Vetsnews Summer 2014

oregon veteran news

A look back: 24 years ago oregon's first activation since wwii called to duty for operation desert shield.

By George D. Lanning, Col., (Ret.) on page 7.

VETS NEWS

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

SUMMER 2014

Connect with ODVA news online: [web & eSubscribe] oregon.gov/odva [blog] oregondva.com [fb] odvavet [twitter] @oregondva

Ceremony Draws Historic Number of WWII Veterans

PHOTO BY MIKE ALLEGRE

NEARLY 2,500 HONOR THEIR SERVICE

Accompanied by a Young Marine volunteer, a World War II Purple Heart recipient makes his way to the dedication of Oregon’s World War II Memorial on June 6 in Salem.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

By Mike Allegre

SALEM – It was June 6, 1944 – D-Day – when the United States and its Allies landed in Normandy, France, and forged a battle that would become the beginning of the end of the war in Europe.

And exactly 70 years later nearly 2,500 people gathered on the west side of the State Capitol grounds to observe and be part of an historic event as Oregon’s World War II Memorial was dedicated. It was estimated that the ceremony brought together the largest gathering of Oregon World War II veterans in one location in state history.

Now in their late-eighties and nineties, many of the World War II veterans struggled a little at times to locate a seat. Family members and the Young Marines assisted and ushered many of these proud veterans into Willson Park to watch the official dedication of a new symbol of their generation’s military service and sacrifice.

With seating for about 800, many attendees arrived early. Some held photographs of deceased loved ones.

Others proudly wore their old military uniform or

a cap that displayed their service. Members of the Oregon Veterans Motorcycles Association escorted a caravan of vehicles from Central Oregon with nearly 100 veterans onboard. Among them was America’s oldest living Medal of Honor recipient, Bob Maxwell, 93, of Bend, who was introduced during the ceremony.

The event itself caused many emotions for those who attended. Among the guest speakers on that hot, sunny afternoon was Gov. John Kitzhaber. With an emotional pause in his voice he spoke of his father who had served during World War II Then he addressed the surviving World War II veterans.

“There was more bravery involved 70 years ago certainly than we can ever imagine,” Kitzhaber said.

“To our World War II veterans, thank you for saving the world.”

The memorial was described as beautiful, an amazing tribute, and long overdue. Onlookers looked through the names inscribed on the memorial’s walls.

Some searched for a familiar name amongst the 3,771 Oregonians SEE WWII DEDICATION - PAGE 4

french legion of honour awarded Edward C. Phillips, Wilsonville, was presented the highest honor given by the French government – the National Order of the Legion of Honour. PG 4

vets memorial unveiled at penitentiary The new OSP Veterans' Memorial Wall is believed to be the first veterans' memorial in the U.S. to be contructed within prison walls. PG 6

iraq veteran distills another success 4 Spirits Distillery has finally perfected and released a new bourbon whiskey following their exceptional success with vodka. PG 10

Director’s Message

Cameron Smith, Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

ODVA'S VISION: VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES THRIVE IN OREGON This summer has been a busy one for the department and filled with events to honor the service and sacrifice of all generations of veterans.

On June 6, the 70th anniversary of D-Day, we dedicated the Oregon World War II Memorial on the grounds of the Capitol. It was incredible to see so many of the Greatest Generation in attendance and finally recognized for their service both overseas and on the homefront.

The Korean War Veterans Association also hosted a ceremony in June recognizing the 64th anniversary of the start of the Korean War. The bond between our Korean War veterans and the Korean-American community is inspiring. Through their shared efforts, we will never forget the landing at Inchon, the stand at the Pusan Perimeter, and the fights at Heartbreak Ridge and the Chosin Reservoir.

The Salem-Keizer Volcanoes baseball club also hosted an amazing Fourth of July game day to honor our Vietnam veterans. The honorary Vietnam veterans in attendance were an impressive group to represent this generation. While our Vietnam veterans did not receive a welcome home in their own time, this event conveyed our enduring gratitude.

This summer, we will also have the second largest deployment of the Oregon National Guard since World War II as over one thousand soldiers of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team head to Afghanistan. Communities such as Salem, Bend and Ashland have all held mobilization ceremonies to recognize our Guard’s dedication to duty.

Recognition of service and sacrifice across all generations of veterans is important and a large part of our work. But we must also reinforce that honor with a robust network of support to serve those most challenged by their service when they return home.

Our veterans and their families deserve the best in services and support for their healthcare, education, and employment.

As we have seen though, our veteran services system has been challenged keeping up with demand from four generations of veterans with impacts from five major wars and countless humanitarian missions around the world. Our veterans and their families rightfully demand constructive solutions.

Over the last year and with many new members on our team at ODVA, we have taken a hard look internally and externally. We have developed a 5-year strategic framework to guide our approach and better meet the challenge of serving veterans and their families.

Together we have an excellent opportunity to further help veterans and their families thrive in Oregon. Beyond the individual and family benefits, a thoughtful approach will draw down federal funds, coordinate and leverage partners, invest in up-front preventative strategies, and reduce expensive back-end safety net services at the state and local level.

We encourage you to take the time to review ODVA’s strategic framework (right). With your help and input, we will continue to expand and flesh out the high-level strategies embedded within the goals to target veteran services, mobilize partnerships, drive veteran engagement, and invigorate core operations.

We are excited to continue our shared work to better serve veterans.

At the same time, I hope you connect with your families this summer and get outside to enjoy Oregon’s rivers, beaches and mountains. Our families are the foundation of any success our military and veterans enjoy and there is no place better than Oregon in the summer.

Thank you for your continued efforts and dedication to serve our veterans!

Published by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Vets News is a free quarterly publication. Each issue contains current information impacting veterans in Oregon including Federal VA hot topics, and state, regional and local happenings.

When credit is given to the source, Vets News articles may be reprinted.

Nicole Hoeft Mike Allegre Marc Huchette Jeremy Woodall

Managing Editor / Production / Staff Writer Associate Editor / Staff Writer Production / Staff Writer Copy Editing

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Phone

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Reunions, events, and story submissions are welcome, however, please note that all items are printed upon space availability.

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Up to the minute Oregon veteran news at www.oregondva.com OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS

Vision

Veterans and their families thrive in Oregon.

Mission

ODVA serves and honors veterans through our leadership, advocacy and strong partnerships.

Values

Respect / Integrity / Stewardship / Excellence

GOALS / OBJECTIVES Target Veteran Services

Serve more veterans and serve them better.

Mobilize Partnerships

Leverage all resources available to veterans.

Drive Veteran Engagement Amplify awareness of resources and build the Oregon veteran brand.

Invigorate Core Operations

Build a better, stronger and more durable department for future generations through our responsible, resourceful and creative management.

After World War I, we did not have broad services for veterans – no VA healthcare system, GI Bill or veterans’ benefits. Through the advocacy of generations of veterans, we thankfully have strong support for veterans today.

VET S NEWS

STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

Read ODVA's 5-year strategic framework brief:

www.oregondva.com/strategic-framework

GOLD STAR MEMORIAL TO BE BUILT AT WILLAMETTE PORTLAND – A coalition of mothers have spent six years advocating for a memorial at Willamette National Cemetery in Southeast Portland that honors all fallen active duty military members.

Their persistence has paid off because on July 2 the Blue Star Mothers of Oregon unveiled a detailed model of the Gold Star Memorial.

After the memorial’s proposal received preliminary approval in 2013 from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the non-profit group began moving forward with fundraising and the planning of the memorial.

group’s organizers hope half the cost will be covered by volunteer time and supplies.

To be honored at the Gold Star Memorial, military members must be from Oregon or Southwest Washington and have died while serving on active duty. Organizer Terry Carroll told the Oregonian that “it doesn’t matter what war they fought in or where they died.”

The VA will not allow crews to break ground on the memorial until Blue Star Mothers of Oregon have raised enough money to begin the project. That cost to construct the memorial and pay for its maintenance is estimated to be between $700,000 and $1 million.

The memorial features a waterfall, which represents the tears shed by the families of fallen servicemen and women. The flags of all five service branches are stationed behind a jagged wall that surrounds the waterfall. Carroll added that large golden dog tags, that measure approximately 4 inches by 2 inches, will have the honorees’ names inscribed on them and then placed on the wall. In the alcove a statue of a soldier’s cross -- a rifle propped up by military boots and topped with a helmet.

In a show of support for the project, the Columbia Pacific Building Trades Council will provide volunteer labor and ask suppliers for material donations. The

Donations for the memorial are being accepted online at www.bluestarmothersoforegon.com/ donations-2/gold-star-memorial. 

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PHOTO BY MIKE ALLEGRE

Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden stands with World War II veterans James Smith (right) and Bruce Williams (center) following a medals presentation for each veteran. State Sen. Jackie Winters (right with hat) and several military members joined the celebration.

WWII VETS AWARDED HONORS IN SALEM SALEM – Air war fighter aces are few and far between in any state. In Oregon there have been 52 pilots who achieved that recognition for shooting down at least five enemy aircraft during wartime. One of those decorated combat pilots joined another World War II veteran, on July 2, at the Oregon World War II Memorial, to receive some special recognition from two Oregon lawmakers.

State Sen. Jackie Williams was joined by ODVA Director Cameron Smith as James Smith of Salem was presented the medals and military honors he had earned during the war while serving in the South Pacific.

Smith’s medals were lost years ago and with help from the ODVA, Winters was able to present the medals to the 90 year-old Smith, a former Army administrative non-commissioned officer and First Sergeant.

Former Navy fighter pilot Bruce Williams, of Salem, is believed to be the only surviving ace in Oregon. In recognition of his aerial combat victories more than 70 years ago, Williams was presented a Congressional Gold Medal certificate by U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden The actual medal that will be presented to all surviving aces won’t be minted until 2015, but Wyden wanted Williams, 95, to receive the certificate until he is able to present the medal to Salem’s ace.

Nationally there are more than 90 aces who served during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War that are still living. The majority served during the Second World War. Williams was credited with shooting down seven enemy aircraft.

After making the presentation before nearly 50 people, including National Guard members, Wyden said, “The others are gone but Bruce flies on.” 

e t a r b Cele dom Free Day Thursday, August 28

Concert: Charlie Daniels Be prepared to show proof of service if requested.

PROVIDERS ACROSS OREGON PARTNER TO CONNECT SERVICES

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In a letter to Winters, Smith said he wanted to become a pilot, but couldn’t because he didn’t have a college degree. He reminded the senator that he didn’t earn a Bronze Star, “but I’m just as proud of my Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory medals.”

Director Smith said, “We owe all of our World War II veterans a debt we can never fully repay. When they are called heroes, like other veterans, they feel the only heroes were those who died while serving."

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S A L E M – Fr o m WWI I to the mos t c u r re n t c o n f l i c t i n Afghanistan, veterans EG UA ON G a re s e e k i n g b enefits, NATIO N A L services and resources at unprecedented rates. In the last decade alone, the total VA benefit dollars being received by Oregon veterans has more than doubled from $924 million (2003) to $2.2 billion (2013).

From 2012 to 2013, the amount increased by $400 million even as the veteran population decreased.

Although this benefit work is the core service the ODVA provides, the overarching needs of the veteran community reaches beyond federal VA benefits.

During the last 10 years, the return of service members to civilian life has significantly enhanced available resources and organizations operating to bridge gaps in services.

Because of the good work that exists across the state,

in May the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs partnered with the Oregon Army National Guard to host the second annual Veteran Service Provider Summit. More than 280 veteran service providers, representing 10 regions in Oregon, attended the summit in Salem.

During the half-day event, providers across more than eight service areas worked together to identify actionable, whole community strategies to best respond to the opportunities and concerns of veterans and military families within their regional service area.

By connecting resources and networks, the state is reimagining how government delivers services to the veteran community and empowering communitybased networks that are impactful, appropriate and sustainable.

If you are a veteran service provider and are interested in connecting with other providers in your area or would like to be added to the provider email list, please contact ODVA at 503-373-2390. 3

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs partnered with the Oregon Army National Guard to host the second annual Veteran Service Provider Summit. More than 280 veteran service providers, representing 10 regions in Oregon, were in attended the summit in Salem. (Photo by Mike Allegre) VETS NEWS // SUMMER 2014

Left: Phillips_WWII_French Legion of Honor Master Sgt. Ed Phillips circa 1944.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PHILLIPS FAMILY

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PHILLIPS FAMILY

Below: In a ceremony at his residence, World War II veteran Ed Phillips is presented France’s National Order of the Legion of Honour by the Consulate General serving Portland, Mrs. Françoise Aylmer.

LÉGION D’HONNEUR AWARDED TO WILSONVILLE WWII VETERAN Edward C. Phillips was a master sergeant in the U.S. Army’s 246th Signal Operations Company, which landed at Omaha Beach in northern France on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Within seven months Phillips and his unit would be involved in several treacherous battles including the Battle of St. Lo, the Battle of Aachen and the Battle of the Bulge.

On July 2, Phillips, 93, was presented the highest honor given by the French government – the National Order of the Legion of Honour. During a formal ceremony, France’s Consulate General serving Portland, Mrs. Françoise Aylmer, placed the distinct medal on Phillips’ lapel.

The medal is awarded for distinguished public service, including the service of U.S. military veterans who fought on French territory. For more than a decade, the government of France has presented the Legion of Honour to U.S. veterans who participated in the liberation of France during World War II. Phillips had many family members present and more than 75 were in attendance at his residence in Wilsonville. The former soldier said he was a little nervous and wondered why he received so much attention.

“Back then I didn’t do as much as thousands of others did there. Maybe they’re more deserving,”

Phillips humbly said. “The entire event was very nice and I appreciated the award the French government presented to me. I shed a few tears as did some others, but it was a wonderful memorable time for all of us.”

Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the French Order can only be presented by someone who has received it and is only given to living recipients.

Phillips is among nearly one million people who have been awarded the medal. Among the noted Americans who have received the honor are aviator Charles Lindbergh, several military generals including Dwight D. Eisenhower and Curtis LeMay, singer Barbra Streisand, and actor Robert Redford. 

CONTINUED: WWII DEDICATION FROM PAGE 1

who died in combat during the war. Those who survived that war and those who served on the home front were also remembered.

D-Day Navy veteran, Steve Besse, called the memorial wonderful and educational. He recalled his shipmates aboard LCI (Landing Craft Infantry) 420 as they delivered fighting men to Omaha Beach.

“That day was a long time ago, but it still brings back plenty of memories especially remembering how we discharged those brave men on that beach under horrendous conditions.”

Army nurse Velma Sundel served in southern California during the war and cared for the injured and sick men who returned from the south Pacific. “I didn’t know there was going to be these beautiful walls on it. We’re all in our nineties now, so this dedication is a great day for us.”

With the ceremony complete, about 200 World War II veterans, their families, and others crowded into the memorial. Veterans stood or sat in wheel chairs as they gathered around the obelisk to reminisce and pose for photos.

It was a day to celebrate their service and remember the fallen at their memorial.  Hundreds of World War II veterans were among nearly 2,500 people who crowded onto the Capitol grounds to watch the dedication ceremony for Oregon’s WW II Memorial on June 6. Former-Gov. Ted Kulongoski (with Oregon’s Medal of Honor recipient Bob Maxwell) and Gov. John Kitzhaber participated with members of the “Greatest Generation” who gathered to watch and salute as their memorial was dedicated. (Top photo courtesy Lebanon Express. Other photos by Mike Allegre.)

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS

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today. He said PVAMC is looking at new technology such as iPads to connect counselors with rural veterans who can’t access one of the 12 care facilities run by the Portland hospital.

“Getting that mental health care out to our veterans is so critical,” Deazley said. We have same-day access to mental health care at the Portland hospital, so we’re set up. We’re ready.”

It was an emotional open forum in Beaverton on July 7, 40 veterans attended many of them venting about medical services and at times with raised voices.

A panel of local representatives included Chris Marshall, director of the Portland Veterans’ Affairs Regional Office, Floss Mambourg, acting deputy director of PVAMC, Cameron Smith, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and Belle Landau, executive director of the Returning Veterans Project, which connects veterans with free counseling and healthcare services.

ODVA Director Cameron Smith (right) noted veteran’s concerns at a town hall meeting in Beaverton in July.

Chris Marshall, director of the Portland Veterans’ Affairs Regional Office and Floss Mambourg, acting deputy director of Portland VA Medical Center, also discussed the issues.

REP. BONAMICI HOSTS VETERANS FORUMS With plenty of attention focused this year on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the concerns of veterans were duly noted by Oregon U.S. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici during three town hall meetings in July in Oregon’s 1st Congressional District. The meetings were held to specifically address veteran’s issues and resident's concerns.

the challenges,” she said.

During the meeting on July 1, in Astoria, the congresswoman said she had completed a five-hour tour of the Portland VA medical facility in June and was able to speak with administrators, physicians and patients. She said some of those challenges are administering to veterans who have complex medical issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder and handling the needs of veterans who served as far back as World War II.

“These benefits added up to $12 million a year for veterans in Clatsop County, a 60 percent increase in the last seven years, Belt said. “There’s an unprecedented demand for services at the local level as well as the federal level,” he said. “We have four generations of veterans having participated or are participating in five wars.”

“I got plenty of information there about some of

Eric Belt, ODVA’s veteran services administrator, addressed many of the veteran’s concerns. He reported that $2.2 billion in overall benefits were paid out to Oregon veterans last year. Compensation and pension benefits accounted for $1.1 billion, or about $92 million a month.

The assistant director of Portland’s VA Medical Center (PVAMC), Bernard Deazley said 10 years ago the mental health staff there was half of what it is

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Some veterans told the representatives they were pleased with VA’s services and had no complaints. Yet, some were worried about benefits for family members, homelessness and the risk of suicide and mental illness among veterans. Others spoke of problems scheduling appointments, getting medical claims approved and an overall lack of timeliness.

Andrea Gardner a Coast Guard veteran said her fellow veterans need more counseling options, not just prescriptions. Mambourg agreed saying that a focus on treatment plans and individualized care is necessary.

“We’re trying our best to make sure that drugs aren’t the only tool in our bag.”

Wendall Pelham, the father of 22-year-old U.S. Army Spc. John A. Pelham killed in Afghanistan on February 12, asked veterans to see the discussion as starting point and commended veterans for their passion to speak out for better services.

“Until our legislators understand how important these people are, we fail them,” Pelham said. “They deserve to be listened to.”

Bonamici wiped away tears when Pelham addressed the crowd. “It’s been a challenging discussion, but heartfelt and sincere. We have our work cut out for us.”

Bonamici also attended a third forum in Newburg. 

VETS NEWS // SUMMER 2014

VA TIMELINE FOR CHANGE April 9 – The Phoenix VA Hospital was accused of misconduct.

May 8 – Sec. Shinseki orders records audits of all VA health-care facilities around the U.S.

Following an outcry over a scathing interim report released on May 28, by the VA’s Office of the Inspector General, Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki, on May 30, resigned amid the widening VA health care scandal. President Barack Obama then appointed Deputy Secretary Sloan D. Gibson as Acting Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

The report confirmed whistle-blower allegations of mismanagement and the manipulation of data related to patient wait times and prompted calls from members of Congress for Shinseki to step down.

May 15 – Shinseki tells a Congressional committee he was “mad as hell” over allegations.

May 16 – Dr. Robert Petzel, the Veterans Health Administration’s top health official, retired early at Shinseki’s request.

May 28 – The U.S. Inspector General reports more than 1,700 veterans at the Phoenix Hospital were kept on unofficial wait lists.

May 30 – Shinseki apologized to all veterans and the nation for the scandal involving the systemic delay of health care to veterans. Later that day he resigned.

Deputy Secretary Sloan D. Gibson was appointed as the Acting VA Secretary.

June 5 – VA internal investigations identified a total of 35 veterans who had died while waiting for care in the Phoenix VHA system.

June 27 – A White House investigation identifies “significant and chronic systemic failures” and a “corrosive culture” inside the VA’s Health Administration.

In Oregon, officials at the Portland VA Medical Center (PVAMC) said repeatedly in early-June that they kept no secret waitlists. PVAMC spokesperson Dan Herrigstad described the numbers reported in the audit as “a snapshot” that is already out of date.

“With more than 600 new veterans coming to Portland each month, aggressive scheduling and outreach has helped the PVAMC to reduce their wait lists. The PVAMC primary care Electronic Wait List (EWL) for new patients, for example, has been reduced from 1,794 veterans in May 2014 to 202 as of July 2.

“We have become the fastest growing large (1A) VA facility in the country,” Herrigstad said, “with a growth rate three times that of the VA national average. But we’ve had plans in place for some time anticipating that growth – many of those are coming together this summer.”

The Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center & Clinics (SORCC) in White City currently has no electronic wait list (EWL) for new veterans requesting primary care appointments. Veterans are being scheduled within two weeks of enrolling for care.

PHOTO COURTESY OF OREGON DEPT. OF CORRECTIONS.

Since then Gibson has called for immediate actions to improve access to care for veterans. He has also directed all VA Medical Center and Health Care System Directors to conduct monthly in-person reviews of scheduling practices in every clinic within their jurisdiction to ensure all policies are being followed to deliver veterans more timely care.

May 12 – Steve Young named interim director of the Phoenix VA Health Care System.

June 9 – A VA audit found that more than 120,000 veterans were left waiting or never got care, that pressures were placed on schedulers to use unofficial lists or engage in inappropriate practices to make waiting times appear more favorable.

“Currently the SORCC has waiting lists for some specialty care including optometry and audiology,” said SORCC spokesperson Rhonda Haney. “Veterans waiting beyond 60 days for these two clinics are being contacted and if they wish to have care sooner than we can provide, their care is being coordinated and purchased in the local community.” 

ODVA’s Deputy Director Edward Van Dyke (right) and Claims Counselor Joe Glover stand in front of the new Oregon State Penitentiary Veterans Memorial.

NEW VETERANS' MEMORIAL UNVEILED AT OREGON STATE PENITENTIARY SALEM – It is believed to be the first veterans’ memorial in the U.S. to be constructed within prison walls. Prisoners at the Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem spent hundreds of hours building the concrete wall flanked by flags that honors all five branches of the U.S. military.

we understand and appreciate what our veterans chose to do for all of us.

With a military Honor Guard presenting the colors, incarcerated prisoners and prison officials unveiled the OSP Veterans’ Memorial Wall on the grounds of the C Block prison yard May 30.

“So, to all the veterans here today, this memorial is a testament to your service. We remember when you kept the flame burning so that others all across the world could share it, and we thank you.”

Inmates Kevin O'Hara and Todd Gulley, the president and vice president of the Penitentiary Veterans’ Association, joined most of the 118 group members as they watched from the bleachers and recognized the accomplishment.

Gulley said the new Veterans’ Memorial has become a proud example of what a small group of adults in custody can do when prison administrators take a leap of faith for them.

The Deputy Director of the Oregon Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs, Edward Van Dyke, told the crowd of mostly inmates that the memorial reminds us that OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS

“We are also surrounded by the memories of those who have served our country and are no longer here.

They and their families have sacrificed much for the freedom that we enjoy here on this day,” he said.

Gulley and O’Hara are confident that 90 percent of the veterans currently incarcerated will eventually be released, and the club wants to help prepare them for that life. Because the VA does not intervene while a veteran in is custody, the club wants to help incarcerated veterans connect with VA services, and help with social skills such as finding housing and employment.

The OSP Veterans’ Association raised the $8,500 needed to build the memorial by hosting prison fundraisers, collecting inmate donations, and by writing letters that solicited donations from veterans’ groups across the country such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  6

VETERAN BENEFITS FOR FORMER POWS Former American Prisoners of War are eligible for special veterans benefits, including medical care in VA hospitals and disability compensation for injuries and diseases caused by internment.

Lonnamae Ladke, the former Prisoner of War Advocate for the Portland VA Medical Center, said she is committed to assisting POWs to navigate the VA System including the claims process, general guidance such as making appointments along with identifying community based resources.

“These benefits are in addition to regular veteran’s benefits and services to which they, as veterans, are entitled to,” Ladke said.

Former POWs may apply for compensation for their service-connected injuries, diseases or illnesses by completing VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation and/or Pension. Apply online at www.vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp 

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF GEORGE LANNING

Above: Oregon’s 206th Transportation Detachment became the first Oregon Army National Guard unit to be mobilized for federal active duty since Aug. 31, 1940 when the 41st Infantry Division was called up.

Left: Gov. Barbara Roberts welcomes Maj. George Lanning home in May 1991, after the unit he commanded, 206th Transportation Detachment, returned from the Middle East.

In 1991, Oregon soldiers watched American Patriot missiles intercept Iraqi scud missiles being fired at military bases near Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

1990 LOOKBACK: OREGON’S 206TH TRANSPORTATION DET. CALLED TO DUTY

By George D. Lanning, Col., (Ret.)

In 1990, with tensions rising in the Middle East, thenPresident George H. W. Bush ordered the organization of Operation Desert Shield in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait on August 2. This order initiated preparation and training for American troops who would soon become part of an international coalition in the war against Iraq. That coalition would later be launched as Operation Desert Storm in January 1991.

Bush authorized a dramatic increase in U.S. troops and resources in the Persian Gulf. Among those troops was a small contingent of 35 soldiers assigned to the Oregon Army National Guard’s 206th Transportation Detachment.

A new piece of Oregon National Guard history was unfolding. This story, written by the unit’s commander, then-Major George Lanning, first appeared in ODVA’s book, 150 Years of Oregon Veterans. In it, Lanning recalls the order to mobilize his troops and all that led up to their deployment. Reminiscent of the call to war in the 1940s, Oregon’s citizens were again standing behind their troops.

The Oregon Army National Guard’s 206th Transportation Detachment (Air Terminal Movement Control Team) was alerted for a possible Presidential call up in support of Operation Desert Shield on 24 August 1990. At that time, I was the Superintendent of the Amity School District 4-J. As the unit’s commander, Maj. Gen. Raymond F Rees, Oregon’s Adjutant General, called me at the school district office and asked how soon I could be at the Military Department in my BDU’s (Battle Dress Uniform). I said to give me an hour. I left work within five minutes, went home, changed into my uniform and reported to Maj. Gen. Rees in Salem.

I was informed of a possible presidential call up for our 35-member unit. I initiated the alert procedures having unit members all report the next day, Saturday, 25 August at 1300 hours with all their uniforms and equipment. By the time unit members arrived, we had received execution orders placing all of us on active duty Monday morning, 27 August. By 29 August, we departed for our mobilization station at Fort Lewis, Washington.

employers, and friends. Since we were one of the first reserve component units to be called to federal active duty, there was considerable media attention.

loved ones. For many it was their first holiday away from home and they missed all the significant events throughout the tour of duty.

The unit also drew media attention since we had both males and females in the organization. Not only were there local news and television coverage, but the Associated Press, Time magazine, Woman’s Day magazine and other news sources also covered our mobilization.

At Fort Lewis, we honed our skills and prepared for the unknown. I viewed our preparation as a threelegged stool. I had to ensure our soldiers were well trained, but I also looked at the tactical, emotional and spiritual readiness of the soldiers.

The other particularly difficult times were when the scud missiles were launched into our area of operations.

Safety was paramount, but it became another Kodak moment that relieved a little tension as soldiers went to make shift shelters in our NBC suits. As the unit Commander, I was responsible for the safety of each and every soldier. That it itself proved to be stressful.

Fortunately, no one was seriously hurt or killed in our unit.

We deployed to the Middle East and arrived in country on 16 September 1990 where we transitioned into the King Abdul Aziz Airbase in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. There our unit operated 24 hours per day and conducted the unit’s wartime mission of overseeing the movement of personnel and cargo through an air terminal facility.

This was the largest airlift of American troops and supplies ever experienced in the United States. The 206th skillfully managed and expertly coordinated the expeditious onward movement of hundreds of thousands of Soldiers, vehicles, equipment and short tons of sustainment cargo, and was instrumental in carrying out the boldest, most daring logistics operation ever conceived. This included the Desert Express high priority cargo that was essential to the troops on the front line.

Unit personnel worked 12-13 hour shifts seven days a week and then lacked sleep due to travel time, eating and personal hygiene.

In Saudi Arabia, some 206th soldiers were assigned to staff the 93rd Transportation Battalion, a provisional unit to provide command and control for several smaller transportation units.

With that order, a new chapter in the state’s military history was being written. The 206th had become the first Oregon Army National Guard unit to be mobilized for federal active duty since 31 August 1940 when the 41st Infantry Division got the call.

Overall the 206th Transportation Detachment excelled, but it became difficult every time the unit would receive extension orders. Our initial orders were only 90 days, but the orders were extended twice; the last time for 360 days and that really impacted unit morale. Each time the unit was extended, we had to ensure and reinforce unit morale. It was hard for some to accept the fact that we processed many active and reserve component soldiers into theater and then sent them home prior to our own unit.

It was a hectic time for everyone involved; unit members, family members, support personnel,

Like any military member away from home, holidays were a difficult time to be separated from our 7

There were many opportunities to meet various dignitaries from President George H. W. Bush and the First Lady, Barbara Bush, and Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf to name a few.

We had a meeting with Gen. Schwarzkopf for about 25 minutes thanks to Sgt. Eric Schwarzkopf, one of our unit members. During that time Sgt. Schwarzkopf, who is no direct relation to the general, was presented with a set of four silver stars as a memento of their meeting.

You could not have asked for better support from the home front. That made life tolerable in the hot and dusty conditions with several sand storms. We received many letters of support, care packages and lots of mail.

The unit returned to the great state of Oregon in May 1991 to a tremendous “Welcome Home” ceremony.

Our unit performed at an extraordinary high level of proficiency and professionalism. For their efforts the unit received the Meritorious Unit Commendation while individual members received numerous awards and citations.

It was definitely a team effort of all the Soldiers working together to accomplish the mission. I was very proud to have been their commander.

Oregon can be very proud of its Citizen Soldiers and their many accomplishments.

Editor’s Note: Lanning served nearly 35 years in the Army and Army National Guard and retired as a colonel in 2006. His last command was the 82nd Brigade while also serving as Oregon’s Deputy Adjutant General, Army.

Lanning earned many military honors to include two Legions of Merit, a Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. An active member of several state and national military organizations, he and his wife Leslie reside in Salem.  VETS NEWS // SUMMER 2014

BENEFITS CORNER: AUTOMOBILE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM The VA offers an automobile assistance program for eligible veterans or eligible members of the armed forces serving on active duty a one-time payment of up to $18,900 to be used toward the purchase of an automobile or other conveyance.

To qualify, a veteran must have one of the following disabilities including loss, or permanent loss of use, of one or both feet, loss, or permanent loss of use, of one or both hands, or permanent impairment of vision in both eyes to a certain degree

Don Adams, star of the 1960s "Get Smart" TV series, jokes with crewmembers on the flight deck of the USS Yorktown during a break between scenes.

FAME ABOARD THE USS YORKTOWN

By Dale Potts, (Capt., Retired, US Navy)

For four months, the glamour of show business, followed by international coverage of the first manned lunar shot recovery and transit of module around South America, kept me extremely busy as the Public Affairs Officer for the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown.

It started with the Oct 16, 1968 filming aboard of an episode of the TV series “Get Smart” at our Long Beach, CA homeport and ended on Feb 26, 1969 with the Yorktown docking at our new homeport, Norfolk, VA. I had been promoted from Ensign to Lieutenant Junior Grade (Lt. JG) on our transit back from Vietnam. The primary advantage in that was moving from the Junior Officer bunkroom to a four man stateroom. Both had bunk beds.

GET SMART Yorktown was finishing maintenance work at the Long Beach shipyard and preparing for refresher training when converted into a bustling stage for the “Get Smart” episode “Temporarily Out of Control.” In the show, Don Adams, as Maxwell Smart, and Agent 99 (Barbara Feldon) were prevented from going on their honeymoon. Max received orders, as a Naval Reserve Officer, for two weeks active duty, beginning on the next day. I escorted Barbara Feldon everywhere on the Yorktown like a bodyguard, including lunch in the crew’s mess where I had her rotate tables and the next day in the Captain’s In-port Cabin.

One sailor remarked how her “sultry look” made her sexy. She responded that her look came from being near sighted. It took an hour in makeup to transfer the 50-plus year old Don Adams to a youthful secret agent. So the rest of the cast did not arrive until 9 am.

There was a Navy helicopter involved in Adams’s escape from the brig. I took the helo crew to Hollywood for dinner at the Brown Derby and overnight stay at the Hotel Knickerbocker. Visiting Hollywood at night was fun, but what I enjoyed most was not having to get up for the daily 6:30 a.m. muster on the hangerdeck.

PAUL WINCHELL AND JERRY MAHONEY Knowing we had sea time coming up for the holidays, with help from the Beverly Hills Navy League, I coordinated a family Christmas party in November. We provided gifts for children and recruited ventriloquist Paul Winchell and his more famous wooden sidekick, Jerry Mahoney, for the entertainment.

TORA, TORA, TORA In early December, 20th Century Fox transformed the Yorktown into Imperial Japanese Admiral Nagumo’s flagship, Akagi, for the movie “Tora! Tora!

Tora!”. The movie title came from the battle cry of the flight commander Mitsuo Fuchida: “Tiger! Tiger!

Tiger!” as the Japanese struck Pearl Harbor.

Thirty aircraft configured as Zero fighters, Val dive bombers and Kate torpedo bombers were hoisted OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS

Eligible veterans can apply for the automobile and/ or the special adaptive equipment grant by completing VA Form 21-4502, Application for Automobile or Other Conveyance and Adaptive Equipment and submitting it to your local VA regional office. The instructions on the VA Form 21-4502 contain a list of adaptive equipment that has been pre-approved for particular disabilities.

VA VETERAN TRANSPORTATION SERVICE by cranes to the Yorktown flight deck in San Diego.

Cruising off the Southern California coast, our flight deck crewmen wore Japanese sailor uniforms and head gear. The Japanese flag was flying from the bridge level for the filming (not appreciated by our crew) when, in the early morning, the aircraft took off under their own power (our catapult gear had been camouflaged).

The lead plane, a reconstructed SNJ (AT-6), closely resembled a Mitsubishi Zero, including a 3 blade propeller. When launched, the Zero raced toward the bow with full throttle. But as it lifted from the flight deck it suddenly dropped from sight, directly in front of the ship. Many crewmembers gasped, thinking we would run over it. But the Zero regained altitude, similar to what happened on Dec 7, 1941.

I was watching all this with news media reporters from the superstructure. The aircraft landed at North Island and then were loaded back onto the Yorktown for transport to Hawaii for that portion of the film.

The Veterans Healthcare Administration has a transportation program for nonambulatory and remote VA patients. The Veterans Transportation Service (VTS) provides transport for veterans to VA Medical Centers (VAMCs). These services include vehicle routing and scheduling software for VA Medical Facilities.

While all veterans with VA funded medical appointments are eligible to ride VTS, a first priority is given to wheelchair-bound patients who have no other transportation alternatives. VTS is establishing a network of community and volunteer transportation service providers to improve access to VA health care, including the Portland VAMC. Reservations are needed for transportation at least four full business days before the date transport is needed. Specific information about the veteran also is required. To make a reservation, call 503-723-5044, 800-949-1004, ext. 55044. 

APOLLO 8 RECOVERY On Dec 27, the world watched us recover the Apollo 8 spacecraft in the Pacific 1,000 miles southwest of Hawaii after its lunar shot. We had embarked news media and NASA officials in Hawaii and enjoyed a joint Christmas on the way to our recovery position.

Using a pool system, UPI (United Press International) and the AP (Associated Press) each had a photographer. ABC provided trailers full of technical equipment, NBC had reporter Ron Nesson onsite and CBS had Dallas Townsend. Other print media were also represented. After piloting their spacecraft through the final re-entry stage, astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, Jr. and William Anders, splashed down at 4:52 am, Yorktown time, only two-and-one half miles from our 25 year old carrier.

The NASA communications director offered me a job when I got out of the Navy; but when that time came, newspaper headlines announced massive NASA layoffs.

Your state veteran home loan benefit just got better.

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THE FIGHTING LADY Yorktown took a duplicate Apollo capsule on a goodwill tour around South America to new homeport, Norfolk, Va. Then to training in Caribbean and a North Atlantic NATO exercise with visits to England, Germany, France and Denmark. With Vietnam winding down, ship went to Boston for decommissioning. I was asked to extend to serve as curator but declined. It was fitting that Yorktown (CV-10) had a glamorous ending. Yorktown (CV-5) had been sunk in Battle of Midway. When CV-10 replaced her in WWII, she carried a Hollywood crew.

Narrated by actor Robert Taylor and using actual combat footage, their movie, “The Fighting Lady,” won an Academy Award and was the basis for Yorktown’s nickname. 

To apply or to find out more about your qualifications, please call the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Home Loan Department at 888-673-8387. www.orvethomeloans.com A product of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs

8

Don Dowell, a senior project manager at CH2M Hill, views the newly refurbished Building 60 during the dedication ceremony on July 7 for the Oregon State Hospital Cremains Memorial in Salem.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STATESMAN JOURNAL, BY DANIELLE PETERSON

“I wish we could have done it years ago,” he said.

“I knew it would eventually happen.”

The project could take months, but Van Dyke promises the ODVA will not give up confirming eligibility for burial benefits until it has exhausted all avenues.

“What we’re doing is we're looking over the information their researchers obtained and trying to find if they are definitively veterans,” Van Dyke said.

The first step will be for him to search ODVA files and databases, looking for a discharge document that verify service and determine eligibility for burial at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland.

“And not just that they served,” Van Dyke said. “We have to verify that they served honorably.”

If needed, he will run names through the system of the regional office of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

VETS CREMAINS COULD BE INTERRED AT WILLAMETTE NATIONAL CEMETERY

By Capi Lynn (Reprinted with permission of the Salem Statesman Journal)

SALEM - Maynard Hammer was mentioned near the end of the dedication ceremony for the Oregon State Hospital Cremains Memorial, for his role as a caretaker. For several years, the former deputy superintendent led reporters and photographers on tours of the cremains at their previous location.

But before Hammer there was Glenn Peterson, whom I met 11 years ago. That’s when Peterson, then the assistant director of support services at the hospital, took me into a small locked room on the hospital grounds and showed me the copper containers holding the cremated remains of former patients.

There were more than 4,000, all lined on narrow shelves, three deep in most places. I described the arrangement as one resembling a display of quartsized paint cans at a local hardware store, but they were more protected and preserved like this than they were in underground vaults around a fish pond, which

ultimately caused water damage to the containers.

The room was off limits to the public but no less revered than a cemetery. It was simple but still sacred, at least to Peterson, whom I referred to as the unofficial keeper in a story published June 3, 2003, with the headline: ‘Preserving the forgotten.” He retired that same year after 38 years with the hospital.

“I look at it as a mausoleum,” he told me at the time.

It was because of that memory that I wanted to be a part of our coverage of the dedication. To come full circle with the copper urns that I first saw in 2003 — more than a year before Oregon Sen. Peter Courtney saw them and led the charge to create a public memorial, and before The Oregonian's 2006 Pulitzer Prize-winning series of editorials on the cremains.

Peterson didn’t attend the dedication on Monday (July 7), but he has been following the coverage.

“Even if I think they’re veterans,” Van Dyke said, “I’m going to have to have some document, or else Willamette won’t inter them.”

If eligibility cannot be confirmed, the cremains will remain where they are among the more than 3,400 urns housed in the columbarium wall of the memorial. If eligibility can be confirmed, the urns will be released to the ODVA and brass tubes inserted in the wall in their places.

The ODVA already paved the way for the interment of the cremains of five veterans from the state hospital.

Four were interred on Sept. 15, 2012, according to cemetery director George Allen. Two were veterans of World War I and two of World War II. They were rendered military funeral honors and interred at no cost, which is mandated by law. Allen said the four are located next to each other in the same columbarium at Willamette National, which is about 10 miles southeast of downtown Portland.

Allen is prepared to welcome the cremains of all the veterans who are eligible.

“They’ll be treated just like any other honorably discharged veteran,” Allen said. “And we will maintain their burial site as a national shrine in perpetuity.” 

To soldiers who served as crewmembers aboard any U.S. Army tank, the names of these juggernauts are familiar: M1 Abrams, M60 Patton, M4 Sherman, M 26 Pershing, and others.

Imagine Army veterans, who once trained for war inside these metal beasts of burden, having an opportunity to jump back into the close confines of a tank years or even decades later.

Thanks to a former Army Armored Cavalry soldier in Roseburg, Ken Osborne, and the cooperation of the Oregon Army National Guard in La Grande, several veteran “tankers” were able to relive their time of serving aboard one of the newer tanks in the Army’s arsenal – the M1A2 SEP Abrams Main Battle tank.

And they did it while the soldiers of Oregon’s 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment were completing their training at the Orchard Combat Training Center, Idaho, July 11-12.

A member of the national U.S. Army Brotherhood of Tankers, Osborne made a phone call months ago and spoke with Master Sgt. Dan Ishaug in La Grande.

Their conversation and Osborne’s request opened the door to this rare opportunity.

“The fact we could even embed with them was phenomenal. We talked with these soldiers about their tanks, how they train, and answered each other’s questions about our service. We spoke the

same language,” Osborne said. “It’s been about 25 years since I was aboard a tank and even longer for Vietnam vets.”

In the hot desert sands the old soldiers smiled as they rode aboard the modern Abrams tank.

Osborne said the Guard soldiers did more than just allow the “old tankers” to get back on the tanks. For those veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), this day was therapeutic.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY KEN OSBORNE

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD SOLDIERS WELCOME FORMER TANKERS

A former Army tank crewman helps an Oregon soldier aboard the National Guard’s Abrams Main tank when the older tankers joined the 116th Cavalry Regiment’s training in Idaho in July.

“Most of the men there are combat veterans. Experiencing this together helps improve their mental health. One of our guys was a 19 year-old tank commander in Vietnam; a Staff Sergeant,” Osborne said. “Sadly, he got promoted because everyone else was dead.”

The day wasn’t just about kicking up some sand while riding on a 62 ton tank. When the day was done, the old and the young soldiers fired up the

barbeque and enjoyed a meal cooked in the shadows of the tanks they had just spent part of a day reconnecting with.

“Tankers will always be tankers long after they’re discharged,” Osborne added. “Our gratitude goes out again to these top-notch Oregon Cavalry soldiers. They made that memorable day a great experience.” 

Editor's Note: Ken Osborne, a mortgage loan broker with Premier Home Loans in Roseburg, is a strong supporter of the ORVET Home Loan program.

9

VETS NEWS // SUMMER 2014

PHOTO BY JEFF DUEWELL/GRANTS PASS DAILY COURIER

Veteran Scott Hicks of Grants Pass is driving his 1965 Volkswagen bug across the country to raise awareness for veterans suffering from PostTraumatic Stress Disorder. His VW Bug still has its original paint job. Below is the website where you can follow his journey.

G R A N T S PA S S V E T E R A N I N S P I R I N G WOUNDED WARRIORS WITH ROAD TRIP Reprinted Courtesy Grants Pass Daily Courier

Grants Pass resident and veteran Scott Hicks is traveling at least 10,000 miles across the country in an old 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. Since June 27, he has been stopping at veteran events to swap stories, share coping techniques, and inspire others to support mental health programs for active military and veterans.

He headed south first to Oroville, California, but later said his destination list grew as more people heard about the project. On July 7 he had arrived in North Carolina.

As he drives his “Bug” Patina, his overall goal is to help educate the general public about these challenges.

“I have a passion for my brothers and sisters in arms who are suffering, and I want to make a difference or a change if I can,” Hicks said.

One big issue for Hicks is the high rate of veteran suicides. When he stops to speak at various public events on his route, Hicks offers a message of hope and some steps veterans can take to help them deal with their troubled feelings.

“There’s a VA statistic that shows 22 veterans a day die from committing suicide,” he said. “Most of them die from PTSD or depression.

“Having suffered through some of those issues,” he said, “I’ve found that setting goals, achieving those goals and having something to look forward to can greatly reduce our tendency to fall into severely depressed states. Looking forward to a concert, a trip, camping, or other event can give a feeling of hope, something that is diminished in veterans in crisis and can lead to suicide.”

Hicks was medically discharged in 2002 after a training accident left him with a broken back and a myriad of injury-related problems to face when he returned home. He once waited more than a month to see a doctor and has encountered dozens of veterans who were also unable to find the help they needed.

Hoping to ease the online search for resources, Hicks launched “Inspire Veterans,” a website that provides local resources and support to wounded veterans in need.

Along the way, Hicks will be interviewing military members who want to share their stories on camera. The interviews will be available to watch on the Internet, and will give anyone suffering from depression or PTSD the hope they need to make it through the day,” Hicks said.

“The hardest part is most of these guys don't want to talk,” Hicks said. “They’d rather stay quiet, but they're not getting any help.”

So far, Hicks’ grassroots movement has provided him a venue to speak at events in California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, North Carolina, Tennessee, Missouri, Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. No money is being made from the trip, and Hicks set-up an online donation website to help fund the project. He plans to sleep in the Volkswagen, and eat military-style MRE’s as his main source of food. Hicks is raising money to buy more video equipment in hopes of creating a documentary film that includes portions of this trip, that shows the hardships veterans are facing and offer a solution for the veterans’ healthcare crisis.

“It’s not about me, it’s not about the drive,” Hicks said. “This trip is to raise awareness and help other veterans.

Hicks’ website is located at www.inspireveterans. com or email him at ispireveterans@gmail.com. 

CAMP ADAIR -- When the discussion of successful Oregon veteran-owned businesses is mentioned, one endeavor that has become more visible and known for its quality products is owned and operated by an Iraq war veteran.

give it a unique taste, then add our company’s story and mission to the mix, it will piqued people's interest,” he said. “My two employees, who are at various tasting events all around the state, are bringing us plenty of new customers.”

After former Oregon Army National Guard Spc. Dawson Officer returned home following his tour in Iraq in 2004-05, he considered whether to work for someone else or himself.

Many veterans groups, with facilities that serve alcoholic beverages, have also discovered Officer’s products and are becoming some of his best customers.

With the company’s customer base located in five western states, 4 Spirits will soon expand to California.

He chose the latter. With a glass of his favorite whisky in hand he considered what it would take to create and distill his own brand of spirits with a quality taste unique to Oregon.

With the determination of a soldier on a mission, Officer conducted tireless research while studying the art of becoming a craft distiller. Thanks to the eager assistance from family and friends, he opened the doors to 4 Spirits Distillery at Camp Adair, located just north of Corvallis.

Officer broke into the market place by introducing a new vodka in 2011. It remains a top selling product in-part, because of its two unique labels – WebFoot for University of Oregon Duck fans and SlapTail for the fans of the Oregon State Beavers.

He and his staff have since crafted a new bourbon whiskey with a distinct smoother taste, and sales of this new product, like his other spirits, have been exceptional.

“If you make a quality, smooth tasting product and OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS

As a combat veteran, Officer’s hasn’t forgotten his military roots. The company continues to donate 10 percent of sales of bourbon whiskey generated in each state to fund that state’s individual veteran programs.

The distillery also has created a first of its kind 4 Spirits Veterans Endowment Scholarship Fund through the Oregon State University Foundation.

Even with his personal business success, Officer never forgets why he named the distillery in honor of four Oregon combat soldiers – his friends – who were killed in Iraq in 2004.

“I served side by side with these guys in the Oregon National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment in Delta Company. I think about them and their courage nearly every day.”

Officer and his staff are now developing another type of whisky. In August and November they will be releasing three variations of one spirit that has its roots in the Caribbean: Rum.  10

PHOTO COURTESY OF 4 SPIRITS DISTILLERY

IRAQ VETERAN DISTILLS ANOTHER SUCCESS

Iraq veteran–owned 4 Spirits Distillery has several products they market to six western states. After success with vodka, former Oregon Army National Guard Dawson Officer, has finally perfected a bourbon whiskey with a distinct smoother taste, and sales of this new product, like his other spirits, have been exceptional.

EVENTSREUNIONS Veteran’s 10K Run/Family 5K Walk The annual event is open to everyone and helps to raise funds to support the Annual Salem Veterans Stand Down and the Serving Our Veterans at Home (SOVAH) organization. The race begins at 9 a.m., Sat., Aug. 16, at Keizer Rapids Park, located at the west end of Chemawa Road. There will be door prizes and a silent auction. Contact: Rosy Macias, 503-3629911, www.sovah.org State Fair: Free Admission for Veterans “Celebrate Freedom Day” is a salute to all veterans with free fair admission on Aug. 28. Veterans must provide a veteran ID card: VA, VFW, American Legion, Oregon Driver’s License, or DD-214, to enter free into the fair. Famed country music performer Charlie Daniels is offering a tribute to our men and women of the U.S. Armed Services at 7 p.m.

Limited free general admission tickets will be available. Contact: State Fair Office, 503-9473247 Mid-Willamette Valley Stand Down Salem’s Vet Center and SOVAH (Serving our Veterans at Home) will host the event. Assistance includes: Medical and dental services, benefits registration, military surplus, Women Veterans Workshop, counseling and a free lunch. All veterans and their families are welcome. Location: Salem’s Grace Baptist Church, 4197 State St. NE, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., September 19. Contact: Todd Londin, 503-363-4457 4th Annual Wasco Salmon/Steelhead Tournament Fishing in the Columbia River, September 27, at the mouth of the Deschutes River. Categories: Men’s, women’s and youth; both salmon and steelhead. First place winners win new rods and reels. Entry fee: $20, which includes a hamburger/ hotdog lunch. A silent auction will follow. Boats will not be provided. Contact: Carol MacKenzie, 541-442-5079, wlmack@yahoo.com American Women Vets’ Assoc. in Douglas County Female veterans from all U.S. service branches/

VETERANS’ SERVICE OFFICES County Service Organization Service Offices

eras are invited to meet, become informed, do service projects, and enjoy camaraderie. Monthly meeting is on the 2nd Tue., 5 p.m., with a quarterly potluck at American Legion Post 16, 406 SE Oak St., Roseburg. Contact: Dona Brewer, 541-391-9813, dona4008@msn.com 10th Mountain Division Group Newcomers, WWII comrades and descendants meet monthly on the last Sunday for lunch, 1 p.m., Eastmoreland Golf Course Club House, 2425 SE Bybee Blvd., Portland.

Contact: Jim Bray, 503-913-7058 Vietnam 25th Infantry Div., 1st Air CAV Vets All veterans are invited to meet monthly at 11:30 a.m., on the second Tuesday for lunch and conversation at Superking Buffet, 5105 SE 82nd Ave., Portland.

Contacts: Gary Hartt, 503-632-6955, Terry Lowe, 503-210-5558 US Merchant Marine-Navy Armed Guard Oregon’s AMMV meets on the third Monday of each month, 11:30 a.m., at Clackamas Banquet Facility, 15815 SE 82nd Drive. Contact: Linda Roberts, 503-6637876 Douglas County Veterans Forum Veteran organizational leaders meet to discuss and develop common support for all SW Oregon veterans, and the annual events they support, third Tuesday of the month, at 5 p.m. Briefings provided by: VA, Oregon National Guard, community agencies specializing in veteran issues.

Location: American Legion Post 16, 406 SE Oak St., Roseburg. Contact: John McDonald, 541-5806178, jd.mcdonald.jd@gmail.com Underage Veterans Meet 1st Fridays in Portland – Underage veterans who joined the service at age 16 or younger, and all others interested, are invited to this monthly meeting. Call ahead for a time and location. Contact: Willie Paradise, 503-665-1739, or Jim Bunting at 503-622-0369

Submit Event Information to Vets News @ www.oregon.gov/ODVA/pages/Events.aspx IMPORTANT VETERANS DAY EVENT SUBMISSION INFO:

PHOTO BY TECH. SGT. JOHN HUGHEL

The Vets News will be gathering Veterans Day events to help publicize community and organizational events statewide. Those wanting to include their events, parades or ceremonies in the next edition must submit them by October 10, to www.oregon.gov/ ODVA/pages/Events.aspx

Baker .................... 541-523-8223 Benton ................. 541-758-1595 Clackamas ........... 503-650-5631 www.clackamascvso.com Clatsop ................. 503-440-8310 Columbia .............. 503-366-6580 www.columbiacvso.com Coos ...................... 541-396-3121, Ext. 362 Crook ..................... 541-447-5304 Curry ..................... 866-298-0404 www.currycvso.com Deschutes ............ 541-385-3214 Douglas ................ 541-440-4219 Gilliam .................. 541-384-6712 www.tricountyvso.com Grant .................... 541-575-1631 www.grantcvso.com Harney ................... 541-573-1342 www.harneycvso.com Hood River ........... 541-386-1080 Jackson ................ 541-774-8214 Jefferson .............. 541-475-5228 Josephine.............. 541-474-5454 www.josephinecvso.com Klamath ............... 541-883-4274 www.klamathcvso.com Lake ..................... 541-947-6043 www.lakecvso.com Lane ..................... 541-682-4191 www.lanecvso.com Lincoln ................. 541-574-6955 Linn ...................... 800-319-3882 Malheur ................ 541-889-6649 Marion ................... 503-373-2085 www.marionpolkcvso.com Morrow ................. 541-922-6420 Multnomah .......... 503-988-3620, Ext. 25005 Polk ....................... 503-373-2085 www.marionpolkcvso.com Sherman .............. 541-565-3408 www.tricountyvso.com Tillamook ............. 503-842-4358 www.tillamookcvso.com Umatilla ................ 541-278-5482 www.umatillacvso.com Union .................... 541-962-8802 www.unioncvso.com Wallowa ................. 541-426-3155, Ext. 241 Wasco .................. 541-506-2502 Washington .......... 503-846-3060 www.washingtoncvso.com Wheeler................. 541-763-3032 www.tricountyvso.com Yamhill ................. 503-434-7503 www.yamhillcvso.com

Jane Chandler Mary Newman Janice Harlan-Raisl Philip Simmons Russell Clark Eric Gleason Angela Gilley Kimberly O’Neal Keith Macnamara Jim Fitzpatrick Bryan Hunt Bob Muenchausen Guy McKay Les Logsdon Bob Carson Tom Weiss Lisa Shipley Kathy Pierce Charles Pike Joseph Reiley John Reed Kim Grooms Connie Tanaka ODVA Linda Skendzel Katie Pereault ODVA Bryan Hunt Bill Hatton Peggy Raines Byron Whipple Charlie Neveau Russell Jones Vicki Horn Bryan Hunt Jerry Wilson

National Service Organization Service Offices American Legion ................................................... 541-475-5228 National Assoc. for Black Veterans ..................... 503-412-4159 Disabled American Veterans .............................. 503-412-4750 Military Order of the Purple Heart ........................ 503-412-4770 Paralyzed Veterans of America............................. 503-412-4762 Veterans of Foreign Wars...................................... 503-412-4757

Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden joined USO staff members Christine Vu (left), Col. (ret.) Joe Williams, and other supporters to cut the ribbon and dedicate the new USO Welcome Center at Portland International Airport.

USO CENTER AT PDX AIRPORT DEDICATED The ribbon was cut on July 2, to mark the dedication of the United Service Organization’s (USO) new Welcome Center at Portland International Airport (PDX). Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden took part in the ceremony with USO Center Manager Christine Vu, Project Manager Col. (ret.) Joe Williams, and several other supporters.

The center is a 650-square-foot lounge in the mezzanine of the airport terminal. Volunteers will staff the lounge, which will be open to military members awaiting flights. It will feature snacks, laptops, transit assistance and other services, Williams added.

The start-up costs were about $144,000 with annual operating budget of $150,000.

The center at PDX is part of a nonprofit, congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO provides an extensive range of programs at more than 160 locations in 27 states and 14 countries, and at hundreds of entertainment events each year.

Contact the PDX USO Center by calling 503-282-2262.  11

Veterans’ Affairs Advisory Committee Since the Advisory Committee was established in 1945, it has held a distinct and fundamental role as advisors to the Director of ODVA. Advisory Committee members include: Irv Fletcher Dennis G. Guthrie Al Herrera

J. Ryan Howell Michael Jones Trisa E. Kelly

Gerard F. Lorang Mary J. Mayer , Chair Kevin J. Owens

To contact the Advisory Committee, please email vaac@odva.state.or.us or call 503-373-2383.

Meetings of the Advisory Committee are public meetings held quarterly. The next meeting will be held on September 3, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. in Ontario at the Veterans Memorial Hall located at 25 NW 8th Street. Please contact 503-373-2383 for more information. Special needs will be met for those who have a disability.

HIPAA Statement ODVA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA provides that no qualified

person with a disability shall be kept from participation in, or be denied a benefit of the services, programs, or activities of ODVA because of that disability. This publication is available in alternate formats. For this service, or concerns regarding ADA, contact the ADA Coordinator at 503-373-2380. The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, known as HIPAA. You may obtain a copy of the ODVA Notice of Privacy Practices anytime. Visit ODVA’s website at www.oregon.gov/odva, or call 1-800-828-8801 ext. 2141 or 503-373-2141. Write to ODVA’s Privacy Officer to have a copy mailed to you.

VETS NEWS // SUMMER 2014

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS' AFFAIRS

12

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