Members of VFW Post 423 and VVA 310 took part in a a luncheon at Festive season: Volunteers Pioneer High School to honor Veterans Day week. This is one more prepare the Washtenaw County example of the excellent veterans program at that school. Memorial for the season of joy. Dispatch Newsletter, December 2018 From the Editor’s Desk: Another issue of splendid content, and I thank all the contributors, especially for the excellent photos. A highlight of this issue was a luncheon at Pioneer High School, honoring Veterans Day week. LTC Charles Kettles took part in that luncheon and spoke to students. See accompanying photos. Special mention was a donation of $2,000 from AVVA to Fisher House, following extensive fundraising. Well done! Also, just as a reminder, we do have a Food Pantry program, and it is important to find out about any need our veterans may have. No one should go wanting. Don Miller spearheads this program, but we all pitch in. This is the season of giving: Thanks for all your generosity, and Happy Holidays!

Dec. 2018, PAGE 1 President’s Message many cultures. In the 50’s, I no combat history. I found a By Jon Luker would say, “Merry Christmas!” group of people who still had By the time you read this Many people would respond old-fashioned respect and a message, Thanksgiving will be common appreciation for what it behind us, and Christmas will be is to be an American. upon us soon. Not everybody in VVA 310 thinks This time of the same way, as we occasionally the year is, find out. But almost always, by American we find a way to keep moving custom, both a together for a common purpose, time to reflect knowing that there is much more upon things that binds us than separates we can be us. This is a place where the thankful for old-school respect for others and a time for with phrases like, “And Happy is prominent. I could be wrong, passing on some of our good New Year to you!” Or they would but I believe our organization is fortune to others (in a way that just say “Merry Christmas” back this way because that’s how our is different from what we do all to me. Now and then, someone members’ personal beliefs teach year). would reply, “Happy Hanukkah!” them to behave toward others. One of the things I’m grateful All I knew back then was It is not “custom” or social for is living in the most liberated that they believed something pressure, but rather values, that country in the history of the different from what I did. They motivate our members. I love world. I mean “liberated” in the were not offended that I was a that. Gary was right. I am truly sense that we are free from Christian and that I didn’t think to grateful that I’ve had a chance to governmental restraint to the say “Happy Hanukkah!” to them. meet you and to work with you greatest extent possible. For Instead, we brightened each toward honorable goals. one thing, it means that I am free other’s day, showing respect to think of this time of the year for each other and sharing a And VVA 310 is a great place to as one during which Christian common appreciation of the find examples of the old-style people pay attention to the gift of benefits of living in the United spirit of Christmas giving. We Grace God gave us through the States. see not only the annual gift- birth of Jesus Christ, and there is Although I miss those days, I’m budget getting bigger, but also nothing the government can do thankful for Gary Lillie badgering the volunteer hours increasing, to stop me or make me feel bad me until I became a member of with the VA underwear party, about it. VVA 310. Since the Army, I’ve packing parties, shopping for Of course, society is different. not been a joiner. But my work at the Dawn Farms Thanksgiving Some people may be offended Concordia forced me to become program, and so forth. Not that or may want to harass me for familiar with veterans and their you don’t do this all year long. I my beliefs. But that leads me organizations. I was impressed have seen you in action: helping to having another reason to be that, no matter what veterans a vet get their car back on the grateful: America has been, for event I attended, I would always road, making sure VA patients the longest time, one of the most find VVA members, and the are not forgotten during their tolerant places in which to live. event was probably being run hospital stays, building ramps, Here’s what I mean. When I was by somebody from VVA 310. providing medical equipment, a kid, I lived on the U of M campus Eventually, Gary convinced me and much more. For you, every (between the main campus and that I would be welcomed at day is Christmas. . . the athletic grounds) and met VVA 310, even though I was I’m even grateful for our folks from many countries and a messed-up veteran with challenges. We’ve been without

Dec. 2018, PAGE 2 a Secretary and a couple board the things of the world, the very members for a while. The board things that our adoption frees positions were filled at our last us from. Yes, we live in the world meeting, but we still need a and need some of what it offers Secretary. Challenges teach us to survive, yet it is God who made that our self-imposed limitations these things for us to enjoy. usually underestimate our actual As we seek gifts to give to those limitations by a significant we love this Christmas, let us amount. If we think that there is no challenge put before us that doesn’t have a solution, we begin to give the ultimate gift to His to see how our group members mankind through the birth of a possess talents or training the Savior, which is Christ the Lord. rest of us wouldn’t have found Galatians 4 tells of this gift and out about otherwise. its purpose: Sometimes we surprise Now I say, as long as the heir is ourselves by doing what we a child, he does not differ at all previously thought we couldn’t from a slave, although he is owner of everything, but he is under do. Challenges are not meant guardians and managers until the to turn us back into people who date set by the father. So also we, do so with eternity in mind and want to live in a cave. They are while we were children, were held in value the relationships that are designed to make us realize that bondage under the elemental things born of eternity through the gift God gave us much more than of the world. But when the fullness of Jesus Christ. we may have realized. So, if you of the time came, God sent forth A most blessed and glorious are ready for a somewhat mild His Son, born of a woman, born Christmas as we sing praises to challenge, please let us know. If under the Law, so that He might Him who alone is worthy, you usually can be at meetings redeem those who were under Gordon and can hear and print or write the Law, that we might receive the ******** adoption as sons. Because you are or type, you are qualified and sons, God has sent forth the Spirit Honoring December probably would do a respectable of His Son into our hearts, crying, Anniversaries on the job. “Abba! Father!” Therefore you are I hope you all fully enjoy your Wall no longer a slave, but a son; and Private First Class Donald holiday. I hope you are healthy if a son, then an heir through God. George Bousley was born on enough and wealthy enough to However at that time, when you did March 18, 1949 in Ann Arbor, go where you need to go and not know God, you were slaves to Michigan to Mr. and Mrs. Ferris to create great memories for those which by nature are no gods. G. Bousley. Donald is a 1968 yourself and your loved ones. I But now that you have come to graduate of Ann Arbor High wish you safe travels. know God, or rather to be known by God, how is it that we turn back School. Thank you for being you and again to the weak and worthless Private First Class Bousley allowing me to be with you during elemental things, to which you enlisted in this past year. desire to be enslaved all over again? the Army in De Oppresso Liber, Luker (Gal. 4:1-9 New American June of 1968. ******** Standard Bible). He began his December 2018 What a gift we have been given tour of duty Chaplain’s Corner to be made children of God and in Tay Ninh By Gordon Moore heirs through Christ to all that Province, Christmas was the time for God is His! Yet, we often seek more South

Dec. 2018, PAGE 3 Vietnam on November 20, Camp in San Diego, California. Sergeant Johnson entered the 1968 serving with C Company, Paul began his tour of duty in Army in 1965 and received his 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry, Danang, Quang Nam Province, Basic Training in , 25th Infantry Division as an South Vietnam on October 2, Kentucky, and completed infantryman. Donald was killed 1968 serving as an Antitank Paratrooper School at Fort by enemy small arms fire during Assaultman with C Company, Benning, Georgia. Dannie began an ambush on December 22, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, his tour of duty in Nha Trang, 1968 just one month and two 1st Marine Division, III Marine Khanh Hoa Province, South days after arriving “In-Country”. Amphibious Forces. Paul was Vietnam on September 5, 1966 He was posthumously awarded in combat continuously until serving as a Clerk-Typist with two Bronze Star Medals, the he was hospitalized for a foot Headquarters Company, 5th Purple Heart, and the Combat infection. He returned to duty Special Forces Group. He was Infrantryman’s Badge. on December 4, 1968. Paul was killed on December 30, 1967 just Private First Class Donald killed by small arms fire four a month into his second tour George Bousley is survived by days after returning to his unit of duty in South Vietnam. He his parents and two brothers. on December 8, 1968 just two was killed when a mortar round He lived for 19 years, 9 months months and six days into his tour exploded on his position as he and 4 days. He is resting in of duty “In-Country”. was directing artillery support. Washtenong Memorial Park Paul Quammen Etter is survived Dannie Lewis Johnson is in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Don is by his parents, two brothers and survived by his parents, three listed on the Vietnam Memorial four sisters. He lived 22 years, 10 brothers, and five sisters. He in Ypsilanti Township. His name months and 26 days. He is resting lived 21 years, 3 months and also appears on the Vietnam in Bethlehem Cemetery located 2 days. He was posthumously Memorial in Washington, DC on in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Paul’s promoted to Sergeant. He Panel 36W Line 063. name is listed on the Vietnam is resting in Aldridge Grove *_*_ Memorial in Ypsilanti Township Cemetery in Harztell in Lawrence Private First Class Paul Quammen under Ann Arbor. His name County, Alabama. Dannie’s name Etter was born on January 12, also appears on the Vietnam is listed on the Vietnam Memorial 1946 to Mr. and Mrs. Lester F. Memorial in Washington, DC on in Ypsilanti Township under Etter of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Panel 37W Line 063. Ypsilanti. His name also appears Paul is a graduate of University *_*_ on the Vietnam Memorial in High School Sergeant Dannie Lewis Johnson Washington, DC on Panel 33E in Ann Arbor, was born on September 28, Line 003. Michigan where 1946 to Mr. and Mrs. James W. *_*_ he lettered Johnson of Ypsilanti, Michigan. Sergeant First Class Grady Merril in football, Dannie is a Jordan was born on July 25, 1915 swimming December, in Benton, Arkansas. Sergeant and track. 1965 graduate First Class Jordan enlisted in He attended of Willow Run the on July Eastern High School 22, 1940 beginning a 26 year Michigan in Ypsilanti, career in University in Michigan. He the Army. Ypsilanti, Michigan where he enlisted in the Grady studied art for two years prior Army before served in to entering the Marine Corps on graduation and World War April 16, 1968. worked at the Fisher Body Plant II where he Private First Class Etter went in Willow Run while he waited for earned the through Marine Corps Boot induction into the Army. American

Dec. 2018, PAGE 4 Defense Service Medal, Grady Merril Jordan is the oldest is resting in the Largo Cemetery Honorable Lapel Button, the person to die in Vietnam that is in Largo, Florida. Dean’s European-African Middle Eastern listed on the Vietnam Memorial name is listed on the with one Silver in Ypsilanti Township. He lived 52 Memorial in Ypsilanti Township and three Bronze years 4 months and 29 days. He under Manchester. His name Service Stars, and the World is listed under Ypsilanti. Grady is also appears on the Vietnam War II Victory Medal. He also resting in the Fort Leonard Wood Memorial in Washington, DC on served in Korea where he earned Post Cemetery in Pulaskey Panel 36W Line 028. the United Nations Service County, Missouri. His name ******** Medal, also appears on the Vietnam Why Dawn Farm with one Silver Service Star and Memorial in Washington, DC on one Bronze Service Star, the Panel 32E Line 056. Thanksgiving Dinner? By John Kinzinger American Campaign Medal and *_*_ In 1988, in the beginning of VVA a Meritorious Unit Citation. He First Lieutenant Dean Francis Chapter 310, we discussed in then spent a number of years Spaulding, Jr. was born on our meetings that we wanted to as a heavy equipment instructor December 19, 1946 in Ypsilanti, get involved in our community. at Fort Lewis, Washington and Michigan to Mr. Dean F. Spaulding Someone mentioned that, since at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri of Marquette, Michigan and Mrs. when we came home we were before leaving for South Estella Woodard of Clearwater, stereotyped as alcoholics and Vietnam. Grady began his tour Michigan. Dean is a 1965 druggies, Dawn Farm would be a of duty in Bien Hoa Province, graduate of good place to get involved. South Vietnam on March 1, Manchester Thirty-one years ago, Dawn Farm 1967 as a Heavy Construction High School. was only an old farm house, Equipment Operator serving with He earned a which is long gone. In time, that A Company, 169th Engineering scholarship old farm house was replaced by Battalion, 159th Engineering to Rhode a big, beautiful structure, used Group, 20th Engineering Brigade. Island for the residents’ treatment Grady took his own life on University program. Jim Balmer, the Christmas Eve of 1967. According in Kingston, Director, remains there, leading to a posting by Dave Abshire, Rhode this program to this day. Sr. who served with Grady, “I Island. He entered the Army (Just a side note: Mr. Balmer gave remember Sarge very well. I was in January of 1967 and was us some great fundraising tips a young man 18 years old. Sarge commissioned as a Second that helped us raise the money was like a father figure to me at Lieutenant, and attaining First for our Vietnam Memorial.) that time. Sometimes we would Lieutenant in November of 1968. It must have been approaching set and chat over a drink and First Lieutenant Spaulding began Thanksgiving, because we came he would tell me of some of the his tour in Hau Nghia Province, up with the idea of providing things he had done and seen in South Vietnam on October 21, them all the fixings for their his time in the Army. He looked 1968 serving as a Field Artillery dinner. The number of residents out for me and was an older Unit Commander with B Battery, friend. It was a bad Christmas 2nd Battalion, 40th Artillery, that year for sure. “Sarge, if you 199th Infantry Brigade. Dean have internet where you are and was killed on December 15, 1968 can read this, I still miss you. as a result of an explosive device. I didn’t know things were that Dean Francis Spaulding, Jr. is bad, some things you wouldn’t survived by his parents, two talk about, and you were going brothers and a sister. He lived 21 through a tough time I know.” years, 11 months and 26 days. He

Dec. 2018, PAGE 5 has increased over the years. this program. lunch. On November 20th, we delivered Remember that, next year, on the Charles Kettles from our Chapter this year’s Thanksgiving meal. Tuesday before Thanksgiving, was in uniform with his Medal of We have a routine of meeting we will be doing this again. So, Honor and spoke to the students at the Ann Arbor South Maple if you want to join us next year, Kroger store at 4pm. We shop please contact me (John K), 734- and then drive over to Dawn 994-0444. Farm on Stony Creek Road, south of Ypsilanti. ******** I must mention why Kroger: The Veterans Day event at people at Kroger always support our program and give us some Pioneer High School, type of discount. This year, it was November 15th 2018 a $100 gift card. That covered about one third of our total food purchase. Thank you, Kroger Store. When we arrive at Dawn Farm, we have some residents unload our vehicles. We spread the food out on a dining-room table and join all the residents in a prayer

Vance McCrumb about the events that led up to Nathaniel Powell, of VFW Post his receiving the MOH. I had 423, arranged a luncheon at the feeling that they did not fully Pioneer High School to honor understand the significance of veterans for the Veterans Day receiving the MOH. Those who week. Nathaniel works as a did lined to have a picture taken Media Specialist in the school’s of thanks for the food. Pictured with Chuck on their iPhones. library. Our luncheon was are the five Chapter folks who ******** catered lasagna with all the did all this: Bonnie and Roy Hall, trimmings, and it was very good. Jocosity George Perrault, Jane and John Not your typical school lunch, for by Ken Rogge Kinzinger. “The Water Pistol”” sure. We then move to the Great- When my three-year-old son There was a nice cross section Room area and talk with the opened the birthday gift from of vets from both the Charles S. clients to let them know we care his grandmother, he discovered Kettles Chapter 310 and VFW about their getting back on track a water pistol. He squealed Post 423. Each of us had a table with their lives, and away from with delight and headed for with two to three students. I their debilitating drug or alcohol the nearest sink. I was not so think there were ten or twelve habits. pleased. I turned to mom and veterans in attendance. The It must be noted that some said, “I’m surprised at you. Don’t students asked questions about children of Chapter members you remember how we used our time in the military as well and friends have been successful to drive you crazy with water as thanking us for our service. graduates of the Dawn Farm guns?” Mom paused, smiled, and They seemed sincere with their system of rehabilitation. Now then replied, “I remember . . . !” questions and not just going you understand why our Chapter ******** through the motions to get a free shows our Thanksgiving with

Dec. 2018, PAGE 6 CHAPTER MINUTES to the Board of Directors. Berry Bourne reviewed Vietnam Veterans of America Motion passed. Jon Luker then the salient points on the Charles S. Kettles Chapter 310 requested nominations for Financial Report hand out. He General Membership Meeting – Secretary. There being none he stated no unusual activity in the 8 November 2018 reconvened the meeting. revenue and expense accounts by Berryman L. Bourne, President’s Report: occurred during the month. The Acting Secretary President Jon Luker Ann Arbor Area Community Call to Order by President Jon commented that the Board has Foundation has remitted $4k Luker at 1900 hours. decided to return certain items for capital expenditures the Pledge of Allegiance and on loan from the U.S. Army. Chapter incurred on the Vietnam moment of silence for POW/ He then stated that the Memorial. At meeting time, the MIA’s, their families, and those Board had decided to go ahead chapter had $72k cash and who are serving in hazardous with the Gary Lillie Annual certificates of deposits with a places around the world. Recognition Spaghetti Dinner $65k unrestricted fund balance. Opening Prayer: Tim Driscoll which has been renamed the He then discussed gave the opening prayer. Annual Recognition Dinner. He an overview of certificate of Roll Call: A quorum was requested volunteers to serve deposits terms and rates with established. Welcome Home on the committee from VVA and eight financial institutions. The Everyone! AVVA. best rates are still with Ann 50th Anniversary Pins: Kate The Board has agreed Arbor State Bank for our type of Kirkpatrick from AVVA, but as a that an Annual Events Calendar organization. representative of the Washtenaw is required to avoid conflicts, In addition, he stated Chapter of the Daughters of the increase attendance, and that he had presented a draft American Revolution, presented improve cooperation between 2019/2020 operating budget for pins to those that had not veteran organizations. Notify board members review. Berry will previously received them. President Jon Luker of any request approval of the operating New Members: None events that should be placed budget at the December board Guests: Quang Pham, former on the calendar. The calendar meeting, then present it to the RVN Air Force 1st Lt. and father will be updated on the VVA310. membership at the General of Phil Pham, AVVA member. org website and the Washtenaw Membership meeting in January. October Meeting Minutes: A AVVA Report: Membership motion was made by Vance roster lists 36 members. See McCrumb to accept the 11 Kathy Driscoll’s full report on October 2018 meeting minutes AVVA activities as part of the as posted in the Dispatch. monthly Dispatch newsletter. Seconded by Marv Rivers. Food Pantry: No report Motion passed. Merchandise Report: Larry St. Board Nominations: Antoine stated that total October At this time the meeting was sales were $2,685 which resulted recessed to act on Board County Department of Veterans in a $1,179 gross margin, or Nominations. Affairs website. 43.9% which approximates the President Jon Luker stated In addition, he further YTD gross margin percentage. that there were two openings stated that Dave Draper, Tim Washtenaw County Council for one-year terms on Board of Driscoll, and Marv Rivers of Veterans Report: Jon Luker Directors and an Officer opening will serve on the Nominating reported that the Council voted for Secretary. Motion was made Committee for the next twelve to have the Commander draft a and seconded that Ken Rogge months. letter opposing state Senate Bill and Marty Cothorn be appointed Treasurer’s Report: 1042 on behalf of all member

Dec. 2018, PAGE 7 organizations. The bill is in were secured from the Michigan November 24th at 1000 hours Finance Committee and has West Point Parents Club. with VFW will be decorated for received no action there. Bill Thanksgiving Party: Meet at Christmas. addresses homestead property Kroger on November 20th at 1600 Toys for Tots will be collected by tax credit for disabled veterans, hours, then proceed to Dawn AVVA at the December meeting. etc. Farms to serve Thanksgiving Paul Holt lost his cancer battle Michigan State Council Report: Dinner to 30 residents. while at the AA VA. President Jon Luker requested Christmas Party: Between VVA Jim Talbot is currently in the AA that anyone who wants to be Chapter 310 and other veterans’ VA. a delegate to the July 16-29, organizations, the volunteers Beverly Conastar, long-time 2019 National VVA meeting in have become too many for one Director of Volunteer Services Spokane, WA should inform him event. Therefore, Chapter 528 at the Ann Arbor VA, is retiring at this time. and others will host a party on early in 2019. Chapter should Memorial Maintenance Report: Dec. 18th. VVA Chapter 310 recognize her at the April Annual Jon Luker reported that the site will host the party on December Recognition dinner. looks in great shape. We are 21st. Meet in the lobby no later The Next Chapter Breakfast will pursuing a water source. Thanks than 1730 hours. Miss Michigan be Friday, December 14th, 0900 to all who contributed their time and Miss Washtenaw County will hours, at Brewed Awakenings maintaining the site this year. also be in attendance. Cafe - 7025 E. Michigan Ave., Website Report: No report Old Business: None Saline, MI 48176 — (734) 681- Membership Report: Vance New Business: None 0078. McCrumb stated that we have Good of the Order: Closing: Prayer given by Tim 206 members with the approval On November 18th, VFW 423 Driscoll. President Luker led the and addition of Bonita Cowan- member Jack McClary will be group in a salute to the flag to Tucker’s membership. 100 years old. close the meeting at 2010 hours. Newsletter: No report The Veterans Day celebration ******** VAAAHS Report: at the AA VA will begin at 0930 Current Events Halloween Party: John Kinzinger hours on Nov. 12th in the main By Ann Dempsey-Pereira reported that 11 chapter lobby. Concordia University will 07 Dec: Pearl Harbor Day (1941) members including AVVA honor veterans on Nov. 12th with 11 Dec: Merchandising at the VA attended the October 27, 2018 chapel service at 1030 hours Medical Center, 08:00- 14:00 Halloween Party at the AA VA. followed by a luncheon and 12-13 Dec: VA Fundraising Packing Party: John also reported presentation. Event for Voluntary Services. that 11 chapter members, March 18, 2019 WCCA will have Baskets & gift card donations are including AVVA, attended this their Annual Recognition Dinner. appreciated. event on Nov. 4th at the VFW. Jane Kinzinger reminded 13 Dec: AVVA Meeting, VVA 310 Also in attendance were Miss everyone that the VVA Chapter Board Meeting, 18:00, VFW Post Michigan and Miss Washtenaw 310 Vietnam Veterans Memorial 423 County. The APO address/names in Ypsilanti, MI was dedicated 13 Dec: Bring Toys to AVVA Nov. 10, 1991, twenty-seven Meeting for Toys For Tots years ago. 13 Dec: VVA 310 General Phillip Pham introduced his Membership Meeting, 19:00, father, Quang Pham, who is a VFW Post 423 former RVN Air Force 1st Lt. 14 Dec: VVA 310 Chapter pilot, who rescued more than Breakfast, 0900 -- Brewed 50 people by borrowing a C-130 Awakening, Saline Hercules cargo plane and flying 18 Dec: VVA 528 Christmas them to Thailand on April 3, 1975.

Dec. 2018, PAGE 8 Past President of VVA 310. All AVVA and VVA 310 events AVVA received $364.59 from are posted on our chapter’s Patient Room Visits, VA Medical Holiday’s Restaurant fundraiser. webpage, www.vva310.org in the Center, Arrive by 17:30 in the Thank you for attending this VVA News Flash section on the lobby fundraiser. This brought our total right column on the homepage. 21 Dec: AVVA/VVA310, to $1,614.00. Larry St Antoine AVVA Chapter 310 Fundraising Christmas Patient Room Visit, donated his gasoline allotment Report VA Medical Center, arrive by to transport the merchandise We reached our goal to raise 17:30 in the lobby. trailer to events to AVVA 310 for $10,000 for Fisher House Ongoing: Fisher House Michigan. Larry’s Michigan. AVVA Charles S. Saturdays @ 0930: walk/run: generous donation brought our Kettles Chapter 310 presented Meet at southeast parking lot of our $2,000 donation to Kate Gallup Park for walk or run with Melcher, Fisher House Michigan Team Red White & Blue. on #GivingTuesday at Reinhardt Visit Veterans Radio online Realty in Chelsea, MI. Our (veteransradio.net) and make donation is “In Memory of Pete a contribution to help keep this Belaire, Past President VVA 310.” vital program on the air. Our donations to Fisher House ******** Michigan: total over the top. Thank you, $2,500 18 March 2017 AVVA Newsletter Larry. $1,000 14 July 2017 December 2018 AVVA Members were busy $1,500 7 November 2017 by Katny Driscoll volunteering and supporting $3,000 10 May 2018 If you are on Facebook, you AVVA and VVA projects in $2,000 27 November 2018 can join the AVVA Michigan November. I want to thank all of you for your closed group. Just send a Join Members supported VVA 310 hard work, time, and donations to Group request and the admin Merchandise Sales at VA Ann “Fisher House Michigan.” Without will accept you as a member Arbor Healthcare System all of us working together at all of of the AVVA Michigan closed Members supported AVVA our past fundraisers, we could group. This is how our AVVA Holiday’s Restaurant Fundraiser have not met our 2017 goal to Michigan State Association Kathy attended Washtenaw raise $10,000 for Fisher House communicates between the bi- County Council of Veterans Michigan. monthly meetings. Meeting AVVA 310 Chapter Special AVVA 310 reached their goal to Members assisted the VFW Post Projects & Operating Funds raise $2,000.00 for Fisher House 423 Auxiliary decorating the post Everyone received an email for Michigan. This donation will for Christmas our No Bake / Bakeless Sale be “In Memory of Pete Belaire.”, Members assisted VVA 310 to benefit AVVA 310 Operating shopping and delivering and Special Projects Funds. We Thanksgiving food to Dawn raised $100 to date. Thank you Farm. for donating to our Chapter’s Next VVA 310 VA Merchandising Operating and Special Projects sales is Tuesday, December funds. 11th, VVA 310 needs our help. Lois Perrault Memorial Fund – Please consider volunteering 2019 Girls’ State Update! one or two hours assisting VVA AVVA 310 sponsored three 310 merchandise team at the delegates to Girls’ State 2019. Ann Arbor VA. We fund this project from our $2,000 Donation Keep up to date with our chapter: Lois Perrault Memorial Fund.

Dec. 2018, PAGE 9 AVVA 310 received $1,000 in gift card for the Envelope Draw AVVA Michigan State Association October for the Lois Perrault fundraiser raffle at the VVA President Memorial Fund. Thank you, Council / AVVA State Association [email protected] Anonymous donors! If you would December 2nd, 2018 delegate 734-355-4897 like to donate to our Lois Perrault meeting. We are planning to ******** Memorial fund, please write your place each donated gift card in an Chapter/Dispatch check payable to VVA 310 with envelope and ask for donations Patrons AVVA LPM on memo line. of $10 for each envelope. - Please check your dates to see The American Legion Auxiliary No Bake / Bake-less Sale if you are current Post 322, Saline, MI thanks us Fundraiser for AVVA Michigan *NAME LISTED ON THE for our support in sponsoring Association is Raising funds for WASHTENAW COUNTY three delegates to the 2019 Girl the AVVA Michigan Association VIETNAM VETERANS State. Operating Funds. Suggested MEMORIAL AVVA Michigan State Association Donation: $1 from each of all The above have made a News AVVA Michigan Association contribution in a continuing Next meeting is Sunday, Members. AVVA 310 members effort to support our Chapter by December 2nd in Port Huron, donated $36 to the AVVA offsetting the cost of printing and MI. VVA / AVVA Chapter 1083 is Michigan Association No Bake postage. The month and year are hosting this meeting. / Bakeless Sale. Thank you when the patron subscription AVVA Michigan will have their AVVA Charles S. Kettles Chapter expires. You may also consider 2nd annual Gift Card Envelope 310. We reached 100% of the an “In Memory Of.” Our Chapter Pull at our Christmas. AVVA 310 suggested donation. retains only $9.00 of your yearly members donated 4 Gift Cards. AVVA Michigan Association $20.00 dues and it costs about Thank you for supporting our Webpage. $12.00 a year for printing and AVVA Michigan Association. AVVA Michigan Association postage. If you would like to AVVA Michigan Association Webpage is launched! The support your newsletter please Fundraising Report Association has a tab on make a check payable to VVA AVVA Michigan Association has the new VVA Michigan State 310. We will credit 1 month for two fundraisers to benefit AVVA Council webpage: http:// every $1.50 donated. Note on Michigan Association. vvamsc.org/associates/ It is the Memo Line Dispatch Patron. 2nd Annual Gift Card Envelope still being updated. The About Please mail your check to: VVA Draw. AVVA Michigan is Us, Contacts, Events, Chapter 310, P.O. Box 3221, Ann Arbor, MI requesting donations of Gift Locator has current content. 48106-3221 Cards between $10 - $25 for More to be uploaded in the near WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR our 2nd Annual Mystery Gift future! CONTINUED SUPPORT! Card Raffle at the December Upcoming Events! George F Boone ~ October 2021 2nd Christmas meeting. AVVA 11 December VVA 310 Berryman Bourne ~ August 2020 Michigan State Association is Merchandise Sales at Ann Arbor Cynthia Calhoun ~ April 2019 requesting members donate a VA William Christophersen ~ 21 December AVVA / VVA 310 October 2019 Visit to Ann Arbor VA meet in Edward Fuller ~ March 2020 lobby at 5:30 pm. Gary Couture ~ July 2019 Next meeting is Thursday, Joseph Flint ~ January 2021 December 13th. Please bring an James Graham ~ February 2019 unwrapped toy for Toys for Tot. Phil and Gena Hecker ~ Feb 2021 Kathy Driscoll Chapter Representative, AVVA Chapter 310

Dec. 2018, PAGE 10 Steve and Shirley Hitte: June Thoughts on December action.” He said the following: 2024 7th “Last time I saw it all coming and Dorothy & Donald Kepler ~ June By Paulo-Juarez Pereira cried aloud to my own fellow- 2020 Even for someone who was born countrymen and to the world, Dick Knight ~ May 2018 in another country, as I was, but no one paid any attention. Jane and John Kinzinger ~ certain words of American history Up till the year 1933, or even October 2019 are etched in one’s minds. Here 1935, Germany might have Kate Kirkpatrick ~ January 2020 are a few memorable quotes: been saved from the awful fate Sandy Martinez ~ September “America will never be destroyed which has overtaken her, and 2021 from the outside. . .” “I have not we might all have been spared Dell Mayes ~ May 2019 yet begun to fight. . .” “Ask not the miseries Hitler let loose upon Al (Fredo) Merritt ~ May 2018 mankind. There never was a war Ron Oliver ~ February 2019 in all history easier to prevent by Paulo-Juarez Pereira ~ January timely action than the one which 2020 has just desolated such great George Perrault ~ October 2022 areas of the globe. It could have Mira & Bob Pierson ~ October been prevented, in my belief, 2021 without the firing of a single shot, Ken Rogge ~ May 2019 and Germany might be powerful, Glenn Sakcriska ~ November prosperous, and honored today. 2026 But no one would listen, and one Edith Semark ~ December 2017 what your country can do for by one we were all sucked into Ron and Marina Silverberg ~ you . . .” “Give me liberty, or give the awful whirlpool. We surely March 2019 me death. . .” We will remember must not let that happen again” Tom & Sandi Sorensen ~ October the silence of my friends. . . “ (Sir Winston Churchill, Speech in 2017 [And a quote for today’s date]: Fulton, Missouri, 1946; read more Chris Wetzler ~ April 2019 “December 7th, 1941, a date here: http://bit.ly/2L4GAqX). Elizabeth Wong ~ November which will live in infamy. . .” In Europe, the dominoes were 2019 December 7th is also a day to lined up to fall, and the world Bob Kurtz ~ December 2019 take stock, to reconsider, and to watched as one by one the Larry St. Antoine ~ March 2020 learn from the past. But first of dominoes fell. A generation later, Linda Lamey-Leonard In memory all, I wish to honor our brothers the Americans made China and of Lavern Lamey* ~ July 2021 and sisters who fought in World the Soviet Union pay a heavy Patricia Beechem in memory of War II—those who answered the price for the first domino to fall, her brother, David S. Palmer ~ call and thrust themselves upon namely, Vietnam. But the prize October 2018 danger that they might spare the dominoes never fell: , Helena Prince in Memory of world from further suffering. For Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and deceased member Tom Prince, the country must be obeyed: and the Philippines. Yes, much can ~ April 2023 those who do so are honorable. be learned from the timely action Corrine Gignac in Memory of Preventing World War II of the Vietnam War. Here’s the Vietnam Vet Marine Gary L West But I return now to my topic, lesson from Vietnam: When the ~ January 2020 namely, preventing World War II. dominoes are lined up to fall, Bonnie Woods in memory of her Close to half a million Americans work hard to make sure the first VN vet husband Gary Woods, ~ gave their lives in World War II. one does not fall—or when it falls, December 2018 Could it have been prevented? it is a single one, not many. ******** According to Sir Winston Churchill, yes: World War II could have been prevented “by timely Welcome Home!

Dec. 2018, PAGE 11 If You Wish to Contact Us Website: http://vva310.org/ General Information: President: Jon Luker Vice President: Al (Fredo) Merritt Secretary: Paulo-Juarez Pereira Treasurer: Berry Bourne Membership: Vance McCrumb Dispatch Editor: Paulo-Juarez Pereira Chapter Mailing Address: VVA 310, PO Box 3221, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-3221 Monthly Meetings: Second ur sday of the Month, 1900 hours.

Vietnam Veterans of America Charles S. Kettles Chapter 310 P.O. Box 3221, Ann Arbor, MI 48106 Please Forward. ank You! NEVER AGAIN SHALL A VETERAN COMING HOME FROM BATTLE BE MADE TO FEEL ALONE AND UNAPPRECIATED! AND ALONE FEEL TO MADE BE BATTLE FROM HOME COMING VETERAN A SHALL AGAIN NEVER

Dec. 2018, PAGEPAGE 12 12