2021 Texas VFW Spring News

SPRING 2021

Official Magazine of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

p13 Texas VFW Members show up in Full Force at the Texas State Capitol

INSIDE Community Highlights

87th Legislative Session

GRAND AWARD

Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord

Kosovo Campaign

MAGAZINE CATEGORY

Sinking of the USS Maine

Somalia Operation

Operation Desert Storm

100th Birthday Celebrations

2020 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

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Thank You for Serving Our Country.

SPRING

2021

IN THE NEWS 5

Community Highlights from Around the State

State Commander’s Column

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Community Highlights

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Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord

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Community Highlights

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12 Operation Desert Storm

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87th Legislative Session

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Kosovo Campaign

16 Somalia Operation

17 Carlos Sustaita Retires after 14 Years with Texas VFW

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19 Texas VFW BBQ & Chili Team Upcoming Schedule

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Sinking of the USS Maine

Members gather at the Texas State Capitol in support of Senate Bills affecting Posts

Texas VFW Foundation Update

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20 Community Highlights with Post 12178 22

Community Highlights

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2021 Annual Convention Agenda/Order Form

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What We Do, Who We Are, What We Stand For

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Texas VFW Membership Application

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Community Highlights

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2021 OTS Agenda/Order Form

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Vietnam Veterans pose at the Texas State Capitol

SEE THE LATEST CALENDARS AT

Carlos Sustaita retires after 14 Years with the Texas VFW

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Texasvfw.org > News > Calendar

SIGNIFICANT EVENTS JAN - MARCH 2021

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord

2021 Annual Convention, Durant, OK . . . . p. 23

• Sinking of the USS Maine

2021 OTS, Austin, TX . . . . p. 27

• Operation Desert Storm • Kosovo Campaign

Send Community Highlight stories and photos to terri@texasvfw.org for magazine and Facebook consideration. Thank you for your submissions.

• Somalia Operation

ON THE COVER L-R: Lupita Perez, Wyonda Laurence, Kim Foster, Shenna Lawless and Marcey Phillips pose with the Pioneer Woman statue located on the Texas State Capitol grounds after they attended Senate Committee hearings on several bills affecting Texas veterans and Texas VFW Posts.

Photo by Terri Sheets ©2021

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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 terri@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 75, Number 4, © APRIL 2021. 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@texasvfw.org.

Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Terri Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Designer/Co-Editor Wyonda Laurence/Kim Foster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Proofreaders Department Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535

2020-21 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Commander Adjutant/Quartermaster Sr Vice Jr Vice Judge Advocate Surgeon Chaplain Chief-of-Staff Inspector Immediate Past Cmdr Data Mgmt Specialist Assistant Adjutant Assistant Quartermaster 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

3893 3413 4816 10429 3278 6796 4008 2059 1475 3278 10427 4443 9078 2775 6970 8551 10429 3892 3278 3413 3413

Richard “Dick” Shawver Dan West Norman Macey Lynn Toomer Keith King Gerard “Jerry” Greene Allen “Al” Lowe Robert Martinez, Jr. Roy Grona Keith King John M. Jowers Angel Ramirez Wayne Cooley Kevin Bost John E. Shipley Glenn J. James Eddie L. Terry Anson Booker James Masters Lonnie Garza Dan West

19151 Valley Drive, Flint, TX 75762 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., Humble, TX 77346 937 Behrens Ct., Crowley, TX 76036 2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 10523 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 1 Roy Bean Dr., Belton, TX 76513 314 Shadwell Drive, San Antonio, TX 78228 2204 S. Ong St., Amarillo, TX 79109 2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 165 Greathouse St., Vidor, TX 77662 905 Schuettig Rd., Poteet, TX 78065 235 Primrose Road, Freeport, TX 77541 5700 Westview Ct., Tolar, TX 76476 122 East Iowa Dr., Harker Heights, TX 76548 7800 FM 2125, Brownwood, TX 76801 3059 Blenheim Park, Bulverde, TX 78163 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753

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

281-825-6749 254-326-8130

terry.eshenbaugh@tvc.texas.gov katina.cryer@tvc.texas.gov

2020-2021 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

2772 2775 1406 2427 8800 12160 6873 2466 9173 5873 688 9191 8878 880 4692 10712 9313 9174 7835 4403 6284 10427 4694 4376

Katie Baillio Robert LaFleur James E. Briggs Stephen E. Biehl Gregory P. “Greg” Brannan Todd Richardson Melvin Harper Stephen “Steve” N. Evans Jose “Joe” Vargas, Jr. Larry D. Levy

Andrew Camplen Carlo S. Davis Carl G. Lilly Michael S. Caballero John E. Velasquez Loren F. Pogue Henry “Paul” Lester Armando P. Gonzales Duane A. Shepard John F. “Jack” Mageluzzo Melvin “Mel” R. Parker David “Dave” A. Walden Christopher B. Davis William J. Fuzi

ADDRESS

412 E. Shephard St., Denison, TX 75021 3528 Whippoorwill St., Orange, TX 77630 1056 Magnolia Lane, Cedar Hill, TX 75104 28314 Hardin Store Road, Magnolia, TX 77354 105 Canyon Dr., Canyon Lake, TX 78133 10528 County Road 2149, Sinton, TX 78387 4709 Oak Knoll St., Abilene, TX 79606 5504 75th Street, Lubbock, TX 79424 10436 Tomwood Avenue, El Paso, TX 79925 7490 Daniels Chapel Rd., New Boston, TX 75570 PO Box 688, Boerne, TX 78006 3205 Eagle Ridge, Harker Heights, TX 76548 433 Bryan Road, Sunset, TX 79270 4410 Ave. P ½, Galveston, TX 77550 4988 Winding Creek, College Station, TX 77845 PO Box 96, Pharr, TX 78577 2589 FM 1751, San Augustine, TX 75972 106 Moon Valley St., San Antonio, TX 78227 1713 County Road 321, Glen Rose, TX 76043 1003 N. Benavides St., Port Lavaca, TX 77979 5305 Clinton Avenue, Odessa, TX 79762 4309 Silverhill Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 262 Private Road 5245A, Mexia, TX 76667 143 Bedfords Bend, Gun Barrel City, TX 75156

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN M e m b e r s h i p i s t h e b ac k b o n e of our organization First, I would like to welcome Mitch Fuller to the Texas VFW Headquarters team as the Director of Governmental and Public Affairs. With the approval of the Council of Administration, Mitch started on March 1st and hit the ground running.

He has been very instrumental in meeting with House Representatives and Senators with issues that affect veterans in the State of Texas.

I’ve asked that all members talk to their State Representatives and Senators about the importance of our doors being open in an emergency shutdown. With your effort we now have two House Bills (HB) and two Senate Bills (SB) filed. They are HB 4215, HB 4155, SB 989, and SB 1493. I would like to thank House Representatives Richard Raymond and Brad Buckley, as well as Senators Dawn Buckingham and Drew Springer for sponsoring these bills.

On April 20th, with over 40 members present, I had the honor to testify with Mitch Fuller on SBs 989 and 1493 to the Senate Business and Commerce Committee. These bills would prevent the closure of all Veteran Service Organizations in any

future shutdown when our services are needed most.

Please continue to be in contact with your State Representative and Senator regarding these bills.

Comrades, as we enter the last few months of the year and with the restrictions removal, I ask that we work on membership. Make those phone calls or go visit with your members. Remember, membership is the backbone of our organization, without it we have no voice. As you have witnessed this past year, we need that voice.

May God Bless you and your families, may God Bless and watch over our troops and may God Bless the United States of America.

Yours in comradeship,

Richard “Dick” Shawver S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

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Texas VFW Post 5871, Huntsville Members visit the HEARTS Veterans Museum in Huntsville, Texas, to welcome the permanent installation of Texas’ only Vietnam Wall. Visit the museum when you’re in the area! HEARTS Veterans Museum, 463 State Highway 75 N., Huntsville, Texas 77320. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday.

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Texas VFW Post 2676, Windthorst Post Commander Bert Hoff and Auxiliary President John Luig present the VFW Golden Apple award to Coach Scott Belcher, Windthorst ISD, in recognition of his selection as District 15’s Citizenship Education Teacher of the Year in the Jr. High Division. Outside his classroom Coach Belcher was a member of the coaching staff for this year’s Texas Class 2A Division II State Football Champions, the Windthorst Trojans.

Texas VFW Post 8788 McAllen The Post receives the Congressional Record from Congressman Gonzalez on February 13, 2021. What an honor for the Post!

Texas VFW Post 8555, Poth Texas VFW District 20 Officers participate in a Post 8555 Fundraiser held March 21, 2021. Fried Chicken Dinner Plates and Boxes were sold for $10. Raffle items were available.

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Texas VFW Post 12160, Sinton Members and Auxiliary celebrate the 100th Birthday of the Texas VFW with students, parents and teachers during its VOD, PP, and Teacher awards presentation by reading the history of the Texas VFW. They also awarded Post and District 6 awards to the 1st thru 5th places for each category.

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Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas

Post Commanders and members conduct a joint community service project with approximately 35 Junior ROTC Cadets from Faith Family Academy, Dallas, in an extensive clean-up project of the Post property. Cadets checked the American, VFW and POW flags that are flying outside the Post to ensure that they were serviceable. Afterwards, Post Commander Reggie Williams spoke to the Cadets about the importance of Community Service and the value of being a productive citizen and pillar in society. The Cadets were provided a BBQ lunch along with snacks and sodas. VFW Post 1406 is proud to be an integral part of improving and enhancing the community of South Dallas and sends special thanks to the Faith Family Academy Junior ROTC Cadets, Comrades of VFW Post 1406, and American Legion Post 511 for their unwavering support of the veteran community.

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Signing of the

VIETNAM PEACE ACCORD JANUARY 27

Texas VFW Post 8587, Georgetown Officers observe the Vietnam Peace Accord at the Post.

Texas VFW Post 6008, Hewitt Commander reads an article on the history of the Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord and treaty. Photos of the signing and newspaper articles were displayed, along with a certificate of the National Security Event.

Texas VFW Post 8800, Canyon Lake Commander Teel provides a briefing on the Vietnam Peace Accord and answers questions. Also in attendance were Comrades Mets, Schultz, Dean, Sartor, Gerlack and Bennett.

Texas VFW Post 6719, Raymondville Members remember the Vietnam Peace Accord with a short moment of silence.

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! g n i d n a t Outs Texas VFW Post 7843, Duncanville Commander Williams provides a reading of the Vietnam Peace Accord.

District 13 Bataan Death March District 13 had excellent participation in the First Annual Bataan Memorial Death March in Boerne which started and ended at Boerne Brewery. Thank you to VFW Post 688 Senior Vice Commander Scott Galliardt for organizing, planning and participating in the event.

Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas Commander Reggie Williams assists Iraqi Combat Veteran Sebastian Larsen in completing his Department of Veterans Affairs Disability and Compensation claim form at the Post. Commander Williams met Larson after receiving an anonymous telephone call saying that there was a combat veteran who was having several problems and issues and had no where to turn.

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Texas VFW Post 12161, Buda Jr. Vice Commander Don Hayden prepares food to transfer to the serving line where local Boy Scouts were standing by to deliver food to Onion Creek Senior Center, where three buildings were without power or elevators.

Texas VFW Post 6111, Arlington The Post celebrated its 75th Birthday on March 13th, 2021. The Post Charter was Constituted on March 5th, 1946. Congratulations!

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Sinking of the USS MAINE

F E B R U A R Y 15 Texas VFW Post 3990, Paris Commander Amy Burton and Chaplain Ronnie Morton offer a prayer of remembrance for the Sinking of the USS Maine.

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Texas VFW Post 8790, Houston Texas VFW Post 5620, Carthage At the Post’s scheduled meeting, members took a moment to talk and reflect on the Sinking of the USS Maine.

Post members and the community join to recognize the Post’s Patriot’s Pen, VOD and Teacher of the Year winners.

A new member was sworn in and the group remembered the Sinking of the USS Maine.

Texas VFW Post 6382, Hallettsville Members commemorate the Sinking of the USS Maine. L-R: Chaplain Gilbert Schindler, Adjutant Chuck Grafe, Comrade Hubbard Wyatt.

Texas VFW Post 8560, Sulphur Springs Post members remember the Sinking of the USS Maine.

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ANGEL RAMIREZ

Candidate for Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

2021-2022 State Chaplain Angel Ramirez, a Gold Legacy Life Member of the Highland Hill Post 4443 in Austin, Texas, was hired as State Assistant Adjutant at the Department of Texas VFW Headquarters on March 1, 2020.

A VFW member since 2013, Comrade Ramirez served as Post Judge Advocate, Post Adjutant, Post Surgeon and District Adjutant in District 28 from 2015-2018.

He has also served as the Veterans Assistance Program Coordinator and National Certified Service Officer at the Texas VFW Foundation from March 2013 to March 2020. Angel has been a VBA accredited VFW Service Officer since 2015.

Comrade Ramirez also was appointed National Aidede-Camp Special Recruiter 2015-2016, National Aide-de-Camp 2018-2019 and National Aide-de Camp 2020-2021.

Comrade Ramirez served in the United States Army from 1977 to 1997. He earned the Army Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation

Medal 4th Award, Army Achievement Medal 3rd Award, Army Occupation Medal, National Defense Medal, Korea Defense Medal, Noncommission Officers Development Ribbon with Numeral Number 2, Overseas Ribbon 2nd Award, Expert Field Medical Badge, Sharpshooter Pistol Badge, Expert Marksman Badge with Rifle, Expert Marksman Badge with Grenade.

He is married to Elisia Ramirez from Austin, Texas and has two children and two grandchildren who also reside in Austin, Texas.

Why am I running for State Chaplain?

“Servitude and Humanity; I love helping people. I live by the mantra of ‘Duty, Obligation and Responsibility.’

Every day, I wake with the intent of helping veterans and their families. I am my ‘brother’s keeper’ and want to inspire others to do the same.”

Remember to treat others as you would like to be treated. “Don’t Criticize; Inspire!”

Supporting Our Veterans

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Insuring Texas Homes, Farms, and Ranches Since 1901 1-800-792-3084 rvos.com S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

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Operation DESERT STORM

FEBRUARY 28 Texas VFW Post 6796, Dallas Commander Greene presents information on Operation Desert Storm to Post members and the community. One veteran who was part of the Operation was present.

! g n i d n a t Outs Texas VFW Post 12152, Cleburne Members hold a Desert Storm Dinner including readings from “The Liberation of Kuwait: Honoring Veterans of Desert Storm.”

Texas VFW Post 5620, Carthage L-R: Colin Broadus, John Foster, Alfred Wenthe, Jim Kimberly, James Edge, and James McDaniel.

Kimberly and Broadus were participants in the conflict.

Texas VFW Post 4458, Caldwell Glenn Rhodes, Pat Seymour, Franklin Karasek, Donny Frieda, Tommy Miles and David Houck hold a ceremony for Liberation of Kuwait and Operation Desert Strom at the Post.

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THE DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VFW is the premier Veterans Service Organization in Texas and we are making great strides with our short-term and long-term advocacy efforts in the 87th Legislative Session.

Senate Bill (SB) 989 (Buckingham) and (SB) 1493 (Springer) — our bills that ensure our Posts are not subject to closure due to future Emergency Orders — were heard in a hearing of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee on April 20th. This hearing was conducted on the floor of the Texas Senate. State Commander Dick Shawver and I provided oral and written testimony on both bills and more than 40 Comrades from across Texas attended the hearing and sat in the Senate gallery.

During the Legislative Session, several Comrades have visited offices with me in the Capitol on multiple occasions. This highly visible presence is paying dividends. We have testified and/or registered our support for about 30 bills (will be a few more) that benefit Veterans and military families with workforce development credentialing, property tax exemptions and encourage patriotism. We have been invited or asked to testify on five bills, including SB 4 (Buckingham), which requires the National Anthem to be played at any professional sports event if that professionals team receives any public money from any level of government. SB 4 is one of the top priorities of the Lt. Governor and the Texas Senate. I was honored to be invited to testify on our behalf at the Senate State Affairs Committee hearing on March 26.

LEGISLATIVE Update

By Mitch Fuller, Director of Governmental and Public Affairs

Our constant presence at the State Capitol is a catalyst for building and cementing relationships with key legislators and state agency leaders, including the Chairmen of the Senate Veterans and House Veterans Committees and the Texas Veterans Commission. The future is bright for the Texas VFW in our legislative and public affairs endeavors. I’m proud to serve our great organization!

Mitch Fuller

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KOSOVO CAMPAIGN

MARCH 24

! g n i d n a t Outs Texas VFW Post 12171, San Antonio Members review the events of the Kosovo Campaign. Members who were involved in the Kosovo hostilities gave realistic depictions of the events. The history was appreciated by all Post members.

Texas VFW Post 3377, Manchaca Post Adjutant Michael Pfannenstiel gives a reading on the Kosovo Campaign at the Post’s monthly meeting.

Texas VFW Post 4146, Victoria Group discussed the Kosovo Campaign at the Post.

Texas VFW Post 8552, Del Rio Post members hold a ceremony on the Kosovo Campaign. All veterans, family and community were welcome. The festivities included food for all and a prayer of thanks.

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Texas VFW Post 12041, Lytle Members gather to remember the Kosovo Campaign.

SOMALIA OPERATION MARCH 31

Texas VFW Post 8904, Center Post holds a wreath laying ceremony at the Veterans Memorial, 1885 Historic Courthouse, Center, Texas, for those veterans who served in Somalia from 1992 to 1994.

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Texas VFW Post 8235, Fort Worth

Post Jr. Vice Commander Philip Casey reads a remembrance of the U.S. Military involvement in Somalia during Operation Restore Hope.

Texas VFW Post 8627, Richardson The Post meets in recognition of the end of Operation Restore Hope, Somalia, 1995.

Texas VFW Post 10454, Grapevine Members and auxiliary remember Somalia, March 27, 2021, at their Post.

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Carlos Sustaita Retires after 14 years with the Texas VFW

Good luck and happy trails in your retirement!

CARLOS SUSTAITA BEGAN HIS JOURNEY WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS in March of 2006 as the State Assistant Quartermaster under State Quartermaster Glen Gardner. When Glen left to serve as the National Jr. Vice Commanderin-Chief, Roy Grona was elected to serve as State Quartermaster, and subsequently appointed Carlos as the Assistant Quartermaster. Carlos retired in January 2021 after 14+ years after being reappointed by State Quartermaster Dan West in 2019. Carlos worked under three State Quartermasters and was also the Department’s bookkeeper. He wore many hats over the years — including assisting with State Conventions and training sessions — and will be sorely missed.

BIOGRAPHY A VFW member since 1974, Comrade Sustaita has served in many positions within his Post, District, Department and National earning numerous awards. Comrade Sustaita’s awards include AllState Quartermaster Awards, Post All-American

Quartermaster, Danny R. Henry Award for the Most Outstanding Past District Commander, and the Billy Dorris Outstanding Quartermaster Award. In June 2020, he became a recipient of the prestigious J. T. Rutherford Award.

Comrade Sustaita served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970, including action with the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division in 1968-69 and the United States Marine Corps from 1976 to 1978.

Carlos is the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal.

Carlos and his wife, Machelle, a Life Member of the Auxiliary to VFW Post 6378. They have two children, Joe and Sara, and one granddaughter, and reside in Manor, Texas.

KNOWN FOR HER TOUGH EXTERIOR she still loves guests

3D MEGA Theater • WWII Planes • Jets • Battle Guns A National Landmark • Lockdown on the LEX Escape Rooms • #1 on Trip Advisor OPEN DAILY | NORTH BEACH | CORPUS CHRISTI | USSLEXINGTON.COM

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TEXAS VFW

FOUNDATION

Snapshot of 1st Quarter 2021

Upcoming Events

“I am a recipient of your grant through the Fund for Veterans Assistance. It was integral in helping me get through a rough time as I’ve been a temporary employee for the past year. I had just gotten a full-time job, but was out of work for about a month during the transition. Within that time frame I got connected with your source and received the assistance I needed to stay afloat. I just want to let you know how extremely grateful I am for all that you do every day to help veterans! Your help provided the assurance I needed to move forward! Many blessings to you all in your continued efforts to help those in need.”

See you at State Convention! Come bid on our silent auction items! Get your bandanas ready for the Awards Banquet!

— Leta S., US Army veteran

$29,780 in financial assistance for 16 veteran households including 25 dependents

Announcement Your Texas VFW Foundation has received an additional $62,611 in funding through Austin Energy’s Plus 1 Partnership. Veterans who are customers of Austin Energy can apply for assistance by emailing foundation@texasvfw.org.

Thank You

Historically, our biggest supporters are the members of the Texas VFW Auxiliary. Through your efforts under the Veterans & Family Support and the President’s Special Project fundraisers, you have donated $24,064 to date!

That is amazing! — and is the most you have raised for the Veterans’ Assistance Program in one year. To have done so in a year when the Posts were closed and other fundraising opportunities were canceled, you showed the world how the Texas VFW will not stop us from doing all we can for our veterans. Texas veterans have resources because of you!

Memorial Day The Texas VFW Foundation tries to honor the dead by supporting the living.

Every day. Not just Memorial Day. We honor those who have lost their lives due to their service. You are not forgotten.

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.

DONATE/PAYPAL LINK IS ON TEXASVFW.ORG/FOUNDATION

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TEXAS VFW

2021 SCHEDULE

Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate Smokedown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 14-15 Veterans Memorial Gulf Coast Cookoff, Galveston, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 28-29 Smoke in the Pines | BBQ | Livingston, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 25-26 For more information please contact Eddie Terry 817-776-1973 or Shawn Terry 817-776-1830

BBQ & CHILI TEAM MERCHANDISE for sale online at https://www.texasvfw.org/vfw-store

GET THESE ONE-OF-A-KIND POSTERS WHILE THEY LAST! Mark this unique time in our history with these 18 x 24 high-quality poster layouts custom designed specifically for the Texas VFW. Buy individually or by the set for the best value.

Available on the Merch page of texasvfw.org.

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Members and community participate in a morning ruck to honor women in the military.

from Texas VFW Post 12178, Weslaco, Texas

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The Post hosts a 26.5 ruck march to honor and remember those lost in the Bataan Death March during WWll. Team RWB McAllen/Edinburg and Edinburg JROTC and many students and community joined.

The Post participates in a Half Marathon to honor hometown heroes. Local fallen Hero Noe Hernandez, who perished in June 2017 on the USS Fitzgerald, was honored by the Post by inviting his wife and young son to participate in the run.

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The Post holds its monthly Suicide Awareness Ruck at Mayor Pablo Pena Park in Weslaco, Texas, along with Edinburg and McAllen Area RWB. The Post continues to honor the 22 veterans per day who lose their fight with PTSD MST and other military related injuries and encourages everyone to “Know the 5 signs!”

Texas VFW Posts 2410 and 12178 from District 18 help a veteran’s family move their motorhome from South Texas to Vincent, Alabama, after the veteran’s sudden passing. They cleaned the motorhome and raised almost $1,000 dollars for fuel to be able to drive it 1,020 miles from the Rio Grande Valley to Vincent, Alabama, early March 2021.

UNITED STATES VETERANS SERVICE DOGS is continuing to help veterans even during COVID-19. In our most recent class of graduates, three veterans met their forever partners and began their journies towards a new “normal.” Two of the veterans from this class are members of the Texas VFW. Ed Mueller was paired with his Service Dog Zuma, and Jared Butler was paired with his service dog Touro. We are so proud of these teams and can’t wait to help other Texas Veterans. We hope to see you at our booth at the Texas VFW Summer convention!

Michael John Foy Day for 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 T E X A S V F W S TAT E C H A P L A I N

• Continually promotes “ONE Team” theme • Retired United States Navy Veteran (33+ years — Federal Service) • Numerous positions held at Post, District, State, & National levels • Earned over 10,000+ hours of Volunteer Service • Ordained Minister & District 17 Chaplain (three times) • Joined the VFW in 1992 • Gold Legacy Life Member • Life Member of the National Home

• Life Member of the DAV • Post Commander (twice) • All-State Post Commander • J. T. Rutherford Award — 1998 • National Aid-de-Camp (three times) • State Homeless Veterans Chairman • Chairman for Americanism & Youth Programs (five times) • Veterans in the Classroom (five times)

FoyDay@aol.com | FoyDay@yahoo.com | Mobile (936) 697-8769 S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

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Texas VFW Post 430, Canyon The Post hosts their Annual Epic Easter Hunt with Summit Church in Canyon.

The Post contributed 4,000 eggs, toys and games to the event.

Children showed up with empty baskets and a lot of energy ready for games, food, toys and to swoop up thousands of Easter eggs!

Texas VFW Post 4746, Weatherford Texas VFW Post 4746, Weatherford, participate in placing over 675 Wreaths at Memory Gardens Cemetery for Wreaths Across America Day. Over 15 Posts with Auxiliary members and their families participated in the event.

Texas VFW Post 9170, Beeville Members, along with the Bee County Sheriff’s Department, gather together to put a lot smiles on the faces of the Beeville Community. After serving over 500 kids with hot dogs, chips and drinks, they got to enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt, Live Music, Easter Egg Basket Contest and even a Dance Contest!

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S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

CHOCTAW CASINO RESORT 3735 Choctaw Road Durant, Oklahoma 74701 800-788-2464

BOOK ROOM ONLINE https://www.texasvfw.org/upcoming-events

$96

Hotel overflow locations are listed on the event page.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE Tuesday, June 15, 2021 8:00 am - Adjourn . . . . . . Disciplinary Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oak Room D203

Wednesday, June 16, 2021 7:30 am - 5:00 pm . . . .

10:00 am - 12:00 pm . .

8:00 am - 12:00 pm . . .

8:00 am -12:00 pm . . . .

11:30 am - 12:30 pm . .

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

Golf Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chickasaw Pointe Golf Club VFW Foundation Meeting . . . . . . . . . Oak Room D203 Texas VFW Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Redbud Room Vendor Booth Set-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . The Landing Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Individual Preference Budget & Finance Meeting . . . . . . . . Oak Room D203 (CLOSED MEETING)

Thursday, June 17, 2021 8:00 am - 4:00 pm . . . .

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

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

9:00 am - 11:30 am . . . .

11:30 am - 12:30 pm . .

1:00 pm - 1:45 pm . . . . .

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm . . . .

VFW/ Auxiliary Registration . . . . . . . . The Landing Texas VFW Store/ Health Fair . . . . . . Redbud Room Vendor Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Landing VFW C of A Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Theater Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . On your own Joint Memorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Theater Joint Opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Theater

Friday, June 18, 2021 8:00 am - 9:00 am . . . . VFW Resolutions Review . . . . . . . . . . Grand Theater 8:00 am - 4:00 pm . . . . VFW/ Auxiliary Registration . . . . . . . . The Landing 8:00 am - 4:00 pm . . . . Texas VFW Store/Buddy Poppies . . . . Redbud Room

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

8:00 am - 9:30 am . . . . .

10:00 am - Adjourn . . . . . .

11:30 am - 12:30 pm . . .

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

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

Vendor Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Landing Past Dept. Commander’s Breakfast . . . . . . . . Oak Room D203 VFW Business Meeting/Nominations . . . . . . . Grand Theater Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Individual Preference Reception with Cash Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Theater Reception Rm. Awards Banquet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Theater

Saturday, June 19, 2021 7:00 am - 8:30 am . . . . .

8:00 am - 10:00 pm . . . .

9:00 am - 12:00 pm . . . .

8:00 am - 12:00 pm . . . . .

8:00 am - 12:00 pm . . . . .

11:30 am - 12:30 pm . . .

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm . . . . .

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

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

VFW/Auxiliary Incoming Council Photos . . . . The Landing VFW/Auxiliary Registration/Credentials . . . . . The Landing VFW Business Meeting and Elections . . . . . . Grand Theater Texas VFW Store & Buddy Poppies . . . . . . . . Redbud Room Vendor Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Landing Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Individual Preference Break Down VFW Store/Vendor Booths . . . . . The Landing Joint Installation of Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Theater State Commander & Pres. Reception . . . . . . Magnolia Ball Rm.

Sunday, 20 June, 2021 9:00 am - 11:00 am . . . . V FW Council of Administration and Committee Chairs Workshop (INVITE ONLY) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oak Room D203 ORDER TICKETS ONLINE AT: 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 • EMAIL: JOHN@TEXASVFW.ORG

101st Annual State Convention Awards Banquet Ticket Sales NO REFUNDS AF TER MAY 21, 2021 • 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)

$50

Awards Banquet Table (Seats 10)

$500

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

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Texas VFW Post 1406, Dallas, “VFW Veteran in the Classroom” initiative: Post Commander Reggie Williams spent time sharing inspiring thoughts with honor students regarding the value and importance of patriotism and becoming valuable members of society. Additionally, he spoke about a topic that’s near and dear to his heart “serving in the U.S. military.”

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

SUPPORTING YOUTH GROUPS

SUPPORTING MEMORIALS

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERISM

PROMOTING PATRIOTISM

ASSISTING VETERANS WITH EARNED ENTITLEMENTS

S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 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.

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, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.)

p Afghanistan 2001 p Iraq 2003

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 S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

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! g n i d n a t Outs

District 3 Celebrates the 100th Birthday of the Texas VFW

Several Posts gather in celebration of the Texas VFW’s 100th Birthday. District 3 Jr. Vice Reggie Williams reviewed the history of Texas VFW and noted the contributions that District 3 made to the Department in the form of State Commanders, State Presidents and other officers. Everyone enjoyed a seriously big cake for the occasion!

Texas VFW Post 6380, Jasper — Post Commander James Rundberg gathers with family and friends to celebrate the Texas VFW Birthday. They raised a glass in honor and enjoyed some awesome cake.

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S p r i n g 2 0 2 1 Te x a s V F W M a g a z i n e

District 13 VFW members and Auxiliary members from several Posts gather in celebration of the Texas VFW’s 100th Birthday.

AUSTIN, TEXAS

2021

A G E N D A — July 15-17, 2021 Thursday, July 15 8:00-11:45 am 11:00 am-5:00 pm 1:00-5:00 pm 5:30-10:00 pm

Council of Administration Meeting Registration & Vendor Booths Open Post Service Officer Responsibilities Hospitality Open

Brazos Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Glass Oaks

Coffee and Rolls Registration Open Opening Session Break Membership, Recruiting & Retention Break Membership, Recruiting & Retention Legislation Lunch at Hotel for All Registered VFW Programs & SOP Break SOP & Commanders All-State Progarm Hospitality Open

Lobby (Atrium) Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Glass Oaks Room Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Glass Oaks

Friday, July 16 6:30 am 7:00 am-Noon 8:00-9:00 am 9:00-9:15 am 9:15-10:00 am 10:00-10:15 am 10:15 am-11:00 pm 11:00 am-Noon Noon-1:00 pm 1:00-2:30 pm 2:30-2:45 pm 2:45-4:30 pm 5:00-10:00 pm

Saturday, July 17 6:30 am 7:00 am-4:00 pm 8:00-8:15 am 8:15-10:00 am 10:00-10:15 am 10:15 am-Noon Noon-1:00 pm 1:00-2:00 pm 2:00-2:15 pm 2:15-4:00 pm 4:15-4:30 pm 4:30-5:00 pm 5:00-10:00 pm

Coffee and Rolls Registration Open Welcome Officers Responsibilities Break Officers Responsibilities Lunch at Hotel for All Registered Post Operations Break Post Operations Break Q & A with Department Officers Hospitality Open

Lobby (Atrium) Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Glass Oaks Room Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Lobby (Atrium) Ball Room Glass Oaks

31st STATE OFFICER TRAINING SEMINAR REGISTRATION FORM LIMITED TO FIRST 400 • CUT OFF DATE IS JUNE 22, 2021 • NO REFUNDS AFTER JULY 1, 2021 Pre-registration $135 per person for Friday/Saturday (Thursday is free) Registration includes program workbook, morning coffee and lunch for Friday and Saturday classes.

$150 at the Door no lunch • $175 at the Door includes lunch NAME:

PHONE #:

ADDRESS: STATE:

Pre-register and save!

CITY: ZIP:

POST/AUX:

DIST. #:

EMAIL: TYPE OF CARD

SIGNATURE

Submit completed form with payment in one of the following ways: Mail: Texas VFW, P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Texas 78761 Fax: 512-834-9232 Email: john@texasvfw.org

CARD #

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

DATE

EXP. DATE

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

**Hotel Information** — book by June 22 Renaissance Austin Hotel

9721 Arboretum Blvd. • Austin, TX 78759 KING OR DOUBLE NON SMOKING — rates from $115 USD/Night Book by calling 1-888-236-2427 or Book Online at TexasVFW.org >> News >> Texas VFW Events

27

TEXAS VFW MEMBERS AT THE 87TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION After attending Senate Committee hearings, veterans pose in front of the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument on the Capitol grounds.

The monument serves as a tribute to all Texans who served in the Vietnam War and a memorial to the 3,417 Texans who died.

L-R: Jimmie Surles, Phillip DuBois, Gerard Greene, Terry Craig and James Durkin.