2015 texas vfw winter news issuu

Winter 2015

New Texas Governor Greg Abbott makes his first Texas VFW speech at the mid-winter convention

inside VOD Winners Patriot’s Pen Winners Vietnam Peace Accord Legislative News

TEXAS VFW NEWS — 1st PLACE WINNER 2014 National Publications Contest

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Voice of Democracy Essay Winner page 14 Congratulations to the 2014-15 Voice of Democracy essay winner and recipient of a $10,000 scholarship Anna Becker.

Patriot’s Pen Essay Winner page 18 Congratulations to the 2014-15 Patriot’s Pen essay winner and recipient of a $2,000 scholarship Cassity Milton.

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Flippable Online Version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org.

Serving Veterans Since 1899

What Does The Texas VFW Offer You?

Camaraderie with fellow Veterans • Community Networking & Involvement • Remembrance Programs • Full time support of today’s service members • Programs for families and youth • Full Time Watchdog on Capitol Hill & at the Texas Legislature • Free representation in VA claims • An award-winning magazine Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW 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.

Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to dan@texasvfw.org 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.

For Information Regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, seeking, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org.

In the News

4 Commander’s Column 6 Veterans Legislative News 8 Texas VFW Foundation Receives $300,000 Grant 10 Around the State with the Texas VFW 11 Welcome to the New Dept. Secretary 12 Around the State with the Texas VFW 14 Voice of Democracy Essay Winner 15 Voice of Democracy Scholarship Winners 16 Vietnam Peace Accord 18 Patriot’s Pen Winners 19 Citizenship Education Teacher Awards 22 Vietnam Peace Accord 23 Vietnam Peace Accord 25 Texas VFW Membership Application 28 Mid-Winter Conference Memorial Service

CONTENTS

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

Upcoming Events

20 State Commander Homecoming 21 Texas VFW 95th Annual Convention 26 Officer Training Seminar

ABOUT THE COVER

Winter 2015

New Texas Governor New Texas Governo r Greg Abbott makes Greg Abbott makes his his Texas VFW speech at the mid-winter conv first ention first Texas VFW speech at the mid-winter convention in Austin, Texas to a crowd of over 800 members of the Veterans of Foreign insi de Wars and its Auxiliaries.

Pictured L-R State Sr. Vice Commander Dan West, National President of the Ladies Auxiliary Ann Panteleakos, State Jr. Vice Commander Peyton Lumpkin, Governor Greg Abbott, State Commander Joe Hayes, National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief John Biedrzycki and State Ladies Auxiliary president Dorothy Bennett.

VOD Winners Patriots Pen Winners Vietnam Peace Accord Legislative News

Texas VFW NeWs — 1st Place WiNN er 2014 National Public ations Contest

Texas VFW Winter 2015

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STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN COMRADES, I truly enjoyed visiting with each of you during our recently completed Mid Winter Convention. We were fortunate to have some excellent speakers. Texas Governor Greg Abbott took time out of his schedule to address our attendees and his remarks were well received. I believe we have a Governor who will truly advocate for the veterans of Texas. Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush, a VFW Life Member, addressed the opening session concerning the Texas Veterans Land Board and the continuing efforts by that agency to take care of Texas veterans now and in the future. My sincerest thanks to our National Senior Vice Commander in Chief, John Biedrzycki, for attending the convention. I believe all of our comrades were very impressed by John and his ideas for the VFW in the future.

The Voice of Democracy banquet was great. Congratulations to our State winner, Anna Becker, representing VFW Post 4008 in Belton, District 14. Our Patriots Pen winner was Cassity Milton, representing VFW Post 3278 in Brownwood, District 8. Additionally, we recognized our Teachers of the Year during the banquet. In the K-5 grade category, our winner was Mary Hanson, nominated by VFW Post 4692 in Bryan District 17. In the 6-8 grade category, the winner was Marianne Messinger, nominated by VFW Post 4709, Conroe, District 17 and in the 9-12 grade category, our winner was Kim Grosenbacher, nominated by VFW Post 688, Boerne, District 13. All of these winners were exceptional! For more information on our State winners, please see the special pages included in this edition.

A special thanks to the Department staff for their efforts in making the convention successful. Many hours of work go in to the planning and execution of our conventions and our staff is second to none in making sure all of our attendees are taken care of. Thanks to the Department Officers and Chairman who presented seminars. All were well received and I had many comments that it was an outstanding convention.

Comrades, we really need to focus on our membership program.

As of this date, we are about 7,700 members short of where we were last year. We have many Posts in this state that have not recruited a new member in over two years. Many have not reinstated a previous member.

In order for your Post to survive, you must recruit new members and then get those new members involved. In order to do this, it may call for some drastic changes in how you operate. If you do not change, then your Post will certainly face the possibility of closing and I do not want to see that happen. So I am asking each of you to place renewed emphasis on recruiting and additionally, retaining members. We have about four months remaining to get this done and I have faith that each of you will do your best to accomplish our goals.

I would like to take the time to thank you for the cards and letters you sent to Tina as she underwent her surgery. It is at times like this that I truly appreciate the VFW and all of the friends we have made through that association. I hope that each of you takes the time to come to my Homecoming at Lake Texoma in April. Details are in this edition.

As always, I appreciate all of the courtesies extended to me during my visits across this great state. I look forward to visiting you in the future and seeing everyone at my homecoming and the State Convention. n

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Texas VFW Winter 2015

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 $20.00.

Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXVIV, Number 3, © February 2015. 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 Terri Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Design DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535

2014-2015 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS COMMANDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joe Hayes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 SR VICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 JR VICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peyton Lumpkin . . . . . . . . . . 2207 Blue Water Bay Dr., Katy, TX 77494 JUDGE ADVOCATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1927 Mariner Point Ln., Katy, TX 77494 SURGEON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doc Howard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044 CHAPLAIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Norman Macey . . . . . . . 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., Humble, TX 77346 CHIEF OF STAFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lavern Terbl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Plantation Ave., Pottsboro, TX 75076 INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keith King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2406 Bellmeade, Brownwood, Texas 76801 IMMEDIATE PAST CMDR . . . . . . . . . . Sylvia Sanchez . . . . . . . . 1906 Ashprington Dr., San Antonio, TX 78251 COUNCIL MEMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . . . 4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 ADJ/QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 ASST ADJ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 ASST QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78753 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . Inge Conley . . . . . . . . . . . 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . Rodney Raulston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . Glenn James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235 Primrose, Freeport, TX 77541 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . Glenn Heady . . . . . . . . . . . 6620 Summertime Ln., Watauga, TX 76148 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . Robert LaFleur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . John Lozanski . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1215 Cedar Ridge Rd., Heath, TX 75032 OFFICER OF THE DAY . . . . . . . . . . . . Lonnie Garza . . . . . . . . . . . 1769 Jacobs Ct., New Braunfels, TX 78130

DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORS SERVICE OFFICER/WACO . . . . . .6008—Lloyd Coffman . . . . . . . . . . 701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799 SERVICE OFFICER/HOUSTON . . .3413—Julio Harros . . . 6900 Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77030

2014-2015 DISTRICT COMMANDERS DISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2205—Fred Wells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 695, Aubrey, TX 76227 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2775—James Seales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170 Gary, Bridge City, TX 77611 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5076—Mark Stein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1826 Meridian Way, Garland, TX 75040 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2427—Carl Arnold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10106 Mandolin Ct., Houston, TX 77070 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7110—Marvin Brietzke . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 311033, New Braunfels, TX 78131 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8931—Al Nunez, Jr. . . . . . . . . . 7221 S Staples St #115, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3278—James Masters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7800 Fm 2125, Brownwood, TX 76801 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4818—Ronnie Lance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Oak St., Hereford, TX 79045 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9173—Jo Ann Knight . . . . . . . . 415 S Mesa Hills Dr. Apt 1204, El Paso, TX 79912 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1183—John Ashcraft, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 385 Cairy Ln., Longview, TX 75604 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1480—Tim Casey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1328 Ranchero Rd., Kerrville, TX 78028 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4008—Roger DeWeese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404 Lake Road, Belton, TX 76513 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8558—Randy Duckworth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600 E Oak St., Nocona, TX 76306 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3903—Brian Satsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9830 Hein Rd., Richmond, TX 77469 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4709—David Helton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15010 Coaltown Rd.,Willis, TX 77378 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2410—Loren Pogue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 809, Donna, TX 78537 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1836—Alfred Navarro, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903 S First St., Lufkin, TX 75901 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12041—Larry Sanders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 457, Lytle, TX 78052 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10454—Jon Lunkwicz . . . . . . . . . . 12245 Eunice St., Farmers Branch, TX 75234 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3972—Harold Hartman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9511 FM 236, Cuero, TX 77954 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6284—Mel Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 79762 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6115—Charles Swain . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Bandera Woods Blvd., Elgin, TX 78621 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6008—Roy “Bobby” Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 76705 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3366—Tom Cloy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 302, Purdon, TX 76679

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L e g i s l a t i v e

N e w s

Veterans Legislative News VFW STATEMENT ON MILITARY PAY COMMISSION REPORT THE MILITARY COMPENSATION AND RETIREMENT MODERNIZATION COMMISSION released a 300-page report today that contained 15 specific recommendations regarding military pay and retirement compensation, health benefits and military quality of life programs. The following statement is from John W. Stroud, the national commander of the 1.9 million-member Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Auxiliaries: “The commission said from the onset that its mission was to preserve the long-term viability of the All-Volunteer Force, to maintain the quality of life of troops and their families, and to achieve fiscal sustainability for the military compensation and retirement systems going forward. The report does contain recommendations to increase military retiree Tricare fees, as well as to alter the military retirement program for future enlistees, but the devil is always in the details, and the VFW will now review the entire report in detail and address our concerns with the United States Congress.

“The VFW thanks the nine commission members and staff for staying focused on the reform of existing programs, and for not using the opportunity to merely cut programs or slash compensation.”

Download the MCRMC report at http://www.mcrmc.gov/public/docs/report/MCRMC-FinalReport29JAN15-LO.pdf. n

POW/MIA MISSION REORGANIZATION MOVES FORWARD Mission accomplishment is what’s important to the VFW

THE NATION’S LARGEST WAR VETERANS’ ORGANIZATION is hopeful that the impending merger and realignment of several Defense Department organizations and functions will produce the necessary synergy to achieve the fullest possible accounting of missing service personnel from all wars.

“There’s always been strong unity of purpose when it comes to recovering, identifying and returning fellow Americans to their families,” said John W. Stroud, national commander of the 1.9 millionmember Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Auxiliaries, “but what’s been lacking is unity of command and direction, which is what the VFW is hopeful this reorganization will achieve.”

The decision to merge three organizations was made last year by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel after the accounting community came under intense congressional scrutiny.

Being merged are the Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office, the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command, and the Air Force Life Science Equipment Laboratory. The consolidation will include policy guidance, archival research and analysis, and worldwide field investigations and recovery operations. Also being realigned is the scientific element of the mission, which moves JPAC’s Central Identification Laboratory under the Armed Forces Medical Examiner. Included in the new look will be a centralized budget, a consolidated case management system, and expanded public-private partnerships.

The new organization has yet to be given a new name, but interim leadership was announced at a Pentagon meeting the VFW attended last week. Navy Rear Adm. Michael Franken will be the agency’s interim director. Air Force Maj. Gen. Kelly McKeague, JPAC’s current commander, will serve as deputy director. Army Lt. Gen. Michael Linnington, military deputy to the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, will be the agency’s senior adviser to Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Christine Wormuth, whose office will oversee the new agency.

“Mission accomplishment is what’s important to the VFW,” said Stroud, “and we look forward to working with the new leadership to help keep America’s promise to our military and all their families that we will not leave a fallen comrade on the battlefield.” n 6

Texas VFW Winter 2015

ONLINE PRESCRIPTION TRACKER GIVES VETERANS 24/7 ONLINE ACCESS TO STATUS VETERANS CAN NOW TRACK the status of most of their prescriptions online, thanks to an innovative idea by a Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) employee. The new 24/7 service allows online tracking for most prescriptions mailed from the VA Mail Order Pharmacy.

The Prescription Tracker was recommended

by VA employee Kenneth Siehr, a winner of the President’s 2013 Securing Americans Value and Efficiency (SAVE) Award. Siehr’s idea focused on the use of technology as a way to save money and improve the services VA provides to its patients.

“Our nation’s Veterans deserve a first-class pharmacy and quality customer service as a part of the exceptional health care available from VA,” said Siehr, the National Director for Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacies. “It is an honor to be part of serving Veterans and to have been recognized for an idea that enhances our services to them.”

More than 57,000 Veterans are currently using the service through My HealtheVet, an online feature that allows Veterans to partner with their health care team. The number is expected to grow as VA starts to educate Veterans about the new feature. Later this month, the tracking feature will include images of the medication that dispensed. Over the next year, a secure messaging alert will be added so that Veterans know when a medication was placed in the mail.

“VA prescription refill online is an excellent example of how one employee looked at the process of VA prescription tracking through the eyes of our Veterans and came up with an idea that better serves Veterans,” said Interim Under Secretary for Health, Carolyn M. Clancy. “This idea is both innovative and transformative, and it is certainly one, when put into action, improves customer service for America’s Veterans.” n

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Texas VFW Winter 2015

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Helping Veterans in Need TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION RECEIVES $300,000 GRANT THE TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS FOUNDATION was approved for a grant of $300,000 from the Texas Veterans Commission, Fund for Veterans Assistance to assist veterans through the Texas VFW Foundation’s VETERANS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. The Veterans Assistance Program is available to provide one-time financial assistance to Texas veterans, statewide, who meet certain qualifications and who have found themselves in a financial hardship through no fault of their own.

This grant runs from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015. The Texas VFW Foundation will be able to help over 100 veterans and widows of veterans and their households with a grant of up to $2,500 that will be paid to their creditors if approved.

Veterans of any generation needing assistance and who meet the qualifications as stated in the application can apply by mail, fax, or email on a first come, first served basis. Applications are available at www.texasvfwfoundation.org or at www.texasvfw.org.

Since 2007 The Texas VFW Foundation has assisted over 1,531 veterans, 2,328 family members and 36 surviving spouses with financial assistance grants totaling over $2,768,000.

For more information go to www.texasvfwfoundation.org or call (512) 291-6850 if you would like to make a donation to help a Texas veteran.

The Texas VFW Foundation accepts memorials in honor of your loved ones.

Those funds are reserved for the family of the deceased. If the family declines assistance, the funds are utilized in the Veterans Assistance Program.

• 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.

• Funds for this program come from individual donations from veterans and veteran supporters like yourself, and from charitable foundations.

• The Veterans Assistance Program is not an entitlement program and not all veterans who apply will receive a financial grant and those awarded a grant will not directly receive any funds.

• The applicant will have to work with a Service Officer from a Federal, State or Veterans Service Organization or with their local military command if still in the military before application can be processed.

• Applications can be found at the Featured Links section on the Texas VFW Web Site www.texasvfw.org; by emailing the Foundation at foundation@texasvfw.org; or by calling (512) 291-6850. Donations may be mailed to Texas VFW Foundation, P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761.

Your small donation makes a BIG difference.

This is program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance, the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations serving veterans and their families.

www.tvc.state.tx.us

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Texas VFW Winter 2015

I GAVE, WILL YOU? CLICK HERE

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AROUND THE STATE with the TEXAS VFW Texas VFW Post 12075, Humble —

John Heimburger, Post 12075’s Surgeon, an Eagle Scout, graduate of the Air Force Academy and retired Air Force Colonel, was the featured speaker at Noah Tekulve’s “Eagle Scout” presentation. John represented the post and the VFW in an outstanding manner—his presentation capturing the undivided attention of the audience. It should be noted that Noah, in addition to holding 29 merit badges, is a member of the Order of the Arrow. Jim Haycraft, Post Adjutant, accompanied John and offered his congratulations to Noah and his parents.

L-R: Jim Haycraft, Noah Tekulve, John Heimbuger.

Texas VFW Post 7473, Elsa — Members of the ladies Auxiliary and members of the Post participated in a

flag retirement ceremony on January 29.

Texas VFW Post 3895, La Joya —

The City of La Joya Annual Christmas Parade. La Joya Police Department provided an Army 5-ton truck for Post to use in the Parade.

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Texas VFW Winter 2015

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TEXAS VFW WELCOMES DEPARTMENT SECRETARY WYONDA LAURENCE, Texas VFW Department Secretary Wyonda Laurence grew up in Austin, Texas and graduated from Wm. B. Travis High School in 1974. She attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, and St. Edward’s University in Austin. She was employed at the Texas School for the Deaf in Austin for six years and is fluent in American Sign Language. Wyonda was also an EMT and volunteer firefighter for 8 years in Caldwell County, Texas. She was involved with the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts in Lockhart, Texas for 13 years serving as a Cubmaster and Scoutmaster. She worked at the Texas Veterans Commission for 10 years and was the Executive Assistant to Jim Nier, past VFW State Commander and VFW National Commanderin-Chief. Wyonda is also a Lifetime Member with the Ladies Auxiliary at Post 9078, Round Rock. She has two sons, Eddie and Jesse Garrett, and recently moved back to her hometown of Austin, Texas.

Wyonda was hired as Department Secretary in September 2014.

MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN G.I. Where American Military History Comes Alive!  Historic Uniforms  Restored WWII Tanks   WWII Drone  Vietnam PBR 

Coming May 2nd: Texas Vietnam Heroes Exhibit GEORGE P. BUSH, Texas Veteran’s Land Board Commissioner Newly elected Texas Veteran’s Land Board Commissioner GEORGE P. BUSH, a life member of the Texas VFW and Afghanistan war veteran, speaks with over 800 members of the Texas VFW and its Auxiliaries at the Mid-Winter Conference.

HOURS: FRI & SAT: 10AM-5:30PM SUN: 12PM-5PM

PRESERVE  HONOR  EDUCATE 19124 HWY 6 S, College Station, TX (979) 446-6888 www.americangimuseum.org JOHN BIEDRZYCKI, National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief, accepts a $500 check from Texas VFW Post 5871, Huntsville Post Commander David Lanoue for the Texas VFW Homeless Veteran program.

Commander Lanoue and other members of the Post spent a weekend living as a homeless veteran to raise awareness and funds for Homeless Veterans across the state.

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AROUND THE STATE with the TEXAS VFW Texas VFW Post 9182, Katy —

Sinking of the Maine slide presentation given by Mayde Creek NJROTC to a packed house at the Katy post.

Texas VFW Post 8787, Austin —

On MLK Day, January 19th, 2015, VFW Post 8787 observed the Civil Rights Movement in the United States Military. VFW members and Ladies Auxiliary members were in attendance. Pictured L-R: Past Department of Texas Commander John Spar with Ladies Auxiliary member Louise Wright and Sr. Vice Bill Bennett.

Texas VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands —

Post and Auxiliary members distributed Buddy Poppies at annual Veterans Day ceremony in The Woodlands.

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VOICE OF DEMOCRACY ESSAY

BY ANNA BECKER 1ST PLACE WINNER

ortant to Why Veterans Are Imp Future Our Nation’s Past and

d with OF AMERICA was founde THE UNITED STATES 6, and ion of Independence in 177 the signing of the Declarat the in ve ser ans volunteered to immediately, brave Americ def n to end rs were again called upo Continental Army. Soldie in the 1812, to preserve the Union the nation in the War of the of n and shortly after the tur War Between the States, States was World War I. The United mander-in-Chief John 20th century, to fight in Pictured L-R: National Sr. Vice Com l and restore evi eat def to t figh the es, Anna Becker, State d Hay then called upon to lea Biedrzycki, State Commander Joe More ed. ow foll m tna nett and National Vie d Ben an e Wars in Korea Ladies Auxiliary President Dorothy peace in World War II. Th teleakos.

Pan Ann President of the Ladies Auxiliary and women have been . recently, our service men tan nis ha Afg d Iraq an edom in places like Kuwait, bravely defending our fre , through conflicts ion nat our military service. Many s from the birth of day t lies ear the ce es men were drafted into Sin etim

som , yes d an ve, ser to families of those d women have volunteered l. Our hearts break for the tefu gra r eve large and small, men an for are we t d for tha making a e the ultimate sacrifice, an ces as leaders in society, brave service members gav se veterans took their pla the d an r, wa m fro ed urn . But many others ret missing or killed in action serve, preserving of life. e they stepped forward to aus bec ost em difference in every walk for d an rst ion—fi ping t are important to our nat r that steadies a ship, kee These Veterans of the pas tant because, like an ancho

por im o als are t ure fas fut d the ones who hol s to come. Veterans of the of our nation. They will be rs cho our liberties for generation an the say n eve would ns are the leaders, and I it from going adrift, vetera es n and women in all branch our Republic. ues instilled in young me val to our Constitution and to the der nsi Co ? ers lor oth courage. Navy sai s eran different from or, integrity, and personal What is it that makes a vet hon e, vic

ser ess selfl t, y, respec in all iers are taught loyalty, dut e before self, and excellence of the military. Army sold ets learn integrity, servic cad ce For Air . ent tm mi or, courage, and com and Marines are about hon d devotion to duty. than two about honor, respect, an it’s , ard Gu ast Co n and women over more the d they do. An it…millions of service me of ink Th p. shi der lea of qualities excellence. The veterans Collectively, these are the courageous, and to pursue

be to , ble ora hon be to d ping to build this history have been traine in every part of society, hel ily ght mi centuries of our nation’s d ute trib con y and the they are m war with these values, places around the globe, of our past came home fro n return from duty from me air d an s lor sai , iers sid ssing in on all es in the power. Today, as sold Sure, we do. Storms are pre ? nation into a great super ges llen cha e hav we Do . y that the “Greatest pel us forward as a nation vinced that in the same wa con am I poised once again to pro But e. eas dis n and eve ter ic worries, domestic strife, ns lead us through to a bet form of terrorism, econom too will present day vetera so es, tim lt ficu dif h oug r II veterans led us thr Generation” of World Wa belong to the said, “The future doesn’t day ahead.

President Ronald Reagan ge? llen cha ry the to up ns of vetera w of Captain O’Hern’s sto Is this present generation

ptain Larkin O’Hern. I kno Ca y Arm US ut abo r’s you rds. On New Yea the brave.” Let me tell rd his story in his own wo fainthearted; it belongs to h school, and I have hea hig my at him. He now do I as e halls ted, critically wounding because he walked the sam nistan when an IED detona ha Afg in n dfast too pla his hel h d by his wife Rac ’s stea was walking wit h in God and encourage Eve 2010, Captain O’Hern fait his by ned tai sus e , ver onc he walks tall legs and one hand. Howe ng advanced prosthetics, usi d an , survived, but he lost both ries inju his m fro y back ern continues O’Hern has fought his wa d personal courage. O’H love and support, Captain y: loyalty, duty, honor, an Arm the of As ues val the chors of our ship of State. has demonstrated are the leaders, yes, the an o again. That is bravery! He wh ns era vet of e lin g ure. one day he will join the lon o will lead us into the fut to serve in the Army, but pired by those veterans wh ins am I d an t, pas our the veterans of a young person, I admire

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1st Place—$10,000 Department of Texas VFW Scholarship Anna Becker, Belton Sponsoring Post 4008, Belton, D14 2nd Place—$7,500 Department of Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship Cheyenne Gordon, Zephyr Sponsoring Post 3278, Brownwood, D8 3rd Place—$6,500 W.T. “Pete” Evans and Texas VFW Scholarship Rachel Webber, Longview Sponsoring Post 1183, Longview, D12 4th Place—$6,000 Post 2544, Veterans Memorial, Inc. and Past State Commander John Knapp Scholarship Rachel DeYoung, San Antonio Sponsoring Post 4676, Universal City, D20 5th Place—$5,000 Stewart-Wendell Post 3904 and Texas VFW Scholarship Ana L’Antigua, Fair Oaks Ranch Sponsoring Post 688, Boerne, D13 6th Place—$4,000 Texas VFW Motorcycle Group Scholarship Noah Bittner, Caldwell Sponsoring Post 4458, Caldwell, D17 7th Place—$3,750 Francis Sullivan and Department of Texas VFW Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship Zachery Falkenbury, Pflugerville Sponsoring Post 8787, Austin, D28

$3,250—Camp Bowie Post 708 and Auxiliary Scholarship William Huggins, Dallas Sponsoring Post 8627, Richardson, D3

$3,000—Robert O. “Bob” Pugh and Texas VFW Scholarship Nadine Marshall, McKinney Sponsoring Post 2150, McKinney, D1

$2,750—Pampa VFW Post 1657 and Auxiliaries Scholarship Katheryn Sweetman, Skidmore Sponsoring Post 9170, Beeville, D6

$2,500—Tri Star Insurance Scholarship in honor of State Commander Joe Hayes Lindsey Moreno, Victoria Sponsoring Post 4146, Victoria, D24 $2,000—RVOS Insurance Scholarship Felicia Villalobos, El Paso Sponsoring Post 8550, El Paso, D10 $1,500—VFW Post 6008 and Auxiliaries Scholarship James Payne, Brazoria Sponsoring Post 8551, Sweeny, D16 $1,000—VFW Post 10428 and Auxiliaries Scholarship Staci Randall, Tolar Sponsoring Post 7835, Granbury, D21 $1,000—VFW Post 8550 Scholarship Caitlynn Stone, Fairfield Sponsoring Post 5872, Fairfield, D29 $1,000—E.G. Mudd Insurance Agency Scholarship Haydn Denzlinger, Port Neches Sponsoring Post 4820, Port Arthur, D2 $1,000—District 16 Ladies Auxiliary Memorial Scholarship Jonathan Davis, Midlothian Sponsoring Post 3894, Waxahachie, District 30 $1,000—Jerome Henze Scholarship Kathleen Lochte, Seguin Sponsoring Post 7110, New Braunfels, D5 $1,000—I.P. “Sarge” Bell Memorial VFW Post 3377 Scholarship Christian Casto, Wichita Falls Sponsoring Post 8878, Wichita Falls, D15 $1,000—VFW Post 9182, Katy, and Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship Laurel Robinson, Huntington Sponsoring Post 1836, Lufkin, D19 $1,000—VFW Post 8551, West Brazos, Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship Shelby Lyles, Humble Sponsoring Post 12075, Kingwood, D4 $1,000—VFW Post 1475 Motorcycle Group 6 Scholarship Taylor Sharpe, Midland Sponsoring Post 7208, Midland, D25 $1,000—Frost Bank of Austin Scholarship Macee Brotherton, Floydada Sponsoring Post 5616, Floydada, D9 $1,000—Texas VFW Scholarship Melissa Singsing, Brownsville Sponsoring Post 2035, Brownsville, D18

2014-2015 VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

1,951 students participated in the Voice of Democracy Scholarship program and over $188,075 in scholarships were given and there was $38,088 in other costs. Total spent on this program was $226,163.

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VIETNAM PEACE ACCORD—JANUARY 27 Texas VFW Post 6899, Trinity —

The Commander and President conducted a Vietnam Peace Accord ceremony with prayer provided by the Chaplain.

Texas VFW Post 2059, Kirby —

Texas VFW Post 10429, Benbrook — Post

Post members observed the Vietnam Peace Accord.

Texas VFW Post 8558, Nocona — The Post

members gathered to remember the Vietnam Peace Accord at the Benbrook Memorial Post.

remembered the Vietnam Peace Accord.

Texas VFW Post 12041, Lytle — Members and guests

participated in a Vietnam Peace Accord celebration.

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Texas VFW Winter 2015

P a t r i o t ’ s

P e n

A w a r d

W i n n e r s

eteran V s ’ a ic r e m A ppreciate WChassiyty MIiltA on

s

by

was someone, NG that a veteran EI SE CE ON LL erica I RECA ote a check to Am at at some point wr th , ad de or g in liv U.S.A. At life payable to the eir th ng di clu in d for up to, an e I thought to me but the mor ge an str ed em se it that time er it became. ve about it, the clear st and present ha e Armed Forces, pa th of rs be em M

ver knowing ders sent them, ne lea r ou e er wh ne willingly go and friends. rn to their family tu re d ul wo ey th ht whether tion. We are taug rs ask without ques de lea r ou as do unded They our military are wo of rs be m nu ld to in school that un harm’s way. they are sent into or killed anytime se I have thinking of a phra to e m ds lea m ter This

To me this means edom is not Free.” re “F is, ich wh d hear ve been der-in-Chief John y veterans lives ha nal Sr. Vice Comman tio an Na m : .

L-R S.A ed U. tur e th Pic s, Cassity Milton, in the history of untry can enjoy Commander Joe Haye co e te th Sta of ki, st yc nal re drz e Bie th d so that hy Bennett and Natio willingly sacrifice iary President Dorot xil n Au tio s ra die La cla te De Sta e leakos. were set forth in th s Auxiliary Ann Pante the freedoms that ion.

President of the Ladie ut tit ns Co s te Sta d the United of Independence an women alike out fail. I for one history men and ’s try un co r to the present with ou ut ar W ry na Througho tio lu

vo ily from the Re doomed to repeat r military voluntar from the past are rn lea t no do have enlisted in ou o wh re because those dictated to as we we k that they do so lose them and be ll wi we s would like to thin om ed fre ht for our ns if we do not fig ry War. it. To me this mea g the Revolutiona in nn wi edom to by y nn ra e of the ty ht to bear arms, fre rig , ch ee sp of om before breaking fre y from freed ifices made by edoms that I enjo awe of all the sacr in ly Knowing all the fre tru am

I rs, untless othe ion I choose and co practice any relig would, in my as for you and me ll we as s. an try ter un ve co r ou ne for God and and respect all what they have do t only appreciate no to r be em To not appreciate m re

ericans should r their service to eat injustice. All Am , thanking them fo nd ha eir th e eyes, do them a gr ak sh the time to present but to take veterans past and our country. n

2014-15 Patriot’s Pen Winners This year 7,057 students participated in the program and over $63,740 in awards were given. Other costs were $15,250 for a total spent on the program of $78,990.

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1st Place

2nd Place

3rd Place

$2,000—Department of Texas VFW Cassity Milton, Brownwood, Texas Sponsored by Post 3278 and its Ladies Auxiliary, Brownwood, District 8

$1,000—Department of Texas VFW David Newland, New Braunfels, Texas Sponsored by Post 7110 and its Ladies Auxiliary, New Braunfels, District 5

$500—Department of Texas VFW Mallory Huggins, Orange, Texas Sponsored by Post 2775 and its Ladies Auxiliary, Orange, District 2

Texas VFW Winter 2015

2014-15 CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION TEACHER AWARDS Winner of the Texas VFW, Elementary Teacher of the Year award and recipient of a $1,000 honorarium.

K-5th Grade—Mary Margaret Hanson Pictured L-R: National President of the Ladies Auxiliary Ann Panteleakos, , State Commander Joe Hayes, Teacher Mary Hanson, State Ladies Auxiliary President Dorothy Bennett and National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief John Biedrzycki.

Winner of the Texas VFW, Middle School Teacher of the Year award and recipient of a $1,000 honorarium.

Sul Ross Elementary School, Bryan, Texas

Sponsored by VFW Post 4692 and its Ladies Auxiliary, Bryan, District 17 FOR THE LAST SEVENTEEN YEARS, Mary Margaret Hanson, an art teacher at Sul Ross Elementary School in Bryan, has been the driving force behind the schools “Valentine for Vets” program. This program is held in February of each year. It is designed to honor the veterans in the Brazos River Valley and to thank them for their service and sacrifice for our country.

It is not only a favorite part of the school year for Sul Ross students and staff but also for the many community members whose lives this event has touched. All of this is done each year during a patriotic music program. In addition, the program provides Valentines for veterans in the VA hospital and our fighting soldiers overseas.

Glenn G. Morgan, a survivor of the USS Indianapolis in World War II said of the program, “I believe such patriotic programs can help children understand what the future may hold for this great country by understanding what has happened in the past.”

Mrs. Hanson is not only an incredible art teacher, she is also willing to go above and beyond to help out in a variety of ways at the school from sponsoring the Student Council and helping with UIL, among other activities. Kristina Brunson, the Principal of Sul Ross Elementary said of Mrs. Hanson, “She is a team player in every sense of the word and we are blessed to have Mrs. Hanson at our school serving our students each and every day.”

Knox Junior High School, Woodlands, Texas

Sponsored by VFW Post 4709, Conroe and its Ladies Auxiliary, District 17

A TEXAS HISTORY TEACHER for the past eight years at Knox Junior High School in the Woodlands, Marianne Messinger’s priorities are student success and the love of learning.

She tries to make history relevant to the students’ lives leading to informed, enquiring future citizens.

She does this in a very unique and colorful way. Each year, Mrs. Messinger presents multiple lessons as a character. She uses a variety of sources: cartoon characters, celebrity characters and historical characters. Some of her characters that she has dressed as while teaching are Uncle Sam during Government classes; Indiana Jones while discussing Native American artifacts; Davy Crockett and the history of the Alamo; Cynthia Ann Parker while discussing the early settlers in Texas; Abraham Lincoln and Pancho Villa. She is currently working on a costume of Jackie Kennedy Onassis to speak about President Kennedy’s assassination.

Mrs. Messinger believes that costumed characters engage the student. They remain focused on the material and retain more information. She attempts to show the students that history is not boring, that it is actually an amazing collection of personal stories.

Pictured L-R: National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief John Biedrzycki, State Commander Angela Kyle said of Mrs. Messinger, “She is a patriotic role model to all the students at Knox Junior High School. She makes history and the learning of our great nation fun and Joe Hayes, Teacher Marianne Messinger, State Ladies Auxiliary President Dorothy exciting for all of her students.”

Bennett and National President of the Ladies Auxiliary Ann Panteleakos.

6-8th Grade—Marianne Messinger

Winner of the Texas VFW, High School Teacher of the Year award and recipient of a $1,000 honorarium.

9-12th Grade—Kim Grosenbacher Pictured L-R, National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief John Biedrzycki, State Commander Joe Hayes, Teacher Kim Grosenbacher, State Ladies Auxiliary President Dorothy Bennett and National President of the Ladies Auxiliary Ann Panteleakos.

Boerne Champion High School, Boerne, Texas Sponsored by VFW Post 688, Boerne, District 13

AS A U. S. GOVERNMENT TEACHER at Champion High School in Boerne, Texas, Kim Grosenbacher works with local attorneys to help her students prepare for a mock trial competition, which increases the students understanding of the judicial process.

Working with the local community, Kim brings in guest speakers during the year to prepare her students for life after high school. These speakers include lawyers with the “Now You’re 18” program and the school Resource Officer who discusses due process, search and seizure, and other law enforcements topics.

She strives to instill in her students the concept of civic responsibility and the need for every citizen to exercise their right to vote. Many of her students have volunteered to work at the voting sites in Boerne, expanding their knowledge of the political process in Texas.

Kim was one of the twenty teachers selected to attend the Liberty and Security Program in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She will be working with teachers from around the country to deepen their understanding of the Constitution as they discuss the increasing importance of the balance of liberty and security.

Kim states that “teaching has created an enthusiasm in me for lifelong learning and nothing gives me greater pleasure than seeing former students cast their ballot on Election Day and having them remember their Constitutional Rights.”

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Tanglewood Resort

290 Tanglewood Circle, Pottsboro, Texas 75076 Mention or use group code “Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Texas” for reduced room rate of $100.00 per night + taxes & fees.

There are limited number of rooms available at this price.

Phone: 1-800-833-6569 or online www.tanglewoodresort.com

Schedule of Events

Saturday 4/25/2015 Friday 4/24/2015 Hotel 7:00 am—1:00 pm Golf Golf Course 9:00 am—? COA Meeting 2:00pm— 4:00 pm Happy Hour Post 7873 5:00 pm— 10:00 pm Casino* 5:00 pm— Dinner/Program Post 7873 1:00 pm—Close Hospitality Post 7873

State Commanders Homecoming Golf Tournament

Friday, April 24, 2015 at Tanglewood Golf Course located at 290 Tanglewood Circle in Pottsboro. Shotgun start at 8:00 am. $70.00 includes Breakfast, Golf Cart, Lunch at Post, Prizes & Awards. Hole Sponsorships are $100.00.

Golf Registration form online at texasvfw.org.

Registration deadline for Golf is April 3, 2015

HOMECOMING RESERVATION FEE—$10.00 $10.00 Reservation fee for Saturday Dinner & Program. Deadline is April 10, 2015.

Make check payable to Texas VFW & mail to P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761

Name: __________________________________________________ Post#: ___________ Dist#: _________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________________ City: ___________________________________________________ State: ________ Zip: ______________ Phone #: (__________) _____________________________________________________________________ Registration ($10 per person) *How many will ride bus to casino Total $ 20

Texas VFW Winter 2015

Hotel Reservations - Phone: 888-627-8514 mention 2015 VFW State Convention or online at texasvfw.org > Upcoming Events

Hotel room rate is $109.00 per night + taxes & fees.

Join us in Houston this year for the 95th Texas VFW State Convention. Post Delegates will elect new State Officers and pass or reject resolutions, By-Law changes, amendments and other such business as necessary and receive updates on all VFW programs from state level committee chairmen.

Attendee's will have opportunity to view Buddy Poppy entries, visit with vendors and meet with state elected officers and discuss matters of interest to all Texas veterans.

Joint Opening session on Thursday and the Friday night awards banquet will recognize All-State Honors for Districts & Posts, Commanders & Quartermasters as well as winners of State level Awards.

A great opportunity for camaraderie and networking with fellow VFW members from all over Texas.

Schedule of events is available online at www.texasvfw.org 95th State Convention Awards Banquet Ticket Sales

NO REFUNDS AFTER MAY 23, 2015 * LIMITED TO FIRST PAID ONLY/RESERVATIONS NOT ACCEPTED* CUT OFF DATE IS MAY 23, 2015.

Name: _________________________________________Post/Aux #: _________ Dist #: _____ Phone #: (______) _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________________City: ______________________ State: ____ Zip: _____________ Function Quantity Price Amount Order tickets online at www.texasvfw.org Awards Banquet ________ $50.00 _______ or MAIL/FAX *Awards Banquet Table (seats 10) ________ $500.00 _______ Payment and Completed Form to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 Make checks payable to Texas VFW Total Amount _______ Fax: 512 834-9232 A $3.00 Credit Card Processing Fee will be added if paying by credit Card

Last three numbers on back of card. For AMEX the four numbers printed on card front

Visa , Mastercard, Discover

Amex

Exp. Date

Signature __________________________________ Date ___________

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VIETNAM PEACE ACCORD—JANUARY 27 Texas VFW Post 8456, Seguin —

Vietnam Veterans were recognized during an event held at Geronimo Memorial VFW Post 8456.

Texas VFW Post 7473, Elsa — Vietnam Veterans in attendance at the Post’s Vietnam Peace Accord ceremony put names of friends and family on a welcome home banner to honor them.

Texas VFW Post 10351, Hemphill —

The Patriots’ Club met with five Veterans and three auxiliary members to share their research on the Vietnam Peace Accord. Fifteen students presented information on dog tags, Ho Chi Minh trail, and other aspects of the Vietnam War. There were four power point presentations, two posters and a song about a soldier coming home.

Post Commander Tim Courtier thanked them all for their participation and research efforts.

Texas VFW Post 9313, San Augustine —

Post members Paul Lester, Lee Jarvis, and Frank Nance placed a wreath at Veterans memorial at the San Augustine Courthouse.

County Judge Johnson and San Augustine High School students were also in attendance. Approximately 20 people attended the event.

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Texas VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands —

Post 5 special recognition ceremony honoring Vietnam Veterans with challenge coins, refreshments, pamphlets and Buddy Poppies.

Texas VFW Post 5619, Houston —

The Post celebrated the Vietnam Peace Accord by reading the history of the Accord.

Several members of the Post are Vietnam veterans so interest was high. A interesting discussion followed the presentation.

Members enjoyed chicken dinner, soup, roasted vegetables and refreshments.

Texas VFW Post 8788, McAllen —

Post Sr. Vice Commander Mike Hood Sr. (not pictured), along with Comrades KinCannon, Brathwaite, Karabel, Russell, Carter, Enevoldsen, Remily, and Kressenburg assembled at the Post to honor those Veterans who served and died in the Vietnam Theater of Operation to secure Peace for the Ciztizens of South Vietnam. Photo by Post Sr. Vice Commander Hood

Texas VFW Post 3903, Rosenberg — Post

members and ladies auxiliary held a Vietnam Peace Accords ceremony.

Texas VFW Winter 2015

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Y0040_ GHHHQYWEN Accepted

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.

Lobbying for Veterans & Military Providing Disaster Relief Name: _________________________________________________Email: _________________________________________ Community Volunteerism

First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.)

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 Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines

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 ($45)

p Life Member*

p Life 12 Mo. Install* ($45 Initial payment)

LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEE SCHEDULE AGE as of DECEMBER 31st

ONE-TIME PAYMENT

Initial Payment

11 payments of

Through Age 30 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

$45.00 $45.00 $45.00 $45.00 $45.00 $45.00 $45.00

$38.64 $37.27 $34.09 $30.45 $26.36 $20.45 $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.

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

Texas VFW Winter 2015

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TENTATIVE AGENDA Thursday, July 9, 2015 Noon Registration & Vendor Booths Open Canteen Operations & TABC Council of Administration Meeting Hospitality Open Friday, July 10, 2015 7:00 AM Registration Open 7:30 AM Welcome & Start History of the VFW Commanders Seminar Lunch at Hotel for All Registered Quartermasters/Trustees Seminar Disciplinary Actions Hospitality Open

Hotel Reservations for $99.00 per night + taxes and fees can be made by: Phone: 800-347-0330 use group code - VTF Online: www.texasvfw.org > Upcoming Events > Officer Training School

Saturday, July 11, 2015 Post Fundraising SOP/Awards Membership Recruiting Lunch at Hotel for All Registered Service Officer Seminar Post Inspections Post By-Laws Hospitality Open

Beginning with seminars on Thursday, July 9, 2015 the 25th annual Texas VFW Officer Training Seminar will be conducted at the Doubletree Hotel North in Austin, Texas. All phases of VFW Post and District operations will be discussed during this seminar including new program initiatives and By-Law changes that affect every VFW Post statewide. All Participants must be registered to attend and attendance is limited to the first 300 registrants.

WHO SHOU

L

D ATTEND Any VFW Post Officer NO REFUNDS AFTER JULY 3, 2015 * LIMITED TO FIRST 300 PAID ONLY * CUT OFF DATE IS JUNE 26, 2015. b or memer wanting to know mo re about successful P Pre-register and save! $75.00 —Registration at door is $150.00 if space available. ost operatio n s.

Registration includes program workbook, morning coffee and lunch for Friday & Saturday classes.

25th State Officer Training Seminar Registration Form

If paying for multiple attendees please make additional copies of this form and submit along with payment by credit card or check.

MAIL or FAX Payment and Completed Form to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or Fax: 512 834-9232.

Name: _________________________________________Post/Aux #: _________ Dist #: _____ Phone #: (______) _____________________ Address: _____________________________________________________City: ______________________ State: ____ Zip: _____________ Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Last three numbers on back of card. For AMEX the four numbers printed on card front A $3.00 Credit Card Processing fee will be applied if paying by Credit Card.

Visa , Mastercard, Discover

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Texas VFW Winter 2015

Amex

Exp. Date

Signature __________________________________ Date ___________

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Past Texas and National Veterans of Foreign Wars Chaplain Bob Dickerson lays flowers of remembrance on the VFW alter at the Texas VFW Mid-Winter Conference Memorial Service.