OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018
Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY
2018 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST
POST 688 ADOPTS 433RD MEDICAL SQUADRON p20
INSIDE “41” GEORGE H.W. BUSH LAID TO REST OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM RECOGNITION OF WOMEN IN THE MILITARY VETERANS DAY CELEBRATIONS COMMUNITY SERVICE WELCOME NEW POST 12178, WESLACO
I SERVED my family’s safety FOR USAA members who bundled Auto and Home Insurance saved over $519 million combined last year.1 Bundle today to help protect what matters to you and what you have worked so hard to build. With USAA insurance, enjoy an unrivaled level of service because we know what it means to serve.
JOIN USAA TODAY AND GET A QUOTE. CALL 800-274-8839 OR VISIT USAA.COM/VFW
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WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO QUOTE ANY INDIVIDUAL A PREMIUM RATE FOR THE INSURANCE ADVERTISED HEREIN. 1 Savings figure based on 2016 savings earned when members combined USAA auto and home insurance products. Multiple product savings do not apply in all states or to all situations. Savings subject to change. Restrictions apply. Use of the term “member” or “membership” refers to membership in USAA Membership Services and does not convey any legal or ownership rights in USAA. Restrictions apply and are subject to change. Property and casualty insurance provided by United Services Automobile Association, USAA Casualty Insurance Company, USAA General Indemnity Company, Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and USAA, Ltd. (Europe), San Antonio, TX, and is available only to persons eligible for P&C group membership. Each company products. 2 0 1 8 Ohas c t sole o b efinancial r / N o vresponsibility e m b e r T efor x aits s own VFW N e w sVeterans of Foreign Wars receives financial support for their sponsorship. © 2018 USAA. 251249-0618-VFW
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER
2018
Posts Remember USS Cole
IN THE NEWS 5 State Commander’s Column 6 Operation Enduring Freedom 8 Texas VFW Foundation 9 Posts Remember USS Cole 10 Recognition of Women in Military Service 13 Saying Goodbye to Our 41st President 14 Veterans Day Celebrations 19 Post 7103 Builds Honor Wall 20 Post 688 Adopts A Unit 21 Inaugural Buda, Texas Veterans Day Parade 23 2019 Mid Winter Conference Order Form 24 Community Service 25 VFW to the Rescue! 26 Community Service 27 New Post Installation—12178 Weslaco 29 Texas VFW Membership Application 30 Community Service 32 Post 12104 Replaces Flags at Veterans’ Graves
p9
George H.W. Bush — A Soldier and a Statesman
p 13
Post 12161 Holds First Ever Buda Veterans Day Parade
p 21
UPCOMING EVENTS 2019 Mid-Winter Conference
p 23
SEE THE LATEST CALENDARS AT Texasvfw.org > News > Upcoming Events Texasvfw.org > News > Calendar
SIGNIFICANT EVENTS IN OCT./NOV. Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan • State Commander’s Homecoming • Recognition of Women in the Military • Veterans Day • Signing of WWI Armistice
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018
Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY
2018 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST
POST 688 ADOPTS 433RD MEDICAL SQUADRON p20
INSIDE “41” GEORGE H.W. BUSH LAID TO REST OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM RECOGNITION OF WOMEN IN THE MILITARY VETERANS DAY CELEBRATIONS COMMUNITY SERVICE WELCOME NEW POST 12178, WESLACO
ON THE COVER On Sunday December 2nd, 2018 Pvt. Bruno Phillip VFW Post 688, Boerne, officially adopted the 433rd Medical Squadron at Lackland AFB, Texas. Post Commander Andrew Camplen presented Colonel Brad Butler with a VFW Adopt-A-Unit certificate and pledged the support of VFW Post 688 for all the Squadron’s needs.
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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, and ideas to: Texas VFW, PO Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or email to andrew@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.
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The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price of $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 73, Number 3, © DECEMBER 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 Andrew Camplen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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 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 688 Andrew Camplen 9078 Wayne Cooley 2059 Robert Martinez, Jr. 2775 Robert LaFleur 8788 Rick Ramirez 7873 Lavern Terbl 8551 Glenn James 3413 Dave Adams 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 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 314 Shadwell Drive, San Antonio, TX 78228 3528 Whippoorwill St., Orange, TX 77630 416 E. Water Lilly Ave, McAllen, TX 78504 58 Plantation Ave., Pottsboro, TX 75076 235 Primrose Rd., Freeport, TX 77541 309 Whitetail Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666 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
Greetings Comrades and Auxiliary What a fast-paced organization! I can’t believe how fast time is going by! I have been on a state-wide marathon. Texas is a BIG state! Mile after mile! For the last five months I have been doing extensive traveling throughout this great state visiting VFW Posts, attending District meetings, and visiting with community leaders who continue to tell me the great job you’re doing in the communities.
I am very happy to report that everything is running like a well-oiled machine and you’re doing a fantastic job. My hat is off to you! The leaders have alerted me that you are speaking positively about our organization and what we doing for our Veterans and community. Thank you, Comrades, you are headed in the right direction and we appreciate you. In addition, they now understand our vision better than ever, as well as our mission. So please continue with the formula—it’s working. They understand that “MEMBERSHIP” drives the train to Washington and can make things happen for our Veterans. I appreciate your commitment in promoting who we are!
STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN
Also a special “Thank You” to our superb Legislative Committee who is doing a “bang up” job on The Hill. They’ve been presenting critical information to Congressional leaders and following up to ensure our decision makers keep their promises to us. Membership update: We are currently sitting at 92.57% of our mission. We are ranked 12th in the National Standings for the moment. A few Commanders need to still add a few members into the data base which will bring our achievements a little higher! Please continue recruiting over the holidays since you will be able to catch them while shopping. As a reminder please utilize the Mobile Recruiting Team. Your POC is Chris Vieyra or Lonnie Garza and they can assist you at major events as needed. This time of year offers us the opportunity to share in the spirit of peace, love and happiness. It also offers us the opportunity to gather with loved ones, family, and friends to celebrate togetherness and the joy of the holidays. I want to personally wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. During this season please keep our troops who cannot be home with their families during the holidays in your prayers, keep them out of harms way, and God Bless the United States of America.
State Commander Conley institutes new VFW Post 12178 In Weslaco, Texas. See page 27.
In closing, I need your total support in achieving 100%+ in our Mission of Membership for 2019. So let’s get our Department rolling! Department of TEXAS, SECOND TO NONE.
Inge Conley Thank you, Inge Conley State Commander p.s. We have some amazing training scheduled for the 2019 Mid-Winter Conference in Austin and some special guests lined up so mark your calendars. See you there! Visit www.texasvfw.org for more information.
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S TA R T OF
OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM
A FGH A NI S TA N
TEXAS VFW POST 3903, ROSENBERG — VFW and Auxiliary members gathered for the Operation Enduring Freedom remembrance. The importance of this operation was discussed and a moment of silence was observed.
TEXAS VFW POST 12058, KYLE — Past Commanders Jimmie Quintaro and Clint Williams and Post Sr. Vice Pete Monroe presented a plaque to Veteran Damon Fogley.
TEXAS VFW POST 8790, HOUSTON — The Post participated in several OEF ceremonies honoring our fallen comrades.
TEXAS VFW POST 9191, KILLEEN — Post Commander and members visited the Central Texas State Cemetery to pay tribute and honor OEF Veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
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TEXAS VFW POST 4443, AUSTIN — Members commemorated OEF at Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas and spoke with visitors about the start of the operation and also passed out information on veterans’ benefits, health issues, and VFW membership.
TEXAS VFW POST 4709, CONROE — The Post held its annual observance of Operation Enduring Freedom with 35 members and guests in attendance. Post Commander Floyd Stewart spoke about the history leading up to the U.S. Invasion of Afghanistan. Post members who fought in Afghanistan then shared some of their personal experiences of fighting a war in difficult terrain and conditions.
TEXAS VFW POST 2438, BAY CITY — Sr. Vice Commander Ken Thames gave a presentation on the Start of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan in 2001 during the dinner meal prior to the Post and Auxiliary meetings.
TEXAS VFW POST 6205, MUENSTER — Commander Doug Martin gave a speech to commemorate the Start of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Flags were placed at several business and homes.
TEXAS VFW POST 8932, CORPUS CHRISTI — Members observed Operation Enduring Freedom Thursday, October 18, 2018 in Flour Bluff, Texas. Photo by: Gilbert D. Gallardo
TEXAS VFW POST 4372, ODESSA — The Post held a ceremony at the Post home. Event was open to the general public.
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ANNOUNCEMENT Austin Energy has awarded $40,522 to the Foundation as part of the Customer Assistance Program Financial Support Plus 1 Program for utility assistance for qualifying veterans who are Austin Energy customers. Visit texasvfwfoundation.org to apply.
TEXAS VFW
FOUNDATION
REMINDER Great time for year-end tax deductible charitable contributions. Visit the website to donate by credit card or mail your check to PO Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761.
THANK YOU
I GAVE, WILL YOU?
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER ASSISTANCE: $39,570 in financial assistance was awarded to 22 veteran households with 47 dependents
To all Posts and Auxiliaries who participated in Standdowns this fall. Funds are still available for events scheduled in the spring. Please email foundation@texasvfw.org for more information. “I have been battling depression due to combat stressors for over 10 years. My savings were depleted and a final notice of eviction had been placed on my door. I was speechless when I received my award. When I thought there was no help, and that no one cared, the Texas VFW Foundation was there for me. I cannot express how life changing this is for me. When I start my new job, I want to give a donation to the Texas VFW Foundation so that I may also give back to another veteran going through hard times.”
—J. B., US Army
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 TEXASVFWFOUNDATION.ORG, BOTTOM OF PAGE.
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TEXAS VFW POSTS PARTICIPATE IN USS COLE CEREMONIES TEXAS VFW POST 7106, ENNIS, participated in a USS Cole wreath ceremony for Timothy L. Gauna.
TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 20 conducted a USS Cole Ceremony on October 12, 2018 at the gravesite for USN Gary Graham Swenchonis, one of seventeen victims of that fateful terrorist attack in the Port of Aden in Yemen in October 2000. District 20 Commander/John Shipley (middle of rear row center), District 20 Sr Vice Commander/R.S. Webber, District 20 Jr Vice Commander/Armando Gonzales, Past State Commander/Sylvia Sanchez, Past District 20 Commanders/ Jose Duran and Jesse Dominquez, and numerous Post Commanders,
Auxiliary and members from District 20 were present for this solemn event. Standing Guard next the grave after the posting the Wreath are two uniformed military members assigned to Naval Detachment at Joint Base San Antonio Lackland, (L to R) FC1 Denny Schriefer and BM1 Matthew Eittreim. TAPS detail was provided by Fort Sam Houston Memorial Service Detachment, Tom Earnest. (Outstanding performance provided by both the Naval and FSH Detachments for the USS Cole Ceremony.)
TEXAS VFW POST 2375 Commander Jose Flores, NAS Kingsville Co Captain Eric Spitzer, CMDCM Jacob Bristow and shipmates from NAS Kingsville conducted a USS Cole wreath ceremony for Ronchester M. Santiago.
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RECOGNITION OF
WOMEN IN MILITARY SERVICE
TEXAS VFW POST 4815, SAN ANTONIO — Members and friends gathered at a Vietnam Veterans event and recognized women in the military.
TEXAS VFW POST 8929, ANSON — Members assisted in Women in Military Service ceremony held in Brownwood, Texas.
TEXAS VFW POST 8790, HOUSTON — Members participated in various Recognition of Women in Military Service Day activities.
TEXAS VFW POST 9191, KILLEEN — Comrades conducted a Women in Military Service Recognition program discussing topics and accomplishments of women veterans.
TEXAS VFW POST 10354, EL PASO — The Post recognized LTC Boring for her contributions to the U.S. Army.
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TEXAS VFW POST 688, BOERNE — Female members gathered in celebration of Recognition of Women in Military Service!
TEXAS VFW POST 4746, WEATHERFORD — The Post and Auxiliary participated in a celebration honoring Women in Military Service along with Department Commander Inge Conley.
TEXAS VFW POST 8904, CENTER — Program was held at the Veteran’s Memorial, 1885 Historic Court House, Center, Texas. Program opened with a prayer followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by all in attendance. Post QM Larry Hume gave background of the day and the bios of two women from Shelby County who served in World War I and were this year’s special honorees.
TEXAS VFW POST 1922, GAINESVILLE — The Post held a celebration and dinner for Women in the Military. Navy and Army was represented by its women veterans. Among the veterans is Alice Gordon — a 95-year-young, Navy female veteran — who served in WWII as a pharmacist (1st LT).
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RECOGNITION OF
WOMEN IN MILITARY SERVICE
TEXAS VFW POST 8932, FLOUR BLUFF — Active duty women in the U.S. Army and Coast Guard were in attendance at the Post’s women in the military program. A brief history was given of women participating in the defense of our country dating back to the American Revolutionary War in 1776.
TEXAS VFW POST 9175, ROMA — Members invited Mrs. Sandra Guerra, Army Veteran, to its regular meeting for a discussion on the role of women in the military.
TEXAS VFW POST 8791, PORT ISABEL — Commander Irene Camacho and members recognized Women in Military Service.
TEXAS VFW POST 8551, SWEENY —
TEXAS VFW POST 7473, ELSA — Veterans celebrated Recognition of Women in Military Service at the Post.
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Recognized Women in Military Service and recruited a new member, Active duty Beth Anderson, pictured here with daughter, Kaden, and Post Commander Glenn James.
GEORGE H.W. BUSH — A VFW Member of Post 8790 in Houston JUNE 12, 1924 – NOVEMBER 30, 2018
Excerpts taken from biography.com
GEORGE HERBERT WALKER BUSH was born on June 12, 1924, in Milton, Massachusetts, the son of Senator Prescott Bush. Bush attended Phillips Academy, an elite boarding school in Andover, Massachusetts. He began dating his future wife, known as Barbara Pierce at the time, after they were introduced at a Christmas dance in 1941. Bush was 17 years old at the time, and Barbara was just 16. They married in January 1945. On his 18th birthday, Bush enlisted in the U.S. Navy, becoming the youngest pilot in the Navy during World War II. He served as a combat pilot in the war, flying carrier-based torpedo bomber aircraft and a total of 58 combat missions. He had a brush with death when his plane was hit during a bombing run in the Pacific. After managing to escape the burning aircraft, he was quickly rescued by a U.S. Navy submarine. Bush was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his WWII service. After the war, Bush attended Yale University, where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1948. He later moved to Midland, Texas, where he found success in the oil and petroleum industry. Bush became chairman of the Harris County Republican Party in 1963. The following year, he ran an unsuccessful campaign for a U.S. Senate seat in Texas. It didn’t take long for Bush to enter Congress, however; in 1966, two years after his unsuccessful Senate bid, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, ultimately serving two terms. Bush was later appointed to several important positions, including U.S. ambassador to the United Nations in 1971, head of the Republican National Committee during the Watergate scandal, U.S. envoy to China, and director of the Central Intelligence Agency in 1976. Bush then set his sights on the U.S. presidency, but failed to win his party’s nomination in 1980, losing it to his opponent, Ronald Reagan. Bush would make it to the White House soon after, however: He was chosen as Reagan’s vice-presidential running mate. Reagan won the 1980 election, defeating Democrat challenger Jimmy Carter. He was reelected in 1984, with Bush serving as his vice president for both terms.
oversaw the U.S. military’s removal of Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega from power. Not long after, Bush responded to then Iraqi President Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait (August 1990), creating a national coalition and leading a military strike, called Operation Desert Storm, to drive Hussein out of the oil-rich country. Bush’s handling of the invasion in Kuwait is largely viewed as his greatest presidential success. Friends and family members, as well as five presidents, paid their respects to former President George Bush at his funeral service at Washington National Cathedral, Washington D.C. on December 5, 2018. President George Bush was eulogized by George W. Bush, his son and the 43rd president of the United States. “He showed me what it means to be a president who serves with integrity, leads with courage and acts with love in his heart for the citizens of our country,” Mr. Bush said. George H.W. Bush was a soldier and a statesman and an example of a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed by many and remembered for his dedication to country and family.
Bush finally reached the White House’s top seat in 1989 by becoming the 41st president of the United States; he won the 1988 election against Democratic nominee Michael Dukakis, becoming the first sitting vice president to be elected president since 1837. During his presidency, Bush skillfully handled foreign affairs during a tumultuous time for the nation. Just months into his first term, he responded to the dissolve of the Soviet Union and
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VETERANS DAY
NOVEMBER 11, 2018
TEXAS VFW POST 1806, BEAUMONT — The Post visited several Korean War Veterans and one WWII Veteran at Pelican Bay Retirement Home. Commander Willie Beverly, member George Roy, and Quartermaster George Keller were in attendance. A presentation was given by Commander Beverly then everyone spoke individually about what Veterans Day means to them.
TEXAS VFW POST 3413, SAN MARCOS — Members participated in AFJROTC Veterans Day ceremonies at local schools as well as the Veterans Day parade in San Marcos.
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TEXAS VFW POST 7523, MINEOLA — Members participated in the Mineola Veterans Day parade.
TEXAS VFW POST 4146, VICTORIA — The Post Commander gave a briefing on the meaning of Veterans Day and why it is held. Afterwards, members and Auxiliary participated in the Veterans Day Parade held in downtown Victoria.
TEXAS VFW POST 4011, GREENVILLE — Commander made cookie baskets and presented them to the four Greenville Fire Departments, the Greenville Police Department and the Hunt Country Sheriff’s Department for appreciation for their Service and in commemoration of Patriot Day.
TEXAS VFW POST 2676, WINDTHORST — Post and Auxiliary participated in a Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the Windthorst ISD where students honored Post members and other veterans. Sheppard Air Force Base Color Guard posted the Colors.
TEXAS VFW POST 9175, ROMA — Roma ISD sponsored several Veterans Day events. Schools who participated were Veterans Memorial Elementary, Delia Garcia Elementary, RT Barrera Elementary, RC Saenz Elementary, Emma Vera Elementary, FJ Scott Elementary, and Roma HS. Outstanding involvement by the schools and community.
TEXAS VFW POST 7109, PEARLAND — Members visited Watercrest Retirement Center and held a Veterans Day ceremony. This was just one of many activities the Post participated in throughout the week.
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TEXAS VFW POST 1309, SMITHVILLE — The Post held a Veterans Day observance and lunch for Smithville community where 250+ were served. Awards for youth speeches were given. Guest speaker was Bastrop County Sheriff Maurice Cook.
VETERANS DAY
NOVEMBER 11, 2018
TEXAS VFW POST 6010, HOUSTON — Post 6010 & District 4 Commander Steve R. Benavides participated in the Houston Downtown Veterans Day Parade along with District 4 Auxiliary President Glenda Hunt, Post 8790 Commander Hector Giron and comrades.
TEXAS VFW POST 1475, AMARILLO — Members Ron Clark and Ben Lowrance spoke with the 4th grade class at Hamlet Elementary about the meaning of Veterans Day.
TEXAS VFW POST 2479, SWEETWATER — The Post hosted a Veterans Day BBQ that was open to all Veterans and their families in the community.
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TEXAS VFW POST 7103, ATHENS, HOLDS CEREMONY FOR NEW HONOR WALL ON A COOL AND RAINY VETERANS DAY AFTERNOON POST 7103 IN ATHENS, TEXAS HELD A DEDICATION CEREMONY FOR ITS NEW POST HONOR WALL. The ceremony was the culmination of months of discussion, planning, designing and finally construction of an Honor Wall. The intent of the wall is in keeping with the Veterans of Foreign Wars tradition of not forgetting those who have served and sacrificed, of honoring those family members who are currently serving, and honoring those in the future who will serve in defense of this great nation. At the Dedication, the Post also honored Past Post Commander and District 30 Commander Paul Wilbanks who served as Post Commander for over 10 years before passing away after a long battle with cancer. Paul worked hard to make the Post a viable communitybased organization dedicated to helping Veterans and participating as a charitable organization in Athens and Henderson County. Many thanks to Mr. Hollis Driscoll who designed the Honor Wall and for the wall construction provided by Neely Construction. Throughout the process, Post officers and members were involved in all aspects of the project incluidng planning the dedication ceremony. Members performed Honor Guard duties before a crowd of over 130 VFW members and family members of those honored on the wall. The ceremony included a dedication address by the Post Commander and remarks from Christie Pitts, daughter of the late Paul Wilbanks, as well as honors rendered by all the officers and members of VFW Post 7103. Following the ceremonies, the Post provided refreshments and performed a ceremonial cutting of a commemorative cake honoring the end of hostilities on November 11, 1918, the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I.
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TEXAS VFW POST 688, BOERNE, PARTICIPATES IN THE ADOPT-A-UNIT PROGRAM ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 2ND, 2018 PVT. BRUNO PHILLIP VFW POST 688, BOERNE, OFFICIALLY ADOPTED THE 433RD MEDICAL SQUADRON AT LACKLAND AFB, TEXAS. Post Commander Andrew Camplen presented Colonel Brad Butler with a VFW Adopt-A-Unit certificate and pledged the support of VFW Post 688 for all the Squadrons needs. Colonel Butler and the 433rd Medical Squadron reciprocated by naming VFW Post 688 Commander Andrew Camplen as the Honorary Commander of the 433rd Medical Squadron. A special thanks goes out to The Original Rudy’s Country Store and BBQ for donating an outstanding BBQ lunch that included peach cobbler for dessert for these Airmen. VFW Post 688 members and their family members served meals for 200 Airmen and family members of the 433rd Medical Squadron and the 433 ASTS. The Original Rudy’s Country Store and BBQ is an extremely loyal supporter of Veterans all year long. Their service, appreciation, support, and outstanding food has been a blessing to Veterans for many years. They offer discounted meals for Veterans daily. The Post would also like to thank Chilito’s Latin Fusion for their loyal support of Veterans and our Christmas events every year. Their Crazy Good Tamales live up to their name.
Over 121,000 military and family members are being actively supported by VFW Posts and Auxiliaries through the VFW Adopt-a-Unit program. VFW Posts work with unit commanders and senior enlisted personnel to develop supportive relationships with units before, during and after deployments. We offer a vast network of free resources and a variety of direct support for military members and their families. Popular examples of Adopt-a-Unit activities:Family Days, Welcome Home & Deployment events,Holiday events,Meetings and Support Seminars,Community Projects Annually VFW posts donate $ 48.2 million dollars and their 8.6 million volunteer hours to community activities as well as direct assistance such as lawn care, auto repairs, renovations to help accommodate a newly wounded service member, and much more.
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TEXAS VFW POST 12161, BUDA, PROUDLY HOSTS THE FIRST VETERANS DAY PARADE EVER HELD IN THE CITY OF BUDA. Buda Post Commander David Condel worked with city officials and the Buda Chamber of Commerce to make the parade a reality. Condel met with over 75 businesses, spoke to local organizations and posted on social media to invite people to either enter or attend the parade. With great support from the community Commander Condel and Buda Post 12161 were able to celebrate the men and women who served this country. Spectators endured cold winds and rain in order to be a part of this monumental inaugural celebration. It was cold outside but the huge amount of love, support and encouragement from the crowd warmed the hearts and spirits of every Veteran who attended.
VETERANS DAY
NOVEMBER 11, 2018
Photos by Matthew Adam Torres Photography Te x a s V F W N e w s 2 0 18 O c t o b e r/ N o v e m b e r
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Texas VFW Post 2676, Scotland-Windthorst, intensely judging their Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy entries.
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
Recognition of the top ten State Winners from the VFW Voice of Democracy Program, the State Winner from the Patriots Pen Program, and Teachers of the Year.
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
2018-19 MID-WINTER CONFERENCE & VOD BANQUET January 23-27, 2019 | DoubleTree North, Austin, Texas 2017-18 Voice of Democracy Winners
DoubleTree North-Austin, 6505 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78752 HOTEL IS SOLD OUT FOR THIS CONFERENCE Please check surrounding hotels for availability.
Order Banquet Tickets online at www.texasvfw.org/upcoming events or by Email, mail, or fax by January 9, 2019. Name:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________ City:________________________ State:________ Zip:__________________ Post/Aux:___________________________Dist. #:_______________________________________________________________________ Email:______________________________________________________ Telephone:___________________________________________ TYPE OF CARD
# of Tickets________ x $50.00 each = $___________________ CARD #
# of Tables ________ x $500.00 each = $__________________ (seats 10 per table) EXP. DATE
SECURITY CODE Last 3 #s on back of card. AMEX 4 #s on the front.
SIGNATURE
A $3 Credit Card Processing Fee will be added if paying by Credit Card.
EMAIL COMPLETED FORM TO: Wayne@TexasVFW.org; MAIL COMPLETED FORM WITH PAYMENT TO: (Check payable to Texas VFW) Texas VFW, PO Box 14468, Austin, TX, 78761; or FAX TO: (512) 834-9232
DATE
COMMUNITY SERVICE Texas VFW Post 12178, Weslaco The Post participated in the city’s tree lighting ceremony and enjoyed singing Feliz Navidad with the children.
Teacher Michelle A. Guyer received the Post 7108 Citizenship Teacher Award from Texas Department Jr. Vice Commander Richard “Dick” Shawver and assisted by VFW Post 7108 Commander Dana Hardacker at Scobee Elementary School in San Antonio, Texas. Because of her dedication and performance to her students, she received this award that also comes with a monetary prize. Also present at Scobee Elementary was VFW Post 7108 Jr. Vice Commander/Programs Chairman Bernard Bridges.
Texas VFW District 20, VFW Lytle Post 12041, VFW Helotes Post 7108, and Auxiliary participated in feeding the Wounded Warriors and their families at Fort Sam Houston Warrior Family Support Center, San Antonio, Texas on October 10, 2018. The celebration was in recogntion of Wounded Warrior’s Hispanic Heritage and their contribution to the “War on Terror.” The units who help feed are known as “The Crew” and are battle-tested members who arrange, set-up, serve and clean up after the event.
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VFW TO THE RESCUE!
Wednesday, October 31st started out like any typical Dallas VFW Post 6796 day. The rain was falling very hard and the Post had just finished hosting its weekly breakfast for District 3 Officers. They were proud to have State Jr. Vice Cdr. Dick Shawver as a guest. Post and Auxiliary leaders were putting the final touches on the plan for a Halloween Costume Party and Pot Luck Dinner scheduled for later that evening. Shortly after noon, the phone in the canteen rang. It was a neighbor from the Little Forest Hills Homeowners Association. Little Forest Hills is a residential neighborhood of about 1,000 homes right across the street from Post 6796. They said they had planned a Halloween Block Party for their children, but that the terrible weather was forcing them to change their plans or cancel the event all together. After a quick huddle of Post officers, an invitation was made to the Homeowner’s Association to bring their party to the Post. They were able to juggle the Block Party, Pot Luck Dinner, Costume Contest, and also a previously scheduled Line-Dancing Class! Things came together very fast, and by 5:30 p.m. our main hall was filled with princesses, fairies, goblins, Jedi, and ghostbusters. Post 6796 made a lot of new friends and showed the community what the Veterans of Foreign Wars is all about. Members of the Homeowners Association commented that “Your Post saved Halloween!”
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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COMMUNITY SERVICE Combat Hunger 2018 Texas VFW District 20 participated in a Food Drive Campaign initiated by Humana and directed by VFW National Headquarter design to “Combat Hunger in 2018� for veterans this Holiday Season. Under the guidance of our District 20 Commander, John Shipley, VFW Posts from District 20 collected barrels of food and cash donations for three months that were all delivered in a convoy of pick-ups on November 17, 2018 to the San Antonio Food Bank. That will control all the food deliveries. Thousands of pounds of food and monetary checks valued in the thousands were delivered. This Food Drive Campaign, started in District 20, will be expanded nationwide for veterans. We in the VFW believe that hunger should not exist in a country like ours for anyone, for any reason, much less Combat Veterans. A very rewarding task.
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WELCOME NEW POST 12178, WESLACO Post 12178, Weslaco was named in honor of two killed in action soldiers: Juan Calderon in Iraq 2004 and Sam W. Daily in Vietnam in 1966. Inge Conley, State Commander, leads the ceremony.
“Neighbors Helping Neighbors� Supporting Our Veterans
Insuring Texas Homes, Farms, and Ranches Since 1901
State Commander Inge Conley poses with wife of Sam W. Daily and mother of Juan Calderon both honored on November 17, 2018 in the naming of the new post Calderon-Daily Memorial VFW post 12178.
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Texas VFW Post 10351 members invited two women Army Veterans to attend the Hemphill ISD Patriot’s Club to speak to them about what it was like to be a woman in the military. Two generations, Darlene Elmore of Desert Storm and her daughter Bess Elmore who served in Kuwait during Iraqi Freedom showed slides.
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
2 0 18 A u g u s t / S e p t e m b e r Te x a s V F W N e w s
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: _________________________________________________________________
Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761 | For questions call: (512) 834-8535
Exp. Date: _____ _____ / _____ _____
COMMUNITY SERVICE Texas VFW Post 3903, Rosenberg During a monthly meeting of Like-Minded, Commander Dillon recognized the women who served and spoke about their contributions to the military. Like-Minded is a community outreach program which brings businesses and volunteer organizations together.
Texas VFW Post 5871, Huntsville Albert Archuleta, a member at Melvin White Post 5817, District 17, was asked to participate in career day at Huntsville Intermediate School in Huntsville, Texas. He spoke to 200+ 6th graders for four rotations. Albert is a 1SG, First Sergeant in the Texas Army National Guard and spoke about his 25 year career in the military and overseas combat tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. He explained how serving in the United States military has positively impacted his life and prepared him for a prosperous career in both his civilian and military occupations. Albert also made the students aware of the fact that they have privileges here that children in other countries do not have. He ended his sessions with expressing how his time in uniform has been a true honor.
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Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and member cost share may change on January 1 of each year. This is not a complete listing of plans available in your service area. For a complete listing, please contact 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week or consult www.medicare.gov. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 855-791-4087 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 855-791-4087 (TTY: 711). 855-791-4087 (TTY: 711). Y0040_GHHK5YNEN 0118
Texas VFW Post 12104, Bastrop Members assisted in replacing flags on Veterans’ graves at the Fairview Cemetery as part of the Post’s Veterans Day festivities. Other Post involvement included Buddy Poppy distributions, membership drives and Veterans Day Parade.