Arlington Heights to host veterans breakfast
About 150 veterans will hear a talk, "Moral Injury - The Invisible Wound of War," at the 4th Annual Arlington Heights Veterans Breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at St. Peter Lutheran Church gymnasium, 111 W. Olive St.
The talk will be given by Maj. General James Mukoyama Jr. of Glenview, who, since his retirement in 1995, has participated in numerous organizations benefiting the military, veterans and the community.
In January 2013, Mukoyama answered a calling to devote his life to the ministry of Military Outreach USA, a faith-based nonprofit helping people cope with the visible and invisible wounds associated with military service.
Mukoyama believes Moral Injury is at the root of many psychological issues facing our returning troops and veterans. It's the dilemma that occurs when violating one's moral code and results in an invisible wound of war.
The effects are devastating, with suicide rates for veterans at epidemic levels. Almost 70 percent of veteran suicides are done by those older than 50. For many, the moral conflict emerges years, even decades, after the events of war. And this issue is also faced by others, such as first responders.
Event check-in is at 8 a.m., with the breakfast and program beginning at 9 a.m. The event will include an armed forces medley by the Arlingtones Men's Chorus, the marking of the 240th birthday of the Marine Corps and a flag ceremony with the Color Guard from American Legion Post 208.
More information on the Veterans Breakfast is available from Greg Padovani, chairman of the Veterans Memorial Committee of Arlington Heights, gpadovani@comcast.net or (847) 392-9113.
More information on Military Outreach USA, which offers free information, resources and programs for communities to help veterans and their families, is at (877) 734-4244 or www.militaryoutreachusa.org.