Summer 2009
Hutchinson Receives Silver Star 100 Year Old Marine Honored 89th Annual State Convention Awards
VFW Post 76 — Oldest Post in Texas
Periodicals
2009
Award-W inning Publicatio n
VFW Life Members can now take the next step in ensuring veterans a better tomorrow by becoming a Legacy Life Member today. Be remembered for your service as a veteran and VFW member. It’s easy to get started:
• Choose from Gold, Silver or Bronze, each with its own prestigious benefits.
• Gold $1,200 Silver $800 Bronze $400
• Legacy is tax deductble to the maximum extent allowed.
• Use the installment plan option to make quarterly payments.
For more information call 1.800.963.3180.
www.texasvfw.org
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Hutchinson Receives Silver Star
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State Convention Awards Banquet
On the 65th anniversary of D-Day, SPC David Hutchinson became only the fifth Army Reserve Soldier to receive the Silver Star.
The 89th annual State Convention Awards Banquet was held June 24-28, 2009 in Corpus Christi, Texas.
In the News
4 Commander’s Column 6 WWII Female Veteran Oldest in State 7 100 Year Old Marine Honored 10 POW/MIA 12 Foundation Grants 13 Texas VFW Foundation 14 Fallen Soldiers Remembered 15 Photos from Around Texas 17 Flag Day Festivities 18 Texas VFW Membership Form 19 Buddy Poppy Winners/4th of July Parade 20 Get Your Official Texas VFW Gear 22 Just for Fun! Back Cover Veterans Memorial
CONTENTS
The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars
Upcoming Events
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Texas Legislature Passes Veterans Bills The veterans of Texas were very successful during the 81st Texas Legislative Session.
23 Mike Barber Homecoming For information regarding:
Reunions General Orders Taps Seeking District Meetings and other related topics Visit our website www.texasvfw.org
Summer 2009
ABOUT THE COVER VFW Post 76 celebrates the
Hutchinson Receives Silver Star
opening of the San Antonio river
100 Year Old Marine Honored 89th Annual State Convention
we want to hear from you! Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Editor P.O. Box 14468 Austin, TX 78761 or by email dan@texasvfw.org
Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW News will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part.
Awards
walk that runs along the back
VFW Post 76 — Oldest Post in Texas
of their building. The Post home is actually a southern- style mansion over 100 years old complete with ghosts.
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Award-Winning Publication
See article page 11
Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and are not to be construed as those of the publisher nor as official views of the Texas VFW, the National VFW or any of its agencies, unless otherwise made manifest by writers or spokespersons acting on behalf of the foregoing. Advertising of products and services herein does not imply endorsement or approval of the Texas VFW. Advertising is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services are accurately described. Ads that contain fraudulent, deceptive or misleading statements or illustrations, or in the opinion of the Texas VFW News may be offensive, are not knowingly accepted. If you encounter noncompliance, please tell us.
7/28/09 10:10:32 AM TVFW Summer 2009 Issue.indd
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STATE Commander’s Column We are only about 25 days into this VFW year, as of this writing, and I must tell you that I am very optimistic, upbeat, and PROUD of what I am seeing. Let me begin by saying “Job Well Done” to Ride Captain Bill Pratt, Post 6974, Burnet, and the rest of his riders who participated in the Inaugural John Fair Memorial Ride for the Kids which took them to our VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, MI., on the 4th of July. There is no doubt that much coordination was Mike Barber, required to make this ride the huge success that it was and I congratulate State Commander you on raising approximately $28,000 for our National Home. Ya’ll did good! Judging by the District Planning/Organizational meetings I see going on all around the State, I am convinced that this year’s priorities, SOPs, plans, and deadlines are being put out. Continue to use these meetings as a venue for your Schools of Instruction. The foundation of our great organization is at the Post level and we, as leaders, at all levels, must ensure that those Post leaders know what is expected and that we give them all the assets we can muster to assist them in being successful. One of my priorities for this year is continuous members. Now, I am not saying that new members and recruiting are not important — they are and they always will be. We have led the nation the last 5 or 6 years in new members and I see no reason why we can’t do it again. We are blessed with a number of the best recruiters in the nation — they are second to none. I am merely asking that in your membership plan for this year that you do everything you can to call, write or visit with these comrades so we can keep them on our rolls. To our Department Ladies Auxiliary President, Cleo Hornsby, I say to you again — I am a huge supporter of our Ladies Auxiliary. We made some significant gains this past year by promoting the programs of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. I would ask that you continue to assist us in that endeavor. I look forward to seeing many of you at the 19th Annual Leadership Training Seminar in Austin. Once again we are filled to capacity. Our Department staff has worked tirelessly to ensure that this year’s Seminar surpasses all others. This we do “Because We’re Proud.” n
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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 $6.00 per calendar year for non-members. Free to all members in good standing. Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXIII, Number 1, © August 2009. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Circulation Dept., VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Members Change of Address: Forward address changes to: Data Entry, VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address as printed on a recent copy of the Texas VFW News magazine. Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org, or request a printed Media Kit at dan@texasvfw.org.
Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editor www.medianation.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Design DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS....................................(512) 834-8535
2009-2010 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Commander Mike Barber . . . . . . . . . . .3892 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Sr Vice Wayne Depute . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6378 . . . . . . . . 324 Windward Dr., League City, Jr Vice John Spahr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8787 . . . 116 Trail Of The Flowers, Georgetown, Adj/Qm Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3377 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Judge Advocate Ken Burton . . . . . . . . 9182 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Surgeon Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . . . . 2397 . . . . . . . 4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, Chaplain Bob Dickerson . . . . . . . . . . . . 2451 . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 341136, San Antonio, Inspector Glen Heady . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9190 . . . . . . . 6620 Summertime Ln., Watauga, Chief Of Staff Ken Mosley . . . . . . . . . . 7767 . . . . . . . . . . . . 1860 Cr 217, Breckenridge, Past Cdr Jerry Murphree . . . . . . . . . . . 3359 . . . . . . . . . . . . 7209 Shipp Road, Rowlett, Council Member Russ Richards . . . . . 4010 . . . . . . . . 6610 Rowell Ct., Missouri City, Asst Adj Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3413 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Asst Qm Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . 6378 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Deputy Inspector David Bennett . . . . . 4372 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 517 N. Grant Ave, Odessa, Deputy Inspector John Lozanski . . . . . 5076 . . . . . . . . . . 1215 Cedar Ridge Rd., Heath, Deputy Inspector Robert Lafleur . . . . . 2775 . . . . . . . . . . . . 3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, Deputy Inspector Ray Dudley . . . . . . . 6115 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 463 Tahitian Dr., Bastrop, Officer Of The Day Eddie Williams . . 4008 . . . . . . 404 N Hwy 95, Ltl River Academy,
TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX
78761 77573 78633 78761 78761 78413 78234 76148 76424 75088 77489 78761 78753 79761 75032 77630 78602 76554
DEPARTMENT SERVICE OFFICERS Waco Mel Glidewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6008 . . . One Veterans Plaza, 701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799 Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77030
2009-2010 DISTRICT COMMANDERS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 28 29 30
Joe Hayes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9167 . . . . . . . . . . 207 Hwy. 36 S, Caddo Mills, TX 75135 Jesse Hamilton . . . . . . . . . . . 8953 . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 1029, Splendora, TX 77372 Bill Oaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6796 . . . . . . . . 1818 Quail Hill Circle, Garland, TX 75040 Michael Contreras . . . . . . . . . 5619 . . . . . . . . . . . . 7409 Albacore, Houston, TX 77074 Eddie Maycen . . . . . . . . . . . 12058 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Pecanwood S, Kyle, TX 78640 Mike Kuertz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3904 . . . . . . . . . . . . 214 Marion Dr., Rockport, TX 78382 Chuck Ratliff . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6797 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 516 West 11th St., Post, TX 79356 Keith King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3278 . . . . . . . . . 2406 Belmeade, Brownwood, TX 76801 George Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7782 . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 1175, Clarendon, TX 79226 Joe Vargas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9173 . . . . . . . . . . . 10436 Tomwood, El Paso, TX 79925 Steve Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3986 . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Cr 1540, Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455 Ron Suggs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1480 . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 617, Center Point, TX 78010 Linnie Mccall . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4008 . . . . . . . . . . 375 Mesquite Road, Belton, TX 76573 Rudy Ostovich . . . . . . . . . . . . 4747 . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 745, Burkburnett, TX 76354 Glenn James . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8551 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235 Primrose, Freeport, TX 77541 Lee Derby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12024 . . . . . . . . . . . . 11521 Fm 1484, Conroe, TX 77303 Arnold Garza . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8788 . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 5956, Mcallen, TX 78502 Richard Shawver . . . . . . . . . . 5073 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19151 Valley Dr., Flint, TX 75762 Tish Mccullough . . . . . . . . . . 4676 . . . . 5639 Wood Climb St., San Antonio, TX 78233 Jim Lacker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5617 . . . . 216 S. Grants Ln., #37, Fort Worth, TX 76108 Carlton Bolting . . . . . . . . . . . 8136 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1915 Fm 240, Yorktown, TX 78164 Mel Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6284 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 79762 Red Towers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10427 . . . . . . . . . . . 620 Skyview Ter., Leander, TX 78641 Larry Bethea, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . 8564 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 702 N. 18th St., Waco, TX 76707 Ed Faught . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3894 . . . 225 N. Falling Leaves Dr., Waxahachie, TX 75167
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hutchinson receives silver star On June 6, 2009, the 65th anniversary of D-Day, SPC David Hutchinson became only the fifth Army Reserve Soldier to receive the Silver Star. While deployed in Afghanistan, he was instrumental in saving the lives of 16 fellow Soldiers. It was the morning of May 21, 2008; the weather was eighty-nine degrees with unlimited visibility. The 420th Engineer Brigade Personal Security Detail unit consisted of 17 Army Reservists traveling in a four-vehicle convoy southeast on an ASR jeep headed towards Forward Operating Base Orgun-E. Then-Private First Class David Hutchinson was serving as a MK19 gunner in the third gun truck when suddenly they were ambushed by determined Anti-Afghan Forces (AAF). Approximately 15-20 AAF opened fire with an arsenal of rocket propelled grenades, PKM machine guns, and AK-47s. Hutchinson’s unit was also being attacked by sniper rifles hidden in the surrounding Afghanistan mountains approximately 50 to 70 meters away. The AAF fighters were bold in their efforts to destroy the convoy by attempting to disable the lead and trail gun trucks with RPGs.
Three of the four trucks immediately engaged in combat returning suppressive fire. Being the aggressors, the AAF moved from cover into the open to engage the gun trucks under devastating fire provided by Hutchinson and his fellow soldiers. The AAF had fire superiority until Hutchinson quickly assessed the PKM machine gun nest on top of a hill. This position was most lethal to Hutchinson and his fellow soldiers in the convoy. His fire was so effective in disrupting the AAF’s efforts to destroy the convoy that they began focusing their wrath specifically on him and his MK19. Hutchinson stayed in his position under intense fire, placing accurate effective fire on the remaining enemies with total disregard for his own life. Members of his unit later counted well over 100 bullet strikes on his turret. Hutchinson expended an entire ammo can destroying a fixed machine gun position and killing no less than five enemy insurgents before he was seriously wounded by a RPG that entered the crew compartment of his M1151 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle. Shrapnel from the RPG hit his right leg and caused him to collapse from his gunner position into the crew compartment. After collapsing from his wounds, Hutchinson observed that his First Sergeant was severely injured with gaping shrapnel wounds to the face and head. With total disregard for his own serious injuries and his right leg going numb, he calmly administered first aid to his First Sergeant. His actions controlled the bleeding as the convoy proceeded out of the engagement area. When the MEDEVAC arrived, despite his own serious wounds, Hutchinson refused to be carried on a litter so that others could carry the wounded First Sergeant. This act freed other soldiers to provide security and reduced the time the MEDEVAC spent on the ground.
Spc. David Hutchinson (right) stands at attention as he receives a Silver Star medal from Col. James Doty, incoming commander of the 420th Engineer Brigade (left); Maj. Gen. Paul Crandall (center left), the outgoing commander; and Rep. Chet Edwards, 17th District of Texas (center). Hutchinson, a graduate of Brenham High School, received the medal Saturday in a ceremony on the Texas A&M University campus. He is only the fifth Army Reserve soldier to receive a Silver Star. Photo courtesy of U.S. Army
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Hutchinson was medically evacuated out of Afghanistan with a serious leg injury after being in theater only a week. His actions contributed to the safety of 16 soldiers and showed extraordinary courage, loyalty and selfless-service under fire beyond expectation. n
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VFW Post 2427 Adjutant, Thomas Rudy
WWII Female veteran is oldest in state
For many people the abbreviations WAAC (Women’s Army Auxiliary Corp) and WAC (Women’s Army Corp) have little meaning since neither is still in existence. But for 101 year-old Opal Patterson they mean everything because she was a member of each from 1943 to 1945 in World War II.
Born and raised in Marion, Ohio, Ms. Patterson was attending secretarial school during the early stages of WWII when her instructor told her the military was looking for good, qualified people. In 1943 she enlisted and was soon sent to the European theatre of Operations via Casablanca, Morocco and then Algiers, Algeria where she worked as a teletype operator or cryptographer in the signal corps. “I sent and received messages all day but they were in code so I did not know what they said,” said Ms. Patterson, “I just kept sending and receiving.” In 1945 Opal was transferred to Caserta, Italy where she worked in the royal palace of Caserta, which was the allied headquarters and where the signing of the unconditional surrender of Germany took place. “This was the same building where General Eisenhower had his official office and I would see him in the hallway and sometimes would forget to salute. He would get upset, to say
the least,” said Opal. While in the Army, Ms. Patterson was awarded the WAAC Service Ribbon, the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and one Battle Star and three Overseas Bars. “I could really tell you some good stories, if only I could remember them,” Opal said with a smile. Also, while in the service, Opal met and married her husband Royce, who was a Sergeant. They returned to Houston in 1945 where they lived in the Gulf Gate area for more than forty-years. During that period, Ms. Patterson worked for more than twenty-years at Memorial Hospital helping to organize the original Medicare system. Opal is a member of VFW Post 2427 in Tomball, Texas and is believed to be the oldest VFW member in Houston and the oldest female veteran in Texas. She will celebrate her 102 birthday in November. n
VFW Post 2427, Tomball, Texas dropped by with balloons and flowers to help celebrate Ms. Patterson’s 101 birthday.
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vfw post 880 honors 100 year old marine & WWII Veteran A 100th birthday celebration was given in honor of Life Member Amos Timothy (Buck) Estes of Galveston on Saturday, June 6, 2009, by family and friends. A single gold candle decorated a Red, White and Blue cake symbolizing Estes 100 years. Buck was born on June 4, 1909 in Mount Calm, a small town Northeast of Waco, Texas. Comrade Estes served in the U.S. Marine Corps for eight years earning the rank of Sergeant. Buck enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1930 and saw action during the Second Nicaraguan Campaign in Central America against Nicaraguan rebels and was honorably discharged in 1934. He reenlisted in the Marines for the second time the day after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He was assigned to the 3rd Marine Division and deployed to the Pacific Theatre where he saw action against Japanese forces.
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On November 1, 1943, the 3rd Marines landed at Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville in the Solomon Islands and engaged in two months of heavy fighting. His 3rd Marines also took part in landings at Guam and Iwo Jima. Comrade Estes, a well seasoned Marine, was honorably discharged again when the 3rd Marines were disbanded in December 1945. Family, friends, and VFW Post 880 joined in thanking Comrade Amos Timothy (Buck) Estes for his service to our country, and in wishing him a Happy 100th Birthday and every day thereafter. n
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S t a t e
C o n v e n t i o n Past State Commander Al Cantu presents the Outstanding Immediate Past District Commander Award to Past District 25 Commander David Bennett.
All-State District Commanders for the 2008-2009 VFW year are Ken Mosley, District 8 and Glenn Heady, District 21. Pictured L to R, Tommy Tradewell, National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief, Ken Mosley, Glenn Heady, State Commander Jerry Murphree.
Outstanding Auxiliary Member Linda Henry receives her award.
State Commander Jerry Murphree presents the Glen M. Gardner Outstanding Quartermaster award to District 8 Quartermaster Tom Denison Winners of the Texas VFW prestigious J.T. Rutherford Awards are L to R, Ken Mosley, Sylvia Sanchez & Lee Derby.
Past State Commander Danny Henry presents Lee Derby with the Danny Henry Award for excellence as the Top Post Commander in the State. 8
Summer 2009
William B. Moody Outstanding Chaplain Award is presented to Rudy Chavana of VFW Post 76, San Antonio.
83 year old Eric Solomos of VFW Post 5619, Bellaire receives the Outstanding Post Service Officer Award.
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Aw ards Ban qu et
Past State Commander & former POW Robert “Tiger” Lyons presents the POW/MIA to VFW District 16 for being the most active in promoting POW/MIA programs. L to R, Donna James, Tiger Lyons, Glenn James.
VFW Outstanding Motorcycle Unit Award was awarded to Unit 4 from VFW Post 4149, Midland, Texas. L to R. Charlie Howell, Past State Commander A.R. “Russ” Richards, Dal Davis.
Past State Commander Doug Bell presents the “Dare to Care” Award to VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands for their work in assisting homeless veterans. L to R, Doug Bell, Judy Brawner, President Post Auxiliary, Lee Derby, Post Commander.
Past State Commander & former POW Robert “Tiger” Lyons presents the POW/MIA to VFW Post 6873, Abilene for being the most active in promoting POW/ MIA programs. L to R, Jeannie Bell, Tiger Lyons, Doug Bell.
About to be installed as State Commander, Mike Barber stands in front of the elected and appointed State Officer and District Commanders for the 2009-2010 VFW year at the 89th annual State Convention held June 24-28, 2009 in Corpus Christi, Texas. w w w . t e x a s v f w . o r g
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pow/mia SOLDIER MISSING IN ACTION FROM KOREAN WAR IS IDENTIFIED — April 16, 2009
AIRMAN MISSING IN ACTION FROM WWII IS IDENTIFIED — April 14, 2009
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors. He is Pfc. David Woodruff, U.S. Army, of Poplar Bluff, Mo. He will be buried on April 22 in St. Louis, Mo. Representatives from the Army’s Mortuary Office met with Woodruff’s next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process on behalf of the Secretary of the Army. Woodruff was assigned to Company K, 3rd Battalion, 9th Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. In early 1951, the 2nd ID was augmented by Republic of Korea (R.O.K.) forces and was occupying positions near Hoengsong, South Korea. On February 11, the Chinese Army launched a massive attack on the U.S. line, overwhelming R.O.K. forces and exposing the American flank. The 2nd ID was forced to withdraw to the south and Woodruff was captured by enemy forces. He died in, or near, one of the North Korean prison camps in Suan County, North Hwanghae Province. Between 1991-94, North Korea turned over to the U.S. 208 boxes of remains believed to contain the remains of 200400 U.S. servicemen. One box turned over in 1991 contained Woodruff’s military identification tag, and a box turned over in 1992 contained remains recovered from Suan County. Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in the identification of the remains turned over in 1992. For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169. n
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors. He is Staff Sgt. Jimmie Doyle, U.S. Army Air Forces, of Lamesa, Texas. He will be buried April 25 in Lamesa. Representatives from the Army’s Mortuary Affairs Office met with Doyle’s next-of-kin in his hometown to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Army. On September 1, 1944, Doyle was one of eleven men on board a B-24J Liberator bomber that was shot down while on a bombing reconnaissance mission of enemy targets near the town of Koror, Republic of Palau. Three of the crewmen parachuted from the aircraft and died while prisoners of the Japanese, and the other eight crewmen, including Doyle, went down with the plane into the sea between Babelthuap and Koror islands. In 2004, a Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command team conducted an underwater investigation of aircraft wreckage submerged off the southern coast of Babelthuap Island. Between 2005 and 2008, combined JPAC/U.S. Navy Mobile Diving and Salvage teams excavated the site three times and recovered human remains and material evidence, including machine guns bearing serial numbers that match those of guns mounted on this plane, and identification media for three of the crewmen on the plane. Among dental records, other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA in the identification of Doyle’s remains. For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1420. n
Texas VFW is the
Official Sponsor of the Professional Armed Forces Rodeo Association. Visit them at
www.pafra.com 10
Summer 2009
Stay Connected! Visit
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VFW Post 76, oldest post in texas May 30, 2009 marked a significant date in the history of the oldest Post in Texas, VFW Post 76. The grand opening of the San Antonio River Walk extension was officially held and the Post celebrated the event, along with the City of San Antonio. Barges now pass slowly by the Post and steps leading to the Post provide an area for visitors and guests to relax and enjoy their favorite beverages while marveling in the unique aspects of this historic landmark in San Antonio. Chartered in 1917, VFW Post 76 located to the former Van A. Petty home in 1946 when the property was deeded over to the Post. Prior to that date, Post members met at the Spanish Mansion in San Antonio. The home is a unique property. The Corinthian columns support the Victorian style home that features a first and second floor veranda, basement, complete with a swimming pool and an attic. At one time the house had 17 rooms, 5 fireplaces and 2 kitchens. There are stained glass windows on the main floor and a front stair landing. The second floor Ladies Rest Room has a porcelain pedestal sink as well as porcelain floors. Past and current members attest to the fact that the house has two resident ghosts sharing the name of “Charlie� adding to the house mystique. Reports of a girl running up and down the stairs and of an old man who likes to move furniture continue to this day. Van A. Petty was a lumber dealer and Real Estate entrepreneur in the City of San Antonio. Mr. Petty sought
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out the help of Atler B. Ayers when designing the home. The house was completed in 1904, on the banks of the San Antonio River. Mr. Petty married Cordelia Dabney, a native of Selma, Texas and parented three children, all boys. Mr. Petty and his sons Dabney and Scott researched, developed and perfected the portable seismograph, which was used to find oil, in this house. The Petty family went on to form Petty Geophysical Engineering. The Officers and members of VFW Post 76, the oldest Post in Texas, encourage everyone, members and non members to stop by and visit them while in San Antonio! n
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Foundation grants assist veterans/military & their families Beth Creasy, MAP Assistant
Texas VFW Foundation administers two grants for qualifying service members/veterans and their families experiencing financial hardship due to military deployment. Texas Resources for The two grants are from the National VFW Unmet Needs program Iraq-Afghanistan Deployment and the Texas Resources for Iraq/Afghanistan Deployment fund (TRIAD) awarded through the Dallas Area Foundation, Permian Basin Area Foundation and the San Antonio Area Foundation. Last year 497 Texas VFW Posts & Auxiliaries donated to this fund as well. Although the military service requirement is slightly different for each, both are designed to assist with basic living expenses, mainly for those who have been wounded in action or diagnosed with a medical condition as a result of overseas war time service in harm’s way. The ability for Texas VFW to administer these two grants concurrently not only ensures that the optimal aid is reached for each application, but also that the applicant is only burdened by one application, one process, and one point of contact. This expedites the process significantly. These grants and the invaluable financial donations from the VFW Posts & Auxiliaries has made it possible for the Texas VFW Foundation to distribute more than $203,000 to 150 service members/veterans and their families during the 2008-2009 VFW year. To quote a service member recently awarded a grant “…thank you with all our hearts for you helping us. God bless and thank you. Thank you, all, for those that contributed. It has made it possible to continue the VFW’s mission of “Serving the dead by helping the living.” To find out more about the Texas VFW Foundation please visit us at www.texasvfw.org and look for us under “PROGRAMS” on the home page. n
TRIADFUND
AVAILABLE 2009/2010 TOURS
2009 DATES: AUG 9-22 • SEPT 13-26 2010 DATES: MAR 7-20 • MAR 21- APR 3 • APR 18 - MAY 1 MAY 2-15 • JUN 9-22 • AUG 15-28 • SEPT 12-25
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Show your Faith in America “GOD BLESS AMERICA” Caps 6-panel, low-profile, cotton twill in two colors (Red & Blue). The U.S. Flag and “God Bless America” is embroidered on the front panel, “God Bless America” is embroidered and U.S. Flag label are on back of cap. Velcro type adjustment back strap with USA. Imported. One size fits most.
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Recognition Challenge Coin Say thank you to any veteran or to those who support veterans everyday with a Texas VFW Challenge Coin for “Outstanding Service.” Great for recruiting or recognition ceremonies. 1.5 inch diameter, heavy duty antiqued bronze with full color U.S. Flag and American Eagle profile on front and VFW Cross of Malta on back. Price: $5.00 each H
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Please print legibly Name:_________________________________________________________________Phone#(________)__________________________ Shipping Address:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City_______________________________________________State____________________ Zip___________________________________
Mail this form and your check or money order to:
Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761
Item
Color
Qty Total
God Bless America Ball Cap ($10.00 ea.)
Blue
$
God Bless America Ball Cap ($10.00 ea.)
Red
$
Outstanding Service Challenge Coin ( $5.00 ea.)
$
Shipping and Handling — (Texas sales tax included in price) For pricing on orders of 100 or more call (512) 834-8535 and ask for Dan West.
Order Total
+ $5.00
$
fallen soldiers remembered
Post Service Officer, Jason Nichols of Post 3907, Palestine, pauses for a moment of silence at the State Convention in remembrance of a fallen U.S. Soldier that was killed in action in Iraq earlier in the day.
VFW Members from Post 1815, San Angelo conduct Memorial Day Services at the Tom Green County Courthouse.
The Scotland-Windthorst Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2676 and its Ladies Auxiliary assist in honoring the memories of Marine Private Leo Blake (WW II), Marine Corporal Paul J. Himmels (Korea) and Marine Sergeant Gary Johnston (Iraq) through the unveiling and dedication of three stone podiums emblazoned with granite plaques depicting their likeness and a narrative outlining their service. 14
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Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene, Texas on Memorial Day 2009 Courtesy of Jesse Castillo
Photos shows Post 8904 QM Larry Hume presenting Terri Creed with a Blue Star Banner in honor of her son Nathan Krull who is currently a 10 year veteran of the US Navy.
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Commander John Piersol who stands by to play TAPS at VFW Post 8904, Center, Texas.
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texas legislature passes veterans bills The veterans of Texas were very successful during the 81st Texas Legislative Session. Here is a synopsis of several key bills: 100% Disabled Veterans Tax Relief Signed by Texas Governor Rick Perry on June 19, 2009, military veterans who are totally disabled or cannot work because of service-related injuries will pay no property taxes under the new tax exemption approved by the legislature. House Bill 369 provides an exemption of the total appraised value of homesteads of Texas veterans who have received a 100% disability rating or are considered unemployable by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The new law is effective for the 2009 tax year. Swift action is necessary to update local property tax rolls and ensure eligible veterans receive the new tax break. Eligible disabled veterans must apply for the tax exemption through their county tax appraisal district. An application form for veterans can be found at the State Comptrollers web site: www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/taxforms/vetexempt.pdf Veterans are encouraged to contact their mortgage lenders, if applicable, to have their monthly escrow payments adjusted to reflect the new law.
Fund for Veterans Assistance The 79th Legislature created the Texas Fund for Veterans Assistance. Unfortunately, no revenue funds were appropriated. On June 19, 2009, Texas Governor Rick Perry signed into law Senate Bill 1655 creating a lottery scratch ticket, the proceeds from which will be placed into the Fund for Veterans Assistance. The ticket will premiere on November 9, 2009. Expected revenue will start in late January 2010, at which time the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) will begin the process of awarding grants to those organizations assisting veterans. On the same date, Governor Perry signed House Bill 4853 as amended to protect the lottery funds from being swept to the general accounts and allowing the transfer of money to the Fund for Veterans Assistance. Additionally, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill 1940 which allows Texas State employees to donate to the Fund for Veterans Assistance and provides for a
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voluntary contribution to the fund when state citizens register their vehicles through a check off box designed for such donation.
Mental Health for Veterans SB 1325 was signed into law by Governor Rick Perry on June 19, 2009 creating a mental health intervention program for military veterans. There were many laws passed by the 81st Legislature relating to veterans. For a complete list visit the Texas VFW web site at: www.texasvfw.org. We would like to thank the members of the Texas Legislative Veterans Caucus for their help in ensuring that veteran related bills were heard and voted on. A special thanks to Senator Leticia Van De Putte and Representative Chris Turner for their leadership on the 100% Disabled Tax Exemption and the Lottery Scratch ticket.
For all of the members of the 81st Legislative session, a sincere thanks for passing these bills and showing the nation that Texas leads the way in assisting our veterans! n
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Flag day festivities at post 3413
Girl Scouts of Troop 1309 learn how to fold the Flag as part of Flag Day activities at Post 3413 in San Marcos, Texas.
All American Post Commander All American Post Quartermaster All American District Commander All State Post Commander All State Post Quartermaster All State District Commander All Honor Roll District Commander National & State Committees National Assistant Inspector General Co-Founder Texas VFW Motorcycle Group
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Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America. Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in, or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.
How VFW Serves America
Lobbying for Veterans & Military Providing Disaster Relief Community Volunteerism Address:____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Funding College Scholarships Phone Cards for Troops City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone:____________________________ Supporting Youth Groups Emergency Financial Assistance Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY) Supporting Memorials Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements
Name: _________________________________________________Email: _ ________________________________________ First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.)
Current Status: I served in:
p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/Reserve p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001 p World War II p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Iraq 2003 p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 p 1945 – 55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p Expeditionary Operations 1958 – 2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) p 1945 – 90 (Berlin)
Qualified recipient of: p Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay
p*SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol*
* Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service). I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a: p Annual Member ($35)
p Life Member*
p Life 12 Mo. Install*
p Life 24 Mo. Install*
($35 Initial payment)
($35 Initial payment)
Life Membership Fee Schedule
Attained age on 12/31
One Time Payment
Through age 30 31 – 40 41 – 50 51 – 60 61 – 70 71 – 80 81 and over
$425.00 $410.00 $375.00 $335.00 $290.00 $225.00 $170.00
Life 12 Month Payment Plan $40.39 $39.02 $35.84 $32.20 $28.11 $22.20 $17.20
Life 24 Month Payment Plan $20.23 $19.58 $18.05 $16.32 $14.36 $11.53 $9.14
Less than .10 ¢ per day!
Installment Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Life Membership installment plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making either 11 or 23 monthly installments after an initial payment of $35.00. The member/applicant will be issued a “Provisional Life” membership card and can elect, upon receipt of first monthly invoice, to pay via check, credit card or ACH Debit. The monthly fee (Shown in the payment schedule above) includes a $1.75 monthly service fee. The applicable Life Membership fee is to be determined from the schedule using the applicants age on December 31 of the installment plan year in which the application is submitted, regardless of actual date of birth. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon completion of this agreement. No refund of any portion of current year annual dues will be made. A “Payoff amount” will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full at anytime during the installment plan, thereby avoiding additional service fees. If the member pays off early, no additional monies will be collected.
I attest by forwarding this application that I am a citizen of the United States, that I qualify for the VFW and that my Campaign Service was honorable, and that I have never been discharged under other than honorable conditions or I am still serving honorably in the armed forces of the United States of America. I further give authority to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States to verify my entitlement to membership in the VFW and that if no proof can be found or provided that I am subject to discharge from the VFW without refund. Signature:___________________________________________________________________Date: ______________________________________________ Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card.
p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express
Credit Card Number:_ ________________________________________________________
Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________ Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761
For questions call: (512) 834-8535
Buddy poppy winners Category I – Public Promotion of Poppy Sales VFW Post 8790, Houston, and its Ladies Auxiliary Category II – Memorial or Inspirational VFW Post 8953, Romayor, and its Ladies Auxiliary Category III – Artistic or Decorative Use of Poppies VFW Post 10454, Grapevine, and its Ladies Auxiliary
Buddy Poppy Chairman, Bill Phillips standing next to entries in the annual Buddy Poppy Display Contest held at the State Convention.
Junior Girls VFW Post 8577, Copperas Cove
4th of july parade in round rock, tx – vfw post 9078
Pictured from left to right: Middle Group: Jim Torres, Rodney Keene (Cmdr), Next Row: Wayne Cooley (Quartermaster), Bruce Rollman (Jr Vice Cmdr), Ted Lyon George White (Sr. Vice), Steve Mclemoore. Back row: Bob Gear (Adjutant), David Veit
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Get Your Official “Texas VFW” Gear
Texas VFW Ball Cap — $16.00 Show your Texas Pride with our new “Texas VFW” Ball Cap, complete with Texas VFW, Texas Flag and VFW Emblem embroidered on the front. One size fits most. Imported.
Navy Polo Shirt with Pocket
Available in White, Red and Blue: W7359 — White R7359 — Red B7359 — Blue
Texas VFW Logo on Right Chest. 53% Cotton, 47% Microfiber, dri-balance performance material. Imported. #7942 S-XL – $33.00 2XL – $34.50 3XL – $36.00 4XL – $38.00
Texas VFW Polo Shirt What better way to show off your Texas attitude than with a “Texas VFW” shirt. Made of 100% cotton knit with “Texas VFW” and VFW emblem embroidered on left chest. Customized buttons with the five point Texas Star with Texas spelled out reminiscent of the first Texas flag known as the “Bonnie Blue” flag. Patriotic collar and sleeve cuffs with the Texas Flag image on left sleeve. Get yours today and show off your Texas VFW Pride. Imported. Indicate men’s #7360 or ladies #7361 Price $35.00 for S-XL 2XL – Add $2.50 3XL – Add $4.50 4XL – Add $5.50 For custom embroidery options you can add up to two lines of text on the right chest for an additional $5.00.
Prices good thru 8/31/09 Mail or Fax VFW Emblem & Supply Dept. 406 W. 34th Street, KC, MO 64111 Fax: 816-968-1196
Post Name Street City Zip
Stock #
Qty
Size
Description/Color
Price $
Online orders
www.vfwstore.org Phone Orders
1-800-821-2606
TEXAS State
Phone (
)
SHIPPING AND HANDLING Up to $10.00..........Add $ 3.00 $75.01 to $100.00...........10.00 $10.01 to $25.00 ............ 6.00 $101.01 to $200.00.........12.00 $25.01 to $50.00 ............ 7.00 $200.01 to $300.00.........14.00 $50.01 to $75.00 ............ 8.00 $300.01 & Over ...............16.00 Prices good until 8-31-09
(If additional space is needed, attach a separate sheet)
0003 Please send catalog for $2.50 (will include $2.50 redeemable coupon) Merchandise Total $ Make Checks Payable to: Veterans of Foreign Wars, OR Charge it. Missouri residents only - add 7.725% Tax Shipping & Handling M.C. (16 numbers)
Visa (13 or 16 numbers)
Exp. Date: Month
SIGNATURE
Discover (16 numbers)
American Express (16 numbers)
TOTAL $
ADD THE LAST 3 NUMBERS that appear in the signature block on the back of your charge card.
Year Date
For American Express add the 4 numbers printed on the front of your card on right side.
The overseas cap was first issued to front line soldiers in World War I and is America’s first military decoration denoting war time service in harms way. M6251 Light Weight Members Cap, Gold Piping M6251 Uniform Caps & Accessories Price: $32.45 Light weight style overseas cap with the Cross of Malta Emblem, letters VFW above the Post number and state name. Additional lettering is available at .88 per letter or numeral. No reduction in price if state name is abbreviated. STATE AND POST NUMBER TO BE ON CAP. SIZE 8 AND LARGER ADD $5.00. FORT KNOX STYLE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST. CAP MAY BE LETTERED WITH THE WORDS “VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS” ADD $2.55 for life member patch OR the words “LIFE MEMBER” can be embroidered on cap. Green, light weight, shade 51 Allow 8 weeks for manufacture except during April, May, June, & July. During these months allow 10 weeks.
OFFICIAL VFW NAME BADGES — For wear at any event and all VFW functions. Let us know who you are!
To order call 1-800-821-2606
Color Code Prefixes Name Badge Styles (Be sure to add color code prefix)
R-Red — State Officers and District Commanders Gr-Green — District Officers G-Gold — Post Officers & Members A-Black — All Purpose
1816 — Clip On Badge (over pocket) $7.00 1817 — Clutch Back Badge $7.50 1826 — Pin Back Badge $7.50 1828 — Magnetic Back Badge $8.00 (not for use with pacemaker)
ALUMINUM LIFE MEMBER CARD Back by popular request. For VFW Life Members only. Same weight and art work as the cards from the past. Personal and Post information must be engraved, rather than stamped and is included in the price of the card. Caution: these cards can set off metal detection alarms. Be sure to include your name, Life Membership number and your VFW Post number. Life Membership will be verified prior to production of this card. Stock #1988
$10.00
Prices good through 8-31-09
LAPEL EMBLEM VFW Cross of Malta enameled in full color. “LIFE MEMBER” in laid in Red enamel. Stock #0421— Gold Filled
$17.00
Just f o r Mrs. Smith, a teacher, called on Johnny to tell a personal story with a moral. Johnny said, “My Uncle Ted was a Marine pilot during the war in Vietnam. One day his plane got hit by a missile and was going down. Uncle Ted grabbed a case of beer, a machine gun and a machete and bailed out. On the way down he drank the whole case of beer. As luck would have it he landed in a field and was surrounded by 100 Viet Cong soldiers. He started shooting his machine gun and killed 70 of them before he ran out of ammunition. Then he grabbed the machete and killed 20 more before the machete blade broke. He then killed the last 10 with his bare hands.” “Oh my God!” exclaimed Mrs. Smith, “What could the moral of that story possibly be?” Johnny said, “The moral of that story is.. Don’t mess with Uncle Ted when he’s been drinking!”
GI Insurance
Airman Jones was assigned to the induction center, where he advised new recruits about their government benefits, especially their GI insurance. It wasn’t long before Captain Smith noticed that Airman Jones had almost a 100% record for insurance sales, which had never happened before. Rather than ask about this, the Captain stood in the back of the room and listened to Jones’s sales pitch. Jones explained the basics of the GI Insurance to the new recruits, and then said: “If you have GI Insurance and go into battle and are killed, the government has to pay $200,000 to your beneficiaries. If you don’t have GI insurance, and you go into battle and get killed, the government only has to pay a maximum of $6000.” “Now,” he concluded, “which bunch do you think they are going to send into battle first?”
Worse Punishment?
An Air Force cargo plane was preparing for departure from Thule Air Base in Greenland. They were waiting for the truck to arrive to pump out the aircraft’s sewage holding tank.
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fun!
The Aircraft Commander was in a hurry, the truck was late in arriving, and the Airman performing the job was extremely slow in getting the tank pumped out. When the commander berated the Airman for his slowness and promised punishment, the Airman responded: “Sir, I have no stripes, it is 20 below zero, I’m stationed in Greenland, and I am pumping sewage out of airplanes. Just what are you going to do to punish me?”
Very Important Colonel
Having just moved into his new office, a pompous, new colonel was sitting at his desk when a PFC knocked on the door. Conscious of his new position, the colonel quickly picked up the phone, told the PFC to enter, then said into the phone, “Yes, General, I’ll be seeing him this afternoon and I’ll pass along your message. In the meantime, thank you for your good wishes, sir.” Feeling as though he had sufficiently impressed the young enlisted man, he asked, “What do you want?” “Nothing important, sir,” the PFC replied, “I’m just here to hook up your telephone.”
Time Check
On some air bases the Air Force is on one side of the field and civilian aircraft use the other side of the field, with the control tower in the middle. One day the tower received a call from an aircraft asking, “What time is it?” The tower responded, “Who is calling?” The pilot replied, “What difference does it make?” The tower replied “It makes a lot of difference. If it is an American Airlines flight, it is 3 o’clock. If it is an Air Force plane, it is 1500 hours. If it is a Navy aircraft, it is 6 bells. If it is an Army aircraft, the big hand is on the 12 and the little hand is on the 3. If it is a Marine Corps aircraft, it’s Thursday afternoon and 120 minutes to “Happy Hour.”
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Jesse Castillo of VFW Post 1815, San Angelo salutes during the opening ceremonies of Memorial Day at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene, Texas.