HI MOFW Commandery News SEP 2017

Hawaii Commandery THE Military Order of Foreign Wars

September 2017

Table of Contents:

Vol. VI, Issue 3, September 2017 Commander’s Comments…………………………………………….. p. 1 Chaplain’s Corner…………………………………………………………. p. 1 Companions Serving on HI WWI Centennial ……….…….… p. 2 Report from the 53d Biennial Convention .……………….… p. 3 HI Commandery Recognized by 50th Commemoration...p. 5 1st Place Essay Winner CDT Danthone Buyacao…..….….. p. 5 50th Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program.……...….….. p. 6

Chaplains Corner

By Chaplain (COL) Paul Swerdlow (USA Retired)

“I am a Veteran” I shivered that cold winter in Valley Forge And rejoiced at the glorious surrender at Yorktown.

I wept as the flames engulfed Washington And said "Never again."

I wore blue and I bled red.

I wore gray and I bled red.

The blood I spilled was to reunite a nation Of the people, by the people and for the people.

I am a veteran.

I was at Little Big Horn and I prayed; I was at Wounded Knee and I prayed.

I prayed that one day the old Americans And the new Americans would be one people.

I was there to charge up the hill at San Juan; Knowing that my country was emerging beyond its borders.

I was prepared to make the world safe for democracy.

Young and idealistic, I came to France To turn back the hordes in this war to end all wars.

I am a veteran.

It was with disbelief that I became A part of the day that will live in infamy.

Once more I said goodbye to those I loved to protect my country.

Across the vast desert I met the enemy.

I met him on island after island.

I kept my promise to return.

I met him on the beaches of Normandy' I repelled him from the gates of Bastogne.

I freed thousands from the shadow of death.

I am a veteran.

Presentations to Disabled American Veterans...…………...… p. 6 Presentations to Vietnam Veterans of America..….………….. p. 7 Presentations to Military Officers Assn of America …………. p. 9

Vietnam War Cadet Essay Contest..……………………...….… p. 11 Welcome New Companions…………………………..…………… p. 12 A Special Tribute to the Fallen ……………………...…………… p. 12 Commandery Operations…………………………..………….…….p. 13 Upcoming events ……………………...………………………….…… p. 15 Cover Photo: The “Missing Man Memorial” at Hickam Air Base.

Photo by Companion Tulak. If you are an amateur photographer, submit your photo for our next cover!

Commander’s Comments.

Aloha!

The Commandery has remained active this quarter fulfilling our number 1 purpose of the Order, namely, honoring and perpetuating the names of brave and loyal men and women through the 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Program and our support to the Hawaii World War One Centennial.

Through our 50th Vietnam War Cadet Essay Contest, we have fulfilled purpose #4, which is to foster the cultivation of military and naval science, in this case with the JROTC Corps of Cadets.

A small nation cried out for help And I came because others had been there for me.

A nation was saved.

Ask not what your country can do for you.

Ask what you can do for Your country.

Inspired by these words, I responded with courage and bravery ln a war that was hot and a war that was cold.

I am a veteran.

From Ground Zero to the Pentagon to the fields of Pennsylvania, I saw the carnage and heard the cries. At that moment, I pledged my life, my property and my sacred honor Until there will be peace and freedom on earth

With all the work we do in service to the community, we should not forget to work on purpose # 3, Strengthen the ties of fellowship among the Companions of the Order. With elections coming up for a new slate of officers in January, I call on all Companions to consider how you might contribute.

“Deus et Libertas” COL, Ret. Arthur N. Tulak Commander

For everyone, everywhere. I am a veteran.

1

Hawaii Commandery Companions Serving on the HI WWI Centennial Task Force The Hawaii Commandery Supported Memorial Day activities on 29 May at the Schofield Barracks Army Cemetery. Commander Arthur Tulak represented MOFW and the Task Force. This was the first ceremony entirely planned and executed by a Military Commemoration Partner – US Army Garrison Hawaii.

The HI WWI Centennial outdoor banners provided by TF members for the event were prominently displayed at the gate entrance to the cemetery, and the HI WWI Centennial flag was displayed prominently adjacent to section reserved for the presentation of floral wreaths by attending organizations.

COL Dawson, U.S. Army Garrison Commander, focused special attention on WWI and the Centennial in his remarks.

The successful conduct of a Hawaii WWI Centennial event by the U.S. Army Garrison is an example for other military commands in Hawaii to consider over the remaining twentytwo months of the Commemoration period that ends June 28, 2019, which marks the centennial of the signing of the Peace Treaty of Versailles that officially ended the War. The Hawaii Commandery partners with fellow veterans organizations, namely, the Military Order of World Wars (MOWW), Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the American Legion, as well as patriotic and civic organizations such as Hawaiian Society Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks (et. al.) to plan and carry out grassroots and organized commemoration events Of note, this cooperation has grown over the last few years, and is reflected in the effort to mutually assist one another in the presentation of awards to ROTC and JROTC Cadets.

For this event, the Hawaii Commandery coordinated with the Garrison Public Affairs and MOWW to move and stage equipment and the floral wreath, the day before, and conduct set-up before guests arrived. Companion Tulak made the presentation of a floral wreath on behalf of the Hawaii WWI Centennial Task Force. The Memorial Day Ceremony at Schofield Barracks shows how much can be accomplished through team work with other organization with similar goals.

2

TF Members LTC Les Bise Left (Military Order of World Wars), and Arthur Tulak (2nd from right) work with USG Hawaii PAO and volunteer CDR, USN, Ret. Mike Bernard to put up banners marking the event as an official event of HI WWI Centennial

COL Stephen E. Dawson, commander, USAG-HI, makes remarks at the Memorial Day ceremony. The Hawaii WWI Centennial floral wreath is on display to the left of the HI State Flag. (Photo by Kayla Overton, U.S Army Garrison-Hawaii Public Affairs)

Report from the 53d Biennial Convention to the Hawaii Commandery MOFW

By Chaplain, Colonel David Terrinoni, National Delegate The Hawaii Commandery was proudly represented by the National Delegate, Companion Terrinoni and our State Delegate, Companion LTC Daphany Prewitt. We let the Aloha Spirit live through our presence, smiles, and interactions with fellow delegates. Below are the highlights of the Convention. The 53d Convention of the MOFW was as entertaining as is was informative. Anytime a group of military officers gather (let’s face it, we’re all some flavor of “type-A” personalities), there is bound to be some lively discussion.

What I did appreciate was when all the dust settled, mutual respect reigned.

Highlights of the Convention: For the first time in many, many years, 21 state commanderies were represented. This is a new record for attendance. An additional record is the revitalized Connecticut Commandery which had been inactive since 1925. Companion Chris dePinho, an active duty Navy LCDR, recruited more than the minimum number of members needed to re-charter within two weeks! On the down-note, the Europe/Africa Commandery has lost all of its members due to PCS moves. (Ed. Note The Hawaii Commandery is unique in this regard, in that many who have PCS’d remain loyal Companions of the Hawaii Commandery!)

Recognition of Honorary Companions 2017: •

Mr Gary Hoitsma was approved for Honorary (no vote and cannot hold an office) membership for the DC/Virginia Commandery.

He used to work for Senator Inhofe and supplies great speakers for the Commandery and has been a HUGE supporter of the Order.

•

Major General Arthur “Joe” Logan, Adjutant General, Hawaii National Guard, (HI Commandery) was also recognized as an Honorary member at the Convention. MG Logan was previously approved for Honorary membership on 15 July 2016 via email votes of the National Officers and National Delegates of the Order.

There was much discussion on Tax filing status with the IRS. Fortunately, the HI Commandery is one of only a few Commanderies to have been set-up as a 501C3 organization where donations to our Order may be tax deductible on Income Tax. Many of the other Orders have not done the paperwork for Tax Exempt status (501C4) and the National Officers stressed the importance of doing, and keeping, the annual paperwork current so as not to be liable to pay back taxes. Most of the other Commanderies are sub-units of the National Tax ID number. Again, the Hawaii Commandery is in great shape – just keep the paperwork current.

There was also much discussion on the financial status of the Order. The National Convention is asking all MOFW members to donate $25 to the Order (in addition to our annual membership dues) to get the order on a more solid financial foundation.

The Convention stressed the importance of each Commandery to have their own Web-Page and asked that photos, with captions, as well as stories be submitted for the national newsletter (which is now on-line).

The Hawaii Delegation at the Formal Inaugural Banquet on Saturday, June 17th, at the Holiday Inn, National Airport/Crystal City, Arlington, VA 3

The Quartermaster General stated that the standard MOFW polo shirts will be black – but, any colors are allowed. He said that he can make an imprint any kind of shirt with the MOFW logo – just work the order with him. He also asked that each state have their own Quartermaster with whom he could work and coordinate MOFW brand products. State Commanders have the authority to establish these positions.

Companion Tulak’s membership committee (assigned at the 2015 Convention) developed and Companion Terrinoni presented a number of recommendations to the Convention to help the Order bring in new members. The National Committee decided that it won’t enact the membership recommendations, but did allow me to distribute copies to each represented Commandery.

The National Officers pointed out to the Commanderies that each Commandery can have individual chapters. This could be beneficial in large states and for HI when it would be difficult for people to travel for hours for Commandery events. This may be something to look at for the other islands as well as Australia and Japan. The state chapters can hold events/meetings in their area and send reports to Honolulu for the State Commandery’s records and reports to National.

The Convention recommended Commanderies contact and create a relationship with the Military Order of World Wars (MOWW). The MOWW is very involved, very active, an may be a good partner for the MOFW. Each Commandery was encouraged to share newsletters with all commanderies. HI was one of two highlighted for its exceptional newsletter, which is shared across the Order.

There was also discussion regarding speakers at MOFW events. As a matter of policy, MOFW is politically neutral and takes NO stand on national and state issues. With this policy, guest speakers are allowed to speak on any topic they wish as MOFW events also uphold a “non-attribution” policy. At the same time, Commandery leadership needs to be careful of not accidentally making a public political statement of endorsement or condemnation of what was presented (stay neutral) – especially if there are members of the news media present – and Commanderies are not allowed to modify these policies.

A suggestion was presented to allow for and develop a “Spouse Auxiliary.” The Commander General will assign a study group who will present a recommendation at a future National meeting of the Order. The slate of National Officers was elected without exception and a new position of Deputy Chaplain General was established. A motion was presented to grant the Secretary General the right to have a vote. This motion caused much conversation. After the stated time in our constitution, this change will come to the Commanderies for a vote.

The 54th MOFW Convention will be held 3-5 May 2019 in Daytona Beach, FL. The Convention had several very interesting speakers. One was Companion Harry Schaub who served as an intelligence staff officer in the General Staff G-2 of the US Army. He’s a lawyer specializing in international law. His book, “Call Your First Witness,” culminates a 17-year project regarding WWII Germany’s Intelligence Agency (Abwehr) leader, General Erwin Lahousen and how the Abwehr was part of the Resistance against Adolph Hitler. The second speaker was retired COL David Taylor presenting his book, “Our War,” on the 5th/46th Infantry Battalion in the Vietnam War 1968-1971. The Convention Banquet speaker was the Honorable Edwin Meese III, 75th Attorney General of the United States of America. Both Edwin Meese III and is son, Edwin Meese IV were inducted as Companion Members of the Order in their own right as veteran and retired members of the United States military.

All our guest speaker’s comments fulfilled the 7th purpose of the Order – “to Foster and encourage the study of American history and particularly of American military history…”. With this purpose in mind, there was a cautioning comment on a growing trend in our country of the danger of “re-writing history.” It was observed that the Baton Rouge, LA mayor was having a statue of Robert E. Lee removed, as was Baltimore, MD (and this conversation happened before the terrible events in Charlottesville, VA) – and the concern of once history is allowed to be rewritten, when and how does it stop?

I want to thank the HI Commandery for allowing me to represent you by voice and vote at this MOFW Conventions. On a personal/professional note, including me, there were seven active and retired military chaplains representing their commanderies….I wonder what that means?

Deus et Libertas!

Col. Dave Terrinoni, National Delegate, Hon. Edwin Meese, 75th AG of the USA, and LTC Daphany Prewitt, Hawaii State Delegate.

4

Hawaii Commandery Recognized for support to the 50th Vietnam War Commemoration The Hawaii Commandery has been a member of the Hawaii State 50th Vietnam War Planning Committee since its inception in March 2015, and an official 50th Vietnam War Commemorative Partner since March 2013.

During the 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Week from 23-29 May 2017, the Commandery’s Commemoration Partner flag was displayed on behalf of all Commemoration Partners, to include the State of Hawaii.

MG, Ret. James T. Jackson, Director of the DoD 50th Vietnam War Commemoration, recognized the top half of all 50th Vietnam War Commemorative Partners, based on their contributions and number of events conducted since the start of the Commemoration Period. The Hawaii Commandery was the highestperforming Commemorative Partner in the State of Hawaii, out of 38 partners, with a total of 14 officiallyrecognized events when the selection process was completed in May 2017.

Mahalo to all Commandery Volunteers who contributed over the last four years to earn this distinction!

DoD Commemoration Certificate to the Hawaii Commandery as the top-performing 50th Vietnam War Commemorative Partner in the State of Hawaii.

5

50th Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program Hawaii MOFW Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program honors DAV Vietnam War Veterans.

The Hawaii Commandery's Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program includes honoring Vietnam Veterans who have made significant volunteer contributions to their community in Hawaii. The Commandery is presenting the 50th Vietnam War Commemorative Medal to Vietnam Veterans nominated by Veterans, Civic, and governmental organizations to recognize their post-military service Volunteer efforts that highlight the contributions that Vietnam War Veterans have made over the last 50 years to local communities.

LTC Ret. Manny Manchester presented these medals to Vietnam Veterans nominated by the Disabled American Veterans Department of Hawaii at their annual banquet on June 10, 2017 at the Ohana Airport Hotel.

Receiving the medals were SSG Robert B. Kent, HM3 Donald G. Wood, and 1SG Sammy Houseberg.

HM3 Donald G. Wood completed two tours in Vietnam. After leaving the Navy, HM3 Wood devoted himself to Community Service, supporting Veterans causes such as Mentor in Judge Kubo's Veterans Treatment Court for several years helping other Veterans turn their lives around. HM3 Wood has served as the DAV Hawaii Health Services/Transportation Network Coordinator for the past 3 years.

SSG Robert B. Kent served two tours in Vietnam. After retiring from he Army, SSG Kent devoted himself to Community Service, supporting Veterans causes as the Hawaii DAV, Oahu Veterans Council, the 50th Vietnam War Planning Committee, he Freedom Riders Motorcycle Honor Guard, and the Hawaii Veterans Treatment Court.

1SG Sammy C. Houseberg completed two tours in Vietnam. After retiring from the Army, 1SG Houseberg devoted himself to Community Service, supporting Veterans causes as a member and Chairman of several committees with the Hawaii DAV.

Congratulations to these Veterans for the award in recognition of lives dedicated to service to others.

Commandery Secretary Manny Manchester presenting to DAV 1SG Sammy Houseberg

Commandery Secretary Manny Manchester presenting to DAV HM3 Donald G. Wood

6

Commandery Secretary Manny Manchester presenting to DAV SSG Robert Ken

50th Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program Hawaii MOFW Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program honors VVA Vietnam War Veterans.

Companions LTC Ret. Manny Manchester and Lt Col (CAP) Ed Green, presented these medals to Vietnam Veterans nominated by the Vietnam Veterans of American, Chapter 858, of Hawaii at their meeting at the Oahu Veterans Center on June 24, 2017. The accomplishments of the awardees, both during their military service and as volunteers in the community were impressive.

Here are extracts of the citations.

CPT Rona Adams served with the 44h Medical Brigade at the 3rd Field Hospital in Saigon from Mar. 1967 to Jun. 1968. She served a second tour in the same unit at the 8th Field Hospital in Nha Trang from Jul. to Nov. 1968. After completing her Military Service in the Army, CPT Adams devoted herself to Community Service to the Veterans Community in Hawaii as the a volunteer with the Office of Veterans Services for 18 months; a member of the Oahu Veterans Council; President of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 858, and; member of the Hawaii 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Planning Committee.

Companion Manchester explains the significance of

Petty Officer 2nd Class (PO2) Reginald Baker served aboard the USS KNOX, the medals, and reviews the breadth of accomplishDestroyer 1052, in the waters of the Vietnam Theater, from Oct. 1974 to Aug. ments of the nominees. Companion Green prepares to narrate the citations.

1975. After completing his Military Service in the Navy PO2 Baker devoted himself to Community Service in Hawaii, as Chairman of the Junior Achievement of Hawaii; Chairman of the Small Business and Entrepreneur Committee for the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, and; member of the Board of the Hawaii Association of Health Plans. He served the Hawaii Veterans Community as Treasurer for the Navy League Council of Honolulu and member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 858.

Specialist 5 (SP5) Allen Hoe served three tours in Vietnam, first From Dec. 1967 to Aug. 1968 in Quang Nam, with the Recon Platoon of the 2nd Bn. 1st Infantry Regt., a second tour with the 196th Light Infantry Brigade from Dec. 1967 to Aug. 1968, and a third tour with 23rd Infantry Regiment, Americal Division from Dec. 1967 to Aug. 1968. After completing his Military Service in the Army, SP5 Hoe devoted himself to Community Service in Hawaii, supporting (cont. next page)

CPT Rona Adams, VVA Chapter 858 President

Petty Officer 2d Class Reginald E. Baker Jr. 7

Specialist 5 Allen Hoe, current Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army

Hawaii MOFW honors Vietnam Veterans of America Nominees. (continued) Veterans causes as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army; serving on the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on the Readjustment of Veterans; Director of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation; President of the 25th Infantry Division Memorial Foundation, and; Co-Chair of the Hawaii Gulf War Memorial Task Force.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) John K. Mahelona served in the waters of the Vietnam Theater aboard the aircraft carrier USS CORAL SEA CVA 43 from Jan. 1964 to Dec. 1965, and again with the same ship from Jul. 1966 to Dec. 1966. He then returned aboard the USS ENTERPRISE CVAN 65, from Dec. 1966 to Jul. 1967.

After completing his Military Service in the Navy, AFB2 Mahelona devoted himself to Community Service in Hawaii, supporting Veterans causes as Vice President of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 858 from 2005 to the present.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Steinhilber served aboard the USS Sanctuary in the waters of Vietnam Theater from Jan. 1968 to Nov. 1969, . He later served with the 3rd Medical Battalion, Marine Air Group 39 from Jan. 1968 to Nov. 1969 in Quang Tri.. After completing his Military Service in the Navy, HM2 Steinhilber devoted himself to Community Service in Hawaii, as a Coach, Manager, and Vice President with the Kailua National Little League Baseball. He also served the Veterans Community in Hawaii as the Post Surgeon of VFW Post 10154 and member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 858 with whom he volunteered to support annual commemorations and memorials on Oahu.

Companion Manchester presenting the medal for HM2 Michael F. Steinhilber, accepted

by Mrs. Steinhilber.

Congratulations to these Veterans for the award in recognition of lives dedicated to service to others!

Companion Manchester pins the 50th Vietnam Commemorative Medal on PO2 Reginald Baker, as Companion Ed Green reads the citation to accompany the award.

8

ABF2 John K. Mahelona receives the medal and certificate.

50th Vietnam Veteran Recognition Program Recognizes Vietnam Veterans of MOAA

The Hawaii Commandery conducted presentations of the DoD 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Medal to nominees of the Hawaii Aloha Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America.

The Chapter nominated three exemplary Vietnam Veterans for the 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Medal. CAPT, USN, Ret. George Sullivan, MOAA Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman, oversaw the nomination process. The presentations of these medals were conducted on two separate events. The first of these was on July 14th, followed by the main event , a luncheon gathering of the Chapter on MOAA leaders present the 50th Vietnam War Commemorative Medal to COL Ret. August 17th at the Pacific Aviation Museum.

Ralph Hiatt at his home. From Left to Right: Glen Van Ingen, Jim Gebhard, Ralph Hiatt, Jack Miller and George Sullivan. Photo by Darrell Large

As COL Hiatt was not able to attend the main event, the presentation was done at his home.

COL, Ret. Ralph J. K. W. Hiatt served in the 164 Aviation Company in Vietnam Theater of Operations from Dec. 1969 – Dec. 1970. After retiring from Military Service in the Army, COL Hiatt devoted himself to Community Service in Hawaii, serving as 1st Vice President, ROTC/JROTC Awards Chairman, and ROTC Scholarship Chairman for the Military Officers Assn of America, where he coordinated the Cadet Scholarship programs producing over $120,000 in scholarships for Hawaii’s Cadets. COL Hiatt also served as Vice President of the Oahu Veterans Council, where he was responsible for the Veterans Day Ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific for 5 years. As a retiree volunteer, COL Hiatt set the standard for managing Cadet Awards programs in the State of Hawaii for many years— his standards and operating procedures have been adopted by many organizations, to include the Hawaii Commandery MOFW, Association of the United States Army Hawaii Chapter, and the Hawaiian Society of Sons of the American Revolution.

Companion Tulak and Commandery Supporter Captain, USAF, Joseph Cortez, conducted the presentations at the main event on Ford Island, attended by forty members and guests of the Chapter. The nominees were COL, Ret. Wesley Fong, U.S. Army, and Capt Ernest N. Balignasay, U.S.M.C. COL, Ret. Wesley F. Fong served MOAA appreciates The Military Orin B Company, 23rd Medical der of Foreign Wars, Hawaii ComBattalion, Americal Division in mandery for including our members Vietnam Theater of Operations in awarding this Commemorative from Nov. 1969 – Nov. 1970.

Medal. On behalf of the Chapter I After completing his active duty service, he transferred to the rewant to thank you for the quick work serves, and devoted himself to you did in getting the certificate and Community Service in Hawaii, medal ready for presentation. while serving in the Army ReCAPT, USN, Ret. George Sullivan serve, attaining the rank of Colonel. As a volunteer, he served in senior leadership positions in twenty different civic and Veterans organizations in Hawaii. (Continued next page) 9

COL Fong’s service to the Military Community in Hawaii included holding the position President of the Reserve Officers Association Hawaii Dept., and President of the Military Officers Association of America Hawaii Aloha Chapter.

Capt Ernest N. Balignasay served in E Company, 2d Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division in Danang from Apr. to Dec. 1965. He completed a second tour with Marine Air Group 39, 1st Marine Air Wing in Quant Tri from Jul. to Nov. 1968, and a third tour with the 1st Marine Air Wing from Nov. 1968 to Aug. 1969. As a Vietnam Veteran, Capt Balignasay demonstrated his continued dedication to service by volunteering as the Boys and Girls volleyball coach, at Leilehua High School from 1980 to 2017, and Track and volleyball coach for Solomon Elementary School from 1986 to 2004.

Following the ceremony, the Hawaii Aloha MOAA Chapter hosted Companion Tulak and Captain Cortez to lunch served by the Pacific Aviation Museum caterer with distinguished guest MG, USA, Ret. Gary Hara and his wife Dianne. Chapter President Fong, who did know he was nominated, thanked the Commandery in his remarks to those assembled. The presentation is covered in the MOAA newsletter: http://www.moaa-hawaii.org/ currentnewsletter.pdf.

Companion Tulak presenting the medal COL Ret. Wesley F. Wong. Photo by Owen Macey

Captain, USAF, Joe Cortez, reads the citation to accompany the award for COL Wesley Fong.

Awardees pose with Hawaii Commandery representatives following the presentation ceremony. Photo by Owen Macey 10

Companion Tulak presenting the medal to Capt, USMC, Ret. Ernest Balignasay.

Photo by Owen Macey

Vietnam War Essay contest Interest in our annual Cadet 50th Vietnam War Commemoration Essay contest is growing!

This year’s winning essay by Cadet Danthone Buacao was published in The Patriot, the official national magazine of the Scottish-American Society of the United States. You can see the article on-line at http:// www.s-a-m-s.org/patriot/features/Summer/2017/ neverendingwar.html In addition, the Director of the DoD Commemoration, Major General, Ret. James T. Jackson, U.S. Army, issued a certificate to each of the winning essayists, to include the runners-up and those receiving honorable mention certificates from the Commandery. The certificate for our 1st Place Cadet is shown below. The Cadre and Cadets at the participating schools have continued to improve the quality of the essays submitted to the program, now in its fourth year of execution.

Companions are encouraged to find external sources to further publish the winning essays to support the objectives of the 50th Vietnam War Commemoration, most notably the objective #2:

“To highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War.”

11

Welcome New Companion!

LTC, USAR, Ret. Russell Rebmann was admitted to the Order on August 29, 2017. Russell received his Commission in the Infantry through Army ROTC at the University of Southern California, on May 10, 1985, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Following the Infantry Officer Basic Course, Russ was selected for the Navy's Deep Sea Diver School in Panama City FL. Promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and took command of the 249th Dive Detachment in San Diego CA. Assigned to the 20th Special Forces Group and mobilized for duty at Fort Bragg NC. Promoted to Captain and completed the Special Forces Assessment Course. Assigned to the 361st Civil Affairs Brigade, mobilized to support Operation SAFE HAVEN in Panama helping Cuban refugees (Sept. 8 1994March 15, 1995). In 1996, mobilized with 361st CA BDE for Operation JOINT ENDEAVOR in Bosnia-Herzogovina.

Promoted to Major following return to the USA, and assigned to 322nd CA BDE, where he served as the Commander of Headquarters, and Headquarters Company. Deployed with the BDE to Kosovo as part of OPERATION JOINT GUARDIAN (11 June - 31 Dec 1999) as a Civil Affairs Team Leader.

Russ relocated to Hawaii in 2002, and completed the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth KS. Joined HQ U.S. Pacific Command at Camp H.M. Smith. Volunteered to serve as a Civil Affairs for a Joint Task Force formed in Okinawa Japan from March to September 2003. Activated and mobilized with the 361st CA BDE for Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Served with the 350th Civil Affairs Command as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics from January to October 2004. Awarded the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge. Upon completion of tour, assigned to HQ, USPACOM as the Executive Officer for the Pacific Deployment Distribution Operation Center from August 2007 to June 2008. Following his assignment at USPACOM, Russ returned to reserve duty and promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Russ continued to support HQUSPACOM as a defense contractor and Pandemic Influenza Planner. Russ was mobilized to serve as an Operations Officer in the Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance Center of Excellence from October 2009 to April 2012 where he managed more than a dozen high level international conferences and workshops with Allies and partners in 16 countries. Returned to Active Duty and assigned to USPACOM J9 Directorate as the Deputy Division Chief for the Joint Interagency Coordination Group, April 2012 to June 2013. Retired from Active Service. Russ has been a Commandery Support since 2014.

A Special Tribute to the Fallen Companion Russ Rebmann has created a unique tribute to the twelve marines who died on January 15, 2016 when their helicopters crashed into the ocean off the shores of Bellows Beach, with a special art exhibit. This art exhibit has toured Oahu to provide residents an opportunity to reflect on the loss, and to honor and remember their service, and to help provide healing to those who grieve their loss. Russ assembled twelve surfboards, representing the 12 marines who died in the crash. The boards also show two opposing waves that represent the two helicopters colliding, a beach scene representing the shoreline at Bellows Air Base. On the boards are nine figures representing the nine bodies recovered. They are looking out to sea for their still missing comrades.

The art exhibit has gone on tour across Oahu to various locations, to include Sunset Beach, Kaneohe Marine Corps Base, and most recently at the Na Koa Wounded Warrior Regatta on 19 August 2017.

For more information contact Russ at Russell.rebmann@gmail.com or call 808-722-2828 , Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/pg/ mystickoolau/about/

12

Commandery Operations This section provides highlights of recent and upcoming Commandery operations and activities.

Commandery Meeting. The Commandery held its quarterly meeting at the Monterey Canners Restaurant on June 10, 2017 to conduct AARs on the Cadet awards ceremonies, Vietnam Essay Contest, and 50th Vietnam War Commemorative Medals program. conducted the induction ceremony of Companion, COL, Ret. Chris Spear, who serves as the Junior Vice Commander. The next Commandery Meeting has not been set. For those Companions on Oahu who can attend, please voice your preference for continuation of the Saturday morning meetings at a local restaurant, a lunch meeting dur- Secretary Manchester and Commander Tulak officially induct Companion ing the work week, or an after work gathering a lo- Spear and present his ribbon insignia of the Order, and diploma of membership in the Hawaii Commandery on June 10, 2017. cal watering hole or restaurant.

ACU Collection Drive for JROTC. The Army Combat Uniform (ACU) Collection Drive for JROTC is traditionally held in AUG/SEP, but needs a volunteer to coordinate this effort. The Army element at HQ USPACOM did the collection part single-handedly last year, and will support again. The project can be completed in 4 weeks from start to finish with two weeks of notice, two weeks of donations, and a day of delivery to the supported school. Several late ACU donations from last year’s efforts are already on-hand and in storage at the Oahu Veterans Center, our official Headquarters. If you are ready to take on this short term and satisfying project, contact the Commander or Secretary to accomplish the mission!

Commandery Elections. Officers of the Commandery serve a two year term. Our last election was January 2015. All positions are confirmed by a Commandery-wide vote in the biennial election process, with vacancies filled by appointments by the Commander, if they not filled in the election process. The current officer slate is shown below: 1. Commander: COL, USA Ret. Arthur N. Tulak (currently serving 3rd Term in office) 2. Senior Vice Commander: VACANT 3. Junior Vice Commander: COL, USA, Ret. John “Chris” Spear 4. Chaplain: LTC, USA Ret. Chaplain, John C. Molina (currently serving 2d Term in office) 5. HI Commandery National Delegate: Col, USAF David M. Terrinoni 6. Secretary: LTC, USA Ret. Curtis A. “Manny” Manchester 7. Treasurer: VACANT 8. Genealogist: Companion Adam Gaines I invite all Companions to step up to fill a leadership position. Many hands can make light work of running the Commandery. If you are interested in the future of our Commandery, then throw you hat in the ring to be a leader. The important positions of Senior Vice Commander and Treasurer are vacant now and waiting for a dedicated Companion to step forward to fill. These can be filled by appointment immediately. In addition to the positions above, we need Committee Chairmen for Recruiting, Fundraising, 50th Vietnam War Commemoration, and Awards.

13

Commandery Operations (Continued) POW/MIA Day. The Commandery is invited to attend the annual ceremony, at 1000 hrs on 15 SEP, held by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. At our June 2017 meeting, we decided to limit our wreath purchases to Veterans Day and Memorial Day, so we will not have a wreath for this event, but we can still participate. If you are willing to represent the Commandery—contact the Commander, and RSVP at https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/index.cfm?i=360372&k=0167420A7C55 WWI Centennial Commemoration Event—19 SEP Punahou Roll Call of Honor. This event is being planned and executed by the Punahou Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC), an official Commemoration Partner of the Hawaii World War One Centennial Commemoration. LTC, Ret. Robert Takao, Senior Army Instructor of the Punahou JROTC, will be the master of ceremonies. The event will honor the alumni, and students from Oahu College and Punahou Preparatory School, who volunteered to serve in the Military or Red Cross during the Great War from 19141917. The messages on patriotism on national service for today’s generation is clear, and the Hawaii Commandery should attend and support this event. The event will start at 10:45 in the morning at the Punahou School Thurston Chapel, not far from the exact site from where Oahu College President Arthur Griffiths recited the roll of honor, as well as the Memorial Wall that lists WWI Veterans from Punahou. Dr. Bonnie Christensen, a teacher at Punahou since 1998, will be the keynote speaker. During the ceremony, LTC Takao will pay tribute to First Lieutenant Robert A. Anderson, pilot in the U. S. Air Service and a Punahou Graduate of the Class of 1912. The 25th Infantry Division “Tropic Lightning” Band will be performing, and will play “Lovely Hula Hands” composed by 1LT Robert A. Anderson, Punahou Grad of the Class of 1912. Among those on the Roll Call on September 19, 1917, was that of 1LT Robert Anderson, U.S. Army, who after being shot down behind German lines, was able escape confinement and trek to the west through Belgium to Holland using his French and German skills learned at Punahou. Evading capture, he returned to friendly lines in Holland with two other POWs. 1LT Anderson’s son, Robert Anderson, will represent him and that generation who served in WWI from Hawaii. A light lunch will be served following the conclusion of the ceremony. If you can attend, please wear your MOFW attire.

50th Commemoration Medal Presentations. The Commandery still has many more presentations to do in support of other organizations who have submitted nominations. Over the next four months, we need to conduct presentations to the Hawaii Chapter of the Military Order of World Wars, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Reserve Officers Association, Fleet Reserve Association, et. al. We need volunteers to step up and perform this important mission.

Mahalo to Companions Manny Manchester and Ed Green, and to Commandery Supporter Captain Joe Cortez, for their professionalism in the presentation of these awards as exhibited on these pages. The schedule of these events depends on when the supported organizations have the appropriate venue for the presentation. The more volunteers we have, the sooner we’ll get the mission accomplished.

Volunteers for Veterans Day. We need volunteers to present a floral wreath at the Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the Oahu Veterans Council at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at 0900, and to march with the MOFW flag at the Governor’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the State Veterans Cemetery in Kaneohe at 1300. Companion Tulak will be at the WWI Memorial Natatorium at 1100 hrs.

MOFW Awards. In addition to JROTC and ROTC awards ceremonies held in April and May, the Commandery supports the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy graduations in June and December, where both the Leadership and Academic Medals are presented. We plan to present the Civil Air Patrol Cadets with the Leadership medals in December. Commandery may award the MOFW Meritorious Service Medal to individuals in and outside the Order for service that promotes our ideals as outlined in the seven purposes. We have not awarded one since 2015. This program falls under Awards Committee Chairman mentioned on the previous page.

14

Upcoming events: • • • • • •

• • •

• • • •

15 SEP — POW/MIA Day, National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony, 1000 hrs, National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. RSVP by 6 SEP at https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/anim.cfm?i=360372&k=0167420A7C55 8 SEP — 70th Air Force Ball, 1700 hrs at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, 2005 Kalia Rd. Honolulu, HI 96815 https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/2017-jbphh-70th-air-force-ball-tickets-36632644225 9 SEP— Retiree Appreciation Day, 0800-1400 hrs, Nehelani Banquet and Conference Center, 1249 Kolekole Ave. Schofield Barracks.

18 SEP—70th Birthday of the U.S. Air Force (18 September 1947, President Truman signed the National Security Act which established the US Air Force as an independent service, equal to the US Army and US Navy).

4 SEP —Gold Star Mothers/Family Day. 11 SEP— Ground Breaking Ceremony, Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, 1100 hrs at the Hawaiian Memorial Park , 45-425 Kamehameha Hwy. To RSVP, contact Rene Mansho at Ph: 291-6151, E-mail: renemansho@hawaii.rr.com 19 SEP — WWI Centennial Commemoration Event—Punahou Roll Call of Honor, 1045 hrs at the Thurston Chapel 13 OCT—242nd Birthday of the United States Navy 21 OCT — The 2017 Hawaii Navy Ball will be held on 21 October 2017 from 1700-2330 at the Hilton Hawaii Village Resort. Please visit the following link for additional information and to purchase tickets. www.memberplanet.com/s/honolulunavyleague/2017navyball 10 NOV — 242nd Birthday of the United States Marine Corps 11 NOV— Veterans Day Ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, sponsored by the Oahu Veterans Council. 0900 hrs. The Commandery will present a wreath.

11 NOV— Veterans Day Ceremony at the WWI Memorial and Natatorium, sponsored by the Hawaii WWI Centennial Task Force. 1100 hrs.

11 NOV— Governor’s Veterans’ Day Ceremony at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery at Kaneohe. 1300 hrs. The Commandery will march in the parade of flags and present a lei.

Hawaii Commandery, Military Order of Foreign Wars A non-profit 501 (c) 3 Veterans Organization Oahu Veterans Center, 1298 Kukila St. Honolulu Hawaii, 96818

Mahalo to our 2017 Sponsors:

15