<p> Chaplain of the Year Awarded to Bill Nelson Rev. Peter R. Hook, State Chaplain</p><p>At the Council of Administration meeting held in January 2011, approval was given to present a Chaplain of the Year Award. The award is given annually at the Department Convention. It recognizes a District or Post Chaplain who demonstrates a commitment to the ministry and duties of a Chaplain and who exhibits exemplary performance above and beyond normal expectations.</p><p>The recipient of the Chaplain of the Year Award for 2012 is Mr. William “Bill” Nelson. Bill serves as Chaplain of Post 8724 in Duncannon, PA. He also serves as an active volunteer at James E. Van Zant Medical Center and as Chaplain for the Blair County Honor Guard. Chaplain Nelson has shown an unbelievable dedication to his chaplain positions. He visits ill and hospitalized comrades from his Post and regularly visits veterans who are shut in. He has attended and performed funeral and memorial services for departed Post Comrades and many others as part of the Blair County Honor Guard. </p><p>Chaplain Nelson was recommended for the award by his Post Commander, John Gentry. Commander John wrote: “The way he handles his duties in giving prayers and offering condolences to families is a true gift and couldn’t be completed in a more thorough manner.”</p><p>Bill has been married to his wife, Marian, for forty-six years. They have three children and eight grandchildren. He served in the Navy as a radio man on the USS Chicago during the Vietnam War. </p><p>It was truly an honor for me to present this award to Bill, a true servant and model for those of us who are called to serve those who served.</p><p>On the Department Website www.vfwpahq.org you will find my Chaplain’s Page which has information concerning the award, the Monthly Chaplain’s Report, and various resources to help comrades. Also, I send out a monthly email to VFW Chaplains. If you would like to receive my monthly communiqué send an email with your contact information to [email protected] requesting to be added to the list.</p><p>Blessings as you serve.</p><p>Rev. Peter R. Hook PA State Chaplain Veterans of Foreign Wars 534 Parkvale Ave. Langhorne, PA 19047 267-229-7722 Fax 215-750-1511 [email protected] </p>