2022 Winter Texas VFW E-News

WINTER 2022

Official E-News Magazine of the Texas VFW GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY

2021 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST

p 31 First-ever Stateside Post opens on Active-Duty Military Installation

INSIDE Community Highlights Legislative Update Mid-Winter Conference VOD Winners Patriot’s Pen Winner

E-News edition Live links + video throughout

ARE YOU A VETERAN EXPERIENCING:

• PTSD from Combat, post 9/11 • Traumatic Brain Injury • Word finding/memory issues (Gulf War Illness)

UTD NEUROLAB IS CONDUCTING TREATMENT STUDIES

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR FIRST CALL: Information about the studies and compensation Phone screen to determine eligibility Explanation of study procedures – Most studies conduct assessments, EEGs, and non-invasive brain stimulation

ALL INFORMATION IS KEPT CONFIDENTIAL

TO LEARN MORE, or to see if you qualify Please contact Dr. Ellen Morris: 972.883.3171 or neurolab@utdallas.edu utdneurolab

utdneurolab

utdneurolab

Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory of Memory www.utdallas.edu/memory/

W I N T E R 2022

IN THE NEWS

Poteet Post Turns 50

5 State Commander’s Column 6 Note from Membership Chair 7 Poteet Post Celebrates 50th Anniversary 8 Pearl Harbor Day 10 Snowden Golf Tournament | Pearl Harbor Seaman Laid to Rest 12 Hometown Hero Makes Donation to Texas VFW + Post 13 Legislative Update 14 2022 Mid-Winter Conference 16 2022 Mid-Winter Photo Gallery 18 2 022 VOD Top Ten Winners 19 2022 VOD Winner Essay 20 2022 VOD 11th-15th Place Winners/Teacher Awards 21 2022 Patriot’s Pen Winning Essay 23 Bay City Life Member Turns 100 Years Old 25 Galveston Post Hosts Youth for Wreaths Across America 26 The VFW: What We Do, Who We Are, What We Stand For 27 Texas VFW Membership Application 28 Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord 29 State Commander’s Homecoming 30 Beeville Post Helps Raise Funds for National Guard Dinner 31 First-ever Post Installed at Active Military Installation 32 Canyon Post Celebrates U.S. Marine Corps Birthday

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

UPCOMING EVENTS 2022 State Commander’s Homecoming

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2022 Mid-Winter Conference

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First-ever Stateside Post opens on Active Military Installation

p 31 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS DEC 2021-FEB 2022 • Pearl Harbor Day • Vietnam Peace Accord • Mid-Winter Conference • Sinking of the USS Maine

Send Community Highlight stories and photos to info@texasvfw.org for E-News and Facebook consideration. Thank you for your submissions.

• Operation Desert Storm

ON THE COVER Willie Keller, Post 12209 Commander, was an integral force in seeing this new Post to frution and is seen here taking an oath at the Post installation on Friday, January 7, 2022. The Post is officially named CSM A.C. Cotton VFW Post 12209 after the first African-American Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Cavalry Division, and is the first VFW on an active-duty military installation in the United States.

(Photo by DVIDS)

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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 E-News 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 angel@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.

2 0 2 1-2 2 S P O N S O R S

The official E-News publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Published four times per year (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.) by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753.

Department Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535 76, Number 3, © FEBRUARY 2022. All rights reserved.

E-News is parked at: https://issuu.com/texasvfw | Opt in for E-News at: info@texasvfw.org Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org/news, or request one from info@texasvfw.org.

Lupita M. Perez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Terri Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Communications Mngr | Sr. Graphic Designer Wyonda Laurence/Kim Foster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Proofreaders

2021-22 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS COMMANDER SR VICE JR VICE QUARTERMASTER ADJUTANT CHAPLAIN JUDGE ADVOCATE CHIEF OF STAFF INSPECTOR SURGEON IMMEDIATE PAST CMDR NATIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER ASSISTANT QUARTERMASTER ASSISTANT ADJUTANT DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR STATE PARLIAMENTARIAN OFFICER OF THE DAY 102nd CONVENTION CHAIR BUDDY POPPY CHAIR BUDGET & FINANCE CHAIR COMMUNITY SERVICE CHAIR CREDENTIALS CHAIR CREDENTIALS CHAIR-ASST. HOMELESS VETERANS CHAIR HOSPITAL/MAP CHAIR NATL/STATE LEGISLATIVE CHAIR MEMBERSHIP CHAIR MENTORSHIP CHAIR MENTORSHIP CO-CHAIR MOTORCYCLE GROUP CHAIR POW/MIA CHAIR VETERANS EMPLOYMENT CHAIR SERVICE OFFICER/HOUSTON SERVICE OFFICER/WACO

4816 10429 12041 1475 12178 4692 3278 6970 4692 6796 3893 3413 9078 4443 2427 2775 12205 4376 1475 10427 2466 12205 7873 2527 12075 10427 8790 2772 1406 6796 10427 10429 6796 2775 4008 9191 9078 4709 9191

Norman Macey Lynn Toomer Larry S. Sanders Ben Lowrance Lupita M. Perez Michael Foy Day Keith King John E. Shipley Phillip DuBois Jerry Greene Dick Shawver Dan West Wayne Cooley Angel Ramirez Stephen E. Biehl Kevin Bost Greg Brannan William J. Fuzi Roy Grona Dave A. Walden Steve N. Evans Lonnie Garza Lavern H. Terbl Frank Andrada Inge Conley John Jowers Eric J. Shumaker Katie Baillio James E. Briggs Jerry Greene Mitch Fuller Eddie L. Terry Bill Oaks Robert LaFleur Thomas Anderson Carlo S. Davis Bob Gear Mike Eshenbaugh Katina L. Cryer

16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., Humble, TX 77346 937 Behrens Ct., Crowley, TX 76036 222 Shamrock Dr., Floresville, TX 78114 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 615 Pine View Circle, Montgomery, TX 77356 2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 905 Schuettig Rd., Poteet, TX 78065 PO Box 901, Caldwell, TX 77836 10523 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 19151 Valley Drive, Flint, TX 75762 406 W 34th St, Kansas City, MO 64111 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 28314 Hardin Store Road, Magnolia, TX 77354 165 Greathouse St., Vidor, TX 77662 599 Guadalupe Dr., Spring Branch, TX 78070 143 Bedfords Bend, Gun Barrel City, TX 75156 2204 South Ong St., Amarillo, TX 79109 4309 Silverhill Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 5504 75th Street, Lubbock, TX 79424 2555 Smokey Creek, Schertz, TX 78154 58 Plantation Ave., Pottsboro, TX 75076 2525 Hwy 21 W, Dale, TX 78616 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 PO Box 52177, Houston, TX 77052 412 E. Shepherd St., Denison, TX 75021 1056 Magnolia Lane, Cedar Hill, TX 75104 10523 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 5700 Westview Ct., Tolar, TX 76476 1818 Quail Hill Circle, Garland, TX 75040 3528 Whippoorwill St., Orange, TX 77630 3 E Shawnee Ln., Belton, TX 76513 3205 Eagle Ridge, Harker Heights, TX 76548 1703 Fox Fire Drive, Round Rock, TX 78681 Houston VARO, 6900 Almeda Rd., Houston, TX 77030 Waco VARO, 701 Clay Ave., Waco, TX 76799

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

2021-2022 DISTRICT COMMANDERS

Interested in Texas VFW Sponsorship? There are varying levels of brand awareness at conventions, E-News and on social media. Download the 2021-22 Sponsor Packet at: https://www.texasvfw.org/news

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

https://issuu.com/texasvfw

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

5074 4820 7843 9187 12058 12160 6873 2466 9173 3992 688 6974 880 9182 10712 3893 8541 6111 4403 6284 8587 4819 7103

COMMANDER

James Benotti Jorg Kitchen Ricky L. Williams, Sr. Johnny M. Rubio Steven Cook Todd T. Richardson Melvin Harper Benino “Benny” Guerrero, Jr. Jose “Joe” Vargas, Jr. Cathy Small Andrew Camplen Reece E. Carter Michael S. Caballero Francis R. “Frank” Torres Loren F. Pogue Joel H. Pipes William “Bill” E. Smith Manuel D. “Manny” Leal III John F. “Jack” Mageluzzo Melvin “Mel” R. Parker Ray A. Sanchez Christopher B. Davis William “Bill” E. Malone

ADDRESS

14 Greenleaf Dr., Trophy Club, TX 76262 311 Buckingham Dr., Port Neches, TX 77651 107 Melody Way, Red Oak, TX 75154 23615 Stuebner Dr., Tomball, TX 77375 101 Primrose Blvd., Kyle, TX 78640 10528 County Rd. 2149, Sinton, TX 78387 4709 Oak Knoll St., Abilene, TX 79606 2705 80th St., Lubbock, TX 79423 10436 Tomwood Ave., El Paso, TX 79925 906 N. White Oak Rd., White Oak, TX 75693 PO Box 688, Boerne, TX 78006 101 Tanner Court South, Burnet, TX 78611 4410 Avenue P 1/2, Galveston, TX 77550 14715 Barryknoll Ln.-Apt. 126, Houston, TX 77079 P.O. Box 96, Pharr, TX 78577 1110 CR 723, Nacogdoches, TX 75964 8000 Donore Pl.-Apt. #41, San Antonio, TX 78229 7301 Tin Cup Dr., Arlington, TX 76001 1003 N. Benavides St., Port Lavaca, TX 77979 5305 Clinton Avenue, Odessa, TX 79762 1203 Ashberry Trl., Georgetown, TX 78626 262 Private Road 5245A, Mexia, TX 76667 8161 FM 2494, Athens, TX 75751

TEXAS VFW

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN -

So, You Want to be the Commander?

I worked for my company for 33 years.

NORMAN MACEY

During that time I worked for a lot of “Bosses,” CEOs, Presidents, General Managers, Managers, Supervisors, and Foreman. I can count on one hand and close a few fingers for how many leaders I worked for. Very few people are born leaders. However, leadership can be learned through life experiences and study.

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Servant Leadership: We are not elected to Rule, we are elected to Serve. What type of Leader are you?

First a few thoughts on leadership:

State Commander Macey attends the 50th Anniversary celebration of Post 6970, Poteet.

• “ We need to recognize that leadership does not reside in position but in attitude.”

—Charles Swindoll • Leaders learn from everybody.

• Leaders understand that relationships with all members of the organization that are grounded in trust and confidence are keys to achieving results.

• Trust—by Robert H. Rosen “The Leader who values trust strives to create a culture of honesty, sharing information and being consistent with followers.

As Leaders show trust—and trustworthiness—they bind people together and create a strong, resilient organization.”

• Leaders understand that conversations are the vehicles for creating trust and confidence. What type of communicator are you? Have you built relationships with other leaders in the VFW?

One of the most important keys to being a good Leader is integrity.

The Servant Leader Servant leaders look at leadership as an act of service.

“Leadership is first a matter of the heart. Whenever we have an opportunity to influence the thinking and the behavior of others, the first choice we are called to make is whether to see the moment through the eyes of self-interest or for the benefit of those we are leading.”

“A self-serving leader who is addicted to power, recognition and who is afraid of loss of position is not likely to spend any time or effort in training their replacements.” One of Bishop Jones’s favorite quotes was “It’s amazing what can get done when no one cares who gets the credit.” Years before his death, he made room for others to assume key leadership roles. The Bishop trained his replacements. He didn’t get bogged down with the day-to-day workings of the church, and he had no problem turning over responsibility to others. He concentrated on the big picture. The building of a great organization for the future.

“The journey of life is to move from a self-serving heart to a serving heart. You finally become a Leader when you realize that life is about what you give, rather than what you get.”

Let us always remember that “The measure of a man is not the number of servants he has but the number of people he serves.”

Norman J. Macey III State Commander

“A Leader must stand for something. The character of an organization is determined by the character of its people. In an organization of integrity, the Leader is guided by an internal moral compass. And this personal model gives structure and direction to every person in the organization.”

—by Robert H. Rosen

State Commander Macey attends the installation of new Post 12209, Ft. Hood, which is the first-ever stateside Post opened on an active-duty installation.

Managers make sure people are doing things right.

Leaders make sure people are doing the right things.

People want to be led. “They reject intimidation or manipulation, what they want is inspiration.”

Do you inspire others?

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MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

Fired Up!

HELLO TEAM TEXAS,

THE END OF THE YEAR IS SNEAKING UP ON US. If you are an Annual Member, please renew your membership now. Please don’t wait until it is due. Better yet, become a Life Member.

It is cheaper in the long run, and you don’t have to worry about forgetting to renew.

Here are your Life Member Options:

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AGE AS OF DECEMBER 31ST

ONE-TIME PAYMENT

$45 + 11 PAYMENTS OF

18-30 Years Old 31-40 Years Old 41-50 Years Old 51-60 Years Old 61-70 Years Old 71-80 Years Old 81 Years & Over

$425.00 $410.00 $375.00 $335.00 $290.00 $225.00 $170

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

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Check out these great recruiting incentives we have going. The Post with the greatest membership growth in each Division from February 1st through March 31st will receive a Texas Dragoon Sabre.

This one is run by National and will run until they stop it. Time frame is unknown so take advantage of it now.

Thank you for everything you do for the VFW, Veterans, Widows and Orphans. Keep up the great work and continue to BUILD, BRIDGE, BELONG. The stronger our membership, the stronger our voice!

FIRED UP FOR THE VFW Eddie Terry State Membership Chairman

Texas VFW Post 6970, Poteet, Celebrates its 50th Anniversary VFW POST 6970 IN POTEET, TEXAS was started January 23, 1972. Veterans, Auxiliary, family members and guests gathered for food, music, games and door prizes at a “casino game night” party to celebrate the Post’s 50th Anniversary. The opening prayer was led by State Commander Norman Macey and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Post 6970 Commander John Shipley. Charter Member and Past Post Commander Carlos Torres was in attendance with his wife Becky.

VFW State Commander Norman Macey presented Commander John Shipley with a 50th Anniversary certificate. Additionally, Rachael and Ozzie Ruiz, President and Vice-President of 6970 Auxiliary, presented Commander Shipley with a 50th Anniversary plaque. Commander Shipley thanked all the veterans of the Post for their hard work and dedication to the VFW and for their service to country and community.

Happy 50th!

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PEARL HARBOR DAY

December 7 Texas VFW Post 9299, Alvarado Members and friends take a moment to remember December 7, 1941.

Texas VFW Post 6012, San Antonio

Members gather at the Post for a Pearl Harbor Texas VFW Post 5619, Houston remembrance ceremony. Members gather to commemorate Pearl Harbor Day.

Texas VFW Post 2676, Wichita Falls Scotland-Windthorst Post Members and Auxiliary, along with its Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen winners and their families commemorate Pearl Harbor Day.

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Georgetown Post Holds its 9th Annual Master Sgt. Ben D. Snowden Cup Golf Tournament Fundraiser VFW POST 8587 HELD ITS LARGEST FUNDRAISER OF THE YEAR on November 8, 2021, with over $12,000 raised through sponsorship and player fees for the Golf Tournament held at the Georgetown Country Club. There were 74 players in the tournament.

Funds raised will be used by the Post to contribute to some of the following causes: • Voice of Democracy and Patriot Pen Essay Contest Scholarships • Scholarships for Georgetown High School and East View High School Students • Collection of Clothing for Homeless and “At-Risk” Veterans of Central Texas • Support to Local Boy Scout Troops • Contributions to ROCK (Ride On Center for Kids) • Contributions to Other Non-Profit Organizations in Georgetown • Better VA healthcare • Lobbying Congress for Veteran Friendly Legislation

Outstanding!

Seaman Laid to Rest 80 Years after Pearl Harbor Attack SEAMAN CHARLES SAUNDERS OF WINNIE, TEXAS was killed on the USS Oklahoma when the ship sank during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Saunders was 18 years old and one of the 429 Sailors and Marines killed in the attack on December 7, 1941. His remains were finally identified 80 years later through advanced forensics with the help of family members and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).

Seaman Saunders was sent home in a flag draped coffin and received a hero’s welcome. He is laid to rest in Winnie’s Fairview Cemetery in a plot that his grandparents set up for him in 1964.

Click HERE to read full newspaper article.

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Post 912 Commander Harold Sams poses with Baytown Sun reporter Matt Hollis.

Andrew Camplen for

Texas VFW State Jr. Vice Commander 2022-23

ANDREW CAMPLEN

Comrade Camplen is a Gold Legacy Life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He earned his eligibility by serving in Desert Shield and Desert Storm while assigned to the USAF 53rd Tactical Fighter Squadron.

He is a recipient of the Southwest Asia Service Medal with two bronze service stars, the Kuwait Liberation Medal–Saudi Arabia, the Kuwait Liberation Medal– Kuwait, and various other medals.

POST

Jr. Vice Commander 2013-2014 Post Commander Pvt. Bruno Phillip VFW Post 688, Boerne, Texas (7 terms)

DISTRICT

District 13 Commander (3 terms)

DEPARTMENT

State Assistant Adjutant All-State Post Commander (6 awards) All State District Commander (2 awards) Mack Johnson Award Recipient

NATIONAL

Century Recruiter Award All American Post Commander (5 awards) All American District Commander (2 awards) National Aide-De-Camp (3 times) National Programs Committee Member National Programs Award Recipient Life Member of the VFW National Home for Children

MILITARY APPOINTMENTS

Honorary Commander USAF 433rd Military Airlift Wing Key Spouse USAF 433rd Medical Squadron After his service in the United States Air Force, Andrew served the citizens of San Antonio as a San Antonio Police Officer for almost 25 years. He spent the last 12 years of his career with SAPD as a Violent Crimes Detective on the Robbery Task Force. He exemplifies selflessness and service to others. His achievements, moral character, integrity, and leadership from the front, make him uniquely qualified to serve as State Jr. Vice Commander for the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars.

TEXAS

TRANSPARENCY H EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP ACCOUNTABILITY H SERVICE ABOVE SELF

Leadership from the Front

Hometown Hero is a True Hero to Texas VFW

Thank You! (Left) Hometown Hero donates $55,000 to the Department of Texas. (L-R) Mitch Fuller, Dir. of Government and Public Affairs, State Assistant Adjutant Angel Ramirez, State Adjutant Lupita Perez, Hometown Hero CEO Lukas Gilkey, and Jay Howard Executive Director of the Texas Hemp Federation.

(Right) Hometown Hero donates $10,000 to Post 10427 Leander. (L-R) Hometown Hero Vice President Lewis Hamer, Hometown Hero CEO Lukas Gilkey, Post Commander Mitch Fuller, and Post Quartermaster Gene Davenport.

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By Mitch Fuller, Director of Governmental and Public Affairs

LEGISLATIVE Update THE FOCUS ON ADVOCACY IN TEXAS is not just with the Texas Legislature. There is constant contact with key state agencies including the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), the Texas Veterans Land Board (TVLB), and the Texas Lottery Commission (and its Bingo Advisory Committee). The Texas VFW is the largest bingo license holder in Texas with 75 licenses held by VFW Posts or VFW Post Auxiliaries. The Texas VFW regularly interacts with gubernatorial appointees/commissioners of these agencies and their agency staff, and attends meetings of the Commissions.

included a quote in the press release from Texas VFW State Commander Norman Macey.

I met with Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush on Nov. 18, 2021, at his office in Austin. We discussed VFW National and State Legislative priorities, including the 18 bills supported by the Texas VFW that became law after the 2021 Regular Legislative Session. We also discussed the controversy surrounding the State Veterans Cemeteries in Texas that Commissioner Bush and the VLB are responsible for. Rusty Martin, Chief Investment Officer with the VLB made some outrageous comments about State Veterans Cemeteries, calling them “money-losing propositions” in a virtual meeting of the State Veterans Cemetery Committee that includes representatives of the TVC and TVLB. These comments went public and generated television and print media stories and facilitated the resignation of Eric Brown, the Director of the State Veterans Cemeteries, who had been in his position for more than eight years.

The Texas VFW issued a press release on Dec. 2, 2021, expressing outrage over Mr. Martin’s comments and

Another key issue late last year was the Delta-8 lawsuit initiated by members of the hemp industry, including Hometown Hero, a veteran-owned company that sells Delta-8 products (cannabinoid/hemp-based), which are very beneficial for sleep and minor pain management and much better than the pharmaceutical cocktail that the VA gives to Veterans for pain and anxiety. The State of Texas (i.e., the Dept. of State Health Services) attempted to declare Delta-8 illegal despite the 2018 Federal Farm Bill and the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) stating otherwise. At the request of State Quartermaster Ben Lowrance, I consulted with the VFW National Legislative office about the Delta-8 lawsuit and how it related to the National VFW Legislative priority to study the efficacy of medical cannabis.

This conversation led to a position paper that facilitated my testimony on behalf of the Texas VFW in the Travis County District Court hearing on Nov. 5, 2021. The District Court ruled in favor of the Hemp Industry Coalition

Texas VFW Director of Government Affairs Mitch Fuller (left) poses with State Sen. Brian Birdwell. Senator Birdwell represents the Central Texas area in the Texas Senate and is also a US Army Veteran who received the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in the attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.

who were collectively the plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Feedback from Hometown Hero and other members of the hemp industry indicates that our testimony was instrumental in winning the lawsuit case in District Court. The Texas 3rd Court of Appeals and the Texas Supreme Court affirmed the Travis County District Court decision that Delta-8 is legal in hearings in December 2021.

Pictured is Mitch Fuller (left) and Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush.

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2021-22 Texas VFW Mid-Winter Conference 14

January 20-23, 2022

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by Lupita M. Perez, State Adjutant

THE 2022 ANNUAL MID-WINTER CONFERENCE was once again held at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel as well as aboard the USS Lexington for the Awards Banquet which recognizes the “Top Ten” Voice of Democracy (VOD) winners, three Teacher winners, and the Patriot’s Pen winner from across the Great State of Texas. At the time of the Awards Banquet, all the VOD students in attendance have no idea who will be the first-place winner. It’s always a joy to watch the expression on the first-place VOD winner when his or her name is announced!

In attendance at the Conference were VFW National Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Duane Sarmiento and Past National Auxiliary President Sissy Borel. Each provided inspiring speeches about the importance of what the VFW and Auxiliary do every day to help support veterans in communities across the United States and overseas. In addition to the National VFW guests of honor, there were also four out-of-state guests in attendance who were given a little taste of Texas hospitality. They were Don Reber, Sr. Vice Commander-Dept. of Louisiana VFW; James Bassett, State Commander-Dept of Oklahoma VFW; Jeremy Owen, Sr. Vice Commander-Dept of Oklahoma VFW; and Erica Traxler, Jr. Vice Commander-Dept of Oklahoma VFW. Duane Sarmiento, National Junior Vice Commander-inChief, was presented with a Texas cowboy hat to take home with him to New Jersey.

With around 800 people in attendance, the Conference was a huge success with numerous training sessions and seminars. The “behind-thescenes” efforts of both the VFW and Auxiliary

were successful as they accommodated fellow members during sessions throughout the weekend. State Quartermaster Ben Lowrance stated “The position may be split this year, but the mission remains unchanged. The staff of our organization has gone above and beyond to bring this event together.” Starting early Wednesday morning with the Foundation Board meeting and ending at the close of the Banquet Saturday night, the staff did an amazing job keeping the events on schedule as planned.

The Awards Banquet was a big hit again aboard the USS Lexington. Many comments were provided from the Patriot’s Pen student and VOD students and their parents about how interesting it was to be on the World War II, 16-deck aircraft carrier and what a truly special evening it was. When I as State Adjutant was asked about the big shoes I had to fill emceeing such an event, I simply said, “I am excited and a little nervous, however, I have no problem speaking in large crowds of people and feel comfortable and at home around Veterans.”

Texas VFW would like to thank the tireless efforts of the USS Lexington staff as well as the Omni staff for helping make this an event to remember. H

All Awards Banquet photos are free to download at: https://texasvfw.smugmug.com (Photos by Terri Sheets)

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2021-22 Texas VF W Mid-Win t er Conf er ence

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Photo Gallery

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2021-22 Texas VFW Mid-Winter Conference

Voice of Democracy Top Ten Winners

This year, 1,787 students participated in the Voice of Democracy program. $187,140 in awards were given plus $52,439 in expenses for a total spent on the program of $239,579.

1st Place | $10,000

Felicity J. Roberts

3rd Place | $7,000

4th Place | $6,000

Hannah G. Moreno

V-Sweeps Scholarship

Texas VFW Foundation Scholarship

Lillian E. Ross

Kylee F. Lookabaugh Department of Texas VFW Scholarship

Per Stirling Capital Management Scholarship

SPONSOR District 21, Post 10454 Grapevine, Texas

SPONSOR District 2, Post 1806 Beaumont, Texas

SPONSOR District 30, Post 7103 Athens, Texas

SPONSOR District 8, Post 7767 Breckenridge, Texas

6th Place | $5,000

7th Place | $5,000

8th Place | $4,500

9th Place | $4,000

Ashlyn Stevens

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2nd Place | $8,000

District 17 Scholarship

VFW Auxiliary Post 8541— San Antonio Scholarship

Avica A. Burrill

Elizabeth Miri

Cecilia C. Korzekwa

SPONSOR District 16, Post 8551 Sweeny, Texas

SPONSOR District 6, Post 8967 Port Aransas, Texas

SPONSOR District 28, Post 10427 Leander, Texas

SPONSOR District 20, Post 8855 Poth, Texas

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District 4 Scholarship

Texas VFW Motorcycle Group Scholarship

5th Place | $5,000

Sarah E. Barrow

Thomas “Doc” Howard Post 3359—Garland Memorial Scholarship SPONSOR District 17, Post 4692 Bryan, Texas

10th Place | $4,000

Jason M. Durr

West Brazos VFW Post 8551-Sweeny and its Auxiliary Scholarship SPONSOR District 12, Post 5870 Queen City, Texas

2021-22 Voice of Democracy Essay 1st Place Winner | Felicity J. Roberts 12th Grade • Homeschooled, Southlake, Texas Post Sponsor: 10454-Grapevine • District Sponsor: 21

“A m e ric a: W he r e Do We Go Fr o m H e r e?”

BORN INTO THE BONDS OF SLAVERY, forced to perform manual labor as a small child, and yet determined not to let his circumstances seal his fate, Booker T. Washington overcame the seemingly insurmountable obstacles of his life. From an early age, he had a zest for learning, fostered by his mother who acquired books for his education. Even at nine years old, he labored in a factory so he had to rise at 4 to study. When he was 16, his thirst for education led him to walk 500 miles to the Hampton Normal Agricultural Institute to pursue higher education. He was not only a student, but he also worked as a janitor. This education and his hard work equipped him for a career in which he founded the Tuskegee Institute, dined with presidents, and wrote five books. By overcoming the obstacles in his early life, bettering himself, and serving others, Booker T. Washington exemplifies the American ideal of self-determination. His remarkable life serves as an example to us in determining “America, where do we go from here?”

To start, where is “here?” Throughout our history, Americans have been focused on achievement for both themselves and their country. The “American Dream” is the concept that any person can work hard and better their situation. In other countries, a sense of identity is found in ethnicity, but in America, our identity is centered around the pursuit of happiness.

In more recent times, Americans have strayed from their focus on that pursuit and have begun to view themselves as victims, whose happiness cannot be pursued but is instead contingent on others. A study conducted

by American researcher Miles Armaly showed that “perceiving oneself as a victim is ubiquitous” even among regular Americans. Claiming victim status is encouraged by politicians, the media, and other social institutions.

This development is alarming. While there are people who truly suffer from circumstances out of their control, a mentality of victimhood is detrimental to one’s self and one’s community.

Focusing on one’s real or perceived victimhood causes Americans to recoil from the possibilities they could achieve and instead to blame others for why they may not achieve them. They stop searching for opportunities to grow and rather blame their victimhood as the reason they stagnate. They begin to move away from the distinct American ideal of self-determination and instead find their identity in how they believe they have been victimized.

Victimhood builds on itself. When someone dwells on how they have been wronged, that becomes their focus. They see grievances even before anything happens. They look for people to blame to avoid responsibility. They drink from a poison fountain which feeds a desire for bitterness and revenge instead of appreciation and improvement.

Victimhood mentality is holding America back because its focus is inward instead of outward. Having a victim mentality makes people think only of themselves and not others. It makes them expect rescue instead of looking for ways to serve. No self-governing nation can flourish in that environment.

So how does America move forward? We must return to selfdetermination. Self-dete1mination seizes opportunities. It is the idea that you are in control of your future. The actions you perform, the choices you make, and the work you do determine the outcome of your life.

Psychologists call this having an internal locus of control. When Americans have this self-determined attitude, they perforn1 better in school and work, are more independent, and are less likely to be depressed.

Being self-determined also means no longer ruminating on past wrongs, but instead moving forward. You dare to dream the American Dream. You become brave and self-sacrificing. You achieve desires for yourself and your fan1ily, but your endeavors also extend to your community. In the words of President Kennedy, you “ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.”

You see, it wasn’t a victim mentality that motivated patriots to fight the British for independence. Or American GI’s to storm the beaches of Normandy and free Europe from the tyranny of the Axis powers.

Or first responders to nm into the Twin Towers on 9/11 to rescue those inside. It was the character trait of self-determination that motivated these men and women to be brave, to look beyond themselves and their circumstances, and toward others.

America, where do we go from here? We go forward with the character of self-determination and not victimhood. It helped Booker T. Washington overcome his early life of slavery to contribute so much to this country because, as he said, “Character, not circumstances, makes the man.”

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2021-22 Texas VFW Mid-Winter Conference

Voice of Democracy 11-15th Place and $1,000 Scholarships 11th Place

Riley C. Hagdorn of Devine, Texas Devine High School–Devine, Texas (12th Grade) $3,500 Adobe Walls VFW Post 1789–Borger Scholarship Sponsored by Post 3966–Devine and District 13

12th Place

State Finalists each earning a $1,000 scholarship

Madison O. Conerly of DeSoto, Texas The Hockaday School–Dallas, Texas (12th Grade) $1,000 USAF Chief Master Sgt. Amos Hastings Scholarship Sponsored by Post 1406–Dallas and District 3

Chloe M. Gilland of Fort Hood, Texas

Benjamin L. Edmiston of Clifton, Texas

Killeen High School–Killeen, Texas (11th Grade) $3,500 VFW Post 6873–Abilene Scholarship Sponsored by Post 4008–Belton and District 14

Clifton High School–Clifton, Texas (9th Grade) $1,000.00 VFW Post 9213, McQueeny Scholarship Sponsored by Post 8553–Clifton and District 29

13th Place

Kylee B. Ryeczyk of Sherman, Texas Texoma Christian School–Sherman, Texas (12th Grade) $3,000 Camp Bowie Post 708 and Auxiliary Scholarship Sponsored by Post 2772–Sherman and District 1

14th Place

Preston R. Ellis of Humble, Texas Atascocita High School–Humble, Texas (12th Grade) $3,000 Stewart-Wendell VFW Post 3904 Scholarship Sponsored by Post 12075–Humble and District 4

Mikayla M. Lively of Spring Branch, Texas Smithson Valley High School–Spring Branch, Texas (12th Grade) $1,000 Humana Scholarship Sponsored by Post 8800–Startzville and District 5

Aleah C. Ortiz of El Paso, Texas Ortiz Academy–El Paso, Texas (11th Grade) $1,000 Sidney Pierce VFW Post 4476–Taylor Scholarship Sponsored by Post 9173–El Paso and District 10

15th Place

Alexis N. Rudd of Midland, Texas Legacy Senior High School–Midland, Texas (12th Grade) $1,000 VFW Post 10428, Kingsland, and Auxiliary Scholarship Sponsored by Post 7208–Midland and District 25

Kayelyn B. Skorick of Lubbock, Texas Roosevelt High School–Lubbock, Texas (10th Grade) $1,000 VFW Auxiliary, Department of Texas, District 16 Scholarship Sponsored by Post 2466–Lubbock and District 9

Jacob K. Wachsmuth of Shiner, Texas Shiner Catholic School–Shiner, Texas (11th Grade) $1,000 Paul Hayslip Memorial Scholarship, Spring Branch VFW Post 8790 Sponsored by Post 6209–Shiner and District 24

Kalynn J. Walker of Penitas, Texas La Joya Early College–La Joya, Texas (9th Grade) $1,000 Dallas-Love Field VFW Post 7471 Memorial Scholarship Sponsored by Post 3895–La Joya and District 18

Wesley A. Alberts of Tyler, Texas Alberts Academy–Tyler, Texas (9th Grade) $2,000 RVOS Scholarship Sponsored by Post 3984–Jacksonville and District 19

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

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

Grades K-5 Winner

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Grades 6-8 Winner

Grades 9-12 Winner

Melissa Funk

Dustin B. Lazenby

Joseph M. Akers

Water Elementary School, Lubbock, Texas Post 2466, Lubbock, District 9

Capt. Mark Tyler Voss Middle School, Boerne, Texas Post 688, Boerne, District 13

Beaumont United High School, Beaumont, Texas Post 1806, Beaumont, District 2

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2021-22 Patriot’s Pen Essay Karlie A. Barnes, 1st Place Winner

6th Grade • Whitney Middle School, Whitney, Texas Post Sponsor: 12176-Whitney • District Sponsor: 29

“How Can I Be A Good American?”

THE QUESTION OF “HOW CAN I BE A GOOD AMERICAN” can be answered with one word— ”Remember.” Remember what my freedom cost and remember to appreciate it.

food and water, and more that came at a cost at one time. Now when my family goes shopping or goes on adventures, we like to look up the history of things related to that so we can know more about it and so we can remember.

Every morning when I am getting ready for school, brushing my hair and my teeth, I can hear the brake release on my dad’s wheelchair. That sound is something so familiar that I can pick it out in a grocery store several aisles over during the busiest time of day. That sound happens because after surviving the war, my daddy came home in a wheelchair with legs that did not work the way they did when he left. Being a good American is remembering that every day, talking about the value of his sacrifice and remembering to tell him that he is valued.

Remembering, to me, means a lot more several times a year. My daddy was in New York when 9/11 happened many years before I was born so we remember that day for what happened, what came from it and what we became as country after it. The day my daddy became paralyzed is another day that we remember.

We remember it as a day that the plan for his life changed and was given a new purpose because we believe in my house that everything has a purpose for the Glory of our Savior.

My daddy tells me often that learning about history is important because if we do not remember how we got to this time then we won’t appreciate the cost that it came with. I have been learning more about American history this school year and there are so many things that I get to have freely and easily like clothes,

My family has taught me that even though we have a very different life because of where we came from, it is important to remember that all families are like this. Every family has a story of where they came from and how they made it to here and being a good American means remembering that every day.

This year, 4,928 students participated in the Patriot’s Pen program. $75,985 in awards were given plus $10,800 in expenses for a total spent on the program of $86,785.

2nd Place Winner—Luke M. Leman 6th Grade • Leman Homeschool, Iola, Texas Post Sponsor: 4006–Navasota District Sponsor: 17

3rd Place Winner—Riley D. Towell 7th Grade • Ponder Jr. High School, Ponder, Texas Post Sponsor: 1475–Amarillo District Sponsor: 9

4th Place Winner—Bayli R. Yousko L-R: Duane Sarmiento, Jr Vice Commander-in-Chief; Tracy Wilder, Auxiliary President, Post 12176, District 29; Christopher Davis, District 29 Commander, Post 4819; 1st Place Winner Karlie Barnes; Norman Macey, State Commander; Karen Kaylor, State Auxiliary President; and Sissy Borel, Past National Auxiliary President.

8th Grade • Whitesboro Intermediate School, Whitesboro, Texas Post Sponsor: 1922–Gainesville District Sponsor: 1

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Life Member of Texas VFW Post 2438, Bay City, Turns 100 Years Old WILLIAM EDGAR MILLER—“Mr. Ed” to all of his friends—was born December 17, 1921, in Arcadia, Iron County, Missouri. His parents were the late Guy McHenry Miller (1896-1962) and Emma Myrtle (Propst) Miller (1894-1961).

He graduated from Annapolis High School in Annapolis, Missouri, in 1940. After enlisting in the United States Navy on April 29, 1942, and after training at the Naval Training Center, Great Lakes, Illinois, he was assigned to duty stations in the American Theater of Operations, then was transferred to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater with duty in the South Pacific. He was Honorably Discharged as an Aviation Metalsmith 2nd Class at St. Louis, Missouri, on December 28, 1945.

Mr. Ed was married to Marvelle Caroline Allmon in 1947 and she preceded him in death in 1970. He then married Minnie Lee Davis in 1972 and she preceded him in death in 1999. Later, he married Annie Mae Genzer [Gates], who also preceded him in death in 2014. He has one daughter, Kathy Miller Cofrin of Austin and three stepdaughters, Karen Trobl of Bay City, Doris Layton of Waco, and Laura Evans of Rock Springs.

Also, he has a large family of friends at VFW Post 2438 in Baytown, Texas.

In February 1986, he retired from the Houston Chronicle at the age of 65. He has been a strong and faithful member of VFW Post 2438, Bay City, Texas, for many years. He serves on the Post Honor Guard Team and assists during Bingo, as well as any where he can lend a hand. He served for many years as the Post Chaplain and was given the honorary title of Post Chaplain Emeritus when he retired from that position.

He celebrated his 100th birthday on December 17, 2021, with his Post and extended family and friends. At the celebration he was given a Missouri State Flag that has flown over the Capitol at Jefferson City, Missouri. The flag was sent

by Mrs. Chris Dinkins, his county State Representative from District 144. He also received a Texas State Flag that has flown over the Texas State Capitol from State Representative Cody Vasut of Matagorda County. The post flew the Missouri State Flag along side the Texas State Flag throughout the month of December in his special honor.

(Below) Mr. Ed’s fellow Honor Guard members chipped in and bought him a 1921 Morgan silver dollar that had been treated with black ruthenium and highlighted with 24 carat gold.

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RANDALL JOHNSTON

Candidate for Department of Texas Surgeon 2022-2023 JOHNSTON RANDALL

Candidate for Department of Texas Surgeon 2022-2023

Gold Legacy Member of Post 4376 Seven Points District 30 Prior Department V.A.V.S. Representative North Texas Health Care System (Dallas) for three years. Deputy Representative four years with over 1200 volunteer hours.2013 to 2020.

Gold Legacy Member of Post Seven Points District 30 3. All American District District Commander three times for4376 District 30 and once for District Commander twice. All V.A.V.S. State District and Post Commander twice.

Prior Department Representative North Texas Health Care System (Dallas) for three

years. Deputy Representative four Garland years with overPost 1200 volunteer hours.2013 2020.

Post Commander nine times. Post 5076 twice 4376 Seven Points seventotimes

District Commander three times in forthe District 30Corps and once fortoDistrict 3. All American1966 District I earned my VFW eligibility serving Marine 1966 1969 and in Vietnam Commander twice. Allinclude State District and Defense, Post Commander to 1968.

Medals received National Vietnamtwice.

Service with three bronze stars,Post Vietnam Campaign with device, Presidential UnitPost Citation, Vietnamese Crosstimes of Commander nine times.

Post 5076 Garland twice 4376 Seven Points seven Gallantry, and Good Conduct ribbon.

I earned my VFW eligibility serving in the Marine Corps 1966 to 1969 and in Vietnam 1966 First office heldMedals in VFWreceived was Quartermaster in Garland Post 5076 and have gone with thru the to 1968. include National Defense, Vietnam Service three bronze chairsstars, at both Post and District levels in two separate districts.

Vietnam Campaign with device, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, Goodof Conduct ribbon.

I am seeking theand position Department Surgeon. This position was redefined by Doc Howard a platform supporting veterans within the V. A.Post healthcare system and V. A. the Firstasoffice held inforVFW was Quartermaster in Garland 5076 and have gone thru Volunteer V.Aand within Texas has 40 community-based outpatient clinics, 18 chairsServices. at both Post District levels in two separate districts. outpatient clinics, five medical centers that are covered by six healthcare systems. I believe I am seeking the position of Department Surgeon.

This position was redefined by system Doc support from the surgeon position should continue to advocate for veterans within this Howard as a of platform for supporting veterans within the V. A. healthcare system and V. A. and the obtaining volunteers.

Volunteer Services. V.A within Texas has 40 community-based outpatient clinics, 18 I have the experience, ability, and knowledge to continue working toward that goal. outpatient clinics, five medical centers that are covered by six healthcare systems. I believe I am currently retired have position the time should and ambition necessary to serve in this position. support from theand surgeon continue to advocate for veterans within this system and the obtaining of volunteers.

I am happily married to Peggy for 21 years now and we have 5 grown children between us with I15have grandchildren. the experience, ability, and knowledge to continue working toward that goal.

I am currently and higher have the time and ambition I would pledge not toretired seek any Department office. necessary to serve in this position.

I am happily 192 married Peggy 21 years now and we have 5 grown children between us Randall Johnston, Oak to Hills, Dr.for Mabank, TX 75156 with 15 grandchildren.

903-910-9561 | randalljohnston@earthlink.net I would pledge not to seek any higher Department office.

Randall Johnston, 192 Oak Hills, Dr. Mabank, TX 75156 903-910-9561

|

randalljohnston@earthlink.net

Texas VFW Post 880, Galveston, Hosts Youth for Wreaths Across America Program TEXAS VFW POST 880 hosted Andrew Farrant for his “America Strong” Wreaths Across America Program on December 18, 2021. Andrew has been involved in this for the past 5 years since he was in 8th grade and is a very impressive young man. Many members from the community attended, including U.S. Congressman Randy Weber. Numerous military organizations, both active duty and retired, placed wreaths on stands during the ceremony. It was a very touching day and great community effort.

ANDREW FARRANT

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Members of the Texas VFW were invited guests of the Texas Veterans Land Board for the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl Kickoff Luncheon in Ft. Worth, Texas.

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

W i n t e r 2 0 2 2 Te x a s V F W E - N e w s

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 W i n t e r 2 0 2 2 Te x a s V F W E - N e w s

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Signing of the

Texas VFW Post 8790, Houston

VIETNAM PEACE ACCORD

Members and Auxiliary gather at the Post to recognize the Vietnam Peace Accord.

January 27

Texas VFW Post 6382, Hallettsville The Post commemorates the Vietnam Peace Accord. Pictured are Post Adjutant Charles Grafe (left) and Chaplain Gilbert Schindler (rigth) both Vietnam Veterans.

Texas VFW Post 8800, Canyon Lake Several members of the Post conduct a Vietnam Peace Accord remembrance. L-R: Jon Sanders (Jr. Vice), Joe Mets (Jr. Vice), Tom Bennett (Adj.), Ty Teel (Cdr.), Freddie Benson (Chaplain), Carl Sartor (Trustee), Rene Hinojosa (Trustee), Bobby Waldo (Trustee), and Peer Gerlach (Member).

! g n i d n a Outst

Texas VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands Post Commander E. J. (Pat) Barbier presents the program for the Signing of the Vietnam Peace Accord at the monthly Post meeting. Four Post members, eight Auxiliary Members and two guests were in attendance.

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Texas VFW Post 2676, Windthorst Post and Auxiliary members along with a representative of Camp Lindsey (local veterans housing project) commemorate the Vietnam Peace Accord.

VFW POST 4816 24411 CUNNINGHAM DRIVE PORTER, TEXAS 77365

REGISTRATION FEE: $40 PER PERSON

(Deadline: March 15, 2022)

*Schedule of events have not been published yet.

REGISTRATION INCLUDES: Post Activities: Corn Hole, Big Jenga, Table Games, Area Attractions Friday Evening Chow and “Sock Hop” Entertainment

Click HERE for Agenda

Saturday Evening Dinner and DJ/VJ Entertainment Plus, Porter Post Warm Hospitality Always!

STATE COMMANDER MACEY’S

HOMECOMING March 24-26, 2022 | Porter, TX

2021 2022

STATE COMMANDER MACEY’S HOMECOMING REGISTRATION NAME:

PHONE #:

ADDRESS: STATE:

CITY: ZIP:

POST/AUX:

DIST#:

EMAIL:

REGISTRATION IS $40 PER PERSON MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO TEXAS VFW MAIL OR FAX PAYMENT & COMPLETED FORM TO TEXAS VFW, PO BOX14468, AUSTIN, TX 78761 -OR- FAX TO 512-834-9232

SIGNATURE

DATE

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Beeville Post Helps Raise Funds for Army National Guard Christmas Dinner

Outsta n di n g!

Texas VFW Post 9170, Beeville, in conjunction with several other Veteran organizations joined together to raise funds to hold a Christmas Dinner for 140+ Texas Army National Guard Soldiers on the southern Texas Border.

Over $600 in donations helped provide a little something special for our troops during the Holidays.

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First-ever Stateside Post Opens on an Active-Duty Military Installation at Ft. Hood OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF CSM A.C. COTTON POST #12209 are elated to be a part of establishing this ground-breaking new Post.

The installation ceremony for VFW Post 12209 at Fort Hood’s Phantom Warrior Center was held on Friday, January 7, 2022.

The Post, officially named CSM A.C. Cotton VFW Post 12209 after the first African-American Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Cavalry Division, is the first VFW on an active-duty military installation in the United States.

Cotton passed away September 7, 2021, in Killeen.

Lt. Gen. Pat White, III Corps and Fort Hood Commander, and Cotton’s family members, VFW members, and soldiers attended the event.

Members have expressed that they feel their Post is better suited to support and serve activeduty service members and their

families since they will be able to engage with them on a daily basis—from within their offices to their motorpools—and while active-duty performs Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS).

As the military constantly evolves, the Post stays abreast of the changes by being present for briefings including welcome briefings, monthly briefings, service/family members briefings, and Soldier and Family Readiness Groups (SFRG).

Willie Keller, Post 12209 Commander (center), was an integral part in bringing this Post opening to fruition. (photo courtesy Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS))

Post 12209 says it will do everything in its power to change the perception of what some have of the VFW in order to better position itself to be a pillar in their new community and to offer the best support possible to veterans of all ages.

Post 12209 spans all grades from E-3 to 09.

Read full article HERE Download DVIDS photos

Willie Keller, Post 12209 Commander, poses with some of Cotton’s family members, VFW members and active-duty military. (photo courtesy DVIDS)

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Texas VFW Post 430, Canyon, celebrates the U.S. Marine Corps 246th Birthday with their Post’s oldest Marine, Mr. Dick Johnson, who is 84 years old.

Semper fi!