Official Publication of the N.C.

Department
VFW of North Carolina PO Box 25337 Raleigh, NC 27611-5337
Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Rermit No. 1838 Raleigh N.C.

THE VFW LEADER

W
EH

H OLD T E FUTU RE

Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

Inside: Pg. 2 - Letters Pg. 3 - Officers Columns Pg. 4 - National Bylaws Changes Pg. 5 - President's Column Pg. 6 - College Vet Club Pg. 11 - VFW Dept Store Pg. 14 - Heroes Welcome Pg. 12 - Cotties News Pg. 15 - Car Show Pg. 13 - VFW Ads Pg. 16 - Motor Cycle Ride

2012

State POW-MIA Chairman Celebrates 100th Performance

David Hamel, the State VFW POWMIA Chairman and retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (E-9), recently performed his 100th Missing Man Table ceremony at American Legion Post 382 in Sanford, North Carolina. He performed for an audience of over 90 people as part of the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club Patriot Run fund raiser for Army Fisher House. Widely known throughout North Carolina and nationally, Dave has performed hundreds of volunteer hours for thousands of spectators and remains in very high demand. Twelve years ago, he identified a great need of veterans groups to recognize those who have not returned from war. Although the round white table with items and empty chair were recognizable, he wanted the table or the missing man to come alive, at least in spirit. So he developed, refined, and produced, a very unique Prisoner of War - Missing In Action table ceremony or "Missing Man" ceremony. He has produced several versions adaptable for a variety of audiences and ceremonies. These include background music, spotlights, table item narration, singing of up to three songs with gloved hand gestures and symbolism, and a final hand salute including the playing of Taps. It all started in the spring of 2000, where Dave organized a POW-MIA ceremony detail with sabers and flags as part of a Senior NCO Induction ceremony. He narrated the meaning of the various rose, candle, lemon, and salt, table items. "It went very well" he said, "but something seemed to be missing. Who was the missing man and what would he say to the audience? Could the empty chair be an aircraft ejection seat?" Of Dave's 30 active duty years in the Air Force in the aircraft maintenance career field, his primary duty was as an egress or escape systems technician. He's also credited with 3 "saves," pilots who ejected safely out of a disabled aircraft directly due to his recent maintenance of the canopy, seat, and parachute system. One such ejection was from an F-15 Eagle fighter jet that went down in Daun, West Germany in 1978. The other two were the front and back-seater from an SR-71 Blackbird over the South China Sea near the Philippine Islands in 1989 during an operational mission. He went on to say that though he missed the Vietnam War by just over a year or so, he was trained by Vietnam veterans throughout his maintenance career. "I remember my sergeants in the egress shop talking about those who "punchedout" of F-4s, F-I05s, and B-52s. Many were shot down and killed or missing in action but many became POWs." Then it suddenly became clear to him after a Memorial Day ceremony in 2000 at VFW Post 4876, in Altus Oklahoma. Someone Played "Some Gave All", a Billy Ray Cyrus song, on the juke box, and it (the ejection seat pilot) 'spoke to him.' "It was him in the empty chair. I had to learn that song," he said. And so he did, adding gloved hand gestures. And that's where Dave's legacy really began. He was then selected to a very special duty assignment and became the Director of the Air Force Enlisted Heritage Research Institute and Enlisted Heritage Hall Museum and moved to Maxwell Air Force Base Gunter Annex, Alabama...the only position of its kind in the Air Force, After transferring his VFW membership to Post 1349 in Prattville, Alabama, he became the State POW-MIA Chairman. From 2000 through 2004, some highly notable performances have been for the Department of Defense National Prayer breakfast in Washington DC; two Air Force Sergeants Association International Conventions in Jacksonville Florida and Columbus Ohio; the American Legion's Forty and Eight Society National Convention in Salt Lake City Utah, several Alabama state conventions for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and Forty and Eight Society, as well as various posts throughout Alabama. As Alabama State Commander of the Korea Defense Veterans in 2003, he performed at the 50th anniversary of the Korean War at the Air Force Enlisted Heritage Hall's Monument Park and for the Alabama Ex-Prisoners of War and Alabama Veterans Administration. Throughout the nation, he has also performed for large graduations at the Air Force Senior NCO Academy, 5 Air Force NCO Academies, 4 Airman Leadership Schools, and the Southeast Regional Recruiters Banquet, as well as special performances for the World War II Army Air Corps Enlisted Pilots Association, Vietnam Working Dog Association, and a Jolly Green Association Reunion. At the end of his tour, Dave returned to aircraft maintenance for his final assignment at Pope Air Force Base, North Carolina as the A-10 Thunderbolt II (or Warthog) Maintenance Superintendent and Chief Enlisted Manager for the 23d Fighter

Volume No. 73

The VFW Leader

Jul/aug/Sep 2012

Group, home of the famous "Flying Tigers" who were very active in Iraq and Afghanistan at that time. He also transferred his VFW membership to Post 9103 in Spring Lake and continued to have significant impact throughout the region. From 2004 through 2007, some notable presentations have been for Womack Army Hospital Medal of Honor dedication, 82d Airborne Brigade Dining Out, and 1st Battalion Field Artillery Regiment Gunslinger Welcome Home events on Fort Bragg; Georgia Air National Guard Career Advisors Conference in Savannah; and several Chief and Senior NCO Induction ceremonies, annual awards, Air Force Balls, and Maintenance Professional of the Year awards banquets at Pope and Seymour-Johnson Air Force Bases. Since his retirement in 2007, Dave

remained very active in the VFW and became an All-State and All-American Post Commander, the State POW-MIA Chairman, and a National-Aide-de Camp. He has performed at Hill Air Force Base Utah for a huge Maintenance Professional of the Year banquet of nearly 1000 aircraft maintainers and guests, as well as to a Vero Beach Florida Police Department Retiring Officer dinner. Closer to home, he has performed for Fayetteville Chapter Ex-POWs, the Fayetteville Veterans Park Dedication, Memorial Day celebrations at Freedom Park, Harnett County Veterans Park Monuments Dedication in Lillington, Western Harnett High School JROTC Military Ball, Sand Hills Veterans Cemetery Wreaths Across America, and the Traveling Vietnam Wall Memorial ceremonies in Kinston, as well as several VFW state conventions, and Military Order of the Cootie Grand Scratches.

Canines For Warriors Program In Full Swing

National Color Guard

The Department of North Carolina's new initiative to supply service dogs to veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), called Canines For Warriors is off to a huge start, already obtaining ten dogs to train for local veterans who need assistance to operate effectively in the everyday world. The Department has partnered with the certified dog training organization called Wags For Tags to provide dogs to these needy veterans. The Walmart corporation, ever ready to help veterans of the Tarheel state, has stepped up the plate and donated $4000 to help fund this vital program, which was approved by the Department's Council of Administration at its meeting the morning after the annual June state convention in Raleigh. The money was presented at the Grand Opening of the new Cary Walmart on 3 October. Included with the check, the effort to obtain it being the brainchild of VFW State Secretary Lynn Edwards, was an additional $1000 to the Ladies Auxiliary to be used to give to the volunteer efforts at the four Veterans Administration Medical Centers (VAMCs) in the state and to assist the Ladies' continuing program to assist women veterans in North Carolina. Other entities contributing to the Canines For Warriors are: Waynesville Post 5202 donated $450 for a 10 x 10 portable pen, training leads, five bales of cedar chips, water bowls, and the use of a 10 x 10 easy-up shelter; Hayesville

Post 6812 gave $250 which purchased an 8 sided pop-out play area to be used indoors for travel and show along with a mat; Whittier Post 8013 gave $400 used to buy wire and posts to build outdoor runs, to be built at their post. Whittier has volunteered the use of their grounds for kennels and training this year, as well. They have a comrade who will pull his camper to the post and stay there this winter as caretaker for the K-9's. The training program, which is due to the hard work and persistence of District 17 Commander William "Skip" Hall, will begin in the 3rd week of October and proceed to the end of March. There will be a "graduation" at that time, and the canines will be tested and certified as service dogs. Present at the Autumn Conference and Council meeting were five of the subject dogs and two of the veterans slated to receive a service animal. Commander Hall has enlisted the help of five volunteers in the District 17 area to help with the training. The ten dogs have been received from the following areas: three donated by Yanceyville Post 7316, four from Wags For Tags, two from the Paws Shelter in Bryson City, and one donated by Bryson City Post 9281. Although the program has plenty of animals at this time for its first certified training sessions, donations of funds are always welcome, and can be sent to the Department Headquarters and specified to be for the Canines For Warriors program. Department Adjutant/Quartermaster Bruce

Edwards attended the Wags For Tags Grand Opening on September 11 in Durham to emphasize the VFW's partnership with this non-profit organization. It was a high profile event with over fifty attendees at the Lap It Up canine facility, to include the Mayor of Cary, a representative from Governor Perdue's office, a representative from Senator Burr's office, and CSM (Ret) Andrew Jackson of the National Guards' soldiers to civilians transition program. Wags For Tags' President Ronnie Sadowski, a disabled veteran, emphasized that North Carolina has the 3rd largest military population in the United States, has over 800,000 veterans, and that Fort Bragg has the highest suicide rate of any Army installation in the country. It is accepted that many of these suicides might be prevented if the veteran or soldier had the companionship of a trained service dog. The Department has also partnered with a group called Warrior Dogs, which is linked with the Charles George VAMC in Asheville. They are training five dogs for five veterans with PTSD but have no certified trainer. The VFW will certify these dogs, and the Warrior Dogs will help us train other dogs. Additionally, Commander Hall is scheduled to meet with the Cherokee: Chiefs Council in November, as they have expressed an interest in supporting the program for brave Cherokee warriors with PTSD. Other businesses have stepped up to assist in this effort. The Department is partnered with a veterinarian in Charlotte who will spay/neuter our canines for $25 per dog, and the PetCo company is giving us 10% off on their treatment fees. Tractor Supply has agreed to sell us portable shelters at a much reduced rate. Canines For Warriors will soon be setting up an internet website that will link to the Department's website at www.vfwnc.org.

In the 2012 State Color Guard Competition for the first time in many years at the 2012 National Convention in July in Reno, Nevada. Despite being newcomers to the competition, they placed second in their category! They plan to better that score in July 2013 in Louisville, Kentucky. The Color Guard consists of Captain Kurbie "Sonny" Whitehead, David Holm, James Cacoulidis, Alex Vanderheide, and Bill Hertline.

Chilly Mountain Recruiting

Even when its chilly in the mountains, the 17th District knows how to hold a recruiting event, where many of the district's posts participate together, an action to be emulated by more districts. Here, the fair is enhanced by use of the Department's Recruiting Trailer (which any post or district may borrow from Headquarters) and the welcome presence of District Commander Skip Hall's service dogs, which always attract many viewers.

Page 2 The VFW leAder

The VFW Leader is published quarterly by the Department of North Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars at 917 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh, North Carolina. Editor.......................Bruce Edwards News stories, photographs and other matters for publication should be addressed to Editor, VFW Leader, P.O. Box 25337, Raleigh, N.C. 27611. Correspondence regarding subscription and circulation should be addressed to VFW Leader, P.O. Box 25337, Raleigh, N.C. 27611.

Jul/Aug/Sep 2012

The VFW leAder

die while traveling. 5. Personal Security Services- includes real time security intelligence and security evacuation assistance for over 180 countries. Please make VFW members aware of this great benefit by distributing this letter to the Posts and Posts members in your department. If you have any questions or concerns about this product, please contact Sharon Smith at National Headquarters at 1-800-821-2606, option 1, or email her at ssmith@ vfw.org Sincerely, James J. Lierz, Manager Member Benefit Department

"Department Headquarters normal operating hours 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Closed for holidays: New Years Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day."

Letters to the Editor

July 17, 2012 RE: Long Term Care Insurance We would like to announce that the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Headquarters has a new partnership with Long Term Care Financial Partners to offer Long Term Care education and insurance to VFW Members. The relationship with the previous provider, Pinnacle Financial Services, was terminated effective July 1, 2012. financial losses that may not be covered by government programs or traditional benefit plans. All members also have access to a free copy of the book Dignity For Life, Things You Should Know Before Considering Long Term Care Insurance. Please make VFW members aware of this great benefit by distributing this letter to the Posts and Posts members in your department. If you have any questions or concerns about this product, please contact Sharon Smith at National Headquarters at 1-800-821-2606, option 1, or email her at ssmith@ vfw.org.

RE: Emergency Assistance Plus payments, prescription replacement (EA+) assistance and medical professional locator services To: VFW Leadership 3. Assistance for CompanionsWe would like to announce that the including one round-trip economy Veterans of Foreign Wars National class airline ticket to bring a loved Headquarters now proudly sponsors one to the member's bedside, airEmergency Assistance Plus (EA+). fare home for dependent children This product provides medical or grandchildren traveling with the emergency assistance for members member, ticket home for a traveling and their families while traveling. companion and pet care and return Benefits include: home assistance for pets traveling with the member. 1. Medical Evacuation- including helicopter or ambulance transport to 4. Travel Assistance- including return a more appropriate medical facility, of the member's vehicle if they canspecialist sent to member's location not drive home, lost luggage assisor transportation home. tance, passport, driver's license, birth certificate or other document 2. Medical Assistance- including replacement assistance, language emergency medical monitoring, interpretation services and return of unlimited cash advance for medical deceased remains should the member Dear VFW North Carolina: Brink's, Incorporated ("Brink's") is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We are requesting your support in our affirmative action efforts as they relate to providing employment opportunities for qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and disabled veterans, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, newly separated veterans, other protected veterans and Armed Forces Service medal veterans ("Covered Veterans"). Brink's does not discriminate against any employee or qualified candidate for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Brink's also takes affirmative action to recruit, hire, and promote qualified minorities, women, individuals with disabilities and Covered Veterans.

Long Term Care Financial Partners will offer their trademarked Long Term Care Outreach and Education Program to all Members. This program will help members make informed decisions about their Long Term Care Sincerely, plans and purchase coverage at James J. Lierz, Manager discounted rates to protect them- VFW Member Benefit Dept. selves and their families against

We seek candidates for various positions from time to time. We are committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. In order to achieve those objectives, we request that potential candidates for employment, particularly qualified women, minorities, individuals with dis- Very truly yours, abilities, and Covered Veterans, Joseph Pinckney continue to be referred to Brink's Branch Manager for any and all applicable job

openings. Those individuals seeking to apply for employment with Brink's should be directed to visit the Brink's website, www. brinksuscareers.com, and follow the instructions set forth on the website. Alternatively, candidates may also visit the Raleigh Branch and complete an application on the computer terminal located there or request assistance from Brink's personnel in completing the application if necessary. If you have any questions or would like to discuss employment opportunities at Brink's, do not hesitate to let me know.

The VFW Leader

CommanderS CoLumn
lar stores. If each of us works for new members, we can reach 100% easily. I want to thank all the comrades who have signed up new members so far. To show what can be done, let me give you a few examples: as of one week ago, Perry Hair of Holly Ridge Post 9983 has recruited 14 new members, District 17 Commander Skip Hall has recruited 10 members, Southern Pines Post 7318 Commander has gathered in 10 new members, and Post Quartermasters Ron Sherwood of JacksonvillePost 9133 and Stanley Burgess of Indian Trail Post 2423 have gotten 8 each. We can all do this!!! A REMINDER: For each new and reinstated member you sign up, your name will be entered for the drawing that will be held at the Council of Administration meeting in February for a three-day, twonight stay at the Sand Dunes Resort in Myrtle Beach. It is a great hotel that loves veterans! What a great way to be rewarded for hard work on your part! Take a look on the 2nd page of this issue of The VFW Leader for some photos of the resort. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Past State Commander Jason Schoolcraft for his leadership and hard work this past year. With the Department being in great working order, it has made my job easier. But I haven't let him off the hook! He will be the Department's Legislative Coordinator for the next three years, and will work alongside Past State Commander Elree Smith to get the job done right in Washington, D.C. Yours in comradeship, Ted Briggs, State Commander

JuL/aug/Sep 2012

Page 3
sions. I hope you learned something new, and were able to take something useful back home to your posts and comrades. These sessions help keep our organization in compliance, keep the lines of communication open, and provide a platform to explore new ideas. As always, I am interested in what you think. Please let me know your thoughts and ideas, and I'll try to include them in next year's training sessions. For those who could not attend, please contact your District Commander to receive the information you missed. this target is very attainable. If you need assistance there are a number of recruiters available and eager to help in any way. The Headquarters team is also at your disposal. All you need to do is call. We'll be there. On a sad note, Post 9488 and District 13 lost their beloved Chaplain, Edward-G. "Jerry" Overman on August 15th. Jerry was always there for anyone in need. His advice and caring assistance to the rest of us will be missed. Please keep him and those left behind in your thoughts and prayers. We miss you, Padre. Thank You for your support and the hard work you do every day. See you at the next meeting. Ernie Allis

Sr. ViCe Commander CoLumn

Ted h. BriggS I would like to begin by saying THANK YOU to each Comrade and Auxiliary Sister and Brother that attended the Flying Squadron training in Mount Olive, Sanford, and Statesville. The many positive comments we received by training over 600 individuals are much appreciated. And to make it even better, we sold over $8000 worth ofVFW goods, the profit of which will stay right here in North Carolina to help Tarheel veterans. To all the Flying Squadron instructors, thanks for a job well done. I truly appreciate your hard work and dedication to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies and Men's Auxiliaries. My compliments to Mount Olive Post 9959, Sanford Post 5631,and Statesville Post 2031 for being host for our training sessions. Each post did an outstanding job!! Comrades, each of you are recruiters. I encourage you and your post to conduct a Membership Rally as soon as possible. We need to increase of Department Membership percentage! Good places for Membership Rallies are at festivals and fairs, at National Guard Armories and Reserve Centers, and in front of popu-

ernie aLLiS
Comrades, It was good to see so many of you at the Flying Squadron training ses-

Keep in mind that Commander Briggs wants to see our membership grow to 30,000 by year end. Member retention is another challenge he has put before us. With some hustle and creative outreach to our veterans,

ChapLainS CoLumn
Department HQ. Deadline for this year's submission is by the Winter CofA. I understand this may be short notice, but since this is the first year, I needed to start somewhere. Each of us knows of a Chaplain that goes above and beyond just conducting prayers when we gather together. While these are required by our ritual, the position of Chaplain is much more. Let us honor their hard work and dedication to the VFW by submitting their name. While attending the Department's Flying Squadron Training in Sanford, I enjoyed talking with fellow Chaplains from Posts and Districts. Two points I noticed in our discussions. Each Chaplain was very enthusiastic about their positions and that each demonstrated a desire to learn more. With the encouragement from our Department Commander and line officers, I am pleased to announce that time and locations for further training will be provided at the CofA's and Convention, for Chaplains. It is my desire to use this time to enrich, share and empower our Chaplains so that they can better serve our Posts, Districts, and Conferences within our Department. Share those ideas or practices that worked and those that didn't. We learn from both. I have one to share. I highly encourage each Chaplain to develop a "Resource Binder" if you do not already have one. There is no requirement for one and there is no format to follow, but I encourage it. Questions and problems come at us when we least expect it. Not all of these questions can be answered from our ritual and bylaws. A resource binder can greatly aid the Chaplain contacted. Suggested information to include can be, but not limited to the following: Local Relief Organizations (churches and ministries), American Red Cross, USO, key Military contacts (CACO, DFAS), Government (Iocal, state, elected), etc. Include the Post Service Officer. They should have the contact information to assist with VA matters. Don't forget to include your fellow Chaplains within your District, the District Chaplain and my contact information. What may be new to you, may have been approached by another Chaplain. Why re-invent the wheel? Successes or failures are still education. As Chaplains for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, let us share that education and in turn become better Chaplains for those we serve.

Greetings,

Sr SmiTh

Jr. ViCe Commander

each member, post and district for the hard work you perform in your communities and for veterans. I felt like my batteries were recharged. Speaking of recharging our batteries, I hope that all my comrades and sisters had their batteries fully charged after attending the Flying Squadron Training during the month of August. It was your opportunity to hear and learn how to operate your Post and Districts during your term of office, what is new and exciting in the Department, as well as what assistance you can expect from your elected Department Officers. Your Department officers and chairpersons whether from the comrade side or our great ladies auxiliary, have many years of experience and we are all here to serve you. Remember, our organization and mission will only be successful if we all work together for the benefit of all veterans. Let us all commit ourselves this year to serving our comrades and sisters. There is no hill too high that we can't climb, we can overcome any thing in our path. Let us all communicate with each other, it is a proven tool Jack Goin Junior Vice Commander

I am pleased to announce that this year, we will recognize and honor a "Chaplain of the Year" for North Carolina at the 2013/2014 Department convention. This will only happen if all of us can get the information out and submissions get sent in. Our Comrades in this Department do excellent work and take their positions to a higher level. I can think of nothing worse than having an award and no one to give it to. Eligibility is open to any Post, District or Conference Chaplain currently serving in that position. A short bio of the Chaplain and a letter of recommendation can be sent to Chaplain SR Smith, PO Box 4066 Jacksonville NC 28540 or to

The second part of my article is directed to the Chaplains of this Peace be with you Department. I hope that within this IHS year we can share with each other. SR Smith+

State Membership Chairman

All gave some, some gave all. As members of the VFW, the ones that gave some, it is our duty to make sure the ones that gave all are not forgotten. With our strength being in our numbers, our fight in Washington for veterans' rights and benefits is becoming harder. families, jobs, illness, etc. Without you we would really be in bad shape. I would encourage all of you to join for Life. Check with your post quartermaster and ask about the different payment plans. And if you are friends with anybody who may be eligible for membership, please encourage them to join. I am sure they donate I would like to give a special thanks more each year to Veterans' groups to our members who renew every and causes than the price of memberyear, and are unable to attend due to ship in the VFW. If you need help in recruiting, give me a call at 704-7374720. I thank all of you for what you do for Veterans Give some thought to, and pray for our deployed soldiers, who are even now guarding the gates of Freedom. Jack Campbell

JaCk goin Comrades I would like to take this moment to thank each member of our great organization for electing me as your Junior Vice Commander; it is an honor to serve you and all veterans. As I traveled around our state these past months as your Department representative at several district meetings I was extremely impressed with the enthusiasm that you, my comrades and sisters, displayed. Whether it was achieving an award for reaching or exceeding 100% membership, community service, Patriots Pen, Voice of Democracy or Teacher of the Year program, you all made me proud of

Moving Wall
After already coming to Indian Trail Post 2423 and the Cherokee Indian Reservation, the Vietnam Moving Wall, "The Wall That Heals," is now coming to Goldsboro. It will be open for viewing from 18-21 April 2013 on the Wayne County Community College campus. Heading this effort is Goldsboro Post 2615, heavily supported by Kinston Poste 2771 and Mount Olive Post 9959. Programs are being planned now, and will include Purple Heart tributes. For more information on this visit, contact Post 2615 Commander Bill Graham at cdrpost2615@nc.vfwwebmail. com or 919-394-2200.

TAPS

Coy Justice James C. Thompson Paul F. Hines William F. Pumphrey

10607 9134 1134 4309

Gerald Bailey Paul Hogan Robert Renfroe 1134

4309 4309

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Jul/Aug/Sep 2012

The VFW leAder

Dish's Return the Favor

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation is pleased to announce it will be joining forces with television entertainment provider DISH Network to continue its support of members of the military, veterans and their families. DISH Network's sponsorship supports the VFW Foundation's Return the Favor campaign, which honors, celebrates and supports, active-duty military, veterans and their families. "We could not be more excited to be partnering with such a well-respected corporation who clearly understands the need to support our nation's. military," said VFW Foundation Director John Lowe. "If it were not for the support of great corporate sponsors such as DISH Network, we would not be able to continue to assist our country's heroes on a daily basis. This sponsorship reflects DISH Network's commitment to those who have served and continue to serve our great nation." The VFW Foundation's Return the Favor campaign supports programs and services that provide emergency financial assistance for military families, free phone calls for deployed troops, VIP treatment for service members and their families at entertainment events, critical services that guide veterans through VA entitlement claims, and morale boosting events for military units. "DISH Network is proud to support veterans and troops through its contribution to the VFW's Return the Favor campaign," said Trevor McGraw, head of community sponsorships for DISH Network. "This campaign helps meet the needs of the men and women who make significant sacrifices personally and financially to serve our nation." For more information on the Return the Favor campaign, please visit www. returnthefavor.org. Members of the VFW interested in subscribing to DISH Network, may receive an exclusive VFW offer by visiting www.dish. com/vfw.

A Note From the State Commander

These photos are of Comrades, Sisters, and Brothers belonging to the various posts of District 17 at their District meeting on Sunday, 16 September. 136 individuals attended this District meeting!!! This is precisely what I want to happen at every district meeting for the rest of the 2012-2013, starting with the winter meetings in January of next year. Attendance like this depends on the District Commander being in constant touch with his Post Commanders, imbuing in them the concept that is one of their responsibilities to attend District meetings. And it is the same for Ladies Auxiliary District Presidents and their relationships with their Post Auxiliary Presidents! In addition to this wonderful attendance, the meeting proceeded efficiently and effectively with no wasted time. Just like what is happening at the Department level with our increasing attendance at both the June state convention and the justconcluded October Conference and Council of Administration meeting, District meetings should be doing the same thing! Be new, be innovative, and be stubborn - communicate every week with your Post Commanders and Post Auxiliary Presidents!!!

Anago Creates Jobs For Veterans

Anago Cleaning Systems (Anago), a leading commercial cleaning franchise system with more than 2,200 locations throughout the U.S. and internationally, continues its mission of providing returning veterans the opportunity to start their own business and follow their entrepreneurial spirit by creating a $250,000 military veteran fund to help more veterans get into business for themselves. Anago's initiative is supported by its plan to award Master Franchise opportunities to 20 military veterans, who were honorably discharged at any time, in the next 20 months thereby adding the potential for more than 500 jobs to local economies throughout the United States. To launch its Initiative, Anago's two military leaders, founder David Povlitz and President Terry Mollica have created the fund, which will discount the franchise fee by $25,000 for the first five qualified veterans who enter the system (for first five to qualify, prospect must apply directly through Anago's Facebook page, www.facebook. com/anagocleaning). and $8,000 for the remaining 15. "Veterans clearly understand systems, processes and structure. With Anago's Master Franchise program, these qualities are pivotal to the growth success of our franchise partners/' Povlitz said. "We truly understand how hard it is for some veterans to move forward with their civilian lives after service. With so many veterans looking for jobs at the moment, especially those who came out of the military, worked at a job for a few years, and now are interested in owning their own business, we believe we can erans of the U.S. military, according to help by increasing our discount toward a recent study conducted by PwC for becoming a Master Franchise Owner." the (FA's Educational Foundation based on census data estimates. More than The increased veteran financial sup- 66,000 veteran-owned franchise busiport model comes on the heels of 1851 nesses in the U.S. provide jobs directly Project, a franchise industry resource, for 815,000 Americans and generate naming Anago as a top veteran-friendly more than $41 billion in GDP. franchise opportunity, with the brand earning a No. 25 ranking in the top "Veterans have a proven track record 100. To earn its ranking, Anago had to of success in franchising due to the showcase a continued effort to helping structure, systems-orientation, training, military veterans get into business for need for operational excellence, and themselves. Anago achieves this through support that franchising offers," Povlitz its participation in the International said. "I understand how, upon entering Franchise Association's (IFA) VetFran the civilian world, veterans are looking program. IFA's VetFran program helps for another great system to follow, and returning service members access fran- I'm confident I've built that in Anago." chise opportunities through training, financial assistance and industry sup- ABOUT ANAGO port. VetFran's ranks have grown to Anago Cleaning Systems is a commerinclude more than 400 franchise sys- cial cleaning franchise system supporttems that voluntarily offer financial ing over 30 Master Franchises and 2,200 incentives and mentoring to prospective individual franchisees in the U.S. and veteran franchise small business owners. internationally. After years of refining Thousands of veterans have become procedures and creating duplicable sysfranchise owners through VetFran and tems created in his large commercial other programs. cleaning service, David Povlitz founded Anago in 1989 to help other entrepre"Of the countless businesses slowed or neurs open their cleaning businesses. crippled by the recent recession, the Today, its program sets the standard in commercial cleaning segment is one of U.S. commercial cleaning. Anago was the few to emerge mostly unharmed," ranked the fifth fastest-growing franMollica said. "Anago is committed to chise by Entrepreneur magazine in 2010 keeping the entrepreneurial spirit alive and 2011, and ranked by Franchise during this difficult economic period. Business Review as one of the best franThese times are especially challenging chises in franchisee satisfaction. Inc. for veterans who have put their lives Magazine has also listed Anago as one on the line to defend our freedom, and of the top privately-held companies in Anago thanks you." the U.S. For further information, visit its website. One out of every seven franchise businesses are owned and operated by vet-

Forgotton Vet Buried

April 23, 2012 - On a raw winter day in Portland, Oregon, veterans,' active duty military personnel, local leaders and community members gathered to honor the life and service of Navy Chief Petty Officer Stevenson Roy. in pauper's graves, without services or military honors. Since its inception in 2000, the program has provided qualified homeless veterans with honorable burials in Va or state cemeteries. The proFew of those in attendance knew gram is a cooperative effort among Roy. He passed away with no family Dignity Memorial funeral, cremation and no place to call home. Despite and cemetery service providers, local Roy's challenges in life, the Dignity medical examiners and coroners, VA, Memorial Homeless Veterans Burial VFW and other veterans' advocates. Program made sure his service to his country was remembered with full The Dignity Memorial network is a military honors. Roy, who served in proud partner of VFW. It has assistthe Navy, was the 1,000th veteran to ed, free of charge, thousands of VFW be served by this program. members to secure VA burial benefits through local funeral homes. Without assistance from the Dignity Memorial Homeless Veterans Burial Dignity Memorial funeral providers Program and similar efforts, Roy and also offer a free, informative brochure the scores of America's forgotten vet- called 10 Important Facts About Your erans who pass away without a home, VA Burial Benefits. money and family would risk burial

Burger King Donations

KANSAS CITY, MO., March 6, 2012 - For the fifth consecutive year, participating Burger King Restaurants. raised funds for the VFW Unmet Needs Program, which provides emergency financial assistance to military families. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation is proud to announce this year's promotion raised $450,000, bringing the five-year donation total to over $1.7 million. Burger King customers were encouraged to donate $1 or more at participating locations across the country with the proceeds helping military families in need. "Each year I am continually impressed with the work of Burger King Restaurants and their fantastic customers," said VFW Foundation President Allen "Gunner" Kent. "The Unmet Needs Program assists military families when they are in their greatest time of financial need and Burger King Restaurants have continually made it clear that they are standing tall with the VFW to provide the support our military families so desperately need." "Burger King Restaurants are proud to support America's military families and we appreciate the support of all of our great customers in assisting those who have sacrificed so much for our country," said Burger King Franchisee Owner: and VFW Foundation Board Member, Mike DeRosa. "In five years, to be able to donate $1.7 million and to hear the many great stories of those that have been helped through this initiative has beensimply amazing." Program has provided over $4.3 million in financial assistance to over 3,100 deserving military families. The program assists with basic life needs such as rent, mortgage, utilities, vehicle repair, medical expenses or food lbasic assistance. Funds are available to all five branches of the military, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserves. Assistance is awarded in the form of a grant, not a loan, so recipients are not required to repay it. The money is paid directly to the creditor, not to the individual. To learn more about the VFW Unmet Needs Program, please visit www.unmetneeds.com. For more information about Burger King Restaurants, please visit www.bk.com.

Changes To National By-Laws

The 113th National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, conducted at Reno, Nevada, from 21-25 July 2012 voted on a number of possible changes to the National By-Laws and Manual of Procedure. The following important results were recorded, and either approved or disapproved by the convention floor. If approved, the changes went into effect immediately. 1. Article II, Section 216: The motion was to change the offices of Chaplain, Surgeon, Judge Advocate from elected offices to ones appointed by the Post Commander, and add two appointed Trustees to the three already-elected Trustees. The purpose of the proposed change was to make it easier for small posts to fill their officer roster, since an elected officer can also hold any number of appointed positions. The motion was defeated. 2. Article II, Section 218a5h and a6c: The motion was to allow Post Quartermasters and Adjutants to use electronic record keeping, as long as they maintain a back-up. The standing rule stated that a hard-copy paper backup had to be maintained. The motion was passed. Post Quartermasters and Adjutants who use electronic record keeping therefore no longer have to maintain a paper backup. 3. Article II, Section 220: The motion was to allow Post Senior Vice Commanders and Junior Vice Commanders to decline to move up to the position of Post Commander when that position becomes vacant, and not lose their position as a Senior or Junior Vice Commander. The current standing rule is that the Post Senior Vice Commander must move up to Commander when the office becomes vacant, or must resign as Senior Vice Commander if he refuses to move up. The Junior Vice Commander must then move up to Commander in that case, or must resign if he refuses to move up. The motion was defeated. Therefore, Senior and Junior Vice Commanders must continue to move up the chain if the position of Commander becomes vacant, or they must resign their office. 4. Article IV, Section 416: The motion was the same as for posts in appointing District Chaplains, Surgeons, or Judge Advocates. As with the post section, the motion was defeated, and therefore, District Chaplains, Surgeons, and Judge Advocates must continue to be elected, not appointed. 5. Article IV, Section 420: The motion was the same as for posts in allowing District Senior and Junior Vice Commanders to decline to move up to the position of District Commander in case of a vacancy in that office. The motion was defeated. Therefore, District Senior and Junior Vice Commanders must move up or resign. 6. Article VII, Section 718: The motion was to require any Post, District, or Department whose cash assets are in excess of $75,000 and gross receipts are equal to or exceed $50,000 in any administrative year to conduct

a financial review. The motion was defeated. Therefore, Posts and Districts must continue to use the Trustee Report of Audit system at the end of each Quarter. The Department of North Carolina uses a separate professional accounting/auditing firm to completely audit its records annually, and this will not change. 7. A motion to combine the Ladies and Men's Auxiliaries, sponsored by the Department of West Virginia, was defeated. Concurrently, a motion to rescind Article XIII of the National By-Laws (which covers the establishment and governance of Men's Auxiliaries) and thereby forcing some type of combining, was also defeated. Therefore, the current system of auxiliaries will continue unchanged for at least one more year. 8. A motion was made to allow the Department Commander to recommend to the Commander-in-Chief the consolidation of two or more posts, even though both posts may not wish to consolidate. The purpose in this motion was to allow the Department Commander the option of saving small posts who do not meet and do not complete any programs by consolidating them with larger, more active posts. The standing rule in the past was that both posts had to agree to consolidate before it could occur. This will still be the preferred method, but if necessary, the Department Commander now has that extra option.

About the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation: The Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation is the official charity of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW), America's largest organization for combat veterans. Its mission is to support programs and set:vices that provide emergency financial assistance for military families, free phone calls for deployed troops, VIP treatment for service members and their families at entertainment events, morale boosting events for military units, and critical services that guide veterans through VA entitlement claims. These programs and services are provided at no cost to the recipients. The VFW Foundation is one of the nation's Since 2007, over 1,200 Burger King highest rated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organiRestaurants in 24 states have participated zations. For more information, please visit in the November Unmet Needs promo- www.vfwfoundation.org tion. Since 2004, the VFW Unmet Needs

The VFW Leader preSidenT'S CoLumn

with other Community agencies with a fundraiser to assist 3 local Law Enforcement Officers who have cancer. They also participated in the Fourth of July Parade and enjoyed Lawn Bowling and a Cookout afterwards for their members and the VFW. They are also assisting the Post with several projects. I love the commitment that you have made to help fellow Veterans and the community! Well done my Sisters! Sanford Auxiliary 5631 District 9 made lap quilts for the Veterans and are assisting with the GinGer Amos HomeRay Cameron Scholarship Sisters... Billy Golf Tournament. They are Wonderful programs and projects working with the Lee County are being carried out throughout Arts Council in promoting the the Department of North Carolina Patriotic Art contest. The Post and VFW Ladies Auxiliary. I have had Auxiliaries also hosted the Central an opportunity to visit several Area Flying Squadron Leadership Auxiliaries already and would like Training in August. You have delito share some of their stories with cious food, wonderful programs you. and a commitment to Veterans and your community!'Can't wait Auxiliary 2423 Indian Trail to see what you have planned District 13 cosponsored the Viet next!!! Nam moving wall in May with 25,000 people in attendance. This Rockingham Auxiliary 4203 is the second time that they have District 9 officers were elected hosted this event in less than 5 and installed by the Department years. The Auxiliary purchased a President. They have met and bell and two eagle statues for their are making plans for some excitMemorial Garden and provided ing programs. These Sisters and hamburgers and hotdogs for their Comrades also hosted the District town on the Fourth of July as well 9 meeting. Congratulations Sisters as participating in the Parade. The and I know that there will be many VFW Post donated $2,000 to the more programs to report! Ladies Auxiliary to help remodel the kitchen. This is only a sample Sisters, you can see all the proof their work for Veterans and grams that can be planned and their community. Sisters...keep up implemented when we set goals the Great Work! and work together to implement them! Remember...as we reach out Auxiliary and Post 7983 Cary to our communities, we need to District 8 celebrated the Fourth of project a positive and professional July with a cookout and Pig Pickin image as to who we are and what for their members. They spon- we are about. Yes, we are a volunsored a Vendor Fair with approx. teer organization however...we are 50 vendors and assist the VFW in a business that helps Veterans and operating a Thrift Shop. They also their familiesl run the concession stand during Bingo. Once again this is only a Let's "Create A Recipe For Success" fraction of the programs carried as we continue to "Serve from the out by this Auxiliary. Way to go Heart for Our Veterans". I will Sisters! continue to share these wonderful success stories as I continue my Auxiliary 5206 Hendersonville travels! District 16 sponsored a community Horse Shoe tournament Love to aiL and Yard Sale. They are working

JuL/aug/Sep 2012
Lee, who was a helicopter pilot serving in the US Army. I belong to the Azalea Chapter in Wilmington, NC. I am an MOCA member, occupied the MOCA chairs, served as President of PT 6 Sand Fiddlers in Beaufort, NC, and now I belong to MOCA PT #14 in New Bern, NC. I am also a life member of the American Legion Post 11 in Goldsboro, NC. Department President of the Year, runner up 2004-2005, District President of the year 2009-2010, Auxiliary President of the year 1997-1998, 1998 -1999 and 2006-2007, Auxiliary Member of the year 1999-2000 and 2001-2002, National Aid de Camp 1999-2000 and was many times State and Auxiliary Aid de Camp over the years. I was Chairman, National Award Junior Girls 1st place 20062007, Hospital Volunteer of the Year in 2000, Carteret/Craven County Retired Senior Volunteer of the year 2000, Caswell Center Volunteer of the year award 2001. I have a plaque recognizing my many hours given to Helpline of Carteret County 2002, and a Plaque from the Department of the Army (Adopted Unit to Post 2401) for my support in 2007. I received numerous letters and commendations over the years for my service to our veterans and other organizations for my volunteer work (too many to list all of them), but some memorable ones are from President George W. Bush, President Barrack Obama, Senator Kay Hagan, Senator Richard Burr, Governor Jim Hunt, Governor Mike Easily, and Governor Beverly Perdue. In addition to those, I also received letters from Senator Jesse Helms and Senator Lauch Faircloth when I eagerly became a US citizen in April 1981. I was so very proud to become a citizen of the United States and retain that pride of citizenship to this very day. I have several awards from the Navy/Marine Relief Society for crocheting baby blankets. I don't know how many I have made over the last 10 years. I got a lot of awards and I just

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got a clock and a 6,OOO-hour pin. I have also received United States Marine Corps plaques and several awards for my work at the Air Terminal at Cherry Point in the last seven years for seeing the troops off on training and deployment overseas. I serve all branches of the military and all reservists that come through Cherry Point Terminal, all of whom are all looking for something to eat or drink. For some it is the third, fourth, or even fifth time through, and they know we are there for them with all the goodies. I can count on the help of Betty Mace, past commander Joe Mlzzi, and Commander Dan Myers at all times if I cannot be there myself. They know all there is to know and take care of things. All three have several awards themselves. We serve coffee, water, Kool-Aid, lemonade, cakes, cookies, muffins, brownies, gum, crackers, candies and anything else I can get. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a favorite. I bake a lot of the items myself, and with the help of Dan I make more than 240 P&J sandwiches at a time and they all disappear in no time at all. I also send care packages overseas with homemade cookies, brownies, hard candy, and toiletry items. We exchange emails, letters, and pictures. In the last 25 years I missed two national conventions, one Southern Conference, one District Meeting, and two Auxiliary Meetings, all due to circumstances beyond by control. I have missed no Department C of A meetings and no Department Conventions. I always plan everything around my Auxiliary obligations. Thanking you in advance for your consideration of me as your National Council member # 9. I am Loyally, Maria Myers 204 South Drive Beaufort, NC 28516 Email: dmyers4@ec.rr.com Phone: 252-342-3728

CANDIDATE FOR NATIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER # 9 MARIA MYERS My name is Maria Myers and I am running for the office of National Council Member # 9. I am a life member of VFW Ladies Auxiliary 2401 in Beaufort, NC, and I have been a very active member since 1984. I joined under my husband, Daniel T. Myers, who retired from US Air Force and is a Viet Nam Veteran. He also retired after 20 years from Cherry Point. I have served in all chairs up to and including President in the Auxiliary, District, and Department. I have served in most of the appointed Chairs and all elected offices all the way to up to President in the Auxiliary of Jones-Austin Post 2401. I have been Auxiliary president eleven times. I have gone through the District 4 Chairs up to District 4 President, served as Chairman and Trustee several times in the 4th District, and served as District 4 President two times. I have gone through the Department Chairs up to Department President and served several times on committees and chairmanships. I also have been appointed as a Page several times. I joined the Gold Star Mothers of America in 1997 after I lost my son Captain Donald J.

Dept. Buddy Poppy King & Queen

Lance S. Melton of Hays and Jessica Autry of Durham were chosen as the Department of North Carolina's 2012-2013 Buddy Poppy King and Queen by the Buddy Poppy committee on Thursday, 20 September in Raleigh. They were honored at the annual Buddy Poppy Reception at the Autumn Conference/Council of Administration meeting on Saturday, 6 October, at the North Raleigh Hilton hotel. Lance is ten years old and Jessica is eleven. The new King is the son of Bryan and Adrina Melton and attends Mountain View Elementary School. He was nominated by North Wilkesboro Post 1142 and approved by District 15 prior to his application proceeding to the Department level. He has worked with the VFW in the Buddy Poppy program on numerous occasions, to include handing out 4000 poppies at the Wilkes Apple Festival, handing out 150 U.S. flags wrapped with a poppy at the last Veterans' Day service held at the new court house in Wilkesboro, handing out 80 pamphlets on the history of the Buddy Poppy at the comer of 9th and Veteran's Avenues in North Wilkesboro, and giving out 100 such pamphlets at the Memorial Day service held at the post. His grandparents paid for the flags and pamphlets that he handed out. Lance is also active in his community, including helping to deliver Christmas stockings and Easter baskets to the veterans in nur-

Lance S. Melton sing homes in Wilkes County, and handing out 170 goody bags to the National Guard troops at their local deployment ceremony. Jessica is the daughter of Greg and Michelle Autry of Durham, and attends Carrington Middle School. She made Buddy Poppy Christmas trees to use as decorations for the Post 2740 Christmas party, handed out poppies to veterans at the last Veterans' Day ceremony, and passed out poppies at a local grocery store on Memorial Day. In the community, she is always on the go. She has made Veterans' Day cards to send to military troops overseas, participated in several flag retirement ceremonies with her Girl Scout troop, volunteered at the NC Food Bank, worked

Jessica Autry with four friends to collect over 500 children's books to donate for the summer reading program, made angel pins for breast cancer survivors, and many other activities. The Buddy Poppy King and Queen program is unique to North Carolina, and visiting National Representatives on both the comrades and Ladies' sides have commented they have never seen anything like it. It is designed to make young people think about the meaning of the Buddy Poppy and how their distribution affects veterans in the Tarheel State. Posts and auxiliaries should start gathering possible candidates in the spring, as the King and Queen positions are determined in September and always presented at the October Conference/CofA meeting.

Ladies Aux. Formed

Wake Forest Memorial Post 8466 Ladies Auxiliary formed: Sunday afternoon, August 25, 2012, will always be considered a special date for Wake Forest Memorial Post 8466, because it was the day the recently formed Ladies Auxiliary received their Institution and the officers took the pledge to their respective positions. Approximately a hundred family members and spectators collected to observe the ceremony. Ladies took their places before the State of North Carolina Ladies Auxiliary President Ginger Amos who led the proceedings and offered words of encouragement and support to the new organization dedicated to the suppor of our country's veterans and service members. Sandra Johnson, District 7 President, provided the welcome address and introduced the invited guests. Helen

Carter, Past North Carolina President, administered the Institution of the Ladies Auxiliary and following a brief meeting to confirm the new officers led the installations ceremony. Following the installation ceremony, the newly appointed officers accepted their respective positions for the upcoming year. From left to right front row: Sandra Johnson, District 7 President, Ginger Amos, North Carolina State President, Kim Wilkinson, Post 8466 President, Helen Carter, Past State President. Second row: Debbie Anderson, Trustee, Donna Kramer, Conductress, Danelle Kramer Westbrook, Secretary/ Treasurer, Tanya Midyette, Chaplain, Susan Frohnapple, Jr. Vice President. Third row: Shannon Arner, Trustee, Bev Mecum, Sr. Vice President, Ann Lowdermilk, Trustee and Marie Heroux.

VA's Make The Connection Support

WASHINGTON - Make the Connection, a new campaign launched by the Department of Veterans Affairs, is creating ways for Veterans and their family members to connect with the experiences of other Veterans and ultimately to connect with information and resources to help them confront the challenges of transitioning from service, face health issues, or navigate the complexities of daily life as a civilian. "I have seen over and over again how important it can be for a Veteran to hear a message. from another Veteran. This type of communication will be especially useful in helping to break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and treatment," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "VA is leveraging this powerful connection using an approachable online resource that links Veterans to personal stories from their peers, to VA resources and' support, and to reliable information about mental health and resilience." The campaign's central focus is a Web site, www.MakeTheConnection. net, featuring numerous Veterans who have shared their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. It offers a place where Veterans .and their families can. view the candid, personal testimonials of other Veterans who have dealt with and are working through a variety of common life experiences, day-to-day symptoms, and mental health conditions. The Web site also connects Veterans and their family members with services and resources that may help them live more fulfilling lives. "VA is heartened by the tremendous commitment of Veterans of all service eras, genders and backgrounds who are stepping up to share their stories," said Shinseki. "Just as they would never leave a fellow Service member behind on the field of battle, they are once again reaching out to support their fellow Veterans with their compelling examples of successful treatment and recovery." At MakeTheConnection. net, Veterans and their fainily members can explore information on mental health issues and treatment and easily access support in comfort and privacy, anywhere, anytime. Visitors to the Web site can customize and filter their onliine experience, directly connecting with content that is the most relevant to their own lives and situations. VA's Make the Connection campaign is raising awareness through publlc service announcements, advertising and partnerships with Veteran Service Organizations and mental health service providers nationwide. For more information, visit MakeTheConnection.net or VA's mental health services Web site at www. mentalhealth.va.gov.

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Is your Post located near a college or university campus? Are you looking for new members to fill your ranks? Would you like to reach out to younger veterans? If so, grab this opportunity to host a college veterans club at your Post. If you're a veteran currently taking college courses and find yourself needing assistance, have questions on your benefits or just miss the camaraderie of military life, a college veterans club may be for you.

Jul/Aug/Sep 2012

The VFW leAder

A Post's Guide to Forming a College Vets Club

little, a younger veteran intern at VFW while finishing law school at the University of Missouri- Kansas City, conceived the idea after realizing he didn't have a lot in common with the average college student. "I just feel like this is something the Veterans of Foreign Wars is will- VFW can do to reach out to younger Many veterans are seeking higher ing to provide resources to help veterans," said little, a Persian gulf education and they may be looking interested veterans join or form a War vet and life member of Post 1 to be part of a group with similar college veterans club in your area. in Denver. "Colleges are untapped interests. Here's how you can help Initially the club will be located at a resources for Posts located near the them feel the camaraderie that you local VFW Post. campuses." do by being part of VFW: Plan a kick-off meeting at your Are you prior military, in the According to Kevin Jones, assistant post to which you will invite stu- national guard or Reserve? Are director of VFW Programs and coordent veterans and your members. you looking to be part of a group dinator of the effort, the underlying Customize a flyer and make copies. with similar interests? Are you goal is to help promote a positive, Post them at all local colleges and interested in volunteering your ser- energetic image of veterans on coluniversities on bulletin boards and vices to fellow veterans in your com- lege campuses. "of course, by doing other designated areas. In addi- munity? Do you need assistance this, we hope to also introduce stution, send news releases to campus understanding or filing for VA ben- dents to VFW," Jones added. "Right and local newspapers, radio and efits? Would you like to make a dif- now, we're just trying to determine television stations. At the meeting ference in the lives of those who have what kind of response we will get if you will introduce students to the already served our country? we launch this nationwide." benefits of a veterans organization, including employment assistance, IF yoU sAID yes to Any oF the idea is for these groups to use volunteer opportunities and mak- tHe ABoVe, We'D lIKe to an area post home for meetings or ing a difference in the lives of other tAlK WItH yoU. JoIn Us FoR activities and to also help VFW in veterans. Be sure your post service oUR KICK-oFF MeetIng any community service endeavors. offIcer or representative is present to Jones sees it as a social organizaanswer questions about VA benefits. great Partnership Potential tion that blends social. activities, At the meeting's conclusion, offer camaraderie, benefits and chariyour Post as a potential location for VFW national Headquarters is table service. He noted that some future college vets club meetings. testing the academic waters in the posts indicated interest even prior to Remember, as representatives' of Kansas City metropolitan area to the August meeting. little found a VFW, you should make a favor- gauge the interest level in college post in Pennsylvania that has sponable impression. While students may veterans clubs. sored a vets club since 1968 during express interest in VFW memberthe Vietnam War. Post 321 in ship, this is not the purpose for In August 2004, about 20 represen- state College, Pa., began sponsoring inviting them. tatives from community colleges and the Pennsylvania state University major universities attended a VFW Veterans organization when an College Vets UnIte stAy sponsored luncheon to discuss the influx of Viet nam Veterans received ACtIVe! JoIn tHe neW possibility of teaming up with VFW flack from their fellow students. College Vets ClUB! Posts to establish such clubs. Russ

Members of the Johnson. Veterans Club at. Cornell University gather for a picture in 2003. Vet clubs are springing up all across America on campuses where veterans. attend college. get involved with the future leaders of our country and VFW.

Connection to VFW

Both VFW Posts and campus veterans clubs could stand to benefit by joining forces in achieving common goals. Because VFW is looking to reach out to younger generations, it has a natural interest in the student groups. the clubs in turn could use VFW's assistance because some groups have folded due to lack of funding and support. some clubs have shown initial interest in a partnership with VFW, but such a connection does not yet exist. "At one point, we were thinking of trying to organize something with the local Ithaca [n.y.] post, like a joint care package project for the soldiers in Iraq, but it just never came to fruition," said tim Alden, president of the Johnson Veterans Club at Cornell University's school of business. the Military Veteran student society at Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind., boasts a link on their Web site to VFW's homepage, and founder Jeff Memmer said he became a member of Post 604 in Bloomington after speaking with the post commander. He hopes to cooperate with VFW in future service projects and wants to

invite post members to speak at club meetings in order to educate other student veterans about the organization. "Honestly, most members have no idea what the VFW or other veteran organizations do or that they even exist," Memmer said. "there is definitely a generation gap within the local VFW Posts that seems to unintentionally project an aura of alienation toward the younger veterans." However, a relationship between the organizations' is not out of the question. When asked about the possibility, most club members were optimistic. "I think the clubs would love to have some help from VFW," said Jeremy Kirsch, of the Massachusetts Institute of technology's sloan school of Management veterans club. "there could be a great partnership potential." For more information on forming a college vets club in your community, contact: VFW national Headquarters Attn.: Kevin Jones, 406 W. 34th street, Kansas City, Mo 64111 Phone: 816756-3390 . e-mail: kjones@vfw.org

Emergency Care
WAsHIngton - the Department of Veterans Affairs announced recently. a change in regulations regarding payments for emergency care provided to eligible Veterans in non- VA facilities. "this provision helps ensure eligible' Veterans continue to get the emergency care they need when V A facilities are not available," said secretary of Veterans Affairs eric K. shmseki. the new regulation extends VA's authority to pay for emergency care provided to eligible Veterans at non- VA facilities until the Veterans can be safely transferred to a VA medical facility. More than 100,000 Veterans are estimated.to be affected by the new rules, at a cost of about $44 million annually. VA operates 121 emergency departments across the country, which provide resuscitative therapy and stabilization in life-threatening situations. they operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. VA also has 46 urgent care units, which provide care for patients without scheduled appointments who need immediate medical or psychiatric attention. For more information about emergency care in non-VA facilities, visit www.nonvacare.va.gov.

Catawba County Veterans Honor Amer. Sacrifices on Independence Day

By Richard Gould, Hickory Daily Record
to some Americans, the 4th of bers, auxiliary members and July means a day off, maybe a prospective members. "this is cookout and some fireworks. the first year we've done it, and we're putting on a big spread," For American military veterans teague said. "We're taking our who served their country in Fourth to make other people times of war, it means a whole happy and to put together a lot more. celebration." this year's Independence Day marked the 236th anniversary of America's independence from tyranny and its first steps as a great nation. And local veterans' groups came out to celebrate the holiday in style. outreach is a key part of the post's mission. Right now Post no. 5305 has almost 130 members, but they're looking to the next generation of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen to step up and join their ranks.

Health Benefits
Distribution of the handbooks began this month, with all 8.5 million Veterans enrolled in V A's health care system scheduled to receive their handbooks by 2013. Veterans will receive updates to their handbook "VA is committed to providing our to reflect changes to their benefits nation's Veterans with consistent, or eligibility. clear information about the services available to them," said secretary of VA operates 152 medical centers Veterans Affairs eric K. shinseki. and more than 800 communitybased outpatient clinics. last year, the new booklet, called a Health inpatient facilities treated more than Benefits Handbook, will provide a 690,000 patients, while outpatient personalized listing of health ben- clinics registered more than 79 milefits based on each Veteran's specific lion visits. eligibility. the handbook will also have contact information for their For more information about the local VA medical facilities, appoint- Health Benefits Handbook, visit ment scheduling information, www.va.gov/ healthbenefits/vhbh or guidelines for communicating with call VA's toll free number at l-877their clinical team and, as appli- 222-Vets (8387). WAsHIngton - Veterans enrolled in the health care system of the Department of Veterans Affairs have begun to receive personalized booklets that explain their health care benefits and contain other useful information. cable, information about copays.

Post Commander larry "Moon" teague of newton's Donald l. Drum V .F. W. Post no. 5305 served in the Army, as did his Jr. Vice Commander steve "Cigar" edwards and the Chairman of the House Committee, Rick Helms. Post trustee gene Pepe served in the "A lot of people take freedom Marine Corps. for granted because they've never been anywhere else," he they spent their Independence said. "once you cross that pond Day at newton's VFW Post no. and see some of the world, 5305 where they hosred a cook- you start to realize what you've out and reached out to 10 the got." community. they invited mem-

"We need new blood in here, Following the meal they took and we're looking for new and plates of chicken, potatoes, younger members," teague corn and fixings to shut-ins in said. the local community. He said that the post is always teague and many of his fellow eager to help younger service members served this country in men and women and he made the Vietnam era. their nation's an offer. If there's someone in independence is something the U.s. military who's curthey take seriously. rently serving his or her county overseas and wants to join the "We fought to achieve our inde- newton VFW, his or her spouse pendence and some are still can fill out the paperwork and fighting to keep it," teague the local VFW will pay their said. Helms agreed. first year's dues, teague said. For more information about VFW membership, contact Post no. 5305 at 464-2580. "We're here to help any soldier who needs a hand," teague said.

The VFW Leader

There were lots of blood, sweat, and tears to include hundreds of volunteer hours, late nights, thousands of dollars in materials donated, and of course a few cold beers, but Swansboro Post 9960 has hit a home run with their new canteen addition. It has been in the making for over a year and a half, and they can finally say that the canteen addition is complete. A ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication was held on July 28th to commemorate the addition. At their last joint meeting, a motion was made as to whom to dedicate the addition. By unanimous decision, it was voted to dedicate the addition to a comrade who has been around the VFW seemingly since Moses parted the Red Sea. This comrade served in the Korean War where he earned several decorations, and for over 50 years has been involved with the VFW. Additionally this comrade has served as Post 9960 Commander, was the District

JuL/aug/Sep 2012

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was the least that they could do since Past State Commander Sloan has given so much not only to the Post, but to the community as well. Present Post Commander Scott Vanderwerf, an active duty Marine, stated that Sloan may not be as lean nor as mean, but still continues to be involved with his Post. He added that Sloan's comrades, auxiliary sisters, and auxiliary brothers all thanked him for what he has done and continues to do for our great organization! "I would like to personally thank all of those who had a helping hand in making this canteen addition a realization," enthused Post Commander Scott. "Our Post needed it! We are growing and will continue to grow!"

Swansboro VFW Post 9960 is Growing; Literally!

4 Commander, and his greatest achievement was attained in 2009 when he became the Department of North Carolina State Commander. William "WILD BILL" Sloan was extremely honored to have the canteen addition dedicated in his honor. He stated that "I never expected to have this dedicated to me, especially when there were so many deserving Comrades at the Post". The Post membership felt that it

Department Opens It's Own VFW Store

The Department of North Carolina has opened its own Department VFW Store to cater to the wishes of the comrades, sisters, and brothers of the Tarheel State. It is available both at the Department Headquarters at 917 New Bern Avenue in Raleigh and online at www.vfwnc.org, then "Tools", then "VFW NC Online Store." After negotiating with VFW National Headquarters, the Department was able to advertise both VFW items and nonVFW military items on the new store. VFW State Secretary and Ladies Auxiliary Past State President Lynn Edwards was able to negotiate lower prices with the National store when the Department buys in bulk. Therefore, the prices of specialized North Carolina items are being offered at a low, competitive price. Additionally, when buying at the Department Store, the profits stay in North Carolina to help Tarheel veterans and their families, as opposed to going to other states. the store by either attending the Council of Administration meeting or Annual Convention (where the store will be physically present), or by visiting the Headquarters, or by calling the Headquarters at 919-828-5058 to order over the telephone, or by visiting the Online site and using a credit card or Paypal. The Comrades, sisters, and broth- physical store accepts cash, checks, ers may purchase items from debit cards, and credit cards. There are many specialty items available for purchase. For example, individuals or posts or auxiliaries may purchase shirts displaying the appropriate VFW/Auxiliary Cross of Malta symbol, the individual's name, his/her position, and the post number. Or caps can be purchased with the symbol and the post location and number.

$1200 Check Presented

Hope Mills Post 10630 presents a check for $1200.00 to the Chief of Staff Of the 82nd Airborne Division to be used for a monthly memorial service For the division's fallen soldiers. Families of the deceased are invited to the memorials, held at the 82nd Airborne Division Chapel. Also shown here Are Post 10630 Commander Bob Proulx and Quartermaster Bill Greene.

Memorial Bike Show

Despite threatening weather, on 21 July, Summerfield VFW Post 7999 conducted its first Memorial Bike Show. Local Biker's enjoyed refreshments, music and showing their Bikes . Presenting trophies to the winners was Commander Roy Lee, a Veteran of WWII. Winning trophies for Judges-Choice, US Cruiser and Best-In-Show was Beth A. Mangus Roberts with her Jesus themed 1993 HD Custom XL 1200 Sportster. Other winners were Timothy Sides (Metric cruiser); John Collins Jr. (Bagger Class); and John Miller (Trike). VFW Post 7999 thanked Smokin' Harley Davidson, Kevin Powell Motorsports(Greensboro), Rio Grande Restaurant, Elizabeth's Italian Restaurant, Perguson's Western Wear, MAX Speed cycle Shop (K'ville), Bad Applez Tattoo's (K'ville), Jolly Roger's Tattoo's (Greensboro) and Le Bestro restaurant for providing door prizes. Show organizer, Rick "TAZ" Dunlap (Post 7999) give a special thanks to VFW Post 7999 members, Golden Antiques &. Collectables for hosting the Show and Red Oak Brewery for their special donation.

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North Carolina Shines at Military Order of Cootie Convention

North Carolina recently showed that it is a valuable part of the Military Order of the Cootie (MOC) and their Women's Auxiliary (MOCA). The VFW NC State Chaplain, Steve Smith of Jacksonville Post 9133, was elected as Supreme Chaplain for the MOC. Smith ran unopposed for the position, an started out his duties as Supreme Chaplain by offering the closing prayer at the close of the Banquet where the Supreme officers were installed. level. The post level organization of the MOC and MOCA known as "Pup Tents."

The Military Order of the Cootie is the honor degree of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The Cooties work with hospitalized veterans with their motto of "Keep 'Em Smiling in Beds of White," and support the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. If you are interested in more information about the MOC or MOCA in North Carolina, contact Comrade On the Women's Auxiliary side, Cacoulidis at 910-754-254 Linda Campbell of Fayetteville Auxiliary 6018 was elected James Cacoulidis and Anna Supreme Senior Vice President Holm are currently in the and Penny Cacoulidis of middle of a two-year term Ladies Auxiliary 670, the NC as Council members on the Ladies Auxiliary Department MOC and MOCA Supreme Senior Vice President, was Council of Administration. elected as Supreme Guard and They represent North Carolina is the Supreme Scholarship South Carolina, Georgia and Chairman for the ensuing Florida which makes up the year. 5th Supreme District. In addition to the above three Supreme officers, James Cacoulidis of Fayetteville Post 670 is currently serving as 5th Supreme District Council Member on the MOC Council and Anna Holm of Gal Auxiliary 10225 is the 5th Supreme District President on the MOCA Council. Linda Hannappel, junior past Grand President, was named runner-up Outstanding President her division. Multiple awards were won by the Grand. The "Grand" is the State level organization of the Cooties. The "Supreme" is the National As a special project Jim and Anna have secured a four day cruise for two aboard the Windjammer Schooner American Eagle. Donations for the trip are $5 each or 3 for $10. The winner be announced at the 5th Supreme Convention in the Spring of 2013. For information about the draw please contact Anna Holm at 919-201-3268 or by email at acholm@att.net. All donations will benefit Veteran's Mental Health Issues with a stress on Suicide Prevention.

Sixty golfers enjoyed a sunny and breezy afternoon while raising money for the Fisher House on Saturday, September 8th. Sponsored by Calabash VFW Post 7288, the event also honors the memory of Tommy "Two Feathers" Roehm, a cherished member of the Post who died from Lou Gherig's Disease when he was only 60. Pictured explaining the rules of the tournament is event chairman Tom McCormack before the par-

ticipants began the afternoon of productive fun at Harbour View Par 3 in Little River, SC. Dinner and prizes followed at the Post. The Fisher House Foundation donates "comfort homes," built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers, homes that enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful times - during the hospitalization for an unexpected illness, disease, or injury.

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The newly renovated and painted VFW State Recruiting Trailer is available for sign out and pick up by contacting the State VFW Headquarters at 919-828-5058. It comes complete with recruiting documents & Patriotic Giveaways.

SUPPORT YOUR VFW

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a hero's Welcome

A heroes' welcome. In January of this year two comrades from the Vietnam war, each of whom thought the other was dead, were reunited after 42 years of trying to find each other. Jim Milstead, a Navy veteran and member of Calabash VFW Post 7288, had served on a riverboat in Vietnam in 1971 as an adviser to the Vietnamese crew. One of the Vietnamese crewmen was Soan Ngo, who was among those feared killed in an attack on January 4th of that year. Milstead thought Ngo was dead. Ngo thought Milstead had been killed. Neither had, and after years of searching Ngo, with the help of a friend, found Milstead through a picture in the VFW Leader. They reunited in February in Florida, where Ngo lives and Ngo promised to return the visit. That's what happened September 3rd at the Calabash VFW. Pictured during the visit are, from left, Milstead's wife Cathy, Rusty Ray of TV station WBTW which chronicled the Florida reunion, Jim Milstead and Soan Ngo. After the visit to the Post, and more reminiscence with Milstead, Ngo plans to relax with his wife Hanh in the Georgia mountains before returning to his job at Shogun, the Japanese steak house he owns in Venice, Florida.

Visit Your Post's Website

Every post in North Carolina has their own website. It takes a minute to visit your post's site. Just log in to: www.vfwwebcom.org/northcarolina
The VFW Leader IS OnLIne!

ThaTs righT! You can now read and prinT The issues of The VFW Leader bY going To The deparTmenTs compuTer websiTe aT WWW.VFWWeBCOM.OrG/NOrThCarOLINa if You no longer feel iT necessarY To receive a paper copY of The VFW Leader in The mail, please fill ouT This form and mail iT To The depT. aT po box 25337, raleigh, nc 27611. You will be able To read The same news online, and The fewer paper copies mailed will save The depT. boTh prinT and mail cosTs! name_________________________________________________________________________________ address_____________________________________________________________________________ ciTY ________________________________________________________________________________ _ sTaTe__________________Zip_____________________________

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Post 6183 Norwood, NC 17th Annual Arbor Day Antiques, Rods, & Custom Car Show
As dawn broke cool and windy on April 26, 2012, members of Norwood Post 6183 set out on their 17th annual mission of raising funds and making friends in this small town on the southern edge of Stanly County. In conjunction with the town's annual Arbor Day Festival, the veterans were busy preparing burgers, hotdogs with the trimmings, chips and drinks for sale later in the day and setting up the field for the day-long car show and gabfest which accompanies such outings. Commander Bob Hooks kept his crews updated and busy on the seemingly unending minor crises in preparation for the big event. Quartermaster Burt Slater collected the participation fees and made the official book entries for the 97 car-show contestants. Past Commander Michael Culp rigged the sound system and got some real oldies playing. WWII veteran Melville Smith reminisced and kept younger comrades advised about how it used to be. The early morning man of the hour, with a key to the restrooms, was AWOL for awhile. So things were not always smooth. Even though the weather remained cool, the day was a great success. Plaques, prizes, and trophies were awarded to the top 80 cars entered. Truck Best In-Show went to Roger Long's 1938 Ford. Car Best InShow and Best Overall went to Ron Bailes' 1951 Ford Custom Convertible. The food was well received by all who tried it and Post 6183 raised much-needed funds for further use in their support of veterans, community, and patriotic projects.

Past Commander Michael Culp & crew setting up sound system

Quartermaster Bob Hooks, Quartermaster Burt Slater and Bob's 1956 Chevy

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Heroes on Wheels