Summer 2013
inside State Convention Highlights & Awards
Texas VFW Welcomes First Female State Commander
TEXAS VFW NEWS — 1st PLACE WINNER 2013 National Publications Contest
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State Convention Follow Up page 12 Over 1,100 Texas Veterans and Auxiliary Members participated in the Texas VFW 93rd Annual State Convention in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Parade Held for Medal Recipients page 19 Post members as well as the entire city of Gainesville and surrounding communities unite to honor the Congressional Medal of Honor recipients.
In the News
4 Commander’s Column 6 Texas VFW & ROTC on Memorial Day Cadet Award Given
8 Silver Star Ceremony 10 Texas VFW Foundation 12 State Convention Follow Up 13 State Convention Award Winners 14 First Female State Commander Elected
CONTENTS
The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars
Memorial Day Celebrations
18 Texas Capitol Vietnam Monument Underway 19 Congressional Medal of Honor Parade 21 Texas VFW Membership Application 22 Memorial Day Celebrations 26-29 4th of July Celebrations 30 Texas VFW Gear 33 Flag Day Celebrations from Around the State 34 Eagle Scout & Texas VFW Post 8904 Celebrate
Memorial Day
Serving Veterans Since 1899
What Does The Texas VFW Offer You? Camaraderie with fellow Veterans • Community Networking & Involvement • Remembrance Programs • Full time support of today’s service members • Programs for families and youth • Full Time Watchdog on Capitol Hill & at the Texas Legislature • Free representation in VA claims • An award-winning magazine Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW News will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part. Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to dan@texasvfw.org Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and are not to be construed as those of the publisher nor as official views of the Texas VFW, the National VFW or any of its agencies, unless otherwise made manifest by writers or spokespersons acting on behalf of the foregoing. Advertising of products and services herein does not imply endorsement or approval of the Texas VFW. Advertising is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services are accurately described. Ads that contain fraudulent, deceptive or misleading statements or illustrations, or in the opinion of the Texas VFW News may be offensive, are not knowingly accepted. If you encounter noncompliance, please tell us.
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Flippable Online Version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org.
ABOUT THE COVER Sylvia C. Sanchez was recently elected the 2013-14 State Commander. She is the first female commander to be elected the title.
Summer 2013
insi de State Convention Highlights & Awards
Texas VFW Welcom es First Female State commander
For Information Regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, seeking, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org. TexaS VFW NeWS — 1st Place WiNN er 2013 National Public ations Contest
Texas VFW Summer 2013
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STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN COMRADES, what an honor it is to have been elected as your State Commander for the most elite veterans organization, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. I will do all I can to make our “Lone Star” state shine, but I will need each of your assistance and support. Congratulations to my friend and mentor, Past State Commander Larry Velasquez, and the “Lead by Example” team for achieving All-American and for a job well done. Thanks, Larry and Pat, for the many great memories made when we traveled the state together. Congratulations also to State Sr. Vice Commander Joe Hayes and State Jr. Vice Commander Dan West. I look forward to having a great year with you as part of the “Because WE Care” team. My theme this year is “Because WE Care.” Why are we in this organization? Because we care. We care for our veterans, for our active duty and reserve personnel, and their families. We care for our youth, and we’re here to work in the community. I have emphasized making the VFW more visible in your communities, teaching the community of the great things we do. We must work for our VFWs to be a place the community recognizes as a group of veterans and their auxiliaries who are there to help their community. Just think, WITHOUT YOU willing to donate your time when asked to, where would we be. My thanks to those of you who go that extra mile. We must continue the great job we are doing. Remember the impact you have on your community will have an impact on your post and the VFW. My project this year is helping the homeless. It is a shame that so many who valiantly served are now homeless. We must do all we can to help them out. Seek out any organization that helps homeless veterans and volunteer if you can. Donations will be used for homeless projects throughout the state. As always MEMBERSHIP is vital. Everything we do and every program that we support comes from a strong membership base. Our membership is decreasing, and our age of members going up. We must work as a TEAM to increase our numbers. Yes, it is important to RECRUIT, but even more important to RETAIN those we have recruited. Then there are those who have fallen through the cracks. We must work at “RECOVERING” them and reinstating them. I ask that each of you try to recruit at least one member this year. There are many veterans out there from all wars and conflicts that have not joined because they think they have to be asked to join. We must also concentrate on our younger veterans from our current conflicts, and remember there are many female veterans who are eligible. We must also take time to listen to their suggestions and concerns. You may consider such things as no smoking in your post home, putting in WiFi, or making the post home family friendly. To survive, we must change with the times. Comrades, I will be called upon to make many decisions. My decision will rest on our Department and National By-Laws, and what is best for the overall good of the membership. I look forward to working with our Ladies Auxiliary. Thank you Ladies for your dedication and continued support. To our VFW Motorcycle Units thanks for all you do to help others. Lastly, thanks to our Men’s Auxiliaries for all you do for your posts. We must help each other with membership. We must do all we can to keep our organizations strong, and I hope that we will not let petty jealousies and trivial personalities interfere with our success this year. I wish all levels of the VFW and Auxiliary a very successful year. We must ALL work together. I am here to work with you and for you. I know, with your help, that OUR “Because WE Care” team will be successful. I represent you. You are the voice for the Department of Texas. n
Because We Care!
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The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price of $20.00. Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXVIII, Number 1, © July 2013. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Circulation Dept., VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Members Change of Address: Forward address changes to: Data Entry, VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address as printed on a recent copy of the Texas VFW News magazine. Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org, or request a printed Media Kit at dan@texasvfw.org.
Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editor www.medianation.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Design DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS........................................ (512) 834-8535
2013-2014 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS COMMANDER, Sylvia C. Sanchez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 SR VICE, Joe Hayes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 CR 1118, Caddo Mills, TX 75135 JR VICE, Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 JUDGE ADVOCATE, Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1927 Mariner Point Ln., Katy, TX 77494 SURGEON, Doc Howard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044 CHAPLAIN, Bob Dickerson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Chaney St., San Antonio, TX 78235 CHIEF OF STAFF, Inge Conley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346 INSPECTOR, Peyton Lumpkin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2207 Blue Water Bay Dr., Katy, TX 77494 IMMEDIATE PAST CMDR, Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 COUNCIL MEMBER, Mike Barber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1169 Shine Lane, Harker Heights, TX 76548 ADJ/QM, Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 ASST ADJ, Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 ASST QM, Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78753 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR, Ralph Rodriguez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PO Box 113, Clyde, TX 79510 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR, Allen Freeman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1013 Soukup Lane, Killeen, TX 76542 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR, Edward Torres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 663 Moursund Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78221 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR, Wayne Cooley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3615 Birdhouse Dr., Round Rock, TX 78665 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR, David Adams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309 Whitetail Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR, John Lozanski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1215 Cedar Ridge Rd., Heath, TX 75032 OFFICER OF THE DAY, Lonnie Garza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1769 Jacobs Ct., New Braunfels, TX 78130
DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORS Service Officer/Waco Sandra Covin . . . . . 6008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799 Service Officer/Houston Julio Harros . . . 3413 . . . . . . . 6900 Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77030
2013-2014 DISTRICT COMMANDERS DISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2205 — Stanley Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1119 Thomas St., Denton, TX 76201 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2775 — Robert Lafleur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5076 — James Pratt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2018 Royal Crest Dr., Garland, TX 75043 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2427 — William “Bill” Shaffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PO Box 222, Tomball, TX 77377 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12058 — Rick Riel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301 Engelke Rd., Niederwald, TX 78640 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8786 — Amando Garcia, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211 W Richard Cruz, Freer, TX 78357 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3278 — Keith King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2406 Belmeade, Brownwood, TX 76801 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1657 — Danny Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 2684, Pampa, TX 79066 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .812 — Rod Raulston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3986 — Steve Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 CR 1540, Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .688 — David Judson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165 Sage Oaks Trl., Boerne, TX 78006 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4008 — Roger DeWeese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404 Lake Road, Belton, TX 76513 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2147 — Preston Leckie . . . . . . . . . . . . 100-B Lincoln St., Wichita Falls, TX 76306 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8551 — Glenn James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235 Primrose, Freeport, TX 77541 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4692 — Rick Olivares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2121 Pantera Dr., Bryan, TX 77807 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2410 — Ramiro Daniel, Sr . . . . . . . . . . . 919 Villa Del Prado Dr., Donna, TX 78537 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10351 — Henry “Paul” Lester . . . . . . . . Rt 1, Box 5965, San Augustine, TX 75972 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76 — Cris Vieyra, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2018 Bruni Street, San Antonio, TX 78224 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6872 — David Bowers . . . . . . . . . . . . 12514 J Rendon Road, Burleson, TX 76028 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3972 — Harold Hartman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9511 FM 236, Cuero, TX 77954 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6284 — Melvin Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 79762 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3377 — Frank Andrada, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2525 Hwy 21 West, Dale, TX 78616 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4819 — Roy “Bobby” Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 76705 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3894 — Richard Neff . . . . . . . . . . . 1319 Culberson Road, Waxahachie, TX 75165
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TEXAS VFW & ROTC CELEBRATE MEMORIAL DAY
Texas VFW Post 2676, ScotlandWindthorst — Post members pose with cadets from the Wichita Falls High School Army Junior ROTC program at the conclusion of the Memorial Day program held Monday, May 27. The ceremony was held at the Veterans Memorial located in the Scotland, Texas St. Boniface Catholic Church cemetery.
BAYTOWN POST PRESENTS AWARD TO CADET Texas VFW Post 912, Baytown — Post Commander Jay Sanders is pictured with VFW Medal winner Cadet Phuong Dinh. Dinh was presented with a VFW ROTC Ribbon/Medal and Larry Velasquez coin for outstanding achievement in military and academic coursework. He graduated in May and then headed to paratrooper training.
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GEORGETOWN POST HOLDS SILVER STAR CEREMONY Texas VFW Post 8587, Georgetown, Presents Wife of Fallen Soldier with Medal THE SILVER STAR WAS PRESENTED POSTHUMOUSLY to the wife of Master Sgt. Ben Snowden, Mrs. Betty Snowden, on Saturday, March 16 at the VFW Post 8587 in Georgetown, Texas. The post is named for Master Sgt. Snowden. Master Sgt. Snowden is being awarded the Silver Star for actions taken while assigned to Forward Operating Base 2, Dak To, Detachment 50 (Omega Project), 5th SF Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces, in the Republic of Vietnam. Master Sgt. Snowden was killed in action while trying to extract a 6-man team under heavy enemy fire. The award was approved on Nov., 15 2012 based on a multi-year effort by Sen Cornyn (Texas) and Mr. Roger Widdows. Approximately 175 attended the ceremony. In addition to family and local VFW members, members of the unit also attended. 479 Field Artillery Brigade from Division West provided the color guard and escorts for the family. In addition to the Silver Star award ceremony, the POW medal was awarded to the family of the late MSgt John Knowl who was a POW during the Korean War. n
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T E X A S V F W F O U N DAT I O N
T E X A S V F W F O U N DAT I O N
T E X A S V F W F O U N DAT I O N T E X A S V F W F O U N DAT I O N
Helping Veterans in Need Because We Care!
THE TEXAS VETERANS COMMISSION AWARDED A $500,000 grant to the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation to be distributed to veterans experiencing financial hardship. Eligible Texas veterans and military service personnel are encouraged to apply for assistance with mortgage and rent payments, utility payments and other basic needs. Through this grant, financial assistance is provided to veterans, spouses, dependent parents and children, and surviving spouses. To qualify to receive this assistance, the hardship must be a situation that arose unexpectedly, created an immediate need for financial assistance, and was not caused or created by unreasonable conduct of the applicant. With this award from the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, the Texas VFW Foundation will be able to help Texas veterans and their families meet the new challenges they face at home. The Texas VFW Foundation assists veterans and their families by promoting programs to raise awareness and educate the public about the sacrifices made by America’s veterans, as well as the unique and special needs resulting from their service. To apply for financial assistance contact the Texas VFW Foundation at foundation@texasvfw.org or visit their website at www.texasvfwfoundation.org. n
Texas VFW Foundation presents a check to members of the West VFW Post 4819 who experienced financial hardship due to the West fertilizer plant explosion on April 17, 2013. The Texas VFW Foundation provides disaster relief grants to VFW/Auxiliary members in good standing who have experienced a loss due to a natural/man-made disaster. Funds are provided by VFW Posts, Auxiliaries, and members from across the nation. Pictured: District 29 Commander Roy “Bobby” Jones, West VFW Post 4819 member Wesley Zahirniak, and Texas VFW Foundation Board Member/Texas VFW Jr. Vice Commander Dan West.
Your small donation makes a big difference.
• The Texas VFW Foundation Veterans Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge regardless of where or what time they served. • Funds for this program come from individual donations from veterans and veteran supporters like yourself, and from charitable foundations. • The Veterans Assistance Program is not an entitlement program and not all veterans who apply will receive a financial grant and those awarded a grant will not directly receive any funds. 10
Texas VFW Summer 2013
• The applicant will have to work with a Service Officer from a Federal, State or Veterans Service Organization or with their local military command if still in the military before application can be processed. • Applications can be found at the Featured Links section on the Texas VFW Web Site www.texasvfw. org or by emailing the Foundation at foundation@ texasvfw.org or by calling (512) 291-6850.
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93rd Annual State Convention By Dan West, State Assistant Adjutant
THIS YEAR OVER 1,100 TEXAS VETERANS AND AUXILIARY MEMBERS PARTICIPATED IN THE TEXAS VFW 93RD ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION IN CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS. Starting with the golf tournament on Wednesday, June 12th 2013, sponsored by District Six, teams of four played 18 holes of golf at River Hills Country Club. All had a great time and District Six volunteers staffed the event, under the direction of Convention Chairman Mike Kuertz assisted by Tina Hawkins it was an exceptional golf tournament complete with breakfast, lunch and door prizes for each golfer, including awards for finishing teams and individual awards for longest drive, closet to hole and closest to the middle of fairway. At the final Council of Administration meeting for the 2012-2013 year, Sate Commander Larry Velasquez recognized several Districts for their outstanding performance in membership growth and community service projects. Commander Velasquez also made the announcement that Texas VFW had obtained and exceeded its membership target goal of 78,586 finishing the year with a 79,638 members and qualifying Texas VFW for the National VFW All-American Department Award. Prior to the opening ceremonies and throughout the convention, attendees had the opportunity to visit with and purchase services and keepsakes from over 30 different vendors, including VFW products and Texas VFW branded merchandise from the National VFW Emblem & Supply Store. All hands where on deck for the opening ceremonies with the Navy Color Guard from Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. After introductions and salutations from the State Commander, the top 33 Posts in the State were recognized as All State Posts and presented their
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awards by State Commander Velasquez and National VFW Representative Past Commander-in-Chief and Executive Director of the VFW Washington Office Robert Wallace. After the awards, State Adjutant/ Quartermaster Roy Grona took control as the Master of Ceremonies and introduced our key note speaker, Colonel Bentley Nettles, General Counsel, Joint Force Headquarters, Texas National Guard and Texas VFW member, who spoke about the mission of the Texas National Guard and how superbly the soldiers of the Texas National Guard have performed with difficult mission assignments both here and abroad. National VFW Representative, Past Commanderin-Chief Robert Wallace, talked about the need for the VFW to expand its programs as the Iraq/ Afghanistan veteran will need the services of the VFW and the Veterans Administration for the next 60 – 70 years and that VFW members needed to be more involved in the political process. Later that evening, hospitality with live music was opened for member networking, fellowship and dancing to popular music from the 1960’s to today. Business meetings for both the VFW and Auxiliary followed the next day that included reports from committee chairman, recognition of Honor Roll Posts, individual recruiting awards and nominations for state leadership positions. Later that evening at the State Awards Banquet Master of Ceremonies State Adjutant/ Quartermaster Roy Grona, asked State Commander Larry Velasquez and National VFW Representative Robert Wallace to present all of the State level awards to the winners who were
called to the awards platform individually (see insert for list of awards and winners). On Saturday, VFW and Auxiliary meetings reconvened, nominations reopened and elections held with Sylvia Sanchez, the first female elected to lead the Texas VFW as the State Commander for the 2013-2014 year. The following were also elected to the following State positions; Senior Vice Commander — Joe Hayes; Junior Vice Commander — Dan West; Quartermaster — Roy Grona; Judge Advocate — Ken Burton; Surgeon — Thomas “Doc” Howard; Chaplain — Robert Dickerson. At the installation ceremony held later that afternoon, State Commander Sylvia Sanchez announced her appointments (see page 4) and thanked the many people and Posts that helped her in her VFW career, most especially her husband Henry Gonzales. State Commander Sanchez and State Auxiliary President Melanie McConaghy invited all present to attend the Commander’s and President’s Reception immediately afterward where everyone had an opportunity to meet and visit with the newly elected comrades and sisters of the Texas VFW for the 2013-2014 year. n
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2013 STATE AWARD WINNERS All-State Districts
Scout of the Year
District 5, Commander Dave Adams District 14, Commander Allen Freeman District 17, Commander Peyton Lumpkin District 28, Commander Wayne Cooley
1st Place — Chandler Burke is the winner of the $5,000 scholarship for being selected as the VFW’s National First Place “Scout of the Year.” Chandler was sponsored by the Department of Texas and North Dallas Memorial VFW Post 3530.
J.T. Rutherford Peyton Lumpkin Gary Bridges Larry Velasquez
Danny Henry Outstanding Post Commander Award Bob Gear, Post 12117 Austin.
Buddy Poppy Public Promotion 1st Post 7835, Granbury 2nd Post 8787, Austin 3rd Post 6378, Dickinson
Memorial/Inspirational
Lavern Terbl, Post 7873, Pottsboro.
1st Post 8561, Arlington 2nd Post 2772, Sherman 3rd Post 8953, Romayor
Chaplain
Artistic/Decorative
Quartermaster
Allen Lowe, Post 4008, Belton.
Service Officer Mark De Cardenas, Post 6796 Dallas.
Past District Commander Norman Macey, District 17.
POW/MIA District 16
Motorcycle Unit Unit 21, Bryan
Auxiliary Rachel Medrano, Auxiliary 9186 San Antonio
Publications 1st Place National — “Texas VFW News” 1st Place State, 2nd Place National Large District — “The Broadside” Jim Haycraft Editor District 4 1st Place State, 1st Place National Medium Post — “VFW Post 12024 Newsletter” Strick Strickland Editor
1st Post 6111, Arlington 2nd Post 1839, Cleveland 3rd Post 6872, Crowley
ALL-STATE POSTS 12117 . . . . . . . . Austin 4709 . . . . . . . . . Conroe 12041 . . . . . . . . Lytle 3892 . . . . . . . . . Harker Heights 3413 . . . . . . . . . San Marcos 7843 . . . . . . . . . Duncanville 912 . . . . . . . . . . Baytown 1533 . . . . . . . . . San Antonio 9182 . . . . . . . . . Katy 10454 . . . . . . . . Grapevine 5619 . . . . . . . . . Houston 9078 . . . . . . . . . Round Rock 8111 . . . . . . . . . San Antonio 6441 . . . . . . . . . Wimberley 4815 . . . . . . . . . San Antonio 3278 . . . . . . . . . Brownwood 9187 . . . . . . . . . Houston 1839 . . . . . . . . . Cleveland 12075 . . . . . . . . Humble 5872 . . . . . . . . . Fairfield 1657 . . . . . . . . . Pampa 4008 . . . . . . . . Belton 10802 . . . . . . . . Donna 1836 . . . . . . . . . Lufkin 12024 . . . . . . . . The Woodlands 4816 . . . . . . . . . Porter 2933 . . . . . . . . . Dripping Springs 7110 . . . . . . . . . New Braunfels 9174 . . . . . . . . . San Antonio 2147 . . . . . . . . . Wichita Falls 7873 . . . . . . . . . Pottsboro 688 . . . . . . . . . . Boerne
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A BIG WELCOME TO TEXAS VFW’S STATE COMMANDER Sylvia C. Sanchez elected first female Texas State Commander
“Because We Care!“
SYLVIA C. SANCHEZ, a Gold Legacy Life Member of Westside Post 8936 in San Antonio, Texas, was elected as the first female State Commander for the Department of Texas at the 93rd State Convention in Corpus Christi on 15 June, 2013. Sanchez, a VFW member since 1991, has served in many capacities at the Post and District level. She earned honors as All American Post Commander in 1994-1995 and was Co-Captain of the All State Post Commanders Team in 1994-1995. Sanchez served as National Aide-de-Camp in 2005-06 and 2006-07. She was a recipient of the J.T. Rutherford Award in 2008-2009 and served as Area VI Coordinator during 2008-2009. Comrade Sanchez joined the U.S. Army in 1967. She retired from the U.S. Army in 2000 as a Colonel. Her overseas service was with the 217th Evacuation Hospital in Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Sanchez’ awards include the Meritorious Service Medal w/2 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal w/Bronze Star, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Service Medal, Defense of Saudia Arabia Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal and the Army Achievement Medal. n
Sylvia Sanchez, the first female State Commander for the Department of Texas, brings a wealth of experience and unbridled enthusiasm to the Texas VFW.
MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATIONS
Texas VFW Post 8788, McAllen — The Post Honor Guard attended Memorial Day services in McAllen, Texas.
Texas VFW Post 1514, Mills —
Approximately 65 Post members and guests attended Memorial Day services at Wildwood UMC with posting of colors and graveside ceremony.
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More Memorial Day Celebrations on p. 22
24K Gold-Plated 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemorative Pin
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M e m o r i a l Photos courtesy of Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument Committee.
TEXAS CAPITOL VIETNAM MONUMENT UNDERWAY Vietnam Veterans Monument Anticipated Completion March 2014 Texas Vietnam Veterans broke ground for the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument on March 25th, 2013.
Container of 3,417 Texas Hero Tags that will be entombed in the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument. Luci Baines Johnson participates in the historic Reading of the Names of the Texas Vietnam war dead on March 24th. The Texas Vietnam Heroes Exhibit of 3,417 personalized dog tags and a model of the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument is currently on tour around the state.
70th Anniversary The Biggest Celebration Ever!
D-Day Departs June 1 & Aug. 6, 2014
Vi Ranney, Tour Manager, 605-665-3596
Be on Normandy for the big 70th anniversary of D-day. Heads of State from many countries, special music, honors for WWII Vets will fill emotional ceremonies. This 13-day WWII tour visits all important sites in France, Luxembourg, Belgium & Germany. Texan Joe Galloway, author of We Were Soldiers Once, and Young and the only civilian awarded the Bronze Star with a V for Valor by the U.S. Army during Vietnam, delivers the keynote address at the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument Groundbreaking.
Vietnam
Departs March 25, 2014 Sights include Saigon, Cu Chi tunnels, Mekong Delta, military bases, Hue, Quang Tri, Former DMZ, DaNang, Hoi An, Hanoi & much more. Professional guides---Great Hotels---Many Meals–Economically priced WWII veterans receive Discount–Perhaps get a group together from your VFW or American Legion Post. Everyone welcome on this tour.
For a brochure call toll free: 888-414-4177
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TEXAS VFW POST 1922, HUGHES-TUNE, HOLDS PARADE for MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS EVERY APRIL TEXAS VFW POST 1922 is humbled and grateful to welcome the incoming recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor through the “Medal of Honor Host City Program.” Post members as well as the entire city of Gainesville and surrounding communities unite to honor these extraordinary heroes. The Medal of Honor Host City Program was founded in 2001, and every year since then, the recipients make the trip to the area. This year 15 recipients participated — two of whom were visiting the Gainesville area for the first time. The parade kicked off at 10:00 a.m. on April 13th. The Color Guard was on hand helping lead the way along with other various units. Texas VFW Post 2772, Sherman, provided flag detail. Post 1922 provided a float — a dedication to all veterans past, present and future. Also riding along in the parade were Texas District 1 Commander Joseph McDaniel; Texas State Commander Larry Velasquez; and former National Commander Jim Nier. Another float entered jointly by Texas VFW Post 2205, Denton, and Texas VFW Post 5074, Roanoke, proudly joined the parade route. Veterans and citizens came together as one — not only in celebrating the recipients — but also the veterans who are living at the Sam Rayburn Memorial Veteran’s Center in Bonham, Texas. n
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Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America. Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in, or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.
Lobbying for Veterans & Military Providing Disaster Relief Name: _________________________________________________Email: _________________________________________ Community Volunteerism First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.) Address:____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Funding College Scholarships Phone Cards for Troops City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone:____________________________ Supporting Youth Groups Emergency Financial Assistance Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY) Supporting Memorials Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines
Current Status: I served in:
p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/Reserve p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001 p World War II p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Iraq 2003 p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) p 1945-90 (Berlin)
Qualified recipient of: p Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay
p *SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol*
*Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service). I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a: p Annual Member ($35)
p Life Member*
p Life 12 Mo. Install* ($35 Initial payment)
Because We Care!
LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEE SCHEDULE Attained age on 12/31
Through age 30 31 – 40 41 – 50 51 – 60 61 – 70 71 – 80 81 and over
One Time Payment
Life 12 Month Payment Plan
$425.00 $410.00 $375.00 $335.00 $290.00 $225.00 $170.00
$40.39 $39.02 $35.84 $32.20 $28.11 $22.20 $17.20
Installment Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Life Membership installment plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making either 11 or 23 monthly installments after an initial payment of $35.00. The member/applicant will be issued a “Provisional Life” membership card and can elect, upon receipt of first monthly invoice, to pay via check, credit card or ACH Debit. The monthly fee (Shown in the payment schedule above) includes a $1.75 monthly service fee. The applicable Life Membership fee is to be determined from the schedule using the applicants age on December 31 of the installment plan year in which the application is submitted, regardless of actual date of birth. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon completion of this agreement. No refund of any portion of current year annual dues will be made. A “Payoff amount” will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full at anytime during the installment plan, thereby avoiding additional service fees. If the member pays off early, no additional monies will be collected.
I attest by forwarding this application that I am a citizen of the United States, that I qualify for the VFW and that my Campaign Service was honorable, and that I have never been discharged under other than honorable conditions or I am still serving honorably in the armed forces of the United States of America. I further give authority to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States to verify my entitlement to membership in the VFW and that if no proof can be found or provided that I am subject to discharge from the VFW without refund. Signature:___________________________________________________________________Date: ______________________________________________ Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card.
p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express
Credit Card Number:_________________________________________________________
Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________ Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761
For questions call: (512) 834-8535
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MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATIONS
Texas VFW Post 6522, Bellville —
Members, along with help from the local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, placed flags on veterans graves in two local cemeteries.
Texas VFW Post 2873, Frisco —
The Post participated in the unveiling of a street sign in honor of a fallen soldier in Afghanistan Army Cpl. Peter J. Courcy. Left to right are Lee Myrben, Peter Courcy’s mother Mary Bush, Tim Nelson, and Peter Courcy’s brother Luke Bush. Lee Myrben and Tim Nelson are both VFW Post 2873 members. (photo by Eddie Warren)
Texas VFW Post 2412, Bay City —
Members along with friends and family placed over 700 flags on veterans graves and held a flag ceremony.
Texas VFW Post 7207, Alpine — 22
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Post members placed flags at the local cemetery with help from the local Boy Scouts.
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Texas VFW Summer 2013
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4th of JULY CELEBRATIONS
Texas VFW Post 3406, Rusk — Members attended the 4th of July celebration held on the town square. Included was a flag ceremony, speakers, food and fun for all ages. ribbon for their float entry in the 4th of July parade.
Texas VFW Post 688, Boerne — Post members proudly sport a trophy and
Texas VFW Post 12058, Kyle — To commemoriate the 4th of July the Post participated in two parades. They lead the Waterleaf Subdivision parade on June 29th and attended the Red, White and Buda parade in Buda, Texas on the 4th of July.
Want to see ur post additional photos of yo s? ue members and colleag rsion at ve e lin See our extended on ! rg .o fw www.texasv 26
Texas VFW Summer 2013
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Texas VFW Post 10454, Grapevine —
Member Mike Pierce, District 21 Commander Dave Bowers, Commander Jon Lunkwicz and Member Kenneth Smith.
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Texas VFW Post 7110, New Braunfels — Post members, family and friends “get into the spirit” during the 4th.
Texas VFW Post 2195, Allen — Richard Merck, Post QM; Bob Beard, Post Member; Don Graber, Dist 1 Adjutant; Pete Hersom, Post Photographer; Juanita Posey, Post Trustee; Kelly Posey, Post Member; Jim Bravard, Post Member; Curtis Mitchell, Post Snr. Post Commander; Jack Rettig, Post Trustee; DA Lux, Post Event Coordinator; Charlie Robinson, Post Member; Tom Nation, Post Chaplain; Bill Swafford, Post Surgeon; Ken Seeley, Post Member; Phillip Norton, Post Commander; Larry Nordgaard, Post Adjutant.
Texas VFW Post 3377, Manchaca — Post members and extended friends and family participated in a large community parade then held an open house. A great time was had by all. Texas VFW Summer 2013
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4th of JULY CELEBRATIONS
Texas VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands — Post, Auxiliary and Motorcycle Unit 1 participated in The Woodlands 4th of July Parade.
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Texas VFW Post 8561, Arlington — Over 30 Post members, and hundreds of friends and family members participated in area parades.
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Texas VFW Post 8273, Frisco — The Post honored wounded veterans at the Rough Rider Baseball game at the Dr. Pepper Ballpark in Frisco on the 4th of July. Picture here are post members, wounded veterans and their families. A wonderful evening was had by all at the ballpark and fireworks were enjoyed afterwards. (photos by Eddie Warren)
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Get Your Official “Texas VFW” Gear Auxiliary Logos Available
Men’s Aqua Dry Polo with Texas VFW & Emblem SIMPLE, SOPHISTICATED MEN’S POLO MADE OF A POLY-BLEND Breathes well, holds its shape and retains its soft, supple feel wash after wash — thanks to a touch of spandex. Made in the U.S.A. — so the costs are a little more — yet we are creating jobs here at home in America! Available with or without pocket in OLIVE, FRENCH BLUE, BLACK, IVORY, LIME, YELLOW, NAVY, BURGANDY, HUNTER GREEN, RED, RUST, SAGE, WHITE, STONE, HEATHER CHARCOAL, AQUATIC BLUE OR STEEL BLUE. S, M, L, XL with extended sizes. • Men’s VFW Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, no Pocket – item #7710 – $46.00 • Men’s VFW Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, with Pocket – item #7711 – $51.00
Made in the U.S.A.
• Men’s Auxiliary Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, no Pocket – item #7714 – $46.00 • Men’s Auxiliary Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, with Pocket – item #7715 – $51.00 For 2XL add $5, 3XL add $7.50, 4XL add $10
LADIES AQUA DRY POLO with TEXAS VFW & CROSS OF MALTA Same great features as the men’s shirt but with feminine styling. Available in FRENCH BLUE, BLACK, IVORY, LIME, YELLOW, NAVY, BURGANDY, HUNTER GREEN, RED, RUST, SAGE, WHITE, STONE, HEATHER CHARCOAL, or AQUATIC BLUE. S, M, L, XL with extended sizes. • Ladies VFW Short Sleeve Polo Shirt – item #7712 – $46.00 • Ladies Auxiliary Short Sleeve Polo Shirt – item #7713 – $46.00 For 2XL add $5, 3XL add $7.50
Shirts now available with Ladies and Mens Auxiliary Emblems!
THE OVERSEAS CAP WAS THE FIRST INTRODUCED IN WORLD WAR I AND IS AMERICA’S FIRST MILITARY UNIFORM ITEM DENOTING WAR TIME SERVICE.
Light weight style overseas cap with the Cross of Malta Emblem, letters VFW above the Post number and state name. Additional lettering is available at .93 per letter or numeral. No reduction in price if state name is abbreviated. *STATE AND POST NUMBER TO BE ON CAP. *SIZE 8 AND LARGER ADD $5.00. *FORT KNOX STYLE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST. *CAP MAY BE LETTERED WITH THE WORDS “VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS” for an additional $18.69; LIFE MEMBER embroidered for an additional $8.90; or a Life Member patch for an additional $2.55. Green, lightweight, shade51. Allow 8 weeks for manufacture except during April, May, June, & July. During these months allow 10 weeks.
V F W
Price: $33.95
1849 Texas VFW Men’s Bulova Quartz Medallion Watch
Price: $249.00 Note: If there is a need to exchange or return jewelry items, please contact the Supply Department for return authorization before doing so. Watches have, in the past few years, become very stylish and the factories change the appearance of them often. Therefore, the watch you receive may differ in appearance from our illustrations, but will be as good or better in quality.
TEXAS VFW Velour Throw
Beautiful, soft and luxurious microfibre throw, with TEXAS VFW embroidered in corner. Machine washable for easy care. 100% polyester. 50” x 60”
1992 — $28.99
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Light-weight, versatile jacket with TEXAS VFW and Cross of Malta laser etched on the left chest. Microfiber fleece, full-zip front, hidden zip side pockets, draw-cord bottom. Imported.
Texas VFW Summer 2013
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Quality Bulova watch with date feature and two-tone silver and gold clasp band. Medallion VFW emblem on face with Texas VFW.
7356 – Navy Blue 7357 – Charcoal Gray $35.00 S-XL $37.00 2XL $39.00 3XL
T E X A S
M6251 Light Weight Members Cap, Gold Piping
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Eighteen FrEE features such as Auto Attendant and Voicemail are included! Thank you for calling Texas VFW post # 8900. To reach our post Commander press 1 For hours and location press 2 To hear about our upcoming events press 3
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FLAG DAY CELEBRATIONS Texas VFW Post 9313, San Augustine — Texas VFW Post 856, Austin — The Post retired old flags at the local Chamber of Commerce and installed new ones in honor of Flag Day.
Eleven Post members, one prospective member, and 12 guests participated in a Flag Day ceremony followed by an excellent lunch.
Texas VFW Post 5619, Houston — The Post participated by reading the history of Flag Day to the membership and enjoyed sandwiches and refreshments to celebrate the event. Display of American Flags is permanently displayed in front of the Post building.
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Texas VFW Post 8904, Center Eagle Scout Kris Risinger, Post Quartermaster Larry Hume, Sr. Vice Newton Johnson, Jr., Post Surgeon Dr. Robert Hughes, Jr. Vice Curtis Price and member Bill Gray pose with memorial wreath during Memorial Day Services.