2013 Texas VFW Winter News by MediaNation

Winter 2013

State Officials Speak at Texas VFW Mid-Winter Convention

inside OVER $67,000 GIVEN IN YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS

TEXAS VFW NEWS — 1st PLACE WINNER 2012 National Publications Contest

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Voice of Democracy Winner page 14 Lauren Bellatti was the first place winner of the Voice of Democracy contest and won a $10,000 scholarship. Read her entry on page 14.

Patriot’s Pen Winner page 16 Kirstee Dunlap was the first place winner in the Patriot’s Pen contest receiving a $1,500 scholarship. In addition, she was the 2nd Place Winner in the National contest receiving a $4,000 scholarship. Read her entry on page 16.

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. For Information Regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, seeking, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org.

In the News

4 Commander’s Column 6 Christmas Toy Ride Job Fair American Airlines Flight Donation 8 “Make a Difference” Day Homeless Stand Down 10 Texas VFW Foundation Helps Veterans 12 Celebrating the Service of Joseph Campbell Celebrating Women in the Military 15 Voice of Democracy Winners 16 Patriot’s Pen Winners 17 Citizenship Education Teacher Awards 18 Celebrations from Around the State 21 Texas VFW Membership Application 22 Get Your Texas VFW Gear 26 Observances from Around the State

CONTENTS

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

Upcoming Events 20 93rd Annual Convention 24 State Commander Homecoming Celebration 27 Officer Training Seminar Join us on facebook for up-to-date information, photos of VFW events and breaking news relevant to Veterans.

Flippable Online Version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org.

ABOUT THE COVER Texas State Governor, Rick Perry; Lt. Governor, David Dewhurst; State Senator, Dan Patrick; and Texas Veterans Land Board Commissioner, Jerry Patterson address veterans from all across Texas at the Texas VFW MidWinter convention.

Winter 2013

State Officials Speak at Texas VFW Mid-Winter Convention

insi de Over $67,000 given in yOuth SchOlarShipS

Texas VFW NeWs — 1st Place WiNN er 2012 National Public ations Contest

Texas VFW Winter 2013

10 ⁄4 101⁄2

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN

THANK YOU

I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY to thank all of you for the hospitality and comradeship you have given Pat and myself on our many visits throughout the state. It has indeed been my extreme pleasure to serve as your Department Commander for the past six months and I look forward to working with all of you for the remainder of the 2012-2013 year. The success of this organization depends on all of us so it is vitally important that we work together to achieve our goals. I would be remiss if I did not mention our State Adjutant/Quartermaster, Roy Grona and our staff at the Department Headquarters. As I travel and talk to fellow comrades, I hear that some feel intimidated when they speak to our staff members. I want to tell you that in my experience, working through the command positions in the VFW, the Department staff does a great job. They are here to help you and to make sure that everything we do is in accordance with the rules and regulations of the VFW at the National, State and local level. Doing it right the first time will save you many headaches down the road and keep you out of trouble. I urge you to seek help from our Department staff when needed. One of the areas that I am most proud of this year is our accomplishments in the area of community service. Thanks to all of our VFW Posts and Ladies Auxiliaries across the state, I am proud to tell you that during the first six months of this year the Texas VFW donated over $1,122,190 to our Texas communities. Our volunteers logged in over 148,626 hours of service valued at over $3,238,560. The grand total of our community service efforts was over $4,360,750. This is quite an accomplishment and one that each and every one of us can be proud of. I would also like to thank all of the VFW Posts and Ladies Auxiliaries that participated in the Patriots Pen and Voice of Democracy contests this year. We had 236 VFW Posts and 176 Ladies Auxiliaries compete in the Voice of Democracy program. Together they submitted 2,374 entries. This year the Texas VFW and its Posts and Auxiliaries provided more than $182,561 in scholarships and spent more than $33,444 on this program from start to finish. We had 218 Posts and 105 Auxiliaries participate in the Patriots Pen contest. Together they submitted 3,527 entries. This year the Texas VFW and its Post and Auxiliaries awarded more than $4,148 in prizes and spent more than $14,238 on this program. I am extremely proud to announce that our Patriots Pen winner at the state level placed 2nd at the National judging. Congratulations to Kirstee Dunlap nominated by VFW Post 9170 in Beeville, from my own District 6. I highly suggest that you use this information when communicating with your elected officials at the local, state or federal level. When they ask you “What does the VFW do?” let them know this information. As well as we have done, there are still VFW Posts in this state that have not reported or under reported the hard work that they do in their community. I am asking each of you to help get the word out on what we do as an organization. Just at the Voice of Democracy banquet we gave away over $67,000.00 in scholarships in one night. The first place winner walked away with a $10,000.00 scholarship. We must get these accomplishments out in our local papers and radio stations. We must let our communities know that the VFW is strong, capable and is a vital part of our communities. Most of you know that I am a firm believer that membership is the life line of our organization. We continue to lose three to five thousand members a year in Texas. This is from the death of our members and from those members who do not renew for one reason or another. The good news this year is that, as of the middle of February, we are at 95.24% of our membership goal and only 3,738 members away from reaching 100% of our goal. My sincere thanks go out to all of you who are working diligently to help our organization reach 100%. My compliments go out to Districts 5, 4

Texas VFW Winter 2013

Continued on p. 12

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 LXVII, Number 3, © March 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

2012-2013 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Commander, Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 Sr Vice, Sylvia Sanchez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1906 Ashprington Dr., San Antonio, TX 78251 Jr Vice, Joe Hayes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 Hwy 36 S, Caddo Mills, TX 75135 Adj/Qm, Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 Judge, Advocate Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 Surgeon, Doc Howard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044 Chaplain, Bob Dickerson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 341136, San Antonio, TX 78234 Chief of Staff, Inge Conley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346 Inspector, Norman Macey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., Humble, TX 77346 Immediate Past Commander, John Spahr . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Trail Of The Flowers, Georgetown, TX 78633 Council Member, Mike Barber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1169 Shine Lane, Harker Heights, TX 76548 Asst Adj, Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 Asst Qm, Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 Deputy Inspector, Dick Shawver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19151 Valley Dr., Flint, TX 75762 Deputy Inspector, Ralph Rodriguez, Jr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 113, Clyde, TX 79510 Deputy Inspector, Terry Rowe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 513, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483 Deputy Inspector, Harry Munn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 202, Hewitt, TX 76643 Deputy Inspector, Larry Konarik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 Clear Springs Rd., Georgetown, TX 78628 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

2012-2013 DISTRICT COMMANDERS DISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS D-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . JOSEPH McDANIEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Persian Blvd., Pottsboro, TX 75076 D-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . ROBERT LaFLEUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630 D-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLARENCE JACKSON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2815 Williams Way Ct., Dallas, TX 75228 D-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . JAY SANDERS, JR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7030 Tejas St., Baytown, TX 77521 D-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . DAVID ADAMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309 Whitetail Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666 D-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . FRANCISCO GARCIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 4333, Corpus Christi, TX 78469 D-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . KEITH KING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2406 Belmeade, Brownwood, TX 76801 D-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . DANNY MARTIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 953, Pampa, TX 79066 D-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . RODNEY “ROD” RAULSTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904 D-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . STEVE AUSTIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 CR 1540, Mt Pleasant, TX 75455 D-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . STEVE LOPEZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 507 E Hondo, Devine, TX 78016 D-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . ALLEN FREEMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1013 Soukup Lane, Killeen, TX 76542 D-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . MICHAEL O. HOOD, SR . . . . . . . . 1208 N Rosewood Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 76301 D-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . GEORGE DELESANDRI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6420 Avenue O, Santa Fe, TX 77510 D-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . PEYTON LUMPKIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2207 Blue Water Bay Dr, Katy,TX 77494 D-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . RICARDO “RICK” RAMIREZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 416 E.Water Lily, McAllen, TX 78504 D-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . PAUL CASSIDY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 520 Cassidy Dr, Hemphill, TX 75948 D-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . EDWARD TORRES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 663 Moursund Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78221 D-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . GLENN TALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 622 Southwood Dr., Duncanville, TX 75137 D-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . HAROLD HARTMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9511 Fm 236, Cuero, TX 77954 D-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . MELVIN “MEL” PARKER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 79762 D-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . WAYNE COOLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3615 Birdhouse Dr., Round Rock, TX 78665 D-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . JAMES GUNTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Talford St., Fairfield, TX 75840 D-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . CHARLES KELKER . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 8693, Ennis, TX 75120 972.875.5537

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I n v o l v e m e n t

CHRISTMAS TOY RIDE Texas VFW Senior Vice Commander Syliva Sanchez on VFWMGTX Unit 8 Chairman James Bennett’s Harley Trike during the 2012 Mission Road Developmental Center Christmas Toy Ride.

JOB FAIR

Texas VFW Post 3377, Austin, participated in a Job Fair on Nov. 15, 2012 at the Austin Convention Center to help promote VFW membership and awareness.

AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT DONATION Jim Palmersheim of American Airlines; Dave Brasell, Commander Post 9182; Frank Miner, Post 9182; Thomas Horton, CEO American Airlines and Louis Mehr, Post 9182 Honor Guard Commander.

Texas VFW Post 9182, Katy, presents members of American Airlines with a commemorative plaque for their generosity in transporting 30 Marines from the US Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon from Washington D.C. to Houston, TX in support of “Operation Enduring Freedom.” 6

Texas VFW Winter 2013

C o m m u n i t y

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“MAKE A DIFFERENCE” DAY Texas VFW Post 6899, Trinity, Participates in Annual Safety Event

Texas VFW Post 6899 in conjunction with the Ladies Auxiliary, Trinity Police Department and Trinity Fire Department taught kids fire safety, highway safety, emergency numbers and patriotic information. And all the while ensuring the kids were having a lot of fun while learning. The Post served hot dogs and juice.

HOMELESS STAND DOWN Texas VFW Post 856, Austin, Offers Some Comfort to Homeless Veterans

On October19, 2012, Texas VFW Post 856 hosted the “Homeless Stand Down” at Edwin G. Hutchings, 406 East Alpine, Austin Texas. During the event, homeless veterans got an opportunity to speak with VA representatives who helped them learn of and understand their benefits and as well as sharing what other organizations are available to offer help. The veterans were given flu shots, hair cuts, sleeping bags, clothes, boots and tennis shoes. In addition, everyone was served a great meal.

Texas VFW Winter 2013

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Helping Veterans in Need “We greatly appreciate the assistance that you gave us. It was so very helpful and couldn’t have come at a better time. Thank you again so very much, and God bless.” M. Belew, U. S. Army Veteran, Sherman

“You have no idea what this grant means to me, my wife and four children. I have been so

worried about losing my home since I became ill and it was causing a great deal of stress. I really appreciate everything you do for the Texas veterans and their families and I will definitely buy a Veterans Cash lotto ticket from time to time when I get through this temporary financial hurdle.”

J.Andrus, U.S. Army Veteran, Killeen

“We were very elated to receive the grant, it was right on time. It’s an honor to me to know

that somebody still cares for the veterans. I just want to thank you all so much for helping me and my family keep a roof over our head.s. May God continue to bless Texas VFW Foundation.”

C. Minor, Jr., U.S. Air Force Veteran, Garland

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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.

Texas VFW Winter 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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STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN

Texas VFW Post 10351, Hemphill — Members attended recognition ceremony for women in the military held at Hemphill ISD. Over 65 students and parents were in attendance. Students read poems, presented Power Point presentations, exhibited posters and interviewed a retired Air Force Sergeant.

Texas VFW Post 10454, Grapevine — VFW POST 10454 Life Member Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Wayne Campbell and his family, friends and colleagues celebrated 26 years of military service December 15th, 2012 at the VFW POST 10454 in Grapevine, Texas.

Texas VFW Winter 2013

Continued from p. 4 14, 17 and 28, who have achieved that goal. There are about six more Districts on the verge of reaching 100% membership. However, our job is far from over. We must continue to focus on recruiting and retaining members, as well as reinstating those members that have left our organization. We must continue to retain our continuous members, seeking all to become life members. With your continued efforts, I am confident that we can achieve our goals not only for this year, but for many years in the future. I would like to remind you and invite all of you to participate in my homecoming that will take place in Corpus Christi from March 29, 2013 through March 31, 2013. The host hotel is the Omni. We will also have our State Convention this year in Corpus Christi from June 12, 2013 through June 16, 2013. Again, the Omni will be the host hotel. We are also looking for golfers to participate in the tournaments associated with both events. For more information, look for the ads in this edition of the “Texas VFW News” or online at www.texasvfw.org. Once again, thank you for giving me the opportunity to lead this great organization. Thank for all of your support and for all that you do for veterans. No one does more for veterans. “Lead by Example” is my motto this year and thank you to all who have done so. God bless all of you, especially the men and women serving across the world in our Armed Forces. H

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UTION IT T S N O C E H T IS “ ANT?” STILL RELEV cKinney, Texas tti, M

by Lauren Bella

ital tucked inside rs of an army hosp do rri co e Th . 43 by JULY, 19 L-R: State Auxiliary President Kathy Wewe, State Commander es of a newborn ba Larry ed with the wee cri ho ec rt Fo ide tes the sta ds a un so Velasq ly uez, Lauren Bellatti, National Sr. Vice Commander William on e th r, ve we ho , Thein. rld wo nd the girl. Halfway arou s and cries of ell sh of ing izz wh r hears are the soldier child’s young fathe ely missed the This self‐sacrificing randfather complet Patton’s 3rd Army. l t‐g ra ea ne gr Ge my in e; es els ad his comr y above all at our Constitution mly to the belief th and his love of libert fir cy ld he cra , mo oln de nc of Li se esident placed the defen because he, like Pr entrusted with an dmother’s life simply , we have each been an ns gr ca eri my of Am s As ar ye .” ure them for both first two r liberties ility, so that we sec only safeguard of ou ab e r th ou is of it st r fo be , e ed th to erty ensable “must be maintain these blessings of lib titution is so indisp dualism; our Cons r duty is to steward ivi ou ; ind ce n tan ca eri eri inh Am le invaluab their sacred very basis of their fortunes, and Constitution is the es, r liv Ou eir y. th rit ce ste rifi po r ac n to “s ourselves and ou ndence, compels me claration of Indepe De e th in ted sta that it, as ng it. n,” to my the sake of upholdi “greatest generatio honors” solely for randfather and the t‐g ea gr nald my to , ers ding Fath e of freedom. As Ro tory, from our Foun tion and furtheranc ec his ot of pr se e ur th co to e es th liv ever devised by dged their Throughout rm of government fo have persistently ple ns ble ca ra eri no ho Am ly s, ep ate rson most de high school classm rights which each pe for, because it’s the ects the inalienable racy is worth dying ot oc pr d em an “D es id, rib sa esc ce or their that it pr Reagan on r their social status unique in the way or creed, no matte ce nstitution is utterly ra Co ite S. its sp U. de e Th als du r n.” ma rtunities fo each of fends indivi ide boundless oppo fted Constitution de ov cra pr y d ull he lis ref ca ab r ert est s Ou peace, lib y nation wa possesses. erica should enjoy iples on which this Am inc of pr le l op tia pe ini e he “t Th at idea th ted economic affluence. accurately articula deralist Papers the Horace McFarland formulated in the Fe J. rs . me sm ali fra ’s du ca ivi eri ind The Constitution citizens. Am upon their rnment infringing fire of patriotism.” ve ly go ho e or th eri ng inf wi an t glo eps here and safety” withou s lighted and that ke unparalleled anyw pe of liberty that is e of country that ha ho lov a e d th an is n “it tio at ec th ot t ovides a pr the though rs, grandfathers, , husbands, brothe The Constitution pr . ns so me fla ny at ma th s so ite ich for wh is the match that ign e principles of pride titution provides th ns Co e Th . rld wo else in the ion not only e their lives. nds. The Constitut sta n and classmates giv tio na is th ich upon wh s, their fortunes, is the cornerstone devoted their “live t. The Constitution ve an ha ev o rel wh ll n sti is me wo ion men and d the impact The Constitut n. The innumerable . I have seen firsthan tio ns na tio is ra th cla lds de ho ’s nt up it docume d birthed this nation, so because of that , I had the esteeme country have done ution Day in 2008 is tit th ns to Co r” ar no cle ho ly d us rio nt, the and their sacre her citizens. On a glo the faded parchme holds in the souls of well; the images of ion so e ut tit lov ns I Co try e un th co which ry. However, aped the hed upon my memo ry document that sh etc ve e er th rev on fo e up ar g s zin rd The eless wo privilege of ga th my family from of reading those tim eyes as I walked wi the chilling feeling my d ed an fill , ipt ich scr wh g in rs lin e tea scraw anddad in my brain, are th e picture of my Gr inently positioned afternoon. Seeing th me sa e at th ial perhaps more prom or em th nored for eir servic ld War II M upon miles to be ho The National Wor to les s mi ive g ch lin ve Ar l tra na ar er Natio this nation e still together aft e words which built veterans marching th of at ne th sce me e th red d su an d faces as t inheritance. the registry stowed with a grea from their weathere be ing en be am be ve ha ide pr we e ; Th keep d overwhelmed me. we have a charge to ution is relevant an r citizens. Therefore, rations. The Constit he ne of ge ts re ar tu he fu e r th fo t in and protec alive today er ours to steward rs to own, but rath ou t no is n ca eri Am rve her. H generation to prese my to up is it d an living today, 14

Texas VFW Winter 2013

1ST PLACE — LAUREN BELLATTI, McKinney

Paul Bowen, Universal City

$10,000 Department of Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship Senior, Homeschooled Sponsored by Post 7426, Farmersville, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 1

Sponsored by VFW Post 2059, Kirby, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D20 $2,250 Francis Sullivan Memorial Scholarship

2nd PLACE — MARY DUBOIS, Port Neches

Sponsored by VFW Post 4818, Hereford, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D9 $2,000 RVOS Insurance Scholarship

$6,000 Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 3903, Rosenberg, Scholarship and Rudy and Earlene Ostovich Scholarship Senior at Port Neches-Groves High School Sponsored by Post 4820, Port Neches, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 2

3RD PLACE — LUCCHESE GORDON, Zephyr

$5,500 Texas VFW Motorcycle Group John Fair Memorial Scholarship and District 16 Auxiliary Memorial Scholarship Senior, Homeschooled Sponsored by Post 3278, Brownwood, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 8

4TH PLACE — GRACE MORTON, Seguin

Kolten Morris, Lazbuddie

Pooja Patel, Midland Sponsored by VFW Post 4149, Midland, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D25 $1,750 Veterans Memorial Incorporated Scholarship

Samantha McCulley, Waxahachie Sponsored by VFW Post 3894, Waxahachie, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D30 $1,500 Department of Texas Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship

Brittany Witt, Mineola Sponsored by VFW Post 7523, Mineola, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D12 $1,500 VFW Post 6008 and its Men’s Auxiliary Scholarship

$5,000 W. T. “Pete” Evans Scholarship and Frank Burns Post No. 5619 VFW Scholarship Sophmore, Homeschooled Sponsored by Post 9213, McQueeney, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 5

Saemi Farid, Houston

5TH PLACE — BRADLEY GROVES, Petrolia

Sponsored by VFW Post 6209, Shiner, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D24 $1,250 Post 2544 C.L. Bridge Memorial Scholarship

$4,500 Camp Bowie Post 708 & Auxiliary Scholarship Senior at Petrolia High School Sponsored by Post 5401, Henrietta, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 15

6TH PLACE — ELENA MONTES, Richmond

$4,000 Past State Commander M. John Knapp Scholarship Senior at Lamar Consolidated High School in Rosenberg Sponsored by Post 3903, Rosenberg, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 16

7TH PLACE — SARAH STEPHENS, Duncanville

$3,750 I.P. Sarge Bell Memorial Post 3377 Scholarship Senior at Advantage Academy in Grand Prairie Sponsored by Post 7843, Duncanville, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 3

8TH PLACE — NATHAN WALLACE, Troy

$3,500 Stewart-Wendell Post 3904 Scholarship Junior at Troy High School Sponsored by Post 10377, Lake Belton, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 14

9TH PLACE — NICHOLAS GILLEY, Flint

$3,250 Pampa Post 1657 and Motorcycle Group #28 Scholarship Senior at Bullard High School Sponsored by Post 5073, Frankston, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 19

10th PLACE — SHELDON SMITH, Hillsboro

$3,000 Robert O. “Bob” Pugh Memorial Scholarship Senior at Alvarado High School Sponsored by Post 8911, Fort Worth, and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 21

Sponsored by VFW Post 8905, Cypress, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D4 $1,500 Richard A. and Peggy K. Marshall Memorial Scholarship

Emmalie Berkovsky, Shiner

Shannon Marr, San Antonio Sponsored by VFW Post 8134, La Coste, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D13 $1,000 VFW Post 10428, Kingsland, and its Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship

Franco Martinez, El Paso Sponsored by VFW Post 9173, Smeltertown, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D10 $1,000 Dennis L. Cunningham, Post 8550, El Paso, Texas Scholarship

Jason Cantu, Ben Bolt Sponsored by VFW Post 8621, Alice, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D6 $1,000 District 28 VOD Scholarship

Peter Barber, Houston Sponsored by VFW Post 9182, Katy, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D17 $1,000 Athens VFW Post 7103 Scholarship

Sarah Cheatham, Georgetown Sponsored by VFW Post 8587, Georgetown, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D28 $1,000 West Brazos VFW Post 8551 Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship

Victoria Hebert, Lorena Sponsored by VFW Post 6008, Hewitt, and its Ladies Auxiliary, D29 $1,000 Martin D. Denson Post 6873, Abilene, Scholarship

Priscilla Rada, Donna Sponsored by VFW Post 10802, Donna, D18 $1,000 Mudd Insurance Agency in Honor of Past Department Commander Earnie Mudd Scholarship

2012-2013 VOICE OF DEMOCRACY CONTEST RESULTS

2,374 students participated in the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program. $67,000 in scholarships were given to students to aid in their college educations.

Texas VFW Winter 2013

P a t r i o t ’ s

P e n

A w a r d

W i n n e r s

LL “WHAT I WOULD TEATHERS” ING Fs D N U O F ’S A IC R E M A Beeville, Texa by Kirstee Dunlap,

OK IN THE DOES ONE EVER LO ER, “How did MIRROR AND POND ever stop and I get here?” Does one this come contemplate, “How did take into to be?” Does one ever t that someone consideration the fac many do. brought us here? Not the fifty‐six Imagine being one of ion of signers of the Declarat attributes Independence in which great of character revealed . Think distinction from others battles fought of Revolutionary War y towards victory. rifice being the only wa ac f‐s sel s; ilie fam ir es of the before the innocent ey of Independence, to write the Declaration ee itt mm co the on e the one of fiv and first President of To Thomas Jefferson, American Revolution the in r de lea the , on nstituti al to George Washington Constitution, to the Co the of er aft dr n, kli min Fran United States, to Benja tell them, thank you. st and foremost I would fir s, ate leg de n tio en Conv and is a necessity to the is an unalienable right om ed fre t tha g din an responsibility in Thank you for underst ank you for taking the Th le. mb ea Pr the in on in as found could practice a religi Pursuit of Happiness, ctuary in which they san a ca eri Am erica of ns Am izens of providing future citize process in which all cit a ng wi sto be for u yo . Thank their own expression for a united country. vernment. Thank you go in ice vo a ve ha could developed. To James norable country was ho s thi o, ag ars ye s, Just over two hundred states, to John Adam nt that would unify the me rn ve go a for d lpe ter he ba o Madison, de United States, to all wh second President of the d an nt say, de esi uld pr e wo I vic r, first er the wa rsh economic times aft ha g rin du cy cra rte mo having thi en found the de far we’ve come, from w ho ok Lo .” me co , “Look how far we’ve ok how far we’ve come fifty unified states. Lo g vin ha to ies d lon an co try coun self‐governed having our very own under British reign to ely let mp co soldiers ing red be nd m fro g five hu ’ve come, from havin we far w ho ok Lo s. st military forces very own law ng one of the stronge mi co be to rk Yo w after the Battle of Ne in the world. obedience to God.” esistance to tyrants is “R d, sai ce on n so fer agine Thomas Jef guaranteed death. Im the letter that almost g nin sig n me eld. Feel ze efi ali ttl su Vi of the ba on the opposing side en sm kin ur yo of e ents that seeing the fac died. These are the ev y the e for be ed fac rs the torture five signe say to my founding ry last thing I would ve e Th r. cte ara ch e defined tru worth it.” H fathers is, “It was all

Texas VFW Winter 2013

PATRIOT’S PEN WINNERS

T e a c h e r

A w a r d s

CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION TEACHER AWARDS

DONNA ZAPATA K-5 GRADE Pictured L-R: Kathy Wewe, State Ladies Auxiliary President; Larry Velasquez, Texas VFW State Commander; Donna Zapata; and Bill Thien, National Sr. Vice Commander.

The Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars awards the 2013 K-5 grade Citizenship Education Teacher Award to Mrs. Donna Zapata. A teacher since 2007, Donna Zapata teaches kindergarten at Ciavarra Elementary School in Devine, Texas. Mrs. Zapata has organized the annual Veterans day ceremony for the past three years and coordinates the Earth Day functions at the school. She also serves as the Social Studies curriculum coordinator for the school. Her principal, Brenda Gardner, said of Mrs. Zapata, “When I have young teachers who need a good role model, I send them to Donna’s class to shadow her for a day.” Donna provides after school tutoring to all of her students. Donna’s teaching methods were used in a video project for the 3-tier mathematics program initiated at the University of Texas. In this project she was cited for her exceptional classroom management skills, especially for a kindergarten class. Her use of praise and management to recognize student efforts ensured student success in this project. In her spare time, she is actively involved in youth volleyball and her Church.

Sponsored by Texas VFW Post 3966 in Devine, and District 13.

TERRI WAGNER 6-8 GRADE Pictured L-R: Kathy Wewe, State Ladies Auxiliary President; Larry Velasquez, Texas VFW State Commander; Terri Wagner; and Bill Thien, National Sr. Vice Commander. Sponsored by Texas VFW Post 5254 in La Grange and District 28.

JENNY MILLER 9-12 GRADE Pictured L-R: Kathy Wewe, State Ladies Auxiliary President; Larry Velasquez, Texas VFW State Commander; Jenny Miller; and Bill Thien, National Sr. Vice Commander. Sponsored by Texas VFW Post 6873 in Abilene and District 8.

The Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars awards the 2013 6-8th Grade Citizenship Education Teacher Award to Mrs. Theresa “Terri” Wagner. A teacher for over 35 years, a 7th grade teacher at La Grange Middle School in La Grange, Texas. As a history teacher, Mrs. Wagner helps bring history and citizenship alive through her passion for teaching. For twenty two years, Terri has guided students on tours of our Nation’s Capital, Jamestown and Williamsburg, organized field trips to historical sites across Texas as well as trips to Colorado and Hawaii. Mrs. Wagner participates with the “Youth Groups Supporting our Military” project and helped develop the Middle School wide project “Valentines for Veterans” involving 297 students and 19 teachers. She is actively involved in the VFW “Veterans in the Classroom” project and distributes Buddy Poppies to her students as well as teaching them the story behind the Poppy. She works with her students to write letters to our wounded, recovering warriors at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. Terri stated that “When I began teaching I felt my first and most important duty was to educate young people to become good citizens. It did not matter what I was teaching, what mattered was that these children learn the lessons of life that would prepare them to take over our society.” The Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars awards the 2013 9-12th Grade Citizenship Education Teacher Award to Mrs. Jenny Miller. A teacher for over 27 years, Jenny Miller currently serves as a government teacher at Abilene High School in Abilene, Texas. Perhaps it is best to describe her teaching abilities by quoting from the senior JROTC instructor at Abilene High School, Chief Master Sergeant Paul Washinsky, who said, “If you need someone to teach government, patriotism, or honor of our veterans; Jenny is capable, willing and proud. She is one of the most respected teachers at Abilene High School.” Her classes are annually involved in distributing the Buddy Poppy in coordination with Texas VFW Post 6873 in Abilene and participating in “operation Christmas” an initiative to deliver letters to our deployed troops through the Christmas season. Mrs. Miller starts her classroom day by actively discussing current events during the past day. This year she had her classes research, debate and question the election issues and had a mock election. She encourages her students to become better citizens, by voting and getting others to vote. Chief Master Sergeant Washinsky said, “She is one of those teachers who make Abilene High School a better place on a daily basis.” Her Superintendent, Heath Burns, said of Mrs. Miller, she is “One of those rare teachers who truly makes learning come alive for her students.” Texas VFW Winter 2013

C e l e b r a t i o n s

R e m e m b r a n c e s

Texas VFW Post 7873, Lake Texoma — “Labor of Love” annual fund raiser by MAUX and LAUX to support Soldiers’ efforts donates $7,000 to the Department MAP Fund. L to R: Lavern Terbl, Post QM; Jerry Hinton, Post Commander; Curtis Severs, Men’s Auxiliary president; Diane Hinton, Ladies Auxiliary President; and Larry Velasquez, Texas VFW State Commander.

Texas VFW Post 6873, Abilene — Post members and its auxiliaries participated in the Abilene Veterans Day Parade with a float, passing out flags and Buddy Poppies. The Motorcycle Unit was also in the parade. Ladies Chairman Sherry Craft and her husband Mike were an integral part of the project.

Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas — Post members participated in the Dallas Veterans Day Parade by proudly waving POW and American flags from their military jeep.

2013 Vietnam & WWII tours

Texas VFW Post 6439, Wellington — Veterans gathered to honor Carthel Lewis, a WWII Veteran, on Dec. 7, 2012 at Parkview Manor. Post Commander Bill Owens makes the medal presentation to Carthel Lewis. Special guests were Cathel’s grandson, Weston Emmert and his wife Alaina from McKinney. Photos by Bev Odom.

Texas VFW Winter 2013

Mar 11-20: Vietnam-DMZ, Hanoi, Saigon, military sights, etc. Jun 2 & Aug 7: WWII tour of France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany Jun 7: Italy from Milan to the Isle of Capri-Anzio, Monte Cassino, etc Aug 25: Poland, Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia-eastern front of WWII

~ Professional guides - Great Hotels - Most Meals ~ Economically Priced - WWII veterans Receive Discount ~ Groups Welcome ~

For a brochure call Vi Ranney, escort, 605-665-3596

DAN WEST

FOR STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER

EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP

veterans advocate

DAN WEST FOR STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER 2013-14

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)

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

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

Limited Quantities! ORDER TODAY!

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 Winter 2013

A C C E S S O R I E S

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

Texas VFW Winter 2013

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C e l e b r a t i o n s

R e m e m b r a n c e s

Texas VFW Post 12058, Kyle/Buda In observance of the Vietnam Peace Accord, the Post Commander provided an overview and a number of Vietnam Veteran Post members spoke of their experiences.

Texas VFW Post 9318, Taft — Post members of participate in the annual Veterans Day Parade recognizing the end of World War I and honoring all veterans who serve our country.

Texas VFW Post 2438, Bay City — A Texas State Historical Marker for Philip H. Parker VFW Post 2438 was unveiled and dedicated Saturday, Nov. 24. A group of VFW and Auxiliary members, Matagorda County Cavalry members, Matagorda County Historical Commission members, county and city officials, veterans, family and friends were present for the dedication ceremony.

Texas VFW Post 4695, Hurst — Post members and auxiliary honored “A” Company 949 National Guard for their service in Iraq by presenting them with a plaque and lunch. The celebration was in observance of the Vietnam Peace Accord.

Texas VFW Post 688, Boerne — Post member Colin Jones (red vest), a Pearl Harbor survivor and former POW, gave a 40-minute talk to members and invited guests about his life and military experiences.

Texas VFW Winter 2013

Texas VFW Post 4816, Porter — Post Commander Mike Stoutenger and Ladies Auxiliary member Jennifer Alford pose with participants from the “Kid’s Cook-off” which was part of their Annual BBQ Cook-off. A great time was had by all!

Texas VFW Post 5619, Houston The history of the Vietnam Peace Accord was read to Post members, many of whom are Vietnam Veterans. Afterwards, members shared dinner together to celebrate the occasion.