran rights and benefits.

00:10:11.633 --> 00:10:16.174
We also drafted legislation that will
simplify the complex veteran hiring authorities

00:10:16.174 --> 00:10:21.705
into one clear non-competitive hiring authority to
help bring more veterans into our workforce.

00:10:21.705 --> 00:10:25.977
I hope it is clear, that at DHS,
we are committed to hiring veterans.

00:10:25.977 --> 00:10:30.220
We recognize the value and special
skills veterans bring to the workforce,

00:10:30.220 --> 00:10:33.139
and we are appreciative of
their service to our country.

00:10:33.139 --> 00:10:36.579
In just a few moments, you will hear from
Christiana Montminy from the U.S. Coast Guard.

00:10:36.579 --> 00:10:40.147
Christiana has some important information
to share with you about what we can do

00:10:40.147 --> 00:10:44.240
to continue supporting our veterans
at work and in our communities.

00:10:44.240 --> 00:10:48.935
Christiana will also address the important
topic of mental health within our armed forces.

00:10:48.935 --> 00:10:52.445
As you know, suicide is a
national public health problem

00:10:52.445 --> 00:10:56.640
that disproportionately affects those
who serve in our Nation’s armed forces.

00:10:56.640 --> 00:11:03.800
Veterans can help lead the way as we work to change the way
we think about, talk about, and address mental health and suicide.

00:11:03.800 --> 00:11:08.315
Today, On November 11, we commemorate
veterans for the freedoms we have.

00:11:08.315 --> 00:11:11.332
The United States is stronger
because of our veteran community.

00:11:11.332 --> 00:11:14.359
Veterans have helped to protect
our Nation against all adversaries.

00:11:14.359 --> 00:11:19.286
Regardless of what branch in the military
they have served, veterans make a difference.

00:11:19.286 --> 00:11:23.586
Today and every day, let us continue to honor
our veterans’ service, past and present.

00:11:23.586 --> 00:11:28.144
Whether you are a veteran or not, I hope you will
use this day to thank all of the veterans in your life

00:11:28.144 --> 00:11:31.487
who have selflessly served
our country in so many capacities.

00:11:31.487 --> 00:11:35.631
To the veterans at DHS: we are grateful
for your service and your sacrifice.

00:11:35.631 --> 00:11:39.741
Again, thank you to all our veterans for
their courage and strength in keeping America

00:11:39.741 --> 00:11:42.390
“the land of the free and
the home of the brave.”

00:11:46.294 --> 00:11:51.151
And now, you’ll hear about the
critical issue of veterans mental health

00:11:51.151 --> 00:11:56.624
from Christiana Montminy, Employee Assistance
Program Manager for the U.S. Coast Guard.

00:11:56.624 --> 00:11:58.624
♪♪♪

00:11:59.053 --> 00:12:02.806
[WIFE]: We all make more than 35,000 decisions a day. Most are

00:12:02.806 --> 00:12:06.310
small, but some can be life-changing.

00:12:06.310 --> 00:12:10.064
♪

00:12:10.064 --> 00:12:12.816
[HUSBAND]: When it comes to taking care of yourself,

00:12:12.816 --> 00:12:16.320
the most important choices can be hard to make.

00:12:16.320 --> 00:12:19.740
♪

00:12:19.740 --> 00:12:21.825
Like having a tough conversation

00:12:21.825 --> 00:12:24.954
instead of ignoring a buddy’s call.

00:12:24.954 --> 00:12:27.331
♪

00:12:27.331 --> 00:12:31.334
[WIFE]: Or being there for support,
not assuming things will just get better.

00:12:31.334 --> 00:12:35.840
♪

00:12:35.840 --> 00:12:37.550
[HUSBAND]: Or fighting through challenges rather

00:12:37.550 --> 00:12:39.176
than giving up.

00:12:39.176 --> 00:12:42.555
[WIFE]: And while we all face
thousands of choices every day,

00:12:42.555 --> 00:12:46.559
there’s one that can make all
the difference. Today, make the

00:12:46.559 --> 00:12:50.354
decision to be there for the
Veterans in your life, for your

00:12:50.354 --> 00:12:56.193
community, for yourself.
Learn more at BeThereForVeterans.com.

00:12:58.481 --> 00:13:03.305
Hello. I'm Christiana Montminy, the Employee
Assistance Program Manager for the CG.

00:13:03.305 --> 00:13:07.432
I'm here today to talk about what can
be a difficult and emotional subject:

00:13:07.432 --> 00:13:09.047
suicide.

00:13:09.047 --> 00:13:15.189
Suicide can be prevented and requires
a coordinated community response.

00:13:15.189 --> 00:13:20.437
I will share with you resources and steps
we can take to help keep each other safe.

00:13:21.421 --> 00:13:26.768
Suicide happens at a crisis point when an
individual feels utterly and completely hopeless.

00:13:26.768 --> 00:13:34.058
Sometimes a suicide is contemplated for hours, days,
or months, or sometimes for minutes or only seconds.

00:13:34.839 --> 00:13:38.042
Research indicates that suicide has no single cause,

00:13:38.042 --> 00:13:43.975
suggesting otherwise implies an overly simplistic and
misleading understanding of this public health problem.

00:13:44.484 --> 00:13:49.850
Risk factors for suicide can include:
feelings of disconnection, burdensomeness, or isolation.

00:13:50.461 --> 00:13:54.252
Protective factors are those
skills, strengths and resources

00:13:54.252 --> 00:13:58.729
that help people deal more effectively
with stressful events, enhance resilience,

00:13:58.729 --> 00:14:01.058
and help to counterbalance risk factors.

00:14:02.008 --> 00:14:05.970
Social cohesion, or connection,
is a protective factor.

00:14:06.615 --> 00:14:12.869
During the COVID 19 pandemic, many of us have
experienced increased isolation and work-life challenges,

00:14:12.869 --> 00:14:15.964
as well as acute and prolonged
feelings of distress,

00:14:15.964 --> 00:14:20.797
which can cause or exacerbate problems with
our sleep, our active self-care, and our relationships.

00:14:21.883 --> 00:14:24.283
Reports of increased consumption of alcohol,

00:14:24.283 --> 00:14:27.434
concerns of intimate partner violence
and child abuse and neglect,

00:14:27.434 --> 00:14:29.264
financial strain,

00:14:29.264 --> 00:14:31.153
uncertainty about school status,

00:14:31.153 --> 00:14:34.268
and the need to identify
alternative childcare and eldercare,

00:14:34.268 --> 00:14:36.844
has added to our personal
and professional stress.

00:14:37.693 --> 00:14:44.836
Furthermore, limited access to our supports and healthy coping
mechanisms may contribute to mounting anxiety and tension.

00:14:45.888 --> 00:14:50.516
The holiday season is upon us, but this year,
many of us will honor our traditions differently,

00:14:50.516 --> 00:14:54.963
as to how, where, and with whom we
celebrate the hallmarks of the season.

00:14:54.963 --> 00:14:58.058
These changes may trigger
a variety of emotions including

00:14:58.058 --> 00:15:01.044
loneliness, anxiety,
depression, and grief,

00:15:01.044 --> 00:15:04.828
as the celebrations of holiday
seasons in years past are recalled.

00:15:06.000 --> 00:15:08.529
Understandably, those of us
who may live alone,

00:15:08.529 --> 00:15:11.714
far from friends and family,
or who have lost a loved one,

00:15:11.714 --> 00:15:14.328
may find the holiday season
especially difficult.

00:15:14.905 --> 00:15:18.179
This year's National Suicide Prevention
month campaign theme,

00:15:18.179 --> 00:15:19.986
"Connect to Protect",

00:15:19.986 --> 00:15:23.141
reminds us all about the
importance of "being there".

00:15:23.684 --> 00:15:27.624
While many of us may find suicide a
particularly difficult or frightening topic,

00:15:27.624 --> 00:15:30.164
becoming comfortable asking direct questions

00:15:30.164 --> 00:15:35.123
will ensure individuals experiencing crisis
get the care and resources they need.

00:15:35.632 --> 00:15:39.464
We don’t need special training to
show genuine concern for others.

00:15:39.464 --> 00:15:44.189
We don’t need to have all the answers
to make a lifesaving intervention.

00:15:44.732 --> 00:15:48.557
Talking about suicide
does not encourage suicide.

00:15:49.304 --> 00:15:53.862
Being able to openly address these
thoughts and behaviors can help prevent loss.

00:15:53.862 --> 00:15:59.853
It is imperative we minimize barriers to connection
and promote the use of counseling services.

00:15:59.853 --> 00:16:03.373
Effective suicide prevention includes
efforts and programming that:

00:16:03.373 --> 00:16:05.842
creates protective environments,

00:16:05.842 --> 00:16:07.843
teaches problem solving skills,

00:16:07.843 --> 00:16:10.561
and identifies and supports people at risk.

00:16:10.968 --> 00:16:14.305
Together, we protect against
suicide related behaviors

00:16:14.305 --> 00:16:18.509
by decreasing isolation,
encouraging adaptive coping behaviors,

00:16:18.509 --> 00:16:21.354
increasing a sense of
belongingness and community,

00:16:21.354 --> 00:16:24.682
and bolstering resilience
in the face of adversity.

00:16:25.210 --> 00:16:29.734
Supporting people at risk requires
proactive identification and effective response,

00:16:29.734 --> 00:16:33.020
crisis intervention, and
evidence-based treatment.

00:16:34.253 --> 00:16:39.452
There are numerous resources available
to our workforce, creating a network of safety.

00:16:39.452 --> 00:16:43.955
One resource, which is proven to make
a lifesaving difference in critical moments,

00:16:43.955 --> 00:16:47.338
when a person is
considering suicide is ACE:

00:16:47.338 --> 00:16:50.871
which prompts us to: “Ask, Care, Escort”.

00:16:50.871 --> 00:16:54.812
The ACE tool, based on the
Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale,

00:16:54.812 --> 00:17:01.657
guides someone concerned about an individual to ask direct
questions about thoughts, intentions and plans for suicide,

00:17:01.657 --> 00:17:04.348
to ensure they receive professional intervention.

00:17:04.665 --> 00:17:08.290
A second resource is your component's
Employee Assistance Program,

00:17:08.290 --> 00:17:12.395
which offers employees and family members
free, confidential, and immediate help.

00:17:12.395 --> 00:17:17.679
Licensed professional clinicians can safely and
remotely conduct telephone or video sessions

00:17:17.679 --> 00:17:20.686
for individual, couples or family counseling,

00:17:20.686 --> 00:17:25.274
in addition to education, training
and support groups and community referrals

00:17:25.274 --> 00:17:29.865
that promote coping and problem-solving skills,
emotional regulation, and conflict resolution;

00:17:29.865 --> 00:17:36.887
preparing individuals to successfully tackle everyday
challenges and adapt to stress and adversity.

00:17:37.451 --> 00:17:39.539
For those concerned about seeking help,

00:17:39.539 --> 00:17:43.165
I would like to expand on Deputy
Undersecretary Alles’ comment that

00:17:43.165 --> 00:17:47.661
seeking counsel or support
does not adversely affect one’s career.

00:17:47.661 --> 00:17:52.713
Updated guidance regarding the Office of
Personnel Management's Standard Form 86,

00:17:52.713 --> 00:17:55.249
‘Questionnaire for National Security Positions’

00:17:55.249 --> 00:17:58.955
reinforces that "participating in mental
health treatment and counseling,

00:17:58.955 --> 00:18:05.744
in and of itself, is not a reason to revoke or deny
eligibility for access to classified information

00:18:05.744 --> 00:18:12.503
or for holding a sensitive position, suitability or fitness
to obtain or retain Federal or contract employment.

00:18:12.503 --> 00:18:17.062
Seeking or receiving mental health care
for personal wellness and recovery

00:18:17.062 --> 00:18:21.230
may contribute favorably
to decisions about eligibility.”

00:18:21.582 --> 00:18:27.979
Understanding these updates to the SF86 Question 21
will alleviate concerns about accessing care.

00:18:29.389 --> 00:18:33.195
A third resource is reaching
emergency services, 911,

00:18:33.195 --> 00:18:39.679
or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
(800) 273-8255.

00:18:39.679 --> 00:18:45.247
Help is always available, 24/7/365.

00:18:45.247 --> 00:18:47.222
We are never alone.

00:18:48.879 --> 00:18:54.810
Finally, please understand the role you play in a
coordinated community response to preventing suicide.

00:18:55.691 --> 00:18:58.697
Our Leadership supports help-seeking behaviors.

00:18:58.697 --> 00:19:03.706
We model healthy behaviors when we
ask for help, or support others in need;

00:19:03.706 --> 00:19:09.671
doing so is not an indication of weakness,
it’s a sign of insight, maturity, and camaraderie.

00:19:10.164 --> 00:19:15.043
There is no place for
stigma, shame, silence or secrecy.

00:19:15.043 --> 00:19:19.865
You strengthen our network of safety
when you take good care of yourself,

00:19:19.865 --> 00:19:25.068
your loved ones and your colleagues;
and together, we connect to protect.

00:19:25.914 --> 00:19:31.460
Thank you, to all of our Veterans, for your service,
and for your ongoing support and leadership,

00:19:31.460 --> 00:19:35.033
as we remain banded together
to prevent suicide.

00:19:35.632 --> 00:19:39.781
Now, we’d like to share a short video
from the Veterans Administration.

00:19:40.133 --> 00:19:44.779
After the video, the DHS Veterans
Employment Program Manager, Paul Plasencia,

00:19:44.779 --> 00:19:47.701
will share some information about
the Veterans Resource Center

00:19:47.701 --> 00:19:51.727
and introduce you to your Components'
Veterans Employment Program Managers.

00:19:52.770 --> 00:19:59.694
♪

00:19:59.694 --> 00:20:04.365
VETERAN 1:
Honestly, I'm not really sure

00:20:04.365 --> 00:20:06.158
why I'm calling, it's just ...

00:20:06.158 --> 00:20:07.952
VETERAN 2:
I'm having nightmares.

00:20:07.952 --> 00:20:10.288
FAMILY MEMBER 1:
My husband and I,

00:20:10.288 --> 00:20:11.998
we're just fighting a lot.

00:20:11.998 --> 00:20:14.000
VETERAN 2:
I can't get any sleep.

00:20:14.440 --> 00:20:15.131
VETERAN 1:
Things just keep getting worse,

00:20:15.131 --> 00:20:18.879
and it's starting to feel like

00:20:18.879 --> 00:20:21.882
I can't do this by myself anymore.

00:20:23.801 --> 00:20:28.931
FAMILY MEMBER 1:
We could use some help figuring things out.

00:20:28.931 --> 00:20:32.310
RESPONDER:
OK, well, I'm glad you called.

00:20:32.310 --> 00:20:34.420
Why don't you tell me more
about what's going on?

00:20:34.420 --> 00:20:36.147
♪

00:20:36.147 --> 00:20:38.970
NARRATOR:
There's no wrong reason to reach out for crisis support.

00:20:38.970 --> 00:20:43.362
Whatever you're going through,
the Veterans Crisis Line is here to help.

00:20:43.362 --> 00:20:46.991
Visit VeteransCrisisLine.net to learn more.

00:20:46.991 --> 00:20:48.991
♪

00:20:51.009 --> 00:20:53.590
My fellow DHS Veteran brothers and sisters.

00:20:53.590 --> 00:20:59.633
First and foremost, I want to wish each and every
one of you and your families a Happy Veterans Day.

00:21:00.713 --> 00:21:05.142
For those of you who I have not had the pleasure
of corresponding with or meeting in person,

00:21:05.142 --> 00:21:09.946
my name is Paul Plasencia, and I’m the
DHS's Veterans Employment Program Manager.

00:21:11.003 --> 00:21:15.716
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for
your service and all that you do for the Department.

00:21:16.879 --> 00:21:19.751
As your Department’s Veterans
Employment Program Manager,

00:21:19.751 --> 00:21:24.398
I will continue to work hard to ensure
I am doing everything possible to assist you

00:21:24.398 --> 00:21:32.030
with your most pressing issues related to disabled veteran leave,
military service deposits, and anything in between.

00:21:33.871 --> 00:21:39.285
Over the past year and a half, I’ve heard from
many of you about the various challenges you face.

00:21:39.285 --> 00:21:42.552
As a result, I developed
the Veterans Resource Center.

00:21:42.552 --> 00:21:49.022
The DHS Veterans Resource Center, or VRC,
is your one-stop shop with information about

00:21:49.022 --> 00:21:54.487
deployments, federal veteran benefits, resources
for mental health, and so much more.

00:21:54.487 --> 00:21:58.338
You can access the VRC
from the DHS Connect landing page.

00:21:58.338 --> 00:22:03.803
Simply scroll down to “Employee Shortcuts” and
click on the “Veterans Resource Center” button

00:22:03.803 --> 00:22:08.152
or you may access it through the
"Employee" tab under "Work-Life" in the menu.

00:22:08.152 --> 00:22:13.214
I encourage all of you to check out the site
and bookmark the page for future reference.

00:22:13.214 --> 00:22:17.700
The VRC also includes
external resources to VA benefits

00:22:17.700 --> 00:22:23.038
as well as state-specific resources that may be
available depending on where you live or work.

00:22:23.849 --> 00:22:30.275
Because DHS employs over 56,000
veterans, I do not do this work alone.

00:22:30.275 --> 00:22:34.889
I am fortunate to work with an amazing
team of veteran employment program managers

00:22:34.889 --> 00:22:36.860
in each one of your Components.

00:22:37.494 --> 00:22:42.951
These dedicated individuals should
always be your first point of contact

00:22:42.951 --> 00:22:47.495
for any Component veterans-specific
inquiries or questions.

00:22:48.270 --> 00:22:49.853
Before I introduce them,

00:22:49.853 --> 00:22:53.014
I will close by saying how honored I am

00:22:53.014 --> 00:22:56.489
to serve as your veterans employment
program manager here at DHS.

00:22:56.771 --> 00:22:58.157
Thank you.

00:22:59.073 --> 00:23:01.403
Hello, my name is
Zakia Sullivan

00:23:01.403 --> 00:23:04.220
and I am the Veterans
Employment Program Manager

00:23:04.220 --> 00:23:06.788
with the Department of
Homeland Security Headquarters.

00:23:07.050 --> 00:23:09.522
I am proud to serve DHS veterans

00:23:09.522 --> 00:23:12.581
because of the endless sacrifice
that they made for our country.

00:23:12.581 --> 00:23:13.890
Thank you for your service!

00:23:15.335 --> 00:23:20.206
Hi, I'm Jeff Jack, the Veterans Employment Program
Manager for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

00:23:20.206 --> 00:23:23.556
As a veteran, I'm proud to
serve my fellow DHS veterans

00:23:23.556 --> 00:23:27.438
because I know the sacrifices
made while on active duty.

00:23:27.438 --> 00:23:30.091
These folks take that commitment,

00:23:30.091 --> 00:23:32.649
that same commitment,
that same tenacity,

00:23:32.649 --> 00:23:34.265
in performing their duties,

00:23:34.265 --> 00:23:36.450
are our front-line
law enforcement positions,

00:23:36.450 --> 00:23:40.458
and our mission support roles
that they had while on active duty.

00:23:40.916 --> 00:23:42.144
And to me, that's why \I'm trying to serve them.

00:23:42.144 --> 00:23:43.679
I'm trying to serve them.

00:23:43.679 --> 00:23:46.254
When you want them to
have the best, it's CBP.

00:23:46.254 --> 00:23:48.354
They are treated with
the respect they deserve.

00:23:48.354 --> 00:23:50.122
Thank you for your service.

00:23:50.510 --> 00:23:52.789
Hello, my name is Wayne Williams

00:23:52.789 --> 00:23:54.914
and I am the Veterans Employment
Program Manager at the

00:23:54.914 --> 00:23:59.069
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency,
otherwise known as CISA.

00:23:59.331 --> 00:24:03.768
I am proud to serve DHS veterans
because of the sacrifice they made for us all.

00:24:03.768 --> 00:24:05.032
Thank you for your service.

00:24:06.158 --> 00:24:09.111
Hello, my name is Dee Nguyen and

00:24:09.111 --> 00:24:15.412
I am the Veterans Program Manager at
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

00:24:15.610 --> 00:24:19.832
I'm proud to serve DHS veterans
because I am in debt

00:24:19.832 --> 00:24:24.100
to honor the sacrifices
they have made on our behalf.

00:24:24.100 --> 00:24:25.611
Thank you for your service.

00:24:26.107 --> 00:24:29.244
Hello, my name is Christopher Pugh

00:24:29.244 --> 00:24:31.564
and I am the Veterans
Employment Program Manager at

00:24:31.564 --> 00:24:33.564
Federal Emergency
Management Agency, FEMA.

00:24:34.499 --> 00:24:41.649
I am proud to serve DHS veterans because of yourself
and service, your courage, and for putting country first.

00:24:41.649 --> 00:24:44.687
I am so grateful for the freedom we all share.

00:24:44.687 --> 00:24:46.617
Thank you for your service.

00:24:47.267 --> 00:24:52.352
Hello, my name is Alvin Stevens and I'm the
Veteran Employment Program Manager

00:24:52.352 --> 00:24:55.894
at Federal Law Enforcement Training Center
in Glynco, Georgia.

00:24:56.711 --> 00:25:00.110
I am proud to serve DHS veterans
because first and foremost,

00:25:00.110 --> 00:25:01.343
I am a veteran.

00:25:01.343 --> 00:25:05.533
Hiring a veteran can result in the
hiring of a dedicated employee

00:25:05.533 --> 00:25:09.985
who has developed
valuable teamwork, leadership, and job skills.

00:25:09.985 --> 00:25:11.171
Thank you for your service.

00:25:12.465 --> 00:25:14.486
Hello, my name is Kimberly Burke.

00:25:14.486 --> 00:25:17.398
I'm the Veterans Employment
Program Manager for ICE.

00:25:17.398 --> 00:25:24.491
I enjoy serving DHS veterans because of their brave service
and their many sacrifices in defense of our nation.

00:25:24.491 --> 00:25:26.238
Thank you for your service.

00:25:27.047 --> 00:25:29.224
Hello. My name is Jacqueline Brock

00:25:29.224 --> 00:25:31.716
and I am the Veterans Employment
Program Manager for

00:25:31.716 --> 00:25:34.488
Department of Homeland Security's
Office of Inspector General.

00:25:34.488 --> 00:25:37.187
I am proud to serve
DHS veterans because

00:25:37.187 --> 00:25:41.567
they bring a multitude of different skills sets
and are extremely valuable to our organization.

00:25:41.567 --> 00:25:43.341
Thank you for your service.

00:25:43.736 --> 00:25:48.442
Hello, my name is Mark Escherich and I'm the
Veterans Employment Program Manager at TSA.

00:25:48.442 --> 00:25:54.384
I'm proud to serve DHS veterans because I believe that
our veterans bring invaluable expertise

00:25:54.384 --> 00:26:00.612
and experience to our organizations enabling
DHS to achieve our mission and objectives,

00:26:00.612 --> 00:26:02.938
connecting with fellow veterans,

00:26:02.938 --> 00:26:05.577
promoting the diversity of our abilities,

00:26:05.577 --> 00:26:08.628
and assisting with service-related inquiries,

00:26:08.628 --> 00:26:12.558
strengthens that bond of honor and
respect our veterans have earned.

00:26:16.160 --> 00:26:20.734
and thank you for your continued
service to our nation at DHS.

00:26:21.653 --> 00:26:24.614
Hello, my name is Shelly Campbell and

00:26:24.614 --> 00:26:29.282
I am the Veterans Employment Program Manager
at the United States Coast Guard.

00:26:29.282 --> 00:26:36.178
I am proud to serve DHS veterans because of
their immense sacrifice and dedication to our country.

00:26:36.178 --> 00:26:37.800
Thank you for your service!

00:26:38.800 --> 00:26:41.603
Hello, my name is Elmer Pagaragan

00:26:41.603 --> 00:26:47.402
and I am the Veterans Employment Program Manager
at the United States Secret Service.

00:26:47.811 --> 00:26:55.275
After recruiting in the military for over 16 years,
it is an honor and a privilege to continue serving veterans.

00:26:55.812 --> 00:26:59.010
We thank you and your families for your service.

00:27:07.170 --> 00:27:10.263
Thank you for watching this year's
Veterans Day ceremony.

00:27:11.034 --> 00:27:14.996
The service members we honor today
come from all walks of life,

00:27:14.996 --> 00:27:17.876
but they share several
fundamental qualities.

00:27:17.876 --> 00:27:19.462
They have courage,

00:27:19.462 --> 00:27:20.399
pride,

00:27:20.399 --> 00:27:21.936
determination,

00:27:21.936 --> 00:27:23.350
selflessness,

00:27:23.350 --> 00:27:24.642
dedication to duty

00:27:24.642 --> 00:27:26.339
and integrity -

00:27:26.339 --> 00:27:29.994
all the qualities needed to serve
a cause larger than one’s self.

00:27:29.994 --> 00:27:36.355
To all veterans, we sincerely thank you for
your continued service and your sacrifice.

00:27:36.355 --> 00:27:43.115
We share the pride you feel in being able to say
you have served in the greatest military in the world.

00:27:43.115 --> 00:27:45.224
Thank you for your hard work,

00:27:45.224 --> 00:27:46.175
commitment,

00:27:46.175 --> 00:27:48.758
and dedication to this Department

00:27:48.758 --> 00:27:51.872
and for choosing to
honor veterans today

00:27:51.872 --> 00:27:54.830
and show your support
of all our heroes,

00:27:54.830 --> 00:27:56.520
past and present.

00:27:56.520 --> 00:27:58.550
God bless you and your families;

00:27:58.550 --> 00:28:00.000
God bless our troops

00:28:00.000 --> 00:28:02.032
and God bless America.

00:28:02.032 --> 00:28:05.605
To close this year’s
DHS Veterans Day Ceremony,

00:28:05.605 --> 00:28:11.101
please enjoy this special performance from
the U.S. Coast Guard Silent Drill Rifle Team.

00:28:11.101 --> 00:28:14.067
We wish you all a very
Happy Veterans Day!

00:28:19.488 --> 00:28:20.254
[bang sound effect]

00:28:20.712 --> 00:28:22.712
[shouting command]

00:28:26.158 --> 00:28:28.158
[shouting command]

00:28:28.159 --> 00:28:30.159
[stomping sound effect]

00:28:33.994 --> 00:28:35.994
[shouting command]

00:28:38.681 --> 00:28:42.294
[stomping sound effect]

00:28:42.295 --> 00:28:44.295
[clap sound effect]

00:28:51.187 --> 00:28:53.187
[shouting command]

00:28:54.298 --> 00:28:56.298
[stomping sound effect]

00:29:02.394 --> 00:29:04.394
[clap sound effect]

00:29:08.362 --> 00:29:10.362
[clap sound effect]

00:29:16.866 --> 00:29:18.866
[clap sound effect]

00:29:19.994 --> 00:29:21.994
[stomping sound effect]

00:29:29.228 --> 00:29:31.228
[clap then stomping]

00:29:34.048 --> 00:29:36.048
[clap sound effect]

00:29:39.438 --> 00:29:41.438
[shouting command in background]

00:29:56.681 --> 00:29:58.681
[clap sound effect]

00:30:07.403 --> 00:30:11.342
[stomping and clapping]

00:30:21.820 --> 00:30:23.820
[clap sound effect]

00:30:26.346 --> 00:30:38.533
[synchronized clap sound effect]

00:30:55.768 --> 00:30:57.768
[stomping sound effect]

00:31:12.001 --> 00:31:14.001
[clap sound effect]

00:31:20.153 --> 00:31:22.153
[stomping sound effect]

00:31:41.637 --> 00:31:43.637
[stomping sound effect]

00:31:53.835 --> 00:31:55.835
[clap sound effect]

00:32:17.484 --> 00:32:19.484
[clap sound effect]

00:32:49.026 --> 00:32:51.026
[stomping sound effect]

00:32:54.580 --> 00:32:56.580
[clap sound effect]

00:32:57.986 --> 00:32:59.986
[silence]

00:33:06.400 --> 00:33:08.400
[clap and stomping sound effect]

00:33:20.106 --> 00:33:22.106
[silence]

00:33:26.981 --> 00:33:28.981
[stomping sound effect]