report from denver: 88th national conventiondavfl70.org/magazine_200905.pdf · 2016-05-19 ·...

THE OFFICIAL VOICE OF THE DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS AND DAV AUXILIARY

Report from Denver:

88th National Convention

2009

Our Continued Legacy of Service PAGE 3

Never Let Them be ForgottenPAGE 24

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At left, Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year Dale Wilson salutes his fellow veterans after being honored during the opening session. Below: Diane Musselmann, board member, center, and Victor Biggs, Executive Director for the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial helps veterans get more information about a commemorative coin honoring disabled veterans that was unveiled by the U.S. Mint during the convention. Bottom right, actor, producer, musician and advocate for disabled veterans Gary Sinise rocks out during a performance in Denver by the Lt. Dan Band.

Below, National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson addresses delegates and attendees during the first business session. Bottom, the POW/MIA table is set in remembrance of service-members who never came home. A color guard from the Department of Massachusetts set the table during a memorial service the evening before the convention’s opening.

Paul W. Jackson

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A Renewed Commitment

Thank you all very much for this humbling op-portunity to serve you. It is a great honor and a

responsibility that I take very seriously. You can be sure that I will put my all into carrying on the great traditions of this organization, working tirelessly and standing up for veterans by ensuring that we leave no veteran behind!

Almost 40 years ago, I was one of eight Marines trapped in the fiery wreckage of a bombed person-nel carrier.

The enemy set off a bomb as the amtrac rolled over it. The explosion ruptured the fuel tanks send-ing a wall of flame roaring through the carrier.

We lived because our comrades pulled us from the wreckage. They rolled me in rice paddy water to put out the flames. I was horribly burned over 40 percent of my body. As we waited for the helicopter to come for us, I looked to the sky and asked myself, “What am I doing here so far from home?”

My home in Del Rio, Texas was a world away, and I had no idea of what would become of my life, a life that was changed forever.

But I’m here on this momentous day because others looked out for me. I’m here because my comrades refused to leave their wounded behind. I’m here because others cared enough to make a difference in my life.

You too are here because you care enough to make a difference; you are here to build better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families.

And I am living proof that it works.When I think of all of the people who have loved

and helped me throughout my journey, my heart is filled with joy to know so many cared.

My mother and father were my pillars of strength; their love and devotion just can’t be measured. My family and friends have always been there for me. And I am forever thankful for the day I met my wonderful wife, Maricelia. She has loved me unconditionally.

There has been an army of others who have helped me to rebuild my life. There were so many doctors, nurses and therapists that I lost count of them. Counselors, teachers and vocational rehab specialists have all made a difference in my life.

I owe so much to those who gave me the op-portunity to earn my way; the mentors who gave me the benefit of their wisdom; and those whose help I sought and who believed in me.

And I certainly would not be here if it weren’t for the encouragement and support of the great Depart-ment of Texas. DAV members in the Lone Star State have been by my side every step of the way.

There is someone else I want to mention: Captain Starla Sweda. She was a powerful force in my recov-ery at Brooke Army Medical Center. At one point she told me, “Bobby, because you are different, people will stare. You can get out there and deal with it or you can stay home.”

Well Captain Sweda, thanks to your words of

Roberto Barrera, a combat-disabled Vietnam veteran, was elected National Com-mander by a unanimous vote of the delegates to the 88th National Convention in Denver, Colorado on August 25, 2009. Following are highlights of his acceptance remarks, which were received by the membership with enthusiastic applause and a standing ovation at its conclusion.

(Continued on page 35)

C O N T E N T SSeptember/October 2009

MAGAZINE • September/October 2009Contact Us: www.dav.org • Toll Free 877.426.2838 • 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076 Volume 51, Issue 5, DAV Magazine (ISSN 0885-6400) Editorial Office: DAV Magazine, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Telephone (859) 441-7300 or toll free (877) I AM A VET. Published and circulated bimonthly bulletin by the Disabled American Veterans, a Con-gressionally-chartered, nonprofit organization, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. DAV Home Page is www.dav.org. Available on recording for the blind and those with physical handicaps that preclude reading printed material. The magazine is mailed free to DAV and Auxiliary members who are paid subscribers. Nonmembers may subscribe for $15.00 per year. Periodical postage paid at office of publication, Newport, KY 41071, and at additional offices. Printed in U.S.A. Change of Address: When notifying a change of address, send former as well as new address, including zip code, to: DAV Magazine, DAV National Headquaters, P.O. Box 145550, Cin-cinnati, OH 45250-5550. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DAV Magazine, DAV National Headquar-ters, P.O. Box 145550, Cincinnati, OH 45250-5550.

Roberto BarreraNational Commander

Arthur H. WilsonNational Adjutant & Publisher

Gary WeaverNational Director of Communications

David E. AutryDeputy National Director of Communications

Arvel “Jim” HallAssistant National Director of Communications

Thomas L. WilbornAssistant National Director of Communications

Rob LewisMarketing & Special Events Manager

Dan ClareAssistant National Directorof Communications

Joseph ChenellyAssistant National Director of Communications

James A. ChaneyProduction Manager

National Commander Roberto Barrera pledges a renewed commitment to our mission.

National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson stresses our legacy of service continues despite economy.

Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year Dale Wilson’s decades of leadership.

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Our Cover: Delegates enjoy the camaraderie at the National Convention and all the excitement Denver has to offer. (Photo by Jim Hall)

Outstanding Disabled Veteran

of the Year. PAGE 5

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Claims Process Reforms Package

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7Convention delegates elect National Officers and set the organization’s direction for the year ahead.

9U.S. Mint unveils American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial commemoration coin.

Health care funding reform nears finish line.

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DAV’s 21st Century Claims Process reform package.

National Officers for 2009-2010.

Past National Commander Kenneth Musselmann’s death leaves legacy of advocacy.

Delegates Elect Barrera as National CommanderPAGE 7

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Our Continued Legacy of Service

Our nation’s economy hasn’t been hit this hard in decades. Far too many of our brave

men and women have been wounded, killed and disabled in Iraq and Afghanistan. More and more disabled veterans and their loved ones are in serious need as our government struggles to meet all of the demands placed on it, both at home and abroad.

But despite the fact that we have been faced with declining donations and ever-increasing costs, your DAV has never missed a beat. Not one of our programs of service to disabled veterans has been cut. Yes, we have tightened our belts and initiated savings, but our service has continued unabated.

We continue to fulfill our mission of building better lives for disabled veterans and their families. We also continue our unmatched leadership in the public policy arena advocating for our fellow disabled veterans.

June 23 was a great day for veterans and a proud day for DAV, so I want to take a moment to discuss this because you have all been a part of this suc-cess. That was the day the House of Representatives voted 409 to 1 to approve the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act (H.R. 1016).

On August 7, similar legislation passed the Sen-ate by unanimous consent, setting the stage for the House and Senate to negotiate a final version of the legislation, which can then be approved by Congress and signed by the President.

This historic legislation will ensure sufficient, timely and predictable funding for the VA health care system. It will strengthen and sustain the delivery of medical services to millions of veterans,

particularly disabled veterans. I am proud to note that this legislation was developed, proposed and promoted by DAV as part of our Stand Up for Veter-ans initiative, and we have devoted significant time and resources to aid in its approval.

The House also approved the Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act (H.R. 1211), another bill that comes directly out of DAV’s Stand Up for Veterans initiative.

Both of these bills have strong bipartisan support, and we expect to see President Obama signing them into law later this year.

I think it is important to reflect on how we have achieved these successes and to thank all of you who have played such an important role.

When your legislative team meets with members of the House and Senate, they walk through the door armed with our stellar reputation, something that you have all helped to empower and enrich. Everything we do is strengthened by the many ways in which our service, volunteer, transportation and other programs have assisted disabled veterans.

Thousands of our members contacted members of Congress urging them to support DAV’s legisla-tive agenda and have played a vital role in helping us develop a broad and bipartisan coalition of sup-porters on Capitol Hill.

I am confident that there are more good days and more victories to come. For now let me express my thanks for the work you do and in the commitment you have shown to improve the lives of disabled veterans and their families.

We have witnessed remarkable changes in the

It’s been a remarkable year for the DAV, thanks to our dedicated and loyal members. I commend you for everything you have done to make sure we remain the best veterans’ service organization in the world. And I know it has not been easy. These certainly are challenging times.

DAV MAGAZINE4

DAV Magazine welcomes let-ters. However, due to the vol-ume of mail, we are unable to acknowledge every letter. Letters are subject to editing for clarity, style, accuracy, space, and propriety. Letters involving individual claims are referred to the DAV Ser-vice Department, DAV Maga-zine, P.O. Box 14301, Cincin-nati, Ohio 45250-0301.

Represent the DAV

It was a quiet Sunday morning and my wife and I were enjoying a hearty breakfast at a local diner. As we ate a man passed our booth and looked directly at me. He paused a moment and came over. “Are you a veteran?” he asked. “Yes, I am,” I answered. “Well,” he said, “thank you for your service.” Somewhat taken aback by the question, I could think of noth-ing else to say to him but “You’re welcome.” When he had moved on, I asked my wife, how did he know I was a veteran? “Simple,” she said, “you’re wearing your new DAV ball cap.” I’ll remember that particular “thank you” for a very long time. Gary J. Hicks, Orlando, FL

Complexities of the MIA Issue

With regard to your article on recov-ering missing servicemembers in the July/August 2009 issue of the DAV Magazine, I understand that relatives of the missing seek closure. What they must realize is that the remains of many of the missing will never be found. Sixty years plus have gone by since the end of World War II. Many of the World War II missing are air crew and sailors. Many aircraft during World War II crashed in the ocean or in dense jungles which quickly grew over the crash site. Errors in naviga-tion add to the problem of locating crash sites. Prior to the advent of computers, personnel records and other related records were all “stubby pencil” work. Many World War II aircraft crash sites have been found only by accident. There are other things that affect the condition of remains when found or if remains even survived. In the case of POWs, one factor is the accuracy of records kept by the captors. Raymond E. Bushnell, Huntsville, AL

Don’t Forget Cold War POW/MIAs

I read the article “Find the Miss-ing Americans: Agencies to Review Policy” in the July/August issue. The article listed the major conflicts, but left out two conflicts. The first is the Cold War between 1946 and 1991. The second was Desert Storm where one American is now considered missing/captured. Merrill Vaughan, Pittsfield, NH

Kudos to NSOs

I would like to take a few moments to thank all the DAV staff who handled my claim through the years. The Na-tional Service Officer who handled my

claim in a calm, professional manner is a fine representative of the DAV. Again, thanks for a job well done. Gregory M. Bormann, Boca Raton, FL

I want to express my gratitude to the DAV and especially the National Service Officer in the San Antonio of-fice. I have been receiving 30 percent compensation since November 1945 for combat wounds. In January 2009, my wife received a letter of sympathy from the VA. They had information that I had passed away in February 2008. Not only did they stop my compensa-tion but wanted $4,401 returned. Phone calls and letters to the debt management center did no good. I did manage to find out the report origi-nated in the Houston office. I went to the VA clinic in Corpus Christi and had them send a fax to the Houston office that I was alive and well. I received a form letter that they had received my application for benefits, but due to the large number of claims, action would be delayed. I then went to our U.S. congressman’s office and explained my problem. The congressman’s spe-cialist on veterans affairs assured me they would get the problem corrected. Again, I received a form letter almost a duplicate of the earlier one. It was very frustrating. Finally, I remem-bered I was a lifetime DAV member. I was referred to an NSO. He had me go to a local office to have them verify I was who I said I was. They faxed 11 pages of material to the NSO. He must have personally walked the material through the process. In exactly three weeks, I received a letter from the VA that my compensation had been restored and I would receive a check for the months missed. Without the help from the DAV and especially the NSO, I am sure I would be still fighting to regain my compensation. John F. Ballenger, Corpus Christi, TX


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Marine Corporal Dale Eugene Wilson was near the end of his tour in Vietnam on Feb. 19, 1970, when

a command detonated artillery shell lifted him in the air and dropped him to the ground smoking from shrapnel and burns.

And though the blast claimed his left leg below the knee, his right leg at the hip, his right arm above the elbow and blew out his ear drums, it did not take the Marine’s will to live or change his spirit.

“I don’t think he’s let the results of his wounds affect his optimism or the positive way he’s conducted his life,” said Sen. Jim Webb, who served as Wilson’s platoon and company commander in Vietnam. “He’s always been there

not only for people who served with us in Vietnam, but for veterans in general. He has a tremendous reputation.”

For his leadership, inspiration and volunteerism in the decades since his injury, Wilson was named the 2009 Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year. Wilson, a past commander of North Carolina Chapter 68, was specifically recognized for his service to his fellow veterans.

Wilson’s nomination for the DAV’s highest individual honor for members saw his fellow Marines, leading veterans and community members step forward to heap praise upon the man who has touched the lives of thousands.

“Every veteran in the country should look up to Dale Wilson,” said Allen Payne, a longtime leader with the North

Disabled Veteran of the Year Recognized for

Decades of Leadership

Report from Denver

He’s always been there not only for people who served with us in Vietnam, but for veterans in general. He has a tremendous reputation. — Sen. Jim Webb (D-VA)

By D. Clare

Dale Wilson, the Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year, returned from Vietnam a triple amputee. But that didn’t stop him from becoming a leader among veterans, a small business owner, and — most importantly — a husband, father and grandfather.

DAV MAGAZINE6

Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars. “He’s an amazing man. People seek out Dale Wilson, and he never fails to inspire them.”

“We were going over to the coffee shop one day and he parked by the street. And I said, ‘Dale, why don’t you use a handicap stall?’ He said, ‘I leave it for people who might need it,’” said Edd Furr, life member of North Carolina Chapter 27. “Beyond the leadership he’s provided the vet-erans community, the people he encounters are drawn to our cause. He’s sacrificed so much for our country, and he always reaches out to do more.”

The occasion of Wilson’s recognition led his Marine bud-dies to speak out about his valor and leadership as a squad leader in Vietnam.

“There is no doubt in my mind that without Dale Wil-son’s ‘bush smarts,’ young boots like me would not have survived,” recalls Kevin “Cannonball” Eddington who served with Wilson in 3rd Plt., Delta Co., 1st Bn., 5th Rg., 1st Marine Division.

Francis “Blue” Karst was in Wilson’s squad. He describes

Wilson as a careful, thoughtful Marine. He recalls a night weeks into his tour when his gun jammed in the middle of a firefight. “He had me take my gun apart in the dark and get it together. He taught me patience under fire. He was a well liked man,” said Karst.

On another night, while rushing to the aide of another company, three of Wilson’s squad members, including Karst, became separated and came under attack by 50 Viet Cong.

“Dale brought in three squad members and saved our lives. Only one of us was injured,” said Karst. “We were down to eight rounds.”

When Wilson was hurt, he said his first thought was that he was grateful that it was him and not his fellow Marines, though his fellow Marines say his absence was difficult to handle.

“The loss of Dale Wilson affected every man in that out-fit,” said Eddington.

Wilson was finally recognized for his valor in saving his fellow Marines in 1977, when his hometown of States-ville, N.C., hosted “Dale Wilson Day.” There, with many of his fellow Marines present, Wilson was presented with the Silver Star.

By then, he was already embracing his life and making a name for himself. He’d returned home from the naval hospital in Philadelphia and earned his college degree. He married his wife Linda, raised his family and began his own business venture.

“I tell people all the time, you can’t spend your time look-ing over your shoulder at what could have been because you’re probably going to trip over something good in front of you and miss it,” Wilson said.

He’d also become involved in the veterans movement and felt compelled to serve and represent his generation who,

despite the public’s perception of the war, had served with honor and distinction.

He organized and attended rallies. He joined the DAV, VFW and helped establish an active Ma-rine Corps League presence in the community.

“I feel like as long as I can do something for my fellow man and country, I hope I’ll always be able to stand up,” said Wilson.

Wilson was 19 when he deployed to Vietnam’s Arizona Territory — one of the most dangerous areas of operations for Marines. When he returned home from the war, shortly after starting a family and completing his college education, he joined veterans service organiza-tions and led and participated in rallies

to honor his fellow men and women who served in Vietnam.


Report from Denver

By Thom Wilborn and Joseph R. Chenelly

From the stirring tones of bagpipes which ushered in the presentation

of colors at the Opening Session to the thunderous standing ovation given to unanimously elected National Com-mander Roberto “Bobby” Barrera at the close, the 88th National Conven-tion was filled with vital information on a wide range of veterans issues, our successes and the challenges we face

and the reaffirmation of DAV’s mission to serve our nation’s disabled veterans and their families.

More than 2,000 delegates and guests converged on the Denver Sheraton, to elect a slate of National Officers to lead the DAV and set the organization’s di-rection for the year ahead. (See page 20 for a complete listing of newly elected DAV and Auxiliary National Officers.)

“I’m here on this momentous day because others looked out for me,” Barrera told the delegates following his

election as National Commander. “I’m here because my comrades refused to leave their wounded behind. I’m here because others cared enough to make a difference in my life.

“You, too, are here because you care enough to make a difference; you are here to build better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families. And I am living proof that it works.”

Barrera is a service-connected, com-bat disabled Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War and a life member of Chapter 5, San Antonio, Texas.

In September 1969, Barrera was seriously injured when enemy forces exploded a land mine beneath the ar-mored personnel carrier he was travel-ing in. The explosion and fire ball that ripped through the vehicle resulted in serious facial burns, the loss of his right hand at the wrist and his left arm at the shoulder.

During his recovery, Barrera came upon one veterans service organization that stood out from the rest. “In the DAV, I discovered a family of disabled veterans who, through friendship, compassion and mutual support, are dedicated to a single purpose: build-ing better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families,” he said.

Barrera also called on current members to reach out and inform other veterans on what the DAV offers.

Delegates Elect Barrera as National Commander

Roberto “Bobby” Barrera addresses an enthusiastic convention delega-tion being unanimously elected National Commander of the 1.2 million member Disabled American Veterans.

DAV MAGAZINE8

Report from Denver

“Membership strength must always be a priority,” Barrera said. “And you and I have an obligation to convince those who remain part-life members and those with a trial membership to become full-paid life members. We must also reach out to the remaining two million disabled veterans who are eligible for membership and educate them about the DAV.”

Barrera is the recipient of numer-ous honors and awards, including the DAV Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year for 1998; LIFE’s (Leaders In Furthering Education Foundation) Presidential Unsung Hero Award for 1998; and Department of Defense Outstanding Employee with a Dis-ability Award for 1997. The late Jesse Brown, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, selected Barrera’s personal story of overcoming disability for inclusion in his book, “The Price of Their Blood.”

A hallmark of the National Conven-tion were the powerful reports that celebrate DAV’s mission of service, the successes of the organization during the past year and the plans to address remaining issues affecting veterans and their families.

National Adjutant Arthur H. Wil-son told the convention that despite a significant decline in the nation’s economy, the DAV has continued its programs of service without disrup-

tion. “Not one of our programs of service to disabled veterans has been cut,” he said. “We have tightened our belts and initiated savings, but our service has continued unabated.”

“Our strategic planning and over-sight has positioned us to take the hits and still deliver the goods,” said Wilson.

He cited DAV’s unmatched leader-ship in public policy as another area in which the organization succeeded due to the tremendous grassroots support of our membership for the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Trans-parency Act (H.R. 1016).

“This historic legislation will ensure sufficient, timely and predictable fund-ing for the VA health care system,” said Wilson. “It will strengthen and sustain the delivery of medical services to mil-lions of veterans, particularly disabled veterans.”

The legislation was developed, proposed and promoted by DAV as part of the Stand Up for Veterans initiative. “When your legislative team meets with members of the House and Sen-ate, they walk through the door armed with our stellar reputation, something that you have all helped to empower and enrich,” said Wilson. “If you are one of the thousands of our members who contacted members of Congress urging them to support DAV’s legisla-tive agenda, you know that you have

played a vital role in helping us develop a broad and bipartisan coalition of sup-porters on Capitol Hill.”

Adjutant Wilson’s report featured a video which highlighted the success of our mission of building better lives for disabled veterans and their fami-lies. “It is just a glimpse of some of the things that set us apart from other service organizations,” he said. “What really distinguishes DAV is our commit-ment to direct service and advocacy for those who have given so much for our nation — our members.”

“We are clearly the best, because we continue to give our best to all those we serve,” Wilson said. “We are pledged to a mission of service.”

Washington Headquarters Executive Director David W. Gorman credited member support that defeated an ill-conceived proposal to bill private insurance companies for VA health care provided to veterans for their service-connected disabilities.

“You protested with deserved outrage,” he said. “Congress heard you, and they protested. Ultimately, the White House heard us and they withdrew the proposal.”

Gorman praised the membership for their support of legislation calling for advance appropriations of VA health care. “No longer will VA have to wait weeks, sometimes months, for their budget to be passed,” he said. “No lon-

Left, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki, a DAV life member, addresses convention attendees. Right, Washington Headquarters Execu-tive Director David W. Gorman educates delegates on the DAV’s legislative initiatives, including the Stand Up for Veterans initiative.


Those attending the DAV National Convention in Denver gave thunderous applause as Edmund C. Moy, Director of the

United States Mint, unveiled the designs for the 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar.

“We are honored that the United States Mint has designated a special commemorative coin to honor our country’s disabled veterans,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson and President of the Disabled Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Foundation. “Not only will the coin forever be a reminder of the brave service men and women who risked, and continue to risk their lives, but each coin sold will bring us one step closer to building a long overdue permanent tribute to disabled veterans in our nation’s capital.”

The coin’s designs, approved by Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner on July 30, are emblematic of the service of our disabled veterans who made enormous personal sacrifices defending the principles of our democracy. The obverse, or heads side, of the coin depicts the legs and boots of three disabled veterans. The inscription in the banner along the coin’s upper rim, THEY STOOD UP FOR US, pays tribute to the courageous disabled veterans who fought to preserve our freedom, Moy told the audience. Ad-ditional inscriptions on the obverse are IN GOD WE TRUST, 2010 and LIBERTY.

The reverse (tails) design depicts a forget-me-not flower at the base of a wreath wrapped in a ribbon that cradles and supports clusters of oak branches. The oak branches represent strength, while the forget-me-not is a widely accepted symbol of remembrance for those who sacrificed their blood and their

health for our country’s cause, Moy explained. The main inscrip-tion reads Take This Moment to Honor Our Disabled Defenders of Freedom, while the rim is imprinted with UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM and ONE DOLLAR.

Under the American Veterans Disabled for Life Commemorative Coin Act, the U.S. Mint will issue commemorative coins in honor of veterans who became disabled while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The agency will mint proof and uncirculated versions of the commemorative $1 coin in 90 percent silver. The coins will bear the “W” mint mark of the United States Mint at West Point. Mintage is set at 350,000 coins across all product options.

Surcharges collected from sales of the 2010 American Vet-erans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar coins are authorized to be paid to the Disabled Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Foundation. The surcharges will help the Foundation support the construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial in Washington, D.C., which was authorized by Congress in 2000.

The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial plans to break ground in 2010. To date, the Foundation has raised 90 per-cent of the total funds needed to design, build and permanently maintain the memorial. Approximately $5 million still must be raised before groundbreaking can begin.

Introductory and regular pricing will be established in early 2010. To be placed on the early notification list when the coin becomes available for sale, send an email request to [email protected]. To make a tax-deductible donation or learn more about the Memorial, visit www.avdlm.org.

Disabled Veterans Commemorative Coin Design Unveiled

ger will veterans be forced to wait for appointments. VA will no longer have to wait to hire health care providers or delay buying needed medical equip-ment due to the lack of a budget.”

Gorman said the challenge of the future is addressing the problems and solutions to the lengthy VA disability claims adjudication process. “Many say the disability claims process is complex and poorly understood,” he said. “But, for the men and women

who have served and sacrificed for our nation, this is an unacceptable response. We deserve a system that meets our needs without hassles or undue delays.”

Gorman said DAV has proposed bold, creative and imaginative steps to resolve the delays. “We have presented our ideas to Congress and to VA,” he said. “It’s a starting point to change a system burdened with yesterday’s process and mindset to one that is in

touch with the realities of today.”National Commander Raymond E.

Dempsey’s report on his year of service reflected the power of unity of the DAV membership. “Our members have written a page of history that truly is a tribute to commitment and resolve,” he said.

The approval of the advance ap-propriations bills in Congress, which authorizes VA health care funding a full year in advance, was a victory for all


Edmund C. Moy, Director of the United States Mint, and Diane Musselmann unveil the designs for the 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar.

DAV MAGAZINE10

Salvator Uccello has spent his life in service to others. Uccello spent 10

years of his youth in the U.S. Navy, fol-lowed by a career in the Postal Service, and for the last 22 years he has been an active participant in the corps of DAV volunteers. Katie Critz spent most of her life as a professional nurse caring for thousands of patients, and for the last 30 years has been giving her time and loving care to veterans.

In recognition of their dedicated service, Uccello, 81, and Critz, 84, received the 2009 George H. Seal Memorial Trophy from National Com-mander Raymond E. Dempsey before thousands of DAV members during the National Convention in Denver, Colo.

Uccello was recognized for volun-teering more than 19,529 hours at the West Palm Beach, Fla., VA medical center (VAMC), and Critz has volun-teered for more than 13,235 hours at the Dallas, Texas, VAMC. “They provide outstanding leadership to our wonderful volunteers by devoting their lives to serve the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation,” said Commander Dempsey. “Both Salvator and Katie are very deserving recipients of the 2009 George H. Seal Memorial Trophy for their years of excellence in volunteering.”

The Seal award annually honors the remarkable DAV and Auxiliary vol-unteers who serve veterans and their

families through the VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) program. The awards are conferred in memory of George H. Seal, who was Director of Membership and Voluntary Services and a leading organizer and administrator of the DAV VAVS program from 1952 until his death in 1977.

“These are two dedicated and car-ing people who are the best examples among our thousands of volunteers,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wil-son. “Their contributions to building better lives for our sick and disabled veterans are exemplary and display the compassion of the DAV and the Auxiliary.”

“When I retired from the post office

Volunteers Give Lifetime of Service

DAV Seal Memorial Trophy 2009

Salvator Uccello, left, assists a passenger boarding a Transportation Network van in West Palm Beach, Fla.


in 1987, and I became Department Commander in Connecticut, I didn’t think I would be volunteering,” Uc-cello said. “Now I don’t know how you cannot do it. Once I got involved, I had to stay.”

A member of Chapter 42 in West Palm Beach, Uccello serves as the DAV Transportation Network Coordinator helping thousands of veterans arrange trips to and from the VAMC each year. He also volunteers in physical medicine, rehabilitation services and recreation therapy.

“He is focused on taking care of pa-tients’ needs,” said Voluntary Services Program Manager Mary Phillips. “We are most fortunate to have Mr. Uccello volunteering here.”

“I’m just happy knowing that I’m do-ing a decent job,” said Uccello. “I have a good group of people—something like 83 volunteers, plus the drivers, so I think I’m privileged to be here.”

“If I can make one person happy, I’ve had a good day,” he said. “If someone walks out of my office happy, I don’t care what it is, I’m psyched.”

“Not every day is perfect,” he said. “But I think overall there are better days and best days. They are all good days.”

Critz, a member of Auxiliary Unit 175 in Mesquite, Texas, volunteers as an escort and patient advocate, works on the coffee cart, the Aegis, Silver Spoon and recreation therapy programs.

“She is always willing to assist the veteran patients,” said Voluntary Services Program Manager Bobbie K. Scoggins. “She is a leader in recruit-ing additional volunteers and friendly

and compassionate about the care and well-being of our veterans.”

“I began volunteering at the VA hospital about 30 years ago,” said Critz who was married to two now deceased veterans. “I enjoy working with the hospice patients. Many don’t have any family at all, and you are with them in their last hour. Most of our volunteers can’t do that, but being a nurse by trade I can do that.”

“I enjoy calling on the patients that get few or no visitors,” she said. “They tell us they’d be alone without our vis-its. I get the greatest joy of doing that.”

“What I do is for the patients,” she

said. “The Aegis program I assist gives psychological support to patients with little or no family. The Silver Spoon involves feeding patients that cannot feed themselves. I do those things to help our veterans.”

“She is a very dedicated and com-mitted volunteer,” said Commander Dempsey. “She is a mentor to a younger generation of volunteers and brightens the spirits of veterans in any way she can.”

These are two dedicated and caring people who are the best examples among our thousands of volunteers.

Katie Critz serves coffee to a veteran waiting for an appointment at the Dallas, Texas, VA medical center.

DAV MAGAZINE12

DAV Volunteers, Vans Featuredin Nationwide Call to Service

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki boarded a DAV Transportation Network van taking veterans to their

medical appointments at the Washington, D.C., VA medical center and praised VA Voluntary Service (VAVS) program volunteers as he announced a summer-long effort to engage Americans in community service programs. Joining the Secre-tary in the kick-off event for the Summer of Service program were National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson and Washington Headquarters Executive Director David W. Gorman.

“We, who enjoy liberty’s blessings, will forever remain in debt of the men and women who served our nation in uni-form,” Secretary Shinseki said. “Volunteering on their behalf is one way we can show our respect, regard and devotion for their service.”

“The Secretary made a special point of highlighting the DAV’s nationwide Transportation Network program and the thousands of DAV and Auxiliary volunteers who donate millions of hours each year serving our sick and disabled veterans,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. “It was very gratifying to have our volunteers cited as an example for others to follow and a real tribute to all they do to fulfill our mission of service and hope.”

The Summer of Service program, from June 22 to Sept. 11, is part of the President’s “United We Serve” initative that will help meet growing social needs resulting from the economic downturn. This initiative aims to both expand the impact of existing organizations by engaging new volunteers in their work and encourage volunteers to develop their own “do-it-yourself” projects. The campaign runs through September 11, which will be National Day of Service and Remembrance. Toolkits for developing projects are available

online at www.serve.gov.“Each year some 80,000 volunteers serve

veterans through the VAVS program. More than 14,500 of those volunteers are DAV and Aux-iliary members, who donated more than 2.3 million hours to the VAVS program last year,” said National Director of Voluntary Services Michael J. Walsh. “In addition, nearly 2,900

volunteers participated in the DAV’s Local Veterans Assis-tance Program and provided over 90,000 hours of volunteer service in their communities. The DAV is constantly looking for ways to engage new volunteers, so we think the ‘United We Serve’ initiative will encourage others to assist veterans in their communities.”

“But as impressive as the number of volunteers and hours they donate are, there’s really no way to measure the amount of caring and sharing that volunteers provide to veterans. Volunteers are a priceless asset to the nation’s veterans,” said Adjutant Wilson.

To learn how you can become a part of the DAV’s nation-wide volunteer network, visit www.dav.org/volunteers.

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki, left, helps veterans from a DAV Transportation Network van as they arrive for their medical appointments at the Washington, D.C., VA medical center. The Secretary praised DAV and other VA Voluntary Service program volunteers during the launch of a summer-long effort to engage Americans in community service programs.

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Washington Headquarters Executive Director David W. Gorman, right, greets Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki at the Washington, D.C., VA medical center at a kick-off event for the Summer of Service program. National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson, in background at the right, also joins the Secretary at the volunteer event, along with Medical Center Direc-tor Fernando O. Rivera, in foreground at left.


By Dave Autry

The past few months have seen re-markable progress toward achiev-

ing DAV’s top legislative goal for 2009: advance appropriations for veterans health care.

On July 10, the U.S. House of Repre-sentative stood up for veterans, approv-ing legislation to fund the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2010 and, for the first time, provides money for the VA health care system a year in advance. The Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act (H.R. 3082) provides a record 11 percent increase for veterans health care programs in fiscal year 2010 and includes $48.2 billion for VA’s medical care programs in fiscal year 2011 through advance ap-propriations.

The Senate version of the 2010 VA spending bill (S. 1407) won Appropria-tions Committee approval on July 7 and awaits action by the full Senate. Like its House counterpart, the measure pro-vides $48.2 billion for veterans medical care for 2011.

“Including funds for veterans health care for 2011 in the measure is certainly a welcome change for the better, but

giving Congress permanent authority to provide those advance appropriations is the only real solution to the prob-lem,” said National Legislative Director Joseph A. Violante.

H.R. 3082 provides a total of $108.9 billion for the VA, $14.5 billion above the 2009 level. It includes $53 billion in discretionary spending for the VA, $34.7 billion of which is for veterans medical services.

The House bill includes funding for the VA to hire 1,200 new claims proces-sors to reduce the backlog of veterans not receiving the benefits they’ve earned. In all, the Veterans Benefits Ad-ministration would receive $56 billion, about 19 percent more than in 2009.

Medical and prosthetic research is funded at $580 million, $70 million above 2009.

Funding for major and minor con-struction at VA medical facilities totals $1.9 billion, $252 million above 2009.

Just weeks before passing H.R. 3082, the House took another step toward ensuring sufficient, timely and predictable funding for veterans health care by approving its version of the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act (H.R. 1016). This

historic legislation would authorize Congress to approve appropriations for VA medical programs a year ahead of time. This would end the funding delays and unpredictable budgets that have threatened the quality of veterans health care. A similar Senate bill, S. 423, was approved unanimously by the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee in late May. The full Senate passed the meaure on Aug. 6.

“This remarkable progress toward achieving our goal of advance appro-priations for veterans health care owes a lot to the strong support and vocal advocacy of our membership, working in conjunction with a unprecedented grassroots coalition involving every major veterans and military service organization,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. “And while it was a team effort all the way, this victory would not have been possible without the lead-ership and commitment of the DAV.”

“Advance appropriation legislation was developed, proposed and promot-ed as part of our Stand Up for Veterans initiative,” said National Adjutant Wilson. “Our members and everyone who has stood with us should be very proud.”

Funding Reform Advances

This remarkable progress toward achieving our goal of advance appropriations for veterans health care owes a lot to the strong support and vocal advocacy of ourmembership.

DAV MAGAZINE14

Most everyone in the veterans com-munity agrees that the current

disability claims process is complex, confusing and poorly understood by veterans and even VA employees. With the backlog of unprocessed claims expected to top the one-million mark by year’s end, the situation has reached the crisis point. VA’s current inven-tory includes more than 400,000 rating claims, more than 200,000 non-rating claims and 170,000 appeals pending adjudication.

So, the DAV has crafted a plan for a more efficient claims processing sys-tem that is faster and better meets the needs of our nation’s disabled veterans and their families and survivors.

VA Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits Michael Walcoff testified at a recent House Veterans’ Affairs Commit-tee hearing that rating-related claims received through May 2009 are up 13.5 percent over the same period in 2008. Despite a 9.3 percent increase in claims completed, the rating-related inventory increased from 379,842 at the end of fiscal year 2008 to 402,047 at the end of May 2009. Rating claims increased by approximately 22,000 this year.

During a Feb. 11 Senate Veterans’ Af-fairs Committee hearing, Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.) challenged DAV and other witnesses to create a draft model for a new VA disability claims process. “We took this worthy challenge very seriously and have crafted the DAV’s 21st Century Claims Process,” said National Legislative Director Joseph A. Violante.

“The DAV’s package is the first com-prehensive set of legislative and admin-

istrative recommendations to make the disability benefits system more efficient, reduce the initial claims-processing time and make the appeals process faster and more efficient,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson.

“Our recommendations are designed to improve the accuracy and timeliness of the claims adjudication system, sim-plify procedures to make the best use of government resources and, at the same time, safeguard the rights of claimants,” said Washington Headquarters Execu-tive Director David W. Gorman. “After all, making sure our government lives up to its responsibilities to disabled veterans and their families is one of the DAV’s most important jobs.”

“With the exception of the initial startup for the information technology component, our plan does not require large government spending, not even increased VA staffing. Over time, the cost savings of this proposal would be significant,” said National Service Director Randy Reese. “If all of the leg-islative and administrative recommen-dations are implemented immediately, it would bring long-needed efficiency to the claims process.”

It is estimated that the recommenda-tions would save VA more than 100,000 hours of work each year and cut the initial average claims-processing time by 30-90 days. The appeals process also would be faster and more efficient.

“Essentially, our proposal consists of three major components—a legislative package, an information technology package and a claims process reorganiza-tion,” Violante said. “While all three of the components complement each other,

DAV Unveils Plan to Revamp Claims Process“Over time, the cost savings of this proposal would be significant,” said National Service Director Randy Reese.

“If all of the legislative and administrative recommendations are implemented immediately, it would bring long-needed efficiency to the claims process.”

National Service Director Randy Reese

By Dave Autry

Reese


any of the three components will individually enhance the efficiency of the claims process. The benefit to this approach is that all three portions are not required to be implemented simultaneously, as would be the case in an ‘all-or-nothing’ approach.”

A key recommendation for revamping the adjudication system is creating and maintaining a centralized database of electronic claims files. Under the DAV’s plan, paper forms and other documents in support of claims would be scanned to create an electronic image that would be viewable in the official record the following day. It currently takes several days, or even weeks, for VA to incorporate new evidence into a claims folder. Lost or incorrectly destroyed records would be a problem of the past.

Another recommendation would require legislation to amend the VA’s duty to notification and assistance require-ments. Claims received by VA would first be analyzed by a rating team to determine the type of benefit sought and what type of notification and assistance VA would need to provide the claimant in developing the case. Under this recommen-dation, VA would not be required to undertake needless development.

This determination and notification process would require 1-3 days, but should never require more than one week, DAV testified before a House Veterans’ Affairs subcommittee on Dis-ability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. Under the current dis-ability timeline, these same functions take 44 days on average.

“In instances where the evidence of record is sufficient to award all benefits sought, VA would be allowed to waive current notice and assistance requirements,” said Reese. “Many such straightforward cases could be reviewed and rated in less than two weeks.”

The streamlined analysis and pre-determination process outlined in DAV’s plan also would cut processing time and allow rating specialists to do a more thorough job on cases requiring information verification and further development. “The result would be better decisions in less time and fewer appeals,” Reese said.

A proposed change in law would allow claimants wishing to appeal a decision 180 days in which to do so. Claimants also would have the right to request an initial six-month extension. Even more time would be allowed if mental or physical disability prevented a claimant from responding within the specified time.

“Shortening the current one-year time period for appeals should have a minimum impact on claimants,” Reese said. “The average time it took the VA to receive a notice of dis-agreement (NOD) in 2008 was 41 days. In fact, 92 percent of NODs were received within the first six months of the rating decision.”

Among other important changes proposed by DAV is disbanding the VA Appeals Management Center, generally viewed as a failure because of its poor record of performance.

Finally, an administrative team would handle most func-tions not typically part of the claims process. This would free up resources that could be used specifically for claims processing, resulting in increased efficiency.

“Congress is now considering legislation to implement DAV’s claims processing initiative, and some people in key VA management positions have unofficially indicated a willing-ness to explore our recommendations,” said Gorman. “These recommendations are carefully aimed at making the claims process more efficient and dramatically reducing undue de-lays without sacrificing a single earned benefit.”

Charitable Service Trust Provides Access to History...The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York Harbor is now accessible to guests with disabilities via a refurbished portside aircraft elevator, made possible with a grant from the DAV Charitable Service Trust. Museum President Bill White, right, presents an appreciation award to National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson, second from left, and Trust Chairman Richard E. Marbes, second from right. The elevator, designed to transport aircraft between the hangar deck and flight deck, had not been used since the USS Intrepid became the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in 1982. Thanks to the renovation, museum guests will be able to get closer to the aircraft and ride the renovated elevator from the hangar deck to the flight deck of the museum. Repairs were performed at cost by Otis Elevator Company, represented by the firm’s Regional General Manager Robert Buckley, left.

Paul W. Jackson

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DIRECTOR’S COMMENTARY

f r o m t h e N AT I O N A L L E G I S L AT I V E D I R E C T O R


Making History

This legislative year has already been his-toric, and there is still more to come.

At the beginning of the year, we asked our membership to “Stand Up for Veterans,” to take our grassroots campaign to new levels. You came through, igniting pro-veterans movement on Capitol Hill unlike we have seen in decades.

We are now on the verge of, for the first time ever, having an adequately and predictably funded VA health care system. This is one of the biggest legislative victories ever for veterans. I urge you to read all about advance appro-priations on page 13, as it is important that you know just how big this is and that your active support made it possible.

To build on that momentum, we have organi-zied the first-ever Virtual March on Washington for Veterans. This event, unlike anything we have done before, is taking place completely online. There is no need to travel or leave your home to take part. While the march is now on-going, it will remain online and active for quite a while.

Our aim for the “march” is to raise public awareness of the most pressing issues and provide the easiest, most convenient way ever to stand up for veterans. Participants will learn about the issues by watching online videos and “chatting” with veterans’ advocates, veterans, government officials and even celebrities. Then they will be offered simple tools on the site to contact lawmakers and voice support for veter-ans, their families and caregivers.

We need our stalwart supporters to sign on and help spread the word about this effort. By

tapping into the fast-growing online social net-works, we are extending our reach, educating and energizing people we have not been able to contact before now. Please, log onto www.dav.org/VirtualMarch to learn more, participate and spread the word.

The Women Veterans Health Care Improve-ment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1211 and S. 597), which is groundbreaking in its own right, has the House’s approval and is expected to be passed in the Senate this year. We have been very much involved in the creation and advancement of these bills, in accordance with the resolutions passed at last year’s National Convention.

The number of women currently serving in active military service, Reserve and Guard components has never been larger. According to VA, the number of women veterans using VA health care will likely double in the next two to four years.

This legistlation would require VA to study barriers encountered by women veterans seeking needed health care. We also expect it to provide for certification of mental health professionals who provide care to women veterans suffering from military sexual trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. A pilot childcare program for any veteran—male or female—receiving health care from VA facilities is also included.

These provisions are long overdue and are issues we’ve supported for quite some time.

Our team has taken the lead on another important issue that has affected many veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. We started looking into this after we began receiving


Convention(Continued from page 9)

Report from Denver

veterans. “Without your support and grassroots efforts to let your elected officials know the importance of the issue, victory could not be claimed,” Dempsey said.

“We all called for our government to stand up for veterans,” he said. “And Congress and the administration got our message loud and clear, thanks to you.”

Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki, a DAV life member, delivered what he called his seven-month prog-ress report reflecting what the VA has accomplished since he was confirmed to head the agency. He recognized the VA’s shortcomings in the area of claims adjudication and said he was going to reduce the lengthy delay in deciding veterans’ disability claims. “We must do this faster, better and more equitably.”

Citing the need for improved access to health care, Secretary Shinseki said VA is encouraging veterans to make use of the 768 outpatient clinics, 232 veterans centers and 50 new mobile clinics, as well as full-service medical

centers. “Veterans are waiting too long for their claims, and [VA is] going to do something about it,” Shinseki said. By making greater use of informa-tion technology, such as DAV’s recommendation for a 21st Century Claims Process, VA can greatly reduce the backlog. “I am personally dedicated to reducing the lengthy processing of veterans claims,” he said.

And Secretary Shinseki said that better use of VA programs for veterans would return today’s 131,000 homeless veterans to productive lives within five years. “We have to attack the entire downward spiral that ends in homeless-ness,” he said. “We have to do it all.”

In her report, Auxiliary National Commander Sandra J. Dobmeier paid tribute to the more than 14,000 DAV volunteers who each day make a phe-nomenal difference in bringing joy and comfort to sick and disabled veterans.

“If not for the volunteers working in nearly every area of our VA hospitals

and clinics I don’t know how the VA would even be able to operation,” she said. “Many veterans wouldn’t even be able to get to their appointments without volunteers who work in the transportation program.”

“The need for our work is continu-ing to grow, and we need to grow to meet the need now and into the fu-ture,” Auxiliary Commander Dobmeier said. “I can assure you the work to meet that challenge is underway. Our veterans can count on us to make telephone calls, send e-mails, write letters and make personal visits to our elected leaders calling for their support of legislation benefiting our veterans and their families.”

Edmund C. Moy, director of the U.S. Mint, brought some unexpected good news to the National Convention when he unveiled a new commemo-rative coin which will help fund the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial to be built in Washington, D.C. (See page 9.)

National Commander Raymond Dempsey awards reporter Chris Vanderveen for continuous and enlightening coverage of disabled veterans, their families and the families of fallen veterans. Below, National Commander Raymond Dempsey and National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson receive a check from Jim Vella, president of Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. In addition to donating $200,000 toward the purchase of vans for the Transpor-tation Network, Ford donated $25,000 to the Jesse Brown Memo-rial Youth Volunteer Scholarship program.


DAV MAGAZINE18

Recipients of the 2009 National Commander’s Outstanding

Department of Veterans Affairs Employee awards were recognized at this year’s DAV National Convention for their exemplary professionalism and deep compassion in serving generations of our nation’s veterans.

Cynthia D. East serves as an important resource for separating servicemembers at the U.S. Marine Corps base at Camp Lejeune, N.C., helping them get their disability claims decided in near record time.

Clifford V. McGlotten spends his days coordinating the medical care and rehabilitation of the wounded ser-vicemembers at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

Mary E. Jones serves at the Los Angeles, Calif., National Cemetery ensuring that last honors for de-ceased veterans are performed with the dignity and respect they and their families deserve.

“These dedicated VA employees work hard to ensure that veterans receive the very finest services,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. “They take pride in what they do, and they personally extend our nation’s appreciation to honor their service.”

“Without question, the recipients of the 2009 awards deeply care about those they serve,” said Washington Headquarters Executive Director David W. Gorman. “They provide the highest quality service to disabled

veterans and their families and take what they do very seriously.”

East, a VA Benefits Delivery at Discharge office supervisor at Camp Lejeune, was selected as the Outstanding Veterans Benefits Administration Employee for her ef-forts to ensure that servicemembers separating from the military receive their disability ratings in a timely manner within two months of their discharge.

“I am the face of the VA, and my office handles all claims for active duty servicemembers here,” she said. “I collaborate with many program coordinators to streamline the process and ensure the smooth transition of all active duty servicemembers separating from the military.”

“East has compassion for every servicemember she meets, regardless of their needs,” said National Service Director Randy Reese. “She will help anyone that needs assistance. She is extremely deserving of this award for all that she does in providing service to disabled veterans.”

McGlotten, recipient of the Outstanding Veterans Health Ad-ministration Employee Award, is the senior veterans health care liaison at Brooke Army Medical Center serv-ing as the bridge between the VA and the Department of Defense in coordinating health care for service-members in the VA system.

McGlotten, a member of Chapter 17 in Universal City, Texas, is a

27-year Army veteran who leads workshops on veterans benefits and services throughout the state.

“I have a varied and long history working with families and individuals afflicted with behavioral and mental health issues,” said McGlotten. “I take pride that several of the individuals I have personally worked with are now employed with the VA as peer employees and in other capacities.”

“McGlotten is well-known for his professionalism and commitment to excellence,” said Reese. “But it is his character that makes him outstand-ing. He has a passion and dedication for making sure that each veteran is assisted to the best of his ability.”

Jones, the cemetery representa-tive at the Los Angeles National Cemetery, received the National Cemetery Administration Employee Award for her outstanding perfor-mance in making funeral arrange-ments for the burial of veterans or their dependents at the cemetery, delivering the dignity and grace that our country’s veterans deserve.

“I have no greater joy than helping veterans and their families in their time of need,” Jones said.

“Jones is able to establish a rap-port with grieving families and as-sists them in transitioning from loss to recovery,” Reese said. “She is an example of excellence, compassion, hard work and results within the National Cemetery Administration.”

VA Employees Recognized for

Service to Veterans

Report from Denver

Clifford McGlotten Cynthia East Mary Jones


Youth Volunteers Earn $120K in ScholarshipsBy D. Clare

Jamal Childs knew that his volunteer work for the DAV at Washington, D.C.VA medical center (VAMC), would

make a difference for the future, but he didn’t know just how big of a difference it would make.

An information technology fanatic, he received hands-on training by assisting patients and technicians in the hospi-tal’s biomedical department.

The high school junior didn’t think at the time he’d also receive $15,000 toward his secondary education by winning the top Jesse Brown Memorial Youth Scholarship for 2009.

“I was surprised. I never thought I’d win,” said Childs, who logged 399 hours serving veterans as a DAV volunteer.

He is joined by 11 young people who together pro-vided thousands of hours of volunteer services and earned $120,000 in scholarships.

The Jesse Brown Memorial Youth Scholarship Program recognizes volunteerism through DAV Voluntary Services.

The program’s namesake is a revered veterans’ advocate who served as Secretary of Veterans Affairs after years of service with the DAV. It is underwritten by the Ford Motor Company Fund.

The scholarship program builds relationships between

future leaders and improves the morale and comfort of hos-pitalized veterans.

“People don’t want to be in the hospital. But if you’re there and you show them you care for them, I think they feel respected,” said Childs, who plans to continue volunteering and incorporate advancing the cause of disabled veterans in his future career plans. “They should feel respected. They laid their lives on the line, and I want them to feel confident that they’re getting the best possible care. They deserve it.”

Volunteers must complete 100 hours of service for con-sideration.

A second place scholarship of $10,000 was awarded to Andrew Theodore Kozel, who volunteers at VAMC San Antonio, Texas.

Christian Allen Trent, who volunteers at VAMC Lexington, Ky., and Jeralyn G. Westercamp, who volunteers at VAMC Iowa City, Iowa, received $7,500 in scholarships.

n $5,000 Scholarship Recipients • Alexandria Ward, VAMC Durham, Va. • Aiesha Nekia Cockerham, VAMC Jackson, Miss. • Alexis B. Kula, VAMC White City, Ore. • Peter E. Makar, VAMC Hines, Ill. • Torrie Nicole Murders, VAMC Little Rock, Ark. • Tiara Michelle Johnson, VAMC Long Beach, Calif. • Chloe June Krause, VAMC Columbia, Mo. • Rajeeve Valiyaveetil Philip, VAMC Tampa, Fla.

Jamal Childs

Left, at the Ford drivers luncheon, Lynn Quigley, Manager, Community Relations Ford Motor Com-pany Fund, presents keys to driver David Dun-nagan, of Grand Junction, Colo., VAMC. Above, a delegate’s service dog takes a break at the Service and Legislative seminar.

DAV MAGAZINE20

Report from Denver

DAV NATIONAL OFFICERS 2009-2010

National Commander Roberto Barrera, Del Rio, TX Senior Vice Commander Wallace E. Tyson, Fayetteville, NC 1st Jr. Vice Commander Donald L. Samuels, Gallatin, TN 2nd Jr. Vice Commander Larry A. Polzin, Sylmar, CA3rd Jr. Vice Commander Mary J. Bencivenga, Toms River, NJ 4th Jr. Vice Commander Joseph W. Johnston, OH National Judge AdvocateMichael E. Dobmeier, Grand Forks, NDNational Chaplain Dr. Charles W. Edwards, Jr., Austin, TXPast National Commander Raymond E. Dempsey, Des Plaines, IL

NEC 1st District Roger H. Hamel, Springfield, MA Alternate Leo R. Mooney, Athol, MA NEC 2nd District Ronald D. Tears, Rochester, NY Alternate Dennis L. Krulder, Vaphank, NY NEC 3rd District Asiat A. Ali, Essex Jct., VTAlternateRichard W. Schatz, Cumberland, RI NEC 4th District H. Rick Newell, Jr., Hartford, CT

Alternate Daniel Flynn, Manchester, NJNEC 5th District James E. Uckele, Phoenixville, PA Alternate Timothy E. Birtle, Flinton, PANEC 6th District Robert “Bob” E. Bent, Springfield, VA Alternate Jacob N. Stafford, Oceanz, WV NEC 7th District Chuck E. Heiney, Pace, FL Alternate Phil Condon, Ft. Riche, FL NEC 8th District Arthur J. Taylor, Clarksville, TNAlternate Carmen E. Cherry, Clarksville, TN * NEC 9th District Rodney S. Tucker, Lexington, NC Alternate Larry W. Walls, Sr., Goldsboro, NC NEC 10th District J. Dave Boozer, Adrian, MI Alternate David Van Hill, Flat Rock, MINEC 11th District Raymond Hutchinson, Hillsboro, OH AlternateJoseph Lenhart, Wapakoneth, OHNEC 12th District Mark Aaron, Chillicothe, IL Alternate Dennis Thompson, Alsip, IL NEC 13th District Steven D. Girdler, Independence, KY

Alternate Lee S. Ewing, Jeffersonville, IN NEC 14th District Van D. Karg, Dassel, MNAlternate Daniel Hill, Virginia, MN NEC 15th District Kristine S. Childers, Roca, NEAlternate David E. Bolton, Pleasant Hill, IA NEC 16th District Fred L. Powers, Bakersfield, CAAlternate Delphine Metcalf-Foster, Vallejo, CA NEC 17th District Jimmie Snider, Loveland, COAlternate Edwin G. Cooke, Bosque Farms, NM NEC 18th District Robert DiGirolamo, Phoenix, AZ Alternate Donnell H. Gentry, Peoria, AZNEC 19th District Lorren N. Davis, Meridian, IDAlternate Michael Smith, Greenleaf, IDNEC 20th District Vincent C. Morrison, Houston, TX Alternate Eldon Armstrong, Grand Prairie, TX NEC 21st District Irvin D. Eddy, Custer City, OK Alternate Timothy D. Hedgecock, Lawton, OK

From left to right, National Judge Advocate Michael E. Dobmeier, 4th Jr. Vice Commander Joseph W. Johnston, 1st Jr. Vice Commander Wallace E. Tyson, National Commander Roberto Barrera, 3rd Jr. Vice Commander Mary J. Bencivenga, 2nd Jr. Vice Commander Larry A. Polzin, 1st Jr. Vice Commander Donald L. Samuels and National Chaplain Dr. Charles W. Edwards, Jr.


Left to right, 4th Jr. Vice Commander Lee-Ann B. Karg, 1st Jr. Vice Commander Patrice Rapisand, 2nd Jr. Vice Commander Donna M. Adams, National Commander Kay Egan, 3rd Jr. Vice Commander Susan K. Miller, Sr. Vice Commander Susan M. Henry and Judge Advocate Carol A. Gray.

AUXILIARY NATIONAL OFFICERS 2009-2010

National Commander Kay Egan, Lehigh Acres, FL Sr. Vice Commander Susan M. Henry, Memphis, TN 1st Jr. Vice Commander Patrice Rapisand, Fort Worth, TX 2nd Jr. Vice Commander Donna M. Adams, Glendale, AZ 3rd Jr. Vice Commander Susan K. Miller, Las Animas, CO 4th Jr. Vice Commander LeeAnn B. Karg, Dassel, MN National Judge Advocate Carol A. Gray, Grand Rapids, MI National Chaplain Dorothea Campanelli, Brick, NJ Imm. Past National Commander Sandra J. Dobmeier, Grand Forks, ND

NEC 1st District Mary C. Bixby, Marshfield, MA Alternate Nancy O. Mooney, Athol, MA NEC 2nd District Frances J. Ortiz, Otisville, NY Alternate Diane Wisnesky, Constable, NY NEC 3rd District Aura-Lee Nicodemus, Enfield, NH Alternate Ann M. Schatz, Cumberland, RI NEC 4th District Doris Martelli, Twp. of Washington, NJ

Alternate Lelia E. White, Dover, DE NEC 5th District Suzanne M. Seyboldt, Erie, PA Alternate Loretta J. Nosko, Erie, PA NEC 6th District Barbara A. Forbes, Ft. Washington, MD Alternate Etter M. Bowers, Chesapeake, VA NEC 7th District Jean E. Sursely, Apopka, FL Alternate Debbera McLaughlin, Bradenton, FL NEC 8th District Janett E. Reece, Meridian, MS Alternate Juanita H. Upton, Mendenhall, MS NEC 9th District R. Renée Jones, Wilmington, NC Alternate Jane A. Troutman, Charlotte, NC NEC 10th District Alma Marie Veitenheimer-Taylor, Mears, MI Alternate Loraine M. Connelly, Livonia, MI NEC 11th District Marcella J. Brewster, Englewood, OH Alternate Dorothy Clark, Cincinnati, OH NEC 12th District Sandra Resner, Hanover Park, IL Alternate Carla Lee Reynolds, Mt. Zion, IL NEC 13th District Arveeda Y. Gordon, Radcliff, KY

Alternate Veronica L. Munley, Gracey, KY NEC 14th District Cheryl Lee Knispel, Rapid City, SD Alternate Joyce Jefferson, Rapid City, SD NEC 15th District Velma Lee Steinman, Jefferson City, MO Alternate Rebecca Bowman, Lincoln, NE NEC 16th District Leona M. Galloway, Moreno Valley, CA Alternate Josephine M. Benner, Stockton, CA NEC 17th District Susan Lee Dahlby, Casper, WY Alternate Ramona Ganong, Las Cruces, NM NEC 18th District Iris A. Brzezinski, N. Las Vegas, NV Alternate K. Louise Morris, Henderson, NV NEC 19th District Barbara S. Reding, Cocolalla, ID Alternate Velma J. Smith, Greenleaf, ID NEC 20th District Teresa M. Herrle, Seguin, TX Alternate Joyce E. Humes, San Antonio, TX NEC 21st District Linda F. Oliver, Coweta, OK Alternate Barbara (Sharon) Eddy, Clinton, OK

DAV MAGAZINE22

By Jim Hall

“Commander, you need to read this one to the Unit,” said Patri-

cia Kemper, Adjutant of Auxiliary Unit 19, Cold Spring, Ky., as she handed the letter to Jenni McBride at the April meeting.

Commander McBride read: “Dear Jenni: On behalf of the National Or-ganization of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary and its Past National Commanders, it is my pleasure to in-form you that you are the recipient of the Past National Commanders’ Award for …,” Jenni’s voice broke and tears filled her eyes. She took a couple of deep breaths and went on reading. The letter trembled in her hands. “…the Outstanding Auxiliary Member for 2009.”

The Unit members rose applauding as Jenni wiped tears from her cheeks. Among the members was her mother, Pat, beaming at the announcement.

Jenni received the highest individual Auxiliary award at the opening session of the DAV and Auxiliary National Con-vention in Denver on Aug. 22.

“It is such an honor to recognize Jenni McBride for her countless acts

of compassion, love, assistance and service to America’s disabled veterans and their families,” Auxiliary National Commander Sandra J. Dobmeier said. “This is a woman of courage, who has braved her own life-threatening challenges to emerge stronger still to dedicating herself to helping others.

“Jenni’s enthusiasm, optimism and dedication have impacted positively on so many in her community. A mother, spouse, successful career woman and active Auxiliary member, Jenni dem-onstrates daily the finest traits of our organization, and she does it selflessly and willingly for the benefit of others. For these reasons and much more, it is an honor to recognize her as the 2009 Outstanding Auxiliary Member.”

The Outstanding Auxiliary Member of the Year Award recognizes the dedication and contributions made by an Auxiliary member to enhance the goals of the organization and promote community service. Jenni has excelled at both. Her eligibility for Auxilary membership goes back several genera-tions to her Great-grandfather William H. Burris, a service-connected disabled veteran who served in World War I.

“It’s simply amazing to realize all

Jenni does,” according to Unit 19 mem-ber Carolyn Holbrook, who sponsored her for the award. Considering she is the mother of four children and grand-mother of two, and maintains a fulltime career as a purchaser with the Nielsen Company, an RR Donnelley Company, specializing in print and graphic com-munications. “But Jenni takes it all in stride.”

“Jenni works for the Auxiliary and DAV Chapter in any capacity she can,” Holbrook said. “It has been my pleasure to watch her grow from a young girl into the special woman she is today. She manages to fit more hours into a day than one would think possible.”

A junior and senior Auxiliary member for more than 29 years, Jenni is serving her third term as Unit Com-mander. In addition to serving in nearly all elected offices, she has chaired most Unit committees and currently serves as Junior Activities Chairman and Com-munity Service Chairman.

She is an aggressive legislative advocate who works continually to keep her Unit informed and active through a variety of sources, including the DAV’s Stand Up for Veterans Web site. Among her many other activities, she volunteers at the Parish Kitchen, a church sponsored meals program, and at the monthly Bingo at the VA medical center at Ft. Thomas, Ky. She helps at Forget-Me-Not drives and Military Ap-preciation Monday at the local Golden Corral restaurant. She also assists with fishing trips, Christmas shopping and other patient outings for disabled veterans. She also encourages youth participation and service through a va-

Jenni McBride Selected 2009 Outstanding Auxiliary Member


Past Auxiliary National Com-mander Linda Trulio presents the Outstanding Auxiliary Member of 2009 award to Jenni McBride of Auxiliary Unit 19, Cold Spring, Ky.

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Stay Connected

Because we need each other...You and the DAV Auxiliary

A veteran’s disability touches every aspect of your life. It’s the samewith us. That’s why we formed the Auxiliary. We know the families ofdisabled veterans need to stick together, because danger threatensthe benefits our families depend on.

As the number of veterans declines day by day, our families must pick upthe torch of justice. Our membership must be large enough to convinceCongress to respect surviving disabled vets and the survivors of disabledveterans who have passed away. Spouses, surviving spouses, parents,siblings, children, grandparents, grandchildren and great grandchildrenare all eligible for the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary.

Stand up for yourself, your veteran, and your family!Senior members – return the form below today with your $15 dues

Junior members – children 17 or under – $3NameDisabled vet’s nameVet’s code numberAddress(see address on back cover)

Send to: DAV Auxiliary, 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076Life Membership can save money over the years, covering all dues and fees for your lifetime.

Life dues are based on age: 18-30, $250; 31-45, $230; 46-60, $200; 61-70, $180;71-79, $140; 80 and over free. A down payment of $40 is all that is required to

start a life membership with three full membership years to pay it in full.

Imagine yourself on the banks of a very wide river. Someone on the other side needs you but

you don’t have a way to get there, no connection. This year you will hear me say, “Stay Connected,” not only because it is my theme, but because we need to stay connected with and for our veterans. We need to build bridges, not walls, to reach disabled veterans and their families who need our assistance.

As members of the Auxiliary, we know the im-portance of connection. It is the method we all use to stay in touch with each other, from Unit to Unit, from state to state. It is connection that makes us strong and able to work long hours for what we believe in. And we believe in building better lives for our disabled veterans and their families.

Our nation’s Founding Fathers knew how important connection was to their cause; their motto was “Unite or Die.” I encourage you to do the same. Work together to make your volunteer efforts do more for more disabled veterans. Make a connection with those caring for sick and disabled veterans so they can do things they usually don’t have time for, or just allow them to have some personal time.

One of the best ways to keep connected is to improve our communication skills. We are not mind readers and should not expect others to know what we are thinking or feeling. When necessary, we need to ask for help from the Chapter or Unit. Make the connection and work as a team. You may have a really good plan to help veterans but find it is too much for one person to do; so get connected to others to make your plan work. There is no limit to teamwork. Just stay connected for strength and unity.

Let’s not wait for someone who needs

our help to come to us. I believe we have an obli-gation to reach out to disabled veterans and their families. By being proactive and taking the initia-tive, we may well avert a crisis by intervening be-fore it becomes one. That is really being connected to those who need us. If we remain alert to what is going on around us and practice the principles of our organization, comradeship, loyalty, devotion and service, then we are truly connected, to our veterans and to each other.

I am deeply humbled and grateful that you have chosen me to serve as your National Commander. I look forward to the coming year and pledge to work to make our organization better connected and stronger than ever. We have achieved so much; let us move forward connected to each other, and to everyone eligible to join the ranks of the DAV and our Auxiliary.

Let’s stay connected today for a better to-morrow.

“Honoring the service and extraordinary sacrifice of those Americans held as prisoners of war and those

who have yet to be accounted for is just one way the DAV fulfills its mission to disabled veterans and their families,” said National Commander Roberto Barrera. “We must make sure that our nation does all in its power to repatriate the remains of those who died for our country and provide the fullest possible accounting of those who may never be recov-ered. It is our duty to our comrades and to their loved ones.”

National POW/MIA Recognition Day on Sept. 18 features a military band, an honor guard with members from each of the armed services and a special guest speaker. Many other such ceremonies are held throughout the nation as well.

“There are more than 84,000 American servicemembers missing since World War II,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. “And there are thousands of our comrades living today who were held as prisoners of war. So, it is fitting that they always be honored and remembered.”

For many of us, especially the families of those service-members who never came home, the POW/MIA flag serves as a constant reminder of their ser-vice and sacrifice. The flag, which constantly flies over DAV National Headquarters in Cold Spring, Ky., and National Service and Legislative Headquarters in Washington, D.C., was created in the early 1970s. By Aug. 10, 1990, it was recognized by Congress as “the symbol of our nation’s concern and commitment to resolving as fully as possible the fates of Americans still prisoner, missing and unaccounted for in Southeast Asia, thus ending the uncertainty for their families and the nation.”

Today the POW-MIA flag flies at the Capitol and White House, at war memorials, every national cemetery, government buildings, military instal-

lations, every VA medical center and all post offices. It has become a constant reminder that tens of thousands of Americans who served and sacrificed never returned home, but they are remembered.

The design for a banner honoring POWs and MIAs came from Newt Heisley, a World War II pilot employed by a New York City advertising agency. The National League of Families of American Prisoners, Missing in Southeast Asia, had come to the agency where he worked for a design of a standard to remind America of those servicemembers who were missing.

Heisley took it as a personal challenge, partly because his oldest son, Jeffrey, had become ill while training in the U.S. Marine Corps for duty in Vietnam. When Jeffrey returned home after a medical discharge, he was emaciated by his illness. His father, shocked by Jeffrey’s gaunt physi-cal appearance, began to sketch his son’s silhouette profile with a pencil. Barbed wire, a guard tower and Jeffrey’s profile became the center of the flag. He used the tragedy of his son to remind everyone of the tragedy of those who had served and were left behind but never forgotten.

Presented in black and white, Newt Heisley had planned to add color later, but the stark contrast and bleakness of the flag was accepted as the final design. He had intended the flag to be a deep purple and white, and later color flags were created, including red and white, but it is the black and white design that was most com-monly used.

Sadly, on this POW-MIA Day, Newt Heisley will not attend any special commemorations as he has in the past. Retired to Colorado Springs, Colo., he died at home on May 14, 2009. He was 88.

“His flag design was never copy-righted and belongs to the people of our nation,” said Adjutant Wilson. “It is a haunting design that tells us that 84,000 Americans never came home from war and those taken prisoners have lived altered lives because of their sacrifices as prisoners of war.”

“Part of the DAV’s mission is the fullest possible accounting of those missing in action from all of our wars, including those who disap-peared in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Wilson.

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Never Let Them Be

Forgotten

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Sgt. Bobby Lisek recalls very little about Dec. 11, 2004, the

day in Iraq’s notorious Sadr City that changed his life.

“I got blown up, that’s all I really remember. And that it was my best friend James’ birthday. He was in the school we’d taken over from the insurgents. I told him I had to go. I said happy birthday and I could tell by the look on his face that he knew I wasn’t coming back,” recalls the medically retired Army infantryman.

Lisek and his fellow soldiers were in the back of a Bradley fighting vehicle when an improvised landmine was detonated. “The ramp wouldn’t come down in the back of the vehicle. They were shooting at us as it burned. My fellow soldiers saved my life that day,” says Bobby.

The explosion that destroyed the vehicle, buckling the floors and splitting through armor-grade steel, cost Lisek his left leg above the knee. His face was broken in six places, and his sinuses were severely damaged. Most criti-cally, he’d suffered one of the most common injuries of the war, brain trauma. As he and others lay injured, his fellow troops set up a defense against an enemy ambush.

Bobby’s’ family met him in Germany when he was still barely clinging to life. His parents put their lives on hold

and nearly faced financial ruin to be with their severely injured son through his recovery. His survival, he believed, and the sacrifices his fellow soldiers and

family made on his behalf would mean little if he couldn’t find a way to truly live again.

It was while recovering from his inju-ries that Bobby met Mary, who later

became his wife. She was a dental technician on the reconstructive

team that was putting his face back together again. After months of being asked, she

agreed to date him. They fell in love, mar-

ried and started their family with daughter

Gracie Leigh.Bobby is commit-

ted to his recovery and his wife and daughter. He refuses pain medica-tion for fear of becoming addicted. He struggles daily both to overcome the challenges his wounds have caused and to make the most of the life that was saved by his fellow sol-diers on that December day in 2004.

While Bobby’s injuries have taken him out of the fight, he still

takes up for his fellow soldiers and their families whenever possible.

“There is a world of unanswered needs of the people who were injured in Iraq, Afghanistan and past wars and for their families who are the unsung heroes who pay the prices for these wars,” Bobby says. “We owe it to the people sacrificing in these wars to do everything we can for our veterans and their families.”

That’s why Bobby stands behind the DAV Charitable Service Trust. By giving through workplace campaigns including the Combined Federal Campaign, donors are able to support a variety of programs that help veterans like Bobby receive adaptive care, transition assistance and services for spouses and family care providers.

DAV Charitable Service Trust grants help make possible a wide range of services and research to improve care for veterans suffering from physical and psychological trauma related to their wartime service. The Trust provides needed funding for initiatives that support veterans with traumatic brain injuries and forms a safety net for veterans who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

Initiatives to help veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, rehabilitative therapy, family assistance, prosthet-ics research and a wide array of services and programs are supported through the Trust. The programs aid wounded warriors who are returning home and support the families of those living and departed. The Trust provides a lifeline to veterans and their loved ones.

“I am doing better all the time. But I worry about the guys who are coming back and hope people aren’t already forgetting about what they did for all of us,” says Bobby. “Freedom really isn’t free. These men and women deserve our thanks. And when people support the DAV Charitable Service Trust, they’re giving these guys and their families the chance to make the most out of their lives.”

Honoring Sacrifices Through Service

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calls from veterans who were becom-ing sick from what appears to be expo-sure to dangerous toxins produced by burn pits used to destroy waste. Then widows called, telling us their spouses had died of illnesses doctors suspected were caused by the burn pits’ fumes. The ailments ranged from tumors to leukemia to Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Symptoms included chronic sinus problems, headaches and respiratory problems. Some suffered strokes, heart problems and collapsed lungs.

So far, the Department of Defense has denied that burn pits pose any long-term health risks. Of course, Agent Orange and Persian Gulf Illness have taught us that we must be vigilant in monitoring and treating our veterans long after they have returned from the battlefield.

We now have more than 400 veter-ans in our database believed to be vic-tims of those burn pits. We are going to continue to closely watch this and work with lawmakers as this develops.

In June, the House passed a DAV-endorsed provision in its version of the 2010 defense authorization bill that would prohibit open-air burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan from operating for longer than 12 months. It would re-quire the Pentagon to study safer ways to dispose of waste and report back to Congress with the study’s results.

Also, we are well prepared to take on one of the most important issues for veterans: the benefits claims process. The current system is outdated, over-whelmed and simply inadequate for the rapidly increasing number of claims coming in. There are too many anti-quated processes and restrictions now.

As the claims backlog approaches one million, we are putting the finish-

ing touches on a comprehensive plan to overhaul the system. This proposal is detailed in an article on page 14 of this issue. It will impact all veterans, their spouses and survivors, not just the ones recently discharged from the military.

With what we are calling the 21st Century Claims Process, the VA will be able to provide smooth, timely and ac-curate decisions. The changes will be significant and require several pieces of legislation. We will need your help.

Thank you for standing up for veter-ans. Your dedicated work has paid off. But, as is often the case, there is more important work ahead. Again, please join us online for the Virtual March on Washington for Veterans. All these issues will be addressed in the march, but the claims process will be the top headline. In fact, some might dub it the “Million Claims March” before it is over.

Making History(Continued from page 16)

Veterans Treated on Memorial Day...National Commander Raymond E. Dempsey, left, and Washington Headquarters Executive Director David W. Gorman, center, were among hundreds of veterans and active military who enjoyed a free meal during Memorial Day weekend at Bobby Van’s Steakhouse in Washington, D.C., courtesy of restaurant owner Joe Hickey, right.

Wisconsin DAV Honors Rep. Obey...On Aug. 4, the Department of Wisconsin honored U.S. Rep. David Obey (D-Wisc.) for his work on behalf of disabled veterans with a Certificate of Commenda-tion for his “skill and leadership in crafting VA funding legislation, making veterans a priority.” Before a group of about 50 DAV members and their friends, Department Commander Holly Hoppe, right, pre-sented the certificate to Rep. Obey, who is chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Also attend-ing the ceremony at the Public Library in Marshfield, Wisc., were Past Department Commander Roger Dorman, Senior Vice Commander John Hoeft, Junior Vice Commander K.C. Johnson, State Judge Advocate Al Labelle and State Treasurer and a Past National Commander Richard E. Marbes.

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Past Auxiliary Commander Bonita Newell Dies

n Auxiliary Past National Commander Bonita H. “Bonnie” Newell, 86, died in Colorado on July 1.

“Bonnie was an exemplary leader,” Auxiliary National Adjutant Judy Hezlep said. “She led our Auxiliary with limitless dedication, empathy and compassion. Dur-ing her term as National Commander and more than half a century as an Auxiliary member, Bonnie was always centered on providing the finest assistance possible to

disabled veterans and their families.“Though we are saddened at Bonnie’s

passing, we are happy to have known her and we are a better organization because of her efforts.”

Past National Commander Newell was a life member of Auxiliary Unit 22, Wheatridge, Colo. She became active in the DAV and Auxiliary through her late husband, Percy, a member of Chapter 22. She held nearly all Unit, Department and National elected and appointed offices, including Unit Commander; Department Commander and Adjutant, and was elected

Auxiliary National Commander in 1993.Ms. Newell is survived by four chil-

dren, seven grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.

Bonita H. “Bonnie” Newell

What Is a Winner?

Winners don’t give up. When life gets rough they hang in until the going gets better.

Winners are flexible. They realize there is more than one way and they are willing to try others.

Winners know they are not perfect. They respect their weaknesses while making the most of their strengths.

Winners fall, but they don’t stay down. They stubbornly refuse to let a fall keep them from climbing.

Winners don’t blame fate for their failures, nor luck for their successes.

Winners accept responsibility for their lives.

Winners are positive thinkers who see good in all things. From the ordinary, they make the extraordinary.

Winners believe in the path they have chosen even when it is hard, when others can’t see where they are going.

Winners are patient. They know a goal is only as worthy as the effort that’s required to achieve it.

Winners are people like you — our Disabled American Veterans.

All of you make the world a better place to be.

DAV MAGAZINE28

Convention(Continued from page 17)

Diane Musselmann, who was ap-pointed to the Disabled Veterans LIFE Memorial Foundation Board of Direc-tors to replace her late husband, Past National Commander Kenneth Mussel-mann, told convention delegates that veterans rights were a passion she and her husband shared. “The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will soon be built in Washington, D.C., and forever serve as a memorial for disabled veterans,” she said.

Ford Motor Company Fund President Jim Vella presented to DAV a $200,000 donation to purchase nine new vans for the Transportation Network and $25,000 for the Jesse Brown Memo-rial Youth Scholarship Program. The aggregate donations by Ford since 1996 have purchased 141 vans for the Transportation Network and funded 113 Jesse Brown scholarships.

Triple amputee Dale Wilson, the Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year, told the convention he was “one of the most blessed men in the room and this country” when he accepted the DAV award. “I am truly honored and proud to stand in front of you today.”(See page 5.)

Chris Vanderveen, a reporter at KUSA-TV in Denver, received the 2009 Bugle Award for his outstanding coverage of disabled veterans and

their families, Jenny McBride received the DAV Auxiliary Past National Commander’s Outstanding Auxiliary member of the Year, Salvator Uccello of Greenacres, Fla., and Katie Critz of Dallas, Texas, were presented the George H. Seal Memorial Awards for outstanding volunteerism, and Jamal Childs of Washington, D.C., received the top Jesse Brown Memorial Youth Scholarship. (See page 19.)

VA Employee awards were also pre-sented to the 2009 Outstanding Veter-ans Benefits Administration Employee Cynthia East, a Benefits Delivery at Discharge office supervisor at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Clifford McGlotten, the senior veterans health care liaison at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, received the Outstand-ing Veterans Health Administration employee award and the Award for Outstanding Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administra-tion employee was presented to Mary Jones, the cemetery representative at the Los Angeles National Cemetery. (See page 18.)

A variety of informative seminars on veterans issues were conducted between the business sessions to give delegates the latest updates on service, legislation, voluntary services and other programs.

The Benefits Protection Team and Legislative Workshop included up-to-

date briefings on the Stand Up for Veterans Initiative urging Con-gress to ensure that VA has the resources, programs and services required to provide comprehensive health care and benefits to disabled veterans. The workshop focused on pending legislation aimed at improving mental health services,

treatment for traumatic brain injury, women veterans health care, support for family caregivers and veterans health care budget reform

The Service and Legislative Seminar featured officials from the VA and key staff members of the House and Sen-ate Veterans’ Affairs Committee who responded to questions regarding all aspects of VA benefits and services.

The Voluntary Services Seminar reviewed DAV’s programs of recruiting and retaining new volunteers, plus a review of recruiting strategies and tac-tics. The seminar also featured details of a DAV/VA Call Center, which has had tremendous impact in Long Island and other parts of New York.

Other seminars featured issues af-fecting women veterans, POW/MIAs, Membership and Communications.

National Convention delegates were also treated to entertainment events including the National Commander’s reception, Fun Night with Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band and the introduc-tion of National Officers, featuring dinner and dancing.

As the delegates and guests departed Denver, they carried home with them a clear perspective of what lies ahead for DAV members. The organization will face new challenges in health care and veterans’ benefits. But armed with vital information and renewed commitment to our purpose, the grassroots efforts of DAV members remain the strongest of all veterans service organizations.

On the horizon is the 89th National Convention in Atlanta beginning July 31, 2010, where members and leader-ship will again reassess the strategy and goals, the successes and needs of veterans. The curtain of the first decade of the century came down in Denver, but the needs of our na-tion’s disabled veterans their families remain center stage. The end of the 88th National Convention was just the beginning of the future.

Department of Defense POW/MIA Office Acting Director Chuck Henley, addreses the delegates and guests at the POW/MIA seminar.


Left, Past National Commander Lyle Pearson and then National Com-mander Raymond Dempsey share a moment in Denver. Right, LeMans driver Jason Carter brought his Porsche race car to Denver to tell delegates about his "Racing for Our Heroes" program.

Above, Mike Walcoff, VA Deputy Undersec-retary for Benefits (with glasses) and Gerald Cross, Acting Under Secretary for Health, addresses the crowd during the Service and Legislative Seminar. Above right, delegates enjoy Denver's 16th Street Mall.

Left, National Headquarters Executive Director Richard E. Patterson updates the Board of Directors on DAV’s fundraising activities and finances. Above, "Elvis," chan-neled by NSO Shane Liermann, entertains admirers.

DAV MAGAZINE3030

DAV this year. We have seen a new generation of disabled veterans joining our ranks and moving into leadership posi-tions at all levels.

And speaking of membership, I would like to thank all of our remarkable membership recruiters, including our National Service Officers and Transition Service Officers, for their excellent dedication which continues the growth of the DAV and helps to ensure that we reach our stated goals.

Many new members are entering our National Service Officer corps, and several have joined our Headquarters staffs. They are highly trained and extremely motivated. They bring a new energy and renewed strength to the DAV that will last well into the 21st century.

While our organization continues to attract new members, we have sadly witnessed a steep decline in the number of World War II members. But, we have seen an increase in Vietnam veterans and those who served in more recent wars. Many of them served in the modern era and during Desert Storm and are bringing new vitality to our organization.

Our primary mission of service has been excellent. We represented nearly one quarter of a million veterans and their families in their claims for benefits last year, obtaining for them over $3 billion in new and retroactive benefits.

We provide great services at the Board of Veterans Ap-peals and the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. We have represented more than 27 percent of all cases decided by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals in 2008.

We also implemented a long-anticipated plan to utilize the services of carefully selected law firms to provide free representation to some DAV clients at the veterans’ court. Nearly 200 veterans received that free representation before the court in 2008, and we expect the number of veterans receiving representation before the court will increase sub-stantially in future years.

Our record is based on service, and our reputation of service continues to grow as we reach out to communities across our nation. As evidence, this year we are replacing our Mobile Service Offices with 10 new vehicles.

And I especially want to recognize all of our dedicated volunteers who last year donated 2.3 million hours of their own time to help their fellow sick and disabled veterans. That is an amazing record of service, and I thank you all for what you do every day.

That is just a glimpse at some of the things that set us apart from other service organizations. But what really

distinguishes DAV is our commitment to direct service and advocacy for those who have given so much for our nation.

And while I’m on the subject of advocacy and commit-ment, the leadership of National Commander Raymond Dempsey has been inspiring. He has moved our organiza-tion forward with his skill and intellect. His compassion for disabled veterans has been a standard of his service.

Executive Directors, Rick Patterson in Cold Spring, Ky., and Dave Gorman in Washington, D.C., have provided un-paralleled leadership to meet the needs of those we serve. They are two of the finest professionals that one could find anywhere, and I would match them up against any executive in either the corporate or not-for-profit world. Supported by their highly professional staffs, our mission and goals are fulfilled day in and day out.

I want to especially thank our dedicated National Service Officers who carry out our mission of service. They along with our Department and Chapter Service Officers and Transition Service Officers make sure our disabled veterans receive the care and support that they have earned on the battlefield. I also want to offer my sincere thanks to our support staffs at our headquarters offices and our offices all around the country.

Of course, special thanks go to all of our employees, some 650 in all, who do such a fine job every day supporting those who have served and sacrificed to protect our freedoms.

I also want to thank the Auxiliary for all its support. From our volunteer programs to our legislative grassroots efforts and in communities across the country, the Auxiliary is always there for our disabled veterans and their families.

Moreover, I especially want to express my deep gratitude to all of you, our members, who are our greatest asset. Thank you again for your continued commitment and dedication to serving this nation’s disabled veterans.

We must also remember the loyal and dedicated Ameri-cans who support us and who encourage us to continue our mission of service. Throughout this difficult year the DAV has set new standards of excellence and quality in service.

We are clearly the best, because we continue to give our best to all those we serve. We are pledged to a mission of service.

With the election of National Commander Roberto Bar-rera and his excellent lineup of National Officers, we open a new chapter in the DAV’s long and distinguished history of service to those who have given so much of themselves for our nation. Your staff and I look forward to working with them in the coming year in fulfilling our mission.

National Adjutant(Continued from page 3)


Outstanding Auxiliary(Continued from page 22)

riety of projects and activities designed to instill the values of generosity and compassion in children.

Jenni also assists with the annual Special Olympics pairing up with participants, even doing some cheerleading during

the competitions, and has pitched in to help construct two homes as a Habitat for Humanity volunteer. She served as a Girl Scout and Boy Scout Leader and, on another occa-sion, helped a young man arrange for the funeral and burial services of his deceased mother. These ac-tivities and many others make Jenni a truly remarkable person.

Just after the birth of her fourth child, Jenni was diag-nosed with breast cancer, which she battled with courage,

optimism and dignity. She has now been cancer-free for more than three years. Her experience with the disease has led her to counsel other breast cancer patients. She also participates in a variety of breast cancer fundraising and awareness activities.

“I was so honored when I read that I had been chosen as the Outstanding Auxiliary Member,” Jenni said. “I was a little in shock and cried when I realized it.”

“I always wanted to go to a National Convention, and to go for this award was just amazing, but it was more, much more than that,” Jenni said. “I am so fortunate to be among a group of people honored for what they do to help others, people I have read about and admired for years. It is such an honor to join them.”

For all she enthusiastically does to help build better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families, Jenni has earned her place among those she so respects. No wonder Jenni McBride is the Outstanding Auxiliary Member of the Year for 2009.

DAV life member Tim Bever poses next to his new truck with Don

Beyerle, Jr. of McDonald Ford in Freeland, Mich. Bever, a disabled Navy veteran, recently wrote the DAV to recognize Ford’s participation in DAV’s member benefits program.

In purchasing his truck, he received X-Plan pricing. “I recently purchased a Ford truck and was astounded that Ford was able to add an additional discount on top of the other incen-tives just because I am a member of the DAV,” said Bever. “In this

horrendous economy, it is simply amazing that Ford can continue to do us this service.” Bever serves on the Department of Michigan’s administrative board and travels extensively through his full-time job with the state.

Membership Benefit Makes Michigan Disabled Veteran a Big Wheel

During World War II, Hap’s destroyer escort, the USS England, was hit by a kamikaze. He suffered numerous injuries but survived; 37 of his shipmates were not as fortunate. To learn more about Hap’s war experiences, and how gift annuities help him and Jackie financially, see the article on the next page.

Receive Generous Fixed Income for Life While You Help Disabled Veterans!

Does the financial market have you worried? Many of our members are turning to Charitable Gift Annuities to increase theirincome. With your gift to us of $5,000 or more, you can receive guaranteed fixed payments for life and enjoy significant tax benefits.

Gift Annuity Benefits: • Generous fixed payments for life, partly tax-free

• Charitable income tax deduction

• DAV Guardian Society recognition for your generosity.

“We like to share the veteran benefits we have received and help other veterans who are in need. Our gift annuities help us do that. The bonus for us is the steady, fixed income we know we can count on, and the tax breaks.”

Lee G. “Hap” and Jackie Johnson, Somerset, KY

For a personalized illustration of benefits specific to your ages, call Judie or Kati at 1-800-216-9802 (press 1), or return attached postcard.

E-mail: [email protected] • Web site: www.dav.org/giftplanning

Ask for the rate for your own ages! (Minimum annuity: $5,000; Minimum age: 60) Annual income can be divided into monthly or quarterly payments, by check or direct deposit.

Sample Rates and IncomeSample gift: $10,000

Rates are available for every age and age combination — just ask!

One Life (You Alone) Two Lives (You then a Survivor) Age Rate Income/Year Ages Rate Income/Year

60 5.0% $500 60 & 62 4.7% $470 65 5.3% $530 65 & 67 5.0% $500 70 5.7% $570 70 & 72 5.3% $530 75 6.3% $630 75 & 77 5.7% $570 80 7.1% $710 80 & 82 6.3% $630 85 8.1% $810 85 & 87 7.2% $720 90+ 9.5% $950 90 & 92 8.6% $860

Charitable Gift Annuities


In the early evening of May 9, 1945, Lee G. “Hap” Johnson

was manning an anti-aircraft gun on the destroyer escort USS England off the coast of Okinawa when a Japanese kamikaze tor-pedo bomber struck the ship.

Of the five men in Hap’s gun crew, he was the only one to survive — despite a severe shrapnel injury to his leg. After the aircraft struck the ship, a 500-pound bomb exploded, leaving Hap and 34 other sailors trapped by a wall of fire.

Wounded but conscious, two of Johnson’s shipmates held him in their arms. “My leg was shattered by shrapnel. One of the guys got on one side of me, one on the other, and we three went overboard together,” Johnson recalls.

Hap, who was with the ship when it was commissioned, was among the 24 who survived after entering the water. Following the attack, the disabled ship pulled away from its orphaned crewmen. If not for a nearby minesweeper that observed the attack, the remaining sailors surely would have perished.

“I lost many close friends that day — probably 10 of the guys I knew really well. I was on a 20 mm anti-aircraft gun. There were five on my gun, and I was the only survivor,” says Johnson. “I remember one of the guys standing over me after the explosion. He was bleeding and talking to me. He died that night.”

Having grown up in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, Johnson returned home in the summer of 1946 and used his G.I. benefits to earn a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees.

He went to work as a teacher, quickly rising to become a principal and district administrator. Johnson married the love of his life, Jackie, and they taught together and made the most of their peacetime lives.

Still, rarely did a day go by when Hap Johnson didn’t think of that evening in 1945 off the coast of Okinawa. He never talked about it, but it was always in the back of his mind.

He joined the DAV in 1971 and later retired from teach-ing. With more free time, he was able to attend the ship’s reunions and get involved in veterans groups. When he met former shipmates, he felt like he could finally talk about his memories from that fateful day. It was a relief, and he felt like

he was part of a community again. He also had his benefits reviewed

by DAV National Service Officer Donny Blevins, who was able to significantly improve his rating and give the couple more security.

As the Johnsons looked forward to their financial future, Hap want-ed to ensure Jackie had a steady

source of income for the rest of her life. He also wanted to support an organization that served veterans.

“I looked around quite a lot before I made a decision. The DAV was there for me, and I know they do a great deal for veterans everywhere,” said Hap. “We don’t have any children or grandchildren. A gift annuity is a tax-deferred way to ensure an income for Jackie for the rest of her life. It’s also a way we can support a charity we believe in.”

Between the DAV’s service programs and the Transporta-tion Network that helps veterans in their community make it to VA appointments in Lexington, Hap and Jackie felt a gift annuity would provide a lasting legacy of support for veterans and their families. Their investment is already pay-ing dividends for the couple and the DAV.

“Hap Johnson is one of those uncommonly inspiring stories to come out of the Greatest Generation,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson. “Nearly 65 years after his friends saved his life, Hap is return-ing the favor and reaching out to be a lifeline to his fellow veterans in need. We thank him and Jackie for their support and all veterans who participate in this unique program.”

For more information on DAV Charitable Gift Annuities, or for a personalized illustra-tion of age-specific benefits, call Judie or

Kati at 1-800-216-9802, then press 1, or e-mail [email protected].

Ship Attack Survivor Honors Fellow Veterans

USS England off the Philadelphia Navy Yard, July 1945.

National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson with Hap and Jackie Johnson.

DAV MAGAZINE34

Reunions - Because of increasing

number of requests and the space limi-

tations of our magazine, we must limit

publications of unit reunions to one

time only. Send such notices at least

six months in advance to: Reunions,

DAV Magazine, P.O. Box 14301, Cincin-

nati, OH 45250-0301. Thank you...the

Editors.

Inquiries - This column is for inquiries submitted to DAV members and other interested persons attempting to locate persons to substantiate a claim for service-connected injuries. Your request will be processed through various means in an effort to find the person you are attempting to locate. Requests to locate persons will be published if all other attempts have

failed. Thank you...the Editors.

ARMY“B” CO. 4/3 11th LIB - October 16-18, 2009, St. Louis, Missouri, James Depew, Phone: (513) 755-3955; Email: [email protected] ARMORED DIVISION - October 7-11, 2009, Memphis, Tennessee, Jerry Shiles, Phone: (405) 480-6692; Email: [email protected] ARMORED DIVISION - September 9-13, 2009, Green Bay, Wisconsin, Howard H. Kiehne, Phone: (608) 785-1931.32nd INFANTRY REGIMENT ASSN., “THE QUEEN’S OWN” – September 30-October 3, 2009, Columbus, Georgia, Helen Dyckson, Phone: (727) 697-2135, Email: [email protected] COMBAT AVIATION BATTALION (LTN) - September 17-20, 2009, Kona, Hawaii, Rance Pinao, Phone: (808) 322-6669; Email: [email protected] MILITARY POLICE COMPANY - September 11-12, 2009, Ft. Huachuca, Arizona, B. J. Searcy, Phone: (520) 456-1229; Email: [email protected] AIRBORNE/507TH PARACHUTE INFAN-TRY REGIMENT - October 21-25, 2009, Columbus, Georgia, Candy Newton, Phone: (770) 713-1708; Email: [email protected] CO, 1st BATTALION, 18th INF. VANGUARDS, 1st INFANTRY DIV. - September 8-13, 2009, Chattanooga, Tennessee, C. P. Pedersen, Phone: (715) 462-4125; Email: [email protected] OF THE BULGE - FLORIDA CHAPTER #62 - Sunday, December 13, 2009, West Palm Beach, Florida, George Fisher, Phone: (561) 585-7086; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.VBOB62.com.KOREAN WAR VETERANS REUNION - Septem-ber 23-27, 2009, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Charles or Judy Egresitz, Phone: (717) 652-4088; Email: [email protected] GRADUATES FROM FT. BENNING, GEORGIA - October 1-4, 2009, Columbus, Georgia, Scott Guptill, Phone: (503) 464-8554; Email: [email protected].

MARINES“UTTER’S BATTALION” 2/7 REUNION, 2ND BATTALION 7TH MARINES (1965-66) VIET-NAM - September 22-25, 2009, San Diego, Cali-fornia, Robert Gallaher, Phone: (615) 360-7927; Email: [email protected] BATTALION 7th MARINES, H & S COM-PANY, CAMP SUKIRAN IN OKINAWA, JAPAN - October 4-8, 2009, Branson, Missouri, John T. Ward, Phone: (412) 371-3639.2nd BATTALION 9th MARINES - Nov. 9-11, 2009, Washington, D.C., Gabe Coronado, Phone: (810) 987-4038; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.2ndbattalion9thmarines.org.F/2/7 KOREA 1950-53 - November 11-14, 2009, San Antonio, Texas, Fidel Gomez, Phone: (210) 923-7497.FOX-2-5 1st MARINE DIVISION KOREA - Oc-tober 7-10, 2009, Quantico, Virginia, Arle Hensley, Phone: (423) 245-2047; Email: [email protected].

NAVYUSS BENHAM (DD-796) - November 3-7, 2009, Charleston, South Carolina, Jim Buclous, Phone: (724) 375-1946; Email: [email protected] BRYCE CANYON (AO-36) - October 8-11, 2009, Norfolk, Virginia, Mike Nesbit, Phone: (619) 562-5690; Email: [email protected] CALVERT (APA-32) - Sept. 17-20, 2009, Kan-sas City, Missouri, John Cole, (507) 789-6344.USS CLEVELAND (LPD-7) – Oct. 5-9, 2009, 4-Day Cruise, San Diego, California, Vic Griguoli, Phone: (732) 424-6417, Email: [email protected] COLUMBIA (CL-56) – October 14-17, 2009, Columbia, South Carolina, Bill Bohne’, Phone: (610) 543-9073, Email: [email protected] LOS ANGELES (CA-135) - October 6-8, 2009, St. Louis, Missouri, Gerry Huck, Phone: (618) 939-5906; Email: [email protected] MCKEE (AS-41) - September 10-13, 2009, San Diego, California, Kenneth Hoss, Phone: (682) 472-4790; Email: [email protected] MONTRAIL (APA-213) - October 5-8, 2009, Nashville, Tennessee, Don DiCoio, Phone: (973) 696-3725; Email: [email protected] RENVILLE (APA-227) - October 21-25, 2009, Charleston, South Carolina, Lynda Rumple, Phone: (704) 906-7622; Email: [email protected] SALEM (CA-139) - September 28-October 1, 2009, Branson, Missouri, Eileen Daniels, Phone: (352) 326-5377; Email: [email protected] SARATOGA (CV-3, CVA/CA-60) - October 8-11, 2009, Branson, Missouri, Harvey A. Hirsch, Jr., Phone: (877) 360-7272.USS SICILY (CVE-118, VS-20, VS-931, VMF-214 & VMF-323 JOINT REUNION) - October 1-4, 2009, Chicago, Illinois, J. Robert Wagner, Phone: (610) 277-4374; Email: [email protected].

AIR FORCE307th BOMB WING B-47/KC-97 ASSOCIA-TION (LINCOLN AFB, NE 1954-1966) - June 14-19, 2010, Dayton, Ohio, Mike Gingrich, (937) 426-5675; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.307thbwassoc.org.450th BOMB GROUP (H) WWII - October 7-11, 2009, Kansas City, Missouri, Al Goodman, Phone: (847) 543-8381.BUNKER HILL A.F.B., 45TH MMS, 1960-1970 - October 17-18, 2009, Peru, Indiana, Rich Hoff-man, Phone: (219) 374-9264.DONALDSON AIR FORCE BASE REUNION – May 14-17, 2010, Greenville, South Carolina, Shirley Holmquist, Phone: (864) 226-6869, Email: [email protected] AIR FORCE BASE REUNION - October 9-11, 2009, Big Spring, Texas, Meghan Bias, Phone: (432) 264-1999; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.hangar25airmuseum.com.

ALL SERVICESCAMP BRECKINRIDGE REUNION 2009 - October 5-7, 2009, Morganfield, Kentucky, Vicki Ricketts, Phone: (270) 389-4420; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.breckinridge-arts.org.

INQUIRIES• Searching for all Marines who were stationed with me at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina 1973-1976, Co. C 1st BN, 2nd Mar. 2nd Mar. Div. (Rein). Please contact Rafael Moreno, 2119 Bivens Brook, Houston, Texas 77067, Phone: (281) 272-0690 or (281) 684-4948.• Searching for all veterans who served at Bien Hoa, Vietnam in early 1966. Please contact John Little, 240 W. Baseline Road, #80, Mesa, Arizona 85210, Email: [email protected]. • Searching for any Marine who served with me during 1965-1966 as part of India Co., 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, in Operation Starlight. Please contact Soilo Munoz, 3906 Meadow Ridge, San Antonio, Texas 78210, Phone: (210) 534-4669, Email: Ajmal-varado@gmail.• Searching for anyone that served with 45th Surgical Hospital, Tay Ninh, Vietnam from late 1966 to 1967. Please contact Roberto Martinez, 3500 Bacardi Drive, Pharr, Texas 78577.• Searching for anyone who served in the Army with the 61st MP Company at Fliegerhorst Kaserne outside Havau, Germany from 1978-1981. Please contact Greg Hurley, P.O. Box 402, Science Hill, Kentucky 42553.

Disabled American Veterans National HeadquartersUnaudited Statement of Financial Position • June 30, 2009

Unrestricted AssetsCurrent AssetsInvestments, at MarketLand, Buildings and Equipment,

Net of DepreciationOther Assets

Total Unrestricted Assets

Life Membership AssetsCurrent AssetsInvestments, at Market

Total Life Membership Assets

$ 26,125,609243,229,91311,215,0998,777,166

39,900

$ 278,132,688

$ 5,501,08245,449,005

$ 50,950,087

$ 68,952,29468,952,294

209,180,394209,180,394

278,132,688$

$-

$

245,265

50,704,822

50,950,087

Unrestricted LiabilitiesCurrent Liabilities

Total Liabilities

Unrestricted Net AssetsGeneral and Net Assets

Designated by the NationalBoard of Directors

Total Unrestricted Net AssetsTotal Liabilities and

Unrestricted Net Assets

Life Membership LiabilitiesCurrent LiabilitiesReserve for Future Distribution

of Life Membership Dues

Total Life Membership Liabilitiesand Reserve for Future Distributionof Life Membership Dues


National Commander(Continued from page 1)

wisdom, I dealt with it. And along the way, I discovered my other family — the DAV.

In the DAV I discovered a family of disabled veterans who, through friendship, compassion and mutual support, are dedicated to a single purpose: building better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families.

This visionary mission is carried out through our core values of service, quality, integrity and leadership. With our mission and values so well-defined, we seek nothing more than that which we have earned through our ser-vice and sacrifice to this great nation, and we will accept nothing less.

We are our brother’s and our sister’s keeper. Together we have a strong and vital role to educate and advocate

on behalf of all disabled veterans.It is also our charge to locate, gather and welcome all

disabled veterans into our organization. Right now we have more than 1.2 million members.

Like all of you, I am proud to say more than 800,000 of our members are full-paid life members. And I can think of no more worthy endeavor than to make a life-long commitment to our mission. Our solidarity is a light that can be seen all across the nation, from the town hall to the halls of Congress.

Membership strength must always be a priority. And you and I have an obligation to convince those who remain part-life members and those with a trial member-ship to become full-paid life members.

We must also reach out to the remaining two million disabled veterans who are eligible for membership and educate them about the DAV. I truly believe they will want to join us when they learn more about who we are

Past National Commander Kenneth G. Musselmann, 62,

died surrounded by family on May 7 at home in Rossmoor, Calif.

Musselmann was elected National Commander in 1986 at the organization’s National Convention in Reno, Nev. He held all elected officer positions in the Department of California.

His rise to national prominence began in 1981 when he was named National Chief of Staff. He was instrumental in the establishment of the DAV Transportation Network and Hospital Service Coordinator Program.

In 1989, he was appointed Department Adjutant and led the DAV’s largest state organization through

his retirement in June 2008. He was named to the Disabled Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Founda-tion’s Board of Directors in 1998.

“Ken Musselmann was an institution in the DAV, and he leaves a legacy of advocacy and service that will live on long after his passing,” said National Com-mander Roberto Barrera. “He was a friend and mentor to countless veterans, and his leadership and presence will be missed by all.”

Musselmann was serving in the U.S. Army’s Americal Divi-sion in Vietnam when he lost both legs as a result of a landmine explosion and gunshot wounds. He was a life member of Chapter 19 in Lakewood, Calif. Throughout his life,

he received numerous honors for service at the state and national level.

“Leaders like Ken Musselmann cannot be replaced. However, through years of mentorship and selflessness, the indelible mark he has made in our lives and on our organization will benefit future generations of veterans,” said National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson.

Musselmann is survived by his wife Diane; mother Ruth Burrill; children Matthew and Kenna Richey; son-in-law Matt Richey; daughter in law Christy; and grandchildren Hunter and Jared. Since his passing, Diane assumed her deceased husband’s place on the memorial foundation board of directors and will continue his work.

Past National Commander Kenneth Musselmann Dies


DAV MAGAZINE36

National Commander(Continued from page 35)

and what we do.You and I need to tell them about the free claims as-

sistance and counseling for disabled veterans and their families provided by our professional National Service Officers. We are the ones to let them know that active duty military men and women have a friend in DAV Transition Service Officers, who can offer assistance and counseling before soldiers transition back into the civilian world.

We must tell them about the thousands of DAV and Auxiliary volunteers who give so freely of their time and compassion to help make life better for hospitalized vet-erans and outpatients at VA medical facilities. We must make them aware how our nationwide Transportation Network was created to provide free rides for sick and disabled veterans to and from VA facilities for needed medical care.

It’s our job to make sure they understand our legis-lative goals; that our National Legislative Department advocates in support of federal legislation to improve and protect programs and services for disabled veterans, their families and survivors. We must tell them how important it is for us to work together to achieve our legislative goals; that we are a unified group of disabled veterans looking out for each other.

It is up to us to inspire others with the important work of the DAV; to demonstrate what a privilege it is to build better lives for America’s disabled veteran and their families.

Also, our great organization owes much to our leader-ship. National Adjutant Arthur Wilson’s leadership is unparalleled. One of Art’s key strengths is his ability to identify leaders who share his vision of what will be needed tomorrow to build better lives for disabled veterans and their families. Executive Directors David Gorman and Richard Patterson are prime examples of this leadership.

When I think of our DAV—this family of comrades, I am reminded of these words:

“Although wounded or disabled, our spirit is unbroken and our faith in God and country unshaken. Whatever sacrifice or suffering we have endured, we would gladly endure again and again if necessary, to maintain the American rights and preserve the American principles and ideals for which we fought.

“We regret none of our part in the struggle, and we are proud of the privilege which was ours of contribut-ing toward American victory in battle, and the privilege

which is still ours of contributing still further toward the glorification of America in peace.”

Those inspiring words were delivered by Judge Robert S. Marx at the first National Convention of the Disabled Ameri-can Veterans of the World War held in Detroit in June 1921.

What National Commander Marx said then remains true today. We are still proud of our service and contribution to this nation; we have not changed in our basic mission. We still care about each other and work together to improve the quality of life for all disabled veterans and their fami-lies. We continue to stand strong and speak out when the need arises. And we are not afraid to roll up our sleeves to protect our benefits and programs, whenever necessary.

During our 2009 Mid-Winter Conference, National Commander Raymond Dempsey called on members of the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees to take the politics out of veterans’ health care and reform the system to assure sufficient, timely and predictable funding. The DAV, along with its allies in the Partnership for Veterans Health Care Budget Reform have advocated for such change for many years.

Well, this year they listened and moved to action when the House of Representatives voted to approve the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act. This legislation that Commander Dempsey pursued so boldly with the backing of each and every one of us will provide advance appropriations for the VA health care system. It means rationing care, longer waiting, hiring curbs, pro-gram interruption or suspension due to budget delays can finally be brought to an end, and it’s about time.

Now that’s a victory the Stand Up for Veterans initia-tive and all DAV members can be proud of. However, our work is not over. We still have many challenges ahead as we journey forward.

In the year ahead, I have my sights set on making some very important improvements in the VA’s benefits claims processing.

The DAV’s proposal for a 21st Century Claims Process is the first comprehensive set of legislative and administra-tive recommendations to make the system more efficient, reduce the initial claims-processing time and make the ap-peals process faster and more efficient.

And I — as well as every other disabled veteran — will need your help in accomplishing this vital goal. Our grassroots efforts have met with remarkable success in the past, and together we will prevail once again. After all, making sure our government lives up to its responsibilities to disabled veterans and their families is one of the DAV’s most important jobs. So together, let’s roll up our sleeves and get the job done.

Country Kitchen Donation Aids Disabled Veterans

Country Kitchen International presented a check for $15,625

to then National Sr. Vice Commander Roberto Barrera at the conclusion of the corporation’s inaugural Help a Hero campaign on July 10 at the Moving Wall Vietnam War Memorial, during its visit to Platteville, Wis.

The donation will be used to help the DAV provide services to over a quarter of a million veterans and their families.

Country Kitchen International, headquartered in Madison, Wis., is a leader in full-service family restau-rants, with locations in 26 states. The Help a Hero campaign, developed by Country Kitchen International, ran during May. Funds raised through the sale of “Help a Hero” point of pur-chase materials encouraged guests to donate with proceeds going to benefit the DAV.

“I am proud and extremely grate-ful for the service and sacrifice these (veterans and active duty military) men and women have given us in the form of those freedoms we enjoy each day,” said Charles Myers, President of Country Kitchen International. “This

is our small way of saying thank you to these truly great American heroes. The Help a Hero campaign was a chance for our communities to come together and say thanks for a job well done and to ensure all veterans receive the care and support they deserve.”

Commenting on the “Help a Hero” campaign, DAV National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson said, “We are honored to partner with Country Kitchen to help meet the growing needs of our veterans. Every dollar their customers donate will help us achieve our mission to build better lives for veterans and their families.”

Then National Sr. Vice Commander Roberto Barrera (second from left) accepts a check for $15,625 from members of Country Kitchen International. The donation will be used to provide free assistance to help the DAV build better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families. On hand at the presentation are, from left, Tom Sigwarth, Owner, Country Kitchen of Platteville; Wis.; Barrera; Charles M. Myers, President and CEO, Country Kitchen International; Dennis M. LaVenture, Vice President of Opera-tions; Chris McGrath, Vice President of Marketing; and Chad Holstein, General Manager, Country Kitchen of Platteville.

Hartman Named Inspector Generaln Edward E. Hartman, a disabled veteran who served in the Persian Gulf War, has been tapped to ensure the compliance of DAV’s standards as its Inspector General.

Prior to this appointment, which was made by National Adjutant Arthur H. Wilson and approved by National Commander Roberto Barrera, Hartman served as Deputy Inspector General under recently retired Inspector General Robert L. Gushee.

Before that, he served as the National Director of Voluntary Services from June 2002

through April 2009. He began his career with the DAV in 1995 as a National Service Officer Trainee at the National Service Office in Washington, D.C.

His work representing veterans included a three-year tour at the DAV’s Board of Veterans’ Appeals Office.

He is a life member of Chapter No. 23, in Greenbelt, Md.“Since joining our professional staff, Ed Hartman has

proven himself a passionate advocate for our veterans and organization. His leadership and dedication to the integrity of our cause will serve us well as he assumes his new post,” said National Adjutant Wilson. “He has our full confidence and faith as the principal vanguard of compliance as we move into the future.”

DAV MAGAZINE38

Donation to Help Families …At right, Frank Plescia, Chapter 42, West Palm Beach, Fla., and National Order of Trench Rats Hospital Representative for the Sector of Florida, presents Dr. Paul Guzman, Chief of Psychiatry, VAMC West Palm Beach, copies of “Courage After Fire: Coping Strategies for Troops Returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and Their Families.” The National Order has provided the VAMC more than 100 copies of the self-help guide. The dugout has also donated a similar number of Sesame Street DVDs designed to help military families deal with serious issues affecting the children of injured veterans.

NYPD Does It Again for DAV …Jeffrey Hall, Supervisor of the DAV New York City National Service Office, center, accepts a check for $17,155 from members of Police Service Area (PSA) 7, Bronx, New York City Police Department. On hand for the donation are, from left, Police Officer Ed Brignoni, NSO Michael Keba, NSO Hall, Police Of-ficer Gregg Comparetto and Deputy Inspector Peter Bartoszek. The contribution was made possible by officers, sponsors and others who participated in the 2008 Motorcycle Run and Picnic held last September. First held in 2007, the annual event has contributed more than $26,000 to the DAV to help build better lives for America’s disabled veterans and their families.

Comparing Mounts …Above, Past National Commander Robert Reynolds chats with a mount-ed police officer at a motorcycle run and picnic to benefit the DAV. The event raised $17,155 that was donated to the DAV. PNC Reynolds rode his Harley’s Heroes Tribute Bike on the bike run before joining other revelers for a barbeque picnic and live music.


Missing Something in Your Meal?Build That Great Meal With Us… Military Appreciation Monday 2009Golden Corral and the DAV are partnering for another great Military Appreciation Monday on November 16, 2009, between 5 and 9 p.m. That’s the day Golden Corral restaurants nationwide welcome our nation’s veterans and active duty military men and women to a free buffet dinner and drink, and lots of camaraderie. Military Appreciation Monday is Golden Corral’s way to saying “Thank You!” to our nation’s veterans and active duty military. Be sure to visit the DAV information table to meet members of Chapters in your area and check out the free DAV information.Mark your calendar now for Monday, November 16, 2009.

DAV MAGAZINE40

DENVER

All prices include shipping and handling. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.

Mail to: Disabled American Veterans – National Service Foundation3725 Alexandria Pike – Cold Spring, KY 41076

Ship to:Name___________________________________________________Address _________________________________________________City ____________________________________________________State_______________________________Zip__________________

Return Policy: Carhartt jackets embroidered with DAV cannotbe cancelled, exchanged, altered, or returned.

Check or money order enclosed.24 Hour Credit Card Order Fax Line – (859) 442-2093Charge to my credit card. Visa MasterCard

American Express DiscoverAcct# __ __ __ __ - __ __ __ __ - __ __ __ __ - __ __ __ __Expiration Date: ___ / ___ / ___ $10 minimum on all charge ordersSignature ____________________________________ Date _____________Customer Telephone: _____________________________________________

Sage

Men’s Carhartt Jacket (Brown)501510 Small Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501511 Medium Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501512 Large Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501513 X Large Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501514 2X Large Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501515 3X Large Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________501516 4X Large Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________501517 5X Large Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________Men’s Carhartt Jacket (Brown) Tall Sizes501520 Large Tall Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________501521 X Large Tall Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________501522 2X Large Tall Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________501523 3X Large Tall Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________501524 4X Large Tall Quantity ______ $93.00 each $ ________Ladies’ Carhartt Jacket (Camel)501504 X Small Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501505 Small Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501506 Medium Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501507 Large Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501508 X Large Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________501509 2X Large Quantity ______ $85.00 each $ ________

SubTotal $ ________Kentucky Residents

Include 6% Sales Tax $ ________

Total $ ________

Comfort and utility come together in our Detroit jacket.These jackets are 12-ounce, heavyweight, 100%sandstone duck cotton with triple-stitched main seams,adjustable snaps at the waist and cuffs, and machinewashable. The men’s jacket features blanket lining inthe body and quilted-nylon lining in the sleeves. There’san inside welt pocket, two lower-front pockets, and aleft-chest pocket with zipper. The ladies’ jacket featuressherpa lining in the body and pockets for warmth.Princess back seams are designed to give women apremium fit. See size chart below. This product willbe offered for a limited time.

Orders placed by October 5th will ship onOctober 23rd. Orders placed by October 31stwill ship on November 20th.

Order Today – On LineVisit

www.DAVstore.org

ORDER FORM

DAV Embroidered CarharttMen’s & Ladies’ Detroit Jacket Men’s Size Chart (Men’s sizes are measured by the chest size in inches)

Small=34-36” Med=38-40” Large=42-44” XL=46-48”

2XL=50-52” 3XL=54-56” 4XL=58-60” 5XL=62-64”

*Tall Sizes are recommended for those 5’11” to 6’3”

Carhartt Women’s Size ChartX-Small= Size 0-2 Small=Size 4-6 Medium=Size 8-10

Large=Size 12-14 XL=Size 16-18 2XL=Size 20

Order now to beat

the holiday rush.

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DAV AD KO 83109:DAV phone AD 8-06 4.0 9/1/09 7:07 AM Page 1

Gary WeaverNational Director of Communications

David W. GormanExecutive Director,Washington Headquarters

Alice J. BerschAdminstrativeSecretary

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