2020 Texas VFW News | Winter

WINTER 2020

Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY

2019 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

INSIDE WOMEN IN MILITARY SERVICE VETERANS DAY MID-WINTER CONFERENCE VOICE OF DEMOCRACY WINNERS PATRIOT’S PEN WINNER

p10

PEARL HARBOR DAY

TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

Be a Flu Fighter

Protecting yourself protects them

Free flu shots

Just walk into your local Walgreens and show your Veterans Health Identification Card. We’ll update your records with the VA.*

to VA-enrolled veterans*

*This wellness benefit is only for veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. Family members and Tricare members are not eligible. No-cost flu shot option is for quadrivalent vaccine only, available now through March 31, 2020. Vaccines subject to availability. State-, age- and health-related restrictions may apply.

Vaccine may be in limited supply after March 1, 2020. This does not constitute an endorsement of Walgreens or Walgreens products. Patients will also be asked to complete a vaccine consent form at time of service. Š2019 Walgreen Co. All rights reserved. | 1100263

WINTER

2020

IN THE NEWS

Voice of Democracy 1st Place Winner Jessica Schlaudt

5 State Commander’s Column 6 Recognition of Women in Military Service 7 Jr Vice Commander’s Column 8 Veterans Day 9 Community Highlights 10 Pearl Harbor Day 11 Mid-Winter Convention Highlights 12 Voice of Democracy Top 10 Winners 13 Voice of Democracy 1st Place Winning Essay 14 Voice of Democracy 11-22nd Place Winners/

p 13

Patriot’s Pen 1st Place Winner Evelyn Fisher

Patriot’s Pen Winners

p 15

15 Patriot’s Pen Winning Essay 16 Teacher of the Year Awards/Exhibitor Thank You 17 USVSD Service Dog Ceremony 19 State Commander’s Homecoming Information

20-21 Community Highlights 22 Texas VFW Foundation 23 Holiday Community Highlights 24 Bataan Death March/100th Anniversary Save the Date 25 Mid-Winter Convention Photo Gallery 29 Texas VFW Application 32 Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance

USVSD Service Dog Ceremony at Mid-Winter

p 17

SEE THE LATEST CALENDARS AT Texasvfw.org > News > Calendar

WINTER 2020

ON THE COVER

Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

UPCOMING EVENTS

GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY

2019 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

Commander’s Homecoming, Bay City, TX April 23-26, 2020 INSIDE

Texas VFW Post 10377, Belton, gathers to remember Pearl Harbor Day at the Doris Miller Memorial in Waco, Texas. Shown here is Commander John Burford.

WOMEN IN MILITARY SERVICE VETERANS DAY

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2019 • Operation Enduring Freedom • Recognition of Women in Military Service • Signing of WWI Armistice • Veterans Day • Pearl Harbor Day

MID-WINTER CONFERENCE VOICE OF DEMOCRACY WINNERS PATRIOT’S PEN WINNER

p10

PEARL HARBOR DAY

TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

3

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 and 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 will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings.

Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part.

Please send your comments, suggestions, and ideas to: Texas VFW, PO Box 14468, Austin, Texas 78761 or email to andrew@texasvfw.org.

Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and 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.

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

Flippable online version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org/news.

CONNECT WITH

TEXAS VFW ON

SOCIAL MEDIA https://www.facebook.com/TexasVFW https://texasvfw.smugmug.com (See photos and videos from past events here.)

4

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price is $30.00.

Published four times per year by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume 74, Number 3, © JANUARY 2020. 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/news, or request one from Terri Sheets at terri@medianation.net.

Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Terri Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Designer/Ad Placements Department Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535

2019-20 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Commander Adjutant/Quartermaster Sr. Vice Jr. Vice Judge Advocate Surgeon Chaplain Chief-of-Staff Inspector Immediate Past Cmdr Assistant Quartermaster Assistant Adjutant Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Deputy State Inspector Officer of the Day National Council Member

3278 3413 3893 4816 8913 6796 4008 3278 5619 12075 6378 9078 2059 1514 6796 812 6970 6382 3413 3413

Keith King Dan West Richard “Dick” Shawver Norman Macey D. Grant Seabolt, Jr. Gerard “Jerry” Greene Allen “Al” Lowe James Masters Terry Contella Inge Conley Carlos Sustaita Wayne Cooley Robert Martinez, Jr. Richard L. Moore William L. “Bill” Oaks Rod Raulston John E. Shipley Marvin L. Lockhart, II Lonnie Garza Dan West

2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 19151 Valley Drive, Flint, TX 75762 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., TX 77346 13283 Mannheim Dr., Frisco, TX 75033 10523 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 1 Roy Bean Dr., Belton, TX 76513 7800 Fm 2125, Brownwood, TX 76801 3136 Lodgemist Ln., Dickinson, TX 77539 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346 Po Box 14451, Austin, TX 78761 8503 N Ih-35, Austin, TX 78753 314 Shadwell Drive, San Antonio, TX 78228 Po Box 548, Village Mills, TX 77663 1818 Quail Hill Circle, Garland, TX 75040 3901 McConnell Ave., El Paso, TX 79904 905 Schuettig Rd., Poteet, TX 78065 404 Kelly Crick Road, Victoria, TX 77904 3059 Blenheim Park, Bulverde, TX 78163 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753

DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORS Houston — Terry “Mike” Eshenbaugh Waco — Katina Cryer

713-383-2730 254-299-9959

Terry.Eshenbaugh@va.gov katina.cryer@va.gov

2019-2020 DISTRICT COMMANDERS DISTRICT POST COMMANDER 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 28 29 30

8273 2755 7843 2427 8456 3904 3278 2466 9173 5873 8552 3892 8878 3903 12024 7473 9313 7108 7835 4403 6284 12104 6008 4376

Preston Rich Kevin Bost Keith Kelm Stephen Biehl Ron Spalding Jimmy E. McCombs James Masters Steve Evans Jose “Joe” Vargas, Jr. Larry Levy Ventura Mancha Anson L. Booker Carl G. Lilly Brian C. Satsky Everett L. Ison Lupita M. Perez Paul Lester Rolando S. Webber Eddie L. Terry John F. “Jack” Mageluzzo Mel Parker Matt Lutz Roy “Bobby” Jones Randall Johnston

ADDRESS

8205 Prescott Circle, Frisco, TX 75033 165 Greathouse St., Vidor, TX 77662 514 Little Creek Trail, Red Oak, TX 75154 28314 Hardin Store Road, Magnolia, TX 77354 PO Box 770, Cibolo, TX 78108 1118 South Houston St., Aransas Pass, TX 78336 7800 FM 2125 North, Brownwood, TX 76801 5504 75th Street, Lubbock, TX 79424 10436 Tomwood Ave., El Paso, TX 79925 7490 Daniels Chapel Rd., New Boston, TX 75570 212 Jeffrey Drive, Del Rio, TX 78840 122 East Iowa Drive, Harker Heights, TX 76548 433 Bryan Road, Sunset, TX 79270 9830 Hein Road, Richmond, TX 77469 37 Hickory Oak Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77381 PO Box 2853, Elsa, TX 78543 2589 FM 1751, San Augustine, TX 75972 8307 Clays Point, San Antonio, TX 78250 5700 Westview Ct., Tolar, TX 76476 1003 N. Benavides St., Port Lavaca, TX 77979 5305 Clinton Avenue, Odessa, TX 79762 410 Oak Street, Bastrop, TX 78602 206 Horton Dr., Waco, TX 76705 192 Oak Hills Dr., Mabank, TX 75156

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN Comrades, The Mid-Winter Convention will be over by the time you read this. I am sure the students who participated, as well as the teachers who were recognized had stories to tell. These stories are prime examples of how to communicate to our communities — that the scholarship program and acts of kindness to students in our communities is a part of our mission — to pay it forward. Please put this on display in some form of media for the community to take notice! I will say, again, that we have to make our presence — more importantly our contributions to our communities— known to folks living in our communities, and NOT only to veterans and active duty military. These stories will help us recruit new members.

The Department is facing challenges on many fronts — with membership at the forefront. We are around 86% as I write this, which is around the average for the last 4-5 years. I would ask that each member please ask at least one person to join, if eligible, or ask a member to renew or reinstate his/her membership. Lists of unpaid members are available through Department as well as MAL members in your area. Together, as a team, WE CAN make our goal. Please let the Department know if you are going to have a recruiting event at your Post or District as there are materials available to assist you.

It makes me proud to see how many Posts are doing well as I travel through our great state! So many are working together with the Auxiliary as a team and promoting all of your programs and community service events. I am looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones in the next five or so months, so please let us know what upcoming events are pending so that we can put them on the calendar to enable members and the public to see all of the good things you are doing.

I want to thank each and every one of you for your commitment to our organization and for all the work you do to ensure the great state of Texas remains Freedom’s Flagship!

Yours in Comradeship,

Keith King

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

5

Recognition of WOMEN in MILITARY SERVICE O C T O B E R 18

Texas VFW Post 1922, Gainesville

! g n i d n a O u tst Texas VFW Post 3904, Rockport

Texas VFW Post 12041, Lytle 6

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

Texas VFW Post 8541, San Antonio

Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas

Veterans Needed for Veterans Needed for PTSD Research PTSD Research Program Program

JR VICE COMMANDER’S COLUMN

BUILD. The Bible tells us to Build our house on a firm foundation. What is the history of our foundation? Why were we formed? We were organized to support the needs of veterans. This is our #1 priority. When I talked about the 3B’S during my campaign, Build was the first “B.” We have a great foundation, but we must continue to build on our foundation. So how do we build for our future?

Non-Drug

Confidential

Non-Invasive

Compensation Provided

Dallas evaluatingthe theuse useofof UTUT Dallas is is evaluating Magnetic Stimulation to enhance the Magnetic Stimulation to enhance the effects Cognitive ProcessingTherapy Therapy effects ofof Cognitive Processing in Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress in veterans Traumatic Stress Disorderwith whoPost served 2001-present.

Disorder who served 2001-present.

For more information contact: neurolab@utdallas.edu (972) 883-3171 https://www.utdallas.edu/memory/ https://www.facebook.com/UTDNeurolab/

First we must have a vision for our Posts. What do you want your Post to look like 5 to 10 years down the road? You must have a plan to build for your future. What do we need to consider for our building plan? As Veterans of Foreign Wars we should always support our troops, continue to fight for our benefits that we’ve earned, help our needy veterans and their families, project a positive image in our communities with our programs and our community service, and keep our membership strong.

Our members represent our strength with Congress. Membership is the lifeblood of our organization. We Recruit new members because that new member could be a future leader of the Post, District, State, or National VFW. We Retain our new members by mentoring, training, and making sure they know that they belong. And we Reinstate members by finding out why they left and trying to get them back.

We can build a stronger relationship with our communities by making sure they know and participate in our programs. Our Voice of Democracy, Patriots Pen, National Teacher of the Year, Scouting Program, Buddy Poppy, and Police/Firefighter/EMT of the Year, are programs that cast a positive image of our VFW. We also build relationships with our communities by donating the many hours and dollars each year performing our community service’s.

It is our duty to build a better VFW on the foundation our comrades of generations’ past left us. We can leave our VFW in a position of strength for the next generation of veterans.

WHAT IS YOUR VISION? State Jr Vice Commander,

Norman Macey W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

7

VETERANS DAY N O V E M B E R 11

Texas VFW Post 4146, Victoria Post and auxiliary members built a float and attended their local Veterans Day parade.

Texas VFW Post 2676, Windthorst The Scotland-Windthorst Post and its Auxiliary celebrated Veterans Day at a program held by the Windthorst ISD. Â Â

! g n i d n a t s Out

Texas VFW Post 4008, Belton L-R: Gary Leofsky, Commander Post 4008; Anson Booker, D-14 Commander; and State Adjutant, Dan West, enjoy some cake.

Texas VFW Post 880, Galveston State Jr Vice Commander, Norman Macey (center), along with Post members and guests from each branch of the military gathered for a Veterans Day program in Galveston.

8

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

Texas VFW Post 2410, Harlingen Harlingen-San Benito Memorial Post members, ROTC, and members of the military community participated in a program held at the high school.

Victor Patrick Tumlinson KIA, Pearl Harbor — USS Oklahoma, was laid to rest 78 Years later in his home town of Raymondville, Texas.

In attendance were officers and members of Pat Tumlinson Post 6719 and Weslaco VFW Calderon-Daily Memorial Post 12178 as well as family and community members.

A FINAL SALUTE TO THOSE WHO SERVED OUR NATION Memorial Masters respectfully captures, beautifully communicates and digitally preserves military burials through our Final Salute documentary services for veterans of all military branches.

Memorial Masters LIFE STORIES • CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE • VIDEO OBITUARIES

(800) 474-5056

memorial-masters.com

facebook.com/Memorial-Masters

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

9

PEARL HARBOR DAY DECEMBER 7

Texas VFW Post 10377, Lake Belton Members gather to remember Pearl Harbor Day at the Doris Miller Memorial in Waco, Texas.

Texas VFW Post 9187, Houston Members gathered for a Pearl Harbor Day remembrance. Â

! g n i d n a t O uts

Texas VFW Post 8552, Del Rio Members honored WWII veteran at their Pearl Harbor Day remembrance ceremony.

Texas VFW Post 8273, Frisco Texas VFW Post 4458, Caldwell Members met to remember Pearl Harbor Day and to also celebrate the holiday season along with their Post mascot.

10

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

These Burleson County WWII veterans attended the Pearl Harbor Day ceremony on December 7th held at the Post. L-R: John Vollentine, Horace Hamilton, John Boyd, Gene Barber.

2020 Texas VFW

Austin, Texas

M i d -W i n t e r C o n f e r e n c e

January 22-26, 2020

Veterans and guests enjoyed an amazing lineup of valuable sessions and informative and inspiring guest speakers who attended Mid-Winter from around the United States.

2019-20 National Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Matthew “Fritz� Mihelcic, was provided several opportunities to inspire the crowds with varying speech subject matter including Americanism and patriotism. He resides in the state of Illinois.

Past State Commander and District 10 Trustee, Sylvia Sanchez, spoke briefly about the VFW National Home.

Over 1,100 Veterans, guests & vendors attended Mid-Winter

It was an honor having Peggy Haake, 2019-20 National President of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Auxiliary, who traveled to Austin all the way from Hawaii.

Ashley Taylor, Texas Regional Director, Lone Survivor Foundation

Ranny Sawaf, KWOK Law Firm

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

11

600 Veterans and guests attended the Awards Banquet

2020 Mid-Winter Conference

Voice of Democracy Top Ten Winners

This year, 1,701 students participated in the Voice of Democracy program. $183,428 in awards were given plus $40,529 in expenses for a total spent on the program of $223,957.

1st Place | $10,000

2nd Place | $8,000

3rd Place | $7,000

4th Place | $6,000

Jessica J. Schlaudt

Hannah G. Moreno Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship

Lydia F. Covey

Department of Texas VFW Scholarship

Spencer Nicholson

Per Stirling Capital Management Scholarship

VFW Post 8541 Auxiliary District 20 Scholarship

SPONSOR Post 1836, Lufkin, and District 19

SPONSOR Post 7767, Breckenridge, and District 8

SPONSOR Post 2775, Orange, and District 2

SPONSOR Post 12104, Bastrop, and District 28

SPONSOR Post 12075, Kingwood, and District 4

6th Place | $5,000

7th Place | $5,000

8th Place | $4,000

9th Place | $3,000

10th Place | $2,500

Dennis R. Koonce

Zachary M. Courreges

V-Sweeps Scholarship

Emily S. Hill

Camp Bowie VFW Post 708/ Auxiliary Scholarship and The Robert O. “Bob” Pugh Memorial Scholarship SPONSOR Post 2466, Lubbock, and District 9

12

Halle B. Hagdorn

Thomas “Doc” Howard Post 3359, Garland, TX Memorial Scholarship SPONSOR Post 8134, La Coste, and District 13

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

Karla D. Sanchez

Texas VFW Motorcycle Group Scholarship

Stewart-Wendell VFW Post 3904 Scholarship

SPONSOR Post 12178, Weslaco, and District 18

SPONSOR Post 7208, Midland, and District 25

5th Place | $6,000

Jackson L. Kent

District 17 Scholarship SPONSOR Post 10354, El Paso, and District 10

2020 Mid-Winter Conference

Voice of Democracy Essay 1st Place Winner (2019-20) Jessica Schlaudt

“What Makes America Great” America is a safe haven in the turbulent world, and the world knows it. When immigrants or refugees speak of beginning a new life, “We’re going to America,” they always say. It’s never to Russia, never to the UK, never to Switzerland; it is to America—always America.

Thousands from every country in the world pour into our nation each year; victims of famine, war, revolution, unjust social laws, dictators, or Communism, they flee to the one place on earth they know they will be safe: the United States. They know America is stable and thriving; but why is that? What is it that has made us great, so different from any other country? Is it our invincible army? Is it our thriving economy? Is it our premier education system or simply our tourist attractions? In a way, it is all of those things; but not any one individually, because they are all inextricably connected and enabled by a common thread. And it is that thread we must trace to get to the heart of the mystery. What is it? It is freedom.

It is strange, but it seems that those who have the best grasp on this concept are not even American-born: the thousands fleeing to our shores understand the truth of America’s greatness better than we do ourselves. We look at our nation and see our thriving cities, our industries, our economy, and we think this is why we are great. But it is not. We look at our sleek modern schools, our hundreds of colleges, our herds of professors and PhDs, and we think that therein lies the secret. But it does not. We look at our strong army, our dedicated police force, our elite secret agencies, our tight national security—we look at everything around us and credit America’s greatness to it all.

But it’s as if we’re too caught up in looking at the leaves and branches to notice the tree trunk, without which the leaves and branches would not exist. The thing that feeds and makes possible our industries, our defense system, our just laws, our thriving economy—everything we are as a nation—is freedom. Pure and simple.

Just as an ordinary tree needs roots to support its trunk and boughs, so the liberty tree must have roots to keep it standing, and many differnet things play this role in their unique ways. Our founding fathers began it by pinning down the elusive paradox of true freedom: that being limited by law is the surest way to being unlimited in prospects. Without their exceptional grasp of this concept, our Constitution, the envy of the governments of the world, would not exist. And without our Constitution, which keeps the power of the government limited and distributed equally, our freedoms to pursue life, liberty, and happiness would not exist; for as President Woodrow Wilson said, “The history of liberty is a history of the limitation of

governmental power, not the increase of it.” The government our Constituion created is designed to protect the people, to give them freedom to pursue their own enterprises. While the Constitution defends us from internal invasion, our armed forces defend us from external invasion. And they, perhaps, are the most responsile for our present state: for without the courage and devotion of our military, America would have been long swallowed up by grasping tyrants and our precious freedoms would have been lost. We should never underestimate the sacrifice of our soldiers and veterans nor forget to thank them for it. They are the taproot of the liberty tree, and inestimable part of what has made America great.

It is the attractive shade under this liberty tree that draws millions to our nation. They flee to us from other countries— countries that might be called great in their own way. But in each one, something is lacking that is present in America. Russia is a great power, great in force and military might, but why isn’t it thriving in the same way America is? China is great in its way: it dominates the world trade economy by a large margin, but it too falls short of America.

Hitler’s Nazi Germany was great in its strength and patriotism, but what became of it? It fell—to the free world. Freedom is the other half of the meaning of greatness in a nation. And without it, that other half is either uselss or perverted. Many empires and countries of the past have been great, but until America, none of them reached the full potential of their greatness because they refused their people freedom, too eager for power and too blind to see their error. But the people can do incredible things for their nation if they are left free to do them.

America is great because she is rooted in freedom, a freedom which allows growth and prosperity unprecedented in world history.

Freedom is the heart of America and her citizens; it is what stimulates patriotism and attracts millions to our land. Whether it be freedom to work in the vocation of our choosing, freedom to vote for whatever candidate we deem worthy, freedom to travel, or freedom to speak and print our own opinions, we don’t realize just how great our freedom is, or how great it has made our nation. Without it, we would be trapped in yet another failing, corrupt system of power that suppresses the people and stifles growth. We have the freedom to live our lives to the fullest—and a responsibility to do so for the good of our nation and fellow citizens. This is why America is great; for where the people are free is the greatest place on earth.

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

13

2020 Mid-Winter Conference

Voice of Democracy 11-22nd Place Winners 11th Place

Elleanna M. Vines

$2,000

RVOS Scholarship

12th Place

Faith M. Engelhardt

$1,500

Department of Texas VFW Auxiliary Scholarship

13th Place

Abigail G. Bowman

$1,500

VFW Auxiliary Post 8790 Scholarship

14th Place

Kendal A. Rainey

$1,000

Sidney Pierce VFW Post 4476, Taylor Scholarship

15th Place

Hailey Routson

$1,000

VFW Post 10428, Kingsland, and its Auxiliary Scholarship

16th Place

Caleb D. Faver

$1,000

Past State Commander M. John Knapp Scholarship

17th Place

Koby C. Suggs

$1,000

Paul Hayslip Memorial Scholarship, Spring Branch VFW Post 8790

18th Place

Avica A. Burrill

$1,000

Dallas-Love Field VFW Post 7471 Memorial Scholarship

19th Place

McKensi Taylor Bryce

$1,000

District 16 VFW Scholarship

20th Place

Kalen E. Nimmo

$1,000

Jerome Henze Scholarship, VFW Post 9213, McQueeney

21st Place

Angela E. Orosco

$1,000

Irene Henze Scholarship, VFW Post 9213, McQueeney

22nd Place

Julianna R. Castellano

$1,000

VFW Post 8551 Auxiliary, Sweeny, District 16 Scholarship

Patriot’s Pen Winners This year 7,224 students participated in the Patriot’s Pen program. $74,199 in awards were given plus $20,634 in expenses for a total spent on the program of $94,833.

1st Place — Evelyn A. Fisher 6th grade, Homeschooled, Lubbock, Texas Post Sponsor: 2466-Lubbock District Sponsor: 9

2nd Place — Angela R. Huffman 8th grade, Mason ISD, Mason, Texas Post Sponsor: 8554-Mason District Sponsor: 13

3rd Place — Ella Kirsten Malone First place Patriot’s Pen Winner Evelyn Fisher (second from right) poses with District Commander Steve Evans (far left); Cathy Jones, Auxiliary President Post 2466; Emily Hill, 6th Place Voice of Democracy winner; and Benny Guerrero, District Jr. Vice Commander.

14

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

8th grade, Danforth Jr. High School, Wimberley, Texas Post Sponsor: 6441-Wimberley District Sponsor: 5

2020 Mid-Winter Conference

Patriot’s Pen Essay 1st Place Winner (2019-20) Evelyn A. Fisher

“What Makes America Great” What makes America great? I have lived where the mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a picturesque beauty. Now I live in the vast high plains, where sunsets over cotton fields fill you with wonder. America is beautiful, but that is only part of why she is a great nation. America is great because her people are free. In this country, all individuals can pursue the future of their choice, and children like me have the freedom to dream great dreams. Freedom fosters creativity. Freedom is the foundation for invention and the growth of talent. America is at its greatest when we use our dreams to bless others. We must sacrifice to preserve that freedom for the next generation.

America is a great country founded upon freedom. However, freedom is costly, and the pages of our history books are filled with examples of people who paid its price. The Pilgrims, seeking freedom to live and worship their own God, bravely journeyed to America. 150 years later during the Revolutionary War, the Colonists fought England to earn their freedom. The Founding Fathers pledged their lives and fortunes to establish this new country, the United States of America. They created the Bill of Rights, which would guarantee liberty not only for themselves, but also for future generations.

For America to continue to be great, freedom must be purchased anew in every generation. Freedom is not something that can be bought just once. It must be continually earned, like trust. Over the years that followed the first sacrifices of the pioneers and patriots, each generation had those willing to give their lives for freedom’s cause. Soldiers, great leaders, and everyday citizens sacrificed and won the freedoms and rights for all people.

Teddy Roosevelt declared, “It is not what we have that will make us a great nation; it is the way in which we use it.” Our nation’s freedom is a gift, but it must be used well. Americans of the past understood this idea, and they sacrificed to give the gift of freedom to my generation. As a grateful recipient of this gift, it is my responsibility to build on this foundation of freedom, to use my talents well, and to defend the rights of others. When this happens, America will continue to be a great nation.

Patriot’s Pen winner Evelyn Fisher receives her ribbon from Texas State Auxiliary President Donna James and her plaque from Texas State Commander Keith King. To the left is National Auxiliary President Peggy Haake, and to the right is National Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Matthew “Fritz” Mihelcic.

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

15

2020 Mid-Winter Conference

Smart/Maher Citzenship Teacher of the Year Every year the Texas VFW recognizes an Outstanding Classroom Teacher for Grades K-5, 6-8, and 9-12. These teachers are selected from nominations received from Posts and Districts throughout Texas.

The state winners are then forwarded to National VFW for competition at the National Level.

Grades K-5 Winner

Grades 6-8 Winner

Andrea D. Mason of Garland, Texas

Jennifer Land of Pasadena, Texas

Jason Barber of Brenham, Texas

Keller Middle School, Pasadena, Texas Sponsoring Post: 4395-Pasadena Sponsoring District: 4

Brenham High School, Brenham, Texas Sponsoring Post: 7014-Brenham Sponsoring District: 17

Lee A. McShan Elementary School, Dallas, Texas Sponsoring Post: 6796 | Dallas Sponsoring District: 3

Grades 9-12 Winner

Thank you to our valuable Exhibitors!

Austin Vet Center Central Texas Veterans Health Care System Jeff Clark — Candidate for State Junior Vice Commander Humana KOWK Law Firm Lone Survivor Foundation Military Order of the Cootie Purifan Travis County Veterans Service Office Texas Leadership Program Texas Legal Texas VFW Motorcycle Group Texas Veterans Commission Texas Veterans Legal Assistance Project Lynn Toomer — Candidate for State Junior Vice Commander United States Veterans Service Dogs (USVSD) UT Health San Antonio — Military Caregivers Telepath Program V-Sweeps, Inc. VFW National Home

16

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

2020 Mid-Winter Conference

USVSD Service Dog Ceremony The United States Veterans Service Dogs organization held an emotional and inspiring ceremony on Saturday, January 25 at the Mid-Winter Convention. Several veterans spoke from the heart about their difficulties with PTSD, anger, depression and social anxiety and how their service dogs changed their lives and helped them feel whole again. If you or a veteran you know could benefit from a service dog, please visit www.usvsd.com to find out more.

A huge thank you to V-Sweeps for its generous funding and support of this program.

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

17

Do you care for a veteran or service member?

If you are a spouse, family member, loved one, or friend who assists a wounded, ill, or injured Service Member or Veteran in any activity (or instrumental activity) of daily living, you are a Military Caregiver.

Join us for this exciting new program, the Military Caregiver Telehealth Initiative for Texas residents!

• • • • • • •

Counseling for military caregivers Focus on taking care of YOU Promoting emotional well-being and healing Virtual visits at a time and place convenient to you, through your computer or smart phone No cost to participate No referral or health insurance needed All information is kept confidential

We are inviting caregivers of wounded, ill, or injured veterans or active-duty service members, pre- and post-9/11, who • • •

To participate or for additional information, please contact Erika Jonietz (210) 450-8673 telehealth@uthscsa.edu Conducted under the direction of Dawn Velligan, Ph.D., Program Director Byron C. Hepburn, M.D., FAAFP, Director, Military Health Institute

Live in the state of Texas Are interested in receiving 1:1 resiliency counseling to deal with stress, anxiety, sadness, loss, grief, anger, or other issues Are willing to participate in weekly 50-minute sessions for up to 12 weeks (duration depends on your preference) The Military Caregiver Teleheath Initiative is supported by USAA.

State Commander & state President’s

Homecoming April 23-25, 2020

Philip H. Parker VFW Post 2438 | Bay City, TX 77414

Thursday, April 23 3:00 - 8:00 pm Registration@ VFW Post 2438 Registration fees $50.00 includes 3 dinner meals, concert ticket for Saturday night 6:00 pm Taco Dinner @ VFW Post 2438 7:00 pm Karaoke Night with Harold Carter @ VFW Post 2438

Friday, April 24

Keith King State Commander

8:00 am - 8:00 pm Registration@ VFW Post 2438 8:00 am Breakfast @ VFW Post 2438 8:00 am Golfing at Rio Colorado Golf Course 11:30 am Finger foods provided by VFW Post 2438 & Auxiliary Following lunch — Afternoon Movies, Bowling@ Schulman’s MBG Corn hole, Pool, Dominoes @ VFW Post 2438 6:00 pm Fish Fry Dinner @ VFW Post 2438 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm Dance after dinner with Ronnie Coleman @ VFW Post 2438

Saturday, April 25

Donna James State President

8:00 am Breakfast SOS on biscuits @ VFW Post 2438 9:00 am -11:00 am Council Meeting @ VFW Post 2438 11:00 am Commander King & President James greeting 11:30 am Lunch @ VFW Post 2438 Following lunch — Afternoon Movies, Bowling@ Schulman’s MBG Corn hole, Pool, Dominoes @ VFW Post 2438 6:30 pm Dinner BBQ @ VFW Post 2438 Concert starts approximately 7:30 pm @ VFW Post 2438

Morning and evening Fishing Trips available April 24-26th.

Please book by March 1st to ensure availability.

Contact Glen James, 979-479-1460 $600 + Bait for up 3 people, $100 per extra person max 5

Canteen 11:00 am-12:00 am | Last Call 11:45 pm

Check www.texasvfw.org/upcoming-events for ticket purchasing information.

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

19

Texas VFW Post 10427, Leander A round table conversation was taped on location at Texas VFW 10427 Post in Leander in October 2019. An excerpt of the conversation was featured on “Decibel — Valuing Veterans” that aired November 22-24, 2019. Panelists included Mitch Fuller, Iraq War; Glenn Towery, Vietnam; Margaret Watson, Iraq War with hostess Judy Maggio.

Texas VFW Post 4443, Austin During the holiday season Post members gathered to distribute Buddy Poppies to the general public bringing awareness on the history of the Buddy Poppy Program and how it has directly benefited thousands of disabled and American veterans in need.

Texas VFW District 21 in conjunction with Post sponsors 4746, 6872, 7835, 9299, 10429 and the VA, as well as members of Texas VFW Auxiliaries 4746, 7835, and 9299, participated in the 11th Annual Tarrant County Veterans Homeless Stand Down on November 20, 2019. Sr. Vice Commander, Maria Sexton, Post 4746, was assigned as lead coordinator by District 21 Commander, Eddie Terry, to organize the collection of donations. Post members managed to secure over $7,500 of donated items. Over 155 veterans were helped with haircuts, VA housing information, mental health services, clothing, shoes and immunizations. Photos by Maria Sexton and Rick Irving

Celebrating 10 years of the Texas Lottery Commission Veterans Cash scratch off ticket that has raised over 120 million dollars and helped over 300,000 Texas veterans is Commissioner J. Winston Krause of the Texas Lottery Commission; Commissioner Al Cantu of the Texas Veterans Commission; Representative Chris Turner (the bill’s original co-author); Dan West, Executive Director of the Texas VFW Foundation and State Adjutant/Quartermaster of the Texas VFW; Tom Palladino, Executive Director of the Texas Veterans Commission.

20

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

Texas VFW Post 837, San Antonio In the month of October, 2019, the Post donated $2,500 to facilitate the needs of various high schools in their community. Members and Auxiliary sponsored 4 JROTC programs, assisted two school districts with school supplies, and supported a youth group called “Sheriff Explorers.”

Want to be highlighted for the work you are doing in your community to honor veterans?

Please send photos and captions to terri@medianation.net.

Texas VFW Post 8936, San Antonio Ruben Garcia, Commander of Texas VFW Post 8936, San Antonio, and Desert Storm veteran, along with several Post members, attends the unveiling of the design of the Desert Storm Memorial at Alstadt Brewery, Fredericksburg, Texas, December 5, 2019. He and his Post have been an integral part of fundraising efforts towards the Desert Storm Memorial Foundation. The monument will be completed in 2021 in Washington D.C. near the Lincoln and Vietnam memorials and is critical in remembering the service and sacrifice of America’s brave men and women during Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield.

Texas VFW Post 8923, Carrollton The Post was integral in the design, fundraising efforts, and working with their City Council to get approval for a war memorial to be built near the library and the senior center in Carrollton. Stay tuned for futher details.

Texas VFW Post 4709, Conroe

District 18 Commander and Quilt of Valor Ambassador Lupita M. Perez, Past District 18

Americanism Program Chairman John (Foy) Day tells students at Lone Star Elementary Kindergarten about the Flag and our Nation’s history. All children were presented a certificate to document their participation, a flag and a coloring sheet. Each child was invited to complete the coloring sheet and return it to their teacher and to the VFW. Student artwork was then shared with hospitalized and nursing home restricted Veterans in the community. Photo by Connie McNabb DVM

Commander Loren Pogue, and District Officer Micaela Reyes host a quilting ceremony for Jknor Glenn Harding, Korean War veteran (left), and Larry Spence, 34-year Willacy County Sheriff, and Tet Offensive Vietnam veteran (right).

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

21

Thank you to our sponsors and contributors in 2019! We could not have the enormous reach we have without your support.

- Texas Governor’s 2019 Inaugural Committee for the donation for the Texas Edition “Remember My Service” Vietnam 50th Commemoration Gift Program in partnership with the Texas Veterans Commission and Remember My Service Productions - Mike Barber - BBVA Compass Bank - BE Insurance Partners - Dorthy Bennett - Betty Royston - Virginia Bunnell - Karlene Chambers - Collins Family Gift Fund - Epifano Castillo, Jr. - FedEx - Stacey Foley - Kay Frizzell - Ernest Groos - Karyn Hahne - Henry Harper - Howard Family Charitable Trust - Lou Luchsinger - Norman Macey

TEXAS VFW

FOUNDATION

- Heather Manto - Stephanie Medrano - North Dallas Bank & Trust Co. - Rick and Mary Kenny - Robert and Kyle Hood - Williams Smith - Meredith Taylor - Veteran Energy - Victoria Dickerson - Dahlia Wells - Wells, Gotshal, & Manges - Ron and April Wolf - And the many donors through AmazonSmile, American Online Giving Foundation, Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, PayPal Giving Fund, and other online/ employee contribution programs.

The Texas VFW Foundation would like to thank McLennan County VSO and all other County VSOs that we collaborate with to bring as much assistance as possible to the veterans we serve. It is partnerships like these that can truly maximize the impact on veterans and their families.

“On behalf of my family and I, we wish to thank Texas VFW Foundation for its emergency assistance with financial aid to pay our arrears shelter payments. This has kept us from becoming an addition to the Texas veterans homeless population.”

—Ralph M., US Army

NEWS: Shout out to the Texas VFW Foundation’s own Angel Ramirez for completing another round of VFW Service Officer training!

FALL QUARTER ASSISTANCE: 54 veteran households assisted — including 111 dependents and 2 surviving spouses, with $97,230 in direct financial assistance from October through December, 2019.

For information on benefits and claims through the Department of Veterans Affairs, please contact one of the following Texas Service Officers: Terry (Mike) Eshenbaugh | Houston (713) 383-2730 Katina Cryer | Waco (254) 299-9959 Angel Ramirez, Texas VFW Foundation | Austin (512) 291-6850

Foundation’s shirt on sale: $20 S, M, L, XL $22 XX-Large and up.

Limited sizes available.

Email foundation@texasvfw.org to place order.

The Texas VFW Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) Public Charity. The 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. Your charitable contribution could be tax deductible. Talk to your tax professional about how contributions to the Texas VFW Foundation could help.

PLEASE MAIL DONATIONS TO TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION, P.O. BOX 14468, AUSTIN, TX 78761.

PAYPAL LINK IS ON TEXASVFWFOUNDATION.ORG, BOTTOM OF PAGE.

22

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

Texas VFW Post 7108, Helotes The Post, its Auxiliary, and TX Motorcycle Unit 30 participated in a Wreath Laying Ceremony at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery on December 14, 2019.

The event had over five thousand people in attendance. Over 65,000 wreaths were placed on graves.

Texas VFW Post 7103, Athens

! g n i d n a t O uts

The Post participated in “Operation Give Back” to collect donations for and also the assembly and packaging of Christmas gift bags for approximately 462 soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen so they could enjoy a little taste of home for the holidays. Thanks in part to the Post’s generous cash donations, they were also able to cover almost all of the shipping costs for this endeavor.

Texas VFW Post 8788, McAllen The Post elves held its annual children’s Christmas party and distributed toys to 32 children in attendance. Refreshments were served. A great time was had by all.

Texas VFW Post 6796, Dallas Post members volunteered to pack holiday gifts for the inpatients at the VA Hospital in Dallas, Texas.

Want to be highlighted for the work you are doing in your community to honor veterans?

Please send photos and captions to terri@medianation.net.

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

23

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors�

Bataan

Death March

Supporting Our Veterans

March 15, 2020

The Bataan Memorial Death March is a challenging 26-mile march through the high desert terrain of the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The memorial march is conducted in honor of the heroic service members who defended the Philippine Islands during World War II, sacrificing their freedom, health, and, in many cases, their lives.

For more information on the march please visit:

www.texasvfw.org/upcoming-events

Insuring Texas Homes, Farms, and Ranches Since 1901 1-800-507-2174 RVOS.com

100th ANNUAL TEXAS VFW STATE CONVENTION JUNE 17-21, 2020 | AUSTIN, TEXAS Make plans to join us for an amazing celebration of 100 years of the Texas VFW. Stay tuned to web and facebook for further details.

24

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

SPRING BRANCH VFW POST 8790

1560 Foley Street | Houston, Texas Canteen 713-465-1342 | Office 713-465-1950 VFW/AUX Meeting — 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m.

~~~BINGO~~~

Monday-Saturday

Sunday

1st session-Noon 2nd session-1:30 p.m.

1st session-7:00 p.m.

2nd session-8:30 p.m.

Mid-Winter Conference PHOTO GALLERY

Enjoy a few candids from the 2020 Mid-Winter Convention. All photos from the event may be downloaded free of charge at texasvfw.smugmug.com.

~~~CANTEEN~~~

Tuesday-Saturday 2:00 p.m. to 10 p.m.

~~~STEAK NIGHT~~~

1st Friday of Each Month-6:00 p.m. $14.00 Steak, Salad, Baked Potato & Dessert

~~~HAMBURGER/HOT DOG NIGHT~~~ 3rd Friday of Each Month — 6:00 p.m. $6.00 Hamburger/Hot Dogs, Trimmings & Dessert

HALL RENTALS

“A” Room or “B” Room Call 713-465-1950 or 713-465-1342

MUSEUM

OF THE AMERICAN

G.I.

Watch history come alive!

WWI FT Tank  WWII Tanks Historic Uniforms  Rare Posters PBR Boat  AH-1F Cobra

PRESERVE  HONOR  EDUCATE 19124 Hwy 6 S College Station, TX (979) 690-0501 | www.americangimuseum.org

Glen Vigus

Programs made possible in part through Hotel Tax Revenue funded from the City of College Station through the Arts Council

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

25

James “Jeff” Clark Candidate for ” Clark s “JeffCommander meVice JaJr. Department of Texas der n a m m o C e ic V .

Jr r fo te a Candid 2020-2021 Department of Texas 2020-2021

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

27

Texas VFW Post 3903, Rosenberg, Post and Auxiliary members and invited guests gathered to remember Pearl Harbor Day. In celebration of the holidays, gifts were distributed to all children in attendance.

MISSION: TO SUPPORT THOSE WHO HAVE SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR

28

THIS COUNTRY—ALL VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

LOBBYING FOR VETERANS & MILITARY

FUNDING COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS

EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

PROVIDING DISASTER RELIEF

PHONE CARDS FOR TROOPS

SUPPORTING MEMORIALS

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERISM

SUPPORTING YOUTH GROUPS

ASSISTING VETERANS WITH EARNED ENTITLEMENTS

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

THE DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

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

Name:___________________________________________________________________________Email:_________________________________________________________________________ First

Middle

Last

Suffix (Jr., Sr., etc)

Address:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City:____________________________________________________________________________________State:_____________________________Zip:_________________________________ Phone:_____________________________________________________________________Date of Birth: (MM/DD/YY)_________________________________________________________ Military Service: p Air Force p Army p Coast Guard p Marines p Navy Current Status: p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/Reserve I served in:

p Pre-World War II p World War II p WWII Occupation p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p 1945-90 (Berlin)

p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Storm/Shield p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism — p Expeditionary Operations Expeditionary 2001 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya,

p Afghanistan 2001 p Iraq 2003

Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.)

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(n): p Annual Member 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

$425.00

$45.00

$38.64

31-40

$410.00

$45.00

$37.27

41-50

$375.00

$45.00

$34.09

51-60

$335.00

$45.00

$30.45

61-70

$290.00

$45.00

$26.36

71-80

$225.00

$45.00

$20.45

81 and over

$170.00

$45.00

$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:________________________________________ Amount $:______________________________________ 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

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

29

LYNN TOOMER for Texas VFW State

JR. VICE COMMANDER 2 0 2 0 -2 0 2 1 “Keeping

the

VFW

Great”

While on a mission to help a WWII veteran get assistance with his medical needs, Lynn joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His VFW eligibility comes from his service in the United States Marine Corps 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion in Desert Storm where he served with Task Force Ripper and Task Force Papa Bear. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat V for his actions on the battlefield. During his last deployment he served in Somalia.

Lynn Toomer: A Qualified and Proven Leader Gold Legacy Life Member All State/American QM 2013-14 All State Post Commander 2014-15 District 21 Commander x 2

District 21 Chief of Staff 2018 • 2020 State Deputy Inspector 2017-18 National Aide De Camp 2012-15

Lynn believes in the Core Values of the VFW and will continue to fight for ALL veterans’ rights and the future of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. We never forget our brothers in arms who came before us, those currently serving, and those who will come after.

lynn.toomer@yahoo.com

R e c r u i t i n g | M e n t o r i n g | Tr a i n i n g 30

W i n t e r 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

Texas Legal Proudly Serves Veterans.

Always by your side Texas Legal, a nonprofit organization, founded by the State Bar, provides legal insurance to Texans.

A legal event can happen to any of us. When you face a legal issue, legal insurance provides financial protection, guidance and representation through the process. Unlike other services that offer only legal advice, Texas Legal insurance plans cover the fees of working with in-network attorneys to represent you throughout the legal process – in court, arbitration or whatever path resolves your legal issue.

Texas Legal and Texas VFW have Partnered Together to Provide Texas Veterans and Their Families with Affordable Legal Representation.

What It Covers ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Consumer Protection Bankruptcy Estate Planning Identity Protection Traffic Tickets DWIs Divorce/Child Support Probate And Much More!

For more information please visit www.texaslegal.org, call 1.800.252.9346 or email members@texaslegal.org

Thank You for Serving Our Country.

PEARL HARBOR DAY — Members from Posts 8788, 3895 and 10712 gather to commemorate Pearl Harbor Day.