2017 Texas VFW News | June-July

JUNE-JULY | 2017

GRAND AWARD MAGAZINE CATEGORY

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

2017 NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS CONTEST 1

Belton, TX | District 14, Post 4008 Post and Auxiliary members prepared food for the 4/3 Cavalry soldiers, Post comrades, Auxiliary and guests at the Post’s Annual Barbecue Luncheon.

MISSION: TO SUPPORT THOSE WHO HAVE SACRIFICED SO MUCH FOR

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THIS COUNTRY—ALL VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES.

LOBBYING FOR VETER ANS & MILITARY

FUNDING COLLEGE SCHOL ARSHIPS

EMERGENCY FINANCIAL A SSISTANCE

PROVIDING DISA STER RELIEF

PHONE C ARDS FOR TROOPS

SUPPORTING MEMORIALS

COMMUNIT Y VOLUNTEERISM

SUPPORTING YOUTH GROUPS

A SSISTING VETER ANS WITH EARNED ENTITLEMENTS

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

CONTENTS 06

09

23

20

WHAT’S INSIDE 05 Commander’s Column

16 Officer Training Seminar

06 Children & Youth

17 Texas VFW Foundation

08 Community Involvement

18 Memorial Day

09 Honoring Navy Veterans

20 D-Day

13 State Convention

23 Flag Day

14 All-State Districts & Posts

27 Independence Day

15 State Award Winners

31 Membership Application

UPCOMING EVENTS ABOUT THE COVER OFFICER INSTALLATION

HOUSTON, TX | 97th State Convention

2017-2018 State Officers and District Commanders line up and recite their oath of office at the Joint Installation ceremony.

TEXASVFW.ORG > NEWS > UPCOMING EVENTS TEXASVFW.ORG > NEWS > CALENDAR AUGUST - SEPTEMBER State Commander’s Homecoming PG 30 • Signing of the Korean Armistice • End of Operation Iraqi Freedom • VJ Day • Patriot Day • POW/MIA Recognition Day • VFW Birthday

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

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CONNECT WITH

TEXAS VFW ON

SOCIAL MEDIA @TEXASVFW

SERVING VETER ANS 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 & at the Texas Legislature + Free Representation in VA Claims + An Award-Winning Magazine Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part.

Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Texas VFW PO Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to erin@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, seeking, 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.

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O F F I C I A L

M A G A Z I N E

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

Published six times a year by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXXII, Number 1, © August 2017. All rights reserved.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Circulation Dept., VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111.

Members Change of Address: Forward address changes to: Data Entry, VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address as printed on a recent copy of the Texas VFW News magazine.

Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org, or request a printed Media Kit at erin@texasvfw.org.

Roy Grona ..................................................................................................................................... Editor Dan West .................................................................................................................... Assistant Editor Erin Marlow ............................................................................................................. Graphic Designer Department Headquarters ..................................................................................... (512) 834-8535

2017-2018 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS COMMANDER..................................4815 Edward Torres..663 Moursund Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78221 SR VICE............................................12075 Inge Conley..........17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble TX 77346 JR VICE................................................3278 Keith King...........2406 Belmeade St., Brownwood, TX 76801 JUDGE ADVOCATE.........................9182 D. Grant Seabolt Jr....1305 Cardigan Ln, DeSoto, TX 75115 SURGEON..........................................3359 Doc Howard..........2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044 CHAPLAIN.........................................4008 Allen Lowe....................703 N. Penelope St., Belton, TX 76513 CHIEF OF STAFF...........................12041 Larry Sanders................................P.O. Box 457, Lytle, TX 77304 INSPECTOR......................................8923 Jon Lunkwicz....12245 Eunice St, Farmers Branch, TX 75234 IMMEDIATE PAST CMDR............9182 Peyton Lumpkin....2207 Blue Water Bay Dr., Katy, TX 77494 COUNCIL MEMBER.......................8932 Larry Velasquez.4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 ADJ/QM............................................3377 Roy Grona .................................. 8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753 ASST QM..........................................6378 Carlos Sustaita..................... P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF..........6796 Jerry Greene...................10523 Ferguson Rd., Dallas, TX 75228 DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF............9176 Pete Hersom............7309 Parkwood Dr., Sachse TX 75048 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR......4692 John Velasquez.4988 Winding Crk., College Station , TX 78504 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR.10429 Lynn Toomer............937 Behrens Ct, Crowley, TX 76036 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR....8560 David Nichols.....................P.O. Box 1, Chicota, TX 75425 DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR.....4709 John Tellier................16718 Old Danville Rd, Willis, TX 77318 OFFICER OF THE DAY..................2427 Stephen Biehl..28314 Hardin Store Rd, Magnolia, TX 77354

DEPARTMENT VETER ANS COUNSELORS SERVICE OFFICER....15045 Eddie Sherman.............................701 Clay St., WACO, TX 76799 SERVICE OFFICER.......4709 Mike Eshenbaugh....6900 Almeda Rd., HOUS TON, TX 77030

2017-2018 DISTRIC T COMMANDERS DISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS 1........................2195 Don Graber...........................................25 Heritage Way, Allen, TX 75002 2........................1514 Richard Moore...............................P.O. Box 548, Village Mills, TX 77663 3........................8785 Lennie Page ......................13979 Skyfrost Drive #65, Dallas, TX 75253 4........................5619 Terry Contella........................330 Crestmont St., Pointblank, TX 77364 5........................8315 Henry Conway....................8001 Harper Valley St., Live Oak, TX 78233 6........................7634 David Carvajal......................................P.O. Box 263, Falfurrias, TX 78355 8........................6873 Kevin Wade...........................................P.O. Box 711, Stamford, TX 79553 9........................1475 Richard Herman................705 South Grant St.-#6, Amarillo, TX 79101 10........................812 Rod Raulston...................................3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904 12.....................8560 David Nichols...............................................P.O. Box 1, Chicota, TX 75425 13.......................688 Andrew Camplen.............................105 Marlin Dr., Bergheim, TX 78004 14.....................4008 John Pratt..........................................700 East 9th Ave., Belton, TX 76513 15.....................8878 Mike Hood.................1208 N. Rosewood Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 76301 16......................8551 Glenn James.........................................235 Primrose, Freeport, TX 77541 17......................4458 Phillip Dubois.......................................P.O. Box 901, Caldwell, TX 77836 18......................2410 Loren Pogue..............................................P.O. Box 809, Donna, TX 78537 19......................3406 Emerson Griffin...................................616 Palestine Rd., Alto, TX 75925 20......................7108 Jose Duran...................................14010 French Park, Helotes, TX 78023 21.......................7835 Billy Wells............................1503 County Rd. 318, Glen Rose, TX 76043 24......................4146 Marvin Lockhart........................404 Kelly Crick Rd., Victoria, TX 77904 25......................4372 Charles Kobes................................208 East VFW Ln., Odessa, TX 79762 28.....................8587 Preston Leckie...........710 W. 13th St.-Apt B-1, Georgetown, TX 78626 29......................6008 Roy “Bobby” Jones..................................206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 76705 30......................4376 Randall Johnston...........................192 Oak Hills Dr., Mabank, TX 75156

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN MEMBER S, “Team Unity” was the amazing concept at the 20172018 Officer’s Training Seminar. Our team leaders did an excellent job when they prepared and instructed our Post and District Commanders on how to resource and use the Standard Operating Procedures Manual. The atmosphere was educational with attentive listening to the field commanders about what changes are needed to better our organization. The experienced Commanders and younger comrades exchanged ideas.

It was a pleasant sight to see them discussing and interacting with one another as they set the tone for this year’s goals.

Reflecting on the knowledge gained at OTS, what I appreciate the most is the camaraderie. The honor you have entrusted me with as representing Texas as the State Commander is beyond any blessing. We prepared and surrounded ourselves with mentors of past and present Veterans of Foreign Wars leaders to accomplish our goals.

This training seminar has inspired, encouraged, and strengthened our mental ability to represent the VFW and address any issues that affect our VFW life. We are ready to conquer new challenges. The unity of comradeship and solidarity amongst us is the strength for us to communicate with each other at Department, District, and Post levels. We will have issues that arise, each with their difficult or minor hurdle in our path, but each conflict will be addressed according to our By-Laws. We are responsible adults and our focus is service.

“No one does more for veterans.”

What we learned at OTS is the key to our success. We will support the programs and exceed the requirements by applying the knowledge gained. The Commanders must relay the information to the membership thoroughly and timely. The responsibility to administer these programs falls on the Commander.

The Commanders must follow through with the goal by encouraging teamwork. Most important elements of this year are communication in our ranks and meeting our deadlines.

Membership is the backbone of our organization and it is essential. We will become a stronger organization when we address current members and recruit new members. Be proud to voice and share the ideals of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Recruit: We are all encouraged to recruit new members.

The simple approach is just “ASK”, our neighbors, college students, policemen, firemen, anyone wearing military insignia and women veterans.

Retain: Start a program with members to communicate and keep in touch with the new members through emails, phone calls, texts or any other form of communication. Encourage them to become life members.

Reinstate: Members that have expired dues need to be contacted and encouraged to rejoin. Obtain the list of comrades’ unpaid dues to get them back in the post.

Work the 3 “R’s” and achieve 100% Plus. We have obtained the knowledge for the mission, now “Let’s Roll!”

Thank you for the opportunity to serve. “UNITED WE ARE A TEAM.” Only with your support can we be number one in the nation. Together we will overcome all obstacles. Pray for all in harm’s way protecting our freedom, the homeless, the sick and all who have lost a loved one. •

Edward C. Torres, State Commander 2017-18

THERE ARE 60

FIRSTHAND ACCOUNTS OF VETERANS WHO SERVED DURING

WORLD WAR II, THE

COLD WAR, KOREAN

WAR, CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS, VIETNAM

WAR, KOREAN DMZ

CONFLICT, OPERATIONS DESERT STORM AND

ENDURING FREEDOM. William R. Graser was a Sergeant First Class recruited by the US Army Security Agency in 1965. His assignments included Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, West Germany, occupied West Berlin—and the US Army Security Agency’s headquarters at Arlington Hall Station, Arlington, Virginia. He earned the Army of Occupation Medal and was awarded the Legion of Merit Medal for his exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements while serving with the US Army Field Station Berlin.

Graser wrote Veterans’ Reflections: History Preserved to increase our general understanding of American warfare through the eyes of those who were there. He concludes with a phrase that will be familiar to anyone who has a veteran in the family: “When you see a veteran, say thank you!” This book is a remarkable tribute to the sacrifice made by our veterans who fought for our country.

VETERANS’ REFLECTIONS IS COMPELLING AND INSPIRING TO SAY THE LEAST. OUR HEROES DESERVE TO BE HEARD. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Pacific Book Review Star As a veteran himself, the author is obviously very close to this work, and it shows not only in his passion for his subject, but also his attention to detail. His method, which weaves the veteran’s own stories into an historical overview of a specific conflict, is extremely effective.

The soldiers’ accounts go well beyond the war’s scorecard and reveal some of the actual fears and experiences of the participants.

Anyone can tell the facts behind a story, but those who lived it can share insights no secondhand history can match.

RECOMMENDED! The US Review of Books Online Barnes & Noble, Amazon and other booksellers.

Author page: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B06Y5S83Y1 Author’s Website: www.graser-vetsreflect.com Author’s Email: williamgraser@gmail.com

CANYON, TX District 9, Post 430

POST COMMANDER EXPL AINED THE MEANING OF THE VFW BUDDY POPPY TO A GROUP OF CHILDREN AT LOC AL STORE.

MUENSTER, TEXAS

District 1, Post 6205

POST MEM BERS GAVE $2,000 TO THE RESTOR ATION OF VETER ANS GR AVES. AN EAGLE SCOUT PUT DOWN CEMENT RUNNER AND NEW CROSSES.

DENTON, TEXAS

District 1, Post 2205

POST MEM BERS PROVIDED AND PRESENTED AWARDS FOR FOUR OUTSTANDING NORTH TEX AS MEAN GREEN DETACHMENT I C ADETS. PICTORIAL REFERENCE: POST JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER BELINDA SMALL PRESENTS C ADET PHILIP BARTHEL A CERTIFIC ATE AND MEDAL FOR HIS ACHIEVEMENTS.

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TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

CHILDREN & YOUTH

WHARTON & SIVELLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

WHARTON, TX | District 16, Post 4474

Post members volunteered as chaperones to Wharton Elementary 3rd Graders for their museum field trip.

Post members volunteered with a Sivells Elementary class to help with the field day activities for 3rd Graders.

SENIOR GRADUATION

MATHIS, TX | District 6, Post 3079

Post Honor Guard posted colors for a local 2017 graduating Senior class. There were 78 Seniors present and 200 other community residents in attendance.

BURBANK HIGH SCHOOL

SAN ANTONIO, TX | District 20, Post 9186

Post members presented JROTC awards to cadets for leadership and scholastic endeavors at Burbank High School.

ELIZABETH SMITH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

FORT WORTH, TX | District 21, Post 8911

A Post member was the Guest Speaker for a Military/ World Cultures Class during Innovation Week at Elizabeth Smith Elementary School.

LONGFELLOW MIDDLE SCHOOL

SAN ANTONIO, TX | District 20, Post 8936

Post members presented Mrs. Duffy, a Librarian at Longfellow Middle School, with a copy of “VFW: Our First Century” during National Librarian Week.

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COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

MUENSTER, TX | District 1, Post 6205

VFW Helotes Post 7108 Commander Rolando S. Webber presented an Appreciation Award on June 3, 2017 to Shott’s Meat Market for their generous donation of meats and venison to their Post and Texas VFW Motorcycle Group Unit 30-7108. Photo reference (L) Bill Schotts and Commander (holding certificate) and nine of the MG Officers present for this event at his store close to Pipes Creek, Texas on SH 16 North of San Antonio.

FARMERSVILLE, TX | District 1, Post 7426

Post members participate in the Audie Murphy Parade by creating and manning a float.

HOUSTON, TX | District 4, Post 8790

Post members set up a VFW Buddy Poppies distribution table at a local establishment to spread Americanism and patriotism.

LUFKIN, TX | District 19, Post 1836

Post Junior Vice Commander Joe Wolf volunteered as a time keeper at the Lufkin Boys and Girls Club Swim Center Swim Meet.

GR ANBURY, TX | District 21, Post 7835

ELSA, TX | District 18, Post 7473

Post members raised $1,000 to donate to a community baseball team.

Money to be used to go to All-Star game in Florida.

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Texas VFW District 18, Post 7473 - Post members assisted in the unveiling of portraits of the KIA from the Edinburg Area at the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library.

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

ROSENBERG, TX District 16, Post 3903 Post members donated $250 to the Helping Hands program.

Post members presented Legacy Food with a Patriotic Citizen Award for proudly displaying the United States Flag daily.

David Randall, of Boy Scout Troop 113 in Tomball, is working on his Eagle Scout Project and is building a monument, shown in the rendering above, at the Tomball VFW to honor all U.S. Navy veterans.

BOY SCOUT’S PROJECT FOR TOMBALL VFW HONORS U.S. NAV Y VETERANS

By Glynn A. Hill

PATRONS WHO FLOWED THROUGH A LOCAL RESTAUR ANT ON A RECENT EVENING DID SO SUPPORTING AREA VETER ANS THROUGH A LOCAL BOY SCOUT’S INITIATIVE.

LY TLE, TX | District 20, Post 12041

Fifteen Post members handed out Buddy Poppies to customers at the local HEB food store.

TEMPLE, TX | District 14, Post 1820

Post Comander Richard Best and member Roosevelt Pugh presented a donation check of $1,000 to Families In Crisis to assist them with their charity program.

David Randall, a Boy Scout in Tomball’s Troop 113, engendered the idea for his Eagle Scout Project.

A senior at Tomball Memorial High School, Randall, 17, said the fundraiser will offset costs for a $3,000 monument he and his father designed and built for Tomball’s VFW Post 2427 to honor United States Navy veterans.

The project holds particular significance to Randall as someone with veterans in his family - his aunt and two uncles formerly served and his own hopes to join the Marines in the future.

“These men have been willing to give everything for their country, it’s the least I can do to give back to them,” he said of the project.

Randall’s initiative focused on veterans because of his family connections and longtime interest in the military. He said enlisting had always been something he was interested in.

The Chick-fil-A restaurant in Tomball will donate 20 percent of proceeds from the three-hour event to the project.

Randall, who describes himself as fun-loving but serious when he needs to be, said it’ll feel like a pressure’s been lifted when he completes his Eagle Scout project - which aims to display scouts’ dedication and work ethic, he said.

“It’ll feel good to be at the top of the mountain if you will,” he said.

A Boy Scout since first grade, has his own plans to join the service as a Marine and is hoping to earn a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps scholarship to Texas A&M University next school year.

“It shows you’ve been willing to put the time and effort in to make it,” Randall said.

He said the monument could be raised as early as July.

For Post 2427, the monument comes as its memorials - a tank and plane included - require refurbishing.

As VFW’s across the country struggle with funding and refilling their rolls with younger membership, Michael Donald, who runs the VFW’s communications arm, said projects like Randall’s are not only helpful, but help draw attention to an organization in need of it.

“We want people to notice and come by and see what we have to offer,” said Donald, a former Buffalo Soldier.

“Nobody knows (the VFW) is there but the post is history. The monuments aren’t just there to catch your eye, we’re trying to help people appreciate military history.”

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

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AUSTIN, Texas (Jul 19, 2017) – by Major General (Retired) Joy Stevens Colonel (Retired) James Stryker was honored that the Department of VFW leadership allowed him to announce, in June at the VFW State Convention, that the “Price of Liberty” Monument was well under way and would be dedicated on December 2, 2107 at 11:00 a.m. The monument will honor service members from all branches of service, and their families, who served since 9/11 in the Global War on Terror.

The monument will be unveiled at the Texas Capitol on the corner of 12th Street and San Jacinto Street. Directly after the dedication, a barbeque lunch will be served at a nominal fee.

There will also be entertainment and tours of the Capitol, for those interested.

During his update at the State Convention, Stryker encouraged all Posts and Auxiliaries to inform their Global War on Terror (GWOT) Veterans and families about the monument and dedication.

He asked the Posts and Auxiliaries to help in the following ways: • Post the event on their websites and social media sites. “Like” us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TexasWarMemorial/ and you will get updates. Also, follow us on Twitter https:// twitter.com/TXWarMemorial • Download flyers and display in and around your Posts and communities announcing the Dedication. The flyer contains instructions for Texas GWOT Veterans and Families to register for an expense paid trip to the Dedication Events. Once a Veteran or family registers, Texas War Memorial staff will send each post (by zip code) the names and contact info. Participating Posts and Auxiliaries can then use the information to invite potential new members to the Post for an evening get together and hold a drawing of the names submitted and sponsor the

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winner to attend the Dedication. All entries must be submitted

by October 28 at midnight and will be announced on Veteran’s Day, November 11th.

• Flyers are at this link https://www.dropbox.com/sh/l2ueqdsp856ml28/AAAI3cPnEb363-6XUK8x_E0Ka?dl=0 • Please plan to attend and support our great heroes & their families.

• For those Posts and Auxiliaries that cannot attend, we plan to live stream the event – more details on that soon.

The first completed piece, “little girl holding a funeral flag” is “unveiled” in Killeen – shown with Soldiers from the Audie Murphy Color Guard and artist Sandra VanZandt.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about the events or for sponsoring Veterans attending the dedication, please contact Joy@TexasWarMemorial.com Visit our “Living Memorial” to see stories, photographs and videos or our great GWOT Veterans. We encourage Texas GWOT to share their own stories. It is a way to record the history, service and sacrifice of our great Texans. http://texaswarmemorial. com/instructions/ For more information about the Memorial, to request a presentation at your location, or to request interviews, please contact James Stryker at 832-820-6655 or Staff@TexasWarMemorial.com.

Texas War Memorial is a §501 (c)(3) organization and your donations are deductible as provided under IRC §501 (c)(3).

Sincere thanks to the Department of Texas VFW and all Texas Posts and Auxiliaries that have supported the Texas War Memorial – “NO

ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS”

1 ROMA, TX | District 18, Post 9175

Post members presented colors at an annual Armed Forces Tribute 5K Run.

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ROBSTOWN, TX | District 6, Post 7841

Post members went to the VA clinic in Corpus Christi to visit with veterans and drop off some books.

EL PASO, TX | District 10, Post 2451 Post 2451 - Post members donated $100 to Sun City Fellowship Baptist Church to help with their feeding the homeless program. Post members also help distribute meals to the homeless.

3 1. BOWIE, TX | District 15, Post 8789

Post Chaplain attended a mission trip to Zimbabwe, Africa. He represented the VFW by wearing his membership colors and Post members helped to sponsor him and his church, Bowie 7th Day Adventist Church.

2. THE WOODL ANDS, TX | District 17, Post 12024 BOERNE, TX | District 13, Post 688

Post members presented the Colors at the Law Enforcement Championship Softball Tournament this morning and were honored to be joined by the San Antonio Police Pipes and Drums. Please pray for the San Antonio Police Department as they mourn the loss of one of their Officers. This project was done with coordination of the AFJROTC.

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

Post members participated in the 8th Annual Texas Fallen Heroes Memorial Ride, which was 550 miles in total.

3. ALICE, TX | District 6, Post 8621

Post members posted the colors at Alice Community Event- Calaveras CamJam Bike Rally.

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STATE SENIOR VICE COMMANDER’S COLUMN I WOULD LIKE TO TA KE THIS OPPORTUNIT Y TO “THA NK YOU” AG AIN FOR THE OPPORTUNIT Y TO SERV E A ND SUPPORT YOU A ND TO TA KE A SPECIA L MOMENT TO CONGR ATUL ATE ALL Inge Conley THE NE W LY ELEC TED OFFICER S. I am really excited about working with each of you this coming year. I truly hope that all the goals that each of you set for yourselves are accomplished this year. We have a lot of new faces in many appointed and elected positions and I’m looking forward to meeting with each of you in my travels throughout the State.

Thank you for the hospitalities shown to Earl and me.

Thank You Commander Peyton for your leadership this past year. At our State Convention in June 2017 I had the opportunity to meet with some of you and discuss your concerns and ideas about the future of our Organization. I really appreciated your candid comments and will discuss with our State Command-

er your great input and ideas for the future. As we have been enduring change, the future of the Veterans of Foreign Wars will rely on our current generation to be able to improvise, adapt and overcome any and all shortfalls so they can maintain the strength of our great Organization.

We have much to be proud of but there is always room for improvement. Our mission is all about service to Veterans and their families, this is where we need to focus our energies. I would also like to personally thank the superb Auxiliaries in this great State of Texas for their contributions to membership this past year.

Again, Comrades I sincerely thank each and everyone of you for what you personally do and more for what you continue to do for this great Organization of ours the “Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States”. See you on the Trail shortly!•

Inge Conley, Senior Vice Commander

STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER’S COLUMN HELLO COMR A DES OF TE X A S, I want to start by thanking you for electing me Jr. Vice for 2017-2018.

It is truly an honor and I am humbled Keith King to represent you. I said it at the State Convention but felt it necessary to say again, for all members, that I appreciate the campaigns run by Chris and Roger. All 3 of us made a comrade’s agreement that no mudslinging would be done by us nor tolerated if said in our presence towards another candidate and this pact was upheld, in my opinion, with the utmost integrity!

We have just finished OTS and by the time you read this, will have been to the National Convention! The training was great as usual, and we had a few new presentations that were very insightful. Rick Butler from National was very informative and brought some different ideas on recruiting to the table. The video which Erin did was outstanding as it showed how to navigate our website.

I believe this presentation will be available on the website soon, if it isn’t already.

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Comrades, I ran on enhancing our training and believe we are headed in the right direction. I have talked with Erin about making the training videos easier to view, with an index to make them easier to find. I am also happy to say that I have received a call from a comrade in D9 who wants to assist in making the training more interactive. This is a good start to the year and I am sure better things are on the horizon.

I would ask each of you to assist in the process. Write down the things you would like more/enhanced training on. What you would have liked to have known going into an officer or committee chair position. What new members need to know to be an active/ engaged member of a post, etc.. I will try to get an e-mail account set up at Dept. to send all this to, in order to address these things.

I will end by saying Thank You once again. I am here to serve and will see many of you as I travel the state this year. Please don’t be hesitant to approach me with your concerns; communication is KEY, in any type of organization!

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

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Keith King, Junior Vice Commander

This year over 1,100 Texas veterans and Auxiliary members participated in the Texas VFW 97th Annual State Convention in Houston, Texas.

Starting with the golf tournament on Wednesday, June 14th 2017, sponsored by District Four, teams of four played 18 holes of golf at River Terrace golf club, even with temperatures reaching 101 degrees. All had a great time and District Four volunteers staffed the event, under the direction of Convention Chairman Terry Contella.

At the final Council of Administration meeting for the 2016-2017 year, outgoing State Commander Peyton Lumpkin recognized several Districts for their outstanding performance in membership growth and community service projects.

Prior to the opening ceremonies and throughout the convention, attendees had the opportunity to visit with and purchase services and keepsakes from over 30 different vendors, including VFW products and Texas VFW branded merchandise from the National VFW Emblem & Supply Store.

The Texas VFW Foundation sponsored a Veteran Job Fair in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission and Texas Veterans Commission where we had over 30 employers present who interviewed over 600 veterans looking for work.

All hands where on deck for the opening ceremonies with the Honor Guard from Texas State Guard bringing in and posting the colors to the National Anthem and pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States.

After the opening prayer by State Chaplain Norm Macey, introductions and salutations from the State Commander and State Auxiliary President Andrea King where given and State Adjutant/Quartermaster Roy Grona took control as the Master of Ceremonies. After reading a proclamation from the Mayor of the City of Houston, he introduced our National Representative from

the VFW, Past Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera from Attleboro, Massachusetts who gave his remarks.

He was followed by Doctor Laurie Allen from Walgreens who talked about the health services that Walgreens was providing for veterans at all of their locations nationwide. Retired Army Colonel James Stryker gave us an update on the dedication ceremonies for the Texas War Memorial that will be held December 2, 2017 at the State Capitol and invited all veterans to attend.

Lieutenant Commander, Dr. Laura Marsh the Executive Director of the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Houston talked to us about mental health issues in veterans and ways we can help.

Former Prisoner of War Ken Wallingford, Veterans Liason at the Texas Veterans Land Board gave us updates on the Veterans Land Board and the services they provide to Texas veterans.

A special presentation was given to Wea O’Sullivan, General Manager of the Kona Grill for her dedication and commitment to helping feed homeless veterans in the Houston area.

After all the speakers finished the All-State Posts in the State were recognized and presented their awards by State Commander Lumpkin and Past Commander-in-Chief Paul Spera.

Business meetings for both the VFW and Auxiliary followed the next day that included reports from committee chairman, recognition of Honor Roll Posts, individual recruiting awards and nominations for state leadership positions.

State and National VFW Legislative Chairs John Spahr and Clarence Jackson gave updates on the State and National legislature with special mention of the all-day change of meeting time by the Chair of the Higher Education committee

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

to vote on changes to the Hazlewood act that would have severely restricted eligible veterans from being able to use. After over 16 hours of waiting, despite meeting time changes and delays, Past State Commander Dan West and others, testified against the changes at 1:20 am. The committee voted not to enact the changes recommended and Hazlewood was saved.

Later that evening at the State Awards Banquet Master of Ceremonies State Adjutant/Quartermaster Roy Grona, asked State Commander Peyton Lumpkin and National VFW Representative Paul Spera to present all of the State level awards to the winners who were called to the awards platform individually (see insert for list of awards and winners).

On Saturday, VFW and Auxiliary meetings reconvened, nominations reopened and elections held with Edward Torres of Post 4815 in San Antonio, District 20 being elected to lead the Texas VFW as the State Commander for the 2017-2018 year.

The following were also elected to the following State positions; Senior Vice Commander – Inge Conley; Junior Vice Commander – Keith King; Quartermaster – Roy Grona; Judge Advocate – D. Grant Seabolt, Jr.; Surgeon – Thomas “Doc” Howard; Chaplain – Al Lowe.

At the installation ceremony held later that afternoon, State Commander Edward Torres announced his appointments (see page 4) and thanked the many people and Posts that helped him in his VFW career, most especially his wife Belinda. State Commander Torres and State Auxiliary President Millie Holland invited all present to attend the Commander’s and President’s Reception immediately afterward where everyone had an opportunity to meet and visit with the newly elected comrades and sisters of the Texas VFW for the 2017-2018 year.

•

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ALL-STATE

Districts

ALL-STATE

14

Posts

DISTRICT 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 29 30 1 9 1 3 21

Conroe Abilene Harker Heights San Antonio Temple Houston Lufkin Belton New Braunfels San Antonio Nacogdoches Granbury Katy Lubbock Leander Seven Points Alice Sweeny Alvarado White Settlement Trinity El Paso Lytle Boerne Lockhart Benbrook Duncanville Rosenberg Austin Waco Waxahachie Roanoke Pampa West Tawakoni Dallas Arlington

18 20 2 2 29 6 1 4 13 6 28 5 3 19 28 30 19 19 19 13 19 4 9 17 4 3 28 17 17 5 19 3 20 17 21

Elsa Jourdanton Village Mills Vidor Waco Port Aransas Allen Humble Devine Freer Round Rock McQueeney Dallas Hemphill Bastrop Athens Palestine San Augustine Rusk Comfort Rusk Baytown Amarillo Normangee Tomball Irving Austin Porter Brenham Canyon Lake Center Lancaster San Antonio The Woodlands Cleburne

4709 6873 3892 7108 1820 8790 1836 4008 7110 8936 3893 7835 9182 2466 10427 4376 8621 8551 9299 5617 6899 8550 12041 688 8927 10429 7843 3903 8787 2148 3894 5074 1657 2559 3359 6111

7473 4853 1514 8246 8564 8967 2195 12075 3966 8786 9078 9213 1406 10351 12104 7103 8924 9313 3406 8569 3406 912 1475 1907 2427 2494 4443 4816 7104 8800 8904 8913 9174 12024 12152

AWARDS - VFW STATE CONVENTION – HOUSTON – JUNE 2017 DANNY R. HENRY AWARD

BARBARA HOFFMAN AWARD

• FLOYD STEWART

• PAMELA DUNCAN

OUT S TA NDING POS T COMMA NDER

VFW Post 4709, District 17 Conroe, Texas

GLEN M. GARDNER, JR. QUARTERMASTER AWARD

OUTSTANDING AUXILIARY MEMBER

BUDDY POPPY AWARDS

C ATEGORY I: PUBLIC PROMOTION OF POPPY C A MPAIGN

VFW Post 3892, District 14 Harker Heights, Texas

• VFW POST 7473 & ITS AUXILIARY

PA S T S TATE COMM A NDER S LE A DER SHIP AWA RD

C ATEGORY II: MEMORIAL OR INSPIR ATIONA L DISPL AY

District 18, Elsa, Texas

OUT S TA NDING QUA RTERM A S TER

• DICK SHAWVER

• VFW POST 12058 & ITS AUXILIARY

VFW Post 1533, District 20 San Antonio, Texas

PUBLICATION AWARDS

C ATEGORY III: A RTIS TIC OR DECOR ATIV E USE OF POPPIES

• ROBERT P. MALDONADO

DAN WEST OUTSTANDING IMMEDIATE PAST DISTRICT COMMANDER AWARD • JAMES SEALES District 2

WILLIAM B. MOODY AWARD OUT S TA NDING CH A PL AIN

• MAE BURNS

VFW Post 7835, District 21 Granbury, Texas OUT S TANDING POS T SERVICE OFFICER AWA RD

• RON CORTEZ

VFW Post 699, District 13 Boerne, Texas

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS • VFW POST 1514

District 2, Village Mills, Texas

• VFW POST 7473 AND ITS AUXILIARY District 18, Elsa, Texas

District 19 Commander

OUTSTANDING PUBLICATION AWARD

• VFW POST 4709

Floyd Stewart, Post Commander W. L. “Strick” Strickland, Editor Conroe, District 17

Post 4709 also won recognition from the National VFW Headquarters and received VFW National Grand Award in Post/District Publications (small frequency).

• THE DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS VFW

1st Place, Grand Award in the Magazine Category, 2017 VFW National Publications Contest

J. T. RUTHERFORD AWARDS • JOHN TELLIER

VFW Post 4709, District 17 Conroe, Texas

• DANNY MARTIN

VFW Post 1657, District 9 Pampa, Texas

• CHARLES RATLIFF

VFW Post 6797, District 25 Post, Texas

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

District 5, Kyle, Texas

• VFW POST 2775 & ITS AUXILIARY District 2, Orange, Texas

LUMPKIN LEADERSHIP AWARDS • LUPITA PEREZ

State Membership Chairman Post 7473, District 18 Elsa, Texas

• MARLIN HOWZE

State Motorcycle Group Chairman Post 8456, District 5 Geronimo, Texas

MOTORCYCLE GROUP AWARDS

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTOR RAISING THE MOST FUNDS FOR VOICE OF DEMOCRACY SCHOLARSHIP

• MOTORCYCLE GROUP UNIT #30 District 20, Helotes, Texas

2016-2017 ABOVE & BEYOND AWARD

• MOTORCYCLE GROUP UNIT #30

District 20, Helotes, Texas

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TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

“I am a recipient of the Texas VFW Foundation’s Veterans’ Assistance Program in Austin, Texas. I am writing you this letter to say thank you again and again for your kindness. If it wasn’t for your generosity, I would have lost everything that I own and still be homeless, but because of the VAP, I was able to relocate to a new beautiful place to stay, as well keep my belongings and car. I am so happy and grateful for everything that you’ll done for me and my daughter. We both will be indebted to you for life because of the way your Foundation and the FVA stepped in and literally saved the day and our lives.” - S. Jordan, U.S. Army Reserves.

HOUSTON JOB FAIR...

Is a complete team effort between the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Texas Veterans Commission, Texas Workforce Commission and Workforce Solutions of the Gulf Coast. It takes all of us working together in order for the job fair to be successful.

“I cannot thank the Department of Texas VFW and the Texas VFW Foundation enough for their steadfast support. Without the VFW Financial support, this job fair could not happen.” - Bob Gear, Director of Texas Veterans Leadership Program.

Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) awarded Texas VFW Foundation another $500,000!

This program is supported by a grant from the TVC Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. The Fund for Veterans’ Assistance provides grants to organizations serving veterans and their families.

Thank You...

To all who attended the Texas VFW Foundation’s 15th Anniversary Reception, and for the continued support of all Posts, Auxiliaries, and members who fundraise and contribute to the Foundation. We are successful because of their support.

39 employers attended; 270 veterans/job seekers attended; 19 jobs were offered that day with 19 more since (total of 38).

$468,096.83

TOTAL OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE GIVEN FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING 30 JUNE 2017 274 VETERAN HOUSEHOLDS (including 379 family members & 9 surviving spouses)

VFW POSTS & AUXILIARIES WHO DONATED FOR THIS FISCAL (PROGRAM) YEAR. $2,500 +

VFW Post 7110 ($5,000) VFW Post 4709 ($3,250) VFW Post 2410 ($3,064) Auxiliary 3903 ($3,000) VFW Post 837 ($2,900)

$1,000 +

VFW Post 3966 ($2,400) VFW Post 8800 ($1,870) VFW Post 5074 ($1,512) VFW Post 7108 ($1,500)

VFW Post 7835 ($1,025) VFW Post 2427 ($1,000) Auxiliary 8552 ($1,000)

$500 +

TX VFW District 1 ($833) VFW Post 5621 ($580) VFW Post 2772 ($550) TX VFW District 16 ($500) TX VFW District 29 ($500) VFW Post 3359 ($500) VFW Post 4709 ($500)

VFW Post 4816 ($500) VFW Post 6873 ($500) VFW Post 7106 ($500) VFW Post 8541 ($500) VFW Post 8790 ($500) Auxiliary 1836 ($500) Total Donations: VFW: $31,151 Auxiliary: $15,751

Due to space limitations, those contributors of less than $500 are not listed.

However, their contributions collectively makes them our largest supporter.

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.

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2 1. ALLEN, TX

District 1, Post 2195

Pictures taken at the Allen Veterans Memorial following the ceremony to reveal the new bricks added to the Memorial. There were 10 Post members in attendance and over 50 spectators.

2. HOUSTON, TX District 4, Post 8790

Post members attended Memorial Day Services at the Houston VA National Cemetery.

3. DALL AS, TX

District 3, Post 1406

4

18

Several Post members attended a Memorial Day program on May 29, 2017, at Laurel Land Cemetery in Dallas, Texas. The program featured Gold Star Mother, military band, wreath laying, static display of military artifacts and keynote address by Judge Dominque Collins.

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

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5

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7 4. WIMBERLEY, TX

District 5, Post 6441 - Post members and Boy Scout Troop 127

placed flags at the graves of veterans at seven different cemeteries in the Wimberley area. The flags were picked up prior to sunset on 29 May.

5. FRISCO, TX

District 1, Post 8273

Post members hosted their Annual Memorial Day Ceremony that honored Frisco’s fallen. This was a joint ceremony with the American Legion and the Boy Scouts.

6. DUNC ANVILLE, TX District 3, Post 7843

Post members held a joint Memorial Day Ceremony with American Legion Post #81. Members laid American Flag grave markers at Little Bethel Cemetery, served burgers and dogs at Post home and provided entertainment.

9

7. HOUSTON,TX

District 4, Post 6010

Fallen Warriors Memorial Services where 634 names of Texans KIA since 2003. Post Commander Benavides with soldiers.

9. AMARILLO, TX

8. SAN DIEGO, TX

Post Officers Ben Lowrance and Devon Walker assembled the Battle Field Cross at a local Memorial Day service.

Post members participated in their Memorial Day salute to our fallen brothers and sisters.

District 9, Post 1475

District 6, Post 8931

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

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D-DAY 1 1. SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX

2. FREER, TX

District 12, Post 8560

District 6, Post 8786

Post members Travis Estes, Troy Garrett, Joe Robinson, George Andrews and Bill Skelton visited the World War II Memorials at Celebration Square in Sulphur Springs Texas, honoring D-Day.

Post members remember veterans on D-Day by visiting and holding a program at the Freer Cemetery.

4. WELLINGTON, TX District 9, Post 6439

Post member Sam Adams, one of the Post’s oldest Comrade, enlisted in the Navy the day before D-Day. Post members gathered around him at the Post dinner to commemorate with him.

3. GRAPEVINE, TX

District 21, Post 10454

Post Commander Roy James, along with Post comrades and guests, held a D-Day commemoration. He opened with a prayer followed

by Senior Vice Commander Mike Leeper reading about the significance of June 6th 1944, the start of the Battle of Normandy.

Afterwards guests were treated to lunch with all the trimmings.

5. DALL A S, TX

District 3, Post 6796

2

Post members commemorated the 73rd anniversary of D-Day. The ceremony was conducted at the Post and was attended by approximately 40 guests and the outgoing and incoming officers.

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SPRING BRANCH VFW POST 8790 1560 Foley Street, Houston, 77055 Canteen: 713-465-1342 Office: 713-465-1950

Join Today! Meetings: 2nd Tuesday of the month @7pm LET US DO THE COOKING!

1st Friday of the Month: Steak Night $12 Salad, Steak, Baked Potato & Dessert 3rd Friday of the Month: Hamburger/Hot Dog Night: $6 Hamburger/Hot Dog, Trimmings & Dessert LET US HOST YOUR PARTY! Hall Rentals:

4

A (475 people) or B (175 people) 713-465-1342 CALL TODAY!

6 6. FRANKSTON, TX

5

District 19, Post 5073

Post Commander Charles Foltz (right) and Auxiliary Conductor Thomas Grayson lead a presentation honoring D-Day.

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MILITARY

United States Marine Corps – Vietnam 3rd MAF Combined Action Group Awards – Bronze Star w/”V” for Valor, Combat Action Ribbon; Navy Unit Citation, National Defense, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Campaign Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, RVN Gallantry Cross Unit Citation Medal w/Palm

POST 4816 PORTER TEXAS

Post Jr. Vice Commander, All-State Commander (2), Post Chaplain, Trustee (3), Chief of staff (2)

DISTRICT 17

Jr Vice Commander, Sr Vice Commander, District Commander, Trustee (2), Chief of Staff, Chaplain

DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS

State Inspector, Membership Chairman, Chaplain (3) Awards – John Spahr Awarded Outstanding Immediate Past District Commander 2012-2013

NATIONAL

Aid-De-Camp (2) Assistant Inspector General, Deputy Chief of Staff, “Special” Aid-De-Camp

COMMITTEES

Post - Chairman - Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, Citizenship Teacher Award, Public Safety Award District - Chairman - Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, Citizenship Teacher Award, State - Chairman By-Laws Review Committee (2) National - Veterans Resolutions - Programs Committee

Join the

“Still Fit To Serve” TEAM

Support Norman Macey for State Jr Vice Commander Gold Legacy Life Member

njmaceyiii@aol.com

Flag Day INGLESIDE, TX

District 6, Post 6386

Post members conducted a Flag Day program and set up flags at the Post home.

2 1

1. AUSTIN, TX

District 28, Post 4443

Post members gave a presentation of Flag Day at Ledgestone Senior Living Community. Post members also distributed the history of Flag Day. The residents were asked what Flag Day meant to them.

2. PORT ISABEL, TX District 18, Post 8791

Post members honored the stars and stripes by placing flags all around the city. They also conducted a Flag Day ceremony with the community.

3. TOMBALL, TX District 4, Post 2427

3

Post members conducted a flag retirement ceremony to honor Flag Day. The Flag Day ceremony was held at the Post home with Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America. The ceremony had 10 VFW members and consisted of retiring 100+ flags that have been dropped off by the community to Walmart, VFW and American Legion. The team spent two hours at the retirement ceremony and placing flags around the VFW Post. The Post spent $45 on breakfast items for the Scouts to enjoy after the ceremony.

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ELECT

DICK SHAWVER State Jr. Vice Commander 2018 - 2019

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Post Commander 3x Post Quartermaster 8x District Commander 4x District All State & All American Commander 2x Deputy State Inspector Department Budget & Finance Committee

National Deputy Chief of Staff Assistant Inspector General 2x National Aide - de - Camp 3x National Special Aide - de - Camp Duane Shriver Past District Commander Award Past State Commanders Leadership Award TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017 J. T. Rutherford Award

K ARNES CIT Y, TX

District 24, Post 8572

Post members and guests retired used flags at the Post home.

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors�

Supporting Our Veterans

Insuring Texas Homes, Farms, and Ranches Since 1901

ROCKDALE, TX

District 28, Post 6525

Post members held a ceremony honoring Flag Day. During this event Post Commander Larry Rubino gave a talk on Flag Day. Post members, Auxiliary and students from the Rockdale School district put out flags at various locations in the city of Rockdale including local cemeteries.

1-800-507-2174 RVOS.com GEORGE WEST, TX | District 6, Post 6119

Post members gathered at Grace Armantrout Museum and the Veterans Memorial Museum and properly retired U.S. Flags. A Prayer was given to honor the Flags and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited prior to the their disposal by fire. Chaplain Kevin Mackey, Service Officer Tony Ferguson and Senior Vice Dennis Zamzow provided this service for the Post.

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

25

Melvin “Mel� Parker CANDIDATE FOR

STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER 2018-2019

Retired from the United States Air Force after 22 years of service. Serving this great organization for 23 years in many capacities at the Post, District, Department and National levels. Fully retired - willing and able to serve our great organization with your support and vote.

1996 - 1997 1996 - 1997 1997 - 1998 1997 - 1998 1998 - 1999 1999 - 2000 2001 - 2002 1997 - 1998 2001 - 2002 10 Time 3 Time 2 Time 2014 - 2015

Remembering the Past, Working for Today, Preparing for the Future.

July 4

th

CENTER, TX | District 19, Post 8904

In honor of Independence Day, Post members visited 14 veterans in the local Holiday Nursing Center. Patriotic baseball caps, flags and cupcakes were provided. Pledge of Allegiance was recited, veterans were recognized for their service, patriotic songs were song and Post members folded a U.S. Flag. A drawing for the residents was held and the winner given the folded flag.

SCHERTZ, TX | District 5, Post 8315

Post members held a celebration for Independence Day at VFW Post 76. Post Commander Johnny Ornelaz recognized Comrade Lee Swain.

LIVINGSTON, TX | District 19, Post 8568

Post members held a program to read the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights. The Commander and Quartermaster read along with members of the audience different sections. The guest speaker was a local Judge from Livingston courthouse. In attendance from the VFW were Leo Broussard, Robert Dodd, Michael Hessel, and Phillip L. McDuffie.

1 1. NORMANGEE, TX | District 17, Post 1907

Post members began their Independence Day weekend celebrations on June 30th with a Post barbecue provided by television station KBTX out of Bryan, Texas. The party was televised and broadcast. Saturday, July 1st, Post Honor Guard led off the parade at Hilltop Lakes with the Colors and members set up a booth to sell tickets for their fundraising raffle.

On July 4th, several Post members set out and later retrieved over 200 flags along Hilltop Blvd.

2. SAN ANTONIO, TX | District 20, Post 8397 2

Post Commander Cris Vieyra Jr., Al Dominguez and Ernesto Reyes stand with members of Troop 52. The Boys Scouts Troop 52 took part in the 4th of July Ceremony held at Post 76.

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2 1. BASTROP, TX District 28, Post 12104

Post members had a Rifle Raffle at the combined Veterans of Foreign Wars and and American Legion 4th of July Celebration for veterans.

2. CLIFTON, TX District 29, Post 8553

4

Post members posted U.S. flags across Clifton, Texas on the 4th of July. They also retrieved the flags late in the afternoon and returned them to the VFW Post.

3. MCKINNEY, TX District 1, Post 2150

Post members participated in the City of McKinney 4th of July Parade by creating and manning a float, providing the U.S. flag, Colors and walking in the parade in partnership with the McKinney Boy Scout troop.

4. AUSTIN, TX District 28, Post 8787

Post Officer of the Day Barrett Smith read the entire transcript of the Declaration of Independence and led a discussion on the meaning and significance of the document.

5. LEANDER, TX District 28, Post 10427

Department of Texas Motorcycle Group Unit 10 members participate in the Highlands HOA annual 4th of July Parade.

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WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

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Book Online

http://doubletree.hilton.com/en/dt/groups/personalized/S/SATDWDT-VFW-20170927/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG

Go to www.texasvfw.org/upcoming-events > Homecoming

30

TEXAS VFW MAGAZINE JUNE - JULY 2017

T HE D E PART ME NT OF T EXA S VET ERA N S O F FO REI GN WA RS

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

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

Name: Email:

First

Middle

Last

Suffix (Jr., Sr., etc)

Address: City: State: Zip: Phone: Date of Birth: (MM/DD/YY) Military Service: Air Force Army Coast Guard Marines Navy Current Status: Active Duty Veteran National Guard/Reserve I served in: Pre-World War II Korean War 1950-54 Desert Storm/Shield Afghanistan 2001 World War II Korea 1955 Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 Iraq 2003

WWII Occupation Vietnam 1958-75 Global War on Terrorism - Expeditionary 2001

1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.)

1945-90 (Berlin) Qualified recipient of: Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay *Period Covered: I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a(n):

*SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol* (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service.)

Annual Member Life Member 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: Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card.

Mastercard Visa Discover American Express Credit Card Number: Exp. Date: / $

Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761 | For questions call: (512) 834-8535

WWW.TEXASVFW.ORG

31

PERIODICAL

TAFT, TX DISTRICT 6, POST 9318 Post members and local Boy Scouts place flags at fallen service members’ grave sites and throughout the town on Memorial Day. Photo (left to right, first row) Post members Joe Cruz and Angel Carbajal. Back row are local Boy Scouts.