EX-POW BULLETIN the official voice of the American Ex-Prisoners of War 501(c)3 Veterans Service Organization Volume 77 www.axpow.org Number 7/8/9

July-August-September 2020

We exist to help those who cannot help themselves

Patriotism! NATIONAL POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY ~ SEPTEMBER 18, 2020 ~REMEMBER~ July-September 2020 table of contents

Officers/Directors 4 Where to begin? CEO 5 Medsearch 6 It is June as this issue of the Bulletin goes to the printer. We have Legislative 12 been sheltering at home in most states for nearly three months. Andersonville 14 Memorial Day – close to our hearts – was mostly virtual this year. NamPOW 16 The sight of veterans marching down the street, the fireworks, the POW/MIA 18 parades and picnics all took place as memories. Family members Civilian 19 and friends did not have the comfort of a visit when they were in Events 20 need. We could not celebrate weddings and graduations…we could News 20 not mourn those we lost. Howie is 100! 23 My Story 24 I am hopeful that by the time many of you receive this issue, we The Ride Home 26 can cautiously begin our new “normal”. I am hopeful that you and New members 28 yours are safe and well. I am hopeful that by our next issue, we Contributions 29 will have the worst of this pandemic behind us. Taps/Chaplain 30 Voluntary Funding 34

COVER PICTURE: The Fourth of July—also known as Independence Day—has been a federal holiday in the United Publisher States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day PNC Milton M Moore Jr celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American 2965 Sierra Bermeja Revolution. On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted Sierra Vista, AZ 85650 in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from (520) 249-7122 the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a [email protected] historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, Editor parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and Cheryl Cerbone barbecues. 23 Cove View Drive CREDIT: National Park Service, Andersonville National Historic South Yarmouth, MA 02664 Site (508) 394-5250 [email protected] NOTICE: AXPOW ANNUAL MEETING WILL BE HELD AFTER Deadline for the Oct-Dec 2020 issue is August 31, 2020 ‘THE RIDE HOME’ AT WARNER-ROBINS, GA. SEPTEMBER Please send all materials to the 20, 2020. ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND. editor at the above address.

EX-POW Bulletin (ISSN 0161-7451) is published quarterly (four times annually) by the American Ex-Prisoners of War, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445. Periodical postage paid at Arlington, TX and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: send address changes to EX-POW Bulletin, AXPOW Headquarters, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445. Founded April 14, 1942, in Albuquerque, NM, then known as Bataan Relief Organization, Washington State non- profit corporation, “American Ex-Prisoners of War”, October 11, 1949, recorded as Document No. 133762, Roll 1, Page 386-392. NONPROFIT CORPORATION. Nationally Chartered August 10, 1982. Appearance in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the American Ex-Prisoners of War of the product or service advertised. The publisher reserves the right to decline or discontinue any such advertisement.

© 2020 American Ex-Prisoners of War axpow board of directors

National Headquarters PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445 (817) 649-2979 [email protected]

National Commander ~ Robert Certain 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, Apt 1801, San Antonio, TX 78245 (770) 639-3313 [email protected]

operations board of directors Edward “Ted” Cadwallader Sally Morgan Elk Grove, CA Grand Prairie, TX Chief Executive Officer (916) 685-5369 (972) 896-7252 [email protected] [email protected]

David Eberly Jim 'Moe' Moyer Williamsburg, VA Lake Wales, FL (757) 508-8453 (407) 448-1181 [email protected] [email protected]

Pam Warner Eslinger Mary Schantag Chief Operations Officer Hammon, OK Branson, MO Clydie J Morgan (580) 821-1526 (417) 336-4232 PO Box 3445 [email protected] [email protected] Arlington TX 76007-3445 (817) 300-2840 - Cell Ben Garrido Charles A. Susino [email protected] Tulsa, OK Piscataway, NJ (951) 313-9838 (732)221-0073 [email protected] [email protected] Chief Financial Officer Marsha M Coke Alan Marsh Jan Williams 2710 Charon Court Lizella, GA Guthrie, OK Grand Prairie TX 75052 (478) 951-9247 (580) 821-2376 (817) 649-2979 – Office [email protected] [email protected] (817) 723-3996 – Cell [email protected] Milton ‘Skip’ Moore Sierra Vista, AZ (520) 249-7122 [email protected] At home here on Cape Cod, sun, sand and water helped with our “Safe at Home” from the CEO orders. On May 25th, our Cheryl Cerbone governor began allowing small forays out of the house and my first one was to celebrate Memorial Day with social distancing and a small group at the annual service in Yarmouth. There is a curse that starts “May you live in interesting times.” AMVETS Post 333, with Don Costa presiding, put on a solemn, respectful We certainly are now. service, ending with the flag raised back to full staff and TAPS playing. Gold Star These last months have been challenging to say the least. Father, Steve Xiarhos, read the short speech he had given earlier at the Bourne My last trip (outside of walking the dog, the grocery store, liquor National Cemetery where his son, Nick, is store and pharmacy) was to Washington, DC for our annual buried. Congressional Testimony on March 3rd. Commander Certain, his wife, Robbie, and I joined the other Veterans Service Everyone’s eyes watered. Organizations to present our needs and concerns. It was a beautiful I am still angry about the reception that we received. When and moving Commander Certain testified (you read his testimony in the service and Apr-June issue of the EX-POW Bulletin), there was ONE member Michael and I of the joint House/Senate Veterans Committee in attendance. were proud to be There are 45 members of the Committees. We were given our part of it. date more than two months earlier. And we had ONE member there to hear our testimony. I hope you were able to in some The other VSOs – Paralyzed Veterans of America, Student small way to Veterans of America, Gold Star Wives, MOAA, Fleet Reserve and commemorate Iraq/Afghanistan Veterans of America fared slightly better, but I this solemn feel we were all treated with less respect than our positions and day…with music, our statements deserved. virtual parades, or watching Our messages were important to our members and the veteran ceremonies on TV. population as a whole. Commander Certain spoke on the critical need to increase DIC…real concerns about the importance given As we transition to reopening, I ask you by the Administration to the Advisory Committee on Former all: Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. Prisoners of War – which was mandated by Congress in Public Law 97-37…the ongoing demand for a full accounting of ALL those And to all of you planning to travel to still Missing in Action…the lack of interest placed on Civilian Georgia for The Ride Home, I look forward Prisoners of War. to seeing you in September!

Not a question was asked by the Committees. Fondly If anyone has any ideas on how to reach our out-of-touch Cheryl Congress, especially on how they think it is right, fair or even possible to live on the current DIC payments, please, please let me know. pow medsearch nso Marsha Coke, Chairman Ruth Powell, Director e-mail: [email protected] 665 NC Hwy 121 PO Box 3445 Greenville, NC 27834 Arlington, TX 76007-3445 781-296-6307 cell (817) 649-2979 [email protected]

beginning to understand. This the brain stem. The brain stem is an important part of SLEEP booklet describes how your need (especially the pons and medulla) your daily routine—you spend for sleep is regulated and what also plays a special role in REM about one-third of your time doing happens in the brain during sleep. sleep; it sends signals to relax it. Quality sleep – and getting muscles essential for body posture enough of it at the right times -- is Anatomy of Sleep and limb movements, so that we as essential to survival as food and don’t act out our dreams. water. Without sleep you can’t Several structures within the brain form or maintain the pathways in The thalamus acts as a relay for are involved with sleep. your brain that let you learn and information from the senses to create new memories, and it’s the cerebral cortex (the covering of The hypothalamus, a peanut-sized harder to concentrate and respond the brain that interprets and structure deep inside the brain, quickly. processes information from short- contains groups of nerve cells that to long-term memory). During act as control centers affecting Sleep is important to a number of most stages of sleep, the thalamus sleep and arousal. Within the brain functions, including how becomes quiet, letting you tune out hypothalamus is nerve cells (neurons) communicate the external world. But during REM the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) with each other. In fact, your brain sleep, the thalamus is active, – clusters of thousands of cells that and body stay remarkably active sending the cortex images, sounds, receive information about light while you sleep. Recent findings and other sensations that fill our exposure directly from the eyes and suggest that sleep plays a dreams. housekeeping role that removes control your behavioral rhythm. Some people with damage to the toxins in your brain that build up The pineal gland, located within the SCN sleep erratically throughout while you are awake. brain’s two hemispheres, receives the day because they are not able signals from the SCN and increases to match their circadian rhythms Everyone needs sleep, but its production of the with the light-dark cycle. Most biological purpose remains a hormone melatonin, which helps blind people maintain some ability mystery. Sleep affects almost put you to sleep once the lights go to sense light and are able to every type of tissue and system in down. People who have lost their modify their sleep/wake cycle. the body – from the brain, heart, sight and cannot coordinate their and lungs to metabolism, immune natural wake-sleep cycle using The brain stem, at the base of the function, mood, and disease natural light can stabilize their brain, communicates with the resistance. Research shows that a sleep patterns by taking small hypothalamus to control the chronic lack of sleep, or getting amounts of melatonin at the same transitions between wake and poor quality sleep, increases the time each day. Scientists believe sleep. (The brain stem includes risk of disorders including high that peaks and valleys of melatonin structures called the pons, medulla, blood pressure, cardiovascular over time are important for and midbrain.) Sleep-promoting disease, diabetes, depression, and matching the body’s circadian cells within the hypothalamus and obesity. rhythm to the external cycle of light the brain stem produce a brain and darkness. Sleep is a complex and dynamic chemical called GABA, which acts process that affects how you to reduce the activity of arousal function in ways scientists are now centers in the hypothalamus and bursts of electrical activity. You most circadian rhythms. Circadian medsearch, cont’d… spend more of your repeated sleep rhythms synchronize with cycles in stage 2 sleep than in other environmental cues (light, sleep stages. temperature) about the actual time The basal forebrain, near the front of day, but they continue even in and bottom of the brain, also Stage 3 non-REM sleep is the the absence of cues. promotes sleep and wakefulness, period of deep sleep that you need while part of the midbrain acts as to feel refreshed in the morning. Sleep-wake homeostasis keeps an arousal system. Release of It occurs in longer periods during track of your need for sleep. The adenosine (a chemical by-product the first half of the night. Your homeostatic sleep drive reminds of cellular energy consumption) heartbeat and breathing slow to the body to sleep after a certain from cells in the basal forebrain and their lowest levels during sleep. time and regulates sleep intensity. probably other regions supports Your muscles are relaxed and it This sleep drive gets stronger every your sleep drive. Caffeine may be difficult to awaken you. hour you are awake and causes you counteracts sleepiness by blocking Brain waves become even slower. to sleep longer and more deeply the actions of adenosine. after a period of sleep deprivation. REM sleep first occurs about 90 The amygdala, an almond-shaped minutes after falling asleep. Your Factors that influence your sleep- structure involved in processing eyes move rapidly from side to side wake needs include medical emotions, becomes increasingly behind closed eyelids. Mixed conditions, medications, stress, active during REM sleep. frequency brain wave activity sleep environment, and what you becomes closer to that seen in eat and drink. Perhaps the greatest Sleep Stages wakefulness. Your breathing influence is the exposure to light. becomes faster and irregular, and Specialized cells in the retinas of There are two basic types of sleep: your heart rate and blood pressure your eyes process light and tell the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep increase to near waking levels. brain whether it is day or night and and non-REM sleep (which has Most of your dreaming occurs can advance or delay our sleep- three different stages). Each is during REM sleep, although some wake cycle. Exposure to light can linked to specific brain waves and can also occur in non-REM sleep. make it difficult to fall asleep and neuronal activity. You cycle Your arm and leg muscles become return to sleep when awakened. through all stages of non-REM and temporarily paralyzed, which REM sleep several times during a prevents you from acting out your Night shift workers often have typical night, with increasingly dreams. As you age, you sleep less trouble falling asleep when they go longer, deeper REM periods of your time in REM sleep. Memory to bed, and also have trouble occurring toward morning. consolidation most likely requires staying awake at work because both non-REM and REM sleep. their natural circadian rhythm and Stage 1 non-REM sleep is the sleep-wake cycle is disrupted. In changeover from wakefulness to Sleep mechanisms the case of jet lag, circadian sleep. During this short period rhythms become out of sync with the time of day when people fly to (lasting several minutes) of Two internal biological a different time zone, creating a relatively light sleep, your mechanisms–circadian rhythm and mismatch between their internal heartbeat, breathing, and eye homeostasis–work together to clock and the actual clock. movements slow, and your muscles regulate when you are awake and relax with occasional twitches. sleep. Your brain waves begin to slow How Much Sleep Do You from their daytime wakefulness Circadian rhythms direct a wide Need? patterns. variety of functions from daily fluctuations in wakefulness to body Your need for sleep and your sleep Stage 2 non-REM sleep is a period temperature, metabolism, and the patterns change as you age, but of light sleep before you enter release of hormones. They control this varies significantly across deeper sleep. Your heartbeat and your timing of sleep and cause you individuals of the same age. There breathing slow, and muscles relax to be sleepy at night and your is no magic “number of sleep even further. Your body tendency to wake in the morning hours” that works for everybody of temperature drops and eye without an alarm. Your body’s the same age. Babies initially sleep movements stop. Brain wave biological clock, which is based on as much as 16 to 18 hours per day, activity slows but is marked by brief a roughly 24-hour day, controls Set a schedule – go to bed and • Alcohol, sedatives, or other medsearch, cont’d… wake up at the same time each day. medicines, such as some sleeping Exercise 20 to 30 minutes a day but pills no later than a few hours before • Medical conditions, such which may boost growth and going to bed. as seizures development (especially of the Avoid caffeine and nicotine late in • Mental disorders brain). School-age children and the day and alcoholic drinks before seens on average need about 9.5 bed. In older adults, sleepwalking may hours of sleep per night. Most Relax before bed – try a warm be a symptom of a medical problem adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a bath, reading, or another relaxing that causes decreased mental night, but after age 60, nighttime routine. function neurocognitive disorder. sleep tends to be shorter, lighter, Create a room for sleep – avoid and interrupted by multiple bright lights and loud sounds, keep Symptoms awakenings. Elderly people are the room at a comfortable also more likely to take medications temperature, and don’t watch TV that interfere with sleep. or have a computer in your When people sleepwalk, they may bedroom. sit up and look as though they are In general, people are getting less Don’t lie in bed awake. If you can’t awake when they are actually sleep than they need due to longer get to sleep, do something else, like asleep. They may get up and walk work hours and the availability of reading or listening to music, until around. Or they do complex round-the-clock entertainment and you feel tired. activities such as moving furniture, other activities. going to the bathroom, and See a doctor if you have a problem dressing or undressing. Some Many people feel they can "catch sleeping or if you feel unusually people even drive a car while they up" on missed sleep during the tired during the day. Most sleep are asleep. weekend but, depending on how disorders can be treated effectively. sleep-deprived they are, sleeping The episode can be very brief (a longer on the weekends may not few seconds or minutes) or it can be adequate. SLEEPWALKING last for 30 minutes or longer. Most episodes last for less than 10 Dreaming Sleepwalking is a disorder that minutes. If they are not disturbed, occurs when people walk or do sleepwalkers will go back to sleep. other activity while they are still But they may fall asleep in a Everyone dreams. You spend asleep. different or even unusual place. about 2 hours each night dreaming but may not remember most of your dreams. Its exact purpose Causes Treatment isn’t known, but dreaming may help you process your emotions. Events The normal sleep cycle has stages, Most people do not need specific from the day often invade your from light drowsiness to deep treatment for sleepwalking. thoughts during sleep, and people sleep. During the stage called rapid suffering from stress or anxiety are eye movement (REM) sleep, the In some cases, medicines such as more likely to have frightening eyes move quickly and vivid short-acting tranquilizers are dreams. Dreams can be dreaming is most common. helpful in reducing sleepwalking experienced in all stages of sleep episodes. but usually are most vivid in REM Each night, people go through sleep. Some people dream in color, several cycles of non-REM and REM Some people mistakenly believe while others only recall dreams in sleep. Sleepwalking that a sleepwalker should not be black and white. (somnambulism) most often occurs awakened. It is not dangerous to during deep, non-REM sleep (called awaken a sleepwalker, although it Tips for Getting a Good N3 sleep) early in the night. is common for the person to be Night's Sleep confused or disoriented for a short Fatigue, lack of sleep, time when they wake up. and anxiety are all associated with Getting enough sleep is good for sleepwalking. In adults, Another misconception is that a your health. Here are a few tips to sleepwalking may occur due to: person cannot be injured while improve your sleep:

• Avoid or minimize stress, If you have it, it is important to get medsearch, cont’d… anxiety, and conflict, which can treatment. Lifestyle changes, worsen the condition. mouthpieces, surgery, and sleepwalking. Sleepwalkers are breathing devices can treat sleep commonly injured when they trip apnea in many people. and lose their balance. SLEEP APNEA There are a variety of treatments Safety measures may be needed to Summary for sleep apnea, depending on an prevent injury. This may include individual’s medical history and the moving objects such as electrical Sleep apnea is a common disorder severity of the disorder. Most cords or furniture to reduce the treatment regimens begin with chance of tripping and falling. that causes your breathing to stop or get very shallow. Breathing lifestyle changes, such as avoiding Stairways may need to be blocked alcohol and medications that relax with a gate. pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes. They may occur 30 the central nervous system (for times or more an hour. example, sedatives and muscle Outlook (Prognosis) relaxants), losing weight, and People with sleep apnea will quitting smoking. Some people are Sleepwalking usually does not partially awaken as they struggle helped by special pillows or devices indicate a serious disorder, to breathe, but in the morning they that keep them from sleeping on although it can be a symptom of will not be aware of the their backs, or oral appliances to other disorders. disturbances in their sleep. The keep the airway open during sleep. most common type of sleep apnea If these conservative methods are It is unusual for sleepwalkers to is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), inadequate, doctors often perform activities that are caused by relaxation of soft tissue recommend continuous positive dangerous. But precautions should in the back of the throat that blocks airway pressure (CPAP), in which a be taken to prevent injuries such the passage of air. Normal face mask is attached to a tube and as falling down stairs or climbing breathing starts again with a snort a machine that blows pressurized out of a window. or choking sound. People with sleep air into the mask and through the apnea often snore loudly. However, airway to keep it open. Also When to Contact a Medical not everyone who snores has sleep available are machines that offer variable positive airway pressure Professional apnea. Central sleep apnea (CSA) is caused by irregularities in the (VPAP) and automatic positive brain’s normal signals to breathe. airway pressure (APAP). There are You probably do not need to visit Most people with sleep apnea will also surgical procedures that can your provider. Discuss have a combination of both types. be used to remove tissue and widen your condition with your provider The hallmark symptom of the the airway. The U.S. Food and if: disorder is excessive daytime Drug Administration has approved • You also have other sleepiness. People with sleep apnea a surgically implantable device symptoms are at higher risk for car crashes, placed in the upper chest that • Sleepwalking is frequent or work-related accidents, and other monitors a person's respiratory persistent medical problems. If you have it, it signals during sleep and stimulates • You do dangerous activities is important to get treatment. a nerve to send signals to a muscle (such as driving) while sleepwalking Lifestyle changes, mouthpieces, to stimulate and restore normal surgery, and breathing devices can breathing. Some individuals may Prevention treat sleep apnea in many people. need a combination of therapies to You are more at risk for sleep successfully treat their sleep apnea. apnea if you are overweight, male, Sleepwalking may be prevented by or have a family history or small Untreated, sleep apnea can be life the following: threatening. Excessive daytime • airways. Do not use alcohol or anti- sleepiness can cause people to fall depressant medicines if you Doctors diagnose sleep apnea asleep at inappropriate times, such sleepwalk. based on medical and family as while driving. Sleep apnea also • Avoid sleep deprivation, histories, a physical exam, and appears to put individuals at risk and try to prevent insomnia, sleep study results. for stroke and transient ischemic because these can trigger attacks (TIAs, also known as “mini- sleepwalking. strokes”), and is associated with

drug modafinil (a central nervous appear. Many older patients find medsearch, cont’d… system stimulant) to treat EDS. In that some daytime symptoms cases where modafinil is not decrease in severity after age 60. coronary heart disease, heart effective, doctors may prescribe failure, irregular heartbeat, heart amphetamine-like stimulants such attack, and high blood pressure. as methylphenidate to alleviate Although there is no cure for sleep excesive daytime sleepiness. Two apnea, recent studies show that classes of antidepressant drugs References successful treatment can reduce have proved effective in controlling the risk of heart and blood pressure cataplexy in many individuals: Avidan AY. Non–rapid eye problems. tricyclics (including imipramine, movement parasomnias: clinical desipramine, clomipramine, and spectrum, diagnostic features, and NARCOLEPSY protriptyline) and selective management. In: Kryger M, Roth serotonin reuptake inhibitors T, Dement WC, eds. Principles and Narcolepsy is a chronic neurologi- (including venlafaxine, fluoxetine, Practice of Sleep Medicine. 6th ed. cal disorder caused by the brain's and sertraline). The FDA also has Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; inability to regulate sleep-wake approved sodium oxybate (also 2017:chap 102. cycles. Many people with narcolep- known as gamma hydroxybutyrate Chokroverty S, Avidan AY. Sleep sy also experience uneven and or GHB) to treat cataplexy and EDS and its disorders. In: Daroff RB, interrupted sleep that can involve in individuals with narcolepsy. Jankovic J, Mazziotta JC, Pomeroy waking up frequently during the SL, eds. Bradley's Neurology in night. At various times throughout Drug therapy should accompany Clinical Practice. 7th ed. the day, people with narcolepsy various behavioral strategies. For Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; experience overpowering bouts example, many people with 2016:chap 102. of sleep. If the urge becomes over- narcolepsy take short, regularly whelming, individuals will fall scheduled naps at times when they asleep for periods lasting from a tend to feel sleepiest. Improving Resources few seconds to several minutes. In the quality of nighttime sleep can combat EDS and help relieve rare cases, some people may re- U.S. National Library of Medicine persistent feelings of fatigue. main asleep for an hour or longer. 8600 Rockville Pike Bethesda, MD 20894 Among the most important In addition to excessive daytime U.S. Department of Health and common-sense measures people sleepiness (EDS), people with nar- Human Services National Institutes with narcolepsy can take to colepsy experience some or all of of Health the typical symptoms of cataplexy enhance sleep quality are actions such as maintaining a regular sleep (the sudden loss of voluntary mus- National Heart, Lung, and Blood schedule, relaxing before bed, and cle tone), vivid hallucinations dur- Institute avoiding large meals, alcohol, and ing sleep onset or upon Building 31 caffeine-containing beverages awakening, and brief episodes of 31 Center Drive before bedtime. total paralysis at the beginning or Bethesda, MD 20892 end of sleep called sleep paralysis). None of the currently available The National Sleep Foundation medications enables people with Because narcolepsy is often misdi- www.theNSF.org. agnosed as other conditions, it narcolepsy to consistently maintain a fully normal state of may take years to get the proper Narcolepsy Network alertness. But EDS and cataplexy, diagnosis. The cause of narcolepsy 46 Union Drive #A212 the most disabling symptoms of the remains unknown. It is likely that North Kingstown, RI 02852 disorder, can be controlled in most narcolepsy involves multiple fac- 401-667-2523 patients with drug treatment. Often tors interacting to cause neurolog- 888-292-6522 ical dysfunction and sleep the treatment regimen is modified disturbances. as symptoms change.

There is no cure for narcolepsy. Whatever the age of onset, patients The U.S. Food and Drug find that the symptoms tend to get Administration (FDA) approved the worse over the two to three decades after the first symptoms

PRESUMPTIVE duodenum (the first part of the 10. PSYCHOSIS small intestine). SERVICE CONNECTED A generic term for any of the 20. CIRRHOSIS DISABILITIES insanities. Scar tissue replaces normal, healthy tissue, blocking the flow of Public Law 97-37 11. PANIC DISORDER blood through the organ and by William Paul Skelton, Ill, MD F.A.C.P. Characterized by discrete periods preventing it from working as it of apprehension or fear. should.

12. GENERALIZED ANXIETY 21. STROKE & COMPLICATIONS All ex-POWs should keep these. DISORDER A stroke occurs when the blood Whenever you open your claim, supply to part of the brain is take them with you and make sure 13. OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE suddenly interrupted or when a the adjudication officer sees them DISORDER blood vessel in the brain bursts, and have him read them! Make This may be either obsessions or spilling blood into the spaces sure he knows all about them. Tell compulsions. surrounding brain cells. him your own story as it relates to your problem..... 14. POST TRAUMATIC STRESS 22. HEART & COMPLICATIONS DISORDER Heart disease includes 1. ARTHRITIS, TRAUMATIC The re-experiencing of a trauma of atherosclerotic heart disease, and Also known as articular trauma. a past recognized stress or that can hypertensive vascular disease produce symptoms of distress. (including hypertensive heart 2. AVITAMINOSIS disease, and hypertension). The total lack of vitamins in the 15. ATYPICAL ANXIETY DISORDER diet. This is a category that is used for 23. OSTEOPOROSIS diagnosis when the affected Osteoporosis is a disease in which 3. BERIBERI individual appears to have an bones become fragile and more Caused by a severe lack of vitamin anxiety disorder that does not meet likely to break. B1 (thiamine) in the diet. the criteria for entry into any of the other known anxiety disorders. 4. DYSENTERY, CHRONIC Disability compensation is a A disease characterized by frequent 16. DEPRESSIVE NEUROSIS monetary benefit paid to Veterans and watery stools, usually with /DYSTHYMIC DISORDER who are determined by VA to be blood and mucus, and accompanied Characterized by depressive disabled by an injury or illness that by rectal and abdominal pain, periods in which the patient feels was incurred or aggravated during fever, and dehydration. sad and/or down and has a loss of active military service. These interest in the usual activities that disabilities are considered to be 5. FROSTBITE cause pleasure or involvement in service connected. The actual freezing of tissue. usual pastimes. To be eligible for compensation, the 6. HELMINTHIASIS 17. PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY Veteran must have been separated Infection with any type of worms Literally Greek for the suffering of or discharged under conditions that parasitize the human. nerves outside of the brain and other than dishonorable. spinal cord. 7. MALNUTRITION Monthly disability compensation Merely means bad nutrition. 18. IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME varies with the degree of disability Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is and the number of eligible 8. PELLAGRA a common disorder of the intestines dependents. Veterans with certain It is caused by a virtual lack of that leads to crampy pain, gas, severe disabilities may be eligible vitamin B3 (niacin) in the diet. bloating, and changes in bowel for additional special monthly habits. compensation (SMC). Disability 9. ANY OTHER NUTRITIONAL compensation benefits are not DEFICIENCY 19. PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE subject to federal or state income The lack of protein and calories in A peptic ulcer is a sore or hole in tax. the diet generally produces no the lining of the stomach or lasting side effects. encouraged us to appeal to a manner that takes into account legislative Congress to act. The House the additional risks during the Veteran’s Affairs committee has COVID 19 outbreak including acted and we appreciate their expanding the use of telehealth and concern and actions. It is time we telephone sessions to address show our support. Please call or many of veterans routine medical write your Representative. needs. Please question the VA how best to address your medial needs The rate of compensation paid to while minimizing exposure to survivors of service members who COVID 19. die in the line of duty or veterans who die from service-related Our members as EXPOWs know too Legislative officer injuries or diseases was set in 1993 well the long road for the Charles A Susino and has been minimally adjusted government to recognize the since then. The DIC also has rules medical conditions associated with that can drastically decrease the certain experiences of military With the pandemic overwhelming benefits survivors receive Other combat. For our members, it took our country in many respects, it federal survivor programs do not 40 years and President Reagan to would be reasonable to assume have such stringent rules for enact a Bill to establish that Congress has spent all of its decreasing or withholding survivor presumptive associated with being time working towards getting benefits. The bill would make more a Prisoner of War. Sadly, the people safe both physically and surviving dependents of service medical conditions associated with financially as they should. While members eligible for DIC the exposure to Agent Orange in they have certainly been busy Vietnam are still not fully providing for individuals and This is an area that our recognized. New Legislation has companies to stay on their feet, this membership has voiced for many been Introduced, S. 3444, the Fair legislative news has been viewed years and we have presented to Care for Vietnam Veterans Act of and read about at great length so Congress multiple times in our 2020, to expand the list of no further time will be spent in this legislative agenda each year. While presumptive diseases from Agent article. it is at the most beginning stages Orange exposure to include: of the legislative process and Parkinsonism, bladder cancer, I am very pleased to report that the subject to change, we are very hypertension, and hyperthyroidism. House has introduced Caring for pleased with the actions and Survivors Act of 2020, H.R. 6933. leadership demonstrated by Another long standing injustice, the Its purpose is to bring benefit rules Representative TJ Cox (D-CA- SBP-DIC Offset, was finally in line with other federal retirement 21) along with Reps. Gil Cisneros corrected earlier this year. The programs. The act would increase (D-CA-39), Ted Yoho (R-FL-3), Jeff National Defense Authorization Act dependency and indemnity Van Drew (R-NJ- for Fiscal Year 2020 modified the compensation (DIC) for surviving 2) and Jahana Hayes (D-CT-5 and law that requires an offset of dependents and lower the applaud their sponsorship. Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) threshold of eligibility to allow payments for surviving spouses certain survivors to receive this Bill H.R. 4771, VA Tele-Hearing who are also entitled to benefit who currently do not meet Modernization Act, authorizes Dependency and Indemnity the requirements. appellants in cases before the Compensation (DIC) from the Board of Veterans' Appeals to Department of Veterans Affairs. Over the recent years this is the appear at a hearing by picture and Under the previous law, a surviving most important issue to our voice transmission (e.g., Skype) spouse who receives DIC is subject members. Time and again from locations other than to a dollar-for-dollar reduction of survivors will call or write to inquire Department of Veterans Affairs SBP payments, which can result in about the need to increase DIC. (VA) facilities. It was signed into SBP being either partially or fully We field many sad hardship cases Law April, 2020. offset. The repeal wills phase-in the where a couple live in their home, reduction of this offset beginning the veteran passes away, then with With respect to COVID 19 on the on Jan. 1, 2021, and culminating the loss of the veteran’s monthly impact of your VA medical care, the with elimination of the offset in its benefit the widow/widower cannot VA is making adjustments to entirety on Jan. 1, 2023. afford the home and must downsize ensure the best and safest medical and /or move in with relatives. It care is provided for the veterans in is these sad stories that have

Mazie Hirono, Hawaii Veterans Affairs Joe Manchin, West Virginia Committees Kyrsten Sinema, Arizona

HOUSE VETERANS AFFAIRS Contact Them: COMMITTEE MEMBERS: By Email All questions and comments regarding public policy Mark Takano, California, Chair issues, legislation, or requests for personal assistance Julia Brownley, California should be directed to the representative or senator Kathleen Rice, New York from your State. Some Members of Congress have Conor Lamb, Pennsylvania, Vice Chair email addresses while others post comment forms Mike Levin, California on their websites. When sending email, please Max Rose, New York include your return postal mailing address. Please be Chris Pappas, New Hampshire aware that as a matter of professional courtesy, Elaine Luria, Virginia many Members will acknowledge, but not respond Susie Lee, Nevada to, a message from another Member’s constituent. Joe Cunningham, South Carolina Gil Cisneros, California You can direct postal correspondence to the following Collin Peterson, Minnesota addresses: Gregorio Sabian, Northern Mariana Islands Colin Allred, Texas For Correspondence to U.S. Senators Lauren Underwood, Illinois Office of Senator (Name) Anthony Brindisi, New York (since November 19, United States Senate 2019) Washington, D.C. 20510 Phil Roe, Tennessee, Ranking Member 202-224-3121 Gus Bilirakis, Florida Amata Coleman Radewagen, American Samoa Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Mike Bost, Illinois United States Senate Neal Dunn, Florida Washington, D.C. 20510 Jack Bergman, Michigan Majority Staff (202) 224-9126; Minority Staff (202) Jim Banks, Indiana 224-2074 Andy Barr, Kentucky Dan Meuser, Pennsylvania For Correspondence to U.S. Representatives Steve Watkins, Kansas Office of Representative (Name) Chip Roy, Texas United States House of Representatives Greg Steube, Florida Washington, DC 20515 202-224-3121 SENATE VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE MEMBERS House Veterans Affairs Committee B234 Longworth House Office Building Jerry Moran, Kansas, Chair Washington, DC 20515 Johnny Isakson, Georgia 202-225-9756 John Boozman, Arkansas Bill Cassidy, Louisiana Mike Rounds, South Dakota Thom Tillis, North Carolina Commander Dan Sullivan, Alaska Certain Marsha Blackburn, Tennessee testifying Kevin Cramer, North Dakota before the Joint Kelly Loeffler, Georgia House/Senate Jon Tester, Montana, Ranking Member Veterans Affairs Patty Murray, Washington Committees Bernie Sanders, Vermont March 2020 Sherrod Brown, Ohio Richard Blumenthal, Connecticut

Programming included videos and other content andersonville about military history, national cemeteries, volunteering in memory of a fallen service member, a National Moment of Remembrance, and more. For most Americans who are still staying close to home, this was a great opportunity to virtually see a Memorial Day event.

A virtual passport stamp was available for partici- pants and was posted on the Memorial Day web- page and on social media after programs.

Co-Hosts: Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County Battlefields National Military Park Andersonville NHS Rock Creek Park 496 Cemetery Road Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park Andersonville, GA 31711 Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Gulf Islands National Seashore (229) 924-0343 Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Steve Theus Ninety Six National Historic Site Acting Superintendent Fort Pulaski National Monument Antietam National Battlefield Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Shiloh National Military Park Biscayne National Park Cowpens National Battlefield Jimmy Carter National Historic Site Reconstruction Era National Historical Park Civil War Defenses of Washington Moores Creek National Battlefield Andersonville National Historic Site Fort Donelson National Battlefield Stones River National Battlefield While the National POW Museum was still closed Natchez Trace Parkway due to concerns over COVID-19, Andersonville Vicksburg National Military Park National Historic Site played co-host with Parks in 12 states for a coordinated, collaborative Virtual Memorial Day Tribute on Monday, May 25, 2020. Many parks that typically hold large events or ceremonies in honor of our nation’s fallen military were not able to do so this year due to the ongoing pandemic. As an alternative, AHNS and the other parks joined efforts and encouraged visitors to go online to remember and honor those who died in service to our country.

The Virtual Tribute was hosted on Vicksburg Na- tional Military Park’s Facebook page and the NPS Memorial Day celebration page. andersonville, cont’d… setting in motion the idea that a National Prisoner of War Museum should be a part of this National Park Service unit. It was not until the 1990s when Congress appropriated funding for planning and Creating the National development of the Museum that the project began in earnest. Prisoner of War Museum The NPS and AXPOW continued to work closely together to raise funding and corroborate on both design for the building and for the interpretive exhibits. The overwhelming goal for the project was that the Museum would be a fitting visitor center for the public and give visitors a total understanding of the story of all POWs. As the project continued, another partnership group joined the effort. The Friends of Andersonville, a group of local and national supporters of the park, became involved in the fund raising process and also served as a petitioner to the state of Georgia for assistance with construction of a new entrance road for the park which would lead directly to the site of the new Museum. Finally in the summer of 1996, construction of the building began. The idea of a museum to commemorate the sacrifices of all April 9, 1998 not only American prisoners of war took root commemorated the 56th in 1970 when the United States anniversary of the fall of Congress passed legislation to Bataan during World War establish the Andersonville National II, but marked a new era Historic Site. of interpretation at Andersonville NHS. This legislation mandated that the new Thousands of former historic site should tell the story of prisoners of war and their Andersonville and other Civil War era families along with prisons, protect the physical features national and local of the historic prison site and supporters of the park Andersonville National Cemetery, and gathered to dedicate the should “interpret the role of prisoner National Prisoner of War of war camps in history and to Museum. commemorate the sacrifices of Americans who lost their lives in such Two films, shown on the hour and half-hour, provide an excellent camps”. introduction to the story of the Andersonville Prison and the experience of American prisoners of war.

"Voices from Andersonville" Shown on the hour, this 28 minute film focuses on the history of the Andersonville Prison. "Echoes of Captivity" Shown on the half-hour, this 27 minute film is an introduction to the experience of prisoners of war throughout American history.

Exhibit Hall The first exhibit gallery answers the question "What is a POW?" This is followed by exhibit areas exploring the themes of capture, living conditions, news and communications, those who wait, privation, For a number of years, the park morale and relationships, and escape and freedom. maintained a small historic building as the POW museum, with exhibits Throughout the exhibits there are touchable items and exhibit drawers developed by park staff. In the mid- that may be opened to find out more about prisoners of war. In order 1980s park staff began to work with to conserve the artifacts on display, the exhibit areas of the museum American Ex-Prisoners of War have reduced or dim lighting. (AXPOW) a national organization of former POWs and their families,

Thailand. Included were USAF, established and became a major USN, and USMC aircrews flying priority for the Rats. A hat was namPOW combat missions over the “Red passed among the attendees River Valley” of North Vietnam, raising funds for our first ever news then known in military terms as $1000 scholarships to three ROUTE PAC 6, the targets being in recipients. the vicinity of Hanoi and Haiphong NAM-POWs, formed and where the heaviest combat During the early days of the in 1973 for the losses were occurring. At that Vietnam War (1964-1972), only Vietnam era POWs. time, full River Rat membership fighter aircraft routinely flew into was restricted to those pilots who ROUTE PAC 6. In December 1972, had flown missions in ROUTE PAC President Nixon authorized 6 where they had faced some of Operation Linebacker II which By Gregory W Lewis the longest survival odds in the called for B-52s to end the war. COL, USAF (RET) history of aerial warfare, braving For the first time in the war, non- the toughest air defense fighter pilots had fought in the environment ever encountered by world’s most heavily defended fighter pilots. In May 1967, the airspace – around Hanoi and 388th TFW at Korat, RTAFB, held Haiphong – with a loss of 15 the first of 5 “practice” reunions in B-52’s. A total of 33 crewmembers Thailand, followed by Ubon, in were KIA or MIA. Another 33 B-52 August 1967, Takhli in November crewmembers – pilots, 1967, Udorn in March 1968 and bombardiers, navigators, Korat in June 1968. They were electronic warfare officers and called practice reunions because enlisted gunners – became obviously fellow pilots shot down Prisoners of War. and held captive by North Viet Nam were not in attendance, “all tied up In February 1973, the first C-141 at the time” as former presidential load of the longest held POWs Rep. Sam Johnson with Greg Miller candidate and POW Senator John returned to Clark AFB, Philippines, McCain once humorously said in a to a well-deserved joyous debate decades later. welcome. Many of them had been As the Executive Director of the gravely injured when they were Red River Valley Association, aka In 1969, newly promoted Brig. shot down, and hadn’t received The River Rats, I have been asked Gen. Olds met with Col. Scrappy adequate medical treatment for to write an article on the history of Johnson, former Deputy those injuries. Despite that, they the Association and what the Viet Commander for Operations of the persevered and kept faith with Nam POWs mean to our 388th TFW, F-105 pilot, and who their fellow POWs, resisted the organization. This could be a very just recently celebrated his 100th enemy to their last moments in short article because, suffice to birthday, to implement the North Viet Nam, and adhered to a say, the POWS are among the most formation of a permanent code of conduct despite years of revered members of the River organizational structure for the torture, abuse and solitary Rats, period dot – they are the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots confinement that should make River Rats! The courage of our Association, leading to official every American incredibly proud. POWs while imprisoned by a brutal incorporation in Kansas. In 1969, Thankfully the war ended with 591 and tortuous enemy, for some Col. Larry Pickett, the former vice POWs returned between February persevering for over 8 years of hell commander of the 355th TFW, and April 1973. On a personal on earth, are the values we seek Takhli RTAFB, and also an F-105 note, I was a cadet at USAFA and to forever embody, enshrine and pilot, held the first stateside will never forget watching the live pass to all warriors who have since practice reunion at Wichita, KS, a television coverage in our followed, the River Rats will never resounding success. The River squadron ready room, many wet forget their example! Rats’ focus became generating eyes. Col Bud Day and several

awareness of the POWs, aircrews senior POWs met shortly after In the way of history, in November Missing in Action/Killed in Action Homecoming and formed the 1966, Col. Robin Olds, the (MIA/KIA) and supporting their 501(c)(19) fraternal organization commander of the 8th Tactical families. In 1970 at the San known thereafter as “NAMPOWs”. Fighter Wing (TFW), hosted a Antonio practice reunion, a tactics conference at Ubon Royal scholarship program was Thai Air Force Base (RTAFB), In May 1973, Mr. Ross Perot, a war stories to the young warriors you in the highest esteem and will Naval Academy graduate, well- who follow, and remember those never forget your courage. The known Texas businessman and an aviators who have given the last River Rats are dedicated to American patriot who truly full measure to our country. Our preserving that legacy and making appreciated and respected the next reunion is scheduled for 23-27 you proud, God Bless you all. sacrifices made by the NAMPOWs September 2020 in San Antonio hosted the first of many reunions. after being postponed from the “Dallas Salutes” included parades normal Spring time due to the ending up in the Cotton Bowl to COVID19 crisis. We are cheering crowds, and Tony determined to carry on the long tradition, the COVID situation in Orlando’s first singing of the now San Antonio is rapidly improving, famous song, Tie A Yellow Ribbon and we should be good to celebrate ‘Round the Old Oak Tree. After a -- please join us! White House Dinner hosted by President Nixon later that month, On April 30, 1975, the which is still a record for the largest organization’s name was amended ever White House event, the to “Red River Valley Association, NAMPOWs attended the first “real” Inc” recognizing air warriors come River Rat reunion, since former in many flavors, and the warrior POWS were now participating, in ethos and values of our fighter pilot August 1973. Held in Las Vegas, founders are found in great Colonel Gregory W Lewis was born NV and again hosted by Mr. Perot, varieties of military aircrews. The on 21 March 1953 and is a resident that reunion is legendary in River IRS granted 501(c)(3) status to the of York, Pennsylvania. He entered Rat lore. Over the years, Mr. Perot River Rats on July 22, 1976 which the USAF in July 1971 and hosted many reunions, another we retain to this day. In 1998, the graduated from the USAF Academy memorable occasion being a later scholarship program was expanded in June 1976. His flying career Texas reunion dinner held at the to include losses due to non- included assignments in the A-10, Fort Worth Country Club. As the combat operational accidents, and F-16 and AT-38 over numerous cocktail hour passed, all the other outstanding sons, daughters flying and staff duties including attendees were seated before the and grandchildren of our members. service as the Chief of Weapons keynote speaker showed up……in a Since 1970, the River Rats have and Tactics, 363 FW, Shaw AFB, SC helicopter. Mr. Perot marched into awarded more than 1,200 during Operations Desert Shield the dining room in formal wear, scholarship grants with a total and Storm. In that capacity, he obviously overdressed as the attire value of over $2.5 million. Our served as a combat planner on the was business suits or sports coats, members are very proud of that! CENTAF planning staff and flew and ascended the podium to the combat in the F-16 when the war head table. Without sitting down, Today River Rat membership is commenced. he proudly opined, “I know you open to all U.S. military aviators guys are wondering why I’m and “associate” membership is The later portion of his career wearing a tux and you are not. available for non-aviators who included duty with USAF Well, I was in the Navy, and I helped and support our mission; intelligence and service in the understand that this is primarily an however, our “charter Middle East as the Chief, U.S. Office Air Force group, so I thought I’d membership” is reserved for those of Military Cooperation, Bahrain. add a little class!” He was promptly who actually flew in ROUTE PAC 6, His career concluded as the bombarded with dinner rolls, none and of course our NAMPOWs. Commander, 8th Operations of which found their mark! Ross Sadly, and hopefully no time soon, Group, Kunsan AB, ROK, where he Perot was bestowed the first ever the day will come when the last two commanded 2 squadrons of 54 Honorary River Rat membership charter members raise a martini to F-16s and a support squadron. and remained an avid supporter of toast their heroic brothers who flew Greg retired on 1 Jan 2000 and our Association and the NAMPOWs the toughest missions in the most began a second career as a pilot for until his recent passing. River Rat heavily defended skies on the Southwest Airlines, from which he reunions have continued yearly planet at the time and founded the retired on 20 March 2018 after ever since at locations across the River Rats. For those of us who reaching the federally mandated USA. They are great get-togethers followed and were raised by our retirement age of 65. to renew the bonds forged in charter members and NAMPOWs combat, pass heroic legacies and thru our military careers, we hold ABC6 out of Marysville Ohio reported Forensic work appears to have pow/mia on an excavation of WWII remains continued with DPAA web updates on that appeared to be outside of the identifications though. Since January Mary Schantag, Chairman DPAA and USG guidelines. 1, remains have been identified and P.O.W. Network announced from excavations in; [email protected] “U.S. Homeland Security agents are Berlin, Germany (1); Burman (1); investigating the actions of an Cabanatuan, Philippines (1); Hϋrtgen Arizona mountaineer who traveled to Forest, Germany (6); North Korea India late last year in search of (21); Papua (1); Pearl Harbor (20); remains belonging to World War II Philippines (1); Saipan (2); and News, numbers airmen from Marysville… Tarawa (18.) and notices Kuhles' expedition was focused on For those of us that have “events” excavating the wreckage of a B-25 during the year, we are working hard As we all watch the world re-open, he discovered in Arunachal Pradesh to maintain a bit of normalcy. We will we hope you and your loved ones are in November 2011. He believed the not stop planning - we can only pray healthy and vibrant and setting up site was a plane crash from Dec. 10, that by September, we are healthy, family time with those you may have 1943 that killed five American whole and able to travel and honor been separated from. For those that airmen, including two from those that so deserve the may have lost someone, we hope Marysville: Capt. John "Blackie" recognition. faith and memories sustain you as Porter and his high-school friend Sgt. you heal. Harold Niebler. Kuhles said he If you are the family member of a identified the wreckage through an POW/MIA (missing or remains re- In March, remains linked to wreckage ID tag he found belonging to one of turned), a former POW, or the of a B-25G bomber with a crew of the other crew members…. widow/son or daughter of a former seven lost in February 1944 were POW, The Ride Home event set for repatriated in formal ceremonies at The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Macon, Georgia, September 17-20, the Mandalay, Myanmar airport. Agency is in no way partnered nor 2020 is for YOU. “The plane's wreckage was located in associated with Mr. Kuhles, his 1946 and some possible remains organization, or its efforts. DPAA To attend, click invitation on the were recovered last year in the same performs its mission to research, website, and then registration. region, but have not yet resulted in recover, repatriate and identify those http://www.theridehome.com/. You an identification,” according to who have made the supreme sacrifice can also find the invitation and regis- foxnews.com. for our nation in the most tration on pages 26-27 of this issue. professional manner and in full The Omaha World Herald reported in coordination with the partner nation In that same vein, the POW Network late January that work continues on officials and the U.S. Ambassador and hosts 11 events annually in Branson, 4000 bones in the lab at Offutt Air Embassy staff in each country where MO during Veterans Homecoming, Force Base. The remains are thought DPAA operates," Lt. Col. Kenneth L. November 5-11. We too are plan- to belong to 80 crewman lost in the Hoffman said in a email…” ning, organizing and working hard to raid on “Hitler’s Gas Station,” on pull off the varied tributes - saying “Black Sunday” in 1943. The incident According to the DPAA website, “The thank you again to our nation’s vet- was the Army Air Corp’s worst one June 24-27 Vietnam War Annual erans who come “home” to Branson day loss of the war. Government Briefings held in annually. With this being our 24th conjunction with the National League year, we hope to continue the tradi- Of the 1763 airman that took off for of POW/MIA Families Annual Meeting, tions, the love and the thanks are the raid, 310 were killed, 190 taken as well as the July 30-31 Korean and veterans have come to expect when prisoner and 80 more were MIA. Cold War Annual Government they visit. Romanians buried the dead, and Briefings, both in Washington, D.C., eventually the 80 MIAs were turned have been canceled as a safety Only time will tell what the future over to American Graves Registration precaution related to the COVID-19 holds. But we have faith and crews services. pandemic.” ready to roll up their sleeves so all are safe, and we can spend time with Offutt has received 49 caskets of Travel worldwide was suspended for you again. Stay well - we want to mixed and co-mingled remains, with POW/MIA remains research and see you soon. more expected when repatriation can recovery. Rescheduled trips are set resume in 2020. So far six airmen well into late summer or early fall. have been identified, and three more await identification approval. the next afternoon’s session, I was Norfolk, VA at the MacArthur civilian completely unprepared for Angus’ Memorial; details are still being news that night. He told me that finalized but we’re aiming for May he wanted to nominate me at the 2022. Next spring we plan to have From the Commander upcoming Board of Director’s a mini-Reunion luncheon in meeting to be the next Southern California, those Commander. I was utterly and arrangements will be shared when completely shocked. (My father’s we’ve made them. Stay tuned for reaction upon later hearing the further updates as we roll them out news was along the lines of, “I’m in the coming months. stunned. Did Angus decide to retire or did you engineer a coup?!” Gee, As I transition into the Commander thanks Dad!) I suggested to Angus role under Angus’ expert guidance, that there must be someone more I plan to learn more about the qualified than me to take on this history of BACEPOW itself, so look responsibility, but over the course for the next newsletter to include of the next few days it became an article recognizing and honoring clear that I was “it”. Sometimes, our past Commanders. They whether you expect it or not and brought this special community whether you’re ready for it or not, together and have kept it strong all Outgoing/Incoming Commanders you are called upon to step up. these years. I am committed to Angus Lorenzen & Sally Meadows This was my turn and so I said yes. doing the same, along with each of you. We announced this and other Board I fully expected the 75th decisions at the banquet on Thank you to the Board for their Anniversary of Liberation Reunion Sunday. We also announced that confidence and for everyone in the (Feb 6-9, 2020 in Sacramento) to the Board decided to change the organization who has be a momentous and emotional name of the organization to be enthusiastically expressed their occasion – as indeed it was – but I more geographically inclusive, so support and willingness to help. had no idea of the surprise our we are in the process of becoming Let’s keep our shared history alive! Commander, Angus Lorenzen, had CPOW, Civilian ex-Prisoners of War. in store. We have been issued an updated Sally Meadows charter from AXPOW (American By way of background for those Ex-Prisoners of War), so we are who don’t know me, I attended the now officially the CPOW Chapter of last BACEPOW Reunion in 2018 AXPOW, a Congressionally- with my father, Martin Meadows Chartered Veterans Service (former STIC internee, who decided Organization. Thanks also to Cliff against making the trip to California Mills for securing our new domain this time). After that event, Angus (CPOW.org), the address at which CPOW invited me to join the Board as our website will reside in the near Civilian Historian. This was a tremendous future. Ex-Prisoners of War. honor and responsibility, and also www.cpow.org a bit intimidating because I am not a trained historian, unlike some other esteemed members of the Membership is open to group. Still, I joined the Board to all former prisoners help further our common goal to keep alive the stories of civilian of the Japanese, their prisoners held by the Japanese. families, and friends.

When we arrived at Embassy Suites There is an active the evening before the Reunion, we chatted with other attendees CPOW Charter descendents group. congregating in the lobby, including Angus and his wife, Gail. Even We also decided that the next big though I was ready to moderate reunion will be in two years in

News & Information

It took 40 years, but… AUG 7-8,2020. AXPOW Department of Oho 2020 Annual Convention will be held at the Drury Inn & Suites The Bataan Relief Organization (BRO), originally conceived of by two Columbus South, 4109 Parkway mothers from New Mexico became a reality in 1942.. On April 10th, Centre Drive, Grove City, OH. these women spoke with the father of another 200th CA prisoner and Opening ceremonies begin Friday asked him to preside over a meeting. The purpose of this meeting at 1:00 p.m. You cannot check in was to form an organization to send aid to the captured men on the hotel until 3 p.m. To reserve a Bataan. room contact Drury Inn and Suite before July 10, 2020 at 1-800-325- That historic meeting was held on April 14, 1942 and the Bataan 0720—Group No. 2388554. State Relief Organization was created with headquarters in Albuquerque, Chapter will pay for room/s, meals. NM. The Bataan Relief Organization was made up of the mothers, Each chapter is to provide a $25.00 fathers, wives and sweethearts of the captured men who very actively gift. Please bring your chapter flag worked to get relief to their loved ones. They gathered every bit of if you have one. The Memorial information about the men that they could find and exchanged this Service will be held on Saturday at information with others prisoners’ families. 11 a.m. Please send in your list of deceased to be included to State As word spread about what the New Mexico organization was Commander, Doug Mundy, 10070 accomplishing, chapters were quickly formed throughout the United Larimer Rd., Logan OH 43138. States.

SEPT. 9-13, 2020. The 74th reunion In 1945, the control of the Bataan Relief Organization was turned of the 106th Infantry Division over to the liberated members of the New Mexico’s 200th Coast Association will be held in Kansas Artillery Regiment at an annual meeting held in Albuquerque, New City, Missouri. This is a combined Mexico. In 1946, the name was changed to Bataan Veteran’s reunion with: 106th Infantry Organization. Division Association and 104th Infantry (National Timberwolf Pups The first National convention of the BVO was held May 14, 1948, in Assn.) For information,, Albuquerque. The second National convention was held in Hollywood, http://106thinfdivassn.org/reunio California, in April 1949. At this convention, it was voted to change n20 20.html or contact Wayne Dunn the name to American Ex-Prisoners of War. The reason for the change at [email protected]. was so veterans from the European Theater would realize that they were eligible for membership. By changing the name to American Sept. 17-19, 2020. The RIDE Ex-Prisoners of War, it would welcome all former POWs, Civilian HOME, in support of the National Internees and their families and descendants from any war. POW/MIA Recognition Day events, will be held in WarnerRobins, When we applied for a Federal Charter, Congress had a great deal of Georgia. More information is on difficulty recognizing a “veterans service organization” made up of pages 26-27. veterans as well as their families. But we were determined and eventually – 40 years later – Public Law 97-234 gave us our Federal Sept. 20, 2020. AXPOW National Charter. Take a look at the names on the next page. They are your Board Meeting will be held in brothers-in-arms. But they are also your wives and mothers. Warner-Robins, GA following The Ride Home. For more information, Together, we created a unique organization. One of which we can all contact Clydie Morgan Chief be proud. Operating Officer; [email protected].

Public Law 97-234 -- August 10, 1982 Federal Charter of American Ex-Prisoners of War

UNITED STATES CODE TITLE 36 PATRIOTIC AND NATIONAL OBSERVANCES, CEREMONIES, AND ORGANIZATIONS SUBTITLE II - PATRIOTIC AND NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS PART B - ORGANIZATIONS CHAPTER 209 - AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR

§ 2101. Recognition as corporation and grant of Federal charter American Ex-Prisoners of War, organized and incorporated under the Washington Nonprofit Corporation Act (Wash. Rev. Code Ann. 24.03.005) of the State of Washington by Charles Morgan, Junior, San Antonio, Texas; Edward Fisher, Fairhaven, Massachusetts; Charles Miller, La Jolla, California; C. Earl Derrington, Jackson, Mississippi; Edward Parks, Middleboro, Massachusetts; Henry Goodall, Houston, Texas; Stanley Sommers, Marshfield, Wisconsin; Edward Allen, N. Olmstead, Ohio; Irving Rittenberg, Brookline, Massachusetts; Edgar Van Valkenberg, Saint Petersburg, Florida; W. C. Musten, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Clifford Omtvedt, Eau Claire, Wisconsin; Orlo Natvig, Charles City, Iowa; H. C. Griffin, Houston, Texas; Milton Moore, El Paso, Texas; Marie Harre, Fairway, Kansas; Alfred Galloway, Seattle, Washington; Reginald Reed, Bremerton, Washington; Ralph Moulis, Tucson, Arizona; Betty Rodriquez, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Randall Briere, San Antonio, Texas; Joseph G. Schisser, San Leon, Texas; Herman Molen, Las Vegas, Nevada; Joseph B. Upton, Saint Louis, Missouri; Harold Page, Buckley, Washington; D. C. Wimberly, Springhill, Louisiana; Albert Braun, Phoenix, Arizona; Melvin Madero, San Diego, California; Tillman Rutledge, San Antonio, Texas; Benson Guyton, Decatur, Alabama; Frank Hawkins, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Melvin Routt, Tracy, California; John Romine, Muskogee, Oklahoma; Christopher Morgan, Old Bridge, New Jersey; Allen Smith, Diana, Texas; and John G. Flynn, San Antonio, Texas, is hereby recognized as such and is granted a charter.

§ 2102. Powers of corporation American Ex-Prisoners of War (hereafter in this chapter referred to as the corporation) shall have only those powers granted to it through its bylaws and articles of incorporation filed in the State or States in which it is incorporated and subject to the laws of such State or States.

§ 2103. Objects and purposes of corporation The objects and purposes of the corporation are those provided in its articles of incorporation and shall include - (1) encouragement of fraternity for the common good; (2) fostering patriotism and loyalty; (3) assistance to widows and orphans of deceased ex-prisoners of war; (4) assistance to ex-prisoners of war who have been injured or handicapped as a result of their service; (5) maintenance of allegiance to the United States of America; (6) preservation and defense of the United States from all of her enemies; and (7) maintenance of historical records.

§ 2104. Service of process With respect to service of process, the corporation shall comply with the laws of the States in which it is incorporated and those States in which it carries on its activities in furtherance of its corporate purposes.

§ 2105. Membership Eligibility for membership in the corporation and the rights and privileges of members shall be as provided in the bylaws of the corporation. Administration will increase for the Veterans Health News continued… virtual hearings and formulate Administration, $300 million of plans to resume face-to-face which will be used this fiscal year compensation and pension to address the challenges faced VA Operations exams, while the National by homeless and at-risk Veterans. 3-Part Plan to Cemetery Administration will “A significant percentage of prepare for resuming memorial homeless Veterans or those at Resume Full services and burials that will be risk of homelessness are uniquely held later. vulnerable to COVID-19 due to Services their living conditions, age and As the number of active COVID- Phase 2 will include expanding chronic health complications,” 19 cases among its patients non-emergency procedures and said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. declined slightly, the Department medical visits to hospitals and “The funds from the CARES Act of Veterans Affairs announced a clinics; reopening the are vital and will allow VA to three-part plan for resuming department's Fisher Houses; continue working diligently to operations at its facilities in the resuming memorial services and prevent the spread of infection in coming months. The effort will burials with military honors, with communities and keep Veterans largely depend on local COVID-19 limited attendance based on local safe and on the pathway to conditions, including a declining conditions; and in-person permanent housing during this number of patients with services at VBA regional offices, perilous time.” symptoms, a reduction in those by appointment. testing positive and widespread availability of testing. While the The final phase will build on the Gary Sinise VA's Central Office has drafted a others: resuming visitor access to Foundation tiered plan for operations, all VA health facilities, including decisions will be made at the local nursing homes, expanding donates meals level and may not be in line with services at VHA and VBA The Gary Sinise Foundation has other state or federal reopening locations, and resuming all other committed to providing up to goals, VA officials said. "A central normal operations. VA officials 20,000 meals to VA health care planning solution for resuming said the work will be done with and frontline workers. regular operations makes no employee health and safety in sense here because some areas mind, and all criteria and VA’s Voluntary Service is working of the country will take longer to parameters "must be met before with the Gary Sinise Foundation recover, while other areas have starting the phases and may Emergency COVID-19 Combat seen minimal cases," VA precipitate a return to an earlier Service to identify the more than Secretary Robert Wilkie said in a phase." 80 VA medical facilities across the release. "That's why we're letting nation that will receive the meals local conditions dictate our next over the coming weeks. steps." Homeless Vets - CARES Since April 1, the Emergency The first phase, to occur in June, The U.S. Department of Veterans COVID-19 Combat Service has will largely consist of assessments Affairs announced in May that it been helping to meet the urgent by VA facilities to determine the has expanded support services needs of Veterans, first risks and impact of increasing enabled by the Coronavirus Aid, responders, military, health care operations, such as non- Relief, and Economic Security workers and all of those on the emergency procedures like (CARES) Act, to make available front lines of the COVID-19 clinical visits and lab tests and immediate relief for Veterans pandemic through serving meals, admissions to spinal cord injury experiencing or at risk of providing personal protective units. Officials will also explore homelessness during the equipment and donating the capacity for community coronavirus disease 2019 decontamination equipment health care providers to resume (COVID-19) pandemic. The across the country. seeing veteran patients. In this CARES Act allocates $17.2 billion phase, the Veterans Benefits 100 years ago in May

May 1 - Legendary slugger Babe Ruth smashes his 50th MLB career home run, his first for the NY Yankees in 6-0 win over the Boston Red Sox May 2 – The first game of Negro National League baseball is played, in Indianapolis, Indiana. May 3 – A Bolshevik coup fails, in the Democratic Republic of Georgia. May 7 - Polish–Soviet War: Polish troops occupy Kiev. The government of the Ukrainian People's Republic returns to the city. May 7 - Mexican Revolution: Venustiano Carranza leaves Mexico City in a large train. May 7 - Treaty of Moscow (1920): Soviet Russia recognizes the independence of the Democratic Republic of Georgia, only to invade the country six months later. May 7 - Morecambe Football Club was founded during a meeting at the West View Hotel on the town's promenade. May 15 – Russian Revolution: Russian White soldier Maria Bochkareva is executed in Soviet Russia. May 16 – W. Howard Chittenden, past Commander of the Fox River Chapter and the Department of Illinois was born. Howie served in the Pacific with the North China Marines in Woosung Kiangwan China. * May 16 - Canonization of Joan of Arc: Over 30,000 people attend the ceremony. May 16 - A referendum in Switzerland favors joining the League of Nations. May 17 - French and Belgian troops leave the cities they have occupied in Germany. May 17 - The first flight of Dutch air company KLM, from Amsterdam to London, takes place. May 19 – Mexican Revolution: Álvaro Obregón's troops enter Mexico City. May 20 – Mexican Revolution: Venustiano Carranza arrives in San Antonio Tlaxcalantongo and is killed. May 24 – Venustiano Carranza is buried in Mexico City; all of his mourning allies are arrested. Adolfo de la Huerta is elected provisional president. May 26 – Ganja revolt: Anti-Soviet opposition in the Azerbaijan SSR launches an abortive revolt in Ganja. May 27 – Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk becomes president of Czechoslovakia. May 29 – Floods at Louth, Lincolnshire in England kill 23. May 30 – Memorial Day

● Happy Birthday, Howie!

A True 1944 Adventure

by Lawrene R. Landwehr W256S4895 Wood Lilly Lane Waukesha, WI 53189

At 7:46 AM, Sunday, April 29, protective firepower of the out walking – walking 200 steps, 1944, our B17F fortress bomber, squadron. In the ensuing battle, then jogging 200 steps, an old the Chief Wahoo, took off from they made runs firing against our Indian way to cover ground. The our 483rd BG base at Foggia Italy, plane from the nose, and then money was useless; people ran with 10 men and 12-500 lb load went under us to turn and come away when I tried to buy a of demolition bombs. With the back from the rear. The bicycles, food or other items. The rest of our formation, we were to bombardier, by a sly trick, shot third night, I “borrowed” a suit destroy a factory at Milan in up one ME 109 so bad he had to coat from a clothesline to cover Northern Italy. eject. I was at right waist and up my flying coveralls. fired only 20-30 rounds from my Our pilot, Hilmer Landholt, our flexible 50 caliber out the open Being too engrossed and eager bombardier Floyd Bowles, myself window. All this time we were to get back to our base, I got too at age 24, and eight more of us losing altitude; the three engines bold. I put a garden hoe over my were briefed that this would be a could not keep us up. The pilot shoulder and walked right “Milk Run”. All we had to do was gave the order to bail out at through villages and over bridges fly up there, drop our bombs, and approximately 5,000 feet. guarded by soldiers. Finally on come back to our base. All the the fifth day, while I walked down Italians and Germans would be After pulling the rip cord and the highway, a German soldier in church! floating down, I noticed a creek stopped me for a light for his running across the road near cigarette. Since I couldn’t speak Sad to say, intelligence was where I would come down. Upon German, I shook my head and wrong. During and after our run landing roughly, I gathered my continued on. He rode his bike in on the target, heavy flak rocked chute around me and back into the opposite direction until our plane. An 88 projectile went the 3-foot culvert. In eight or ten another soldier joined him; both through the wing between minutes, motorcycles, bicycles, pulled out their pistols and number 3 and 4 engines, and military vehicles searched for approached me asking for exploding above us. Immediately me. They knew I had come down identification. All I could do was #3 engine caught fire. The pilot in that vicinity. shake my head, whereupon they pulled the handle and marched me to the local jail. extinguished the fire with the To plan my escape, I stayed in When they searched me and CO2 rings around it and the culvert all Sunday night and found all those escape items, feathered the prop! With the loss all of the next day and night. On they thought I was a spy or a of power in that engine, our plane my parachute harness I had fighter pilot. I had an English- had to drop out of the formation fastened a Tropical Survival Kit speaking woman question me, protection and start our journey that I had picked up – water but as you know, I could only tell back home. A few minutes later, purifier, hacksaw blades, money them my name, rank and serial four ME 109s of the German and maps. I then planned to walk number. Luftwaffe engaged us because we to the Adriatic Sea, obtain a boat, were a straggler and without the and paddle back to Foggia. I set They must have gotten on the to be shot as a spy unless I The shoulder sleeve phone to German cooperated with answers to insignia worn by all Headquarters, because the questions about our base, personnel of the Army next day they took me under missions, and future targets! Air Forces (AAF) wherever stationed guard to a railroad station and With no answers to their dozen was approved on 23 then through Bremmer Pass questions, I was returned to February 1942. The and into Germany. In Frankfurt my cell to “think it over” patch was designed by Mr. James T. there was a central prison and seriously before it was too late. Rawls, an artist and a member of SS troops to interrogate Allied General Arnold's staff. He made airmen and other POWs. In four more sessions in which many designs, most incorporating I told them nothing, my final pilot wings, but Arnold rejected After 2 days and nights in a cell SS officer berated me: “You them all. Rawls, dejected by his lack with only a straw bed on the think we Germans are stupid. of success, was shown a picture of British Prime Minister Winston floor and an open drain for a Look at this.” He pushed a Churchill giving his well-known "V potty, I was brought to a report of my crew, each for Victory" sign. Rawls made a central room by a 7-ft. tall position and each man’s name, quick sketch bending the wings up, guard and plunked down in a rank and even civilian and Arnold said, "That's just what I chair across from a German occupation in front of me. wanted." Arnold, incidentally, is said officer. He spoke good English When I showed no surprise, he to have designed the first Air Force with an accent. He had a pack said “For you the war is over”, pilot wings in 1917 when he was a of Lucky Strike and and that I was to be sent to an major. Chesterfield cigarettes in front Airman’s POW camp to spend On 2 March 1943, shoulder sleeve of him. After offering me one, my days until we lost the war. insignia were authorized for each which I politely refused, he overseas air force, and the winged proceeded to light up and blow That night I was loaded on a star was limited to those AAF per- clouds of smoke in my face. He 40-8 boxcar with other POWs sonnel not in overseas commands. didn’t realize I didn’t smoke. and arrived two days later at He confirmed my name, rank Stalag Luft IV at Gross On 25 June 1943, personnel in all air and serial number and then Tychoro. As POW 1036, my forces, including those in the United started berating me for fighting clothes were exchanged for States, were authorized distinctive against them. My name other used ones and I went into insignia, and only Headquarters AAF and a few other independent com- Landwer means (according to Compound A as the first group mands continued to wear the Webster’s dictionary) the first to occupy a room with 15 other winged star. It is sometimes known German Land Army. Wehr Kriegies. We had two tier as the Hap Arnold emblem, named macht is their infantry fighting wooden beds in our barracks for General Henry H. Arnold who force. Suddenly he asked me three feet off the ground to commanded the AAF in World War how many tons of bombs the prevent tunneling.. There were II. B29 would tote to the target 11 other rooms with just one and what was the top speed? wash room and two latrines. The ultramarine disk represents the With no answers to another five medium in which the Air Forces operated, and the white star with questions, he motioned to the On February 10, 1945, we left red disk was the identifying symbol guard to take me to my cell. Luft IV; traveling in the Black of U.S. Army and Navy airplanes March of 80 days and more since 1921. (The red disk was re- Lunch consisted of a cup of than 620 miles in the winter. moved from aircraft markings in watery soup of potato peels, Along the way, some of us got 1942 to prevent confusion with Jap- cabbage or rutabagas with into 40-8 boxcars to anese insignia.) The golden wings some broth, a slice of black Nurenburg. We were liberated symbolize victorious operation. bread, margarine and one 3” May 5, 1945 by Patton’s Third slice of wurst. Shortly I was Army at 7A Moosburg. After a Although the patch is no longer worn taken to the same room with a voyage in convoy to the US, I on Air Force uniforms, the design different SS officer who said was discharged Sept. 15, 1945 appears on U.S. Air Force uniform that since I was found with at Fort McCoy, WI. At the rank buttons. escape items and a civilian of T/Sgt!!! jacket, I was a sure candidate

Federico Baldassarre Request for Hayward CA membership application Son of James Baldassare, PAC American Ex-Prisoners of War

Marcia L Forsblad Name: Fresno CA Address: Daughter of Leland Forsblad, City: new members ETO State/Zip: Madeline King Membership is open to US Military National Headquarters Santee CA and Civilians captured because of PO Box 3445 Daughter of Stephan J King, their US citizenship and their Arlington, TX 76007-3445 ETO families/descendents. (817)-649-2979 [email protected] Sally Meadows DO NOT send dues with this Los Altos CA request for an application. Daughter of Martin Meadows Martin Meadows Mail to: American Ex-Prisoners of Boca Raton FL Ronald C Oden War PO Box 3445 Arlington, TX CIV: Santo Tomas 1/42 to 2/45 Riesel TX 76007-3445 (817) 649-2979 Son of J A Oden Jr, PAC email: [email protected] Assunta Baldassarre Hayward CA Daughter of James Baldassarre, Welcome! PAC

Certificate of Captivity $25.00 Suitable for framing, this certificate of captivity, printed on 8½ x 11” quality paper, proudly displays your history as a prisoner of war. Each certificate background is personalized to the theatre of operation. We will need your name, service number, branch of service, unit when captured, POW number (if known), camp names and locations. You may also include a picture with your order. To receive this certificate from AXPOW, please order from National Headquarters by calling 817- 649-2979 or email: [email protected].

Contributions The Meaningful Gift A number of years ago, one of our members made the decision to establish a bequest to the American Ex-Prisoners of War. He felt strongly that he truly cared about our future and wanted to leave a legacy to us. He and his wife are now gone, but their generous gift enabled them to demonstrate in a very meaningful way their commitment to AXPOW. More recently others have done the same. Support for our programs became the beneficiary of their please send donations to: generosity.

National Headquarters, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX You, too can take action today to help 76007-3445. Checks must be made payable to AXPOW or ensure that the American Ex-Prisoners of American Ex-Prisoners of War. War remains through your will or living trust. This gift can be funded with cash or securities, mutual funds or other investments that are not serving your GENERAL FUND current needs. This special gift will benefit In memory of Edwin & Eleanor Huson, by Stephen future generations as well as we continue our transition to a true legacy Huson organization. In memory of Gloria Kerchum, by Paul Kerchum In memory of Grace Book, by George Bubash It’s very simple to make a bequest to the In memory of Hamet Lee Piercy, by children Mickey, American Ex-Prisoners of War. Simply Gail & Ann share this sentence with your attorney or In memory of James Tyndall Langston, by Dan & Jamie financial planner and they can add the Turner following to your will or living trust: In memory of Lt Col (Ret) Joseph Haines, by Cpl Paul Thompson “I give, devise and bequeath to the In memory of my husband, Irv, by Dorothy Bailey American Ex-Prisoners of War, PO Box In memory of my husband, Woodrow, by Edith Smith 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445, the sum In memory of my chapter members, by Edith Smith of $______or ______(named In memory of Pierr JJ Kennedy, by Michael Portantiere investment) or ____percent of the rest, In memory of Robert E Wilson, by Kathleen Wilson residue and remainder of my estate.” In memory of Roger & Lorraine Mullenmeister, by Your generous support of our programs Kathleen Lenarz over the years has made a tremendous In memory of Theodore Sheridan, by Phyllis Sprenkle difference to ex-POWs and their families. In memory of Walter Kwiecinski, by Mary Ann Please take a few minutes of your time Kwiecinski to help ensure our future. And feel free to contact CFO Marsha Coke at BULLETIN [email protected], or CEO Cheryl In memory of Ethel Bearisto, by Robert Bearisto Cerbone at [email protected]. Phone #817-649-2979. VOLUNTARY FUNDING Irving Lautman, Norristown PA Thank You!

taps

Please submit taps notices to: Cheryl Cerbone, 23 Cove View Drive, South Yarmouth, MA 02664

ADKINS, BENNIE G., passed away of AXPOW. Bill served as National CARBONI, ESTER M., of St. in Opelika, AL at the age of 86. Commander in 1993-1994. She Petersburg, FL passed away May He was a Medal of Honor recipient was past Chapter Commander of 14, 2020. She was the widow of three-tour Vietnam veteran, and MA Chapter 1 and held many Ex-POW John and an active a true hero. His biography states offices in the chapter. Ethel loved member of AXPOW. She was he served more than 20 years to travel. Many of their trips chapter treasurer for many years in the Army, about 13 of which included AXPOW meetings and for the FL Gulf Coast Chapter. were as a Green Beret in 7th, conventions, where she, Bill and Ester and PNC Ed Dement were 3rd, 6th and 5th Special Forces other ex-POWs found support and strong advocates and hard Groups. His actions in Vietnam understanding. In addition to her workers raising money and between March 9-12, 1966, led loving husband of seventy-two awareness for the National POW to him receiving the Medal of years, and her children, she Museum at Andersonville, GA. Honor in 2014. He retired from leaves her brother Albert, 4 Survivors include 3 sons, 1 the Army in 1978 as a Command grandchildren, 6 great- daughter, 5 grandchildren, 6 Sergeant Major. Preceded in grandchildren, and many nieces, great-grandchildren and their death by his wife, Mary, he is nephews and their families. families. survived by a daughter, two sons and many grandchildren BENOIT, CLIFFORD E. “CICA” of CASTLE, AXIE L., 90, died in New and great-grandchildren. Arlingon, MA died April 24, 2020, Albany, IN Jan. 4, 2020. She and just one year after losing his her husband, Herman, were life ANGLETON, SONDRA, 69 of Sun beloved wife of 65 years, Helen. members of AXPOW. Axie is City West, Arizona passed away He was captured while serving in survived by 1 son, 1 daughter, 6 March 13, 2020. Sondra was the the Army in Korea and held for grandchildren,18 great- daughter of the late Stanley 33 months until his release. He grandchildren and their families. Angleton (WWII Ex-POW – Army remained active in AXPOW Air Corps). She is survived by a throughout the remainder of his FLEMING, ROBERT W. SR., sister. life. He is survived by 4 sons, 4 passed away in Memphis, TN on daughters, 20 grandchildren and Dec. 6, 2018. He served in the BAKER, ROBERT J., 99, of 18 great-grandchildren and their 2nd Army, Indianhead Div., BAR Rochester, NY died March 25, families. and he was badly wounded at 2020. He was captured while capture. He was first Korean assigned to the 381st BG as a BOWERS, ROGER S., of Roaring POW released in Operation Little bombardier and held for 16 Spring, PA died May 2, 2020. He Switch after 1-1/2 years as a months. Bob was a life member was 96. During WWII, he served POW. Robert was charter member of AXPOW and served as with the 103rd Md. Bn., 28th Inf. and past commander of the Mid- treasurer of his local chapter. Div., was captured in the Battle South Chapter, AXPOW. He Survivors include grandson, of the Bulge and held in Stalag leaves his wife of 64 years, Brian Kinsella. XB, Bad Orb. Roger and his late Dorothy, 1 daughter, 1 son, 1 wife of 66 years, Mitzi, were life granddaughter and their families. BEARISTO, ETHEL M. (WALSH), members of AXPOW and charter of Waltham, MA passed away May members of the Southern GROESBECK, CARL ARTHUR, of 4, 2020. She was 94. In 1948, Alleghenies Chapter. He leaves 1 Wheaton, IL died March 31, 2020. she married WWII Ex-POW (28th son, 2 grandchildren and 5 great- He was 101. He was captured Inf. Div.) William E. Bearisto. grandchildren. while serving in the AAC, They had three children – Robert, attached to the 306th BG, held in Paul and Mabel. All are members Luft 3, then marched across JOHNSON, SAM, of Plano, TX KITZMAN, DONALD H. of taps, cont’d… passed away May 27, 2020. He Roseburg, OR passed away March was 89. He flew nearly 100 19, 2020 at the age of 97. He was Germany. Survivors include 3 combat missions during the captured while serving with the sons, 2 daughters, 9 Korean and Vietnam wars as a AAC during WWII, flying B-17s grandchildren and their families. fighter pilot. While flying over out of Bassingbourn, England. He North Vietnam in 1966, his plane survived two POW camps and a GUNNARSON, JACKIE E., was shot down and he was brutal march across Germany. longtime member of the Rocky wounded. He was held as a Don was an active member of Mountain Chapter, AXPOW, prisoner of war for nearly seven AXPOW. His wife, Betty, passed away Apr. 6, 2020. She years, including a stint at the Hoa predeceased him; he leaves 1 was the wife of Ex-POW Elmer Lo Prison known as the Hanoi son, 1 daughter, five (110th Inf., 28th Inf. Div. Hilton. He was released and flown grandchildren, 1 brother and their captured in the Battle of the out of Hanoi on Feb. 12, 1973. families. Bulge and held in Stalag IXB). First elected to Congress in 1991, he spent more than two decades KLING, RALPH F., of Ramona, CA HALL, BRUCE A., of Port Orange, as a strong advocate for veterans died March 28, 2020. He was 95. FL died Dec. 7, 2019. During in the House of Representatives. Serving with the AAC, he was WWII, he served with the US His wife, Shirley, died in 2015; he shot down on his 68th mission. Army, 45th Div., 157th Inf. He leaves 2 daughters, 10 He was captured and held at was captured on Anzio Beach, grandchildren and their families. Stalag Luft III. After retiring from Italy, held for 15 months in the AF Reserves, he served as Germany and Poland. He and his KENNEDY, PIERRE JEAN AXPOW National Director and loving wife, Sami, served as JACQUES, 96, formerly of West Commander of the San Diego National Service Officers, and Hartford and Rockville, CT died Chapter One. His wife, Irene, were regular attendees at AXPOW Oct. 15, 2019. During WWII, he worked with him on many San Conventions. Bruce was also a served with the 15th AF, 465th Diego activities and parades. In Past National Director for AXPOW. BG, 781st BS, flying out of Italy. addition to his wife, he leaves 2 On the local level, he was a He was captured on a bombing daughters, 2 grandsons and 6 driving force behind the East mission over eastern Germany, great-grandchildren. Central FL Chapter, and held in Luft 4, and marched Commander of the Dept. of FL. across Germany toward war’s KROPP, DONALD JAMES, of Fort One highlight was being end. Pierre was Adjutant for the Worth, TX died April19, 2020. recognized as Daytona Beach Connecticut Chapter, AXPOW and During WWII, he was captured in area Veteran of the Year. He will a contributor to the Ex-POW the Battle of the Bulge while be missed by his many, many Bulletin TAPS section for his serving in the Army. He was the friends. chapter. His wife, Rosemary and former commander of the NW former wife Marilyn predeceased Arkansas Chapter, AXPOW. HARDWICK, W.T. of Memphis, him. He is survived by 3 sons, 1 Donald’s wife, Corine, predeceased TN died March 23, 2018. daughter, 2 grandsons, 2 him; he is survived by 2 sons, 1 HARDWICK, MARY SILER, of stepchildren, nieces, nephews daughter, 5 grandchildren, 3 great- grandchildren and their families. Memphis TN died May 16, 2017. and their families. W.T. served in the United States LIVAUDAIS, CLYDIE PAUL, age 90, Army during WWII. He was KERCHUM, GLORIA M. of Benson, captured during the invasion of of Mansura, LA, died April 19, 2020. AZ died Dec. 21, 2019. She was He was a member of HQ Battery, France in June of 1944, and was the beloved wife of ex-POW Paul a prisoner of war in Germany until 38th Field Artillery Battalion, 2nd (PAC POW). They had been Infantry Division in Korea. He was he was liberated on April 14, married for 74 years. She is 1945. In 2014, he traveled back captured May 19, 1951, and survived by 1 daughter, 2 sisters, repatriated August 21, 1953. He is to Normandy, France, for the 1 brother, 5 grandchildren, 21 survived by his wife Irma, a 70th anniversary of D-Day with great-grandchildren, 1 great- daughter, 3 sons, 7 grandchildren, four generations of his family. He great-granddaughter and their and 1 great-grandchild. is survived by 1 daughter, 2 families. granddaughters, 5 great- MASSIER, ARNOLD, of Naperville, grandchildren and 1 brother. IL passed away Feb. 14, 2020. He SMITH, MAURICE, of Fair Oaks, CA across Germany. Herk donated taps, cont’d… passed away Nov. 14, 2019. He his Bible two years ago to a was 100 years old. While assigned “missing man” display that was 97. Arnie was captured while to the 101st Airborne Glider Div., honors POWs and MIAs at the serving with I Co., 3rd BN, 15th he was captured during D-Day and Manchester VA Clinic. That action Reg., 3rd Inf. Div. He was held in held until liberation. He was launched an ongoing 1st Stalags 7A and 2B. He was a predeceased by his wife, Jean and member of the Fox River Valley Amendment legal battle over its one son. He is survived by 2 sons, inclusion. Four children survive Chapter. He is survived by a large, 1 daughter, 5 grandchildren, 2 him; he also leaves 7 extended family of friends and great-grandchildren and their grandchildren, 4 great-grand- neighbors. families. children and their families. He will NORRID, BEN of Memphis, TN SOKOLOWSKI, ALICE, of Largo, FL be missed by his family and passed away October 4, 2016. He died April 28, 2020. She was 93 friends, including this editor. was captured while serving with the and the widow of Ex-POW Felix (A AAC during WWII. His wife, Laura, Co, 43rd Tank Bn., 12th Armored WELLS, WESLEY HUNT, age 97, of survives him. Div., held in France). Alice is Hillsborough, NH passed away survived by a son, 2 daughters, 3 March 13, 2020. During WWII, he QUALMANN, HELMUTH H., age 95, grandchildren and 4 great- served with the 27th BG, 48th died Feb. 5, 2020. During WWII, grandchildren. Materiel Squadron. He was he was captured in the Battle of the captured by the Japanese on Cuyo Bulge and held in Stalag IV-B. STREITBURGER, HERMAN C Island, Philippines. He was held 40 Helmuth was married to his late “Herk”, of Bedford, NH passed months - first in the Philippines, wife, Elena for 52 years. They had then taken by Hell ship to Fukuoka away May 29, 2020 just a month 4 children and numerous III in Japan. He leaves his wife of short of his 101st birthday. grandchildren and great- 48 years Melvina (Commander NH Serving with the AAF, he was grandchildren. Chapter AXPOW) and their shot down, captured and held in daughter Daphne. Luft 4, Stalag 2B and marched

acter. In fact most of us have the Hope in a opinion that a thief does not have Chaplain “good moral character.” Preachers pandemic call thieves "sinners." In Daniel chapter 3 we find three Hebrew men, Sha-drach, Me- shach, and A-bed-ne-go who would not worship an idol that the King had set up. To do so would The Coronavirus pandemic is now have broken the First Command- affecting every part of the world, ment in Exodus 20, which is to disrupting people’s lives and have no other gods before the Lord creating fear, anxiety, sorrow and God. They faced destruction hardship. Where can we find (death) because of their faith in strength and hope at this the Living God. The question to Benny Rayborn troubling time? What might faith ask ourselves is Who (or What) look like in a time of COVID-19? 1111 Highway 29 have I made my God by my ac- How might God be calling us to Wiggins, MS 39577 tions? respond to the impacts of the Unfortunately, by the laws and pandemic? rulings made by our Supreme Do you like me? Do you dislike In such extraordinary times, it is Court it appears that our Govern- me? Do you hate me? (Does it not only helpful but vital that we ment does not want us to worship really matter in the long run?) engage with God’s Word. any God. With that thought came I believe that all people who are the three Hebrews’ answer to the Firstly, it enables us to root emotionally “ normal” want to be King, in Daniel 3:16 “We are not ourselves in the truth of God’s accepted as they are. I know this careful to answer thee.” They had utter faithfulness. We discover certainly is true of me. In the no fear of the King (the govern- afresh that we are never terms of childhood, they want to ment and obviously no fear of any- abandoned but are held by God, be “liked”. one else). They trusted God in who comes alongside us. There are two problems with that Heaven for their physical and Spir- thought. First, not everyone will itual salvation. Again, I ask a ques- Secondly, God’s Word calls us to like you, or for that matter me. tion: Who do you trust? action. In opening Scripture Usually, there is nothing we can do together, we are reminded that we are the children of God with as to other people’s opinions of us, I feel this is a “heavy handed” new opportunities to serve our so life goes on and so must we. If, article but my thought is there is a someone harbors resentment, or possibility that someone reading communities and to witness very dislikes you, in this country that is this article has not trusted God. practically His love. normally “their problem”. Most of Why am I so worried about you my And thirdly, we are filled anew us can go merrily along and not be reader trusting God? One day we with authentic hope. We can live affected by their dislike or hate. all, including you and me, will die. the present and look to the future There is absolutely no reason to That is how we go to meet God. In fear or dislike them. To do so knowing the sovereignty of God the book of Hebrews 11: 6 read and His reconciling love. lessens us. we that God is a Rewarder of those The second problem, is changing who believe that He is. Faith is All across the country, churches so that we may be “liked” may necessary to please God. are shutting their buildings as public health measures are mean giving up your character. Prayer: Lord, God in Heaven, Our implemented to prevent the For instance, I am reminded of a Creator and Preserver, May all that “club” of teenagers whose initia- read this article find trust in you spread of COVID-19. But even if tion included shop lifting. To be in and peace in you. Amen the building is closed, the Church their cliché, theft was required. is still there, present in the Most of us know that Exodus 20:15 people. Use the strength of your says, “Do not steal”. Since true Benny belief to see you through. believers in God abhor stealing, theft will cause a lowering of char-

AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR VOLUNTARY FUNDING PROGRAM

The AXPOW Voluntary Giving Program parallels that of other VSOs, whereby the entire membership, including life members, is given the opportunity to contribute to the operation of our organization, based on ability and willingness to contribute. All contributions are to be sent directly to National Headquarters to be used for the operation of the organization. A complete accounting of contributors will appear in the Bulletin each issue.

I am enclosing my contribution to support the operation of the American Ex-Prisoners of War.

$20.00 $30.00 $40.00 $50.00 $100.00 Other

Name Address City/State/Zip Phone #

Please make checks payable to American Ex-Prisoners of War - Voluntary Funding Mail contributions to: National Headquarters, American Ex-Prisoners of War PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445

JEFFERSON BARRACKS POW-MIA MUSEUM JEFFERSON BARRACKS POW-MIA MUSEUM

N is {or Never Forget is a child -friendly book that takes readers on a compelling journey through wartime history. Poignant illustrations and stories capture key people, concepts, and memorials to help readers understand and honor the sacrifices endured by men and women prisoners of war and missing in action on behalf of freedom .

Proceeds from books purchased through JBPMM, Inc. (501c3) go directly to restoring \ renovating the former 1896 Officers Quarters Building into the Jefferson Barracks POW-MIA Museum. $21.95 including S/H. Contact Paul Dillon at [email protected]; 314-609-9037.

Challenge Coins Bronze Grave Medallions

$13.00 includes S/H/I $100.00 includes S/H/I

All orders for products sold by AXPOW, including dues/subscriptions should be mailed to: American Ex-Prisoners of War, National Headquarters, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445; [email protected]

CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM

Include your mailing label for address change or inquiry. If you are receiving duplicate copies, please send both labels. If moving, please give us your new address in the space below. Name______Address______City/State/Zip______Phone______Email______Please allow 4 weeks to make address changes.

Mail to: National Headquarters, AXPOW, PO Box 3445, Arlington, TX 76007-3445. Email: [email protected]