Texas VFW News | 2009 Winter

Winter 2009

VFW 7211 Recognizes Veterans Awareness Week Free Call Day Record Emerges Periodicals

VOD & Patriot Pen Winners

Welcome Home 3d ACR

89th State vfw convention • corpus christi, TX • June 24-28, 2009

Room Reservations

State Convention Awards Banquet NO REFUNDS AFTER MAY 31, 2009 Name:__________________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________ City:______________________State:_________Zip: _____________ Phone: (_________) _______________________________________

Call the Omni Hotel at 1-800-843-6664 and let reservations agent know that you are with the “Texas VFW State Convention” for room rate guarantee of $109 + tax.

Hospitality Rooms can be reserved by calling Christie at 512 834-8535 at State Headquarters.

Post/Aux#:_____________________District #: _ _________________ # of Tickets: __________ @ $40.00 each = $ ____________ # of Tables:___________ @ $400.00 each = $____________ (Seats 10) Special Needs:____________________________________________

_ ___________________________________________

Complete this form and mail with payment to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761

Must be recieved by May 31, 2009 Tickets at the door are $50 if available

2009 VFW State Convention Bay Cruise

2009 VFW State Convention Golf Tournament

Wednesday, June 24, 2009 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009 Shotgun Start: 8:15 a.m.

Name:________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________

Name:________________________________________________

City:______________________State and zip: _________________

City: _____________________State and Zip:_________________

Phone: (

Phone: (

) _ _______________________________________

)_ ______________________________________

Other Guests:___________________________________________

Handicap No.: ______________ Avg Score:___________________

____________________________________________________

Do you need transportation to the course?

____________________________________________________

Send form with $15 fees payable to Convention Account to: Al Cantu • 4009 Tripoli Dr. • Corpus Christi, TX 78411-5022 361-537-1025 Cell Additional info: Larry Velasquez 361-510-5014 Note: After June 3, 2009 Entry fee will be $25

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Format: 4 Persons, Scramble Based on Handicap

Winter 2009

Yes ____ No ____

Send form with $65 fees payable to Convention Account to: Al Cantu • 4009 Tripoli Dr. • Corpus Christi, TX • 78411-5022 361-537-1025 Cell Additional info: Larry Velasquez 361-510-5014 Note: After June 3, 2009 Entry fee will be $90 Sponsors needed at a cost of $100 per hole

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www.texasvfw.org

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VFW 7211 Begins Veterans Awareness Week

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Texas VFW Recognizes the VOD & Patriots Pen Winners

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On Sunday November 9 2008, in observance of Veterans Awareness Week, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7211, Tyler, Texas held a Veterans Appreciation Day.

Upcoming Events

The 3d ACR completed its 15-month deployment and will return to Fort Hood, Texas, while the 3/1 HBCT, 1st Cav. Div., also from Fort Hood, uncased its colors for their 12-month deployment.

Winter 2009

ABOUT THE COVER

VFW 7211 Recognizes Veterans Awareness Week

Periodicals

VOD & Patriot Pen Winners

Welcome Home 3d ACR

4 Commander’s Column 6 Heavy Armor MRAP 7 Lone Star Dust-off Leads the Way 10 Donation made to Military Assistance 11 POW/MIA 12 “Free Call Day” Record Emerges 14 State Patriots Pen Winner 15 State Teacher of the Year Awards & State Public Safety Gold Medal Winners 18 Membership Application 19 Texas VFW Foundation 22 Just for Fun! Back Cover Wreaths Across America

3d ACR Returns to Ft. Hood after 15-month Deployment

Free Call Day Record Emerges

In the News

CONTENTS

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

Members of the 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment, (ACR) clearing buildings while on one of the more than 27,600 combat patrols during their 15 month deployment to Iraq. The Texas VFW welcomes home the soldiers of the 3d ACR and congratulates you on a job well done. Thank you for your service in Harms Way, we appreciate it.”

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Inside Cover State Convention 15 Publications Contest For information regarding:

Reunions General Orders Taps Seeking District Meetings and other related topics Visit our website www.texasvfw.org

we want to hear from you!

Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Editor P.O. Box 14468 Austin, TX 78761 or by email dan@texasvfw.org

Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW News 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.

Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and are 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.

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STATE Commander’s Column Texas VFW Service Officer Program Jerry Murphree, State Commander Just a few notes this issue as I believe we should focus our attention on the accomplishments this State has made in 20082009. We just completed what I believe to be, the best Mid Winter Conference this Department has ever had. It was well organized, the guest speakers were outstanding and our attendance was the highest it has ever been in the last five years. A special “thank you” to all of our Citizenship and Gold Medal award winners, Voice of Democracy students and the Patriots Pen winner for their attendance at the banquet.

I mentioned at the banquet that the Texas VFW was a “big deal.”

For your information, the Department of Texas VFW paid out over $354,000.00 in Scholarships, Savings Bonds and additional expenses to recognize the 10,218 students who participated in our Voice of Democracy and Patriots Pen contests. We recognized our Gold Medal Award winners in the Law Enforcement, Fire Fighter and Emergency Medical Technician field, as well as our Teachers of the year. Congratulations to all and especially to Ms. Brenda Beaven from Montgomery Junior High School who has been named the National VFW Teacher of the Year in the Grades 6-8 category. She was nominated by VFW Post 4709, Conroe and District 17. In the area of community service, the Texas VFW has once again, been very successful. From May 1, 2008 to October 31, 2008, we made cash donations of over $828,000.00 to projects in our communities. We provided over 112,000 volunteer hours. Texas VFW was credited for over $3,000,000.00 in community service. These figures do not take into account the more than $250,000.00 we spent in assistance for our military forces and their families. So yes, the Texas VFW is a “big deal” thanks entirely to the support of our Posts and the Ladies Auxiliary.

As we enter the second half of the VFW year, many challenges confront us. A national recession threatens our economic viability as does our continued decline in membership. I truly believe that if the public knew of all our accomplishments outside of the Post, our membership would rise. It is said that VFW programs are the “face” of the VFW. If this is in fact true, then it is up to us to ensure that the public sees that face. So please do not hide this information. There is no “Top Secret” stamp on it. Pass the word and get the info into your hometown newspapers, radio and television stations. This is a “big deal,” but only if we publicize our accomplishments.

As we enter the second half of the VFW year and look into the future, we see many challenges. I also see many opportunities. It is up to us to make those opportunities become reality and to ensure that this great organization continues the programs that have made us successful.

In conclusion let me say thanks to our VFW and Auxiliary members. Without you, we would surely fail. Thanks to the Department Headquarters staff and volunteers who worked very hard to ensure a successful Mid Winter conference. Pat and I look forward to seeing all of you as we travel this great state and at the State Convention in Corpus Christi this summer. n

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Winter 2009

The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 8277742) Fall 2008 Issue. Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price of $6.00 per calendar year for non-members.

Free to all members in good standing.

Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753 Volume LXII, Number 3, © February 2009. 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 dan@texasvfw.org.

Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Editor Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editor www.medianation.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Design DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS....................................(512) 834-8535

2008-2009 DEPARTMENT OFFICERS Cdr Jerry Murphree . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3359 . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Sr Vice Mike Barber . . . . . . . . . . . . 3892 . . . 1169 Shine Lane, Harker Heights, Jr Vice Wayne Depute . . . . . . . . . . . 6378 . . . 324 Windward Drive, League City, Adj/Qm Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3377 . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Asst Adj Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3413 . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Asst Qm Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . 6378 . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 14468, Austin, C Of S Richard King . . . . . . . . . . . . 8790 . . . . . . . . . . . 8936 Padfield, Houston, Judge Advocate Ken Burton . . . . . . 9182 . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 14468, Austin, Surgeon Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . 2397 . . . . 4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, Chaplain Robert Dickerson . . . . . . . 2451 . . . . . . P.O. Box 341136, San Antonio, Inspector Ray Dudley . . . . . . . . . . . 6115 . . . . . . . . . . 463 Tahitian Dr., Bastrop, Council Member Russ Richards . . . 4010 . . . . . .6610 Rowell Ct., Missouri City, Immed Past Cmdr Al Cantu . . . . . . 2397 . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin,

TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX

78753 76548 77573 78753 78753 78753 77055 78753 78413 78234 78602 77489 78753

DEPARTMENT SERVICE OFFICERS Mel Glidewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6008 . . . One Veterans Plaza, 701 Clay St., Waco 76799 Donald D. Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4443 . . . . . . . . . . . 6900 Almeda Road, Houston 77030

2008-2009 DISTRICT COMMANDERS 1 John Owen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2195 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 607 Ironwood Dr., Allen, TX 75002 2 Robert Lafleur . . . . . . . . . . . . 2775 . . . . . . . . . . 3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630 3 John F. Lozanski . . . . . . . . . . 5076 . . . . . . . . . 1215 Cedar Ridge Rd., Heath, TX 75032 4 Noble J. Alix, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . 8930 . . . 140 Black Walnut Dr., Houston, TX 77015-1757 5 Tom Kilpatrick . . . . . . . . . . . . 8800 . . . . . . . . . 257 Shayla Ln., Canyon Lake, TX 78133 6 Francisco Gonzales, Jr. . . . . . 9170 . . . . . . . . . 1102 E. Hutchinson, Beeville, TX 78102 7 Charles Ratliff . . . . . . . . . . . . 6797 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 516 West 11th St., Post, TX 79356 8 Ken Mosley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7767 . . . . . . . . . . 1860 Cr 217, Breckenridge, TX 76424 9 Clayton Hoffman . . . . . . . . . . . 430 . . . . . . . . . 2001 Two Deer Trl., Amarillo, TX 79124 10 Joel R. Cool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 6221, El Paso, TX 79906 12 Terry Rowe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8560 . . . . . . . 523 Plano St., Sulphur Springs, TX 75482 13 Ron Suggs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1480 . . . . . . . . . . . 209 First St., Center Point, TX 78010 14 Charles S. Duncan . . . . . . . . . 3892 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 23, Nolanville, TX 76559 15 James L. Mansfield . . . . . . . . 8878 . . . . . . 11 Lackland Circle, Wichita Falls, TX 76306 16 Bruce E. Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . 7109 . . . . . . . . . . . . 1833 Max Road, PearlandTX 77581 17 Norm Brawner . . . . . . . . . . . 12024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 1650, Willis, TX 77378 18 Luis Lucio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2035 . . . . . . . . . . 865 John Ave., Brownsville, TX 78521 19 Richard Shawver . . . . . . . . . . 5073 . . . . . . . . . . . . 19151 Valley Drive, Flint, TX 75762 20 Lewis E. Gravelin . . . . . . . . . . 8541 . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 423, Converse, TX 78109 21 Glenn Heady . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9190 . . . . . . 6620 Summertime Ln., Watauga, TX 76148 24 Herman Sturm . . . . . . . . . . . . 4146 . . . . . . . . . . . 7932a Lmv Road, Victoria, TX 77905 25 Melvin Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . 4372 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 79762 28 James J. Clark . . . . . . . . . . . . 8787 . . . 2107 Aaron Ross Way, Round Rock, TX 78665 29 Larry Crawford . . . . . . . . . . . 8571 . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 2466, Whitney, TX 76692 30 Harry Fontenot . . . . . . . . . . . 9171 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1607 Vzcr 4517, Van, TX 75790

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By Karl Little

VFW 7211 Begins veterans awareness week On Sunday November 9 2008, in observance of Veterans Awareness Week, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7211, Tyler, Texas held a Veterans Appreciation Day. To honor our veterans, the day began with a ceremony to honor veterans and volunteers. VFW was honored to have Congressman Louie Gohmert present 10 individuals the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national honor offered in recognition of volunteer service to the our military and our veterans. Also VFW 7211 was able to recognize five organizations or businesses in Smith County that assist veterans throughout the year.

Established in 2003, the Award is available on an annual basis to individuals, groups and families who have met or exceeded requirements for volunteer service and have demonstrated exemplary citizenship through volunteering.

Also at the ceremony VFW 7211 awarded their recipient of the National Citizenship Education Teacher Award, Mrs. Cindy Bailey a Special Education Teacher with the Murchison Independent School District.

They also awarded their recipient of the VFW 7211 Public Safety Gold Medal Award, EMS, to Mr. Jared Crotty, with East Texas Medical Center.

The highlights of the ceremony where the presentations of medals overlooked for many years to Stanley Shiewe and Florence Masterson on behalf of her late Husband, 2nd Lt. Donald Masterson.

Sixty four years ago, the aircraft that 2nd LT Donald Masterson was serving as a bombardier on was shot down near Fussen, Germany. He was captured by the Germans and held as a POW for 371 days and returned to United States near the end of World War II. In 1990, four years after his death, his widow, Florence Masterson began pursuing efforts to obtain the medals he was deserving of. Although Mrs. Masterson ran into many closed doors, she continued her efforts and at the ceremony 2nd Lt Donald Masterson received the Purple Heart, POW Medal, American Campaign Medal and World War II Victory Medal (posthumously). Upon the presentation from Congressman Gohmert there was not a dry eye at the ceremony.

Mr. Stanley Shiewe was presented a Purple Heart by Congressman Gohmert for wounds he suffered in combat in Vietnam, September 4, 1970. n

Stanley Schiewe receives his Purple Heart from Congressman Louie Gohmert for wounds he received in Vietnam.

VFW was honored to have Congressman Louie Gohmert present 10 individuals the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national honor offered in recognition of volunteer service to the our military and our veterans.

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Florence Masterson receives her husbands, 2nd LT Donald Masterson’s Purple Heart (posthumously) from Congressman Louie Gohmert.

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heavy armor utility vehicles in iraq/ afghanistan refurbishing of MRAP

By John Gessick

(MiNE RESISTANT AMBUSH PROTECTED) Eagle Suspensions recently was awarded a contract to manufacture replacement suspension systems for MRAP vehicles and began shipping these badly needed parts in November, (the exact quantities are proprietary information) but shipments will continue for several weeks.

VFW Post 8627 has provided several hundred business cards with a “Thank You For Your Service” message on the back and these cards are being placed in the individual packing boxes for the suspension units.

The boxes will begin arriving in Iraq over the next few weeks and will be deployed to various military repair operations throughout Iraq.

When a military service person opens the box, they will find a VFW card and the above message.

The objective is to let these men and women know that we care about them and hopefully, will be encouraged to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Participating with John on this program is Chris Shelton, Materials Manager at Eagle Suspensions and a veteran of the 82nd Airborne who served in Kosovo.

Chris had this to say about the program “What a privilege it is to be supplying these products to our troops.

Our goal is to have their vehicles combat ready again. We hope that these cards will be discovered by service members and put smiles on their faces. I believe that the efforts of the VFW and the folks here at

Eagle Suspensions will make our service men and women feel like their efforts are appreciated. To all the troops who have ever served in harm’s way, Thank You!” Eagle Suspensions is owned by Dallas Spring, located in Lewisville, Texas.

Dallas Spring is a major distributor of OEM-quality leaf springs and suspension components.

John Gessick, Senior Vice Commander of Richardson VFW Post 8627 is the Quality Manager at Eagle Suspensions, located in Durant Oklahoma. n

“ . . . I believe that the efforts of the VFW and the folks here at Eagle Suspensions will make our service men and women feel like their efforts are appreciated.”

H H H H H H H H H H

Thank you for your service!

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Winter 2009

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combat aviation brigade’s lone star dust-off leads the way

By Sgt. 1st Class Brent Hunt, Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division CAMP TAJI, Iraq — Medical evacuation Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, MultiNational Division, Baghdad, the “Lonestar” Dustoff company, have one mission — save lives on the battlefield.

During the first six months of their deployment, the Fort Hood, Texas, based Soldiers have achieved a 96 percent operational readiness rate, flown more than 254 patients in need of treatment, medially evacuated more than 120 urgent and priority patients and consistently went ‘wheels up’ in less time than the 15-minute call to launch standard – leading the way for Multi-National Corps – Iraq MEDEVAC companies, Jan. 10.

“We are the theater MEDEVAC company for MND-B and parts of Multi-National Corps, Iraq,” said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Dennis Fletcher, aeromedical pilot from Sunnyvale, Calif. “We respond to any nine-line MEDEVAC call to us. On average, we respond to a call in nine minutes and that’s from getting the call to wheels up.”

The company performs its duties much like a regular ambulance company in the United States with

Soldiers rotating on shifts. A MEDEVAC crew consists of two pilots, one crew chief and one flight medic.

The crew starts their day by making sure their aircraft is ready to go at a moment’s notice. As an essential part of their fast-paced lifestyle, they complete maintenance checks, stock medical supplies and personal protective gear is always within arm’s reach.

Then once the crew gets the call, “MEDEVAC, MEDEVAC, MEDEVAC . . .” it’s time to sprint to the waiting helicopter and save a life on the battlefield.

“Today, was my first day on my shift,” said Sgt. Donald Jones, flight medic from Lawton, Okla. “For the first mission on this shift, we had a enemy prisoner of war with a gunshot wound to the leg which was urgent. We were off the ground and out of here in eight minutes.”

The company facilitates the safest and most rapid evacuation of all casualties to include Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, civilians and even prisoners of war.

Some of the their evacuations take them to the most dangerous parts of the battlefield including rescuing casualties from roadside bomb

attacks, force against force casualties and suicide bomb attacks.

“What I love most about this job is I’m helping make a difference in someone’s life when they are injured,” added Jones, who is on his second deployment to Iraq with the company.

“Mentally, you just try blocking all the drama out when someone is injured and do your best when you MEDEVAC someone. That’s when the training kicks in and you are focused on saving their life. This is a difficult job, but it is very rewarding.”

In addition to continuing to get more efficient at launch time, Soldiers from the company have been rewarded for their hard work and dedication.

On July 18, 2008, with only three days under their belt after assuming the mission from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade out of Germany, four Soldiers from the company responded to a rescue mission where four Iraqi national police officers were trapped on top of a burning building in eastern Baghdad.

In a daring rescue using the helicopters hoist as a step, the air ambulance crew medically evacuated the trapped policemen and transported them to a combat support hospital for further treatment. n For their heroic actions, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Matthew Nall, aeromedical pilot from Lubbock, Texas, Staff Sgt. Christina Martinez, flight medic from Alamogordo, N.M., and Spc. Lakwan Bonsu, crew chief from Bronx, N.Y., were awarded the Air Medal with Valor from Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey at Camp Taji, Dec. 22, 2008.

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Winter 2009

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Texas VF W R ecognizes

the

Voice

of

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W i n n i n g E ssa y A Blister, A Brand, A Star It rolls outward in eternal waves over the well-kept grounds, a galaxy of white on a field of green, toned blue in the cool light of early morning. You can see the entire cemetery from Robert E. Lee’s house at the top of the hill. It seems that you can see much farther; even unto the ends of the earth.

Time crawls sleepily among the graves. A shot rings out.

Sabrina McCutchan receives 1st plac Its brethren spring into flight at its heels, and somewhere in the e VOD Award from National Com mander in Chief, Glen M. Gardner, Jr. the at g changin is guard The sea of stone, a dark uniform moves.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. of the rigorous criteria used to examine I stand and wonder at the way of things. The tour guide spoke earlier

from the elite 3rd U.S. Infantry; their military Sentinels before they are allowed to guard the Tomb. They must come s mental, moral, and physical tests. They record must be spotless; they must excel spectacularly in the most vigorou over the bodies of the fallen in weather that can stand with perfect comport for hours each day, keeping faithful vigil s are volunteers. halt even the frantic pace of life in the nation’s capital. All Sentinel lies in repose alongside the bones of soldiers, What compels man to such sacrificial attention? What quiet dignity unnamed but not unclaimed, that commands such devotion? instinctive need to pay reparation.

Perhaps man is drawn to this Tomb, this most sacred of graves, by an

and dusty are our paltry civilian rituals What great gifts these worthies laid at the nation’s altar, and how small very idea he gave his life to protect, becomes in comparison! While he lies in eternal sleep, the soldier becomes the degree of nobility it is within the scope of a symbol for the nation to revere and cherish and esteem as the greatest humanity to demonstrate. His service continues beyond death. purest qualities. Ironic, that the very thing Ironic, that the depravity and horror of war reveal in humanity its

the cold shroud of sleep, immortalizes his which inflicts death and destruction at the same time places man beyond worst of man are joined in war. Those who deeds with the golden shine of heroism, of honor, of love. The best and survive it carry the imprint of both upon their souls forever after. great charge which shatters the hold of Service does not end after the final barrage is concluded. The last winds which tear asunder the enemy’s strength oppression and injustice does not sweep clean the odor of death. The with him forever after. While the bloodied cannot touch memory. Man carries the battles and bruises and grief in its final and greatest act of sacrifice, the banner is discharged with honor befitting its noble service, sent to heaven bloodied hands and hearts of men must endure. for the rest of one’s life. It is to spend countless To serve is not to sacrifice once, but to pledge continual sacrifice alongside you suffer the same nightmares. nights in the cold company of insomnia, wondering if those who fought deep awareness of mortality that only war may It is to regret, to wonder, to take every breath in the presence of that ting the purest ideals of a great nation, and to inculcate in man. It is to carry always the heavy burden of represen pass, though joints be stiff and brittle with age. bear it cheerfully. It is to stand in reverence of the colors when they them to their feet in honor of the stars washed It is to take one’s children or grandchildren by the elbow and guide white with blood. its red badges of courage, are stamped Memory lives in the mind and works of man. The emblems of war,

that the lessons of war pass between man irretrievably upon the soul of those who endure it, and it is through ators who guide us through dark times? My generations. Who but veterans can serve as these lamps, these illumin powerful things within ourselves, sense them generation is pliable. We are untested, our courage untried. We feel to wield them. Veterans are part of a culture of coiled in the deep caverns of the soul, but we have not the wisdom we are lost. honor kept alive for centuries in the hearts of man. Without them,

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Democracy

an d

Patriots Pen Winners

Result s of the 2008-2009 Voice of Democracy Audio Contest 1st Place: Sabrina McCutchan (left) from Wills Point High School sponsored by Canton VFW Post 9171 in District 30 wins the $5,000 W. T. “Pete” Evans Scholarship ($4,000) and Greater Hewitt Post 6008 Scholarship ($1,000).

2nd Place: Tarang Kapoor from Plano East High school sponsored by Allen VFW Post 2195 in District 1 wins the $3,000 Camp Bowie Post 708 & Auxiliary Scholarship.

3rd Place: James S. Saunders from Hendrickson High School sponsored by Austin VFW Post 8787, in District 28 wins the $3,000 VFW Post 2544 Keith Brown Memorial Scholarship.

4th Place: Christina J. White from Academy Northwest in Seattle, Washington sponsored by Haltom City VFW Post 9190 in District 21 wins the $2,500 Robert O. “Bob” Pugh Memorial Scholarship.

5th Place: Moriah M. Momsen from Franklin High School sponsored by Smeltertown VFW Post 9173 in District 10 wins the $2,000 Francis Sullivan Memorial Scholarship.

6th Place: Tera M. Rudloff from Bangs High School sponsored by Brownwood VFW Post 3278 in District 8 wins the $1,500 Veterans Memorial Incorporated Scholarship.

7th Place: Jesse C. Huth who is home schooled sponsored by Wimberley VFW Post 6441 in District 5 wins the $1,500 Department of Texas Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship.

(Places 11-25 are listed in random order.)

Rachel Lijewski from Central Texas Christian School sponsored by temple VFW Post 1820 in District 14 wins the $1,000 District 15 Post Auxiliary 4747 Scholarship.

Brittany D. VanVeckhoven from Burkeville High School sponsored by Toledo Bend VFW Post 8557 in District 2 wins the $1,000 Ray Cox Post 4747 Scholarship.

Beth A. Machemehl from Faith Academy sponsored by Bellville VFW Post 6522 in District 17 wins the $1,000 Sprague Capital Mgt Group Scholarship.

Karl M. Bush-Lamming from Borden High School sponsored by Post, Texas VFW Post 6797 in District 7 wins the $1,000 Spring Branch VFW Post 8790 Scholarship.

Rebecca N. Reeves from Newman Smith High School sponsored by Balch Springs VFW Post 8785 in District 3 wins the $1,000 Frank Cangelosi VFW Post 4010 Scholarship.

Kaggan Davis from Lee High School sponsored

by Midland VFW Post 4149 in District 25 wins the $1,000 MOCA Pup Tent 11 Scholarship.

Shelby R. Winn from Seymour High School sponsored by Seymour VFW Post 7871 in District 15 wins the $1,000 District 16 Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship.

Julia G. Bodiford from Lindale High School sponsored by Lindale VFW Post 9828 in District 12 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney VFW Post 4372 Scholarship.

Claire A. Schendel from Yorktown High School sponsoring by Kennedy VFW Post 8572 in District 24 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney VFW Post 4372 Scholarship.

Ethan P. Springer who is home schooled sponsored by Trinity VFW Post 6899 in District 19 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney VFW Post 4372 Scholarship.

Austin W. Luce who is home schooled sponsored

by Corpus Christi VFW Post 2397 in District 6 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney VFW Post 4372 Scholarship.

Rachel E. Blattman from Midway High School sponsored by Hewitt VFW Post 6008 in District 29 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney Post 4372 Scholarship.

Kaitlin M. Brangan from Bay City High School sponsored by Bay City VFW Post 2438 in District 16 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney Post 4372 Scholarship.

Chandler Sherwood from Panhandle High School sponsored by Panhandle VFW Post 6972 in District 9 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney Post 4372 Scholarship.

Kendall Raabe from Poth High School sponsored

by Poth VFW Post 8555 in District 20 wins a $1,000 Paul G. Mahoney Post 4372 Scholarship.

Actor R. Lee Ermey, star of Full Metal Jacket, & Mail Call talks with District VOD winners at the Texas VFW Mid-Winter Convention.”

8th Place: Brandon D. Dittmar from BoerneSamuel V. Champion High School sponsored by Boerne VFW Post 688 in District 13 wins the $1,250 Jim and Kimmy Nier Scholarship.

9th Place: Rebeca Rubio from Rio Grande City High School sponsored by Rio Grande City VFW Post 8526 in District 18 wins the VFW Post 2544 C.L. Bridge Memorial Scholarship.

10th Place: Sarah A. Helton from Cy-Fair High School sponsored by Cypress VFW Post 8905 in District 4 wins the $1,000 Dennis L. Cunningham Post 8550, El Paso, Texas Scholarship.

Winter 2009

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donations American Petroleum Institute makes Donation for Military Assistance

By Jeff Clark

The Giddings–Austin Chalk Chapter of the American Petroleum Institute presented Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars representatives with a $7,800 check for the Texas Military Assistance program.

The local chapter of API has been in existence about twenty years, focusing on family activities and events. There are usually over 50 members and family in attendance at each of their meetings.” Each year their contributions to local charities and causes exceed well over $100,000.

The monies that were contributed by API are earmarked for the Military Assistance Program, Operation Uplink (phone calls home), and the Unmet Needs Program; in addition these monies will be used specifically for a Camp Mabry National Guard unit, which is currently deployed in Afghanistan, to use for the above mentioned items. n

Fact: Membership dues cover only 11% of the cost of VFW programs.

If you’re wondering why you get so much mail from VFW, the answer is simple. VFW programs need your support. Only through your generosity can we continue to serve the needs of our heroes, including those who have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan.

So please, the next time you receive our mailing, keep in mind it’s for a good cause ...

our cause.

Your support of our mailings helps veterans, troops and their families right here in our state.

Stay Connected!

Visit

www.texasvfw.org

10

Winter 2009

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POW/MIA MARINE PILOT MISSING IN ACTION FROM WWII IS IDENTIFIED Maj. Marion R. McCown, Jr., U.S. Marine Corps, of Charleston, S.C. will be buried on Jan. 18 in Charleston.

Representatives from the Marine Corps Mortuary Office met with McCown’s next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Navy.

On Jan. 20, 1944 McCown was the pilot of an F-4U Corsair aircraft that failed to return from a combat mission over Rabaul, New Britain, Papua New Guinea.

In 1991, a Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) team excavated an F-4U crash site in Rabaul and recovered human remains and McCown’s identification tag. However, forensic science at that time precluded an identification.

In 2006, a JPAC team surveyed the crash site in preparation for a recovery. While at the site, a villager living in the area turned over to the team human remains that he claimed to have recovered from the site. In 2008, another JPAC team excavated the site and recovered additional human remains.

Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC used dental comparisons in the identification of McCown’s remains. n

SAILOR MISSING FROM WWII IS IDENTIFIED The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

He is Ensign Robert G. Tills, U.S. Navy, of Manitowoc, Wis. He will be buried on March 23, 2009 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. Representatives from the Navy’s Mortuary Office met with Tills’ next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Navy.

On Dec. 8, 1941, two PBY-4 Catalina Flying Boats moored in Malalag Bay, in eastern Mindanao, Philippine Commonwealth, were strafed and sunk by Japanese aircraft.

All of the crew on board the PBYs escaped the aircraft with the exception of Tills, who was seen by another crewman to have been hit and killed by machine gun bullets. Tills was the first Navy officer to be lost in defense of the Philippine Islands. His body was not recovered.

In October 2007, the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) was notified by U.S. authorities in the Philippines that aircraft wreckage had been discovered in Malalag Bay. A fragment of the wreckage bore the markings “PBY-4.”

In November 2007, a JPAC team, along with the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group-Philippines and the Philippines Coast Guard (PCG), surveyed the site and recovered human w w w . t e x a s v f w . o r g

remains and non-biological evidence. Later that month, the PCG recovered additional remains from the site.

Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC also used dental comparisons in the identification of Tills’ remains. n

SERVICEMEN MIA FROM VIETNAM WAR ARE IDENTIFIED The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the group remains of six U.S. servicemen, missing from the Vietnam War, are soon to be buried with full military honors.

They are Maj. Bernard L. Bucher, of Eureka, Ill.; Maj. John L. McElroy, of Eminence, Ky.; 1st Lt. Stephen C. Moreland, of Los Angeles, Calif.; and Staff Sgt. Frank M. Hepler, of Glenside, Pa., all U.S. Air Force. These men will be buried as a group on Dec. 18 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. Two other servicemen, who were individually identified in October 2007, are also represented in this group. They are Capt.

Warren R. Orr, Jr., U.S. Army, of Kewanee, Ill., and Airman 1st Class George W. Long, U.S. Air Force, of Medicine, Kan. Representatives from the Air Force and the Army Mortuary Offices met with the next-of-kin of these men to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Air Force and the Secretary of the Army.

On May 12, 1968, these men were on board a C-130 Hercules evacuating Vietnamese citizens from the Kham Duc Special Forces Camp near Da Nang, South Vietnam. While taking off, the crew reported taking heavy enemy ground fire.

A Forward Air Controller flying in the area reported seeing the plane explode in mid-air soon after leaving the runway.

In 1986 and 1991, U.S. officials received remains and identification tags from sources claiming they belonged to men from this incident. Scientific analysis revealed they were not American remains, but it was believed the Vietnamese sources knew where the crash site was located.

In 1993, a joint/U.S.-Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV) team, led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), traveled to Kham Duc and interviewed four local citizens concerning the incident. They led the team to the crash site and turned over remains and identification tags they had recovered in 1983 while looking for scrap metal. During this visit, the team recovered human remains and aircraft wreckage at the site. In 1994, another joint team excavated the crash site and recovered remains, pieces of life-support equipment, crewrelated gear and personal effects.

JPAC scientists used forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence in the identification of the remains. n For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO web site at www.dtic. mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1169.

Winter 2009

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operation uplink The New Owner of a “Free Call Day” Record Emerges January 15, 2009 • VFW National Military Services Update

The numbers are in and Sport Clips can now proudly proclaim ownership of a new VFW Operation UplinkTM “Free Call Day” record!

Sport Clips, the nation’s leading men and boy’s hair care provider, was the sole sponsor of the “Free Call Day” event held on December 25, 2008. An astounding 1,767,909 minutes of free talk time was provided to U.S. service members currently stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait.

“We set our sights high in order to increase the time our military men and women were able to talk with those they’re missing back home during the holidays. From my overseas tours while in the Air Force, I know how important it is to hear the voices of loved ones when you are away from home for months at a time,” said Gordon Logan, a Lifetime Member of the VFW and Sport Clips Founder and CEO. On December 17, 2008, Sport Clips announced that its team members and clients had raised more than $118,000 in donations at more than 600 locations nation-wide. VFW Department of Texas’ Roy Grona was presented with the gift at the Sport Clips store in Bee Cave, TX, the store that outpaced all others in this fundraising effort.

“It is powerful that members of our Team and the Clients we serve shattered our goal of raising $100,000 for our troops to call home — especially in tight economic times. It shows their commitment to the men and women who are serving our country and their family and friends back home,” explained Logan.

This is the second consecutive year Sport Clips has sponsored the December 25th “Free Call Day.” Last year’s fundraising efforts totaled $90,000 in donations to the Operation Uplink program, providing service members with 800,000 free minutes.

Furthering its partnership as the “Official Haircutter of the VFW” into the New Year, look for a Sport Clips’ hat-trick to come in December 2009! n

12

Winter 2009

Brooxie, Breana, Alana, and Tiffany of Sports Clips TX111 in Austin, help owner Gordon Logan, a Texas VFW Member (in Cowboy hat), present a donation check to the VFW Operation Uplink Program. Accepting check on behalf of the VFW are (L to R) Dan West, Roy Grona and James Nier.

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3d armored cavalry regiment returns to fort hood after 15-month deployment MOSUL, Iraq — The 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment cased its colors and handed over the reins of Nineveh Province to the 3d Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, during a Transfer of Authority ceremony on Forward Operating Base Marez today.

The 3d ACR completed its 15-month deployment and will return to Fort Hood, Texas, while the 3/1 HBCT, 1st Cav. Div., also from Fort Hood, uncased its colors for their 12-month deployment.

“Today marks the formal passing of responsibility of Nineveh Province from the Brave Rifles to the Greywolves,” said Col. Michael Bills, commander, 3d ACR. “More importantly, it represents the continued commitment and partnership the Coalition Forces have with the Provincial Government, the Iraq Security Forces, and the Iraqi People.”

During the deployment, the Regiment of Mounted Rifleman drastically improved the security, Bills said.

Task Force Rifles conducted more than 930 company-level operations and more than 27,600 combat

w w w . t e x a s v f w . o r g

patrols. They cleared more than 64,800 miles of roads and found and reduced more than 1,000 improvised explosive devices and 35 vehicle-borne IEDs. The Task Force and Iraqi Security Forces also captured about 3,500 insurgents and recruited more than 35,000 Iraqis to join their military and police forces.

Maj. Gen. Robert L. Caslen Jr., commander of MultiNational Division North and the 25th Infantry Division, also praised the 3d ACR Troopers for their work and said that Bills and the 3d ACR Troopers, “have performed heroically over the past 15 months.”

This was the 3d ACR’s third deployment to Iraq. The 3d ACR deployed during OIF I in 2003, and OIF III in 2005. n

Winter 2009

13

Texas VFW Honors patriots pen winner ld be Honored Why America’s Veterans shou

iot’s Pen Winner

By Eric Styskal, Texas VFW State Patr nteering, days, with going to work, school, volu We are all such busy people these for can go on and on. It would be easy traveling, raising families, the list or hon and g time to stop what we are doin us to say we just don’t have enough ld not have the a huge mistake! The truth is we shou American veterans. This would be rity the American n’t for the gifts of freedom and secu opportunities that we have if it were veterans have given each one of us. so much. The and present unselfishly sacrificed The American veterans both past iers paid sold a debt we can never repay. Many price that each one of them paid is l and mental s, their marriages and their physica with their lives, others with their limb are forever Eric Styskal from Boerne Middle e or female, black or white, their lives health. No matter if a soldier is mal d Scho nde ol in Boerne, Texas, sponsored wou e lost. Sadly, many return home with changed and some of their innocenc by Boer ne Post 688 in District 13, to our veterans of war. We must never stop listening wins the souls and scars from the ugliness 1st Place Patriot’s Pen the from n lear to ying the history of war. We need $2,000 Post 4372 & Ladies Auxiliary telling their individual stories or stud ration and ifices that were made so that our gene Savings Bond. past and always remember the sacr the future. in s sion deci our e guid to ge wled kno that our children’s generation can use and that is on to honor our veterans of the past reas nt orta imp ing There is another and women who are currently serv our veterans of the future. The men to ise prom ing aver unw an e er mak to n that we will rememb them king of joining up need to be show thin be may who e thos also and not in our military urage them and give them strength, s. It is our duty as Americans to enco and honor them for their sacrifice rn home. sacrifices but also when they retu ort and only when they make the ultimate in the game and encourage, supp rs on the sidelines. We need to get ily with fam We must never be just spectato that d oun must immediately surr of our own or if one is wounded we one lose we If . team our n for r erica chee remembering our Am storm. Let us not fall short by only the ther wea to need they s urce day to the love and reso let’s take the time each and every on one day out of the year. Instead, heroes with parades and speeches pause, remember and to pray.

Iraq Veteran and VFW Post 2375, Kingsville, member MAJ Eloy Cuevas was recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army. LTC Cuevas is currently assigned as an Army Research Fellow to the RAND Corporation in Santa Monica, CA. He will be assigned to the Office of the Secretary of Defense this summer as a Strategic Intelligence Officer.

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Winter 2009

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Award winners

AVAILABLE 2009 TOURS

MAR 8-21 • MAR 22-APR 4 • APR 19 - MAY 2 • MAY 3-19 JUN 7-20 • AUG 9-22 • SEPT 13-26

Do you have a Post or District Publication?

• S end three (3) different editions of your publication to State Headquarters to showcase your publication.

• P ublications are categorized by membership size of the District or Post they represent and a winner will be selected from each category.

•D istricts will be defined as Large (9,000 or more members), Medium (3,000—8,999), and small (2,999 or less) • F or Posts—Large (750 or more), Medium (250— 749) and small (249 or less) • With your 3 different editions please submit on a separate sheet of paper the Name of your Publication, who the editor is, the editors complete mailing address, District or Post publication and what category large, medium or small.

• S end complete package to: Texas VFW 8503 N. IH-35 Austin, Texas 78753 Attn: Dan West.

• E ntries must be received (Not postmarked) by 4:00 pm March 11, 2009. Late entries will not be judged.

State and National Winner of the 6-8 Grade Teacher of the Year Award, Brenda Beaven (Far left) accepts the State Award from State Commander Jerry Murphree, State Auxiliary president Debbie Daniel, National Auxiliary President Dixie Hild and National Commander-in-Chief Glen M. Gardner, Jr. Brenda will be presented her National Award at the National Mid Year Convention in Louisville, KY.

State Teacher of the Year Winners In grades K-5 is Florine Atwood of Eden Elementary School, sponsored

by Eden Post 8549 in District 8.

In grades 6-8 is Brenda Beaven of Montgomery Junior High School, sponsored by Conroe Post 4709 in District 17. Also the National VFW Winner.

In Grades 9-12 is Tim Layman of Eula High School, sponsored by Abilene Post 6873 in District 8.

State Public Safety Gold Medal Winners Gold Medal for Law Enforcement is Lieutenant Louis Martinez from the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office, sponsored by Boerne Post 688 in District 13.

Gold Medal for Firefighter is Captain Warner Preston of the Katy Fire Department, sponsored by Katy Post 9182 in District 17.

Gold Medal for Emergency Medical Services is Richard E. Wood, Jr. from the Montgomery County Hospital District, sponsored by Conroe Post 4709 in District 17.

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Winter 2009

15

Member Ron Dorsey Post 856 Austin — VFW students at Mills speaking to first grade 08. stin on Veterans Day 20 Elementary School in Au . art He e rpl Pu d’s off her Da Logan Dorsey showing

Post 8953 Romayor — VFW Members Lee Harstad and Woody Lane (Not Pictured) visit Hardin Elementary during “Veterans in the Classroom Week.”

Photo by Jane Hodgin

On September 27, 2008, District 2, held a benefit bike ride for VFW programs. Posts sponsoring the ride were 797, 1806, 2775, and 8246. A total of $800 was raised along with 40 gallons of aluminum tabs from beverage cans. A total of 23 bikes and 3 riders and numerous number of the support group participated.

a, e Member Amando Garci VFW Post 8786, Freer, Lif a m fro ies ok Co t Girl Scou Jr. buys several boxes of and q Ira in ers ldi So to send to Girl Scout in troop 1309 as youth organizations such Afghanistan. Support of W. VF the of us foc ry is a prima the Boy and Girl Scouts 16

Winter 2009

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VFW Members Walter Caviness, Don McWhorter, Mike Lira & Charles Clark of VFW Post 6794, Brownfield visit Dawson ISD Schools on Veterans in the Classroom week.

Joe Hackett, Life Member Post 7110 New Braunfels with his granddaug hter at the Texas VFW Mid Winter Convention .

Leander Post 10427 and VFW members from District 28 participated in a Homeless Veteran stand down with the VA. In all they served over 180 Homeless Veterans.

VFW Post 1475 Amarillo & Post Motorcycle Group 6 sponsor a unit Christmas Party for the 974th Quartermaster Company. Pictured left to right: Ron Fulton, Life member 1475, Motorcycle Group 6 and Mike Stillwell, Life member 1475, Motorcycle Group 6.

Photo by Judy Frazier.

VFW Post 5621, Liberty memb er Bobby Montalvo and a student from Liberty Eleme ntary School talk about military service during Vetera ns in the Classroom week. w w w . t e x a s v f w . o r g

Winter 2009

17

Yes, I am an American War Veteran and I want to continue my Legacy of Service to America.

Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America.

Please fill out the form below and mail or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.

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

Name: ____________________________________________________________________________ email: ____________________________________________________ First Middle Last (Suffix ñ Sr., Jr., etc.)

Name: _________________________________________________Email: _________________________________________________________ Contact Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.) City State Zip Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY) City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone: Phone:_ _ _________________________________________ ____________________________________________  Army  Air Force  Coast Guard Current Status:  Active Duty  Veteran  National Guard/Reserve Military Service: Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY)  Navy  Marines I served in: II War 1950-54 Afghanistan 2001MilitaryPre-World Service: War p Army p Air Force pKorean Coast Guard p Navy p MarinesDesert Shield/Storm World War II Korea 1955 Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 Iraq 2003 ñ II Occupation 1958-75Guard/Reserve Global War on Terrorism ñ Expeditionary 2001 CurrentWW Status: p Active Duty p VeteranVietnam p National 1945 ñ 55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) Expeditionary Operations 1958 ñ 2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.)

1945 I served in:ñ 90 (Berlin) p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001

Imminent SSBN 1955 Nuclear Deterrent Patrol - Period Covered: _______________ with no other qualifying service).

Qualified recipient of:War p World II Danger/Hostile Fire PaypKorea p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 (Required for papplicants Iraq 2003

I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a Annual Member ($35.00) Life Member* Life 12 Mo. Install* Life 24 Mo. Install p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 *Life Membership Fee Schedule - Installment plan requires a $35.00 initial payment

on 12/31 p 1945 – 55 Attained (Europe,age Korea, Japan)

Time Payment 12 –Month Plan Life 24Panama, Month Payment Plan pOne Expeditionary OperationsLife 1958 2003Payment (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Haiti, Somalia, etc.)

n Through age 30 $425.00 $40.39 ha1945 31 ñ 40 $410.00 $39.02 tp

– 90 (Berlin) y s s da 41 ñ 50 $375.00 $35.84 e aof: p Imminent51Danger/Hostile ñ 60 $335.00 $32.20 Qualified L recipient Fire Pay p*SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol* ¢ 61 ñ 70 $290.00 $28.11 10 71 ñ 80 $225.00 $22.20

$20.23 $19.58 $18.05 $16.32 $14.36 $11.53 * Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants 81 and over $170.00 $17.20 with no other reported qualifying $9.14service).

Installment PlanofTerms Conditions: The VFW Life Membership installment plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by I would like to join the Payment Texas Veterans Foreignand Wars as a: p Annual Member ($35) p Life Member* p Life 12 Mo. Install* p Life 24 Mo. Install* making either 11 or 23 monthly installments after an initial payment of $35.00. The member/applicant will be issued a ì Provisional Lifeî membership card and can elect, upon receipt of first

monthly invoice, to pay via check, credit card or ACH Debit. The monthly fee (Shown in the payment schedule above) includes a $1.75 monthly The applicable Life Membership fee is ($35service Initialfee. payment) ($35 Initial payment) to be determined from the schedule using the applicants age on December 31 of the installment plan year in which the application is submitted, regardless of actual date of birth. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon completion of this agreement. No refund of any portion of current year annual dues will be made. A ì Payoff amountî will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full at anytime during the installment plan, thereby avoiding additional service fees. If the member pays off early, no additional monies will be collected.

Life Membership Fee Schedule

Attained age on 12/31

One Time Payment

Life 12 Month Payment Plan

Life 24 Month Payment Plan

I attest byThrough forwarding this application that I $425.00 am a citizen of the United States, that I qualify for the VFW and that$20.23 my Campaign Service was age 30 $40.39 honorable, and that I have never been discharged under other than honorable conditions or I am still serving honorably in the armed forces – 40 of America. I further give $410.00 $39.02 Wars of the United States to verify $19.58my entitlement to of the United31 States authority to the Veterans of Foreign membership 41 in –the can be found or provided that I am subject to discharge from the VFW without refund.

50 VFW and that if no proof $375.00 $35.84 $18.05

51 – 60 ________________________________________________________ $335.00 $32.20 $16.32 Signature: Date: ________________________ (Do not send cash) or pay by credit$14.36 card.

61 – 70 Include membership payment $290.00 by check or money order$28.11 71 – 80  Mastercard 81 and over

$225.00  Visa $170.00

$22.20  Discover

$11.53  American Express

$17.20

$9.14

Installment Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Life Membership installment plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making either 11 or 23 monthly installments after an Card Number initial payment of $35.00. The member/applicant will be issued a “Provisional Life” membership card and can elect, upon receipt of first monthly invoice, to pay via check, credit card or ACH Debit. The monthly fee Exp. Date ____Life ____/____ ______________ (Shown in the payment schedule above) includes a $1.75 monthly service fee. The applicable Membership ____ fee is to be$ determined from the schedule using the applicants age on December 31 of the installment plan year in which the application is submitted, regardless of actual date of birth. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon completion of this agreement. No refund of any portion of current year annual dues Mail to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 For questions call: (512) 834-8535 will be made. A “Payoff amount” will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full at anytime during the installment plan, thereby avoiding additional service fees. If the member pays off early, no additional monies will be collected.

How VFW serves America

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 Lobbying veterans & military underProviding disaster reliefconditions Community Funding college scholarships Phone States cards for troops I that I have for never been discharged other than honorable or I amvolunteerism still serving honorably in the armed forces of the United of America.

Supporting youth groups Emergency financial assistance to troops in need Supporting memorials Assisting veterans with earned entitlements 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.

p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761

Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________ For questions call: (512) 834-8535

thanks to Our Veterans

Every war has an end When the troops come home, the parades are over and the troops lay down their arms to re-enter society they risked everything to protect, that is when they need your help the most. Yet all too often they are forgotten except for two holidays out of the year.

The Texas VFW Foundation a IRS 501 C (3) was established to assist disabled and needy veterans and their families. We help service personnel weather long deployments, provide relief in emergency financial situations, assist with medical claims related to military service, facilitate employment assistance and job training, offer scholarships to children of veterans and provide disaster relief funds and much more.

You can make a difference by donating to the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation. As someone who knows the value of giving, you can be assured that your generous donation will meet vital needs and improve the lives of thousands of Texas veterans and their families affected by the hardships of war.

Send your tax deductible donation of any amount to: Texas VFW Foundation P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or visit us online at texasvfw.org for more information about establishing your legacy as an American Patriot.

Texas VFW member, Texas VFWproudly Member Joe Joe Meller, sports Meller, proudly sports his his Texas VFW shirt and cap.

Texas VFW Shirt and cap.

Joe is currently in Officer Joe is currently in Officer Candidate School with Candidate School with the the Texas Army National Texas Army National Guardand and isisaaveteran of of Guard veteran Afghanistan.

Afghanistan.

Texas VFW Cap. Texas VFWBall Ball Cap Show your Texas Pride with your a ourTexas newpride ì Texas Show by VFWî Ball Cap com-Ball wearing our Texas VFW pleteEmbroidered with Texason VFW, Cap. the Texas flag and VFW front are the words “Texas Emblem embroidered VFW” along with the VFW on the front, one Size emblem and Texas flag. fits most.ó $16.00 One size fits most.

Stock Stock#: # W7359 W7359— $16.00

Texas WhatSbetter way to show of your Texas attitude than with a Te x aVFW s VPolo F WShirt.

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What better way to showon offleft yourchest.

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Made of 100% cotton blem embroidered Customized with five point Texas Starknit with words “Texas VFW”out and reminiscent VFW emblem embroidered the left chest area. Customized buttonsBlueî reflect with Texas spelled of the first on Texas flag known as the ì Bonnie the “five Patriotic point” Texas star reminiscent of Texas’ called the “Bonnie Blue.” on Patriotic collar andGet sleeve flag. collar and sleeve cuffs first withflagthe Texas Flag image left sleeve. cuffs withtoday Texas flag onoff left your sleeve.Texas Get yours today and show off your Texas pride! yours andimage show VFW Pride.

Imported.

Indicate men's #7360 #7361. $35.00 for$4.50, Só XL, Mens Stock #: 7360 — S, M, L,orXLladies — $35.00, 2XL Price add $2.50, 3XL add 4XL 2XLó add $5.50Add $2.50, 3XLó Add $4.50, 4XLó Add $5.50.2XL Foradd custom embroidery Ladies Stock #: 7361 — S, M, L, XL — $35.00, $2.50, 3XL add $4.50,options 4XL add you $5.50can add up totwo 2 lines onright the chest rightforchest for an$5.00 additional $5.00.

Add lines ofoftextext on the an additional Prices good thru 8/31/09 Mail or Fax VFW Emblem & Supply Dept.

406 W. 34th Street, KC, MO 64111 Fax: 816-968-1196

Post Name Street City Zip

Stock #

Qty

Size

Description/Color

Price $

Online orders

www.vfwstore.org Phone Orders

1-800-821-2606

TEXAS State

Phone (

)

SHIPPING AND HANDLING Up to $10.00..........Add $ 3.00 $75.01 to $100.00...........10.00 $10.01 to $25.00 ............ 6.00 $101.01 to $200.00.........12.00 $25.01 to $50.00 ............ 7.00 $200.01 to $300.00.........14.00 $50.01 to $75.00 ............ 8.00 $300.01 & Over ...............16.00 Prices good until 8-31-09

(If additional space is needed, attach a separate sheet)

0003 Please send catalog for $2.50 (will include $2.50 redeemable coupon) Merchandise Total $ Make Checks Payable to: Veterans of Foreign Wars, OR Charge it.

Missouri residents only - add 7.725% Tax Shipping & Handling M.C. (16 numbers)

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ADD THE LAST 3 NUMBERS that appear in the signature block on the back of your charge card.

Year Date

For American Express add the 4 numbers printed on the front of your card on right side.

western style hat with theater of operation patch

Price: $18.95 Structured Black Felt Western Hat with Embroidered Patch; Self Adjusting Band — One size fits most. Imported.

7450 WWII (Ruptured Duck) 7451 Korean War 7452 Vietnam War

7453 Desert Storm 7454 Enduring Freedom 7456 Iraqi Freedom

The overseas cap was first issued to front line soldiers in World War I and is America’s first military decoration denoting war time service in harms way.

M6251 Light Weight Members Cap, Gold Piping M6251 Uniform Caps & Accessories Price: $32.45 Light weight style overseas cap with the Cross of Malta Emblem, letters VFW above the Post number and state name. Additional lettering is available at .86 per letter or numeral. No reduction in price if state name is abbreviated. STATE AND POST NUMBER TO BE ON CAP. SIZE 8 AND LARGER ADD $5.00. FORT KNOX STYLE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST. CAP MAY BE LETTERED WITH THE WORDS “VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS” ADD $2.55 for life member patch OR the words “LIFE MEMBER” can be embroidered on cap. Green, light weight, shade 51 Allow 8 weeks for manufacture except during April, May, June, & July. During these months allow 10 weeks.

How to Order:

Branch of Service Caps Price: $9.95

www.vfwstore .org 1 (800) 821-2 606 or use Order Form to left

6-panel, low-profile, wash down cotton twill in distressed OD green. The branch of service is embroidered on the front panel, official branch of service logo is embroidered on the cap visor, and an eagle is embroidered on the left side of the cap. Belt/clamp type adjustment back strap. Imported.

07209 – Coast Guard Cap. Faded Khaki Embrd. Logo on Bill 07212 – Army Cap. Faded OD w/ Embrd. Logo on Bill 07213 – Navy Cap Khaki. Embroidered Navy. Logo on bill 07214 – Marines Cap. Faded OD Green. Marine Logo on Bill 07215 – Air Force Cap. Faded OD. Air Force Logo bill

Just for fun!

How to Tell the Difference Between the Branches of the US Armed Forces!

If you give the command “SECURE THE BUILDING,” here is what the different services would do: • The NAVY would turn out the lights and lock the doors.

• The ARMY would surround the building with defensive fortifications, tanks and concertina wire.

• The MARINE CORPS would assault the building, using overlapping fields of fire from all appropriate points on the perimeter.

• The AIR FORCE would take out a three-year lease with an option to buy the building.

The Five Most Dangerous Things in the Military 1.

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Winter 2009

A Private saying, “I learned this in Basic...”

A Sergeant saying, “Trust me, sir . . .”

A Second Lieutenant saying, “Based upon my experience . . .”

A Captain saying, “I was just thinking . . .”

A Warrant Officer chuckling, “Watch this . . .”

A sailor in a bar leans over to the guy next to him and says, “Wanna hear a MARINE joke?’’

The guy next to him replies, “Well, before you tell that joke, you should know something. I’m 6’ tall, 200 lbs, and I’m a MARINE. The guy sitting next to me is 6’2’’ tall, weighs 225, and he’s a MARINE. The fella next to him is 6’5’’ tall, weighs 250, and he’s also a MARINE. Now, you still wanna tell that joke?’’

The sailor says, “Nah, I don’t want to have to explain it three times.’’

w w w . t e x a s v f w . o r g

American Made Veteran Owned

TXVFW040208

Houston National Cemetery Wreaths Across America December 13, 2008 Photo by J.J. Guajardo