The term “at ease” is a military one, referring to the command of relaxing from standing at attention to the soldier’s commanding officer. It also refers to the column written by Fred Stenkamp in The Broadside in 1954. It provided advice and guidance to student veterans of both World War II and the Korean war, particularly with their GI Bill benefits.
More than 70 years onward, we at The Broadside are proud to present not only one of Stenkamp’s oldest columns but what current student veteran, Charles McPhail, opted to share. McPhail is a recently retired disabled Army veteran attending Central Oregon Community College. They are utilizing Veteran Readiness & Employment benefits to help find a new career. They are currently enrolled in the unmanned aircraft system-aviation program.
From Stenkemp:
It was an expensive vacation, but it looks as though everyone survived. Good to see a few new faces about. There should be more though.
There’s a good many vets around Central Oregon that are coming close to the expiration date to begin training under the Korean G.I. bill. Remember- -only two years after discharge or August, 1954. After then- -tough luck.
Why don’t you guys start spreading the word around? We could stand more enrollment here. Like to see more people get in on the ride. Uncle Sam’s $110 per month can make your present income look considerably higher. Tax-free, too. You fellows with the Korean ribbon and World War II veterans are both eligible for state-aid, and disabled WWII vets are both eligible for state-aid, and disabled WWII vets can still get Federal educational aid. Tell your buddies to check with Craig Coyner or Albert Pike. They have all the dope.
From McPhail:
Although decades have passed, many of the same questions (Stenkamp addressed) continue to resonate within the veteran experience. Today, at Central Oregon Community College, we uphold this tradition by welcoming a new term filled with opportunities, support, and a thriving community of veteran students.
Veterans supporting veterans is the cornerstone of all our veteran support networks. From navigating benefits to sharing study tips, peer advising and community connections play a vital role in helping everyone succeed. Don’t hesitate to share what you’ve learned; your insights may be precisely what another student needs.
- COCC student veterans have access to a wide range of benefits designed to support their education and career goals, including:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill/Forever GI Bill: covers tuition, provides a housing allowance, and offers book stipends.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment, Chapter 31: includes individualized career counseling, tuition support, supplies, and job-focused guidance.
- Additional programs and support: Yellow Ribbon opportunities, STEM extensions, licensing and certification reimbursement, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training programs.
The Robert D. Maxwell Veterans Resource Center, located in the Coats Campus Center, is your starting point. Bonnie Jordan, the veterans program coordinator, is your resource for all the support programs available on campus. The VRC is dedicated to supporting you throughout your academic journey.
The Veterans Resource Center provides:
- Assistance with Veterans Affairs certification and benefit questions
- Academic planning help
- Guidance with housing and payments
- Connections to tutoring and student services
- Study spaces, computer access, and a supportive environment
- Veteran-focused events and community opportunities
Make the most of the many academic resources available, including the writing lab, math tutoring, tutoring and testing center, study spaces, technology lending, student organizations, and skills workshops.
Whether you attend classes in Bend, Redmond, Madras, or Prineville, you are part of our veteran community. Reach out if you need help, or offer help when needed. No veteran should feel alone.
COCC is honored to support you in your next chapter. Don’t hesitate to reach out when you need assistance, stay connected, and take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.
