The Minnesota American Veterans News Volume 13Number 3 Fall, 2010Chartered by Act of Congress, July 23, 1947
Commander’s Column
Commander Kelly Nguyen
From Commander Kelly
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hank you for entrusting me as your commander this next year. I plan on having a banner year in membership with our first Vice Allen Elsbury. We had a great year last year with getting over 100% and at our National Convention, Past Commander Mike Cook and I each received a jacket from the National 4th District for having more new and retained members in our Department over the other eight states within the District. I must thank each and every one of you for helping in this journey. Without the membership chairs of each of the posts and the drive of the members throughout the state, we would not have been able to achieve this goal. Kudos to each of you for getting our goal of over 100% in membership for the Department of Minnesota!! I would also like to see more promotion and reporting of the programs that each of the posts are involved in. This is usually done by your 2nd Vice Commander, per our bylaws. We have many programs within our organization, to include White Clover campaign(s), Americanism projects, such as the Flag Drawing contest, Poster Drawing contest and the Essay contest. Ideally, each of these should be brought to the teachers of the local schools in your area for them to fit the program into the curriculum. It is a great way to be recognized and there are monetary awards for the first place winners in each category. The ninth
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grade winner is submitted to National for an all expense paid weekend at Valley Forge. If you have any questions or need entry forms regarding these programs, you can find that at www. amvets.org under Programs. It is important to report the programs within your post. Please send them onto the Department office…what your program was, how many volunteers and total amount of hours, cost (if any), donations made (and this is to include those donations made at your monthly Post meetings), and miles (if any). Your Commander should be able to enter these on-line at the National website under Programs Reporting. Make sure your posts have submitted your Post Revalidation and Officers form to the Department office. This will ensure your post charter remains valid and you and your members do not fall into MAL (Members at Large) status. Again, this form can be found on-line under Membership Forms. I hope to visit each of the posts this year. I am going to help keep this organization strong and viable. With your help, this can happen. Have a great year and if there are any questions, please call the Department office. Even though I may not physically be in the office any longer, there will be someone there to direct your issues to me.
Kelly Nguyen Commander AMVETS Department of Minnesota
PDC Mike Cook
Parting Words from PDC Mike Cook
s I turn over Command, I would like to reflect on the goals I wanted to accomplish and the short comings left on the table. As a commander at any level, the 1st goal on the list is membership. My additional goals included: restarting the Department newspaper, visiting all the Posts, providing membership drive incentives, gathering input from post commanders and members, getting a state of the art computer for the Department office and setting up a web site allowing us to jump from the 19th century to the 21st century. These goals could not have been accomplished without the hard work of my 1st Vice Kelley Nguyen, our Public Relations Officer Roger Stelter, and the computer technical support provided by Post 13. I also want to acknowledge the hard
work of John Austin (VAVS), Lawrence Dean (HSF), and Ray Gerving (NEC) for his guidance on National Issues. Of course, I must also recognize the rank and file members for all their hard work and their support as well. Without the efforts of all of these people, these goals could not have been accomplished. During the past year we maintained our membership and many annual members have become life members. We were able to sign up new members at a record pace and were even able to charter new Posts. Our Programs grew by leaps and bounds due to the hard work of our 2nd Vice Allen Elsbery. The work we did this past year was so outstanding that we were honored by the presence
of our National Commander Duane Muskilin, 4th District Commander Don Bairns, and 1st vice Commander of the 4th District Arnie Miller at our spring Department Convention. The thing that haunts me is the fact that we weren’t able to charter more Posts. Also, at every Post I visited over the past year I stressed maximum participation for our spring Department Convention. Judging by the turn out, I was not as successful as I would have liked to have been and for that I am truly sorry. Overall I think I left the State in pretty good shape. During this past year I was thinking AMVETS 24/7 and I will also do this with my new adventure as NEC.
“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 - - - FALL, 2010
Preamble AMVETS Constitution We, the American veterans, who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces of the United States during and since World War II, fully realizing our responsibilities to our community, to our state, and to our nation, associate ourselves for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States; to safeguard the principles of freedom, liberty and justice for all; to promote the cause of peace and goodwill among nations; to maintain inviolate the freedom of our country; to preserve the fundamentals of democracy; to perpetuate the friendship and as‑ sociations of these veterans; and to dedicate ourselves to the cause of mutual assistance, this by the grace of God. Vol. 13, No. 3
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:
Sendofcheck or moneyVISA orderor to: Method Payment: 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 AMVETS 20 W.Membership 12th St., Department Rm. 302 4647 Forbes Boulevard St. Paul, MN 55155 Lanham, MD 20706-4380 2
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Department Commander Kelly Nguyen 648 Marie Avenue W. Mendota Hts., MN 55118 651-216-4200 kellymnguyen@comcast.net Dept. 1st Vice Cmdr Allen Elsbury 3328 Corliss Trail Rosemount, MN 55068 651-322-7489 aelsbury@frontiernet.net Dept. 2nd Vice Commander Joseph Mauricio 2027 Thom Drive Arden Hills, MN 55112 651-631-3312 santajoe55112@yahoo.com
State Officers
NEC/ Judge Advocate Mike Cook 6175 132nd Way, Apple Valley, MN 55124 952-956-2211 cookkitt@aol.com
1-Year Trustee Allen Weyaus PO Box 647, Onamia, MN 56359-0647 320-630-2988
Alternate NEC Dick Volkert 2400 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights, MN 55120 651-454-4422
2-Year Trustee Ray Rangel 2220 Conway St., St Paul, MN 55119 651-698-7273
Provost Marshall Greg Davis 304 2nd St SW, Hinckley, MN 55037 320-532-7731 greg.davis@state.mn.us
3-Year Trustee Bill Naseth 1009 East Avenue Red Wing, MN 55066 651-388-8230 daybreakwill@twincities.mn VAVS/VAVH John Austin 2268 7th Street West Saint Paul, MN 55116 651-698-3104 kcajnitsua@yahoo.com
Finance Man Craig Maehling 1082 14th Avenue SE Minneapolis, MN 55414 612-331-2593
Finance Officer Tom Voge PO Box 81, Nerstrand, MN 55053 scooterman43@hotmail.com
Service Officer Chuck Conroy 9285 Robert Trail South Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076 651-455-6906
Dept. White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy conro059@d.umn.edu
Public Relations Officer Roger Stelter 16451 Snake Trail Waseca, MN 56093 507-835-7901 rstelter@hughes.net Hospital Service Foundation Dennis Reinhold 2565 Hwy 12, Woodville, WI 54028 715-698-2739 Chaplain Tammy Schroeder 19295 County Hwy 29 Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 (605)237-1397 Immediate PDC Mike Cook 6175 132nd Way Apple Valley, MN 55124 952-956-2211 cookkitt@aol.com
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
Vol. 13, No. 3
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 6:00pm
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 3
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Officer’s Reports Legislative officer’s Report Submitted by Lawrence Dean
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ew scholarships are available for the children of fallen service members. These are named after Marine Gunnery Sgt John David Fry. Benefits are retroactive to 9-1-09. The VA will begin accepting applications for the Fry Scholarship on May 1, 2010. For more information call toll free at 1-888-GIBILL-1 or visit the VA GI Bill website at www. gibill.va.gov The U.S. Army women’s museum hosted a museum homecoming. The homecoming was at Fort Lee, just outside of St Petersburg, VA on May 13-15, 2010. For all former and current Army women, their friends and families, “Come Home to Your History,” was the theme of the event. Veterans will find it easier and faster to apply for their health care benefits now that the VA has updated its online form 10-10EZ. HF3729 Omnibus Tax Bill, Article 1 makes a variety of changes to the property tax system that are of interest to veterans. It extends the time for spouses of deceased disabled veterans to continue to receive a market value exclusion from two years to five years. This also allows the spouses of deceased veterans who die while on active duty to qualify for the senior deferral program for the rest of their lives, regardless of age. Gulf War vets are urged to seek help at the VA for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Minnesota’s disabled veterans can ride for free on public transportation by showing the proper ID card when boarding.
Service Officer’s Report By Chuck Conroy
I
am your service officer for the department. The purpose of my position is to help you with the proper handling of claims for veterans and their dependents, or survivors, before the Department of Veterans Affairs. I can also help with employment problems and prosecution of rights under the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act and Selective Training and Service Act. You can also contact me with questions you may have regarding Civil Service or questions about legislation concerning veteran’s affairs. I can also help find answers to individual requests for assistance or help find information from members, Posts and Departments. In simpler terms, if you have any issues in dealing with the VA, I have some numbers to call to help you along. We cannot hand out monies if you should become unemployed, but we can help you to find the paths to take to get you back on your feet. Call us at the Department office at 651-293-1212. The office manager will contact me and I will get back to you.
Vol. 13, No. 3
Chaplain’s Report By Tammy Schroeder
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he Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP’s) of World War II are quite often unsung heroes and yet we admire their strength and courage. I had the honor of being the memorial service coordinator for WASP pilot Margaret Seip of Wisconsin. It took months of coordination with the Airforce, the news media and local veterans groups to arrange this service. Margaret’s memorial service began at 12:00 noon on July 15, 2010. Three World War II T-6 aircraft flew over head, one turned away from the formation to signify the loss of a plane and a comrade. A rifle squad fired three volleys and the Airforce Honor Guard folded the flag and presented it to Brigadier General Don Dunbar. General Dunbar then presented the flag to Margaret’s brother Harry (himself a WW II B-17 pilot) and her sisters. Sixty six years after her death, and thirty two years after the WASP’s were granted veteran status, Margaret received her long over due military honors.
General Dunbar presenting the flag to the family of Margaret Seip.
Airforce Honor Guard at the Memorial Service for Margaret
VAVS/VAVH Report Submitted by John Austin
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ince our convention, I have been very busy with VAVS and I have taken on the responsibilities of the VAVH area, as well. I am looking for four deputies to be assigned to the outlying Veterans Homes. Fergus Falls, Silver Bay, Hastings and Luverne. If interested, please contact myself or the Department office at 651-293-1212. All appointments will be approved by the Department Administrative Board. Volunteerism at the VA Hospital is up. We still need more volunteers. You may also volunteer at a nursing home near where you live. Cash and non-cash valued items are in desperate need, such as cribbage boards, lap blankets, playing cards and puzzles around 300 pieces (please no more than 500 pieces). These may also be needed at your local VA and/or nursing homes. Contact them to find out their needs. Let us make this year a banner year…exceeding our last years activities and donations! Again, thank you for all you do and your continued support. For those wishing to volunteer or donate to the VA, please call 612-7252050 and ask for Ronda, Katie or Dee. Youth volunteers may contact Julie at this same number. Anyone from 16 and up may volunteer. 4
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Post Reports Post 1 of Mendota Submitted by Commander Mark Kronholm
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ost #1 is doing well. Our 28th Anniversary as a post was July 17. We are proud to have sustained and continue to grow. We have doubled our gaming ventures with another bingo and pull tab site at the new Lucky’s 13 in Bloomington. This has enabled us to give out twice as much money to help other veterans, as well as many other charities, schools, and hardship cases. We were able to match funds with the VFW 6690 for the fishing opening at the Minneapolis VA Home. Myself and other members of the post were there, and even though the weather was cold and wet, we all had a great time. We are also looking at two new sites for our gaming starting in August. We are busy, but we never lose sight as to why we are working for this...our Veterans. An update to the Memorial Day activities of the post: We had constructed eleven 8’ crosses that we assembled and painted to put out onto the Chapel grounds. Each cross had a plaque on it stating which U.S. war it represents. We also put in over 300 smaller crosses of those who have lost thier lives since 9/11 to the War on Terrorism. With the help of myself, Dick Volkert, Les Hanson and Jack O’Brien, we got this task done. It was a bittersweet sight to see, but all present were thankful for the recognition of those whose lives have been taken to the price of patriotism. We also had the support of the Patriot Guard at the chapel that day. On Memorial Day, our Mendota Honor Guard went to four cemeteries in our area to honor those who have paid that price of patriotism, as well. Again, a somber day, but uplifting to know that their lives were not lost in vane. It has afforded us our freedoms and that is what our AMVETS is about. Veterans serving Veterans. In July, we celebrated our Mendota Days. Our Honor Guard lead the parade into town. Outstanding. The Honor Guard consisted of myself, Allen Elsbury, Dick Volkert, Don Collier, colors carried by Chuck Conroy, Don Lockho, Charlie (Am Legion), Bruce Brankley. Our post donated the monies to afford the petting zoo and the kids jumpy slide. Our post ran the beer garden while our Ladies Auxiliary did an outstanding job at the food tent, cooking and serving food all day/night. President Mary Elsbury and Mary Kane grilled all the meat, Mary Kane’s granddaughter helped with the serving of the food and making sure all the workers had water, as it was a hot day. 1st Vice Dawn Volkert, and members Judy Bryant, Carol Petrone, her daughter Sam with her boyfriend, Tina Taylor, Barb Meyer, Linda Irey, and Rich and Kathy Fritz working on serving and maintaining food and drink, and Mary Austin-on the till. They all seemed to work so tirelessly. They all deserve a big round of applause. If anyone was left out, I apologize. Without our Ladies Auxiliary, we do not think we would have made it to our 28th year! We also had our bingo down the road. It is the one time a year that we incorporate the youngsters to play bingo. It is a fun time had by all and it was a great day for family and friends, alike. I hope all posts are doing well and signing up new members. We also had bingo down the road. It is the one time during the year that we incorporate the youngsters to play bingo. It is a fun time for all and it was a great day for family and friends, alike.
National Cmdr. Miskulin presenting Silver Helmet to MN Representative Tim Walz.
National Cmdr. Miskulin and Congressman Walz with the members of Post 1 who were present at the ceremony at Albert Lea Post 47.
Post 1 with the Mendota Honor Guard starting the parade at Mendota Days 2010.
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!
Vol. 13, No. 3
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Post Reports Post 1, cont. Post 1 Auxiliary at the Dept Convention: Kelly Nguyen, Mary Austin, Mary Elsbury(President) and Dawn Volkert (1st Vice President)
Dick Volkert, with the Mendota Honor Guard with the AMVETS banner
Post 5 of St. Paul
Post 12 of Hibbing
ost 5 was recognized by the city of Saint Paul for their donation of 2000 pounds of beans and rice for the Neighborhood House Food Shelf. They received a resolution from the Saint Paul City Council that declared Saturday, November 7, 2009 as West Side American Veterans Day in Saint Paul. Post 5 also donated toys thru the USMC Reserve Toys for Tots program. For this they also received a Commander’s Award for their contributions. Manuel Aguirre was the Grand Marshall at this year’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Parade on May 8. Manny is a WWII Veteran and long-time West Side resident. He continues to be active in the community through various organizations, including serving as a central member of the Mexican American AMVETS Post 5. There are four members from Post 5 who volunteer on the Memorial Rifle Squad at Fort Snelling.
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Post 8 of Aitkin
Submitted by Commander John Washtock & Adjutant Lloyd Gerard
Our snowbirds came back just in time for the snow we planned. We have a half a dozen who hang out in Tucson, two in Texas and one in Panama City, Florida. There are two regulars who hang out in South St. Paul and one in Wadena. One regular lives in Texas and winters in Aitkin, and one regular in Duluth. Of course our big event was the 2010 Minnesota State Convention held here in Aitkin. We had a picnic in the park in August. We have each other, and a small group is easier to keep track of anyway.
Cmdr Miskulin swearing in the officers of the Dept of MN at our Convention at Aitkin Post 8 in May
Vol. 13, No. 3
Submitted by Darby Sater, CEO
ost 12 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”. We continue to honor our veterans and families, our youth, the needy, and disabled through local programs. Lawful purpose expenditures for the months January – March 2010 has allowed us to make donations to numerous causes. The recipients of these donations included youth sports, school programs, our local deployed military unit, Honor Guard, AMVETS and VFW Veteran programs, veteran funerals, scholarships, and assistance with benefits for persons of all ages that are stricken with a rare or terminally ill disease. Our local youth programs and events spread from one end of the Iron Range to the other. They provide assistance to athletic programs, scholarship programs, health and safety, and patriotic programs and events at all grade levels. We continue to encourage our youth to help out through volunteering.
Post 19 of Red Wing Submitted by Cmdr. Janice Hinz and 1st Vice William Naseth
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ost 19 has a new Commander, Janice Hinz. The post has participated in several new events this past year. We had a presence in the Field of Honor veteran’s recognition on Memorial Day weekend where nearly 400 flags were displayed in memory of and in honor of the fallen as well as living veterans. School supplies were distributed again this year to an elementary school and a computer was donated to the local American Legion Post where we meet. We had a booth at the Red Wing Diversity Festival for the first time and distributed literature and received donations for White Clovers. White Clovers were again distributed for donations in Lake City the same day. Two new life members and two new annual members were added to the roster. We showed the video “Taking Chance” for members and guests after the October meeting and it was well received. We held the annual December 7th gathering and Christmas party this past December. Members have been active in partnering with the Red Wing Area Seniors in establishing the “Greatest Generation” room at the Senior Center. The room is a museum of sorts as well as a repository of information about local veterans who served in WWII. The Senior Center has collaborated with a local printing and design company to produce a book commemorating the lives of many of the WWII vets. Our March meeting’s featured speaker was Cpt. Brandi DeGier. Cpt DeGier is Commander of the 434th Chemical Company and Minnesota Women’s Veter6
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Post Reports Post 19, cont.
Post 612 of Frazee
ans Coordinator. She shared with us her experiences when deployed in Kuwait and Iraq. We lost one member recently, Eldon Johnson, who passed away May 7th. He served in the US Army in the South Pacific during WWII. This coming year we will focus on presenting programs honoring women in the military, as well as, being a presence in Red Wing events. “The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.” – George Washington
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Post 23 of Owatonna Submitted by Commander Tom Voge
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n July 2 & 3 we were cooking hamburgers and brats at Cashwise in Owatonna for a fund raiser. On February 22, 2010 a certificate in honor of Sam Olson was given to daughter Linda Selig and son David Olson for Sam’s service to the AMVETS. Kwik Trip had a program to raise $2.5 million to send WWII vets on the honor flights. Some of our members were at the store to help. We also gave some cash to buy some supplies for the driver’s lounge at the VA. We hope you had a safe and good summer.
Post 53 of Onamia
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he post is gearing up for its annual participation in parades in Onamia, Garrison and Aitkin. The Color Guard will also be presenting flags at the Hinckley contest powwow in June and the annual powwow in August. Last year our post won the best float contest at our annual powwow. This makes two years in a row that we have won. The Tribal Veterans Service Officer has outreach capabilities and has attended various functions statewide and within the Mille Lacs band community. From August 2009 to April 2010, this service office has received approximately 45 calls per month from veterans and/or their dependents/widows. During all of 2009, there were 210 in-office and in-home outreach visits. The Service office currently is working with 40 veterans and has been in contact with approximately 60 veterans and/or dependents/widows. Of these 40 veterans, 5 are Vietnam veterans that now receive service connection at 100%, 70%, 60% and 50%, with one pending a rating decision. There are also two OIF Veterans with service connection ratings of 100% and 50%. The rest are non-combat veterans with various ratings or pending approvals/denials.
Post 290 of Morris Submitted by Commander Robert Lubenow
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will be the new commander for the coming year. I would like to welcome you to our meetings. The meetings are on the 1st Monday of each month at 8pm at the American Legion. Prairie Pioneer Days Raffle was held July 11, 2010 after the parade. We had 13 different drawings, for total cash prizes of $1400.00. We asked for a $5.00 donation per ticket. Participants did not need to be present to win. Post 290 put up flags in Morris on Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. We will also put flags up on Veterans Day 11/11/10.
Vol. 13, No. 3
Submitted by Post Chaplain Tammy Schroeder
e meet on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the VFW Post in Frazee. All veterans are welcome. The post donated $50 to the Frazee Youth Baseball. On May 31, the Post sponsored the second annual Drifter Memorial Day Ride. The ride started at the Frazee VFW, with kickstands up at 11am. The first stop was Pelican Rapids to SSGT Josh Hanson’s gravesite. The second stop was Dunton Locks County Park for lunch. The third stop was SSGT Greg Riewer’s gravesite in Frazee. The fourth stop was the Frazee VFW. I organized the ringing of the church bells in Frazee as a memorial on September 11, 2010. The bells rang at 8:45 AM in remembrance of those who died when American Airline’s Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. They were rung again at 9:03 AM in remembrance of those who died when United Airline’s Flight 175 struck the South Tower of the World Trade Center. At 9:43 AM the bells were rung in remembrance of those who died when United Airline’s Flight 77 struck the Pentagon. The bells were rung again at 10:00 AM in remembrance of those who died when United Airline’s Flight 93 crashed near Shanksville, PA. Finally the bells were rung at 12:00 noon in remembrance of all lives lost to acts of terrorism. We shall never forget those who died. We are in the planning stages for our fall motorcycle ride. The date is September 25, 2010. It will be in conjunction with the Frazee Fall Festival. There will be an auction at the end of the ride.
Post 31 of Waseca Submitted by Commander Roger Stelter
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ost 31 met on May 6 at 9:30am. The financial report was presented by Lyle Cromer and reviewed by Commander Stelter. A donation was made to support the Waseca County Free Fair again this year. The post maintains a solid financial base thanks, in part, to the watchful eye of Finance Officer Lyle Cromer. The Post revalidation form was filled out and will be submitted by Lyle Cromer. AMVETS newspapers are now made available at the Waseca County Library and numerous copies have been picked up by patrons. This appears to be an effective outreach for the Post. The theft and desecration of crosses, urns and plaques in the local cemeteries was discussed, as well as the destruction of flags and poles. This appears to be an ongoing problem in rural areas. This issue has been brought to the attention of the Waseca County Sheriff’s Office. Post 31 intends to participate in the AMVETS booth at the Minnesota State Fair this summer.
Post 556 of Forest Lake Submitted by Commander Jerry Ewald
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nce again our yearly quest for money making will begin on the first Sundays of June, July and August, with pancake breakfasts. We hope to earn enough to replenish our funds in order to continue our donations to needy causes. We held a special meeting in early May to recruit the help needed for this endeavor. Thanks to our members, we have done just that. At this same meeting we nominated officers for the next year. Elections were held the following month. This past year has been busy as other years with our upcoming operations. We donate from our funds to needy causes such as cancer research, Helping Paws dog training, and veterans mainly. We work hand in hand with the VFW and Legion here in Forest Lake at any veteran functions. I missed the last SEC meeting in Forest Lake due to being a snowbird in Brownsville, TX. Actually the weather at that time was not much better than here. My fellow comrades kept me up-to-date on that meeting. I hope in the future we will be able to add to our ranks here at Post 556. Recruitment is tough, but let’s hope, it’s not impossible. 7
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Taps Eldon Johnson – Post 19 May 7, 2010 Kenneth J. Peltier – Post 1 We must be grateful that by the service of these AVMETS in the Armed Forces of the United States
May 23, 2010 Lester H. Quitney – Post 31 July 16, 2010 Donald Dixon – Post 00 July 18, 2010
of America, we are
John Nesvold– Post 00
truly a free people
July 23, 2010
in a free land.
In Flanders Fields
By Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918) Canadian Army
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow Between the crosses row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
Vol. 13, No. 3
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
2010 Legislative Session Review Capital Investment (Bonding) Bill The Legislature and Governor funded all priority bonding projects for MDVA. They include:
2010 Legislative Session Review
• $4 million in asset preservation. This money will be used system-wide for improvements and renovations at the Homes.
Veterans Remain a Priority at the Capitol To Our Friends in the Veterans Community:
In this Issue:
Bonding Bill
2
Supplemental Budget Bill
2
Veterans Cemeteries
3
Retiring Legislators
3
Misc. Legislation
4
Veteran-Owned Small Businesses
5
CVSO Working Group
5
Veteran’s Preference Act Modifications
6
Higher Education Veterans Program
6
Military Affairs
6
Deficit. Unallot. Budget Cuts. These words have unfortunately become all too familiar in the past few years, as Minnesota again faced another budget shortfall. Confronted with a dire budget situation, the Governor and Legislature had to set priorities, and one was protecting Veterans programs. While most agencies saw their budgets cut, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) – along with Military Affairs and core public safety programs – were kept whole. Protection of the Department’s budget will allow MDVA to continue to provide vital services to Veterans, including direct assistance through programs such as the State Soldiers Assistance Program and C.O.R.E., assistance with U.S. VA claims and benefits, and care for residents at the five state Veterans Homes. In addition to holding MDVA’s budget harmless from cuts, the Governor and Legislature passed many initiatives advanced by the agency, as well as others advanced by legislators themselves. MDVA thanks Minnesota’s elected leaders for their continued support of programs that serve our Veterans!
• $450,000 to design, construct and furnish a new enclosure for the front entrance of the Minnesota Veterans Home – Luverne. The enclosure will provide protection from the elements when loading
and unloading residents. • $9.45 million to remodel Building 16, demolish Building 17’s north wing and design and rebuild a 72 single occupancy bed structure on the Minneapolis campus. (HF2700)
Omnibus Supplemental Budget Bill Under normal budget circumstances, the Supplemental Budget Bill is used during the off-budget year to address additional, unanticipated funding needs for state agencies. With the large deficit this year, the bill had to instead cut hundreds of millions of dollars in state government spending.
The supplemental budget bill was passed early in the session, and addressed more than $300 million of the state’s multi-billion dollar deficit.
The Supplemental Budget Bill was passed early in the session, and addressed more than $300 million of the state’s multi-billion dollar deficit. It should be noted that the bill did not cut any current MDVA funding – as per the Governor’s recommendations – and did provide new, one time funding for the following: • $100,000 for Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV), and • $100,000 for Honor Guards. The bill also transferred $200,000 from the Support Our Troops Account to the C.O.R.E. program, and repealed language that required specific amounts to be spent on food, pharmaceuticals, fuel and utilities at the Homes (allowing MDVA to manage the budget according to need). Not included in the supplemental budget bill was a $1.5 million request from MDVA to fund operations at two new facilities that are anticipated to come online in 2011. The first is the new Adult Day Care at the Minnesota Veterans Home – Minneapolis, and the second is a 21-bed specialty care (Alzheimer’s) unit at the Minnesota Veterans Home – Fergus Falls. The supplemental budget bill earmarked existing MDVA funds for these programs, so the Department will again submit a funding request in the next legislative session. (HF1671)
Commissioner Michael Pugliese Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
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2010 Legislative Session Review
2010 Legislative Session Review Search for Suitable Sites for Veterans Cemeteries Expands Over the past year, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) has been searching for suitable land to locate two new Veterans cemeteries. Under legislation passed in the 2009 Bonding Bill, the Department was directed to look for land in northeastern Minnesota and Redwood County. Since then, numerous sites have been looked at but were ultimately excluded, largely due to unsuitable soil conditions.
Legislation included in this year’s Omnibus Agriculture/Veterans Bill expands the search for suitable land to southeast, southwest and northeastern Minnesota. The Department is to look first at land that is either publicly-owned or available for donation.
continue to work with officials in those areas to determine if any of the sites meet all the criteria, and will expand the search until suitable sites are identified. A report to the Legislature will be completed by January 15, 2011. (SF 2737)
Caption describing picture or graphic.
Several sites of interest were identified by the legislators, including Fort Ridgley and parcels in Fillmore and Redwood Counties. MDVA will
Retiring Legislators 2010 is an election year for all legislative seats, as well as governor and other constitutional officers. Numerous legislators have announced that they will not be seeking re-election to their current seat. MDVA thanks these legislators for their service to Minnesota! House of Representatives Laura Brod, R-New Prague Randy Demmer, R-Hayfield (running for 1st Congressional District) Rob Eastland, R-Isanti Tom Emmer, R-Delano (running for Governor) Jeremy Kalin, DFL-North Branch Margaret Anderson Kelliher, DFLMinneapolis (running for Governor) Paul Kohls, R-Victoria Doug Magnus, R-Slayton (running for State Senate – Vickerman’s seat) Marty Seifert, R-Marshall Dan Severson, R-Sauk Rapids (running for Secretary of State) Cy Thao, DFL-St. Paul Mary Ellen Otremba, DFL-Long Prairie
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Senate Tarryl Clark, DFL-St. Cloud (running for 6th Congressional District) Mee Moua, DFL-St.Paul Debbie Johnson, R-Ham Lake Steve Murphy, DFL-Red Wing Steve Dille, R-Dassel Pat Pariseau, R-Farmington Jim Vickerman, DFL-Tracy Dennis Frederickson, R-New Ulm Larry Haws, DFL-St. Cloud Karla Bigham, DFL-Cottage Grove Yvonne Prettner Solon, DFL-Duluth (running for Lieutenant Governor on the Dayton ticket)
Additional Legislation of Veteran Interest Free Entrance to State Parks The Omnibus Environment & Natural Resources Bill contains a provision that modifies a program which provides free entrance to state parks for Veterans. Currently, any Veteran with a total and permanent disability can receive a free annual park permit. Under the new law, the program is extended, giving any resident Veteran with any level of service-connected disability a daily park pass. To utilize this program, Veterans must present a copy of their determination letter to a park attendant. (SF3275)
Military Reservist Economic Injury and Veteran-Owned Small Business Loans The Omnibus Economic Development Policy Bill expands the Military Reservist Economic Injury Loan Program. Under this program, the commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) may make onetime, interest-free loans of up to $20,000 to recently-separated Veterans to start a Veteran-owned small business. (SF2510) American Legion Day and VFW Day There are now two new special days in Minnesota: September 16 has been identified as “American Legion Day,” and May 28 is “Veterans of Foreign Wars Day.” (SF2373 & SF2475)
Veterans License Plates New plates will be available for Veterans that are recipients of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Korean Defense Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal or the Silver Star. Also, members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are active duty and a recipient of the Purple Heart are eligible to purchase Purple Heart plates. Previously, these plates were available only to Veterans. (SF2540)
Waiver of Fees for K-12 Activities Under a provision included in the Omnibus Agriculture/Veterans Bill, a school board may waive any deposit or fee for any pupil whose parent is serving in, or within the past year has served in, active military service.
Veterans Memorial Highways Three new memorial highways were designated – Trunk Highway 200 from the border of North Dakota to Mahnomen; portions of Trunk Highways 34 and 87 in Becker County; and Trunk Highway 59 from Karlstad to the border of Canada. (SF2540) Lawful Gambling Dollars Lawful gambling proceeds will now be allowed to be used to pay for the utilities (electricity, heating, sewer and water) of the portion of a building used as the primary headquarters of a licensed veteran or fraternal organization. (HF3729)
Survivor Education Benefit Expansion Definitions were amended to include step-children as eligible for the benefit, and “deceased Veteran” to include persons who were residents of Minnesota within six months of entering the Armed Forces, or for the six months preceding the Veteran’s date of death. (SF2737)
(SF2737)
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
2010 Legislative Session Review
2010 Legislative Session Review Veteran’s Preference Act Changes
Veteran-Owned Small Business Law Amended
Technical Modifications: These changes clarify and modify information that a Veteran must provide when petitioning the MDVA for a veteran’s preference hearing. Petitions must now include a telephone number and a copy of the Veteran’s DD214. The petition must be notarized and submitted via U.S. Mail. Hearings will now be scheduled to be held within 120 days of the Department’s receipt of a complete petition (up from 20 days).
Under current law, bid-preference for state contracts is limited to veteran-owned businesses that are majority owned and operated by service-connected disabled Veterans, and Veterans with post 9/11 active duty service. Language in the Omnibus Agriculture/Veterans Bill expands bid preference by extending it to: 1) recently separated Veterans who have served in active military post 9/11; 2) Veterans with service-connected disabilities; or 3) any other veteranowned small business verified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as either veteran-owned small business or service-disabled veteran-owned small business. The bill also clarified that the veteran-owned small business certification is verified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Teacher Hiring: Directs that the current law, giving Veterans 5 or 10 preference points, must be used if the school district uses a 100-point scale for rating applicants. Districts not using the scale are directed to interview all applicants that are qualified, properly licensed and a Veteran. Discontinued are veteran’s preference law protections for teachers facing dismissal. Both of these provisions are clarifying previous legislative intent. Veteran’s Preference in Dismissals from Public Employment: This provision extends application of a 2009 law pertaining to Veterans hired into public employment. As originally enacted, the law inadvertently applied only to Veterans hired on or after the effective date of the law, thereby excluding those hired before that date.
The Omnibus State Government Finance bill further amended the statute due to conflict with federal laws. Current state law awards veteran-owned businesses up to a six percent preference, but no less than the percentage awarded to any other group. The amended language allows an exception to that provision when mandated by the federal government as a condition of receiving federal funds.
(SF2737)
Higher Education Veterans Program Sunset Date Extended
(SF3134)
Widespread support of the popular Higher Education Veterans Program resulted in the sunset of the program being extended from June 30, 2011 to June 30, 2012. However, the legislature will have to fund this program next year for it to continue. To help in the planning process, the legislature directed MDVA to report to committees with jurisdiction over the Department on ideas on alternative ways to fund the Higher Education Veterans Program. (SF2737)
CVSO Working Group Recommendations Adopted The Omnibus Agriculture/Veterans bill codified changes to County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) statutes that were agreed to by the CVSO Working Group. This group was created by the 2008 legislature to review the findings and recommendations of the 2008 Office of the Legislative Auditor’s Report on CVSOs. The working group included Senators Erickson Ropes & Hann; Representatives Juhnke & Smith; MDVA staff; Minnesota Association of
County Veterans Service Officers; MN Commanders Task Force; Minnesota Inter-County Association; and the Association of Minnesota Counties. Changes include: clarifying that county boards are the appointing authority for CVSOs; qualifications for CVSOs and Assistant CVSOs may be obtained through on the job training and are not required in advance of hiring; that MDVA is a resource for CVSOs and does not have supervisory authority over CVSOs; that CVSOs are county
employees; and when designing CVSO training programs MDVA is to consult with the MN Association of CVSOs. The bill also adds Assistant CVSOs to the list of persons eligible for the MDVA training program; specifies a final date for counties to comply with requirements for qualifications for Assistant CVSOs; and states that counties noncompliant with the requirements for qualifications of assistant CVSOs must do so no later than June 30, 2013. (SF2737)
Department of Military Affairs Funding and Policy Provisions “The results of the work carried out by the CVSO Working Group will foster an even stronger partnership between MDVA and Minnesota counties. Ultimately, those we serve in our veteran and military communities will benefit through enhanced service delivery.”
Capital Investment (Bonding) Bill) $4 million – Asset Preservation $1 million – Facility Life Safety Improvements $900,000 – Facility ADA Compliance $5 million – Cedar Street Armory Renovation $1 million – Camp Ripley Troop Support Facility Policy
- MDVA Commissioner Michael Pugliese
Flag folding – Despite the fact that Minnesota has had an official state flag since 1893, standard instructions on how to fold it for presentation and display were never developed. Language in the Omnibus Agriculture/Veterans bill details proper state flag folding procedures, which were developed by the Department of Military Affairs. (SF2737)
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Veterans News & Updates Vets Court to Begin in Minnesota
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he Minneapolis Star Tribune (7/12) reports, “Dignitaries are expected to gather at noon Monday to kick off a project directed at veterans who face criminal charges, but the real action will likely occur about an hour and a half later when the first Veterans Court calendar begins in Hennepin County District Court. Modeled after more than a dozen veterans courts across the country, the Hennepin County project will bring together social service agencies, the court and probation system,” and the Department of Veterans Affairs “to quickly move qualifying defendants who are veterans into appropriate services and treatment options.” The Star Tribune notes that US Rep. Tim Walz, a “Democrat who served 24 years in the Minnesota National Guard, is an advocate for the special court and favors its expansion nationwide.”
Veterans Program in Minnesota
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he Minnesota Reservist and Veteran Business Loan Program is offering loans of up to $20,000 apiece to recently retired military service members who want to start businesses, including those who are finishing tours in the Iraq and Vol. 13, No. 3
Afghanistan wars. The program will also continue to provide no-interest loans of up to $20,000 to businesses that suffered financial hardships because of the temporary loss of essential employees to military service. Under the program, loans must be paid back in 54 months, with no repayment in the first 18 months. For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development website.
Decision Made on Where to Locate New VA Clinic
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he Minneapolis Star Tribune (7/21, Ebert) reports, “After months of waiting, the city of Ramsey has emerged as the winner of a new” Veterans Affairs “clinic that will serve the northwest suburbs. ‘We’ve been waiting on pins and needles,’ Ralph Heussner, spokesman for the US Department of Veterans Affairs, said of the decision that has been more than a year in the works. The $9.95 million contract went to PSD LLC, which will build the 20,000-square-foot clinic in the 7400 block of Civic Center Drive.”
Happy 80th VA!
On July 21, 1930, President Herbert Hoover issued Executive Order 5398 (Coordination
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and Consolidation of Governmental Activities Affecting Veterans), which established the Veterans Administration (VA) to, as he said “… make important economies in administration of hospitalization and domiciliary questions and in the better handling of fiscal relations with veterans.” The Order consolidated three offices: the Bureau of Pensions (from the Department of the Interior) responsible for providing pensions to eligible Civil War and Spanish American Veterans; the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers (ten domiciliaries for homeless or elderly veterans established to care for indigent Civil War veterans); and the United States’ Veterans Bureau, which included a veteran’s health care system of 97 hospitals, the Nation’s compensation program for disabled veterans, an insurance program, and a vocational rehabilitation program. Today’s VA is a cabinet department of more than 300,000 employees serving a population of more than 23 million Veterans and working hard to live up to America’s promise to all who served yesterday, serve today and will serve tomorrow.
VA Announces New Hotline
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) has announced a new telephone hotline to provide 10
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Veterans News & Updates, cont. emergency support and resources to homeless veterans. The hotline of the new National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID VET will provide homeless veterans with timely assistance and coordinated access to VA and community services. Family members, workers at community agencies and non-VA providers also may call the hotline to find out about the many programs and services available to assist homeless veterans.
VA Simplifies Access to Health Care and Benefits for Veterans with PTSD
WASHINGTON – Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced a critical step forward in providing an easier process for Veterans seeking health care and disability compensation for PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), with the publication of a final regulation in the Federal Register. “This nation has a solemn obligation to the men and women who have honorably served this country and suffer from the often devastating emotional wounds of war,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “This final regulation goes a long way to ensure that Veterans receive the benefits and services they need.” By publishing a final regulation in the Federal Register to simplify the process for a Veteran to claim service connection for PTSD, VA reduces the evidence needed if the trauma claimed by a Veteran is related to fear of hostile military or terrorist activity and is consistent with the places, types, and circumstances of the Veteran’s service. This science-based regulation relies on evidence that concluded that a Veteran’s deployment to a war zone is linked to an increased risk of PTSD. Under the new rule, VA would not require corroboration of a stressor related to fear of hostile military or terrorist activity if a VA doctor confirms that the stressful experience recalled by a Veteran adequately supports a diagnosis of PTSD and the Veteran’s symptoms are related to the claimed stressor. Previously, claims adjudicators were required to corroborate that a non-combat Veteran actually experienced a stressor related to hostile military activity. This final rule simplifies the development that is required for these cases. VA expects this rulemaking to decrease the time it takes VA to decide access to care and claims falling under the revised criteria. More than 400,000 Veterans currently receiving compensation benefits are service connected for PTSD. Combined with VA’s shorter claims form, VA’s new streamlined, science-based regulation allows for faster and more
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accurate decisions that also expedite access to medical care and other benefits for Veterans. PTSD is a medically recognized anxiety disorder that can develop from seeing or experiencing an event that involves actual or threatened death or serious injury to which a person responds with intense fear, helplessness or horror, and is not uncommon among war Veterans. Disability compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to a Veteran for disabilities that are a result of -- or made worse by -- injuries or diseases associated with active service. For additional information, go to www.va.gov or call VA’s toll free benefits number at 1-800-8271000.
VA Takes Action to Strengthen Measures to Protect Veterans Lessons learned from St. Louis VA Medical Center are applied VA-wide
WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) primary mission is to serve our nation’s Veterans. President Obama has charged the Department with ensuring the VA medical network is a topnotch health care system. “The mistakes made at the St. Louis VA Medical Center are unacceptable, and steps have been and continue to be taken to correct this situation and assure the safety of our Veterans. VA will not tolerate risk to our Veterans,” said Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki. “VA employees at the St. Louis VA Medical Center, along with all of our employees, have a solemn responsibility to provide safe, quality care for the well being of all our patients.” Under the Obama Administration, in the past 18 months, VA has implemented more stringent oversight of the safety of all its medical facilities. It is this more rigorous standard that directly led VA to identify and address problems at the St. Louis Medical Center. Additional resources have been allocated and new procedures and stricter enforcements are in place to ensure the safety of all Veterans who seek care at VA facilities. VA mandates transparency and accountability in its handling of mistakes or failures to meet VA’s high standards. VA’s processes lead the nation in terms of transparency and accountability. “VA is committed to ensuring that all our health care facilities are safe,” said Shinseki “VA will continue to investigate the actions of individuals involved and the proper administrative and disciplinary measures will be taken.” The St. Louis facility has undergone a thorough examination, and many safeguards are in place that are designed to prevent a similar situation from occurring again. In-depth staff training and management reviews were immediately conducted by the St. Louis leadership, medical staff, and VA’s Supply,
Processing and Distribution (SPD) program office teams. “The Veterans we serve are our friends, our neighbors and a part of our family,” said Dr. Robert Petzel, VA’s Under Secretary of Health. “Under the direction of Secretary Shinseki I have determined there is a need for an independent, national Administrative Investigation Board (AIB) to determine the reasons for failure to follow correct procedures. The Chief of Dental Services has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.” Immediate actions were taken to ensure all personnel were properly re-trained and all equipment is being handled in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions. All pre-washing of dental equipment which was performed by dental personnel prior to sterilizations is now being done by qualified SPD staff. No Veterans are currently ill as a result of this incident. The potential risk to Veterans is extremely low. “The St. Louis VA Medical Center provides excellent care to more than 50,000 Veterans a year, and the dental clinic equipment issue does not reflect the level of care provided by the more than 2,600 dedicated medical center staff,” added Petzel.
VA Makes Filing Claims Easier and Faster for Veterans
Simpler Forms and New Program Reduce Paperwork and Speed Process
WASHINGTON – As part of Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki’s effort to break the back of the backlog, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is reducing the paperwork and expediting the process for Veterans seeking compensation for disabilities related to their military service. “These reductions in paperwork, along with other improvements to simplify and speed the claims process, symbolize changes underway to make VA more responsive to Veterans and their families,” said Secretary Shinseki. VA has shortened application forms to reduce paperwork for Veterans. The new forms, which are being made available on VA’s Web site at www.va.gov/ vaforms, include: A shortened VA Form 21-526 for Veterans applying for the first-time to VA for disability compensation or pension benefits. This form has been cut in half – from 23 to 10 pages. It is immediately available to Veterans via Web download, and will be available through VA’s online claim-filing process later this summer at http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/ main.asp VA Form 21-526b for Veterans seeking increased benefits for conditions already determined by VA to be service-connected. This new form more clearly describes the information needed to support claims for increased benefits. 11
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Veterans News & Updates, cont. In order to make the claims process faster, VA has also introduced two new forms for Veterans participating in the Department’s new fully developed claim (FDC) program, which is one of the fastest means to receive a claims decision. Gathering the information and evidence needed to support a Veteran’s disability claim often takes the largest portion of the processing time. If VA receives all of the available evidence when the claim is submitted, the remaining steps in the claims-decision process can be expedited without compromising quality. To participate in the FDC program, Veterans should complete and submit an FDC Certification and VA Form 21-526EZ, “Fully Developed Claim (Compensation),” for a compensation claim, or a VA Form 21-527EZ, “Fully Developed Claim (Pension),” for a pension claim. The forms were designed specifically for the FDC program. These six-page application forms include notification to applicants of all information and evidence necessary to “fully develop” and substantiate their claims. With this notification, Veterans and their representatives can “fully develop” their claims before submission to VA for processing. Along with the application and certification, Veterans must also submit all relevant and pertinent evidence to “fully develop” their claims. A claim submitted as “fully developed” may still require some additional evidence to be obtained by VA, to include certain federal records and a VA medical examination. VA provides compensation, pension, education, loan guaranty, vocational rehabilitation, employment, and insurance benefits to Veterans and their families through 57 VA regional offices. Disability compensation is a tax-free benefit paid to a Veteran for disabilities that are a result of -- or made worse by -- injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty, active duty for training or inactive duty training. Pension is a benefit paid to wartime Veterans with limited income, and who are permanently and totally disabled or age 65 or older. For additional information, go to www.va.gov or call VA’s toll free benefits number at 1-800-827-1000.
VA Launches Development of New Online Claims System Advances Transformation Toward a Paperless VA
WASHINGTON – Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced today plans to develop a fully automated, online system for handling Veterans’ disability compensation claims. More than a simple digitization of existing paper-based claims, the new system is part of VA’s modernization of the end-to-end processing workflow. Automation will substantially reduce processing time and increase acVol. 13, No. 3
curacy while simplifying the way that Veterans interact with the claims process. “This new program accelerates our effort to eliminate the claims backlog through automation and modernization of our systems,” said Secretary Shinseki. “It’s another step in transforming VA into a 21st Century department that better serves our Veterans.” “Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) has been advocating for substantial process change in adjudicating Veterans’ claims for many years,” said Rick Weidman, Executive Director for Policy and Government Affairs of VVA. “We’re very pleased to see that this Administration is taking on the problem of claims processing head on. This automated program will make a big difference in the lives of hundreds of thousands of Veterans.” Veterans exposed to herbicides while serving in the Republic of Vietnam who today have B-cell leukemia (hairy-cell leukemia), Parkinson’s disease, or ischemic heart disease are slated to be the first users of the automated system. The final regulation implementing the presumption of service connection for these three diseases is poised to become effective later this year. While the first use of the new system will be limited to this pending subset of disabilities, usage will expand over time to include claims for other conditions. The new system will guide Veterans through automated, program-assisted menus to capture the information and medical evidence that will drive faster claims decisions. In the initial configuration, VA estimates the new system may assist as many as 100,000 Veterans. As part of the implementation of the new claims system, VA has awarded a $9.1 million development contract to Bethesda, Md.,-based IBM. The IBM team will work closely with VA developers and will implement the online application system by November, permitting Veterans easier and faster access to VA and more accurate and quick claims processing for the initial set of qualifying conditions. The new system, funded by the VA Innovation Initiative, represents one of several efforts VA has underway to transform the department into a 21st Century organization. As a first step in integrating new technologies into claims processing, it represents a significant step towards meeting VA’s goal to “break the back of the claims backlog” and provide all Veterans with high quality decisions on their claims in no more than 125 days.
VA Announces Change to Medication Copays for Some Veterans WASHINGTON - As previously announced on January 7, 2010, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) froze prescription copayment increases for six months. Veterans who generally have higher income and no service-connected disabilities - referred to as
Priority Groups 7 and 8 Veterans - will now pay an additional $1 for each 30-day supply of outpatient medications. Taking effect July 1, the increase to $9 from $8 is the first change in VA’s medication copay since Jan. 1, 2006. “Because of the harsh economic reality facing many Veterans, we delayed the change,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “We’re now ensuring the Veterans most in need of VA care are those least affected. Yet, even with this increase, VA medication copays are lower than much of the private sector.” This change does not impact Veterans in Priority Groups 2 through 6 who will continue to pay $8 for each 30-day supply of medications for their non-service connected conditions unless otherwise exempted. These Veterans will also continue to have their out-of-pocket expenses for VA outpatient medications capped at $960 per calendar year. Veterans who have an injury or illness connected with their military service resulting in a disability rated 50 percent or greater - who are known as Priority Group 1 Veterans -- are exempt from the copay. VA generally sets its outpatient medication copay rate based upon a regulation that ties the rate to the Medical Consumer Price Index for prescription drugs. Veterans who have difficulty paying copayments for outpatient medications should discuss the matter with their local VA enrollment coordinator. Veterans may also contact VA at 1-877-222 VETS (8387) or visit VA’s health eligibility Web site at www.va.gov/ healtheligibility.
VA Blue Water Claims Update
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he VA has added the below named ships to the already existing list for Navy and Coast Guard ships and vessels that are presumed to have been exposed to Agent Orange. If you served on any of these mentioned ships and you have had a claim denied, you should reapply citing the VA list as the source for your reapplication. NAUS advises that the VA is already working on a third list that will have more ships listed. If you have a claim and evidence the ship you served on was in Vietnamese waters and/or actually tied up to a dock there, make sure you include that with your claim.
Vessels that operated primarily or exclusively on the inland waterways: All U.S. Coast Guard Cutters with hull designation WPB [patrol boat] and WHEC [high endurance cutters] 28)
USS Mark (AKL-12) [light cargo ship]; USS Brule (AKL-
USS Patapsco (AOG-1) [gasoline tanker]; USS Elkhorn (AOG-7) USS Genesee (AOG-8); USS Kishwaukee (AOG-9) USS Tombigbee (AOG-11); USS Noxubee (AOG-56)
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010 USS Okanogan (APA-210) [attack transport]; USS Montrose (APA-212) USS Bexar (APA-237) USS Benewah (APB-35) [self-propelled barracks ship]; USS Colleton (APB-36) USS Mercer (APB-39); USS Nueces (APB-40) Barracks Barge (APL-26) [sleeping quarters]); Barracks Barge (APL-30) USS Tutuila (ARG-4) [repair ship]; USS Satyr (ARL-23) [repair ship] USS Sphinx (ARL-24); USS Askari (ARL-30); USS Indra (ARL-37) USS Krishna (ARL-38) USS Belle Grove (LSD-2) [landing ship dock]; USS Comstock (LSD-19) USS Tortuga (LSD-26) USS Asheville (PG-84) [patrol gunboat]; USS Gallop (PG-85) USS Antelope (PG-86); USS Ready (PG-87); USS Crockett (PG-88) USS Marathon (PG-89); USS Canon (PG-90) Floating Base Platform (YRBM-17) [repair, berthing, and messing barge] Floating Base Platform (YRBM-18); Floating Base Platform (YRBM-20) Winnemucca (YTB-785) [harbor tug]
Vessels that operated temporarily on Vietnam’s inland waterways or docked to the shore:
USS Card (ACV-11) [escort carrier] mined, sunk, and salvaged in Saigon River Harbor during May 1964 USS Maury (AGS-16) [mapping survey ship] conducted surveys of Mekong Delta and other coastal areas and rivers beginning November 1965 through 1969 USS Henrico (APA-45) [amphibious attack transport] operated on Hue River during March 1965 and conducted numerous troop landings through March 1967 USS Montrose (APA-212) operated on Song Hue River during December 1965, operated on Long Tau River during March 1967, and operated on Cua Viet River and at Dong Ha during May 1967 USS Talladega (APA-208) operated on Saigon River during October 1967 USS Bolster (ARS-38) [salvage ship] crew operated on land. USS Canberra (CAG-2) [guided missile cruiser] operated on Saigon River from March 31 through April 1, 1966, on Cua Viet River during December 15,1966, and on Mekong Delta Ham Luong River during January 15, 1967 USS Sproston (DD-577) [destroyer] operated on Mekong Delta and Ganh Rai Bay during January 1966 USS Picking (DD-685) operated on Saigon River during November 16, 1965 USS Epperson (DD-719) docked to Da Nang Pier on October 4, 1970 USS Southerland (DD-743) operated on Song Nga Bay and Saigon River during July 1966 USS John W. Thomason (DD-760) operated on Nga Be River during 1969 USS Buck (DD761) operated on Mekong River Delta and Saigon River during October 1966 USS Preston (DD-795) operated on Mekong River
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Delta, Ganh Rai Bay, and Saigon River during September 28-29 and December 27-29, 1965 USS Warrington (DD-843) operated on Mekong River Delta Rung Sat Special Zone, North of Vung Gahn Rai Bay during March 1967 USS Dyess (DD-880) operated on Saigon River and Rung Sat Special Zone from June 19-July 1, 1966 USS Perkins (DD-877) operated on Saigon River during June 1969 USS Orleck (DD-886) operated on Mekong River Delta during July 1969 USS Joseph Strauss (DDG-16) [guided missile destroyer] operated on Mekong River Delta and Ganh Rai Bay during November 7 and December 7,1968 USS Waddell (DDG-24) operated on Cua Viet River during March 1967 USS Newell (DER-322) [radar destroyer escort] docked at port of Nha Trang during December 22-24, 1965 USS Duluth (LPD-6) [amphibious transport dock] docked to pier at Da Nang during March and October 1971 USS Cleveland (LPD-7) operated on Cua Viet River and at Dong Ha, as well as Hue River, from November 1967 through 1968 and Saigon River during September 1969 USS Dubuque (LPD-8) docked at Da Nang on March 15, 1970 USS Boxer (LPH-4) [amphibious assault ship] docked to pier at Cam Rahn Bay on September 9, 1965 USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) [landing ship dock] operated on Cua Viet River and at Dong Ha during December 1967
UN Launches Agent Orange Clean Up Project
The AP (6/29) reports, “The United Nations has launched a $5 million project to clean up Agent Orange contamination at a former US military air base in Vietnam, the world body said Tuesday. The project will focus on dioxin contamination at Bien Hoa airport,” one of “three former American air bases where US forces mixed, stored and loaded the defoliant onto planes for spraying missions during the Vietnam War.” The AP adds, “The Agent Orange issue remains the most contentious legacy between Vietnam and the US since the war ended 35 years ago.”
GI Bill Update
T
he Post-9/11 GI Bill is likely to see only modest changes this year because lawmakers say they don’t want to be accused of holding up payments for the fall semester, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee chairman said in an interview. Rep. Bob Filner (D-CA) said he and other lawmakers would like to make a lot of changes to the education benefit, but for now he will accept only technical fixes and some small benefits expansions. The window for quick passage is small because the Veterans Affairs Department will begin processing claims for fall benefits in August. Filner and Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI), the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee chairman, have separately been preparing packages of changes, but there has been little talk about working out differences, if any, between their plans. VA officials, in the process of shifting the claims process from a paper based to a fully automated system by December, have pleaded
with lawmakers to hold off on anything that would change the way basic calculations are made because the software being developed for phased deployment through the end of this year cannot accommodate major benefits revisions without the risk of missing deadlines. VA’s warning has led Filner to reduce his wish list for changes this year to: paying living stipends to distance-learning students, covering vocational training and apprenticeships, and propping up tuition in states that heavily subsidize public colleges and universities. “Distance-learning living stipends is something we definitely want to do,” he said. The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides monthly living stipends to those whose course loads make them more than half-time students, but people taking distance-learning classes are ineligible unless they are taking at least one class at a brick-and-mortar campus. GI Bill living stipends are paid based on the military’s basic allowance for housing for the ZIP code where the school is located, but a different approach is expected for distance learners to prevent students or schools from moving to high-cost areas to get more money. Living stipends for distance-learning students are likely to be based on where students lived at the time they applied for benefits. But there has also been talk of a payment equal to the average stipend for all other students, congressional aides said. The GI Bill provides no benefits for apprenticeships or on-the-job training, and limited benefits for vocational training. “We need to do something about this, and we need to do it this year,” Filner said. The third change would raise the cap on tuition and fees in states where tuition at public institutions is heavily subsidized. Those subsidies end up hurting students who use the new GI Bill for private schools, who take graduate-level courses at public institutions or who pay nonresident tuition at public colleges, because their tuition and fee reimbursements are capped at the tuition and fee rates for the undergraduate in-state tuition at the most expensive public school in a state. [Source: NavyTimes Rick maze article 7 Jun 2010 ++]
VA Homeless Vets Update
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program announced 3 JUN by HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will provide $58.6 million to get homeless veterans off the streets this year. Vouchers will be provided to some 8,000 displaced veterans and their families across the country through the department’s Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program, offering long-lasting support to the housing needs of veterans, “Though they served and sacrificed so much for our country, too many of our veterans find themselves on the streets and in homeless shelters,” Donovan said. “Thankfully, these vouchers will provide a more-permanent solution to housing and services these veterans need.” The program is in its third year and is a joint endeavor between HUD and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Ending homelessness among veterans is a top priority for the VA. The issue has been the topic of numerous public forums and working groups since VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki took the department’s helm in JAN 09. Shinseki announced the framework for a plan in NOV 13
Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010 09 that would end homelessness among veterans within five years. The plan outlined his desire to attack homelessness at the top of the “downward spiral,” addressing mental health, substance abuse and unemployment before veterans become homeless. VA estimates that more than 131,000 veterans and their families are without homes. Without the help of other federal departments, government agencies and community outreach, Shinseki’s goals can’t be met, he said in a statement released by HUD. However, efforts like HUD’s program are “a critical, long-term investment” toward helping those already homeless, Shinseki said. The program is the largest permanent housing initiative in the nation. “The most-effective option to providing veterans permanent shelter is HUD-VA Supportive Housing,” he said. “We owe determination that matches theirs as we work to end veteran homelessness. [The program] is immensely important and effective to reaching our goal.” Homeless veterans can receive the rental vouchers through their local VA medical center. Case managers at each hospital refer eligible veterans to local housing authorities, which will then assist veterans in finding adequate homes. {Source: AFPS Michael J. Carden}
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Female Veterans Struggle to Avoid Homelessness
NPR (7/11) reports, “More than 240,000 female service members have been deployed to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, but for many, reintegrating into civilian life and trying to find employment is not within their reach. The Department of Veteran Affairs has acknowledged that women are nearly four times as likely as men to end up homeless.”
Report Criticizes VA Efforts to Provide Service Dogs to Vets
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ccording to the Army Times (7/8, Maze), a report released Wednesday “by the Veterans Affairs Department Inspector General says VA should be doing more for veterans whose lives could be improved with help from service dogs. Eight years after receiving approval to help pay for dogs to assist veterans with mobility problems, seizure disorders or other disabilities,” the report “says VA has approved only eight requests.” Christina Roof of “AmVets, a group that has been pushing the issue for years,” responded to the report, stating, “It is unacceptable not to exercise the authority given to...improve the quality of veterans’ lives.”
Sleep Apnea Update
T
he number of veterans receiving disability benefits for a sleeping disorder has increased 61% in the past two years and now costs taxpayers more than $500 million per year, according to Veterans Affairs data. More than 63,000 veterans receive benefits for sleep apnea, a disorder that causes a sleeping person to gasp for breath and awaken frequently. It is linked to problems ranging from daytime drowsiness to heart disease. The top risk factor for contracting the disorder appears to be obesity, though a sleep expert at the VA and a veteran’s advocacy organization cite troops’ exposure to dust and smoke in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq as contributing factors. More claims are likely to be made in the future as Baby Boomers age and get heavier, says Max Hirshkowitz, director of the Sleep Disorder Center at the Houston Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Veterans are four times more likely than other Americans to suffer from sleep apnea and about 5% of Americans have the disorder, he said, compared with 20% of veterans. Veteran’s benefits for sleep apnea are more generous than those for workers in the private sector, records show. For example, Elaine Fischer, a spokeswoman for the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, which handles workers’ compensation in that state, said the department is not aware of any occupational exposure that would cause sleep apnea. “We’re unaware of it being directly caused by something work related,” she said.
Vol. 13, No. 3
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05/06/2010 - 08/24/2010
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Minnesota American Veterans News - - - FALL, 2010
Post Officers POST 1 COMMANDER Mark Kronholm 2184 Schoolmaster Dr. Chaska, MN 55318 612-708-1910 POST 1 ADJUTANT Kelly Nguyen 648 Marie Ave. Mendota Hts., MN 55118 651-406-8152 kellymnguyen@comcast.net
POST 19 COMMANDER Janice Hinz 29676 Flower Valley Rd. Red Wing, MN 55066 651-338-2970
POST 10 COMMANDER Craig Maehling 1082 14th Ave SE Mpls, MN 55414 612-331-2593 POST 10 ADJUTANT Archie Webb 4285 Lindsey Lane Minnetonka, MN 55345 952-412-8044 amanatmn@comcast.net
POST 4 Commander David Graves 416 Steuben Street Winona, Mn 55987 507-454-1613
POST 11 COMMANDER Don Gilbert 24870 22nd Avenue St. Augusta, MN 56301 612-272-1557
POST 4 ADJUTANT David Brand 320 1st Ave N Lewiston, MN 55952 507-523-2424
POST 11 ADJUTANT Philip Landwehr 56 - 33rd Ave S #243 St Cloud, MN 56301320-253‑0703
POST 5 Commander Raymond J. Rangel 2220 Conway Street Saint Paul, MN 55119 651-698-7273 POST 5 ADJUTANT Michael Medina 1618 Hague Ave. St. Paul, MN 55104 651-645-0587 POST 8 Commander John Washtock 43656 287th Lane Aitkin, MN 56431 218-927-6830 POST 8 ADJUTANT Lloyd Gerard 31142 380th St Aitkin, MN 56431 218-549‑3441
POST 12 COMMANDER William Cogger 704 W 41st Street Hibbing, MN 55746 218-749-5187 amvets12@mchsi.com
POST 19 ADJUTANT Joyce Maldondo N. 4003 U.S. Hwy. 63 Ellsworth, WI 54011 715-792-5407 POST 20 COMMANDER Eugene Koopmeiners 15722 390th Street Avon, MN 56310 320-746-7676 POST 20 ADJUTANT T. Joseph Schwab 335 Golfview Drive Albany, MN 56307 320-845‑4848 POST 21 COMMANDER Eugene Fohs 1233 Richard Ave. Det. Lakes, MN 56501 218-847‑4144
POST 12 ADJUTANT Dick Mattson 715 E. 39th Hibbing, MN. 55746 218-262‑1523
POST 23 COMMANDER Tom Voge P.O. Box 81 Nerstrand, MN 55053 507-334-3238 skip46@dmbroadband.com
POST 13 COMMANDER Guy Streater 217 1/2 E Lake St Waconia, MN 55387 952-442-5002
POST 23 ADJUTANT Evelyn Hershberger 422 E Vine Owatonna, MN 55060 507-451-6091
POST 13 ADJUTANT Walter Schmakel 348 W. 4th St. Waconia, MN. 55387 953-442‑4272
POST 24 COMMANDER Al Busse 956 Cook Ave. E. St. Paul, MN 55106 651-276-3899
POST 24 ADJUTANT Lawrence Dean 3385B Vadnais Lane, Vadnais Hts, MN 55127 651-484‑2837
POST 47 ADJUTANT Les Shaunce 528 Alice Ave. Albert Lea, MN. 56007 507-373‑0134
POST 290 ADJUTANT Erv Krosch 509 E. 9th Street Morris, MN 56267 320-589-2916
POST 28 COMMANDER William J. Warren, Jr. 3678 Carlton Street Barnum, MN 55707 218-389-6014
POST 53 COMMANDER Kenneth Weyaus 16004 Migizi Dr. Onamia, MN. 56359 320-532‑3632
POST 556 COMMANDER Gerry Ewald 13735 Norellus Lane, Lindstrom, MN 55045 612-257‑5791
POST 28 ADJUTANT Gary Aho P.O. Box 35 Wrenshall, MN 55759 218-384-4587
POST 53 ADJUTANT Diane Nickaboine 19100 452nd Street Onamia, MN 56359
POST 556 ADJUTANT Keith Hegstrom 56 N.W. 4th St. Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-464‑2497
POST 31 COMMANDER Roger Stelter 16451 Snake Trail Road Waseca, MN 56093 507-835-7901 rstelter@hughes.net 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 101 Commander Bob Klug 21650 Blackduck Lake Rd Blackduck, MN 56630 218-835-4512 Post 101 Russ Kunkel 16563 N Blackduck Lake Rd NE Hines, MN 56647 218-835-4135 rnkunkel@paulbunyan.net 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 dennis.kohlman@mn.nab.army.mil
POST 47 COMMANDER Ruth Perry 121 Fenton Road Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-373-2245 lshaunce@smig.net
Post 290 Commander Bob Lubenow 1375 90th St SW Appleton, MN 320-793-6773
Post 612 Commander Matthew Riewer 202 Willow Ave Frazee, MN 56544 218-334-2181 mriewer@yahoo.com 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 Dale G. Larson 3256 70th St E Inver Grove Hts, MN 55076 651-455-6558 __________________ Additions or corrections to : kellymnguyen@ comcast.net
AMVETS Dept. MN - MN AMVETS News, Room 302 Veterans Service Building, 20 West 12th St., St. Paul, MN 55155 Vol. 13, No. 3
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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.