The Newspaper for Veterans and All Who Love Them.

Volume 8 Number 1 November/December 2017

The markers are the same; One for all and all for one. Buried beneath the stones are our brothers and sisters. When we walk among our dead, We ask, “Why you, my brother? Why you?” We never tire of hearing his answer. “Fate asked me and I obeyed.”

Lake View Cemetery: Where Veterans Rest Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) is committed to veterans.

Whether you’re a discharged veteran, a member of the Guard or Reserve or on active duty, you and your family are welcomed home at Tri-C.

We offer fast-track certifications, degree and apprenticeship programs and support services. Other resources include: • Transition Assistance Programs • Distance Learning Opportunities • Veterans Club • Access to Community Resources • Assessment and Counseling • Benefits Acquisition • Career Planning • Education Access Program • Scholarship Opportunities For more information:

tri-c.edu/veterans 216-987-3193

17-2013 Uniform of the day

4 Headlines from across the country and comments from The Chronicle staff 5 A Great Day for Veterans! 6 James Banks, Ph.D., who shows us the hard-won souvenirs of war VA Expands Transparency Efforts, Detailing Secretary’s Travel 7 SocksPlus Program helps the homeless 8 Agent Orange: The U.S. weapon that made millions for war profiteers 9 Clearview H.O.P.E. Offers 13 American Legion (and others) Women Vets Support, dedicate Memorial Park in Friendship – and Golf Nordonia Hills 10 Film documents personal challenges 14 The Right Stuff: Bob Feller’s two of women veterans amazing careers The War in the Mideast and the 18 Unexpected Gratitude, Volunteer Army Remembrance 11 Rick DeChant: This Veteran Cares 19 American Soldier Befriended about All Veterans Iraqi Toddler, Family 12 Ken Burns Lessons from Vietnam

www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩3 Headlines from across the country and

comments from The Chronicle staff The Newspaper for Veterans and All Who Love Them. Pumpkin spice air Grizzly bear mauls 1freshener prompts 13bow hunter, slashes evacuation of school. open head. Publisher Emeritus Finally – designer farts. Somedays you get Terence J. Uhl the bear, some days Publisher and Editor Half the universe’s the bear gets you. 2 missing matter has just John H. Tidyman been finally found. Four-year-old steals (216) 789-3502 Under your bed. 14 car, runs over [email protected] brother to get to Scientists discover Chuck E. Cheese. Managing Editor 3 how to make humans Not likely Chuck E. Ann Marie Stasko dream while they’re Cheese will spotlight (216) 704 -5227 wide awake. the four-year old in Give them a desk job. commercials. Art Director Laura Chadwick Ivana Trump: ‘I was Hef’s son says it’s Contributing Editors 4 never happier in my life’ 15 ‘tough to watch than when Marla Maples him struggle’. JC Sullivan got kicked off ‘Dancing That’s why triple- Eli Beachy with the Stars.’ strength Viagra was Jerri Donohue Now this chick is easily developed. pleased. Chaplain Your last chance Rev. James R. Mason Parolee steals girlfriend’s to ever see David 16 DD 214 Chronicle is published by pistol, trades it for crack Letterman is 5 John H. Tidyman cocaine, police say. approaching. Bartering gone wild. What does he know 3280 Glenbar Drive Elvis’ grave, David Letterman and gizzly bear that we don’t? Fairview Park, Ohio 44126 A state-run newspaper For subscription information 6 reports nearly 5 million people volunteered to It costs $28.75 to visit Elvis’ grave. enlist or reenlist in the Korean People’s Army in 17 And he’ll sign your autograph book for call (216) 789-3502 the past few days. an additional four bucks. Suddenly, shit-on-a-shingle doesn’t sound so bad. Dear Abby: Wife spends nights with her Editorial Statement 18 phone, not me. DD214 Chronicle is committed to its readers: Odell Beckham Jr celebrates touchdowns by For many men, that would be a dream Veterans of every generation and all who love 7 pretending to pee like a dog. come true. Class tells. them. The printed newspaper is delivered Prison soon officially over for serial across northern Ohio without charge: More Pet Owners Who Abandoned Animals During 19 child molester Dennis Hastert. than 60 libraries, colleges and universities 8 Irma Will Face Felony Charges. Likely he’ll miss the many friends he that welcome veteran students, VFW and Just me, but I think they should be executed. made. American Legion posts, city halls, Veteran Hackers could program sex robots to kill. Bill would give religious sects special Administration offices and health care 9 Can you program sex robots to kill hackers? 20 treatment for gun permits. facilities, organizations in support of veterans, Who’s Bill and where did he get this advertisers, political offices, and Veteran Teen found dead in walk-in freezer after loony idea? Service Commissions. DD214 Chronicle also 10 hotel party. Chillin’ goes too far. Men tried to smuggle meth using penis- maintains dd214chronicle.com and DD214 21 shaped candles. Chronicle/Facebook. Elementary school bus driver gets lost for Not any of my business, but where did • 11 hours on first day. they hide them? The Chronicle would not exist without its Kept asking kids for directions. advertisers. Make the effort to patronize them. Priest: I collected kiddie porn to spite Excessive masturbation is hurting 22 God for poker losses. John H. Tidyman, editor 12China’s military. God said, “Inside straight ... to hell.” 198th Light Infantry Brigade Making them blind. Americal Division Accused Kim Jong Nam assassins (216) 789-3502 23 expected to plead not guilty. forgedironstidyman@gmail If I were a betting man, I’d put my money on the prosecutor.

✩4 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com A Great Day for Veterans! By Terri Kevany

n Friday, June 30th, the Cuyahoga Land Bank officially transferred land to the Northeast Ohio VA OHealthcare System for the construction Susan Fuehrer, Medical Center Director, Northeast Ohio of the Greater Cleveland Fisher House, Health Care System/Louis Stokes VA Medical Center and Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, Doug Harvey, Vice President of the Greater bringing care and support for veterans Cuyahoga Land Bank President Gus Frangos Cleveland Fisher House, and Cuyahoga Land Bank President Gus Frangos and their families one step closer to be- coming a reality. City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County the Cleveland Fisher House project in the County the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center in University elected officials, including Mayor Frank Council, all joined the Cuyahoga Land Bank, VA Circle to make the project a reality. Jackson, City Councilman Anthony Hospital, Famicos Foundation and Fisher House Raising more than $3 million over the Brancatelli and 28-year Veteran and leadership for a moving ceremony on the grounds past four years will enable the Fisher House County Councilman Jack Schron, who of the future Cleveland Fisher Home site – once Foundation to build not one, but two houses, to not only is a long time Fisher House sup- a series of vacant and abandoned properties. host over 30 families while their loved ones re- porter but also the early driving force for The Cuyahoga Land Bank worked to acquire the ceive care at the VA hospital. Groundbreaking is necessary parcels of land adjacent to the grounds of expected to take place in fall of 2017.

AFFORDABLE HOMES FOR HEROES

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Find out more about the Cuyahoga Land Bank HomeFront Program today! www.cuyahogalandbank.org OR CALL 216.698.8853 www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩5 James Banks, Ph.D., who shows us the hard-won souvenirs of war By John H. Tidyman, editor

’ll tell you one of many things you in and visitors parachute cord. He This is a brief example of the about James Banks. First, don’t slowly walk through, broke a leg on landing. dedication – even passion – Doc has call him Doctor. You can call imagining the men and French partisans for students and veterans. Ihim James or Doc. Tell you another: women who wore the couldn’t keep him with So let us lift our glasses and toast Greater Cleveland is blessed to have uniforms and carried such an injury and Doc: “To the educator and historian him. One more: I’ve never seen the the weapons and either took him to a German who knows the value of education guy frown. I’m sure he has; I’m just lived or died for us. hospital. The camp and history. To Doc, for his devo- telling you I haven’t seen it. Doc’s good friend commander knew the tion to students of all ages, and es- He doesn’t answer to Doctor, I Will Largent, contrib- war was coming to an pecially to the men and women who think, because he is a modest man. uted a souvenir of war: The dress end. As he surrendered, the camp risked, and sometimes lost, their We’re lucky to have him because dagger worn by a German POW commander handed his dagger to lives for us. To Doc, a most gener- he’s the guy who makes military camp commander. The two met Will. ous man marked by modesty, a man history come alive. His museum at after German anti-aircraft fire As Will and Doc became friends, who understands the value of his- Cuyahoga Community College West downed Will’s bomber. Will gave the dagger to Doc. The tory, and man who shares what he is remarkable. The museum draws Will was able to bail and pull the dagger is displayed in the museum. knows with us. Hear, hear!”

Major Gen. Frederick C. Blesse Major Gen. Frederick C. Blesse may not be well known by the general public, but in VA Expands Transparency U.S. Air Force circles he remains something of a legend. With extensive combat experi- ence and a pile of medals and awards, Efforts, Detailing his place in U.S. Air Force history was already assured in 1955 when he wrote a fighter tactics manual called No Guts, No Secretary’s Travel Glory. It is considered the Bible of air-to-air combat and has been used by a number of air forces around the world. “No Pain, No Gain” is a less dramatic, but more familiar Becomes First Agency to Post Information on variation of the phrase, which refers to the need for hard work in the gym. Secretary’s Official Travel, Use of Private and Government Aircraft

(216) 521-5775 WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. actions at VA, and noted that VA is once Fax (216) 521-5880 Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. again the first federal agency to make [email protected] David J. Shulkin announced that the such data public. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Earlier this year, under the is taking yet another step on transpar- Secretary’s direction, the VA began ency on its official actions, this time in listing: the area of disclosing official travel by Wait times and quality/satisfaction the Secretary. data at all VA medical centers (up- DIGITAL COLOR & B/W COPIES Beginning today, the department dated weekly) is making public a list of Secretary • Adverse employee actions (updated OFFSET PRINTING Shulkin’s official travel taken since weekly) Jan. 20. This information is posted at • Employee settlements (updated BROCHURES ● NEWSLETTERS www.va.gov/opa/secvatravel, and will quarterly). FLYERS ● BUSINESS FORMS be updated within five business days “Under this Administration, VA after the conclusion of an official trip. is committed to becoming the most BUSINESS CARDS ● LETTERHEAD The website lists: transparent organization in govern- • Use of private aircraft by the ment, and I’m pleased to take another ENVELOPES ● LABELS Secretary (none to date) step in that direction with this move," • Use of government aircraft by the Secretary Shulkin said. “Veterans and CUSTOM T-SHIRTS Secretary taxpayers have a right to know about WEDDING INVITATIONS • Itineraries (key events) of of- my official travel as Secretary, and ficial international trips by the posting this information online for all LAMINATING ● RAFFLE TICKETS Secretary to see will do just that." • Itineraries (key events) of official The information will also include BOOKLETS ● POSTCARDS domestic trips by the Secretary (to what VA staff and spouses accompany be added by Oct. 15). him on each trip, if any, but for securi- 14528 Detroit Avenue Secretary Shulkin pointed to the ty reasons, members of the Secretary’s Dennis Little move as the fourth major step in long- security detail will not be listed by President Lakewood, Ohio 44107 sought transparency and accountability name or number.

✩6 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com SocksPlus Program helps the homeless

For many people in our have believed in and supported this community, homeless- effort to provide for our homeless ness is very real, and the neighbors. Hundreds of people have largest growing segment joined Community West Foundation is families with children - our neighbors, community part- who do not have a place ners, businesses, faith-based organi- to call home. The plight of zations, schools, civic organizations, the homeless is an issue and so many more. that the Foundation cares A gift of just $10.00 will help pur- deeply about and they chase 10 pairs of socks. A larger do- have taken a proactive nation provides socks PLUS gloves, position in helping the hats, shoes, boots, backpacks, least of our brothers and and other necessities that are so sisters. desperately needed. And when you After learning that support SocksPlus, 100 per cent of socks are the most your donation is used immediately requested item among to provide caring assistance to our homeless people, the struggling neighbors. SocksPlus Program The call to love our neighbor is at Community West universal and those facing home- Foundation was created. lessness desperately need our help The project collects socks, – not only at the holiday season, but ommunity West Foundation is The Foundation approaches phi- plus many of the other all year round. You can become part a local philanthropic organiza- lanthropy with imagination and necessities that our homeless neigh- of this movement to bring hope and tion dedicated to supporting encourages efforts to strengthen the bors need most. comfort to the homeless. Start your C SocksPlus has evoked emotion, own tribe or donate today. Learn organizations that provide the basic health and well being of our com- needs of food, clothing, and medi- munity by raising awareness of the impact, and action. It has grown more about SocksPlus at www.com- cal care to the most needy in and issues that affect us all – including from an idea into a community munitywestfoundation.org/events/ around Western Cuyahoga County. homelessness. movement. A network of “Tribes” socksplus.

It’s Your Future. Get Started Now! Veterans Service Center at Lorain County Community College

The Student Veterans and Military Members Center at LCCC assists all veterans, guardsmen, reservists and their dependents transitioning to a successful educational career. You’ve done your duty, now let us help you prepare for your future.

LCCC’s Veterans Service Center is a one-stop shop where you can: • Learn how to maximize your veteran’s benefits “LCCC was my best choice because I knew there was a military and veterans • Learn about other scholarships available presence here.” • Talk with a Veterans Certifying Official Anna Lupson, Navy veteran and LCCC • Meet with a Counselor psychology student who is using her • Explore all that LCCC has to offer veterans benefits to attend school. She plans to continue her education through Call LCCC’s Veterans Service Center at 440-366-7685 LCCC’s University Partnership program. or visit www.lorainccc.edu/veterans or email our office at [email protected].

LCCC Veterans ad July August 2016 ad.indd 1 6/6/16 2:21 PM www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩7 Agent Orange: The U.S. weapon that made millions for war profiteers It keeps on killing

ar profiteers at Monsanto million acres. In addition to tak- poison was the most po- and other chemical compa- ing out vegetation used as cover for tent, other U.S. companies W nies sold the poison to the enemy forces, it crippled and killed produced Agent Orange as U.S. Armed Forces. Twenty million U.S. forces as well as the enemy. well: Uniroyal, Hercules, gallons of the poison covering six While Monsanto’s version of the Diamond Shamrock, Thompson Chemical and TH Agriculture. Dow Chemicals produced Agent Orange and added veteran napalm to its annual re- owned ports. Internal Monsanto memos show that Monsanto knew of the problems and covered it up. Responsibility for building the infrastruc- Spraying this poison began in 1961 ture needed in South Vietnam was and lasted until 1971. Operation Ranch given over to the largest construction Hand was responsible for cancer, entity ever, the RMK-BRJ (Raymond rashes, birth defects, neurological and International, Morrison-Knudsen, severe psychological problems for the Brown & Root, and J.A. Jones Vietnamese as well as the Americans. Construction). And death. Which was more important: the We can assign blame, but blame is an lives of veterans here and in Vietnam, idea, nothing more. Equally culpable or the billions of dollars Monsanto and were the U.S. Armed Forces, the White other American companies could put in House and Congress. its profit statement? Me, I’d call them They committed war crimes; not like- traitors. ly they will ever be brought to justice.

Honoring Our Veterans

AT HOSPICE OF THE WESTERN RESERVE, WE HONOR OUR VETERANS EVERY DAY. Through our Peaceful & Proud initiative, hospice veterans can receive care from staff members trained on how the unique life experiences of veterans shape end-of- life preferences. Through specialized, quality care, patients and families live their lives with dignity. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a chronic or serious illness and you need help, insist on Hospice of the Western Reserve. Your journey to compassionate care begins at hospicewr.org/veterans.

NORTHERN OHIO’S HOSPICE OF CHOICE 800.707.8922 | hospicewr.org/veterans

✩8 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com 1230 N Abbe Rd., Elyria, OH 44035 • www.LorainCountyVeterans.com VA CLAIMS ASSISTANCE TRANSPORTATION Our Veterans Service Officers (VSO’s) Transportation is provided to and serve as a liaison to the Department from the VA Medical Facilities in of Veteran’s Affairs (VA). VSO’s advise Wade Park & Parma and the VA Clinic and assist Vets and their family in Sheffield Village. Availability is on members of their rights and/or a first-come, first-serve basis. obtaining possible benefits through A morning shuttle is available to the VA, the State of Ohio and Lorain Wade Park & Parma. Home pick-ups County. are provided for appointments at Services include processing claims for: the VA Clinic in Sheffield Village. • Non-service Connected Pension for Wheelchair accessible service is Wartime Vets (Aid & Attendance/ available. Housebound Pension, and Survivors Pension). TO SCHEDULE A RIDE CALL • Service Connected Compensation. 440.284.4624 • Ohio War Orphans Scholarship. • Notice of Disagreements & Appeals. Departs LCVSO ...... 7:15 a.m.*1 VSO’s also submit application for: Departs JFS...... 7:30 a.m.*1 • Military Awards and Medals. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Departs Valor Home ..... 7:45 a.m.*1 • H.S. Diploma for Wartime Vets. Temporary financial assistance may Departs Elyria ...... 8:00 a.m.*1 • Upgrading Discharges. be available to Veterans or their Arrives W/P ...... 9:15 a.m.*2 • Requests for Discharge (DD 214). widow who show a need and meet Departs W/P ...... 3: 00 p.m.*3 eligibility requirements. Benefits may include but not limited to: Arrives LCVSO ...... 4:30 p.m.*3 • Education Benefits Assistance may be given for rent, PICK-UP & DROP OFF LOCATIONS • VA Home Loan mortgage, property tax, utilities, car LCVSO: 1230 Abbe Rd., Elyria • Burial Benefits payment, insurances, and food or JFS: 42495 North Ridge Rd. personal items. Valor Home: 221 W 20th St., Lorain. Elyria: Admin. Bldg., 226 Middle Ave. Household income, living expenses, *1 May depart earlier if all riders are present. available assets, medical expenses, *2 Approx. time, add 20-30 min. if shuttle goes to Parma. and the special needs of each *3 May depart earlier if all riders are done with their appts. VETERAN ID CARD applicant are considered when ID CARDS are ISSUED ON determining eligibility. THURSDAY & FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Veteran must have been discharged • REQUIREMENTS • under honorable conditions and RESOURCE ROOM RESIDENT OF LORAIN COUNTY served on active duty for purposes Clients are welcome to utilize the HONORABLE DISCHARGE or other than training. Applicant must printer and computers (with internet UNDER HONORABLE CONDITIONS also be a resident of Lorain County access). We also send faxes and have DD214 • VALID PHOTO ID for 90 days prior to application. a notary available for our Veterans. Clearview H.O.P.E. Offers Women Vets Support, Friendship – and Golf By Jerri Donohue

hen PGA Hall of Famer equipment. For during World War she had seen would survive. Renee Powell founded Women’s History II with the Army Other times the golfers were already W Clearview H.O.P.E. month in March, Air Force, Scottish at the landing pad when they received (Helping Our Veterans Everywhere) she brings a civilians lent the word of a schedule change because at Clearview Golf Club in 2011, she speaker to Firestone American golf clubs enemy troops had attacked their in- knew a lot more about golf than she Country Club, an so he could play tended destination. did about women veterans. ideal location for there. Powell returned home from the Little by little, their stories came out. veterans traveling When he returned U.S.O. tour exhausted but glad she had “Most of the women in my program from Cleveland, home, however, the gone. She had agreed to participate be- are dealing with PTSD,” Powell said. Akron, or Canton. black veteran was cause she saw it as a way “to give back.” A few deployed multiple times. A This year’s keynote barred from local The tables were turned in 2012 when couple received Purple Hearts. Some speaker was Suzy courses. Realizing three vets who had seen her at Firebase were raped by fellow servicemen. Whaley, first female discrimination also Sherman contacted her. They thanked “We have all grown together and president of the Renee Powell existed against her “for coming to Vietnam at a time support one another,” said retired PGA. women and young many of our soldiers thought the world Army warrant officer Barbara Other women people, he deter- had forgotten them.” Hickman, unofficial president of the golfers purchase tickets for such mined to build a course where anyone The vets and their families subse- 70 past and present Clearview H.O.P.E. events, but Powell taps businesses and could play. quently joined Powell and her USO participants. “We are there for each organizations to cover the cost of the The Veterans Administration and roommate, Texan Mary Lou Crocker other, and that’s all because of Renee. veterans’ tables. banks denied Bill Powell a loan, and so Daniels, at Clearview for a reunion. She has enough heart and soul to care To help pay for everything, she sells he bought 78 acres in East Canton with Clearview H.O.P.E. participants took for each one of us.” a $5 instructional booklet she wrote money he borrowed from his brother the visitors sightseeing. When the VA Suicide Hotline put for new golfers, and she raffles baskets and two African-American physicians. a Clearview H.O.P.E. veteran on in Clearview’s Club House throughout He toiled on the golf course in the eve- Clearview H.O.P.E. today hold, the woman telephoned another the year. nings after putting in an 8-hour day at Powell witnessed the women grow in member of Powell’s program for help. Clearview Golf Club also has a 501(c) his regular job, and opened the original confidence as they learned to play golf. Hickman recalled a gathering in the (3) tax-exempt charitable founda- nine holes in April 1948. He acquired Acquiring this new skill prompted pro shop during which four or five tion in which contributions can be more land and added the back nine in some to try other things, like going veterans announced that Clearview designated for the veterans’ program. 1978. back to college. Powell now takes a H.O.P.E. had saved their lives. For two consecutive years, Timken’s Meanwhile, his daughter played golf veteran with her on speaking engage- Powell couldn’t predict her golf class- Women of Steel held golf outings as from the time she was three years old. ments because it’s educational for her es would become the informal support a fundraiser for Clearview H.O.P.E. Renee Powell eventually became part audience and a confidence builder for group it is today. When approached Another year, an organization of of the LPGA tour. the vet. by the PGA (Professional Golfers Vietnam Veterans donated $1,000. She gave golf demonstrations to The mutual respect and affection Association), she agreed to offer female Powell is grateful for other kinds American servicemen for three fren- that developed between Powell and the veterans five weeks of instruction. of assistance, too. Until she moved to zied weeks in Vietnam in 1971. After veterans impacted the golfer’s life, too. That humble beginning immediately Colorado, Kirsten Eckley, a PGA mem- visiting a hospital, her U.S.O. group Even though she served as a golf morphed into year round activities, ber from a Marine family, helped Powell waited for a helicopter to take them to ambassador around the world and ranging from a family cookout in teach the women. Now golf coaches their next stop. started golf programs for inner city September (Powell flips the burgers) to from local colleges are stepping up. “This Chinook landed, and they were kids, Powell names Clearview H.O.P.E. an indoor clinic in February with Wii getting guys off on stretchers, covered as her most rewarding project. Golf and putting contests. Gratitude and grit with blood and mud,” Powell recalled. “I’ve done so many things over the The program is cost-free to veter- Powell’s late father, William Powell, “They rushed them off, and then they years, so many different programs,” ans. Powell raises funds and provides was captain of his high school golf rushed us on.” Powell said. “This is the best program everything from instruction to team. While he was stationed overseas Numb, she wondered if the soldiers I’ve done. Ever!”

He served his country with honor, now he needs your help.

Community Service Alliance serves northern Community Service Alliance Ohio veterans emerging from homelessness. Fulton House These veterans need our support. 3387 Fulton Road Cleveland, OH 44109 This holiday season, help a veteran by donating 216.351.0655 to Community Service Alliance. Your gift is 100% For more information or to tax deductible. donate online, you can visit No veteran should be homeless. comservealliance.org

✩10 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com

Film documents personal challenges of women veterans By Barry Goodrich

he plight of struggling vet- for homeless women which have combined to raise over erans has been well docu- veterans. $2 million, assisting over 3,600 mented in recent years with “When I always women veterans and children Tone glaring exception – the women thought of homeless vet- in over 30 states. Homelessness who have served the country and erans, mistakenly, I had among women veterans has returned to face the same, if not always thought it was a reached epidemic proportions and more, challenges as their male man pushing a shopping now stands at a staggering 55,000. counterparts. cart,” Heslov told People The film has drawn rave reviews The documentary film Served magazine. from festivals across the coun- Like a Girl is helping to change All of that changed as try and has been nominated for all that. The film premiered at Heslov spent two years a Critics Choice award for Best the South by Southwest festival documenting the lives Documentary. in March and had its theatrical of the contest’s organiz- This month’s DVD release co- release in August. A DVD of the ers and competitors, incides with a CD of music that film is available Nov. 7 along including Boothe (Army), includes contributions from Pat with a companion CD of original Sergeant Nichole Alred Benetar, Christina Aguilera, music from and inspired by the (Army), Master at Arms Pink, and Gwen Stefani. Benetar’s documentary. First Class Hope Garcia “Dancing Through the Wreckage,” Directed by Lysa Heslov, the film (Navy), Lieutenant co-written by her husband and follows several women who were Commander Rachel native Clevelander Neil Giraldo, wounded in action are now mak- Engler (Navy), Sergeant serves as the end title song for the ing the transition from solider to Andrea Waterbury film. civilian following their service in (Army), Specialist “The film’s ability to showcase Iraq and Afghanistan. Coping with Marissa Strock (Army) the hope and courage from these PTSD, homelessness, broken fami- and Master Sergeant women sparked this song and their lies, divorce, illness and military The event, founded by Major Denyse Gordon (Air Force). message is one that must not go sexual abuse, the women are forced Jas Boothe, allows the women to “To be able to tell their stories unheard,” said Benetar. to adapt to economic and social regain the identities and lifestyles became a mission for me,” said More information on the documen- challenges but are able to spotlight sacrificed by their service. More Heslov. “We became a family.” tary is available at servedlikeagirl. those issues by competing in the of a profile in courage than beauty Boothe, a disabled vet and cancer com and donations to help support annual Ms. Veteran American pageant, the Ms. Veteran American survivor, is the founder of Ms. homeless women veterans can be competition. competition helps to raise funds Veteran American and Final Salute, made at finalsaluteinc.org.

The War in the Mideast and the Volunteer Army By John H. Tidyman, editor

he war in the Mideast has join results in on the same page ­— if drafted been going on so long, no a less-effective young men were in uniform T medium deems it important. fighting force. around the world, we would want May not be important to many, but The absence of a to know what our politicians are it is important to American defense military draft re- doing, especially because their contractors, families of troops, the sults in far fewer children wouldn’t be treated any U.S. economy, and U.S. status here men and women differently than anyone else. Our and around the world. who could add to troops would be our co-workers, Few of us could point out coun- the manpower neighbors, students, and family tries in the Mideast, where sides and brain power. members. and territories are changed more Reason num- We would demand to know what often than a newborn’s diaper. How ber two is the our government is doing with the would we? The news media, to its deepening rift lives of troops and which corpora- shame, doesn’t find value in cover- between the tions are making the outrageous ing young troops in a land so hos- Armed Forces profits. (I wonder if a draft, news- tile and dangerous; the Russians and U.S. citi- papers would regain value.) gave up and went home. zens. Is this the At present, the Armed Forces, If a nation cannot win a war in a disaster. The military public rela- more serious of the two reasons? Congress, and the Commander-in- five years, it’s time to declare vic- tions staff would argue otherwise, I think so. We fight far away and Chief know exactly what they’re up tory and quit. but it is full of ham and lima beans. think, ‘Those troops wanted to to: Creating and growing ignorance The all-volunteer Army, first cre- Two reasons: Limiting enlist- go, so let them. Ain’t my problem.’ among us. History shows us how ated in the Nixon administration, is ment to only those who want to With a draft, we would all be well that strategy works.

✩12 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com Rick DeChant: This Veteran Cares about All Veterans Day in, day out, he shows it. By John H. Tidyman, editor ee that blur? Kinda discharge, this time to their Guard, his combat tours included of DD214 Chronicle. looks like a man, communities. Middle East for Gulf War I and again Not just experience and education. S doesn’t it? Then, Members of The Hall don’t in Iran/Kuwait in Operation Iraqi DeChant puts both in action on behalf whoosh! He’s out of sight. shower themselves with Freedom. of our communities, education, and Allow me to introduce honor and glory. As citizens As a graduate of John Carroll veterans. you to Rich DeChant, who in civvies, they seek to make University, his understanding of vet- Induction to the Ohio Veterans Hall serves our community their communities better erans and the value of education, his of Fame is an honor richly deserved. as Executive Director for places for us to live, work, skills are wide and deep. Eight years Congratulations and thank you, Veteran Services and and grow. ago, he was instrumental in the launch Commander. Programs at Cuyahoga A committee of veterans County Community College. If ever serves as advisors for The Hall of he slows down, I’ll introduce you. Fame and selects up to 20 inductees

DeChant has been honored for his annually. Nominations are solicited work before, but this honor is spe- throughout the year from citizens of cial: Induction to The Ohio Veterans Ohio. Men and women chosen for this I Understand Hall of Fame in Columbus. honor come from all eras, all branches Your Benefits. The Hall of Fame is not a military of service, and all walks of life. hall of fame. Those selected for the Charter members of The Hall in- honor are veterans who have honor- clude the six Ohio military veterans ably served their country and who who were elected president of the Let’s Get You A have continued to serve and inspire their United States and all Medal of Honor New Home! fellow man with their deeds and accom- recipients from Ohio. DeChant will plishments throughout their lifetime. join an elite group of veterans and he Regan Longstreet The Hall was created in 1992. is humbled. Governor George V. Voinovich He is also proud of the work he Army Veteran

sought to honor veterans for their has done in our community and his Mobile: 216-205-9973 civic and service-connected work work has been honored by many Fax: 440-331-2840 after they left the service. Many organizations. Each ERASM Office is Independently Owned and Operated [email protected] veterans continue their service after As a Commander with the Coast

We provide two basic services:

1. Temporary emergency financial aid and assistance to eligible veterans and family members who have demonstrated a need as set forth by the Commission. 2. Assist veterans, family members and survivors when applying to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for benefits.

Our assistance includes but is not limited to: • Financial Assistance: • Rent and mortgage payments We’d like to thank all of our Veterans and • Utilities: Gas, Electric and Water Military for their on-going sacrifices to • Food and personal Hygiene items • Certain Medical ensure our way of life shall never perish • Transportation to and from VA Medical Centers in Cleveland (Louis Stokes Hospital), Parma and Akron CBOC’s, Ohio from this earth. May God Bless you and • Grave markers and flags • Free Notary for Veterans & Families your families this upcoming Veterans Day.

Service Assistance: • Preparations of forms and paperwork • Documentation of claims and pertinent data • Proper submission of claims to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs thru a service organization Contact us: • Submission for awards decorations and medals • Notary Public & DD 214 Certification 210 Northland Dr. - Medina, Ohio 44256 [email protected] Our services are FREE of charge! www.medinacountyveterans.org www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩13 WALSH UNIVERSITY Ken Burns Lessons from Vietnam Serving those that Served our Country

hat does it for me. Two episodes of Ken Burns’ series For Six Straight Years, Walsh Has Been on Vietnam were enough. Many of us watching are suddenly pushed back to the impenetrable jungle, Recognized as a Military Friendly School T malaria and leeches, warm sticky blood, R & R, Bob Hope, ambushes and booby traps, C-rats; for the presidents and Congress on both sides of the aisle, the only solution seemed to be drafting and sending more young boys, more ammuni- Yellow Ribbon Program Partner tion, more Purple Hearts, PTSD and suicides, more body bags, and uncounted millions stuffed into the bulging wal- lets of war profiteers. Military Tuition That was a solution for a problem that didn’t exist. War Discounts profiteers including RMK-BRJ (Raymond International, Morrison-Knudsen, Brown & Root, and J.A. Jones Construction). Calling it, “The Vietnam Builders.” Early Registration I don’t know who greased the palm of Congress, but the Options for Veterans contracts were let without bidding. Draft evaders, anti-war demonstrators, young men who Book Vouchers School for would permanently give up their U.S. citizenship rather than Professional become part of a war machine out of control. (to help defray the cost of texts) Studies Young men who would come home, and yet, never leave *For those that qualify those killing fields. Department of Defense? No, it’s the Department of War. For more information, contact Zachary Burkey And now we celebrate Peace with Honor? If there were no at 330.490.7650 or [email protected]. honor in going, no honor in retreating, there isn’t anything honorable about the peace. The Tonkin Resolution to Peace with Honor. The Tonkin Resolution was an act of Congress, which had little to lose, and

4.875x6_Veterans ad bw_16_2.indd 1 8/4/16 3:54 PM Peace with Honor was Nixon’s lie about the end of the war. A Congress that would have nothing to do with truth? Rich kids with deferments? A draft lottery? I’ve long opined if we go to war, we all go. How ignorant could military leaders be? They refused to Find us on Facebook learn the history, the culture, the language, the fighting facebook.com/DD214Chronicle strategy of the former French colony.

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✩14 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com American Legion (and others) dedicate Memorial Park in Nordonia Hills By Capt. Davd Pristash, US Army (ret.)Commander American Legion Post 801

n January, 2015, Carl Quesenberry the cannon that were originally in will allow them to build an ADA- Veterans Memorial Park comlete. of American Legion Nordonia Hills the park will be returned after being compliant rest room. Construction Go to the park website www.nordo- IPost 801 presented to the Post a refurbished. Handicapped accessible has begun. niahillsveteransmemorialpark.com request that a memorial to honor veter- picnic tables and benches will be Tax deductible donations would for additional details and contact ans should be erected in the Nordonia placed throughout the park, along greatly help to achieve the vi- information. Hills community. The Post agreed to with cement walkways. sion. What a great way to be re- Pristash is current Commander of take on the project. After the dedication, the city membered or celebrate the life of a Post 801 and Purple Heart recipient. Tom O’Brien, Post Chaplain, and ac- received a large donation that loved one by donating to make the He resides in Brecksville. tive in the City of Macedonia, lobbied then-Mayor Don Kuchta to permit the Memorial to be erected in the Veterans Park that had been donated in 1928 by Col. E.C. Peck. Mayor Kuchta and the City Council enthusiastically agreed and renamed the site Veterans Memorial Park and dedicated it to all veterans. In 2016, Mayor Joseph Migliorini suggested the project should not stop but that the entire Park should be re- furbished to properly honor them. With that, at the request of Post 801, the Advisory Planning Committee was expanded to include the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6768. The plans for the park went through many suggestions and design changes before being finalized. To complete Phase One in time for the September dedication ceremony, many hours were put in by Macedonia’s Service Department, Dan Davis (101st Airborne in Vietnam) of Post 6768, Frank Posar (Army Security Agency, Vietnam era) of Post 801 and Dave Pristash (5th Special Forces in Vietnam) of Posts 801 and 6768. Dan, Frank and Dave were on their knees from sunup to sundown to in- stall over 3,600 pavers in the plaza. Phase One was completed in time for the dedication held on September 16th, 2017. Phase One consists of the Memorial flanked by the VFW Post 6768 and American Legion Post 801 granite benches, the main Archway, the War on Terror and the Vietnam War Monuments, each flanked by a donated bench, three flagpoles, and the inscribed pavers donated to date. The monuments, pavers, website and dedication ceremony were cre- ated and managed by Jim Krasnicki (Convoy Commander on Thunder Road in Vietnam) of Posts 801 and 6768 and his wife Kathy. A lot has been done but a lot more is to be done to complete the entire vision for the park. When completed, there will be a special spot for the names of Nordonia Hills’ veterans who were killed in action (KIA). In addition, eight smaller monu- ments with a brief history of each of the major conflicts since the Revolutionary War will be added. The Memorial from World War I and www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩15 The Right Stuff Bob Feller’s two amazing careers By Barry Goodrich

originally assigned as a physical was go out and pitch a four-hitter training instructor at a naval gun- for a Cleveland victory. nery school in Rhode Island before Feller didn’t miss a beat transi- being assigned to the USS Alabama tioning from serving his country to as a gun captain on an antiaircraft serving up fastballs to befuddled mount with a crew of 24. batters. In 1946, he finished with 26 Aboard the Alabama, Feller wins and 348 strikeouts. In 1948, spent six months helping to escort he helped the Indians to a World convoys in the North Atlantic and Series title. Feller would finish his in August of 1943, he headed to the career with 266 wins, including central Pacific. The pitcher known as three no-hitters and an astonishing “Rapid Robert” would go on to par- 12 one-hitters. He was inducted ticipate in some of the most pivotal into the Baseball Hall of Fame sea battles of the war, surviving two alongside Jackie Robinson in 1962. enemy bombs that hit the Alabama, The Bob Feller Museum in Van fending off kamikaze attacks and Meter, Iowa opened in 1995. It enduring a massive typhoon. includes Feller’s bat, which was “Combat is an experience that used by Babe Ruth during his emo- you never forget,” Feller told the tional final appearance at Yankee U.S. Naval Institute’s Proceedings Stadium. Magazine in 2008, two years before Feller spent his final years living his passing at the age of 92. “A war in Gates Mills with his wife Anne. riving from his home general manager Cy Slapnicka, teaches you that baseball is only a He was a frequent visitor to Jacobs of Van Meter Iowa to not to talk baseball but to tell game, a minor thing compared to Field and was a regular at auto- Chicago on Dec. 7, 1941, the Indians’ GM he was enlisting the sovereignty and security of the graph shows across the country. D United States.” Despite his widespread fame as one Cleveland Indians’ star pitcher with the U.S. Navy. Bob Feller heard of the attack on With his father suffering from In March of 1945, Feller was sent of baseball’s greatest players, Feller Pearl Harbor on his car radio. a serious illness, Feller could have to the Great Lakes Training Center, never forgot his war experiences. Feller had been on his way to used a family-related draft ex- where he managed the baseball In 2006, Feller told author Alan negotiate a new contract with the emption. Instead, he became the team. He rejoined the Indians Schwartz, “People have called me Indians; he had won 107 games first professional athlete to enlist in August, starting against the a hero but I’ll tell you this – he- in six seasons. All that changed with the Navy. He became Navy Detroit Tigers just two days after roes don’t come home. Survivors when Feller met with Cleveland Chief Petty Officer Bob Feller, going on inactive duty. All he did come home.”

Why We Are Safe “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough “It is well that war is so terrible men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.” —­ George Orwell — otherwise we should grow too fond of it.” — Robert E. Lee

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✩16 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com A proud supporter of our veterAns...

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Baldwin Wallace does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, age, disability, national origin, gender or sexual orientation in the administration of any policies or programs. www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩17 Unexpected Gratitude, Remembrance At Reunion of WW II Vets By Jerri Donohue

eaning on his cane, former cemetery in Normandy. He eventu- Army medic and eternal ally partnered with Frenchman L Southern Baptist Buster Claude Lavieille to found Fleurs Simmons says grace in a voice that de la mémoire, a program in which reaches every corner of the Holiday individuals, families, villages and Inn’s banquet room in Nashville, fraternal organizations through- Tennessee. out France committed to decorate It is March 2010 and Simmons the graves of more than 10,000 thanks God for the men gathered at American servicemen. this annual reunion of Veterans of Vincent Heggen, a tall, dark- the 30th Infantry Division of World haired Belgian, speaks to the veter- War II, for their friendship and for ans next. Born long after the war, he the freedoms all of us have enjoyed brought his 11-year old daughter to since 1945. He also prays for bud- the reunion. Heggen hopes to open dies who have died. a museum dedicated to the 30th At previous 30th Infantry Infantry Division. He wonders if any Division reunions, I interviewed attendees knew Wallace Horton of Simmons and others for the Library Hungary and the Netherlands, these 30th Infantry Division men, Clifton Forge, Virginia, a G.I. killed of Congress Veterans History three other 2010 reunion attendees however. in Heggen’s village. Project, including some of the survived the death train as children; Instead, Towers invites Jurgen The Belgian gives the group a 48- recently deceased members Buster one traveled here from England. Mingels to the podium. Mingels star flag that once draped coffins mentions now. They want to personally thank and his wife flew from their native during funerals in the American I love these “Old Hickory” men, their liberators. The organization’s Netherlands to attend the reunion. cemetery at Henri-Chapelle. the most welcoming of the many president, Frank Towers, is the only Mingels is stocky, bespectacled “Thank you for giving us back the groups of World War II veterans person here who took part in their and middle-aged - already much freedom my parents were deprived I’ve encountered. At my first re- rescue, but these Holocaust survi- older than the Americans who of,” he tells the veterans. “We don’t union, former infantryman Francis vors view all members of the divi- liberated his hometown in 1944. forget. And we won’t forget.” “Frank” Currey warmly greeted sion as liberators. At his urging, the townspeople of After that 2010 reunion, the or- me in the hospitality suite after At age 93, Towers produces the Cadier en Keer erected a memorial ganization of 30th Infantry Division my long drive to Charleston, South association newsletter, volunteers to the 30th Infantry Division, and Veterans of World War II hangs on Carolina. A few years later, Currey’s at Camp Blanding’s museum and to Private Albert Strahle, Jr. of for several more years. (A separate 19-year old face would peer at us grouses about guys like Currey Mission, Texas. organization still exists for 30th from postage stamps honoring who don’t use email. The train at “He paid for our peace and free- Infantry Division veterans of all Medal of Honor recipients. Another Farsleben remains a vivid, painful dom with his own life,” Mingels says wars.) vet claims that the talkative Currey memory for the former transporta- of Strahle, who died fighting for More train survivors join them in once gave this succinct explanation tion officer. Towers describes the Cadier en Keer on its liberation day. Nashville in 2011, where Country- when asked why he received the unfortunates he helped evacuate as The monument was dedicated Western singers/songwriters Medal: “Killed Germans.” “frail pieces of humanity.” on September 11, 2009 on the site Mason Douglas, Doug Johnson, Simmons now calls on Micha Towers has reconnected with train of Strahle’s death. Mingels docu- Gary Hannan and Thom Shepherd Tomkiewicz who dons a yarmulke and passengers because of Matt Rozell, mented every phase of the project in surprise reunion attendees with a reads - in Hebrew and in English - a a history teacher in Hudson Falls, photographs that he now presents private dinner concert. No news- customized version of Yizkor, a me- New York. Rozell arranged a 2007 to the organization in a scrapbook. paper reporters or TV crews record morial prayer, to commemorate “the reunion of three survivors with an The Nederlander dates his aware- the entertainers’ heartfelt tributes millions of Holocaust victims and the American tank commander who ness of World War II to his first to the former G.I.s. Before he leaves, liberators who gave their lives.” first happened upon the train. After visit to the American cemetery at each performer moves from table to A powerful bond draws reading an Associated Press article Margraten. He was just a little boy, table, shaking hands with the dozen Tomkiewicz to these reunions. about that reunion, Towers con- but the sea of white grave markers or so elderly veterans. During the dying days of the Third tacted Rozell. The two teamed up to overwhelmed him, and it still does Later, the Old Hickory men clus- Reich, Nazis attempted to transfer locate other train survivors. today. As an adult, he “adopted” two ter in their hospitality suite, swap- 2500 Bergen Belsen inmates to Typically dressed in blue jeans, G.I.s whose graves he decorates for ping tales as Benny Goodman tunes another concentration camp. With Towers wears a suit and tie for our Memorial Day, the Netherlands’ waft in the air. When they head for the Red Army squeezing them from his banquet emcee duties. He also Liberation Day, and other holidays. home in another day or so, they’ll one direction and Americans ap- mutes his cellphone so its crowing He knows their life stories and par- take with them the knowledge that proaching from the other, guards rooster ringtone won’t interrupt the ticipates in a program that brings neither they nor their long dead abandoned their sick and starving speeches. schoolchildren to the cemetery. comrades have ever been forgotten. prisoners - many locked inside Each organization develops its “We teach them that every cross To learn more about the death boxcars - near Farsleben, Germany. own traditions. Sometimes I’ve means an individual with a family, train, its survivors and liberators, visit Soldiers from the 30th Infantry witnessed current high-ranking a person with hopes and dreams,” Rozell’s website: www.teachinghistory- Division rescued the train’s human officers briefly praise World War II Mingels assures his audience. matters.com. cargo, which included the Polish- vets for their contribution to history Towers thanks Mingels for these Frank Towers, longtime president of born Tomkiewicz and his mother, on before launching into a commercial efforts. On post-war trips to France, the 30th Infantry Division Veterans of April 13, 1945. for America’s current war. No ac- Towers placed flowers on the graves WW II, died at age 99 on Independence Originating from Poland, tive duty personnel ever address of friends buried in the American Day, 2016.

✩18 DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 www.dd214chronicle.com American Soldier Befriended Iraqi Toddler, Family By Jerri Donohue

ne of her biological parents accompanying photograph, and she “He would ride Teeba around on Marlowe said. “She was devastated by is Sunni Muslim; the other is resolved to help her. his shoulders, and dance with her,” the loss of him.” O Shi’a. Teeba Furat Marlowe Americans played a role in Teeba’s Marlowe said. Teeba has now spent 10 years in jokes that this makes her “Sushi.” life even before then. The Furats lived The American frequently spoke the United States and undergone 19 The funny, outgoing 15-year old lives in a town several miles from Baghdad. about his wife and children and surgeries. She dresses and speaks in northeast Ohio now with her legal Because the toddler’s burned skin showed pictures of them. Sometimes like a typical teenager, albeit a very guardians, Barbara and Tim Marlowe, itched as the day grew hotter, her he cried because he missed them. He articulate one. The Iraqi Children’s and she uses their last name. Born in mother took her into the city before brought Teeba and her siblings toys. Foundation, an organization that pro- Iraq, Teeba suffered extreme burns sunrise whenever she had medical ap- When his friends began to accompany vides services for children displaced to her face, scalp and hands in a car pointments. Outside the hospital in John on visits, they overcame their by ISIS, named Teeba an honorary bombing when she was 19-months old. Baghdad, American soldiers in hum- initial suspicion that Mrs. Furat youth ambassador; Barbara Marlowe The blast killed her 3-year old brother. mers always gave the children candy. might poison them, and they soon ap- serves on its advisory board. In May, The Marlowes brought Teeba to the Local people sometimes ridiculed the preciated the meals she prepared. Teeba and Marlowe addressed partici- United States in 2007 when she was little girl because of her appearance, One day they even tried to return pants in the Iraqi Children’s Fund 5K five years old, exactly one year after but the Americans accepted her. the favor. race in Alexandria, Virginia. Barbara Marlowe read a newspaper After Teeba arrived in the States, “They brought over American food,” Marlowe covered her head, as Mrs. article about Iraqi children with Barbara Marlowe and Teeba’s Iraqi Teeba said. “I started crying because it Furat would do, to share her story. disfiguring burns. Kids could not get mother become close friends. Mrs. was so bad.” “I spoke as if I was Teeba’s mother,” operations to repair their injuries Furat informed Marlowe about John died in a roadside bombing Marlowe said. “I spoke directly to the because plastic surgeons fled that Teeba’s early life and about John, a while on patrol. Other soldiers gave Gold Star mothers and the veterans war torn country. Marlowe’s heart soldier who befriended Teeba’s family his Iraqi friends the bad news. about how the American military was went out to Teeba, the little girl in the and often visited them. “Teeba was very attached to him,” so important to us.”

www.dd214chronicle.com DD 214 Chronicle November/December 2017 ✩19 GrowinG StronGer CommunitieS.

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