2020 Texas VFW News | Spring

SPRING 2020

Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

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INSIDE Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord Sinking of the USS Maine Operation Desert Storm Kosovo Campaign Somalia Operation COVID-19 in Texas

g n i v r e #stills

Community Highlights GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY

2019 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

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

SPRING

2020

IN THE NEWS

Texas VFW Post 8273, Frisco, Donates Bus to Local High School

5 State Commander’s Column 6 Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord 7 Texas VFW Post 2466 Art Contest Announcement 8 Sinking of the USS Maine 10 Operation Desert Storm 11 Frisco Post Donates Bus to Local School 12 Kosovo Campaign 13 Texas VFW State Convention 14 Somalia Operation 15 State Commander’s Homecoming 16 Through COVID-19 Members #StillServing 18 Texas VFW Attends Legislative Conference 19 Members Participate in “Paper Clip Project” 20 Texas VFW Foundation 21 Bill Brown — Volunteer Extraordinaire 22 Community Highlights 23 WWII Veteran Celebrates his 100th Birthday 26 Community Highlights 27 Community Highlights 29 Texas VFW Membership Application 32 Texas VFW Post 8904 Remembers the USS Maine

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

UPCOMING EVENTS • State Convention: June 17-21, 2020 • Commander’s Homecoming: Bay City, TX June 25-28, 2020 • Officer Training Seminar: — ON HOLD

Stay tuned to texasvfw.org and facebook for latest announcements of cancelations/ modifications to above events due to COVID-19.

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Throughout COVID-19 Quarantine, Members Provide Help

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Bill Brown Goes Above and Beyond in the World of Beep Baseball

p 21 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS JANUARY-MARCH 2020 • Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord • Sinking of the USS Maine • Operation Desert Storm • Kosovo Campaign • Somalia Operation

ON THE COVER Micaela “Mickey“ Reyes of Texas VFW District 18, Post 12178, Weslaco, “still serving” by sewing masks for local Police and State Troopers, Nurses, Harlingen VA, clinics, Border Patrol, and adult daycare workers who take meals to the elderly at their homes, as well as local residents and children.

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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.)

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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 4, © APRIL 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 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 4443 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 Angel Ramirez 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 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@tvc.texas.gov katina.cryer@tvc.texas.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 Hello Texas VFW and Auxiliary members, All I can say is “WOW! What a ride this VFW year has been!” As I sit writing this, we have been informed that the National Convention in Reno has been canceled and the many details to ensure a smooth transition into our 20202021 year are being discussed. These details will be released as they are verified. I will thank you in advance for your patience and understanding during this COVID-19 pandemic with all the ramifications that it has presented to the entire world. As of this writing, the state convention is still on for June. If the Governor lifts the restrictions to a point that we are able to convene, we will. Conversely, if he continues the moratorium into that time frame, we will be forced to make changes.

These are unprecedented days we are living in, with the “shelter in place,” social distancing, hoarding of the most unusual items (can you say “TP!”) most of us have ever experienced. Yes, there are many challenges but others would say “opportunities” to be dealt with. As much as we are told to stay “physically distant,” this virus has brought our nation’s people closer together in a united front to combat it.

This has also FORCED many people, companies, and organizations to change some practices in order to adapt, improvise, and tackle the issues presented. I can positively tell you that the use of technology for communication has definitely been embraced by Posts, Districts, State and National levels of the VFW. The surprising result of this is that with online workshops and brainstorming sessions held electronically we are seeing major improvement in attendance. I am positive the use of technology will continue to rise in our organization at every level.

With the shelter in place rules we have, this is a perfect time to share your membership lists (both paid and unpaid) with fellow officers and members and do a “buddy check.” It lets your people know you care and it’s nice to talk to other people as this goes on. You never know who is going stir crazy, or getting depressed, or just needs an ear to hear — you could be doing them a favor. If you are ambitious or bored or YOU need someone to talk to, the Department can send a list of the MAL members in your area so that you can check on them. We all know this is mentally stressful but that good things can arise from this.

I truly look for all of us as individuals, groups, and most of all — COUNTRY — to come together and become better from this experience — much like a Phoenix out of the ashes. We still have time and capability to make our

Texas VFW District 20 was honored with a visit from VFW National Headquarters’ top leaders to San Antonio, Texas on January 27, 2020 including Commander-in-Chief William “Doc” Schmitz, Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief Hal Roesch, and Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Matthew “Fritz” Mihelcic. This is the first time in memory that all three Top Commanders and the Texas VFW Department Commander Keith King were in one location at the same time.

department 100% and I want to thank each and every one of you for what you do every day!

I will leave y’all with this…It has indeed been a great HONOR to have served as your State Commander this year!

There have been many opportunities presented to me because of this and I know that I leave Texas in good hands with the incoming officers. It has truly been a pleasure to meet and talk with the many members of our great organization during my travels this year. I hope to see you in the very near future and thank you for sailing with me this year on Freedom’s Flagship!

God Bless each and every one of you. Prayers for good health to you and yours.

Yours in Comradeship,

Keith King S p r i n g 2 0 2 0 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

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Signing of the VIETNAM PEACE ACCORD JANUARY 27

Texas VFW Post 8587, Georgetown

Texas VFW Post 8913, Lancaster

Texas VFW Post 6012, San Antonio

! g n i d n a t O uts Texas VFW Post 4692, Bryan 6

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Texas VFW Post 8539, Lampasas

Texas VFW 2466, Lubbock, initiates “Honoring the Sacrifice” Art Contest for Students K-12 During times of war, less than 1% of Americans sacrifice by joining the Armed Forces to protect the country, its people and its freedoms. This less than 1% carry with them the scars of that sacrifice. Today’s COVID-19 pandemic has caused us all to sacrifice. Americans are sacrificing some of their freedom to prevent further spread. And a very few are sacrificing their lives to treat the sick, to protect the most vulnerable and to find a cure.

In honor of that sacrifice, the Lubbock Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2466 and its Auxiliary have established a local art contest that calls for the creativity of our youth. The theme of the contest is “Honoring the Sacrifice.” The student should create art that captures the sacrifice in response to COVID-19.

“Honoring the Sacrifice” Art Contest ENTRY FORM Name:________________________________________Age:_____________ Address:_______________________________________________________ City: ___________________________ State: TX Zip: ________________

Who is Eligible?

Email: ______________________________Phone: ____________________

• Any student in grades K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 who is enrolled in a public, private or parochial school or home-study program in a 100-mile radius of Lubbock, Texas.

• Maximum student age of 18 years old at time of entry.

• Applicant does not have to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate.

• Art and entry form must be received by the Lubbock VFW on or before June 29, 2020, 5:00 p.m.

• Winners to be announced at Lubbock’s 4th of July parade (Fourth on Broadway).

• The first, second, and third place winners from each grade level K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 will receive monetary prizes.

Date of Art Completion: __________________________________________

What are the Submission Requirements?

Student Signature: ___________________________ Date:______________

• Two-dimensional art must be on canvas or paper. Watercolor, pencil, pastel, charcoal, tempera, crayon, acrylic, pen, ink, oil, marker or other media taught may be used.

• Do not frame two-dimensional pieces.

• The art should be no smaller than 8" x 10" but no larger than 18" x 24".

• Three dimensional art can be paper, papier-mâché, pottery, clay, metal work, fabric, etc.

• Pieces should be no larger than 18" in any direction.

• Art cannot be more than 5 lbs. in weight.

• Digital art, photography and jewelry are NOT ACCEPTED. • Completed entry form and attach to back of entry.

Points of contact for the art contest: VFW Post Commander Benny Guerrero — vfwpostcommander2466@gmail.com Auxiliary President Cathy Jones — cathyljones54@gmail.com

School: ______________________________________Grade:____________ Teacher’s or supervisory adult’s signature verifying that the entry was done by you: Teacher/Guardian Name: _________________________________________ Signature: _____________________________________________________ I hereby grant permission for my artwork to be published in the Texas VFW Magazine and on the Texas VFW website.

State the source of your idea for entry: person, website, magazine, TV, newspaper, etc. To comply with copyright laws, all artwork must be original to the entrant. Artwork may be inspired by other artist’s/photographer’s work, but not to the degree that the new piece of artwork is easily recognized as being derivative of other artist’s work. If another artist’s/photographer’s work is used as a source of inspiration or reference, a copy of the work must be provided along with the name and date of publication in which it was found. Any artwork that is recognized as being in violation of these rules will be disqualified.

SOURCE:________________________________________________ All Media Used in Entry:____________________________________ (colored pencil, pastels, acrylic/oil paint, pottery, metal, etc.)

Must be received (not postmarked) at Lubbock VFW no later than 5:00 pm on June 29, 2020.

MAIL TO: Lubbock VFW | PO Box 3126 | Lubbock, Texas 79452 If you wish to deliver the artwork in person to Lubbock VFW please coordinate via email.

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Sinking of the USS MAINE

F E B R U A R Y 15 Texas VFW Post 837, San Antonio

! g n i d n O u tsta Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas

Texas VFW Post 1820, Temple

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Texas VFW Post 2438, Bay City

Texas VFW Post 2676, Windthorst

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

Texas VFW Post 12152, Cleburne

Non-Drug

Confidential

Non-Invasive

Compensation Provided

Dallas evaluatingthe theuse useofof UTUT Dallas is is evaluating Magnetic Stimulation enhancethe the Magnetic Stimulation toto enhance 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:

Texas VFW Post 3904, Rockport

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

Texas VFW Post 12041, Lytle

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OPERATION DESERT STORM FEBRUARY 28

Texas VFW Post 1922, Gainesville

! g n i d n a O u tst Texas VFW Post 2059, San Antonio

Texas VFW Post 3892, Harker Heights

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Texas VFW Post 6525, Rockdale

Texas VFW Post 6441, Wimberley

Frisco Post Donates Bus to Local School Texas VFW Post 8273, Frisco, officially handed over the keys and title to a custom-wrapped school bus to Leadership Prep School’s athletic department in Frisco, Texas on January 31, 2020. The Post learned about the athletic department’s need and went into action to rally its resources to provide the school with a much-needed bus. A local audio/ tint company donated the bus to the Post then the Post raised funds for repairs to ensure the bus was in impeccable shape for the school. Several officers and members of the Post were responsible in helping make the community service bus project a success.

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

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KOSOVO CAMPAIGN MARCH 24

! g n i d n a t O uts Texas VFW Post 7473, Elsa

Texas VFW Post 7108, San Antonio

Texas VFW Post 6382, Hallettsville

Texas VFW Post 4376, Seven Points

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Texas VFW Post 12171, San Antonio

DOUBLETREE AUSTIN HOTEL 6505 N Interstate 35 Austin, Texas 78752 512-454-3737

Stay tuned to texasvfw.org for event updates and modifications.

$110

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE Wednesday, June 17 7:30 am-5:00 pm . . . . .

10:00 am- Noon . . . . . .

12 Noon-5:00 pm . . . .

12 Noon-5:00 pm . . . .

12 Noon-5:00 pm . . . .

12 Noon-5:00 pm . . . .

3:00-5:00 pm . . . . . . . .

6:00 pm-12:00 am . . .

Golf Tournament VFW Foundation Meeting (Closed) 6th Floor Boardroom Vendor Tables Set Up Austin Room Poppies and Community Service Books Set Up DeWitt Room VFW Registration/Credentials Robertson Room /Pre-Function VFW Store Set Up DeZavala Room Budget and Finance Meeting (Closed) 6th Floor Boardroom Combined Hospitality Magnolia/Dovers Rooms

Thursday, June 18 8:00 am-5:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-5:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-5:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-5:00 pm . . . . .

8:30-10:00 am . . . . . . .

11:00 am-6:00 pm . . .

1:00-5:00 pm . . . . . . . .

6:00 pm-12:00 am . . .

Friday, June 19 8:00-9:00 am . . . . . . . .

8:00 am-4:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-4:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-4:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-4:00 pm . . . . .

VFW Registration/Credentials Robertson Room/Pre-Function Vendor Tables Austin Room Poppies and Community Service Books DeWitt Room VFW Store DeZavala Room VFW Council of Administration Meeting Phoenix Ballrooms Buses to State Capitol from both Hotels Crowne/Doubletree Joint Memorial & Opening Session State Capitol Combined Hospitality Magnolia/Dovers Rooms

9:00 am-Adjourn . . . . .

5:30-6:30 pm . . . . . . . .

6:30-9:00 pm . . . . . . . .

6:00 pm-12:00 am . . .

VFW Business Meeting and Nominations Phoenix Ballrooms Reception with Cash Bar Pre-Function Awards Banquet Phoenix Ballrooms Combined Hospitality Magnolia/Dovers Rooms

Saturday, June 20 8:00 am-4:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-1:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-1:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am-1:00 pm . . . . .

9:00 am-Noon . . . . . . .

Noon-1:30 pm . . . . . . .

3:00-4:00 pm . . . . . . . .

4:00-5:30 pm . . . . . . . .

5:30-6:30 pm . . . . . . . .

6:00 pm-12:00 am . . .

VFW Registration/Credentials Robertson Room/Pre-Function Vendor Tables Austin Room Poppies and Community Service Books DeWitt Room VFW Store DeZavala Room VFW Business Meeting and Elections Phoenix Ballrooms Past Department Commander’s Lunch TBA VFW/Aux Incoming Council Take Photos Pre-Function Joint Installation of Officers Phoenix Ballrooms State Commander & President Reception Pre-Function Combined Hospitality Magnolia/Dovers Rooms

Sunday, June 21

Departures . . . . . . . . . . . All-Day

ORDER TICKETS ONLINE AT

VFW Resolutions Available for Review Phoenix Ballrooms VFW Registration/Credentials Robertson Room/Pre-Function Vendor Tables Austin Room Poppies and Community Service Books DeWitt Room VFW Store DeZavala Room

TEXASVFW.ORG/UPCOMING-EVENTS – OR–

MAIL OR FAX PAYMENT & COMPLETED FORM TO TEXAS VFW, PO BOX 14468, AUSTIN, TX, 78761 FAX TO 512-834-9232

100th Annual State Convention Awards Banquet Ticket Sales NO REFUNDS AF TER MAY 22, 2020 • LIMITED TO FIR ST PAID ONLY/RESERVATIONS NOT ACCEPTED

NAME:

PHONE #:

ADDRESS: STATE:

CITY: ZIP:

POST/AUX:

DIST. #:

EMAIL: TYPE OF CARD

FUNCTION

CARD #

EXP. DATE

A $3 Credit Card Processing Fee will be added if paying by Credit Card.

PRICE AMOUNT

Awards Banquet (per Seat)

$60

Awards Banquet Table (Seats 10)

$600

SECURITY CODE Last 3 #’s on back of card. For AMEX, the 4 #’s on the front.

QUANTITY

TOTAL AMOUNT

CHECK ENCLOSED ( MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO TEXAS VFW )

SIGNATURE

DATE

SOMALIA OPERATION

! g n i d n O u tsta

MARCH 31

Texas VFW Post 76, San Antonio

Texas VFW Post 856, Austin

Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas

Texas VFW Post 2195, Allen

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Texas VFW Post 9299, Alvarado

State Commander & state President’s

Homecoming

(proposed dates unless canceled due to COVID-19)

june 25-28, 2020

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

Thursday, june 25 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, june 26 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

Keith King State Commander

Donna James State President For more information on the Golf Tournament please contact Lavern Terbl at 903-814-3505, lterblvfwqm@gmail.com or Sheri Contella at 281-229-1204, terry.sheri1@yahoo.com.

Saturday, june 27 8:00 am Breakfast SOS on biscuits @ 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 Please book by June 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

Stay tuned to texasvfw.org for event updates or cancelations.

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

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Texas VFW Mem pandemic

In this unprecented time, people around the globe have been forced to “shelter in place” to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus that orginated in Wuhan, China in late 2019.

The virus began to reach the state of Texas in early 2020.

The United States has encountered mask and respirator shortages, food insecurity, long lines with required 6-foot “social distancing” at grocery stores, paper products and hand sanitzer shortages, closing of all non-essential businesses and millions filing for unemployment, closing of schools and colleges, lack of COVID-19 tests, and an overwhelming of the health care system.

Those who were able to keep their jobs have been forced to “work from home” and have had to integrate video and conferencing apps into their daily routines. Parents have been forced to home school their children throughout the remainder of the school year.

In compliance with social distancing regulations Texas VFW Post 9186, San Antonio, Service Officer Ralph Alvarado continues to “still serve” by helping veterans with VA claims.

ckages to load of care pa k uc tr a ed er forts in New “Our Post deliv ployed to help ef de ho w it un d w out so our adopte y before they fle da a ed en pp ha York City. This em.” eir items with th th ke ta st 688 to t go they , Texas VFW Po en pl am C ew dr —An

#stillserving 16

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This “new normal” includes isolation from friends, family, and co-workes, and from life as it was once known. During this trying time, Texas VFW members continued to still serve their fellow comrades, friends and neighbors. (At the time of this publication, the State of Texas was currently in quarantine.)

Texas VFW Post 4676, Universal City, Commander Ramon “still serves” by assisting CARE TEAM in delivering meals, educational packets, and personal hygiene items to children in the area.

. Today I check on people to lls ca l ra ve “I’ve made se ered them to a erials and deliv at m of ad lo a picked up e masks.” aking protectiv ombs friend who is m —Jimmy E. McC

bers Bring Rays of Hope to Many Texas VFW Post 12161, Buda, Bruce D White and Post members along with other local VSOs “still serving” by sewing face masks, making surgical mask extenders and giving to medical facilities, operating a food bank, providing weekly calls to members, disbursing grocery vouchers provided by the city, and assisting at-risk households with transport and deliveries.

HometownHero donated 1,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to the Texas VFW to distribute to veterans. Lukas Gilkey is a Coast Guard veteran and entrepreneur who owns HometownHero, an Austin-based company that is committed to helping fellow veterans by giving back. #stillserving

aking ddaughter are m an gr d an er ht ug “My da . I have called who needs them ne yo an r fo ks as m ake sure ked on them to m ec ch d an le op several pe anything.” see if they need to d an K’ ‘O e ar rlson they — Reba Jordan Ca

Lupita Perez and Micaela “Mickey“ Reyes of Texas VFW District 18, Post 12178, Weslaco, are “still serving” by sewing masks for the last few weeks on average of 14 hours a day! They’ve received mask requests from all over the state of Texas as well as from Iowa, Utah, Colorado and Oklahoma. They’ve been able to provide several hundred masks by receiving generous donations of materials and monetary funds. The masks have been distributed to local Police and State Troopers, Nurses, Harlingen VA, clinics, Border Patrol, and adult daycare workers who take meals to the elderly at their homes, as well as local residents and children.

Additionally, the two women provided a supply of masks to friends of the Post who were mobilized to Louisiana with the U.S. Army Reserves. Their work has received attention from the National VFW. Outstanding! Additionally, a request was put out to members on the Texas VFW facebook page that they had run out of elastic and several members stepped up to mail them materials so they could continue with their mission.

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Texas VFW attends Legislative Conference in Washington D.C. March 1-4, 2020 Since 1949, the VFW’s annual Legislative Conference has provided an opportunity for VFW leaders from each state to personally lobby their respective lawmakers and watch as the VFW’s current Commander-in-Chief testifies on Capitol Hill before the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees on behalf of veterans.

VFW National Commander William “Doc” Schmitz delivered testimony focused on the VFW’s Priority Goals for 2020 before a special joint hearing of the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees. Schmitz called for “accountability for failure to grant benefits to Vietnam and Post-9/11 veterans suffering from toxic exposures” while expressing the VFW’s frustration with the VA’s lack of urgency in providing benefits to individuals who suffer from conditions associated with toxic exposures.

Look for #VFWDC2020 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Texas VFW members in attendance at the Joint Meeting of the House and Senate Veterans Affairs meeting in Washington D.C.

State Commander Keith King (right) and State President Donna James (left) escort Texas VFW Voice of Democracy contest first place winner Jessica Schlaudt at the national awards VOD banquet where she competed for national level scholarships.

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Members donate to Lufkin Middle School Student’s “Paper Clip Project”

Texas VFW Post 4746, Weatherford, Sr. Vice Commander Maria Sexton, Quartermaster Marc Sexton, Past Commander Vick Graham, Two-Year Trustee Sylvia Aldrich, and Auxiliary member Pam Dobbs helped collect 2,500 paper clips for Jessica Hadnot “Paper Clip Project.”

Texas VFW Post 8919, El Paso, Members and Auxiliary boxed up 3,000 paper clips to send to Jessica. Additionally, a few members from District 10 Auxiliary provided paper clips.

Texas VFW Headquarters: Dan West and Wyonda Laurence gathered 1,000 paper clips for Jessica’s “Paper Clip Project.”

40 and 8 boxcar

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TEXAS VFW

FOUNDATION

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING CORPORATE AND INDIVIDUAL DONORS (for calendar year 2019): 2019 Texas Governor’s Inaugural Committee — $250,000 Veteran Energy — $4,901.76 FedEx — $2,500 BE Insurance Partners — $300

“Just wanted to say ‘Thank you very much’ for the help on the month that I was not able to take care of my bills. I appreciate you and the staff who made the effort to get me approved for the help.

Thanks for taking care of me and all the veterans out there who are struggling to make ends meet.”

Collins Family Gift Fund

—Gary J. (USN)

Epifano Castillo, Jr. Stacey Foley Shenna Lawless Sam & Barbara McKenney Rick & Mary Kenny Robert & Kyle Hood Ron & April Wolf

Texas VFW Foundation awarded an additional $125,000 in emergency funding due to COVID-19 through the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA).

The FVA is administered by the Texas Veterans Commission. Veterans who need assistance can apply through the portal on the Foundation page at www.texasvfw.org.

NEWS: With the extension of the federal filing deadline from 15 April to 15 July, that also extends the deadline to donate for tax year 2019. Just make sure donation is clearly marked “2019.”

WINTER QUARTER ASSISTANCE: 46 veteran households — including 56 dependents and 5 surviving spouses —with $81,238 for January to March, 2020.

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 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.

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Bill Brown — Volunteer Extraordinaire

Providing food, morale and logistic support since 1992 for the Austin Blackhawks Bill Brown is a Life Member of the VFW and Post 10427, Leander. He has been a volunteer, providing food, morale and logistic support since 1992 for the Austin Blackhawks, the winningest team in the history of Beep Baseball — a baseball game for blind and visually impaired athletes.

Bill grew up with his twin brother, Jim, in Llano, Texas. Both men served in the Army in Vietnam, where Jim, an Infantryman, was seriously injured by stepping on an enemy land mine, for which he was awarded a Purple Heart.

Bill enlisted in 1966, completing Basic Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland, where he earned the 45J20 MOS, Aircraft Armament Repairman. After completion of AIT, Bill was stationed in Manheim, Germany, where he served in that MOS. In October, 1967 Bill began a one-year tour in Vietnam, assigned to the 540th Transportation Company (General Support Aviation Maintenance), 14th Transportation Battalion, Qui Nhon, South Vietnam. During his Tour in Vietnam, Bill’s primary specialty was the maintenance of all weapons systems on the D Model Huey Helicopter Gunship.

When Bill returned from Vietnam in 1968 he settled in Austin and began his career with Southwestern Bell, where he served for 32 years as an installer-repairman. While

employed at Southwestern Bell, Bill became active in the Pioneers, a Volunteer Network of the Telephone Pioneers of America, which is an organization of volunteers dating back to its founding in 1911 by Alexander Graham Bell.

It consists primarily of actively-employed and retired employees in the telecommunications industry — making it one of the world’s largest corporate volunteer organizations.

During its peak, Pioneers volunteered more than 10 million hours annually responding to the individual needs of their communities throughout the United States and Canada.

In 1992, “Beep Baseball” discovered Bill Brown!

Beep Baseball is an adaptation of America’s favorite passtime for people who are completely blind, possess low vision, or who are legally blind. Beep Baseball originated in 1964 when an engineer with one of the Bell Telephone Companies implanted a beeping device in a softball as a way of encouraging blind players to become involved in recreational activities.

Eleven years later, Beep Baseball enthusiasts formed the National Beep Baseball Association (NBBA) in Chicago.

In 1992, Austin, Texas was selected to host the Beep Baseball World Series and the Austin Blackhawks, the winningest team in the history of Beep Baseball, volunteered to be the host team. Under the leadership of Rusty Reames, Chairman of the Non-Profit Sports Vision 2020 and whose two sons formed the foundation of the Blackhawks, the plans were put in motion to hold this incredible event, hosting teams

of blind players and volunteers from all over the world! All Rusty needed were hundreds of volunteers to make it all work.

Rusty was familiar with the Pioneers Volunteer Network since that organization had remained involved with Beep Baseball making the baseballs used by the players, of which 300 were needed for the World series. She contacted them and Bill Brown, along with many other Pioneers, who stepped up to do whatever was necessary to make the program successful. Bill told Rusty he could cook and specialized in BBQ, The rest, as they say, is history.

Bill has been the official cook of the Austin Blackhawks ever since, providing meals for practices, games and special events, particularly fund raisers, in Austin as well as on the road. He has travelled with the team all over the USA to many of their World Series appearances and accompanied them to Taiwan for the World Series when it was held there.

Bill was recently recognized by the Austin Blackhawks for his 27+ years of service to the organization as well as for his service to our nation, both in Vietnam, and since his return, as an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In May, Bill participated in the 60th flight of Honor Flight Austin as one of 40 veterans from the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and World War II, visiting our nation’s capital and experiencing the memorials built in their honor.

Bill Brown, Rusty Reames and Sports Vision 2020 are continuing to work to have the VA designate Beep Baseball as a Service-Disabled Veteran Adaptive Sport so it will be introduced to our visually impaired Veterans throughout their rehabilitation in the VA System as a way to remain physically active while visually impaired.

There are many Disabled Veterans who participate on Beep Baseball Teams throughout the country and it is Rusty’s goal to have Beep Baseball included as part of the Warrior Games national competition and the Intrepid Games international competition for ServiceDisabled Veterans.

We congratulate and thank Bill for his service to our nation and for his incredible work in support of Beep Baseball, disabled veterans, and for all visually impaired athletes. H

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Rudy De Leon Jr., Life Member of VFW Post 12171, San Antonio, wished to share that his daughter Marissa De Leon recently graduated from US Army Basic Training in Fort Sill, OK. Marissa will continue her Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sam Houston, TX.

Students from Holliday ISD were recognized at the Monday, February 10, 2020 monthly school board meeting for their accomplishments in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy scholarship competitions. From left to right: Dr. Carl Lilly, Commander, VFW District 15; Bryce Palmer, Holliday Middle School, District 15 Patriot’s Pen 3rd place winner; Caleb Faver, Holliday High School, District 15 Voice of Democracy 1st place winner and state of Texas finalist; and David Teichman, Quartermaster, Scotland-Windthorst Post 2676. Caleb’s first place at District 15 earned him a $500 college scholarship and he received a $1,000 college scholarship for being a VFW state finalist.

Texas VFW Post 2148, Waco, members and auxiliary provided a pizza party at Robinson Jr. HS on March 5th, 2020 for its 35 students who participated in the VFW Patriot Pen Essay Contest. Pictured are the members with the students along with the school principal and teachers.

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

Please send photos and captions to terri@texasvfw.org.

WWII Veteran Celebrates His 100th Birthday January 9th, 2020, from the small community of Premont, Texas, Leopoldo Herrera, veteran of the World’s Greatest Generation, and member of Texas VFW Post 7634, Falfurrias, ‘stood tall’ and celebrated his 100th birthday. He was surrounded by his family and visiting veterans from the Premont, Texas area as well as fellow Post members. “It was without question a privilege to salute and receive a salute from a World War II veteran and recipient of the Bronze Star Medal,” said veteran Martin Cuellar.

On January 11, 2020, Leopoldo Herrera and his family were paid a visit by the Villa family from Alice, Texas. The Villas, representing veteran Villa who has passed, have continued to visit Herrera on special occasions.

WWII veterans Herrera and Villa met at Fort Benning, Georgia where they were first stationed. Through conversations they were elated to discover that they grew up and lived in communities separated only by a few miles. They developed a lifelong friendship.

The last great World War brought huge militaries from different countries together to battle a command enemy that was bringing destruction and oppression. The war was World War II and these men and women from different countries were later known as members of the World’s Greatest Generation. The military service members from America no doubt brought an ‘unyielding courage’ which was used to forge stability, strength and wealth after the war, in turn making America the undisputed world power.

Citizens from Falfurrias, Premont, and the surrounding areas continue to be guided by a hand-full of veterans from the World’s Greatest Generation. They continue to ‘stand tall’ with a salute for “God and Country,” as they ‘stood tall’ when ‘Uncle Sam’ called them to defend the United States. Tec-5 Herrera is one of those men.

He entered active duty service on November 11, 1942. He was assigned to Company A 315th Medical Battalion as an ambulance driver where he was later awarded the Medical Badge.

During the height of the war, his Company A 315th MBN, always in the forefront, brought medical assistance and aid to the wounded, and with deep sorrow, recovered the fallen. As the war progressed his Medical Battalion pushed through the Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe.

For his honest and faithful service to his country, Technician Fifth Grade Herrera was awarded the American Theater Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, EAME Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, Distinguished Unit Badge, World War II Victory Medal and for his bravery and unparallel leadership, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. The Department of the Army of the United States Honorably Discharged Tec-5 Herrera from military service on December 30, 1945 at Camp Fannin, Texas.

After arriving safely home, he went back to farming in Premont, Texas.

He was also employed and retired as a bus driver with thirty-one years from the Premont Independent School District. Mr. Herrera married his sweetheart, Consuelo, and both he and Mrs. Herrera raised five children, Mary, Espie, Martha, Betty and Leopoldo, Jr. H

During District 20’s February meeting, Texas VFW Post 8555, Poth, Texas, was presented with its 50th Anniversary documents from the National VFW.

Below is a list of the living charter members of the Post 8555. Many of them were in attendance.

George E. Coffey Jimmy G. De La Zerda Jerome Flieller Jr. Raymond M. Griego Albert G. Guevara Paul J. Hosek

Abelardo Leal Larry W. Machost Henry Montez Rudy G. Sanchez Leo B. Schneider

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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

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Scott Galliardt, MS, RN, Post Chaplain, VFW Post 688, Boerne, decided to train for and attend the 2020 Bataan Memorial Death March after being inspired by Post Commander Andrew Camplain and began training 4 nights a week starting at 2 miles a night and ending up at 22 miles on the weekends from August 2019 to present. As an RN, retired Major, NC TXANG, and former USN Hospital Corpsman, he felt a calling to attend and help where needed. After the cancelation of the march due to COVID-19 he decided he would still honor the heroes of Bataan by going forward with the march on Sunday, March 15th (the original date of the march to be held in New Mexico) at home in Boerne, and ended up walking a total of 28.1 miles on that morning starting at 0500.

Galliardt says he carried two service members on his pack that day: Eddie Graham, Bataan Survivior, who passed away in 2019, for whom Galliardt was honored to meet in Hutchinson, Kansas when he was just 18 years old and spent an afternoon with Graham right before he left for boot camp. The second was Keith Korda, member of the 149 Texas Air National Guard, a good friend and military truck driver to whom medical would always request for its deployments.

Texas VFW Post 12178, Weslaco: Members participated in the community’s 1st Annual 5k Caboose Walk/Run. The run helps support a wellness program that the Mayor recently initiated and the Post was proud to attend the inaugural run and show its spirit and pride for community!

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.

~~~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

Stay tuned on how the 2021 march is shaping up by visiting: bataanmarch.com.

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

Please send photos and captions to terri@texasvfw.org.

Texas VFW Post 880, Galveston, recently set up a memorial at the Post to honor the services of all military working dogs.

MUSEUM

OF THE AMERICAN

G.I.

Watch history come alive!

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Supporting Our Veterans

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

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

Glen Vigus

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

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Texas VFW Post 8526, Rio Grande City, Post members visited the local high school to share with the students the history of the Vietnam War and the Vietnam Peace Accord.

MISSION: TO SUPPORT THOSE WHO HAVE SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR

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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

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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

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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

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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.

SINKING OF THE USS MAINE — Texas VFW Post 8904, Center, remembers the Sinking of the USS Maine by holding a wreathe laying ceremony.