MONTAGNARDS REBUILD THEIR LIVES IN NORTH CAROLINA

Pat Tillman’s Legacy

‘BIG 6’ UNITE IN

VFW POST IS FIRST ‘REMOTE’ VA SITE YOU SERVED OUR NATION, let us serve you

There are many reasons to serve, but our reason is you. USAA proudly offers free membership to anyone who has honorably served our country. We welcome all branches, all ranks and all generations.

Use of the term “member” or “membership” refers to membership in USAA Membership Services and does not convey any legal or ownership rights in USAA. Restrictions apply and are subject to change. To join USAA, separated military personnel must have received a discharge type of “Honorable.” Eligible former dependents of USAA members may join USAA. The Veterans of Foreign Wars receives financial support from USAA for this sponsorship. USAA means United Services Automobile Association. © 2019 USAA. 258972-0419 MONTAGNARDS REBUILD THEIR LIVES IN NORTH CAROLINA

Pat Tillman’s Legacy

‘BIG 6’ UNITE IN WASHINGTON

VFW POST IS FIRST ‘REMOTE’ VA SITE

APRIL 2019 Vol. 106 No. 7 ‘A PROUD PEOPLE WITH A GREAT DEAL OF HONOR’ COVER PHOTO: Pat Tillman (left) and his In the North Carolina countryside near Asheboro, a community of brother, Kevin, prepare to board a helicopter 18 in 2003 in . Pat, who served with Kevin in Montagnards has found a new home. Aided by a former Green Beret, who fought alongside them in the , and other VFW the 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regt., was killed 15 volunteers, they are assimilating themselves into U.S. life. years ago this month in . BY JANIE DYHOUSE (A.F. Archive/Weinstein Company Photo) ON THE COVER 14 Pat Tillman ‘WE STARTED A DIALOGUE HERE’ 18 Montagnards VFW hosted an historic gathering in 26 VA Telehealth Site January of the six largest veterans 28 ‘Legacy’ Groups organizations at its Washington Offi ce. With the second meeting this month, IN THIS ISSUE they hope to pool resources on the 30 Service Offi cer common objectives they share to help 32 SVA veterans and their families. 34 BY TIM DYHOUSE 28 36 Henry Rifl e 38 GIVING BACK TO Member Recruiting THE PHILIPPINES IN EVERY ISSUE A trio of church bells that U.S. troops 2 Command Post brought home after fi ghting in the 1901 4 Mail Call Philippine-American War have been re- 6 Now Hear This turned to the island nation. VFW mem- 8 Issues Up Front bers from three different Departments 10 Washington Wire worked together to make it happen. 34 44 Better Health BY KARI WILLIAMS 45 Reunions ‘YOU JUST HAVE TO BE 46 Member Corner PASSIONATE’ 48 Member Benefi ts 60 Vets in Focus VFW recruiters have a chance to accomplish a signifi cant organizational goal this year. It would be the fi rst time it has occurred since 1992. BY JANIE DYHOUSE 3826

CHECK OUT OUR DIGITAL VERSION AT WWW.VFWMAGAZINE.ORG NEW! NOW ON FACEBOOK NEED HELP? VETERANS CRISIS LINE: 1-800-273-8255

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 1 COMMAND POST FROM THE CHIEF Forget the Rhetoric,

Pay the NationÕs Defenders VFW magazine is the offi cial publication of the VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS hen members of the nation’s Coast Guard OF THE needed help, VFW was there. In the midst STAFF of the government’s longest-ever shutdown PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tim Dyhouse in January, we provided nearly $100,000 in W SENIOR EDITOR fi nancial assistance. It enabled members of the Coast Guard Janie Dyhouse and their families to cover rent, put food on their tables and ASSOCIATE EDITOR pay utility bills. Kari Williams This was largely an effort conducted by our Departments. For SENIOR WRITER example, in New York, VFW members donated $15,000 to help Dave Spiva Coast Guard members in their state. ART DIRECTOR -IN-CHIEF During peacetime, the members of the Coast Guard are tech- Lauren Goldman B.J. Lawrence nically employees of the Department of Homeland Security ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT (DHS). That is why more than 42,000 of them missed two Tina Clark paychecks during the 35-day shutdown. It was the fi rst time in ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE history that members of a military service missed a paycheck GLM Communications, Inc. during a government shutdown. Jacqueline Tobin, Vice President, Digital/Print Media 500 1st Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030 The other four military services were unaffected because the (212) 929-1300 FAX 212-929-9574 fi scal year 2019 spending bill for the Department of Defense had Email: [email protected] been approved prior to the shutdown. EDITORIAL OFFICE Address all communications for publication to: DHS was one of nine federal departments to go without The Editor, VFW Magazine funding. About 25 percent of the government’s 800,000 406 W. 34th St., Suite 523, Kansas City, MO 64111 employees — including 150,000 veterans — missed checks (816) 756-3390; www.vfw.org; [email protected] VFW magazine is protected through trademark reg is tra- between Dec. 22 and Jan. 25. tion in the United States and in the foreign countries where To bring attention to this matter, VFW hosted a news confer- VFW magazine circulates. VFW magazine (ISSN 0161-8598) is published 10 times a year by Veterans of Foreign Wars, 406 ence at its Washington West 34th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111. Non-profi t standard Offi ce on Jan. 15. We class postage paid at Oklahoma City, Okla., and additional What the Coast Guard, DHS were joined by repre- mailing offi ces. sentatives of AMVETS, Publications Agreement No. 1476947 Disabled Veterans Available on recording for the blind and those with physical handicaps that preclude reading material. and all members of the U.S. of America, Iraq and Contact: [email protected]. Afghanistan Veterans SUBMISSIONS of America and the U.S. Unsolicited manu scripts and pho to graphs must be ac com pa- Coast Guard Chief Petty nied by return postage and no re spon si bil i ty is assumed for safe military do daily allow the han dling. Poetry submissions not accepted. VFW mag a zine is Offi cers Association. By available in microfi lm from NA Publishing, Inc., P.O. Box 998, the end of the next week, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-0998. Payment of membership dues includes $1.98 for a year’s subscription to VFW magazine. rest of us to sleep easier at the shutdown was over. CHANGE OF ADDRESS/DECEASED MEMBER However, at press time, [email protected] 1-833-839-8387 Congress and the White Forward address changes to: Member Service Center, VFW, night. No one should ever House still had not agreed 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. to a permanent solution Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure on the central issue — accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address take that for granted. how to best protect the as printed on a recent copy of VFW magazine. U.S. border. So, another NON-MEMBER SUBSCRIPTIONS possible shutdown was looming on Feb. 15. Regardless of the U.S. and its possessions, $15 per year, $1.50 per copy. For subscription in other countries, $20 per year. outcome, VFW will be prepared to help active-duty troops and Make checks payable to VFW Magazine and send to: veterans who might be affected. Member Service Center, 406 W. 34th St., KC, MO 64111. Our government’s fi rst responsibility is to secure the nation VFW OBJECTIVES To ensure national security and protect its citizens. Congress and the White House must through maximum military strength. remember this going forward. They must push through the To speed the rehabilitation of the nation’s disabled and needy veterans. rhetoric and take care of those who are on the front lines To assist the widows and orphans and the de pen dents of disabled and needy veterans. protecting the nation. To promote Americanism through education in pa tri o tism What the Coast Guard, DHS and all members of the U.S. mili- and constructive service to the communities in which we live.

tary do daily allow the rest of us to sleep easier at night. No one Copyright 2019 by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States should ever take that for granted. MEMBER ALLIANCE FOR AUDITED MEDIA

2 • VFW • APRIL 2019

MAIL CALL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR VFW’s Changing Culture Yongsan Arizona Hike ‘BLACKREUNION HAWK DOWN’ I wanted to say thank you for a wonder- I read with interest your article on why members leave the VFW. I wonder if 800-MILE HIKE Garrison ful article. I have received multiple mes- REJUVENATES ARMY VET another category can be added, and that In regards to sages from people who really liked it. If is when the atmosphere or the culture your article by even one person reaches out and steps on a trail versus taking pharmaceuticals, at the Post and the canteen change such AMERICA’S FUTURE Justin Malzac that members leave. Of concern at our Student Vets and VFW in the February it will be worth every word. MIKE BUCKLEY Post is the introduction of a jukebox U.S. SPACE FORCE: magazine, a few AT WHAT COST? in the canteen. The canteen was estab- comments are CAZENOVIA, N.Y. lished as a place of peace, quiet and in order. I also tranquility where veterans could relax. shipped to Korea Space Force J.E. VESELY in 1959 on the USS James O’Hara The February article on the Space MORRISTOWN, TENN. as did Mr. George Breen. I was Force reminded me of the 1920s when assigned to the 55th Ordnance Co. at and generals saw no need for Pyeongtaek, Korea. I drove a 3/4 ton aircraft carriers and long-range bomb- Olympic Soldiers Dodge truck to the 83rd Battalion ers — that got us . There is I’m am no longer with JFHQ out of Headquarters in Seoul every day no branch of the service that protects Latham, N.Y. I changed branches last delivering correspondence and sol- our property or people in space, while summer to active duty and am stationed diers coming in and shipping out. the Russians and Chinese are working in Fort Carson, Colo., with the World DICK ESPER on weapons to knock them out from the Class Athlete Program (WCAP). CARLETON, MINN. ground and in space. NASA is not weap- JUSTIN OLSEN onized for that mission. FORT CARSON, COLO. What a joy and pleasant surprise KINGSTON M. WINGET when I opened the current issue of YORKTOWN, VA. Agent Orange and MGUS VFW magazine, and found the arti- This states that “MGUS is a condition cle, “Yongsan Garrison: A Place of Black Hawk Down with no symptoms.” In 2006, I started Shared Histories.” I spent 13 months Reading the current issue of the VFW seeing a neurologist for gait problems, at Yongsan, from June 1961 to mid- magazine, I’ve noticed that you are largely shuffl ing and stumbling. After July 1962. I worked in the offi ce of printing what you want to print. You several years of testing with mixed G-3, 8th Army Headquarters. I real- have to look at other aspects, also. You results, I was referred to Cleveland ized at that time how fortunate I talk about “Black Hawk Down” and Clinic, where I was fi nally diagnosed was to be stationed at Yongsan — it its events. I haven’t seen anything in with MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy was nearly a country club compared the magazine about the events lead- of undetermined signifi cance) in 2010. to other U.S. Army installations ing up to this movie and giving credit The problem with MGUS is the down- in Korea. We had good facilities, to the armed forces that were there stream risk of multiple myeloma, leuke- movie theaters, golf courses, clubs before that time frame. Where is the mia and bone cancer. Monitoring this complete with food and drink, along story about the personnel who started condition involves a special blood test with other items of luxury. Thanks Operation Restore Hope? What about which costs about $800. to author Justin Malzac for his the units like AMPHIDSQD III, 15th RON OTTENWESS excellent article providing a brief MEU, French Ship Duplex and other KODAK, TENN. history of Yongsan Compound. It units in the area? What about President brought back a fl ood of memories George H. W. Bush visiting the troops Now Hear This to me about one of the most impor- that were there at the start? tant eras in my life. Thanks to VFW TERRY COLLIER Re: “Georgia Schools Good For Vets.” magazine for continually publishing FRENCH LICK, IND. The picture used shows two University articles which “make old memories of South Florida (in Tampa, Fla.) EditorÕs Note: To commemorate come alive” for not only me, but I’m students in red shirts with the USF the 25th anniversary of the beginning certain, for countless other veterans Veterans Week logo, yet the cap- of Operation Restore Hope, VFW who subscribe to your magazine. tion reads: “Two Georgia Southern RUSS SPORER magazine featured in the November/ University students...” Thank you for December 2017 issue a chronology of sig- OTTUMWA, IOWA posting a picture of our students. nifi cant events in Somalia — leading up RUBEN MATOS to and through the Battle of Mogadishu. LUTZ, FLA.

“Mail Call” features letters from our readers in nine issues per year. If you have questions, comments or concerns about any subject or article from our most recent issue, letters can be emailed to [email protected], with the subject line, “Mail Call,” or mailed to: VFW magazine, Mail Call, 406 W. 34th Street, Suite 523, Kansas City, MO 64111. Letters must be no more than 200 words, and VFW magazine reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and accuracy.

4 • VFW • APRIL 2019

NOW HEAR THIS NEWS YOU CAN USE Register Now VFW National Convention in Orlando t’s time to regis- tion can be sent to VFW/Orchid Events, ter for the 120th 175 S. West Temple, Suite 30, Salt Lake VFW National City, UT 84101 or fax 801-355-0250. Convention, The housing cutoff is Friday, June 14. Ihappening July However, do not wait until the last 20-24, in Orlando, minute to make your reservations — Fla. VFW National there is no guarantee that rooms will be Headquarters mailed available at that time. For more infor- convention hous- mation, visit www.vfw.org. The website ing and registration also has general convention information, forms in February, including the registration form, links to along with Post elec- other convention-related material and a tion mailings. VFW’s tentative schedule. bylaws state that each All advance registrations should be Post must register at least one delegate mailed to VFW National Headquarters, for the convention. ATTN: Convention Registration, 406 W. To make housing reservations, call 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. 833-277-7335 or fax 801-355-0250, from Registration may also be completed 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through online at www.vfw.org. (Log on to regis- Friday. International callers may call ter online). For more information, con- 1-800-715-4419 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. MT tact Vanessa , CMP, CMM, at (816) Monday through Friday. Mail informa- 968-1198 or [email protected].

Did you participate in the Normandy invasion on June 6, 1944 or shortly thereafter?

We want to talk to any VFW members who were involved. Email [email protected] or call (816) 756-3390, ext. 6166. We look forward to hearing from you.

6 • VFW • APRIL 2019 Limited Steel Yourself Collector’s At $59, this blade of legendary Damascus steel is Edition a real steal amascus steel is the stuff of legend. Using a technique fi rst mastered in the Dancient city, swords made from Damascus steel were known to slice gun barrels in half and separate single strands of hair in two, even if the hair simply fl oated down onto the blade. Now, you can be a part of the legend. Th e 7 ½" What customers are saying August Knife features a blade of modern Damascus about Stauer knives... steel, inspired by the production techniques and êêêêê legends of history. Damascus steel blade knives “Very hefty, well-built knife and $59 can cost thousands. So, at , the price itself is sheath. Extremely good-looking also legendary. and utilitarian.” Once a lost art, we sought out a knifemaker who — R., Lacey, Washington has resurrected the craftsmanship of Damascus steel to create the August Knife. Th e elusive, ancient production technique mixes diff erent steel alloys to form a super steel–– the outcome is a beautiful one-of-a-kind pattern of banding and mottling reminiscent of fl owing water. With the August Knife you’re getting the best blade money can buy. What you won’t get is the infl ated price tag. We know a thing or two about the hunt–– like how to seek out and capture an outstanding, collector’s- quality knife that won’t cut into your bank account. Limited availability. Only a handful of artisans make these blades, with each handcrafted knife taking months to perfect. We currently can get less than 1500 this year, so we can’t promise they’ll stick around for long–– especially at this price. Call today! Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. But we believe once you wrap your fi ngers around the August’s handle and experience the beauty of its Damascus steel BONUS! Call today and blade, you’ll be ready to carve out your own legend. you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath! TAKE August Knife non off er code price $149* 60% OFF INSTANTLY Not shown ! actual size. Off er Code Price Only $59 + S&P Save $90 When you use your INSIDER 1-800-333-2045 OFFER CODE Your Insider Off er Code: AGK268-01 You must use the insider off er code to get our special price.

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It wouldn’t allow new mean for veterans. applicants to receive disability compen- Fuentes. “They exemplify why the VFW sation for disabilities not connected to BY DAVE SPIVA National Legislative Service was created military service. 100 years ago. Veteran benefits are not End VA’s individual unemploy- he federal deficit is expected guaranteed and could go away if we’re ability payments to disabled veterans to top $1 trillion by the end not on watch.” at the full retirement age for Social of the year, according to the While these proposals are not a real- Security. There are two alternatives. TCongressional Budget Office ity as of right now, Fuentes said these One choice would make VA stop indi- (CBO). In anticipation, the CBO in options always have the potential of vidual unemployment payments to vet- December published a list of options to materializing over time. erans age 67 or older by January 2020. reduce that figure over the next 10 years. “The VFW will fight to make sure This option would reduce the deficit by In its report, the CBO presented 121 these draconian proposals are not enact- almost $48 billion. suggestions — many of them cuts to ed,” Fuentes said. The other choice would reduce the VA and Tricare benefits. The biggest Listed below are other options for deficit by $6.7 billion. Under it, veterans reducing the who receive an individual unemploy- deficit that ment supplement after January 2020 “These proposals are non-starters for would affect VA would not receive individual unemploy- disability and ment pay after they reach 67 years old. the VFW because they will severely Tricare ben- New applicants that age also would not eficiaries. The be eligible for the benefit. harm veterans and their families.” potential savings Reduce VA’s disability benefits to would be over a veterans who are older than the full VFW Legislative Director Carlos Fuentes 10-year period. retirement age for Social Security. Introduce The CBO estimates that the deficit enrollment would be cut by $10.5 billion if VA cost-cutting proposals would make all fees under Tricare for Life. Doing this reduced compensation to veterans age disability compensation taxable income could reduce the deficit by $12.4 billion. 67 and older by 30 percent. and end VA health care enrollment for It would require Medicare-eligible ben- Narrow eligibility for VA’s disabil- about 2 million veterans. eficiaries to pay an annual fee of $485 ity compensation by excluding vet- The CBO’s option for taxing disability for individuals and $970 for families. erans with low disability ratings. The compensation has two alternatives. The Introduce minimum out-of-pocket first option would make any veteran first would make all disability compensa- requirements under Tricare for Life. with a disability rating of 30 percent or tion (regardless of rating) taxable, which These proposed out-of-pocket payments less ineligible for compensation. This is estimated to slash the deficit by almost would not apply to the first $750 of an option would save almost $38 billion. $93 billion by the end of 2028. The sec- enrollee’s cost-sharing responsibility The other option would let veter- ond would only tax veterans with 20 per- under Medicare and would cover just 50 ans rated at 30 percent or below con- cent disability ratings. That plan would percent of the next $6,750. The CBO says tinue their disability compensation but save $4.4 billion over the same period. this option could save $27.3 billion, includ- wouldn’t compensate any new appli- Another deficit-reducing option ing the cost that could reduce spending for cants. That option would save $6.2 bil- would end VA health care enrollment Tricare for Life and Medicare. lion over the same time period. for veterans in lower priority groups. Narrow eligibility for veterans’ In the report, the CBO concluded In 2017, VA estimated about 2 million disability compensation by exclud- that if no changes to the budget were to veterans were enrolled in the two low- ing certain disabilities unrelated occur, the deficit potentially could reach est priority groups, 7 and 8. Veterans to military duties. This option has about $15 trillion. in these groups are without a disability two alternatives. The first would stop From 2021 to 2028, deficits will aver- rating and have high income. compensation that covers certain non- age almost 5 percent larger than the U.S. “These proposals are non-starters service-connected disabilities, which GDP. That would be the largest total of for the VFW because they will severely include arteriosclerotic heart disease, any time since World War II, according harm veterans and their families,” chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to the CBO. J said VFW Legislative Director Carlos Crohn’s disease, hemorrhoids, multiple EMAIL [email protected]

8 • VFW • APRIL 2019 Treating your COPD and still struggling? Chronic productive cough? Repeated antibiotic use for chest infections?

These may be indicators of bronchiectasis—a common but frequently undiagnosed condition caused by chronic inflammation of the airways.1 COPD is about four times more prevalent among veterans than in the general population.2 Half of people with serious COPD may have bronchiectasis.3

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1. Maselli DJ, Amalakuhan B, Keyt H, Diaz AA. Suspecting non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis: What the busy primary care clinician needs to know. Int J Clin Pract. 2017;71(2):e12924. 2. Basu S, VA/DoD Issue First COPD Guideline Update Since 2007. U.S. Medicine. 2015. 3. Martínez-García MA, de la Rosa Carrillo D, Soler-Cataluña JJ, et al. Prognostic value of bronchiectasis in patients with moderate-to-sever chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2013;187:823–831. © 2018 Respiratory Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. 910174-000 Rev A WASHINGTON WIRE: CAPITOL HILL BRIEFS BY DAVE SPIVA U.S. NAVY PHOTO The USS Intrepid underway in the in Bill Would Ensure September 1966 during the Vietnam War. Navy veteran Alfred Procopio Jr. served aboard the ship while off the that Vets Get coast of Vietnam and won a suit against VA in January that Disability and could grant him compensation for his prostate cancer and Retirement Pay diabetes caused by exposure to Agent Orange. Military retirees could soon be able to receive retirement pay and full disability compensation if a biparti- san bill is made into law. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-), life member of VFW Post 2875 in Waipahu, Hawaii, and Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.) introduced the Retired Pay Restoration Act (H.R. Court Ruling Favors Vietnam War 303), which would safeguard vet- erans with a VA service-connected Blue Water Veteran disability rating of 40 percent or less from losing his or her income. A federal court in Washington, D.C., ruled urge VA to make these veterans whole Currently, military retirees with in January that VA cannot deny disability without further delay,” Figlioli said. disability ratings of 50 percent or benefi ts for Agent Orange-related health “Those who have been previously denied more can receive all of their retire- conditions to veterans who served off the have had hope restored.” ment pay, while others with a lesser coast of Vietnam. The ruling in the case, Figlioli said he encourages anyone rating cannot. Procopio v. Wilkie, could affect more than affected or who has questions to contact Those with ratings of 40 percent 90,000 Vietnam War blue water sailors one of VFW’s professionally trained and or less have their retirement pay who served inside Vietnam’s 12-mile ter- accredited advocates. (Visit www.vfw.org reduced dollar-for-dollar equal by ritorial limit. to fi nd a service offi cer.) how much VA disability compensa- The U.S. Court of Appeals for the “Unfortunately, since this precedent tion they receive. Federal Circuit ruled in favor of Vietnam took so long to be realized, now in Gabbard said this bill, introduced War veteran Alfred Procopio Jr., who some cases it is the survivor of the vet- in January, would change that, not- sued VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. eran who may be eligible for benefi ts,” ing that many veterans are being Procopio claimed he was exposed to Barefoot said. “shortchanged” because they can’t Agent Orange while serving aboard the VFW is in favor of any decision that receive benefi ts they earned. USS Intrepid off the coast of Vietnam. grants benefi ts to those veterans who “Retirement benefi ts and disability Procopio was denied disability compensa- have “borne the battle,” Figlioli said. benefi ts are two different things,” tion for claims related to prostate cancer “It is our charge to ensure they receive Gabbard said. “One should not be and diabetes — two conditions VA consid- the maximum benefi t allowable under the counted against the other.” ers caused by exposure to the defoliant. law,” Figlioli said. “This decision restores Bilirakis said veterans have earned “VFW and other veterans organizations a benefi t that was taken away from an the “best possible service and care” fi led an amicus curiae, or ‘friend of the entire class of claimants arbitrarily and for their sacrifi ces. court,’ brief in support of Procopio and capriciously.” “It isn’t right to deny veterans the other veterans in similar circumstances,” VFW Legislative Director Carlos fi nancial compensation they have said Lauren Barefoot, VFW National Fuentes said even though this court ruling earned and deserve,” Bilirakis said. Veterans Service (NVS) training and qual- is promising, passage of the Blue Water At its 2018 national convention ity assurance manager. Navy Vietnam Veterans Act (H.R. 203) in Kansas City, Mo., VFW passed VFW NVS Deputy Director Michael into law still is a top VFW priority. Resolution No. 411, which supports leg- Figlioli said while the court’s decision The act was reintroduced in the House islation for the “full concurrent receipt is “encouraging,” VA has a number in January. It failed to pass the Senate of military retirement pay and VA dis- of options to further delay providing late last year when it was stopped by Utah ability compensation without offset Vietnam War blue water veterans disabil- Sen. Mike Lee and Wyoming Sen. Mike and regardless of rating percentage.” ity compensation. Enzi. Lee questioned the evidence and “We are watching this very closely and Enzi had cost concerns.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about specifi c legislation or VA benefi ts, contact VFW’s Washington Offi ce at [email protected]. A member of VFW’s National Veterans Service staff will respond as soon as possible.

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12 • VFW • APRIL 2019

REMEMBERED AS A SUN DEVIL dedicated a statue at to Pat Tillman on Aug. 30, 2017. The university, where Tillman played as a linebacker from PHOTO COURTESY OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY STATE ARIZONA OF COURTESY PHOTO 1994-98, also named its veterans center aft er him in 2011 and now calls the football locker room entryway to Sun Devil Stadium the “Pat Tillman Memorial Tunnel.” A TRUE AMERICAN HERO

Pat Tillman turned his back on fame and fortune in the NFL to join the Army and gave his life in Afghanistan. That sense of selfl ess sacrifi ce will live forever as an inspiration to others. BY THE EDITORS

his month marks the 15th anni- of my family has gone and fought in wars, versary of Pat Tillman’s death in “Pat was a thinking leader. and I really haven’t done a damn thing.” Afghanistan. On April 22, 2004, VFW honored Tillman at its 2005 TTillman and a member of the If he wasn’t working, he National Convention with its Hall of Afghan National Army were tragically killed Fame Award, which was accepted by by friendly fi re during a fi refi ght in Spera, was writing. If he wasn’t Alex Garwood, Pat’s brother-in-law and Afghanistan, about 135 miles south of Kabul a founding director of the Pat Tillman in eastern Afghanistan. Two other U.S. sol- writing, he was thinking. Foundation. VFW Post 40 in Avondale, diers were wounded. Ariz., renamed itself in Tillman’s honor. In June 2002, Tillman enlisted in the Through those actions, The Army recognized Tillman’s ser- Army with his brother, Kevin. In doing so, vice with a posthumous promotion to Pat turned down a $3.6 million NFL con- he constantly pushed corporal and presentation of a Silver tract with the . Kevin, Star. An Army spokeswoman said at the likewise, left behind a professional base- himself to be the example time that the medal recognized Tillman’s ball career with the to “potential” to be a standout soldier. serve the nation. Both men were mem- of a Ranger leading the “This promotion is essentially saying he bers of the 2nd Bn., 75th Ranger Regt. would have been a fi ne leader,” she said. Tillman told NFL Films that the Sept. way for others.” As it is, Tillman will always be remem- 11, 2001, terrorist attacks had him ques- bered as a man who embodied the ideals tioning his priorities. of selfl ess sacrifi ce. He was an uncom- Vietnam“I play War football, veteran Billy and Terrell it just in 1973, seems aft erso Matthew Griffi n, 2nd Bn., mon man whose integrity is an inspira- heunimportant began gaining traction compared as a music to everything producer. 75th Ranger Regt., tion to others. From VFW’s perspective, that’sTerrell wouldtaken be place,” instrumental he said in reviving in 2002. Frankie “My who served with Tillman on his he is a true American hero. ✪ grandfatherAvalon’s career. was at Pearl Harbor, and a lot fi nal mission in Afghanistan EMAIL [email protected]

14 • VFW • APRIL 2019 IN THE WAR ZONE Spc. Pat Tillman (center) at the Afghanistan- border in mid-April 2004 with (from left) Staff Sgt. Jeff Jackson, Pvt. Bryan O’Neal, Pfc. Kyle Jones, Spc. Peter Arreola and Sgt. Jason Parsons. Tillman was killed in action near that location on April 22, 2004. PHOTO COURTESY OF DONALD LEE DONALD OF COURTESY PHOTO

“Pat was inspiring. He led from the front. He was the embodiment of the Ranger creed.”

Donald Lee, a member of the 75th Ranger Regt., who served with Tillman in Iraq and Afghanistan PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PAT TILLMAN FOUNDATION

HIS FOUNDATION HELPS VETS AND STUDENTS Two years after Tillman’s death, his family and friends founded the Pat Tillman Foundation. Since 2004, the nonprofit has assisted more than 580 students through its Pat Tillman Scholarship. In 2008, the foundation shifted its focus to assisting veterans and their spouses. Additionally, the nonprofit hosts Pat’s Run, a 4.2-mile race that ends at the 42-yard line of Sun Devil Stadium to commemorate the number Tillman wore at Arizona State, and Tillman Honors, an awards program that focuses on civic contributions.

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 15 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PAT TILLMAN FOUNDATION “Pat was and still is a great PHOTO COURTESY OF BILLY TERRELL man. He is the most wonderful older brother to ever exist. Pat wanted to leave a positive legacy based on his actions, and he did that.”

AN NFL LEGEND IN ARIZONA Tillman played for the Arizona Cardinals from 1998-2001. In November 2006, the NFL team unveiled a bronze statue in his honor. It also named the plaza at in Glendale, Ariz., after the Army Ranger. In 2018, Tillman was inducted into the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame.

“There’s more to life than football. I want to contribute to society and help people.” Pat Tillman

“He was one of the BIGSTOCK PHOTO BIGSTOCK most remarkable HIGH ABOVE THE human beings I’ve ever The Mike O’Callaghan- Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which was part of met. He wasn’t looking the Hoover Dam Bypass Project, was named after Tillman and for the easy thing to do, veteran/former Nevada governor Mike O’Callaghan in 2004. Completed in just the right thing.” 2010, the bridge spans the Colorado River about 35 miles southeast of Las Vegas at the Arizona and Navy SEAL Steve White, who served Nevada border. At 890 feet high, it is the second- with Tillman in Iraq highest U.S. bridge behind only the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado.

16 • VFW • APRIL 2019

PART TWO OF A TWO-PART STORY MONTAGNARDS FIND HOME IN NORTH CAROLINA

SINCE 1986, THE INDIGENOUS MOUNTAIN PEOPLE OF VIETNAM HAVE BEEN WELCOMED TO THE U.S. LED BY A VFW MEMBER, A GROUP IN ASHEBORO, N.C., IS TRYING TO MAKE THE TRANSITION TO A NEW LIFE AS SMOOTH AS POSSIBLE. STORY BY JANIE DYHOUSE PHOTOS BY LAUREN GOLDMAN

“This is about preserving their culture because they are a proud people with a great deal of honor.” George Clark, VFW member and president of Save the Montagnard People Inc.

18 • VFW • APRIL 2019 lic Dacat labors daily clearing the dense Carolina pines and constructing fences from the wood he gets. He To see more photos of plants crops, burns brush and tends to the goats. VFW magazine’s visit Some might mistake Dacat’s abode for an abandoned ttoo TThehe NNewew CentralCentral B farmhouse. For that matter, at fi rst sight, Dacat appears to have Highlands in Asheboro, no home at all — his clothes are stained and frayed, and his hands N.C., visit VFW magazine’s are dirty with soil and marred by scrapes from a hard day’s work. Facebook page. Given where Dacat began, though, the North Carolina wilderness is a good home. Dacat is 67 and always has a smile on his face. During the Vietnam War, Dacat was a fi erce jungle warrior. A Montagnard, Dacat belongs to the Koho tribe. He became a rang- er with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN). When the Americans pulled out in 1973, the Montagnards, by necessity, continued to fi ght for survival. At that time, Dacat believed that his wife, Kaba, and their two daughters were dead, as they were no longer in his village that had been destroyed. He thought there was nothing left to do but con- tinue to fi ght. Eventually, with thousands of other Montagnards, Dacat began a deadly trek across . Years later, he arrived in with a group of more than 200 Montagnards. They ended up in a refugee camp, where they were later res- cued by American relief groups in 1986. Dacat was given the option of moving to California or North Carolina. For Dacat, the choice was easy — North Carolina was home to the Green Berets who fought alongside the Montagnards during the long war in Southeast Asia. Today, Dacat lives at “The New Central Highlands,” as they call their compound, outside Asheboro, N.C., where he can be found working alongside his wife. Indeed, after Dacat settled in the U.S., word came from Vietnam that Kaba and their daughters were alive. It took many years, but in 2007, Dacat was reunited with his wife. His daughters, now grown with families of their own, had to stay behind. Dacat has not seen his daughters since he went to fi ght during the Vietnam War. He has 11 grandchildren he has never met. One of his daughters is trying to get her family out of the country that has proven to be unforgiving to the mountain people. Dacat’s story is not uncommon among the Montagnards, who sacrifi ced their way of life and sometimes even their families to serve with the Americans during the Vietnam War. Their loyalty to the U.S. is why the organization Save the Montagnard People Inc. (SMTP) was founded in 1986 by a group of former Green Berets. Originally known as General Coactive Montagnard Association Inc., the group was formed to help Montagnards assimilate to their new lives in the U.S. But they do so much more. Blic Dacat sits outside a longhouse in October at “The ‘AN ACT OF LOVE’ New Central Highlands” STMP President George Clark became involved with the group in outside Asheboro, N.C. Dacat is a Montagnard who came to 1998 and has made it his life’s work. He became president in 2002. the U.S. from Vietnam by way He said he, like others, has spent countless hours lobbying and of a refugee camp in Thailand fi ghting “government bureaucracy” to get the repressed people in 1986. “The New Central out of Southeast Asia and to America. Highlands” is funded by Save “What continues to happen to these people is unthink- the Montagnard People Inc. able,” said Clark, who led Montagnards in Vietnam from 1967-

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 19 Save the Montagnard People Inc. volunteers Craig Caleo, George Clark, Bill Cooper and Phyllis Clark in October at “The New Central Highlands” outside Asheboro, N.C. Clark, STMP president, is a former Green Beret who has made it his life’s work to help the indigenous people of southeast Asia.

70 with the 5th Special Forces Group “Everything done out here has been is very much like the American Indians,” Airborne, Nha Trang MIKE Force. “In done out of love for the Montagnards,” Cooper said. “But no one knows about 2008, 56 Montagnards were in a U.N. ref- said Clark, a member of VFW Post 1957 these people and what they did.” ugee camp in Cambodia. Somehow, they in Hickory, N.C. “This is about preserv- He said in Vietnam, it’s rare to fi nd long- were given back to Vietnam, and guess ing their culture. They are a proud peo- houses, which is why the two longhouses what? None of them have ever been seen ple with a great deal of honor.” at STMP are so important. or heard from again.” A pavilion was built to host celebra- Cooper served in Vietnam as a heli- When Clark and the other volunteers tions on holidays, such as Memorial Day copter crew chief from 1966-68, with the — no one involved with STMP has ever and Dega Day (Montagnard day of remem- 117th Assault Helicopter HQ in the Central been paid — aren’t advocating for their for- brance). Nearby, another building hous- Highlands. He supported the 5th Special mer allies, they are working at The New es tools for crafting jewelry and pottery, Forces and 101st Airborne. Central Highlands. which is later sold. Cooper became a VFW member in 1967 In 2003, STMP raised enough money Most importantly, Clark said, a tradi- while home on leave from Vietnam. to put a down payment on 100 acres of tional Montagnard cemetery has been farmland outside Asheboro. By 2006, constructed. The Asheboro VFW, which ‘STILL VIOLATING HUMAN RIGHTS’ members had donated $300,000 to pay has since closed its doors, paid to have North Carolina is home to about 5,000 off the mortgage and turned it over to the land surveyed for it. STMP hopes to Montagnards. Half of those live in the Montagnards. build a cross-shaped chapel adjacent to Greensboro, with large populations in “People didn’t want us out here,” Clark the cemetery. Charlotte and Raleigh. said. “It was mainly the people on the “Back in Vietnam, the Vietnamese used A second wave of 400 Montagnards property next to us. But us old Special to bulldoze the Montagnard cemeteries,” came to the U.S. in late 1992. In 2002, Forces guys deal with the bad people who Clark said. “When the Montagnards would an additional 900 were re-settled in the come around.” come out to defend their hallowed ground, “Tar Heel State.” The land was cleared by the they were killed. That’s why this cemetery Clark has made trips to Thailand Montagnards. A replica longhouse is means so much to them.” and Combodia to try and “save” the tucked away in the woods. Next to that Vietnam veteran Bill Cooper first Montagnards from “certain death.” is a 140-foot-by-40-foot Mnong house. learned about what was happening in For the most part, Clark said those Both are reminiscent of the type of North Carolina when he visited his daugh- who have resettled in North Carolina homes the indigenous group had in ter in Greensboro in 2002. He was living in have adapted well. The Montagnard Dega Vietnam’s Central Highlands. New Jersey at the time. When he retired Association (MDA) in Greensboro opened Local Montagnard children raised in 2006, he headed south and has been its doors in 1987 to help the newcomers $8,000 for a soccer fi eld that is located on involved ever since. assimilate to a new way of life. a parcel of the acreage as well. “The situation with the Montagnards Y’Siu Hlong, MDA executive director,

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Receive a free American Standard Cadet Toilet with full installation of a Liberation Walk-In Bath, Liberation Shower, or Deluxe Shower. Off er valid only while supplies last. Limit one per household. Must be fi rst time purchaser. All off ers subject to change prior to purchase. See www.AmericanStandardBathtubs.com for other restrictions and for licensing, warranty, and company information. * CSLB B982796; Suff olk NY:5543IH; NYC:HIC#2022748-DCA. Safety Tubs Co. LLC does not sell in Nassau NY, Westchester NY, Putnam NY, Rockland NY. came to the U.S. on Nov. 23, 1986. He said of Vung Ksor, who served as an interpreter. could resupply their troops with ammo. he was the fi rst Montagnard to obtain his In 2012, Monah had heart surgery and “I saw then all the Vietnamese acted the citizenship and the fi rst Montagnard to get now has a pacemaker. He has no job, but same,” Monah said. “None of them, north his college degree. He now is working on wishes to work, and his wife has “severe” or south, liked us Montagnards. That was a his Ph.D. mental problems. war between north and south. We died for His journey to get to North Carolina He is 70; his wife is 69. They are now nothing because we are nothing to them.” was a long one. He spent 12 years fi ghting U.S. citizens. Monah was put in prison in 1975 for in the jungle and another fi ve years on the Monah has vivid recollections of serving fi ve years. He was later released, but the Thailand border. with the Americans in Vietnam. Vietnamese government was relentless, “In the jungle, we keep looking for the He was handpicked because he was trying to catch him in a lie when he said he Americans,” Hlong said. “But there were considered a border expert and spoke the was just “trying to survive.” no Americans. We thought they would right dialect. As a recon man for Green “If I hadn’t escaped, I would be dead,” come back for us. We still had the heart Berets, he would call in coordinates and Monah said. and spirit. We want nothing more than to often traveled to the Cambodian border. be here with our brothers.” In 1973, he joined ARVN to keep from ‘HAPPY TO SEE MY FRIENDS’ Hlong said he believes there are about getting killed. A year later, he was ordered Ksor is the Refugee Health Coordinator 23,000 Montagnards in the U.S., in states to clear a road so that the communists at the Center for New North Carolinians such as Washington, Texas, Florida, Hawaii and New York. He cautioned that as Americans, we “have to think” before supporting Vietnam Kaba and Blic Dacat in October at their home at “The New as a country. Central Highlands” outside Asheboro, N.C. Blic believed his “They are still violating human rights,” wife was dead when he came to the U.S. in 1986. In 2007, Hlong said. “But everyone seems to for- the couple was reunited. They have two daughters — one get that.” of whom is trying to get to the U.S. — and 11 grandchildren in Vietnam. Blic has not seen his daughters since he left to ‘WE DIED FOR NOTHING’ fi ght during the Vietnam War. The MDA/Montagnard American Organization (MAO) in Greensboro works closely with the Montagnard community. H’Yua Liana Adrong is the adminis- trative coordinator/vocational instructor with MDA and was a co-founder for MAO. At MDA, Adrong helps refugees throughout Guilford County with employ- ment and vocational training. She works on the language barrier and assists with citizenship classes. “Our goal is to assist our clients in achieving self-suffi ciency,” said Adrong, who came to America with her fami- ly in 1996. “That includes being contrib- uting members in their neighborhoods and communities and, ultimately, earning American citizenship.” Adrong, who earned her bachelor’s degree in social work at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, said MDA aims to promote higher education for the Montagnard youth community, while also preserving their culture. Y Monah is one of the community mem- bers helped by the MDA. After making his way to Cambodia, where he survived a “bad” three years, he arrived in the U.S. in 2004. “I got to see so many of my friends when I got here,” he said through the assistance

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BOTTOM: Vung Ksor, Ykhiem Ayun and Y Monah in October at the office of the Montagnard Dega Association in Greensboro, N.C. Ksor, the Refugee Health Coordinator at the Center for New North Carolinians, served as an interpreter for Ayun and Monah as they shared their stories of serving with U.S. Green Berets during the Vietnam War. Both men now live in North Carolina.

her. He looked at me like a little brother. I felt the same way.” Ayun said at one point, the commu- nists came again and tried to lure the Montagnards away to serve under them, but the mountain people evaded capture. “We wanted to stand for our own peo- ple,” Ayun said. “Not them.” From 1969-1975, he went into hiding. Years later, he was captured in Pleiku and arrested. In 1992, he was released and went back to what was left of his village. He stayed there until 2001 when the communists came to interrogate him. He knew he had to flee the village or risk getting killed. He made it to a U.N. camp in Cambodia. On June 24, 2002, he arrived in the U.S. “I was very happy when I arrived here,” Ayun said. “So happy to see my friends I fought alongside.” at the University of North Carolina- es due to light sensitivity, Ayun shared his In 2014, Ayun had a stroke that left him Greensboro. journey to America. unable to work. He is not eligible for assis- Her father came to the U.S. in 2002 and He took up arms in 1967 at age 14. His tance since he is not yet a U.S. citizen. Ksor followed in 2005, knowing only one parents were “very old” and didn’t have He gets $97 a month for food. And with- word from her new country: “Hello.” enough money to let him go to school. out his friend in the condemned apartment She studied at Guilford College in “The Vietnamese came for us and I ran,” building, he would be living on the streets. Greensboro, where she earned her degree Ayun said. “I said, ‘I don’t want to work for “He has been through so much and now in community and justice studies. She communists.’ I had two brothers killed.” he’s homeless,” Ksor said. is now working on a graduate degree in At 16, Ayun joined B-23 MIKE Force. Clark, who has had his own bout of peace and conflict studies. He was wounded four times and carries a health scares recently, plans to continue Ksor seeks out clients who are under- “good amount” of shrapnel in his body. his mission for as long as he can, but he served and helps connect them with Ayun recalled seven days of intense hopes to eventually hand over the reins to community resources. She makes appoint- fighting in June 1969. He said they took a the Montagnards since The New Central ments and acts as an interpreter for those lot of guns and “killed a lot of Vietnamese.” Highlands is for them. His wife, Phyllis, who need it. He was shot in the chest and remembers who spends much of her time volunteer- “God put me here for a reason,” Ksor being “scared to death.” ing with STMP, agrees. said. “There are many elders in our com- In B-23, Ayun served under someone he “They are great people, and they have munity who have no family.” called “Capt. Zachy.” He remembers the the right to survive,” Phyllis said. “Their Ykhiem Ayun is one of those elders. American as almost a family member. culture will survive on this land.” Ksor takes him to his doctor visits. He is “He was a good man,” Ayun said. “He For more information on STMP, basically homeless, living with a friend in a loved the Montagnards. He wanted me to visit www.montagnards.org or email condemned apartment building. come to America. My dad had died, and I [email protected]. J At the MDA office, wearing sunglass- didn’t want to leave my mom. I would miss EMAIL [email protected]

24 • VFW • APRIL 2019

VFW BRINGS VA SERVICES TO PHOTO COURTESY OF TIM PETERS TIM OF COURTESY PHOTO REMOTE LOCATIONS

A Montana Post is the fi rst non-VA site to house a telehealth facility. VA wants to establish 10 similar sites by the end of 2019. FW Post 6786 sits seven miles “very” remote location, its use as a tele- from the Canadian border, health facility provides veterans a “safer” more than 60 miles from the option for their health care needs. Vnearest VA clinic and more “And it gives the VFW a boost more than 250 miles from the nearest VA hos- in the positive light,” said Weldon, who BY KARI WILLIAMS pital. Because of its remote location, VA earned her VFW eligibility in in approached the Eureka, Mont., Post in 1989 with the 42nd Field Hospital out of July about becoming the fi rst non-VA Fort Knox as a registered nurse. “So many location to house a telehealth facility. people think the VFW is just a bar. So it Telehealth uses technology, such as helps improve that image to wholeheart- video conferencing, to remotely connect edly support the needs of the veterans.” VFW POSTS AS patients with doctors. TELEHEALTH FACILITIES Kedron Burnett, VA’s Project EXPANDING TELEHEALTH Advancing Telehealth through Local Heyworth said Post 6786 was selected The following VFW Posts are confi rmed as Access Stations (ATLAS) National Team after looking at regions that are: non-VA telehealth sites: Consultant, said VA has looked at tele- • Far from VA facilities. • VFW Post 7103 in Athens, Texas health access points for some time, but • Do not have “good broadband.” • VFW Post 6786 in Eureka, Mont. the concept of partnering with veterans • Have a “larger” veteran population. • VFW Post 7842 in Linesville, Pa. service organizations began about two Montana was at the top of that list, • VFW Post 2487 in Los Banos, Calif. years ago. so VA contacted VFW and American VFW initially reached out to VA with the Legion representatives locally, narrow- ABOVE: Joe Fletcher, VFW Montana idea, according to Dr. Leonie Heyworth, ing the options by looking at which sites Department Commander, and Virginia director of Synchronous Telehealth. would be “most prepared” to support a “Rose” Arnold, State Jr. Vice Commander, “They said we have so many VFWs telehealth facility. attend the grand opening on Dec. 6 of the across the country, and we know that not Heyworth said VA has “done a great Eureka, Mont., Telehealth Access Site at all veterans necessarily live proximal to a deal” of telehealth since its initial 2011 VFW Post 6786 with VA’s Dr. Jill Hedt. VA facility,” Heyworth said. expansion initiative, which was focused The Post is the fi rst non-VA site to host VFW Post 6786 Quartermaster Melody on clinic-to-clinic services. In June 2018, such a facility. Weldon said that because the Post is in a current VA Secretary Robert Wilkie, who

26 • VFW • APRIL 2019 was then serving as undersecretary of BY THE NUMBERS health, issued a directive to expand tele- health care into homes and non-VA sites. The VA telehealth facility at Post 6786 900 282 50 is located in its meeting room area. To More than 900 VA In fiscal year 2016, VA held More than 50 specialty meet VA’s criteria, the Post had to: sites offer telehealth 282 training sessions for areas of care are available • Ensure there was a separate services. telehealth services. through telehealth. entrance to the meeting room. • Have bathroom facilities in or Source: VA Telehealth Services fact sheet near the meeting room. • Make sure the office had privacy. • Upgrade the internet connection. TYPES OF TELEHEALTH Having VFW and other VSO sites house telehealth facilities optimizes access, Heyworth said. Multiple Posts, according to Heyworth, have expressed interest in being non-VA telehealth sites. She said the initial goal is to have 10 locations nationwide between VFW and American Legion Posts. As of February, Heyworth said, the start date for programs will CLINICAL VIDEO HOME TELEHEALTH STORE AND FORWARD depend on a finalized memorandum of TELEHEALTH Uses in-home and mobile TELEHEALTH understanding. At press time, that was Real-time video conferenc- monitoring or messaging to Uses technology to store expected to occur in the spring. ing, sometimes with “support- assist patients while and gain clinical informa- Weldon said VFW National ive peripheral technologies” “reducing complications, tion, which another Headquarters provided a “generous” grant to help doctors with remote hospitalizations and clinic or provider can access to to assist with the updates. Equipment for treatment and assessments. emergency room visits for complete an evaluation. the facility was expected to arrive mid- veterans in post-acute care February, according to Weldon. settings, high-risk veterans Source: VA Telehealth Weldon said VA personnel contact- with chronic disease or vet- Services fact sheet ed the Post in July 2018 about their site erans at risk for placement in being the first non-VA telehealth facili- long-term care.” ty. As of January, the facility was not yet usable, but Weldon said the community eagerly anticipated its opening. SIGNATURE VA TELEHEALTH PROGRAMS “This community really supports the veterans wholeheartedly,” Weldon • TeleAddiction Services • TeleNephrology said, “and there’s a lot of beloved vet- • TeleAmputation Care • TeleNeurology erans [who are] well-known here, and • TeleAudiology • TeleNutrition so they’re very happy that our veter- • TeleBipolar Disorder • TeleRetinal Imaging ans don’t have to have the wear and tear • TeleCardiology • TeleOccupational Therapy on themselves, their vehicles [or] put • TeleChaplain • TelePain Management themselves in dangerous situations due • TeleDental Care • TelePathology to weather.” • TeleDermatology • TelePodiatry Heyworth said VA is rolling out simi- • TeleCardiology • TelePolytrauma Care lar initiatives with Walmart, universities, • TeleDentistry • TelePrimary Care colleges and “other federal agencies.” • TeleDermatology • TelePulmonology Carlos Fuentes, VFW’s director of • TeleEpilepsy • TeleRehabilitation National Legislative Service, said VFW is • TeleGastroIntestinal/Hepatitis Care • TeleSchizophrenia “proud” to participate in Project ATLAS. • TeleGenomic Counseling • TeleSpinal Cord Injury Care “Our VFW Posts are pillars of every • TeleInfectious Disease • TeleSpirometry community, a place for camaraderie and • TeleIntensive Care • TeleSurgery (Pre - & Post- Care) community service, and now, an access • TeleKinesiology • TeleTransplant (Pre - & Post- Care) point to the VA care our veterans have • TeleMental Health • TeleWound Care earned and deserve,” Fuentes said. J • TeleMOVE! Weight Management • Women’s Telehealth EMAIL [email protected] Source: VA Telehealth Services fact sheet

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 27 VFW Commander-in-Chief B.J. Lawrence (center) confers with American Legion Commander Brett Reistad (right) and American Legion Judge Advocate Kevin Bartlett (left) in January in Washington, D.C. The American Legion hosts the second summit meeting of the legacy veterans organizations this month.

‘LEGACY’ GROUPS FORGE STRONGER BONDS

VFW hosted a summit meeting in January of the six largest veterans groups. The precedent-setting gathering represented the first time the top leaders have met to explore how they can work more closely together.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY TIM DYHOUSE

ommon goals, common experiences and an overrid- Vietnam Veterans of America. “It’s important that the ing objective to improve the lives of veterans com- are here. By and large, we are all dealing with the same issues.” pelled the leaders of the nation’s six largest veterans Together, the “Big 6” or “legacy” groups represent nearly groups to meet in January in Washington, D.C. For 5 million veterans in their memberships. During the January CVFW Commander-in-Chief B.J. Lawrence, the chance to host meeting, their leaders acknowledged common goals they can such an historic gathering offered obvious opportunities. work on together (see box). “It was long overdue,” Lawrence said. “I look at veterans ser- Attracting more women, minority and post-9/11 veterans to vice organizations as one team. We’re all dedicated to serving their ranks also is a focus. The legacy leaders agreed that young- veterans and their families. We’re all passionate about that.” er vets are not as interested in “brick and mortar” meeting facil- In addition to VFW, leaders from the American Legion, ities or “waiting their turn” at leadership positions like vets of AMVETS, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of past wars. VFW has made some progress in this area. Lawrence America and Vietnam Veterans of America attended the meet- noted that some 30 percent to 40 percent of VFW leaders at the ing at VFW’s Washington Office on Capitol Hill. They were state level served in the military after Sept. 11, 2001. eager to join forces. Overall, VFW’s chief was excited about exchanging ideas “This is a great idea,” said John Rowan, national president of with his counterparts in a structured, formal setting.

28 • VFW • APRIL 2019 VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS Membership: 1.1 million Nati onal Headquarters:Kansas City, Mo. 2019 Commander: Vincent “B.J.” Lawrence Established: 1899

AMERICAN LEGION Membership: 1.8 million Nati onal Headquarters: Indianapolis 2019 Commander: Brett Reistad Established: 1919

Sharon Hodge, deputy director for policy and government affairs for Vietnam Veterans of America, takes notes as VVA National President John DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS Rowan explains his group’s position on toxic exposures during a January Membership: 1 million meeting at VFW’s Washington Offi ce. Rowan also said it was important that Nati onal Headquarters: Cold Spring, Ky. the six legacy groups remain non-partisan and focus on helping veterans. 2019 Commander: Dennis Nixon Established: 1920

PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA Membership: 18,000 Nati onal Headquarters:Washington, D.C. 2019 Commander: David Zurfl uh Established: 1946

AMVETS Membership: 250,000 Nati onal Headquarters:Lanham, Md. 2019 Commander: Rege Riley Rege Riley, national commander of AMVETS, speaks with VFW Established: 1944 Commander-in-Chief B.J. Lawrence in January in the lobby of VFW’s Washington Offi ce. The two commanders had just concluded a meeting in which the leaders of the six largest veterans groups agreed to work more VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA closely together on shared goals. Membership: 84,000 Nati onal Headquarters: Silver Spring, Md. 2019 Commander: John Rowan “If we can pool our resources, we can be more respon- Established: 1978 sive to veterans, which is why we all exist in the fi rst place.” Lawrence said. “As a collective group, we can bring all our tal- ents to bear. ISSUES OF AGREEMENT “Who better than the VVA to give us the Vietnam vet’s per- Each of the six legacy veterans organizati ons have a parti cular spective? When it comes to issues facing our disabled or para- specialty or cause. However, they support many of the same goals, lyzed veterans, we have the subject matter experts right here. a main reason for the meeti ng in January. Listed below are several Combining our talents, experience and expertise in our specif- issues on which the groups agree and vowed to work collecti vely: ic areas is absolutely invaluable to serving veterans.” • Assuring VA’s budget is properly funded. Lawrence added that he is “all in” on the next gathering, which will be hosted by the American Legion this month in • Fully fund the eff ort to account for all missing Americans from Loudon County, Va. past wars. “We might have different ideas on how to get things done • Full implementati on of theVA MISSION Act. and we might not agree on every single issue, but we should • Improve the quality of life for acti ve-duty troops and their always talk,” Lawrence said. “We started a dialogue here in families. Washington. If we can meet regularly, get together, brainstorm • End the off set of VA disability compensati on and reti ree pay. and network, we can be one, unifi ed force working toward a • End military sexual assault. ✪ common cause.” • Ensure protecti on of all U.S. borders. EMAIL [email protected]

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 29 SERVING PENNSYLVANIA SERVICE OFFICER 100VETERANS FOR FOCUSES ON OVERSEAS VETERANS YEARS lizabeth Salvador, a service barriers,” Salvador said. “Even some- VFW IN WASHINGTON IN VFW officer at the VA Pittsburgh times the veterans themselves — we have Regional Office, recently a lot of veterans in Panama and a lot of Ehelped a veteran living in Africa them don’t speak English.” veteran end an 11-year-long appeals process. The most common case she works Elizabeth Salvador has Salvador works on foreign claims on is related to mental health. Salvador been a VFW-accredited from veterans who live outside of the said when a veteran wants to fi le a PTSD service offi cer for fi ve United States. She said that in this par- claim, the VA requires that the original years. Her specialty is ticular case, the veteran initially was diagnosis come from a VA doctor. connecting expatriate given a zero percent rating because he “When these veterans are overseas vets with VA services. was unable to have an exam to deter- looking for service connection for men- mine the “current level of severity” for tal health, that becomes really hard,” said his conditions. Salvador, who served in Iraq from 2006 “He’s in a really, really rural area,” said to 2007 with the 886th Expeditionary BY KARI WILLIAMS Salvador, a member of VFW Post 914 in Security Force Squadron. West Miffl in, Pa. “He has to travel about Salvador said she guides veterans two hours just to get to a phone.” through the process, understanding that The veteran, according to Salvador, some do not know the requirements and received become “discouraged” when their claim roughly is denied. $70,000 for Countries such as Germany and Italy “quite a few have service officers and VA employ- conditions” in ees, but in other locations, Salvador said, mid-January. making “initial contact” is harder. She added Salvador’s offi ce handles roughly 400 that part of cases per month. the length of She said the most rewarding part of

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELIZABETH SALVADOR ELIZABETH OF COURTESY PHOTO the appeals her job is providing “basic information” process was of what veterans are entitled to, such as because he health care and education — regardless lives overseas. of whether or not they have service-con- Salvador nected injuries. has been a For anyone considering becoming a service offi cer VSO, Salvador said it is “a lot of work, but in Pittsburgh it’s good work.” for near- “It’s not a very easy job, but if they’re ly five years. looking to help veterans, this is defi nitely She took on a place to be,” Salvador said. ✪ the role after EMAIL [email protected] VFW-accredited service offi cer Elizabeth being laid off from a previous job. Salvador works with a veteran’s spouse on “I needed health care because my Editor’s note: This is the third in a claim. Salvador, a member of VFW Post insurance wasn’t covered anymore,” a series of feature articles on VFW’s 914 in West Miffl in, Pa., is the only staff accredited veteran service offi cers. In member in her offi ce who handles both Salvador said. “And I just wasn’t sure 2019, VFW is commemorating the 100th foreign and local claims. [of ] the ins and outs.” She went to her local Post, of which anniversary of its National Veteran she now is a member, and ultimately Service and National Legislative Service learned of the opening at the regional offi ces in Washington, D.C. VA offi ce. She said the most challenging aspect of her work is the foreign cases, along NEED HELP? Find a VFW service offi cer with time zone differences. at www.vfw.org “A lot of times there’s language

30 • VFW • APRIL 2019 35 DAYS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD Situated 650 miles from mainland , the small island of Iwo Jima was considered the difference between victory and defeat for the Allies in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. It was a vital link as a refueling site for the U.S. bombers and fighter escorts on their way to Japan. On February 19, 1945, U.S. Marines hit the shores of Iwo Jima after 3 days of pre-invasion bombing. Their objective was a dormant volcano named Mt. Suribachi, which rose 546 feet above the shore. Control of Suribachi meant control of the island. The climb up Suribachi was fought inch by inch. The Japanese fought from a fortified network of underground bunkers which made gunfire ineffective. The high ground had to be taken using flame throwers and grenades. Finally, on February 23, U.S. forces reached the summit. The raising of the American flag that day provided a lasting impression, inspiring not only the combatants, but also a war-weary nation. On March 26, the entire island was secured. The Allied Forces suffered 25,000 casualties, with nearly 7,000 dead. Those sacrifices led to air superiority in the Pacific . . . and victory in World War II. A LIMITED-EDITION MILITARY KNIFE COMMEMORATING THE BRAVE SOULS OF IWO JIMA This exquisite knife was specially designed to commemorate the men who fought, sacrificed, and won one of the most important battles of World War II. Available exclusively from American Mint, this handsome military knife is an impressive 12" long and is expertly crafted in 420 stainless steel to resemble the combat knives carried by U.S. Marines in WWII. PECI • 7.125"-long polished flat-ground blade crafted in • Begins the America at War — World War II S AL 420 stainless steel with a rugged matte black finish Military Knife Collection which $ is limited to only 9,999 19.95 • The rugged handle is made of a tough, hardened (a $99.95 value) complete collections worldwide rubber wrapped with specially treated leather grips COLLECTOR’S • Presented in a specially fitted PRICE • Overall length: 12" presentation box • Available exclusively from American Mint ACT NOW TO GET YOUR EXCLUSIVE KNIFE – A $99.95 VALUE – FOR JUST $19.95! easy ways • Mail in your completed • Call us toll-free at • Or visit us at americanmint.com/747.05 3to order: order form and payment 877-807-MINT (6468)

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SVLSU Student veterans at Louisiana State University gained a lot of momentum this past year. Besides opening a new veterans student center, they also earned the Student Veterans of America’s Chapter of the Year award in January.

BY DAVE SPIVA

ince 2013, VFW and the Student sition home, the Garfi eld House. It pro- Kruse said. “We provided the turkeys and Veterans of America (SVA) have vides housing to homeless veterans with fried them at the home. And, our mem- worked side-by-side to advocate mental illness or substance abuse. bers also brought all the other food.” Sfor improvements to student- Activities such as this also have given Kruse is an Army veteran who was an veteran benefi ts. the chapter recognition on a national infantryman with 2nd Bn., 1st Inf. Regt., The two groups have many similari- level. SVLSU was given the SVA Chapter 2nd Stryker BCT, 2nd Inf. Div. He served ties — both are led by veterans advocat- of the Year award at January’s SVA from 2013 to 2016, which included a ing for veterans’ benefits and serving National Conference in Orlando, Fla. training mission in Indonesia. their communities. In the same spirit of Now a senior at LSU, Kruse, who VFW, the SVA chapter at Louisiana State HELPING VETS IN THE COMMUNITY expects to graduate next month with a University (SVLSU) in Baton Rouge, La., Tyler Kruse, SVLSU’s vice president, said computer engineering degree, said that has given time and energy to help its about 30 military-affi liated students pro- was the second time they have worked local community and other veterans. vided and prepared the Thanksgiving meal with the Garfi eld House. Another event One example of this was the chapter’s for eight of the Garfi eldDave House Rogers, residents a Gulf War veterandone thisand VFW past member, fall was displays a beautifi his artwork cation hosting of a Thanksgiving dinner for and their families. He saidat his SVLSU studio plans in Artspace on Patchogueproject. SVLSU Loft s. Rogers and isFreedom the commander Services, of homeless veterans. The group worked making the dinner an annualVFW Post event. 2913 in Patchoguea Baton , N.Y. Rouge-basedand, in addition to pressure being an artist washing with a Baton Rouge, La., veterans tran- “In total, we served himself,about 45has people,” created an artservice program company, for his fellow cleaned veterans. the outside of PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE ROGERS 32 • VFW • APRIL 2019 LEFT: Members of the Student Veterans of PHOTO COURTESY OF SVLSU America chapter at Louisiana State University (LSU) pose under a Navy Jack before the LSU- Alabama football game on Nov. 3, 2018, in Baton Rouge, La. The group hosts a tailgate party for its members at each LSU home game.

RIGHT: (From left to right) James Graham and Andrew Elgin, SVA members at Louisiana State University, prepare for a Thanksgiving dinner at the Garfi eld House in Baton Rouge, La. The LSU chapter hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for homeless veterans and their families during the holiday. The student veterans provided and prepared all the food for the event.

the veterans’ transition homes. “The primary focus for our student organization is to help student veter- ans and help the veteran community, especially those who are falling on hard times,” Kruse said. “We are always there for any veteran who is in need.” from 2006 to 2016. Lamy, a member of VFW-SVA PARTNERSHIP BEING A PART OF LSU the VFW Department of Louisiana, was Student Veterans of In total, Kruse said SVLSU has about 110 a K-9 handler in the Air Force security America (SVA) is based members and about 30 who are active. forces and deployed twice to Iraq, once in Washington, D.C. The He said the opening of LSU’s William A. to Afghanistan and once to Jordan. organizati on is committ ed Brookshire Military & Veterans Student Lamy, who plans to graduate in May to the welfare of military Center in 2018 has helped bring veterans 2020, received his undergraduate degree veterans and ensuring together on campus. in criminal justice from American they are supported in “Before the center, we basically were Military University while in the Air their transiti on into higher educati on. SVA sup- stuck up on the third fl oor of an aban- Force. The topic he plans to advocate for ports 1,583 school chapters and more than doned dormitory,” Kruse laughed. “With on Capitol Hill, which is central to the 700,000 military-affi liated students. the center now opened in the heart of VFW-SVA Fellowship Program, is veter- campus, we have had an onslaught of ans’ health care and medical marijuana. These groups of college students across the new members joining. Not only veter- “My idea is that veterans should have country provide military-affi liated students ans, but military-affi liated students, such access to medical marijuana through with the advocacy and resources needed to as dependents and ROTC members. The VA in states where it’s legal,” Lamy said. be successful with their college educati on and center has changed how we operate.” “I’ve had to research the topic and fi nd post-graduati on careers. SVA chapters advo- Kruse said that before becoming a all the positive and negative aspects to cate for improvements to student-veteran member of the campus student veterans create my argument.” benefi ts while helping veterans navigate the organization, he never felt a part of the Being a VFW-SVA Fellow as well as complexiti es of academic life. LSU community. He said his participa- being a husband and a father to two tion with SVLSU has changed that. daughters — ages 10 and 13 — Lamy still VFW and SVA have been offi cial partners since “I’ve been extremely involved since fi nds the time to help SVLSU in com- signing a memorandum-of-understanding in then,” Kruse said. “It’s opened my eyes munity service projects, including the 2013. The partnership has given student vet- to see that there is a lot more going on Thanksgiving meal event. erans the opportunity to promote causes here than my own personal bubble and Lamy said he is “happy” to be a part of important to veterans. that there is this whole community that the VFW-SVA Fellowship. is willing to help me.” “The name VFW carries a lot of VFW believes the affiliation benefits both weight,” Lamy said. “Being able to have groups. VFW off ers the experience, experti se ADVOCATING FOR VETERANS that name and all its members behind and knowledge it has gained over its 119-year One of SVLSU’s members was select- you while you advocate for them is very history. SVA members possess the youthful ener- ed to be a part of this year’s VFW-SVA signifi cant. After being in D.C. and seeing gy and zeal of college-age veterans, while off er- Legislative Fellowship. Christopher what happens on the ground, I think it’s ing VFW a pool of college-educated members Lamy, an Air Force veteran, is a sec- a phenomenal opportunity.” ✪ who can lead the organizati on into the future. ond-year law student at LSU. He served EMAIL [email protected]

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 33 ‘THE RIGHT AND HONORABLE THING TO DO’ PHOTO COURTESY OF JEAN WALL JEAN OF COURTESY PHOTO VFW backed the return of a trio of church bells last year. The bells were souvenirs recovered by U.S. troops fi ghti ng in the Philippines more than 100 years ago. BY KARI WILLIAMS

trifecta of bells that have been while others sought their return to the the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines. on U.S. soil for more than Philippines. At the 2018 VFW National “In 1901, our two countries were adver- a century were returned to Convention, VFW delegates approved saries,” Kim said. “That painful confl ict Athe Philippines last year — a Res. 301 urging the return of the bells to soon ended, and our countries became move VFW supported — despite opposi- the Church of San Lorenzo de Martir. partners and friends. We fought togeth- tion from some veterans. It was not unusual during the er for freedom and to protect democrat- The bells’ odyssey began Sept. 28, Philippine-American War, according to ic values across the Indo-Pacifi c region.” 1901, during the Philippine-American the resolution, for soldiers to return state- In August, then-U.S. Secretary of War, when Filipino villagers attacked side with “souvenirs and artifacts from Defense James Mattis notifi ed Congress U.S. troops in Balangiga in the province Catholic churches in the Philippines,” of ’s intent to return the of Eastern , killing 48 of the 74 which violated the U.S. Army’s order that bells. The decision, according to the U.S. members of C Co., 9th Inf. Regt. A seven- protected private property. Embassy in the Philippines, is the result day campaign occurred in the aftermath, Until December, two of the bells had of a year-long process with veterans as U.S. troops retaliated. More than been located at F.E. Warren Air Force Base organizations and government offi cials. 200 men of the 11th Infantry Regiment in Cheyenne, Wyo., while the third was “Bells mark time, but courage is time- reportedly infl icted heavy casualties on part of C Company’s traveling museum. less,” Mattis said during a briefi ng at the the Filipinos, according to a September Air Force base in November. “It does not 2001 VFW magazine article. U.S. troops RETURN OF THE BELLS fade in history’s dimly lit corridors, nor is ultimately brought bells from the rubble The bells were returned Dec. 11, it forgotten in history’s compost.” of the Church of San Lorenzo de Martir 2018. , U.S. ambassador to back to the United States. the Philippines, said theDave return Rogers, “under- a Gulf War veteranBELLS and AS VFW WAR member, MEMORIALS displays his artwork Since then, the proper location of the scores the enduring at friendship, his studio in Artspace part- PatchoguePvt. Adolph Loft Gamlins. Rogers servedis the commander with the of9th bells has been debated. Some believe they nership and alliance”VFW between Post 2913 in the Patchogue Infantry , N.Y. and, Regiment in addition during to being the an artistattack in should remain in the U.S. as a memorial, U.S. and the Philippines,himself, according has created to an art1901, program and for survived. his fellow veterans. His daughter, Jean PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE ROGERS 34 • VFW • APRIL 2019 LEFT: Soldiers of C Company, 9th Inf. Regt., pose PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEAN WALL with one of the Balangiga bells in the aftermath of an attack that began Sept. 28, 1901, during the Philippine-American War. The bells were brought back to the United States, and the Philippine government has sought their return for years. In December, the bells were returned.

RIGHT: (Above) In November, Philippine Ambassador Jose G. Romualdez and then- Defense Secretary James Mattis convene at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyo., to announce that the Balangiga bells were to be returned to the Philippines. (Below) The Balangiga bells were removed from the base Nov. 15, leaving behind the remains of the memorial that housed the bells.

Wall, has worked since 1998 to make the significance of the bells known to veter- ans. She said there has been an “ongoing controversy” regarding their return. “[The bells] were not taken out of a church, but fell to the ground and were picked up and brought back to the U.S. to keep them from being melted down for gun casings to be used against the U.S.,” Wall said. “They were stored with the 11th Infantry with headquarters in Wyoming at the time. And, for years, when there “They are not given away as an act of within our own Post 2485, District VII was no claim for them, it was decided to goodwill or peace. The only reason and Department of Pacific Areas.” use them as a memorial, and an edifice these bells are an issue is because the While some veterans believe the bells was erected on the base to hold them.” Philippines has made them one.” serve as a memorial to the 9th Infantry, Wall said her goal has been to “chal- Requests for the bells’ return began Wright said a memorial exists at Madison lenge and clear the reputation” of the in 1957, with repeated calls during Bill Barracks in Sackets Harbor, N.Y. men in C Company against claims that Clinton’s presidency and as recent as 2017. “That memorial lists each and every they were attacked because of how they soldier [who] died in the encounter treated native Filipinos. BELLS ARE ‘INTEGRAL’ TO DAILY LIFE on large brass plates embedded in a “Common sense, even without the Dennis Wright, a life member of VFW 40-foot stone tower,” stated Wright, who knowledge I had acquired over the years, Post 2485 in Angeles City, Philippines, served in the Navy for 33 years, including would indicate that these men were so is one of three Navy veterans who felt on the USS Eversole off of Vietnam from outnumbered by native population in and the bells belonged in the Philippines. He 1972-73 and the USS Abraham Lincoln around the area that, without any backup raised awareness of the bells, along with from 1990-1992 during the 1991 Persian support being closer than 50 some miles, VFW life members Dan McKinnon, also Gulf War. it would be pure suicide to use any such of Post 2485, and Brian Buzzell, of Post The bells, according to Wright, tactics in the short time they were there,” 10173 in Delavan, Wis. are an “integral” part of daily life in said Wall, a member of the Bell Research Post 2485 initiated the VFW resolu- the Philippines. Group, which formed to investigate the tion urging the return of the bells that “Returning the bells to the town was Balangiga bells. ultimately was approved at VFW’s the right and honorable thing to do,” Kevin Mason, a member of VFW Post National Convention in Kansas City, Wright said. 1990 in Greeneville, Tenn., wrote a letter Mo., last year. However, Wall questioned whether in 1998 to the grandchildren of Sgt. Frank VFW’s Department of Wyoming invit- the bells “served their mission” to honor Betron, who fought in the Philippine- ed Wright to speak on the subject at its those who perished in 1901 or if they American War. He stated that the bells Mid-Winter Conference last year. were viewed as “just a brick edifice.” represent and honor the “acts of her- “There were 65 in the audience,” “We can only hope in their return they oism” of those who served during the said Wright, whose interest in the bells will be cared for in the same reverence Philippine-American War. began in 2010. “After the presentation, that they have been for over 100 years,” “They are symbols of soldiers for sol- only a dozen opposed. We found this the Wall said. J diers, past and present,” Mason wrote. same everywhere. It was also validated EMAIL [email protected]

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 35 For the fi rst time, Department quartermasters who reached 92 DEPARTMENT percent membership by Jan. 1 were given the option of receiving a Henry QUARTERMASTER Repeating Arms rifl e or a Veterans Travel Service voucher. Nearly 30 INCENTIVE PROGRAM Quartermasters opted for the fi rearm. FIRES OFF BY KARI WILLIAMS

ore than 30 VFW excellent opportunity to recognize these Departments hit 92 per- hard-working professionals for their WHAT IS cent membership by Jan. contributions to our great organization,” ‘92 PERCENT 1. Of those, 28 opted to said Lawrence, who thanked Henry for MEMBERSHIP?’ M Reaching 92 percent receive a rifle from Henry Repeating its contribution to the program. Arms as part of the newest membership- David Williams, Department of membership means that incentive program. quartermaster, said there was a “com- a Department had a Department of Hawaii Quartermaster bined effort” from the beginning of membership total that Norbert Enos was one of those who opted the membership year to reach 92 per- was 92 percent of its for the rifl e. He said Hawaii set its mem- cent. Williams, who served on the USS year-end tally on June bership goal early, even before the early- Guadalcanal off Lebanon in 1983, said 30, 2018. bird incentive program was announced. Maine emphasized convincing members “[The incentive program] made to renew their membership as part of me happy because it was something their efforts. that wasn’t there before for the quarter- As of Feb. 1, 2018, the Department masters,” Enos said, “and the quarter- of Maine had 86.07 percent membership. masters do a lot, and I always emphasize This year, the Department reached 95 to the Post [level to] always recognize percent by Jan. 1. Williams said he opted quartermasters.” to receive the Henry Repeating Arms Enos chose the rifle as his reward rifl e for reaching that goal so he could from the program, noting that he plans have a “keepsake.” to use it for “sportsmanship” with his in- Enos, who served two tours laws. He also said it could be inherited by in Vietnam (1964-65 with the 25th Inf. family “down the road.” Div. and the 4th Inf. Div., as an infantry- VFW Commander-in-Chief B.J. man and mortarman; 1968-69 with the Lawrence developed the Department 119th Light Infantry, as a mortarman), Quartermaster Early Bird Incentive pro- said he hopes the rifl es continue to be gram last year to allow quartermasters an option for quartermasters to earn in an opportunity to earn recognition. the future. “Department quartermasters are an To reach the membership goal, Enos important driving force for our accom- said, membership training occurred plishments and successes,” Lawrence at their convention, which is held the previously told VFW magazine. “I feel it second week in June. Membership also is is important to recognize our Department a focus of council meetings, he said. VFW quartermasters and give them an oppor- leadership also is encouraged to carry “at tunity to participate in an awards pro- least two or more applications in their gram as well.” pockets,” according to Enos. Every Department that reached 92 “We challenge every offi cer from the percent in membership by Jan. 1 was Department and Post level — we chal- given the option of receiving a Henry lenge them to recruit at least a minimum Repeating Arms .30-30 caliber rifl e or a of fi ve [members],” Enos said. “So that’s Veterans Travel Services credit voucher still ongoing.” ✪ of equal value. EMAIL [email protected] “The Henry rifl e award incentive is an

36 • VFW • APRIL 2019

PHOTO BY SUSAN MCSPADDEN SUSAN BY PHOTO

VFW RECRUITERS SHARE TIPS ON INCREASING MEMBERSHIP

ith the end of VFW’s membership year just a had been a veteran for 15 years and no one had ever bothered few months away, the push to achieve 100 per- to ask him to join VFW.” cent in membership is stronger than ever. This Harmon also attends pre- and post-deployment ceremonies for would be the fi rst time in 27 years that VFW Missouri National Guard units. He sets up a booth and hands out W VFW has reached 100 percent. copies of magazine and “I’m so proud of everyone recruiting materials. He trav- who accepted this challenge,” eled to all 13 VFW Districts in VFW Commander-in-Chief B.J. “You don’t have to be Missouri this year to help boost Lawrence said. “Don’t stop now. recruiting efforts with training. Keep the momentum going and a salesman. You just The Navy vet said with ‘Make it Happen.’ ” recruiting, the easy part is ask- Here’s a look at what some have to be passionate ing because the worst that can of VFW’s top Certifi ed National happen is the person says “no.” Recruiters have to say about suc- about what you do.” He said sometimes veterans cessful recruiting. A common have objections or opinions thread among the recruiters is the VFW Certifi ed National Recruiter Mark Short about VFW, but Harmon main- importance of impressing upon tains that it’s best to come back potential members how their with a positive response. numbers will add to the collective VFW voice on Capitol Hill. “I’ve had people curse me up one side and down the other,” he said. “But if you raise your voice or challenge them in some ROBERT HARMON | POST 1831: DE SOTO, MO. way, you will lose them.” Harmon, who joined VFW in 1990, began his recruiting stint Harmon said the most frequent question he gets is, “What’s with VFW in 2006. He has earned the Century Award (recruit- in it for me?” He uses the VFW fact sheet to report all of the ing at least 100 members) four times. The most members he work VFW does for veterans and families and responds with: has recruited in one year is 140. “You may not need us now, but you will.” The Vietnam vet said if he’s at the grocery store or fi lling up Harmon said each person is unique, and recruiters should his car at the gas station, he tries to look for people wearing not assume an older vet is more likely to sign up. In his experi- clothing indicating his or her veteran status. He also looks at ence, some younger vets don’t think they need the VFW, while haircuts, as that often is a clue if someone is active duty. some Vietnam vets remember not being welcome 50 years ago “I once saw a guy with a Fort Knox cap,” Harmon said. “He and decide not to join today’s VFW.

38 • VFW • APRIL 2019 As VFW pushes toward 100 percent in membership, a group of

certi fi ed recruiters off er advice for those struggling to hit the mark. Most agree the easiest part is to “just ask.”

MEMBERSHIP

BY JANIE DYHOUSE

“Always remember that they are veterans first,” said Borland said he feels passionate about VFW and growing the Harmon, who adds that he is 80 percent more likely to sign up organization because he was in the Army for 21 years before he life members than annual memberships. “The common ground really knew about the VFW. is we are all veterans and we shouldn’t differentiate between “No one ever asked me to join,” said Borland, who has annu- continents and decades.” ally recruited 100 or more members for 16 consecutive years. “But it’s that simple. Just ask the question. And never pass up TIM BORLAND | POST 9972: SIERRA VISTA, ARIZ. the opportunity to thank a veteran and to let them know you Borland said it’s important to recruit everywhere you go, even appreciate their service.” the most obscure places, such as a Walmart parking lot. “I am never without an application,” the Iraq War vet said. DENNY CRONER | POST 3886; CALDWELL, IDAHO “Everywhere I go, I have an application. Even if I’m at the For Croner, who joined VFW in 2004, recruiting is all about VFW, I have an application.” assessment. The Vietnam vet said after thanking a vet for his or Twice, Borland has been pulled over for going just over her service, he determines their needs and whether or not the the speed limit. In the fi rst instance, he didn’t get a ticket but vet is eligible for membership. instead signed up the state trooper who pulled him over in The last question he asks is to what Post does the veteran Texas. The second time, Borland used the opportunity to pro- belong — not whether or not he or she is a member. mote VFW, and instead of getting a ticket, he got a promise “No matter what their answer, I have the information to from the sheriff that he would join his Post in Hatch, N.M., as help,” said Croner, who served off the coast of Vietnam in 1973 soon as he had a day off. on the USS . “I can combat any question they come up “No matter where I am or what I’m doing,” Borland said, “I with. That’s why I blueprint them fi rst. Nine out of 10 times, I always recruit for VFW. Always remember, every veteran counts.” get a signature.” He advises recruiters to seek out vets by obvious signs such as Croner said in addition to actively recruiting, it’s important clothing, military license plates or vehicle decals. Approach them for VFW members to be visible in the community as a way of by shaking hands and thank them for their service, he added. promoting the organization. He uses the media to let the com- “I fi nd out where they were stationed and then I can relate munity know about programs such as Voice of Democracy and because I was in the Army for 28 years,” Borland said. “Most jump Patriot’s Pen. right on joining when I tell them what VFW does for veterans.” He wears a VFW cap, a Navy hat or other military-related He fi nds that the two turning points for those unsure about clothing. On both of his vehicles, he has VFW decals. signing up are VFW’s lobbying efforts in the nation’s capital “I am a walking billboard,” Croner said. “When I pull into a and its scholarship programs. gas station, people start talking to me about VFW.”

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 39 Croner believes that all vets from any generation can be recruited as VFW members. All it takes is the ask. “So often, I hear that a vet has never been asked to join,” he said. “That’s the easy part. Just don’t expect Iraq and Afghanistan vets with families to take over the Posts quite yet. Let them know their voice counts, but if they can’t make all the meetings, they are

PHOTO COURTESY OF TIM BORLAND TIM OF COURTESY PHOTO still welcome any time.” TIM WOODS | POST 2423; INDIAN TRAIL, N.C. 1. Woods, who served in the Navy from 1995-2004, including in the aftermath of the USS Cole bombing, admits that he will talk to anyone. “I’m always looking at people wearing an indicator of vet status,” he said. “I look at cars in parking lots and leave my busi- ness card on the window of those cars with stickers. The worst thing anyone can tell you is ‘no.’” Woods likes to emphasize how much VFW fights for veter- ans’ rights and that all vets need to stick together. If a potential recruit asks him the age-old question of, “What’s in it for me?”

PHOTO COURTESY OF DENNY CRONER DENNY OF COURTESY PHOTO Woods asks if the vet used the Post-9/11 GI Bill. “If they say yes, I say, ‘You are welcome. VFW did that,’” he said. “After that they are like, ‘I’m in.’” Woods has found that some vets take longer than others to 2. recruit. He recalled a vet he would speak with every chance he got, always asking him to join. On one occasion, the vet told him he wasn’t going to join because VFW has a bar and he’s not going to a place that has a bar. Woods asked him if ever goes to Applebee’s or Olive Garden because those establishments also have bars. The vet signed up on the spot. “You just have to be quick on your feet with the comeback,” Woods said. PHOTO COURTESY OF TIM WOODS TIM OF COURTESY PHOTO He added that he finds people still prefer paper applications and putting pen to paper. RICK HIGGINS | POST 4039; CRESWELL, ORE. 3. When Higgins recruits, he looks for high-traffic areas such as Walmart and grocery stores. “I try to talk to every single person who walks by,” said Higgins, a Vietnam vet who served with the 1st Cav Division from 1967- 69. “And always ask women, because anyone can be a vet and you don’t want to insult someone. Don’t assume that if you are talk- ing to a married couple that it is the husband who is a vet.” Before Higgins asks someone to join, he engages the vet in conversation to determine eligibility.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RICK HIGGINS RICK OF COURTESY PHOTO “Then it’s simple,” he said. “I simply say, ‘Would you like to join?’ A lot of people say they have never been asked to join.” Higgins noted that the longer you talk to a potential mem- ber without signing the application, the more likely you are to 4. lose them.

1. Certified National Recruiter Tim 2. Denny Croner, of Post 3886 in 3. Recruiter Tim Woods, of Post 4. Certified National Recruiter Borland signs up a few new VFW Caldwell, Idaho, signs up the car 2423 in Indian Trail, N.C., reviews Rick Higgins (right) works a VFW members at the Bataan Memorial salesman who sold him his Dodge VFW membership applications membership booth in 2018. Death March in March 2018 at Challenger Hellcat in 2018. A before sending them on to VFW Higgins, a member of Post 4039 in White Sands Missile Range in New Certified National Recruiter, Croner National Headquarters in Kansas Creswell, Ore., said it’s important Mexico. Borland belongs to Post said he wouldn’t buy the car unless City, Mo., for processing. to promote VFW’s programs when 9972 in Sierra Vista, Ariz. the salesman joined VFW. recruiting.

40 • VFW • APRIL 2019 PHOTO COURTESY OF TIM PETERS “Just get it done,” he emphasized. “Keep it short and quick or you will miss other prospective members walking by.” In addition to promoting VFW programs such as Unmet Needs, he likes to talk up VFW’s work on Capitol Hill. And for those who say they don’t have time, he still pushes for the sig- nature telling them about strength in numbers. “I fi nd that Vietnam vets are hard to sign,” Higgins said. “Many still don’t want to be recognized. I tell them that we need to be there for the younger generation since no one was there for us when we came home. We need to keep advocating for veterans’ rights.” 5. TIM PETERS | POST 10010; EAST HELENA, MONT.

Peters, a 1991 Persian Gulf War vet, said the most important PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK SHORT aspect of recruiting is to get out and just talk to veterans. “Spend the time talking and know what you are talking about in terms of VFW,” said Peters, who served in the Air Force for 20 years. “Most people don’t know what VFW stands for or what we do. Our voice isn’t out there in the communities like it should be. Or they think the wrong thing like smoky bars and war stories.” Peters, the adjutant/quartermaster for the Department of Montana, said it can be harder to recruit younger members since they are often in the midst of raising families. “When you sign up young members, don’t expect them to be 6. active for 10 or 20 years,” he said. “Tell them that’s OK because we need their voice on Capitol Hill, to have strength in numbers. PHOTO BY TARA ARTEGA/VFW Just say, ‘We have meetings every month, and we’d love to have you when you can make it.’” Like other recruiters, Peters said almost half of the people he recruits say they have never been asked to join. He talked to a Vietnam vet in a grocery store who said he had never joined because no one asked. Montana, which was the fi rst VFW Department to reach 100 percent this year, opened two new Posts. One is at Ft. Harrison, which, according to Peters, makes it the only VFW Post on a National Guard base in the world. The second is a Post in Billings, making it the city’s third Post. 7.

MARK SHORT | POST 9400; PHOENIX, ARIZ. PHOTO COURTESY OF LARRY LYONS Short, who served in the 1991 Persian Gulf War with the 1st Infantry Division, joined VFW in 2014 by basically recruiting himself. He walked into a VFW Post and asked for an applica- tion. He was grilled by some of the members sitting around the Post that day and signed up. It was from that point that he started recruiting others simi- lar to his age to get involved at the Post. “You don’t have to be a salesman,” Short said. “You just have to be passionate about what you do. If we don’t let people know 8. what VFW is doing, we will cease to exist.”

5. Certifi ed National Recruiter and 6. Certifi ed National Recruiter Mark 7. Certifi ed National Recruiter 8. Certifi ed National Recruiter Department of Montana Adjutant/ Short (far right) talks to retired Robert Harmon works a Larry Lyons welcomes troops Quartermaster Tim Peters (left ) major general Jim Jackson from membership recruiting booth at in 2018 to K-16 Air Base in signs up a VFW member in 2018 Virginia, with Arizona Department the Department of Missouri’s Mid- Seongnam, South Korea. Lyons at Ft. Harrison, Mont. Peters is a Commander Gene Wood at a Winter Conference in February in is a member of Post 12147 in member of Post 10010 in East Vietnam pinning ceremony at Post Jefferson City, Mo. Seongnam. Helena, Mont. 7968 in Apache Junction, Ariz.

APRIL 2019 • WWW.VFW.ORG • 41 Some of Short’s biggest recruiting successes started at VA LARRY LYONS | POST 12147; SEONGNAM, SOUTH KOREA medical centers and clinics. He recruits at sporting goods Lyons, who served in the Air Force with the 8th Civil stores, gun shows and even at the Post’s Buddy Poppy drives. Engineering Squadron at Kunsan Air Base Korea from 1987- At the gym in which he works out, there are veterans park- 88, has been a VFW recruiter for three years. ing spots. He always places his business card on the cars parked Living in Korea poses certain obstacles for membership recruit- in those spaces, as well as on cars with veterans’ license plates. ing, Lyons said. For instance, it’s more diffi cult to recruit members “I write a note on the back of the card and leave it,” he under age 25 because some are simply not familiar with VFW. said, adding that most don’t call him back. “I get a few calls Nevertheless, Lyons fi nds gaining new members is most suc- from that. It shows that you can recruit anywhere. It’s not cessful while manning a membership booth at the PX food that hard.” court on K-16 Air Base in Seongnam. Short fi nds that the best way to recruit younger vets is to give The location is not as important as organizational knowl- them a purpose. By doing this, he said, it will break the mold of edge, Lyons said. old guys sitting around drinking. “You have to know the product you are selling,” he said. “We have enough programs in the VFW to break the mold,” “That is the VFW, its programs and how they can help.” he said. “But no one is talking about them. Young vets don’t For members of VFW Posts located near military installa- know about these programs.” tions, Lyons suggests adopting units through VFW’s Military Short recalled speaking with an older Vietnam vet who want- Assistance Program. ed to know what VFW would do for him. Short told him that “In Korea, active-duty members account for approximately becoming a member is not about what VFW could do, but what 90 percent of our new annual or new life members each year,” VFW has already done. Lyons said. “But you are not done there. Welcome them to a He told him VFW would continue working for him regardless meeting, get them involved and, by all means, thank them for of his membership. The vet signed up. their service and thank them for helping the Post. This will “It’s time for all VFW members to tell our story and scream lead to renewals of their memberships.” ✪ it from the rooftops,” Short said. EMAIL [email protected]

To see more photos of VFW’s Nati onal Certi fi ed Recruiters in acti on, visit VFW magazine’s Facebook page. While you are there, go ahead and give us a “like.” And if you are a membership recruiter with a surefi re ti p for recruiti ng, let us hear from you on Facebook.

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Although a serious health issue, The veteran said he believes exposure BY JANICE PHELAN early detection and treatment are the to Agent Orange happened during his best ways to beat this often fatal disease. service in Korea and Thailand. VA recog- Smoking is the major risk factor for nizes lung cancer as one of 14 conditions lung cancer. caused by exposure to Agent Orange. “Since we know that smoking has Veterans afflicted qualify for VA treat- been more likely to be part of a veteran’s ment (For more, go to www.va.gov). lifestyle, they are Overall, lung cancer rates have more at risk for decreased 27 percent since peaking in developing lung 1992, Rizzo said, adding that advances cancer,” said Dr. in treatment are continuing. Albert A. Rizzo, “The best way to prevent lung cancer chief medical offi- is to never smoke cigarettes, test your cer at the American home for radon and avoid second-hand Lung Association. smoke,” he said. Early screening It also is possible for lung cancer to through low-dose occur in people with no known risk factors. CT scans is critical “This is due to the fact that lung can- for individuals who cer starts as a genetic mutation in a cell meet age and smok- sometimes triggered by risks or simply ing history criteria, spontaneously,” the doctor added. the doctor added. Treatment for lung cancer includes “When found surgery, usually with early-stage disease, through screening, and traditional chemo or targeted-muta- lung cancer is much tion therapy or immunotherapy and radi- more likely to be in ation for later stage disease, Rizzo said. an early stage (I or “Advances in treatment have been II) and able to be significant over the last 10 years with cured by surgical the development of personalized lung removal,” Rizzo cancer therapy,” he added. “More said. “Five-year survival in this group and more specific mutations are being can be about 56 percent.” identified and drugs aimed at them are Once symptoms are present — cough- being developed. ing, blood spitting, chest pain, recurrent “Another significant impact on bronchitis or pneumonia and weight survival has been the development of loss — lung cancer normally is in a more immunotherapy, in which the body’s “Agent Orange advanced stage, he said. immune system is manipulated to better “Five-year survival overall in this attack tumor cells that are identified by is Roundup on group is usually less than 14 to 15 per- such receptors as PD-1 and PDL-1.” cent,” Rizzo added. Rizzo advises patients and their caregiv- Myron Smuder, an Air Force aircraft ers to stay informed so they can have good steroids.” maintenance crew chief from 1956 discussions with their treatment team. through 1978, was diagnosed with lung “It never hurts to seek a second opin- Myron Smuder, Air Force vet and cancer in 2016 and has undergone sur- ion,” he said. “Patients need to feel like lung cancer patient gery, chemotherapy and radiation. they have explored options. This may The 79-year-old veteran said he is include being considered in a clinical trial doing well and is continuing treatment. of evolving cancer therapy drugs.” J Smuder, who quit smoking more than EMAIL [email protected] 30 years ago, said he believes cigarettes were a contributing factor, although his Janice Phelan is a freelance writer exposure to Agent Orange, a chemical based in LeeÕs Summit, Mo.

44 • VFW • APRIL 2019

MEMBER CORNER MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR VFW Recruiting Korea-Duty Veterans With the current push to hit 100 percent membership for the first time in 27 years, now is a good time for a refresher on recruiting Korea service vets.

BY JANIE DYHOUSE PHOTO BY SGT. MARYAM TREECE/U.S. ARMY

difficult and tense duty shouldered by U.S. troops separating two nations still technically at war. That’s why VFW delegates in 1994 petitioned Congress to amend the organi- zation’s charter, allowing all who served in the “Land of the Morning Calm” to be eligible for VFW. VFW’s requirement for Korea service eligibility is 30 consecutive or 60 noncon- secutive days. On Dec. 2, 2002, the Korea Defense Service Medal (KDSM) became reality when President George W. Bush signed into law the 2003 Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 107-314). The law further stated ince 1995, all members of the that the Department of Defense secretary U.S. armed forces who served will decide an appropriate ending date in Korea have been eligible for for the eligibility period. The KDSM rec- SVFW. One such veteran is VFW ognizes duty in Korea since July 28, 1954 Commander-in-Chief B.J. Lawrence, — the day after the official ending date of PHOTO BY BOB KNUDSEN BOB BY PHOTO who served at Camp Stanley, South the Korean War. Korea, with C Btry., 2nd Bn., 61st Air Based on the law’s estimated number Defense Artillery from the end of 1983 of GIs who served in Korea annually through much of 1984. He worked as a since the end of the war, nearly 2 million crew member on a Chaparral air defense veterans could be eligible for the medal — missile system. and qualify for VFW membership. Likewise, VFW Adjutant General Veterans who meet the criteria to have Kevin Jones logged a tour of duty with the KDSM added to their records can the Air Force at Osan Air Base in South contact the National Personnel Records TOP: Competitors in the Eighth Army Best Korea beginning in December 1986. He Center at (314) 801-0800 to begin the pro- Warrior Competition pull simulated casualties coordinated travel pay and account- cess. A DD-215 (correction to DD Form at Camp Casey, South Korea, on May 14, 2018. ing as a staff sergeant with the 51st 214) will be issued showing the issuance Troops in Korea are eligible for VFW membership. Comptroller Squadron. of the KDSM. Recipients of the Korean Service “It’s important to understand VFW’s BOTTOM: VFW Adjutant General Kevin Jones and Medal (June 27, 1950-July 27, 1954), of eligibility requirements,” Lawrence said. VFW Commander-in-Chief B.J. Lawrence both course, have long been eligible, as have “Be sure to ask questions of potential earned their VFW eligibility in Korea. More than those who earned the Armed Forces members. On the surface, a veteran may 40,000 GIs have served on the Korean Peninsula Expeditionary Medal for service there not appear to qualify for membership, annually since the ceasefire was signed between between 1966-74. when, in fact, they do.” J North and South Korea in July 1953. But VFW has always understood the EMAIL [email protected]

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VETS IN FOCUS INSPIRING PROFILES OF EXTRAORDINARY VETERANS Winter Bike Race is ‘All About the Journey’ An Iraq War veteran survived a 200-mile winter bike race in 2018. He tried it again this year and learned that fi nishing the race is not guaranteed. PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIEL SWEENEY BY KARI WILLIAMS

ir Force veteran Daniel Sweeney has biked 370 miles over the past two years for Aan event that he said brings “peace” to his life. “It’s one of the few things I’ve found that I do that requires 100 percent of [my] attention,” said Sweeney, a two- time participant in Fat Pursuit, a 200- mile winter bike race in Island Park, Idaho. “There’s no outside distractors. Air Force Veteran Daniel And I guess that’s the biggest thing for Sweeney makes his way to me. It brings that focus.” mile 120 of the 200-mile Sweeney served in Kuwait from Fat Pursuit winter bike June 2010 to January 2011 in support of race in 2018 in Island Park, Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 386th Idaho. He completed the Expeditionary Medical Group as a bio- event that year but was environmental engineer. The Air Force forced to drop out at mile veteran placed 13th in the 2018 Fat 172 during the 2019 event. Pursuit event, with a time of 51 hours and 15 minutes. This year, he dropped offered an incentive of sorts during that distance (multi-day, self-supported) out at mile 172. stretch of the route. mountain-bike races, but it wasn’t until “I was more nervous going into the “After about eight hours of pushing a friend competed in a similar race in second race as compared to the fi rst [the bike], one of the race organizers Minnesota that Sweeney considered a time racing it,” Sweeney said. “I base drove up to us in a snowmobile and told winter event more seriously. this on two aspects — one, the forecast- us there was a warming hut about 30 ed snow of nine to 14 inches. [It] turned minutes up and that a treat [a Coke and ‘A GREAT SENSE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT’ out to be more like 24 inches. And two, a Snickers bar] had been left for us,” Going into his fi rst 200-mile winter [I had] greater expectations to fi nish Sweeney said. “That was such a huge bike race, Sweeney faced a “complete and place higher than last year.” morale boost and gave me the energy unknown.” Though he prepared as best to continue.” he could by reading blogs and getting to ‘FINISHING IS NOT A GUARANTEE’ There also was a moment, after know the trails, his biggest fear was get- Though Sweeney said there were “sev- crossing the fi nal mountain pass and ting lost. Second was dressing properly eral” memorable points in the 2019 race, coming through a blizzard, when the to combat the cold weather. the fi rst was missing the cutoff at mile- view was “absolutely spectacular,” Originally, he wanted to complete marker 172 by 40 minutes. according to Sweeney. the race, but by the time he hit the third “I actually got to the checkpoint right “I learned from this race that fi nishing checkpoint and realized he was “in a at the cutoff of 6 p.m., Sunday after- is not a guarantee and that is why people decent place,” his mindset shifted. noon, but the rule is you have to leave attempt these events,” Sweeney said. Completing the 2018 race, for by the cutoff, and I still needed to eat,” “It is all about the journey and enjoying Sweeney, was a “great feeling,” as his Sweeney said. “This was after 54 hours every minute and every mile of the race.” wife and the race promoter were wait- of racing and absolutely no sleep, so [it Sweeney did not fi nd out about Fat ing at the fi nish line. was] rather disappointing.” Pursuit until about two months before “It was just a great sense of accom- Part of the reason for missing the he fi rst competed in 2018. He had pre- plishment,” Sweeney said. J cutoff was that he had to push his bike viously participated in summer ultra- EMAIL [email protected] more than 30 miles through “sometimes waist-deep snow.” ToTo sseeee mmoreore pphotoshotos ooff AAirir FForceorce vveteraneteran DDanielaniel SSweeneyweeney ccompetiompeti n gng That took 14 hours, compared to in Fat Pursuit, visit VFW magazine on Facebook. fi ve hours in 2018. But race organizers

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