It's a Military Life

🌟 Big News: IML’s #WalkWithIML is HERE! 🌟 This October, It’s a Military Life (IML) is launching our 1st Annual Hybrid Walk-a-Thon—a powerful movement to honor the 22, raise awareness for veteran suicide rates, and support military families. 📍 How It Works: In-Person: Join us in Florida, Clarksville, Chattanooga, and Las Vegas for a day of community and action. Virtual: Walk with us from ANYWHERE—because every step counts, no matter where you are. 💡 Why This Matters: While Suicide Awareness Month is in September, the fight to support our veterans continues year-round. This walk is about hope, healing, and making a tangible difference. 📅 Save the Date: The official date is coming soon—follow us and stay tuned for updates! 👉 How You Can Help: 1️⃣ Register to Walk (in-person or virtually). 2️⃣ Share this post to spread the word. 3️⃣ Rep the cause with our limited-edition #22TooManyWalk merch. This is more than a walk—it’s a MOVEMENT. Let’s come together to create change. 💬 Comment below if you’re walking with us! 📲 Tag a colleague or friend who needs to join the cause. #22TooManyWalk #WalkWithIML #SuicideAwareness #VeteranSupport #MilitaryLife #PurposeDriven #ItsAMilitaryLife

Lt. Colonel Marcella Hayes Ng made history as the first African American woman to earn her wings as a pilot in the U.S. Armed Forces. Her courage, determination, and trailblazing spirit paved the way for countless women and minorities in aviation and beyond. In 1979, Marcella shattered the glass ceiling when she became a rated Army aviator, flying both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft during her distinguished military career. Her service not only demonstrated her exceptional skill and leadership but also challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future generations of Black women in the military and STEM fields. Today, Marcella continues to inspire as an advocate for diversity, inclusion, and education. She actively supports initiatives that empower underrepresented communities, particularly in aviation and technology, ensuring that her legacy of excellence and equity lives on. Yet, as we celebrate her achievements, we must also confront the current state of the U.S. military and the troubling efforts to erase or diminish the contributions of African Americans to its history. Recent legislative actions, such as the stripping away of bills and initiatives that honor Black military history, threaten to obscure the sacrifices and triumphs of soldiers like the Buffalo Soldiers, the Tuskegee Airmen, and the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. These efforts not only tarnish the past but also undermine the ongoing fight for equity and recognition within the armed forces. As we honor Lt. Colonel Marcella Hayes Ng and the countless Black servicemembers who have shaped our nation’s history, we must also demand accountability and justice. Let us ensure that their stories are told, their contributions are celebrated, and their legacy is preserved for generations to come. The sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning. #BlackExcellence #WomenInAviation #Trailblazer #Inspiration #IML #DiversityInSTEM #Leadership #BreakingBarriers #BlackMilitaryHistory #Equality #Justice

🌟 R.E.D. Friday + Valentine’s Day: Double the Love, Double the Impact 🌟 This Friday, February 14th, we’re celebrating two powerful moments in one: R.E.D. Friday (Remember Everyone Deployed) and Valentine’s Day. It’s a unique opportunity to honor our deployed service members while spreading love and gratitude within our incredible military community. At IML, we’re proud to stand with military spouses, veterans, and active-duty personnel who make sacrifices every day. This R.E.D. Friday, we’re doubling down on our mission to support, uplift, and connect this resilient community. Here’s how you can join us in making a difference: 🔴 Wear your red—whether it’s a shirt, a hat, or even red lipstick, let’s show our support for those serving far from home. 🔴 Share the love—post a photo, a memory, or a message of gratitude. Tag us and use #REDFriday and #ValentinesWithIML to amplify the impact. 🔴 Reach out—check on a fellow MilSpouse, a veteran, or someone missing their deployed loved one. A simple “How are you?” can mean the world. 🔴 Give back—consider sending a Valentine’s care package to a deployed service member or volunteering with organizations that support military families. This community is built on strength, resilience, and heart. Let’s show the world what we’re made of. Together, we’re unstoppable. 💥 Remember Everyone Deployed. Today and every day, we’ve got their six. Join us in making this R.E.D. Friday + Valentine’s Day one to remember. Drop a 🖤 in the comments if you’re in! #REDFriday #ValentinesDay #MilitaryCommunity #VeteransSupport #MilSpouseLife #MilitaryAppreciation #Leadership #CommunityImpact #WeAreIML

Big News: IML x VPPP Athletic Wear Collab is Here! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our IML x VPPP Athletic Wear collaboration—a powerful fusion of performance, purpose, and style. Designed for those who move with intention, this collection is more than just apparel; it’s a statement of support for military families and suicide awareness. 🔥 What’s in the Drop? High-performance tees built for action. Sleek hoodies designed for comfort and durability. Limited-edition "22TooMany" pieces to honor a cause close to our hearts. PLUS, MORE! 💡 Why It Matters: Every purchase from the GivingGear Collection supports critical initiatives for veterans and military families. This is your chance to wear your mission and make a difference. 🛍️ Shop Now: https://lnkd.in/enxm-r9q 📢 Join the Movement: Tag a colleague, friend, or fellow veteran who needs to see this. Let’s show the power of community and purpose-driven action. #IMLxVPPP #MilitaryLife #VeteranSupport #SuicideAwareness #AthleticWear #GivingBack #PurposeDriven #ItsAMilitaryLife

A Visionary for Black Unity. Marcus Garvey’s Pan-Africanism ignited a global movement for Black pride, self-determination, and empowerment. 🌍 Marcus Garvey was a Jamaican-born activist, orator, and leader who founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) in 1914. His message of "Africa for Africans" and "Black pride" inspired millions worldwide to embrace their heritage and fight for independence from colonial rule. Garvey’s vision of Pan-Africanism called for unity among Black people across the globe, emphasizing economic independence, cultural pride, and self-reliance. He established the Black Star Line, a shipping company aimed at connecting the African diaspora and fostering trade. Though his movement faced opposition, Garvey’s legacy lives on in the fight for racial justice, empowerment, and the celebration of Black identity. Let’s honor his contributions by continuing to uplift and unite our communities. "Liberate the minds of men, and ultimately you will liberate the bodies of men." – Marcus Garvey #BlackHistoryMonth #MarcusGarvey #PanAfricanism #BlackPride #BlackHistory #Empowerment

"The Father of African History. Cheikh Anta Diop’s groundbreaking work reclaimed Africa’s rightful place in world history and inspired generations to embrace their heritage." Cheikh Anta Diop was a Senegalese historian, anthropologist, and physicist whose work revolutionized the way we understand African history and civilization. He dedicated his life to proving the African origins of humanity and the significant contributions of African civilizations to world history. In his seminal book, "The African Origin of Civilization: Myth or Reality," Diop argued that ancient Egypt was a Black African civilization, challenging Eurocentric narratives that had long dismissed Africa’s role in shaping human history. His research emphasized the importance of African languages, cultures, and scientific achievements, laying the foundation for Afrocentric scholarship. Diop’s work wasn’t just academic—it was a call to action for African people to reclaim their identity and pride. He believed that understanding Africa’s past was essential for its future, inspiring movements for Pan-Africanism and cultural revival. Today, Cheikh Anta Diop’s legacy lives on in universities, research centers, and the hearts of those who continue to celebrate and study Africa’s rich history. Let’s honor his contributions by learning, sharing, and uplifting the stories of Africa’s greatness. "A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots." – Cheikh Anta Diop #BlackHistoryMonth #CheikhAntaDiop #AfricanHistory #PanAfricanism #Afrocentric #BlackExcellence #KnowYourHistory

Today, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a guiding light of hope and equality. His dream continues to inspire us to strive for justice and unity. Let's remember his words and work together to create a brighter future for all. #MLKDay2025 #MartinLutherKingDay #MLKLegacy #KeepTheDreamAlive #CivilRightsMovement

Join our founder, Christina Etchberger, on the "Vet S.O.S Podcast" today! 🎙️ Dive into an engaging discussion filled with valuable insights and support for military families and veterans. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect and learn. Click the link to tune in and be part of our mission! #MilitarySupport #Veterans #Podcast #ChristinaEtchberger #VetSOSPodcast #CommunityEngagement 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gCMydCdW

🌟 Exciting Announcement: A New Chapter for It's A Military Life! 🌟 We are delighted to announce the transformative rebrand of It's A Military Life (IML) and our dedicated programs: Veteran Pen Pal Project (VPPP), It's A Military Child Life (IMCL), and It's A Military Connection (IMC). Our refreshed logos are more than just a visual update; they symbolize our unwavering commitment to empowering military families and veterans with bold, vibrant designs. 💪✨ We are also pleased to offer an exclusive preview of our upcoming merchandise line, designed to help you proudly display your support. Please mark your calendars for a significant event in 2025: the inaugural IML Walkathon. Join us this October for the "IML 2025 Walkathon" in support of Suicide Awareness Month. Together, we can walk, converse, and drive meaningful change. 🚶♂️🚶♀️💙 Visit our newly revamped website to explore our fresh merchandise collection and learn more about our mission and upcoming events. Stay informed by subscribing to our newsletter for the latest updates and become an integral part of our thriving community. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey into a new era of empowerment and community. Let's make 2025 a year to remember! #IMLRebrand #NonProfitLeadership #MilitarySupport #IMLWalkathon2025 #SuicideAwareness #MilitarySupport #VeteranEmpowerment

🎉 Happy New Year from the IML Family! 🎉 As we step into 2025, we are filled with hope, excitement, and gratitude for the incredible community that surrounds us. This new year brings new opportunities, new beginnings, and a renewed commitment to supporting our military families and veterans. Let's embrace this year with open hearts and minds, ready to learn, grow, and make a positive impact together. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for your steadfast support. Here's to a year filled with joy, success, and meaningful connections. Cheers to 2025! 🥂✨ #NewYear2025 #IMLFamily #NewBeginnings #SupportOurTroops #NewYears #HappyNewYear