2017 Texas VFW News | December-January 2018 by Texas VFW

DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

Youth Scholarship Awards

GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY

2017 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

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CONTENTS 06

B:11”

T:10.75”

S:9.75”

WHAT’S INSIDE

ABOUT THE COVER

05 Commander’s Column

11 Texas VFW Foundation

06 VOD Scholarship Finalists

13 Wreaths Across America

07 VOD 1st Place Essay

17 A Texas VFW Christmas

09 Patriot’s Pen 1st Place Essay

22 Pearl Harbor Day

10 Teachers of the Year

27 Membership Application

TEXAS VFW VOD WINNER

Governor of Texas Greg Abbott honors Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) with the “We Hire Vets” employer recognition. Created by the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) and Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), it recognizes employers whose Texas workforce is 10% veterans. Congratulations to Texas VFW for having an 83% veteran workforce! In photo, left to right: Director of the Texas Veterans Leadership Program Bob Gear, Texas VFW Commander Edward C. Torres, Governor Greg Abbott, TWC’s Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs and TVC’s Veterans Employment Services Operations Manager Yolanda Moten.

UPCOMING EVENTS TEXASVFW.ORG > NEWS > UPCOMING EVENTS TEXASVFW.ORG > NEWS > CALENDAR FEBRUARY - MARCH • Vietnam Peace Accord • Sinking of the USS Maine • Operation Desert Storm • Community Involvement

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GUEST

SPEAKERS

TEXAS VFW MID-WINTER CONFERENCE

GOVERNOR OF TEX AS GREG ABBOTT

O F F I C I A L

M A G A Z I N E

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 LXXII, Number 4, © FEBRUARY 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 erin@texasvfw.org. Roy Grona ..................................................................................................................................... Editor Dan West .................................................................................................................... Assistant Editor Erin Marlow ............................................................................................................. Graphic Designer Department Headquarters ..................................................................................... (512) 834-8535

2017-2018 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS

TEX AS STATE SENATOR DONNA CAMPBELL

COMMANDER..................................4815 Edward Torres..663 Moursund Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78221 SR VICE............................................12075 Inge Conley..........17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble TX 77346 JR VICE................................................3278 Keith King...........2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 JUDGE ADVOCATE.........................9182 D. Grant Seabolt Jr....1305 Cardigan Ln, DeSoto, TX 75115 SURGEON..........................................3359 Doc Howard..........2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044 CHAPLAIN.........................................4008 Allen Lowe....................703 N. Penelope St., Belton, TX 76513 CHIEF OF STAFF...........................12041 Larry Sanders................................P.O. Box 457, Lytle, TX 78052 INSPECTOR......................................8923 Jon Lunkwicz....12245 Eunice St, Farmers Branch, TX 75234 IMMEDIATE PAST CDR................9182 Peyton Lumpkin....2207 Blue Water Bay Dr., Katy, TX 77494 COUNCIL MEMBER.......................8932 Larry Velasquez.4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 ADJ/QM............................................3377 Roy Grona .................................. 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 ASST QM..........................................6378 Carlos Sustaita..................... P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF..........6796 Jerry Greene...................10523 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF............9176 Pete Hersom............7309 Parkwood Dr., Sachse TX 75048 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR......4692 John Velasquez.4988 Winding Crk., College Station , TX 77845 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR.10429 Lynn Toomer............937 Behrens Ct, Crowley, TX 76036 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR....8560 David Nichols.....................P.O. Box 1, Chicota, TX 75425 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR.....4709 John Tellier................16718 Old Danville Rd, Willis, TX 77318 OFFICER OF THE DAY..................2427 Stephen Biehl..28314 Hardin Store Rd, Magnolia, TX 77354

DEPARTMENT VETER ANS COUNSELORS SERVICE OFFICER....15045 Eddie Sherman.............................701 Clay St., WACO, TX 76799 SERVICE OFFICER.......4709 Mike Eshenbaugh....6900 Almeda Rd., HOUS TON, TX 77030

2017-2018 DISTRIC T COMMANDERS

TEX AS L AND COMMISSIONER GEORGE P. BUSH

DISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS 1........................2195 Don Graber...........................................25 Heritage Way, Allen, TX 75002 2........................1514 Richard Moore...............................P.O. Box 548, Village Mills, TX 77663 3........................8785 Lennie Page ......................13979 Skyfrost Drive #65, Dallas, TX 75253 4........................5619 Terry Contella........................330 Crestmont St., Pointblank, TX 77364 5........................8315 Henry Conway....................8001 Harper Valley St., Live Oak, TX 78233 6........................8621 Hector Villareal............................................P.O. Box 4270, Alice, TX 78333 8........................6873 Kevin Wade...........................................P.O. Box 711, Stamford, TX 79553 9........................1475 Richard Herman................705 South Grant St.-#6, Amarillo, TX 79101 10........................812 Rod Raulston...................................3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904 12.....................8560 David Nichols...............................................P.O. Box 1, Chicota, TX 75425 13.......................688 Andrew Camplen.............................105 Marlin Dr., Bergheim, TX 78004 14......................9191 Lora Land...............................................9882 Sendera Belton TX 76513 15.....................8878 Mike Hood.................1208 N. Rosewood Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 76301 16......................8551 Glenn James.........................................235 Primrose, Freeport, TX 77541 17......................4458 Phillip Dubois.......................................P.O. Box 901, Caldwell, TX 77836 18......................2410 Loren Pogue..............................................P.O. Box 809, Donna, TX 78537 19......................3406 Emerson Griffin...................................616 Palestine Rd., Alto, TX 75925 20......................7108 Jose Duran...................................14010 French Park, Helotes, TX 78023 21.......................7835 Billy Wells............................1503 County Rd. 318, Glen Rose, TX 76043 24......................4146 Marvin Lockhart........................404 Kelly Crick Rd., Victoria, TX 77904 25......................4372 Charles Kobes................................208 East VFW Ln., Odessa, TX 79762 28.....................8587 Preston Leckie...........710 W. 13th St.-Apt B-1, Georgetown, TX 78626 29......................6008 Roy “Bobby” Jones..................................206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 76705 30......................4376 Randall Johnston...........................192 Oak Hills Dr., Mabank, TX 75156

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STATE COMMANDER Edward C. Torres Members, As we move into the halfway part of our commitment to the 2017-2018 year, we find ourselves reflecting on a very busy and productive year. This organization is our inspiration. The rights and wrongs that our inspectors and District commanders detect that is worthy of praise or needs to be corrected will be addressed. The trend that’s been effective and progressive are those Post members that voluntarily merge due to financial burden, required program participation, or Posts with less than 25 members that can’t form a quorum to meet, to oblige by our bylaws. We stand firm with our inspectors findings. When these inspectors go out in the field, they analyze the Post stat standings, determine if the Post is meeting monthly and compare their stats from previous years to establish their pattern. Based on their findings, a Post not in compliance will be put on suspension and can lose their charter. Proven point Department does not close Posts! Post members allow this to happen. The focus we need from all of you is to communicate our purpose, which is to serve veterans and our community. This will set the example for future members of this organization to lead us into another century of service. We are still accepting resumes from qualified members that will commit to the Department of Texas to be trained by Roy Grona who by his choice will retire in the near future. Submit your resume to the State Commander and copy Roy Grona at Department. Leaders sworn to the oath of obligation hold a position of power that need to lead to inspire their membership. A volunteer will follow those who lead not because they have to, but because they want to. Respect is earned. A good leader must be creative, enthusiastic, provide direction, and encourage initiatives for the good of the organization. Let no one person intimidate decisions on issues affecting members, veterans and community service. We have no time for petty jealousies and trivial personalities. Better yet, influence and advocate for eligible soldiers to join and talk about how we serve. Be loyal and have integrity. That is better than all the money in the world. “SERVICE NOT SELF”. Let me tell you what has not changed, membership recruitment. Contact National or Department, they have all your recruiting needs. We must reach out to our communities searching for eligible veterans that have never been asked to join. RECRUIT: Ask family members, neighbors, college students, public servants, anyone wearing military insignia, and the many women soldiers to join. Encourage Auxiliary members to recruit. RETAIN: Start a program with Post members to call and keep in touch with non-active Post members. Encourage them to attend monthly Post meetings. REINSTATE: Members that have dropped off the roster need to be contacted to rejoin. Work the 3R’s. Recruit, Retain, Reinstate and achieve 100% plus 1. Recruiting classes are available. UNITED WE ARE A TEAM! We have a mission. With your support we will reach our objectives. God bless us and keep America safe.•

Flippable online version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org/news.

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Edward C. Torres, State Commander 2017-18

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

1,676 STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN THE VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM AND OVER $195,402 IN SCHOLARSHIPS WERE GIVEN AND THERE WERE $35,055 IN OTHER COSTS. TOTAL SPENT ON THIS PROGRAM WAS $227,055.

1st Place | $12,000

2nd Place | $10,000

3rd Place | $8,000

4th Place | $6,000

5th Place | $5,000

JA M E S W. P. WIT T

JACOB J. T U LLIUS

MARGARET G. NICHOLSON

PEGG Y E. P OLY DOROS

MORGU N W. M A SON

Texas VFW Foundation & Per Stirling Capital Management Scholarship

Pampa VFW Post 1657 & Auxiliary Scholarship & Stewart-Wendell VFW Post 3904 Scholarship

W. T. “Pete” Evans Scholarship & Auxiliary to VFW Post 8541 Scholarship, San Antonio

Post 2544 C. L. Bridge Memorial, Veterans Memorial Inc., Past State Commander M. John Knapp Scholarship

District 17 Scholarship & Camp Bowie Post 708 & Auxiliary Scholarship

SPONSORS Post 2375, Kingsville, Dist. 6

SPONSORS Post 812, El Paso, Dist. 10

SPONSORS Post 2466, Lubbock, Dist. 9

SPONSORS Post 6010, Houston, Dist. 4

SPONSORS Post 8878, Wichita Falls, Dist. 15

6th Place | $4,500

7th Place | $4,000

8th Place | $3,500

9th Place | $3,000

10th Place | $2,500

SPENCER W. NICHOLSON

JASON ERIC A. ANCHETA

SIE RR A L. KNIG HT

VICTORIA M. ROMANCZYK

H A DE N A. RHODE S

Frances Sullivan Memorial Scholarship & Department of Texas VFW Auxiliary Scholarship

Texas VFW Motorcycle Group Scholarship

Robert O. “Bob” Pugh Memorial Scholarship & VFW Post 7471 Scholarship

V-Sweeps Scholarship & RVOS Scholarship

Milestone Community Builders, LLC Scholarship

SPONSORS Post 12104, Bastrop, Dist. 28

SPONSORS Post 4010, Missouri City, Dist. 16

SPONSORS Post 9213, McQueeney, Dist. 5

SPONSORS Post 6796, Dallas, Dist. 3

SPONSORS Post 6008, Hewitt, Dist. 29

American History:

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

1ST PLACE ESSAY

HOPE FUTURE Written by Texas VFW Voice of Democracy Winner James W. P. Witt

We, the United States, a country full of history and heroes, have left a grand mark on the world. Our country’s men and women have given immeasurable sacrifice, spilling their blood in the seas, on the shores, fields, forests, the skies of places far from home. Blood spilled in the name of others, and in the name of us, the forever grateful American people. Our many great politicians, engineers, artists, scientists, and our beloved servicemen and women have left a legacy of hope and prosperity for all men and women of good heart. On a worldly scale, we are often considered a young country compared to others, but yet we have done so much in our few hundred years in the world. We explored, dared, did things that no others had done in this world before. We pioneered industry, we invented the electric motor, traveled westward from our roots only to be stopped by the ocean. We created the modern system of democracy that has become a model for new nations. While others built outward, we built skyscrapers. In 1903, we first took to the skies with primitive machines, and in 1969, only 66 years from an aircraft made of wood and fabric, we sent our people to the moon in rockets nearly 400 feet tall, a testament to our great will and our innovation. There on the moon we planted our flag as a symbol of everything that our great nation stands for. We created our own culture, we have given the world music, innovation, hope. We created a model for giving people the opportunity to be and do all they can in their lives. Yes, we are a nation of immigrants, a nation of people coming from all around the world, our ancestors full of ideas and hopes, and it was the American dream, the opportunity given to us by this great nation that has allowed these men and women to accomplish so much in such a short time. As I said, and I must say again, we have left our mark on the world and left behind a colossal legacy of virtue. Our history is rich, and there are moments where we may, at times, did not do the best of things. Were there hardships in our past few hundred years, brought on by not only others but at time ourselves? Of course there were, but should we discredit everything that we have achieved and accomplished because of the times that we may not be proud of? Absolutely not. We do not forget, we remember those times, and we smile knowing that we are a better nation than we were yesterday, that we did not give up on ourselves, but we moved on and upward, doing everything in our power and with the strength of our hearts to accomplish something better. That is the legacy we have left for our children, and they will be the builders of a better America. Everything we have done has led us to become the great nation that we are now. But we must ask ourselves, what will we be tomorrow? We have already accomplished much, but the story of our great nation is not yet finished. And now, we ask ourselves, what shall our future be? We should, and we most certainly shall, go farther than we ever have before. We’ll continue to find pride in the things we have already done, our scientific achievements, our culture, the creation of the most powerful military to ever walk the face of the Earth, giving people more opportunities than any have ever had in history; we’ll let these achievements give us pride and strength in braving this new world. We will go farther than the moon, we will continue to create opportunity for all men and women, and we shall continue to be a model for the rest of the world to follow. We will keep on going, so that a hundred years from now we can find pride in all the accomplishments we make today and tomorrow, and pave the way for an even better and greater America than the one we were born in. The world goes on, entering a new age, new opportunities for science, literature, art, culture, everything that we hold dear. And once again, we can be the leaders of this new path the world follows, leading it to accomplishments that to our ancestors and forefathers seemed impossible. That is our hope for the future of this great nation the United States of America.•

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YOUTH SCHOL ARSHIPS

OTHER RECIPIENTS

Voice of Democracy A YOUTH ORAL ESSAY CONTEST

11th Place $1,000 | Paul Hayslip Memorial Scholarship, VFW Post 8790, Houston

18th Place $1,000 | Irene Henze Scholarship, VFW Post 9213 Auxiliary, McQueeney

Sponsored by VFW Post 8577 | District 14

Sponsored by VFW Post 1514 | District 2

Sponsored by VFW Post 8788 | District 18

Ruth E. Cartwright, Kountze.

Rumaldo Soto, San Isidro.

Patriot’s Pen | A YOUTH ESSAY WRITING CONTEST THIS YEAR 8,087 STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN THE PATRIOT’S PEN PROGRAM AND OVER $75,024 IN AWARDS WERE GIVEN. OTHER COSTS WERE $14,817 FOR A TOTAL SPENT ON THE PROGRAM OF $89,841. 1 S T PL ACE | $2,000 Department of Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship Lynnli R. Wiseman, Lubbock, Texas, 8th Grade

Sponsored by Lubbock VFW Post 2466 & its Auxiliary | District 9

2N D PL ACE | $1,000 Department of Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship Sydney K. Seifert, Leander, Texas, 7th Grade

Sponsored by Leander VFW Post 10427 & its Auxiliary | District 28

3R D PL ACE | $500 Department of Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship Dylan B. Offutt, Marble Falls, Texas, 8th Grade

Sponsored by Marble Falls VFW Post 10376 & its Auxiliary | District 14

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

PATRIOT’S PEN

1 PLACE ESSAY ST

America’s Gift to my Generation

Written by Texas VFW Patriot’s Pen Winner Lynnli R. Wiseman Being born in America was a gift that affected my life tremendously. Freedom and independence were handed to me, as if they were a package wrapped in a big red bow. But this gift that I received came from a difficult history of war and hardships. The generations before me worked hard for their freedom. They wanted their children to have unlimited opportunities and be able to lead a fulfilling life. To get where we are today our ancestors shed blood, sweat, and tears for our country. They fought with all they had to become independent from Britain. They would go off to war, ready to die for America and the freedom they whole-heartedly believed in. “Give me liberty or give me death.” – Patrick Henry. The Revolutionary War was not the only time the country has fought for freedom and justice. During the Civil War we battled to free the slaves and form equality for all Americans. In World Wars I and II we entered the fight in hopes that other nations could live in freedom. Our great grandfathers, grandfathers, and fathers fought for our unalienable rights, and didn’t quit until we had a future full of possibilities. They have given me everything. Since I live in America, I have the opportunity to become a doctor, or an actress, or an immeasurable amount of other things. Thanks to the people that fought for this country I’m living the best life I possibly could. I am able to go to school, and church, and wherever my life will take me. I believe that it is my responsibility as a citizen to repay my country. Since I have the opportunity to make the most of my life, I will. Whatever I decide to do, I will work hard and leave a mark on the country that has left an infinite imprint on me. I will never forget the value of the sacrifices my ancestors made, and I will pass this information on to my children. Thank you America, for my first gift. Thank you for everything.•

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THE DEPARTMENT OF TEX AS SMART/MAHER VFW

NATIONAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION AWARDS

MICHELE A. GUYER Grades: K-5 Scobee Elementary School San Antonio, Texas VFW Post 7108, District 20 San Antonio, Texas

AUTUMN HELLAND Grades: 6-8 St. Joseph Catholic School Waxahachie, Texas VFW Post 3894, District 30 Waxahachie, Texas

JAMIE POLK Grades: 9-12 Rosie M. Collins Sorrells School of Education & Social Services at Townview Dallas, Texas VFW Post 7843, District 3 Duncanville, Texas

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

SECOND QUARTER RE VIE W

The Texas VFW Foundation assisted 280 veteran households, which include 120 family members and 8 surviving spouses with $173,962.26 in financial assistance.

Thank You We’d like to thank the following donors for their contributions this calendar year:

IN DI V IDUAL S > $1,000: Mike Barber, William Bell, Jose Calzada, Adrian Erwin, John Harris, Lora Land, Priscilla Yearwood, Jim Torres, William Manes > $500: James Bisson, Bobbi Dangerfield, Charles Greer, Amos Hastings, Roger Mansfield, Ryan Vilce > $250: Cecil Dykes, Willis McDonald, Melissa Modreski, Richard Neff, Roy Grona, James Signaigo, Clarence Soignet, Dan West

CORPOR AT IONS > $10,000: The Foothills Foundation, Veteran Energy > $1,000: Collins Family Gift Fund, Publishing Concepts LP, UPS Foundation > $500: Prince Athletic Association, Thirteenth Ward Political Club, R&S Wolf Family Fund > $250: 120 Gate Precast Company, 4 Heroes

We’d like to thank H-E-B Central Market for their assistance over the holidays. They contacted the Texas VFW Foundation to sponsor a veteran and his family with a holiday meal. We recommended a veteran who had recently discharged, and had not yet found a civilian job. Central Market went above and beyond. They delivered not only a holiday meal, but extra groceries and presents. The Texas VFW Foundation also presented the veteran with his award from the Veterans’ Assistance Program. TOP: Veteran Johnson receives financial assistance presented by Angel Ramirez, Texas VFW Foundation. MIDDLE: Van full of donations from HEB Central Market. BOTTOM: Angel Ramirez, Texas VFW Foundation; Dan West, Texas VFW; Lauren Gibson, Central Market; Veteran Johnson and son; Lyndsey Adkins, Central Market.

YOUR SMALL DONATION MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE. It’s tax time again! The Texas VFW Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 Public Charity, Veterans Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge, widow or immediate family member thereof, regardless of where or what time they served. Your charitable contribution could be tax deductible. Talk to your tax professional about how contributions to the Texas VFW Foundation could help.

PLEASE MAIL DONATIONS TO TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION, P.O. BOX 14468, AUSTIN, TX 78761. PAYPAL LINK IS ON TEXASVFW.ORG BOTTOM OF PAGE.

STATE SENIOR VICE COMMANDER’S COLUMN AS YOUR SENIOR VICE COMMANDER, I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THIS OPPORTUNIT Y TO PERSONALLY THANK ALL OF THE COMR ADES AND AUXILIARY MEMBERS FOR YOUR ENTIRE SUPPORT THIS PAST YEAR AND THE SUPERB HOSPITALIT Y THAT I HAVE RECEIVED FROM YOUR DISTRICTS Inge Conley AND POSTS. As Mid-Winter is fast approaching, I am looking forward to seeing and speaking with as many comrades as time permits in Austin, Texas at our training conference. In my visits to the Districts and various Posts in this great state of Texas, we have spoken about ways to increase membership totals because the higher and stronger our membership means our voice will be heard on the Hill and our congressional officials and legislators will take notice of our concerns. As our younger veterans are viewing Facebook and tweeting to their friends, they are also watching our posts on social

media. Many of them are viewing our VFW web pages to see what our organization is doing. They are interested in what is happening in the Veterans of Foreign Wars. We must reach out and capture those veterans and get them involved. Comrades, in addition, we must continue working with our community leaders in educating them about the Veterans of Foreign Wars. We all have great stories to tell them and “brag” a little on our VFW. Remember, “no one does more for veterans” than our VFW. Please continue doing the great work you do daily. I appreciate each and every one of you. In closing, this is your Department of Texas and we are here to serve you, the members, Posts and Districts. Be safe in your travels and we will see you in Austin. Just one more reminder, membership! Let’s do this! If you have any “bright ideas” concerning membership, please feel free to share your ideas with all. Again, thank you for all you do daily and thank you for your service and dedication to our great organization.• Thank you for all you do daily,

Inge Conley, Senior Vice Commander

STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER’S COLUMN HELLO AGAIN MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TEX AS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, I HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GREAT CHRISTMAS AND R ANG IN THE NEW YEAR WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I would also like to say “thank you” to the many, many VFW and Auxiliary members that called, emailed, Keith King Facebook messaged, etc., with condolences for my mother’s passing. It is very heart warming to realize how “we are all family” and I appreciate each of you. This VFW year is already more than 1/2 of the way through as I write this and our organization is a busy one! By the time you read this our Mid-Winter conference will be in the history books. I am sure we will all be proud of the winners of the Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy students as well as our Teacher of the Year winners. Please take the time to thank all who encourage these programs and the schools/communities as well. These programs are PRIME examples of helping our communities. I hope each post was successful in promoting our V.O.D., P.P. and Teacher of the Year programs.

We must also keep reporting our community service and VPR’s. I would again encourage everyone to recruit members as well. Please go over the unpaid list and contact those members as well as those who could be reinstated. If need be, contact Rick Butler at National Headquarters to get a list of those members in your area. This would be by zip code. Please contact the Department staff if there is an event in your area where a recruiting booth is planned or could be planned. This could be anything from a stock show to a gun show with many possibilities in between. I will say again that we have a fantastic staff at Department which will assist you in any way to be successful. The National staff is also a great asset to utilize and is very eager to provide information and materials to assist as well. If you don’t know the answer, ask! Again, I want to say “thank you” for all you do for our great organization. As I travel across the state, I hope to see many of you. Please do not hesitate to ask questions of me as well. I may not know the answer immediately, but will do my best to get the correct answer in a timely manner. Yours in Comradeship,

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

•

Keith King, Junior Vice Commander

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA

3 1. HOUSTON, TX | District 4, Post 6010

3. FORT WORTH, TX | District 21, Post 8911

2. WACO, TX | District 29, Post 8564

4. HEMPHILL, TX | District 19, Post 10351

Post members participate in Wreaths Across America at the Houston National Cemetery. Post Commander Arthur Martinez, Auxiliary President, Post Quartermaster Ronald Trussell and Post members dedicated a wreath at the Doris Miller Cemetery flag pole for all veterans for Wreaths Across America.

Post members participate in Wreaths Across America at Emerald Hills Cemetery. Post members participated in the Wreaths Across America program held at the Hemphill City Cemetery. This program was done in conjunction with the Girl Scout Troop 104204. After placing the wreaths on the veteransâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; graves, they then went to three other area cemeteries to honor those veterans.

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Melvin â&#x20AC;&#x153;Melâ&#x20AC;? Parker CANDIDATE FOR

STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER 2018-2019

Retired from the United States Air Force after 22 years of service. Serving this great organization for 23 years in many capacities at the Post, District, Department and National levels. Fully retired - willing and able to serve our great organization with your support and vote.

1996 - 1997 1996 - 1997 1997 - 1998 1997 - 1998 1998 - 1999 1999 - 2000 2001 - 2002 1997 - 1998 2001 - 2002 10 Time 3 Time 2 Time 2014 - 2015

Remembering the Past, Working for Today, Preparing for the Future.

3 1

1. ELSA, TX | District 18, Post 7473

Post member Micaela Reyes participated in a wreath laying ceremony that involved youths at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas.

2. SAN ANTONIO, TX | District 20, Post 7108

VFW Helotes Post 7108, MG Unit 30, Auxiliary members and District 20 Junior Vice Commander participated in a wreath laying ceremony at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery. The event started with over five thousand individuals in attendance. This event is done in over 1,200 veteran cemeteries across the country simultaneously at the same time and date. After the solemn ceremony, the process of laying over 43,000 wreaths began.

3. TEMPLE, TX | District 14, Post 1820

Post Commander Richard Best and Post members David Medlock, Anton Padilla, Jim Douglas and Ernest T. Knox attended and participated in the National Wreaths Across America in Austin, Texas.

ELECT

DICK SHAWVER State Jr. Vice Commander 2018 - 2019

Post Commander 3x Post Quartermaster 8x District Commander 4x District All State & All American Commander 2x Deputy State Inspector Department Budget & Finance Committee

National Deputy Chief of Staff Assistant Inspector General 2x National Aide - de - Camp 3x National Special Aide - de - Camp Duane Shriver Past District Commander Award Past State Commanders Leadership Award J. T. Rutherford Award

3 4 1. DUNCANVILLE, TX | District 3, Post 7843

Post members held their annual food drive that is to be distributed to the community and veterans. They assembled a total of 50 food boxes. Eleven went to families in need and 39 went to the Veterans Resource Center in Lancaster, Texas to assist in feeding veterans in need for the holidays. Boxes have been delivered.

2. VIDOR, TX | District 2, Post 8246

Post and Auxiliary members donated sports gear to Vidor Police Departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blue Santa collection.

3. HOUSTON, TX | District 4, Post 8790

5 5. PLEASANTON, TX | District 20, Post 12162

Post Commander Steve Mueller and Senior Vice Commander donated toys to local Child Protection Services (CPS) in Jourdanton, Texas. CPS has a local program called Atascosa Angels in which children in care of them receive toys. These toys stay within the local community.

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

Post members gave 42 Holiday Food Baskets to veterans in need.

4. POTTSBORO, TX | District 1, Post 7873

Post and Auxiliary members took 200 bags of home baked cookies to the veterans and staff at the VA North Texas Health Care Systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas party. They estimated that there were approximately 96 dozen cookies donated.

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 (3), Chief of staff (2)

DISTRICT 17

Jr Vice Commander, Sr Vice Commander, District Commander, Trustee (2), Chief of Staff, Chaplain

DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS

State Inspector, Membership Chairman, Chaplain (3) Awards – John Spahr Awarded Outstanding Immediate Past District Commander 2012-2013

NATIONAL

Aid-De-Camp (2) Assistant Inspector General, Deputy Chief of Staff, “Special” Aid-De-Camp

COMMITTEES

Post - Chairman - Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, Citizenship Teacher Award, Public Safety Award District - Chairman - Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, Citizenship Teacher Award, State - Chairman By-Laws Review Committee (2) National - Veterans Resolutions - Programs Committee

Join the

“Still Fit To Serve” TEAM

Support Norman Macey for State Jr Vice Commander Gold Legacy Life Member 18

njmaceyiii@aol.com

SPREADING

CHRISTMAS CHEER

GR AND SALINE, T X | District 30, Post 6635

Post members and community helpers conducted a toy drive for Toys for Tots. Senior Vice Commander Steven Blackshear and Quartermaster S. Corrie Blackshear pose with community and student volunteers.

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Supporting Our Veterans BA STROP, T X | District 28, Post 2527

Insuring Texas Homes, Farms, and Ranches Since 1901

Post Commander Frank Andrada and Auxiliary members prepared gifts for veterans and gifted them to the local nursing homes’ residents.

1-800-507-2174 RVOS.com VICTORIA, T X | District 24, Post 4146

Post members volunteered to serve and assist with meal preparation, distribution, beverages and more at HEB’s “Feast of Sharing” event to help those in need during the holiday season.

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

2018-2022 THE VFW - NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS ACCOMPLISHED LEADER Highly successful service career and VFW service PROFESSIONAL Fair but firm in all matters. Honest and trustworthy EXPERIENCED Successfully served on numerous boards, panels, committees and councils DEDICATED Will work in the best interests of all veterans and the VFW FULL-TIME Will serve as full-time Council Member

________________________________ Veterans provide hope Veterans provide compassion Veterans stand for excellence Veterans stand for valor ___________________________________

AS YOUR TEXAS NATIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER, I WILL DO WHAT IS BEST FOR ALL VETERANS IN THE STATE OF TEXAS AND THE NATION! YOU WILL BE MY NUMBER ONE PRIORITY!!!

FOR DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS NATIONAL COUNCIL 20

SPREADING

CHRISTMAS CHEER

BELTON, TX | District 14, Post 4008

Post members donated coats to the VA Homeless Veterans Chairman Paul Wood for veterans in need during the Christmas season. Texas VFW Homeless Veterans Chair Loy Gardner, II presented the coats to a staff member.

CENTER, TX | District 19, Post 8904

Post Quartermaster Larry Hume (aka Uncle Sam) joined the Auxiliary in visiting the veterans at the local Holiday Nursing Center. Special Eagle lap blankets with names embroidered were given to each veteran as a Christmas gift. U.S. Army veteran Mervil Crawford and Uncle Sam shown above.

JEWETT, TX District 17, Post 3542

ELSA, TX | District 18, Post 7473

Post members and Carlos Truan Middle School students addressed more than 800 Christmas cards for U.S. service members around the world. Thanks goes out to Dr. J.L. Rios, Mrs. Anna Solis-Wing and entire staff for putting this together.

Post members conducted a toy drive and donated the toys to local Cowboy Church to help out families in need during the holiday season.

SPRING BRANCH VFW POST 8790 1560 Foley Street, Houston, 77055 Canteen: 713-465-1342 Office: 713-465-1950

Join Today! Meetings: 2nd Tuesday of the month @7pm LET US DO THE COOKING!

CROWLEY, TX | District 21, Post 6872

Post members packed 350 Christmas treat bags to be distributed to veterans at a luncheon and at the Fort Worth VA Outpatient Clinic.

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

1st Friday of the Month: Steak Night $12 Salad, Steak, Baked Potato & Dessert 3rd Friday of the Month: Hamburger/Hot Dog Night: $6 Hamburger/Hot Dog, Trimmings & Dessert LET US HOST YOUR PARTY! Hall Rentals:

A (475 people) or B (175 people) 713-465-1342 CALL TODAY!

THERE ARE 60

FIRSTHAND ACCOUNTS OF VETERANS WHO SERVED DURING

WORLD WAR II, THE

COLD WAR, KOREAN

WAR, CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS, VIETNAM

WAR, KOREAN DMZ

CONFLICT, OPERATIONS DESERT STORM AND

ENDURING FREEDOM. William R. Graser was a Sergeant First Class recruited by the US Army Security Agency in 1965. His assignments included Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, West Germany, occupied West Berlin—and the US Army Security Agency’s headquarters at Arlington Hall Station, Arlington, Virginia. He earned the Army of Occupation Medal and was awarded the Legion of Merit Medal for his exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements while serving with the US Army Field Station Berlin. Graser wrote Veterans’ Reflections: History Preserved to increase our general understanding of American warfare through the eyes of those who were there. He concludes with a phrase that will be familiar to anyone who has a veteran in the family: “When you see a veteran, say thank you!” This book is a remarkable tribute to the sacrifice made by our veterans who fought for our country. VETERANS’ REFLECTIONS IS COMPELLING AND INSPIRING TO SAY THE LEAST. OUR HEROES DESERVE TO BE HEARD.

BAY CITY, TX | District 16, Post 2438

Post members conducted the U.S. Navy Two Bell Memorial Ceremony in memory of the 2,403 who were killed during the surprise Japanese air raid on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on the morning of December 7, 1941.

ROMA, TX | District 18, Post 9175

Post Adjutant Luis Barrera spoke with the local Roma High School Army JROTC students on the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Students were very attentive and provided feedback on WWII.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Pacific Book Review Star As a veteran himself, the author is obviously very close to this work, and it shows not only in his passion for his subject, but also his attention to detail. His method, which weaves the veteran’s own stories into an historical overview of a specific conflict, is extremely effective.

The soldiers’ accounts go well beyond the war’s scorecard and reveal some of the actual fears and experiences of the participants. Anyone can tell the facts behind a story, but those who lived it can share insights no secondhand history can match. RECOMMENDED! The US Review of Books Online Barnes & Noble, Amazon and other booksellers. Author page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B06Y5S83Y1 Author’s Website: www.graser-vetsreflect.com Author’s Email: williamgraser@gmail.com 22

DENTON, TX | District 1, Post 2205

A Post member, whose father was at Pearl Harbor the day of the attack, read a speech and displayed a copy of the Honolulu newspaper.

National

PEARL HARBOR

Remembrance Day

1. PLANO, TX | District 1, Post 4380

Post Commander Shana Summers, Chaplain Mickey Moore, Senior Vice Commander Michelle Ellis, Auxiliary Denise Sas Paul, Williams High School Band student Josh Ellis gather at Plano Veterans Memorial Park to honor, remember and commemorate Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. They laid the memorial cross, played Taps and the Commander read Rear Admiral Brian Fortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (Commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific) message to Sailors.

2. CLUTE, TX | District 16, Post 8576

Post members commemorated guest Charlie Boswell, the last surviving member of USS Tennessee (second from right) with a certificate of recognition.

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

WACO, TX | District 29, Post 8564

Post Quartermaster Ron Trussell and other Post members honored seven WWII veterans as they shared stories of their part in the war. From the European, to the Pacific theaters of combat, the stories ranged from the Battle of the Bulge, to liberating POW camps and up to when the atomic bombs were dropped.

WHARTON, TX | District 16, Post 4474

SWEENY, TX | District 16, Post 8551

District Commander Glenn James, Sammie Polk, Quartermaster Harvey Klinegardner, Jerry Williamson, and Pearl Harbor Survivor attended a Pearl Harbor Ceremony in Palacios at VFW Post 2467.

CENTER, TX | District 19, Post 8904

Post members honored Pearl Harbor Day by holding an Post members held a memorial ceremony that remembered those that observance at the local Senior Nutrition Center. Post served during this action. (Left to right) WWII veteran Raymond Tomczak, members laid red, white and blue flowers on an altar. Quartermaster Ray Kacer, Robert Glaze, Jimmy Zissa and Arnold2Guerra. Post members paid for the lunch of those in attendance.

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

VFWS ACROSS THE NATION COORDINATE TO DELIVER SCHOOL SUPPLIES TO STUDENTS AFFECTED BY HURRICANE HARVEY District 4 Commander Terry Contella and State Senior Vice Commander Inge Conley helped deliver school supplies that came all the way from Idaho, sponsored by a school. The school supplies were transported via U-Haul trailer from Idaho to Houston by VFW members from Idaho, Utah, New Mexico and Texas. Texas VFW along with the teacher from Idaho made the presentation to Jessup Elementary School, Pasadena ISD Houston. This was part of hurricane relief efforts. Texas VFW members were able to give a speech to the students about veterans and what it took to get these school supplies to them, along with the teaching staff of the school.

MISSION: TO SUPPORT THOSE WHO HAVE SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR

THIS COUNTRYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;ALL VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

LOBBYING FOR VETER ANS & MILITARY

FUNDING COLLEGE SCHOL ARSHIPS

EMERGENCY FINANCIAL A SSISTANCE

PROVIDING DISA STER RELIEF

PHONE C ARDS FOR TROOPS

SUPPORTING MEMORIALS

COMMUNIT Y VOLUNTEERISM

SUPPORTING YOUTH GROUPS

A SSISTING VETER ANS WITH EARNED ENTITLEMENTS

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

T HE D E PART ME NT OF T EXA S VET ERA N S O F FO REI GN WA RS

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: Air Force Army Coast Guard Marines Navy Current Status: Active Duty Veteran National Guard/Reserve I served in: Pre-World War II Korean War 1950-54 Desert Storm/Shield Afghanistan 2001 World War II Korea 1955 Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 Iraq 2003 WWII Occupation Vietnam 1958-75 Global War on Terrorism - Expeditionary 2001 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) 1945-90 (Berlin) Qualified recipient of: Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay *Period Covered: I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a(n):

*SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol* (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service.) Annual Member Life Member 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: Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card. Mastercard Visa Discover American Express Credit Card Number: Exp. Date: / $

Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761 | For questions call: (512) 834-8535

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

AUSTIN, TX MEMORIAL SERVICE The Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Officer of the Day Stephen Biehl lays a memorial wreath to honor the Texas VFW and Auxiliary members who have passed this fiscal year during the Mid-Winter Memorial Service. Pictured on the front row were the Texas VFW Voice of Democracy participants.

PERIODICAL