MICMICHIGANHIGAN OVERSEASVER• Reporting yoSEASur positive impact onV the METEETERANichigan comRANmunity • April/May/June 2011 Volume 78 Number 4 SENIOR VICE COMMANDER JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER Comrades, Sisters and Brothers, Comrades, Sisters, and Brothers, We just returned from the I would like to start this annual Testimonial tribute to Jack article by thanking our State Kirk our State Commander Lloyd Commander Lloyd Putman II Putman II and our State Pres - Pray for his many years of service to Kennedy ident Patricia Patterson. There our organization and to our vet - Junior was a good showing and many Senior erans throughout the state. It is thanks to our leadership for Vice Commander really hard to appreciate the Vice Commander keeping the VFW and Auxil - many hours that a volunteer in iary on course so far this year. Post, District and county council officers our organization puts in week after week. Incoming State Commander Jack Pray Don’t forget the year is not quite over will have been elected and installed. When in the position of going through has some goals that he wants to achieve and our membership goes on until June Remember to make sure you send an elec - the Department Chairs, the time dou - during the year. It is up to us as members 30, 2011. We are always looking for new tion report into Department and National. bles…and even triples. Commander to help accomplish these goals; the sooner or reinstated members. According to DoD Congratulations to all newly elected and Putman, THANK YOU FOR YOUR we start our programs, the sooner we will numbers, there are thousands of veterans appointed officers and chairmen. I hope SERVICE to the Department of finish. Do not wait until the year is half in the State of Michigan that are eligible you took the leadership position for the Michigan Veterans of Foreign Wars. over before you start. Every category for for membership in our great organization. right reason, and not just to fill the chair. We By the time the MOV hits the streets, reporting that we have can, and should, be We just need to ask them. As the weather have changed our officers training seminars our year will be basically over. The done before December 31st. There is NO gets better and we start getting out and to include everyone and not just VFW offi - ways we measure success vary from reason for this not to be done by then. The around our communities, we need to hold cers. There will be one at Camp Trotter in program to program. As far as mem - only program that requires the entire year open houses at our Post homes and invite Newago on May 21st, another session at bership, we are where we have been for of working is membership. It is always an local veterans to come out and join us. Department Headquarters June 4th, and we many years, roughly coming in at ongoing project. Camp Trotter Director PSC Ernest will also have one in Marquette in the UP approximately 95%. VOD and Patriot’s To achieve success for the upcoming Meyers is doing a great job at our camp. June 18th. Pen are measured by the number of year, we need to use all the resources that We have come a long way, but still have a Remember, the Department Convention entries. This year, we had many are available to us. Use all the Depart - ways to go. If you haven’t had a chance to will be a little different this year. The vote entrees. We measure success at Camp ment Chairmen. Use all the resources come up to camp, take the time to come for new officers will take place on Saturday, Trotter by the number of campers we that are on our Web site. Use your Dis - and see it. We will have the annual Veterans June 11th with installation immediately entertain. We really need to improve on trict officers and chairmen and then use Training Seminar at Camp Trotter May after. The first C of A meeting for 2011- how many campers we get this coming the Department officers. Someone in this 20th and 21st, with the golf outing on the 2012 will take place on Sunday, June 12th, year. Did all the Posts report in all vast list can answer your question or help 20th. Please try and provide a hole spon - with a reception in the afternoon at 2 p.m. other categories this year? No!! with whatever program you need an sorship from your Post or District. This is a I look forward to seeing everyone at Improvement in these areas is essential answer for. Let us look forward to having large fundraiser for our camp and all the Convention and as always good luck, good to keep the organization on the right a successful 2011-2012 with Com - money raised goes directly to the camp. health and God bless our active duty path to success. You do the mander Pray. VETERANS SERVING By the time you receive this MOV , your service members, even now in harm’s way. work…please report it. VETERANS. Thomas T. Tradewell, Sr. ADJUTANT/QUARTERMASTER Commander-in-Chief 2009-2010, National Rep. for State Convention The State Convention is fast approaching. Remember that Rob Thomas Tradewell was mander 1999-2000. He served as this year the delegate registra - elected Commander-in-Chief of National Inspector General in tion will close at 12 Noon on Weiss the Veterans of Foreign Wars on 2001-2002. He also served as the Saturday, June 11, 2011. After August 20, 2009, at the VFW District 11 National Council rep - lunch, we will have a “Meet the State Adjutant/ 110th National Convention held resentative for members from the Candidates” in one room and Quartermaster in Phoenix, Arizona. Departments of Wisconsin and then we will reopen the Conven - Tradewell served in the U. S. Iowa in 2003-2005. tion for election purposes. Immediately have a better understanding of what the Army from 1966-1968 and earned VFW Tradewell earned an associate’s degree after the elections, the officers will be VFW is all about. eligibility while serving with B Company in industrial safety. sworn in. We will have VFW Training in 26th Engineers 198th Light Infantry Tradewell retired from Briggs and Sunday, June 12, 2011 will be the first Lansing at the Department Headquar - Brigade (Americal Division) in South Stratton in 1998 as a Metallurgy Labora - Council of Administration meeting ters on June 4, 2011 and one in Mar - Vietnam as a demolition specialist. His tory Technician after 30 years of service. where we will set the budget for fiscal quette on June 18, 2011 for Districts 14 decorations include the Vietnam Service He is a member of the Military Order year 2011-2012. and 15. Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, of the Purple Heart, Military Order of the We are changing the name of our The Ladies Auxiliary will not be sub - Purple Heart and Good Conduct Medal. Cootie, The American Legion, Disabled training program from “Officer mitting reports on Community Service to Tradewell joined the VFW in 1968 at American Veterans, Vietnam Veterans of Training Seminar” to “VFW Training.” their national organization. All reports Post 6498 in Milwaukee where he is a Life America and Combat Veterans Motor - We are finding that many of our mem - will be combined with the VFW, so make Member. He has served in elected and cycle Association. bers believe that they cannot attend sure that you get reports from the Ladies appointed positions at the Post, District and Tradewell married Sharon in 1966 because they are not officers. The and Men’s Auxiliary to turn in with your Department (state) levels, culminating and they make their home in Sussex, training that we put on is for everyone, Post reports. with his election as Department Com - Wisconsin. not just officers. We want everyone to See you at Convention. Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 2 STATE SERVICE OFFICER Advocating for Others In a TV show, The Myth Busters , hosted inal grant was based on fraud, or it is time to time is that a veteran will request an Dan by Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage – clearly shown from military records that entire copy of their VA claims folder, then and co-hosted by Tory Belleci, Kari the person concerned did not have the req - send that copy back to the VA to consider Crocker Byron and Grant Imahara – they mix sci - uisite service or character of discharge . an issue that has already been dealt with by State entific methods with gleeful curiosity and The 10-year period will be computed from the VA. This is redundancy. In order for the Service Officer plain old-fashioned ingenuity to create the effective date of the Department of Vet - VA to revisit a previous adjudicate issue, their own signature style of explosive erans Affairs finding of service connection new and material evidence must be sub - experimentation. to the effective date of the rating decision mitted. That is, new evidence that has never leave 24% efficient. How the heck did you Sometimes we have those that are in severing service connection, after compli - been considered and is germane to the get that you might ask? We multiply the the veteran community, who share myths ance with §3.105(d). The protection issue being addressed. 40% efficient by the additional 40% defi - as fact, and although they are not an afforded in this section extends to claims Finally, this is more confusion than a cient and low and behold, we get 16%. So explosive experimentation such as the TV for dependency and indemnity compensa - myth is, but it deals with when a grant for add the 16% to the previous 60%, and we show, they sometimes produce havoc tion (DIC), or death compensation. multiple disabilities and the percentage get 76%. This 76% is then subtracted from with those that believe them. (Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1159). just doesn’t add up. For instance, a left the initial 100%, and we get 24% One of the most common myths that a Another common myth is that veterans knee condition is evaluated at 30%, a remaining efficiency. Proceeding with the veteran may share with a spouse is that, who have had a service-connected dis - back condition rated at 40%, and a heart final disability of 30% multiplied by the “When I die, you will get the same thing ability rating in effect for a long period of condition rated a 60%. It doesn’t take a remaining 24% efficient, we arrive at I got from the VA.” Not true. When a vet - time (20 years or more) think that if they rocket scientist or a math wizard to add 7.2%. This 7.2% is then added to the pre - eran passes, the claim dies, and the ask for an increase from the VA, they will 60 + 40 + 30 and get 130%. Right? Not vious 76% and we get 83.2%. This indi - spouse must file in their own right. There be reduced. This, too, is not true. really. The VA uses what is called a “com - vidual is thus 80% disabled, because the is no guarantee that a spouse will be enti - 38 CFR 3.951 (b) preservation of dis - bined rating table” under 38 CFR 4.25 . VA rounds up and down accordingly. The tled to anything unless certain eligibility ability ratings (b) A disability which has The Combined Ratings Table results veteran’s remaining efficiency is 16.8%. requirements have been met, and a claim been continuously rated at or above any from the consideration of the efficiency of Believe it or not, based on this formula, has actually been filed. evaluation of disability for 20 or more the individual as affected first by the most in order for a veteran to be a scheduler Some think that the VA can take away years for compensation purposes under disabling condition, then by the less dis - 100%, the veteran would need an addi - the grant of entitlement to the issue of laws administered by the Department of abling condition, then by other less dis - tional 70% disabling condition. Yep, only service connection for just about any Veterans Affairs will not be reduced to abling conditions, if any, in the order of in America! reason. This is not true. less than such evaluation except upon a severity. Thus, a person having a 60% dis - After reading this three or four times, §3.957 Service connection. Service showing that such rating was based on ability is considered 40% efficient. What walk around the room, let the dog out, connection for any disability or death fraud . The 20-year period will be com - this means is that we start with a 100% scratch your head a couple of times, and granted or continued under Title 38, puted from the effective date of the eval - efficient body. After subtracting the 60% if you still don’t understand it, don’t feel United States Code, which has been in uation to the effective date of reduction of disability, our body’s efficiency that is left, bad. It took us a long time, too. Fortu - effect for 10 or more years will not be sev - evaluation. (Authority: 38 U.S.C. 110). is only 40%. Proceeding from this, the nately, there is a chart that we use under ered except upon a showing that the orig - Another issue that seems to surface from effect of a further 40% disability is to 38 CFR 4.25 . New Assistant State Department Service Officer Field Service Officer SUCCESS STORY

Brian G. Maghielse pronounced (ma “Mr. Maghielse Just when you think you have seen it all, mation. So the hunt was on! For one gill’see) was hired as an Assistant State possesses a strong a story presents itself that would make week…two weeks…and finally, we found it. Field Service Officer on March 21, 2011 willingness to many believe that this could not happen! Low and behold, the folder was under a and will be stationed in the South - learn the role of In January of 2011, one of our Advo - VA claim number. What’s the difference western corner of Michigan. Comrade an Advocate,” cates received a call from a veteran between a social security number and a Maghielse served in the United States stated Daniel J. regarding a situation that needed our VA claim number? On July 1, 1973 the Marine Corps and gained his eligibility Crocker, Director of Service. immediate attention. After getting the vet - VA switched from a designated VA claim for the Veterans of Foreign Wars with Mr. Maghielse currently resides in the eran’s phone number, a call was made to number (eight digits) to a veteran’s social service in Iraq. Grand Rapids area. get the details. The scenario was that we security number (nine digits). What this had a Vietnam veteran who stated that he means is that our veteran either filed a filed a claim in February of 2008 with claim for disability or an educational another Veterans Service Organization for claim, prior to the above note date and New Assistant State diabetes and ischemic heart disease, sec - was issued an eight digit number. We had ondary to his service in Vietnam. He also two claim folders! Field Service Officer stated that he could not work because of In any event, we still had a veteran not Michael D. Thompson was hired as an of our staff and these conditions. In the same conversation service-connected with a claim for IU for Assistant State Field Service Officer on will be a valuable he stated that the VA denied his claim in the better part of three years. The question February 21, 2011, and will be sta - asset to help those the summer of 2008, because he did not that was proposed to the VA is, how can an tioned in the mid-Michigan area. Mr. who have served,” provide medical evidence to support his issue of IU even be considered when the Thompson served in the United States stated Daniel J. contentions. He further stated that within a veteran isn’t even service-connected for Navy and gained his eligibility for the Crocker, Director month or so after the denial, he provided anything? The answer – does the image of Veterans of Foreign Wars with service in of Service. the necessary information to the VA. a deer in the headlights come to mind?! Southwest Asia. Mr. Thompson currently resides in the Our Advocate found out that his claim In addition, there were two, count them “Mr. Thompson is a welcome member mid-Michigan area. was submitted to the VA under his social two, Congressional inquiries that didn’t security number and that according to the move the mountain. After we were able to VA records, three things were apparent. merge both files, the VA took the bull by 1) the VA had set up a pending claim for the horn and issued a rating within 24 SUPPORT Individual Unemployabilty (IU); 2) the hours of our discovery! VA had not verified the veteran’s military Due to the severity of the veteran’s OUR service; and 3) there were no medical heart and diabetic condition, the issue of records he said he sent to the VA. IU was moot. The veteran was granted a We asked the veteran at length about his 100% evaluation from the initial date of TROOPS military service and tour of duty in Vietnam claim and the veteran was sent a retro and it was quite evident to us that veteran check in the amount of $95,000 on March was giving us correct information. Our 1, 2011. When contacted by our Advo - MICHIGAN OVERSEAS VETERAN (ISSN 1067-0661) is published quarterly, Advocate searched high and low for several cate to share the good news, the veteran January/February/March, April/May/June, July/August/September, and days for the claims folder to no avail. We and his wife explained that they had been October/November/December, at American Graphics & Design, 3380 S. 108th Street were able to ascertain the initial claim was cutting back on their propane all winter Greenfield, WI 53227, by the Department of Michigan, Veterans of Foreign Wars at 924 N. filed under his social security number. to save for food. Today, they have a full Washington Ave., Lansing (Ingham), Michigan 48906. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT LANSING, MI AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. Members receive this pub - Finally, we located the folder and found it tank, a full tummy and are warm and very lication as part of their dues. Subscriptions for non-members is $4.00. Postmaster: Send with very limited information. It was thankful for the Advocates of the VFW address changes to National VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. obvious to us that there may be another who exemplify the VFW Motto, “Honor claim folder with other indentifying infor - the Dead by Helping The Living.” 3 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran CHAPLAIN DISTRICT 4 REPORT “Now, therefore, give me this Ron Allen mountain,” –Joshua 14:12. District 4 Commander There are words that are Elmer R. spoken at a certain time or place which take on a special Liimatta Greetings Comrades and Sisters of the I would like to thank all my District offi - meaning. 4th District, cers and all my committee chairman for all The Lord had promised His State Chaplain My year as 4th District Commander is the hard work that they have given to me and people a special land that was coming to a close; in two months my the District. To the 4th District Honor Guard, abundant with milk and honey, meaning continue to trust in the Lord with a term will be over. These have been the thank you for all that you have done and will all of what they needed to sustain life simple child-like faith. As we trust in fastest three years of my life, but they continue to do, for our District. As always and prosper. But when they came to the His will, He will not allow anything to will always be the greatest three years. I comrades, you have and will always be land and found that it was occupied by happen in our life that is not in accord have met a lot of new comrades and sis - number one in the District and in my book. seven civilizations, many lost hope. with His will and for our good. What ters from other Districts and states. We have lost some good comrades this Because of their unbelief, they were we face He will provide the strength I have had the opportunity and privilege year and they will be greatly missed. As sentenced to wander in the wilderness and courage that we need. to work with the 4th District President comrades, we will keep our thoughts and for 40 years until that generation died During a caucus when I was cam - Lana Boulier and her District ladies. Their prayers with their families. off. Now, they come again to possess paigning for State Chaplain four years work for our District, state, and most of all All the support that has been given to the land. ago, one comrade asked me, “If you for our veterans, shows how we, as two me and the District, I ask that you con - Two of the faithful, Joshua and Caleb, don’t win, will you be around here next organizations, can work together. tinue to give the same support to the new are in positions of leadership. Caleb tells year?” Meaning at the State level. I I would to thank all my Post Com - District officers for the year 2011-2012. how 45 years ago, he stood at the same may not be in his area, but I will be manders for all that their Posts, officers, and I thank all who served our great nation place and now he is 85 years old. “As yet serving to help some veteran and his membership has done for the District and and served our District and state. The cit - I am as strong this day as I was in the day dependents as much as I can. I for the support they gave me and my Dis - izens of our great country appreciate all that Moses sent me; as my strength was encourage you to look to the Lord and trict officers this year. Without this support, that we have done and will do. then, even so is my strength now, for war, place your trust in Him for life, health we could not have achieved our goals. Also, At the start of my year, my theme was both to go out, and to come in.” Now he and every good gift as you face the thanks to all Post Commanders who “TOGETHER WE CAN.” I can stand asks for the mountain part where the daily battles of life. achieved 100% in membership and to all before you and look everyone in the eye giants are. “He gives power to the faint; and to Post Commanders who are still working and say, “TOGETHER WE DID.” Thank Many of our soldiers have claimed those who have none, might he hard to achieve their 100% in membership. you and GOD BLESS AMERICA. Joshua 1:9 and carry its inscription on a increaseth strength. But they that with coin for strength and courage. upon the Lord shall renew their strength; “Have I not commanded you? Be strong they shall mount up with wings like and of good courage; be not afraid, neither eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, DISTRICT 5 REPORT be thou dismayed, for the Lord thy God is and they shall walk, and not faint.” James Galen with you wherever you go.” –Isaiah 40:29, 31. District 5 Commander As State Chaplain of the VFW it has Someone pointed out to me recently been a great experience to meet many that often the eagle flies alone. Might veterans and share a part of their does not make right, but right makes Comrades, Sisters and Brothers of the ness. There is only a short time left in this journey over the last four years. This might. “And we know that all things 5th District, term. If a Post wants to be eligible to vote at will probably be my last article in the work together for good to them that love Here I am, writing you my final MOV the upcoming State Convention in June MOV . As I am nearing 80, I look to God.” –Romans 8:28 article. I want to first thank all of my line 2011 at the Troy Marriot Hotel, you will Caleb as one of the great heroes on my Reach out by faith and claim the officers and chairpersons for their out - need to have your quarterly audits turned in journey, and I want to encourage you to promises. God bless you, my friend. standing work and efforts during my term to Department on time, your delegate fees of office. We could not have accom - paid, and your Buddy Poppy orders paid. plished as much as we did together, On May 1, 2011, we will be having our without having worked as a team. Loyalty Day program at Post 1146, St. Clair URGENT MESSAGE!!! Sally and I would also like to thank Shores. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. and from the Service Director Daniel J. Crocker each and every Post in the 5th District for the program will start at 2:00 p.m. We have the past three years. Your hospitality and five (5) terrific speakers scheduled to speak. After writing my article for this would expire either when the United friendship given to both of us will always We also have a 30-member choir who will month’s edition of the MOV , we became States Supreme Court (Supreme Court) be remembered in our hearts. It has been be singing for us. There will be a luncheon aware of a situation that may cause a lot denied the petition for a writ of certio - an honor and a privilege to serve you as after the program. All veterans and family of our veterans concern. rari in Haas or decided Haas on the your 5th District Commander. members, including children, are invited to There has been a recent publication merits, rather than expiring on the date I would like to thank each Post Com - attend. All Posts should bring their colors to printed here in the state of Michigan that the Veterans’ Court issued the man - mander, the Macomb County Council and our Loyalty Day event, where they will be that has alluded to new entitlement for date in that case. The Veterans’ Court Oakland County Council for all of their posted in front of the audience. Blue Water Navy veterans to receive denied the motion on November 17, hard work and efforts in making the 5th On May 13, 14 and 15, 2011, we will benefits under the Agent Orange Act, 2008, noting that the April 13, 2007 Rib - District successful. You are the 5th District! have our Oakland/Macomb Youth Campout as a result of service offshore in audo order, which merely stayed the Without your leadership at Post and county at Multi-Lake Conservation Club in Com - Vietnam. implementation of its own Haas deci - council levels, the 5th District and I could merce Township. We still need donations for The article refers to the Hass v. sion, had become final upon issuance of not have achieved our goals throughout the the youth campout. We want to send any Nicholson case and in previous editions the mandate on May 17, 2007. The year. I would also like to thank Post 4659, needed group of children who cannot afford of the MOV , we have advised our reader - appellant in Haas filed a petition for a Shelby Twp. and Post 9914, Highland for to pay. Any Post that donates money will ship that this case was overturned. writ of certiorari to the Supreme Court, achieving 100% in Membership. This receive credit across the board. Please send On May 8, 2008, the Federal Circuit which was denied on January 21, 2009. brings a total of 12 Posts who have your donations to Walt Clingan, Chairman. issued its decision in Haas v. Peake , 525 See Haas v. Peake , 77 U.S.L.W. 3267 achieved 100% in membership during our On May 20 and 21, 2011 is the Camp F, where it reversed the Veterans’ Court, (Jan. 21, 2009) (No. 08-525). term. We still have time remaining to Trotter Golf Outing and Officer Training holding that the Veterans’ Court had As the Ribaudo stay of Haas-related achieve 100% in Post membership. There for all of our newly elected and appointed erred in rejecting VA’s interpretation of cases is no longer in effect, and in are so many Posts that are so close in officers from Posts, Council and District § 3.307(a)(6)(iii) as requiring a service light of the Supreme Court’s denial of achieving 100%. Don’t stop! Keep signing level. Forms will be on the Department member’s presence at some point on the certiorari, VA’s Office of General up new and reinstated members. Don’t Web site by the time you read this. Please landmass or inland waters of Vietnam in Council has advised that the Board forget your continuous members. They can fill them out and send them in. order to benefit from the regulation’s may resume adjudication of the previ - also help you achieve 100%. Make a final I would like you to remember our Candi - presumption. The Federal Circuit issued ously stayed cases. phone call or letter to them. We need all the date for State Chaplain 2011-2012, Leon a mandate in Hass, effective October 16, The bottom line is that at this current help we can get these remaining weeks! Hinkle, who is our District 5 Chaplain and 2008 (setting forth federal rules of time, there is no entitlement for Blue We just had our Past Commanders/Past our Macomb County Council Commander. appellate procedure with respect to Navy Vets unless they step foot on land or Presidents Banquet at Post 2645 Southfield We want to give Leon our entire 5th District issuance of mandate and staying of man - have been identified as part of a ship’s on March 26, 2011. We had a terrific turnout support in order for him to be elected our date pending petition for certiorari). crew that has been recognized by the and we had a lot of fun. We honored our Past next State Department Chaplain 2011-2012. That same day, the appellant in Rib - Department of Veterans Affairs, which District Commanders and Past Presidents In closing, I would like to congratulate audo filed a motion for leave to file a been previously published in the MOV , that attended. Thank you, Past District Com - our 5th District elected and appointed offi - motion to modify the Veterans’ Court’s and the list continues to grow. manders and Past Presidents, for all you did cers for the ensuing year. I am looking for - April 13, 2007 per curiam order to state If there is any change in the law, we will for the 5th District over the years! ward to working with John Bond, who will that the stay effectuated in Ribaudo be the first to let our readership know! Now, I would like to get down to busi - DISTRICT 5, continued on page 4 Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 4 DISTRICT 6 REPORT DISTRICT 7 REPORT George M. Wygant George Paul Yung District 6 Commander District 7 Commander

Greetings Comrades, completed by then, except membership, Greetings Comrades, makes us look good. This will be my last article as your Dis - which continues until 30 June. Well this will be my last article for I would like to apologize to all the trict Commander. We have completed 9.5 I ask all comrades to examine their Posts the MOV as the 7th District Com - Posts that I did not get to visit. Unfor - months of VFW Year 2010-2011 and 11 and ask yourselves one question. Are we mander so I will get right to the point tunately, it looks like Agent Orange is months out of our reporting year. The only operating as a VFW in accordance with the – MEMBERSHIP. We have 21 Posts finely catching up to me. I spent more thing we need to do is finish strong in Bylaws and Manual of Procedures and other in the 7th District; 3 Posts over 100%, time at the VA in Battle Creek, Ann membership. This is my third year moni - Bylaws as approved by the Commander-in- 1 Post needing 1 member, 2 Posts Arbor and in the hospitals, than I wish toring membership, and I hope we change Chief? Or are we operating more like a social needing 3 members, 2 Posts needing 4 to remember. a recurring trend. The trend is we gained club? If it is the latter, than vote to surrender members, 2 Posts needing 5 members, I would also like to thank Sturgis 123 new members and reinstated 75 for a your VFW Charter and become a social club. and the other 11 Posts needing 6 or Post 1355 and their Commander, total of 198. This in itself is good, as the I have had the opportunity to visit all the more. Please sit down and go through Donald Rains, and their Ladies District could meet its 102% goal. Now the Posts in our District. I have listened to their your membership book, and start Auxiliary for their assistance in downside: we have 311 unpaid members committee reports and what they have accom - calling to get these veterans back to hosting the 7th District meeting on from the last year. That means we have a plished in the preceding month. All they had the organization. We need them and short notice. net loss of 113 members for the District. to do was report their activities, via the Activ - they need the VFW to keep working Again, thanks to all veterans for We still needed 208 renewed members for ities and Hospital Reports to Department on for them. We need 141 members to get making this a good year for me and I 100% and 305 members for 102% in the time (prior to the 10th of the month), and all the District to 100%. Right now, we hope that you give incoming Com - District. Hopefully, we will have attained Posts in the District would have reported over are at 94.75% and we are 3rd out of mander Kevin Conklin all of the that goal by the 30th of April. 125 All-State Points. This is not a competi - the 12 Districts. Keep up the good cooperation that I received from you. I have stated before that if the All-State pro - tion, it is the measure to see if you’re sup - work. Remember you have until June Remember the purpose of the VFW is gram is “Queen”, then our Membership Pro - porting the established VFW National and 30, 2011 to get 100%; so, let’s try and fraternal, patriotic, historical, chari - gram is “King”. We cannot accomplish the State Programs and; more importantly, justify do it. table and educational, and to preserve mission of our corporation without members. our nonprofit status to the IRS. District stats It was my pleasure to serve as 7th and strengthen comradeship among Members give us the work force to accom - are as follows: Hospital program: 1,973 District Commander and I wish to its members. plish the All-State program. Members give us Workers, 8615.25 Hours, $19,922.84 in thank Ladies Auxiliary President Lou I hope to see some of you attend the the numbers we need to collect the donations Donations, $41,201.00 in Hospital Equipment Ann Conklin for her assistance, and State Convention in Troy, Michigan, to support the All-State program. The All- Loaned, 6,014 Patients Visited, 35,664 Miles also to thank all of her officers who June 8th-12th; hope all of you have a State program, when reported correctly, pro - Driven, 180 pints of blood were given and made this a successful year for the good and safe summer. vides the proof to the IRS that we are a cancer donations were $1,924.62. VFW. As every man knows there is God bless all of you, all of our troops nonprofit corporation. Activities Reports: CS Projects 4,323, always a good woman behind us who and the United States of America. How have we fared this year? Donations CS Hours 35,007, CS Value $321,572.38, are down about 30% this year. Membership is AM Projects 2,941, YA Projects 480, YA down 4.32%. We have 11 Posts that have Hours 4,634, YA Value $93,666.87, DR DISTRICT 9 REPORT attained 100-116.87% in membership. We Projects 131, SA Projects 97, Legislative have five Posts who have achieved 130-188 Projects 113 and PAC Projects $1,055.00. Terry Dowdell points in the All-State program. We have six Not bad for 11 months of reporting. Just District 9 Commander Posts that have achieved 90% or greater of the think what the numbers would have been if 125 points District goal; two Posts who have everyone reported what they actually did. achieved 80% or greater, six Posts who have I would like to congratulate Lloyd F. Greetings, Comrades and Sisters: My year is just about over with, achieved 60% or greater and 13 Posts that Putman II and Patricia Paterson on their suc - First of all, I would like to apologize and I would like to wish the new scored below the 60th percentile. I will pro - cessful completion of VFW Year 2010-2011 for not getting my article in, in time for officers the best of luck and success vide my final report to the Post Commanders as Department Commander and President. the last MOV. I hope that everyone had in their year. I would like to thank at the 6th District Caucus at the State Conven - May all your future endeavors be as suc - a great year. We finally made it all the Posts for ordering Buddy tion in Troy. Every program will have been cessful as this year has been. through February and March with all Poppies. You made the 9th District the snow and ice that we got. 100% again this year for the third I would like to congratulate State year in a row. Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Commander Lloyd Putman and State I look forward to seeing most of the President Pat Patterson for a successful comrades and sisters at the State Con - PSC Richard “Chic” LaFave and PSC Ernie Meyers, Sr . year, and you had a wonderful turnout vention in Troy, Michigan, June 8th Board of Managers for your Testimonial Dinner. through the 11th. The latest happening at our Grand underclothing. A special thank you to Rapids Home for Veterans (GRHV) and Sonja Van Valkenburg and her volunteers the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in that helped her put the boxes together for Marquette. First, a very special thank you shipment to Marquette. DISTRICT 10 REPORT to the Hubbard’s Military Supply in Flint, Do you know a Veteran who needs Michigan for donating a winter coat to a nursing care? If you are a veteran, you David Gay resident Veteran at the D.J. Jacobetti might be eligible for free nursing home District 10 Commander Home. This veteran wanted to thank who - care in a State Veteran’s Home. Veterans ever made the donation. Danny Akers with a service-connected disability rating from the Chevy Post 3087 – he made it all of at least 70%, or require nursing care The year is fast winding down. Hope - Otter Lake; Post 2777, Burton; Post happen. A special thank you to Past Dis - because of a service connected disability, fully, all Post Commanders are in a posi - 3243, Fenton; Post 3791, George Wash - trict 7 Commander Jim Tanner of Bangor, are eligible. tion to present to Department their ington Carver; Post 3901, Algonac; Post Marcellus VFW Post 4054, and Cass For information about this program call check sheet showing all requirements 4139, Lapeer; Post 4164, Caro; Post County VFW Post 1855 for their gen - the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans at 906- have been fulfilled for consideration for 5585, Emmett; Post 6965, Ubly; and erous cash donations. Veterans at the D. J. 226-3576 or the Grand Rapids Home for a White Hat. This is a symbol to show Post 9344, Harbor Beach. Many Posts Jacobetti Home were very happy to Veterans at 606-364-5400. the completion of activities that are are within reach of 100%. Now is not the receive all the new personal items, such In closing, Chic LaFave and I would like required and the dedication to VFW. time to slow down, let’s reach for 100% as underwear, clothing, and socks. The to say thank you for all that you have done As always, membership is a major part in the 10th. Please, as always, remember GRHV was very generous in support of and will be doing for the veterans (resi - of this to show strength in numbers and if you need assistance, the District offi - the D.J. Jacobetti Veterans with personal dents) at the two homes. what this organization represents, our cers are here for that purpose. veterans and the benefits to which they Don’t forget upcoming Loyalty Day, are and should be eligible for. It is a sad Poppy sales the first week of May, and DISTRICT 5, continued from page 3 Pro grams 2011-2012. I will be assisting new situation when numbers and not names, the District Convention on the 15th of be an excellent 5th District Commander for Director Harry “Les” Croyle. So you see, I faces and volunteering to protect our May at Post 3087, Chevrolet. The 2011-2012. I will continue to be involved am not going away, but just doing different great country, impress the individuals we Department Convention will be earlier with the Veterans of Foreign Wars at District things for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. vote to represent us. Sad, but true. in June this year. Check your calendars. and Council levels. I will still be a National Thank you for all that you do, each and every My hearty congratulations to the I wish you all success in your Sergeant. I have a new appointed position as day, for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Lastly, Posts who have reached 100% and endeavors and truly hope all Com - Assistant Director for Voice of Democracy, please say a prayer for our Armed Forces, who above: Post 116, Bad Axe; Post 203, manders receive their White Hat. It has Patriot’s Pen and Teacher of the Year are guarding the gates of freedom for us. Berville; Post 822, Flint; Post 2409, been a good year! 5 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran DISTRICT 11 REPORT John Harrow, Jr. District 11 Commander Auxiliary

Question: Are we proud to be members Our reporting has been a little brighter. of the Veterans of Foreign Wars? Then, why All Posts have done a great job on do we find it so hard to ask someone to join reporting. Donations have been down, News our great organization? I do not understand but if you do not have the funds, it is how we can stand by and watch member - pretty hard to give much. ship drop, year after year, and not worry I would like to remind all Posts that about it. We need every member to be con - District dues and Department delegate DEPARTMENT PRESIDENT cerned and start signing up new members to fees must be paid in order to be able to This is my special thanks to the Department prevent such big losses. The good news is vote at the Department Convention. final article in Chairmen – you did a great job pro - that we have a few Posts that have reached Thank you for letting me serve as the MOV . I want moting the national programs. And to all 100% or more in membership. Post 1071, your District Commander this year. We to express my the Auxiliary sisters who accepted a 3033, 3724, 6466 and 8215 have saved us may not have reached all of our goals, sincere grati - position this year, thanks so very much from a shutout. Hopefully, by the time you but we tried. This will truly be a year tude to the for your time and effort. read this, we will have a few more. that I will remember. Department of I hope everyone enjoyed the Testimo - Michigan for nial and I want to thank Karen Aune and allowing me Pam Croyle for being such great DISTRICT 12 REPORT this great honor Chairmen. They did a great job. It was a Patricia Patterson to serve as your night I will always remember. Stan Preidis President. Commander Lloyd, thanks for the ander District 12 Comm I have traveled all over this great state memories. It has been an honor serving and I cannot tell you what a privilege it with you. Your Department officers are It is hard to believe that as you read ning for Department Junior Vice Com- has been to meet and greet all the Auxil - always there for the Ladies Auxiliary. this, the year will be almost over. I am mander and it would be nice if District 12 iary sisters. You have been so very kind Please remember we are not done yet, writing this in April and it is hard to see had all its Posts there to vote for him. You and gracious. Each and every one of you we still need to recruit-recruit-recruit. what membership will be in June. Seven can’t vote if your Post does not have a should be so proud of all that you do for Membership is our number one goal. Posts are at 100%; 2053 White Cloud- registered delegate present. The more this organization. I wish Mariann and Jack the best of 103.02%, 3314 Arcadia-112.28%, 5095 Posts that are present the better. A special thanks to the line officers luck next year. I am sure they will fulfill Custer-100.8%, 6017 Pentwater-101.6, Checking on donations to Department and the District Presidents for all their all their goals. 6864 Cadillac-103.13, 9388 Muskegon programs, there are still an awful lot of hard work this year. It is no wonder Again, thanks so much for allowing Heights-100% and 10770 LeRoy-102%. zeros. For example, only three Posts have Michigan is such a great Department. A me this honor. I have a promise from 7729 Muskegon donated to Gold Star Mothers. I know that they will be 100% shortly, and I will through my visits that some Posts are sit- take Comrade Stancroff’s word for it. ting on rather large sums of dollars in DEPARTMENT MEMBERSHIP There are six Posts that need only four or their Relief Fund. Use it. You can get Sisters, to say. You all worked very hard. The pro - less to make their 100%; Bitely, Mecosta, more during your Poppy Days. Speaking As I am writing gram would not have been complete Fruitport, Big Rapids, Ludington and of Poppies, seven Posts have not ordered this, I have just without all of you earning 90% and the Freemont. Then we have four of our their Poppies for the year. You can find taken a break from right to take part in the Medallion Cere - larger Posts that need a total of 200 to all of this data on the Department’s Web the process of mony and your “Night Out on the Town.” meet 100%; a large chunk of the 333 the site at www.vfwmi.org. Go to electronic recording the infor - An extra special thank you for the beau - District needs to make our goal. We are reporting, and then donations to Depart- mation on your tiful bouquet of flowers that I received at 92.9% as I write this and have a total ment office (close to the top). Anyone year-end reports. from you, the week following Mid-Winter. of 347 unpaid, so if every Post at least can do this; you don’t have to be the So far, I have It was a delightful surprise! gets its membership paid up, we will Commander or Quartermaster to find Val Mikkelsen received only about We are currently behind the member - make our goal and then some. Post data. 75 reports, and ship percentages, for the same time period, The Department Convention is June 8- As I wrap this up, I want to thank you there is less than a week to get them in. I for the last two years. I have high hopes 12 and all Posts need to make sure their for allowing me to serve as your Dis- have high hopes that I will receive a report that we will catch up to, and surpass, those audits are in and dues paid, so they can trict Commander. I have learned so from EVERY AUXILIARY, even if it is late. percentages. We need to make gains, every vote. Past District Commander and 7729 much attending the District and Depart- It is important to hear from every Auxiliary. year, to keep this great organization alive. Post Commander Billy Stancroff is run- ment functions. At this time, we have yet to have a 100% I am asking all of you, one last time, to go District. However, District 6 needs fewer out and give it that one last push. Michigan than 11 to accomplish this goal and several does not want to be known as a “Dying DISTRICT 14 REPORT other Districts are hot on their trail. Organization.” PLEASE HELP THE Mid-Winter Convention turned out as I DEPARTMENT OF MICHIGAN OUT. Stephen DeRousha had hoped. A big thank you to my husband If any of you have any membership District 14 Commander Norm, my daughter, Wendi, my grand - questions or concerns, please feel free to daughter, Brittani, my sister Luann, and contact me. yes, even my great-granddaughter, Sophie Being a Department Chairman is Comrades and Sisters of District 14, tals and youth activities. Keep up the (she slept throughout the program). always an excursion into life. I wish to My time as your Commander is good work. Without your help, it would not have been thank everyone for my “travel” this year. coming to an end with the election of I would like to congratulate the Voice the program that I had envisioned. To the It has been a delightful “adventure.” new officers. I would like to thank all the of Democracy winner, Amber Lafave, 12 District Presidents, I don’t know what THANK YOU, ONE AND ALL. officers, inspectors, and committee 12th grader from Gwinn High School. chairmen for their hard work this year. I She placed 8th in the State, for a $1,000 hope that you will help the new Com - Dept. of Michigan scholarship. I also LEGISLATIVE CHAIRMAN mander as well as you did me. Thanks want to thank the six students who did again. It was an honor to meet and serve essays for V.O.D. and Patriot’s Pen. It was I’d like to share backed down after proposing to cut mil - with the people from the state, other Dis - a job well done. with you some lions from veteran’s expenditures that tricts and Posts. We still have to get mem - I would like all Commanders to thoughts from would drastically affect our veterans’ and bership; the District is at 94.46%. Three remember our National Home. Life National Legislative military families. A major bank apolo - Posts as of April 3rd are 100%; Post 6 Memberships are $40, Camp Trotter Director Francine gized for improperly raising the mort - Marquette, Post 9023 Brimley and Post Life Memberships are $35. These make Cornish. We are gage interest rates and foreclosing on 9714 Chatham. Let’s all push for 100%. good thank yous for someone special. making a difference! thousands of military and veteran cus - Buddy Poppies are in the mail. Com - Both places need your help to keep Through education tomers and will also “significantly rades, get your members and Auxiliary going. Also you can sponsor a child regarding legisla - enhance its programs to help military and out, and pass out as many as possible. We (ages 7 to 12) for a week at Camp Ruth Later tion, connecting veteran customers.” have a lot of members in distress these Trotter for $200. with our members This is why we need to be vigilant as to days and the money sure will help. In closing, I will be turning command and communities and by providing infor - legislation pertaining to our veterans and Remember to keep up all your reports to of District 14 over to Richard Robitaille mation about our legislators, our influence military personnel. Keep the VFW Priority Dept. Headquarters. All Posts have been at the State Convention on June 12th. has been felt. Goals handy and refer to them often. reporting on community service, hospi - Good luck, Dick. For example, a member of Congress LEGISLATIVE, continued on page 6 Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 6

CANCER AID & RESEARCH DISTRICT 5 PRESIDENT Joyce Hinkle Time sure flies. Bowling for Cancer. Everyone seemed Greetings to all my increased membership is crucial to the June is just around to enjoy the pink bag raffles, too. sisters of the Great long-term success of this organization. the corner. I want As of January 31st, National has 5th District, While 100% membership would be a fan - to thank everyone reported that Michigan has donated This year is tastic accomplishment, we should always who helped me $72,341.00 and has given out 101 Grants passing so quickly be looking to sign up new members. While with my cancer totaling $43,700. and it has been we came close to reaching that elusive goal booth and who Just a few reminders: at Department inspiring for me, of 100%, I know each of you worked hard supported the Convention we will be having the Dis - personally, to see to recruit new members to this great organ - Cancer Aid & trict basket raffle and the regular cancer everyone working so ization. There is now a “Members-at- Sandy Medos Research Program. booth sale. Please try to bring either new hard to achieve their goals. I’d like to con - Large” list, which is broken down by It would not have or slightly used items for the tables. gratulate each of you for all your hard Districts. What a great source for potential been a success if it wasn’t for our generous I am doing fine from my fall. I was work and I hope you were able to submit new members. If you would like this list, Auxiliary sisters. We still have time to more embarrassed than anything else. At your audits and annual reports on time to let me know and I will send this to you. reach our goals. Remember, we need to get least I got you a little break from the the appropriate chairman. Remember Thank you so very much for everything the word out to the community. As I have meeting. I will try to make it up the steps fellow sisters, you can’t get credit for all of you have done this year. Your support, said before, we cannot do this alone, we without falling at Convention. your hard work and effort, if we aren’t friendship and kindness directed toward need the community to get involved. Send We need to remember to help not only properly reporting your accomplishments. me have made my year as your President out those letters asking for donations. You the person with cancer, but also their As spring finally starts to win out over one of my most proudest moments. It was may be surprised who will be happy to caregivers. winter, the robins I see in my front yard are a pleasure meeting so many of you. The donate. Cancer affects everyone. I want to thank all the people that a sign that, just as time marches on, my projects you are working on are important, I’m hoping everyone had a great time helped me out at our Cancer Booth. year as your District president marches on, and I look forward to hearing about them at Mid-Winter. Everyone that played the Without you, we would not have been as well. Even though the end of the year is and their effects, for those we work so tire - Wii bowling had a wonderful time. able to do so well. There just aren’t in sight, it doesn’t mean we can, or should, lessly to serve. Please don’t give up on Some of us did very good, and others enough words that I could use to thank rest on our laurels when it comes to sup - your projects, see them through to fruition. just had fun. I will be giving out the you enough. I enjoyed this chairman - porting our veterans and what you can do Our veterans appreciate our efforts. prizes at the June Convention. I want to ship very much. I got to meet some for them. If you know of someone that I look forward to seeing many of you at thank everyone who supported the Wii wonderful people. might be a little down on their luck, they the Michigan Department Convention that might appreciate your help in getting their will be held in Troy from June 9th through spring clean up done. A little kindness is June 12th. You’ll be able to get a great deal DEPARMENT YOUTH ACTIVITIES/ always appreciated, especially to those that of information at the Convention. gave so much for this country. God bless and keep all of you safe JUNIOR GIRLS CHAIRMAN Growing the organization through always! Thanks for a wonderful year. Wow, can you pass knowledge on to them and they pass believe how fast theirs on to the future. I am really Carloyn Jenkins time is passing? enjoying the Units and what these girls DISTRICT 6 PRESIDENT Here we are pro - are doing for our veterans. They are fun. While checking cancer grant, if needed. If they are finan - cessing all the I have already received Year-End my calendar to see if cially strapped or ill, make a motion to Year-End reports reports, and it is so interesting to see I had the winning pay their dues. There is a challenge that to get them what some of our Auxiliaries are sending number, I noticed has been put forth from District 6 Com - recorded and in. There are so many things that the how busy these next mander George Wygant as to who can placed for the Auxiliaries have done during the year to months were going reach 100% first in the District. Ladies, Bonnie Pray awards to be given earn their points and credits by partici - to be, starting with the boxcar has been attached to the Apple at the Department pating in all the programs. If you read the the March 19th Dis - Blossom Express and we need to fill it. Convention June 9th through the 12th. I guide sheets at the beginning of the year, trict meeting. This May’s District meeting will be at VFW have received quite an abundance of you can see the ideas and things we was the meeting where we honored our Post 9656, Lambertville. At the meeting Patriotic Art entries to be judged this should do to show how much we care for District Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s we will be electing new officers for 2011- week and sent on to National for final our veterans and earn our Auxiliaries the Pen and Teacher of the Year winners. 12, so I hope to see a good attendance. judging. The pictures are all excellent art recognition they deserve. It does take Fourteen Posts participated. There were Buddy Poppy Days are May 5, 6 and 7th. and that makes it hard for the judges. some time to do some parts of the pro - 209 Voice of Democracy entries and 405 This is how we raise money for the Relief I received only 58 National Citation grams, but if we don’t make an effort we Patriot’s Pen entries. Thank you to the Fund, so please get out and volunteer for requests for “Youth Groups Supporting will eventually start fading, and where judges who took on this challenge to your Auxiliary. Also, be sure to promote our Troops” out of all the Auxiliaries in will that leave our veterans and their decide the winners. Congratulations to the program in the community. Michigan. I know there are groups of stu - families after they have given us so much first time District Chairman Rick and This year has gone by fast, and I have dents all over that have done different and made sacrifices for this country? Heather Shepherd for a great job. a lot of memories and friendships to programs to help support the troops that I hope we all will try harder again next On March 27th, the institution and instal - remember. A thank you goes to Depart - just weren’t noticed by area Auxiliaries. year to bring in more membership and lation of a new Junior Girls Unit to VFW ment Membership Chairman Val We did institute a new Junior Girls work on our programs to show others that Post 9656 was held. It has been some time Mikkelsen. Once again, you have out - Unit in Lambertville, Post and Auxiliary we will take care of our veterans, their since District 6 had a Junior Girls Unit. The done yourself as a chairman. Thank you 9656. We are hoping for a large group of families and our communities. last one was out of Fowlerville 6464. I hope for a beautiful program at Mid-Winter the Michigan Junior Girls Units to attend As we complete another year of great the District Auxiliaries will support this Conference and our “Night on the Town.” our yearly outing at the VFW Camp work and changes, I hope we continue to Unit, so that they can be around a long time. A big thank you goes to my friend Ruth Trotter. The Junior Girls also work with try hard to keep up on the good work and These girls are our future! Later. Without her advice, guidance and the Auxiliary programs. They will be our volunteerism we do, because the basic Congratulations to all the newly- ideas, I would have been lost. She is also my future Auxiliary members, and I am sure reason we do this is for our veterans, elected officers for 2011-12. May your mentor and traveling companion. Thanks they will make us even more proud as we active duty and their families. year be successful and fun-filled. Annual also go to Past Department President Millie reports are in, so now we wait for the Swartz for her ideas and advice. To all my Lana Bourlier results at Convention in June. officers and chairmen, you also helped DISTRICT 4 PRESIDENT Membership is now in the “begging make this year memorable. To all the Aux - Great State of advice, support or just let me vent to you. stage” of our program. There are eight iliaries in the District, thank you for your Michigan! Thank you so much! Auxiliaries that have yet to reach 100%. friendship and hard work – you made it a It’s been a great It has been a pleasure being District For those members who have not paid fun year. Please support the new District year full of experi - President for the mighty 4th. You are a their dues, remind them that they are officers and chairmen for 2011-12, as you ences, lessons and wonderful group of ladies and I am considered to be “members not to be in have supported me. We need to remain meeting new friends! proud to be part of it! good standing” and are not eligible for a together and stay a strong team. It takes a lot of hard To Lloyd and Pat: “Good Luck” at work, dedication, National! and most of all, Please remember one thing: “The year LEGISLATIVE, continued from page 5 I would like to thank all my Auxiliary heart! I wish to thank all who helped me has come and the year has gone, but our sisters in Michigan who have supported survive the year, whether you gave me work is NEVER done!” Recently, I was watching the Oprah and promoted the Legislative program Winfrey show which featured the sacri - this past year. Keep doing what you’re fices of military families when their doing in contacting our legislators. spouse has been deployed. Oprah Don’t forget to keep checking the admitted that, like most Americans, she National VFW Web site at www.vfw.org God Bless Our Troops had not considered the meaning of those to keep track of vital pending veteran’s sacrifices and she vowed to do more. legislation. 7 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran

DISTRICT 7 PRESIDENT Lou Ann Conklin DISTRICT 9 PRESIDENT Pat Klockziem Ladies, we now do, since our work will never be done. Greetings to all my Aux - District. I know that you will continue to work come to another We shed a sigh of relief that we iliary sisters in District 9 for the benefits of our veterans and their fami - end of the year. I have completed another year, but it’s and throughout the great lies. You make this organization what it is. I hope everyone not the end for the Ladies Auxiliary; state of Michigan, want to thank all my line officers and chairmen had a good year. so just take a deep breath and get The tulips and daf - for all their hard work. You have been there to It’s hard for me to ready for a new and exciting year! fodils have bloomed. The help me and made this year great. At this time, say that I have. I I would like to thank President snow is gone and new our Auxiliary is in 4th Place in membership worked very hard Pat, Secretary Jan, Treasurer Jan; grass is growing, trees are with 94.43%. I am very excited and proud of for our District all line officers, all District Presi - blooming and we see lots how hard you have worked to reach this goal. and tried very hard to keep upbeat, but dents, my District officers and of fresh growth. We will also be seeing new Let’s continue to keep our Auxiliary strong it’s sad to see how our Auxiliaries are Auxiliary officers for your help, growth in our District. New officers and new with membership. more interested in serving only their your leadership and your friend - ideas will be springing up. It’s been an exciting I would like to congratulate all the new offi - own Posts, rather than all veterans and ship. I also thank all chairmen at all year and next year will be just as exciting. cers and chairmen for the upcoming year. I our great organization as we have given levels. You work very hard to keep I have been busy all year. Inspections were know you will do a great job. Let’s all continue an oath to do. I hope and pray that our programs exciting! Keep up the lots of fun and I traveled many miles to support our Auxiliary by participating in things turn around; we have so much to good work! throughout the District to visit each Auxiliary. District and state meetings, working with our Thank you all for all the hard work you have Auxiliary at the local level and working Carrie Watkins done this year. I met a lot of people and have closely with our VFW. Let’s keep this organi - DISTRICT 8 PRESIDENT made new friends. I want to thank you for the zation alive and active. Once again, thank you Dear Sisters of sure there will be some important hospitality and kindness you have showed me. for the great year as District 9 President. God the Great 8th: changes and information that will I am proud of each and every Auxiliary in this bless each and every one of you. Congratula - help you start off your new year on tions to all of you the right foot. DISTRICT 10 PRESIDENT Diana Ward for a VERY suc - District 8 has had a hard time with cessful year! You membership this year. Unfortunately, Greetings, Sisters: late, the Department chairmen can still have done many we lose members every year who pass Greetings to the 10th count you toward their 100% reported. Make amazing things away and the economic situation in District and everyone in sure your Auxiliary gets counted for all the in your commu - Michigan has had a huge effect on our the Department of hard work they have done this year for each nities and for veterans, active duty communities and families. Paying Michigan. It’s hard to of the programs. military personnel and their families. dues comes last on the list when a believe that this year has Please make sure that you pay the delegate You should all be VERY proud of member is worried about rent/house come and gone. It went fees to District and Department. It is impor - your accomplishments. I’m sure that payments, utilities, food and the ever- by very quickly and I tant that you pay your delegate fees, so that many of you will be recognized at the rising price of gas. We may need to have had a wonderful your Auxiliary is counted during District and Department Convention at the Troy get creative to help them find ways to time representing our District. I would like to Department Conventions. Even if you don’t Marriott, June 9-12; please plan now pay their dues and remain active in thank all of you for a wonderful year and for have anyone going to Convention, your votes to attend this event. There will be no our organization. all the work you do for our veterans. all count as long as the delegate fees are paid. summer conference this year, so pro - I also believe this can be used to Despite all of your hard work, we didn’t I would like to thank all of you ladies for gram information will start coming strengthen our membership and attract quite make 100%. We currently stand at doing such a great job this year. I have thor - out at the Dept. Convention and I’m DISTRICT 8, continued on page 10 95.79% and are 6th Place in membership in oughly enjoyed being your District President, the state. It’s not too late to send in those meeting several new ladies and renewing straggling dues – let’s help the Department friendships with those of you that I’ve known Uniform Committee of Michigan to gain a little ground. I would for a while. The veterans need each and every like to congratulate Auxiliaries 203, 796, one of you, and it is good to see all the hard Gives Search Update 822, 1452, 2382, 2777, 2945, 4139, 4837, work that all of the Auxiliaries do for the vet - 6965 and 10884 for achieving 100% in erans and the community. Large or small, you Post Date: 3/16/2011 12:00:00 a.m. members then modeled an option that membership this year. Good job, ladies! are doing a great job! would fit all the criteria of the Ladies Your Year-End reports were due by April Finally, I would like to wish the officers- At the National Council of Admin - Auxiliary VFW: Each committee 25, 2011 to the Department chairmen. If you elect for the coming year a great and suc - istration Meeting at the Mid-Year member wore her own version of a did not send one, please do so now – even cessful year. Conference, Uniform Committee black suit, chosen in her preferred style Chairman Kathy Schreiber updated (and price range), pants or skirt, with Judy Schafer members on the struggles they have different styles of shirts, from white to DISTRICT 12 PRESIDENT faced in talking to new uniform com - red to royal blue. Some wore scarves, Greetings Sisters of the to see more of you attend. panies. The contract with Cintas Uni - but all had on a sample of the possible Mighty 12th, I hope all Auxiliaries remembered that form Company has been officially new Ladies Auxiliary VFW uniform Well, this will be my your annual reports had to be in the hands of terminated, and the current marine pin. (See photo below.) last article for this year. the Department Chairman by April 25th . blue uniform is no longer available to “The shirt or scarf could be at the I have enjoyed traveling I’m sure that you all reported. order. The Committee was formed by discretion of the National President, in the 12th District, The next District meeting will be on May National President Cortina Barnes to Department President or Auxiliary meeting more of the 15th at Post 4499 in Manistee with a memo - investigate new possibilities. President,” Schrieber explained. Auxiliary sisters and rial service at 11:00 a.m., dinner at 11:30 “It’s been very difficult,” Schrieber “Members would be free to find a renewing acquaintances a.m. and the meeting at 1:00 p.m. Please try acknowledged. The Ladies Auxiliary black suit in their price and size range, of friends that I do not see often. I want to to have each Auxiliary represented. This VFW had certain requirements: broad and the national organization would thank everyone for their generous hospitality meeting will be election of officers. I want range of sizes, reasonable prices and no not be locked into any contracts.” and the great food. to wish Beth and her officers a great year. potentially restricting contract. They The Uniform Committee is still We had the Past President/Past Com - The Department Convention will be June quickly found out that the marine blue looking at a few options and will mander banquet this past Sunday, April 10th. 8th through June 12th in Troy at the Marriott of the current uniform is a custom color have their final recommendation for This is not only for PP/PC but for all Post Hotel. and would be priced as such. Nearly vote at the 2011 National Conven - and Auxiliary members. Next year, we hope Thanks to all of you. everything presented to the committee tion in San Antonio. was too expen - Nancy LaVigne sive, close to DISTRICT 13 PRESIDENT or more than Sisters of District 13, to learn on her own. Each individual Auxiliary the current Time passes by so sister has a responsibility to help and guide her uniform. quickly and before you to see that her year is successful. “We’re not realize it, your term of We all joined this organization for the same prepared to office is over. reason – our VETERANS. Let’s strive to keep make a recom - We will be starting a our problems outside of the Auxiliary and mendation at new year in July. Con - concentrate on our mission. We may not this time,” gratulations to all who always agree, but we should be able to come Schrieber said have accepted offices for together for the betterment of our Auxiliary. at the Council this organization whether it be as an officer or Remember the member’s obligation we took Meeting. “But a chairman. We are in tough times and we when we came into this Auxiliary? We made we would like need leaders who are going to work hard and a promise of the following: “In the presence you to consider accomplish goals that are set before them. of Almighty God – and the members of this this option.” If by chance you elect a new member into organization here assembled – I, ______, do The committee office, by all means, PLEASE don’t leave her DISTRICT 13, continued on page 10 Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 8 Southfield, Michigan Operation Valentine Vascular Surgeon Provides “Hands-On” The Operation Valentine’s Day event Department check in the amount of took place at AJ’s Café, 240 West Nine $500 to Roz Cooperman for a donation Support for the Troops Mile, Ferndale, Michigan on Saturday, to the Women Marines Association MI- February 12, 2010. 2. The money donated will help with CHICAGO – For two weeks, vascular Department of Michigan VFW Sur - postage to mail the many donated items surgeon Kevin Nolan of Southfield, geon, Leonard Milewski, presented a to our troops. Michigan, volunteered to treat wounded American soldiers transported from Afghanistan and Iraq to the U.S. Army’s Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Germany. “I volunteered – both this time and back in June 2008 – because it was an opportunity to demonstrate to the men and women who are being asked to do their jobs in a hostile environment (often times getting injured or killed) that American civilians like myself and my vascular surgical colleagues appreciate Pictured in back, L-R: Anne McLara - and respect the sacrifice they are being hamore, member MI-2 Women Marines asked to make and will support them with Association; Leonard Milewski, Depart - Pictured, L-R: Department of MI VFW our time and our surgical skills,” said Dr. open surgical techniques. Our member ment of MI VFW Surgeon; Debra Surgeon Leonard Milewski; Anne Nolan, Chief of the Section of Vascular volunteers are determining the value of Drummond, President of MI-2 Women McLarahamore, member MI-2 Women Surgery at Providence Hospital and Med - endovascular methods in these most chal - Marines Association; and National Marines Association; “Big Al” ical Centers in Southfield, Michigan. lenging and difficult cases.” Membership Secretary Roz Cooperman, Muskovito from the Dick Purtan show; “There is no doubt that being able to In 2007, SVS member and retired U.S. Event Director. and Roz Cooperman, Event Director. help these courageous individuals is per - Army Col. David Gillespie of the Office of sonally rewarding. The emotion felt among the U.S. Army Surgeon General and pro - Fallen Soldier March the caregivers – and there are many pro - fessor of surgery at Walter Reed Army viding care from every discipline in medi - Medical Center in Washington, D.C., asked On Saturday, April 9, 2011, Price- entered the cemetery grounds. cine and nursing – is not easily described. Society members to share their medical Crane-Robinsons VFW Post 4642 served Post member Mary Dunkley and her Suffice it to say, it’s a moving experience, expertise as volunteer surgeons at LRMC. as the starting point for a march honoring husband, 2LT Rick Dunkley, spearheaded and one in which I am both humbled and Immediately, SVS members responded to Michigan’s fallen heroes. the planning of the event as a way to privileged to have been involved.” support the troops. Currently, there is a The Fallen Soldier March began at the remember the ultimate sacrifice of military From January 22 to February 6, 2011, waiting list for SVS surgeons who are Linden Post and ended 13 miles later at members, as well as the ongoing sacrifices Dr. Nolan volunteered at LRMC – the willing to volunteer at LRMC during 2011. Great Lakes National Cemetery with a of their families. They hope to make the largest American hospital outside the wreath-laying ceremony and the playing Fallen Soldier March an annual event. United States. Since 2004, 66,000 military About the Society for Vascular Surgery ® of Taps . Seventy-five soldiers and 1-125 Infantry Battalion (Michigan Army personnel have been treated at LRMC. The Society for Vascular Surgery ® (SVS) is civilian supporters participated in the 3- National Guard), headquartered in Flint, Since Sept. 2007, 72 Society for Vas - a not-for-profit professional medical 1/2 hour walk and were greeted by the comprised the majority of the participating cular Surgery ® (SVS) members have vol - society, composed primarily of vascular Michigan Patriot Guard Riders as they Soldiers. Since 2005, 1-125 Infantry has unteered to supplement the limited surgeons, that seeks to advance excellence lost 13 Soldiers in the War on Terrorism. number of vascular surgeons at the med - and innovation in vascular health through More photos can be found on the ical center. “Speaking on behalf of SVS education, advocacy, research and public VFW Post 4642 Web site at www.vfwpost leadership and all of its members, we are awareness. SVS is the United States advo - 4642.org extremely proud of the vascular surgeons cate for 3,350 specialty-trained vascular who donate their time to help treat war surgeons and other medical professionals injuries,” said 2010-2011 SVS President who are dedicated to the prevention and Dr. Robert Zwolak of New Hampshire. cure of vascular disease. Visit its Web site “Vascular surgeons repair damaged at www.VascularWeb.org ® and follow SVS arteries and veins through traditional on Facebook and Twitter.

Dept. of Michigan, VFW Supports Post Quartermaster Craig Newberry (far right) offers a prayer before the depar - Karmanos Cancer Center ture from Post 4642. Joining Newberry Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of about $4 million, which will hamper (from left) are Post member Mary Participants depart VFW Post 4642, led the top cancer research institutions in their research efforts. Their research not Dunkley and 2LT Rick Dunkley. by 2LT Rick Dunkley. the world. Because of the cuts that may only covers prostate cancer but also take place here in Michigan to the State covers many other types of cancer, Universities, Karmanos stands to lose including breast cancer. VFW Post 701 Hosts Job Fair The Department of Michigan, These are pictures from the Job Veterans of Foreign Wars cancer Fair held at Morley S. Oates Post program began back in 1982 701 on April 14, 2011. when Past State Commander and Any Post that is interested in Past Commander-in-Chief James holding a Job Fair, needs to contact N. Goldsmith initiated the pro - the Department Headquarters. gram. Since that time, the VFW has donated approximately $1.2 million to the program. This program is essential in finding cures for cancer. Please make every effort to put on a pro - gram at your Post to support this research. Maple City Post 2406 puts on a Cancer Smorgasbord every Palm Sunday and raises Pictured, L-R: Nick Karmanos, Vice President approximately $6,000.00. If all of of Development for Karmanos Cancer Institute; our Posts would do something Rob Weiss, VFW State Adjutant/Quartermaster; similar, we could support the Kirk Kennedy, State Jr. Vice Commander; Dr. research more than we do now. Gerold Bepler, President and CEO of Barbara Everyone knows of someone who Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute; and Dr. Eliza - has died from this dreaded dis - beth I. Heath, Director of the Prostate Cancer ease. Let us do something to Research Team. remember them. 9 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran POW/MIAs Recovered Veteran Borrowers in Delinquency WWII MIA Identified : The Defense Ga. On Oct. 9, 1952, Dees was piloting an Quick Reference Sheet POW/Missing Personnel Office announced F- 84 Thunderjet against enemy railcars near the identification of remains belonging to Sinyang, North Korea. All contact was lost General Guidance For more information go to Army Air Forces Capt. George W. Grismore, with him after an explosion near the target was The US Department of Veterans www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans or of Salt Lake City. On March 12, 1945, Gris - observed by other flight members. In 1954, Affairs urges all veterans who are call 877-827-3702. more and five crewmembers aboard a C-47A North Korea turned over remains reportedly encountering problems making their National Call Center Skytrain departed Tanauan Airfield in the recovered from Sinyang, but Army mor - mortgage payments to speak with their for Homeless Veterans Philippines on a resupply mission to guerilla tuary affairs was unable to identify the servicers as soon as possible to explore Veterans who feel they may be troops. The aircraft did not return to base, and remains, which were subsequently buried as options to avoid foreclosure. Contrary facing homelessness as a result of no evidence of the aircraft was found. The six “unknown” in the National Cemetery of the to popular opinion, servicers really do losing their home can call 877-4AID men were presumed killed in action and their Pacific in Honolulu. For more information not want to foreclose because foreclo - VET (877-424-3838) or go to remains were later determined to be non- on the recovery and identification process, sure costs a lot of money. Depending on www1.va.gov/HOMELESS/National recoverable. Read the full DoD press release at read the DoD press release a t a veteran’s specific situation, servicers CallCenter.asp to receive immediate http://www.defense.gov/releases/release.asp http://www.defense.gov/releases/release.asp may offer any of the following options assistance from VA. x?releaseid=14057 x?releaseid=14224 to avoid foreclosure: Assistance to Veterans with non- Korean War MIA Identified: DPMO Eleven WWII MIAs Identified: The • Repayment Plan – The borrower VA Guaranteed Home Loans also announced the identification of remains Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office makes regular installment each For a veteran or service member belonging to Army Cpl. Floyd E. Hooper, of announced the identification of remains of month plus part of the missed who may have obtained a conven - Stratton, CO. Fighting as a member of the an 11-man B-24D Liberator crew that had installments. tional or sub-prime loan, VA has a 24th Infantry Division, he was captured on been missing in action since Nov. 20, 1943, • Special Forbearance – The servicer network of eight Regional Loan Cen - Feb. 4, 1951, and died of malnutrition and when the aircraft took off from Port agrees not to initiate foreclosure to ters and two special servicing centers dysentery a few months later. Between 1991 Moresby in New Guinea but failed to return allow time for borrowers to repay that can offer advice and guidance. and 1994, North Korea gave the United to base. Subsequent searches failed to the missed installments. An Borrowers may visit VA’s Web site at States 208 boxes of remains believed to con - uncover any evidence of either the aircraft example of when this would be www.bene fits.va.gov/homeloans or tain the remains of 200-400 servicemen. or crew, so in June 1949, the Army Graves likely is when a borrower is waiting call toll-free 877-827-3702 to speak Among other forensic identification tools Registration Service concluded that all for a tax refund. with a VA Loan Technician. However, and circumstantial evidence, scientists from were unrecoverable. Read about how they • Loan Modification - Provides the unlike when a veteran has a VA-guaran - the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command were recovered and identified at borrower a fresh start by adding the teed home loan, VA does not have the used dental comparisons and mitochondrial http://www.defense.gov/releases/release. delinquency to the loan balance and legal authority to intervene on the bor - DNA – matched to his brother – to identify aspx?releaseid=14260 establishing a new payment schedule. rower’s behalf. It is imperative that a Hooper. Read the full DoD press release at Korean War MIA Identified: The • Additional time to arrange a pri - borrower contacts his/her servicer as http://www.defense.gov/releases/release. Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office vate sale – The servicer agrees to quickly as possible. as px?releaseid=14041 announced the identification of remains delay foreclosure to allow a sale to VA Refinancing of a non-VA WWI, Korean War MIAs Identified: belonging to Army Cpl. John W. Lutz, 21, close if the loan will be paid off. Guaranteed Home Loan The Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office of Kearny, NJ. From May 16-20, 1951, Lutz • Short Sale – When the servicer Veterans with conventional home announced the identification of remains of was captured when hid 1st Ranger Infantry agrees to allow a borrower to sell loans now have new options for refi - two soldiers who had been missing-in-action Company was attempting to infiltrate his/her home for a lesser amount nancing to a VA-guaranteed home loan. from World War I and the Korean War. Army enemy lines near Chaun-ni, South Korea. than what is currently required to These new options are available as a Private Henry A. Weikel, of Mt. Carmel, PA, Lutz would later die from malnutrition in a payoff the loan. result of the Veterans’ Benefits was killed on Sept. 16, 1918, when his unit North Korean POW camp. Read more at • Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure - The Improvement Act of 2008. Veterans came under attack east of Paris near Jaulny, http://www.defense.gov/releases/release. borrower voluntarily agrees to who wish to refinance their subprime France. He was assigned to the 60th Infantry aspx?releaseid=14403 deed the property to the servicer or conventional mortgage may now do Regiment, 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division. WWII MIA Identified: The Defense instead of going through a lengthy so for up to 100% of the value of the Army Sgt. First Class Wallace L. Slight, of POW/Missing Personnel Office also foreclosure process. property, which is up from the previous Yates City, IL, was killed on Nov. 1, 1950, announced the identification of remains Access our Web site at www.benefits. limit of 90%. when enemy attacks collapsed their defensive belonging to Army Air Forces 2nd Lt. va.gov/homeloans/veteran.asp for addi - Additionally, Congress raised VA’s position in North Korea, along the Nammyon Martin P. Murray, 21, of Lowell, MA. On tional information on VA loans and to maximum loan guaranty for these types River. He was assigned to M Company, 8th Oct. 27, 1943, Murray, along with 11 other watch videos of veterans who have com - of refinancing loans. Loan limits were Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division. Read about crew members, took off in their B-24D Lib - pleted the workout options listed above. effectively raised from $144,000 to their recovery and identification, and that of erator on a reconnaissance mission of ship - Servicemembers Civil Relief Act $417,000. High cost counties have even others, on the DPMO Web site at ping lanes in the Bismarck Sea. The aircraft Veteran borrowers may be able to higher maximum loan limits. VA http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/news/news_ failed to return to base. Read more at request relief pursuant to the Service - County Loan Limits can be found at rele ases/. http://www.defense.gov/releases/release. members Civil Relief Act (SCRA). www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans . Korean War MIA Identified: The Defense aspx?releaseid=14407 SCRA is intended to ease the economic These changes will allow more quali - POW/Missing Personnel Office announced and legal burdens on military personnel fied veterans to refinance through VA, the identification of remains belonging to Air Information obtained from “VFW WASH - during their active service. In order to allowing for savings on interest costs Force 1st Lt. Robert F. Dees, 23, of Moultrie, INGTON WEEKLY” qualify for certain protections available and avoiding foreclosure. A VA refi - under the Act, the borrower must nancing loan may help a veteran who is request protection under the Act, and facing a big payment increase. War Dog Cemetery the loan must have originated prior to Other Assistance for Delinquent By Brian Bell, Whitmore Lake, Michigan site gives honorable tribute to these four- the current period of active military Veteran Borrowers legged unsung heroes who would have service. SCRA may provide for a lower If VA is not able to help a veteran When one hears the word cemetery we given their lives, if needed, to protect their interest rate, or prevent foreclosure or borrower retain his/her home (whether all think about where mom, dad or Uncle masters and fellow troops. eviction up to nine months from period a VA-guaranteed loan or not), the Ralph are buried. However, have any of us The cemetery began in 1946 in honor of of military service. HOPE NOW Alliance may be of assis - thought that military “hero dogs” have their “Sparks” who fought with the Marines on Assistance to Veterans with VA- tance. HOPE NOW is a joint alliance own area for their eternal rest? Guadalcanal in 1943. Many others have Guaranteed Home Loans consisting of servicers, counselors, and Located outside of South Lyon, Michigan joined Sparks since his interment in the past When a VA-guaranteed home loan investors whose main goal is to assist at the corners of Eleven Mile and Milford 65 years. An erected five-foot monument at becomes delinquent, VA provides sup - distressed borrowers retain their homes Roads is an acre sanctuary devoted specifi - the burial site pays tribute to the K-9’s who plemental servicing assistance to help and avoid foreclosure. They have cally for these “hero dogs” that are popu - served their country in both World Wars. cure the default. The servicer has the expertise in financial counseling, as larly known as military service dogs. The The stone marker reads, “Dedicated to the primary responsibility of servicing the well as programs that take advantage of memory of THE WAR DOG erected by loan to resolve the default. However, in relief measures that VA cannot. HOPE veterinarians, humane organizations and cases where the servicer is unable to Now provides outreach, counseling and the dog loving public to perpetuate kind - help the veteran borrower, Loan Guar - assistance to homeowners who have the ness to man’s most faithful friend for his anty has Loan Technicians in eight willingness and ability to keep their heroic services in World War I and II.” Regional Loan Centers and two special homes but are facing financial diffi - We can only hope that many of these servicing centers who take an active culty as a result of the crisis in the four-legged heroes returned to the United role in interceding with the servicer to mortgage market. The HOPE NOW States after their service was completed explore all options to avoid foreclosure. Alliance can be reached at 888-995- and lived a happy remaining life with Veterans with VA-guaranteed home HOPE (888-995-4673) or by visiting their masters as a just reward for their loans can call 877-827-3702 to reach www.hopenow.com valiant service; and for those that died in the nearest Loan Guaranty office where For more information, go to service to their country, recognition has loan specialists are prepared to discuss www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans or been given to them for a job well done. potential ways to help save the loan. call 877-827-3702. Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 10 Patriotism Program Together We Can On February 24, 2011, VFW Post 6950 school was presented with a standard On Wednesday, December 23, 2010, a dale, Allen Park Elks, Southwest Ath - and its Ladies Auxiliary conducted a American flag and two wall flags. Amer - Christmas dinner was served and a small letic Club and Dearborn Heights patriotism program at Zion Elementary icanism, youth activity and drug safety gift was given to the 100 veterans that Applebee’s made the dinner and items School for the students and faculty. The material was given to all the students. reside at the Michigan Veterans Founda - donated to the shelter possible. tion located in Detroit. Special thanks to Mark and Julie Little Working together – VFW Romanski for organizing the event and to their Ladies Auxiliary, VFW Donovan Post grandson, PFC Stephen Kiss, for helping and Ladies Auxiliary, American Legion with the dinner while on leave. Allen Park, Lincoln Park and Melvin -

Pictured, front row, L-R: Principal Dennis Schmidt; Ladies Auxiliary President Joan Elenbaas; Ladies Auxiliary Chaplain Mary Jo Sheldon; and Ladies Auxiliary Sr. Vice President Angela Krzyminski. Back row, L-R: Post Commander David Dunn and Post Chaplain Ronald Pischel. VFW Post 1278 Member Named Outstanding Resident of Oakwood Commons Detroit Police & Fire VFW Post 1278 member, Robert Flaugher, was named the Out - standing Resident of Oakwood Commons in Dearborn, Michigan.

DISTRICT 8, continued from page 7 America and fidelity to its Constitu - Honoring Comrade Robert tion and Laws; to foster true patri - Flaugher (C) are: Post Quarter - new members. When the VFW Ladies Aux - otism; to maintain and extend the master/Adjutant Robert Siedlik iliary was formed, there were no social serv - institutions of American freedom and (L) and Post Commander John ices, and government didn’t pay for many equal rights and justice to all men and Sosa (R). things that it does today. The ladies worked women; and to preserve and defend to support all kinds of things in their com - the United States of America from all Last Surviving WWI Veteran Has Passed munities – we provided the means to make her enemies, whomsoever. important projects happen. Times changed I have never known a time in my lifetime The following is a statement from VFW The full scope and stark reality of that and taxes and government paid for many of where the above beliefs have been in such Commander-in-Chief, Richard Eubank. war was beyond all of us, with the excep - the projects and needs of communities. But peril. America is under attack, overseas tion of one man who represented an that is changing again, government is cut - and at home. We are a nation at war, from February 28, 2011 entire generation assigned to history. ting back. We will have to work together to inside and out. American men and women The passing of Mr. Frank Buckles Frank Buckles’ service and that of his make sure our schools have all they need, are fighting for freedom and we must sup - marks the final departure of the last sur - now-absent comrades was borne from our community library continues to exist, port them, while other Americans barely viving link to the more than 2 million neither bravery nor bravado. It came from our kids have safe parks to play in, that our acknowledge their sacrifice. School - American men and women who served within; a sense of selflessness…doing nursing homes and veterans homes have children are not being taught these princi - during World War I. Sadly, this genera - something good for others, despite the what they need to care for patients, our mil - ples as we were; we must make sure these tion of heroes has surrendered to time danger. They faced fear and accepted it, itary personnel continue to receive comfort patriotic values live on in them. Elected and the day has come when they no challenged it, fought it, and then acted items, etc. Our organization has always officials are making choices that go longer walk among us. with honor. That is their legacy to us. done these things, and I think if we continue against these principles; we must stand and World War I unleashed an unrestrained, And that’s why we must ensure the to publicize it and use those reasons when fight for them. I believe potential members methodical and mechanized destruction memory of their courage and sacrifice talking to potential members, they will could relate to these issues as well, and it of human life leaving more than 8 million won’t fade or disappear into anonymity. relate to those things and want to be a part could encourage them to join us. dead and 21 million wounded. Our late That would be an irretrievable loss to the of it. But we have to share the good things The Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of entry into the war in 1917 helped stop the nation, one that we cannot afford to pay. we do and invite others to join us! Foreign Wars has a tremendous history of slaughter in Europe, but at a heavy price Editor’s Note: Mr. Buckles was a life - Another way to attract new mem - service and dedication in all these areas! to the nation; 126,000 deaths and more long VFW member who was buried in bers…the object of the Ladies Auxiliary WE MUST continue to inspire new gen - than 200,000 wounded by the end of the Arlington National Cemetery. Out of to the Veterans of Foreign Wars… erations to join our cause and to keep our war in 1918. Despite the extremes of the respect for his passing and that of his The object of this organization shall programs and ideals working far into the war: fear, courage, cruelty and compas - entire generation, the President ordered be fraternal, patriotic, historical and future. Best wishes to all who have been sion, America made a conscious decision the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff on educational; to assist the Post and elected to fill the offices in your Auxil - to fight for the ideal of freedom. the day of his interment. members thereof of the Veterans of iaries, your hard work and dedication Foreign Wars of the United States, and makes a difference! Thank you for all its own members whenever possible; to you do to support veterans, active duty maintain true allegiance to the Gov - military personnel, their families and SUPPORT ernment of the United States of your communities…God Bless America! DISTRICT 13, continued from page 7 – if in my power to prevent it.” We need to OUR keep that promise to ourselves and to this of my own free will and accord, solemnly organization. TROOPS promise – that I will never wrong or I would like to thank all of the sisters defraud this organization – nor a member for your kindness, hospitality and your thereof – nor permit either to be wronged friendship through the year. 11 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran USAA Provides $250,000 Sponsorship VFW National Commander Urges for VFW Foundation’s Congress to, ‘Do What is Right ‘Return the Favor’ Campaign for America’s Only True Heroes’ Campaign provides assistance to military personnel. VFW pays visit to Capitol Hill to remind leaders of its high priority issues. WASHINGTON, D.C., March 7, 2011 sponsorship of the ‘Return the Favor’ – Retired Army Lt. Gen. Stephen program will enable VFW to give the March 08, 2011 – Richard L. Eubank, the the VA health care system is a 21st century Speakes presented a $250,000 check on very best to the people who dedicated National Commander of the Veterans of For - health care system delivering world-class behalf of USAA to VFW National Com - their lives to serving our country.” eign Wars of the U.S., delivered testimony care to America’s veterans, the Veterans mander Richard Eubank for VFW Foun - “We are deeply appreciative of USAA’s today before a joint hearing of the Senate Benefits Administration continues to dation’s “Return the Favor” campaign. extraordinary and generous support. This and House Veterans Affairs Committees. struggle with the greatest workload in over USAA is now an official co-sponsor of sponsorship reflects USAA’s ongoing total In his presentation of the VFW’s national 50 years, and the worst quality in decades.” the campaign. support for those who have served and priorities, Eubank, a Marine Corps retiree Eubank explained that the current “Return the Favor” provides assistance continue to serve our nation,” said VFW and Vietnam combat veteran from Eugene, backlog of claims for compensation and to military personnel and their families National Commander Richard L. Eubank, Ore., urged congressional members “to do pension, education, and those on appeal, providing services that include financial a retired Marine and Vietnam combat vet - what is right for America’s only true currently sits at almost 1.5 million, and assistance grants for housing, medical or eran from Eugene, Oregon. “USAA’s heroes” by fully funding the VA, even as that the reported adjudication error rate basic assistance needs, prepaid phone exceptional benevolence on behalf of lawmakers wrestle with efforts to rein in of 16 percent is much higher for claims cards, assistance filing disability and America’s service members and veteran federal spending. Eubank, who leads the dealing with such as Traumatic Brain benefit claims, and “welcome home” and communities is truly remarkable.” nation’s largest and oldest major combat Injuries, PTSD and diabetes. “send off” events for troops. USAA offers insurance, banking, veterans’ organization, reminded com - The VFW National Commander “It’s an honor to support an organiza - investment and retirement products and mittee members of the heavy burden thanked VA Secretary Eric Shinseki for tion that stands up for America’s combat services to 8 million members of the U.S. placed on current service members, vet - his “courage and steadfastness” to add veterans,” said Speakes, USAA’s execu - military and their families. USAA mem - erans and their families. three new illnesses to the list of presump - tive vice president for strategy and plan - bership is open to those who are serving “There is a tremendous cost of war, tive illnesses related to Agent Orange ning. “Our country needs organizations or have honorably served the nation in most especially on those men and women exposure. “His determination to do what like the VFW, because vets and active- the U.S. military – and their eligible who fight it. And that the consequences was right for veterans has earned him our duty members face special challenges. At family members. For more information of defending America do not end when admiration and gratitude,” he said. USAA, we understand that military fam - about USAA, or to learn more about the last bullet is fired.” Other VFW high priority issues include ilies have unique financial needs and our membership, visit usaa.com Eubank reiterated the legislative con - the proper care and treatment of returning cerns of the veterans’ service organization. servicemen and women with severe injuries “Thousands dead, tens of thousands to mind and body, the need for an integrated VFW Presents the 2011 wounded, and hundreds of thousands more information technology system, veterans’ who came home to unemployment, broken unemployment and education, military care - Bataan Memorial Death March families, and memories that will be there givers and survivor benefits, and the need to Each year about 5,000 supporters turn out for the rest of their lives,” he said. “Sui - sustain and enhance government search and cides are at record highs in the military and recovery efforts for unaccounted-for Ameri - for the rigorous march. in the veteran’s community. PTSD, TBI, cans from all wars. Eubank also provided KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 22, 2011 This tragedy became known as the substance abuse…the list of ailments and testimony regarding further traumatic brain – VFW is pleased to announce it is the Bataan Death March. challenges our veterans face is a long one, injury research and treatments, suicide presenting sponsor of the 22nd Annual The Memorial March is open to the and it goes hand-in-hand with a decade of awareness and prevention, and women vet - Bataan Memorial Death March to be held public and each year about 5,000 sup - serving faithfully in two wars on the other erans’ health care needs. at White Sands Missile Range, New porters turn out for the rigorous march. side of the globe. In no uncertain terms, the Joining Eubank at the hearing were hun - Mexico, March 27, 2011. “Supporting this march is a great VFW believes the aftermath of war on dreds of VFW and Ladies Auxiliary leaders The March was created to honor the example of one of the many focuses of service members and their families must from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American service members who the VFW: keeping the memory of those be recognized as a cost of war.” Europe, the Pacific, Latin America and the defended the Philippine Islands during who’ve lost their lives in the name of In his testimony, Eubank praised the VA Caribbean. It was followed by individual World War II. These soldiers endured freedom alive. The march offers a healthcare system, but was critical of the meetings between VFW members and their horrendous conditions, including unique way of honoring the memory of Veterans Benefits Administration. “While respective members of Congress. malaria-infested regions, no medical so many brave soldiers,” said VFW attention, meager rations and outdated National Senior Vice Commander, equipment. On April 9, 1942, tens of Richard DeNoyer. VFW, USAA Pair Up on Credit Card, thousands of soldiers were surrendered Twenty-five Bataan Death March to the Japanese and were forced to survivors are also expected to attend Investments march for days to a war camp, and will receive recognition from USAA Bank Offering Co-branded Credit Card to VFW Members. enduring the high heat of the Philip - VFW’s Senior Vice Commander-in- pine jungles and extreme brutality of Chief, Richard DeNoyer, on behalf of March 28, 2011, SAN ANTONIO – It is a sentiment echoed by Richard L. their captors, causing many to perish. the organization. USAA and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Eubank, National Commander of the Vet - (VFW) are joining forces to offer a erans of Foreign Wars. uniquely designed credit card and “We are extremely pleased to provide Michigan Overseas Veteran - 2011 USAA’s investment solutions to more VFW members this opportunity to fur - PLEASE ADHERE TO THESE DEADLINES than 1.6 million VFW members. ther support important VFW programs The new co-branded credit card allows and our mandate of service to veterans, Please Remember! VFW members to apply for the Veterans service members and their families,” said Issue Deadline Issue Deadline of Foreign Wars USAA Rewards™ Eubank. “Our relationship with USAA is July/August/September August 1, 2011 January/February/March February 1, 2012 World MasterCard®, which will help built upon trust. USAA has proven to be October/November/December November 1, 2011 April/May/June April 15, 2012 support the organization’s activities and a company that veterans and U.S. service 1. Do not type all CAPITAL LETTERS. Use capitals sparingly. When in doubt, do not capitalize a word. programs. Additionally, USAA is now members can always rely on.” Use 12- point font type size. the VFW’s preferred provider of invest - To learn more about USAA, call 2. Please no handwritten submissions, as they will not be considered for publication. ment solutions for its membership. 800- 274-8839 or visit usaa.com/vfw 3. Do not write on back of pictures. Use a separate sheet of paper. Identify all people in the photograph. According to Nathan McKinley, USAA Try to limit number of people in photo to five or six, at most. vice president of military affinity, the rela - About USAA 4. Posts and Auxiliaries are encouraged to submit items of interest from their areas. tionship expands USAA’s efforts to serve USAA provides insurance, banking, invest - those who served the nation during times of ment and retirement products and services 5. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space constraints. war, along with organizations committed to to 8 million members of the U.S. military 6. Do not submit newspaper articles and pictures from newspapers UNLESS you pro vide advancing veteran benefits and care. and their families. Known for its legendary written authorization from the publication involved. “We’re proud to be working with the commitment to its members, USAA is con - 7. Never submit article or photos clipped from newspapers or magazines. Veterans of Foreign Wars to help meet the sistently recognized for outstanding 8. DISTRICT COMMANDERS – Please submit your District Meetings schedule as soon as possible, so it can be financial needs of its members,” said service, employee well-being and financial published. McKinley. “We know VFW members and strength. USAA membership is open to all 9. MAIL ALL ARTICLES TO MOV EDITOR: their families will be drawn to USAA who are serving or have honorably served because they want to do business with a our nation in the U.S. military – and their MOV Editor Auxiliary Editor financial services provider that under - families. For more information about Matt David, [email protected] Marion Belaire, [email protected] stands their unique needs and appreciates USAA, or to learn more about member - their service.” ship, visit usaa.com. Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 12 OUR COUNTRY IS IN MOURNING, TA VETAERAN DPIED TODS AY 78-DEARBORN HEIGHTS TRINGALI, SEBASTIAN, 87, USA/WWII LUCAS, DONALD , 89, USA/WWII TRAXLER, EUGENE, 89, USA/WWII VENTIMIGLIA, JOSEPH D. SCHROEDER, NORMAN , 86, USA/WWII 171-LIVONIA VERCRUYSSE, OSCAR STULTS, PAUL A., 91, USA/WWII GAUGHN, WILLIAM, 88, USA/WWII WERTMANN, RICHARD P. 3023-GRAND RAPIDS 345-REDFORD 1224-HAMBURG KOSTEN, KENNETH, 80, USA/KOREA Matt David, Editor DEVORE, ROBERT W., 61, USA/VIETNAM KANTZLER, EDWARD, 84, USN/WWII 3030-OTSEGO Editorial Committee: DUVALL, JOHN A., 88, USMC/WWII 1278-DETROIT DECKER, WAYNE A., 87, USMC/WWII Lloyd Putman , Commander JENSEN , CHRISTOPHER B., 64, USN/VIETNAM BLAKESLEE, DONALD R., 85, USMC/WWII LOVELAND, WILLIAM H., 87, USN/WWII Jack Pray , Sr. Vice Commander OLLIS, EDWARD R., 82, USA/WWII TUJAKA, EDWARD J., 89, USMC/WWII 3033-MT. PLEASANT Kirk Kennedy, Jr. Vice Commander SPENCER, EDGAR, 85, USA/WWII 1329-HART BOWERS, KEITH W., 89, USN/WWII Matt David, Historian/ MOV Editor STIPAK, JOHN A., 90, USA/WWII DERKS, RICHARD, 79, USMC/KOREA RAU, WALTER J., 91, USA/WWII Marian Belaire, Aux. Committee Member 446-MUSKEGON FITZ, BILLIE, 82, USA/WWII 3055-ST. LOUIS DAHLSTEDT, ARTHUR W., 85, USA/WWII LEEMHUIS, WILLIAM L., 88, USA/WWII BOYD, DONALD E., 84, USN/WWII EDITORIAL POLICY ESTEPP, RAYMOND G., 77, USAF/KOREA OOMEN, JOHN, 91, USA/WWII CRUZ, JESSE, 92, USA/WWII The mission of this paper is to GRIGGS, ALLEN D., 77, USA/KOREA PADECKY, ROBERT E., 86, USN/WWII 3243-FENTON strengthen the efficiency of the Veterans HODGES, ED, 80, USA 1355-STURGIS BRIGGS, CHARLES J., WWII of Foreign Wars by providing timely, MAIN, ALBERT, 82, USA KEESLAR, JACQUES, 85, USN/WWII BURCH, RICHARD J., KOREA pertinent and accurate information about MCPHALL, DONALD, 83, USA/WWII MC KENZIE, JAMES, 67, USA/VIETNAM COTTERMAN , JOHN A., WWII the decisions and activities of the VFW PANOZZO, MATHEW B., 86, USA/WWII VAN ZILE, CHARLES, 91, USA/WWII DOLL, WALLACE E., at the Post, District and Department SEBRING, WAYNE D., 88, USA/WWII 1407-FERNDALE DUNNING, JAMES B., level; the relevant affairs of the State and ST. AMOUR, CHARLES D., 64, USA/VIETNAM HOCKERSMITH, CHARLES L., 76, GRABOWSKI, ALEX P., Federal governments, and the decisions STUCK, D.O., 86, USN/WWII USAF/VIETNAM TROUT, GEORGE, and activities of the national organiza - 552-LINCOLN PARK 1452-CLIO 3293-GRAND LEDGE tion of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The paper is also the voice of the BAGIAN, SIMON, 87, USA/WWII BIGELOW , CHARLES P., 91, USN/WWII GALVIN, CARL C., 87, USN/WWII members. We welcome articles from BALOGH, CHARLES, 90, USA/WWII LONG, GEORGE C., 86, USA/WWII 3323-WESTLAND members. All articles should contribute BRICKEY, MILES, 89, USAAF/WWII WEIDMAN, WILLARD L., 78, USAF/KOREA RUZICKA, WILLIAM, 89, USA/WWII positively to the welfare of the VFW FLORESCU, STEFAN, 83, USA/WWII 1454-ALMA SMITH, KEVIN B., 86, USA/WWII and its members. We will accept no HOWIE, BURTON S., 91, USA/WWII COLE, ROY, 87, USA/WWII 3667-ALLEGAN attacks on any member or leader of the JACKSON, CHARLES, 84, USAAF/WWII VAN DEMARK, BERNARD, 80, USA/KOREA BARTZ, ROBERT D., 75, USA/KOREA VFW. We will accept a thoughtful dis - JACOBOWSKI, EDWARD, 90, USA/WWII 1519-LIVONIA KROTZ, ARTHUR, 95, USA/WWII cussion of all related issues in the letter JESSE, RICHARD, 84, USA/WWII STEINIGER, WILLIAM E. JR., 85, USA/WWII 3673-BESSEMER column and reserve the right to reply to LEATHERMAN, STEVEN, 62, USN/VIETNAM UNITIS, MICHAEL L., 91, USA/WWII PELISSERO, BRUNO, 79, USA/KOREA those that seem to reflect a misunder - standing of the VFW and its policies. PULASKI, EUGENE, 87, USA/WWII 1573-SAUGATUCK 3676-SAULT STE MARIE We ask that you keep your articles SMITH, CHARLES, 59, USA/VIETNAM GUDITH, HENRY W., USA/WWII QUENNEVILLE, EARL J., 74, USAF/VIETNAM brief. We reserve the right to edit all arti - WANAT, FRANK , 83, USA/WWII/KOREA 1669-ROYAL OAK SAVOIE, RAYMOND E., 89, USA/WWII cles. We look forward to hearing from you. WEST, ORVILLE, 90, USA/WWII DURING, THOMAS, USN/CUBA SOMMER, GERALD F., 86, USMC/WWII The news and opinions expressed WISE, RAYMOND, 77, USN/WWII MALLOY, LEONARD, 84, USN/WWII 3723-HOLT are not necessarily those of the Veterans 582-ORTONVILLE MAZUR, RAYMOND, 86, USN/WWII WALTERS, JOHN, 90, USA/WWII of Foreign Wars, Department of DUMAN, WILLIAM, 86, USN/WWII 1859-SAGINAW 3724-STANDISH Michigan or the National Organization. 607-ROGERS CITY LEPPIEN, ALBERT R., 82, USA/KOREA WHITNEY, ROBERT E., 97, USAAF/WWII Materials for Publication SELKE, ROGER G., 66, USA/KOREA SHADEAU, FLOYD, 83, USN/WWII 3791-FLINT Send to: Matt David 702-WYOMING-GRANDVILLE 1887-MENOMINEE MC QUEEN, GEORGE, 80, USA/WWII 10 Elder Street LONCKI, THEODORE, 85, USA TORREANO, DENNIS J., 67, USN/VIETNAM 3897-L’ANSE Ypsilanti, MI 48197 702-GRAND RAPIDS 1888-TRENTON CRESS, DANIEL, 76, USA (734) 883-1506 MARTINEZ, CHARLES, 87, USN/WWII RACZKOWSKI, STANLEY, 95, USA/WWII GOLDEN, EVERETT, 83, USMC/WWII [email protected] STRATTON, KETIH , 85, USMC 2053-WHITE CLOUD GRGURICH, LODY, 92, USA 822-FLINT PERRIN, MIKE R., 65, USMC/VIETNAM HEINONEN, CLARENCE, 89, USA/WWII Graphic Design & Layout: ALEXANDER, FRANKLIN, 85, USN/WWII 2144-HOLLAND JOHNSTON, ROBERT, 89, USN/WWII American Graphics & Design, Inc. 1136-WYANDOTTE BLISS, LESTER, 89, USA/WWII LYBERG, LANE, 86, USN/WWII Jenny DeBack, President BURT, ROBERT JR. SLENK, ROBERT, 80, USCG SPRINGSTEAD, DONALD, 84, Cindy Chic, Graphic Designer Ellen Imp, Composition Specialist COATES, RONALD J. VAN WIEREN, DONALD , 62, USA SUPANICH, PAUL, 77, USA/KOREA www.agad.com DUCLO, RUSSEL C. 2272-DURAND WHITMAN, FRANCIS, 91, USA/WWII FRASIER, AUSTIN P. LAMAR, ROBERT, 63, USN/VIETNAM 3900-CALUMET Taps GLINKA, ANTHONY SR. 2292-EDMORE HARJALA, LEONARD, 86, USA/WWII HARRISON, RAYMOND G. GUNDERMAN, MERRILL, 83, USA/KOREA MATTSON, WAINO E., 84, USN/WWII SEND TO : IOTTE, RODNEY A. 2356-HILLMAN PIETI, CARL, 79, USAF/KOREA Department of MI VFW KENWORTHY, HAROLD BROWN, ROBERT, 80, USA/KOREA 3901-ALGONAC 924 North Washington KUZNETZ, JOSEPH , 60, USA/VIETNAM 2358-ROSEVILLE WALLACE, BLAKE,USA/WWII Lansing, MI 48906 LEWINSKI, RAYMOND P. GLERTZ, FREDERICK E., 78, USN/KOREA 3941-LIVONIA (517) 485-9456 MORRISON, RONALD E. SAPUTO, SEBASTIAN C., 85, USA/WWII BISEL, RICHARD, 78, USN/KOREA, NEROWSKI, JOHN F. 2382-LEXINGTON 4034-HOUGHTON LAKE Comrades please copy this form and PARKER, WILLIAM J. HARRIS, THOMAS F., 83, USN/WWII DE LONG, JAMES,USA/WII, use it for the Taps that you send in. ROBERTSON, LAVERN G. 2406-CHARLOTTE SULLIVAN , CHARLES R.,USA/VIETNAM RUSHING, THOMAS, 68, USN/VIETNAM ANDREWS, EDWARD J., 89, USA/WWII 4054-MARCELLUS Send Completed Form To: VFW of TRUSEWICZ, ANTHONY BINKOWSKI, PAUL A., 82, USA/KOREA FARNSWORTH , EUGENE, 79, USN/KOREA Michigan 924 North Washington, WOLKINS, RICHARD L., SR. BUDD, RICHARD H., 90, USN/WWII KLAER, DICK, 90, USA/WWII, Lansing, MI 48906 ZAJAS, LEONARD GONZALEZ, JUAN A., 64, USMC/VIETNAM MARSHALL, RICHARD,USA/KOREA 1138-MONROE HICE, DONALD H., 81, USA/WWII 4087-DAVISON ______(Last Name) MURPHY, RALPH, 87, USN/WWII KENYON, MELVIN J., 79, USAAF/KOREA ALLEN, LAWRENCE, 76, USN/VIETNAM/GULF WEIER, FLOYD, 85, USN/WWII LOUCKS, JOHN R., 82, USMC/USA/WWII/KOREA BODUNG, ALFRED, 83, USA/VIETNAM ______1146-ST. CLAIR SHORES SIMEK, EDWARD J., 86, USA/WWII GREGUS, WILLIAM R. SR., 86, USA/WWII (First Name) AIELLO, PIETRO J., 82, USA/WWII SMITH, ROBERT E., 89, USA/WWII MC CONNAUGHEY, JAMES F., 88, USN/WWII ______ALTOBELLI, ROBERT L.,WWII WESEMAN, SIDNEY E. JR., 82, USMC/WWII WHEELER, HENRY H., 86, USN/WWII (Age) BELL, FRED A., 87, USA/WWII WILDREN, GEORGE, 84, USAAF/WWII 4090-PORTLAND BRINKMAN, ANDREW J.,USA/KOREA 2496-ALPENA CANFIELD, ROBERT L.,USN/WWII ______DEN DOOVEN, DONALD A., 94, USA/WWII LEMIEUX, FORD W., 95, USA/WWII 4159-ROSCOMMON (Date of Death) DEN DOOVEN, THOMAS J., 77, USN/KOREA MARZEAN, RAPHAEL, 81, USA/KOREA OSTLING, RALPH A., 82, USN/WWII ______ESPER, ROBERT, 88, USAAF/WWII NOWAKOWSKI, ADOLPH, 89, USAAF/WWII PITCHER, DANNY E., 76, USN/KOREA (Post #) LANGELOH, WALTER E., WWII ROBARGE, ORVILLE, 80, USN/KOREA 4164-CARO LEONE, ANGELO D., USN/WWII SPLEET, DONALD, 82, USA/KOREA PROSSER, BERNARD A., 84, USA/WWII ______(City) LINGEMAN, JAMES N. SYLVESTER, DONALD, 86, USA/WWII 4167-MASS CITY MARINELLI, SAMUEL, 81, USMC/KOREA SZATKOWSKI, NORMAN , 84, USA/WWII BASNEY, HAROLD,USMC/WWII Branch (Circle One) : MC CANN, HENRY SZATKOWSKI, RICHARD, 77, USA/KOREA 4230-ROCKWOOD USA USAAC USN MIHALICH, RONALD, 67, USA/VIETNAM 2891-CRYSTAL FALLS WAGNER, RUSSELL J., 84, USA/WWII USMC USAF USCG MILLER, ARTHUR A., 90, USA/WWII MEYERS, DONALD R., 4499-MANISTEE MORLEY, DELBERT E., 95, USA/WWII SIMS, GEORGE D., 92, USA/WWII GLOCHESKI, CHESTER W., 93, USA/WWII Served In (Circle One) : PARKS, BERNARD B. 2945-SANDUSKY NIEMEROWICZ, HARRY J., 86, USN/WWII WWI WWII Korea PERROTTA, ANTHONY R. CARMAN, EUGENE W., 85, USA/WWII ZYGAJ, JOHN E., 87, USA/WWII Vietnam Gulf Other PETERSON, ROBERT J. TETTER, ALVIN E., 88, USN/WWII 4573-ISHPEMING SAVINSKI, JOHN J., 89, USA/WWII 2964-REED CITY LAINE, EDWIN, 93, USA/WWII Occupation Forces SHANLEY, JEROME, 76, USA/WWII JORGENSEN , LYLE, 84, USA/WWII TAPS, continued on page 13 13 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran Auxiliary TAPS 203-BERVILLE 2052-ROMEO 3256-MONTAGUE 4644-DEARBORN HEIGHTS 7581-WAYLAND ROSE, MARLENE HYSLOP, JULIA DEYMAN, ELEANOR DYTYNIAK, HELEN LUTOSTANSKI, FELICE 423-ANN ARBOR WALTERS, CONNIE GREINKE, MAE 5065-SHERIDAN 8260-NASHVILLE POOL, CATHY 2358-ROSEVILLE PEABODY, MARIE CANNON, JANICE , 76 GRIFFITH, ELEANOR 582-ORTONVILLE BANNASCH, VIRGINIA 3306-HOWARD CITY GLEASON, BETTY, 81 HAYNOR, BERNICE WILLETT, SANDRA, 65 BOYD, LOTTIE BAKER, HAZEL HARPER, MARGARET, 86 HUSS, DELORES 701-LANSING GIBSON, HELEN MONROE, VIVIAN HEPP, KATHLEEN SCHOUAN, GENEVA SMITH, KATHLEEN PLETTA, MARY SMITH, ALMA STOWELL, HELEN, 89 SCHWAB, BERNICE STASZUK, DOLORES RIPSAM, ANNA 3733-FOWLER 6165-SOUTH RANGE 8275-AUGRES 823-JACKSON, WOJYTNIAK, CATHERINE ESCH, BERNICE AYOUB, ETHEL DANILOW, DORIS BOLLINGER, ANITA 2645-SOUTHFIELD 3736-GRAYLING 6248-DECATUR WELLMAN, HELEN HENDRICK, RUTH DEMONTIGNY, THELMA , 76 PENCAK, SHIRLEY, 75 GOODELL, LOUISE 9023-BRIMLEY 1075-HARRISON 2780-TRAVERSE CITY 4005-CORUNNA LEFFLER, ANNE TENEYCK, MARION WEAVER, LEEANN EMERSON, BETTY BIRD, CAROLE SMITH, ANNE UPONEN, LORRIANE 1136-WYANDOTTE MULLEN, MAXINE COLEMAN, MARION 6462-DUNDEE WISER, LILLIAN MARCISSUK, WANDA 2891-CRYSTAL FALLS WAGNER, ALBERTA ROD, CLARIBEL, 98 9084-WAKEFIELD PARKER, MARY NYLUND, LORRIANE, 81 4012-NORTHVILLE 6464-FOWLERVILLE HELBERG, ANNIE 1137-BENTON HARBOR 3023-CRESTON BEDFORD, MARIE VANVALKENBURG, ANNA WILLIAMS, MIRIAM STIEVE, VIOLET ADAMS, THELMA SOCALL, ELEANOR 6579-NEW LOTHROP 9455-OWOSSO YESKE, HELEN HAMMOND, EVELYN 4093-CARLETON GROSEPHEND, JUDITH DANEK, LORA 1138-MONROE MAZZERELLI, MARIAN GRANT, MELDONNA 6754-SPRUCE CUNNINGHAM, MABLE BARTON, ELEANOR 3030-OTSEGO 4187-TECUMSEH LABELL, GEORGIANA, 83 HABER, ALICE STEPHENS, SARAH RAPA, BEVERLY IRELAN, MELBA, 92 MOUSSEAU, DOROTHY JONES, JACKIE WOOLACE, ALICE 3033-MT. PLEASANT 4230-ROCKWOOD 7546-DEARBORN HEIGHTS QUINN, HAZEL 1452-CLIO COUNTERMAN, MARJORIE GILDERSLEEVE, MARGARET , 90 BARANOWSKI, DOROTHY, 87 RICHARDSON, RUTH NORTON, CLEDA, 83 CRAWFORD, NELLIE WEISBECKER, SANDRA LEE, 59 CRILLY, DOROTHY 9914-HIGHLAND 1519-LIVONIA 3165-NEGAUNEE 4249-NEWAYGO 7573-NEW BALTIMORE SMADES, BARBARA, 59 SPARR, PAULINE HOCKIN, BETTY, 83 WOLEVER, FERN FISHER, KATHRYN 15023-AT LARGE THIESMEYER, PATRICIA JOHNSON, JANICE, 67 4406-BELDING 7575-GARDEN CITY HALLIGAN, GARNET 1584-ADRIAN JURVELIN, KAYE, 94 MAKI, MIRIAM THERASSE, GERALDINE, 78 HOLLINGSWORTH, ALICE MICKELSON, BARBARA 3243-FENTON 4422-TAYLOR ZANG, DOROTHY, 84 GORTE, ANNE, 90 REETZ, SHERRY TAPS, continued from page 12 4624-HUBBELL 5680-ST. HELEN 6896-WESTLAND 8275-AU GRES LANCTOT, LAWRENCE H., 78, USA/KOREA BRETHAUER, WILLIAM J., 90, USA/WWII CAPERS, DOUGLAS,USA/WWII ARCHAMBEAU, GLEN E., 84, USN/WWII 4644-HAMTRAMCK WITHUN, RUSSELL E., 85, USA/WWII CHOLEWA, HENRY F.,USA/WWII MC CREADY, WILLIAM H., 83, USA/KOREA SASINOWSKI, HENRY, 90, USA/WWII 5855-PORTAGE DANIEL, CHESTER,USA/WWII MECOMBER, JOHN A., 88, USA/WWII ZALEWSKI, EDWARD, 88, USA/WWII VEKICH , EMIL, 81, USA/KOREA DIAZ, ANGEL O.,USA/KOREA 8372-ENGADINE 4646-LYONS VAN DE WERKEN, NICHOLAS J., 91, USA/WWII DUDEK, EDWARD, 70, USA/KOREA HALL, WARREN , 89, USAAF/WWII ROGERS, CLYDE , 82, USA/KOREA 5966-DAGGETT DZIEGOWSKI, JOHN S.,USA/WWII 8846-MUSKEGON 4837-MARLETTE KISZELY, WILLIAM S., 89, USMC/WWII FOREIT, BRUCE W.,USA/WWII HAMIL, ROELOF H., 94, USA/WWII KITELEY, ROBERT E., 88, USA/WWII 6013-ELKTON FREDRICK, PATRICK F.,USA/WWII 8872-PORT SANILAC MEAD, GEORGE P., 79, USAF/KOREA LE PAGE , FRANCIS R. JR., 87, USAF/WWII GOLENIAK, STANLEY P.,USA/WWII HOWARD, WALTER, 80, USN/KOREA 5065-SHERIDAN REIBLING, CALVIN, 86, USN/WWII KISCHUK, EUGENE, 80, USA/WWII 8964-OVID BRUNDAGE, ROBERT K., 85, USN/WWII 6132-LANSING KURDZIEL, FRANK ,USA/WWII CROSSON, REGINALD, 89, USA/WWII KNICKERBOCKER, BERNARD J., 81, USA/KOREA STEVENS, CLAYTON , 73, USN/VIETNAM MARECKI, VINCENT,USA/WWII SCHMIDTMAN, FOSTER, 95, USN/WWII SMITH, HERMAN, 91, USCG/WWII 6248-DECATUR ROMANOWSKI, EDWARD A.,USA/WWII 9023-BRIMLEY TATE, ROBERT E., 82, USA CHYBIK, JOHNNY, 84, USA/WWII SKORA, CHARLES, 80, USA/WWII BEAMISH, ROBERT C., 84, USA/KOREA WALTERS, WESLEY W., 90, USA/WWII DONTJE, BERNARD A., 89, USAAF/WWII WALEGA, EUGENE,USA/WWII LA PONSIE, JAMES F., 95, USA/WWII WARD, LYLE C., 86, USN/WWII GRIFFARD, NORMAN , 88, USMC/WWII 6965-UBLY 9084-WAKEFIELD 5096-CUSTER HOWELL, ESLIE,WWII WALSH, JOHN, 91, USA/WWII CHARLEVOIX, ROBERT , 83, USN/WWII HERLEIN, ROBERT, 84 KESELOWSKI, WILLIAM, 90, USA/WWII 7302-HEMLOCK HAMPSTON, QUINLAN, 87, USA/WWII LUND, LOUIS, 87 SOUTHWORTH, MYRON, 90, USA/WWII BABECHENKO, EDMUND, 67, USA/VIETNAM 9293-EASTPOINTE 5114-ST. IGNACE SZYMANOWSKI, JACK, 68, USA/VIETNAM SCHREM, BENJAMIN, 81, USA/KOREA BROWN, TEDDY J., 81, USA/KOREA SAUNDERS, RICHARD, 79, USAF/KOREA WEGRZYN, STANLEY,USA/WWII STACK, BRYAN, 64, USN/VIETNAM PARADOWSKI, HENRY, 91, USN/WWII 5315-BALDWIN 6464-FOWLERVILLE SZABO , FRANK JR., 93, USA/WWII 9344-HARBOR BEACH BERNIER, URBAIN KNICKERBOCKER, PATRICK E., 83, USA/WWII THOMAS, WILLIAM, 82, USA/WWII SIEMEN, CLEMENT, 84, USA/WWII REAUME, NELLIS 6466-HARRISVILLE 7309-MASON 9656-LAMBERTVILLE ROSS, CLIFFORD KEYSER, WESLEY, 84, USA/WWII HAGEDORN, EARL,USA/WWII BURMEISTER, DANIEL W., 61, USA/VIETNAM SHAFFER, DAVID KOWALSKI, ANDREW, 91, USA/WWII HARDY, WILLIAM, 90, USA/WWII 9973-DEARBORN HEIGHTS WATTERS, DANNY 6507-CHASSELL 7310-GROSSE ILE COLLINS, CHRIS, 87, USA/WWII 5585-EMMETT TAPIO, GLENN E., 59, USAF/VIETNAM/GULF JOLIFFE, EDWIN KLANN, ROBERT , 85, USA POWERS, JAMES D.,VIETNAM WILSON, HARRY, 79, USA/KOREA KING, ROBERT L., 10194-GRASS LAKE 5600-ONTONAGON ZITO, JAMES, 84, WWII KREGER, JESSE, 86, WWII WARREN, FREDERICK C., 90, USA/WWII GIESAU, GARHARDT, 88, USA/WWII 6579-NEW LOTHROP WYDECK, WALTER, 10329-MANCHESTER ONGIE, GORDON, 78, USA/KOREA BURGESS, KENNETH A., 62, USA/VIETNAM 7486-AKRON SCHOOK, JOHN, 83, USA/KOREA 5602-SIX LAKES 6691-FRASER MC CLOY, JOHN C., 77, USAF 10770-LEROY DENMAN, FLOYD, 80, USA KOTILLA, RUSSEL, 69, USA/KOREA 7581-WAYLAND BLANCHARD, DALE, 85, USA/WWII LIPPERT, REX, 77, USA/KOREA 6754-SPRUCE FOOTE, DALE R., 64, USA/VIETNAM 10884-MAYVILLE 5670-GWINN LISKE, LESLIE, 80, USA BELKA, EDWIN, 87, USA/WWII HARRIS, RONALD, 43, USN KNIGHT, RICHARD R., 60, USAF/VIETNAM 6756-CENTER LINE 7805-ITHACA HATFIELD, LEWIS, 69, USMC MOSELLE, DEAN, 82, USA/WWII COLE, ERNEST, 86, USA/WWII JOHNSON, CARL R., 83, USA/WWII HAVER, RICHARD, 91, USMC/WWII SOMA, MAYNARD, 77, USAF/KOREA GOLAN, JOHN, 90, USA/WWII 8236-FLINT SEIDLER, MITCHELL E., 81, USA/KOREA HILDEN, DUANE, 74, USN BUBEN, MIKE, 85, USN/WWII Michigan Department Ladies Auxiliary 2012 Calendar Orders are now being accepted for the 2012 calendar! Drawings will be held at the Department office, 924 N. Washington Avenue, Lansing, Name: ______MI 48906 at 10:00 a.m. each Friday and for the 6 preceding days. You need not be present to win. After the 7 tickets have been drawn and winners are recorded, they Address: ______will be returned to the drawing drum for the next week’s drawing. There will be 52 drawings, with a total of 366 prizes awarded. City, State, Zip: ______

2012 Calendar Raffle Rules No. Ordered:______Total Due: $______Prize Distribution of $13,575.00 $500 x 6, Honoring: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, July 4th, 911, Veterans Day Send orders with check to: $250 x 7, Honoring: Ladies Auxiliary Birthday, Statue of Liberty Birthday, Army Michigan Department Ladies Auxiliary Day, Navy Day, Marine Day, Air Force Day, Coast Guard Day 924 North Washington Avenue, Lansing, MI 48906 $25 x 353: All other days 517-487-3715 52 drawing dates, 1 each Friday for the period Saturday through Friday Orders due by October 17, 2011. Calendars are $25.00 – complete the order form and return with your check. All orders mailed by November 30th. Michigan Overseas Veteran April/May/June 2011 14 Convention Schedule Michigan Department Ladies Auxiliary VFW June 8-12, 2011 84th Annual State Convention Wednesday, June 8, 2011 Golf Outing TBA Troy Marriott, Troy, Michigan June 8-12, 2011 Thursday, June 9, 2011 7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Registration Dennison Ballroom Wednesday, June 8 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Displays and Booths Dennison Ballroom 6:00 p.m. Hospitality Dept. President’s Suite 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Photo Room Niles I Room 1412 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Pick-up Entertainment Tickets Dennison Ballroom 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Service Officers Grand Ballroom E-H Thursday, June 9 Budget and Finance 12 Noon-8:00 p.m. Registration Dennison Foyer Bylaws & Resolutions Cancer Booth Dennison Foyer 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Internal Revenue Service Grand Ballroom E-H 10:00 a.m.-12 Noon Joint Officers and Council Members Meeting Dept. President’s Suite 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Lunch On Your Own 11:00 a.m. Instruction to Pages Grand Ballroom A-C 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Registration Dennison Ballroom 12 Noon-1:30 p.m. Lunch On Your Own 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Entertainment Tickets Dennison Ballroom 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. C of A Meeting Grand Ballroom E-H 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Council of Administration Meeting Grand Ballroom A-C 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Directors Reception (by invitation) Commanders Hospitality – 3:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Floor Practice Grand Ballroom A-C Room 1512 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Joint Hospitality Room Room 1512 Friday, June 10 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Registration Dennison Foyer Friday, June 10, 2011 Cancer Booth Dennison Foyer 7:30 a.m.-12 Noon Registration Dennison Ballroom 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Auxiliary Business Session Opens Grand Ballroom A-C 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Photo Room Dennison Ballroom • Rules Committee 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Entertainment Tickets Dennison Ballroom • Introduction of Convention Committee and Pages 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon VFW Convention Opening Session Grand Ballroom E-H • Resolutions 12 Noon-1:30 p.m. Lunch On Your Own • Program Awards 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Joint VFW & Aux Meeting Grand Ballroom E-H 12 Noon-1:30 p.m. Lunch On Your Own Presentation Recognition All-State and Achievement 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Joint VFW and Auxiliary Meeting Grand Ballroom A-F Comments from our National Representatives • Presentation and Recognition of Auxiliary and 1:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Registration Dennison Ballroom District Achievement Winners and All-State 1:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Entertainment Tickets Dennison Ballroom Commanders 3:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Joint Camp Trotter, VOD, Patriot’s Pen Grand Ballroom E-H • Comments from National Representatives and Teacher of the Year Joint Legislative Meeting 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. VFW Meetings, Auxiliary may attend Grand Ballroom A-F 4:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. District Commanders & District Monitors Mediterranean • Camp Trotter Committee Meeting 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Registration Dennison Ballroom • VOD, Patriot’s Pen and Teacher of the Year 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Joint Hospitality Room Room 1512 • Joint Legislative Meeting Saturday, June 11, 2011 7:30 a.m.-12 Noon Final Registration Dennison Ballroom 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. 2011-12 Joint Officers and Council President’s Suite 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Photo Room Niles I Members Meeting, including Budget 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Entertainment Tickets Dennison Ballroom 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Department Hospitality Room Room 1512

You must have your Entertainment Tickets picked up by 12 Noon Saturday, June 11 7:00 a.m. Past State Commanders/Past State TBA 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. General Business Session Grand Ballroom E-H Presidents Breakfast 8:30 a.m.-11:30 Men’s Auxiliary Meeting TBA 7:00-10:00 a.m. Registration Dennison Foyer 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Lunch On Your Own Registration will close promptly at 10:00 a.m.

All displays and other items must be removed from area before the 1:30 p.m. meetings 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Cancer Booth Dennison Foyer 8:00 a.m.-12 Noon Auxiliary Business Session Resumes Grand Ballroom A-C 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Meet the Candidates Grand Ballroom E-H • Flag Presentation (All candidates in one room) • 45-Year Plus Recognition 2:30 p.m. District Commanders Pick Up • Presentation of Past Department Presidents Final Reg. Forms Dennison Ballroom • Welcome Dept. President (song) 2:45 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Resume Convention Elections Grand Ballroom E-H • Jankowski Scholarship Award • Presentation of Patriotic Art Winner and Installation of 2011-2012 Officers after Business Session Jr. Girls Princess 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Joint Memorial Service Grand Ballroom A-H • Nominations 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Entertainment Reception (Cash Bar) Grand Ballroom A-H • Candidates Question and Answer Session 8:00 p.m. Entertainment (Begin seating at 7:40 p.m.) Grand Ballroom A-H 12 Noon-1:30 p.m. Lunch On Your Own/Caucus 10:00 p.m.-12 Midnight Joint Hospitality Room Room 1512 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Auxiliary Business Session Resumes Grand Ballroom A-C • Drawing of Dept. Raffle Tickets Sunday, June 12, 2011 • Cancer Transmittals 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. First C of A Meeting Grand Ballroom E-H • Election of Officers • Installation of Officers HAVE A SAFE TRIP HOME! 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Treasurers Computerized Ledger Workshop 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Joint Memorial Service Grand Ballroom A-F and Closing Ceremonies of the 2010/11 Auxiliary Convention MICHIGAN OVERSEAS VETERAN 8:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Motown Review Party Grand Ballroom A-F Official Publication of the Department of Michigan • Veterans of Foreign Wars 924 North Washington Ave. • Lansing, MI 48906 Sunday, June 12 Subscription rate: $4.00 per year 8:00 a.m. 2011-12 Auxiliary Membership Kickoff Grand Ballroom A-C 8:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 2011-12 Council of Administration Meeting Grand Ballroom A-C (Due to the cancellation of the July Summer Conference, this Name Council meeting will be the meeting that is usually held at that Conference.)

Address God Bless Our Troops City State Zip 15 April/May/June 2011 Michigan Overseas Veteran Kirk Kennedy Re-Elect VFW Camp Trotter Application Candidate for Leonard Milewski **Co-Ed Resident Camp for Children Ages 7-12** Department of Michigan Department of Michigan Camper’s Gender: (Circle one) Male or Female Shirt size: (Check one) KYouth KAdult (Circle one) S M L XL Department Sr. Vice Department Surgeon Name of Camper: ______Birth Date: ______Commander 2011-2012 2011-2012 Parent or Guardian Name: (printed): ______Parent or Guardian Name (signature) :______

Address: ______

City, State, Zip Code: ______

Phone (home) : ______Phone (cell) : ______

Post/Auxiliary No: ______Contact Person: ______Phone: ______2011 Camping Season Schedule (children 7-12 years of age) Week 1: July 10th – July 16th • Week 2: July 17th – July 23rd • Week 3: July 24th – July 30th Week 4: July 31st – August 6th • Week 5: August 7th – August 13th Endorsed and supported by: Endorsed and supported by: DEADLINE: Applications must be received at Department by 10 July 2011. District 6 District 4 First Week Choice: ______Second Week Choice: ______Morley S. Oates VFW Post 701 VFW Post 1136 Camper’s Pledge: In making this application, I promise to abide by the rules of the camp, that I will respect the rights of others and that I will cooperate in making this year’s camping season a huge success. His family His family Camper’s Signature: ______Date: ______Health Insurance Provider: ______Plan #______Policy # ______Ronald L. Devereaux ALL CAMPER’S MUST HAVE PROOF OF A HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY Billy G. Stancroff Attach Completed forms: Medical Emergency Care Authorization, Camper’s Health History and Proof of Health Insurance, Candidate for Candidate for Parent “Authorization Sheet” for pickup and drop off of Campers. Department of Michigan Mail this application and all required forms with the fee of $200.00 payable to: Department of Michigan VFW Camp Trotter earmarked “CAMPER FEE” to: Department Jr. Vice Department Jr. Vice Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Michigan, 924 N. Washington, Lansing, MI 48906, 517-485-9456 Commander Commander CAMPER HEALTH HISTORY RECORD Rule 127.2 2011-2012 2011-2012 Camper’s Name:______Parent/Guardian Name: ______Address: ______

City, State, Zip Code: ______

Phone (home): ______Phone (cell) : ______

Back-up Emergency Contact Person (name) :______

Phone (home): ______Phone (cell) : ______CURRENT HEALTH ISSUES AND HISTORY Endorsed and supported by: List any special conditions such as bedwetting, fainting, sleep walking, or allergies the camper may have: Endorsed and supported by: District 12 ______District 9 Lt. Clement F. Derezinski List any Health, Behavioral or Emotional problems that the camper has INCLUDING CURRENT INFECTIOUS DISEASE: Olson-Kiste VFW Post 4406 VFW Post 7729 ______His wife and family His family Should the camper’s activity be restricted because of any physical reason? No ______Yes ______If yes, please explain: ______List any and all medications that the camper takes: Leon Hinkle Jennifer Smith Name: Frequency Dosage Candidate for Candidate for 1.______Department of Michigan Department of Michigan 2.______Department Chaplain Department Chaplain 3.______2011-2012 2011-2012 Immunization Record: Dates Type of Immunization ______I CERTIFY THAT THIS INFORMATION IS TRUE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE. Authorized Person’s Signature:______Date: ______MEDICAL EMERGENCY CARE AUTHORIZATION MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES NOTICE: By signing this card you are granting the operator of the children’s camp organization authority to secure emergency medical, surgical treatment for your camper while attending camp if there is insufficient time to contact you. You are giving the camp operator permission to secure routine, nonsurgical medical care for your child while attending the camp. Endorsed and supported by: In accordance with MCLA Act 116 of the Public Acts of 1973 and the rules for licensing children’s camps, this author - Oakland County Council Endorsed and supported by: ization must be signed by a parent or guardian unless there is a religious objection. MCLA 722, 124a, Section 1442) states: A parent or guardian of a minor child who voluntarily places the child in a child care VFW Post 9021 VFW Post 701 organization shall execute a written instrument investing the organization with authority to consent to emergency medical and His family Her family surgical treatment of the child. The parent or guardian shall consent to routine, nonsurgical medical care. OCAL-3978 (Rev. 4-05) Name of child: ______(Print Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial) I hereby give permission to the children’s camp named below, which is licensed by the Department of Human Services, to secure Gloria Dobbie emergency medical and surgical treatment and to provide routine, nonsurgical medical care, for the minor child named above, Candidate for while attending camp. Department Guard Parent Signature: ______Date of Signature: ______2011-2012 Parent Signature: ______Date of Signature: ______VFW CAMP TROTTER, 5566 E. 86th STREET, NEWAYGO, MI 49937 The Department of Human Services (DHS) will not discriminate against any individual because of race, sex, religion, age, national origin, color, height, weight, marital status, political beliefs, or disability. If you need help with reading, writing, hearing, etc., under the Americans with Disabilities Act, you are invited to make your needs known to a DHS office in your county. OCAL-3978 (Rev. 4-05) previous edition may be used PARENTAL/LEGAL GUARDIAN AUTHORIZATION Please be advised that I have authorized the following individual to drop off my Child/Children to the VFW Camp Trotter located at 5566 86th Street (Bills Lake), Newaygo, MI 49337 for the Summer Camp Session ______. Individual(s) Name: ______Endorsed and supported by: Parent/Legal Guardian Signature and Date: ______District 5 Please be advised that I have authorized the following individual to pick up my Child/Children from the VFW Camp Trotter located at Ladies Auxiliary 4659 5566 86th Street (Bills Lake), Newaygo, MI 49337 after the completion of the Summer Camp Session ending ______. Her husband and family Individual(s) Name: ______Parent/Legal Guardian Signature and Date: ______MICHIGANMOVIERCSEHASAS IVEGTEARANANN • Reporting your positive impact on the Michigan community • April/May/June 2011 Volume 78 Number 4

STATE COMMANDER Lloyd Putman II Comrades, Sisters and Brothers: First, I would like to thank everyone for the cards State Commander INSIDE and well wishes during my small setback; all are truly Officer Reports ...... 1-3 appreciated. Our year will be seriously winding down by the time veterans and families, and I know the membership of District Reports ....3-5 you read this, but we still have some work to do. We this organization will not allow that to happen. One Auxiliary News ...... 5-7 are at 94.39% membership, and as of this writing, still person cannot do it, but all of us together can. I’m still working on another incentive for the membership pro - POW/MIA Recovered ..9 quite a way from 100%, comrades. One person cannot do it alone; it takes an entire team and the team needs gram. I’m going to have a recruiter’s drawing at Con - Post News ...... 8, 10 all your help to achieve this goal. vention, but the prizes are not going to be announced VFW News ...... 11 Congratulations to the 88 Posts that are 100%. I’m until then, so keep on recruiting and making our amazed at the number of Posts that are only a few organization stronger. Taps ...... 12-13 away from 100%, so I look forward to a lot more All of the other programs are an integral part of this VFW and Auxiliary 100% Posts. Keep recruiting the new and reinstates, organization and we will still continue to keep them at Convention Agendas ..14 and work extra hard on the ones already in that haven’t the forefront. Read your programs and keep working, Camp Trotter paid their dues yet this year. You may have to get a list I know that with your help this Department can return Application ...... 15 of the unpaid and go knocking on doors; sometimes to the higher standards we once enjoyed. Make sure Candidates ...... 15 they just want that personal attention. you report all the things you do and get the commu - Congratulations to the District Commanders for nity involved in our great work. doing a good job so far this year, but we have a long Remember “TO HONOR THE DEAD BY way to go, so continue getting out there. The District HELPING THE LIVING.” membership is now behind last year and still has a way Coming to go. As of this date, the 10th District is leading with Events 96.23% and 14 100% Posts, 6th District is next with 95.68% and 11 100% Posts, 9th District is next with 2011 94.82% and 9 100% Posts, followed by the 7th with 94.79% and 3 100% Posts, then the 14th with 94.7% June 8-12 and 3 100% Posts, the 4th with 94.59% and 8 100% Department Convention, Posts, the 15th with 94.46% and 4 100% Posts, the 8th Marriott Hotel-Troy with 94.4% and 8 100% Posts, the 11th with 93.86% Bring Our Troops and 5 100% Posts, the 13th with 93.62% and 3 100% July 31, 2011 Posts, the 12th with 92.96% and 7 100% Posts, and the Home Safely Michigan Day 5th with 92.89% and 13 100% Posts. Good work, but at the National Home we are not done yet. You can see there has been a change in the leaders, but everyone is still close; so, August 27- keep up the good work. As everyone who has talked to me knows I am a September 1 membership person. Without the members we will be National Convention an extinct organization without the ability to help our San Antonio, Texas