JUNE-JULY | 2018
Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars
98TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY
2018 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST
INSIDE 98th Annual State Convention Independence Day Celebrations Officers Training Seminar VFW National Convention
Welcome 2018-19 State Commander Inge Conley
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Honor
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IN THE NEWS 5 State Commander’s Column
9 Legislative News
10 Texas VFW Foundation
11 98th Annual State Convention
18 4th of July Celebrations
CONTENTS
98th Annual State Convention Highlights
23 Officers Training Seminar
p11
25 Texas VFW Membership Application
Over 1,100 veterans and auxiliary members attended the 98th Annual Convention in Dallas, Texas.
27 Highlights from the 119th VFW
Independence Day Celebrations
National Convention
28 Buddy Poppy Displays from the 119th VFW National Convention
B:11”
S:9.75”
T:10.75”
UPCOMING EVENTS
State Commander’s Homecoming . . . . . p8
SEE THE LATEST CALENDARS AT
p18 See how Posts remembered and celebrated Independence Day.
Highlights from National
Texasvfw.org > News > Upcoming Events Texasvfw.org > News > Calendar
SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN JUNE/JULY D-Day • Flag Day • Independence Day • Signing of the Korean Armistice in 1953 J U N E - J U LY | 2 018
Official Magazi ne of the Texas
Veterans of Foreign Wars
98TH ANNUAL STATE CONVEN TION GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY
2018 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST
p27 Texas VFW State Leadership attends the 119th VFW National Convention.
INS IDE
Welcome 2018-19 State Comman der Inge Conley
98th Annual State Convention Independence Day Celebrations Officers Trainin g Seminar VFW National Conve ntion
Te x a s V F W J U N E /J U LY 2 0 18
ON THE COVER
Inge Conley from Texas VFW Post 12075 in Humble is elected State Commander at the 98th Annual State Convention in Dallas, Texas held June 13-17, 2018.
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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 and 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 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 PO Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to erin@texasvfw.org. Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and 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. 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/news.
CONNECT WITH
TEXAS VFW ON
SOCIAL MEDIA @TEXASVFW
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O F Fof ItheCDepartment I A L ofMTexas, A G A Z ofI Foreign N E Wars of the The Official Publication Veterans United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price of $30.00. Published six times a year by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXXII, Number 6, © AUGUST 2018. 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 terri@medianation.net. Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editor Terri Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Designer Department Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535
2018-19 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Commander Adjutant/Quartermaster Sr Vice Jr Vice Judge Advocate Surgeon Chaplain Chief-Of-Staff Inspector Immediate Past Cmdr Asst. Quartermaster Asst. Adjutant Asst. Adjutant Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Officer Of The Day National Council Member
12075 Inge Conley 3377 Roy Grona 3278 Keith King 3893 Richard “Dick” Shawver 8913 D. Grant Seabolt, Jr. 3359 Thomas “Doc” Howard 4008 Allen “Al” Lowe 5619 Terry Contella 812 Rodney “Rod” Raulston 4815 Edward Torres 6378 Carlos Sustaita 3413 Dan West 9078 Wayne Cooley 2059 Robert Martinez, Jr. 2775 Robert Lafleur 10712 Loren Pogue 7873 Lavern Terbl 8551 Glenn James 688 Andrew Camplen 3413 Lonnie Garza 3413 Dan West
17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346 8503 N Ih-35, Austin, TX 78753 2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 19151 Valley Dr., Flint, TX 75762 1305 Cardigan Ln., Desoto, TX 75115 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044 1 Roy Bean Dr., Belton, TX 76513 3136 Lodgemist Ln., Dickinson, TX 77539 3901 Mcconnell Ave., El Paso, TX 79904 663 Moursund Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78221 Po Box 14451, Austin, TX 78761 8503 N Ih-35, Austin, TX 78753 8503 N Ih-35, Austin, TX 78753 314 Shadwell Drive, San Antonio, TX 78228 3528 Whippoorwill St., Orange, TX 77630 Po Box 809, Donna, TX 78537 58 Plantation Ave., Pottsboro, TX 75076 235 Primrose Rd., Freeport, TX 77541 105 Marlin Dr., Bergheim, TX 78004 2311 Jeffrey Lane, New Braunfels, TX 78130 8503 N Ih-35, Austin, TX 78753
DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORS Houston: Terry “Mike” Eshenbaugh Waco: Katina Cryer
713-383-2730 254-299-9959
Terry.Eshenbaugh@va.gov katina.cryer@va.gov
2018-2019 DISTRICT COMMANDERS
DISTRICT COMMANDER 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 28 29 30
2150 2775 2494 6010 7110 8621 3278 1475 9173 1183 8134 4008 8878 7109 4709 7473 3406 6970 7835 4403 4372 10427 6008 7103
Ray Richardson Kevin W. Bost George Warringer Steve R. Benavides D. L. “Joe” Hackett Hector L. Villarreal James Masters Ben Lowrance Jose “Joe” Vargas, Jr. John Ashcraft Daniel “Danny” M. Hinojosa Loy D. Gardner II Michael O. Hood, Sr. Israel Cortez, Jr. John M. Tellier Lupita M. Perez Emerson Griffin John E. Shipley Eddie L. Terry Patrick H. Franklin Charles Kobes Terry L. Craig Roy “Bobby” Jones William “Bill” E. Malone
ADDRESS
2491 Country View Ln.-Apt. 1313, McKinney, TX 75069 165 Greathouse St., Vidor, TX 77662 2306 10th St., Irving, TX 75061 25318 Friar Lake Ln., Spring, TX 77373 1019 Allen Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130 PO Box 4270, Alice, TX 78333 7800 FM 2125, Brownwood, TX 76801 2901 Yaupon Place, Amarillo, TX 79124 10436 Tomwood Ave., El Paso, TX 79925 385 Cairy Ln., Longview, TX 75604 305 East County Rd. 678, Natalia, TX 78059 4600 Whisper Trail, Belton, TX 76513 1208 N Rosewood Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301 3717 Cibolo Ct., Pearland, TX 77584 16718 Old Danville Rd., Willis, TX 77318 PO Box 2853, Elsa, TX 78543 616 Palestine Rd., Alto, TX 75925 905 Schuettig Rd., Poteet, TX 78065 5700 Westview Ct., Tolar, TX 76476 516 School Rd., Port Lavaca, TX 77979 208 East VFW Ln., Odessa, TX 79762 2502 Peach Tree Ln., Cedar Park, TX 78613 206 Horton Dr., Waco, TX 76705 8161 FM 2494, Athens, TX 75751
STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN Comrades and Auxiliary members, I would like to start off by thanking everyone for your support in electing me as your State Commander at our State Convention in Dallas, Texas. I fully intend on doing the best job ever in order to make our Veterans of Foreign Wars a better Organization, and I fully feel that Madam President Eppy Lackey feels the same. Teamwork will be the “KEY” to our success this year. Make sure everyone remembers the “Golden Rule” in our Organization as we need to treat the majority’s decision with respect. Comrades, I ask each and everyone of you to forget our pettiness when it comes before our meetings and respect each and everyone in order to become a strong and united group of Post and District members working together in harmony to accomplish a common goal. Remember our Veterans of Foreign Wars comes first, then only then are we allowed to have outside business operations to help support the works of our Organization. Just as a friendly reminder for our Officers what is required of you as a Post or District Officer is not an overwhelming task. Our bylaws are very specific in several instances on deadlines. A deadline is a deadline. If our Officers fail to accomplish their job, I have to do my job as State Commander, and uphold our Bylaws. Our focus will be MEMBERSHIP! We have an excellent opportunity in our communities to recruit Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve members as well as offering partnerships to the military units in our local area. The majority of these units have been or in the process of deploying to combat zones. Capture them! In addition, we must and will support these families more then ever. They need us! Get with the Department Headquarters regarding funds available through the MAP program to help support these military members and their families. Every Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard Unit in Texas should be partnered with through the Adopt a Unit Program. I hope to visit each district this year in my travels. It hopefully will be in an Officer’s capacity, but if not I will try to get there for a school or a specific function to be with our superb Comrades and Auxiliary members in this great State. I will hold true to my slogan this year of “SECOND TO NONE.” I ask you to join me with this same philosophy as we start our year and continue with throughout the entire year of 2018-2019. I ask that if you need any assistance please don’t hesitate to call or reach out for a life line. Myself, our Senior Vice Commander Keith King, Junior Vice Commander Richard “Dick” Shawver and Chief of Staff Terry Contella realize what an honor it is to lead this great Organization and are here to serve you in anyway. In closing, Thank You — Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work. Please don’t hesitate to call for assistance or use a life line, your State Inspectors are at your disposal. See you at the TOP!
God Bless you, God Bless our Troops and God Bless the Unites States of America. Te x a s V F W J U N E /J U LY 2 0 18
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REGISTRATION IN ADVANCE $50
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*Schedule of events has not been published yet.
S TAT E C O M M A N D E R ’ S & S TAT E P R E S I D E N T ’ S
HOMECOMING
2018 2019
STATE COMMANDER’S & STATE PRESIDENT’S HOMECOMING REGISTRATION NAME:
PHONE #:
ADDRESS: STATE:
CITY: ZIP:
POST/AUX:
DIST. #:
EMAIL:
REGISTRATION IS $50 PER PERSON
TYPE OF CARD
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO TEXAS VFW CARD #
SECURITY CODE Last 3 #’s on back of card. For AMEX, the 4 #’s on the front.
MAIL OR FAX PAYMENT & COMPLETED FORM TO
TEXAS VFW, PO BOX 14468, AUSTIN, TX, 78761 - OR- FAX TO 512-834-9232
EXP. DATE
A $3 Credit Card Processing Fee will be added if paying by Credit Card.
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SIGNATURE
DATE
NORTH KOREA RETURNS PRESUMED U.S. REMAINS August 3, 2018: “The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is incredibly encouraged by the news that North Korea has returned 55 boxes of remains believed to be U.S. service members who have been missing in action since the Korean War,” said VFW National Commander B.J. Lawrence. “This is a huge step in the right direction that we hope will finally bring peace to the peninsula and closure to American families who have been waiting more than six decades for their loved ones to return home from their war.” The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency lists 7,691 missing Americans from the Korean War, with some 5,300 believed to be in North Korea. DPAA also lists 111 Cold War losses in the vicinity of the Korean peninsula. The VFW sent a letter to President Trump in advance of the June 12 Singapore summit to urge him to include the return of American remains as a discussion point with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. “The return of our missing is a humanitarian mission that transcends politics,” Lawrence said.
Soldiers carry caskets containing remains of US troops who were killed in the Korean War during a ceremony at Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek on July 27, 2018. Kim Hong-ji/AFP
Roger DeWeese Candidate For State Junior Vice Commander 2019-2020
One VFW One Team
All American Post Commander All State Post Commander All State District Commander State Deputy Chief of Staff National Aide-de-Camp (2) National Special Aide-de-Camp (2) Gold Legacy Life Member
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TEXAS VFW
FOUNDATION THE TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION HAS HELPED: 650 veterans, with 355 dependents and 25 surviving spouses with $508,432 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018.
Thank you to the VFW/Auxiliary/Motorcycle Groups for these generous donations! $5,000
Under $1,000
Post 3904 Post 835 Auxiliary 7523
Posts (collectively) . . . . . . . . $3,425 Auxiliaries (collectively) . . . $28,958
$1,000 Post 1820 Post 2427 Post 3966 Post 4709 Auxiliary 2205 Auxiliary 2772 Auxiliary 3903 Auxiliary 7108 Auxiliary 7110 Auxiliary 8785
Total from Posts . . . . . . . . $32,670 Auxiliaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . $48,740 Combined Total . . . . . . $81,410
“The VFW stepped in and helped us to take care of our bills for the month of June. It was so comforting to know that our needs were met for that month. Thanks to the entire organization and every individual involved for what they have done for my family. It’s nice to know that even though veterans are no longer in the military, they are still treated as family, as a band of brothers. We are forever grateful for the compassion and care this entity has provided.” — Rick S., US Army
Congratulations to the Texas VFW Foundation for being awarded a Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) 2018 Grant for $500,000! http://www.tvc.texas.gov/
YOUR SMALL DONATION MAK ES A
BIG
ATTENTION POSTS/AUXILIARIES Please contact us at foundation@ texasvfw.org for more information on the programs discussed at State Convention and Officers Training Seminar. VETERANS SEEKING ASSISTANCE WITH EYE GLASSES/FRAMES can contact us and/or their County Veteran Service Officer. For more information, contact us at foundation@texasvfw.org.
DIFFERENCE .
The Texas VFW Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 Public Charity. The Veterans’ Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge, widow or immediate family member thereof, regardless of where or what time they served. Your charitable contribution could be tax deductible. Talk to your tax professional about how contributions to the Texas VFW Foundation could help.
PLEASE MAIL DONATIONS TO TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION, P.O. BOX 14468, AUSTIN, TX 78761. PAYPAL LINK IS ON TEXASVFW.ORG, BOTTOM OF PAGE. 10
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98th Annual State Convention a Success By Dan West
This year over 1,100 Texas veterans and auxiliary members participated in the Texas VFW 98th Annual State Convention in Dallas, Texas. Starting with the golf tournament on Wednesday, June 13th 2018, sponsored by District Three, teams of four played 18 holes of golf at Duck Creek golf club, even with temperatures reaching 101 degrees. All had a great time and District Three volunteers staffed the event, under the direction of Convention Chairman Bill Oaks. At the final Council of Administration meeting for the 2017-2018 year, outgoing Sate Commander Edward Torres recognized several Districts for their outstanding performance in membership growth and community service projects. 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. The Texas VFW Foundation sponsored a Veteran Job Fair in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission and Texas Veterans Commission where we had over 30 employers present who interviewed over 360 veterans looking for work with over a dozen hired on the spot. All hands where on deck for the opening ceremonies with the Honor Guard from the Bryan Adams Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp bringing in and posting the colors to the National Anthem and pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States.
After the opening prayer by State Chaplain Al Lowe, introductions and salutations from State Commander Torres and State Auxiliary President Holland where given and State Adjutant/Quartermaster Roy Grona took control as the Master of Ceremonies and introduced our National Representative from the VFW, Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Vincent “B.J.� Lawrence from Almogordo, New Mexico who gave his remarks. He was followed by Jeffery Milligan the Veterans Administration VISN 17 Director who talked about the health services and overall improvements that the VA was making and providing for veterans at all of their locations nationwide. Kris Scheurer from HUMANA gave us an update on how HUMANA is working with the VA and Medicare on helping veterans. Former Prisoner of War Ken Wallingford, Director at the Texas Veterans Land Board gave us updates on the Veterans Land Board and the services they provide to Texas veterans.
continued next page
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All State Posts
District Post 1 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 8 9 13 16 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 19 19 19 20 20 20 21 21 21 21 24 28 28 28 28 28 29 29 30
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7426 Farmersville 1514 Village Mills 1406 Dallas 2494 Irving 3359 Dallas 7843 Duncanville 8785 Mesquite 2427 Tomball 2933 Dripping Springs 3413 San Marcos 7110 New Braunfels 8800 Startzville 2375 Kingsville 8967 Port Aransas 12160 Sinton 3278 Brownwood 2466 Lubbock 8569 Comfort 3903 Rosenberg 1907 Normangee 4816 Porter 5871 Huntsville 6522 Bellville 7104 Brenham 9182 Katy 12024 The Woodlands 3893 Nacogdoches 8904 Center 8924 Palestine 1533 San Antonio 4815 San Antonio 12041 Lytle 7835 Granbury 8235 Fort Worth 10429 Benbrook 10454 Grapevine 6382 Hallettsville 2527 Bastrop 4443 Austin 6525 Rockdale 8587 Georgetown 12104 Bastrop 4694 Mexia 8564 Waco 7103 Athens
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continued from previous page National VFW Legislative Chair Clarence Jackson gave updates on the state and National legislature with special mention of the TEXAS Legislative Team winning Legislative Team of the year from the National VFW for all of the work they do to promote veteran’s issues at the State and National level. Past State Commander and National Home Trustee Sylvia Sanchez update us on the National Home and how the Home is helping our widows and orphans who have no other place to go with a safe place to live. After all the speakers finished the All-State Posts in the State were recognized and presented their awards by State Commander Torres and Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief B. J. Lawrence (See insert for list of All State Post). 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 Torres and National VFW Representative B.J. Lawrence to present all
of the State level awards to the winners who were called to the awards platform individually. On Saturday, VFW and Auxiliary meetings reconvened, nominations reopened and elections held with Inge Conley of Post 12075 in Humble, District 4 being elected to lead the Texas VFW as the State Commander for the 2018-2019 year. The following were also elected to the following State positions; Senior Vice Commander – Keith King; Junior Vice Commander – Richard “Dick” Shawver; Quartermaster – Roy Grona; Judge Advocate – Grant Seabolt; Surgeon – Thomas “Doc” Howard; Chaplain – Al Lowe; National Council – Dan West. At the installation ceremony held later that afternoon, State Commander Inge Conley announced her appointments (see page 4) and thanked the many people and Posts that helped her in her VFW career, most especially her spouse retired Sergeant Major Earl Conley. State Commander Conley and State Auxiliary President Eppie Lackey 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 2018-2019 year.
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Award Winners Danny Henry Award
J.T. Rutherford Awards
Glen M. Gardner Award
Buddy Poppy Awards
Top Post Commander — Ben Lowrance, Post 1475, Amarillo
Quartermaster Award – Juan Martinez, Jr., Post 9174, San Antonio
Chaplain Award – Jack Steel, Post 12041, Lytle
Category 1 (Public Promotion of Poppy Campaign) 1st Place — Post 5400, Santa Fe 2nd Place — Post 8551, Sweeny 3rd Place — Post 9299, Alvarado
Outstanding Post Service Officer Award
Category 2 (Memorial or Inspirational Displays)
William B. Moody Award
Hector Giron, Post 8790, Houston
Past State Commanders Award Marvin Lockhart, II, District 24
Barbara Hoffman Award – Auxiliary Award
1st Place – Post 4376, Seven Points 2nd Place – Post 9174, San Antonio 3rd Place – Post 6115, Elgin
Category 3 (Artistic or Decorative Use of Poppies)
Barbara Steel, Auxiliary 12041, Lytle
1st Place – Post 8905, Cypress 2nd Place – Post 9299, Alvarado
National VFW Publications Award – Grand Award
Community Service Posts
Outstanding Past District Commander Award
National Fred C. Hall Award
Texas VFW News – 9th year in a row, Editor Roy Grona
Melvin Parker – District 25
J.T. Rutherford Award — Benny Guerrero
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Benny Guerrero, Clarence Jackson, Robert Martinez, Jr.
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Post 1514, Village Mills and Post 2438, Bay City
Post 12160, Sinton
J.T. Rutherford Award — Clarence Jackson
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June 13-17, 2018
Danny Henry Award, Top Post Commander in the State — Ben Lowrance, Post 1475, Amarillo
Glen M. Gardner Award — Quartermaster Award Juan Martinez, Jr., Post 9174, San Antonio
William B. Moody Award — Chaplain Award — Jack Steel, Post 12041, Lytle Barbara Hoffman Award — Auxiliary Award — Barbara Steel, Auxiliary 12041, Lytle
Outstanding Post Service Officer Award — Hector Giron, Post 8790, Houston
J.T. Rutherford Award — Robert Martinez, Jr.
Past State Commanders Award — Marvin Lockhart, II, District 24 Te x a s V F W J U N E /J U LY 2 0 18
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All-State District Commanders
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District 1 Senior Vice Commander accepting on behalf of District 1 Commander, Don Graber
All-State District 3 Commander Lennie Page
All-State District 6 Commander Hector Villarreal
All-State District 8 Commander Kevin Wade
All-State District 9 Commander Richard Herman
All-State District 13 Commander Andrew Camplen
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All-State District 17 Commander Phillip Dubois
All-State District 18 Commander Loren Pogue
All-State District 24 Commander Marvin Lockhart, II
Past District 25 Commander Mel Parker accepting on behalf of District 25 Commander, Charles Kobes
See you in Houston for the 99th Annual State Convention!
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Texas VFW Post 3413 — San Marcos, Texas
4 T H O F J U LY
Members enjoyed a BBQ picnic with invited guests from the American Legion, and Vietnam Veterans of America.
Post 4372 | Odessa, Texas Members held an honor guard at the post which was also open to the public in celebration of Independence Day.
Texas VFW Post 3530 — Richardson, Texas 11 Members got together and celebrated 4th of July after our business meeting. Sitting is Ralph L. Smith, and Roger Davis. Back row L to R are Lucie Connolly, Skip McGuire, Tim McGuire, Fred Siebolat, Ralph Rizzo, Pablo Gonzalez, Louis Robinson, and Art Hawkins. Photo by Howard Davis.
Texas VFW Post 8561 — Arlington, Texas Commander gave a presentation explaining how on July 4th, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States.
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Post 8567 — Graham, Texas Members and Auxiliary staged a fireworks show for the community. 300 people were on hand for the fireworks, live music and food.
Texas VFW Post 4380 — Plano, Texas Post Commander Shana Summers, David Castaneda, Tony Morago, Jay Massey, Rick Bazan, Mickey Moore, Claude Fitzpatrick, Sean Willy, Auxiliary President Christy Barnhouse, Chuck Barnhouse, Rita Fitzpatrick, Angie Fisher, Greg Fisher, Cub Scout Pack 4380 participated in the Plano Lions Club Independence Day Parade. 100 bags with VFW and Auxiliary information and candy were handed out along the route.
Texas VFW Post 9191 — Killeen, Texas The Commander and members assisted in the setup and observance of our fallen comrades who gave all in defense of our great nation. The boots with photos and dog tags were displayed at Fort Hoot through July 4th.
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Texas VFW Post 1475 — Amarillo, Texas
Bill Brockett, Bobby Michaels, Jim McRaven, Adam Keith performed a flag raising ceremony at Glad Tidings Assembly of God.
MG-6 Celebrated independence day at the Canyons Retirement Community. The Post provided food, music, dancing, games and a potato salad contest.
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Texas VFW Post 5870 — Queen City, Texas
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Texas VFW Post 10376 — Marble Falls, Texas
Texas VFW Post 6382 — Hallettsville, Texas
Members and Auxiliary participated in the local 4th of July parade. Speeches were given and the community enjoyed a great day.
Standing left to right: Post Adjutant Charles Grafe, Chaplain James Honish, Comrade Joseph Bludau, Commander Larry Koehn. Sitting left to right: Trustee Hubbard Wyatt and Comrade Jerry Kallus commemoring Independence Day.
Texas VFW Post 2775 — Orange, Texas (Below) John Clark, WWII Veteran Herman “MO” Litton, Post Commander Ed McIntyre, WWII Veteran J. D. Dixson gather for a 4th of July celebration.
Texas VFW Post 8562 — Eagle Pass, Texas (Left) Members participated in the 4th of July parade. Pictured here is Commander Cruz Montoya, Service Officer Barrios, Junior Vice Commander Chavarria, Asst. Chaplain Salas.
Texas VFW Post 8134 — Medina Valley, Texas Auxiliary and members decorated Quartermaster Danny Hinojosa’s truck and Post Commander Henry Seay’s trailer and participated in the 4th of July Parade in Castroville, Texas.
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TEXAS VFW OFFICERS TRAINING SEMINAR
Roy Grona leads the District Commanders Training.
Over 300 Post, District and State officers attended the 28th Annual Texas VFW Officer Training Seminar. All phases of VFW Post and District operations was discussed during this seminar including new program initiatives and By-Law changes that affect every VFW Post statewide. This event is held annually every July in Austin, Texas and all Post Officers are encouraged to attend whether you are new to the VFW or have been a member for over 50 years. Information for OTS-2019 will be available online in January 2019.
Attendees learn about new VFW initiatives and By-Law changes.
State Commander Inge Conley
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Texas VFW Post 12104 — Bastrop, Texas
In observance of Memorial Day, members along with the American Heritage Girl and Boy Scouts replaced U.S. Flags on Veterans’ graves at local cemeteries.
MISSION: TO SUPPORT THOSE WHO HAVE SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR
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THIS COUNTRY—ALL VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
LOBBYING FOR VETERANS & MILITARY
FUNDING COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
PROVIDING DISASTER RELIEF
PHONE CARDS FOR TROOPS
SUPPORTING MEMORIALS
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERISM
SUPPORTING YOUTH GROUPS
ASSISTING VETERANS WITH EARNED ENTITLEMENTS
Te x a s V F W J U N E /J U LY 2 0 18
THE DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in, or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > Home > Membership and follow link. Name:___________________________________________________________________________Email:_________________________________________________________________________ First
Middle
Last
Suffix (Jr., Sr., etc)
Address:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City:____________________________________________________________________________________State:_____________________________Zip:_________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________________________________________Date of Birth: (MM/DD/YY)_________________________________________________________ Military Service: p Air Force p Army p Coast Guard p Marines p Navy Current Status: p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/Reserve I served in:
p Pre-World War II p World War II p WWII Occupation p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p 1945-90 (Berlin)
p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Storm/Shield p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism — p Expeditionary Operations Expeditionary 2001 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya,
p Afghanistan 2001 p Iraq 2003
Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.)
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(n): p Annual Member p Life Member p Life 12 Mo. Install* ($45 Initial payment)
LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEE SCHEDULE AGE as of December 31st
One-Time Payment
Initial Payment
11 Payments of
Through Age 30
$425.00
$45.00
$38.64
31-40
$410.00
$45.00
$37.27
41-50
$375.00
$45.00
$34.09
51-60
$335.00
$45.00
$30.45
61-70
$290.00
$45.00
$26.36
71-80
$225.00
$45.00
$20.45
81 and over
$170.00
$45.00
$15.45
Automatic Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: You authorize the VFW to initiate electronic debit entries or affect a charge by any other commercially accepted practice to your account set forth above for the payment of dues reflected on this application. You understand such charges may be made within 2-3 business days of payment due date. For installment payments, charges will be made on or around the 1st or 15th day of the month. This authorization will remain in full force until VFW has received notification from you of its termination or upon completion of the installment payments. Annual dues are subject to change. By completing this authorization, you acknowledge that you will only receive notice when the payment would differ by more than $10.00 from the most recent payment. Call VFW Customer Service at 1-800-963-3180 or write to VFW at: VFW, P.O. Box 119028, Kansas City, MO 64171 to inquire about or cancel a payment, or to report problems such as bank closures, lost or stolen account numbers, closed accounts, or unauthorized transactions. Cancellation requests must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. Central Time ten business days prior to the scheduled payment date. If you are unaware of the charge date for your account, please contact VFW. If a payment is returned by your financial institution (e.g., due to insufficient funds, incorrect account information, closed account, etc.) The VFW will contact you at the address we have on file for you, explaining why the payment could not be processed, and providing alternative payment options. The privilege of making payments under this agreement may be revoked by VFW if any item is not paid upon presentation. You may have additional rights and responsibilities under the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. Life Membership Installment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Membership Installment Plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making an initial payment of $45.00 and (11) monthly payments. The member will be issued an Annual membership card at the time of enrollment. The member may elect to receive a monthly statement by mail or may set up a payment profile to make the monthly payment automatically using a credit/debit card or bank account. A payoff amount will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon the completion of payments. The Life Membership fee is determined from the schedule using the applicant’s age on December 31 of the year in which the application is submitted. Delinquencies will be handled as follows: Up to 30 days – continue to bill; 31 to 120 days – delinquency can be corrected through make up payment(s) or plan end date pushed forward; More than 120 days – member is dropped from the Installment Plan, all monthly payments made to date, are applied to future years annual dues.
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:________________________________________ Amount $:______________________________________ 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 Te x a s V F W J U N E /J U LY 2 0 18
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“Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Supporting Our Veterans
Insuring Texas Homes, Farms, and Ranches Since 1901 1-800-507-2174 RVOS.com
“Neighbors“Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Helping Neighbors” Supporting Our VeteransOur Veterans Supporting
Insuring Insuring Texas Homes, Texas Homes, Farms, andFarms, Ranchesand Ranches Since 1901 Since 1901 1-800-507-2174 1-800-507-2174 RVOS.com RVOS.com
MILITARY
United States Marine Corps – Vietnam 3rd MAF Combined Action Group Awards – Bronze Star w/”V” for Valor, Combat Action Ribbon; Navy Unit Citation, National Defense, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Campaign Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, RVN Gallantry Cross Unit Citation Medal w/Palm
POST 4816 PORTER TEXAS
Post Jr. Vice Commander, All-State Commander (2), Post Chaplain, Trustee, Chief of Staff
DISTRICT 17
Jr Vice Commander, Sr Vice Commander, District Commander, Trustee, Chief of Staff, Chaplain
DEPARTMENT MISSION As Veterans of Foreign Wars we should always support our troops, continue to fight for the benefits we earned, help our needy veterans and families, project a positive image in our communities with our programs and our community service. Together we can Build, Bridge and Belong in our VFW. Join the
“Build – Bridge – Belong” TEAM
Support Norman Macey for State Jr Vice Commander Gold Legacy Life Member
njmaceyiii@aol.com
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State Inspector, Membership Chairman, Chaplain Awards – John Spahr Awarded Outstanding Immediate Past District Commander 2012-2013
NATIONAL
Aide-De-Camp, Assistant Inspector General, Deputy Chief of Staff, “Special” Aide-De-Camp
COMMITTEES
Chaired or served on Post, District, State and National Committees
STATE LEADERSHIP ATTENDS NATIONAL CONVENTION All American Winners State Edward Torres District Commander 1 Don graber 3 Lennie Page 6 Hector Villarreal 9 Richard Herman 13 Andrew Camplen 14 Lora Land 17 Phillip Dubois 18 Loren pogue 20 Jose Duran 24 Marvin Lockhart Post Commander 76 Johnny Ornelaz 688 Andrew Camplen 1406 James E. Briggs 1475 Ben Lowrance 1533 Gilbert R. Uriegas 2150 James A. Nichols 2427 Sean Ellis 3893 Don Kirkley 3990 Harvel “Bud” Mackey 4694 Lamar D. Evans 4709 Floyd W. Stewart 6873 Richard L. Stokes 7103 William E. Malone 7426 Darrell Moore 7843 Ricky L. Williams Sr. 8541 William E . Smith 8564 Arthur T. Martinez 8587 Ray Sanchez 9174 Armando P. Gonzales 9191 Melvin E. Pernell 10454 Roy D. James 12041 Larry L. Sanders 12104 Scott A. Rebman 12160 Todd T. Richardson
Texas VFW State Leadership attends the 119th VFW National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri, July 21-25, 2018.
Showing our Texas pride!
The Commander in Chief
Oliver North
State Leadership congratulates the Sinton Post for being selected for the prestigious National Fred C. Hall Award and a $10,000 check to the Post.
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PERIODICAL
Buddy Poppy Displays Buddy Poppy Displays from the 119th VFW National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri, July 21-25, 2018. Photos by Dan West