VFW Post 5864 Newsletter 333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143 – Phone 317-888-2488
Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864 – May 2019 Newsletter
"It’s not the dues you pay to be a member, it’s the price you paid to be eligible!”
“Like us” on --Facebook -- Greenwood VFW 5864-- and visit our --Website-greenwoodvfw.com—
2017 and 2018 VFW First Place Award winner in the District / Post level for “Large Frequency” ssssssPublications. Two consecutive years as the First-Place winner at the Post levelsssssss ______
2019-2020 VFW and Auxiliary officers elected
Newly-elected officers set to assume duties in June
The annual Post and Auxiliary elections were held on Tuesday, April 16. The 2019-2020 officers will assume their positions on Saturday, June 1. All positions that were available for election were uncontested for both the Post and the Auxiliary. Elected for the fifth consecutive year as Post Commander was Steve Milbourn; Doree Boger was elected as Senior Vice Commander; Ms. Boger is a former Post Adjutant and J. David Everett was elected as Junior Vice Commander. Everett is the current Commander of American Legion Centennial Post 1919 which meets at the VFW. Mike Tomes, the Post’s Quartermaster for more than 9 years was re-elected. Ken Hall was re-elected as the Post Chaplain; Ed Dunham was elected to a 3-Year Trustee position. G. K. Puckett was elected as the incoming 3-Year House Committee member. Members of the Auxiliary elected Carol Puckett as President. Freda Boutwell was elected Senior Vice President and Trudy McCrae-Umphrey was elected as Junior Vice President. Brenda Lippert was elected to the position of Treasurer. Flo Fricke was elected as Chaplain. The Secretary is Cindy Coram. Dan Armstrong was elected as the Auxiliary’s Conductor and Richard Mammarella was elected the Guard. The three Trustees for the 2019-2020 year are Dan Armstrong, Flo Fricke and Linda Kessinger. Over the next month, both leaders of the two organizations will appoint chairmen and women to various committees. Both groups meet on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. The VFW meets in the canteen (bar) area and the Auxiliary meets in the banquet room. Questions for incoming Commander Steve Milbourn can be directed by phone to 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at [email protected]. Likewise, concerns about the Auxiliary can be directed to President-Elect Carol Puckett by phone at 317-714-7062 or by e-mail at [email protected]. ______
2019 Community Awards
program was outstanding
VFW Post 5864 and Auxiliary 5864 presented 27 awards at their March 26 event. At left, Tina Winningham with the blue envelope was presented a certificate by Auxiliary President Sandi Stelzel as the 2019 Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year. More than 65 people attended the annual event to see various individuals receive awards
Tina Winningham, left, and Sandi Stelzel, right ◼ Continued to page 28 2 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Approximately 90,000 “Blue Water” Navy veterans would be eligible VA recommends dropping Blue Water legal battle
VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said during congressional testimony last month that he would recommend that the Justice Department not contest a recent federal court ruling that will pave the way for the return of earned disability benefits for some 90,000 so-called Blue Water Navy veterans. In Procopio v. Wilkie, the VA secretary was sued by Navy veteran Alfred Procopio Jr., a Life member of VFW Post 6587 in Spring Lake Park, Minn., who was denied service connection for prostate cancer and diabetes mellitus — both illnesses are among the diseases associated with Agent Orange exposure — because he was assigned aboard an aircraft carrier inside Vietnam’s 12-mile territorial waters but never on dry land or within Vietnam’s inland waterways. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit focused on the intent of the 1991 Agent Orange Act, which was to grant a presumption of service connection for certain diseases to veterans who “served in the Republic of Vietnam.” At issue was whether service within territorial waters constituted service “in the Republic of Vietnam.” By a 9-2 decision, the court ruled it did. “The VFW salutes Secretary Wilkie for his support to move forward and take care of this group of forgotten Vietnam veterans,” said VFW National Commander B.J. Lawrence. “We also support his recommendation that some type of historical research division be created within the Department of the Navy to ensure that all such ships are fully accounted-for in the VA’s list of exposed ships. After a half-century, we need to get this done to reinforce to tens of thousands of Vietnam veterans that our nation is willing to provide them the care and benefits they have earned and deserve, and we urge Congress to pass H.R. 299, the Blue Water Veterans Act of 2019, to ensure the VA can never again arbitrarily strip veterans of their earned benefits.”
Tidbits from the National VFW
Here is some information taken directly from the National VFW’s web-site. If you have a question, please send the question to Steve Milbourn – [email protected]
-- Does the Post Commander have a vote on all committees? -- Yes. Section 218 of the Manual of Procedure stipulates the Commander shall be a member of all committees and is thereby entitled to a vote unless otherwise provided for . . . -- Can VFW members attend any House Committee meeting? -- Yes. If the individual is a member in good standing, they are entitled to attend any meeting held by the VFW for any reason. -- Can a Post Commander appoint himself to the Post House Committee? -- No. Under Section 218 (a) (1) (e) of the National Manual of Procedure, the Post Commander is a member of all committees by virtue of his office. -- Can the Post Adjutant publish and distribute the minutes of the prior meeting instead of reading them to the body? -- Yes, if the Post Commander and the membership so rule. -- What is the rule concerning the displaying of pins and badges on the VFW uniform and official cap? -- While there are no regulations for displaying pins and badges on the official cap, one must always wear and maintain the uniform of the organization with proper decorum. -- If the present Commander is running for re-election and there is a tie vote, who breaks the tie? -- Robert’s Rules of Order provides that the chair has the right to vote on any issue or question the member can vote on unless the Post By-Laws specifies otherwise. Robert’s Rules of Order further recommends that in the event of a tie vote, the By-Laws of the unit should provide for dealing with deadlocks. If such provision is not covered by the By-Laws, the candidates or their representatives may draw lots or decide the election by a flip of a coin. -- Are Post Commanders and Quartermasters voting members of the Post House Committee? -- Yes, all committee members shall have a voice and a vote. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 3
A Message from the Commander . . .
VFW and Auxiliary Members:
It is with a tremendous amount of humility that I begin the 2019-2020 year as Commander of Greenwood VFW Post 5864. Although I have previously served in both Arkansas and Ohio as an All-American Post Commander and an All-American District Commander, I believe our Post is more unique and poses a greater challenge for mentoring young veterans. The month of June is the beginning of the new year for all VFW’s. I am extremely proud to announce that eight of our incoming officers and chairpersons are young men and women from all branches of the military and have served in several different incursions throughout the globe protecting our nation and our way of life. They include Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, Haiti, Kosovo, Bosnia, Korea, Africa and Jordan. Our younger members will all be at the helm of our organization in a very short time and we must teach and prepare them so they Commander Steve Milbourn will be able to learn and understand the rules, regulations and policies that we have used for many years. Each year, our “team of officers” hope to do as well or better than their predecessors and leave the Post in a better financial state. To do this, we need “all hands-on deck” and ask that at some point throughout the year that every Post and Auxiliary member jump in and help by volunteering a few hours here and there. There are three programs which are extremely important for the continued success and existence of all VFW’s. I will be working on these programs beginning the first week of July. They are – Membership, Service and Communication. Membership will be a day by day program where we will send out letters to veterans, call them, e-mail them and hopefully talk to them one-on-one to renew or reinstate their membership. We will also be looking to bring aboard additional new members. Service to veterans is also an everyday program. We will expand the number of members that will be able to provide assistance to veterans and their families as well as work to do simple tasks like complete an SF-180 form to obtain an updated DD-214 and various other records for veterans. For those members interested in our Service program to other veterans and/or their families, we will host a preliminary meeting to discuss our current program on Saturday, July 6 at 9 a.m. at the Post. Coffee and donuts will be served at no charge. The meeting should last no more than two hours. If you are interested in attending, please call me or e-mail me at the information below. Communication between the VFW, Auxiliary and all our members needs to be better than has been. We will have a meeting to discuss this and set parameters with what we do and how we do it. The meeting will be Saturday, July 13 at 9 a.m. Coffee and donuts will be served at no charge. Lastly, we want to continue to be completely transparent and to make sure that the VFW and Auxiliary members who walk through our doors are kept up-to-date concerning anything that is happening. Those members who do not have e-mails can currently pick-up a copy of the monthly newsletter at the Post around the first of the month.
Steve Milbourn Commander, VFW Post 5864 [email protected] 317-525-7291 4 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Military history over the years in May . . .
1486 – Christopher Columbus convinced Queen Isabella to fund an expedition to the West Indies. 1528 – The Spanish Narvaez expedition began a march to Florida with 300 men and 40 horses. 1562 – The first French colonists in the U.S., a 5-vessel Huguenot expedition led by Jean Ribault (1520-1565), landed in Florida. He continued north and established a colony named Charlesfort at Parris Island, North Carolina. 1844 – Samuel Morse sent the first telegraphic message. 1857 – William Walker, conqueror of Nicaragua, surrendered to the U.S. Navy. 1863 – The Confederate congress passed a resolution to kill black Union soldiers. 1863 – The Confederate “National Flag” replaced “Stars & Bars.” 1865 – In Charleston, South Carolina, some 10,000 people paraded to a mass grave site of Union soldiers at a former race track. This was likely the first large-scale U.S. Memorial Day event. 1867 – Reconstruction in the South began with black voter registration. 1875 – 238 members of “Whiskey Ring” were accused of anti-U.S. activities. 1877 – President Rutherford B. Hayes withdrew all Federal troops from the South, ending Reconstruction. 1899 – One month after the Spanish-American War began in April 1898, an expeditionary force sailed from San Francisco to capture the Spanish capital of Manila, on Luzon Island, Philippines. Because most of the Regular Army was fighting in Cuba and Puerto Rico, three-quarters of this force was composed of state volunteer units, mostly from mid-western and western states. The Spanish surrendered by August and an uneasy peace settled in. The Filipinos wanted independence and when the American government announced it was annexing the islands as a colony, the local people rose up in revolt in February 1899. By spring the American Army, still composed mostly of state units, was on the offensive cleaning out insurgent strongholds north of Manila. During this period a long- time American resident named Henry Young offered his services as a guide to the Army. He organized 25 men into a highly-mobile reconnaissance force called “Young’s Scouts” to patrol ahead of the advance. Most of the men in this unit were volunteers from the 1st North Dakota and 2nd Oregon Volunteer infantry regiments. On May 13, a patrol of 11 Scouts plus Young charged and routed about 300 insurgents. Young was killed in this attack. Three days later 22 Scouts rushed across a bridge being set ablaze by enemy soldiers. The Guardsmen, while under a heavy fire from about 600 Filipinos across the river, succeeded in routing the insurgents and saving the bridge from burning. They continued to hold off several assaults to recapture the bridge until relieved by the 2nd Oregon. Fifteen Medals of Honor were awarded to Guardsmen during the Philippine Insurrection. For their heroic actions in these two events ten Guardsmen of “Young’s Scouts” received the Medal of Honor, seven from North Dakota and three from Oregon. 1921 – The first radio fog signals in the United States were placed in commission on Ambrose Lightship, Fire Island Lightship, and Sea Girt Light Station, New Jersey. 1925 – Malcolm Scott Carpenter, astronaut (Mercury 7-Aurora 7), was born in Boulder, Colorado. 1927 – Adolf Hitler held the first Nazi meeting in Berlin. 1934 – The Philippine legislature accepted a U.S. proposal for independence. 1937 – President Franklin Roosevelt signed an act of neutrality, keeping the U.S. out of World War II. 1943 – Lt. Akers demonstrates blind landing for Carrier aviation at College Park, MD in OJ-2 aircraft. 1943 – U.S. forces complete the occupation of Hill 609 in “Mousetrap Valley.” The Axis defenses in Tunisia hold American attempts to advance further. 1943 – Food rationing began in U.S.
◼ Continued to page 5 Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 5
Military history over the years in May . . .
◼ Continued from page 4
1944 – An American force of 7 battleships and 11 destroyers, commanded by Admiral Lee, bombards Ponape. The carriers of Task Group 58.1 (Admiral Clark) provide cover for the operation. 1944 – The Messerschmitt Me 262 Sturmvogel, the first jet bomber, made its first flight. 1947 – Radar for commercial and private planes was first demonstrated. 1948 – The People’s Democratic Republic of Korea (North Korea) was proclaimed. The border between North and South Korea was sealed when Kim Il Sung established his communist regime. 1950 – Guam is organized as a United States commonwealth.
1951 – U.S.S. Princeton aircraft attack Hwachon Dam using aerial torpedoes, only use of this weapon in Korean War. They knocked out two floodgates. 1951 – The first phase of the Chinese offensive was halted north of Seoul. 1952 – U.S. Marines took part in an atomic explosion training in Nevada. 1961 – Prime Minister Fidel Castro proclaims Cuba a socialist nation and abolishes elections. 1964 – The first BASIC program ran on a computer at Dartmouth. 1967 – Secretary of State Dean Rusk charges that the North Vietnamese have rejected 28 peace proposals presented by the U.S. and other nations. Rusk asserts that the U.S. acceptance of these proposals and their rejection by Hanoi ‘throw a light . . . upon the question of who is interested in peace and who is trying to absorb a neighbor by force.’ 1968 – In the second day of battle, U.S. Marines, with the support of naval fire, continued their attack on a North Vietnamese Division at Dai Do. 1969 – The 9th U.S. Marine Regiment begins a two and a half month operation called Virginia Ridge in northern Quang Tri Province along the DMZ. 1970 – Protests erupt in Seattle, following the announcement by U.S. President Richard Nixon that U.S. Forces in Vietnam would pursue enemy troops into Cambodia, a neutral country. 1975 – The coalition government in Laos formed a year ago is close to collapse. The North Vietnam supported Pathet Lao continues to fight rightist factions. Demonstrations by students and others are increasingly aimed at U.S. buildings and operations. 1980 – As the Mariel Boatlift continued, 11 Navy ships begin operations assisting Coast Guard in rescuing Cuban refugees fleeing Cuba in overcrowded boats. 1981 – Senator Harrison A. Williams Junior (Democrat, New Jersey) was convicted in New York of charges related to the FBI’s “ABSCAM” probe. 1991 – Angola (Africa) and U.S.-backed guerrillas initialed agreements ending their civil war. 1992 – On the third day of the Los Angeles riots, beaten motorist Rodney King appeared in public to appeal for calm, asking, “Can we all get along?” President Bush delivered a nationally broadcast address in which he vowed to “use whatever force is necessary” to restore order. 1995 – A seminar of international chemical weapons experts convened by UNSCOM concludes that Iraq has not adequately disclosed its past chemical weapons programs. 1997 – In its regular 60-day review, the United Nations Security Council votes again to maintain sanctions on Iraq. This is the 37th review since sanctions were first imposed in 1990. This vote, however, does not affect the humanitarian oil sales. 1999 – The Liberty Bell 7 Mercury capsule flown by Gus Grissom, which sank in 1961, was found 300 miles offshore from Cape Canaveral in 3 waters 3 miles deep.. 1999 – A NATO strike on a bridge in Kosovo, 12 miles north of Pristina, hit a civilian bus and killed between 34 and 60 people including 15 children. 2000 – The U.S. government began allowing civilian GPS receivers to pick up more accurate satellite signals. The sport of geocaching began 2 days later. 6 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
VFW Post 5864’s Auxiliary will continue
to host Bar Bingo through the summer!
Monday Night Bar
at 6 p.m. -- Limited food is available
⬧ No tables reserved ⬧ Limited seating
Bar Bingo continues to be a success. Those working must be listed with the Indiana Gaming Commission as a registered “Operator” or “Worker”. An updated list of individuals who are eligible to work in Gaming is posted behind the bar in the Canteen area. The Annual Bingo License # is 147977. The Annual Raffle License # is 147984; the Annual Charity Game Night License # is 147982. If you need help, please let Sherri Jones, 253-278-1980 or Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 know so they can get the information that is needed to place you on VFW Post 5864 gaming licenses.
◼ Public Welcome -- ◼ Please sign the book at the door ◼ No outside food or drinks -- ◼ Bingo License # 147977
Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 7
VA news briefs . . .
House Introduces bill to expedite VA leases
Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-Calif.) introduced a bill to bypass unnecessary hurdles in VA’s leasing authority. The common-sense legislation would align VA’s ability to authorize leases with those of other federal agencies, thereby eliminating a bureaucratic roadblock. The Build a Better VA
Act would make it much easier for Congress to authorize medical facility leases.
❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ Military Sexual Assault task force to be established
Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan agreed to support the recommendation of Senator Martha McSally (R-Ariz.) to immediately establish a Department of Defense task force to eliminate sexual assault inside the U.S. military. The task force will be led by Senator McSally and will be comprised of military personnel and civilian advisors. It is expected to deliver its preliminary recommendations in time for the FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act mark-up.
❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ Share your GI Bill video stories
This year marks the 75th Diamond Anniversary of the signing of the landmark World War II GI Bill, and VA would like to share first-hand videos about how the VFW-championed GI Bill impacted your life after service. Half of the 16 million men and women who served during WWII took advantage of the GI Bill, and these veterans are credited with creating not only the middle class and our suburbs, but with being directly responsible for our nation flourishing so much in the second half of the 20th century by becoming our new scientists, scholars, politicians and captains of industry. America also benefited by reaping a return on investment of conservatively $8 on every $1 spent in the form of higher taxes paid on the higher wages earned by virtue of their higher education. VA is accepting submissions until June 22.
❖ ❖ ❖ ❖ VFW-supported Veterans mental health bill introduced
Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced the VFW-supported Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019, which will improve veterans’ access to high-quality mental health care and help reduce the rate of veteran suicide. The bill would bolster VA’s mental health workforce to serve more veterans, improve rural veterans’ access to mental health care, strengthen support and assistance for transitioning service members, study and expand innovative and alternative treatment options, and hold VA accountable for its mental health care and suicide prevention efforts. ______
VFW Post 5864 kitchen opens at 5:30 p.m.
The VFW’s kitchen is open on Wednesday’s from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Friday’s from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please plan your meals at the VFW according to the above schedules. We do have some volunteers and we must work with them concerning hours which we are open. Review our monthly calendar to see what meals we will be preparing each Friday. 8 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Greenwood VFW Bingo played every Wednesday
Each Wednesday around 60 or more individuals gather at the VFW to play Bingo. VFW Post 5864 member John Keith, a longtime worker at the Greenwood Knights of Columbus (K of C) Bingo games has been overseeing the Post’s weekly Bingo games since May 2017. John Keith, Sherri Jones, Steve Milbourn, Al Kessinger, Linda Kessinger, Bill Clark, Chuck Eyer, John Hasty, and others are also working weekly to support the event. Bingo is held each Wednesday evening starting at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. The Gaming Commission forbids any entity holding a Bingo License to pay individuals for working at any game. Patrons are also not allowed to tip volunteer Bingo workers or staff. In addition, Bingo workers cannot play pull-tabs or other gaming devices or buy tickets on the same day, while being a Bingo worker. There continues to be a need for additional volunteer workers to sell pull-tabs. Bingo starts with four “Early Bird” games at 6:30 p.m. Bingo is open to the public and provides an evening out for all. If you are interested in helping, contact Sherri Jones at 253-278-1980 to get signed up! The Post’s Bingo Gaming License # is 147977 and the Raffle License # is 147984.
12th Annual tournament set for Saturday, June 8
2019 Golf Tournament at Valle Vista Golf Course
Valle Vista Golf Course has been secured for the 12th Annual VFW Golf Tournament. The tournament will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2019. We will start again around 8 a.m. Auxiliary member and bartender Darlene Robertson is also helping Dennis Ellis this year. Anyone else who wishes to help, let us know. Steve Milbourn is not be as involved in this year's Golf Tournament. Due to the original architect for the Post putting us two months behind and the final price from the construction company was over the projected budget, Steve will be working on the construction project for the next two months or so. The net proceeds of the tournament will be used to fund programs for home- less veterans and local charitable programs which include the Patriot’s Pen for junior high school students; Voice of Democracy for high school students; Boy and Girl Scouts of the Year; Teacher of the Year in elementary, junior and senior high school categories; and several college scholarships every year. VFW Post 5864 awards plaques annually to the Outstanding Citizen of the Year; Policeman of the Year; Fireman of the Year and EMT of the Year in the City of Greenwood. We help in the community by helping food banks; homeless veterans; and assisting local veterans and their families in financial need. VFW Post 5864 acts as a resource to veterans by locating other organizations as needed to help the veteran confront the issues they may be facing today. You can join with VFW Post 5864 to achieve the mission of helping veterans by becoming a sponsor of our 12th Annual Golf Tournament. If you are unable to provide a sponsorship with a cash donation, please consider donating merchandise to be awarded as prizes to our players. Each player will be provided with a “Ditty Bag” which will include coupons and business gratuities. On page 9 of this newsletter is a Golf Registration form. Please complete it and follow the instructions concerning submitting the form. Thanks! The next golf meeting of the year will be Thursday, May 2, at 7:30 p.m. after the Resource meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Post.
Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 9 ______
Stop by VFW Post 5864 at 333 S. Washington St. in Greenwood if you need an additional registration form or go to our web-site – greenwoodvfw.com and go to Events / Events Calendar and print. For additional information call Steve Milbourn at 317-525-7291. 10 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Tickets now on sale for $2 each – Jackpot over $1,000
Stars & Stripes progressive raffle every Saturday
VFW Post 5864 is continuing a new progressive raffle game drawing on Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. and each Saturday thereafter at the same time. The Post’s Annual Raffle License # is 147984. Theater-type tickets are being sold at the bar and at weekly at Bingo. An individual may purchase as many tickets as they wish. The first drawing was on Saturday, March 23. Following are the rules and policies concerning the game. These rules, No. 01 through No. 21, are effective February 25, 2019 and may be changed without notice as necessary.
Tickets --
01. The Stars & Stripes Raffle is open to the public. Any individual, 18 years or older, may purchase a ticket(s) for this weekly raffle drawing. Proper federal or state photo identification is required to purchase tickets and collect a prize. 02. Ticket sales for each week will end at 6:45 p.m. on the day of the drawing. One ticket will be drawn each Saturday evening at 7 p.m. The cost of each ticket is $2 (two dollars). 03. Tickets are good only for the week in which they are purchased. After the drawing, all tickets purchased for that week will be destroyed and new tickets must be purchased for the next drawing. Different colored tickets will be used each week. 04. Ticket sales are tracked weekly by ticket numbers. 05. At the conclusion of each week’s drawing, tickets for the next week are available for purchase on the following day that VFW Post 5864 is open. 06. Entrants must put their name as listed on their proper federal or state photo ID (no adhesive labels allowed), the selection of the available raffle board number they choose, and phone number on the back of each ticket purchased. In the event that the ticket drawn does not have a window number on it, the operator in charge of officiating the drawing will determine that ticket or tickets to be null and void. The operator will then draw a different ticket corresponding to the window numbers remaining on the board.
Drawing --
07. After the Jackpot symbol gets drawn, that Raffle Board is over. One of the 52 (fifty-two) numbers has a Jackpot symbol beneath the flap. The other 51 (fifty-one) numbers have individual monetary values. The drawing is only conducted at the discretion of the House Committee. 08. One ticket is drawn each week for one of the 52 (fifty-two) numbers selected by the ticket purchaser and placed on the back of the ticket(s) purchased. on the raffle. The symbol under the number on the game board corresponds to one of the 5 (five) pictures. There are 10 pictures of George Washington worth $5 (five dollars) each; there are 10 pictures of Abraham Lincoln worth $10 (ten dollars) each; there are 10 pictures of the American Flag worth $20 (twenty dollars) each; there are 10 pictures of an American Eagle worth $30 (thirty dollars) each; there are 10 pictures of Lady Liberty worth $50 (fifty dollars) each. There is also a Jackpot and a Half-Jackpot. 09. The ticket drawn is checked against all ticket numbers sold for that drawing.
Prizes --
10. The beginning Jackpot prize for the initial Stars & Stripes Raffle will be $500 (five hundred dollars). ◼ Continued to page 12 Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 11 12 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Stars and Stripes progressive raffle e
◼ Continued from page 10
Prizes (continued) --
11. The amount of the Jackpot continues to grow each week which the Jackpot is not won. Once the Jackpot is won, that Raffle Board is over. If the ½ (one-half) Jackpot is not won before the Jackpot is won, that money will go into the next game. 12. The amount of the ½ (one-half) Jackpot will grow each week that the Jackpot or ½ (one-half) Jackpot is not won; however, we will cap the ½ (one-half) Jackpot at $5,000 (five thousand dollars). When the ½ (one-half) Jackpot is won, the prize is what has been collected at that time which is displayed each week directly after the weekly drawing. 13. You, (the person whose name is on the ticket or tickets), must be present at Greenwood VFW Post 5864 when your ticket is drawn to receive 100% (one hundred percent) of any and all prizes based on the raffle board window number you wrote on your drawn ticket. If you are not present when your ticket is drawn, you will receive 50% (fifty percent) of any and all prizes based on the raffle board number you wrote on your drawn ticket. 14. A list of all previously drawn numbers of the Stars & Stripes Raffle Board are shown on the board itself. The current Jackpot and ½ Jackpot amounts will be prominently displayed on or near the raffle board at the Post no later than close of business the 3rd (third) business day following the day of the drawing. 15. Prizes of $250 (two hundred fifty dollars) or higher require your full legal name, date of birth, and phone number. This is a rule of the Indiana Gaming Commission. 16. Prizes of $600 (six hundred dollars) or higher require submission of the winner’s Name, Social Security Number, and Address for Federal Taxes. The W2-G is completed prior to the winner receiving the prize money. This is an IRS requirement. 17. The Indiana Department of Revenue follows IRS rules. Submission of the winner’s Name, Social Security Number, and Address for Indiana State and County (Locality) Taxes. The W2-G is completed prior to the winner receiving the prize money. 18. All payouts are made within 5 (five) business days of the drawing. All the above information must be properly presented prior to the winner receiving their prize money. 19. From the $2 (two dollars) charged for each ticket, 25% (twenty-five percent) of the weekly ticket sales will be retained by this Post. $1 (one dollar) goes into the Jackpot and 50 cents (fifty cents) go into the ½ (one-half) Jackpot. In the event an individual wins the Jackpot, and is not present, the $500 Jackpot start-up money will be deducted from the fifty percent (50%) they did not receive. The balance will be retained by the Post.
Miscellaneous Information --
20. Disputes. All disputes or concerns on this game must be brought to the attention of the VFW Post 5864 House Committee within 5 (five) business days. 21. If you do not fully understand the Stars & Stripes Raffle Rules herein, please ask any member of the VFW Post 5864 House Committee to explain any question you may have. 22. The Operator (duly licensed individual) drawing the ticket each Saturday night cannot have purchased a ticket that week. VFW Post 5864 wishes to remain as transparent as possible and we wish to conduct this game and all games with integrity. Although the Indiana Gaming Commission would allow the Operator to be in the drawing, the Post has elected to have a stricter rule and accordingly, Greenwood VFW Post 5864 is allowed to implement this rule according to Kim Barnett, Administrative Assistant, Charity Gaming Division, Indiana Gaming Commission. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 13
Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Veteran’s Memorial Brick Order Form
To honor those who have served this great country in the U.S. military, Greenwood VFW Post 5864 will be building several walk-ways leading up to the flag-pole area at our new facility which will contain the bricks of veterans, current military men and women, deceased veterans, businessmen / women and residents throughout Greenwood and other parts of the United States. Order Instructions: Each brick will have either 3 or 5 lines on the brick. The Veteran’s name and any additional wording, i.e., name of the military branch, unit name, or name of the conflict they were in is at the discretion of the donor. All type will be centered on the brick. When filling out the order form below, make sure to write information exactly as you want it to be presented on the brick, paying special attention to punctuation, abbreviation, etc. Lettering on the memorial bricks will be in upper and lower case. Please complete and send this form along with a check for $100 or $175 payable to: VFW Post 5864 at 333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143. To assist us in processing your order, please write “Veteran’s Memorial Brick” on the memo line (left-hand corner) of the check.
❑ 4-in. x 8-in. Brick - $100 – 3 lines with 20 letters or spaces to each line
❑ 8-in. x 8-in. Brick - $175 – 5 lines with 20 letters or spaces to each line
Brick colors are -- ❑ Tumbleweed ❑ Wheatfield ❑ Admiral Red (Check one)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
When you order a brick (one name per form), please complete this form and then mail it to our address above. We can also accept credit cards via e-mail, U.S. mail (see address above), or on our web-site – greenwoodvfw.com or you are welcome to stop in the Post and make your donation after 2 p.m. daily.
Name ______Date ______
Address ______Phone ______
City ______State ______Zip Code ______
Brick colors at right
Tumbleweed Wheatfield Admiral Red 14 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Meetings to follow one another on first Thursday
Golf, Resource committee meetings back-to-back
The May and June 2018 Resource meetings and Golf meetings will be held on the first Thursday of each month. The Resource meeting will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. and the Golf meeting will start at 7:30 p.m., directly after the Resource meeting. Those dates are Thursday, May 2, and June 6. This will then only require one day a month for two committee meetings. Also, we have an entire month to come up with ideas that can be sent out to everyone ahead of time so that we can be thinking about the event and it will cut down on the discussion time at each meeting.
Breakfast ended for summer
Breakfast at VFW will return in September Breakfast at VFW Post 5864 will return in September. We will host breakfast every Saturday and will continue through, at least, the end of April 2020. Opening time each Saturday is 8 a.m. A new menu will be put together and presented when breakfast starts again this fall. The Post will continue to have eggs, bacon, biscuits and sausage gravy, potatoes, toast or biscuit and coffee, orange juice or soft drinks.
News and photo submission policy is announced
Members of the VFW and the Auxiliary are encouraged to submit news articles and photos to be published in the Post’s monthly newsletter. Auxiliary members (formerly Ladies Auxiliary) should contact Carol Puckett via e-mail at [email protected], or by dropping off the information at the Post addressed to her. All other news and photos can be e-mailed to Steve Milbourn. Information can also be dropped off at the VFW and given to the bartender on duty. It is important that you place your name and phone number on the item in case there are any questions. Please ensure that names are legible. Your article may be edited for clarity. All photos must have the following information with it: who, what, when, where, and why the picture was taken, and who is in the picture. Please submit all articles by the 15th of each month for the next month’s publication. The VFW’s Editor is Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 or [email protected].
Greenwood VFW 5864 gaming and pull-tab rules
As a reminder to those individuals who play Bingo and / or purchase gaming tickets or pull-tabs at the VFW, the following rules are in effect: All Pull-Tabs or other gaming tickets which are deemed to be winners by the VFW, must be cashed in by the close of business on the day the sale was made, otherwise the ticket will become null and void. No gaming tickets are to leave the VFW’s building under any circumstances. Pull-Tabs have Serial Numbers and the VFW is required to keep a record for the Indiana Gaming Commission and therefore the VFW has the date each set of Pull-Tabs is sold. Bingo players must be 18 years old or older to play or purchase any Bingo tickets or Pull-Tabs. These rules have been in effect for several years. The Post wanted to reiterate them. If there are any questions, please call VFW Post 5864 at 317-888-2488. Also, if your winning ticket is over $250, you must print your name on the ticket, sign the ticket and place your date of birth on the ticket. This is an Indiana Gaming Commission rule. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 15
Summer donations needed for veterans
VFW to help veterans at May 9 visit to Domiciliary
Please be thinking about donating some winter items to be given to residents of the VA Domiciliary. Bring any items that you have to the VFW by Tuesday, May 7, for everything to get organized for the visit on Thursday, May 9. Call the Post at 317-888-2488 with any donations you have available. Volunteers are always needed. You are welcome to meet us at the VFW around 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 9 and leave from there. The Domiciliary is just west of Ivy Tech at 9045 E. 59th St., on the old Ft. Benjamin Harrison campus. The Domiciliary Care Program is the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) oldest health care program. ______
Monthly visits to the Domiciliary may be cancelled
because no one is stepping forward to help!
______
Euchre games held every Saturday at VFW 5864
Euchre games are being held every Saturday at the VFW. Players begin showing up around 12 noon and play will begin at 1 p.m. There are four places with cash prizes. Prize money will be paid out based on the number of individuals who play the game. There is also a cash prize for the high game score. Food will be available for a donation and of course coffee, soft drinks and water can be purchased from the bar. Members interested in working the Euchre games, should let Bill Clark, 317-442-7086, know as soon as possible. If you wish to be a worker or an operator, we would need some basic information and your name would be submitted to the Indiana Gaming Commission. It takes about four to six weeks for them to process the information and update our Gaming Licenses.
- Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s - Indiana Gaming License Numbers are
Annual Bingo License is # 147977 Annual Charity Game Night License is # 147982
Annual Raffle License is # 147984
16 – May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Named after Ralph D. Napier
Scholarship program applications now available
The Greenwood VFW’s annual Scholarships are named for former Greenwood VFW Post Commander, District and State Commander, Ralph D. Napier. Ralph served in Korea and became eligible when he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with five bronze stars. Napier, now deceased, was born in 1932 in Three Point, Harlan County, Kentucky. He was the 10th of 12 children. He was urged to quit school at age 17, joined the Army and spent 17 months in Korea. When he returned home, he married Ponciana (Garcia) Napier. They were parents of a son, Bradley; and two daughters, Teresa and Rita. Ralph was the first Cub Scoutmaster of Troop 260 in 1960 and in 1965 was the Assistant Scout- master of Troop 266 earning numerous awards for his efforts. Also, in the early 1960’s he was one of the founding fathers of the Greenwood Little League. He and other founding members cleared the raw land, put in ball diamonds, fences, building dugouts and coached. Mr. Napier stayed with the Little League long after his own children moved on and then became President of that organization. Ralph was a very active veteran. He was a member of American Legion Post 355; Indianapolis Masonic Lodge 514 and the Scottish Rite of Indianapolis. A long-time member of VFW Post 5864, he was Post Quartermaster for 7 years; Post Commander; District 7 Commander; and finally, State Commander. According to his son Bradley, “He had that ‘never give up attitude’ and the foresight to always give back to the people that meant the most – God, family and the youth of the community.” Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5864, Greenwood, in order to assist a deserving young man or woman pursue their education after high school, will award a graduate of the class of 2019 from an accredited high school the sum of $1,000, to be applied as the recipient wishes to the costs associated with the education at an undergraduate degree granting college university within the United States. The scholarship will be paid in two equal amounts, one payment per semester. The applicant must be a full-time student attending consecutive semesters. No exceptions to this attendance requirement are permitted. Eligibility -- Applicant must be a resident of Indiana who is currently a senior in high school in the class of 2019 or enrolling in an accredited university or college. Post Graduate education or other advanced degrees are not included in this scholarship fund. The applicant must be the child, stepchild, grandchild or step-grandchild sponsored by a member in good standing of VFW Post 5864. If the sponsor is deceased, he or she must have been a member in good standing in VFW Post 5864 at the time of death. The VFW membership number of the sponsor and the relationship must be provided on the application for verification. Selection Criteria -- Academic achievement (e.g., GPA, official academic transcript required). • Leadership and participation in school and/or community activities • Honors (e.g., academic, church, community, Scouting, etc.) • Community Service • Patriotic Involvement A biographical essay including the above selection criteria (i.e., leadership, participation, and service in school, church, or community; honors received), the responsibilities of citizenship in a democratic society, and the personal goals for the future. The essay shall be the original work of the applicant. Any other material must be footnoted. The essay shall not be less than one page or longer than three typed pages, and will be formatted with one-inch margins, 1.5 line spacing and 12-point font. This essay will be reviewed and graded based on grammar, spelling, originality, context and content at a level consistent with exceptional academic work. A grade report and course registration for the second consecutive semester must be submitted in
◼ Continued to page 17 Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 17
Ralph D. Napier Scholarship Program . . .
◼ Continued from page 16
order to receive the second payment of the scholarship if the applicant is selected. Send all required material and supporting documentation to VFW Post 5864, 333 S. Washington Street, Greenwood, IN 46143, Attention: Scholarship Committee. Please include your name, address, phone number and e-mail address for contact information. Applications must be delivered to the VFW Post 5864 by Friday, May 31, 2019. The decision of the Scholarship Committee Judges will be final, and all applicants will receive written notification that a decision has been reached. The winner will be notified by U.S. Mail. Presentation of this award will take place on the evening of Tuesday, August 6, 2019 at the VFW Post 5864 meeting. ◼ Continued to page 18 ______
Greenwood VFW Post 5864 Member’s Garden
Plant five rows of peas No garden is complete without turnips Preparedness Turn up with determination to make Promptness a difference Perseverance Turn up with a smile Politeness and Turn up with a new idea Prayer Turn up with willingness to help, and Next, plant three rows of squash Turn up for the meetings Squash gossip Squash criticism and ______Squash indifference Then, plant five rows of lettuce Membership in the Let us honor the dead by helping Veterans of Foreign Wars the living is Let us be faithful only earned by Let us be loyal service in a designated Let us be unselfish hostile area Let us be truthful ______
Shelter House is not available due to impending move Banquet Room currently available for rent
The VFW’s Banquet Room is available for rental throughout the year. The Banquet Room seats approximately 135 people, has a separate bar area, separate entrances and exits, and two adjoining restrooms. The Post’s Shelter House will not be available after mid-June 2019 due to the impending sale and move by the Post. There is parking and on-site management. The building is air conditioned and heated and is a non-smoking facility. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available. The VFW’s web-site is greenwoodvfw.com. To discuss a date, call Steve Milbourn at 317-525-7291. 18 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
◼ Continued from page 17
Greenwood Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5864 333 S. Washington St. -- Greenwood, IN 46143 Phone 317-888-2488
Ralph D. Napier Scholarship Application
(Attach all Supporting Documentation)
Applicant Information:
Name: ______Age: ______Date of Birth: ______First M.I. Last Address: ______City: ______State: _____ Zip Code: ______Home Tel:______Mobile Tel: ______Email: ______Employed: ☐ Y ☐ N Employer Name: ______City: ______Position: ______Volunteer: ______
Educational Institution Currently Being Attended:
Name: ______Address: ______City: ______State: ______Zip Code: ______Major or Type of Training: ______Grade Point Average (GPA): ______
Educational Institution Planning to Attend:
Name: ______Address: ______City: ______State: ______Zip Code: ______Course of Study: ______Degree Sought: ______Expected Completion Date: ______Semester Tuition/Books/Fees: ______Semester Start Date: ______
Applicant Sponsor: ______Relationship to Applicant: ______Sponsor Signature: ______Date: ______Sponsor VFW Membership No. ______(Required)
Applicant Signature: ______Date: ______Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 19
VFW Auxiliary approves summer “Bar Bingo”
“Bar Bingo” will continue at VFW thru the summer
Sandi Stelzel, President of the VFW 5864 Auxiliary said the group voted to continue “Bar Bingo” through the summer months. When the game first started several years back, the Auxiliary took off three months in the summer. “Because we are doing well financially with the weekly Bingo games,” Sandi Stelzel stated, “We thought it was smart to continue the event year around.” She continued, “This is one project we do that we make good money and there is a minimal amount of work.” We can use some additional help, however.
No gaming license to play cards if they meet the criteria required Bridge, Canasta and other card games ok to play
According to a recent e-mail from Kim Barnett, Administrative Assistant of the Indiana Gaming Commission, card games with no wager and no prizes would not require charity gaming approval. If there is any charge (wager) and prizes (of any type) are awarded for playing a card game, then you may only play these games on the day and time frame that is on the Annual Charity Game Night license. Our current Charity Game Night is Saturday from 12 noon to 6 p.m. If those playing card games are within the confines of the rules set forth by the Indiana Gaming Commission, everything will be great. If a decision is made to charge a fee or give out prizes, an Addendum must be made to the Charity Gaming Night license. If this is not done, the Post would not be in compliance with the Gaming Rules. We can be charged a monetary penalty, or our licenses can be suspended or cancelled. Ken Hall is interested in putting together a Bridge game. Anyone interested can send him an e-mail at [email protected], with your name, phone number and times you may be available to play.
Meals at VFW Post 5864 for the next 6 weeks
Wednesday, May 1 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, May 3 – Steak, Baked Potato, Green Beans, Salad and Roll -- $15 Wednesday, May 8 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, May 10 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Wednesday, May 15 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, May 17 – Salmon Patties, Au Gratin Potatoes, Vegetable, Salad and Roll -- $12 Wednesday, May 22 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, May 24 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Wednesday, May 29 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, May 31 – Grilled Pork Chops, Sweet Potato Casserole, Corn on Cob, Salad & Roll -- $15 Wednesday, June 5 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, June 7 – Steak, Baked Potato, Peas, Salad and Roll -- $15 Wednesday, June 12 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, June 14 – Regular Kitchen Menu. 20 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
M-14 Rifle raffle ends; Marine Al Kessinger wins
The M-14 Rifle Raffle for the benefit of American Legion Centennial Post 1919 was won by VFW 5864 member Al Kessinger. Tina Winningham drew the winning ticket, number 75. Tina did not purchase a ticket for the drawing. On hand for the drawing was Dave Everett, Commander of the Legion; Mike Delaney, VFW Judge Advocate and Steve Milbourn, VFW Post commander as well as about 15 others at the bar. Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s Annual Indiana Gaming Raffle License # is 147984. The Springfield M-1A, Model MA-1902, the M-14 civilian version rifle was manufactured by the Spring- field Armory. It is a 7.62 x 51 caliber with a walnut stock and is made of parkerized steel with a 22-inch barrel. Tina Winningham draws winning Rifle Raffle ticket The raffle was conducted The M-14 Rifle Raffle sponsored by the VFW in cooperation with selling 300 tickets over a American Legion Centennial Post 1919 was drawn on March 27 period of a little over two at the Post. Legion Commander Dave Everett, left, and VFW months. Post Commander Steve Milbourn, right, were on hand as Tina The M-14 was used during Winningham pulled the winning number – 75. Al Kessinger had the Vietnam War by the U.S. purchased the winning ticket. Marines and U.S. Army Units. ______
Legacy Life Membership available at three levels
Legacy Life Membership enables VFW Life members to leave a lasting impression on our great organization. Three levels of Legacy Life membership are available: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Each level offers generous benefits reserved exclusively for Legacy Life members. Once your Legacy Life membership begins, an annual endowment in your name will be made to your Post, Department and the national organization. You will feel confident knowing your contributions to our organization are not only helping today’s veterans but the veterans of tomorrow. The cost is $1,200 for Gold; $800 for Silver; and $400 for Bronze levels. To become a Legacy Member, you must be a Life Member first. You can make payment in full via check or credit card. An installment option is available by making four equal payments. The first payment must accompany the form and be equal to 1/4 of the level being purchased. (Bronze $100; Silver $200; and Gold $300.) The remaining balance will be billed by National Headquarters quarterly. You can choose to have a one-time payment made in your behalf or an annual endowment made to your Post. For additional information, speak to Steve Milbourn, Membership Chairman or e-mail him at [email protected]. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 has one Legacy Life Member. You may also purchase a Memorial Legacy in the name of a deceased VFW Life member to help future generations know and remember their sacrifice and contributions. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 21
Honoring our military war dead
Memorial Day to be celebrated on Monday, May 27
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America. Over two dozen cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. While Waterloo, N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it’s difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. Regardless of the exact date or location of its origins, one thing is clear – Memorial Day was borne out of the Civil War and a desire to honor our dead. It was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11. “The 30th of May,1868, is designated for strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen General John Logan because it wasn’t the anniversary of any battle. On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried there. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now observed in almost every state on the last Monday in May with Congressional passage of the National Holiday Act of 1971. This helped ensure a three-day weekend for Federal holidays. Several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead Today, Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. It is customary for the president or vice president to give a speech honoring the contributions of the dead and to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. More than 5,000 people attend the ceremony annually. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act passed by Congress in 1968, observation of Memorial Day occurs on the last Monday in May, rather than on the actual date, May 30.
Bills to direct VA to host clinical trial re: cannabis
Companion bills, S. 179 and H.R. 712, would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) to carry out a clinical trial of the effects of cannabis on health outcomes of adults with chronic pain and post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These measures would require the VA Secretary to conduct clinical trials that investigate whether cannabis is able to reduce symptoms associated with chronic pain such as inflammation, sleep disorders, spasticity, and agitation and effects on the use or dosage of opioids, benzodiazepines or alcohol for veterans with PTSD. Research is necessary to determine the safety and efficacy of any drug. At this time there are few definitive answers about risks and benefits associated with the use of cannabis on various medical conditions and illnesses. Research is necessary to help clinicians better understand the safety and efficacy of cannabis use for certain conditions common in the veteran population such as chronic pain and post-traumatic stress. 22 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
For treatment-resistant depression VA to make new nasal spray drug available
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced its health care providers will now be able to offer the newly approved Spravato nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. The treatment will be made available to Veterans based on their individual medical needs combined with providers’ clinical assessments. The move follows the March 5 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray. Spravato was approved for use in conjunction with an oral antidepressant for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression in adults. “We’re pleased to be able to expand options for Veterans with depression who have not responded to other treatments,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “It reflects our commitment to seek new ways to provide the best health care available for our nation’s Veterans.” Spravato will be available through a restricted distribution system under an FDA-approved Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS). The purpose of the REMS is to mitigate the risks of serious adverse outcomes and the potential abuse and misuse of Spravato. VA health care providers will monitor Veterans for serious adverse outcomes, such as sedation and difficulty with attention, judgment and thinking (dissociation), abuse and misuse, worsening of depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Veterans will self-administer Spravato nasal spray under the direct observation of a health care provider in a certified medical facility, and then must be monitored by a health care provider for at least two hours after receiving their dose. Spravato cannot be dispensed directly to Veterans for use at home. For additional information on access to Mental Health Support for Veterans, visit VA Mental Health. Veterans in immediate crisis may call the Veterans Crisis Line at 800-273-8255 and press 1, text to 838255 or chat online at Veterans Crisis Line. ______
Thinking of selling your home: Here’s how it works
Thinking of selling your home? Here's what you can expect from the process: 1. You'll meet with a listing agent to talk about pricing and timing. 2. Your agent will list the property on various platforms. He/she will then coordinate showings with potential buyers. 3. You'll evaluate offers as they come in and negotiate counter-offers through your agent. Once you come to an agreement, you'll sign the contract. 4. The buyer will order a home inspection, and their lender will order an appraisal. 5. Once the buyer's mortgage is approved, you will sign your papers and finalize the deal. Your agent may also hire a photographer to capture images of your home before listing it.
Call Carol S. Bullock-Puckett Re/Max Broker Associate 317-714-7062 (Mobile) 317-881-3700 (Office) ______Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 23
Burn Pits Accountability Act to help war veterans
Earlier this year, Representative Tulsi Gabbard (HI) introduced H.R. 663, the Burn Pits Accountability Act in the House and Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN) introduced a companion bill, S. 191, in the Senate. Since the Persian Gulf War, a common waste disposal practice at military sites outside the United States was the use of burn pits. Smoke from these pits contained toxic substances that may have short and long-term health effects, especially for those who were exposed for longer periods. Many service members reported acute symptoms of respiratory or eye irritation, gastrointestinal distress, or rashes during or shortly after exposure, but the research thus far has been inconclusive about whether there are longer lasting consequences to these exposures as many veterans, who are still struggling with health conditions that arose during or after military service believe. Both bills would require the Secretary of Defense to ensure that periodic health assessments ascertain whether a service member has been at a location when an open burn pit was used or exposed to toxic airborne chemicals. It will further require the Secretary to enter into an information sharing agreement with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA). If a service member was exposed, the VA Secretary will enroll the member into the VA Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry, unless the member elects not to enroll.
May be effective in December 2019
Bill, if enacted, would authorize COLA readjustment
February 13, 2019, Representative Elaine Luria (VA), Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs and Ranking Member Michael Bost (IL), introduced H.R. 1200, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2019. This bill, if enacted, would authorize a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for veterans in receipt of compensation and pension, and for survivors of veterans who died from service-incurred disabilities and are in receipt of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). It would provide a COLA increase by the same percentage as Social Security and would effective December 1, 2019. Receipt of annual COLA increments aids injured and ill veterans, their families, and their survivors to help maintain the value of their VA benefits against inflation. Without COLAs, these individuals, who sacrificed their own health and their family life for the good of our nation, may not be able to maintain a quality of life in their elder years.
Damaged and retired U.S. Flag disposal ceremony
1. The flag should be folded in its customary manner. 2. It is important that the fire be fairly large and of sufficient intensity to ensure complete burning of the flag. 3. Place the flag on the fire. 4. The individual(s) can come to attention, salute the flag, recite the Pledge of Allegiance and have a brief period of silent reflection. 5. After the flag is completely consumed, the fire should then be safely extinguished, and the ashes buried. 6. Please make sure you are conforming to local/state fire codes or ordinances.
Note: Please call VFW Post 5864 at 317-888-2488 if you'd like assistance on proper flag disposal. 24 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864 ______
Happy 90th Birthday Damon
Damon Monschein
Korean War Veteran
Help Damon celebrate on Saturday, May 11, 2019
5 p.m. to ??? at
Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Please R.S.V.P. to 317-476-5923 ______Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 25
Companies and Individuals who have made
donations to the Building Fund or for Bricks
The companies and individuals are listed alphabetically from left to right. There are 18 companies or individuals who have donated $1,000 or more toward our project. Everyone else has donated between $100 and $750. The total amount collected since February 10, 2018 is $173,251.55.
If your name or company was omitted, we apologize and will make a correction in the June newsletter.
40 & 8 # 145 A-1 Garage Doors Andrew J. Noga Bill Hart Bob Muhlhauser Bobby Jennett Brass Flamingo Bryan Pennycuff Chris Vogel Circle K – Midwest Clyde & Aggie Kerr Connie Wallace Damon Monschein Daniel Frye David L. Craggs Darrold Rodda David H, Syrus DeBaun’s Service, Inc. Debbie Cottingham Dennis Ellis Donald L. Skaggs Don LaFountaine Don Ray Dr. Joseph R. Meek, DDS, PC Dr. Shane New Earl M. Lewis Ed Cunningham Ed Dunham Fleet Reserve # 130 Frank L. Humes Fred Carpenter F. R. Kaiser G. E. Craggs G. K. Puckett George K. Daisey George Napier, Jr. George Wallace Greg Baker Gregory Clapper, PhD. Jackie Ruddick J. D. Phillips Jack L. Weese James J. Noga Jay & Jan Collars Jermey Miner Jerry Brosmer Jim Houpt Jim Wheatley Joe Pennycuff Joe & Marta Corbin John Gregg John Senese Johnson Co. REMC John Sexson John B. Zeedyk Judy Jo Duvall Karl D. Clawson Keith Ray Ken & Sue Hall Lancaster Bingo Larry Kernel Lenard Disney Linda Lyon Lisa & David Harris M & C Excavating Marian Financial Partners Marion L. Breedlove Marilyn Saunders Mary Jane Sutton Mays Chemical Co. Mel Crum Mel Townsend Meridian Veterinary Clinic M. J. Steele Nicholas A. Phillips Odon VFW 9627 Omer Bradley Paul K. Zeedyk Pool City Pride Truck Wash Ralph & Donna Schuster Raybon E. Cox Rich Carney Richard Dixon Road Ranger Robert Pitts Robert C. Warren Roger Crum Ron Hanan Ronald Carey Roy M. Nicoloff Senator Greg Walker Sexson Mechanical Shane Cunningham Silvan Rathz S. Gibson VFW 2714 Steve & Patti Milbourn Steve Keever Terry Abbott Tina Winningham Van Valer Law Firm VFW Post 88 VFW Post 906 VFW Post 1108 VFW Post 1127 VFW Post 7205 VFW 5864 Auxiliary Walter L. Jennett Walter L. Zeedyk Wanda F. Harris Wayne E. Lewis William E. Dawson William P. Dawson William Tom Neely
We sincerely appreciate and thank everyone! 26 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
1. Have you made a donation to VFW Post 5864?
2. Have you purchased a brick for your loved one?
3. Have you purchased a leaf for the Tree which will be hung in the VFW?
Please support your VFW Post with a donation to one or more of the above projects. A donation can be as little as $5 or if you feel generous, we will accept more. Our bricks are either $100 each for a 4 in. x 8 in. or $175 each for an 8 in. x 8 in. Leaves are $125 for a Bronze Leaf; $250 for a Silver Leaf and $375 for a Gold Leaf. Doves and Rocks are $500 each. Information on all three projects are in this newsletter. If you have any questions, please call Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at [email protected]. Once we move into our new facility, we will still need to build a Shelter House. The new Shelter House will be slightly larger than our current one due to needing some additional storage space. We are hopeful the local United Brotherhood of Carpenter’s Training Center in Greenwood will help us with the Shelter House.
Individuals and companies who have donated to our building fund and/or Brick Program are listed on page 25 in this newsletter. There are some individuals who do not wish to be recognized at this time.
Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864
333 S. Washington St. ⧫ Greenwood, Indiana 46143 ⧫ 317-888-2488 Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 27
300 Leaves, 3 Doves and 10 Rocks on “Giving Tree”
We have another opportunity for members and non-members to help fund our new facility. The tree below could be placed on a wall for all to see. There are 300 leaves. We can order them in Bronze, Silver and Gold and they can be inscribed with any information you wish. There are also 3 Doves within the leaves and 10 Rocks below the tree. The Doves and Rocks can also be inscribed. The Bronze leaves are $125 each; the Silver leaves are $250 each and the Gold leaves are $375 each. At the right is a sample of a leaf showing you can get up to 7 lines of type on them and the number of letters per line. The Doves and Rocks are $500 each. The tree and accessories may possibly be sponsored and paid for by a local businessman whose father served in both Korea and Vietnam. The project could generate between $70,000 and $86,000. This money will be used to purchase additional items associated with the new building. Samples of the leaves will be at the bar in the VFW for anyone to look at prior to purchase. If you’re inclined to help support us through this project, it would be greatly appreciated. We are hopeful that we can complete the sale of all the leaves prior to completing the construction of the building and show- casing it when we hold our grand opening. VFW 5864 gives you yet another opportunity to help fund the new Post. Call Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at [email protected] 28 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Community Awards Program . . . ◼ Continued from page 1 from VFW Post 5864, the VFW Post 5864 Auxiliary and the City of Greenwood. After Commander Steve Milbourn opened the program, Sgt. At Arms Damon Monschein started the group off with the Pledge of Allegiance and Post Chaplain Ken Hall gave the invocation. Mayor Mark Myers presented the Citizen of the Year award to Brent Tilson; Chief of Police John Laut presented the Police Officer of the Year award to Shawn Staggs; and Fire Chief Darin Hoggatt presented the EMT of the Year award to Grant Gilbert. Nick Roll was not available for the Firefighter of the Year award. Post Teacher of the Year Chairman Bill Clark presented Kelly Siegert with the Educator of the Year. Boy / Girl Scout Chairman Ralph Schuster made a presentation to Andrew C. Ridge as Boy Scout of the Year. Auxiliary President Sandi Stelzel presented the Patriot’s Pen awards. The first-place winner was Audrey F. Poynter; second-place was Emily S. Metzger; and third-place was Joshua S. Sirkin. All three were from Greenwood Middle School. There were five Honorable Mention contestants. They were, alphabetically, Ani Abrahamyan, James M. Baugh, Samuel R. Cassel, Eva I. Dean and Katja R. Ziliak. All five were from Greenwood Middle School. Voice of Democracy Chairman Al Kessinger made the presentation of the three finishers in that contest. First-place went to Benjamin D. Heady, a home-schooled student from Blue River Ridge Academy Home School. Jordan R. Robbins from Perry Meridian High School was the second-place recipient; and Asia D. Loney from Greenwood High School was the third-place recipient. Commander Steve Milbourn also made a presentation of nine certificates to Outstanding Volunteers of the past year. They included: Al Kessinger, Linda Kessinger, G. K. Puckett, Don LaFountaine, George Wallace, Connie Wallace, John Keith, John Hasty and Sherri Jones. Milbourn stated, “Sometimes when members help on a regular basis, we hardly ever give a thought that they are volunteering, and we take them for granted. Some of these members have been volunteering for years and we certainly need to recognize them.”
Top left is Mayor Mark Myers with Brent Tilson. At right is Chief of Police John Laut with Shawn Staggs. Bottom left is Bill Clark and Kelly Siegert and at bottom right is Fire Chief Darin Hoggatt and Grant Gilbert. See more photos on pages 29 and 30 Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 29
Additional 2019 Community Awards Program photos thanks to Molly Laut and Mike Delaney
From the top left – Audrey F. Poynter and Auxiliary President Sandi Stelzel; center photo is Al Kessinger and Benjamin D. Heady; photo on right is James M. Baugh. Center photo left is Andrew C. Ridge and Ralph Schuster. At right is the crowd. At the bottom left is Sherri Jones receiving her certificate, and in the center, she gives Steve Milbourn a hug. At bottom right, is Jordan R. Robbins with Al Kessinger. 30 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Certificates presented to Outstanding Volunteers of the Year
From left to right are G. K. Puckett, Don LaFountaine, Linda Kessinger and Al Kessinger. A presentation of nine certificates was presented. Those not in attendance included: George Wallace, Connie Wallace, John Keith, and John Hasty. Sherri Jones received hers separately. ______
Al Kessinger wins
M-14 rifle raffle
Ralph Schuster, left, presents Al Kessinger, right, the M-14 Rifle from the American Legion 1919 (VFW Post 5864) sponsored raffle. Schuster is a member of both American Legion Post 1919 and VFW Post 5864 and is also a federal firearms dealer. The rifle retailed at about $1,500. Three hundred tickets were sold. The drawing was held on March 27. ______
Air Force General tapped
for Top NATO Position
President Trump nominated Air Force General Tod D. Wolters for appointment as the next Supreme Allied Commander Europe and Commander of the U.S. European Command. General Wolters serves as the Commander Allied Air Command; Commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 31
VFW 5864 Auxiliary wins first place with Poppies
The duo of Linda and Al Kessinger teamed up to make a Poppy display which was judged to be a first-place winner at the District 7 meeting in March. The display shows a dad, mom, boy and girl and a soldier apparently looking in on them from heaven. An American flag was also in the display with several Poppies and a sign showing “Flanders Fields”. There are also six white crosses showing soldiers buried. Before Memorial Day in 1922, the VFW conducted their first poppy distribution, becoming the first veterans' organization to organize a nationwide distribution. The poppy soon was adopted as the official memorial flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, as it remains today. During our 1923 encampment, the
Linda Kessinger, at left and Al Kessinger, at right. ◼ Continued to page 32 ______
Plan to help veterans by volunteering for a few hours
VFW ready for Spring Poppy drive set for May 25
Saturday, May 25 the Poppy drive for Greenwood VFW Post 5864 needs approximately 20 volunteers for the day. One hundred (100%) percent of the money collected will be go into the Post's Relief Fund which helps veterans and their families in a time of need. The veteran must have an honorable discharge. Anyone interested in donating to the Relief Fund can do so by simply mailing a check to the Post, go on-line to our web-site – greenwoodvfw.com – and make a credit card payment, or stop by the Post to make your donation. Please put Relief Fund in the memo area of the check. We will send you a receipt with our Federal Tax ID number and you can use it as a deduction on your taxes next year. Sherri Jones, chairperson of the Post’s Poppy event, remarked, “I am extremely impressed that our Post is a very active participant in this program. It is truly a tremendous feeling to volunteer to help get donations which will be used for veterans and their families.” A sign-up sheet has been placed on the bulletin board across from the ATM in the Post. Commander Steve Milbourn added, “This is one of the VFW’s core programs. It is a great feeling helping those veterans that are in desperate need.” The requirement to receive aid is the individual must show a DD-214 or a document showing that they served and were honorably discharged. The Relief Fund is to help veterans and/or their families in emergency type situations. Locations that VFW Post 5864 will be offering Poppies and the people needed to “man” the location include – 2 at Tractor Supply, U. S. 31 in Greenwood; 1 at Tractor Supply on Brookville Rd.; 2 at Rural King on U. S. 31; 3 at Sam’s Club in Greenwood for two days for a total of 6; 4 at Walmart on Emerson St., near County Line Rd., in Greenwood; 4 at Walmart on St. Rd. 135; 4 at Kroger’s on St. Rd. 135 and Smokey Row Rd. and 4 at Kroger’s at Emerson Ave. near County Line Rd. Call Sherri Jones for info at 253-278-1980 or e-mail her at [email protected].
32 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Poppy first-place winner . . .
◼ Continued from page 31
VFW "Buddy"® Poppies would be assembled by disabled and needy veterans who would be paid for their work to provide them with financial assistance. The next year, disabled veterans at the Buddy Poppy factory in Pittsburgh assembled VFW Buddy Poppies. The designation "Buddy Poppy" was adopted at that time. In February 1924, the VFW registered the name Buddy Poppy with the U.S. Patent Office. A certificate was issued on May 20, 1924, granting the organization all trademark rights in the name of Buddy under the classification of artificial flowers. We've made that trademark a guarantee that all Poppies bearing that name and the VFW label are genuine products of the work of disabled and needy veterans. No other organization, firm or individual can legally use the name Buddy Poppy. Today, our Buddy Poppies are still assembled by disabled and needy veterans in VA Hospitals. The VFW Buddy Poppy program provides compensation to the veterans who assemble the poppies, provides financial assistance in maintaining state and national veterans' rehabilitation and service programs and partially supports the VFW National Home for Children. ______
Monday nights Please donate to food at Bingo
If you’re playing Bingo on Monday nights and you’re planning to eat – please make a donation. The suggested amount is $2.
Please donate to popcorn
If you eat popcorn that we make, please make a small donation when you get popcorn. We would certainly appreciate you helping us out. Thanks again. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 33
Indy Polkamotion to play Saturday, Oct. 12 at VFW
Greenwood VFW has secured “Indy Polkamotion” to entertain members near the annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 8 p.m. to midnight. The cost will be $20 per person if you attend the music show and eat. If you only come to see the show, the price is $10 per person. The group is a six-member band featuring Bob Klemen - Accordion - 4 String Banjo – Vocals; Fred Riffel - Lead Guitar – Vocals; Denise Riffel - Small Percussion - Vocals – Manager; Don Dailey - Drums, Percussion - former Drummer for Gary Lewis and the Playboys. He brings 45 years of amazing professional experience. James Ganzberg - Keys and Vocals – he is a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of fame with Alabama and toured 13 years with the Blues Brothers and Craig Martindale - Bass Guitar and Vocals - one of the premier Bassists in Indianapolis, Craig toured the United States with rock bands opening for Foreigner, Rare Earth, and many more before settling down and performing with their family of musicians. For the past 29 years, they have refined their technique and musicianship while taking it upon their ensemble to perfect their performances. The result of their labors is a string of a successful performances, from playing for State Senators and House Speakers to the most recent performance for the State of Indiana Bicentennial celebration. The Post will serve German food, have Polkas, Waltzes, 50's-60's-70's-80's Rock & Country, Italian, Euro Pop, Macedonian and Greek Horo's. The Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, having been held since 1810. Other cities across the world also hold Oktoberfest celebrations that are modeled after the original Munich event. The group is available for Weddings, Festivals, County Fairs, Corporate Functions, Birthday and Anniversary Parties. They also perform for schools and civic organizations. It lets children and adults know that the music they perform is for everyone. ______Tickets will be available Friday, August 16 at the bar. ______
Asia Loney earns third place in VOD
Greenwood High School student Asia D. Loney participated in this year’s Voice of Democracy (VOD) contest and earned a third-place finish. Asia had previously won first-place in the Patriot’s Pen contest when she was at Greenwood Middle School. She was unable to attend the Community Service Awards program on March 26 however she and her parents stopped by to pick-up her award and we took a photo. At right is Asia with Al Kessinger presenting her check and certificate. She will be eligible to participate in the 2019-2020 VFW VOD program. 34 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Dept. Commander presents Charter
American Legion 1919 receives Post Charter
American Legion Centennial Post 1919 received their temporary Charter at a regular meeting on April 9. Department Commander Rodney Strong signed and presented the Charter to Post Commander Dave Everett. Damon Monschein and Bobby Jennett were both recognized for their service in Korea. The Post had earlier voted to gift Korean War veterans’ paid-up dues for the rest of their lives. Monschein was on hand and Jennett was ill. The monthly meeting was also attended by Past Dept. Commander Jim May; Southern Vice Commander Herb Hoffman; Dave Everett accepts the Charter from Department District 7 Commander Ken Pridemore; Commander Rodney Strong at right (above). District 7 Adjutant Gina Owens, District 7 Sgt. At Arms Jack McGee. Fifteen members of Post 1919 attend the meeting. Paris Sproles started working to put together an Auxiliary for Post 1919. She can be reached at [email protected] or 225-933-1002 for additional information. Dues are $30 per year. Forms are available at the VFW behind the bar.
Above, Dept. Commander Rodney Strong signs the Temporary Charter. At left, Centennial Legion Post 1919 Commander Dave Everett presents Korean War veteran Damon Monschein a certificate show- ing the Post is paying his annual dues for life ______
The Legion earned $1,634 during the recent rifle raffle and received a $250 donation from a woman whose husband had passed. American Legion Centennial Post 1919 meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the VFW. Gina Owens, District 7 Adjutant presented a certificate to Dave Everett for being over 100% in Membership. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 35
Thanks for what you do . . .
The family of Arvine E. Ballard would like to extend our thanks to Greenwood VFW Post 5864 of which he was a member. A celebration of his life was held April 13 in the banquet hall. It was certainly a wonderful day being with friends and acquaintances he had made over the many years. His family was appreciative of all those who stopped by to reminisce. The Honor Guard made up of the Greenwood VFW, New Whiteland VFW and the Greenwood American Legion provided military honors. They were amazing. The United States Marine Corp. also helped with the military honors. It was a wonderful celebration held for a wonderful man.
-- Thanks again – Norma Ballard and family
Free Notary Service to Veterans and Auxiliary Members of VFW Post 5864 and
American Legion Post 1919 -– Contact Steve Milbourn -– 317-525-7291
______
Heroes need to be honored
Bataan/Corregidor Congressional Gold Medal proposed
Sen. Tom Udall (D-N.M.) recently introduced S. 1093 to award the Congressional Gold Medal — Congress’s highest recognition of appreciation — to the defenders of Bataan and Corregidor, who just hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor became the first to fire upon the Imperial Japanese Army as they invaded the then-U.S. territory of the Philippines. In an opinion editorial published on the 77th anniversary of the fall of Bataan, Senator Udall and VFW National Commander B.J. Lawrence wrote that “what came next for the troops is almost unspeakable: months of unrelenting combat, a 65-mile death march and, for survivors, three years of gruesome imprisonment. Too few returned home after the war, and with each passing year, fewer remain to tell their harrowing and heroic stories. We must honor these heroes — before it is too late.
Exposure to have additional Presumptive diseases Legislation to establish new Agent Orange Conditions
Reports from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have found an association between exposure to Agent Orange and bladder cancer, hypertension, and Parkinson’s- like symptoms. Recently, Representatives Westerman (R-Ark.), Fitzpatrick (R.-Pa.), Tipton (D.-Calif.), Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Cunningham (D-S.C.), Boyle (D-Pa.), Thompson (D-Calif.) and Kuster (D-N.H.) introduced H.R. 2201, the VFW-supported Keeping Our Promises Act, which adds the new conditions to the list of conditions presumed to be associated with Agent Orange exposure. Adding these conditions to the list would provide veterans exposed to Agent ______Orange an expedited avenue for health care and compensation benefits. The bill would also force VA to evaluate and make a decision on future recommendations. Learn more about the Keeping Our Promises Act. 36 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864 ______
Kentucky Derby Party Saturday, May 4 at 5:30 p.m. at Greenwood VFW Post 5864 Horse Races start at 7 p.m. after the Stars & Stripes Drawing $2 per race – Also a $5 Special Race
50 / 50 Beer, and Wine & Bourbon Whisky Basket & Raffle Mint Juleps
-- Menu – Derby Hat Contest
Kentucky Bourbon Pulled Pork Sliders Southern Cole Slaw Baked Beans Corn on the Cob -- $8.00
Gaming License #’s – Bingo License # is 147977 Charity Game Night License # is 147982 and Raffle License # is 147984 ______Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 37
Horseshoes at VFW will begin in Mayi
The annual VFW Horseshoe contest will begin the first week in May. The Mixed League starts Monday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. The Men’s League is on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and will begin May 9. Both leagues will run until October, approximately 17 weeks.
______
Female pilots with the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing pose for a photo with Afghan Capt. Niloofar Rahmani, the first female fixed-wing pilot in the Afghan Air Force, during a recent visit to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California. (Photo by Sgt. Melissa Lee / U.S. Marine Corps)
10 things you didn't know about women in the military 1. As of March 2019, Mary Dever of Disabled American Veterans says that according to the Dept. of Defense, women make up 20 percent of the Air Force, 19 percent of the Navy, 15 percent of the Army and almost 9 percent of the Marine Corps. (via military.com) 2. Women made up about 16 percent of the Coast Guard in 2016. (via datausa.io) 3. TV star Bea Arthur was a truck driver in the Marine Corps during World War II. (via military.com) 4. Abolitionist Harriet Tubman led a Union spy ring during the Civil War. (via military.com) 5. Queen Elizabeth II is the only sitting head of state to have served in World War II, as a mechanic/driver in the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service when she was still a princess. 6. A woman who is eligible for American Legion membership is eligible to join the American Legion Auxiliary regardless of whether she is a member of the Legion. (via alaforveterans.org) 7. The only woman to be awarded a Medal of Honor is Mary Edwards Walker, a medical doctor during the Civil War who had to start as a nurse but ultimately became the Army’s first female surgeon. She was also a spy, and a POW. But as a non-combatant, her medal was revoked between 1917 and 1977. (via history.com) 8. A search of “women” in The American Legion’s memorials database yields several memorials dedicated to female military service. (via legion.org/memorials) 9. The first known women to join each service branch were Genevieve and Lucille Baker, and Myrtle Hazard, Coast Guard; Deborah Sampson, Army; Opha May Johnson, Marine Corps; Esther McGowin Blake, Air Force; and Loretta Walsh, Navy. (via military.com) 10. Navy Capt. Rosemary Mariner was one of the first eight women selected to fly military aircraft in 1973, and a year later became the Navy's first female jet pilot. At her graveside service in February 2019, nine female pilots from Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia performed the "missing woman" formation for their predecessor – the first all-female crew to do so. (via We Are The Mighty) 38 -- May 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864
Officers, chairpersons named, others to come
Below is a current list of 2019-2020 Post officers and chairpersons. There are several other committees that will be filled with chairpersons by June 1. I would like to get some additional members who have energy, new ideas and a zeal to help move VFW Post 5864 into the future. Most all our current committee chairpersons have done a fantastic job. We simply need some more help. I will send out a list of positions available and a “short blip” on what they do. If you’re interested, let me know. Thanks. – Steve Milbourn, Commander.
VFW Post 5864 Officers – 2019-2020
Steve Milbourn…..….…… Commander 317-525-7291 [email protected] Doree Boger….……..…… Sr. Vice Cmdr. [email protected] Dave Everett....………….. Jr. Vice Cmdr. [email protected] Mike Tomes……………… Quartermaster [email protected] Ken Hall……..…………… Chaplain [email protected] Steve Milbourn…….…….. Service Officer 317-525-7291 [email protected] Jay Collars……………….. Adjutant [email protected] Mike Delaney….………… Judge Advocate [email protected] Bobby Jennett..………….. Surgeon [email protected] Butch Umphrey………...... 1 Yr. House Committee [email protected] Don LaFountaine……...... 2 Yr. House Committee [email protected] G. K. Puckett..…………… 3 Yr. House Committee [email protected] Joe Vidales….…....……… 1 Yr. Trustee [email protected] Darrold Rodda…………… 2 Yr. Trustee [email protected] Ed Dunham……….……… 3 Yr. Trustee [email protected] Damon Monschein………. Sgt. at Arms No e-mail
VFW Post 5864 Chairpersons – 2019-2020
Sherri Jones…………….. Poppies 253-278-1980 [email protected] Bingo (Wednesday) Al Kessinger…………….. Patriot’s Pen [email protected] Voice of Democracy Bill Clark…………………. Teacher of the Year [email protected] Euchre Ralph Schuster…………. Boy / Girl Scout [email protected] Scholarship Bob Tuttle……………….. Honor Guard and Color Guard [email protected] Need Chairperson………. Community Activities Steve Milbourn………….. Membership 317-525-7291 [email protected] Need Chairperson………. Domiciliary
Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864
333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143 -- Phone 317-888-2488
Please call the Post Phone to reach any of the other officers.
Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2019 Newsletter – 39
Student honors first Hispanic to receive Distinguished Service Cross
Roncalli H. S. student Jaidly M. Anciso is an artist
Patriotic Art is a VFW Auxiliary program. Roncalli High School senior Jaidly M. Anciso completed the artwork show below. The artwork depicts the story of Private Marcelino Serna, (April 26, 1896 – February 29, 1992). When Serna was 20 years-old he decided to enter the United States by crossing the Rio Grande in search of a job, and a better way of life. Serna was picked up by federal officials and faced the possibility of being deported, but before that could happen, he volunteered in the Army. When the Army found out he was a Mexican national, he was offered a discharge. Serna, however refused, and chose to stay with his new friends. After his basic training Serna was sent overseas and assigned to Company B, 355th Infantry of the 89th Division. His unit was ordered to begin an advance towards the Meuse River and Argonne Forest in France. On September 12, 1918, Serna's unit was engaged in combat inside the Meuse-Argonne region when he spotted a German sniper and wounded him with his Enfield rifle. Serna followed the wounded soldier to a trench. He threw three grenades into the trench which resulted in the death of 26 enemy soldiers and the capture of 24 prisoners. When his unit arrived at St. Mihiel, they encountered a German machine gunner who killed 12 soldiers. Serna crawled up to the machine gunner's left flank. Even though his helmet was hit twice with bullets, Serna was able to get close enough to throw four grenades into the nest. Eight Germans surrendered and the rest in the nest were dead. Serna was wounded in both of his legs by sniper fire, four days before the Armistice. During his recovery, General John J. Pershing, Commander-in-chief of the American Expeditionary Forces, pinned on his chest the Distinguished Service Cross. Serna was told by an officer that "Buck Jaidly M. Anciso with art of Private Marcelino Serna Privates" were not eligible for the Medal of Honor, and that he did not know enough English to be promoted. The officer in question was wrong. Serna was the first Hispanic to be awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in World War I. Field Marshal Ferdinand Foch, Supreme Commander of Allied troops also awarded Serna the French Croix de Guerre for bravery. Serna's Citation was for: Date of Action, September 12, 1918. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, World War I Victory Medal, French Croix de Guerre with Palm (2 awards – France), French Medaille Militaire (France), Croce al Merito di Guerra (Italy), French Commemorative Medal (France), 1914-1918 Inter-Allied Victory Medal (France), St. Mihiel Medal (France), and the Verdun Medal (France). He served in the Lucey Sector, Puvenelle Sector, Meuse-Argonne, Battle of Saint-Mihiel, and Ennezin.