In honor of veterans here and everywhere, Urbana Public Television will present a number of special programs throughout Veterans Day, this Thursday, November 11.
“Aging Veterans Fight for Deserved Dignity,” a special two-part edition of the regular series “Graceful Aging,” presents Veteran Benefit Specialist Jack Becher in a detailed discussion of how families and friends can help those in need navigate the military benefit maze. Becher is a veteran himself, and has spent a lifetime advocating for veterans on all issues. He speaks clearly about a complex topic, with insights into the shortcuts of the system and the rightful entitlement of our vets to assistance. The two-part special airs Thursday at 11:30 am, and again at 4 pm and 7:30pm. (Graceful Aging is regularly seen Sundays at 8:30 am and many Tuesday evenings at 7 pm.)
“Veterans Helping Veterans,” produced by San Mateo public access television will be seen on UPTV from 12:30pm to 4 pm, with topics including service animals for wounded vets, the unique challenges of women veterans, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The two PTSD episodes will be rebroadcast from 5 to 6 pm.
Finally, the profoundly moving documentary film “The Corporal’s Diary” airs at 8:30pm. Jonathan Santos, 22 years old, documented his 37 days in Iraq on video and in writing, never knowing that day 38 would be his last. From high explosives to clandestine home brew, his video footage and witty narrative combine personal musings on life, death, and the future he imagined but would never see. His charming buddy, Matthew, who barely survived, brings the war home. Through Jonathan’s handwritten words and home-made videotape, the film tells a personal and profound story. The film comes to UPTV courtesy of Link TV; parental guidance is suggested.
UPTV is the television service of the City of Urbana, providing governmental, educational and public access television to, and by, the local community. It is available on Comcast Channel 6 to over 40,000 homes in Urbana, Champaign, Savoy, Bondville, Philo, Ogden and St. Joseph, as well as in Springfield, Decatur and Danville on ATT U-Verse Channel 99. The complete program schedule is at www.urbanaillinois.us/uptv. Membership is free and entitles volunteers to free video and editing training and equipment use. For more information, contact UPTV at 217-384-2452 or at uptv@urbanaillinois.us.