Kind to Kids Foundation honors Senator and Mrs. Coons

WILMINGTON, Del. – The Kind to Kids Foundation honored Senator Coons and his wife Annie Friday with the Leadership in Service Award, presented at the organization’s annual Spring Celebration Breakfast in Wilmington. Kind to Kids is one of Delaware’s leading children’s non-profits, focused on providing Delaware children in foster care, poverty, and at-risk teens with critical support services and cultural opportunities. 

At Friday’s breakfast, Chris thanked program volunteers, participants, and supporters and recalled how co-founders Chris and Catherine Jones first became inspired to launch Kind to Kids.

“Catherine and Chris were at a sporting event when they looked up and saw empty seats and had the mindfulness to think: who isn’t here?” Chris said. “There are empty seats at empty tables all over the place in this community and in this world. There are children who are not at the table of opportunity.”

He continued, “For Catherine and Chris, they looked at a moment and they did something that I think Bobby Kennedy captured best when he said many decades ago, ‘There are those who look at the world as it is and say why, and then there are those who look at the world as it should be and say why not?’ Think about how that simple question – why not fill these empty seats? – has steadily moved outwards as ripples of justice that are touching now thousands of kids.”

Like Make-A-Wish, Kind to Kids gives deserving children the opportunity to expand their world and discover new possibilities. Since its founding in 2008, Kind to Kids has partnered with area venues to provide opportunities for over 5,000 children to attend concerts, sporting events, theater performances, and cultural events valued at over $80,000 in ticket costs. Kind to Kids has sponsored trips to Blue Rocks baseball games, Delaware Symphony events, Sesame Place, Longwood Gardens, Philadelphia 76ers games, Delaware Children’s Theatre performances and more. 

Other award recipients at Friday’s breakfast included Tracy Crowley, Vicky Martelli, and Cindy Wilkinson, who were presented with the Community Service Award, and Tollae Henry, a former foster teen, who was presented with this year’s Rising Star Award.

The Coons family volunteers regularly with Kind to Kids programs across the state. Annie Coons was the chair of this year's Kind to Kids 5k and the Foster Care Holiday Drive, which collected thousands of books for foster youth.

Senator Coons urges acceptance of Sikh Americans in the military

Senator Coons, Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and 13 of their colleagues have written a letter to Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel urging the Department of Defense to revise regulations on appearance that effectively prohibit religiously observant individuals from serving in the U.S. military. While applying to all faiths, the letter specifically references followers of Sikhism, who wear turbans and maintain unshorn hair and beards as a matter of religious obligation. Current military policy requires religiously observant service members to remove their head coverings, cut their hair, or shave their beards while accommodation requests are pending, even if they are capable of meeting safety requirements. 

 “No American who wishes to serve our nation should be barred from doing so because of their faith,” Senator Coons said. “In recent years, the military has taken steps to improve its accommodation of religiously observant individuals, but its restrictions regarding unshorn hair, beards, and turbans continue to prevent many Sikh Americans, in particular, from having the opportunity to serve. The Department of Defense can and should refine its regulations to accommodate religious obligations that do not interfere with the safe performance of duties. Our military has only to gain from the service of these dedicated and principled people of faith.”

Since the Reagan Administration, service members have been allowed to wear neat and conservative religious apparel as long as it does not interfere with the performance of military duties. In recent years the U.S. Army has granted waivers to three Sikhs to wear turbans and maintain unshorn hair and beards, as required by their faith. However, the most recent revisions would require religiously observant service members to remove their head coverings, cut their hair, or shave their beards while an accommodation request is pending and submit a new accommodation request each time they are assigned to a new base or duty station.

Full text of the letter is below:

Dear Secretary Hagel,

We respectfully request that the Department of Defense refine its January 22, 2014, revisions to Instruction 1300.17 (Accommodation of Religious Practices Within the Military Services) so that religiously observant individuals are not presumptively prohibited from serving in our military.

As you know, 10 USC § 774 was enacted during the Reagan Administration and permits service members to wear neat and conservative religious apparel, such as a yarmulke, as long as it does not interfere with the performance of their military duties.  In recent years, the U.S. Army has granted individualized waivers to three Sikhs to wear turbans and maintain unshorn hair and beards. Each of them successfully completed basic training and complied with safety requirements relating to helmets and protective masks.  Two of these soldiers deployed to Afghanistan and earned a Bronze Star Medal and Army Commendation Medal for their service; another was recently promoted to the rank of Corporal.  In recent years, the U.S. Army has also granted waivers to a Jewish Rabbi and two Muslim doctors to maintain beards.

Despite their achievements, Section 4(g) of the revised Instruction would require religiously observant service members to remove their head coverings, cut their hair, or shave their beards—in violation of their religious obligations—while an accommodation request is pending, even if they are capable of meeting safety requirements.  Section 4(j) of the revised Instruction would require each of these soldiers to submit to a new accommodation request each time they are assigned to a new base or duty station.  These seem inconsistent with the intent of section 774, which creates the presumptive entitlement to wear religious apparel that is neat and conservative and which does not interfere with military duties.

We believe that a service member’s religion should not be a barrier to serving in our nation’s armed services.  Accordingly, we hope that Instruction 1300.17 can be further amended so that talented Americans of faith are given a fair opportunity to serve in our nation’s military.

We appreciate your attention and look forward to working closely with you on this matter. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Senator Coons honors Delaware Air Force Major, WWII veteran with medals for outstanding service

WILMINGTON, Del. – WWII Army Technician Fifth Grade Francis “Franny” Weaver thought he was coming as a spectator to a ceremony hosted by Senator Coons on Thursday honoring his nephew, Air Force Major David Strawbridge.

But Senator Coons and Maj. Strawbridge had a special surprise in store for the WWII veteran. After presenting Maj. Strawbridge with the Bronze Star – one of the military’s highest honors – for his distinguished service in Afghanistan, Senator Coons surprised Weaver with five long-overdue medals for his service during the Second World War.

Maj. Strawbridge, who earned the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, came to Senator Coons with the idea to surprise his uncle after first attempting, unsuccessfully, to recover Weaver’s medals from the U.S. Army. Although Weaver’s military records were destroyed in the National Archives fire of 1973, Senator Coons’ staff were able to research enough evidence to issue the medals.

Senator Coons presented Weaver with the Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Philippine Liberation Medal for his exemplary service as a member of the Army 23rd Infantry Division between 1944 and 1946.

“One of the things that is the hallmark of the Greatest Generation is their humility,” Chris said. “That they returned home from service to our country around the world and simply got about the business of living.” 

“One of the most satisfying parts of this job is being able to help America’s veterans receive the honors that they have earned and that they so richly deserve,” he continued.

Senator Coons first met Maj. Strawbridge during his visit to Kabul, Afghanistan in late January 2013. The two struck up a conversation and have kept in touch ever since.

“I am deeply grateful for your service to our nation and I appreciate everything that you’ve done for our freedom, for our world, and for the United States in your service in Afghanistan,” Senator Coons told Maj. Strawbridge during the ceremony.

Senator Coons honored with Outstanding National Service Advocacy Award

Voices for National Service recognized Senator Coons Tuesday for his exemplary leadership and advocacy of national service as a state and federal priority, awarding him their Outstanding National Service Advocacy Award.

At the organization’s 11^th Annual Friends of National Service Reception, Chris spoke to a packed room of service champions about the role of national service in helping the nation meet its toughest challenges. The reception, which also celebrated the 20^th anniversary of AmeriCorps, allowed Senator Coons to reflect on his personal involvement with the organization. 

“AmeriCorps has given Americans immense opportunities over the past 20 years to use our talents to build stronger communities,” Chris said. “It’s because of your work and dedication that the service movement has come so far – closer to a day when it will be commonplace for any American to ask his or her neighbor ‘Where do you serve?’”

During AmeriCorps’ first years, Chris worked with a small group of individuals with the national “I Have a Dream Foundation” to build the organization’s AmeriCorps program. Chris currently serves as a member of the National Service Congressional Caucus, where he joins with Democrats and Republicans to fight for expanded national service opportunities. This year’s award was Chris’ second from Voices for National Service – in 2012, he received the Outstanding New Member Award for elevating national service as a legislative priority.

Voices for National Service is a coalition of national, state, and individual service programs that aims to give Americans of all ages the opportunity to volunteer and serve. Founded in 2003, Voices for National Service works with well-known service organizations to engage bipartisan efforts to meet policy needs through volunteerism and service.  

Senator Coons talks policy, public service with UD students

No topic was off limits in Dr. Chris Counihan’s Introduction to Politics class at the University of Delaware Monday afternoon, as Senator Coons fielded students’ questions on policy issues ranging from the recent government shutdown, to GMOs, veterans' health, and employment issues.

Chris spoke with the class of more than 100 students about his early background of non-profit work with AmeriCorps, his work in the private sector with Gore, and what led him to run for office for the first time.

“I was approached to run for County Council, and I initially rebuffed the suggestion,” Chris said. “But then my wife, who had worked in county government for many years, said 'that’s exactly what you should do.' She said, ‘It was the County Police who kept you safe when you were a kid, the county park where your youth group from church met, and the Kirkwood Highway New Castle County library is where your mom dropped you off to keep you out of trouble. You grew up here, you benefitted from this place, but you haven’t given anything back to it.'” 

“Long story short, when your wife says do it, you do it,” Chris said with a smile.

Chris also touched on the recent dysfunction in Congress. “It is better than it seems from the outside,” said Chris. “I’ve actually been able to build real friendships with Republican senators. There are good and capable members of the Senate and the House, both parties, but the bad news is sometimes we don’t act like it. I’ve spent a lot of time visiting with Republican senators, traveling with them, going to prayer breakfasts with them, so we can get to know each other and try to build something.”

Chris closed by adding, “Public service has been the best experience I’ve had in my life. I never expected it would be as rewarding and positive as it has been.”

‘Prayer answered,’ Senator Coons salutes safe return of Delaware National Guard unit

Senator Coons had the honor of welcoming home more than 120 members of the Delaware National Guard’s 153rd Military Police Company on Saturday. More than 1,000 family members, friends, and supporters gathered at historic Fort DuPont in Delaware City to greet and offer thanks to service members returning from their nine-month deployment in Afghanistan.

“I am so grateful to God almighty, to your friends and family, to the veterans who have supported you, to the prayers that have lifted you up, to the National Guard who has trained and sustained and supported you, and to the men and women of this community that you are here home safe today,” Senator Coons said. “You are a prayer answered.”

The 153rd participated in nearly 400 missions, many in concert with the Afghan Uniformed Police. The unit responded to significant acts on the western side of Kandahar City, conducted combat patrols, protected power plants, and operated checkpoints that netted six known Taliban members.

Among the ranks were Master Sergeant Marvin Hackett, Staff Sergeant Sidney Baker, and Sergeant Richard Whalen, who completed their fourth tours of duty, as well as Specialist Luis Toledo-Reyes, who recently earned his United States citizenship while in Afghanistan.

The 153rd arrived at the ceremony accompanied by the Patriot Guard Riders, a nationally known motorcycle brigade whose mission is to honor those who risk their lives for America’s freedom and security.

“The Patriot Guard Riders brought you in with style and with courage and they remind us that every veteran deserves a welcome home,” Senator Coons said. “We are thankful they were able to give the 153rd that welcome home today.”

Senator Coons closed his remarks with a message of gratitude for Delaware’s servicemen and women. “You are a remarkable group, not just of soldiers, but of citizens; not just of citizens, but of patriots. We are grateful to God for your service and your safe return home.”

AmeriCorps Week service opportunities

In honor of AmeriCorps Week, which begins Saturday, Senator Coons is encouraging Delawareans to join those serving their communities at one of several AmeriCorps service projects around the state next week. It is also a moment to appreciate the important work done by AmeriCorps members in Delaware and across the country since the national service program was founded 19 years ago.

“Those who devote themselves to serving our communities are brightening the lives of everyone they help and improving the quality of living in our state,” Senator Coons said. “The work AmeriCorps members are doing in Delaware, such as improving parks, tutoring children, and working with the homeless, has made a tremendous impact on an array of needs in our community. I thank the AmeriCorps members who have served in Delaware and encourage all who are considering serving to check out an event to learn more about how they can give back.” 

AmeriCorps Week is an annual event designed to salute AmeriCorps members and alums for their service, thank AmeriCorps’ community partners, and recognize AmeriCorps’ impact on communities and on the lives of those who serve.  Hundreds of events are taking place across the United States.

The following events are taking place in Delaware during the week of March 11:

Monday, March 11: Habitat for Humanity, A Brush With Kindness, Seaford    

Habitat for Humanity has a build project on King Road, Seaford, DE.  AmeriCorps members will serve from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Monday, March 11: Habitat for Humanity, A Brush With Kindness, Laurel

Project will assist a homeowner with disabilities at 9946 Cedar Street, Laurel, DE.  Work begins at 9:00 a.m. and cleanup will take place around 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 12: The Caring Corps, Wilmington

The Caring Corps will host a service event assisting the homeless at Samaritan Outreach and Distribution Center, 1410 North Claymont Street, Wilmington, DE from 10:00a.m.- 3:00 p.m.            

Wednesday, March 13: Emergency Services Corps, Wilmington

The Emergency Services Corps will clean up the Cranston Heights Fire Company at 3306 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, March 14: Connecting Generations, Dover

The Youth Ambassadors program is sponsoring a number of projects including painting murals, building picnic tables and general clean-up of Central Middle School, 211 Delaware Avenue, Dover, DE from 9:00am to2:00pm

Friday, March 15: Emergency Services Corps, Wilmington

The Emergency Services Corps will clean up the Christiana Fire Company’s fire trucks and gear at 2 East Main Street, Christiana, DE from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Friday, March 15: Totally Awesome Players, Wilmington

The Totally Awesome Players event will bring volunteers together to spread the word around the Wilmington community about the local theatre program for young people with intellectual disabilities. The location of the event is the Delaware Theater Company, 200 Water Street, Wilmington, DE. The event will take place from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Senator Coons to host free job skills workshop with the Goodwill Job Resource Center

As part of his ongoing effort to help get more Delawareans back to work, Senator Chris Coons, in partnership with the Goodwill Job Resource Center, will host a workshop for job seekers this Thursday, April 5, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.  Those looking to hone their job-search skills, learn the art of networking, fine-tune their resumes, and master the interviewing process are invited to attend the free workshop at the Goodwill Job Resource Center in Wilmington.

This event is one in a series of workshops Senator Coons is hosting to help Delawareans get back to work. Representatives from the Goodwill Job Resource Center will be on hand to explain the services they offer to job seekers.  Businessman, author and motivational speaker Tony Casale will also discuss topics from his book, Still Standing: One Man’s Story of Transforming Failure into Success (and how you can do it, too).  The workshop was developed in response to feedback received at job fairs hosted by Senator Coons and the rest of the Congressional delegation.

 WHEN:

Thursday, April 5, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.

 WHERE:

Goodwill Job Resource Center

300 E. Lea Boulevard, Wilmington, DE 19802

Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation seeks nominations for civilian service award

 The Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation is now accepting nominations for the Citizen Service Before Self Honors, which recognizes and honors American civilians who have demonstrated extraordinary courage, leadership and selflessness in their communities and for their country.

Every year, in conjunction with the National Medal of Honor Day, three United States citizens will be awarded the Citizen Service Before Self Honors near the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington Cemetery. They will receive this award from a group of Americans whose actions have defined the word courage – the members of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society who have received our nation’s highest and most prestigious award for valor, the Medal of Honor.

Senator Coons encourage Delawareans to nominate fellow citizens of the First State who have clearly demonstrated a willingness to sacrifice for others whether through a single act of extraordinary heroism or through a prolonged series of selfless acts. The nominee’s actions must epitomize the concept of “service before self” and must be performed “above and beyond” one’s professional area of responsibility or conduct.

Please note that the deadline for submitting nominations is Friday, February 10, 2012. 

Married LGB service members seek equal access to marriage benefits

In another step toward securing the equality due all Americans, today the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of eight married same-sex military couples seeking access to the same benefits available to married opposite-sex military couples.

Though you can be gay or lesbian and serve in the military now because of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, your spouse can’t get a military identification card, he or she can’t access any programs for military families, housing benefits, health insurance, or surviving spouse benefits.

The suit is a constitutional equal protection challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act and seeks marriage recognition for every legally married military spouse. Specifically, it challenges DOMA, as well as other statutory definitions of “spouse” in Title 10, Title 32 and Title 38 of the U.S. Code.

Just as repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was about restoring balance and equality in access to the responsibility of service, the suit seeks to restore balance and equality in access to the benefits of service.

Learn more at sldn.org.