Honoring Our Vets This 4th of July

🎖️ VALOR

There are approximately 189 cases of Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) within the veteran community per million people compared to the general population where there are only 15 cases per million people.

A rare muscular disease is making its way through the veteran community and they are starting to speak up about it.

Join a group of veterans with this life-altering condition who are determined to get themselves and others suffering from this disease the help they need.

Attention: Were You or a Loved One Deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan between 2003-2017?

Were you or a loved one deployed in Iraq or Afghanistan between 2003 and 2017? If you or your family member suffered injuries such as loss of limb, loss of eyesight, required surgeries due to blast impacts, or experienced severe traumatic brain injuries due to sniper, rocket mortar, EFP, or IED attacks, you might be entitled to compensation.

Don't suffer in silence. Our experts are ready to help fight for the justice you deserve.

Call us at (855) 494-1298 to learn more.

⚖️ EXPERTS

Why Do We Celebrate the 4th of July?

The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is more than just a day for fireworks and barbecues. It's a celebration of American freedom and the birth of the United States as an independent nation.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the thirteen American colonies' separation from British rule. This historic event marked the beginning of the United States of America and has been celebrated ever since.

The Road to Independence

Early Conflicts and Rising Tensions

The journey to American independence began long before 1776. Throughout the 1760s and early 1770s, tensions grew between the colonies and Britain over issues like taxation without representation and the British military presence in the colonies.

Events such as the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party intensified the conflict, leading to the outbreak of the Revolutionary War in 1775.

Drafting the Declaration

In June 1776, the Continental Congress appointed a committee to draft a formal declaration of independence. Thomas Jefferson was chosen to write the first draft, which he completed in just a few weeks.

After some revisions by the committee and Congress, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted on July 4, 1776. This document not only declared the colonies' independence but also articulated the principles of individual liberty and government by consent of the governed.

The Legacy of the 4th of July

Early Celebrations

The first celebrations of American independence began in the years following the Revolutionary War. Parades, speeches, and public readings of the Declaration became common ways for Americans to mark the occasion.

By the late 18th century, fireworks had become a popular way to celebrate the 4th of July, symbolizing the spirit and excitement of the newly formed nation.

Modern Traditions

Today, Independence Day is celebrated with a variety of traditions, including fireworks displays, family gatherings, and patriotic concerts.

It's a time for Americans to reflect on their history, express their national pride, and enjoy the freedoms established by their forebears.

How Veterans Can Cope with Fireworks on the 4th of July

For many veterans, the sounds of fireworks can trigger memories of combat and lead to significant stress. To help veterans enjoy the holiday while managing these challenges, check out our guide on how veterans can cope with fireworks below.

🗺️ TACTICS

VA Disability Benefits Trivia

Each week we ask a trivia question across platforms on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram, to test your knowledge on VA disability benefits.

Wanting the answer to last weeks question? Let’s recap…

True or False: In 2023, 5 out of the top 10 most service-connected disabilities were related to musculoskeletal disorders.

The Correct Answer? True! 5 out of the 10 top service-connected disabilities were musculoskeletal in nature and included:

• Limitation of flexion, knee with 134,893 claims

• Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain with 103,768 claims

• Limitation of motion of the arm with 91,424 claims

• Limitation of motion of the ankle with 71,410 claims

• Paralysis of the sciatic nerve with 64,566 claims

Now… take a shot at this weeks question and find out the answer next week! See you then.

One Veteran's Path to Service Connection for Respiratory Issues and Skin Conditions

🦅 SUPPORT

Help us help other veterans by spreading the word!

Do you know a fellow veteran or family member that could use our resources? Hill & Ponton strives to provide the best information possible for those who need it most, but we often need help in getting it to the right people.

By using the referral code below, if someone you know gets our newsletter, you can receive fun reward as a thank you. Check out some of them below!