2017 Texas VFW State Convention Book

97TH ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION BOOK

FRONT COVER

TEXASVFW.ORG

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VFW & Auxiliary State Convention Chair Welcome Messages

4 5 6 7

State Commander & National VFW Past Commander Introductions

8 9 10 11 12 13

Auxiliary State and National Presidents’ Welcome Messages

14 15-16 17 18 19 21 22-27 28

VFW Schedule of Events State Officers District Commanders, Committee Chairs & Service Officers

Auxiliary Schedule of Events Auxiliary State Officers & District Presidents All-State Posts & Districts Publication & Community Service Awards Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, Public Service, Teacher & Scout of the Year Awards Insurance Programs & Member Benefits Legacy Life Membership Application Quartermaster Financial Reports Texas VFW Foundation Texas VFW Foundation Financial Reports Battleship Texas (BB-35) Advertisements Hotel Map of Convention Areas

CONNECT WITH TEXAS VFW on social media

@TEXASVFW

STATE CONVENTION CHAIR Terry Contella Welcome Comrades & Auxiliary to the 97th Texas VFW State Convention.

We are excited to have you here in Uptown Houston at the Galleria.

The Galleria is Texas’ largest shopping center that houses 400 stores and 40 eateries. Some of the restaurants are offering a discount to us for

the week so be sure to check at the registration table.

If shopping isn’t your bag…Houston and the surrounding area has many other indoor and outdoor attractions, theatres, museums and sporting events at your fingertips. For all you baseball fans, the Astros are hosting the Rangers on June 13th and 14th at Minute Maid stadium.

Thank You all for your service and for continuing to serve our veteran community. We hope you have a great conference and enjoy yourself in the Bayou City!•

Phillip “Terry” Contella

STATE CONVENTION CHAIR Rita Bailey Welcome to Houston, Texas and our annual VFW State Convention!

The agenda is filled with many exciting things! To name but a few - an Election of Officers, an Awards banquet, a Memorial Service honoring those members who died during the previous year, as well as the opportunity to meet old and make new friends. Be sure to check the schedule of events as you do not want to miss anything!

Our National President, Colette Bishop, will be joining us with the latest news from National Headquarters.

As always, let’s show her our good ‘ole Texas hospitality!!

When you see our Department Officers, please thank them for their dedication, commitment and hard work.

They spend countless hours assisting all Auxiliary posts so each post can “be the best they can be”.

While all of these things are important, on your free time, do ex-

TEXASVFW.ORG

plore the Galleria for its numerous restaurants and many stores. Be sure to visit the Water Wall or tryout the Ice Skating Rink.

We hope you will have a wonderful and exciting time. We also hope you will take home a wealth of information, new ideas and more importantly be reinvigorated to continue building each Auxiliary chapter to be its very best!•

Rita Bailey

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TEXAS VFW COMMANDER

PAST NAT’L COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

Peyton Lumpkin

Paul Spera

Welcome to the 97th VFW Texas State Convention!! I also want to welcome our special guests, Past National Commander Paul Spera and National Auxiliary President Colette Bishop. We are privileged to have such top-notch representatives from National with us.

The next few days will be filled with enjoyable and enlightening activities. Plelase check the schedule for all events and take the time to expose yourself to all that happens at the Department level during our convention. It is another glimpse of the “big picture” and helps you usnderstand the excellent work that is accomplished across Texas on behalf of our Veterans. I wish you a good time and a great experience!

The Convention will open on Thursday with a Memorial Service honoring those who have gone on before us. The Awards Banquet is Friday evening where those who have achieved so much this year will be recognized. Veterans are encouraged to wear their medals or ribbons, if they so choose. It will be a fun evening. Adjutant/ Quartermaster will be the Master of Ceremonies. He has been polishing up his jokes, and I know he will be at his best!

Be sure to attend our business sessions Friday and Saturday. We have much to discuss, and many decisions to make. Nominations will be made, and officers will be elected. Saturday afternoon, we have the installation of the new VFW Commander, the Auxiliary President and their Officers for 2017 - 2018. And the new year begins.

An operation this large does not happen without a lot of work behind the scenes. I want to thank the VFW staff for all they do to make this Convention and the Department of Texas a success. In addition, the Convention Chairman, Terry Contella has made sure everything goes as planned. I applaud all of you.

Lastly, I want to thank the Texas VFW and Auxiliary members for their strong support this year. It has been an honor to serve you and a pleasure to have served with Department Auxiliary President Andrea King. She has been a wonderful partner.

Serving veterans at this level has been one of the high points in my life. It is with gratitude that I thank you for allowing me to serve.

I look forward to seeing everyone and spending time with you..

Paul A. Spera of Attleboro, Mass., was elected Commander-in-Chief at the 96th National Convention in Phoenix, Ariz. on Aug. 25, 1995. He was the seventh native of the Bay State to be elected to this high office.

Spera, an Army veteran, earned his eligibility in Nha Trang Vietnam from 1965-1966.

Upon returning home, he was stationed at Fort Ritchie, Md., where he was part of an equipment installation team, until his discharge.

Joining in 1966, while still in Vietnam, he remains a member of Post 144 in Boston, Mass., and currently serves as the Post Quartermaster.

Upon discharge, he attended Northeastern University where he studied business administration. He then went to work for the Department of Labor’s Jobs for Veterans program. He also was assistant service officer for the Department of Massachusetts from 1977-79.

He was named the “Outstanding Veteran of the Year” by the National Alliance of Businessmen and served on the Massachusetts and Attleboro memorial committees.

In 2001, he received a Presidential appointment as a special assistant to then Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Anthony Principi. He is currently retired from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

He and his wife Joanne have five children and four grandsons.

Paul Spera 4

VFWSCHEDULE OF EVENTS

14 15 16

17 18

WEDNESDAY June 14, 2017 7:30AM - 5:00PM NOON - 4:00PM NOON - 4:00PM NOON - 4:00PM 2:00PM - 5:00PM

Golf Tournament Vendor Booths & Poppies 4th Floor Woodway I VFW & AUX Registration/ Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer VFW Store San Felipe VFW Foundation Meeting West Alabama

THURSDAY June 15, 2017 7:00AM - 9:00AM 8:00AM - 4:00PM 8:00AM - 4:00PM 8:00AM - 4:00PM 8:00AM - 9:30PM 10:30AM - 11:30AM 1:00PM - 4:00PM

Networking VFW & AUX Registration/ Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer Vendor Booths/Poppies 4th Floor Woodway I VFW Store San Felipe VFW Council of Administration Meeting Woodway III (4th Floor) JOINT Memorial Service Galleria Ballrooms JOINT Opening Session Galleria Ballrooms

FRIDAY June 16, 2017 7:00AM - 8:00AM Networking 8:00AM - 9:00PM VFW Resolutions Available for Review Woodway III (4th Floor) 8:00AM - 4:00PM VFW & AUX Registration/Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer 8:00AM - 4:00PM Vendor Booths/Poppies 4th Floor Woodway I 8:00AM - 4:00PM VFW Store San Felipe 8:00AM - 9:30AM Past Department Commander’s Breakfast Chevy Chase 10:00AM - ADJOURN VFW Business Meeting and Nominations Woodway III (4th Floor) 5:30PM - 6:30PM Reception with Cash Bar Galleria Ballroom Foyer 6:30PM - 9:00PM Awards Banquet Galleria Ballrooms SATURDAY June 17, 2017 7:00AM - 9:00AM Networking 8:00AM - 10:00AM VFW/ AUX Registration/Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer 8:00AM - 10:00AM Vendor Booths/Poppies 4th Floor Woodway I 8:00AM - 10:00AM VFW Store San Felipe 9:00AM - NOON VFW Business Meeting and Elections Woodway III (4th Floor) 9:00AM - NOON Men’s Auxiliary West Alabama 3:30PM- 4:00PM VFW/Aux Incoming Council Picture Shoot Galleria Ballrooms 4:00PM - 5:30PM JOINT Installation of Officers Galleria Ballrooms 5:45PM - 8:00PM VFW Motorcycle Group Annual Meeting Galleria Ballrooms 5:30PM - 9:00PM State Commander & President reception Plaza Ballroom SUNDAY June 18, 2017 7:30AM - 9:00AM 9:30AM - NOON

VFW Council of Administration Breakfast VFW Council of Administration Meeting

TEXASVFW.ORG

Plaza Ballroom Galleria II, III

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STATE COMMANDER

Peyton Lumpkin

STATE SENIOR VICE COMMANDER

Edward Torres

STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER

Inge Conley

Adjutant/Quartermaster ROY GRONA Judge Advocate KEN BURTON Surgeon THOMAS “DOC” HOWARD Chaplain NORMAN MACEY Chief-of-Staff GARY BRIDGES Inspector JOE HAYES Immediate Past Commander DAN WEST National Council Member LARRY VELASQUEZ

Deputy Chief-of-Staff LARRY SANDERS Deputy Chief-of-Staff LAVERN TERBL

Deputy State Inspectors JON LUNKWICZ JOHN TELLIER RICK RAMIREZ JAMES “JIMMY” CARTER

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97TH TEXAS VFW STATE CONVENTION BOOK

1 Pete Hersom 2 Richard Moore 3 D. Grant Seabolt, Jr. 4 Cecil McConnell , Jr. 5 Ronald Spalding 6 David Carvajal 8 Kevin Wade 9 Danny Martin 10 Rod Raulston 12 David Nichols 13 Daniel Hinojosa 14 Bob Hansen 15 Michael Hood 16 Glenn James 17 Lee Derby 18 Loren Pogue 19 Dick Shawver 20 Jesse Dominguez 21 Lynn Toomer 24 Mat Offe 25 Melvin Parker 28 Bob Gear 29 Bobby Jones 30 Ed Faught

97TH CONVENTION CHAIR

HOMELESS VETERANS CHAIR

LEGISLATIVE CHAIR

VOD/PP CHAIR

BUDGET & FINANCE CHAIR

WOMEN VETERANS CHAIR

COMMUNITY SERVICE CHAIR

VALLEY VA HOSPITAL

PUBLIC RELATIONS CHAIR

POW/MIA CHAIR

HOSPITAL/MAP CHAIR

SERVICE OFFICER/WACO

Terry Contella David Nichols

Norm Brawner Lora Land

Clarence Jackson James Seales

Tony Vasquez

Melanie Kretzschmar

Thomas “Doc” Howard

MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

BUDDY POPPY CHAIR

MOTORCYCLE GROUP CHAIR

Frank Andrada

Marlin L. Howze

CREDENTIALS CHAIR

STUDENT VETERANS LIAISON

VFW FUTURE CONCEPTS

Lupita Perez Roy Davis

Larry Levy

Wayne Cooley

TEXASVFW.ORG

Rod Keene

Ramiro Daniel

Eddie Sherman (254) 299-9959

SERVICE OFFICER/HOUSTON Mike Eshenbaugh (713) 383-2730

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TEXAS VFW AUXILIARY PRESIDENT

NATIONAL VFW AUXILIARY PRESIDENT

Andrea King

Colette Bishop

It has been my honor to work with Commander Peyton Lumpkin this year. He cares about our veterans and their needs and is a strong advocate for the VFW Auxiliary.

Dear Comrades and Sisters: We see every opportunity to support our veterans and let our fellow Americans know that these men and women have paid the price for our precious freedom. We are here to always offer Unwavering Support for Uncommon Heroes®.

In my travels throughout Texas, I saw in every District that the Department of Texas VFW Auxiliary is truly Proud of Our Past and Committed to Our Future. We have demonstrated that we will always offer Unwavering Support for Uncommon Heroes.

We have had some wonderful experiences this year thanks to the diligence of our members. We have toured VA Medical Centers, Veterans’ assisted living facilities; Veterans’ Nursing Homes, Research Facilities, Physical Rehab Centers and a Rehab Center for the blind. We have attended the Medal of Honor celebration in Gainesville, TX; visited special Veterans’ Court and Veterans’ One Stop where a veteran can get anything from a haircut, to legal advice, to a meal, to assistance with a VA claim.

We have let our veterans know that they are not forgotten by establishing these facilities to care for them and volunteering in VA Medical Centers, these Rehab facilities and veterans’ homes.

We have demonstrated to veterans that we have not forgotten them by volunteering in VA Medical Centers, helping them return to work after rehabilitation, providing holiday meals at Post homes, donating items to homeless shelters and offering transportation to and from job interviews and medical appointments.

Working together, the VFW and VFW Auxiliary have helped hospitalized veterans and deployed soldiers keep in touch with their families through Operation Uplink™, and provided support through the Military Assistance Program, Unmet Needs and National Veterans Service.

Because of all of you, and the members of the Department of Texas VFW Auxiliary, I am so proud to be a member of this great organization.

It has been an honor to work with Commander-in-Chief Brian Duffy, a dedicated advocate for America’s veterans and an avid supporter of the VFW Auxiliary. It has also been my pleasure to work with all of you. You have made me so proud to be a member of this great organization.

Thank you for the honor to have served as your Department President.

I am delighted that I will be able to join you for your Department Convention, and I congratulate you on another outstanding year for your Department.

Andrea King

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During 2016-2017, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and VFW Auxiliary have spoken in classrooms, provided upkeep for memorials and held ceremonies honoring veterans on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, POW/MIA Remembrance Day and other patriotic days to remind Americans of the sacrifices veterans have made.

Sincerly,

VFW AUX SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

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15 16 17 18

WEDNESDAY 14 June 2017 12 Noon - 4:00 PM 12 Noon - 4:00 PM 12 Noon - 4:00 PM 6:00 PM

Vendor Booths & Poppies

4th Floor Woodway I VFW & AUX Registration/Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer VFW Store San Felipe Dinner with National Rep.

THURSDAY 15 June 2017 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM VFW & AUX Registration/Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer 8:00 AM - 9:30 PM VFWA Council of Administration Meeting Plaza Ballroom 10:30AM -11:30 PM JOINT Memorial Service Galleria Ballrooms 11:30AM -1:00 PM PAST DEPARTMENT President Luncheon TBA 1:00 AM - 4:00 PM JOINT Opening Session Galleria Ballrooms 4:15 PM - Floor Practices See Ramona Henson FRIDAY 16 June 2017 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM 8:00 AM –12:00 PM 12:00PM- 1:00 PM 1:00 AM –1:30 AM 1:30 PM – 5:30 AM - 6:30 PM 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

VFW & AUX Registration/Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer Auxiliary Business Meeting GalleriaBallroom Lunch Financial Advisor

Galleria Ballroom Aux. Business MTG reconvenes Program Presentation Galleria Ballroom Reception with Cash Bar Galleria Ballroom Foyer Awards Banquet Galleria Ballroom

SATURDAY 17 June 2017 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM VFW/AUX Registration/Credentials Galleria Ballroom Foyer 8:30 AM - Noon VFW Business Meeting and Elections Galleria Ballroom

Presentation of Pages, Historian Memorial Service

Presentation of Colette Bishop National President 11:00 AM- Election of 2017-2018 Officers Galleria Ballroom 2:30 PM Meeting Adjourned 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM VFW Auxiliary Incoming Council Picture Shoot Galleria Ballrooms 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Joint Installation of Officers Galleria Ballrooms 6:00 PM

Joint Reception to follow SUNDAY 18 June 2017 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM Breakfast with VFW Commander, VFWA President Plaza Ballroom 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM Incoming Line Officers - District Presidents Meeting Plaza Ballroom

INCOMING DISTRICT PRESIDENT—WE WILL ANNOUNCE WHERE TO PICK UP YOU PACKETS WHEN YOU REGISTER. TEXASVFW.ORG

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S TAT E P R E S I D E N T | Andrea King S E N I O R V I C E P R E S I D E N T | Millie Holland J U N I O R V I C E P R E S I D E N T | Eppie Lackey T R E A S U R E R | JoElla Menn S EC R E TA RY | Glenna Alexander C H A P L A I N | Donna James CO N D U C T R E SS | Ramona Hensen G UA R D | Karen Kaylor ASST. TREASURER / SECRETARY | Marjorie Menzel

DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT DISTRICT

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1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 28 29 30

Patsy Anderton Patricia Latino Wanda Waldrum Glenda Hunt Merlene Peters Irma Rodriguez Susie Carter Nelda Martin Karen Davis Susie Lamb Judy Suggs Pamela Duncan Annie Nickerson Beth Sanford-Masteller Laurie Wiley Inez Ramirez Brenda Foltz Lupe Pena Monica Randolph Barbara Hartman Chiquita Parker Robin Swain Johnnie Lopez Duncan Faught

ALL-STATE DISTRICT 9

DANNY MARTIN

Districts

DISTRICT 17 LEE DERBY

ALL-STATE

DISTRICT 19

RICHARD SHAWVER

Posts

POST CITY

DISTRICT

POST CITY

17 8 14 20 14 4 19 14 5 20 19 21 17 9 28 30 6 16 21 21 19 10 20 13 5 21 3 16 28

4709 Conroe 6873 Abilene 3892 Harker Heights 7108 San Antonio 1820 Temple 8790 Houston 1836 Lufkin 4008 Belton 7110 New Braunfels 8936 San Antonio 3893 Nacogdoches 7835 Granbury 9182 Katy 2466 Lubbock 10427 Leander 4376 Seven Points 8621 Alice 8551 Sweeny 9299 Alvarado 5617 White Settlement 6899 Trinity 8550 El Paso 12041 Lytle 688 Boerne 8927 Lockhart 10429 Benbrook 7843 Duncanville 3903 Rosenberg 8787 Austin

29 30 1 9 1 3 21 18 20 2 2 29 6 1 4 13 6 28 5 3 19 28 30 19 19 19 13 19

2148 Waco 3894 Waxahachie 5074 Roanoke 1657 Pampa 2559 West Tawakoni 3359 Dallas 6111 Arlington 7473 Elsa 4853 Jourdanton 1514 Village Mills 8246 Vidor 8564 Waco 8967 Port Aransas 2195 Allen 12075 Humble 3966 Devine 8786 Freer 9078 Round Rock 9213 Mc Queeney 1406 Dallas 10351 Hemphill 12104 Bastrop 7103 Athens 8924 Palestine 9313 San Augustine 3406 Rusk 8569 Comfort 3406 Rusk

TEXASVFW.ORG

ALL-STATE

DISTRICT

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PUBLICATIONS & SCRAPBOOKS

State-Level Publication

GRAND AWARD

2017 National Publications Contest District/Post Publications Category Small Frequency

OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY SERVICE POSTS

George A. Glasspool Sr. Memorial Post 1514 VILLAGE MILLS, TX 12

Sgt. Benito Alaniz Post 7473 ELSA, TX

97TH TEXAS VFW STATE CONVENTION BOOK

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY Adam C. DeYoung

SPONSORED BY POST 4676, DISTRICT 20

PATRIOT’S PEN Beau Power

SPONSORED BY POST 7103, DISTRICT 30

PUBLIC SERVICE AWARDS FIREMAN Fred Raney SPONSORED BY POST 1514, DISTRICT 2

LAW ENFORCEMENT Ruben Tejeda SPONSORED BY POST 4815, DISTRICT 20

EMT

Gilbert Perez

SPONSORED BY POST 12041, DISTRICT 20

TEACHER OF THE YEAR K-5TH GRADE Marcie Conrad SPONSORED BY POST 5074, DISTRICT 1

6-8TH GRADE Sharon Kimbrough SPONSORED BY POST 3893, DISTRICT 19

9-12TH GRADE Mary Whittlesey SPONSORED BY POST 9313, DISTRICT 19

SCOUT OF THE YEAR Hunter Beaton

SPONSORED BY POST 688, DISTRICT 13

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INSURANCE PROGRAMS AUTO INSURANCE

MEDICARE PART D

TRICARE/CHAMPVA SUPPLEMENT

1-800-274-8839

1-800-247-1771

1-800-638-2610, OPTION 4

CANCER INSURANCE

MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLANS

VETERINARY PET INSURANCE

1-800-749-6983

1-800-247-1771

1-877-738-7874

DENTAL INSURANCE

NO-COST PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE

VFW POST (PROPERTY & CASUALTY) INSURANCE

1-800-626-0027

1-800-829-8390

1-800-274-8839

POST ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT (AD&D)

VOLUNTARY ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT (AD&D)

JUVENILE LIFE SECURESTART

1-800-829-8390

1-800-749-6983

1-888-627-5897 HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

1-800-749-6983 LIFE INSURANCE

SENIOR HOSPITAL INDEMNITY PLANS

1-800-749-6983

1-800-749-6983

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS

TERM LIFE INSURANCE

1-855-637-8476

1-877-901-6680

MEMBER BENEFITS CAR RENTAL DISCOUNTS

ALAMO, ENTERPRISE & NATIONAL CAR RENTAL COMPANIES 1-800-821-2606, OPTION 1 CELL PHONE DISCOUNTS

SPRINT, T-MOBILE & ASSURANCE WIRELESS 1-800-821-2606, OPTION 1

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE PLUS TRAVEL PLAN

1-855-837-2634 EMERGENCY RESPONSE MONITORING SERVICE

1-866-328-2477 FUNERAL PROGRAMS

1-800-274-8839

BURIAL PROGRAM 1-800-300-0436 CREMATION PROGRAM 1-888-637-8863

CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

HEALTH SCREENING

CREDIT CARD & FINANCIAL SERVICES

1-877-343-2450 DELL COMPUTERS

MEMBERS AND VFW POSTS 1-800-821-2606, OPTION 1

1-800-679-5195 HEARING AID PROGRAM

1-888-430-8492

IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION

1-800-543-3561 LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP

1-816-756-3390, EXT. 208 MOTEL 6 DISCOUNT

1-800-821-2606, OPTION 1 OFFICE DEPOT DISCOUNT

1-913-201-4823 PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT CARD

1-855-872-2416 SAT/ACT COLLEGE TESTING PREP

1-951-256-4076 VET JOBS

1-877-838-5627

LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP When you become a Legacy Life Member, you are helping us strengthen the VFW - where NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS. Once your Legacy Life Membership begins, an annual endowment in your name will be made to your Post, Department and the organization. You will feel confident knowing your contributions to our organization are not only helping today’s veterans, but the veterans of tomorrow. Future generations will know and remember you for the sacrifices you made during your time in uniform in addition to the contributions you made as a VFW Legacy Life Member.

Three prestigious levels of Legacy Life Membership are available (Gold, Silver or Bronze). Each level offers generous benefits reserved exclusively for Legacy Life Members. For any questions regarding Legacy Life Membership, please contact the VFW Membership Department at 816-756-3390. We will gladly provide you with more information on this prestigious and rewarding membership.

Memorial Legacy Life Memberships You may also purchase a

Memorial Legacy in the name of a deceased VFW Life Member to help future generations know and remember their sacrifice and contributions.

LEGACY LIFE MEMBER INCENTIVES & BENEFITS BRONZE SILVER $400 $800

GOLD $1,200

Plated Engraved Solid Metal Legacy Life Member Card

X

X

X

Lapel & Hat Pin

X

X

X

Distinctive VFW Store Product Line for Legacy Life Members Only

X

X

X

Framed Certificate for Legacy Life Members only

X

X

X

Recognition on Internet & National Convention Program.

X

X

X

Special Plaque

X

X

X X

Hat Patch & Personalized Brick at Centennial Plaza VFW Store Discounts (For Personal use Only)

5%

10%

15%

Increased level of No-Cost AD&D Insurance*

$2,000

$3,500

$5,000

$6

$12

$18

Annual Endowment to Post, Department and National *Does not apply to Memorial Legacy Life Membership

TEXASVFW.ORG 87

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LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP ACCEPTANCE FORM

_____________________________ Life Member No.

____________________________________ Social Security No.

NAME _____________________________________________ EMAIL _______________________________________ ADDRESS __________________________________________ PHONE _______________________________________ __________________________________________ CELL ________________________________________ BRONZE ($400)

SILVER ($800)

GOLD ($1,200)

Installment Plan - Purchase an Installment Legacy Life Membership by making four equal payments. The first payment must accompany this form and be equal to 1/4 of the level being purchased. (Bronze $100, Silver $200, Gold $300). The remaining balance will be billed by National Headquarters quarterly.

Upon My Demise:

Continue the Annual Endowment

(See Terms and Conditions - Item No. 5)

Make a One - Time Endowment

Check/MO Exp. Date:

Signature _____________________________________________________________ Date __________________________ TERMS AND CONDITIONS

You must be a current Life Member of the VFW, or if purchasing a Memorial Legacy, the veteran in whose name it is purchased must be a deceased Life Member of the VFW. Instructions: 1. Complete the acceptance form.

2. Check the level: Bronze, Silver or Gold. You may upgrade your Legacy level at any time by paying the difference to your desired level.

3. If purchasing a Memorial Legacy, ensure that the name, Life Member number, and Social Security Number are those of the veteran in whose name the Memorial Legacy is being purchased.

4. Payment options: check or credit card - payment in full.

5. Installment option: purchase an Installment Legacy Life Membership by making four equal payments. The first payment must accompany this form and be equal to 1/4 of the level being purchased (Bronze $100, Silver $200 and Gold $300). The remaining balance will be billed by National Headquarters quarterly.

6. Choose the endowment: a. One-time Endowment payment: upon your death, the principal amount of your Legacy will be paid in equal amounts to your Post, Department and the National organization, as applicable. b. Annual Endowment: the Legacy level payment will continue annually after your death. Memorial Legacies must be purchased as an Annual Endowment.

7. Enclose check, money order or credit card information for payment.

8. Mail the acceptance form, along with a check, money order or credit card information to the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Headquarters at the address located below.

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PLEASE SELECT ONE: Yes, I wish to become a Legacy Life Member of the VFW I am purchasing a Memorial Legacy in the name of a deceased VFW Life Member. ___________________________________________________ MY NAME

Mail to: Veterans of Foreign Wars National Headquarters—Membership 406 W. 34th Street Kansas City, MO 64111-2778 For any questions regarding Legacy Life Membership, please contact the VFW Membership Department at 816-756-3390. We will gladly provide you with more information on this prestigious and rewarding membership.

88 CONVENTION BOOK 97TH TEXAS VFW STATE

QUARTERMASTER FINANCIAL REPORT STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION APRIL 30, 2017 NET ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments Retirement Receivables Fixed Assets (Net) Investments TOTAL ASSETS

$ 1,325,528 4,238,462 3,584,293 41,516 480,631 1,234,755 $ 10,905,185

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Total Liabilities Net Assets TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

$ 0 10,905,185 $ 10,905,185

SUPPORT OF ACTIVITIES AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS Contributions and Gifts Membership Dues Supply, Buddy Poppies and Other Sales Advertising Revenue Other Revenue Interest, Dividends and Net Realized Gains

TOTAL SUPPORT AND REVENUE

$ 6,944,895 389,583 220,926 1,885 669,225 725 $ 8,227,240

EXPENSES Department Officers Travel & Expenses Conference & Meeting Management & General Fundraising Expenses Other Operating Expenses Scholarship Grants MAP Assistance Other Program Expenses

TOTAL EXPENSES

$ 97,706 204,940 729,105 5,962,959 359,262 210,731 17,123 4,757 7,586,584

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS NET ASSETS, Beginning of Period NET ASSETS, End of Period

640,656 10,264,529 $ 10,905,185

TEXAS VFW NEWS ARTICLE ANNOUNCING THE FORMATION OF THE TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION

You’re Invited!

TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION WILL BE CELEBRATING

15 YEARS

OF HELPING VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN TIMES OF NEED. RECEPTION ON 14 JUNE AT 6:00PM AT WESTIN GALLERIA IN THE WEST ALABAMA ROOM (Tentative) Business Casual Attire

Convention News

TOTAL GRANTS RECEIVED:

$ 3,568,000.00 VETERAN HOUSEHOLDS SERVED:

2,478 TOTAL DIRECT ASSISTANCE:

$ 3,224,748.99

Other News

Financial Statements Statement of Financial Position April 30, 2017

Statement of Activities and Changes in Net Assets Fiscal Year to Date (July 1, 2016 to April 30, 2017) SUPPORT, REVENUE, AND REALIZED GAINS Direct Public Support Affiliated Organizations Contributions Interests, Dividends, and Net Realized Gains

TOTAL SUPPORT AND REVENUE

NET ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Prepaid Expenses Grants Receivable Pledges Receivable Fixed Assets (Net) Investments

$558,717 1,372 187,145 1,723 4,932 1,234,755 $1,988,645

TOTAL ASSETS LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Payroll and Accrued Liabilities

$5,068 5,068

TOTAL LIABILITIES

1,983,577

NET ASSETS TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

$1,988,645

EXPENSES Program Services: Awards and Grants VFW Programs and Grants Program Management and Administration Supporting Services: Management and General TOTAL EXPENSES CHANGE IN NET ASSETS BEFORE UNREALIZED NET INVESTMENT GAINS UNREALIZED NET INVESTMENT GAINS

$328,973 287,979 (4,571) $612,382 404,683 95,712 139,240

26,351 665,986 (53,605) 56,315

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS NET ASSETS, Beginning of Period NET ASSETS, End of Period

2,710 1,985,935 $1,988,645

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

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

PAYPAL LINK IS ON TEXASVFW.ORG BOTTOM OF PAGE. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: FOUNDATION @TEX ASVFW.ORG 512-291-6850

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BATTLESHIP TEXAS (BB-35) Battleship Texas is the last remaining battleship that participated in both World War I and World War II. Over her service life, the Navy repeatedly outfitted the ship with cutting edge technology. Fate spared Battleship Texas as she fought in two wars. Now she is fighting for survival against age and rust.

POWERFUL WEAPON

The U.S. Navy com­mis­sioned USS Texas on March 12, 1914. She was the most powerful weapon in the world, a complex product of an industrial nation emerging as a force in global events.

In 1916, USS Texas became the first U.S. battleship to mount anti-aircraft guns. She was also the first to control gunfire with directors and range-keepers.

These early computers increased firing accuracy.

In World War I, USS Texas joined the 6th Battle Squadron of the British Grand Fleet early in 1918. Her duties included laying a North Sea mine barrage, responding to German High Seas Fleet maneuvers, and helping prevent enemy naval forces from cutting off Allied supply lines.

Late in 1918, she escorted the German Fleet to its surrender anchorage.

RETOOLED SHIP

In 1925, the Navy opted to modernize USS Texas instead of scrapping her. This meant con­vert­ing the ship to run on fuel oil instead of coal. Tripod masts and a single stack replaced the ship’s cage masts and two smoke stacks. Torpedo blisters added another layer of protection to the ship’s waterline.

USS Texas received one of the first radars in the U.S. Navy in 1939. With new anti-aircraft guns, fire control and communication equipment, the ship remained an aging but powerful asset in the U.S. naval fleet.

WORLD WAR II USS Texas became flagship of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet before World War II. She had a close call in 1941 while on “Neutrality Patrol.” German Submarine U-203 had the ship in its sights and asked permission to fire. Adolf Hitler eventually denied permission to engage the ship, or any other U.S. ship.

Fate spared the battleship again when Japanese forces bombed Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941: She was safe in Maine. The United States entered World War II soon after.

During the war, USS Texas fired on Nazi defenses in Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944.

Shortly afterward, German coastal defense artillery near Cherbourg hit the ship twice. The first shell exploded, injuring 12 and killing one. This was the only combat fatality ever aboard USS Texas. The second shell hit the ship, but did not explode. The Navy deactivated this “lucky shell” and returned it to the ship as a good luck charm.

After repairs, the battleship shelled Nazi positions in Southern France before transferring to the Pacific.

There she lent gunfire support and anti-aircraft fire to the landings on Iwo Jima and Okinawa.

FINAL MISSION

Tugboats bring the battleship to her final resting place in 1948 (TPWD-Battleship Texas Archives).

After Japan’s surrender, USS Texas carried soldiers stationed across the Pacific home from war.

When she completed her final mission, the state of Texas acquired the ship. On April 21, 1948, Battleship Texas was decom­missioned, and became a memorial ship.

Today, Battleship Texas is a floating museum and the last remaining U.S. battleship of her kind. She stands as a memorial to the bravery and sacrifice of the servicemen who fought in both world wars.

The battleship is both a National Historic Landmark and a National Mechanical Engineering Landmark. Ensuring her future will require a concerted effort from Texas VFW members, Navy and Marine Corp veterans, Texas citizens and businesses. Luck has gotten her this tour USS Texas. Historical Manager presents members far, but now it’s up to Texans to save Battleship Texas. with a painting from the VFW room aboard the ship.

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Wayne F. East Post 4820 | Port Neches, TX HONORING OUR

WWII VETERANS, FOR ALL YOU REPRESENT & DO FOR OUR POST. THANK YOU.

Dickenson Memorial VFW Post 6378

281-337-4952

1kegler@comcast.net 5204 TX-3, Dickinson, TX 77539 PO Box 983, Dickenson, TX

We honor the dead by helping the living.

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97TH TEXAS VFW STATE CONVENTION BOOK

Roger DeWeese

Candidate for State Junior Vice

2017-2018 Roger DeWeese, a Gold Legacy Life Member of Henry T. Waskow Post 4008, Belton.

A Veterans of Foreign Wars member since 1968, Roger has served in many positions within his Post, District (14) and State. Roger was appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff (North) for the Department of Texas 2015-2016. He has served 2 terms as District 14 Commander (2013-2015), obtaining All-State District Commander for 2014-2015. While Commander of Post 4008 he earned All-State and All-American for 2015-2016. He has also been recognized as National AideDe-camp (2) and National Special Aide-De-Camp (2).

Roger entered the United States Air Force in 1966

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

and served until 1975. While on active duty, Roger served in Viet Nam, and Korea (Pueblo incident) as well as other overseas assignments. Roger also served with the Texas Army National Guard from 1981 to 1998 and is a retired First Sergeant.

Roger’s awards are: Viet Nam Service Medal, Expeditionary Forces Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Bronze Order of Mercury, Silver Spurs, Superior Civilian Service Medal, Achievement Medal for Civilian Service, Commander’s Medal for Civilian Service, and State of Texas Civilian Excellence Award.

Roger is married to Lisa who is a Life Member of the Auxiliary as well as a Life Member of the Girl Scouts.

She is a Civil Engineer and is currently retired.

Wishing ya’ll the best success in your State Convention.

Wharton VFW Post 4474

AVERY TERRELL POST 2375

979-453-1700

PO BOX 1062 KINGSVILLE TX 78364

facebook.com/VFW-Kingsville-TX-Post-2375

TEXASVFW.ORG

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NEED GRAPHICS FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Logo Design, Website Design, Collateral Design, Swag...

ERIN MARLOW CREATIVE 512-294-1530 erinleamarlow@gmail.com erinmarlow.com

GRANT SEABOLT Lawyer to Warriors

Candidate for 2017-2018 State Judge Advocate Department of Texas VFW Endorsed by Ken Burton, Department of Texas State Judge Advocate District 3 Commander 2016-2017 All State/All American Post Commander 2015-2016 Life Member & Adjutant, VFW Post 8913, Lancaster, TX (Post Commander 2013-2016) Colonel, USMCR (Ret.) USMC Judge Advocate (1979-2005) Navy-USMC Commendation Medal Joint Service Achievement Medal Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal Business Lawyer & General Counsel Services Distinguished Mediator & Experienced Arbitrator Director for 3 Veterans Related Charities Married Vicki Seabolt 34 Years, 2 Children Lay Eucharistic Minister/Vestry, St. Anne Episc. Ch.

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97TH TEXAS VFW STATE CONVENTION BOOK

n i g n i z i l a i c e sp

S N A O L A V

www.vfw.org

DAVID SMITH

Business Development Manager Cell: 281-745-0147 Office: 832-324-3603 david.smith@georgetownmtg.com 24275 Katy Freeway #215 Katy, TX, 77494 Branch NMLS#: 1099551

TEXASVFW.ORG

CHARLIE THORNTON

Loan Officer NMLS# 347253 Cell: 281-827-4525 Office: 281-741-6297 charlie.thornton@georgetownmtg.com 24275 Katy Fwy #215 Katy, TX 77494 Branch NMLS# 1099551 www.georgetownmtg.com/charlie

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Lake Granbury Memorial VFW Post 7835

PHONE LOCATION SOCIAL MEDIA 817-573-9350

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3670 US-377, Granbury, TX 76048

VFW - Post 7835

97TH TEXAS VFW STATE CONVENTION BOOK

calebmarlow@gmail.com

TEXASVFW.ORG

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EXHIBIT OFFICE

WOODWAY FOYER

WOODWAY II

CHEVY CHASE ROOM

GALLERIA II

GALLERIA I MALL

THIRD LEVEL

WOODWAY II

FREIGHT DOOR

FREIGHT DOOR

WOODWAY I

WOODWAY I

WOODWAY HALL

WEST ALABAMA ROOM

FOURTH LEVEL

WOODWAY III

FREIGHT DOOR

PLAZA FOYER

POST OAK

GALLERIA IV

MALL 5060 West Alabama 路 Houston, Texas 77056 路 United States RETAIL Phone: (713) 960-8100 Fax: (713) 960-6553 GALLERIA STORE FOYER GALLERIA III

n

5060 West Alabama 路 Houston, Texas 77056 路 United States Phone: (713) 960-8100 Fax: (713) 960-6553

PLAZA I

BELLAIRE

The Westin Galleria Houston n

PLAZA BALLROOM

WESTCHESTER ROOM

GALLERIA BALLROOM

PLAZA II

TANGLEWOOD REGISTRATION

The Westin Galleria Houston

DAILY GRILL

SAN RETAIL FELIPE SAGE STORE ROOM ROOM

FREIGHT DOOR

WOODWAY HALL

WOODWAY III

WOODWAY FOYER EXHIBIT OFFICE

8

FOURTH LEVEL

7