Spring 2013

TEXAS VFW NEWS — 1st PLACE WINNER2013 National Publications Contest

insidePosts

Remember Somalia and

Kosovo

Memorial Day 2013

RVOSI N S U R A N C E

Insuring Texas Homes,

Farms, and RanchesSince 1901

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors”

RVOS.com1-800-507-2174

Supporting Our Veterans

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3Texas VFW Spring 2013

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Serving Veterans Since 1899What 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 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.

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

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.

For Information Regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, seeking, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org.

Remembering Kosovo page 24

Texas VFW Posts remember the events of Operation United Shield, 9 Jan-3 Mar 95. It ensured the safe evacuation of all United Nations Peacekeeping troops from Somalia.

Texas VFW Posts remember the events of the Kosovo Campaign through various history readings and gatherings.

In the News 4 Commander’s Column

6 Chowing Down with the Marines

WWII Veteran Leads Katy Parade

8 Charlie Daniels Concert

Trinity Post Participates in Parade

10 West Post Helps Explosion Victims

12 State Commanders Ride

14 Desert Storm Veteran Honored

15 National Former POW Recognition Day

Women Veterans Get Hotline

18 New Initiative to Help Student-Veterans

Distinguished Warfare Medal

21 Texas VFW Membership Application

22 Get Your Texas VFW Gear

28 Texas VFW Post 8904, Center, Places Wreath in

Observance of the Conflict in Somalia

Remembering Somalia page 16

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

www.texasvfw.org

Spring 2013

TexaS VFW NeWS — 1st Place WiNNer2013 National Publications Contest

insidePosts

Remember Somalia and

Kosovo

ABOUT THE COVER

Comrade Lee Derby from Texas VFW Post

4709 in Conroe places American Flags on the

graves of veterans during Memorial

Day 2013.

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.

Upcoming Events 27 Officer Training Seminar

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 $20.00.

Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753

Volume LXVII, Number 4, © May 2013. 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.

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN

Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EditorDan West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Editorwww.medianation.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Graphic Design

DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS........................................ (512) 834-8535

2012-2013 DEPARTMENT OFFICERSCommander, Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761 Sr Vice, Sylvia Sanchez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1906 Ashprington Dr., San Antonio, TX 78251Jr Vice, Joe Hayes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 Hwy 36 S, Caddo Mills, TX 75135Adj/Qm, Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761Judge, Advocate Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761Surgeon, Doc Howard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044Chaplain, Bob Dickerson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 341136, San Antonio, TX 78234Chief of Staff, Inge Conley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346Inspector, Norman Macey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., Humble, TX 77346Immediate Past Commander, John Spahr . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Trail Of The Flowers, Georgetown, TX 78633Council Member, Mike Barber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1169 Shine Lane, Harker Heights, TX 76548Asst Adj, Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761Asst Qm, Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761Deputy Inspector, Dick Shawver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19151 Valley Dr., Flint, TX 75762Deputy Inspector, Ralph Rodriguez, Jr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 113, Clyde, TX 79510Deputy Inspector, Terry Rowe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 513, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483Deputy Inspector, Harry Munn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 202, Hewitt, TX 76643Deputy Inspector, Larry Konarik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 Clear Springs Rd., Georgetown, TX 78628Officer of The Day, Lonnie Garza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1769 Jacobs Ct., New Braunfels, TX 78130

DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORSService Officer/Waco Sandra Covin . . . . . 6008. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799Service Officer/Houston Julio Harros . . . . 3413. . . . . . . . 6900 Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77030

2012-2013 DISTRICT COMMANDERSDISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESSD-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JOSEPH McDANIEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68 Persian Blvd., Pottsboro, TX 75076 D-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ROBERT LaFLEUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630 D-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CLARENCE JACKSON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2815 Williams Way Ct., Dallas, TX 75228 D-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JAY SANDERS, JR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7030 Tejas St., Baytown, TX 77521 D-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .DAVID ADAMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .309 Whitetail Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666 D-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .FRANCISCO GARCIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 4333, Corpus Christi, TX 78469 D-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .KEITH KING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2406 Belmeade, Brownwood, TX 76801 D-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .DANNY MARTIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .P.O. Box 953, Pampa, TX 79066 D-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . .RODNEY “ROD” RAULSTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904 D-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . .STEVE AUSTIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 CR 1540, Mt Pleasant, TX 75455 D-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . .STEVE LOPEZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507 E Hondo, Devine, TX 78016 D-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . .ALLEN FREEMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1013 Soukup Lane, Killeen, TX 76542 D-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . .MICHAEL O. HOOD, SR . . . . . . . . .1208 N Rosewood Ave., Wichita Falls, TX 76301 D-16 . . . . . . . . . . . . .GEORGE DELESANDRI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6420 Avenue O, Santa Fe, TX 77510 D-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . .PEYTON LUMPKIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2207 Blue Water Bay Dr, Katy,TX 77494 D-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . .RICARDO “RICK” RAMIREZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 416 E.Water Lily, McAllen, TX 78504 D-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAUL CASSIDY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 520 Cassidy Dr, Hemphill, TX 75948D-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . .EDWARD TORRES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .663 Moursund Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78221D-21 . . . . . . . . . . . . .GLENN TALLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .622 Southwood Dr., Duncanville, TX 75137 D-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . .HAROLD HARTMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9511 Fm 236, Cuero, TX 77954 D-25 . . . . . . . . . . . . .MELVIN “MEL” PARKER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 79762 D-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . .WAYNE COOLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3615 Birdhouse Dr., Round Rock, TX 78665 D-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . .JAMES GUNTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Talford St., Fairfield, TX 75840 D-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . .CHARLES KELKER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 8693, Ennis, TX 75120 972.875.5537

The success of this organization depends on 24 Districts and 345 Posts and over 78,000 members.

MY FRIENDS, as our year comes to an end I am elated and proud of all of you for the dedication, support, and leadership you have given the Department of Texas. As always, Pat and I want to thank the comrades and auxiliaries for the hospitality you have given us throughout the State. I am so honored to have served you as your Department Commander and to be part of this great organization. I am extremely proud to tell everyone that our staff is second to none. As I travel and talk to other Department Commanders and hear what they have to work with, it only proves that we have the best staff. Roy, Dan, Carlos, Christie, Keith, Beth and Angel, thank you so much for your dedication and the great work that all of you provide for the State Commander, Officers and veterans but most important, for the friendship you have shown to me and Pat. Thanks to our two great Service Officers, Sandra Covin and Julio Harros, for the outstanding work you accomplish helping veterans and training our Post Service Officers. To the Motorcycle Units, thank you for the support you have given the Department and to our programs. We thoroughly enjoyed the Commander’s Ride and were very impressed with how well organized the rides were and the safety precautions you take. Once again thank you for your support. I am so grateful to have had Kathy WeWe as my Department President. To you Madame President and to all of the auxiliaries, thank you for everything you do to support the Department. We must continue to set our differences aside on all sides of the house to remain strong as an organization. Kathy, to you and all your officers, thank you so much for your support. Pat and I want to thank all of the Auxiliaries, Ladies and Men’s, for the hospitality you have shown us along with the friendship we have been given. Commanders at all levels thank you, thank you, thank you. You, my friends, have made this Department an All-American Department. The success of this organization depends on 24 Districts and 345 Posts and over 78,000 members. Many of you were not 100% on membership but because of your contribution to membership, the Department made 100% and is an All American Department. My friends, as long as you feel you gave it your all, that is what matters at this time. I was always told that everyone needs to believe in something. I believe in the VFW. Now, as the year ends, I ask all of you to step forward, once again, and support the new officers you will elect at our State Convention. Pat and I look forward to seeing each of you as we end this current year and look forward to the future. n

Texas VFW Spring 20134

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*Plus $14.99 shipping and service. Please allow 4-8 weeks after initial payment for shipment. Sales subject to product availability and order acceptance.

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©2012 BGE 01-16247-001-BI

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�Vintage varsity-style jacket in comfortable twill accented with

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Combining the classic good looks of a vintage-style varsity jacket with a bold salute to the Lone Star State, our “Texas Pride” Men’s Varsity Twill Jacket is an exclusive design that’s sure to stand out... and it’s only available from The Bradford Exchange.

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C o m m u n i t y S e r v i c e

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01_B_I_V = Live Area: 7 x 10, 7x10 Magazine Master, 1 Page, Installment, Vertical updated 11/2011

Price

❏

Logo &

Address

❏

JobCode

❏

TrackingCode

❏

YellowSnipe

❏

ShippingService

❏

*Plusing dis sh

This is style you don’t want to mess with

YES. Please reserve the “Texas Pride” Men’s Varsity Twill Jacket for me as described in this announcement. I’ve indicated my size preference below. Please Respond Promptly

*Plus $14.99 shipping and service. Please allow 4-8 weeks after initial payment for shipment. Sales subject to product availability and order acceptance.

Signature

Mrs. Mr. Ms. Name (Please Print Clearly)

Address

City

State Zip

-E57181

©2012 BGE 01-16247-001-BI

9345 Mi lwaukee Avenue · Ni les, IL 60714-1393

RESERVATION APPLICATION SEND NO MONEY NOW

Celebrate Lone Star State Spirit with the

A Custom Design

Exclusive

�State of Texas created in embossed faux leather

with a dimensional appliqué of a

longhorn

�Embroidered state fl ag in the shape of Texas on front features the words

“The Lone Star State”

�Vintage varsity-style jacket in comfortable twill accented with

faux suede trim

�Nylon lining reveals a history of the state of Texas and

a vintage map

Combining the classic good looks of a vintage-style varsity jacket with a bold salute to the Lone Star State, our “Texas Pride” Men’s Varsity Twill Jacket is an exclusive design that’s sure to stand out... and it’s only available from The Bradford Exchange.

Hand-crafted in dark brown twill, the front-zip jacket is accented with contrasting tan faux suede trim at the pockets and sleeves. A dramatic patch of Texas on the back is created of tooled faux leather along with a dimensional appliqué of a distinguished longhorn with embroidered details. The front of the jacket features embroidery of the Texas state fl ag along with the words: “The Lone Star State.” Open the coat up, and a history of Texas and a vintage map is revealed on the quality nylon lining. The roomy fi t includes knit cuffs, collar and hem. What could be a better way to show your love for the great state of Texas?

An Outstanding Value... And Your Satisfaction Guaranteed

With its custom design and hand-crafted quality, the “Texas Pride” Men’s Varsity Twill Jacket

is a remarkable value at $179.95*, and you can pay in fi ve easy installments of $35.99. To order yours in sizes M-XXL, backed by our unconditional 30-day guarantee, send no money now; just fi ll out and send in your Reservation Application today!

www.bradfordexchange.com/texaspride

❑ M(38-40) 01-16247-011

❑ XL(46-48) 01-16247-013

❑ L(42-44) 01-16247-012

❑ XXL(50-52) 01-16247-014

01_16247_001_BI.indd 1 11/19/12 9:21 AM

6 Texas VFW Spring 2013

CHOWING DOWN with the MARINES

C o m m u n i t y I n v o l v e m e n t

WWII VETERAN PROUDLY LEADS PARADE

Texas VFW Post 3377, Manchaca, provided a great

BBQ meal to Marines at Camp

Mabry, Sunday, March 10.

Texas VFW Post 9182, Katy —

Former Commander Ward Stanberry is pictured with current Commander Dave

Brasell prior to the start of the recent Katy Rodeo

Parade. Ward, a Navy WWII Veteran, saw action in the South

Pacific on the island of Guam and Yap. He, among others,

first assumed command of the post in 1961, serving as post

commander on three different occasions. Ward participated

in the parade riding his bicycle which had a VFW sign affixed along with a WW II notation.

The Katy Post led a long line of participants in the parade.

8 Texas VFW Spring 2013

“THE DEVIL WENT DOWN TO...ARLINGTON?”Texas VFW Post 8561, Arlington, Holds Veterans Appreciation Concert

C o m m u n i t y I n v o l v e m e n t

Trinity Citizens Against Crime and Drug Awareness Parade

TEXAS VFW POST 6899 CHEERS ON PARADE PARTICIPANTS

Texas VFW Post 6899, Trinity — Men and Ladies Auxiliary were invited by Trinity law officers to greet and salute children, parents and teachers as they paraded by the Post home.

VFW Post 8561 worked with Humana and the Charlie Daniels Band on a Veterans appreciation concert held at the Arlington music Hall on March 9. Humana had originally approached the Post about wanting to host a large group of Veterans for a concert and reached out for assistance. The Post provided help in contacting Veterans in the area. Approximately 50 veterans met at the post to obtain free tickets to the event. A great time was had by all. In addition, the Post obtained five new members.

Glenn Talley, Post Commander, Charlie Daniels, and Pam Shelby, LAUX 8561 President.

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10 Texas VFW Spring 2013

• The Texas VFW Foundation Veterans Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge regardless of where or what time they served.

• Funds for this program come from individual donations from veterans and veteran supporters like yourself, and from charitable foundations.

• The Veterans Assistance Program is not an entitlement program and not all veterans who apply will receive a financial grant and those awarded a grant will not directly receive any funds.

• The applicant will have to work with a Service Officer from a Federal, State or Veterans Service Organization or with their local military command if still in the military before application can be processed.

• Applications can be found at the Featured Links section on the Texas VFW Web Site www.texasvfw.org or by emailing the Foundation at foundation@texasvfw.org or by calling (512) 291-6850.

Your small donation makes a big difference.

TEXA S VFW FOUNDATIONTEXA S VFW FOUNDATION

TEXA S VFW FOUNDATION TEXA S VFW FOUNDATION

Helping Veterans in Need

THE TEXAS VFW FOUNDATION would like to thank the follow donors for their generous donations as of May 20, 2013 to help the members of the West VFW and Auxiliary, Post 4819 that was affected by the recent chemical explosion in the town of West, Texas. The West VFW served as a central area for meals for first

responders, victims and volunteers as well as a distribution center for services from various relief agencies. We would like to acknowledge the many countless hours of dedication that the officers and members of the West VFW donated to assist their community.

VFW DISTRICTS 3, 5, 13, 15, 18, 19, & 24

LADIES AUXILIARY DISTRICTS 5 & 24

VFW POSTS 1533 San Antonio, 2494 Irving, 3377 Manchaca, 5621 Liberty, 6873 Abilene, 8134 La Coste, 8535 Henderson, 8554 Mason, 8568 Livingston, 8569 Comfort, 8627 Richardson, 8904 Center, 8953 Romayor, 9078 Round Rock, 9168 Lewisville, 9174 San Antonio, & 10712 Pharr

LADIES AUXILIARYLA 4820 Port Neches, LA 8535 Henderson, & LA 8627 Richardson.

GROUPSTexas VFW Staff, Texas VFW Foundation Staff, Pup Tent 15,

ON SITE ASSISTANCEDrew Matalavage, Raymond Howey, Tim Pearson and James Steen from Texas VFW Post 5076 and other members of Operation BBQ who arrived on scene the day after the explosion and set up and cooked right at 6,000 meals in the first three days after the explosion.

Job: USF1540 Title: VFW June Bank CC TX Ad Date: 5/16/13_4:56 PM Page: Single

Trim size: 8.5" x 11" + 1/8” Bleed Colors: CMYK Round: Release

USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its insurance, banking, investment and other companies. USAA products are available only in those jurisdictions where USAA is authorized to sell them.

1 Off er subject to approval. As of 5/1/2013, regular APRs on purchases, cash advances and balance transfers are 10.9% to 25.9%, depending on your credit history and other factors. APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. There is a transaction fee of 3% on cash advances ($200 maximum on balance transfers and convenience checks) and 1% on foreign transactions. Rates and fees subject to change. Please contact us for the most current information. If your credit history and other factors qualify you for a credit limit under $5,000, you will receive a USAA Platinum MasterCard with the same rates and fees. 2Rewards points terminate if account is closed, delinquent or program ends. Earn 1 point for every $1 in credit card purchases. Other restrictions apply. USAA Rewards Program terms and conditions will be provided with your card. Availability restrictions apply. Purchase of a bank product does not establish eligibility for, or membership in, USAA property and casualty insurance companies. Credit cards provided by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC. The VFW and Ladies Auxiliary VFW receive fi nancial support from USAA for these sponsorships. © 2013 USAA. 142696-0613

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12 Texas VFW Spring 2013

M i d l a n d M o t o r c y c l e R i d e

Texas VFW Post 4149, Midland —The VFW State Commanders Ride in Midland was a three day event, April 5, 6 and 7, 2013.

State Commander Larry Velasquez with wife, Pat, led the group from Midland on a 100-mile ride to attend interesting programs and sites on Saturday April 6, 2013.

The sites visited were, Andrews North Cemetery burial site of Ray M. Bevel (KIA) April 21, 2007; Andrews County Veterans Memorial; American Heritage Cemetery & Funeral; and Permian Basin Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

After the ride a dinner was served at Midland VFW Post 4149. n

Veterans Who Ride Together, Stay Together . . .

14 Texas VFW Spring 2013

S o l d i e r R e c o g n i t i o n C e r e m o n i e s

Texas VFW Member Marylyn Harris One of 14 Honored

DESERT STORM VETERAN HONORED AT WHITE HOUSE

FIRST LADY MICHELLE OBAMA delivers remarks during a Champions of Change event honoring women veterans, in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building of the White House, March 19, 2013. Mrs. Obama spoke to the group on behalf of her Joining Forces initiative.Mrs. Obama spoke to the honorees and highlighted the need for companies to hire transitioning women veterans. “Right now, we have so many talented, highly-skilled veterans who have so much to offer this country. And they’re going to need that opportunity to make that happen,” said the First Lady. “We need that service operating here at home.”

Through Joining Forces, Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden are determined to serve veterans and military families and make sure that they receive the benefits, support, and respect they have earned and deserve. The First Lady spoke to the incredible skills and hard work that women veterans possess and bring to every job they do:

“You are the leaders in our businesses and schools in our communities. You’re mothers raising your kids with that same sense of honor that defines your own lives every single day. You’re volunteers in your neighborhoods, on the PTA, your houses of worship, always finding ways to keep lifting folks up.

Long after you stop serving this country, you don’t stop serving it after you hang up your uniforms. And that’s something that we say all the time about our veterans. It’s important for the nation to understand that you all keep working.” n

(Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

Marylyn Harris, a former Army Nurse and Disabled War Veteran, founded the nation’s first and only Women Veterans Business Center (WVBC) in Houston. Marylyn

is a member of Texas VFW Post 15045 at-Large.

15Texas VFW Spring 2013

F o r m e r P O W R e c o g n i t i o n D a y

IN 2009, PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA proclaimed April 9th to be National

Former POW Recognition Day. This is

an especially historic day for American and

Filipino POWs of Japan. On April 9, 1942,

after four months of brutal fighting against a

superior Japanese invasion force, exhausted,

starving, and out of ammunition American

forces on Bataan, The Philippines, were

surrendered by their commanding officers.

It was the beginning of the infamous Bataan

Death March — 65 miles of Hell resulting in thousands of deaths

of unarmed, sick American and Filipino prisoners of war. Japanese troops tortured, starved,

looted, raped, humiliated, and murdered the POWs at will. In Washington, DC, the Embassy of

The Philippines held its annual memorial to the heroes of Bataan at the World War II Memorial

followed by a reception and a showing of the documentary “Forgotten Soldiers.” A new

documentary film is now available about the POW experience called “Never the Same.”

NATIONAL FORMER PRISONER OF WAR RECOGNITION DAY, 2013 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA — A PROCLAMATION

“From the days of the Revolutionary War to the trials of our times, America has been blessed

with an unbroken chain of patriots who have always stepped forward to serve. Whenever our

country has come under attack, our men and women in uniform have risen to its defense. And

whenever our freedoms have been threatened, they have responded with unyielding resolve —

sometimes trading their liberty to secure our own. Today, we pay tribute to former prisoners of

war who made that profound sacrifice. Caught behind enemy lines and stripped of their rights,

these service members endured trials few of us can imagine. Many lost their lives. But in reflecting

on the tragic price they paid, we also remember how their courage lit up even the darkest night.

Where others might have given up or broken down, they dug in. They summoned an iron will.

In their strength, we see the measure of their character; in their sacrifice, we see the spirit of a

Nation. As we express our gratitude to heroes who gave so much for their country, we remain

mindful that no one gesture is enough to truly honor their service. For that, we must recommit to

serving our veterans as well as they served us — not just today, but every day. We must pursue a

full accounting of those who are still missing. And for service members who have come home, we

must never stop fighting to give them the stability and the support they have earned. That is the

promise we renew today — for former prisoners of war, for their families, and for every American

who has sworn an oath to protect and defend. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President

of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and

the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 9, 2013, as National Former Prisoner of

War Recognition Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day of remembrance by honoring

all American prisoners of war, our service members, and our veterans. I also call upon Federal,

State, and local government officials and organizations to observe this day with appropriate

ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day

of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United

States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.” n

National Former POW Recognition Day Women Vets Get Own VA hotlineBy FederalDaily Staff, April 25, 2013

THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS THIS WEEK ANNOUNCED the rollout of a new hotline targeted at women veterans. Callers to the hotline, 1-855-VA-WOMEN, can get answers to questions about VA services and resources available to women vets, VA said. The service began accepting calls March 27.

Call-center employees can provide information about health care services for women, as well as information about claims, health care appointments, and other benefits. Staff members also can field urgent calls and provide referrals to mental health and homeless services, VA said.

According to the department, women currently make up almost 15 percent of active duty military forces, and 18 percent of National Guard and Reserve forces. The number of women using VA health care continues to rise, VA said, reaching 354,000 in 2012, more than double the number in 2000.

“Many women who served don’t self-identify as veterans, and therefore don’t think they qualify for VA benefits,” said Irene Trowell-Harris, director of VA’s Center for Women Veterans. “We need to correct existing misinformation and misperceptions so we can serve more women veterans with the benefits they’ve earned.”

In 2010, VA created an outbound call center to contact women vets and encourage them to enroll in VA health care. Trowell-Harris said that currently about 6 percent of VA patients are women. n

Get answers to questions about VA services and resources

available to women veterans at:

1-855-VA-WOMEN

16 Texas VFW Spring 2013

Texas VFW Post 12075, Humble — Post participated in the Somalia 1995 conflict remembrance with

the Quartermaster giving a presentation. Approximately 20 members attended.

Texas VFW Post 10802,

Donna — Over 47 Post members

and guests attended a ceremony on the

history of Somalia and then enjoyed food,

refreshments and fellowship afterwards.

Texas VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands — Over 30 Post members and guests attended a presentation held at Compadre’s

Café in Oak Ridge, TX.

Somalia

17Texas VFW Spring 2013

R e m e m b e r i n g t h e W a r i n S o m a l i a

Texas VFW Post 2059, Kirby — Opening remarks were given by Post Commander, a prayer was lead by Post Chaplain and history of the conflict was provided by Jr. Vice Commander. Approximately 11 in attendance.

Texas VFW Post 5619, Houston — The events of Operation United Shield, 9 Jan-3 Mar 95 was read which was to ensure the safe evacuation of all United Nations Peacekeeping troops from Somalia. Members enjoyed dinner and refreshments to celebrate the event.

Texas VFW Post 5076, Garland — Post members and guests attended an informational session regarding the Somalian conflict. L-R: BJ, Francis Fagen, Mark Stein, Dave Jones, Time Pearson, Raymon Howey.

Texas VFW Post 5617, Ft. Worth — Post members recognized Somalia with a description of the war and remembrance of fallen soldiers.

Texas VFW Post 10454, Grapevine — Post Commander read a speech about Somalia followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Texas VFW Post 2013, Spring — Post members and guests listened to an informational speech about why troops were called to Somalia.

18 Texas VFW Spring 2013

2013 Vietnam & WWII toursMar 11-20: Vietnam-DMZ, Hanoi, Saigon, military sights, etc.Jun 2 & Aug 7: WWII tour of France, Luxembourg, Belgium, GermanyJun 7: Italy from Milan to the Isle of Capri-Anzio, Monte Cassino, etcAug 25: Poland, Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia-eastern front of WWII

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V e t e r a n s A s s i s t a n c e

WASHINGTON (May 1, 2013) — The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is now offering a new program called “1 Student Veteran” to provide direct assistance to student-veterans who are experiencing problems accessing their GI Bill or other earned benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“This partnership with the VFW will ensure student-veterans are provided with the necessary support needed to gain access to their earned benefits and navigate the complex education claims process,” said Michael Dakduk, executive director of Student Veterans of America (SVA). “I am very proud of our continued partnership with the VFW, an organization dedicated to the success of student-veterans.”

Any student-veteran who is experiencing difficulty in accessing their GI Bill or other VA benefits, or believes they have been wrongfully denied these benefits, can now e-mail the VFW at 1studentveteran@vfw.org. VFW National Veterans Service staff will acknowledge receipt of each inquiry within 24 hours during the workweek, then either intervene with the VA on behalf of the student-veteran or recommend other courses of action.

Through “1 Student Veteran,” VFW and SVA will have direct access to the VA Regional Offices responsible for education claims adjudication, meaning veterans whose benefits have been denied or paid in error will not have to wait the months it would traditionally take to file a formal appeal. The new program is possible thanks to an ongoing collaboration among VFW, SVA and the VA’s Veterans Benefits Administration, which approves and administers the GI Bill, as well as claims for other VA programs and services. “1 Student Veteran” is also the latest collaboration between VFW and SVA resulting from a memorandum of understanding signed by the two organizations in January.

“Our goal is to mitigate errors and resolve conflicts on the lowest possible level to ensure VA can deliver timely, accurate GI Bill benefits,” said VFW National Veterans Service Assistant Director Jim Wear, who will manage “1 Student Veteran.”

“The VFW has a proud history of working with veterans to make sure they can access their earned benefits, so ‘1 Student Veteran’ is a great way for VFW to meet the needs of our newest generation of heroes,” said VFW National Commander John Hamilton. “Student-veterans will now have a place to turn to for reliable and timely help when they encounter problems with the VA.”

Last year, VFW’s nationwide cadre of 1,200 VA-accredited service officers helped more than 125,000 veterans to recoup $3.7 billion in earned compensation and pension from the VA at no cost to the veteran. n

VFW, SVA Launch New Initiative to Help Student-Veterans

VFW Statement on Distinguished Warfare MedalWASHINGTON (April 15, 2013) — The Pentagon announced today that Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel has cancelled the creation of the Distinguished Warfare Medal, and instead will create a new device to affix to existing medals to properly recognize drone operators, cyber warriors and others who are making a tremendous real-time impact on battlefields far away.

John E. Hamilton, national commander of the 2 million-member Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. and its Auxiliaries, said the right decision was made. “The VFW is appreciative of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for their review, and commends Secretary Hagel for taking this issue on so early in his tenure. This decision will clearly keep medals that can only be earned in combat in their high order of precedence, while providing proper recognition to all who support our warfighters regardless of their distance from the fight.”

The shape of the new device, the medals it can be affixed to, plus award eligibility, are expected to be determined within the next 90 days. n

Dan West For State Jr. Vice Commander 2013-14

Military U.S. Marine from 1983-1994 with VFW Qualifying Service in Beirut, Korea, Operation Desert Shield/Storm and Panama.

Post 3413 San Marcos VFW Co-Captain All-State Post Commander 2001-02, 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05 All-American Post Commander 2002-03, 2003-04 1st Place State & National VFW Post Publication 2002-03, 2003-04

District 5 VFW Honor Roll District Commander 2004-05 Co-Captain & All-State District Commander 2004-05, 2005-06 All-American District Commander 2004-05

State VFW State Chief of Staff 2006-07 State Assistant Adjutant 2006, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13 State MAP Chairman 2008, 09, 10, 11

National VFW National Aide-de-Camp 2002-03 National Deputy Chief of Staff 2003-04 National POW/MIA Committee 2004-2005 National Citizenship Education & Community Service Committee 2005-06 Member National Security Committee 2006-07 Co-Chair National Commander-in-Chief Homecoming 2008-09 Vice Chairman National Military Services 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11 Vice Chairman National Iraq/Afghanistan Committee 2011-12, 2012-13 National Certified Recruiter 2005-Present

VFW Awards & Distinctions Honor Degree, Military Order of the Cootie, Pup Tent 55 Gold Legacy Life Member J.T. Rutherford Award as Outstanding Post Commander 2003 National Aide-de-Camp Recruiting class 2002-03, 2003-04 Certified National Recruiter, class of 2005 National Commander-in-Chief, Special Aide de Camp 2009-10, 2010-11 Century Recruiter 2001-02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13 Pioneer Spirit Award for Veterans Service—City of San Marcos U.S. Patent 5,676,378—U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Author - “District Commanders How to Guide.” & “A Guide to Determining VFW Eligibility.”

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Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America.Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in,

or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.

Name: _________________________________________________Email: ________________________________________ First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.)

Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone: ___________________________

Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY)

Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines

Current Status: p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/ReserveI served in: p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001 p World War II p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Iraq 2003 p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) p 1945-90 (Berlin)

Qualified recipient of: p Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay p *SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol*

*Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service).

I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a: p Annual Member ($35) p Life Member* p Life 12 Mo. Install* ($35 Initial payment)

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.

p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express Credit Card Number: ________________________________________________________

Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________

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

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 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 (Shown in the payment schedule above) includes a $1.75 monthly service fee. The applicable Life 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 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.

Life Membership Fee Schedule Attained age on 12/31 One Time Payment Life 12 Month Payment Plan Through age 30 $425.00 $40.39

31 – 40 $410.00 $39.02

41 – 50 $375.00 $35.84

51 – 60 $335.00 $32.20

61 – 70 $290.00 $28.11

71 – 80 $225.00 $22.20

81 and over $170.00 $17.20

Lobbying for Veterans & MilitaryProviding Disaster Relief

Community VolunteerismFunding College Scholarships

Phone Cards for TroopsSupporting Youth Groups

Emergency Financial AssistanceSupporting Memorials

Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements

Get Your Off icial “Texas VFW” GearAuxiliary Logos Available

Men’s Aqua Dry Polo with Texas VFW & Emblem

SIMPLE, SOPHISTICATED MEN’S POLO MADE OF A POLY-BLEND Breathes well, holds its shape and retains its soft, supple feel wash after wash — thanks

to a touch of spandex. Made in the U.S.A. — so the costs are a little more — yet we are

creating jobs here at home in America! Available with or without pocket in OLIVE, FRENCH

BLUE, BLACK, IVORY, LIME, YELLOW, NAVY, BURGANDY, HUNTER GREEN, RED, RUST, SAGE,

WHITE, STONE, HEATHER CHARCOAL, AQUATIC BLUE OR STEEL BLUE. S, M, L, XL with

extended sizes.

• Men’s VFW Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, no Pocket – item #7710 – $46.00

• Men’s VFW Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, with Pocket – item #7711 – $51.00

• Men’s Auxiliary Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, no Pocket – item #7714 – $46.00

• Men’s Auxiliary Short Sleeve Polo Shirt, with Pocket – item #7715 – $51.00

For 2XL add $5, 3XL add $7.50, 4XL add $10

LADIES AQUA DRY POLO with TEXAS VFW & CROSS OF MALTA Same great features as the men’s shirt but with feminine styling. Available in

FRENCH BLUE, BLACK, IVORY, LIME, YELLOW, NAVY, BURGANDY, HUNTER GREEN,

RED, RUST, SAGE, WHITE, STONE, HEATHER CHARCOAL, or AQUATIC BLUE. S, M, L,

XL with extended sizes.

• Ladies VFW Short Sleeve Polo Shirt – item #7712 – $46.00

• Ladies Auxiliary Short Sleeve Polo Shirt – item #7713 – $46.00

For 2XL add $5, 3XL add $7.50

Shirts now available with Ladies and Mens Auxiliary Emblems!

Made inthe U.S.A.

THE OVERSEAS CAP WAS THE FIRST INTRODUCED IN WORLD WAR I AND IS AMERICA’S FIRST MILITARY UNIFORM ITEM DENOTING WAR TIME SERVICE.

1849 Texas VFW Men’s Bulova Quartz Medallion WatchQuality Bulova watch with date feature and two-tone silver and gold clasp band. Medallion VFW emblem on face with Texas VFW.

Price: $249.00

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SLimited Quantities! ORDER TODAY!Light-weight, versatile jacket with TEXAS VFW and Cross of Malta laser etched on the left chest. Microfiber fleece, full-zip front, hidden zip side pockets, draw-cord bottom. Imported. 7356 – Navy Blue7357 – Charcoal Gray$35.00 S-XL$37.00 2XL$39.00 3XL

TEXAS VFW Velour ThrowBeautiful, soft and luxurious microfibre throw, with TEXAS VFW embroidered in corner. Machine washable for easy care. 100% polyester. 50” x 60”

1992 — $28.99

Note: If there is a need to exchange or return jewelry items, please contact the Supply Department for return authorization before doing so. Watches have, in the past few years, become very stylish and the factories change the appearance of them often. Therefore, the watch you receive may differ in appearance from our illustrations, but will be as good or better in quality.

M6251 Light Weight Members Cap, Gold Piping 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 .93 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” for an additional $18.69; LIFE MEMBER embroidered for an additional $8.90; or a Life Member patch for an additional $2.55. Green, lightweight, shade51. Allow 8 weeks for manufacture except during April, May, June, & July. During these months allow 10 weeks.

Price: $33.95

Texas VFW Spring 2013 23

24 Texas VFW Spring 2013

Texas VFW Post 12024, The Woodlands — The Post conducted a presentation on The Kosovo Campaign at our temporary facility. They also discussed the belligerents involved, and the Independence of Kosovo’s citizens.

Texas VFW Post 1514, Mills — Post members read a summary of the Kosovo Campaign. Approximately 15 were in attendance.

Texas VFW Post 6209, Shiner — The Post read and discussed the Kosovo Campaign. The presentation was performed by Quartermaster Don Maillet.

kosovo

25Texas VFW Spring 2013

R e m e m b e r i n g t h e K o s o v o C a m p a i g n

Texas VFW Post 8561, Arlington — The Commander gave a presentation leading up to the events of the Kosovo Campaign to approximately 18 members and guests.

Texas VFW Posts 1533 & 8111, San Antonio — The Posts joined forces to celebrate and remember the Kosovo Campaign. A history was provided by 1533. Cake was enjoyed by members and guests after the event.

Texas VFW Post 8904, Center — The Post held an observance at the Veteran’s Memorial, Shelby Co. Histroic Courthouse. L-R: USMC Veteran Tommy Wolfe, Auxiliary President Becky Yates, Treasurer Theresa Hume, Jr. Vice Mary Fausett and member Beverly Langford.

Texas VFW Post 5619, Houston — A comrade read the history and the events leading up to the campaign. Members enjoyed dinner and refreshments to celebrate the event.

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Texas VFW Post 8904, CenterThe Post remembers the war in Somalia at the Veterans Memorial, Center, Texas.

Members participated in a wreath laying ceremony, prayer, Pledge of Allegiance,

background of the observance and Taps.