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Celebrating
Women Honoring the Women Who Served
VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA · CHAPTER 355
“The Lost Patrol” · Santa Clarita Valley
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VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA · CHAPTER 355
A Salute to the women who served ★
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By RJ Kelly, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 355, “The Lost Patrol”
O
n behalf of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 355, “The Lost Patrol,” it is my privilege to welcome you to this special publication celebrating the women who have served our country and continue to strengthen our community. Since our chapter was established in 1988, we have worked to support fellow veterans, preserve their stories, and honor the sacrifices made by those who answer our nation’s call. Our guiding promise, “Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another,” carries a responsibility to ensure that every veteran’s service is recognized and remembered. This booklet reflects that commitment. Women have served with courage, skill, and determination throughout our nation’s history, often overcoming barriers while carrying the same responsibilities and making the same sacrifices as their fellow service members. Their contributions deserve our attention, our gratitude, and a lasting place in our nation’s story. In these pages, you will meet remarkable women whose
“We see you. We honor you. And we thank you.” dedication did not end when they took off their uniforms. They continue to lead, volunteer, care for others, and stand beside fellow veterans. We also recognize the women whose work on the home front helped sustain our armed forces and those who support veterans today. Helping bring this publication together has been an honor. My hope is that you will take time to read these stories, share them, and recognize the veterans among
RJ Kelly, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 355.
your own neighbors, friends, and family. Thank you to the women who shared their experiences, to our chapter members, and to the sponsors and community partners who made this tribute possible. To every woman who has served: We see you. We honor you. And we thank you. RJ Kelly Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 355 “The Lost Patrol” • Santa Clarita Valley ★ ★ ★
Contact Chapter 355 MEETS
2nd Thursday, 10 a.m., IHOP, 24737 Pico Canyon Rd., Stevenson Ranch WRITE
PO Box 2986, Canyon Country, CA 91386 ONLINE
vva355-ca.org · info@vva355-ca.org
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 3
“Success means more when you can use what you’ve built to help others succeed.”
J I L L M E L L A DY, C E O
STRATEGY | DESIGN | PRINTING MAILING | DIGITAL INTEGRATION 29035 The Old Road, Valencia, CA 91355 661.298.9190 · connect@melladydirect.com
melladydirect.com
IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF:
VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA, INC.
Chapter 355 The Lost Patrol ★
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“Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another.”
A
s US Servicemen began returning home from Vietnam in larger numbers, some were confronted by angry Americans and anti-war protestors. Even veteran organizations like the American Legion and the VFW were initially closed to them. The Veterans Administration seemed ill equipped to understand and treat the difficulties Vietnam Veterans grappled with. In January 1978, a small group of Vietnam veterans came together as the “Council of Vietnam Veterans” and went to Washington, DC seeking acknowledgement and action from their government. The “Council” was renamed the “Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc.”, and received a Congressional Charter in 1986. Chapters were formed throughout the US and in almost all 50 States. Chapter #355 Valencia, CA was incorporated in 1988. The specific purpose of this corporation remains “to help foster, encourage, and promote the improvement of the condition of the Vietnam Veteran.” Chapter 355, “The Lost Patrol”, first brought the Moving Wall to Newhall in 1994. We continue to participate in local events such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, the July 4 Parade. Each year on March 29 we welcome all Vietnam Veterans to a
“We band together to confront the unique experiences of the Vietnam war and its aftermath.”
veterans with mental and physical health issues related to their service. We assist families of deceased veterans in receiving all military honors due. We seek opportunities to teach young people, students, Scouts and others about the Vietnam War. We continue to demand the fullest possible accounting of America’s POWs and MIAs. We meet monthly on the second Thursday to offer a safe, non-judgmental place for Vietnam veterans to share their experiences, something we were not able to do when we came home. We band together to confront the unique experiences of the Vietnam war and its aftermath. We have built and maintain avenues of communication among members, to strengthen and support veterans who may be struggling with PTSD, depression, substance abuse, loneliness. We provide information about veteran benefits, and health issues related to Agent Orange, etc. Please visit our website: www.vva355-ca.org Not all Vietnam Veterans are members of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. But VVA is the only national Vietnam Veterans organization dedicated to Vietnam Veterans and their families. There are currently over 90,000 members nationwide in VVA, with 650 local Chapters in 43 states. Even though Vietnam Veterans are now in their late 70s and early 80s, this organization continues to grow. Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. (AVVA), made up of spouses, children and others, will continue to ensure our history of Vets Helping Vets. AVVA.org ★ ★ ★
National Vietnam War Veterans Day celebration. We donate funding and support to local groups such as: The Young Marines, the Boys & Girls Club, the American Legion Boys State program, Bridge to Home, Family Promise, the SCV Senior Center, LA County Fire Relief, “Run for The Wall”, etc. We meet quarterly with the VVA California State Council. We send Delegates to the biennial VVA National Convention, and to the National Leadership and Education Conference every two years. We continue to explore ways to help
At a Glance FOUNDED
Incorporated in Valencia, 1988 MEETS
Second Thursday of every month ONLINE
vva355-ca.org · AVVA.org
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 5
Eternal Valley MEMORIAL PARK MORTUARY Call, text or email to sign up: 661-259-0800 or EVMP@DignityMemorial.com
FD 1163 / COA 184 Newhall
W O M E N W H O S E RV E D
Women in Uniform have always answered the call ★
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From the Revolutionary War to the Space Force, the story of American women in the military.
J
ust a look at the flight deck of the Aircraft Carrier USS Abraham Lincoln as it comes into port and you can see that women make up almost 18% of active-duty service members in the United States military. And that number is steadily increasing each year. Women serve across all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Almost 20% of the US Space Force are women! They hold jobs in every occupational field, from healthcare and administration to infantry, aviation, and special operations. Women began to join the military in 1948, three years after World War II, when President Harry Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, allowing women to serve as permanent members of all branches of the Armed Forces. But, before they were ‘allowed’ to join the military, they were there! During the Revolutionary War, many of the soldiers’ wives, sisters, daughters, and mothers went with them, boosting morale, helping with wounds and illness, cooking, cleaning, etc. Many served as spies. Some even fought, disguised as men. During the Civil War, over 3,000 women served as nurses for the Union Army. When the US entered WWI, the US Army Nurse Corps served in British hospitals in France—even though women
“The desire to protect our country is not gender-specific.” still didn’t have the right to vote. By WWII, all branches of the US Military enlisted women as a temporary auxiliary corps, and almost 350,000 women served in uniform. Records show that 432 women were killed in service, and 88 were POWs! During the Korean War, 120,000 women went on to serve in active-duty positions. A third of those were in healthcare, with many working in Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MASH), where they were the only women permitted in a combat zone. Approximately 11,000 women were stationed in Vietnam during that war, and 90% of them were nurses in
Women serve today in every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Most volunteered to go. Eight nurses lost their lives in Vietnam. In 1975, women first entered the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy, and West Point. By 1993, female pilots were allowed to fly in combat roles. During Desert Shield, 41,000 women served. During Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom 300,000 women served. Of those, 800 were wounded, and 130 were killed. In Iraq and Afghanistan, women served in combat units as Female Engagement Teams, interacting with local women and children who, due to cultural limitations, were unresponsive to men. Women have always served and will continue to serve for the same patriotic reasons as men. The delay in full gender integration was never due to a lack of willing or capable women. Our national defense cannot afford to waste intellectual and tactical talent. Preserving this nation requires all of us, working together, every minute, everywhere. ★ ★ ★
By the Numbers T O DAY
Almost 18% of active-duty service members W O R L D WA R I I
350,000 women in uniform VIETNAM
About 11,000 women served, 90% of them nurses
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 7
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A True Patriot Honoring Rick Barker U.S. M A R INE COR PS ★ V IETNA M V ETER A N ★ PUR PLE HE A RT R ECIPIEN T
Rick Barker served our country as a Marine rifleman in Vietnam, where he was wounded in combat. In the years that followed, he carried that commitment to service into our community—helping honor fellow veterans and preserve the memory of those who sacrificed for our nation. Rick, you are part of our family, and it means so much to us to honor you. We are proud of your courage, your patriotism and your dedication to those who have served. Thank you for serving our country and our community.
With love, gratitude and respect,
Jim, Jill, Stephanie and Brendan Mellady MELLA DY DIRECT MA RKETING
O N T H E H O M E F R O N T · W O R L D WA R I I
Rosie the Riveter and the women who built the arsenal ★
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Six million women went to work, and changed forever what America believed women could do.
J. Howard Miller’s “We Can Do It!” poster, 1943, Westinghouse War Production Co-ordinating Committee.
W
hen millions of American men went to Europe or the Pacific to fight in WWII, there was not enough manpower left to fill the factories building airplanes, ships and tanks to fight the war. American women volunteered to do those jobs. Approximately 6 million civilian women went to work in factories and shipyards to support the War effort. They built warplanes, battleships, munitions, and heavy machinery, and made up 65% of the wartime factory workforce. This was the first time for many of those women, doing jobs usually held by men. And they inadvertently changed the perceptions of what women could do. Forever. Women moved from clerical and domestic jobs to more technical and skilled work in factories, shipyards, and other heavy manufacturing plants. Beyond riveting, they welded, operated machines on assembly lines, tested equipment, shoveled sand at steel foundries, and produced artillery rounds. More than half a million Black women
(often called “Black Rosies”) joined the industrial effort despite facing severe discrimination. President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802 in 1941 that banned discrimination in defense jobs, and facilitated many new opportunities for women. These women became known as “Rosie the Riveters” for their work in helping to lead the United States to victory during World War II. The name “Rosie the Riveter” came from a 1942 song about a gal named Rosie who worked on an airplane assembly line. She had a Marine Corps boyfriend, and bought war bonds with her paycheck. The song became popular and people began using the name “Rosie” to refer to women workers in the defense factories. Norman Rockwell created a painting for the cover of The Saturday Evening Post, distributed on Memorial Day 1943. The illustration featured a woman factory worker on her lunch break with a rivet gun on her lap, a lunch pail with the name “Rosie” on it, and her foot resting on Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf. That cemented Rosie as a cultural icon. The women of World War II were recently recognized and awarded with our highest civilian honor, the Congressional Gold Medal. The Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act was passed by Congress in 2020, and officially awarded on April 10, 2024, in a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Mae Krier, 98 years old, accepted the medal on behalf of all the women. She had helped build bombers for Boeing. Thank you to all the ‘Rosies’ who became an example of the grit and determination of Americans during that “War on Civilization”. ★ ★ ★
By the Numbers WO R K FO RC E
6 million women, 65% of wartime factory workers HONORED
Congressional Gold Medal, April 10, 2024
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 9
P R OU D HO ST OF
Coffee4Vets
Mainstay diner with record-breaking jumbo omelets, quirky traditions and a colorful history serving and honoring Veterans and hosting Coffee4Vets. 19132 Soledad Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91351
43528 20th St W Lancaster, CA 93534
25373 Wayne Mills Pl Valencia, CA 91355
1228 W Ave I Lancaster, CA 93534
33317 Santiago Rd Acton, CA 93510
U . S . A I R F O R C E · A I R N AT I O N A L G U A R D
Darlene Gandara is a Legionnaire ★
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From the Air Force to Judge Advocate of Newhall’s historic American Legion Post 507.
D
arlene has been active in the American Legion for several years, and upon moving to SCV, she quickly became Judge Advocate for the American Legion Post 507 in Newhall. It should be noted that this American Legion Hall was built in 1940 by silent film star William S. Hart to be a movie theatre, the first in the area, but it was immediately deeded by Hart to Legion Post 507 with the stipulation that they show one Western Movie a week. The theatre ceased to show films in 1965, but the building remains as a Legion Post, and is designated as a historic structure in Santa Clarita. Darlene will need to use all her organizational skills, acquired in military service, to guide the management of an aging building in need of a new roof! Darlene is a veteran! And proud of it! She is also a 20year member of the Soroptimist International, a volunteer organization that works to improve the lives of women and girls through economic empowerment, education, and leadership opportunities. Darlene grew up in the San Fernando Valley. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business
“We wear our ‘shirts and hats’ because we earned it!” Administration with a Minor in Marketing, and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management. She was able to use those credentials to build a career in the US Air Force and the Air National Guard. Her father and Uncles had been in WWII, and her brother was in the Army, her sister in the Air Force. The military was a familiar option, and an opportunity to ‘break out’! But military life was a surprise! Like many women in the military, working alongside military men was a challenge. She felt the need to work harder, faster and more efficiently than men in the same position, in
Darlene Gandara in her U.S. Air Force service dress.
order to earn respect. She had to develop a ‘mind set’ in order to succeed and to learn. She discovered that the military experience will be as good as you want it to be. Returning to Civilian Life was a surprise, too. Life in ‘the valley’ wasn’t the same as when she left. She was stronger, more focused. And ready to meet the challenges of a less regimented environment. Darlene’s organizational abilities, discipline, and forward thinking, in addition to advanced computer skills, have enabled her to become a valuable asset in her volunteer work, especially in her position at the American Legion. What does Darlene wish civilians understood about women in the military? “We love our nation and believe in what it stands for. Just like men, we are capable of doing our jobs in the military and we wear our ‘shirts and hats’ because we earned it!” Yes, you have, Darlene! ★ ★ ★
At a Glance S E RV E D
U.S. Air Force · Air National Guard T O DAY
Judge Advocate, American Legion Post 507 ALSO
20-year member, Soroptimist International
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 11
U . S . A R M Y R E S E RV E · 3 0 Y E A R S
Kathleen Ellis is Army. All Army. ★
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Thirty years in the Army Reserve, from Dental Specialist to a Direct Commission in Civil Affairs. 30 years Active Duty in the Army Reserve. (That equates to 10 years Active Service.) Kathleen enlisted under the CASP (Civilian Acquired Skills) Program – this was a program which allowed Civilians with relevant civilian skills to bypass initial training and start their military career at an advanced level. She was awarded two specialties based on her civilian skills: Dental Specialist (68E) and Clerk/ Typist (71L). As a result, she did not attend AIT (Advanced Individual Training). “I received a Direct Commission in Civil Affairs and Personnel. I also became Finance and PSYOP qualified.” Kathleen was living in Buffalo, NY and working as a surgical assistant for a Periodontist. She had applied for a mortgage, but needed additional income. Her boss suggested that her best option was to join the Army Reserve (AR) under the CASP program. “I joined the AR and thought I would stay until my enlistment was up. I ended up staying for 30 years. And yes, I got my mortgage!” Kathleen was surprised at how much she liked the military – the training, the challenges, the camaraderie,
“When I wore my uniform in public, it was a different story.” and the opportunities for education and promotion. She enjoyed her time in service. Whatever hardships she encountered encouraged her to become stronger, to ‘march on’. For instance, the time spent in FTX (Field Training Exercise) with rucksack marches in the rain and mud, with bugs, ticks, and giant cockroaches, were challenging. And Army Reservists only doing one weekend a month is a myth. “I missed too many birthdays, anniversaries, and my children’s graduations.” She does wish civilians better understood women who served in the military. “When my son wore his Army
12 · VVA Chapter 355 · Celebrating Women
Kathleen Ellis (center) with fellow Army Reservists.
uniform en-route to Iraq, people at the airport gave him money, bought him food or drinks. When I wore my uniform in public, it was a different story. I recall an elderly man at Vons pointing his finger at me, accusing me of wearing the uniform fraudulently and I could be arrested.” Today Kathleen volunteers at the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative, a resource center and food bank for Veterans. She not only serves there one afternoon a week (or more depending on their needs), but she also serves as a volunteer coordinator at the center, utilizing some of the skills acquired through her military service. ★ ★ ★
At a Glance S E RV E D
U.S. Army Reserve, 30 years T O DAY
Volunteer coordinator, SCV Veteran Services Collaborative
U.S. MARINE CORPS
Gabby Ramirez is a Marine ★
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From a restless teenager in Van Nuys to the toughest of the military services.
G
abriela Ramirez is a dedicated Marine! Gabby grew up in Van Nuys, California. But, as often happens, her teen life became increasingly tumultuous and she began looking for an escape route. Opportunity came knocking in the form of a recruiter. The US Marine Corps made an offer she couldn’t refuse. Gabby’s mother wasn’t too happy. She would have preferred Gabby had discussed it with her before signing the contract. (Her sister was fine with it!) Being away from home for the first time ever, she was surprised at this new-found sense of freedom she felt in the toughest of military services. And the expectations they had for female enlistees was exhilarating. She had found a new home! The difficult part was the crudeness of the male marines, especially the higher-ranking officers. But she found a way around them, even becoming one of them, while barhopping in Okinawa! Gabby had Basic Training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) at Parris Island, South Carolina, where all female enlisted recruits nationwide undergo basic recruit training to become U.S. Marines. Her advice to other women thinking about enlisting in the Military?
“The Marine Corps prepared me for doing a job, and doing it right the first time.” Stay focused on climbing the ranks, and doing the work. Continue your education and be very vigilant about putting yourself in unsafe situations. Gabby’s transition back to civilian life after four years in the Marine Corps was a huge adjustment. “My attitude had been one of being hard, expecting nothing but perfection in all job duties… I had to soften my approach on many occasions.” The Corps intensified her work ethic, helped her focus on performing her duties with diligence, and
Gabriela “Gabby” Ramirez, U.S. Marine Corps.
always giving 100% to any task. That has helped her for the past 25 years at her current position at Cedars-Sinai. What does Gabby wish civilians understood better about women who served? When you see a woman wearing military attire, a cap, a jacket, ribbons or patches… don’t automatically assume that they have a family member serving. It is they who served. Thank you, Gabby, for a job well done! ★ ★ ★
At a Glance S E RV E D
U.S. Marine Corps, 4 years TRAINED
MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina T O DAY
25 years at Cedars-Sinai
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 13
AMERICAN RED CROSS · VIETNAM
Donut Dollies Sharon Cummings answered the call ★
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Red Cross volunteers who brought a sense of home to the troops in Vietnam.
S
haron Cummings was a “Donut Dolly”. Sharon graduated from UCLA Santa Barbara in 1966 with a degree in Sociology, and was looking for a job. She heard about the Red Cross “Supplemental Recreational Activities Overseas” (SRAO) programs in Southeast Asia. After interviewing for the job, she was offered a one-year assignment in the Republic of Vietnam. These volunteers were called “Donut Dollies”. During the Vietnam War, hundreds of female American Red Cross workers volunteered to provide support and a sympathetic ear to U.S. service members, and to provide a much-needed respite from war. The mission was morale. Their work was critical at a time when public opinion over the Vietnam War was low. These 627 women traveled collectively over 2,000,000 miles, visiting combat troops at remote fire bases, visiting hospitals and spending time with the wounded. As Sharon put it, “Our job was to smile and be bubbly no matter the situation.” Their service was based in history. During WWI ladies from the Salvation Army provided coffee and doughnuts to US Servicemen near the front lines. They rolled the dough using artillery shell casings, and fried the doughnuts with lard in soldier’s steel helmets over a fire. After the war National Doughnut Day was created to honor these “Doughnut Lassies.” The American Red Cross brought this tradition back during WWII, modifying trucks to make and serve fresh coffee and doughnuts. These deuce-and-a-half trucks, driven by the “Dollies” and equipped with a full kitchen, also carried cigarettes, gum, magazines and books to be handed out to the troops. During the Korean War, the American Red Cross continued to deploy “Donut Dollies” to recreation centers, service clubs, and forward operating bases near the front lines. But there were no ‘front lines’ in Vietnam. Charlie was everywhere. These ladies faced rocket and mortar fire, sniper threats, ‘booby traps’, snakes, insects, etc. in order to deliver games, conversation, and a sense of home to our servicemen. “We were civilians, noncombatants, in a war zone, without flak jackets, steel pots, or any other protection. We were asked to go there by the US government. We heard the call, and we volunteered to go.”
In Vietnam there were few roads for their heavy trucks. Most travel was by helicopter to visit with “their guys”, wherever they were. They brought along the programs they assembled, the activity books they created, the puzzles, riddles, cartoons, Sharon Cummings today, and jokes. Sometimes they beside a Red Cross uniform. would just sit and talk with the guys. When asked why they were there, Sharon always replied, “Because you are here!” At first, Sharon said she had been excited to go to Vietnam. She was an Air Force ‘brat’. But as the months passed, and as the War became more deadly, she simply continued to put on that brave smile every day. “It was exhausting and emotionally draining, but if asked, I’d go back again. What we did mattered.” The “Donut Dollies Congressional Gold Medal Act,” H.R. 3592 was introduced to the 118th Congress in 2023 to award the Donut Dollies with the Congressional Gold Medal (the nation’s highest civilian honor), acknowledging the Donut Dollies bravery, dedication, and service to our country. It remains stalled in committee and has not been enacted. It was reintroduced as H.R. 2081 in 2025, where it remains pending. In April of 2026 US Senate Resolution (S.Res.705) from the 119th Congress commended the “Donut Dollies” for their patriotic service and support of United States service-members during wartime. These women carried military identification, were authorized by the military to work as support for troops in combat zones, and were exposed to the same dangers as any front-line service member. But they were excluded from Congressionally mandated benefits related to Agent Orange poisoning granted to all service members deployed in Vietnam (WelcomeHomeSister.com). Sharon Cummings is an honorary member of Vietnam Veterans of America, Valencia Chapter #355. ★★★
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 15
U . S . D E PA R T M E N T O F V E T E R A N S A F FA I R S
Center for Women Veterans Supporting Women Who Served Established by Congress in November 1994 by P. L. 103-446 ★
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Our Mission To advocate for improved outcomes and access to VA benefits, services, and opportunities for women Veterans through education, outreach, and collaboration.
Our Vision To empower and encourage women Veterans to trust and choose VA.
Our Activities ★ Serve as a resource center for women Veterans, their family, and their advocates.
★ Highlight women Veterans’ military service and contributions through activities and special events.
★ Promote the use of VA benefits and services through outreach activities.
★ Advise the Secretary on Department policies, programs, and legislation that affect women Veterans.
Contact Us: 202-461-6193 department.va.gov/center-for-women-veterans or go to ask.va.gov, and find Women Veterans at the bottom
810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420
@VAWomenVets
B L U E S TA R M O T H E R S O F A M E R I C A · C H A P T E R 4 6
Lynn Arndt is a Two-Blue Star Mom ★
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Twin daughters in uniform, and $10 haircuts for every veteran who sits in her chair.
L
ynn is a Blue Star Mother with identical twin daughters who are actively serving our country. This actually makes her a “Two-Blue Star Mom”! Blue Star Moms (officially Blue Star Mothers of America) is a non-profit organization for mothers, stepmothers, and grandmothers who have children serving or who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The name comes from the tradition of hanging a service flag with a blue star in a window for each family member on active duty. Lynn was recently elected First Vice-President of the SCV Blue Star Mothers, Chapter 46, and will continue being connected to all things “Veteran” in Santa Clarita. Lynn’s daughter, Ashley, is a pilot and Major in the US Air Force, currently flying the KC-46 refueling tanker. She has been studying for the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, but she doesn’t think she wants it because she may not be as “hands-on”. It’s not about the money. It’s about doing what she loves. Giving back. Twin sister Amanda is a Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy, stationed in Maryland. She is pursuing her Doctorate in Nursing Practice. Although Ashley and Amanda were only 13 years old at the time of 9/11, this was the catalyst that compelled them to eventually join the military so they could fight for their country. Another driving factor was Lynn’s father who served in the Navy for 20 years, on nuclear submarines. Her third daughter chose a career in Cyber-Security and is located in Colorado. Her son, a senior in High School, has aspirations to use his skills towards a hands-on trade after graduation. Lynn Arndt has her own history of supporting our military and our veterans. While working at College of the Canyons as an Advisory Board Coordinator with the Career Technical Education Program, she became aware of the Veterans Collaborative, then meeting at COC. She immediately volunteered, helping them establish their first facility on Lyons Ave., painting the walls and volunteering at the front desk. Having gotten her California Cosmetology License, she began offering discounted $10
Lynn with Ashley, Major, U.S. Air Force.
Lynn with Amanda, Lt. Commander, U.S. Navy.
haircuts for veterans, which she continues to offer today. “I’m like a hair therapist. I love having veterans in my chair, to hear what they want to share, or just let them talk.” Lynn can be found at the Bella Salon, 28094 Bouquet Cyn, Saugus. (Lynn: 661.244.7103) ★ ★ ★
At a Glance ROLE
First Vice-President, SCV Blue Star Mothers, Ch. 46 FIND HER
Bella Salon, 28094 Bouquet Cyn, Saugus
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 17
C O F F E E 4 V E T S · E D WA R D S A F B
Atherine Blanco is a phenomenal woman ★
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Coffee4VETS secretary, Edwards AFB honorary director, and tireless champion of women veterans.
A
therine Blanco is the Secretary of Coffee4VETS and is the bridge between our high desert communities and Edwards Air Force Base, serving as the first Honorary Director for the 412th Test Wing Edwards AFB Public Affairs Group. But her journey began in 1971 when she hired on with Pacific Bell Telephone as the first woman and woman of color as installer/repair person. Her job duties included climbing telecommunication poles and crawling under house foundations to return service to customers. Now known as AT&T, Atherine dedicated 43 years of service, closing out her career as the Construction & Engineering Manager for Construction Crews in CA. She is a dedicated public servant with more than 30 years of community leadership, nonprofit governance, and public safety collaboration. A devoted volunteer, she has been at the forefront helping kids, middle school and seniors achieve moments of happiness during these past years of turmoil and the aftermath of the Covid-19 outbreak. Atherine has and is partnering with the Edwards Command staff to ensure that the children of our war fighters have a brighter
“Volunteering is the best gift you can give to your country, your community and God.” Christmas than years before because deployment of a parent overseas can be devastating. She is mother to two beautiful daughters and two stepdaughters and three wonderful granddaughters. She has worked with both the Lancaster and Palmdale Sheriffs Stations to bring our community and business leaders together to reduce tensions and improve our quality of life. Although not a veteran herself, she has worked tirelessly to help recognize our women veterans
18 · VVA Chapter 355 · Celebrating Women
Atherine Blanco, Honorary Commander, Edwards AFB.
in both the Antelope Valley and Santa Clarita Valley and to ensure that they receive the honors due them. When asked why she helps people, she replied, “I guess it’s because of my mother and grandmother, both inspiring, phenomenal women. Watching them helping others even though they had little to nothing, they would offer a meal, a smile and a friendly ear and I guess it rubbed off.” To relax she enjoys date nights with her husband Juan of 30 years, spending time with family and seeing a good Star Trek movie at an IMAX theater. And remember, volunteering is the best gift you can give to your country, your community and God. ★ ★ ★
At a Glance CAREER
43 years, Pacific Bell / AT&T T O DAY
Secretary, Coffee4VETS · coffee4vets.org
Q U I LT S O F VA L O R F O U N D AT I O N
Nominate a Veteran
Donna Kiger
To nominate someone to receive a quilt, or to volunteer, visit qovf.org or email Donna Kiger at dnnkgr@gmail.com.
is a quilter ★
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More than 100 handmade quilts, each one a thank-you wrapped around a veteran touched by war. “I got started with the Quilts of Valor Foundation in 2019. I had been making quilts for over 10 years, but at some point, I ran out of people to give quilts to.” Donna happened to find the QOV website and was really impressed by their story and their mission of giving a healing, comforting quilt to veterans touched by war. At that time the closest QOV group was located in Upland. Donna contacted them and they were very happy to have her mail them any quilts that she made. They were giving about 15 quilts a month to veterans in the Upland area, and many more names were waiting. There was a need! The Quilts of Valor Foundation began in 2003 as a way to offer healing to those who served our country, wrapping a veteran in the warm comfort of a quilt, a physical manifestation of compassion, love and healing. “I liked that there was a purpose in making the quilt, and a chance to directly thank the veteran for what they did for this country. I liked that the quilt was presented directly to the veteran, not just some anonymous gift.” There is a national register of veterans who have requested a quilt and there were a number of veterans in Bakersfield that had been waiting a long time for a QOV. The Upland group didn’t want to drive that far, so they asked Donna if she would go to Bakersfield, and do the presentations. Of course, she said yes! Each quilt is handmade and donated by volunteers. It must be a specific size, and must have a label with the veteran’s name, date of presentation, and the individual(s) who worked to create it. The quilt must be presented to the veteran in a ceremony, with friends and family, or even a large group, present to honor the veteran. “We’ll never know exactly what each Veteran experiences and how they are touched by war. But we can welcome our Veterans home, support them and their families, and thank them for their service whenever possible.” There are QOV chapters in all 50 states, and over 421,000 quilts have been presented since it began. Donna
Donna Kiger with one of her handmade Quilts of Valor.
has made and presented more than 100 quilts herself! It takes 20 to 30 hours to make a quilt, so the wait can get long. But the QOV quilters are proud and honored to use their time, talent and resources to let our veterans know they are cared for. It’s not a question of whether someone deserves a QOV, but rather do they need one… It is not a gift; it is awarded to a Service Member or Veteran who has been touched by war. And it must be recorded. A resident of Santa Clarita, Donna has been presenting quilts to local veterans since 2021, when the Upland group got the name of a Vietnam veteran here in this valley. “Since I am the only QOV member in the Santa Clarita area, I have been making and presenting QOVs as fast as I can! It takes me around 30 hours, start to finish, to complete a QOV. “Since I work full time, I can only quilt at night, but the veterans have been patient with me. A quilt is such a comforting thing to put around your shoulders or curl up under on the couch. It’s a way of saying, ‘Someone cares about you!’” Donna said that it’s an honor and a privilege to make and present the Quilts of Valor, and she plans on continuing for as long as she can.
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 19
U . S . A R M Y R E S E R V E · S C V R O TA R Y C L U B
Susan Davenport a life of service ★
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From Brownie to Army Reserve recruiter to Rotarian.
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usan Dawn Davenport was born in 1955 in Alhambra, California. The Davenport family, which included siblings Bill, Cindy, Sherry, and Rick moved to the San Gabriel Valley when Sue was in second grade. Sue began her life-long commitment to community service when she became a Brownie in the Girl Scouts of America. She remained in Girl Scouts until she graduated from high school earning the First Class Award, which is now known as the Gold Award and is equivalent to the Boy Scout’s Eagle Award. In her senior year of high school, Sue was selected to participate in an International Scouting event in Colorado where she met fellow Girl Scouts from many countries. The scouts refurbished a pioneer cemetery, clearing weeds and overgrown bushes, and cleaning the tombstones of early settlers. After graduation, Sue went to work with the Los Angeles County Hospital in the personnel department going beyond the scope of her job by counseling and finding jobs for minority youth. Many of Sue’s former clients would call her in later years to proudly report on the advancements they had made in their respective careers. In 1973, while at the county, Sue began a four-year stint in the US Army Reserves as a recruiter, spending vacations and many weekends going on recruitment trips. She attended basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama. After basic training she was assigned to a recruiting post in Los Angeles where she worked to recruit and assist young women into the US Army Reserve. “It was quite an experience for me,” says Sue, “going through basic training, learning how to go through a building that had been gassed, how to take your M-16 apart and put it back together and then firing at the firing range. An experience that I will always remember and proud of being able to complete the training and serve my country in the Army Reserves.” Sue was discharged in 1979, one year after marrying the love of her life, Robert Endress. Overnight, Sue lost her single status and became one of a family of four
20 · VVA Chapter 355 · Celebrating Women
Susan Davenport, U.S. Army Reserve, 1973–1979.
which included Bob’s children, Robert Jr. and Belinda. Sue worked with Bob in a Private Investigation business while also running a secretarial business and later opened Unicom, a pager, radio, and phone business. Her most current business venture is being a Farmers Insurance Agent. She joined the SCV Rotary Club in 2005 and continues her service to young people by chairing Rotary’s high school Interact Club, which creates community projects and offers scholarships to outstanding members. ★ ★ ★
At a Glance S E RV E D
U.S. Army Reserve recruiter, 1973–1979 T O DAY
SCV Rotary Club since 2005; chairs the Interact Club
WO M E N I N BUS I N E S S · M E L L A DY D I R E C T
Jill Mellady 40 years in business ★
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Forty years after starting Mellady Direct in her living room, Jill Mellady still measures success by who it helps.
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his year, Mellady Direct celebrates 40 years in business. It’s a milestone that naturally makes you look back, not only at how much the business has changed, but at what you’ve learned along the way. When my husband Jim and I started Mellady Direct in 1986, we set up shop in our living room with a simple goal: serve our clients better than anyone else. We were building a business and a life together, and while we couldn’t have predicted where the next four decades would take us, we knew the kind of company we wanted to build. We believed in working hard, taking care of our clients, investing in our people and being part of the community around us. Those values have carried us from our living room to a national operation serving organizations across the country, while still maintaining the personal relationships that built our business. As a woman in business, one of the things I’ve valued most throughout my career is the opportunity to work alongside and support nonprofit organizations. I’ve always had a heart for organizations doing meaningful work in our communities, often with limited resources and big goals.
“Success means more when you can use what you’ve built to help others succeed.” That passion has shaped the way I think about business and leadership. Success means more when you can use what you’ve built to help others succeed. Whether that means helping a nonprofit reach more donors, supporting a local cause or giving our time and expertise, I believe businesses have an opportunity to make a difference beyond their own doors. Today, one of my greatest sources of pride is having our
Jill Mellady, CEO of Mellady Direct.
children, Stephanie and Brendan, helping lead Mellady Direct today. Seeing them bring their own talents, ideas and perspectives to the company has given this 40-year milestone even greater meaning. After four decades, I’m proud of how much Mellady Direct has grown, but I’m most grateful for the people who have been part of the journey: our family, employees, clients, partners and community. Because ultimately, success isn’t only about what you build. It’s about who you build it with, who you serve along the way and what you create for the next generation. ★ ★ ★
At a Glance FOUNDED
1986, with her husband, Jim T O DAY
Stephanie and Brendan help lead the company
Celebrating Women · VVA Chapter 355 · 21
W I T H O U R G R AT I T U D E
Thank You to Our Supporters
With gratitude to
Jerry Rhodes L I F E M E M B E R · C O M M U N I C AT I O N S O F F I C E R
VVA Chapter 355 “The Lost Patrol” PO Box 2986, Canyon Country, CA 91386 (661) 803-0869 · vva355-ca.org
“We left as strangers. We came home as brothers.”
S A LU T I NG T H E WOM E N W HO S E RV E D
I NCOM E TA X · ACCOU N TI NG · PAY ROL L NOTA RY · F I NA NCI A L SE RV ICE S
Call RJ Kelly
661-251-6700
19443 Soledad Canyon Road, Suite 109, Canyon Country, CA 91351
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★ ★ ★ THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE ★ ★ ★ from all of us at Green Landscape Nursery
12 Acres of Trees, Plants, Flowers, Succulents & Pottery O PE N 7 DAY S A W E E K
Santa Clarita’s Largest & Most Knowledgeable Nursery
26191 Bouquet Canyon Rd. Saugus
661-255-8838
GreenNurserySCV.com
22 · VVA Chapter 355 · Celebrating Women
SUPPORTING STUDENT VETERANS EVERY STEP OF THE WAY Learn more: canyons.edu/veterans • (661) 362-3469
VETERANS DENTAL DAY
Honoring Veterans with Monthly Dental Care Every first Monday of the month, Dr. Harleen Grewal and the team at Santa Clarita Smiles proudly host Veterans Dental Day. Local veterans are invited to receive free dental care—our way of giving back to the men and women who gave so much for us. “The team here is incredible. They make you feel valued every time, and Dr. Harleen truly cares. She takes the time to explain everything, which makes a real difference.” — RJ Kelly, United States Marine Corps (Ret.)
Call today to reserve your spot! Basic Dental Services – FREE exam, X-rays, cleaning and basic dental services. As our way of honoring local veterans, Santa Clarita Smiles is proud to provide basic dental services at no cost once a month. SERVICES INCLUDE: • Comprehensive dental exam • X-rays (as needed) • Standard cleaning • Basic dental treatments (such as simple fillings, extractions, and preventive care, when appropriate) Please note: Advanced or specialized procedures such as crowns, root canals, bridges, or dentures are not included.
For more information scan the code or visit SantaClaritaDental.com
661.244.4036 | SANTACLARITADENTAL.COM