2021 January Veterans Chronicle

VETERANS CHRONICLE JANUARY 2021

THE FINAL MILE

State Route 902 to become Gold Star Memorial Highway to honor veterans, families Spc. Robinson of the Washington National Guard Honor uard salutes graves after placing flags on Friday, May 26, 2017, at Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, Wash.

TYLER TJOMSLAND/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW

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Friday, January 15, 2021

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VETERANS CHRONICLE VETERANS CHRONICLE A SUPPLEMENT TO THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW JAN. 15, 2021

VETERANS HELP NET Don Walker Bryan Bledsoe MANAGING EDITOR Theresa Tanner ART DIRECTOR Anne Potter DIRECTOR OF SALES Scott Baumbach

the third Friday of every month to increase awareness about veteran issues and to help veterans find hope and help.

To share a veteran story or information about resources for veterans, please contact info@veteranshelpnet.com or visit www.VeteransHelpNet. com.

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IN THIS ISSUE VA Survivors Pension eligibility....................................................................2 Hey Veteran, Did You Know?.........................................................................3 Burn pit bill..........................................................................................................4 How Can I Get Help?.........................................................................................5 VA benefits help veteran on career path thrive.......................................5 Gold Star Memorial Highway.........................................................................6 For God and Country: The American Legion............................................8 Disabled American Veterans..........................................................................9 Veterans of Foreign Wars...............................................................................10

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

HEY VETERANS, DID YOU KNOW … ?

… There is a new single access point to contact the VA?

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411), a single access point to all VA contact centers. The number is available 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year to serve veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.

Responding to veteran feedback on the challenges of knowing the right number for VA assistance, 1-800-MyVA411, serves all members of the veteran community seeking information or help.

Veterans and their families can still reach the Veterans Crisis Line directly at 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1, online at www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat or by texting 838255. The White House VA Hotline is also still available at 1-855948-2311 for veterans and their families to share compliments and concerns.

When dialing 1-800-MyVA411, callers have the option of pressing 0 to be immediately connected with a customer service agent to answer questions or provide a warm-handoff to the appropriate VA expert.

1-800-MyVA411 provides information on: • COVID-19 updates • Health care eligibility and enrollment • VA benefits, such as disability, compensation and pension, education programs, caregiver support, insurance, home loans, and burial headstones and markers among others • The nearest VA medical centers, benefits offices or cemeteries to veterans, VA Medical Center operational updates and connection to VA Medical Center operators • Directory assistance and technical support for www.VA.gov • Debt and payment options For more information, contact the Veterans Experience Office at Vets-Experience@VA.gov or visit www.va.gov/VE/.

... Many veterans are unaware of VA’s disability benefits?

VA disability compensation is a monthly, tax-free payment designed to compensate veterans for an injury or illness incurred or made worse from active military service, regardless of when they served.

A disability can apply to physical conditions, such as a chronic knee condition, as

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Army veteran Jacob Burns simulates having a panic attack as he works with Jersey, his new support dog, as part of a Got Your Six Support Dogs training session Oct. 5, 2017, in Collinsville, Ill. well as mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Service-disabled veterans may also be entitled to health care, employment counseling and other benefits at no cost.

For example, if your disability limits your mobility, you may qualify for a payment to buy or modify a vehicle to get around easier.

Resources to help veterans file claims are available at www.va.gov/disability/ get-help-filing-claim/.

… Nearly 6 million American veterans have chosen VA health care?

That’s more than one-quarter of all veterans – and many more may be eligible.

An independent survey of veterans indicated they are highly satisfied with VA health care and would recommend it to their friends. One out of every three employees of the Veterans Health Administration is a veteran.

Submit an application form online, by mail, or in person and VA will send you written notification of your eligibility status. Explore VA health care today at www.

VA.gov/health-care.

… A veteran can get veterinary benefits for a service dog?

The VA provides a veterinary health insurance benefit and other benefits in support of service dogs to maximize the

life and utility of these specialized dogs.

VA does not provide service dogs (SD) but does provide this insurance benefit for eligible veterans through VHA Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS) which administers this program. VA’s authority for this program includes guide, hearing, seizure, and mobility dogs.

In order to qualify, the dog must be trained and from an Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) accredited service dog organization. This ensures veterans receive the highest level of quality and training standards. To apply, veterans may contact their clinician or facility PSAS department.

Find more information at www. prosthetics.va.gov.

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

Bill would grant automatic care to veterans with health claims related to burn pit exposures

By Meghann Myers MILITARYTIMES.COM

The VA has to investigate every veteran’s claim that the myriad health issues they wish to get care for are connected to their service. But the problem is, many of those veterans’ deteriorating health can’t wait – including millions exposed to toxic substances.

To speed up access to care, both houses of Congress are considering legislation granting “presumptive” status to toxic exposure claims, allowing applicants to start using VA services while they wait for adjudication.

“VA’s current model of ‘wait and see’ is not working,” Rep. Elaine Luria, D-Va., said Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020, during a House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing prompted by the TEAM Act of 2020, introduced by Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., in October.

That bill mirrors a Senate version approved by that Veterans Affairs committee in September, which now awaits action from the full Senate.

There was no discussion at the hearing of how much it would cost to enact these measures.

While the legislation has bipartisan support, much of hearing’s questioning focused on the VA’s process for determining whether certain symptoms are related to a long list of diseases and syndromes the VA can trace back to experiences while serving.

Generally, VA has determined what kinds of claims can be presumed service-connected, leaning heavily on research from the National Academy of Sciences.

But in the case of toxic ex-

SGT. ANTHONY L. ORTIZ/MARINE CORPS

Lance Cpl. Richard Carmichael disposes of trash at the burn pit in Forward Operating Base Zeebrudge, Helmand province, Afghanistan, in 2013. posures, like burn pits, research is still ongoing as to whether there is a definitive link between those and certain cancers, thyroid disorders, hypertension and other health issues.

The VA website states definitively that there is no known relationship between these illnesses and burn pit exposure, according to David Shulkin, a former VA secretary who testified at the hearing, “That simply is wrong. I’ve called on that to be removed,” Shulkin, whom President Donald Trump fired in March

2018, told lawmakers. “And because the VA is not acting swiftly enough, your legislation is critical for our veterans and I strongly support it.”

As it stands now, according to Beth Murphy, VA’s executive director of compensation services, about 64 percent of Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) veterans who claim respiratory issues related to burn pits are eventually determined eligible for benefits.

Rather than wait for research to come back and be evaluated, which could mean years waiting for GWOT vet-

erans, Congress may step in and dictate to VA how to respond to these claims. “... when the data’s not available, but appears to be plausible, VA would give the veteran immediate access to benefits and services,” Shulkin said.

Roughly 3.5 million service members have been experienced toxic exposures, he said.

The legislation would also prevent VA from leaning too heavily on NAS research that could potentially come back finding that the link between burn pits and some diseases

isn’t strong enough, he added.

That would mean going ahead with evaluation and treatment for illnesses related to burn pit exposure, before the VA’s adjudication is complete.

For those working their way through the system right now, there is the burden of providing proof that they were exposed to fumes from burn pits.

“This process leaves an individual veteran to fight a system that is too often too much for her to take on,” Shulkin said. “Many veterans just give up, or never bother in the first place.”

Any evidence of burn pit complications that came up during service has to be tracked down, if it exists on paper at all.

And that is only, of course, if the symptoms manifested during a military career. Often, they take years to compound, and can’t necessarily be traced back to a single deployment, type of training or installation.

“Truly, a veteran might have no proof that they can provide as to why they’re sick or why they can’t run a mile without stopping and being short of breath, or why they suddenly get migraines, or why they have these other symptoms ...”

Luria said.

On top of that, DoD doesn’t make a practice of measuring levels of toxic chemicals in the air or water troops are exposed to while deployed. “... I think we’re all united in that we want to take that burden off the veteran,” Luria said. “Those who have come forward to ask for help deserve help. We simply cannot make them wait.”

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

HOW CAN I GET HELP?

Every county and state has a Veteran Affairs office to answer questions about benefits and provide assistance. There are also other useful resources for veterans in the Inland Northwest.

GO ONLINE

IN PERSON

BY PHONE

VA.gov

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service

1117 N. Evergreen Rd., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690 Apply for emergency services, or have any benefits or service questions answered by 3 Veteran Service Officers (VSO) and staff.

(509) 477-3690

The Department of Veterans Affairs website has resources on every topic relevant to veterans.

VA.gov/welcome-kit The VA Welcome Guide covers all types of benefits and services available for veterans, new recruits, active service members and their families.

DAV9.com

After war, a veteran learns to thrive Like many veterans, the war followed Brandon home. He used alcohol to cope.

“I had a really hard time with the transition from military to civilian life,” Brandon, a Marine Corps Veteran, explained.

Encouraged by loved ones, he sought care at the Minneapolis VA – and by using his VA benefits to receive treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and to get an education, Brandon built a new life and career.

“Anything that you might have going on, that’s what the VA’s for. And there are plenty of people there to help you.”

More than a quarter of all veterans use VA health care; however, many are not aware of all the benefits VA health care includes. All enrolled veterans who meet criteria have access to the following: • Preventive, primary and specialty care • Prescriptions • Vision and dental care • Mental health care • Home health care • Geriatrics and extended care

• Medical equipment and prosthetics In addition to health care, Brandon used VA’s Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) to earn two associate degrees, one in business management and one in marketing.

VA’s education and training benefits (including MGIB, Post-9/11 GI Bill® and others) assist veterans in pursuing higher education degrees, certificates, and other education and training. Financial support can be used for flight training, non-college degrees, on-the-job training, technical training and more.

The support Brandon received from MGIB helped to prepare him for entrepreneurship. He started his own production company and now travels the United States and Canada recording Native American music.

“I’m really happy where I’m at right now,” he said.

Learn more about VA benefits at www.

VA.gov.

Courtesy of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Newsletter

Based in Post Falls, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 9 Fort Sherman shares links and information to both local and national help organizations for veterans.

Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.

North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office 120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092 Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.

Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) 130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449 SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations.

North Idaho Veteran Services and Benefits Office (208) 446-1090

Veteran Crisis Line 1 (800) 273-8255, press 1

North Idaho Crisis Center (208) 625-4884

Washington or Idaho 2-1-1 Dial “2-1-1” for health and human resources referrals.

If you don’t know who to call, VA has a new “Single Access Point” phone number to all VA contact centers 1-800-MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411)

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

State Route 902 designated Gold Star Memorial Highway

By Rudy Lopez

DIRECTOR, WASHINGTON STATE VETERANS CEMETERY

Eastern Washington veterans secured a permanent tribute to honor state and regional service members who’ve died in service to their county, while recognizing surviving family members, now Gold Star Families, thrust into a difficult journey as a result of their loss.

On Sept. 16, 2020, the Washington State Transportation Commission adopted a resolution to designate State Route 902 the “Gold Star Memorial Highway.”

Members of the Eastern Washington Veterans Task Force, the state’s oldest veteran support coalition, took up this initiative as a means of honoring the fallen and their families along the 12 mile stretch of SR 902. The significance of SR 902 is that it serves as the primary route traveled to reach the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake.

This site is the final resting place for over 6,300 veterans and family members.

The concept of dedicating this section of roadway came about as a means of commemorating the cemetery’s tenth year of service. And doing so in a manner of solemnity that would forever reflect on the service and sacrifice of countless soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen that have served their nation with honor and distinction, and made the ultimate sacrifice.

They answered the nation’s call and gave their life in its defense.

They are among the very best of America, putting their own personal lives on hold to ensure the freedom of every American is preserved. Not only securing our domestic tranquility but ensuring America remains a shining city on a hill for the world to see as a beacon of hope.

The term Gold Star reminds us they were more than soldiers.

They were sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, spouses and parents. They are heroes to all

ASSOCIATED PRESS

The parents of U.S. Army 1st Lt. Salvatore S. Corma, of Wenonah, N.J., Salvatore S. Corma Sr., seated left in wheelchair, and Trudy Corma watch a U.S. Army Honor Guard raise the American flag from the casket of their son during a funeral service at Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery on May 12, 2010, in Williamstown, N.J. those closest to them, whose pain of loss is unimaginable. No one can ever prepare themselves for what becomes an earthshattering knock on the door, with military officials having come to inform them of their loved one’s loss.

Who are Gold Star survivors?

The phrase “Gold Star” originated in World War I, when military families displayed flags with a blue star for each family member serving in the Armed Forces. The star’s color changed to gold if the family lost a loved one in the war.

In 1928, the Gold Star Mothers organization was formed as a means of supporting one another in their grief, and remembering their soldier. Since 1936, the last Sunday in

September has been designated as National Gold Star Mother’s Day to honor and remember the fallen. In 1945, the Gold Star Wives of America was formed; in 1947 the Gold Star Lapel Pin was created.

The pin features a gold star on a purple circular background, worn only by immediate family members of service members killed in combat. In 1973, the Department of Defense recognized the need and created a similar Next-of-Kin Deceased Personnel Lapel Pin to honor service members who lost their lives serving, but did not die in combat. Whether the loss was due to accident, illness or a result of PTSD the death is just as painful to survivors.

These warriors became heroes the moment they took the oath to defend and protect our nation against all enemies foreign or domestic to those closest to them.

They each eagerly accepted the Warrior Ethos of never leaving a warrior behind, regardless of the consequence. The Department of Defense cites over 7,000 service members have died in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars alone, and well over 16,000 have been lost in non-combat circumstances over in same period.

America has thousands of surviving Gold Star Family members who lost loved ones in WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, and other conflicts over the last

100 years. It matters not whether a service member’s death was combat related or occurred in the line of duty, stateside or overseas.

The Gold Star Family member designation belongs equally to all survivors for their warrior’s courage, honor and commitment.

We should never thank or congratulate anyone for the Gold Star moniker, for any Gold Star family member would gladly trade the title to have and hold their loved one once again. Instead we should embrace them for their selfless courage and tremendous sacrifice. We should assure them they do not walk this journey alone. And most importantly we should never forget. Never forget

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VETERANS CHRONICLE “I have a medical background; 27 of my 30 years in the Air Force were in the medical field. One of my greatest privileges was to serve in combat theaters in this capacity, serving those who ran toward danger. The toughest yet most important thing I ever did was to stay with dying warriors until they could breathe no more – holding their hand until the end, when family couldn’t be there.

What we do here is on an equal plane in terms of importance to me. I’ve lost friends, coworkers and subordinates. This initiative is how we continue to honor them all from our small corner of the world.” the names of those lost in military service.

They were more than soldiers, they were people with lives, hopes, dream and families. The consequence of their untimely fate shatters their survivors’ dreams as well, and thrusts them into an inordinate amount of uncertainty and pain. They must learn how to make sense of what has occurred, how to cope with the loss, and how to carry it forward.

Through simple acts of recognition and support such as the naming of SR 902, we can all pay tribute to fallen heroes and those who live with their loss. The important act of naming this highway assures Gold Star families, friends, and battle buddies, their hero will never be forgotten, and their decision to serve will always be honored and remembered, serving as a noble example to others.

The Eastern Washington Veterans Task Force wishes to thank members of the Washington State Transportation Commission and staff for considering this initiative, for allowing testimony and ultimately unanimously approving this simple yet meaningful act. A very special thanks to Representative Marcus Riccelli for sponsoring this initiative within the legislature and for getting this before the commission, along with area state and federal elected officials for their letters of support. We would also like to acknowledge former Mayor David Condon, local Chambers of Commerce and the countless veteran organizations and individuals for their endorsements.

COURTESY PHOTOS

The Gold Star Lapel Pin, top left, was created in 1947 for family of service members who died in combat. In 1973, the Department of Defense created a Next-of-Kin Deceased Personnel Lapel Pin, top right, to honor service members who lost their lives serving, but did not die in combat.

This initiative would not have been possible without local and statewide support.

In the coming months members of the Task Force will be working with the Department of Transportation on signage, and plan to hold a dedication ceremony once coronavirus pandemic gathering restrictions ease, so that we always remember the costs of freedom and especially those who bear them.

At bottom left, the Warrior Ethos, a set of principles that guides soldiers in the U.S. Army, is inscribed on a keepsake dog tag.

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY: THE AMERICAN LEGION

By Ruth Aresvik

AMERICAN LEGION POST 154, RATHDRUM, IDAHO

As a young girl, I remember seeing my Pop put on his cap as Commander of the local American Legion post and head off to a meeting, with my mama close behind, usually with a pie in her arms so that the auxiliary could serve dessert after the gathering. I remember going to the Gooding County Fair to play Bingo at the Legion booth.

I won a ceramic pony. And I got to meet Senator Frank Church.

But did I really know what The American Legion was? What did they really do?

The American Legion was founded in March 1919 by members of the World War I American Expeditionary Forces still stationed in Europe – waiting to come home. Soon after the war ended, they realized how poorly prepared the United States was to assist the many disabled and unemployed veterans who faced uncertain futures in their communities, states and the nation. And so, the American Legion built its legacy and mission to strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy that helped millions throughout the organization's first century.

Today there are nearly 3 million members of the American Legion, making it the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization. The American Legion has close to 15,000 posts worldwide. These posts are organized into 55 departments – one each for the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Some Legion programs are more well-known than others.

Haven't most of us attended a Legion baseball game? Did you know someone who went to Boys State? Like Neil Armstrong, Bill Clinton, Michael Jordan, Tom Brokaw? Even Jon

LIBBY KAMROWSKI/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW

The American Legion leads a flag tour via vehicle parade through Riverside Memorial Park on Memorial Day on May 25 in Spokane. The motorcycle riders were followed by classic cars and then contemporary vehicles with visitors, reducing the amount of people walking on the memorial grounds.

Bon Jovi.

Under the Americanism and Children & Youth programs, the Legion actively supports Boy Scout groups, flag etiquette, oratorical contests, and assorted scholarships. Promoting citizenship, patriotic awareness and sportsmanship to the nation's youth is a mission that will make our nation prouder, stronger, smarter, and more respectful of those who have sacrificed some, or all, in defense of the nation.

And speaking of those who

have served or sacrificed for our nation, it is no surprise that the American Legion knows only too well the importance of programs and services for veterans. Post-service Officers and Legislative Chairmen keep up to date on Veteran Affairs benefits and changes to inform members and direct them to proper resources channels for help and action. The power behind the American Legion has successfully lobbied Congress to provide for and protect veterans in countless ways, most

recently with the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act. The American Legion immerses itself into their respective communities with assorted events – not just parades and fair booths – but with honor and remembrance ceremonies.

Posts offer services, including an Honor Guard, for veteran funerals, Veterans Day and Memorial Day recognitions. Many posts are involved with the annual Wreaths Across America. They call members to do a "buddy check." The American

Legion offers temporary financial aid (TFA) to minor children of current active duty or American Legion members to meet the cost of shelter, food, utility and health expenses.

If you have served federal active duty in the United States Armed Forces since December 7, 1941, and have been honorably discharged, or are still serving, you are eligible for membership in the American Legion. To find a post near you, or for more information, go to www.legion.org.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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VETERANS CHRONICLE DAV Department of Idaho Mobile Van used by Veteran Service Officers to meet with veterans.

FORT SHERMAN DAV CHAPTER #9

DAV: A legacy of service, hope for future

By Bryan Bledsoe

VETERANS HELP NET

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) represents the interests of disabled veterans, their families, their widowed spouses and their orphans before Congress, the White House and the Judicial Branch, as well as state and local government.

Hard facts of history brought about DAV’s creation. But compassion and service have been the tools that made DAV what it is today.

A great deal has changed since DAV was founded, but this much has remained the same: those who return from war must have men and women waiting for them at home who will stand with them as they work to take back their lives.

DAV is a nonprofit charity that provides a lifetime of support for veterans of all generations and their families, helping more than 1 million veterans in positive, life-changing ways each year. Annually, the organization provides more than 600,000 rides to veterans attending medical appointments and assists veterans with well over 200,000 benefit claims. In 2019, DAV helped veterans receive more than $21 billion in earned benefits. DAV’s services are offered at no cost to veterans, their families and survivors.

DAV is also a leader in connecting veterans with meaningful employment, hosting job fairs and providing resources to ensure they can participate in the American Dream their sacrifices have made possible.

With nearly 1,300 chapters and more than 1 million members across the country, DAV empowers our nation’s heroes and their families by helping to provide the resources they need and ensuring our nation keeps the promises made to them.

It extends the mission of hope into the communities where these veterans and their families live through a network of state-level

Departments and local Chapters.

In North Idaho, Fort Sherman DAV Chapter #9 and in Spokane Valley DAV Chapter #6 works with and assists disabled veterans and their families. Each Chapter also raise funds to provide a new van every few years to the Spokane Mann-Grandstaff Veterans Medical Center, which is used to provide free rides to medical appointments.

To learn more about the programs DAV Chapter #9 supports, go to their website www.dav9.com, which also has contact information and a link to their Facebook page.

To contact Spokane Valley DAV Chapter #6, please call them at (509) 535-9100.

DAV operates a fleet of vehicles around to provide free transportation to VA medical facilities for injured and ill veterans. DAV stepped in to help veterans get the care they need when the federal government terminated its program that helped many of them pay for transportation to and from medical facilities. The vans are driven by volunteers, and the rides coordinated by more than 174 Hospital Service Coordinators.

DAV Departments and Chapters, along with our long-time partner Ford Motor Company, have purchased 3,678 vehicles at a cost of more than $84 million, that have been donated to Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers nationwide since the program began in 1987 to ensure that injured or ill veterans are able to get to their medical appointments.

To make an appointment for a ride in Spokane, Eastern Washington and North Idaho call Jeannie Kyle at (509) 434-7019. To find out whether there is a van near you use the DAV Hospital Service Coordinator Directory to contact your nearest HSC for information or assistance. Please remember that the DAV Transportation Network is staffed by volunteers; therefore, it is unable to cover every community. We hope we can help you.

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VETERANS CHRONICLE

Veterans of Foreign Wars

By Wes Anderson

CHAPLAIN, VFW POST #51

In 1899, the American Veterans of Foreign Service (Columbus, Ohio) and the National Society of the Army of the Philippines (Denver, Colorado) were organized to secure the rights and benefits for veterans of the Spanish-American War (1898) and the Philippines War (1899-1902). These two organizations merged in 1914, creating the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. A national volunteer service organization, the Auxiliary of the VFW was founded in 1914 and is the backbone of many local VFW volunteer efforts.

Today the Veterans of Foreign Wars is America's largest and oldest combat veterans organization with more than 1.5 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in over 6,000 posts worldwide, comprised of 52 departments in 50 states, the Asia/Pacific areas and Europe.

Some of the priority issues of the VFW are: • Budget: Fund programs for veterans, service members and their families.

• Health care: Providing service members and veterans timely access to high-quality health care.

• Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service: VFW volunteers donate millions of hours of service annually at VA Medical facilities.

• Troop support programs: Including Military Assistance, Adopt-a-Unit, Care Packages, Unmet Needs, Help a Hero Scholarship and 1 Student Veteran.

Youth scholarship programs are also a priority,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VFW

Left: VFW Post #3386 in Airway Heights organized a food drive at Global Credit Union for Fairchild Air Force Base. Right: VFW Post #9430 in Skyway organized a Toys for Tots drive for Joint Base Lewis McCord. including the Voice of Democracy, an essay competition for high school students. The first place on the national level is a $30,000 scholarship. Two years ago, a local high school senior placed first in the state and went on to place 6th at nationals.

Another program is the Patriot’s Pen, an essay program for grades 6-8. The national winner receives a $5,000 scholarship.

Teacher of the Year recognizes one exceptional elementary, junior, and high school teacher, for their outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students.

Locally, VFW Posts sponsor various youth sporting programs as well as Boy and Girl Scout Troops, Junior Olympics, bike safety, JROTC, and a

variety of other programs to build good citizenship and exemplary character in American youth.

Over the years the VFW has taken great pride in its history of service to its communities both stateside and abroad. Annually, the VFW and its Auxiliary members donate nearly nine million hours to community service projects, and relief efforts as well as local VA facilities each year. Some of those included earthquake and hurricane relief as well as well as donations for cancer research, drug awareness.

The most notable project is our Buddy Poppy Drive. VFW and Auxiliary members have spent countless hours distributing Buddy Poppies at a number of venues throughout the year. The funds derived go to all our

relief programs.

The VFW has played an instrumental role in virtually every significant piece of veteran-related legislation passed since the start of the 20th century. Some of them include: Widows and Orphans Pension Act, Veterans Preference, World War Service Disability Pension Act, Benefits to WW II veterans, Veterans Re-Employment Act, Vietnam Veterans Outreach Program, Agent Orange Service-Connection, currently the Blue Water and Burn Pit Legislation.

The VFW has been an integral part of the Spokane community since1915 when the first VFW Post was charted. At one time the VFW sponsored the Veterans Day Parade, as well as a Drum and Bugle Corp at a local high

school. VFW Posts within the City of Spokane have sponsored a number of elementary and high school students within the City of Spokane in its Voice of Democracy and Patriots Pen. Posts in Spokane sponsor local Boy and Girl Scout Troops. Members participate in rendering Honors for deceased veterans at the Veterans Cemetery, and provide Color Guard and representation at various functions within the City.

VFW Members and Auxiliary Members Volunteer countless hours at Mann-Grandstaff VAMC, State Veterans Hospital and the Vets Center. The VFW also has accredited Veteran Service Officers that assist veterans with compensation and disability claims.

Over the years the VFW

has supported military personnel stationed at home and overseas. This Christmas, with all of issues with the COVID-19 issues, the VFW has stepped up to the plate. Gift and food baskets were provided to the military installations throughout the state.

Toy drives were set up to provide Christmas presents for the children to those who are defending our nation today. A Tree of Sharing was set up for by a JR Unit for the Fairchild Family Advocacy to help the children at Fairchild.

If it had not been for the countless members of the Posts and Auxiliary, none of this would be possible.

No matter the circumstance, the VFW will continue assist the veterans and their families of the City and County of Spokane.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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