The Minnesota American Veterans News Volume 13Number 1Winter, 2010Chartered by Act of Congress, July 23, 1947
Commander’s Column From Commander Cook
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appy new year to all AMVETS comrades. The holiday season is a special time of the year. Families come together from near and far to be with loved ones during this time of the year. Like every holiday, there are some loved ones (family and friends) who will be missing from these gatherings. In this case, I am talking about the men and women in uniform, serving our country all over the world, especially those in harm’s way. Please take a minute and say a prayer that they return safely to their loved ones. I know it is the holiday season, but I have to talk about some business. As all of you know, I have travelled around the state and listened to your concerns. At each post that I visited the first topic was always membership. Allow me to back track for a moment. The vast majority of our service members that are in combat come from the Guard and Reserve units that were in combat and at my stops around the state, it was my privilege to talk with them. Some of them sat in on some of the meetings and learned about AMVETS. After the meetings, I had a chance to talk with them informally. Their first question to me was: “Why should I join the AMVETS and not another veterans organization?” I informed them that being combat they qualified for other organizations, such as the VFW and the American Legion, but that after the war was over, any new member that joined their unit who was not with them in combat would not qualify. I suggested Reserve components, National Guard units, our home town units and that people whom they have known all their lives were serving with them; and that people who are too young to serve now, would be in there serving in years to come. It would make their unit closer if they could all belong to the same veteran’s organization. I think this is making them think, because there has been an increase in the number of Guard and Reserve personnel joining AMVETS. I encourage all posts to go to their closest Reserve and National Guard units to drop off our newspaper and talk with everyone that they know in those units about joining the AMVETS. Once again, I would like to remind everyone to send pictures, articles and upcoming events at your local posts to the Department office so we can put them in the next issue of the newspaper.
Commander Mike Cook
Our next SEC is coming up. It will be held on Saturday, February 6 at the Forest Lake AMVETS Post 556. Finally, I would like to remind everyone that our state convention is May 15th and 16th in Aitkin. I am asking you to plan ahead, so we can have the most attended and the best convention ever. Best wishes in the new year, Mike Cook
“Why should I join the AMVETS and not another veterans organization?”
What’s Inside
Application for Membership..........................Page 2 Post Reports.....................................................Page 3 Taps..................................................................Page 8 State Officers/Post Meeting Locations..........Page 9 Veteran’s News & Updates...........................Page 10 Membership Incentives................................Page 12 Meetings & Locations...................................Page 12 Post Officers...................................................Page 14 VAVS Report..................................................Page 15
“The future of our Armed Services and the future of this country will be integrally linked to how we treat our veterans.” - George Washington
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
AMVETS Membership Application
Yes, I want to join AMVETS! I certify that I meet the membership requirements— I am serving or have honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces (Active, Guard or Reserve) after September 15, 1940. Membership Type:
Annual ($30.00*)
Life ($180.00 *as of 1/1/2010 )
Name: Address:
City: State:
ZIP Code:
Gender:
Male
Female
E-mail Address: Home Phone: Date of Birth: Branch of Service: Date Entered Service: Date of Discharge: Type of Discharge: Method of Payment:
VISA or MasterCard
Check or Money Order
Credit Card Number: Expiration Date: Signature: Date:
* A national minimum amount may vary varyfrom from state to state or post fromtopost * A national minimum amount that that many state to state or from post. to post. Members must be prepared to provide proof of military service. AMVETS Membership Department 4647 Forbes Boulevard Lanham, MD 20706-4380
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Post Reports Post News is excerpted from written reports submitted at the SEC meeting.
Post 1 - Mendota Commander Mark Kronholm
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ost 1 has been quite busy. We held our annual membership dinner in October where we had a civilian ex-POW from WWII speak. He was over in the Malaysia area imprisoned by the Japanese. He was only nine-years-old when he and his family—who were missionaries—were captured. He had many photos, maps and lots of memorabilia along with him. It was quite moving. Over the Veterans Day week, we had several of our post members out at the Eagan Walmart, once again, for the White Clover Campaign. We had another member at the Fridley Walmart. We had a successful campaign. Our bingo and pull tabs are holding their own, and then some. We are able to donate to many more veterans organizations, activities, etc. Each month we donate to the VAMC in Minneapolis and the VA Home in Hastings. We recently went out on our annual Anonymous Santa shopping spree where we purchased gifts for two families. This year one family was from Neighbors Inc. and the other was from Minnesota Military Families. It is always a good time to shop for this, as these families would more than likely have nothing on Christmas. In January, we are looking to expand our bingo and pull tabs to an additional site in Bloomington. This will increase our donating capabilities. Hope you have a blessed holiday season and a very happy new year.
viduals throughout the county and make recommendations to the membership. The membership votes upon each case. After a positive vote (we haven’t have a negative one) the individuals are contacted and a date is set for delivering the computer or for picking it up.
Post 5 - St. Paul American Veterans/Mexican American
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ost 5 held a Veterans Day Commemorative Celebration on Saturday, November 7, from 1:30 ‑3:00 PM at the Neighborhood House‑ 179 E. Robie St., St. Paul (Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center) The theme was “Remembering the Past”. The program included a rifle salute, taps and the honoring and reading of names of deceased veterans. Special recognition was given to Vietnam War Veterans. JROTC members from Humbolt High School participated in the program and refreshments were served. Continued on the next page
Post 4 - Don Trestor Commander David Graves
Winona Amvets Post # 4 Community Services July, 2009 - September, 2009
• Sponsored a softball team for the season and held a cookout/fundraiser • Sponsored a hole on Winona Eagles Golf tournament for two college scholarships • Held cookout/fundraiser for Cancer awareness/fundraiser for Winona Eagles • Cooked the food for the Great Dakota Homecoming Unity Feast • Supported VFW and American Legion programs with cookouts/ fundraisers • Supported Winona Veterans Memorial Park with computer programs and assistance with the Park. Our Computer Workshop is designed to provide at little to no cost computers to veterans, disadvantaged children, seniors, and disabled individuals in the City of Winona and the County of Winona. Additionally, we fully support all Veterans Clubs in the City of Winona. All computers are obtained at little or no cost to the Winona Amvets. They are completely refurbished by our computer technicians to meet the standards we have established. Our public relations people scout and investigate needy indi-
For membership or program forms, go to www.amvets.org. Don’t forget to submit your programs to Department each month. Let us know what the program was, how many people, hours, cost, and donations made. I know most posts donate to the VA’s and to their communities. Blow your own horn! We want to know what you have been up to! To see the types of programs AMVETS National has already, go to www.amvets.org and click on Programs. They have material for planning your programs and events. Lots of useful tools. Hope to hear from you soon!
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Post Reports Post 5 - St. Paul Continued from previous page
Some Post 5 members “fall in� assembling for the parade.
Above: ROTC AMVETS Recognition Award went to a Humboldt High School ROTC Hawk Cadet presented by U.S. Marine veteran Sgt. John Obregon who fought in Korea. Post 5 member Manuel Aguirre, a WWII Navy veteran is shown at the state of Minnesota capital complex WWII memorial area.
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Left: Post 5 members ready to participate in one more patriotic observance.
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Post Reports Post 8 - Aitkin Adjutant Lloyd Gerard
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e had our third annual picnic in the city park August 24th. It proved to be very good. Got to know the wives and friends. Also impressed the public. We will keep it up. We have a new younger commander named John Washtock. Robert Wold went for life. He is a summer resident here. We now have all life members except two. At least six of our members winter in Arizona at a new AMVETS home strictly for members only. Looking forward to the 2010 AMVETS Convention at Aitkin, MN. V.F.W.
Post 11 - St. Cloud Bob Kmitch, VAVS Representative
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teve Titus of St. Cloud Valhalla Detachment, Marine Corps League, was awarded the 2009 Marine of the Year Award at the Minnesota State Convention of the Marine Corps League in Mankato. Titus was cited for his active involvement and leadership in the many community programs sponsored by the Valhalla Detachment. Titus has served in all of the various officer capacities in the detachment and is currently detachment chaplain. His involvement includes the various programs for veterans at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud, rifle squad, color guard and highway cleanup. It was Titus’ involvement in Toys For Tots that was highlighted in his selection for the award. Titus is St. Cloud chairman for the Toys For Tots program. With his wife Carol’s assistance, Titus overseas about 50 Marine Corps League volunteers who place more than 250 toy collection boxes at 215 sites in the St. Cloud area. Last year, under Titus’ leadership, the program furnished 21,120 toys to 2,704 children in 980 homes. Titus was presented his Marine of the Year medal at the annual Birthday Ball, which celebrates the birthday of the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps celebrated its 234th birthday this year. He is also a member of AMVETS Post 11.
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Photo submitted by Bob Holscher, St. Cloud. Steve Titus (left) is congratulated by St. Cloud Valhalla Detachment Marine Corps League Commandant Bob Holscher.
1) Programs for Veterans at the VA Medical Center: Our post sponsored a catered chicken and beef dinner for 50 veterans who receive services at ADHC at the VA Medical Center. We also sponsored a picnic of brats, fresh sweet corn, watermelon and relishes during the summer. We always invite the family members of the veterans to join us. This was the thirteenth year that we also coordinated a special Christmas program for outpatients who receive treatment through the VA programs, and who would have been alone on Christmas Day. This program included providing transportation, prime rib dinner and social activities. This program was cosponsored through donations by many of the area auto dealers. Pat Sell coordinated all of these donations. Their donations provided a generous gift of a jacket, sweatshirt, gloves, hats, snacks, gift certificates and money for each veteran. The value of these gifts was $5,104.50 2) Service to community as member of St. Cloud Area Metro Vets: AMVETS Post 11 is a member of St. Cloud Area Metro Vets. We plan to be represented at the Veterans Day Ceremony, which will be held at the VA Medical Center. 3) Activities that provide income: We plan to sell White Clovers on Dec. 7th. Last year, we raised over $390 and donated our profits for the Festival of Nations and the Ely Fishing trip, which are programs of the St. Cloud VA Medical Center. 4) AMVETS meetings: Our meetings are held on the Adult Day Health Care Unit at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud. Over half of our membership includes veterans who receive care through Adult Day Health Care. Below is the thank you card that we received from the staff.
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Post Reports Post 12 - Hibbing Commander William Cogger
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MVETS Post 12 of Hibbing, Minnesota remains involved in the community by sponsoring and donating to local programs and events as well as increasing membership. Our goal is to help the community as much as possible along with “remembering our veterans”. Our veteran programs included our Veterans Day Observance and a Family Troop Teddy Bear give away with a book written by a child of a deployed father, as well as, a horse drawn sleigh ride for the kids in our local community. Although the numbers in attendance becomes less and less, we continue to honor our veterans and help our youth, the needy, and disabled. Donations include youth sports and school programs, Honor Guard, AMVETS and VFW Veteran programs, veteran funerals, scholarships, as well as, assist with benefits for persons of all ages who are stricken with a rare or terminal disease. Our local youth programs and events spread from one end of the Iron Range to the other. We assist the athletic programs, scholarship programs, health and safety, patriotic programs and events at all grade levels. We encourage our youth to help out by volunteering.
Post 13 - waconia
AMVETS Appleton SEC September 12, 2009 Mike Nelson
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ll meeetings are still the third Tuesday of every month at 8 p.m. We stay active in the community with other non-profits. We try to do a couple of fundraisers each year. This year, we have donated to the Waconia High School band and the Fourth of July Fireworks.
Post 23 - Owatonna Commander Tom Voge
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Post 31 - Waseca Commander Roger W. Stelter
Fall 2009 SEC Meeting; Appleton, MN
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ost 31 most recently met on September 1, 2009. We were honored to have State Commander Mike Cook in attendance at our meeting. Topics of discussion with the state commander included how to get post membership actively involved and initiatives for recruitment. What are other posts doing to keep members active? How can this best be shared with all posts? How can we reach the newer and younger vets? How do we find out who they are? How do we reach the National Guard and Reserve members? Post 31 has every intention of maintaining its post as a current, valid and active post into the future. This is very important to maintenance of the local membership, of which two thirds are annual members. The post maintains a solid financial base thanks, in part, to the watchful eye of Finance Officer Lyle Cromer.
Post 53 - Mille Lacs
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ost #53 members meet on the second Monday of each month to discuss future events and activities and any other concerns. Members of Post #53 have always assisted and participated in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe community events and activities as well as the surrounding non Native American communities. Often members volunteer their services on an individual basis when asked or when they see the need to assist various programs in the tribal government departments. They also assist city and county programs bordering the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe when requested. Currently new member recruitment is ongoing and it is hoped that we will increase membership over the remaining months of this year. Post #53 membership at this time is 25 members total. Ladies Auxiliary membership is approximately 15 members total.
reetings from Post 23 AMVETS in Owatonna, MN. Our organization has a total of 96 members from Owatonna, New Richland, Faribault, Brownsdale, Medford, Blooming Prairie, Hayfield, Claremont, Ellendale, Waseca, Hope and Nerstrand. Tom Voge is our new commander. He is a Vietnam veteran, having served in the Navy from 1961 to 1965. Our post has donated money to the Homestead Hospice House for a new flag and flag pole. We have also worked to earn money by serving hamburgers and brats at a local grocery store over the noon hour. We had a pancake breakfast on November 15th. We invite any AMVETS members to join us at our meetings that are held on the fourth Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Owatonna VFW club rooms. Rodger Hagen and a friend helped with the clean up of the Straight River in Owatonna. We have recruited three new members in the last month. We had a benefit breakfast on November 8, 2009 at the VFW Hall. All went well. On the left is Jack Dillemuth (Chaplain), Middle is Tom Voge (Commander), Right is Jim Stienbauer (1st Vice Commander). Mike Cook, State Commander, is doing the swearing.
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Post Reports Post 151 - Appleton
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MVETS Post 151 held election of officers in June 2009. Gary Running was elected commander. He assumed his new duties in July. The annual membership dinner was held on Monday, October 12. Approximately 35 members and their spouses attended the dinner. Mr. Tom Rice was the special guest and speaker for the evening. Mr. Rice is a local historian and Civil War buff. He talked about the role of the First Minnesota Regiment in the Civil War, and especially at Gettysburg. The First Minnesota suffered the highest percentage of casualties at Gettysburg of any outfit in the Civil War. He talked about the establishment of the First Minnesota monument on the Gettysburg battlefield. Post 151 membership currently stands at 71 members, with 30 life members. Members are still seeking to increase our membership by contacting area veterans. The post puts out and takes down the 100 Flags of Honor during patriotic holidays, the last being Veteran’s Day. AMVETS members Richard Anderson, Gary Running, and Mike Crosby presented a Veteran’s Day program at the Appleton-Milan Elementary School for grades K-4. The presentation discussed what a veteran is, patriotism, and flag etiquette.
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Post members are now collecting items to send to troops from the Appleton area currently serving in the Iraq theater. In addition, the post has made itself available to assist the local Freedom Support Group as necessary during the deployment.
Post 556 - Forest Lake Commander Jerry Ewald
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ost 556 here in Forest Lake is holding our own, although it is not attracting new comrades to our ranks. We have held our summer picnic along with the F.L. Legion Post and our post home VFW comrades. Monies we have made by holding pancake breakfasts in June, July and August are being used mostly toward veteran commitments such as VA hospitals, help for cancer patients, and other needs for those we can help. Even though we are a small organization of AMVETS, we are nevertheless proud to be members of this dedicated group of veterans.
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Taps Members at Large Elwin Dillerud - January 16, 2009 Floyd Lundeen - No date available We must be grateful that by the service of these AVMETS in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, we are truly a free people in a free land.
Post 11-Saint Cloud Glen F. Waterman - November 28, 2009 Post 12-Hibbing Robert J. Kitchen - July 14, 2009 Post 23-Owatonna Ellsworth M. Olson - September 21, 2009 Post 24-St. Paul John Cox - August 10, 2009 Post 31-Waseca Stewart W. Peterson - October 19, 2009 Post 33-Virginia Harry E. Dantes - October 26, 2009 Post 290-Morris Merlin Beyer - August 2, 2009 Donald R. Young - May 2009 Dennis Sayre - September 2009
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Department Commander Mike Cook 6175 132nd Way, Apple Valley, MN 55124 952-956-2211 cookkitt@aol.com Dept. 1st Vice Cmdr/Adj./Office Manager Kelly Nguyen 648 Marie Avenue W. Mendota Hts., MN 55118 651-216-4200 kellymnguyen@comcast.net Dept. 2nd Vice Commander/1-Yr Trustee Allen Elsbury 3328 Corliss Trail, Rosemount, MN 55068 651-322-7489 aelsbury@frontiernet.net Finance Officer Mike Nelson 1011 41st Avenue NE #103 Columbia Hts, MN 55421 612-978-6368
State Officers
John Fuchs Judge Advocate/Historian 507 W 10th Street, Morris, MN 56267 320-589-4395 Provost Marshall/3-Yr. Trustee Allen Weyaus P.O. Box 647 Onamia, MN 56359-0647 320-630-2489 Finance Man/Chaplain Nick Basarich 4020 9th Avenue West #325 Hibbing, MN 55746-3028 218-263-5657 Service Officer Chuck Conroy 9285 Robert Trail South Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 651-544-6906 NEC Ray Gerving 2700 94th Avenue, Brooklyn Park, MN 55444 763-639-5670
VAVS Minneapolis John Austin 2268 7th Street West Saint Paul, MN 55116 651-698-3104 kcajnitsua@yahoo.com Public Relations Officer Roger Stelter 16451 Snake Trail Waseca, MN 56093 507-835-7901 rstelter@hickorytech.net Hospital Service Foundation Lawrence Dean 1247 East County Road B Maplewood, MN 55109 651-484-2837 lodean.1@juno.com
Alternate NEC/2-Year Trustee Dick Volkert 2400 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights, MN 55120 651-454-4422
Dept. White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy conro059@d.umn.edu
Post Meeting Locations Post 1 1323 Sibley Memorial Drive Mendota, MN 55150 651-688-7408 Last Weds at 7pm
Post 10 Giant Valley A.L. #234 38 Minnehaha Ave S Mpls, MN 55406 2nd Sat at 2pm
Post 3 Ponemah, 56666 Sat 7pm
Post 11 VAMC St Cloud 4801 Veterans Drive St Cloud, MN 56303 3rd Tues at 10:30am
Post 4 302 E Sarnia Winona, MN 55987 1st Tues at 7pm Post 5 209 W Baker St Paul, MN 2nd Thurs at 6:30pm Post 8 20 1st Ave NE Aitkin, MN 56431 2nd Tues at 7pm
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Post 12 704 W 41st Street Hibbing, MN 55746 1st Tues at 5pm Post 13 233 S Olive St Waconia, MN 55387 3rd Tues at 8pm Post 19 218 W 4th St Redwing, MN 55066 4th Weds at 6:30pm
Post 23 135 W Oakdale St Owatonna, MN 55060 4th Mon at 7pm Post 24 1247 E Cty Rd B Maplewood, MN 55109 Thurs 7pm Post 26 Brainerd A.L. 708 Fort St Brainerd, MN 56401 1st Thurs 7pm Post 28 Carlton VFW 3rd Tues at 7pm Post 31 VFW Post 1642 113 Elm Ave W Waseca, MN 56093 1st Tues at 7pm
Post 33 Servicemens Club 227 Chestnut St Virginia, MN 55792 Last Weds at 6:30pm Post 47 142 N Boradway Albert Lea, MN 56007 5th Mon at 7pm Post 53 777 Grand Avenue Onamia, MN 56359 2nd Mon at 6pm Post 151 448 S Munsterman Appleton, MN 56208 2nd Mon 7pm/winter 8pm/summer
Post 290 507 Pacific Ave Morris, MN 56267 1st Mon at 8pm Post 556 556 SW 12th St Forest Lake, MN 55025 As Needed Post 612 Frazee VFW 120 West Main Ave Frazee, MN 56544 1st Thurs at 7 pm Post 2000 7510 Concord Blvd E Inver Grove Hts, MN 55076 1st Tues
If you would like to be added to this list, please send your information to: americanveteranamvets@netzero.net 9
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Veterans News & Updates DISABLED VETERANS ELIGIBLE FOR FREE TRANSIT
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innesota’s disabled veterans are now able to use public transportation throughout Minnesota at no charge beginning today. The transit benefit was passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Tim Pawlenty this year. Disabled veterans simply need to show the proper identification card to bus operators of any fixed‑route service in the state, including Metro Transit and suburban transit providers in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area as well as regular‑route services in Duluth, St. Cloud, Rochester, Moorhead, East Grand Forks and Mankato. “This initiative will provide a tremendous service for disabled veterans in Minnesota. They are our nation’s heroes,” said Clark Dyrud, commissioner of the Mimlesota Department of Veterans Affairs. “How appropriate that this benefit for disabled veterans begins so close to the Fourth of July when we show our respect and support for those who defend the freedoms we enjoy,” said Peter Bell, chair of the Metropolitan Council, which oversees public transportation in the Twin Cities. The free ride benefit also extends to a personal care attendant who may be assisting a disabled veteran as they travel. The benefit is available on the Hiawatha light‑rail line and on the Northstar commuter rail line, which will begin operations late this year between Big Lake, Minn., and downtown Minneapolis. “The transit providers in Greater Minnesota are an important part of our multi‑modal transportation system. I appreciate that the fixed‑route transit providers are acknowledging the contributions of our disabled veterans by offering them free service,” said Tom Sorel, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Transportation, which oversees and funds transit service outside of the metro area. To qualify for the free rides, disabled veterans must show a Veterans Identification Card, or VIC issued by a VA Medical Center with the words “Service Connected” or the initials “SC” below the photo. The cards are available at the VA medical centers in Minneapolis and St. Cloud. Visit http://www.va.gov/ healtheligibility/application/IDCard.asi) for more information. Editors: For additional information contact Bob Gibbons, director of customer services at Metro Transit, 612349‑7509 or, Kevin Gutknecht, director of communications, Minnesota Department of Transportation, 651‑3664266 or Kevin. gutknecht@dot. state.mn. us or Anna Lewicki Long, communications director of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs at 651‑757‑1536.
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Fact Sheet 16-2 June 2009
Beneficiary Travel Benefits Benefit Description If you meet the criteria below, you may be eligible for mileage reimbursement or special mode transport in association with obtaining VA health care services.
You Qualify If: 1. you have a service-connected (SC) rating of 30 percent or more, or 2. you are traveling for treatment of a SC condition, or 3. you receive a VA pension, or 4. your income does not exceed the maximum annual VA pension rate, or 5. you are traveling for a scheduled compensation or pension examination
You Qualify for Special Mode Transportation (Ambulance, Wheelchair van etc.) if: 1. your medical condition requires an ambulance or a specially equipped van as determined by a VA clinician, and 2. you meet one of the eligibility criteria in 1 through 4 above, and 3. the travel is pre-authorized (authorization is not required for emergencies if a delay would be hazardous to life or health)
Mileage Rates General Travel ...........................................……………...$0.415 (41.5 cents) per mile Scheduled appointments qualify for round-trip mileage. Unscheduled visits may be limited to return mileage only. Deductible (effective January 9, 2009) ................. $3.00 one-way ($6.00 round trip) Deductible requirement is subject to a monthly cap of $18.00. Upon reaching $18.00 in deductibles or 6 one-way (3 round) trips, whichever comes first, travel payments made for the balance of that particular month will be free of deductible charges.
Waiver of Deductible A waiver of the deductible will be provided if you are eligible for travel and you: 1. are in receipt of a VA pension or;
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2. are a NSC veteran and your previous year’s income does not exceed, or your projected current calendar year’s income, in the year of application will not exceed the applicable VA pension rate, or 3. are a SC veteran and your previous year’s income does not exceed, or your projected current calendar year’s income, in the year of application will not exceed the applicable national means test income threshold or, 4. are traveling for a scheduled compensation and pension exam Note: For detailed information visit the following links for VA National Income Thresholds http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/library/pubs/VAIncomeThresholds/ and Pension income thresholds http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/rates/pen01.htm.
Additional Information Further information can be found in the Beneficiary Travel “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQ) at http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/FAQs/BeneTravelFAQ.asp.
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Veterans News & Updates, cont.
Reimbursement of Travel Expenses for Medical Appointments and Procedures Scheduled at Non‑VA Facilities (Fee Basis authorized appointments)
Dear Veteran, If you have a medical appointment or procedure that is not conducted in a VA facility you must do the following to request reimbursement of travel expenses: • Ensure that the appointment has been authorized by the Minneapolis, Fee Basis Office. You should have received a letter of authorization prior to scheduling the appointment. If you did not receive prior authorization and made the appointment based on other instructions or travel was for an emergency, we will not be able to reimburse your claim until the authorization can be verified. If the appointment was under a “clinic contract” or a “prosthetic authorization” the ordering clinic should provide a letter stating the contract information and authorization for patient scheduling. • When you complete your appointments) have the agency provide you with documentation on their letterhead with address identified. We must verify that each scheduled appointment was completed before payment can be made and calculate the mileage to the location of the appointment to determine the amount of payment. Caution, you have 30 calendar days, from the date of the appointment., to apply for travel pay. Do not hold the appointment verifications for a lump sum payment. You or the agency may fax the completion verification to our office at 612‑970‑5864 for process-
ing or you may bring in the documentation at your next scheduled appointment if it is within the 30 day window. • If you traveled by any mode other than your private auto to the appointment you must provide the information to our office. Travel by commercial conveyance (bus, train, etc ...) requires a receipt of the cost for reimbursement. Travel by the MN County Van program is based on the current fee of record on file in our office. Travel pay is always calculated based on most economical means to the government. After our office has verified you are administratively eligible to receive travel reimbursement, the appointment was authorized by the VA, and you completed the appointment as scheduled we will process the reimbursement for payment. You will receive a treasury check by mail delivered to the above address from our central processing office. If any portion of the claim is denied, you will receive written notification of the reason directly from our office. For answers to questions not covered in this letter call 612‑467‑1396. Sincerely, TRINA AVER Supervisor, Beneficiary Travel
VA Extends “Agent Orange” Benefits to More Veterans: Parkinson’s Disease, Two Other Illnesses Recognized WASHINGTON (Oct. 13, 2009) - Relying on an independent study by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki decided to establish a serviceconnection for Vietnam Veterans with three specific illnesses based on the latest evidence of an association with the herbicides referred to Agent Orange. The illnesses affected by the recent decision are B cell leukemias, such as hairy cell leukemia; Parkinson’s disease; and ischemic heart disease. Used in Vietnam to defoliate trees and remove concealment for the enemy, Agent Orange left a legacy of suffering and disability that continues to the present. Between January 1965 and April 1970, an estimated 2.6 million military personnel who served in Vietnam were potentially exposed to sprayed Agent Orange. In practical terms, Veterans who served in Vietnam during the war and who have a “preVol. 13, No. 1
sumed” illness don’t have to prove an association between their illnesses and their military service. This “presumption” simplifies and speeds up the application process for benefits. The Secretary’s decision brings to 15 the number of presumed illnesses recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). “We must do better reviews of illnesses that may be connected to service, and we will,” Shinseki added. “Veterans who endure health problems deserve timely decisions based on solid evidence.”
* AL Amyloidosis http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorang /conditions/ al_amyloidosis.asp * Chloracne http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ chloracne.asp * Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ chronic_leukemia.asp
Other illnesses previously recognized under VA’s “presumption” rule as being caused by exposure to herbicides during the Vietnam War are:
* Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2) http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ diabetes.asp
* Acute and Subacute Transient Peripheral Neuropathy http://www.publichealth.va.gov/ PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/ conditions/peripheral_neuropathy.asp
* Hodgkin’s Disease http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ hodgkins.asp Continued on next page 11
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
VA Extends Agent Orange Benefits Continued...
* Multiple Myeloma http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLIice of Public Health and Environmental Hazards CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ multiple_myeloma.asp
* Prostate Cancer http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ prostate_cancer.asp
va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/st_sarcoma.asp Additional information about Agent Orange and VA’s services and programs for Veterans exposed to the chemical are available at www. publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange.
* Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma * Respiratory Cancers P UBLIC H EALTH AND E NVIRONMENTAL H AZARDS http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLIhttp://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLIAgent Orange CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ nh_lymphoma.asp respiratory_cancers.asp, Information about Agent Orange, possible health problems,and and related VA benefits ic Health and
F
Toll-free Helpline 1-800-749-8387
l Hazards
* Porphyria Cutanea Tarda * Soft Tissue Sarcoma than OsteosarNew Diseases Associated with Agent(other Orange http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLIcoma, Chondrosarcoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, October 13, 2009 Secretary Shinseki decided to establish service-connection for Vietnam or Mesothelioma) http://www.publichealth. Veterans with B cell leukemias, such as hairy cell leukemia; Parkinson’s disease; and posures CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/ ischemic heart disease. This is based on an independent study by the Institute of Medicine porphyria.asp esearch
ation
About Agent Orange
showing an association with exposure to Agent Orange. Vietnam veterans with these diseases may be eligible for disability compensation and health care benefits.
Home For Veterans and the Public For Health Care Providers Health Care Benefits Compensation Benefits Registry Health Exam FAQs Resources & Materials Contact Us
2010
Membership
ans Health
lth and
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nd Products
Agent Orange is the name given to a specific blend of herbicides used in Vietnam from 1961 to 1971 during the Vietnam conflict. The U.S. military sprayed millions of gallons of Agent Orange and other herbicides to remove leaves from trees that provided cover for enemy forces. Some Vietnam veterans were exposed to these herbicides.
Incentives
Meetings & Locations
2010
VA and many other government departments and agencies have conducted research studies on the possible health effects of Agent Orange exposure on U.S. veterans. VA has recognized certain cancers and other diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure.
Plan to increase membership Veterans and the Public with theFor following incentives:
Planes spraying jungle foliage with herbicides
Noise Exposure Cold and Heat Injuries (Thermal Injuries) Occupational & Environmental Exposures
For Health Care Providers
Agent Orange Basics Diseases Associated with
Research on Health
Agent Orange Exposure Health Care Benefits Compensation Benefits Registry Health Exam
Diseases Associated with Agent Orange Exposure Resources for Treating and Diagnosing Health Effects
Effects 1. Three-Day weekend at Grand Casino Hinckley
Spring SEC
Saturday, February 6, 2010
2. Two Tickets to a Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball game
11:00 a.m.
3. Two tickets to the Minnesota Wild Hockey game More > >
|
Environmental Health Strategic Health Care Group
More > >
Forest Lake Post 556 More > >
Commander Jerry Ewald
4. Two-day weekend at Mystic Lake Casino
Office of Public Health and Environmental Hazards Home
Other Hazardous Exposures
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Meet at VFW Post 4210
Public Health Strategic Health Care Group
| Occupational Health, Safety and Prevention Strategic Health Care Group 5. $100 Gift Certificate
Emergency Management Strategic Health Care Group
556 SW 12th Street
Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group
In order to be eligible for any of these prizes, the post must increase their U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - 810 Vermont Avenue, NW - Washington, DC 20420 membership by 20%. The post with the largest increase over 20% will get first Reviewed/Updated Date: January 7, 2010 choice from the prize pool, with the remaining posts being awarded prizes based on the next largest percentage. The incentive program runs through our 2010 Department Convention in Aitkin. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. 952‑956‑2211. Sincerely, Kelly Nguyen AMVETS Department MN 1st Vice
Vol. 13, No. 1
Forest Lake, MN 55025
2010 Convention
Saturday, May 15‑Sunday, May 16, 2010 11:00 a.m. Saturday/ 10:30 a.m. Sunday Aitkin Post 8 Commander John Washtock Aitkin VFW Post 1727 Aitkin, MN 56431 12
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Updates Continued... Secretary Announces Expansion of Veterans Appeals Board: Four New Judges Will Speed Veterans’ Appeals WASHINGTON (Oct. 21, 2009) - Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced the addition of four new Veterans Law Judges to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA), which will enable the board to increase the number of cases being decided. “Veterans have earned the right to prompt, exhaustive and professional review of their claims for benefits,” Secretary Shinseki said. “This expansion of BVA will enable Veterans to receive more expeditious decisions on their appeals.” BVA is an appeals body to which Veterans, their dependents or their survivors can go when they are not satisfied with decisions about claims for benefits administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). BVA reviews decisions on benefit claims made by local VA offices and issues decisions on appeals. The board currently has 60 Veterans Law Judges. These law judges are attorneys experienced in Veterans law and in reviewing benefit claims. They are the only ones who can issue BVA decisions. Staff attorneys, also trained in Veterans law, review the facts of each appeal and assist the board members. In fiscal year 2008, the board decided 43,757 appeals and handled 48,804 cases in fiscal year 2009. Most of the cases involve claims for disability compensation and pensions. “We must foster a responsive approach when we consider Veterans,” Shinseki said. “Reducing the backlog of benefits decisions and waiting times are essential to providing our Veterans and their families with the service they deserve.” VA provides a pamphlet entitled, How Do I Appeal, to anyone who is not satisfied with the results of a benefits claim that was decided by a VA regional office, medical center or another local VA office. The pamphlet explains the steps involved in filing an appeal. For more information about BVA or to download a copy of the pamphlet, visit www.va.gov/vbs/bva.
“Veterans have earned the right to prompt, exhaustive and professional review of their claims for benefits.” - Secretary Shinseki Vol. 13, No. 1
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13
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
Post Officers POST 1 COMMANDER Mark Kronholm 2184 Schoolmaster Dr. Chaska, MN 55318 612-708-1910
POST 8 Commander John Washtock 46356 287th Lane Aitkin, MN 56431 218-927-6830
POST 1 ADJUTANT Kelly Nguyen 648 Marie Ave. Mendota Hts., MN 55118 651-406-8152 kellymnguyen@ comcast.net
POST 8 ADJUTANT Lloyd Gerard 31142 380Ph St. Aitkin, MN. 56431 218-549‑3441
POST 2 COMMANDER Jolene Patterson 3008 Salem Meadows Dr. SW Rochester, MN 55902 POST 3 COMMANDER Lawrence E. Stillday, Sr. P.O. Box 85 Ponemah, MN 56666 218-554-7425 POST 3 ADJUTANT Richard Graves P.O. Box 85 Ponemah, MN 56666-0085 218-554-7401 POST 4 Commander David Graves 416 Steuben Street Winona, Mn 55987 507-454-1613 POST 4 ADJUTANT Dave Brand 106 Wisconsin Ave. Cochrane, WI 54622 608-248-2474
POST 10 COMMANDER Archie Webb 4285 Lindsey Lane Minnetonka, MN 55345 952-412-8044 amanatmn@comcast.net POST 10 ADJUTANT Craig Maehling 1082 14th Ave SE Mpls, MN 55414 612-331-2593 POST 11 COMMANDER Don Gilbert 24870 22nd Avenue St. Augusta, MN 56301 612-272-1557 POST 11 ADJUTANT Philip Landwehr 56 - 33rd Ave S #243 St Cloud, MN 56301320-253‑0703 POST 12 COMMANDER William Cogger 704 W 41st Street Hibbing, MN 55746 218-749-5187 amvets12@mchsi.com
POST 5 Commander Raymond J. Rangel 2220 Conway Street Saint Paul, MN 55119 651-698-7273
POST 12 ADJUTANT Dick Mattson 715 E. 39th Hibbing, MN. 55746 218-262‑1523
POST 5 ADJUTANT Michael Medina 1618 Hague Ave. St. Paul, MN 55104 651-645-0587
POST 13 COMMANDER Guy Streater 217 1/2 E Lake St Waconia, MN 55387 952-442-5002
Vol. 13, No. 1
POST 13 ADJUTANT Walter Schmakel 348 W. 4th St. Waconia, MN. 55387 953-442‑4272
POST 24 ADJUTANT Lawrence Dean 1247 Co. Rd. B Maplewood, MN 55109 651-484‑2837
POST 19 COMMANDER Janice Hinz 29676 Flower Valley Rd. Red Wing, MN 55066 651-338-2970
POST 26 COMMANDER Floyd Hardy 8200 Woodrow Rd. N.E. Brainerd, MN. 56401 218-764-3122
POST 19 ADJUTANT Joyce Maldondo N. 4003 U.S. Hwy. 63 Ellsworth, WI 54011 715-792-5407
POST 26 ADJUTANT Clayton Eisel 8514 Sleepy Hollow Rd. Fort Ripley, MN 56449 218-829-6860
POST 20 COMMANDER Eugene Koopmeiners 15722 390th Street Avon, MN 56310 320-746-7676
POST 28 COMMANDER William J. Warren, Jr. 3678 Carlton Street Barnum, MN 55707 218-389-6014
POST 20 ADJUTANT T. Joseph Schwab 335 Golfview Drive Albany, MN 56307 320-845‑4848
POST 28 ADJUTANT Gary Aho P.O. Box 35 Wrenshall, MN 55759 218-384-4587
POST 21 COMMANDER Eugene Fohs 1233 Richard Ave. Det. Lakes, MN 56501 218-847‑4144
POST 31 COMMANDER Roger Stelter 16451 Snake Trail Road Waseca, MN 56093 507-835-7901 rstelter@hickorytech.net
POST 23 COMMANDER Tom Voge P.O. Box 81 Nerstrand, MN 55053 507-334-3238 skip46@dmbroadband.com POST 23 ADJUTANT Evelyn Hershberger 422 E Vine Owatonna, MN 55060 507-451-6091 POST 24 COMMANDER Al Busse 956 Cook Ave. E. St. Paul, MN 55106 651-771-1568
POST 31 ADJUTANT Lyle Cromer 219 7th Ave. NE Waseca, MN 56093 507-833-7722 POST 33 COMMANDER George Howard 1033 6th Avenue N., #6 Virginia, MN 55792 218-741-6474 POST 33 ADJUTANT Mike Holter 227 Hampshire Rd Hoyt Lakes, MN 55750 218-225-3377
POST 47 COMMANDER Ruth Perry 121 Fenton Road Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-373-2245
POST 556 ADJUTANT Keith Hegstrom 56 N.W. 4th St. Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-464‑2497
POST 47 ADJUTANT Les Shaunce 528 Alice Ave. Albert Lea, MN. 56007 507-373‑0134
Post 612 Commander Matthew Riewer 202 Willow Ave Frazee, MN 56544 218-334-2181 mriewer@yahoo.com
POST 53 COMMANDER Kenneth Weyaus 16004 Migizi Dr. Onamia, MN. 56359 320-532‑3632 POST 53 ADJUTANT Diane Nickaboine 19100 452nd Street Onamia, MN 56359 POST 151 COMMANDER Gary Running 385 210th Avenue Appleton, MN 56208 320-289-1240 gmrunning@fedteldirect.net POST 151 ADJUTANT Dennis Kohlman 350 Rooney Ave W Appleton, MN 56208 320-289-3284 POST 290 COMMANDER Tom Tucker N 841 Maylott Avenue Hancock, MN 55045 320-392-5901 POST 290 ADJUTANT Erv Krosch 509 E. 9th Street Morris, MN 56267 320-589-2916
POST 556 COMMANDER Jerry Ewald 13735 Nurelius Ln. Lindstrom, MN 55405 612-257‑5791
Post 612 Adjutant Harriet Stech 33723 Peace River Ranch Rd Frazee, MN 56544 218-849-8882 harrietperez@hotmail.com POST 2000 COMMANDER Richard B Salsbury 2205 Congress St S St Paul, MN 55075 651-451-1629 POST 2000 ADJUTANT Gene Richgels 8417 Corcoran Circle Inver Grove Hts., MN 55076 651-699-1537 ______________ If you have additions and/or changes to be made to this list, please send them to: AMVETS Dept. MN MN AMVETS News Room 302 Veterans Service Building 20 West 12th St. St. Paul, MN 55155
14
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010
06/30/2009 - 01/06/2010
THANK YOU!
Centra Pipeline Minnesota Inc. Country Liquor Inc.
Famous Dave’s of America Inc. Galtier Subway Sandwiches
Thank YOU CORPORATE SPONSORS
Gene Elling Gordon C. Carroll & Sons Inc. Gruys, Borden, Carlson & Assoc. Krech’s Exteriors Inc. Lala's Bar & Grill Mc Phillips Bros. Roofing Co. North Shore Agency Ins. Cntr. Schindler Elevator Corp.
VAVS Report John Austin
T
he VA Volunteer Services (VAVS) Committee met last month regarding hospital issues. There was an emphasis on washing your hands. You should do this between each patient’s room. This can also be done by using a hand sanitizer, which are posted outside the door of each room. To be sure you do not spread so many germs, it has been advised to cough into your elbow… As always, there is a great need for volunteers. You may contact the Volunteer Office at 612-725-2050 and let them know you are interested in volunteering. Supplies are still needed…travel sized lotions, shampoos, toothpaste, soaps, puzzles 500 pieces or less, batteries, etc. MaryAnn Davis heads this up. Her office is located next door to the Volunteer Office. When you or your post are making donations for a specific program such as bingo night, Christmas for the vets, etc., please earmark as such on the memo line on the check. Consider visiting your neighborhood nursing homes. Due to the demand for space, some of our veterans are being placed at nursing homes out in the community. Check into setting up a visiting schedule or you may choose to have a bingo session, poker game, or simply visitation. We all know that there comes a time in ones life where they may be home bound. Many of our veterans are facing this each day. So the VA set up a new voluntary service for those veterans. It is called Care Givers Support Volunteer Program. It is the opportunity for us to sit with a Veteran at their home. No medical support is needed, just the chance to give them companionship for an hour or two. This allows the primary care giver to run errands and such outside the home. Ronda Boisvert is in charge of this outstanding program through the VAVS office at 612725-2050. Thank you for your support and keep the donations coming in.
Sears Imported Autos Inc. Smith-sharpe Fire Brick Supply Starkey Labs The Olive Garden
THANK YOU!
Walter & Lynda Mai We Pour Walls Inc. PLATINUM
Hubbard Broadcasting GOLD
Construction & General Labor Metro Produce Distributors Inc.
Vol. 13, No. 1
15
The Minnesota American Veterans News Room 302, Veterans Service Building 20 West 12th Street St. Paul, MN 55155 americanveteranamvets@netzero.net
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The History of American Veterans T
ruly AMVETS was born in the midst of war, for it was in August 1943, with victory still two years away, that a new organization, later to be known as the American Veterans of World War II, had its beginning. Overseas, the tide of battle was turning. The Allies had swept through North Africa and Sicily. In the Pacific, fighting raged in New Guinea. Thousands of Americans had made the supreme sacrifice. Hundreds of others were being mustered out of uniform with battle wounds and medical discharges. These men who fought in history’s greatest war found it natural to seek each other’s company. They were united by similar experiences ... in jungles, in the Arctic, in deserts, on mountains, at sea and in the skies. Thus, out of such comradeship, AMVETS came to be formed in Washington, D.C., two independent veterans clubs, one on the campus of George Washington University, the other of veterans employed by the government, joined together to sponsor a servicemen’s party. By September 1944, other such veterans’ clubs organized throughout America—in California, Florida, Louisiana, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Texas.
President Truman also commented, “Were I a veteran of this war, I would prefer to have a veteran of World War II looking after my affairs, than a veteran of some other war.”
On November 11, 1944, a Veterans Day article entitled “12,000,000 in Search of a Leader” appeared in Collier’s. This story, written by Walter Davenport, introduced the clubs and outlined their three mutual aims: to promote world peace, to preserve the American way of life and to help the veteran help himself. In December, 18 leaders representing these nine groups met in Kansas City, Mo. There, a national organization was formed and on December 9, 1944, the name “American Veterans of World War II” was chosen. The word AMVETS, coined by newspaper headline writers, soon became the official name. The white clover, a flower that thrives in freedom throughout the world and is symbolic of the struggle during World War II, became the adopted flower of AMVETS.
For nearly 10 years, AMVETS did not accept into membership servicemen and women who served after May 7, 1975. On May 31, 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed Public Law 98-304, which amended AMVETS’ congressional charter to open membership to those who served honorably and actively after May 7, 1975. AMVETS is now the only congressionally chartered veterans’ service organization that recognizes the sacrifices of these veterans and service persons by extending membership eligibility to them.
In October 1945, two months after the end of World War II, the first national convention was convened in Chicago. In 1946, AMVETS petitioned Congress for a federal charter. AMVETS, having displayed dignity and a sound approach to national problems, won the deep respect of Congress and on July 23, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the AMVETS charter. The words of the Senate Judiciary Committee echoed throughout the land: “The veterans of World War II are entitled to their own organization” and AMVETS being “organized along sound lines and for worthy purposes ... having demonstrated its strength and stability is entitled to the standing and dignity which a national charter will afford.”
When the war broke out in Korea and again in Vietnam, AMVETS requested Congress to amend the charter so that those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces would be eligible for membership. On September 14, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the bill redefining the eligibility dates for AMVET membership, stating “Any person who served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America or any American citizen, as an American citizen, who served in the armed forces of an allied nation of the United States at anytime after September 15, 1940, and on or before the date of cessation of hostilities as determined by the government of the United States, is eligible for regular membership in AMVETS, provided such service when terminated by discharge or release from active duty be by honorable discharge or separation.” On May 7, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed Proclamation 4373, terminating the Vietnam era and announcing the cessation of hostilities. Effective May 8, 1975, the armed forces became a peacetime service.
At the 46th and 47th national conventions, the contributions made by the National Guard and Reserve forces were recognized and membership eligibility was extended to include all ready reserves. Membership in AMVETS is now open to any person who is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or who has served actively and honorably at anytime after Sept. 15, 1940, including all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are now serving or have been honorably discharged since that date. At the 49th National Convention in 1993, the eligibility of merchant marines who served this country in time of war was addressed and approved. Merchant marines who are considered veterans and eligible for VA benefits (and have received a DD-214 from either the Navy or the Coast Guard) are eligible for AMVET membership.