Purple Heart M a G a Z I N E September/October 2011

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Purple Heart M a g a z i n e September/October 2011

Medal of Honor Recipient Convention Sergeant First Class Leroy Petry Coverage Life Member Inside

PurpleOfficial Publication of theHeart Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A., Inc. M a g a z i n e tableofcontents Vol. LXXVI, Number 5 September/October 2011

4 National Commander’s Note 6 National Jr. Vice Commander’s Note 7 National Service Officer 8 Editor’s Corner 9 Mail Call 10 Someone You Should Know 14 18 11 Introducing Charlotte Taylor 12 The Surrender at Courtemaggiore Mission Statement 38 14 The Search for a WWII The mission of the Military American Hero Order of the Purple Heart is to foster an environment of goodwill 16 On Being Wounded and camaraderie among Combat Wounded Veterans, promote Patrio- 18 Convention Coverage tism, support necessary legislative Medal of Honor Recipient initiatives, and most importantly, 22 provide service to all veterans and 25 Honoring America’s First their families. Responders MOPH VISION STATEMENT 26 Paws & Stripes “MOPH is to undertake a Pro-Active Representation in all forums of public 27 Purple Heart Statistics opinion that will consistently seek to improve the status and stature of its 29 28 News & Gatherings Veteran Members, their dependents, families and survivors.” 38 Book Review 39 VA Study Acceptance of advertising contained 40 LAMOPH National herein does not imply endorsement nor Sr. Vice President 26 attest to the efficacy of advertised prod- ucts by the Military Order of the Purple 41 LAMOPH National Chaplain Heart or any of its members or staff. 46 Taps Cover photograph courtesy of the 22 White House Press Office

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 3 National Commander’s Note by Bill Hutton

Moving Forward in the “Year of the Volunteer”

he Military Order of the Purple Heart National Convention in St. Paul, Minn., is now behind us and we can continue to move forward to serve our veterans and their families. The overwhelming success of this past convention was due to the hard work of so many Tfrom the Department of Minnesota to the dedication of our headquarters staff, who provided support on all fronts. Many convention attendees do not see the long hours and hard work behind the scenes that transform the venue into a friendly gathering place for our business meetings and social gatherings. Congratulations to the Department of Minnesota for hosting the finest national convention that I have ever attended.

It is now time to roll up our sleeves and get back to events together. We are so much stronger and effective the work for which the 85th Congress chartered us in when we work together as a unified team in support of 1958 as a Veteran’s Service Organization. I sincerely be- our organizational goals. lieve that our organization provides the finest and most I would like to thank PNC Clayton Jones for his guid- professional service to our veteran community without ance and friendship throughout this past year. The man- question. The National Service Director, Frank Van Hoy, tra over the past three years has been “move the Order reports that during the 12 months of FY 2011, our Na- forward with restored integrity and credibility.” The tional Service Officers received a total of 17,940 approved torch has been passed and the flame will not only stay claims from the VA for over $227,632,000 in benefits on lit but, will continue to shine brighter. The member- behalf of our veterans. Compared to last fiscal year, an- ship could not have elected two finer officers than Bruce nual claim submission increased by 23%, new Power of McKenty and Ron Siebels to carry this torch. Both have Attorneys increased by 24% and total dollars recovered demonstrated their passion for service to our country, increased by 13%. our Order and our veterans. I am honored and privileged The management team has declared this to be the to serve with both. “year of the volunteer.” The efforts of our chapters and In closing, may I express how grateful I am to the mem- departments in assisting veterans are nothing short bership for their confidence in electing me as the National of incredible. As I traveled to chapter and department Commander. Thank you all for your service and may God events, I observed the compassion shown by our mem- watch over those members of our military in harm’s way. bers toward our heroes past and present. Both MOPH For those who lost a loved one this past year, our prayers and Ladies Auxiliary members attended many of these are with you. U

MOPH new chapters as of June 30, 2011 Charter Date Region Dept Chapter Chapter Name Location Organizer

6/30/2011 6 TX 0867 Brazoria County Angleton, TX Sonya T. Broadway

4 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine© ISSN: 0279-0653 September/October 2011 Official Publication of the MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART OF THE U.S.A., Inc. Chartered by Act of Congress

Russell Smith, Editor Lollo Schnittger Nylen, Production Manager Jeff Tamarkin, Copy Editor E-mail: [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONS, CHANGE OF ADDRESS, REPORT OF MEMBERS DEATH: Contact MOPH National Headquarters at 5413-B Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151; Phone (703) 642-5360; Fax (703) 642-1841, (703) 642-2054; Email: [email protected].

NEWS, PHOTOS, EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS and CORRESPONDENCE: The Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A., Inc. (MOPH) is comprised of combat-wounded veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal by the Government of the United States. Purple Heart Magazine is the official publication of the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A., Inc., a Congressionally chartered national veterans organization. Copyright 2011 by Military Order of the Purple Heart, Inc. All rights reserved. The cost of a subscription to Purple Heart Magazine is included in the membership dues paid by members. Rates for non-members in the United States and its possessions are $15 per year (6 issues) or $3 per single issue; in other countries, $25 per year, which includes postage. Published bi-monthly.

POSTMASTER: Please send change of address information to: Purple Heart Magazine, 5413-B Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151. Postage for periodical mailing of Purple Heart Magazine is paid at Springfield, VA and at additional mailing offices.

NATIONAL OFFICERS 2011-2012

NATIONAL COMMANDER COMMANDER – REGION VI JUDGE ADVOCATE CHAPLAIN PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE WILLIAM HUTTON (SUE) ROBERT PUSKAR (DOTTIE) DANIEL J. MURPHY (KAREN) STANLEY J. BEACH (ELLEN) CHAIRMAN 3106 RIKKARD DRIVE 5600 EAST SANNA STREET P.O. BOX 321 5320 ROYAL STUART COURT NICK MCINTOSH THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91362 PARADISE VALLEY, AZ 85253- RIVERHEAD, NY 11901 LEESBURG, FL 34748 4112 CHAPEL LANE CELL: (805) 405-0452 1756 OFC: (631) 852-2395 RES: (352) 365-2406 NEW ALBANY, IN 47150-9611 [email protected] RES: (480) 922-3161 CELL: (516) 810-7564 [email protected] RES: (812) 944-3562 CELL: (480) 363-0140 [email protected] [email protected] SENIOR VICE COMMANDER [email protected] AMERICANISM OFFICER/ BRUCE MCKENTY (FRANCINE) INSPECTOR PURPLE HEART TRAIL/ CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS 10216 89TH AVE SW NATIONAL ADJUTANT DAVID BOWMAN (MARTHA) NATIONAL HISTORIAN COORDINATOR LAKEWOOD, WA 98498-3812 JACK LEONARD (SHEILA) P.O. BOX 1715 JAMES J. KLUG (STEPHANIE) EARL SCOTTY MACKENZIE CELL: (253) 209-3166 5413-B BACKLICK RD. CARMEL, IN 46082 329 GRAND VIEW DRIVE 4107 WEATHERTOP AVE [email protected] SPRINGFIELD, VA 22151-3960 CELL (317) 525-8852 ASHLAND, OR 97520 CHEYENNE, WY 82001 OFC: (703) 642-5360 [email protected] RES: (541) 482-1398 CELL: (307) 631-8372 JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER FAX: (703) 642-1841 [email protected] [email protected] RON SIEBELS (ELAINE) [email protected] SERGEANT-AT-ARMS 1945 NO. SALEM DRIVE KEN SWORDS (SHERRY) SURGEON SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE ANCHORAGE, AK 99508-5180 NATIONAL SERVICE DIRECTOR 2826 SAPPHIRE CT DR. KENNETH K. LEE (KATE) CHAIRMAN RES: (907) 562-4254 FRANK VAN HOY (CINDY) TALLAHASSEE, FL 32309 715 TALON TRAIL DR. ALEX WAIGANDT (MARTI) [email protected] 5413-B BACKLICK RD. RES: (850) 309-1846 BROOKFIELD, WI 53045 13 HILL HALL SPRINGFIELD, VA 22151-3960 [email protected] RES: (262) 794-0133 UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI COMMANDER – REGION I OFC: (703) 354-2140 OFC: (414) 384-2000 X 41288 COLUMBIA, MO 65211 PATRICK LITTLE [email protected] DEPUTY SERGEANT-AT-ARMS [email protected] OFF: (573) 882-4741 345 CARLISLE DRIVE JAMES L. HALL CELL: (573) 639-6969 AVONDALE, PA 19311 LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR 1925 STATE ROUTE 8 VAVS DIRECTOR [email protected] RES: (610) 268-1621 HERSHEL GOBER (MARY LOU) COLD BROOK, NY 13324-2003 DEL “BULLDOG” TURNER (ANN) CELL: (302) 521-1196 5413-C BACKLICK RD. RES: (315) 826-7371 104 SHIMMER POND COURT PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER [email protected] SPRINGFIELD, VA 22151 [email protected] MADISON, AL 35757-7751 HARRY SMART (DOE) CELL: (202) 550-2491 RES: (256) 837-3474 5059 CREEKMOOR DRIVE COMMANDER – REGION II [email protected] PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR FAX: (256) 837-3474 (call first so SAN ANTONIO, TX 78220-4903 RICHARD CHERONE (BARB) JOHN E. BIRCHER III (CAROL) he can hook it up) RES: (210) 648-4529 12880 WIMBLEDON DRIVE FINANCE OFFICER 6001 SPINNAKER LOOP [email protected] [email protected] NEW BERLIN, WI 53151 BOYD BARCLAY (JUDY) LADY LAKE, FL 32159 RES: (262) 786-9663 820 N. E. 63RD RES: (352)-753-5535 VIOLA CHAIRMAN LAMOPH PRESIDENT CELL: (414) 916-7858 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73105-6442 CELL:(352)-250-9555 GARY KINSER (KATHY) BARB CHERONE (RICK) [email protected] OFC: (405) 842-1971 [email protected] 7899 ALDEN WAY 12880 WIMBLEDON DRIVE FAX: (405) 842-1972 FRIDLEY, MN 55432-2408 NEW BERLIN, WI 53151 COMMANDER – REGION III CELL: (405) 517-6826 EDITOR – Purple Heart Magazine RES: (763) 574-9678 RES: (262) 786-9663 ROBERT HALTINER (KAREN) [email protected] RUSSELL SMITH (JANIE) CELL: (763) 242-6621 [email protected] 19138 BEDFORD DRIVE 8900 Oakmont Valley Drive OFFICE: (651) 290-0624 OREGON CITY, OR 97045-4263 MOPH CFO Oklahoma City, OK 73131-7257 FAX: (651) 290-0624 RES: (503) 657-7085 DAVID AHEE (LAURA) CELL: (405) 625-4507 [email protected] CELL: (503) 704-3483 5413-B BACKLICK ROAD [email protected] [email protected] SPRINGFIELD, VA 22151-3960 HOMELESS VETERANS’ OFC: (703) 642-5360 WELFARE OFFICER COORDINATOR COMMANDER – REGION IV [email protected] JIM CASTI (HELEN) JAMES LOGSDON WILLIAM EVERETT (JACQUIE) 2214 PARK AVE 422 E 650 N 5727 BUCK WARD RD FINANCE COMMITTEE P.O. BOX 639 ATTICA, IN 47918 BAKER, FL 32531 CHAIRMAN NEWPORT, NC 28570-9649 RES: (765) 762-3937 RES: (850) 537-8553 DENNIS WALLOT (GAIL) RES: (252) 223-5951 OFC: (918) 453-0838 CELL: (850) 902-3193 2066 SO. WAYNE ROAD [email protected] CELL: (765) 426-2560 [email protected] WESTLAND, MI 48186-5428 [email protected] RES: (734) 595-6571 ROTC OFFICER COMMANDER – REGION V OFC: (734) 595-6040 ROGER NEWALL (MARTHA) POW/MIA COORDINATOR FEDERICO REY (ELAINE) [email protected] 9712 ARVILLA AVENUE NE ART BISHOP (ELLEN) 4903 TRANSIT CIRCLE ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87111-4741 2910 AMERICAN RIVER DRIVE AUSTIN, TX 78727-5144 CELL: (505) 610-1533 SACRAMENTO, CA 95864-7123 RES: (512) 339-8034 [email protected] RES: (916) 359-2910 CELL:( 512) 567-6862 CELL (916) 600-0625 [email protected] [email protected] National Jr. Vice Commander’s Note by Ron Siebels

New Jr. Vice Commander’s Three-Point Focus

he 2011-2012 national elections have occurred and I want to take this opportunity to convey my personal thanks for the tremendous support I received during the election process. My agenda at this stage centers on three things. First, I plan to be in full support of those Tgoals set by our National Commander and our National Sr. Vice Commander. I am fully convinced that they will consistently employ their leadership skills in the best interest of the MOPH and I see more good days ahead for our membership. Second, as I have in the past, I plan to continue assisting all who seek my help to achieve the goals that will benefit the entire order. Third, I plan to

learn more about certain details of the MOPH that are Purple Heart Trail (PHT) system. You can learn more often unseen at the region, department and chapter lev- about the PHT system in each state/territory by visiting el. I opine that all knowledge is good knowledge if used the MOPH website home page. When there click on Pro- productively for the benefit of others. I believe strongly grams > Purple Heart Trail. Our members have worked hard in the MOPH and all that we do to assist veterans and to add miles to the PHT system and success is apparent in their families. legislation that has been passed. As I write this, even more During my travels this past year I learned even more PHT additions are in progress and I feel confident that we about the noteworthy accomplishments that are occur- will see continued results in the coming year. I encourage ring under the radar of most members. The numerous all region and department commanders to become better Americanism reports that I received reflect great things informed about the PHT system in your areas and I stand taking place all across this free and patriotic nation. Those ready to assist all who have the desire to add miles to the reports are proof that our veterans, our returning service National PHT system. We also have Purple Heart bridges, members and their families are being cared for by the de- Purple Heart parks and Purple Heart pathways. Of special voted efforts of our members and families. interest is that we have three Purple Heart cities. They are One of the ways to spark interest and present Purple Richland Center, Wisc.; Dunedin, Fla. and Aguadilla, P.R. Heart and MOPH visibility to the general public is the Stay tuned—more may be on the horizon. U

MOPH Membership Top Recruiters as of June 30, 2011 Member Chapter Dept No Recruited National Service Officer State No Recruited

6 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 National Service Officer by Casey Matuszak

In the last two years several articles appeared concerning Thereafter each year, the NSO must VA healthcare and benefits.E ach of them ended with the statement attend annual training and submit that the MOPH National Service Officer (NSO) in your area has quarterly reports of all additional additional information. But we never discussed who is an NSO training. The median experience level of MOPH NSOs is 3 ½ years. and what they do. Let’s do it, but first a little background. What do MOPH NSOs do? A little bit of everything! Their day may The passage of Public Law 85- by 40 Administrative Assistants. In begin with filing a claim for com- 761 in August 26, 1958 allowed addition, there are three individu- pensation. Next they may assist a MOPH to be chartered as a corpo- als working in Washington, D.C. veteran to see a VA physician, or dis- ration. MOPH’s corporate charter reviewing claims at the VA Board of cuss with a VA staff member an un- has eight objectives, one of which is Veterans Appeals. Patriot Van Hoy favorable VA decision. NSOs repre- “giving needed hospital and service has a staff of four at headquarters sent veterans at hearings before VA work through its Veterans Admin- in Springfield, Va., supporting the Law Judges. They discuss VA ben- istration certified service offices.” program. MOPH NSOs have a pres- efits with active duty personnel or a Though MOPH had a service pro- ence at 48 VA Regional Offices, 23 veteran’s dependents. They answer gram with service officers, the char- VA Medical Centers or clinics, five questions concerning VA benefits. If ter officially began what is now the military bases, three VA Vet Centers they don’t have an answer they know National Service Program. and one field office (Guam). where to find it. But they do more The National Service Program Who is an MOPH NSO? For an than file papers. They listen to the has grown from its modest begin- NSO to represent a claimant for VA veteran who needs someone to hear ning to a substantial organization benefits, VA must accredit him/her. his problems, even though they may within MOPH. Though separate For an NSO to earn that recogni- not be solvable. They are there when from the membership, it is con- tion, the MOPH National Service a vet just wants to vent his anger at trolled by the National Commander Director must certify that the NSO the VA for denying his claim. NSOs and funded by the MOPH Service is of good character and reputation are there when they tell a widow that Foundation. The National Service and has demonstrated an ability to she is not entitled to her husband’s Director is Patriot Frank Van Hoy. represent claimants before VA. The VA check or that the veteran’s claim As of June he had a staff of 140 indi- NSO receives in the first year over for an in-service injury will never be viduals. This number consists of six 50 hours of classroom training, approved due to lost records. What- Regional Field supervisors with 87 several hundred hours of on-the- ever the issue, the MOPH NSO is National Service Officers supported job training and pass a written test. there to assist. U

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 7 Editor’s Corner by Russell Smith

Send Us Your Stories

ur LAMOPH Region I President, Janice Null, has been ill and has recovered nicely. Unable to write Region I’s annual LAMOPH article, she asked us to remind members that the Region OI Conference is October 1 and more information will be forwarded soon. We had a great convention in St. Paul, Minn. Our mag- Even if you are late, send them in anyway. U azine has been increased to 48 pages beginning with this issue. LAMOPH regional presidents now have the op- Submissions are due on the first of tion of writing articles once a year. The length of articles each even numbered month: for the national leaders, regional commanders and presi- Sep/Oct is due August 1 dents in the MOPH and LAMOPH has been increased. Nov/Dec is due October 1 An article schedule has been emailed to all MOPH and Jan/Feb is due December 1 LAMOPH leaders. Mar/Apr is due February 1 All members should continue to send us stories, ar- May/June is due April 1 ticles, and “News and Gatherings.” At right is a chart July/Aug is due June 1 showing the deadlines for submissions for each issue.

8 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 Mail Call

Congratulations on the I think the enemy spotters saw what I was doing and “Forever” Purple Heart Stamp soon, one artillery piece began firing at me. The first three My congratulations to you and all our members for all or four rounds went over my head but they were coming the work you/we did over the past several years to con- closer and then I got it. The next thing I knew I was being vince the Postal Service to make the Purple Heart stamp served ice cream on a Navy hospital ship. That is where I permanent. I can’t tell you how many versions I have, was given my Purple Heart. with different amounts on them, lying in my postage Love that Navy! drawer. Now the stamp is forever, just like the wounds we Jeb Stuart Lord, Jr. “earned” in combat. CORRECTION Good job, well done! Boot to boot! On page 24 of the May/June issue Angela Robin- Jay Snyder, Life Member Harrisburg, PA son was identified as a Life Member of LAMOPH. C Co 1/12 (abn) 1st Cav Div, 65-66 She is an Associate Life Member.

Note: Past National Commander and National Finance Officer Boyd Barclay began this fight many years ago and was instrumental in the successful issuance of this Purple Heart Forever Stamp. We all are deeply indebted to Boyd for his tenacity and commitment. Bill Hutton

Love that Navy! I graduated from Pleasant Hill High School in Pleasant Hill, La., in June 1943. After talking about it with my bud- dy, A. D. Ross, we joined the United States Marine Corps in November at 17 and were soon off to San Diego to go through boot camp. Then it was training at Camp Elliot in the care and use of the 30 cal. light machine gun. Next I found myself with the First Marine Division in the Russell Islands on the island of Pavuvu. Soon we were off to take the island of Peleliu in combat. The invasion was rough but I made it through OK. I was in Charlie Co., 1st Battalion, 7th Marines. An officer came by us on the front line and asked if any of us had light machine gun training. I told him that I did and I was placed on a gun that was already set up. Apparently the team before me had been wounded and no one was there to help so I set to work building a parapet of broken coral. You couldn’t dig a hole there for it was all coral. There were a lot of bomb and shell holes.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 9 Someone You Should Know By Russell Smith

After calling home at a phone center, Wooten was rocked by a massive explosion. He recalls seeing a white flash, feeling heat on his face, and being rocked by a shockwave from the 82 mm rocket’s impact. The force of the explosion knocked him off his feet. He returned home in March 2005, and for the next three years he experienced many of the symptoms common in a Trau- matic Brain Injury, including ringing in his ears, head- aches, insomnia, depression, hearing loss, etc. In 2008, or Zacariah S. Wooten, April 12, 2004 doctors at his local VA Hospital confirmed he had sus- started off as a typical day, but wouldn’t tained a moderate TBI. remain that way for long. In September Wooten’s National Guard supervisor recommended F2003, the Washington National Guard him for an award of the Purple Heart Medal. According conducted its largest mobilization since World to Wooten the Washington National Guard’s military War II, deploying 4,000 soldiers to serve in awards branch denied his Purple Heart three times before Operation Iraqi Freedom II (OIF II). Wooten’s Patriot Wooten was finally recognized for this invisible unit deployed to Logistics Support Area (LSA) wound. Wooten said, “After suffering with the effects of Anaconda near Balad, Iraq. Spread over 15 square my injuries for so long, my family and I have finally re- miles, it was one of the largest American military ceived some closure.” Patriot Wooten is a life member of bases in Iraq. Chapter 0012 in Seattle, Wash. U

10 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 Introducing Charlotte Taylor An NSO Who Values Service By Casey Matuszak

n this issue there is an article about the MOPH National Service Program and its National Service Officers (NSOs). ILet’s take some time to learn about one in particular. In Region IV at the VA Regional the working of the Columbia VA Offices in Columbia S.C., is Re- Regional Office. Though she is tired U.S. Army medic of 21 years still new to the VA world, she en- Charlotte Taylor. Charlotte came joys doing the necessary research to MOPH in November 2010. She to insure that her veterans’ claims was well qualified for her position are properly researched and de- Service Program is judged by the as an NSO due to her background veloped before presenting them type and nature of the claims filed. as a medic with its emphasis on to the VA. Being an NSO does have ups medical terminology as well as Charlotte’s pleasant demeanor and downs. Charlotte enjoyed as- human anatomy and physiology made an immediate impression sisting the 85-year-old widow of and being a Veterans Employment as she quickly established an ex- a Vietnam veteran by getting her Specialist for the Department of cellent rapport with VA Staff. This claim for death benefits within Labor. But what made her stand has been beneficial to her clients 90 days. She definitely delighted out above the other candidates for in their claims as she speaks freely in notifying a veteran that he was that position was her caring atti- with the VA decision makers at getting a retroactive benefit of tude and desire to serve her fellow the Regional Office. Nevertheless, $172,000 for his Agent Orange veterans. These were the essential Charlotte doesn’t allow that close heart condition. But she wasn’t qualifications that Lee Holmes, relationship with VA to affect her keen on telling a destitute veteran MOPH Regional Field Supervisor, responsibilities as a veteran’s ad- that his claim for a disability due felt was needed for an NSO. vocate. She aggressively supports to VA hospital negligence would Charlotte was replacing a sea- and defends her veterans in their not succeed. soned NSO in Columbia who claims for VA benefits. On the If you walked into her office to- resigned to work for the VA. The other hand, she will tell a veteran day and asked her why she is do- office was considered one of the that his claim is without merit ing this, Charlotte’s answer would busier ones in the region. With or is frivolous. She is aware that be “To serve my fellow veterans the support and training from her she is walking a fine line in these and to make a difference in peo- supervisor and the other NSOs situations as VA and MOPH will ple’s lives.” Is she different than within the region, Charlotte hit cancel an NSO’s accreditation to the other 86 MOPH NSOs? Her the deck running. She quickly represent veterans if they file frivo- background may be but that desire learned the VA claim procedures, lous claims. An NSO’s reputation to help and serve our veterans is necessary computer systems and and that of the MOPH National the same in all MOPH NSOs. U

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 11 Eleventh Hour… The Surrender at Courtemaggiore By John L. Hergenroeder, Sr. Life Member, Chapter 5, Sanford, N.C.

y first combat duty was with “K” Company of the 133rd Infantry, 34th Division at the Anzio Beachhead. The 34th Division of the Iowa National Guard had been overseas Mfor four years with some GIs being rotated to the States for 30 days leave. When the war ended the positions that carried stripes were the first to go back to the States for discharge. I was fortunate; being an assistant to the supply sergeant in “A” Company I advanced to become First Battalion’s Supply Sergeant and advanced to become Regimental Supply Sergeant within six weeks.

Bob Byrd was from Virginia; he was about 26. We were moved through the field. As I started to the rear to take both in “K” Company at Anzio. Due to a decision to cut cover the shells kept landing about 15 feet behind me. I back each company to the proper size, in accordance with was hit with shrapnel in my left shoulder by the third shell. the Table of Organization for an infantry company, Bob and I hollered for Byrd but got no answer. I managed to get I ended up in a training company called “R” Company. We back to the rear and was picked up by Battalion Medics on became friends over the weeks prior to the breakout at An- a Jeep and carried to the Battalion Aid Station. From there zio on May 23, 1944. We were experienced combat infantry- I was evacuated to the rear of the Anzio Beachhead where, men designated to take the place of casualties as needed. at about midnight, I was operated on during an air raid. As we moved up to the front Within a couple of days I got we stopped in a ditch where Lieu- my first airplane ride to Naples tenant Puritan came along, taking and the 45th General Hospital. names for “A” Company, while a After my wound healed I spent sergeant was taking names for “C” time in a reconditioning camp and Company. The lieutenant assigned eventually rejoined “A” Company me to “A” Company, while Bob was in the area of Florence around assigned to “C” Company by the September 1. I asked Robin Cham- sergeant. Bob asked if he could go to “A” Company with ness, our mail clerk, whether we had a fellow by the name me and Lieutenant Puritan agreed. of Bob Byrd in our outfit; he checked his records and ad- The next day, May 27, 1944, we were in an area wait- vised that Bob Byrd was killed on May 27, the day I was ing to move forward in support of the rest of our battal- wounded. I regret but don’t forget that a man once made a ion, which was committed. Four 88mm shells came and choice that cost him his life for being my friend. bracketed the grassy field to our front. Shortly, we moved April 27, 1945 is not significant, but the end of the war out into the grassy field when the four guns that landed in Italy was near. I endured two-plus years in the service the shells produced a rolling barrage. We could see the including 18 months in combat. The million-dollar wound shells landing to our left where there were several tanks, I received at Anzio healed and the company commander and then the shells started to come through the field in blessed me with duty in the kitchen area of Supply. Red the front of us. We were in the path of the barrage as we Medlin, the Artificer (a helper to the Supply Sergeant), had

12 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 been drinking too much and Chick Carachilo, the supply sergeant, needed help. At about 0200 hours someone woke me and told me to grab plenty of ammo and a weapon and be ready to move out. They mustered a crew of cooks, clerks, Jeep drivers and anybody from the kitchen area. We loaded on three six-by-sixes like corn in a bushel basket and took off for a place called Courtemaggiore. Our Second Battalion was reportedly in a trap. Captain Dubinski, of Cherleroi, Penn., who headed up the Ser- vice Company motor pool, was our CO. He had not seen a day of combat and asked for anyone who was a rifle- man to take the lead as a scout. Another fellow and I were volunteered because most of the recruited troops lacked combat experience. We went through the town with a tank in the lead. When we got to the town’s outskirts the tank parked to give us supporting fire. As we left the town we came to a wide-open field with a clear field of fire for about 500 yards. In the distance at the back of the field was a tree line similar to one you might see along a creek bed. I began to sweat as we entered the area, thinking that I made it this far and now I was going to get one right in the middle of the forehead. My fears were allayed as a white flag came into sight. I hollered to my fellow scout that I would take the right flank and he should take the left flank in anticipation of trouble; none occurred. A German officer insisted that he must surrender to an officer. That was no problem. We captured 444 Germans. As we took them to the rear, I counted cadence in German: “eins, zwei, drei, vier.” That’s all the German I knew. We obtained plenty of souvenirs. I got three pistols, three watches, an Iron Cross, a German Purple Heart, a Russian Front Service Medal, a German Good Conduct Medal, a pair of binoculars and 55 bucks in Italian mon- ey. No shots were fired; the group was dubbed “J” Com- pany for the jaybirds we were. We were thankful for the way it turned out and even more thankful when we think of how it may have turned out. U

Patriot Hergenroeder published a book in 2009 titled Herkys History. Limited copies are available for $10 including postage.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 13 Private Corrado A.G. Piccoli (1943)

CPT Zachariah L. Fike with Medal at PVT Piccoli’s gravesite The Search for a WWII American Hero Private Corrado A. G. Piccoli By John E. Bircher III, MOPH Public Affairs

hile Joyce Fike was Christmas shopping for her son, Vermont Army National Guard Capt. WZachariah L. Fike, she discovered a WWII medal in an antique shop that she thought would make the perfect gift for her son. But this wasn’t just any medal; it was a Purple Heart medal, which she purchased for $100. Inside the box with the medal was a dog tag with the same name as was engraved on the back of the medal, Corrado A.G. Piccoli, below the words “For Military Merit.”

A life member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart cal and national archives for the name and service number and an avid military memorabilia collector, Captain Fike engraved on the dog tag. He learned that Corrado Piccoli himself had received a Purple Heart after being wounded had been born in Italy in 1923 and immigrated to Water- in a rocket attack in Afghanistan on Sept. 11, 2010. Ac- town, N.Y. with his parents, Bernardino and Vincenza, at cording to Fike, “This is a special medal that definitely the age of 3. Fighting for his adopted country, Bernardino needs to go back to the family.” His mother’s gift was the Piccoli was himself a veteran of WWI. Corrado enlisted in start of what would be a year-long obsession to discover the Army in January 1943, and soon thereafter was shipped what had happened to U.S. Army Private Corrado Piccoli, overseas to fight in Europe with Company H, 180th In- and to possibly find a family member to whom he could fantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, which fought in return the medal. Anzio and Southern France. In August, he proudly wrote With the aid of the Internet, Fike began researching lo- his parents that he had visited his birth country. Only

14 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart and other honors belonging to the late Pvt. Corrado A.G. Piccoli

Capt. Fike presents the Purple Heart to his siblings, Gathering of the Piccoli family at the presentation ceremony from left, Adeline Rockko, Mary Piccoli, Margherita Larmon, and Natalino Piccoli two months later, a telegram from the War Department al, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Mid- informed the Piccolis that their son had gone missing on dle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, October 7. A few days later, a second message confirmed WWII Victory Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert he had been killed in action in Fremifontaine, France. Marksman’s Badge and the Honorable Service Lapel Pin. Fike’s research revealed that the Piccoli family had lived Also in the case is an original 48 Star Flag that was passed at 321 High St. and that he had six brothers and sisters, over Corrado’s grave. but he was unable to find any siblings or relatives still liv- On Saturday, more than 50 family members from ing in Watertown. Believing he may have been Catholic, across the country gathered for a family reunion, during Fike succeeded in finding Pvt. Piccoli’s grave in a family which Capt. Fike was made an honorary member of the plot in Watertown’s Glenwood Cemetery, the cemetery for Piccoli family. In a moving presentation, Capt. Fike shared the local parish. Finally, a story in the Watertown Daily his research and the story of Pvt. Piccoli with the family, as Times resulted in the discovery of a living sister, Mary he read a letter Pvt. Piccoli wrote in 1943 about his experi- Piccoli. When Fike contacted her, she was excited to learn ence in basic training. Mrs. Rockko, one of the sisters, and about Fike’s quest, and was surprised when told about the her brother Natalino Piccoli, shared some of their favorite find. “My parents hung on to that Purple Heart for dear childhood stories of Pvt. Piccoli, including when he taught life because that was all they had left of my brother,” Mary Mrs. Rockko English; their first language was Italian. Mrs. said. “I thought my other brother, Nat, in Baldwinsville, Rockko said she “will be forever grateful to Capt. Fike for had it, since he’s the only other male in the family.” She simply doing the right thing in giving the medal back to said she and her siblings have no idea how the medal fell the family,” to which Capt. Pike replied that “it was the out of family hands. only option.” To help preserve Pvt. Piccoli’s wartime hon- On Sunday, August 7, 2011, which is appropriately ors, his siblings handed over the collection of medals to “National Purple Heart Day,” a small piece of Pvt. Cor- the Italian-American Civic Association on Sunday to be rado Piccoli was returned to his family. The Purple Heart displayed in the club’s meeting area. medal, along with his other honors, was returned to his Capt. Fike asked just one favor of the Piccoli family four surviving siblings during a celebration at the Water- members and others in attendance—not to be sad, but to town Italian-American Civic Association. Capt. Fike pre- be proud that Pvt. Piccoli gave his life for his country. “Ask sented the family with a special display case that included yourself how you can thank a veteran, past or present,” the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Good Conduct Med- Capt. Fike said. “These simple gestures go a long way.” U

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 15 On Being Wounded by George Baker, IV

ike so many veterans I am fortunate to have a family of my back. It felt like being hit with a history that includes generations of military service. The year baseball bat. It also paralyzed me from before I went to Vietnam, my twin brother, Jerry, served a year the waist down. I thought I had been in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne. My mom lost her brother, hit with a hand grenade and that my L legs were blown off. I continued to fire a Marine killed in the New Georgia Islands, July 1943. My dad lost his brother in Normandy, an Army lieutenant with the 4th Division with my M-16 but it jammed with a double feed. I lost consciousness. near St. Mere Elise, France, July 1944. Both of my grandfathers were Some time elapsed and I was star- officers and served in France. My dad’s father received a Silver Star and tled awake. The feeling returned to my Purple Heart. He was burned with mustard gas in the Meuse Argonne legs. I crawled over to my assistant forest campaign. On my mother’s side, her grandfather fought in the gunner and I turned him over to see Indian wars and his diary is on display at the Little Big Horn Center. if he was alive. As I was in a flexed po- He was not with Custer on that fateful day. I have a great grandfather sition stretching my arms over him, I that received the Medal of Honor in the 1880s for taking a captured felt a gunshot wound to the right side Union hospital from the Confederates in Missouri in 1864. of my back. I felt warm blood flowing down into my pants. I took my shirt off On February 20, 1968, during the shot and carried out on stretchers. I and discovered two holes in my shirt. Tet Offensive, I was wounded twice was with the third squad and we im- Both the gunner and assistant gunner in the same day. My unit, C company mediately provided covering fire. We were dead. Smoke was everywhere and 1st Battalion. 28th Infantry, 1st Infan- were firing high because the second the bark was flying off trees from being try Division, was flown by helicopter squad was pinned in the crossfire and hit by bullets. I looked around and saw from Quan Loi near the Cambodian because the NVA was in the trees. I was that several other soldiers were dead. border to Ton Sun Nhut air base, near the ammo bearer along with the as- Due to our medics being wounded I Saigon. Our mission was to conduct sistant gunner and gunner on a three- knew no one was going to help me and military defensive actions and guard man M-60 machine gun team. I thought I was going to bleed to death. the airfield against the NVA (North As we maneuvered for a better firing I started crawling in the water away Vietnamese Army). My unit was un- position my gunner was shot twice. As from the kill zone. My right arm was aware that the Tet New Year offensive the assistant gunner went to help him, painful to move and I didn’t know that had been underway since January he was also shot. The assistant gun- the bullet traveled through my back, 30th. While on patrol, I could see mili- ner had a purple smoke grenade. One under my scapula and into my right tary and civilian planes. I was an Army of the bullets went through him and arm without exiting. Someone yelled Specialist 4th Class (SP4). the smoke grenade. We were envel- and I went underwater. I was afraid My platoon was in the lead position oped in a cloud of purple smoke and that when I came up I would be shot in on patrol. At about 11:00 in the morn- the opened can was burning his neck. the head. I made my amends with God ing our leading 1st squad (11 men) We were pinned down in waist deep and surfaced; no one was there. I con- walked into an ambush. Our platoon water. As I pulled my assistant gunner tinued crawling and managed to crawl leader and most of the first squad were out of the line of fire a 40mm rocket over a small berm. There I found the killed. Our second squad was hit and slammed into a tree behind me and a fourth and fifth squad hiding; no one pinned down in the kill zone. Two of large piece of shrapnel went through was telling them to move up! I tried our medics rushed to help but were my canvas pack and into the left side to talk to them but I was in shock and

16 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 had no voice. I started crawling into bed, on my back, hoping table next to me, a Viet- the open rice paddy. I looked up and that direct pressure from namese mother giving saw one of our point dogs, a German the table would stop the birth! I woke up three shepherd, running toward me. When bleeding. I awoke again days later and my arm felt he got within 10 feet of me he was shot and knew I had to get out- cold. The nurse was giv- and fell over beside me. There must side. I couldn’t sit up but George Baker ing me another pint of re- have been some NVA moving in on our rolled off the table onto frigerated blood. I looked right flank. The enemy hated our dogs. the floor. As I straightened up I saw the around and there were two medics and The dog saved my life because I was wooden bed covered with my blood. a few other soldiers in my room. We just going to stand up and walk a few There was a drape by the door. I tore it pieced everything that happened to- steps. Instead they shot the dog and it down so I could use it to signal for help. gether. The doctor came in and told me served as a warning to me. As I staggered out the door I noticed I had two wounds in my back. He re- I heard mortars go off in the distant a small clear stream next to the hooch. I moved the shell fragment, but couldn’t rear and they exploded around me. was so thirsty; I knelt down and drank find the bullet. It was in my upper arm. Every time one exploded I was lifted two gulps. I gagged and looked down; The hospital I was in was mortared; off the ground. One piece of shrapnel the stream was mud, the consistence they put us under the bed. When I was flew past my head into the mud and of pudding! What a mirage! I crawled on the tarmac awaiting a plane to Ja- smoke came out of the hole it made. I out into the open and spread out the pan, I was strapped in a litter while the knew this was friendly fire but I didn’t curtain. I collapsed. Time went by and airfield was mortared. The 249th Hos- know who was directing it. The NVA I saw a bubble-shaped helicopter with pital in Japan was overflowing. All the at our flank retreated. I knew I had to two pilots in it. They were close enough wounded, including the amputees and walk to cover the open ground faster. to see me. I think they were circling the officers, were in the same ward. When I stood up, walked three or four steps, battle as an observation helicopter. I I eventually arrived at Letterman Hos- collapsed and passed out. I never felt didn’t have the strength to wave but pital at the Presidio of San Francisco it the ground. It was like passing out on kept my eyes on them as they pulled up was overcrowded. They discovered the cotton. I repeated this several times. and flew out of sight. mystery bullet in my right arm. After Once, I awoke staring at the corpse I saw the helicopter coming from two months in the hospital I finished of a fellow soldier. He was face down where it disappeared. It came closer my enlistment at Fort Ord. It was there in water and had an odd white color. and landed in front me. There was only I was awarded my first Purple Heart. I managed to cover 30 yards of open one pilot. The reason he left was to Seventeen soldiers from my platoon ground. I saw a hooch with a small make room for me. I staggered and fell were killed that day and 17 wounded. barbed wire fence around it, maybe to into the helicopter. We flew directly to Thirty-four years later, through my keep pigs in. As I stepped over the wire a nearby evacuation field hospital. The medical records and the help of the I became entangled, fell and passed medics immediately started working county veterans office, I proved I was out again. When I awoke my arms on me. I was trying to tell them to send wounded by two different projectiles, were bleeding from the wire. help but couldn’t talk. I was crying but a shell fragment and a bullet. I also had After I got free from the wire I man- had no tears. My veins had collapsed to prove there was a significant time be- aged to go inside the hooch. I saw a and it was difficult to get intravenous tween wounds. I was awarded the Pur- large raised table; I guessed it was a fluids started. They flew me to another ple Heart with Oak leaf cluster, 34 years Vietnamese bed. I was tired and in field hospital. As they rushed me into later. I am grateful I made it back, if only shock. I decided to roll on top of the the field tent I saw, on the operating to tell the story for those who didn’t. U

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 17 2011 NATIONAL CONVENTION

I now know why men who have been to war yearn to reunite. Not to tell stories or look at old pictures. Not to laugh or weep. Comrades gather because they long to be with the men who once acted at their best; men who suffered and sacrificed, who suffered and were stripped of their humanity. I did not pick these men. They were delivered by fate and the military. But I know them in a way I know no other men. I have never given anyone such trust. They

were willing to guard something more precious than my life. They would have u g an d jo hn b i rch e r carried my reputation to the end, the memory of me. It was part of the bargain we all made, the reason we were so willing to die for one another. As long as I have memory, I will think of them all every day. I am sure that when I leave this world, my last thought will be of my family and my comrades . . . such good men!”

Author Unknown Excerpt from pgs 225-26, Boy Sergeant, a Young Soldier’s Story of Vietnam By Doug Warden, Ch 568, Oklahoma City o graph s fr m c nv e nt io n b y j am es k l ph o t

18 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 2011 NATIONAL CONVENTION

2011-2012 National Commander Bill Hutton & LAMOPH President Barb Cherone

The Bombshells LAMOPH 2011-2012 Leadership Team

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 19 2011 NATIONAL CONVENTION

Faces of the Convention

20 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 2011 NATIONAL CONVENTION

2011 LT Michael Murphy Scholarship Recipient

Dan Murphy, Brian and Mrs. Kolfage

One of the perquisites of the 2011 convention was the wonderful treatment of our members by St. Paul’s businesses and residents. For example, at the Wild Tymes Sports Bar and Grill, two of our members, Sergio Morales and Jose Rivera from the Department of the Caribbean, were treated to a wonderful evening of live blues, microbrewery beer, appetizers and dinner by Fritz Rabens, the building owner where Wild Tymes is located. In gratitude, the two Vietnam veterans returned with a few more MOPH con- ventioneers the next evening and presented Wild Tymes with a patriotic banner. Mr. Rabens hung L to R: Rueben Pratts, Sergio it in a prominent location with pride. One regular Morales, John “Chopper” Black, customer, John “Chopper” Black, is a Vietnam Fritz Rabens, Jesse Torres and veteran and Silver Star recipient. He shared with Jose Rivera his fellow veterans that he only recently attended his first reunion with his unit from Vietnam. “You guys were sent here for a reason,” he said. “I really needed this.” We all needed it, Chopper, we all did. Jose Rivera and Sergio Morales Special thanks to the owner of Wild Tymes, John enjoying a cold one at Wild Tymes McDonough, and the incredible bartenders and wait staff. If you are in St. Paul, theW ild Tymes Sports Bar and Grill is located at 33 7th Pl., W. Saint Paul, MN 55102 and their website is www.wildtymes.net

Building owner Fritz Rabens hangs his new banner prominently at “Wild Tymes Sports Bar and Grill”

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 21 Staff Sgt. Leroy Petry on a mission in Afghanistan

President Obama presents SFC Petry with Medal of Honor

Paktya, Afghanistan. The helicopter assault force was committed to execute a rare daylight raid to accomplish the mission based on the high value of the target and its fleet- ing nature. Soldiers and helicopter assets were exposed to unusual risk by landing within small arms range of enemy forces. On May 26, 2008, the assault force began to clear Army Sgt. the objective area. Petry’s task was to locate himself with the platoon headquarters in the target building once it Leroy Arthur Petry was secured and serve as the senior Non-Commissioned Receives at that site for the remainder of the operation. Recognizing one of the assault squads needed assis- Medal of Honor tance clearing their assigned building, Petry relayed to the Platoon Leader that he was moving to the squad to provide additional supervision during the clearance of the ergeant First Class (SFC) Leroy building. Once the residential portion of the building was Arthur Petry, United States Army, was cleared, Petry took a member of the assault squad, PFC nominated for the Medal of Honor for Lucas Robinson, to clear the outer courtyard knowing it his actions during a firefight in Afghani- had not been cleared during the initial clearance. Both stan as a Staff Sergeant (SSG) in the 2nd Rangers moved into an area of the compound that con- Ranger Battalion. Upon his Medal of tained at least three armed enemy fighters. Petry and PFC SHonor presentation ceremony on July 12, 2011 he became Robinson entered the courtyard and immediately to their the second living recipient since the Vietnam War. front was an opening followed by a small chicken coop. SFC Petry was born July 29, 1979, in Santa Fe, N.M. As they moved to cross the open area before the chicken SFC Petry and his wife Ashley have four children. Petry coop, an enemy insurgent accurately engaged them with enlisted in the Army in September 1999. He attended AK-47 fire from an approximate range of 10 meters. Petry Basic Training, Advanced Individual Training, Airborne, was wounded by one round, which went through both of and Ranger School at Fort Benning, Ga. On the morn- his legs, and PFC Robinson was hit in his side plate by a ing of the September 11, 2001 he was training to become separate round. While wounded and under accurate en- a Ranger. emy fire, Petry led Robinson to the cover of the chicken Then-SSG Petry was a member of a Ranger helicopter coop. The enemy continued to deliver accurate sustained assault force conducting a daylight raid in the vicinity of fire in the vicinity of the chicken coop as Petry rapidly as-

22 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 sessed the situation and reported enemy contact and that their wounds. While Higgins was evaluating the severity there were two wounded Rangers in the courtyard of the of their wounds, an insurgent threw a grenade over the primary target building. chicken coop at the three Rangers. The grenade landed ap- Upon hearing the report of two wounded Rangers, proximately 10 meters from the Rangers, knocked them Sgt. Daniel Higgins, a team leader, immediately moved to the ground, wounding Higgins and Robinson. to the outer courtyard. As Higgins was moving to Petry’s Shortly after the grenade exploded, SSG James Roberts and Robinson’s position, Petry threw a thermobaric gre- and SPC Christopher Gathercole entered the courtyard nade in the vicinity of the enemy position. Shortly after moving towards the contact. Petry, Higgins, and Robinson the grenade exploded, which created a lull in the enemy were still grouped together on the side of the chicken coop fire, Higgins arrived at their position and began assessing when another grenade landed a few feet from Higgins and

Medal of Honor Official Citation The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, March 3, 1863, has awarded in the name of Congress the Medal of Honor to Staff Sergeant Leroy A. Petry United States Army SFC Petry describes the battle

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity then landed only a few feet away from them. In- at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: stantly realizing the danger, Staff Sergeant Petry, Staff Sergeant Leroy A. Petry distinguished him- unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his self by acts of gallantry and intrepidity at the risk safety, deliberately and selflessly moved forward, of his life above and beyond the call of duty in picked up the grenade, and in an effort to clear the action with an armed enemy in the vicinity of Pak- immediate threat, threw the grenade away from tya Province, Afghanistan, on May 26, 2008. As his fellow Rangers. As he was releasing the gre- a Weapons Squad Leader with D Company, 2nd nade it detonated, amputating his right hand at the Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Staff Sergeant wrist and further injuring him with multiple shrap- Petry moved to clear the courtyard of a house nel wounds. Although picking up and throwing the that potentially contained high-value combatants. live grenade grievously wounded Staff Sergeant While crossing the courtyard, Staff Sergeant Petry Petry, his gallant act undeniably saved his fellow and another Ranger were engaged and wounded Rangers from being severely wounded or killed. by automatic weapons fire from enemy fighters. Despite the severity of his wounds, Staff Sergeant Still under enemy fire, and wounded in both legs, Petry continued to maintain the presence of mind Staff Sergeant Petry led the other Ranger to cover. to place a tourniquet on his right wrist before com- He then reported the situation and engaged the municating the situation by radio in order to coor- enemy with a hand grenade, providing suppres- dinate support for himself and his fellow wounded sion as another Ranger moved to his position. The Rangers. Staff Sergeant Petry’s extraordinary hero- enemy quickly responded by maneuvering closer ism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the and throwing grenades. The first grenade explosion highest traditions of military service, and reflect knocked his two fellow Rangers to the ground and great credit upon himself, 75th Ranger Regiment, wounded both with shrapnel. A second grenade and the United States Army.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 23 Army Medical Center in Fort Hood, Tex. He now uses a prosthetic in place 7008 Little River Turnpike P.O. Box 49 of his right arm. On the prosthetic is Annandale, VA 22003 a small plaque listing the names of (703) 256-6139 the fallen Rangers of his regiment. President SFC Petry reenlists After recovering, Petry did not seek James M. Blaylock a medical discharge; he remained in P.O. Box 308 Tucker, GA 30085 Robinson. Recognizing the threat the Army, and had a deployment to 1st Vice President that the enemy grenade posed to his Afghanistan. He has had eight com- R. Louis Spinelli fellow Rangers, Petry secured the bat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. 17 Seventh Street live enemy grenade and consciously SFC Petry received the Medal New Brunswick, NJ 08901 threw it away from his fellow Rang- of Honor from President Barack Vice President James Durkin ers despite his own wounds and with Obama on July 12, 2011 in a cer- 42 Whitebark Lane complete disregard for emony at the White Bluffton, SC 29909 his personal safety. As House. He is the sec- Treasurer William A. Wroolie Petry released the gre- ond living recipient of 1111 Lakeview Lane nade toward the enemy, the medal, for actions Brainerd, MN 56401 it detonated and cata- occurring after the Secretary strophically amputated Petry’s Vietnam War, and the ninth Al Silvano 20 Lady’s Walk right hand. With a clear mind, recipient for actions in Iraq Lady’s Island, SC 29907 Petry assessed his wound and or Afghanistan. SSG Giunta, DIRECTORS quickly placed a tourniquet on the first, was in attendance Frank A. Athanason his right arm. Once this was at the ceremony. 7217 Veneto Drive complete he reported that he Petry is currently stationed Boynton Beach, FL 33437 Robert (Bob) E. Gaylord was still in contact and that he had at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, 5610 Tilia Court been wounded again. Roberts began Wash., where he assists injured Burke, VA 22015 to fire at the enemy, suppressing the Rangers. In 2010, he re-enlisted in John L. Hammel enemy in the courtyard. An addition- the Army for an indefinite term of 2752 Lake Forest Park Dr. Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 al enemy on the east end of the court- service. As of July 2011, Petry is at- Joseph R. Hems yard fired, fatally wounding Gather- tending Pierce College. He is a life 1271 Stockton Drive cole. Higgins and Robinson returned member of MOPH Chapter 407 in North Brunswick, NJ 08902 fire, killing the enemy. Lakewood, WA. RUSSELL SMITH Michael J. McNelly 905 16th Street, N.W. They were then joined by SFC Washington, DC 20006 Jerod Staidle, the Platoon Sgt., and James D. Randles SPC Gary Depriest, a medic. Direct- 344 Brookshire Drive ing the medic to treat Gathercole, Lilburn, GA 30047 Jeffrey Roy Petry was assisted by Staidle and PO Box 414 Higgins to the casualty collection Longmont, CO 80502 point. He was evacuated to a U.S. Frederick A. Taylor, Jr. hospital in Germany, where he spent 4213 Raccoon Loop New Port Richey, FL 34653 several weeks in recovery before be- Louis C. Tebbe ing transferred to Carl R. Darnall SFC Petry with Secretary of Defense Panetta P.O. Box 976 Gaylord, MI 49734

24 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 HONORING AMERICA’S FIRST RESPONDERS By John E. Bircher III and Harry C. Smart ver since the first police officers were hired recover the dead, in- to protect the citizens of Boston in 1712, police offi- cluding 343 firefight- cers in every local community and across the coun- ers and paramedics, Etry have dedicated their lives to protect and serve 23 NYC police offi- our nation’s citizens. In 1865, the New York State Legisla- cers, 37 Port Author- ture, recognizing that frequent and devastating fires were a ity policemen, and growing danger to a growing city full of wooden buildings, eight private EMTs established the Metropolitan Fire Department, the city’s and paramedics. Charleston First Responder Awards first professional fire fighting force. Today, professional and To recognize the volunteer firefighters alike devote their lives to saving lives, service and sacrifice of our brave police officers and fire- saving property and protecting the environment. fighters, the Military Order of the Purple Heart established While the brave and patriotic men and women of our an award for First Responders in 2005. Under the super- Armed Forces dedicate their lives to the defense of our coun- vision of our National Public Safety Officer, Harry Smart, try during times of war, the men and women of our federal, this program has expanded greatly. Today, each chapter and state, county and local police and fire departments equally department of the Order has a First Responder Coordina- lay their lives on the line on tor whose duty is to monitor for and report to the National a daily basis to protect and HQ whenever a Public Safety Officer is injured or killed serve their communities. in the line of duty. In turn, the MOPH will recognize the Unfortunately, few of individual or his surviving family with a special First Re- us give thought to the sponder Memorial Plaque. dangers of these honor- Since the inception of the program, the Military Order able and selfless profes- of the Purple Heart has presented 180 First Responder sions, assuming that Memorial Plaques, usually in small, quiet ceremonies with Philadelphia First Responder Awards such danger was just the the families in their hometown. In the past several years, normal byproduct of a a number of larger recognition ceremonies have also been chosen career. An occasional news article might report the held, including one in Charleston, S.C. when the families results of a devastating fire or the occurrence of a crime, of eight firefighters who lost their lives trying to extin- with the mention of the loss of life by a policeman or fire- guish a fire that ravaged a furniture store were presented man almost as an afterthought. with plaques. In April 2009, the families of five police of- Then, on September 11, 2001, our whole outlook on ficers and two firefighters were recognized in Philadelphia, the service of these brave men and women changed. The Penn., and earlier this year in Minneapolis, Minn., a cer- heroic dedication and accomplishments of the police emony was held to honor both law enforcement officers and firefighters in New York City, Washington, D.C. and and firefighters who had been killed in the line of duty.U Shanksville, Penn., made us all aware and appreciative of the dangers inherent to their service and sacrifice. On that For information about the MOPH First Responder day, and in the days immediately following, 2974 persons Program, contact: Harry C. Smart, Public Safety Coordinator, (210) 648-4529, lost their lives as a result of the Al-Qaeda attacks on our [email protected] Or nation. As the country mobilized to recover from this dev- National Public Relations Director, John Bircher, 352-753-5535 astating attack, we learned that 411 emergency workers had Email: [email protected] Web: www.purpleheart.org also given their lives while trying to assist the injured and

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 25 Helping Dogs, Helping Heroes By MG (ret) Frank J. Schober Former Adjutant General State of California

aws and Stripes is a program that helps wounded veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress and Trau- matic Brain Injuries to regain trust in themselves Pand others with the help of a trained shelter dog. The soldiers, airmen and Marines I interviewed for this article were, no less than their fathers and grandfathers of America’s past wars, reluctant to speak about any medals Purple Heart recipients with their assistance dogs or decorations they may have been awarded. The most that try, shell-shock, battle fatigue or Post-Traumatic Stress Dis- one Purple Heart veteran and MOPG member in the Paws order was poorly understood and usually treated wrongly. and Stripes program would allow was a picture of himself The U.S. Armed Forces have come only recently to the view and his dog for this article. Only with some difficulty did that PTSD existed at all. There were no staff psychiatrists he agree to a caption identifying himself as a recipient of in Army field hospitals until relatively late in World War II. the Purple Heart. The wars our young men and women are engaged in Paws and Stripes is not the usual assistance dog pro- today are different than any in our history because of road- gram in which the client is given a dog already trained to side bombs, suicide bombers (the insurgents’ weapons of live and work with. choice in Iraq and Afghanistan) and the constant pressure In this novel program, the veteran with PTSD or Trau- on service members and their families of deployment after matic Brain Injury (TBI) goes with a trainer to the local deployment to combat areas overseas. shelter and together they pick a dog that the veteran likes Sebastian Junger, the author of what are perhaps the and the trainer certifies as trainable. most definitive works thus far written or produced on the A recent graduate of the Paws and Stripes program, a global war on terror, the book War and the prize-winning New Mexico National Guardsman who suffers from PTSD documentary Restrepo, makes a telling point in both the and is back home from his latest deployment in Afghani- book and the film: Men endanger themselves in combat stan, had this to say: “When I got back in town and went not for the stated political objectives of their countries into any place with crowds of people, walked down an aisle that have sent them to some far-flung battlefield but rath- in Wal-Mart or even stood around having a beer with my er for each other and for the small unit that has become a buddies at a bar, although I didn’t want to, I felt pretty tense family like none other they have ever experienced. and nervous. I wondered, who is the guy with his back Coming back home is often a terrible transition in turned over there and what is he doing? Now that I have which the war-fighter feels ripped from a comfort zone of my dog, he gives me the ‘OK to stay’ sign, ‘the guy’s OK’ trust and placed in what he may consider an uncaring and sign and sometimes the ‘let’s get out of this place’ sign.” value-less civilian organization. Paws and Stripes is prov- Another graduate of the program I talked to said, “I feel ing to be a successful program that helps our fighting men different now that I’ve got her (my dog) by my side. We and women adjust to life back home. U have been together from the time I saw her in the cage at the shelter and the trainer I was with said, ‘We can work For more information contact: with her. She can train with you. Let’s get her and go.’” PAWS AND STRIPES, Helping Dogs, Helping Heroes Purple Heart veterans of the wars of this and the last P.O. Box 46253 Rio Rancho, New Mexico, Ph: 505-999-1201 century may recall that in their days of service to our coun- www.PawsandStripes.org

26 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 Purplep Heart Statistics How many Purple Heart recipients are members of the MOPH? MOPH Statistics: World War II Members 10,973 Korean War Members 4,886 Vietnam Members 23,987 War on Terrorism 4,406 Female Members (Including Associate) 92 _____ TOTAL: 44,344 How many servicemen and servicewomen have received the Purple Heart Medal? History reveals that 250,000 doughboys were eligible for the Purple Heart decoration as a result of Gen. MacArthur’s decision to create the Purple Heart medal in 1932 and allow retroactive awards. World War II saw close to 300,000 combat deaths and 650,000 military members wounded in action—nearly one million recipients of the Purple Heart. Next, the Korean War resulted in nearly 137,000 Purple Hearts awarded (33,600 killed in action and 103,000 wounded in action).

With the advent of the Vietnam War, again Purple Heart medals were awarded to American servicemembers who died or were wounded in battle. Over 200,000 Purple Hearts were given to military members or their next of kin (47,000 combat deaths, 153,000 wounded in action).

Since the Persian Gulf War, followed by the global war on terrorism, almost 50,000 Purple Heart medals have been awarded to servicemembers. Of these, over 35,400 went to military members who were wounded or killed in Iraq or their next of kin, and another 12,500 in Afghanistan.

It is difficult to fathom that since Gen. George Washington established the Purple Heart decoration on August 7, 1782, over 1.6 million Purple Heart medals have been awarded to members of the United States military. Today we have more than 500,000 living veterans who are Purple Heart recipients. War I: 257,404 1 War II: 962,403 Korea: 137,023 Vietnam: 200,737 Persian Gulf: 615 Afghanistan: 12,534 * Iraq: 35,411 * New Dawn: 169 * War on Terrorism Sub-Total: 48,729

Total Estimated: 1,606,296

NOTE 1: Estimates only. Battlefield awards and incomplete records; 1974 fire in St. Louis repository. * War on Terrorism statistics as of May 13, 2011

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 27 News & Gatherings

rizona Ladies Auxiliary Member Ashley Santillan Agraduated this summer from the Marine Corps Devil Pups at Camp Pendleton, California. She is the 14-year-old daughter of Pa- triot John R. Tapia, Ph.D., Chapter 608. There were 327 Devil Pups recruits with just 75 girls selected to attend this rigorous youth citi- zenship and leadership development encampment at Camp Pend- leton, Calif. for 10 days. Ashley’s all-girl sixth platoon came in first place and received the “Honor Platoon” award. The Devil Pups Mission Statement is: “To challenge, educate and help young boys and girls of all backgrounds to learn self-confidence and responsibility for their actions.” Visit www.devilpups. com for more information.

The Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 was selected as the MOPH Department of Florida 2010-11 Chap- ter of the Year at the Department’s State Convention in Punta Gorda, Fla. Associate member Mari-Elain Ebitz was 2010-11 Dept. Associate Member of the Year.

L to R: Richard Hunt; James Holland, Ray Michael; Pat Michael; Joe McClister; Marie Raymond; Mari-Elain Ebitz; Curt Ebitz; Ann Fair; Don Schroeder; Gail Smith and Phil Pasay

On July 20, John Cooney, Vice President, Hot Springs Village, Ark. Property Owners Association, read a proclamation designat- ing August 7, 2011 as “Purple Heart Day.” Left to right: John Cooney, Chapter 0783 members Jim Grant, Jim Gruenewald, Wilfred Jackson, Tom Vaughn and Lawrence Sack.

28 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 News & Gatherings

Dedication of a Veterans Monu- ment, Cascade, Idaho On August 6, 2011, at Kelly’s Whitewater Park in Cascade Idaho, a veterans’ monument was unveiled. The large-scale statue is a portrait of Army Specialist John G. Borbonus, who was 19 when he was killed guarding a U.S. Patrol Base in Baghdad, Iraq in 2007. SPC Borbonus shot the driver of dump truck filled with explosives as it raced toward the patrol base. The Idaho man was killed in the explosion but his heroic actions protected the lives of many U.S. soldiers. Lena Toritch of Salt Lake City, Utah created the sculpture, ou ng f i n e art s t udio

Dakota Meyer, a United States Ma- rine Corps veteran, has been approved to receive the Medal of Honor. In Octo- ber 2010, the Marine Corps nominated him for his actions during the Battle of Ganjgal on September 8, 2009, part of Op- eration Enduring Freedom in Kunar province, Afghan- istan. a date for the presentation is pending. Judy Shiver, President of Unit 566 LAMOPH, being presented with a check for $500 from Nancy Wyatt, right, of the Farmers Opry in Pace, Fla. The Farm- ers Opry hosted a Purple Heart/Veterans Special on July 2, 2011.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 29 News & Gatherings

Wounded Warriors in Action: Fly Fishing for Musky in Wisconsin By John Bircher, MOPH Public Relations Tim Spence and Jason Stewart with Musky hat could be better than drifting down the his two WWIA associates, Tim Spence and Jake Whip- WChippewa River on a warm, cloudless day, casting key (both OIF/OEF Purple Heart recipients), six other your fly into the cold, clear, spring-fed waters in search of wounded warriors from around the country, Ranger Tom the ultimate fresh-water game fish, the Wisconsin Musky? Schenk from Chippewa Custom Rods, and Brad Bohen Well, according to the eight Purple Heart recipients who and his crew of guides from Musky Country Outfitters, participated in the 2011 Wounded Warriors in Action all converged on the Lenroot Lodge and Sawmill Saloon (WWIA) Summer Musky Classic, “It just doesn’t get any in Seeley, Wis., for two days of fun, fishing, fellowship better than this, especially when you’re fishing with other and tall-tale swapping. Making up the group of OIF/OEF wounded warriors.” wounded warriors were Adam Neville, Matt Martinez, The brainchild of John McDaniel, a retired U.S. Army Adam Frahm, Tyson Scott and Lyle Spurgeon. Bringing Lieutenant Colonel, Ranger and a selfless and dedicated up the rear, and representing the Military Order of the American Patriot, the Musky fly fishing adventure is but Purple Heart Service Foundation (MOPHSF), was John one of myriad world-class outdoor hunting and fishing Bircher, a Vietnam-era Purple Heart recipient.

Adam Frahm and Matt Martinez Tyson Scott and Adam Neville sporting opportunities provided throughout the United When asked why he is so committed to WWIA, Mc- States by WWIA, tailored specifically for our nation’s com- Daniel said, “I see a crucial need for mental and spiritual bat wounded heroes. Established in 2007, the Wounded healing in the combat wounded veteran population, and Warriors in Action Foundation (WWIA) is a national I’ve seen how sporting activities in the great outdoors can 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, headquartered in meet this need.” WWIA connects Purple Heart recipients Apollo Beach Fla., and dedicated to serving our nation’s with American sportsmen, to provide world-class sport- combat wounded, Purple Heart recipients. Other WWIA ing events. WWIA has served over 100 Purple Heart re- events include hunts for wild boars, elk, alligators, ducks, cipients to date. “These sportsmen feel compelled to give deer and turkey and fishing for bass, tarpon and salmon. back to these service members who have given so much,” For this particular event, on June 23-24, McDaniel and said McDaniel, an avid sportsman himself.

30 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 News & Gatherings

In early 2011, the MOPHSF provided a generous grant to WWIA to support their operations. At the time, MOPHSF Board President Jim Blaylock stated, “WWIA’s mission to bring together combat wounded warriors to participate in outdoor activities and experience the camaraderie of Purple Heart recipients is a cause we encourage and are honored to be part of.” MOPH National Commander Clayton Jones added, “The MOPH is proud to support the programs of- fered by the Wounded Warriors in Action, like the Musky fishing tournament, because they not only honor the ser- “The WWIA Crew” outside the Sawmill Saloon vice and sacrifice of our wounded service members, but they provide an opportunity for them to experience the For further information about WWIA or to apply to participate wonderful outdoor activities in this great land that they in upcoming events, see: www.woundedwarriorsinaction.org might not otherwise be able to enjoy.” or call John McDaniel at 888-308-WWIA (9942) For information about the MOPHSF, see www.mophsf.org The WWIA Summer Musky Classic is also made pos- or call Tempie Thompson at 703-635-3531 sible thanks to the support of Musky Country Outfit- For information about the MOPH, see www.purpleheart.org ters, a fly fishing guide service from northern Wisconsin. or call John Bircher at 352-753-5535 Musky Country Outfitters is dedicated to offering anglers For information about Musky Country Outfitters or to the chance to experience the vast resources of the north book your own trip, see: www.muskycountryoutfitters.com woods under the guidance of seasoned professionals. Tom or call Brad Bohen at 715-558-2937 Schenk, a close friend and former Ranger with McDan- For information about the Lenroot Lodge, Sawmill Saloon or Moose Lips Java Joint, see: www.seeleywis.com or call iel, now makes custom fly rods and also helps guide the Cindy Ferraro at 715-634-7007 wounded warriors.

NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE AWARDS FOR BEST NEWSLETTERS The national PublicationS Committee is very interested in the Department and Chapter Newsletters. Awards for the best in several categories are given at the National Convention each year including best story and best photo. To qualify, each Department and Chapter must submit at least one hard copy (through the postal service) of their newsletter to each Committee member listed below by June 1 of the current convention year. It would be a good idea if the Committee members were added to your circulations’ list during the year. Remember, the Committee members must receive one hard copy of your newsletter regardless how many electronic newsletter you send to them.

NICK MCINTOSH NEIL VAN ESS LEROY SCHUFF CHRISTOPHER SMRT WILLIAM HUTTON (Chairman & 1-year (2-year Member) (3-year Member) (4-year Member ) (Ex-Officio with vote) Member) P.O. Box 665 742 Millbrook Drive 1304 Tycoon Way National Commander 4112 Chapel Lane Totowa, NJ 07511 Neenah, WI 54956-1289 Louisville, KY 40213 3106 Rikkard Drive New Albany, IN 47150- C: 973.930.3079 H: (920) 725-2780 C: (502) 639.9655 Thousand Oaks, CA 9611 O: 973.790.8926 [email protected] [email protected] 91362 H: 812.944.3562 [email protected] C: 805.405.0452 [email protected]; [email protected] [email protected]

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 31 News & Gatherings

n Friday, August 6th, National OCommander Clayton Jones, assisted by Patriots Thomas and Scott, and Service Officer Horrell, presented a special recognition plaque to the Mount Vernon (MO) VA Outpatient Clinic Director, Dr. Kime. The plaque represents a small token of ap- preciation from the Military Order of the Purple Heart for the outstanding efforts by the staff at this AV clinic.

L to R: MOPH National Commander Clayton Jones, Chapter 621 Cdr. Randy Thomas, Adjutant Ted Scott, MOPH Service Officer Mark Horrell, Mt Vernon VA Clinic Director Dr. R. Kime and Head Nurse Hemphill

Patriots of Chapter 2001 Honored as Grand Marshalls in Redding, Calif. with the banner proclaim- May 21-23, 2011—Dept. of ing their names Washington Patriots handed out MOPH literature at “The Trail of Honor, a Trib- ute to American Veterans” with help from the local. Left to right: Hilda Faye Powell, Vanessa and Benny Duett, Thomas Powell On May 14, officers of Chapter 2001, Redding, Calif., were honored as the Grand Marshalls of the Annual Rodeo Day Parade. Eight Purple Heart Recipients from WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Af- ghanistan were honored. The USMC Mounted color guard from Marine Corps Logistics base, Barstow, Ca- lif., led the parade. The horses are Palominos, rescued by the Bureau of Land Management, saddle-trained, Patriots of Chapter 2001 with the Marine NCOs then turned over to the Marines. that make up the USMC Mounted Color Guard

32 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 News & Gatherings

VA Expands Outreach to Women Veterans Department Hosts 5th National Summit in D.C.

Over 700 participants attended the Fifth Na- services to meet their needs.” tional Summit on Women Veterans’ Issues July 16-17 Today, over 200,000 women are serving in the at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill. Sec- armed forces. About 11 percent of the U.S. forces cur- retary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki gave remarks rently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq are women. to open the summit, which focused on expanding out- Recognizing the valor, service and sacrifice of America’s reach to women veterans and increasing awareness 1.7 million women veterans, VA has stepped up its out- of the enhanced VA benefits and services available to reach efforts to women veterans to in- them. “With more women serving in our armed forc- crease their awareness of the comes than ever before, this summit is an opportunity to prehensive array of VA benefits exchange ideas and focus attention on the issues and and programs. Women veter- concerns unique to women veterans,” Shinseki said. ans are entitled to the same “Today, there are over 1.8 million women veterans of benefits and medical care all eras and one of VA’s highest priorities is to continue as their male counterparts, to expand our services and outreach to ensure they re- including health care, dis- ceive the care and benefits they have earned.” ability compensation, edu- This is the first time VA will provide targeted train- cation assistance, working, education and collaborative cross training for its study allowance, vocational staff responsible for providing services and benefits rehabilitation, employment specifically to women veterans and their families. Par- and counseling services, in- ticipants include women veterans, women veteran surance, home loan benefits, advocates from across the nation, active duty women nursing home care, survivor ben-

service members (to include those in the Reserves and efits and various burial benefits. Being in the military is an Rudi Wi ll i am s National Guard), VA employees who provide care to In addition, VA also has a honor,” said Maj. Ladda “Tammy” Duckworth of women veterans, and representatives from a multi- multitude of gender specific the Illinois Army National tude of veterans service organizations and nonprofit services and programs that Guard, who lost her leg agencies. VA Medical Centers employ women veterans respond to the unique needs when an insurgent’s rocket-propelled grenade program managers; community-based outpatient clin- of women veterans, including slammed into her Black ics employ a women’s liaison; and VA regional offices pap smears, mammography, Hawk helicopter. employ a women veterans coordinator. general reproductive health “The number of women veterans using VA health care, counseling for substance care has doubled in the last decade,” said Patricia abuse, sexual trauma, depression and evaluation Hayes, chief consultant of VA’s Women Veterans and treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Health Strategic Health Care Group. “This training, (PTSD). For more information about VA visit the coupled with direct feedback from women veterans, website at www.va.gov and its Center for Women will enable VA to continue to enhance health care and Veterans at www.va.gov/womenvet.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 33 News & Gatherings

Fort Sam Houston Medical Training Facility Named for Christopher “Doc” Anderson Story by Navy Recruiting District Denver Public Affairs, Dan Puleio he mourning of Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class T(FMF) Christopher “Doc” Anderson’s passing had long since been replaced with a rejoicing for the im- measurable positive influence his life had imbued on so many. Friday, July 8, 2011, marked a quantum leap for the influence and inspiration the spirit of “Doc” An- derson will impart on the men and women of the military health professions. This day marked the dedication of a premier medical training facility, one of the largest in all of military medicine. Named “Anderson Hall” this state-of -the- art 225,000-square-foot, four-story complex is located at Fort Sam Houston, Joint Base San Antonio, Tex. Through these doors will pass over 12,000 U.S. Army, tion and focus that energized that young man will find Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard corpsmen and medi- a home here, in the lives of those who give this building cal technicians per year. life, and in the lives of those young men and women, of As part of the Base Realignment and Closure Act, all services, whose educations will be shaped here and the Navy closed facilities in Great Lakes, San Diego who will leave here to go forth and serve.” and Portsmouth to support this sweeping initiative. Christopher’s father, retired Navy SEAL Rick Ander- Commander Navy Medicine Support Command, Rear son, stated on that fateful day of December 4, 2006, Admiral Eleanor Valentine stated, “When I first joined “Christopher gave his life in the defense of his nation, the Navy I never dreamed that I’d be integral to such a his local community, his brethren Marines and his fam- history-changing initiative. It is an honor to be a part ily. Christopher wanted all his life to make a difference of events today.” in this world and in his short 24 years accomplished So how was it that HM3 Christopher Anderson, a more than most will ever accomplish in a lifetime.” young FMF Corpsman killed in action during his first Rear Admiral Kiser echoed Anderson’s statement deployment to Iraq, was selected to have this premier with the words, “Our calling, both in the military and facility named in his honor? as medical professionals, involves setting aside self- Rear Admiral William R. Kiser, Commander, Med- interest and tending instead to the interest of those ical Education and Training who are most broken, most wounded, most desperate, Campus, Fort Sam Houston, even when it involves personal risk, especially when it Tex., addressed that ques- is hard and involves personal risk.” tion in his talk to the 300 It is indeed the spirit of “Doc” Anderson that em- family, friends, METC staff, bodies the finest attributes of the Navy corpsman, his U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy, passion for life, competitive spirit and seemingly end- active duty and veterans less sharing and uplifting contributions that will for- assembled. “The giving of ever live on to inspire the hundreds of thousands of a name embodies an en- students toward the challenges that lie ahead, both as capsulation of the hopes and dreams for that being military and medical professionals, as they set out to named … Heritage, hope, expectations, dreams. And so make their mark on America’s future. today we are here to name this building after an Ameri- “Doc” Anderson was a great son, a great Navy sailor can hero, HM3 (FMF) Christopher Anderson, with the and corpsman, and in the truest sense of the word, a expectation that the same sense of courage, dedica- great American patriot.

34 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 News & Gatherings

Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, New Mexico: USAF Pararescue School Graduation Class 2011-01, April 18, 2011. Presentation of the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the USA’s Certificate ofS pecial Recogni- tion award to A1C Casey Lutz. The plaque is being presented by Roger Newall, Adjutant/Sr. Vice Commander, Department of New Mexico.

On August 8, 2011, the Greater Richmond Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart presented a Distinguished Leadership Award to Governor Robert F. McDonnell (R-VA) at his offices in the Patrick Henry Building in Richmond, Va. L to R: Governor McDonnell, James Cuthbert- son, Maurice Menefee

A photo taken at Petty Officer Jon Tumilson’s private funeral Reunions in Iowa in August shows the dog Hawkeye lying on the floor next to the casket. We’re told the dog refused to leave his master’s Marine Air Groups Reunion side during the WWII to Present entire funeral ser- Branson Missouri October l9 – 22,20ll vice. Tumilson was Contacts: James Jordan, among 30 other [email protected], 417-535-4945 Americans who Bob Miller, [email protected], 636-327-5854 were killed Au- gust 6, 2011 when insurgents shot down a military helicopter in Afghanistan.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 35 News & Gatherings

Article and photo reprinted from the Florida Times-Union Two Army Sergeants Honored at Purple Heart Observance in Jacksonville, Fla. By David Bauerlein

Recipients of the Purple Heart say it creates a War II, inspired him to enlist. His great-grandfather post- shared bond among those who face death on the battle- humously received the Purple Heart. Henley said that that field, even across the generations. At a ceremony in Jack- Purple Heart and his own award stand “polished and stead- sonville, Fla., two Army sergeants who earned their Purple fast on my mantel” beside each other. “Seeing it and letting Heart awards when they came under enemy attack in Af- it be seen helps my wife and I remember that it takes guts, ghanistan and Iraq spoke about how their experiences dedication and sacrifice to do this job,” Henley said. connected them to a family history going back to World Sgt. 1st Class Caleb Dillon recalled his grandfather War II. Mayor Alvin Brown was among the dignitaries Henry E. Hoot’s military service during World War II, who attended the Purple Heart observance ceremony at Korea and Vietnam. Dillon described his grandfather as the Veterans Memorial Wall, located near Ever Bank Field. someone who didn’t like to talk about his war experiences About 150 people attended, including local residents who but would react emotionally whenever the national an- are among the 1.7 million people who have received the them was played. Dillon said he “didn’t understand un- Purple Heart in the nation’s history. til I went through a fraction of what he did.” Dillon received his Purple Heart after being wounded by shrapnel in Afghanistan. Coming home after one of his overseas tours, Dillon sat down to watch a baseball game. “They played the national anthem,” he said. “I felt the lump in my throat and the tears welled in my eyes.” Each Purple Heart award carries a similar story, other speakers said. “Woven in that number are 1.7 million stories,” said Lee Brown III, finance director for the Florida Department of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. “We have great examples of bravery among us,” said Mike Prendergast, a retired colonel who is executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. Af- Staff Sgt. Heath Henley (left) and Sgt. 1st Class Caleb Dillon salute during Sunday’s observance at the Veterans Memorial Wall and Purple Heart Trail ter the ceremony, participants walked down a ceremonial in Jacksonville. Purple Heart Trail, a sidewalk bordered by flags and purple flowers, to a plaque at the Veterans Memorial Arena. The Purple Heart is given to members of the military The ceremony also recognized the 25th anniversary of the who are injured in combat. When a member of the armed Northeast Florida Veterans Council. forces dies in battle, his next of kin receives the award in the name of the person who died. Staff Sgt. Heath Henley told Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/ the crowd how the legacy of his great-grandfather Quinton metro/2011-08-08/story/2-army-sergeants-honored-purple-

O’Dell Steele, who died in the Battle of the Bulge in World heart-observance-jacksonville#ixzz1VFYDTBVd BR U C E L I P SKY /T h e Ti m es- Un io n

36 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 News & Gatherings

etired Army Colonel Charles P. Murray, Jr., Rwho received the Medal of Honor during WWII, died August 12, 2011 at his home in Columbia, S.C. He was a 23-year-old first lieutenant and company commander with just a few months of combat experience on December 16, 1944, the day he displayed the “su- preme courage and heroic initiative,” singlehandedly overcoming a force of 200 German soldiers during

a battle in the northern y G lantzT rac Vosges Mountains, just Funeral: A South Carolina MOPH Department Officer salutes as a U.S. Army Honor Guard removes the casket carrying retired Col. south of the village of Charles P. Murray at the First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, Kaysersberg, France. Col- S.C. on August 17, 2011. onel Murray was 90.

Colonel Charles P. Murray COL Murray’s Awards & Decorations i af o r u m . c us m i l tar h o m eo fh e r oes. c

Fifth Annual Purple Heart Golf Classic, American Lake Veterans Golf Course, Lakewood, Washington, June 25, 2011 Pictured are 21 combat-wounded golfers who participated in this tournament: SFC Leroy Petry (Medal of Honor—July 12, 2011) (third from left in solo rider), NC Clayton Jones, NSVC Bill Hut- ton, NJVC Bruce McKenty, PNC Officers of the Host Chapter 744 Bill Wroolie, of Cooke County in Gainesville, Tex., PNC Jeff Roy take advantage of the Dept of Texas and PNC Jim State Convention to be sworn into of- Sims. Bill Bush fice by the State Commander. Left to (7th from right right: Fred Rosenbaum, Steve Cole, John Footman, Mike McConnell, Ken in navy jacket and hat) was the oldest Pur- Stormer, and Earl Shannon. ple Heart recipient at 92. Solo rider carts w/ MOPH logos were donated by MOPH Service Foundation in 2008.

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 37 Book Reviews

Boy Sergeant A Young Soldier’s Story of Vietnam by Doug Warden

uring the Vietnam War, cumstances, as in close combat with Dunits of the 1st Battalion, 12 a tough enemy.” Cavalry Regiment participated in 12 The book is not without emo- campaigns and earned three Presi- tion or self-reflection. SSG Warden dential Unit Citations and three openly declares his faith in Christ Valorous Unit Awards for actions and the importance of grace. What He plans to begin attending meetings against the Viet Cong and the North started out as an effort to document in the near future. RUSSELL SMITH Vietnamese Army. Doug Warden his military service for his children was in the thick of it. In a few short has turned in to what could eas- Boy Sergeant, A Young Sol- months he found himself holding ily become a best-seller. Active Duty dier’s Story of Vietnam by Doug War- the rank of Staff Sergeant and serv- Military commanders should require den, Tate Publishing & Enterprises, LLC ing as an Infantry Platoon Sergeant. this must-read for all newly minted Mustang, OK 2010 is available through He received two Silver Stars for Her- NCOs and Second Lieutenants. www.tatepublishing.com/ Paperback: $15.99; oism, a Bronze Star with V Device Doug Warden is a life member of Ebook Download: $9.99 for valor, the Soldier’s Medal, three Chapter 568 in Oklahoma City, Okla. ISBN 978-1-61663-968-6 Purple Hearts, the Air Medal, Viet- nam Cross of Gallantry, the Valorous Unit Award, the Combat Infantry- man Badge and Parachutist Badge. His war memoir, Boy Sergeant, is replete with hard lessons learned that have carried him through the rest of his of his life. His humility is apparent throughout this excellent read. He tells his stories candidly, without bravado and includes, as Sgt. Joe Friday of Dragnet used to say, “just the facts.” In the foreword, his former commander, Colonel Robert F. Radcliffe, writes “Doug was an extraordinary soldier, one of those rare soldiers who instinctively makes the right decision in the most difficult of cir-

38 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 VA Study Finds Purple Heart Recipients Live Longer Than Other Veterans

study led by Department of Veterans Affairs increase survival,” A researchers found that aging veterans who have said Kimbrell. earned the Purple Heart live to be older than those who The research- have not earned the medal. Additionally, those war- ers were surprised wounded veterans who survive into later life, especially to find that among those who do not develop posttraumatic stress disorder Purple Heart re- (PTSD), may provide valuable clues as to the factors that cipients, those with lead to resilience to combat stress. PTSD had slightly lower A team of VA researchers who studied more than mortality than those with- 10,000 veterans of World War II and the Korean War out PTSD. This is a contradiction to several studies that produced these findings, which appear online in the have shown a link between chronic stress conditions such journal Depression and Anxiety. “Among the older vet- as PTSD and worse survival. Kimbrell and colleagues sug- erans we studied, those with Purple Heart citations had gest this finding is due to what they term “early attrition.” half the mortality rate of those without Purple Heart cita- Those who had been physically injured in World War II tions,” said lead author Tim Kimbrell, MD, a physician- or Korea and suffered PTSD may have been less likely to researcher with the Center for Mental Health and Out- survive until age 65 in the first place; the PTSD-Purple comes Research, based at the Central Arkansas Veterans Heart group included in their study may have been an ex- Healthcare System. ceptionally healthy and hearty cohort of veterans. Whether the Purple Heart holders had chronic PTSD The researchers say further studies involving these vet- or not, they were about twice as likely to still be alive after erans, as well as those who were wounded in combat but some 10 years of follow-up, compared with those with no did not develop PTSD, may lead to new insights to help Purple Heart and no PTSD. The study included veterans prepare future service members to cope with the stress who were 65 and or older in the late 1990s. It tracked and trauma of war. their survival through 2008. Kimbrell, in addition to his VA role, is also a professor It is estimated that more than a million service mem- at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He col- bers received a Purple Heart in World War II, and nearly laborated on the study with other authors from his site, as 119,000 in the Korean War. In recent years, researchers well as with colleagues from the Houston Center for Qual- with VA and the Department of Defense have sought in- ity of Care and Utilization Studies, at the Michael E. De- sight into the psychological and neurobiological factors Bakey VA Medical Center; Baylor College of Medicine; the that enable some service members to not develop PTSD Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, SC; after traumatic events. The authors of the new VA study the Medical University of South Carolina; and the Univer- say Purple Heart holders who survive long past their war sity of Texas Health Science Center. U experience without PTSD may be the ideal population on which to focus such research. For more information on VA research, visit “Our theory was that there are many factors that con- www.research.va.gov tribute to resilience to PTSD, and these same factors may

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 39 Ladies Auxiliary National President by Barb Cherone

Working Together for the Good of the Order

appreciate your vote of confidence electing me the 2011-2012 LAMOPH President. I look forward to working with the MOPH Service Foundation, the MOPH and all of our LAM- OPH members in the upcoming year in order to fulfill our mission of helping veterans and I their families. We will remain transparent in our daily endeavors and will work as a team with our counterparts in the MOPH. Commander Hutton and I have worked closely together these past two years and feel confident that the rest of the MOPH/LAMOPH Leadership team will do the same for the good of the Order.

Obstacles will get in our way, but we will find ways whatever the situation was. to transform these obstacles into opportunities. I live This is not a natural process; it takes work and com- by a motto: I agree that it is OK to disagree with some- mitment from everyone involved. It doesn’t happen one as long as both parties respect each other and their overnight; it needs to be worked at constantly. The work- viewpoint. I have been in many positions where I have ing to accomplish these goals of problem solving and seen or been involved in a disagreement on an idea, turning disagreement into agreement is a never-ending but have found that if everyone keeps an open mind process, which results in mutual respect and harmony. If and respectfully listens to their opponent’s reasons for you live by the principles of giving respect to everyone, their opinions, it often results in seeing aspects of the harmony will follow. Over time you will realize that you problem that they have never realized before. Once ev- often share common goals. I am excited about working eryone’s eyes are open to the problem and both parties with everyone this year. I will give you my respect and in realize that they have the same goal of finding a viable return ask that you respect me; thus we can work togeth- solution to the problem, they can work harmoniously. er in harmony for the good of the Order and fulfilling New roads to walk down in the problem solving pro- our mission of helping veterans and their families. I look cess can now be taken. Once this process begins both forward to working in harmony and respect throughout sides will begin working together for the betterment of this year. U

Sgt. John McAfee says goodbye to his daughter, Juliana, before deploying to Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne. He was wounded twice in September 2010. He is a life member of the Dept. of Kentucky. John is the son-in-law of life member and publications committee chairman, Nick McIntosh. Juliana is Nick’s granddaughter.

40 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 O O O O L A D I E S’ A U X I L I A R Y O O O O NATIONAL OFFICERS 2011-2012

President Region I President Chaplain Finance Committee Public Relations Barb Cherone (Rick) Janice Null (Norman) Darline Schuff (Lee) Ellen Bishop (Art) Mary Slater 12880 Wimbledon Drive 15826 Bradford Dr. 742 Millbrook Drive 2910 American River Dr. 265 Wooter Road New Berlin, WI 53151 Laurel, MD 20707 Neenah, WI 54956 Sacramento, CA 95864 Big Rock, TN 37208 262-786-9663 301-776-1762 920-725-2780 [email protected] 931-232-0207 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Faith Brenner Sr. Vice President Region II President Parliamentarian 632 Karen Drive VAVS Representative Elaine Rey (Fred) Carleen Wells Bonnie Dumler Decatur, IL 62526 Ouida (Ann) Turner 4903 Transit Circle [email protected] P.O.Box 179 217-875-6151 (Dell “Bulldog”) Austin, TX 78727 Davenport, NE 68335 [email protected] 104 Shimmer Pond Court 512-339-8034 Region III President 402-364-2398 Madison, Al 35757 [email protected] Cora Edlund [email protected] Gwendolyn Gilliard (Isaac) 256-837-3474 92883 Garden Lane 120 NorlandAvenue [email protected] Jr. Vice President Coos Bay, OR 97420 Marshall New Orleans, LA 70131 Barbara Cannode (Daniel) 541-252-6819 Barbara Thomas Burr (Bob) [email protected] VAVS Deputy 5852 Crossbrooke Lane Waterville, [email protected] 1680 Hanover Road Sandy Staton (Syd) OH 43566 Delaware, OH 43015 Joan Walsh 73 Sparrow Point Circle 419-345-2563 Region IV President 730-369-0652 4716 Rohrway NW Fenton, MO 636-326-2876 [email protected] Mary Slater [email protected] Massillon, OH 44647 [email protected] 265 Wooter Road 330-837-2907 Secretary Big Rock, TN 37208 Patriotic Instructor [email protected] Viola Chair Rose Cook 931-232-0207 Linda Varcjeka (Jim) Elaine Kemper 101 Cantyre Street [email protected] 450 Conestoga Avenue PRESIDENTIAL 617 So. 51 Avenue Port Wentworth, GA 31407 Hickman, NE 68372 APPOINTMENTS: Omaha, NE 68106 912-441-8142 Region V President 402-792-2144 402-553-4769 [email protected] Eileen Oatman [email protected] Community Hospital 124 Emerald Valley Dr. Vanessa Duette Webmaster Finance Officer Covintton, LA 70435 Sergeant-At-Arms 4807 13th Street A.J.Herran Rhiannon Cupkie (Wade) 985-809-2337 Jeanette Mosley Meridian, MS 39307 P.O.Box 414 1219 W. Sunset Dr. [email protected] 11078 240th St. 601-527-1369 Longmont, CO 80502 Waukesha, WI 53189 Blanchard, OK 73010 [email protected] 720-494-1106 414-839-4686 Region VI President 940-367-5226 [email protected] lamophnationaltreasurer@gmail. Debbie Sweet (Caroll) [email protected] Community Service (understroke between h and d) com 16635 Jackson Ave. Sherry Lee Bayer (Tom) Lemore, CA 93245 Inspector 1813 31st Street Membership Officer 559-924-1970 Jeanne Hellard (Danny) Two Rivers, WI 54241 Patricia Richards [email protected] 14 Maple Circle 920-553-3441 P.O.Box 567 Sand Springs, OK 74063 [email protected] New Castle, OK 73065 [email protected] [email protected] Historian Diane Besile-Reel 1033 Genesse Street Waukesha, WI 53186 262-547-3124 [email protected]

Ladies Auxiliary National Chaplain by Dar Schuff HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! So too, we begin the new year with a clean slate, know- t is a new year, a time for new beginnings, new ing that nothing is perfect and we all learn from our mis- Ihopes and new challenges. As the national officers of takes. John Ruskin said, “The highest reward for a man’s our parent organization and our auxiliary take the oath toil is not what he gets for it, but what he becomes by of office for the coming year, please give them your sup- it.” Let each of us be enriched this coming year by our port, your encouragement and your loyalty. toils for our veterans and their families. Let each of us Ralph Waldo Emerson had wise advice for our lead- enrich the lives of our Gold Star families who have made ers when he said, “Finish every day and be done with the ultimate sacrifice so that we might live free from fear it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and and oppression. Let each of us practice “random acts of absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as kindness and senseless acts of beauty” and know that you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and se- we have made a difference in someone’s life. U renely with too high a spirit to be cumbered with your old nonsense. This day is all that is good and fair. It is “And be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a mo- one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” ment on yesterdays.” Ephesians 4:32

September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 41 Application for Membership LADIES’ AUXILIARY MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART SUPPLY LIST 2011-2012

PINS 101 Membership Pin with logo $5.00 102 Life Member Pin 35.00 103 Unit President Pin 20.00 104 Past Unit President Pin 50.00 105 Department President Pin 20.00 106 Past Department President Pin 50.00 107 25 Year Member Pin 10.00 108 30 Year Member Pin 10.00 109 35 Year Member Pin 10.00 110 75th Anniversary Pin 1.00

EMBLEMS 201 Emblem, embroidered heart shaped 4 inch 6.00 202 Emblem, embroidered heart shaped 7 inch 12.00 203 Emblem, embroidered round Associate Member 3 inch 4.00 204 Patch, Life Member embroidered ¾ x 3 inch 3.00 205 Patch, Associate Member embroidered ¾ x 3 inch 3.00 206 Patch, L.A.M.O.P.H. embroidered ¾ x 3 inch 3.00

UNIT SUPPLIES 401 Flag set, American and LAMOPH, 4 x 6 inches on 10 inch pole and stand 12.00 402 Charter, Department or Unit including 12 names ($1.00 per additional name) 25.00 403 Constitution, Bylaws, Rules, Regulations, Rituals, Standing Rules, Handbook 13.00 404 CBL 3 ring binder (small size) 2.00 405 Directory, Units and Departments (Price per National Convention 2011) 5.00 406 Minutes, National Convention (Price per National Convention 2011) 10.00 407 Membership card replacement 4.00 408 Stickers, peel off with emblem, pkg. of 60 3.00 409 Decals, window with emblem, 2 inch, pkg. of 4 Free While supply lasts 410 Bookmarks, pkg. of 25 2.00

All supply items are ordered through the National LAMOPH Headquarters

LAMOPH caps are ordered through Keystone Uniform Cap Corporation 2251 Fraley Street, Philadelphia, PA 19137 • Phone: 215-821-3434 • Fax: 215-821-3438 Online orders can be processed at: www.keystoneuniformcap.com/LAMOPH Application for Membership Application for Life Membership

Ladies Auxiliary Military Order of the Purple Heart Military Order of the Purple Heart Purple Heart Recipient Evidence of the award of the Purple Heart must be submitted with the application. Certificate alone Daughters, Stepdaughters, Granddaughters and legally adopted does not constitute proof of award. If discharged, discharge female lineal descendants regardless of age or date of birth. document such as a DD214 must be provided reflecting character of service as honorable or under honorable conditions. Such membership is subject to conditions set forth in Article 1 of the bylaws of the LAMOPH. Life and Associate See Reverse for information on proof. Memberships are available. Contact the National Secretary. Associate Member For a parent, spouse, sibling, lineal or adopted descendant of either a living or deceased Purple Heart Membership of the Patriot must be verified through certified recipient, evidence of the award of the Purple Heart and the evidence of the Purple Heart Award. relationship must be submitted with the application. However, if the Purple Heart Recipient is an active member of MOPH, he/ Dues include subscription to the Purple Heart Magazine. she can sign the application certifying to the relationship. See Reverse for information on proof. (required even if not paying by credit card) Applicant Signature Credit Card # Credit Card 5413-B Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151 www.purpleheart.org 888.668.1656 All applicants must complete reverse side and send with payment to: MOPH National Headquarters Address Applicant Name PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION Phone(H) Check one Recruited by (Print Name) Life Associate

Check one: Check VISA Associate Life Member Life Member (Work/Cell) Mastercard

Discover Associate Life Member Installment Plan Life Member Installment Plan City Zip Date of Birth

Expiration Date FAX Phone Member# Chapter# American Express State Email

Zip See other side for MOPH use only Dues schedule. Address City Name) I am the of (Medal Holder’s who was awarded the Purple Heart Medal by U.S. Government. He (is)(is not) an Active Member of MOPH Chapter # must accompany this application. ADJ or Copy of Award Membership must be certified* by CHAP. Applicant's Signature Sponsor *Certified by State Witnessed by Date Unit # Birthdate 567, New Castle, OK 73065 P.O.Box Complete and mail to: Patricia Richards, Membership Officer, Email: [email protected] Name PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION Be advised that on request any knowingly fraudulent document sent by you will be released to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that may result in prosecution and/or fine/imprisonment.

Dues Schedule Dues Schedule Military Order of the Purple Heart Ladies Auxiliary Military Order of the Purple Heart

Life Membership $50.00 Life Membership Installment Plan Life Memberships $50.00 with application, $25 within 24 months of Application Date $25 Associate Life Membership $50.00

Associate Life Membership $50.00 Associate Life Membership Installment Plan with application, $25 within 24 months of Application Date $25 Member # Amount Paid Certification by Type Member Date Received FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY—DO NOT WRITE IN THESE SPACES.

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Please note that Taps are now organized by department and then alphabetized by last name. Dept Chapter Name Service War

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46 Purple Heart Magazine September/October 2 0 1 1 Taps

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September/October 2 0 1 1 Purple Heart Magazine 47