Fall, 2009 by JM Publishing

S Fall, 2009

Commander’s Message

By Carl B. Morgan, Jr.

would like to thank you for your unanimous vote; I will do my best to serve you. Looking at trends in our membership, I noticed that we are doing well in recruiting new members and not as good in retaining our annual members. As we go about our mission of serving our veterans, we sometime forget that our members are veterans too, and we need to see what their expectations are in the post. We need to try to meet their needs and wants in the post as well as the veterans in need outside the post. Visiting the posts over the years, most have about 10-15% of their members come to the meetings. With about the same percentage helping with their post projects. I would like to see all of the new post commanders come up with new ways to meet the needs of the membership and get them involved with post operations and community service. Our present membership is our means to growth, through their actions and voice in the community, will draw new members and veterans to our cause. Another item that I would like to bring up is the AMVETS Riders program. It is the only program that involves all three of our organizations, because you must be a member of AMVETS, Son of AMVETS, or Ladies Auxiliary to become a member. Those who come to the Department Executive Com-

mittee meetings know I have talked about this at every meeting, and it is starting to grow. A lot of our members see motorcycle riders as gang member’s outlaws or Hell’s Angles, but today most are in the age of 40 to 60 years old and professionals in industries, business, law or medical fields. This is a way to gain new members I am looking forward to working with the Ladies Auxiliary, with the many functions that they do across the state. I hope to see them grow in numbers, simply put with their growth the strength of AMVETS grows. And the support to our Veterans and community is enhanced. Our Sons of AMVETS is a source of help and comradeship. For those Posts that haven’t started a Squadron, you should look into starting one. The Son’s at my Post 845 and 905 are very active, they support our functions, they do community support projects in the name of the Son’s and AMVETS and they enhance the over all image of AMVETS. There are other Squadrons doing hard work for their post the above stated groups are the one’s I have first hand knowledge. I know we will have a good working relationship in the upcoming year. Carl B. Morgan Jr. Department of North Carolina Commander

Honor A Hero Sponsor an ROTC Medal

t the January DEC Finance Officer Laura Britton presented the idea of having NC AMVETS sponsor an ROTC Medal. The price will be $15.00 per sponsorship. She designed this patriotic business card size insert for the Medal case. Samples shown are in “Memory” of (her father) and the other is in “Honor” of (her son) who is currently serving. All of us have friends and family who have served or who are currently serving their country. What a great way to show our future military our respect and thanks to others who have served. The ROTC medals are presented by a member of your local Post at the schools ROTC Awards Ceremony, usually in March and April. If you would like to be present when the Medal is presented or even if you would personally like to present the Medal contact your Post to get the time, date and location of the presentation. Send your sponsorship information and check made out to AMVETS Dept of NC to: Finance Officer Laura Britton at P.O. Box 10179, Southport, NC 28461 You will receive a copy of the card along with your receipt. Please include your post number. 

This Medal

is sponsored

by:

Laura Britton

In Honor

In Memory

Robert A. Britton

E. Franklin Rivenbark

Private First Class

Seaman First Class

U.S . Army Reserve

1956-1960

NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

From the President

Table of Contents

The NC AMVET News is published three times per year by Midwest Publishing, Inc.

Commander’s Report.............................................. 1 Sons Report............................................................. 3 Programs Reporting................................................ 3

By Pat Pulliam

Legislative Day........................................................ 4 Post Directory.......................................................... 7 Post Reports............................................................ 8 Honors and Awards................................................ 11 Officers................................................................... 15

hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July. Bill and I traveled to Lake Royale and participated in their annual parade. Thanks to the Franklin County Post 201 for including us. Later on that day I traveled to Bracey, VA for a fund raiser sponsored by Auxiliary 101 Halifax County, NC. The Department of North Carolina Ladies Auxiliary has entrusted me with a wonderful honor and I will do my best to live up to their expectations. Thank you Ladies. If any of the Auxiliaries would like me to visit, just call me. All of us should be aware by now that there will not be a Winter DEC. The Auxiliary will need to come up with a viable plan for our annual fund raiser and they will because they are such great planners and workers. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the October DEC in Statesville and before that, the National Convention in New Orleans, La. (“The Big Easy”) Please keep our veterans and active duty personnel in your thoughts and prayers. God Bless America and our Families. With “Spirit”, Pat Pulliam Department President

TAPS A special tribute to our departed AMVETS family member, Gene Ritchie.

Pg. 6

DEADLINES FOR NEWSPAPER ARTICLES January 15 to print March 25

A Prayer For Those We Love Almighty God, we entrust all who are

July 15 to print September 25

dear to us to thy never-failing care

October 15 to print December 25

To contribute to your NC AMVETS NEWS, mail submissions to: NC AMVETS - Attn. Nancy Shiverdecker 13470 Old Beatty Ford Rd., Rockwell, NC 28138

cib2marine@yahoo.com 704-267-6410

and love, for this and the life to come; knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

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NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

Sons Report

By Gene Rabb

’m looking forward to serving as the new Sons Commander this year. We will be working with Oceanus Lowry from Post 317, Pembroke, as our Liaison between AMVETS and the Sons. Thanks to Welcome 760 for the enrollment of 300% for the year. Keep up the good work. Congratulations to 905 Asheboro for Squadron of the Year. We are having a drawing for another lifetime membership to be given away at the Spring D.E.C. Tickets are $1.00 each. We’re also looking for Posts that want to start a Sons Squadron. Please let me know if I can help in anyway my email is GeneRabb@ yahoo.com Hope to see you in New Orleans. Wishing everyone the best Gene Rabb Sons of Amvets Dept. N.C. State Commander

First-ever virtual 'march' on Washington for disabled vets

he DAV is organizing a march on Washington to raise public awareness and let lawmakers know voters care about veterans. But you won't need to travel to participate and have your voice heard. This march is going to be completely online, the first-ever Virtual March on Washington for Veterans. The DAV is working to ensure this will be the easiest and most convenient way ever to stand up for veterans. Together, we will generate greater public awareness and support for strengthening federal policies that provide health care and other earned benefits to disabled veterans. To sign up to participate in the Sept. 15 virtual march, simply visit http:// march.dav.org/default.aspx and enter your e-mail address at the top of the page. Your ZIP code will also be needed so lawmakers know which constituents care about the needs of veterans and their families. DAV will send you an e-mail the night before the "march" as a reminder. DAV will not share your e-mail address with or sell it to anyone, nor will DAV use it to solicit donations. On Sept. 15, the official day of the march, there will be video messages posted from a variety of veterans, family members, veterans' advocates, lawmakers and a few surprises. There will be opportunities to chat with those leading efforts to better the lives of veterans. And there will be easy-to-use tools for you to directly contact your representatives in Washington , D.C. If you cannot visit the site the day of the march, don't worry; it will all remain online. Remember, after you sign up, please help encourage others to do the same. Forward this e-mail, post links on your social networks, blog about it and tell everyone you know. Those who have put their lives on the line for freedom are depending on you.

PROGRAMS REPORTING

elow are web sites that provide information on veterans benefits and how to file/ask for them. Accordingly, there are many sites that explain how to obtain books, military/medical records, information and how to appeal a denied claim with the VA. Please pass this information on to every vVeteran you know. Nearly 100% of this information is free and available for all veterans, the only catch is: you have to ask for it, because they won’t tell you about a specific benefit unless you ask for it. You need to know what questions to ask so the right doors open for you - and then be ready to have an advocate who is willing to work with and for you, stay in the process, and press for your rights and your best interests.

Links for Veterans

Appeals: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch05.doc Board of Veteran’s Appeals: http://www.va.gov/vbs/bva/ CARES Commission: http://www.va.gov/vbs/bva/ CARES Draft National Plan: http://www1.va.gov/cares/page.cfm?pg=105 Center for Minority Veterans: http://www1.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans/ Center for Veterans Enterprise: http://www.vetbiz.gov/default2.htm Center for Women Veterans: http://www1.va.gov/womenvet/ Clarification on the changes in VA healthcare for Gulf War Veterans: http://www.gulfwarvets.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000016.html Classified Records - American Gulf War Veterans Assoc.: http://www.gulfwarvets.com/ubb/Forum18/HTML/000011.html Compensation for Disabilities Associated with the Gulf War Service: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/part6 http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/part6/ch07.doc Compensation Rate Tables, 12-1-03: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Rates/comp01.htm Department of Veterans Affairs Home Page: http://www.va.gov/ Directory of Veterans Service Organizations: http://www1.va.gov/vso/index. cfm?template=view Disability Examination Worksheets Index, Comp: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Benefits/exams/index.htm Due Process: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch02.doc Duty to Assist: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch01.doc Electronic Code of Federal Regulations: http://www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr/ Emergency, Non-emergency, and Fee Basis Care: http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/fedben.pdf Environmental Agents: http://www1.va.gov/environagents/ Environmental Agents M10: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1002 Establishing Combat Veteran Eligibility: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=315 EVALUATION PROTOCOL FOR GULF WAR AND IRAQI FREEDOM VETERANS WITH POTENTIAL EXPOSURE TO DEPLETED URANIUM (DU): http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DUHandbook1303122304.DOC and http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1158 See also, Depleted Uranium Fact Sheet: http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DepletedUraniumFAQSheet.doc EVALUATION PROTOCOL FOR NON-GULF WAR VETERANS WITH POTENTIAL EXPOSURE TO DEPLETED URANIUM (DU): http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/DUHANDBOOKNONGW130340304.DOC Fee Basis, PRIORITY FOR OUTPATIENT MEDICAL SERVICES AND INPATIENT HOSPITAL CARE: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=206 Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependants 2005: http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/fedben. pdf OR, http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/current_benefits.htm Forms and Records Request: http://www.va.gov/vaforms/ General Compensation Provisions: http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter11_subchaptervi_.html Geriatrics and Extended Care: http://www1.va.gov/geriatricsshg/ Guideline for Chronic Pain and Fatigue MUS-CPG: http://www.oqp.med.va.gov/cpg/cpgn/mus/mus_base.htm Guide to Gulf War Veteran’s Health: http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/VHIgulfwar.pdf Gulf War Subject Index: http://www1.va.gov/GulfWar/page.cfm?pg=7 and http://www1.va.gov/ GulfWar/page.cfm?pg=7&template=main&letter=A&template=main&letter=A Gulf War Veteran’s Illnesses Q&As: http://www1.va.gov/gulfwar/docs/GWIllnessesQandAsIB1041.pdf Hearings: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admi - http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/ mr/part1/ch04.docn21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch04.doc Homeless Veterans: http://www1.va.gov/homeless/

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NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009 HSR&D Home: http://www.hsrd.research.va.gov/ Index to Disability Examination Worksheets C&P exams: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/benefits/exams/index.htm Ionizing Radiation: http://www1.va.gov/irad/ Iraqi Freedom/Enduring Freedom Veterans VBA: http://www.vba.va.gov/EFIF/ M10 for spouses and children: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1007 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1007 M10 Part III Change 1: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1008 M21-1 Table of Contents: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/M21_1.html Mental Disorders, Schedule of Ratings: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38CFR/BOOKC/PART4/S4_130.DOC Mental Health Program Guidelines: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1094 Ment al Illness Research, Education and Clinical Centers: http://www.mirecc.med.va.gov/ MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Centers of Excellence: http://www.va.gov/ms/about.asp My Health e Vet: http://www.myhealth.va.gov/ NASDVA.COM National Association of State Directors: http://www.nasdva.com/ National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: http://www.nchpdp.med.va.gov/postdeploymentlinks.asp Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders, Schedule of Ratings: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/ regs/38cfr/bookc/part4/s4%5F124a.doc - http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38cfr/bookc/part4/s4_124a. doc OMI (Office of Medical Inspector): http://www.omi.cio.med.va.gov/ Online VA Form 10-10EZ: https://www.1010ez.med.va.gov/sec/vha/1010ez/ Parkinson’s Disease and Related Neurodegenerative Disorders: http://www1.va.gov/resdev/funding/solicitations/docs/parkinsons.pdf and, http://www1.va.gov/padrecc/ Peacetime Disability Compensation: http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_ usc - http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_usc&docid=Cite:+38USC1131& docid=Cite:+38USC1131 Pension for Non-Service-Connected Disability or Death: http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/ partii_chapter15_subchapteri_.html and, http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapterii_.html and, http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partii_chapter15_subchapteriii_.html Persian Gulf Registry: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1003 This program is now referred to as Gulf War Registry Program (to include Operation Iraqi Freedom) as of March 7, 2005: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1232 Persian Gulf Registry Referral Centers: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1006 Persian Gulf Veterans’ Illnesses Research 1999, Annual Report To Congress http://www1.va.gov/resdev/1999_Gulf_War_Veterans’_Illnesses_Appendices.doc Persian Gulf Veterans’ Illnesses Research 2002, Annual Report To Congress: http://www1.va.gov/resdev/prt/gulf_war_2002/GulfWarRpt02.pdf Phase I PGR: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1004 Phase II PGR: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1005 Policy Manual Index: http://www.va.gov/publ/direc/eds/edsmps.htm Power of Attorney: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/admin21/m21_1/mr/part1/ch03.doc Project 112 (Including Project SHAD): http://www1.va.gov/shad/ Prosthetics Eligibility: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=337 Public Health and Environmental Hazards Home Page: http://www.vethealth.cio.med.va.gov/ Public Health/SARS: http://www.publichealth.va.gov/SARS/ Publications Manuals: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/publications.cfm?Pub=4 Publications and Reports: http://www1.va.gov/resdev/prt/pubs_individual.cfm?webpage=gulf_war.htm Records Center and Vault Homepage: http://www.aac.va.gov/vault/default.html Records Center and Vault Site Map: http://www.aac.va.gov/vault/sitemap.html REQUEST FOR AND CONSENT TO RELEASE OF INFORMATION FROM CLAIMANT’S RECORDS: http://www.forms.va.gov/va/Internet/VARF/getformharness.asp?formName=3288-form.xft Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans Illnesses April 11, 2002: http://www1.va.gov/rac-gwvi/docs/Minutes_April112002.doc Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans Illnesses: http://www1.va.gov/rac-gwvi/docs/ReportandRecommendations_2004.pdf Research and Development: http://www.appc1.va.gov/resdev/programs/all_programs.cfm Survivor’s and Dependents’ Educational Assistance: http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title38/partiii_chapter35_.html Title 38 Index Parts 0-17 http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv1_02.tpl&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv1_02.tpl Part 18 http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv2_02.tpl> http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv2_02.tpl&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfrv2_02.tpl Title 38 Part 3 Adjudication Subpart A, Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation:

http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&tpl=/ ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02.tpl&sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02.tpl&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title38/38cfr3_main_02.tpl Title 38 Pensions, Bonuses & Veterans Relief (also 3.317 Compensation for certain disabilities due to undiagnosed illnesses found here): http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textTitle 38 PART 4 - SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Subpart B - DISABILITY RATINGS http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=ab7641afd195c84a49a2067dbbcf95c0&rgn=div6&v iew=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.2&idno=38ab7641afd195c84a49a2067dbbcf95c0 http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=ab7641afd195c84a49a2067dbbcf95c0&rgn=div6&v iew=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.2&idno=38&rgn=div6&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.2&idno=38 Title 38 4.16 Total disability ratings for compensation based on unemployability of the individual. PART 4, SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES Subpart A, General Policy in Rating http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/textidx?c=ecfr http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&rgn=div8&vi ew=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.1.96.11&idno=38&sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=1b0c269b510d3157fbf8f8801bc9b3dc&rgn=div8&vi ew=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.1.96.11&idno=38&rgn=div8&view=text&node=38:1.0.1.1.5.1.96.11&idno=38 U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims: http://www.vetapp.gov/ VA Best Practice Manual for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): http://www.avapl.org/pub/PTSD%20Manual%20final%206.pdf VA Fact Sheet: http://www1.va.gov/opa/fact/gwfs.html VA Health Care Eligibility: http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/home/hecmain.asp VA INSTITUTING GLOBAL ASSESSMENT OF FUNCTION (GAF): http://www.avapl.org/gaf/gaf.html VA Life Insurance Handbook, Chapter 3: http://www.insurance.va.gov/inForceGliSite/GLIhandbook/glibookletch3.htm#310 VA Loan Lending Limits and Jumbo Loans: http://valoans.com/va_facts_limits.cfm VA MS Research: http://www.va.gov/ms/about.asp VA National Hepatitis C Program: http://www.hepatitis.va.gov/ VA Office of Research and Development: http://www1.va.gov/resdev/ VA Trainee Pocket Card on Gulf War: http://www.va.gov/OAA/pocketcard/gulfwar.asp VA WMD EMSHG: http://www1.va.gov/emshg/ VA WRIISC-DC: http://www.va.gov/WRIISC-DC/ VAOIG Hotline Telephone Number and Address: http://www.va.gov/oig/hotline/hotline3.htm Vet Center Eligibility - Readjustment Counseling Service: http://www.va.gov/rcs/Eligibility.htm Veterans Benefits Administration Main Web Page: http://www.vba.va.gov/ Veterans Legal and Benefits Information: http://valaw.org/ VHA Forms, Publications, Manuals: http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ VHA Programs - Clinical Programs & Initiatives: http://www1.va.gov/health_benefits/page.cfm?pg=13 VHA Public Health Strategic Health Care Group Home Page: http://www.publichealth.va.gov/ VHI Guide to Gulf War Veterans(tm) Health: http://www1.va.gov/vhi_ind_study/gulfwar/istudy/index.asp Vocational Rehabilitation: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/ Vocational Rehabilitation Subsistence: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/InterSubsistencefy04.doc VONAPP online: http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp WARMS - 38 CFR Book C: http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/bookc.html Wartime Di sability Compensation: http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_ usc - http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=browse_usc&docid=Cite:+38USC1110> &docid=Cite:+38USC1110 War-Related Illness and Injury Study Center - New Jersey: http://www.wri.med.va.gov/ Welcome to the GI Bill Web Site: http://www.gibill.va.gov/ What VA Social Workers Do: http://www1.va.gov/socialwork/page.cfm?pg=3 WRIISC Patient Eligibility: http://www.illegion.org/va1.html

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Beryl W. Love AMVETS (American Veterans) National Programs Director 4647 Forbes Blvd. Lanham, MD 20706 240.832.7768 (www.amvets.org) C’3: Cooperate / Coordinate / Communicate

NC AMVETS NEWSﾂｭ窶認all, 2009

Legislative Day

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NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

Taps A special tribute to our departed AMVETS family member. Upper left: National Convention 1998 when Post 845 was the first Post to win the Robert Gomalinski Community Service Award along with a check for the Post for $1000.00.

“Character is doing the right

Above: Gene always made sure everyone who needed a new flag got a new flag donated and properly presented.

thing, even when

Left: Gene, Snake & Dusty holding boxes. Gene cared about our hospitalized veterans.

you don’t feel like

Here he is helping load up underwear to take to the Sallisbury VA Medical. Underwear was donated by Jockey International.

it.”

r. Carl Eugene “Gene” Ritchie, 70, of Gold Hill died on Saturday, August 15, 2009 at his residence. Mr. Ritchie was born January 27, 1939 in Rowan County, son of the late Carl Edward Ritchie and Lula McDaniel Ritchie. He graduated in 1956 from Rockwell High School. He retired from the U.S. Navy after 21 years of service. He was a member of St. Peters Lutheran Church and was a past council member. Mr. Rithcie was a life member of Rockwell AMVETS Post 845, he was active in the AMVETS where he served as Piedmont District Commander, NC State Commander and as National Executive Committeman, he was a member of the Miller Russell American Legion Post # 112, Rockwell; and the Vanhoy-Sells VFW Post # 9134, Rockwell; Gene was also past president of the Rowan County Veterans Council, and a life member of the DAV. Gene enjoyed gardening, baseball and spending time with his friends and family. Mr. Ritchie is survived by his wife, Marcia Allen Ritchie whom he married on March 14, 1959, sons, Glenn Ritchie and wife Navonda of Salisbury, Brian Ritchie of Gold Hill, and daughter in law Ronda Ritchie, Craig Ritchie and wife Tracy of Salisbury, daughter Debbie McDaniel and husband Mallory of Kannapolis, grandchildren, Marcus and Morgan McDaniel, Ashley, Taylor, Dustin, Aaron and Emma Ritchie, brother, Jimmy Ritchie of Fort Pierce, FL, sister, Sue Misenheimer and husband Marvin of Rockwell, and Faye Perrien of Southport, NC.

Right: Gene collecting DVDs for out Troops. Below: Gene Ritchie, & Dante Spagnola at Post 845’s 20th Anniversary.

A Special Tribute In loving memory of Gene Ritchie -- Page 6 --

NC AMVETS NEWSﾂｭ窶認all, 2009

NORTH CAROLINA amVETS POST DIRECTORY

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NC AMVET NEWS

post 845 - Rockwell

ost 845 Sons Squadron hosted their 2nd annual Flag Disposal Ceremony. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response for flags that needed to be retired from service was overwhelming. They had 300 flags including on NC State flag that was 30x60 feet. Sgt Sisk and the East Rowan High School JROTC performed the ceremony. Our Post Commander Robert Hopkins played Taps and Brian Ritchie sang the National Anthem. It was a very moving ceremony.

READY AIM FIRE Rowan County Veterans Honor Guard

embers of AMVETS Post 0845 Rockwell stand at the firing position during a Funeral Service at the Salisbury National Cemetery....Members of the Honor Guard from Post 0845 are: Honor Guard Commander David Hand, Robert Hopkins, Homer Robinson, Don Webb and Marvin Kyles. The Honor Guard supports the Deceased Veterans throughout Rowan County, but mainly at the National Cemetery Salisbury, which is located at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner Veterans Medical Center, Salisbury, North Carolina. Services provided are at the request of the Next of Kin of the deceased Veteran and include the playing of Taps, firing of Three Rifle Volleys, folding of the flag and presentation to the family.. The Honor Guard averages 35-40 Funeral Services per month and have assisted with as many as six funerals in one day.

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Ready, Aim, Fire!

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NC AMVET NEWS

NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

post 777

ost 777 held a steak cookout June 16th to commemorate Flag day, and celebrate the 234th birthday of the greatest fighting force in the world, the United States Army. The proceeds of the event were donated to Faith House, a shelter for homeless female veterans located in Dallas, NC

post 333 post 13

Ms. Alyce Knaflich, Thank you again for participating in our awards ceremony on Saturday. Attached you should find the photos we took of your presentation. Please let me know if you have any questions or if I can do anything else for you.. The AMVET award recipient was Cdt/ LTJG Sean Taylor. CAPT Teves SNSI North Buncombe High School

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NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

HONORS & AWARDS CRITERIA

1. The Honors & Awards Committee will consist of all the Past Department Commanders. The Chairman will he elected by the group. 2. Six (6) members of the committee present and voting shall be considered a quorum. 3. The: committee may, if they choose, not make an award in the absence of any nominees. 4. No members of the committee may participate in the judgment of an award application that originates from his/her post or concerns a member of his/her Post. 5. If any member, in good standing, wants to recommend anyone for an award. they must submit their recommendations to their post Commander or District Commander.

AMVET OF THE YEAR 1. 2. 3.

This award will be presented to an outstanding NC resident, who is in good standing in the Department NC AMVETS, Consideration for this award will be based on the following; A. Membership B. Community Service C. Hospital Service D. Veterans Service E. Activities of Post and State that promote the Aims and Purposes of AM VETS.

U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA BATTLESHIP AWARD

This award will be presented to a NC resident who is in good standing in the Department of NC AMVETS and has done outstanding work in the following: A. AMVETS Programs B. VAVS Local and State C. Leadership D. Service to veterans and families E.. Improvement of our community and state

POST AND DISTRICT AWARDS Each Post Commander and District Commander, please send the name of one AMVET, in good standing from your Post or District, to the Honors and Awards Chairman. All nominees for awards must be received by the chairman by the close of business Saturday at the April D.E.C. (Prior to the Picnic) WHITE CLOVERS

This award is presented to an AMVET who has done outstanding work in the Department of NC.

ALL F1NAL DECISIONS WILL BE MADE BY THE HONORS & AWARDS COMMITTEE.

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NORTH CAROLINA

AMVETS 2008-2009 MEMBERSHIP AWARDS

POST CLASSES: A - 250 or more members B- 151 to 249 members C- 100 to 150 members D- 51 to 99 members E- 10 to 50 members

he Post with the greatest percent increase in their class will receive a trophy and $100.00 at the awards banquet June 2009. Calculations will be based on membership as of August 31,2008 and ending May 1,2009. DISTRICT COMMANDERS AWARDS: The District Commander with the largest number of new Post Charters submitted between August 31, 2008 and May 1, 2009 will receive a trophy and $100.00 at the awards banquet June 2009. ♦RECRUITER AWARD: Each of the three District Commanders will submit the name of one AMVET from their District that promoted AMVETS through membership activities. These three AMVETS will each receive a plaque and $100.00 at the awards banquet June 2009. **TOP RECRUITER AWARD: The top individual recruiter of new members will receive life membership or $ equivalent if already a life member and hotel accommodations for the fall DEC (hotel accommodations must be used at the fall DEC or forfeited). Department Commander’s Service Awards will be presented to the Post and Post 1st Vice Commander achieving 100% membership by December 31, 2008.

^District Commanders submit names by May 1st - this is separate from the Honors and Awards Nominee. **Post Commanders or Adjutants submit the name of the individual in your post that has recruited the most new members for 2009 with a list of the members by May 1st.

NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

post 101 - Halifax county

Local soldier injured in Afghanistan

4th of July Parade

taff Sgt. Darrick McGee, Post 101 Halifax County and Cora Brigman President of Aux. 320 Roanoke Rapids at the Littleton, NC 4th of July Parade. Cora was there representing me, as Aux President. Photos (right).

by Daily Herald Staff Report Published/Last Modified on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 3:10 PM EDT

Sgt. Willie Reaves “His dad (Mike) wanted to know if he was OK and had been wearing his helmet and armor ... I just wanted to know all the parts are working,” she explained. And at first inspection, they are. Young Reaves, a sergeant with the United States Army 10th Mountain Division from Fort Drum, N.Y., is smack in the middle of one of the world’s hot spots — a no-man’s land controlled by feudal tribal lords and the Taliban in the remote, rugged mountains linking Afghanistan and Pakistan. The sergeant was injured when he and other soldiers tried to reach three comrades whose jeep had been hit by an IED, an improvised explosive device, while near the end of a long, hard patrol, his mother told the Daily Herald. The jeep Sgt. Reaves was riding in was just ahead of another when the explosive went off. The jeep was sent down the mountain side. Reaves and three other solders were trying to pull the vehicle back up when everything gave way and tumbled down the mountainside. The three soldiers in the first jeep were seriously injured. Two were flown to Germany for treatment. One soldier in Reaves’ jeep was also seriously hurt and sent to Germany. For his part, Reaves is being watched for possible head trauma. Early Tuesday afternoon, Jean and Mike talked with their soldier son. “I’m worried about his emotional health,” she confided. “He is very worried about the injured soldier.” Willie grew up in Roanoke Rapids and married his high school sweetheart, Chrissy Paige Reaves. The couple has two children, William, 1, and Cadence, 3. Willie has been on duty in Afghanistan since January. Ironically, his brother Michael, a Marine, returned from Afghanistan last weekend. Jean and Michael Reaves are extremely active in veterans causes urging the community to stand behind the men and women serving our nation and being there when they come home. Tuesday, they were the recipients of such support. “We really want to thank everyone for the outpouring support and prayers. Every single phone call and message we have received has been appreciated,” Jean wrote in an e-mail message. Adding, “Please continue to keep these soldiers and their families in your prayers.”

ROANOKE RAPIDS — “It was the best phone call possible,” Jean Reaves said her voice breaking with emotion just a few minutes after talking with her son, Sgt. Willie Reaves as he was being treated at a field hospital in Afghanistan.

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NC AMVETS NEWS—Fall, 2009

post 101 - Halifax county

Column 1 top: Pat Pulliam (Aux. 101)and Cora Brigman (Aux. 320) posting the colors at the annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Cedarwood Veteran’s Monument. Column 1 middle: Commander Roger Fenwick 101) participating in the Memorial Day Flag folding ceremony. Column 1 bottom: Proper flag disposal ceremony for Flag Day in June 2009. Standing l-r: 101 members Frank Stanley, Commander Roger Fenwick. Seated: l-r: PDC Bill Pulliam, Jewel Fenwick and Auxiliary President 101 Marcia Fenwick (Photo by Pat Pulliam) Column 2 top: Cora Brigman and Pat Pulliam, retiring the colors at the Memorial Day Ceremony, 2009 Column 2 middle: Lake Royale Annual 4th of July Parade sponsored by Franklin County Post 201. Five PDCs - Standing l-r: Jean Reaves, Mike Reaves, Gerry Pion and Tom Nichols. seated: Bill Pulliam. Picture by Department Auxiliary President - Pat Pulliam. Column 2 bottom: Department President Pat Pulliam and AMVETS Post 101 member, Keith Hutchins at a memorial ceremony for WWII Veteran Alan Welch. -- Page 13 --

NC AMVETS NEWSﾂｭ窶認all, 2009