2016 Texas VFW News | Summer

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E D E PA R T M E N T O F T E X A S V E T E R A N S O F F O R E I G N W A R S | S U M M E R 2 0 1 6

96TH ANNUAL STATE

CONVENTION

HIGHLIGHTS LEGACY OF

DESERT STORM LIVES ON

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE

FIRST PLACE WINNER 2016 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

VETERANS IN THE

COMMUNITY

Time Warner Cable employs more than 4,000 veterans.

NOW HIRING FOR: Field Technicians Network Operations Center (NOC) Techs Direct Sales Representatives Customer Care Representatives Engineering And more twc.com/military

96th Annual Convention Highlights page 16-19

Independence Day Celebrations page 31

Serving Veterans Since 1899

What Does The Texas VFW Offer You? Camaraderie with fellow Veterans • Community Networking & Involvement • Remembrance Programs • Full time support of today’s service members • Programs for families and youth • Full Time Watchdog on Capitol Hill & at the Texas Legislature • Free representation in VA claims • An award-winning magazine Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW News will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part.

In the News

4 Commander’s Column

5-6 Veterans in the Community

9 Legacy of Desert Storm Lives On

10 Gratitude to the Texas VFW

11 Jr. Vice/Sr. Vice Letters 12 Loyalty Day Celebrations

14 Texas VFW Foundation

15 Victory in Europe Day Remembrances 16-19 96th Annual State Convention Highlights

20 Memorial Day Remembrances 22-23 Veterans in the Community

24 D-Day Remembrances

25 Texas VFW Membership Application

27 VSPChannel

28 Flag Day Celebrations

31 Independence Day Celebrations

32 Post 9213 Lays Wreath at Vietnam Wall

CONTENTS

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars www.texasvfw.org

Upcoming Events

30 State CDR and President’s Homecoming

Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to dan@texasvfw.org Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and are not to be construed as those of the publisher nor as official views of the Texas VFW, the National VFW or any of its agencies, unless otherwise made manifest by writers or spokespersons acting on behalf of the foregoing.

Advertising of products and services herein does not imply endorsement or approval of the Texas VFW. Advertising is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services are accurately described. Ads that contain fraudulent, deceptive or misleading statements or illustrations, or in the opinion of the Texas VFW News may be offensive, are not knowingly accepted. If you encounter noncompliance, please tell us.

For information regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org.

ABOUT THE COVER

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E D E PA R T M ENT OF TEXAS VETE RANS OF FOREIGN W ARS | SUMMER 2 016

Texas VFW State Commander Peyton Lumpkin and Department Officers get sworn in at the 96th Annual State Convention.

96TH ANNUAL STATE TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE

FIRST PLACE WINNER

2016 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTES T

Join us on facebook for up-to-date information, photos of VFW events and breaking news relevant to Veterans.

CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS LEGACY OF

DESERT STORM LIVES ON

VETERANS IN THE

COMMUNITY

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

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN MY FELLOW COMRADES, IT IS AN HONOR TO SERVE THE 75,000 VFW VETERANS IN THE STATE OF TEXAS FOR THE YEAR 2016-2017. I stand on the shoulders of VFW legends that have built and commanded the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars and will endeavor to make them and you proud.

I recently attended a leadership class taught by Robert McDonald, Secretary of Veteran Affairs, and he mentioned some key points that I want to share with you. The first point is from a book by Bruce Plasecki called The Surprising Solution: Creating Possibility in a Swift and Severe World. Mr. Plasecki’s concept is that “Companies must do well to do good and must do good to do well.” This is important because with social media and the internet there is nowhere to hide. In our case, when a consumer supports the VFW, they want to know the organization cares about its mission and is functioning as advertised.

The second nugget is from a book by Michael Kelly titled The Dream Manager. “Everyone wants to succeed and success is contagious.” Secretary McDonald said, “I have never in all my life, in any career, in any country, at any time met a person who tries to fail. Everyone I have met want to succeed. So the job of the leader is to help people succeed. A leader’s job is to aid the process of success—a small success will lead to larger successes.

Since success is contagious, one success will always lead to another, and one successful person will always influence another to be successful.”

Texas is a veteran-friendly state, and it now ranks close to number one in the U.S. as the primary residence for veterans. There are currently 1.6 million veterans that now call Texas home. Of that number, it has been estimated that over 900,000 are eligible for the VFW. We need those veterans as members. Each day, the headlines say it all. Never in our history have veterans entitlements been under such scrutiny. Without the VFW to fight for our entitlements, who is going to?

There are three areas in any organization that are of utmost importance.

The first is sustainability. We must stay in business to be able to continue our mission. This means that each year we must replace ourselves and meet our Post membership goals. To not do so means that we will continue a decline that started in the late 90’s that threatens to draw our membership levels down to the point where mission accomplishment is degraded.

Our mission is very simple—to assist our veterans and to accomplish community service. I want all of our Posts to be active in their community.

When we are doing good in the community, our citizens look upon you, your Post and the VFW with pride. We must also improve the way we communicate with our members. Does your Post have a newsletter, email or an outreach team that visits fellow members? In many cases, we have lost touch with our members. We need to know who they are and what their needs are. Let’s get back to basics—our first priority is taking care of our members and the veteran community as a whole. There is much we have done; there is much we need to do.

Thank you for being a part of my team. I look forward to working with you and accomplishing great things this year. I know all of you will have a successful 2016-2017! n

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices.

Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXXI, Number 1, © August 2016. All rights reserved.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Circulation Dept., VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111.

Members Change of Address: Forward address changes to: Data Entry, VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address as printed on a recent copy of the Texas VFW News magazine.

Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org, or request a printed Media Kit at dan@texasvfw.org.

Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editor Erin Marlow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editor medianation.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Design DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535

2016-2017 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS COMMANDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9182 Peyton Lumpkin . . . . . . . . . 2207 Blue Water Bay Dr. Katy, TX 77494 SR VICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4815 Edward Torres . . . . . . . 663 Moursund Blvd. San Antonio, TX 78221 JR VICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12075 Inge Conley . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17411 Ebeys Landing, Humble TX 77346 JUDGE ADVOCATE . . . . . . . . . . . 9182 Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1927 Mariner Point Ln, Katy TX 77494 SURGEON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3359 Thomas Doc Howard . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr. Garland, TX 75044 CHAPLAIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4816 Norman Macey . . . . . . 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct, Humble TX 77346 CHIEF OF STAFF . . . . . . . . . . . . 4709 Gary Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217 Virginia Ln, Conroe, TX 77304 INSPECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7426 Joe Hayes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 CR 1118, Caddo Mills, TX 75135 IMMD. PAST CMDR . . . . . . . . . 3413 Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8503 N I35 Austin TX 78753 COUNCIL MEMBER . . . . . . . . . . 8932 Larry Velasquez . . . . . 4829 Golden Eye Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 ADJUTANT/QUARTERMASTER . . . . 3377 Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8503 N I35 Austin TX 78753 ASSISTANT QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6378 Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 14451, Austin, TX 78761 DEPUTY COS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12041 Larry Sanders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 457, Lytle TX 78052 DEPUTY COS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7873 Lavern Terbl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Plantation Ave., Pottsboro, TX 75076 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . 8788 Rick Ramirez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 416 E. Waterlily, McAllen, TX 78504 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . 8923 Jon Lunkwicz . . . . . . . 12245 Eunice St, Farmers Branch, TX 75234 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . 6873 James Carter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2234 Castle Drive, Clyde TX 79510 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . 4709 John Tellier . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16718 Old Danville Rd, Willis, TX 77318 OFFICER OF THE DAY . . . . . . . . 2427 Stephen Biehl . . . . . . . . 28314 Hardin Store Rd, Magnolia, TX 77354

DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORS SERVICE OFFICER WACO . . . . . . . . . 6008 Kevin Winget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799 SERVICE OFFICER HOUSTON . . . . . . 6378 Richard Pallanez . . . . . . . 6900 Almeda Rd, Houston, TX 77030

2016-2017 DISTRICT COMMANDERS DISTRICT D1 2195 . . . . . . . . .

D2 1514 . . . . . . . . .

D3 8913 . . . . . . . . .

D4 12075 . . . . . . . .

D5 8315 . . . . . . . . .

D6 7634 . . . . . . . . .

D8 6873 . . . . . . . . .

D9 1657 . . . . . . . . .

D10 812 . . . . . . . . . .

D12 8560 . . . . . . . . .

D13 8134 . . . . . . . . .

D14 10376 . . . . . . . .

D15 8878 . . . . . . . . .

D16 8551 . . . . . . . . .

D17 4709 . . . . . . . . .

D18 2410 . . . . . . . . .

D19 3893 . . . . . . . . .

D20 8541 . . . . . . . . .

D21 10429 . . . . . . . .

D24 4146 . . . . . . . . .

D25 6284 . . . . . . . . .

D28 9078 . . . . . . . . .

D29 6008 . . . . . . . . .

D30 3894 . . . . . . . . .

COMMANDER ADDRESS Pete Hersom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7309 Parkwood Dr, Sachse TX 75048 Richard Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 548, Village Mills, TX 77663 Grant Seabolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1305 Cardigan Lane, DeSoto, TX 75115 Cecil McConnell, Jr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3615 Purple Meadow Ln, Kingwood, TX 77345 Ronald Spalding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 770, Cibolo, TX 78108 David Carvajal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 263, Falfurrias, TX 78355 Kevin Wade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 711, Stamford, TX 79553 Danny Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 953, Pampa, TX 79066 Rodney “Rod” Raulston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3901 McConnell Ave, El Paso, TX 79904 David Nichols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 1, Chicota, TX 75425 Daniel Hinojosa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305 E CR 678, Natalia, TX 78059 Bob Hansen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1501 Northwood Dr, Marble Falls, TX 78654 Michael Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1208 N Rosewood Ave, Wichita Falls, TX 76301 Glenn James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235 Primrose Rd., Freeport, TX 77541 Lee Derby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11521 FM 1484 Rd, Conroe, TX 77303 Loren Pogue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 809, Donna, TX 78537 Richard “Dick” Shawver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19151 Valley Dr, Flint, TX 75762 Jesse Dominguez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6531 Mission Hills Dr, San Antonio, TX 78244 Lynn Toomer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 937 Behrens Court, Crowley, TX 76036 Mat Offe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1388 Old Goliad Rd, Victoria, TX 77905 Melvin Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton Ave, Odessa, TX 79762 Bob Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1703 Foxfire Drive, Round Rock, TX 78681 Roy “Bobby” Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 76705 Ed Faught . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225 N Falling Leaves Dr., Waxahachie, TX 75167

TEXAS VFW POST 5076, DISTRICT 3, GARLAND, TEXAS—Post members donated a wreath for the fallen police officers from the recent Dallas shooting. VFW members and Southern Dawgs organized a motorcycle ride to deliver the wreath.

TEXAS VFW POST 7473, DISTRICT 18, ELSA, TEXAS—Post

Commander Lupita Perez and Auxiliary Vice President Irma Solis met with Girl Scout Troop #2222 out of Harlingen to donate cookies for deployed soldiers overseas. Post members are gathering cookies from different Girl Scout troops with plans to mail them out as soon as possible.

TEXAS VFW POST 4011, DISTRICT 1, GREENVILLE, TEXAS—Post members donated

two $250 leadership scholarships to the local NJROTC. Post members also presented VFW medals to the awarded JROTC cadets Demarcus Terry and Brian Adams by Commander Elect Jim Yaw and Gene Toothy.

TEXAS VFW POST 880, DISTRICT 16—Post members escort and host Ken Meyers (holding the US Flag) as he walks 628 miles for the Remember Operation RED WING and the 22 A Day Awareness Cause. They participated in the escort for the final two legs of his 628 mile walk through southeast Texas. Mr. Meyers was walking to honor the memory of those Marines who died in the helicopter crash of Operation RED WING in Afghanistan in 2005.

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CUB SCOUTS SURPRISE TEXAS VFW MEMBERS TEXAS VFW POST 4008, DISTRICT 14, BELTON, TEXAS—Post members received a special treat the morning of Armed

Forces Day. Cub Scout Pack 177 surprised veterans with breakfast. Members were welcomed and escorted to the post hall for coffee and orange juice by the pack then the Cub Scouts took their orders from a menu that they provided. Each Cub Scout participated in serving the breakfast and setting up the tables with tablecloths, napkins, silverware and plates. Each comrade who sat at a table had a Cub Scout waiting on him or her that morning. The scouts were filled with joy and happiness and were very proud to serve each veteran.

This has become an annual event at Post 4008 and is all about the Cub Scout Pack 177 giving back to the post and its veterans. A big warm THANKS for a job well done!

TEXAS VFW POST 4008, DISTRICT 14, BELTON, TEXAS—

Post members hold an Emergency Services Appreciation Luncheon for all men and women in blue, Fire Department, DPS, Mary Hardin Baylor Police, Bell County Sheriff Department, Bell County Constables and others. Earlier that week, Post members attended the Belton Police Department Memorial Ceremony in remembrance of fallen police officers from Dallas, Baton Rouge, Louisiana and other parts of the country.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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‌.My confidence in you is total, our cause is just, now you must be the thunder and lightning of Desert Storm – General H. Norman Schwarzkopf

In 1991, America assembled a coalition of 34 countries to turn back an aggressive attempt by Saddam Hussein and Iraqi forces to invade and conquer the much smaller nation of Kuwait. Using a combination of high end military technology and world class expertise, America led the way in what has come to be known as the most one-sided victory in our nation’s history against one of the largest militaries in the world, but it was not without great cost.

Over half a million American servicemen and women served in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and 383 gave the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom.

Building the memorial is the fitting tribute to those who served, those who died and the families who remember them.

As 2015-2016 marks the 25th Anniversary of the war, now is the time to build the memorial, when those who would benefit from it the most would be able to see it, the veterans of Desert Shield and Desert Storm themselves. With your help they will have the opportunity to see this built in their lifetime and bring their children and grandchildren to visit it.

25 Years Later, the Legacy of Desert Storm Lives On Picture people by the hundreds of thousands lining the streets of Washington, DC, waving small American flags on a hot, humid summer’s day as American veterans wave back, humbled by the outpouring of support from a grateful nation.

IT’S NOW A COMMON SIGHT ON MEMORIAL DAY, but a similar parade of heroes also took place nearly 25 years ago to the day. On June 8, 1991, almost 9,000 service members marched in the National Victory Celebration for the Gulf War, parading along Constitution Avenue and crossing the Memorial Bridge into Arlington National Cemetery where they could pay their respects to the 383 men and women who would not be welcomed home.

Twenty-five years and two long wars later, it is easy to forget the service and sacrifices that secured victory and restored freedom in just 43 days of combat during Operation Desert Storm.

“The last fifteen years, our young men and women have deployed so many times, year after year, that some Americans may not remember what a huge moment in history it was when more than 600,000 troops deployed in the Gulf War,” said Scott C. Stump, an Operation Desert Storm veteran and founder of the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association.

“Operations Desert Shield and Storm were our country’s first major military engagements since Vietnam,” said Stump.

“But this time, our neighbors rallied around us. They tied yellow ribbons around trees, they sent care packages, they embraced the families we left behind.”

What would become known as the Gulf War began in August 1990, when Iraq, led by then-president Saddam Hussein, invaded its much smaller neighbor Kuwait to gain access to its economic resources and threaten Saudi Arabia. Unwilling to stand by as its ally Kuwait was pillaged, the United States led diplomatic action at the United Nations to condemn Iraq’s invasion

and began military deployments to fortify and sustain its allies in the region.

across the borders to eject Iraqi forces from Kuwait.

“The servicemen and women who deployed to Saudi Arabia and the region in 1990 and 1991 faced threats like no other generation of troops before them,” said Stump. “There was the potential for chemical, biological, and nuclear war, incoming missiles and mortars day and night, and Iraq maintained the fourth largest military in the world at the time.”

“The ground assault was the most one-sided battle of the 20th century,” said Stump.

For months, America and a coalition of 34 countries worked on a diplomatic solution to end the crisis. When Saddam Hussein failed to abide by diplomatic agreements, the United States—and the world—had no choice but to act.

“We can’t forget Operation Desert Storm simply because it turned out to be a surprisingly short war. Those who deployed were prepared to dig in for the long haul,” said Stump. “We should remember the war for its overwhelming success in ending quickly and losing as few men and women as possible. And we are duty bound to always honor those men and women who did not come home.”

Led by General Norman Schwarzkopf Jr., a massive air campaign began on January 17, 1991. The unrelenting strikes were a joint effort with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines each contributing pilots and aircraft in a mission to destroy enemy command and control capabilities, deadly long range missiles targeting Saudi Arabia and Israel, ground forces, and equipment.

Despite the brutal air campaign, Hussein would not relinquish his stranglehold on Kuwait. The coalition led by the United States would not settle for less than liberation.

Thirty-eight days of strikes paved the path for the ground assault, what is known as the “Great Left Hook” which spanned 300 miles along the Iraqi border.

For 100 hours beginning on February 24, 1991, seven Army divisions, two Marine divisions, and numerous other units from allied nations and other services poured

Coalition forces, led by American troops and warplanes, annihilated the Iraqi military. The intensity of the war was equaled only by the joy of victory. Kuwait was free of its aggressor and American values prevailed as mightily as its military.

That is the calling Stump answers to today. The veteran of Operation Desert Storm founded the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association to ensure a permanent monument to the 383 fallen servicemen and women of the war stood in the nation’s capital.

In 2014, Stump and the association secured the backing of Congress and the president and today the group works every day to raise the capital necessary for constructing the memorial.

“The legacy of Desert Storm is still felt today, in our military and in our nation,” said Stump. “We are committed to teaching future generations about that legacy—and about the 383 men and women who sacrificed everything defending the lives and freedom of others.” n

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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Update and GRATITUDE to the Texas VFW Department, Posts and Auxiliaries

By James Stryker, Texas War Memorial Chairman

AS THE CHAIR OF THE COMMITTEE TO BUILD THE TEXAS WAR MEMORIAL THAT WILL BE PLACED AT THE TEXAS CAPITOL COMPLEX to honor our warriors and their families that have served since 9/11/2001, I continue to respectfully request your help in two ways.

First, help us raise the very few dollars left to cover the costs of the Monument, required State of Texas Endowment and dedication costs. Secondly, encourage our great GWOT Veterans and family members to tell their story on our Living Memorial. http:// texaswarmemorial.com/living-memorial/ This project started out tough, as my Dad, a WWII Navy Veteran who served in the Pacific, taught me to work hard for what you wanted, so it has been a struggle to ask people for their hard-earned money. Nonetheless, through this project, I reminded myself who the funds were for and have had the distinct pleasure of meeting so many interesting and generous Texans and hearing the stories of why they what to donate. The other bonus was meeting Veterans and family members and learning about their service and their stories. God bless our military!

It is with pride that I give you the following update on the project, to sum it up, due to great and generous individuals and organizations like the Texas VFW—“No one does more for Veterans!”—we have been able to accomplish the following in a very short time: • Designed the monument and created an Art Bronze replica of the future Monument • Secured the required legislation to place it on the Texas Capital Grounds • Raised the majority funds to build it; .92 cents of every dollar goes directly to the monument. There are no paid employees and volunteers pay their own expenses • Created an online Living Memorial to chronicle the stories of Texans who served in the Global War on Terror • We signed the contract with the Texas Artist, Sandra Van Zandt, and once the State 10

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

Preservation Board gives us the “go,” she will begin sculpting the 20-foot tall Monument, which will take about one year. We hope to dedicated in on the September 11 weekend in 2017 At the VFW State Convention, I had occasion to converse with many of you and even a few of our great heroes from the 9/11 era. My discussions with the 9/11 era service members, veterans and their families emphasized the reason why we need to timely build the monument. This generation of warriors has been at war for 15 years and still counting.

This endurance test has been endured but has left scars.

I will never forget the experiences one Veteran told me. Her husband had been ordered to another OEF/OIF tour, I think it was his fourth or fifth tour. Like too many others, he was not healed and prepared for another tour and he took his own life. Subsequently, the wife received orders for an OEF/OIF tour. Since she was now a single mother, she left her daughter with relatives. Years later, she discovered the impact of her tour on her young daughter. Her daughter informed her that every time the doorbell rang, she panicked until she knew it was not a Casualty Team and Chaplain bringing bad news about her mother. This family clearly reflects the fact that no service member or their family escapes OEF/OIF without some form of change.

There are so many stories like this, of suffering and sacrifice – but I think if you asked the mother-Veteran and the daughter, they are proud of their husband’s/father’s service, and their own service and sacrifice.

At the VFW Convention our table promoting the monument was near the display of all our Texas Fallen heroes. I spent several hours reading about these Fallen heroes and reading the comments by friends and families. I could not help but notice the youthfulness of each of these heroes. Sadly, I could also not help but notice how such a promising future for each of the heroes was cut short by war.

Unquestionably, a loss to their families but also a great loss to Texas and the nation. It is the sacrifice of the Fallen, all that have served

and of their families that has driven me to continue pushing to make the Monument a timely instrument of gratitude and honor to these great Texans.

I want to thank the VFW Posts, Auxiliaries and individuals for helping me on my journey.

To those who have not as yet had the time to send your donation please do not let this opportunity to say thanks to our Texas warriors and their families slip away.

Texas VFW Posts have donated $16,770. To see the Posts, Auxiliaries and individuals go to this link http://texaswarmemorial.com/groupdonors/ We invite each of you and plan to make the VFW a large part of the dedication in September 2017 in Austin. We will let this generation of warriors and their families know we appreciate their service and sacrifice at the dedication of the “Price of Liberty,” in Austin.

MISSION—to build and place “The Price of Liberty” Memorial Statue at the Texas Capitol.

The monument will honor service members from all branches of service, and their families, who served in the Global War on Terror, after September 11, 2001. Legislation requires that we also provide an endowment for future maintenance and upkeep of the monument.

The project is to be at no cost to Texas taxpayers. n

Please help with your personal and/or VFW Post contributions by donating to “The Price of Liberty” Memorial. You can do so by mail at Texas War Memorial, 3706 Crawford Street, Austin, TX 78731; or so via the website http:// TexasWarMemorial.com exas War Memorial is a §501 (c)(3) T organization and your donations are deductible as provided under IRC §501 (c)(3).

F or more information about the Memorial, to request a presentation at your location, or to request interviews, please contact James Stryker at 832-820-6655 or Staff@ TexasWarMemorial.com.

WE BEGIN THE NEW VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS YEAR BRIGHT EYED AND EAGER TO SERVE VETERANS and our communities throughout our state. Thanks to all of the caring comrades and sisters for your dedicated support to our organization. It is by your presence in our communities that we will have another successful year supporting veterans and their families. The community fellowship in your post homes and tributes of patriotism for our country open the doors to membership, the backbone of our organization and the greatest resource to accomplish all of our many programs. It is because of your activities that we are able to touch the heart of others through your acts of charitable work. Take these golden opportunities to show what the Veterans of Foreign Wars stands for and what we do to enhance our communities and the residents who live there. America’s volunteer spirit is needed now more than ever. We face adversity every day, but facing issues together can only make us stronger as team volunteers. We want to encourage and inspire members to take on the challenges of our organization and commit to serving others.

With so many terroristic threats in our world and our own nation, your initiatives and optimistic views to be a humanitarian and mentor will help make a difference in someone’s life.

The slate of new elected and appointed officers has been chosen.

Let’s move forward and support our goals. We have initiated a membership incentive with reduced dues for active duty military, including the Guard and Reserve. Check with the District Commander for more information or call the State Headquarters. We need boots on the ground recruiting now to achieve our membership goals. The best approach has always been to simply “ask” someone to join. More than that, we need to let our veterans know what we do and what we stand for. Keep in mind that your relief fund can be used for members unable to pay for membership, due to health or financial hardship. In this presidential election year and with increased membership, our voice will make a difference among our congressional leaders.

For more information regarding membership and other programs visit our website www.texasvfw.org .

COMRADES, I WOULD BE REMISS IF I DID NOT THANK YOU FOR PLACING YOUR TRUST IN ME by electing me as the Texas VFW State Junior Vice Commander for the 2016-2017 year. I am honored to serve you and the VFW. As we campaigned across this large state, I could not help but be impressed by the outstanding leaders and members we have and your commitment to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

The world, as well as our organization, is changing. I am confident that together we can overcome the challenges facing the VFW, our members and veterans. I pledge to work hand in hand with you to accomplish the goals of our organization. It will not be easy, but as veterans, we have faced many of the same challenges in our lives.

Together we will continue to fight those of our society who would reduce or eliminate the entitlements that veterans have earned. Make no mistake. We are in a battle to preserve those earned entitlements. We must, for the sake of all veterans, past, present and future, win this battle. With the leaders and members we have in the Texas VFW, we will succeed.

Let us move forward. Let the VFW shine as an example of people working together for a common cause. Let us continue to be the organization that for 117 years has been the leader for veteran issues in this country and will continue to do so until the last veteran passes away.

I look forward to, once again, travel across this state. Not as a candidate or as the State Junior Vice Commander, but as your friend and comrade. Again, thank you for placing your trust in me.

In closing, don’t sweat the small stuff. Pray for world peace and may the Lord keep our troops safe.

Edward C. Torres Sr. Vice-Commander

Inge Conley State Junior Vice Commander

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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Loyalty Day program. and Frank Covarrubia at the Loyalty Day Ceremony held at VFW Post 9186.

TEXAS VFW POST 6119, DISTRICT 6, GEORGE WEST, TEXAS—Post members recited the

Pledge of Allegiance at the Three Rivers City Hall. The members spoke about what Loyalty Day meant to them and closed with a prayer.

TEXAS VFW POST 6284, DISTRICT 25, KERMIT, TEXAS—Post Commander, District 25 Commander, District 25

President, Post Quartermaster and members held a Loyalty Day program.

Post Commander gave a briefing on Loyalty Day with its history and then had cake and coffee.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

9.75 in.

10.75 in.

11.0 in.

TEXAS VFW POST 8788, DISTRICT 18, TEXAS VFW POST 9186, DISTRICT 20, SAN ANTONIO, MCALLEN, TEXAS TEXAS—Post members hold a Loyalty Day program. Left to right are Post 9186 —Post members hold a Officers, Carlos Mujica, Rudy Longoria, Commander, Robert Otto, Ramon Padilla

Give back to the VFW.

USAA Bank proudly supports veterans and their families. Show your support by applying for the credit card that gives back to either the VFW or the VFW Auxiliary with every eligible purchase, and take advantage of: 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months on balance transfers and convenience checks posted in the first three months after account opening (11.15% to 26.15% variable APR on these balances after 12 months).1 No annual fee.

2,500 bonus points after your first purchase, and earn 1 point for every $1 in credit card purchases.2 Redeem points for 1% cash back, or use them for gift cards, merchandise, or travel.

Plus, now you can extend your support by redeeming your rewards points for a donation to the VFW or the VFW Auxiliary.

APPLY TODAY. VFW USAA Rewards™ Visa Signature® usaa.com/vfwvisa 800-274-8839

VFW Auxiliary USAA Rewards™ Visa Signature® usaa.com/vfwauxvisa 866-575-2859

USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. USAA products are available only in those jurisdictions where USAA is authorized to sell them.

1 Offer subject to approval. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. There is a balance transfer fee of 3% of the amount of each balance transfer and each convenience check (maximum $200 per transfer/ check). If you transfer a balance or write a convenience check with this offer, all purchases will be charged interest until you pay the entire balance in full, including any transferred/convenience check balances. After that, you will have a grace period on purchases when you pay your entire statement balance each month by the payment due date. If you apply for a USAA Visa Signature Card account and are approved, your credit history and credit limit will determine if you qualify for a USAA Visa Signature Card or a USAA Visa Card with the same rates and fees. 2 You will earn Reward Points based on your Qualifying Purchases. Certain restrictions apply, including limitations if your Account becomes delinquent or closed. See your USAA Rewards™ Program Terms and Conditions, which will be provided with your card, for more information. Purchase of a product other than USAA auto or property insurance, or purchase of an insurance policy offered through the USAA Insurance Agency, does not establish eligibility for, or membership in, USAA property and casualty insurance companies. The VFW and the VFW Auxiliary receive financial support from USAA for this sponsorship.

This credit card program is issued by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC. © 2016 USAA. 232666-0816

Job Fair The Texas VFW Foundation assisted in sponsoring a job fair at the 96th State Convention in Dallas. There were 45 employers who set up tables looking to fill jobs. Two hundred twenty-five veterans were in attendance at the job fair. So far, 21 job offers have been made.

Remembering Our Fallen Memorial The Texas VFW Foundation sponsored the Texas exhibit of “Remembering Our Fallen” war memorial at the 96th State Convention in Dallas. This war memorial commemorates our country’s fallen from The War on Terror since the Twin Towers fell on September 11, 2001. It is a somber remembrance of the utmost sacrifice made by over 600 Texans who were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. By sponsoring this display, Texas VFW Foundation honored and remembered those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom and invited the public and other Texas VFW members to do the same.

The Texas VFW Financial Assistance “Thank you so much for helping me in my time of need. I really didn’t know what I was going to do this month with funds lacking and potential jobs not calling fast enough and was almost three months behind on all my monthly bills. I was in the position of making the choice to pay bills or eat.

I heard from another veteran while at the VA, that the Texas VFW Foundation may be able to help me and that I should give it a try. Besides the only thing that could happen to me is being told no. I had nothing to lose and all to gain by filling out the proper paperwork. As I filled out all the required paperwork and placed it in the mailbox, I said a big prayer.

Thanks to the Foundation my prayers were answered like so many other veterans prayers in their time of need. This program is wonderful for the veteran community. This program reminds me of the quote “Never leave a man behind.” I say ‘thank you’ to all the donors and to all the facilitators of this cause. Your gift will never be forgotten and I plan on making a donation back to the Foundation once my situation improves.

Thanks again for all that you do for veterans!” —T.J. (USMC)

Your small donation makes a BIG difference.

The Texas VFW Foundation accepts memorials in honor of your loved ones. Those funds are reserved for the family of the deceased. If the family declines assistance, the funds are utilized in the Veterans Assistance Program.

• The Texas VFW Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 Public Charity, Veterans Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge, widow or immediate family member thereof, regardless of where or what time they served.

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

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

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

• Applications can be found at the Featured Links section on the Texas VFW Web Site www.texasvfw.org; by emailing the Foundation at foundation@texasvfw.org; or by calling (512) 291-6850.

Donations may be mailed to Texas VFW Foundation, P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

TEXAS VFW POST 1406, DISTRICT 3, DALLAS, TEXAS—Post

members held a V-E Day program where the commander read the names of the battles fought in Europe and recognized WWI and WWII veterans.

TEXAS VFW POST 2676, DISTRICT 15, WINDTHORST, TEXAS—Fallen military heroes of the

Windthorst Community, Marine Corporal Leo Blake (WWII), Marine Corporal Paul Himmels (Korea) and Marine Sergeant Gary Johnston (Iraq) are remembered and honored for their sacrifice during a Memorial Day ceremony at St. Mary’s Grotto in Windthorst. Ceremony was conducted by Scotland-Windthorst VFW Memorial Post 2676 and its Auxiliary.

TEXAS VFW POST 7104, DISTRICT 17, BRENHAM, TEXAS—Two VFW

GRANT SEABOLT Lawyer to Warriors

Candidate for 2017-2018 State Judge Advocate Department of Texas VFW

post members who are WWII veterans shared their personal experiences when VE Day happened.

Endorsed by Ken Burton, Department of Texas State Judge Advocate District 3 Commander 2016-2017 All State/All American Post Commander 2015-2016 Life Member & Adjutant, VFW Post 8913, Lancaster, TX (Post Commander 2013-2016) Colonel, USMCR (Ret.) USMC Judge Advocate (1979-2005) Navy-USMC Commendation Medal Joint Service Achievement Medal Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal Business Lawyer & General Counsel Services Distinguished Mediator & Experienced Arbitrator Director for 3 Veterans Related Charities Married Vicki Seabolt 34 Years, 2 Children Lay Eucharistic Minister/Vestry, St. Anne Episc. Ch.

TEXAS VFW POST 8315, DISTRICT 5, SCHERTZ, TEXAS—Post members placed flags throughout their community to honor V-E Day.

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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This year over 1,200 Texas veterans and Auxiliary members participated in the Texas VFW 96th Annual State Convention in Dallas, Texas.

Starting with the golf tournament on Wednesday, June 15th 2016, sponsored by District Three, teams of four played 18 holes of golf.

All had a great time and District Three volunteers staffed the event, under the direction of Convention Chairman Bill Oaks and Golf Chair Thomas “Doc” Howard. It was an exceptional golf tournament complete with breakfast, lunch and door prizes for each golfer.

At the final Council of Administration meeting for the 2015-2016 year, State Commander Dan West recognized Districts 3, 5, 6, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 29 and 30 for their outstanding performance in membership growth as All-State Districts. He also recognized District Commanders Gerard Greene (3), Keith Foley (5), Rod Raulston (10), Bob Hansen (14), Gary Bridges (17), Loren Pogue (18), Jack Mageluzzo (24) and Randall Johnston (30) as Distinguished District Commanders as every one of the Posts in their respective Districts had attained 100% in membership or better.

State Commander West also thanked every member for their tireless dedication and commitment to the VFW as the state added 1,288 members above what we finished with last year for a total strength of 75,425 ending at 101.73% and of the 321 VFW Posts in Texas, 251 attained 100% or better in membership.

Prior to the opening ceremonies and throughout the convention, attendees had the opportunity to visit with and purchase services and keepsakes from over 25 different vendors, including VFW products and Texas VFW branded merchandise from the National VFW Emblem & Supply Store.

The Texas VFW Foundation hosted a veteran’s job hiring expo with the Texas Veterans Leadership Program of the Texas Workforce Commission that featured over sixty employers that just over 900 veterans looking for jobs where able to talk face to face with.

The Texas VFW Foundation also sponsored “Remembering our Fallen” a traveling memorial that remembers those service members from Texas killed in action during the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

State Adjutant/Quartermaster Roy Grona took control as the Master of Ceremonies at the Joint Opening and introduced our key note speaker, Texas Veterans Land Board Commissioner George P. Bush, who talked about the services available to Texas Veterans when they decide to buy a home or property, need nursing home care or internment at one of the five Texas State Veterans Cemeteries.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

After introductions and salutations from the State Commander, the top 64 Posts in the State were recognized as All-State Posts and presented their awards by State Commander West and National VFW Council Member Larry Velasquez Business meetings for both the VFW and Auxiliary followed the next day that included reports from committee chairman, recognition of Honor Roll Posts, individual recruiting awards and nominations for state leadership positions.

Later at the State Awards Banquet Master of Ceremonies State Adjutant/ Quartermaster Roy Grona, asked State Commander Dan West and National VFW Senior Vice Commander Brian Duffy to present the Teacher Awards and State level awards to the winners who were called to the awards platform individually (see insert for list of awards and winners).

On Saturday, VFW and Auxiliary meetings reconvened, nominations reopened and elections held with Peyton Lumpkin elected to lead the Texas VFW as the State Commander for the 2016-2017 year. The following were also elected to the following State positions; Senior Vice Commander – Edward Torres; Junior Vice Commander – Inge Conley; Quartermaster – Roy Grona; Judge Advocate – Ken Burton; Surgeon – Thomas “Doc” Howard; Chaplain – Norman Macey.

At the installation ceremony held later that afternoon, State Commander Peyton Lumpkin was sworn in to office by National Senior Vice Commander Brian Duffy and he thanked the many people and Posts that helped him in his VFW career. State Commander Lumpkin and State Auxiliary President Andrea King invited all present to attend the Commander’s and President’s Reception immediately afterward where everyone had an opportunity to meet and visit with the newly elected comrades and patriots of the Texas VFW and its Auxiliary for the 2016-2017 year. n

2 0 16 STATE AWAR D WI N N E R S ALL-STATE DISTRICT COMMANDERS AWARDS District 3 — Gerard Greene District 5 — Keith Foley District 6 — Jose Flores District 10 — Rodney Raulston District 13 — Tim Casey District 14 — Bob Hansen District 16 — Brian Satsky District 17 — Gary Bridges District 18 — Loren Pogue District 19 — Dick Shawver District 20 — Robert Martinez, Jr. District 24 — Jack Mageluzzo District 29 — Bobby Jones District 30 — Randall Johnston DANNY R. HENRY AWARD H J ohn Tellier, VFW Post 4709, Conroe, District 17 GLEN M. GARDNER, JR. QUARTERMASTER AWARD H L arry Youngblood, VFW Post 4008, Belton, District 14 H E dward Torres, VFW Post 4815, San Antonio, District 20 OUTSTANDING IMMEDIATE PAST DISTRICT COMMANDER AWARD H Larry Sanders, Past District 20 Commander WILLIAM B. MOODY AWARD HR obert L. Morrison, VFW Post 7108, Helotes, District 20

OUTSTANDING SERVICE OFFICER AWARD H L azaro Camarillo, VFW Post 2397, Corpus Christi, District 6 BARBARA HOFFMAN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING AUXILIARY MEMBER HN elda Hackett, President, VFW Post 7110, New Braunfels, District 5 Auxiliary PUBLICATION AWARDS H T exas VFW News: 1st Place Plaque from National MOTORCYCLE GROUP AWARD H Unit 30, VFW Post 7108, Helotes, District 20

2015-16 State Commander DAN WEST and State Chaplain NORMAN MACEY render a salute.

TIGER LYONS POW/MIA AWARDS H District Award—District 4 H VFW Post Award—Post 7426, Farmersville, District 1 J. T. RUTHERFORD AWARDS H Jeff Clark, Membership Chairman, VFW Post 9078, Round Rock, District 28 H Keith King, Deputy State Inspector, VFW Post 3278, Brownwood, District 8 H Richard “Dick” Shawver, District 19 Commander, VFW Post 3893, Nacogdoches, District 19 COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS H VFW Post 3966, Devine and it’s Auxiliary, District 13 H VFW Post 9174, San Antonio and it’s Auxiliary, District 20

J.T. Rutherford Award recipient JEFF CLARK and Outstanding Service Officer LAZARO CAMARILLO.

Texas VFW members gather for a group photo at the 96th Annual State Convention.

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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ALL STATE POSTS

Texas VFW members congratulate Jr. Vice Commander INGE CONLEY at the 96th Annual State Convention.

District Commander GUY NORTHRUP and J.T. Rutherford Award Recipient DICK SHAWVER.

State Adjutant/Quartermaster ROY GRONA speaks at the 96th Annual State Convention.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

DISTRICT 1 1 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 8 9 10 12 12 13 13 13 13 14 16 16 17 17 17 17 17 17 17

POST CITY _____ 2150 Mc Kinney 2195 Allen 4380 Plano 7426 Farmersville 1514 Village Mills 3359 Dallas 7843 Duncanville 8913 Lancaster 8923 Carrollton 912 Baytown 2427 Tomball 8790 Houston 10352 Houston 10462 Houston 2933 Dripping Springs 3413 San Marcos 6441 Wimberley 7110 New Braunfels 8315 Schertz 8800 Startzville 8927 Lockhart 9213 Mc Queeney 12058 Kyle 2375 Kingsville 8621 Alice 8786 Freer 8967 Port Aransas 3278 Brownwood 1657 Pampa 8550 El Paso 1183 Longview 3990 Paris 688 Boerne 1480 Kerrville 8134 La Coste 8569 Comfort 4008 Belton 3903 Rosenberg 8551 Sweeny 1907 Normangee 4458 Caldwell 4692 Bryan 4709 Conroe 4816 Porter 6522 Bellville 7104 Brenham

DISTRICT 17 17 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 21 21 21 21 24 25 28 28 28 28 29 29 30 30 30

POST CITY ___ 9182 Katy 12024 The Woodlands 2369 Mc Allen 6719 Raymondville 7473 Elsa 8788 Mc Allen 1836 Lufkin 2033 Woodville 3406 Rusk 3893 Nacogdoches 8568 Livingston 8904 Center 9313 San Augustine 10351 Hemphill 76 San Antonio 837 San Antonio 1533 San Antonio 4676 Universal City 4700 San Antonio 4815 San Antonio 4853 Jourdanton 6012 San Antonio 7108 San Antonio 8111 San Antonio 8397 San Antonio 8541 San Antonio 8555 Poth 9174 San Antonio 9186 San Antonio 12041 Lytle 2137 Azle 4695 Hurst 6872 Crowley 10429 Benbrook 6382 Hallettsville 4372 Odessa 8587 Georgetown 8787 Austin 9078 Round Rock 12104 Bastrop 4694 Mexia 6008 Hewitt 3894 Waxahachie 4376 Seven Points 7103 Athens

Outstanding Immediate Past District Commander Award recipient LARRY SANDERS speaks at the 96th Annual State Convention.

TEACHER AWARDS J.T. Rutherford Award recipient KEITH KING renders a salute.

THE TEXAS VFW TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD CONTEST recognizes three exceptional teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students. Each year, a classroom elementary, junior high and high school teacher whose curriculum focuses on citizenship education topics are awarded.

K-5th Grade

ANN FOWLER

Coggin Elementary School—Brownwood, Texas Texas VFW members at the 96th Annual State Convention.

6-8th Grade

LINDA GONZALEZ

Michael Fossom Middle School— McAllen, Texas

9-12th Grade

RHONDA NAYLOR

Stars Accelerated High School— Granbury, Texas Texas VFW Honor Guard, Lone Star Chapter of the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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TEXAS VFW POST 6872, DISTRICT 21, TEXAS VFW POST 9191, CROWLEY, TEXAS—Post members gathered at Tractor DISTRICT 14, KILLEEN, TEXAS—

Supply for Memorial Day to distribute Buddy Poppies in Burleson, Texas. Post members hold a Memorial Day ceremony.

TEXAS VFW POST 4820, DISTRICT 2, PORT NECHES, TEXAS—Over 100

TEXAS VFW POST 8786, DISTRICT 6, FREER, TEXAS—Post members placed

people attended the memorial service at the Oak Bluff Cemetery including many WWII, Korean, Vietnam, Iraq/ Afghanistan veterans, Auxiliary members, Boy Scout Venture Crew (Rifle Squad), Missy Granger and Oak Bluff staff members.

flags on graves and had cake and refreshments with families who lost loved ones in combat.

TEXAS VFW POST 4403, DISTRICT 24, PORT TEXAS VFW POST 3895, DISTRICT 18, LA JOYA, TEXAS— LAVACA, TEXAS—Members held a Memorial Day Event at the Post members and invited community placed flags on graves in nine cemeteries.

Bayfront Veterans Memorial Park.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

21

TEXAS VFW POST 4816, DISTRICT 17, PORTER, TEXAS—PV2 Michael Biscamp, who is on leave, came to one of the

Post members’ cook-offs to surprise his father Tyson Biscamp. Upon his arrival, he was informed that his father had already left and would not be back until the next day. Not having anywhere to stay he decided to sleep in his car for the night. Commander Vogler and a few other veterans decided that would not work! Bobby and Linda Shafer (Auxiliary Members) volunteered to take him home with them so that he could get cleaned up, get a good night’s sleep, a good breakfast and bring him back the next morning to surprise his father. It was a great surprise and a great gesture from our members.

Roger DeWeese 2017-2018 Candidate For State Junior Vice Commander

All American Post Commander All State Post Commander All State District Commander State Deputy Chief of Staff National Aide-de-Camp (2) National Special Aide-de-Camp (2) Gold Legacy Life Member

TEXAS VFW POST 4815, DISTRICT 20, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS—Post members donated fans to comfort elderly through the summer heat.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

One VFW One Team

Texas VFW Bingo Night Raises Nearly $2,000 for Families of Slain Dallas Police Officers A NEAR-RECORD CROWD at last Friday’s Texas VFW Bingo night in Wimberley raised nearly $2,000 for the families of the five Dallas police officers killed by a gunman on July 7.

The 180 bingo players at Friday’s games tied as the third largest crowd at the bingo games held every Friday at Wimberley’s VFW Post 6441 according to Post Commander Don Wheeler.

“We are extremely gratified that Wimberley turned out in such numbers for this cause, “ Wheeler said. “The bingo proceeds amounted to $1,950 with $221in donations. That came to a little over $2,170, and the post added money to make the total $2,200.”

VFW Post members decided to donate the proceeds from Friday’s bingo night to the Assist the Officer Foundation which is collecting donations on behalf of the Dallas Police Department. To make a donation, visit the Assist the Officer website at atodallas.org, or mail a check or money order to Assist the Officer, 1412 Griffin Street East, Dallas, TX 75215. n Bingo caller and Texas VFW Post 6441 member John Jordan holds court over the crowd of anxious bingo players.

Texas VFW bingo player Amanda Ogletree of Wimberley signals that she has filled in the right numbers for “bingo.” Proceeds from the night’s games are to be donated to a fund for five slain Dallas police officers.

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

23

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 5, POST 12058, KYLE, TEXAS—Post members held an opento-the-public D-Day remembrance program.

TEXAS VFW POST 8621, DISTRICT 6, ALICE, TEXAS— Post members visited WWII veterans in local nursing home.

TEXAS VFW POST 8904, DISTRICT 19, CENTER, TEXAS—Post members invite guests to a D-Day program held at the Veterans Memorial in remembrance of the 72nd Anniversary of D-Day. A prayer, pledge and significance of the day was given. Post Commander Gene Hutto placed the Memorial Wreath while Taps played.

TEXAS VFW POST 8790, DISTRICT 4, HOUSTON, TEXAS—Post members and guests held a D-Day remembrance program at Lost Forest Home Owner Association.

TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 9, POST 9022, DUMAN, TEXAS—Post members gathered at War Memorial to read a list of TEXAS VFW DISTRICT 4, POST 9188, SOUTH casualties and observed a moment of silence for our departed as part of a HOUSTON, TEXAS—Post members hold a D-Day D-Day remembrance program. remembrance program.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America.

Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in, or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.

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

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

Address:____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Funding College Scholarships Phone Cards for Troops City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone:____________________________ Supporting Youth Groups Emergency Financial Assistance Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY) Supporting Memorials Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines

Current Status: I served in:

p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/Reserve p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001 p World War II p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Iraq 2003 p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) p 1945-90 (Berlin)

Qualified recipient of: p Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay

p *SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol*

*Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service).

I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a: p Annual Member ($45)

p Life Member*

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

LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEE SCHEDULE AGE as of DECEMBER 31st

ONE-TIME PAYMENT

Initial Payment

11 payments of

Through Age 30 31 – 40 41 – 50 51 – 60 61 – 70 71 – 80 81 AND OVER

$425.00 $410.00 $375.00 $335.00 $290.00 $225.00 $170.00

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

$38.64 $37.27 $34.09 $30.45 $26.36 $20.45 $15.45

Automatic Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: You authorize the VFW to initiate electronic debit entries or affect a charge by any other commercially accepted practice to your account set forth above for the payment of dues reflected on this application. You understand such charges may be made within 2-3 business days of payment due date. For installment payments, charges will be made on or around the 1st or 15th day of the month. This authorization will remain in full force until VFW has received notification from you of its termination or upon completion of the installment payments. Annual dues are subject to change. By completing this authorization, you acknowledge that you will only receive notice when the payment would differ by more than $10.00 from the most recent payment. Call VFW Customer Service at 1-800-963-3180 or write to VFW at: VFW, P.O. Box 119028, Kansas City, MO 64171 to inquire about or cancel a payment, or to report problems such as bank closures, lost or stolen account numbers, closed accounts, or unauthorized transactions. Cancellation requests must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. Central Time ten business days prior to the scheduled payment date. If you are unaware of the charge date for your account, please contact VFW. If a payment is returned by your financial institution (e.g., due to insufficient funds, incorrect account information, closed account, etc.) the VFW will contact you at the address we have on file for you, explaining why the payment could not be processed, and providing alternative payment options. The privilege of making payments under this agreement may be revoked by VFW if any item is not paid upon presentation. You may have additional rights and responsibilities under the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. Life Membership Installment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Membership Installment Plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making an initial payment of $45.00 and (11) monthly payments. The member will be issued an Annual membership card at the time of enrollment. The member may elect to receive a monthly statement by mail or may set up a payment profile to make the monthly payment automatically using a credit/debit card or bank account. A payoff amount will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon the completion of payments. The Life Membership fee is determined from the schedule using the applicant’s age on December 31 of the year in which the application is submitted. Delinquencies will be handled as follows: Up to 30 days – continue to bill; 31 to 120 days – delinquency can be corrected through make up payment(s) or plan end date pushed forward; More than 120 days – member is dropped from the Installment Plan, all monthly payments made to date, are applied to future years annual dues.

I attest by forwarding this application that I am a citizen of the United States, that I qualify for the VFW and that my Campaign Service was honorable, and that I have never been discharged under other than honorable conditions or I am still serving honorably in the armed forces of the United States of America. I further give authority to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States to verify my entitlement to membership in the VFW and that if no proof can be found or provided that I am subject to discharge from the VFW without refund.

Signature:___________________________________________________________________Date: ______________________________________________ Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card.

p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express

Credit Card Number:_________________________________________________________

Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________ Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761 |

For questions call: (512) 834-8535

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESS PROGRAM

Available to Service Disabled Veterans Grow your Business by Becoming HUB Certified

T

he University of North Texas System serves the North Texas area, boosting economic activity in the region by nearly $5.2 billion annually. More than 47,000 students are enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.

The State of Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program is available to businesses owned by Service Disabled Veterans with a disability rating of 20% or greater. The University of North Texas System is committed to supporting the HUB Program by increasing opportunities for Service Disabled Veteran-owned businesses.

The UNT System welcomes opportunities to do business with interested vendors and encourages prospective suppliers to register and maintain information with the State of Texas Certified Master Bidders Listing (CMBL). Formal bid opportunities with the UNT System are posted online at http://bsc.untsystem.edu/bid-listing and at http://esbd.cpa.state.tx.us/.

Visit http://comptroller.texas.gov/procurement/registration/ to register for free State of Texas HUB Certification or call the HUB Area’s Veteran Outreach Specialists at 940.369.5500/Toll-Free 855.868.4357 or email HUB@untsystem.edu. You can also visit us online at www.hub.untsystem.edu. www.Texas4HUBs.org

TEXAS VFW SUPPORTS THE VETERANS SUICIDE PREVENTION CHANNEL THERE IS A NEW VETERAN’S CHANNEL IN THE NATION, created and implemented in Texas. A new channel that is challenging others to think twice before they contemplate suicide. This channel is available on all internet accessible devices: computers, smart phones, iPads, and iPods. Its broadcasts cater exclusively to veterans, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, nonstop, and will soon feature its own weekly/biweekly news show. We are talking about the Veterans Suicide Prevention Channel (VSPChannel) and it is here for you, now.

The VSPChannel is supported by the Department of Texas VFW, National VFW, American Legion, DAV and AMVETS veterans organizations. The VSPchannel is designed for all veterans, however, it is especially created for veterans that are members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. That is one of the reasons the Texas Department of VFW gave the channel one of its largest donations, to date. The VSPChannel was founded specifically to produce and broadcast programming that promotes wellness for veterans that may be experiencing PTSD, anxiety, other combat-related illnesses and Moral Injury.

The VFW’s commitment is specifically to veterans who have experienced combat in service to America.

The uniqueness of the VSPChannel is that there are many veterans who will not seek treatment or even admit that they are in need of help from the VA. The ease of access to the channel and the fact that anyone can view it in the privacy of their own homes makes the channel appealing to veterans that may need its services. Veterans don’t even have to admit that they need help to tune in to the channel, but may discover valuable information to help them address veteranrelated issues. Although the VSPChannel have shows that promote wellness, we are constantly trying to refer veterans to a place where they can get the help they so richly deserve.

The VSPChannel is the brainchild of US Navy veteran, Glenn Towery. Glenn is

also a VFW member who served in the Vietnam War on the US Navy destroyer Rupertus DD851, as a quartermaster.

Glenn was medically evacuated from the ship in 1971 after suffering injuries while on the gun line in the Gulf of Tonkin. After being discharged, he began to understand that there was something wrong with him, not only physically, but emotionally and mentally.

In those days, PTSD did not exist. You had what they called “Battle Fatigue” or what was commonly known as “Shell Shock.” It was thought that, eventually, the condition would go away. It did not go away for Glenn just as it has not gone away for thousands of other veterans. One day, out of touch with reality, Glenn tried to kill himself. It took many years for Glenn to begin to realize what was happening to him and seek the necessary help to get well.

In October of 2013, Glenn a 100% disabled veteran, moved from Los Angeles, California to Round Rock, Texas. It was here that he heard the news that 22 veterans a day were committing suicide. The news rocked him to his core. He did the math and saw that it added up to 8,030 veterans a year killing themselves. This discovery became the driving force for Glenn to create the VSPChannel. Years earlier in Los Angeles, Glenn earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in film from the prestigious Columbia College of Hollywood and graduated valedictorian of his class. Utilizing the skills he gained as an independent filmmaker, Glenn created the VSPChannel, a nonprofit organization with a 501 c 3 status.

In 2015, the VSPchannel had about 7,000 views. On January 5, 2016, the VSPChannel was officially welcomed into the VA online private internet system. This meant that 39,000 VA employees, nationwide, would have access to the channel on their VA computers. Since that time, the VSPChannel has gotten nearly 70,000 views.

Texas State Commander, Dan West, and State Adjutant, Roy Grona, have supported the efforts of the VSPChannel which they

Glenn Towery VSPChannel Chairman and Founder demonstrated through their generous donation last year on behalf of the Texas Department of the VFW. Their donation helped sustain the continued broadcast of the VSPChannel through 2016 for veterans throughout America.

If you are a commander of a VFW post here in Texas, who may have members experiencing suicide ideation, please tell them about the Veterans Suicide Prevention Channel. If you are a veteran experiencing thoughts of suicide I urge you to please seek professional help at a local VA medial center or hospital. Call the VA Crisis Hotline immediately at 1-800-273-8255.

Use this link to learn more about suicide prevention and to get information that you can share with your VFW posts: http://www. mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/ .

In addition to seeking professional help, visit the VSPChannel to view broadcasts for veterans that promote good mental health & wellness to the members of your post. Enjoy shows that offer Mindfullness, Tai Chi and guided meditations. Enjoy a channel that is infused with veteran and military culture and talent.

Look out for the VSPChannel News broadcast which is coming soon. News by veterans, about veterans, for veterans causes and issues. We are the VSPChannel, broadcasting to help save veteran’s lives. n Visit our channel at:

www.vspchannel.com

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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TEXAS VFW POST 6794, BROWNFIELD, TEXAS—Members

celebrate Flag Day at the Terry County Boys and Girls Club. Comrade Don McWhorter TEXAS VFW POST 6797, DISTRICT 25, POST, TEXAS—Members posted 12 American assisted in a retirement ceremony. Flags, five Service Flags and one POW/MIA flag on the square in front of the Garza County Courthouse.

TEXAS VFW POST 1839, DISTRICT 2, CLEVELAND, TEXAS—Commander

TEXAS VFW POST 2148, DISTRICT 29, WACO, TEXAS— Post members and Auxiliary members celebrating Flag Day at the post.

Brad Newby performed a Flag Day ceremony at the Cleveland Walmart. The Walmart store manager honored two of Post 1839’s WWII veterans for their service. Commander Newby spoke with attendees about the meaning of the flags stripes and what each fold represents when the flag is being folded.

TEXAS VFW POST 5617, WHITE SETTLEMENT, TEXAS—Post members and children attended a Flag Day program

at The Courtyards at River Park. Lunch was served to veterans. A WWII veteran who was 100 years old was in attendance.

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Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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TEXAS VFW POST 688, BOERNE, TEXAS—Post members, comrades, new recruits and invited guests participated in an Independence Day celebration.

TEXAS VFW POST 7110, DISTRICT 5, CLARENDON, TEXAS—Post members and guests conducted a flag-raising ceremony for the 4th of July. Afterwards, the group met at the Saint Peter and Paul parking lot to participate in a patriotic parade through downtown New Braunfels, Texas. The truck and trailer entry had 22 post members and four guests riding along.

TEXAS VFW POST 8134, DISTRICT 13, LA COSTE, TEXAS—Post members and the Auxiliary Patriots participated in a 4th of July parade in Castroville, Texas.

TEXAS VFW POST 4443, AUSTIN, TEXAS—The post celebrated Independence Day with a parade and picnic lunch with its community and neighbors.

Texas VFW News | Summer 2016

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TEXAS VFW POST 9213, DISTRICT 5, MCQUEENEY, TEXAS—Post members laid a wreath at the Traveling Vietnam wall that was at the Tree of Life Church in New Braunfels, Texas. Eight post members and 10 Auxiliary members along with several hundred attendees were present for the ceremomy.