Spring 2015

TEXAS VFW NEWS — 1st PLACE WINNER2015 National Publications Contest

Texas VFW Post 8315 in Schertz and Posts Across the State Recognize Veterans of Somalia

insideRemembering Kosovo

and SomaliaAround the State with

the Texas VFWAwards and Ceremonies

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Supporting Our Veterans

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3Texas VFW Spring 2015

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Serving Veterans Since 1899What Does The Texas VFW Offer You?Camaraderie with fellow Veterans • Community Networking & Involve-ment • Remembrance Programs • Full time support of today’s service members • Programs for families and youth • Full Time Watchdog on Capitol Hill & at the Texas Legislature • Free representation in VA claims • An award-winning magazine

Contributions: Letters, manuscripts, stories, materials, or photographs are welcomed but cannot be returned unless sender provides SASE. Texas VFW News will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and drawings. Submission of articles and letters implies the right to edit and publish all or in part.

Please send your comments, suggestions, ideas and Post activities to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or by email to dan@texasvfw.org

Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and are not to be construed as those of the publisher nor as official views of the Texas VFW, the National VFW or any of its agencies, unless otherwise made manifest by writers or spokespersons acting on behalf of the foregoing.

Advertising of products and services herein does not imply endorsement or approval of the Texas VFW.

Advertising is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services are accurately described. Ads that contain fraudulent, deceptive or misleading statements or illustra-tions, or in the opinion of the Texas VFW News may be offensive, are not knowingly accepted. If you encounter noncompliance, please tell us.

For Information Regarding: Unit reunions, general orders, taps, seeking, District Meetings and other topics please visit www.texasvfw.org.

Texas VFW Post 12075, Humble, holds special event to honor

our military. Over 850 were in attendance.

See the various community and veteran activities Texas VFW Post

7473, Elsa, has been involved in.

In the News 4 Commander’s Column

6 Out and About with the Veterans

8 Texas VFW Foundation 9 Around the State with the Texas VFW

10 Awards and Ceremonies

12 Around the State with the Texas VFW

13 An Evening at the Overlook

14 Remembering Kosovo

16 Remembering Somalia

18 Post Highlight

19 Citizenship Education Teacher Awards

20 Texas VFW Membership Application

22 Streamlining Website/In Memorium

24 Texas VFW Post 688 Remembers Somalia

Upcoming Events 21 Officer Training Seminar

Post 12075 Holds Special Event page 13

Highlights from Post 7473 page 18

The official publication of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars

www.texasvfw.org

ABOUT THE COVER

Post members, including Quartermaster Ron

Spalding, placed flags on Main Street in Schertz,

Texas in remembrance of Somalia conflict.

Join us on facebook for up-to-date information, photos of VFW events and breaking news relevant to Veterans.

Flippable Online Version of this magazine is available at www.texasvfw.org.

The Official Publication of the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Texas VFW News (USPS 008-177). Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and additional mailing offices. Subscription price of $20.00.

Published Quarterly by the Department of Texas, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., 8503 North IH-35, Austin, Texas 78753

Volume LXVIV, Number 4, © May 2015. All rights reserved.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Circulation Dept., VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111.

Members Change of Address: Forward address changes to: Data Entry, VFW, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. Be sure to furnish your old address, also your Post number, when requesting change to new address. To ensure accuracy, please clip and enclose your present address as printed on a recent copy of the Texas VFW News magazine.

Advertisers: Electronic Media Kit available at www.texasvfw.org, or request a printed Media Kit at dan@texasvfw.org.

STATE COMMANDER’S COLUMN

Roy Grona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EditorDan West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant EditorTerri Sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Graphic DesignDEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (512) 834-8535

2014-2015 DEPARTMENT OFFICERSCOMMANDER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joe Hayes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761SR VICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753JR VICE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peyton Lumpkin . . . . . . . . . . .2207 Blue Water Bay Dr., Katy, TX 77494JUDGE ADVOCATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ken Burton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1927 Mariner Point Ln., Katy, TX 77494SURGEON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Doc Howard . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2517 Golden Oaks Dr., Garland, TX 75044CHAPLAIN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Norman Macey. . . . . . . . 16907 Caldwell Pointe Ct., Humble, TX 77346CHIEF OF STAFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lavern Terbl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Plantation Ave., Pottsboro, TX 75076INSPECTOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keith King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2406 Bellmeade, Brownwood, Texas 76801IMMEDIATE PAST CMDR. . . . . . . . . . Sylvia Sanchez . . . . . . . . 1906 Ashprington Dr., San Antonio, TX 78251COUNCIL MEMBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Larry Velasquez . . . . . . . . . 4829 Golden Eye, Corpus Christi, TX 78413ADJ/QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Roy Grona. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753ASST ADJ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dan West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8503 N IH-35, Austin, TX 78753ASST QM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carlos Sustaita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78753DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . Inge Conley. . . . . . . . . . . 17411 Ebeys Landing Ln., Humble, TX 77346DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . Rodney Raulston . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3901 McConnell, El Paso, TX 79904DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . Glenn James. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235 Primrose, Freeport, TX 77541DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . Glenn Heady . . . . . . . . . . . 6620 Summertime Ln., Watauga, TX 76148DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . Robert LaFleur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3528 Whippoorwill, Orange, TX 77630DEPUTY STATE INSPECTOR . . . . . . . John Lozanski . . . . . . . . . . . . .1215 Cedar Ridge Rd., Heath, TX 75032OFFICER OF THE DAY . . . . . . . . . . . . Lonnie Garza. . . . . . . . . . . . 1769 Jacobs Ct., New Braunfels, TX 78130

DEPARTMENT VETERANS COUNSELORSSERVICE OFFICER/WACO . . . . . .6008—Lloyd Coffman . . . . . . . . . 701 Clay St., Waco, TX 76799SERVICE OFFICER/HOUSTON . . . 3413—Julio Harros . . . . 6900 Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77030

2014-2015 DISTRICT COMMANDERSDISTRICT COMMANDER ADDRESS1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2205—Fred Wells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PO Box 695, Aubrey, TX 762272 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2775—James Seales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170 Gary, Bridge City, TX 776113 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5076—Mark Stein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1826 Meridian Way, Garland, TX 750404 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2427—Carl Arnold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10106 Mandolin Ct., Houston, TX 770705 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7110—Marvin Brietzke . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 311033, New Braunfels, TX 781316 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8931—Al Nunez, Jr. . . . . . . . . . 7221 S Staples St #115, Corpus Christi, TX 784138 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3278—James Masters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7800 Fm 2125, Brownwood, TX 768019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4818—Ronnie Lance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Oak St., Hereford, TX 7904510 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9173—Jo Ann Knight . . . . . . . . .415 S Mesa Hills Dr. Apt 1204, El Paso, TX 7991212 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1183—John Ashcraft, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 385 Cairy Ln., Longview, TX 7560413 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1480—Tim Casey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1328 Ranchero Rd., Kerrville, TX 7802814 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4008—Roger DeWeese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 404 Lake Road, Belton, TX 7651315 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8558—Randy Duckworth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600 E Oak St., Nocona, TX 7630616 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3903—Brian Satsky. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9830 Hein Rd., Richmond, TX 7746917 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4709—David Helton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15010 Coaltown Rd.,Willis, TX 7737818 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2410—Loren Pogue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 809, Donna, TX 7853719 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1836—Alfred Navarro, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903 S First St., Lufkin, TX 7590120 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12041—Larry Sanders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 457, Lytle, TX 7805221 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10454—Jon Lunkwicz . . . . . . . . . . .12245 Eunice St., Farmers Branch, TX 7523424 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3972—Harold Hartman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9511 FM 236, Cuero, TX 7795425 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6284—Mel Parker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5305 Clinton, Odessa, TX 7976228 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6115—Charles Swain . . . . . . . . . . . . .115 Bandera Woods Blvd., Elgin, TX 7862129 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6008—Roy “Bobby” Jones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Horton Dr, Waco, TX 7670530 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3366—Tom Cloy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PO Box 302, Purdon, TX 76679Texas VFW Spring 20154

AS MY TENURE AS THE STATE COMMANDER COMES TO AN END, I would like to personally thank all of the Comrades, Sisters and Friends in the Texas VFW that have made this year so rewarding to me. Traveling across this state for the past three years has been truly amazing.

We did not accomplish all of the goals that we set at the start of the year, but we tried. To those Posts that accomplished all of our goals, I thank you, especially those that finished as All-State Posts and Districts. Being a Commander in this organization is not easy. At the end of the day if you can say you put your best effort forward that is all that I can ask of you. As we progress in the future, our organization has some major challenges that we must address and take action to solve. Dwindling membership makes it hard to run a VFW Post. Volunteers are the essence of our organization and if we do not have volunteers, we cannot accomplish our goals. Posts need to realize that the VFW is more than just your Post. Your Post canteen is not the reason the Post exists. Imagine back to when the VFW was founded. Do you believe that our founders ever envisioned a veteran’s organization whose primary purpose was to run a canteen? No, our goal and those of our founders was to help veterans and if we do not keep that at the forefront of efforts, we cease to have meaning.

In 1899, veterans returning from the Spanish American War faced the same problems we are facing today. Veteran benefits have certainly improved over 116 years, thanks to our efforts. But the same headline from 1899 applies today. Medical entitlements, educational benefits and financial assistance apply to when we were founded and they still apply to this day. We have accomplished much over those 116 years, but we must be forever vigilant. Just this year in the Texas Legislature, bills were passed that affected your benefits in Texas and you can expect that every year, our earned benefits will be on the chopping block. It might not affect you today, but it certainly will affect you, your family, and veterans in the future. That is what the VFW is, a watchdog, guarding the benefits that we earned.

I wish to thank all of the State Officers who served this year for your support as well as our Men’s Auxiliary, Motorcycle Groups and Ladies Auxiliaries. It takes a team to manage a Department as large as Texas and our team did a great job. Please take the time to thank those that made you successful. Tina and I will be forever grateful for the courtesies extended to us in our travels. As we move in to the new VFW year, I ask that you support our incoming State Commander, Dan West, and his new slate of officers. Every year gives our organization a chance of renewal. I know you will do your best. Let us all try to live up to our motto that “No one does more for veterans.” n

C o m m u n i t y S e r v i c e

Esther Prado, HUB Coordinatoresther.prado@glo.texas.gov

512.936.1487

TEXAS GENERAL LAND OFFICE

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WWW.GLO.TEXAS.GOVGEORGE P. BUSH, COMMISSIONER

C o m m u n i t y I n v o l v e m e n t

6 Texas VFW Spring 2015

PAYING IT FORWARD TO VETERANS IN FRISCO, TEXASMembers of Texas VFW Post 8273, Frisco, recently spent some time with veterans at the Lodge at Quail Park, a senior assisted living facility in Frisco. Back row left to right are the VFW members: Carlos Liscano, John Archer, Eddie Warren, Al Liscano, Bob Powell, and Lee Myrben. Front row veterans from the Lodge left to right: Henry Angel, (Army), Pete Tank, (Army), John Grzela, (Army & Navy), and Frank Johnson (USAF).

TEXAS VFW, TITLE SPONSOR OF ROCK YOUR CAMO 5K & FUN RUN

This family-friendly event was held at Camp Mabry, Austin, Texas, to help kick off Women Veterans Month.

Participants were encouraged to wear camo and face paint. Runners and walkers enjoyed food and

entertainment after crossing the finish line. Veteran organizations were present providing information on

benefits and services.

OUT AND ABOUT WITH THE VETERANS

POST MEMBERS ASSIST PTSD AND BLIND PATIENTS AT VA HOSPITAL IN WACO, TEXASPictured here are members from Texas VFW Post 2148, Waco, who frequently visit patients in the PTSD in-residence facility and the in-patient Blind Unit at the newly renamed Doris Miller VAMC in Waco. The post has 17 members who are certified volunteers at the VA and they are doing a remarkable job assisting veterans in need. Additionally, the volunteers prepare a monthly chicken dinner for approximately 50 patients from these units.

7Texas VFW Spring 2015

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• The Texas VFW Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 Public Charity, Veterans Assistance Program is available to any Texas veteran with an honorable discharge, widow or immediate family member thereof, regardless of where or what time they served.

• Funds for this program come from individual donations from veterans and veteran supporters like yourself, and from charitable foundations. • The Veterans Assistance Program is not an entitlement program and not all veterans who apply will receive a financial grant and those awarded a

grant will not directly receive any funds.• The applicant will have to work with a Service Officer from a Federal, State or Veterans Service Organization or with their local

military command if still in the military before application can be processed.• Applications can be found at the Featured Links section on the Texas VFW Web Site www.texasvfw.org; by emailing the Foundation

at foundation@texasvfw.org; or by calling (512) 291-6850. Donations may be mailed to Texas VFW Foundation, P.O. Box 14468, Austin, TX 78761.

Your small donation makes a BIG difference.

I GAVE,WILL YOU?

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The Texas VFW Foundation accepts memorials in honor of your loved ones. Those funds are reserved for the family of the deceased. If the family declines assistance, the funds are utilized in the Veterans Assistance Program.

8 Texas VFW Spring 2015

Helping Veterans in Need

Back Row (L-R): Commissioner Ron Davis; Laura Gomez-Horton, YWCA; Kristie Lensing, YWCA; Commissioner Gerald Daugherty; Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt; Jana O’Leary, Dept. of Veteran Affairs; Tracy Little, Dallas County Veteran Service Office; Jaime Nicoletti, Austin Vet Center; Beth Creasey, Texas VFW Foundation; and Sylvia Alvarez, Auxiliary to the VFW, Pilot Knob Post 8925.

Front Row (L-R): Commissioner Brigid Shea, Commissioner Margaret J. Gomez; Minerva Garcia, Dept. of Veteran Affairs; Berta Guerra, Travis County Health and Human Services; Susan Lewis, Travis County Veteran Service Office.

On Tuesday, March 31, the Travis County Commissioners approved a proclamation to declare March 2015 as “Women Veteran’s Month,” presented by Commissioner Daugherty. The photo below contains Commissioners and VSO organizations who were recognized in the proclamation for their service to women veterans in Travis County.

9Texas VFW Spring 2015

A r o u n d t h e S t a t e

VFW JROTC LEADERSHIP

AWARD1SG (Retired) James

E. Faurie, life member Texas VFW Post 2676,

Scotland-Windthorst, presented the VFW JROTC

Leadership Award (medal and certificate) to Cadet SFC

Alexis Maldonado of the Wichita Falls High School JROTC program. Cadet

Maldonado was presented her award at the Wichita Falls High School JROTC

annual Military Ball, Banquet and Awards ceremony at the Multi-Purpose Events Center

in Wichita Falls on Saturday, May 2, 2015.

AROUND THE STATE with the TEXAS VFW

HELP FROM OUR FRIENDSBrenda Martin of Hochheim Prairie Insurance Branch 211, presents David Lapoint, commander Texas VFW Post 8927, Lockhart, a monetary donation in support of Veterans programs.

A FRESH COAT OF PAINTTexas VFW Post 3377, Manchaca, Past Commander Tito Sabana and members presented a plaque to The Home Depot, Slaughter Lane, #6563, for donating time in detailing and painting

the F-4C located at the post.

ON THE HUNT IN HELOTESTexas VFW Post 7108, Helotes, Annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary, was held for post members and the children of the community. TX Motorcycle Group Unit 30-7108 cooked delicious BBQ plates as a fundraiser. The all-day event allowed the post a fun way to provide community outreach and to further the efforts of the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars.

10 Texas VFW Spring 2015

A w a r d s a n d C e r e m o n i e s

AWARDS AND CEREMONIES IN THE TEXAS VFW

ARMY VETERAN RECEIVES HONORTexas VFW Post 7426, Farmersville, held an awards presentation ceremony for Army veteran Gary Claytor. Mr. Claytor spent a year and a half in Korea while in the Army but never received two awards that he earned. After working out the details with the human resources department over several months he was finally awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal w/Bronze Clasp and Korea Defense Service Medal.

CUB SCOUT TROOP HELPS IN PATRIOTIC CEREMONYTexas VFW Post 6899, Trinity, and Boy and Cub Scout Troop 684 held a patriotic flag disposal and retirement ceremony on Saturday, February 28 at the post home. Post members and troop members were on hand to properly dispose of the flags that had been collected from the area.

MEDAL OF HONOR BANQUETDistrict 1 attended a Medal of Honor Banquet in Gainesville,

TX. Pictured above is the Texas delegation. Pictured right is State Commander

Joe Hayes and National Jr. Vice Commander in Chief

Brian Duffy.

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13Texas VFW Spring 2015

C o m m u n i t y I n v o l v e m e n t

IT BEGAN AS A THOUGHT between friends and grew into an idea. The idea was discussed at Post 12075’s January Post Meeting. The motion was made, seconded and approved. Commander Lisa Ward handed John Heimburger’s his idea back to him. He was to chair and plan the program.

Within days he formed his committee, assigned jobs and began. The following 90 days raced by, filled with trips, meetings, phone calls, more meetings, promises made and broken, more meetings, events were cancelled and phone calls that went unanswered. John sometimes wondered what he had stepped into. As the date neared he encountered periods of near panic, flashes of despair but, finally the hour of the event arrived.

After being greeted by a large sign at the entrance and flag after flag along both sides of the entrance, you start to get the spirit. You notice the JrROTC cadets from all six of the local high schools on both sides of the road at parade rest holding more flags, the clouds of smoke and the rattle of drums.

This was the spectacular greeting to the “Evening at the Overlook.” Flags galore stirred. Black powder gun smoke obscured the shooters. Bugle calls, rolling drums, the lonely wail of a bag pipe combined with the rumbling arrival of the Patriot Guards on their colorful motorcycles

were accompanied by the crackle of Civil War musketry that floated on the humid evening breeze and stirred the blood. This was the start of VFW Post 12075’s salute to the military at the Overlook.

An estimated audience of more than 850 veterans, cadets and families witnessed the outside show then moved into the magnificent Overlook Event Center donated by Kevin Kilgore, to be entertained by the musical manipulation and sound service by JR Hernandez for the remainder of the evening’s entertainment.

Speakers Congressman Ted Poe, State Junior Vice Commander Peyton Lumpkin, Doctor Gene “John Wayne” Howard, sixteen-year old District Voice of Democracy winner, Shelby Lyles and former Assistant Secretary of the Interior among other high level governmental positions preceded former Hanoi Hilton POW Navy Captain Mike Penn at the speaker’s podium.

Entertainment was provided Bernice Satterwhite (piano), Beverly Stoker (Harpist) Eileen Schlesinger Benvegna, Lyric (Coloratura soprano), the Twilight Zone Quartet and 91-year old guitarist “Buck,” and his wife Shirley, Sloan.

Ms Sehlesinger Benvegna’s rendition of the National Anthem was a stirring opening to the program as was Lee Greenwood’s recording of “God Bless the USA” and

Louie Armstrong’s “It’s a Wonderful World” that closed the program.

How did a relatively small post, the newest post in Department of Texas, District IV, pull off such a herculean project in such a short time—slightly over three months from initial formulation to lending a hand in facility cleanup?

As with any successful project, you commence by selecting one of the busiest members of the post, assign him the chairmanship of the program and turn him loose.

John Heimburger, retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Air Force Academy graduate, C-130 pilot and forward air controller pilot in Vietnam, Commercial pilot for Continental Airlines, mountain climber, active community and church leader, VFW member and Post Surgeon was offered the task. Without hesitation, he accepted the assignment, after all it was his idea, recruited his committee, built his team, raised the funds and support and collectively they rolled up their sleeves and finished the job.

There was a typical twist to the story. The local newspapers featured the keynote speaker and the Congressman’s web site gave credit for the event to the local community. No mention was made of the post’s part in the program.

World War 2 Veterans have front row seat Photo by Emily Murphy

H o n o r i n g O u r M i l i t a r yTexas VFW Post 12075 Hosts “An Evening at the Overlook”by Jim Haycraft, Texas VFW District 4

14 Texas VFW Spring 2015

KOSOVO—MARCH 24

Texas VFW Post 8199, El Paso

— The post held a flag raising ceremony, pot-

luck buffet and cake walk. Additionally, speakers talked

to attendees regarding the Kosovo conflict.

Texas VFW Post 4395, Pasadena — The post held a brief history on the Kosovo campaign followed by a fajita dinner.

Texas VFW Post 8800, Canyon Lake — The post gathered to remember the Kosovo campaign by showing a PowerPoint presentation and video. L-R: Cdr Kathleen Schultz, JAG Ken Ellis, Past Cdr Dick Pomerleau, House Committee Chairman Ron Hagen, and Ladies Auxiliary Glenna Gould.

C e l e b r a t i o n s & R e m e m b r a n c e s

Texas VFW Post 8555, Poth — Members gathered to remember the Kosovo campaign.

http://www.usaa.com/vfwcc

16 Texas VFW Spring 2015

C e l e b r a t i o n s & R e m e m b r a n c e s

Texas VFW Post 3903, Rosenberg — Post and Ladies Auxiliary gathered to recognize the Somalia operation.

Texas VFW Post 1533, San Antonio — Post members held a service in remembrance of the Somalia conflict.

Texas VFW Post 8878, Wichita Falls — Post members and the Ladies Auxiliary assembled at the post home to hold a short program to

honor Somalia war veterans.

Texas VFW Post 8788, McAllen —

A Somalia confict remembrance

ceremony was held by post members at

the post home.

SOMALIA—MARCH 31

17Texas VFW Spring 2015

C e l e b r a t i o n s & R e m e m b r a n c e s

Texas VFW Post 7108, Helotes — The post, along with BSA Troop 351, participated in a remembrance ceremony for the Somalia campaign commencing with a salute to the flag and a prayer by their Chaplin. A brief history was addressed and ceremonial cake and beverages were served afterwards.

Texas VFW Post 8230, Gatesville — A copy of Operation Restore Hope was read and a prayer was said for deceased comrades.

Texas VFW Post 2676, Windthorst — Post members and ladies auxiliary conducted a ceremony commemorating the 1995 Somalia campaign and those who served.

Texas VFW Post 8785, Mesquite — Post members attended a program on the Somalia conflict.

Texas VFW Post 7841, Robstown — Post members gathered together to remember Somalia.

18 Texas VFW Spring 2015

HIGHLIGHTS FROM TEXAS VFW POST 7473, ELSA

P o s t H i g h l i g h t

The post bestowed military honors at the funeral of Bobby McDaniel 93 year old WWII Navy Veteran.

Members attend 100th birthday of Army Veteran Martin Beikes who revived several citations during WWII.

Commander Lupita Perez playing Taps at a funeral for a Vietnam veteran.

Post members attended the Progreso High School Military Ball and gave awards to two students for outstanding leadership.

The post held a drive to collect household goods and furniture for a veteran who lost his home.

The post honors a wood shop class and their teacher for their contribution to a VFW raffle. The class donated time and labor to make a picnic table for the raffle which helped raise much needed funds for veteran activities.

I attest by forwarding this application that I am a citizen of the United States, that I qualify for the VFW and that my Campaign Service was honorable, and that I have never been discharged under other than honorable conditions or I am still serving honorably in the armed forces of the United States of America. I further give authority to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States to verify my entitlement to membership in the VFW and that if no proof can be found or provided that I am subject to discharge from the VFW without refund.

Signature:___________________________________________________________________Date: _____________________________________________Include membership payment by check or money order (DO NOT SEND CASH) or pay by credit card.

p Mastercard p Visa p Discover p American Express Credit Card Number: ________________________________________________________

Exp. Date: ____ ____/____ ____ $_____________________

Mail to: Texas VFW • P.O. Box 14468 • Austin, Texas 78761 | For questions call: (512) 834-8535

Automatic Payment Plan Terms and Conditions: You authorize the VFW to initiate electronic debit entries or affect a charge by any other commercially accepted practice to your account set forth above for the payment of dues reflected on this application. You understand such charges may be made within 2-3 business days of payment due date. For installment payments, charges will be made on or around the 1st or 15th day of the month. This authorization will remain in full force until VFW has received notification from you of its termination or upon completion of the installment payments. Annual dues are subject to change. By completing this authorization, you acknowledge that you will only receive notice when the payment would differ by more than $10.00 from the most recent payment. Call VFW Customer Service at 1-800-963-3180 or write to VFW at: VFW, P.O. Box 119028, Kansas City, MO 64171 to inquire about or cancel a payment, or to report problems such as bank closures, lost or stolen account numbers, closed accounts, or unauthorized transactions. Cancellation requests must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. Central Time ten business days prior to the scheduled payment date. If you are unaware of the charge date for your account, please contact VFW. If a pay-ment is returned by your financial institution (e.g., due to insufficient funds, incorrect account information, closed account, etc.) the VFW will contact you at the address we have on file for you, explaining why the payment could not be processed, and providing alternative payment options. The privilege of making payments under this agreement may be revoked by VFW if any item is not paid upon presentation. You may have additional rights and responsibilities under the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. Life Membership Installment Plan Terms and Conditions: The VFW Membership Installment Plan allows any VFW member/applicant to purchase a Life Membership by making an initial payment of $45.00 and (11) monthly payments. The member will be issued an Annual membership card at the time of enrollment. The member may elect to receive a monthly statement by mail or may set up a payment profile to make the monthly payment automatically using a credit/debit card or bank account. A payoff amount will be printed on each monthly invoice, allowing the member the option to pay in full. A permanent Life Membership card will be issued upon the completion of payments. The Life Membership fee is determined from the schedule using the applicant’s age on December 31 of the year in which the application is submitted. Delinquencies will be handled as follows: Up to 30 days – continue to bill; 31 to 120 days – delinquency can be corrected through make up payment(s) or plan end date pushed forward; More than 120 days – member is dropped from the Installment Plan, all monthly payments made to date, are applied to future years annual dues.

Lobbying for Veterans & MilitaryProviding Disaster Relief

Community VolunteerismFunding College Scholarships

Phone Cards for TroopsSupporting Youth Groups

Emergency Financial AssistanceSupporting Memorials

Assisting Veterans with Earned Entitlements

Yes, I am a war veteran and want to continue my Legacy of Service to America.Please fill out the VFW Membership Application below and mail in,

or sign up online at www.texasvfw.org > About > Membership and follow link.

Name: _________________________________________________Email: ________________________________________ First Middle Last (Suffix – Sr., Jr., etc.)

Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

City:______________________________ State:____________ Zip:______________ Phone: ___________________________

Date of Birth: _____________________________ (MM/DD/YYYY)

Military Service: p Army p Air Force p Coast Guard p Navy p Marines

Current Status: p Active Duty p Veteran p National Guard/ReserveI served in: p Pre-World War II p Korean War 1950-54 p Desert Shield/Storm p Afghanistan 2001 p World War II p Korea 1955 p Bosnia/Kosovo 1995 p Iraq 2003 p WW II Occupation p Vietnam 1958-75 p Global War on Terrorism – Expeditionary 2001 p 1945-55 (Europe, Korea, Japan) p Expeditionary Operations 1958-2003 (Thailand, Grenada, Libya, Panama, Haiti, Somalia, etc.) p 1945-90 (Berlin)

Qualified recipient of: p Imminent Danger/Hostile Fire Pay p *SSBN Nuclear Deterrent Patrol*

*Period Covered: ______________________________________ (Required for applicants with no other reported qualifying service).

I would like to join the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars as a: p Annual Member ($45) p Life Member* p Life 12 Mo. Install* ($45 Initial payment)

L I F E M E M B E R S H I P F E E S C H E D U L EAGE as of DECEMBER 31st ONE-TIME PAYMENT Initial Payment 11 payments ofThrough Age 30 $425.00 $45.00 $38.6431 – 40 $410.00 $45.00 $37.2741 – 50 $375.00 $45.00 $34.0951 – 60 $335.00 $45.00 $30.4561 – 70 $290.00 $45.00 $26.3671 – 80 $225.00 $45.00 $20.4581 AND OVER $170.00 $45.00 $15.45

21Texas VFW Spring 2015

Exp.Date

Visa , Mastercard, Discover

Last three numbers on back of card. For AMEX the four numbers printed on card front

Signature __________________________________ Date ___________ Amex

A $3.00 Credit Card Processing fee will be applied if paying by Credit Card.

Hotel Reservations for $99.00 per night + taxes and fees can be made by: Phone: 800-347-0330 use group code - VTF Online: www.texasvfw.org > Upcoming Events > Officer Training School

Beginning with seminars on Thursday, July 9, 2015 the 25th annual Texas VFW Officer Training Seminar will be conducted at the Doubletree Hotel North in Austin, Texas. All phases of VFW Post and District operations will be discussed during this seminar in-cluding new program initiatives and By-Law changes that affect every VFW Post statewide. All Participants must be registered toattend and attendance is limited to the first 300 registrants.

TENTATIVE AGENDA

Thursday, July 9, 2015 Noon Registration & Vendor Booths Open Quartermaster/Trustee’s Council of Administration Meeting Hospitality Open

Friday, July 10, 2015 7:00 AM Registration Open 7:30 AM Welcome & Start History of the VFW Commanders Seminar Lunch at Hotel for All Registered Recruiting Post Fundraising Hospitality Open

Saturday, July 11, 2015 Veteran Projects/Community Service Duties of the Adjutant Post Operation Procedures Lunch at Hotel for All Registered Service Officer Seminar Post Inspections/By-Laws Disciplinary Actions Hospitality Open

WHO SHOULD ATTEND Any VFW Post Officer or mem-ber wanting to know more aboutsuccessful Post operations.

25th State Officer Training Seminar Registration Form NO REFUNDS AFTER JULY 3, 2015 * LIMITED TO FIRST 300 PAID ONLY * CUT OFF DATE IS JUNE 26, 2015.

Pre-register and save! $75.00 —Registration at door is $150.00 if space available.Registration includes program workbook, morning coffee and lunch for Friday & Saturday classes.If paying for multiple attendees please make additional copies of this form and submit along with payment by credit card or check.

MAIL or FAX Payment and Completed Form to: Texas VFW P.O. Box 14468 Austin, Texas 78761 or Fax: 512 834-9232.

Name: _________________________________________Post/Aux #: _________ Dist #: _____ Phone #: (______) _____________________

Address: _____________________________________________________City: ______________________ State: ____ Zip: _____________

Email: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

22 Texas VFW Spring 2015

O n l i n e r e s o u r c e s / I n M e m o r i u m

COMMISSIONER GEORGE P. BUSH recently unveiled the redesigned and streamlined Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) website www.texasveterans.com. As Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office, Bush concurrently serves as Chairman of the VLB. The new website creates easy access to information about VLB functions and services including low-interest land, home, and home improvement loans; land sales; the Veterans Call Center; Veterans Homes and Texas Veterans Cemeteries. As a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and as an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve, Bush has made serving veterans a priority and a lifelong commitment.

“The VLB provides Texas veterans with benefits beyond those of the federal government,” Bush said. “As a fellow veteran, my goal as Chairman of the VLB is to raise awareness of all available benefits and services. Our veterans earned these benefits and our new website is designed to facilitate information sharing and accessing benefits simple and convenient.”

The purpose of the VLB website redesign-the first of the GLO websites to be redesigned-is to streamline access to information and benefits provided by the VLB while presenting a consistent user-friendly experience and delivering a contemporary look that supports the VLB brand. The Java-based animations present the VLB logo and offerings icons in a compelling fashion while delivering an updateable image reveal-area to promote upcoming events and land sales. The website presents a real-time grid-based view of all recent VLB social media activities occurring across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Loans and Land Sales

Veterans interested in obtaining a loan or buying land now have easier access to more easily understood information. On the VLB loans pages, veterans can find relevant information related to low-interest land, home and home improvement loans in addition to lender and Realtor searches. The land sales pages present land sale information in a contemporary, easy to navigate fashion that:

• Delivers online image galleries of each tract for sale

• Integrates with online bidding and offer submission systems

• Integrates with social media, allowing the public to post tract information and images to Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and Pinterest

Texas State Veterans Homes

Veterans now have a better sense of the amenities, atmosphere and activities available at Texas State Veterans Homes by viewing full-screen video and photos. Additionally, 360 degree panoramic virtual tours are available for the El Paso, McAllen and Temple homes. Information about the homes and eligibility has been consolidated into one easy to navigate page.

Texas State Veterans Cemeteries

VLB Texas State Veterans Cemeteries are hallowed grounds that show our respect for the Texas men and women who have served our nation with distinction. The new VLB website clearly presents location and contact information and includes a handy mapping feature. Additionally, there are links to simple explanations of burial options, eligibility requirements and costs.

VLB Fairs, Forms, and Veterans Call Center

The events page details upcoming Veterans Benefits Fairs, which are held throughout the year and at locations throughout the state. At these fairs, the VLB connects veterans, military members and their spouses to valuable federal, state and county benefits through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Texas Veterans Commission. The forms page centralizes all necessary downloadable forms on a single page organized by category. The contact page provides veterans with names and photos of Veterans Call Center phone operators so they can see who they are speaking with on the other line. Additionally, veterans have the option to ask questions online.

The Texas General Land Office is committed to improving the quality of service to our veterans and all Texans through innovation, prioritization and reorganization. Over the next few months, all GLO websites will be consolidated, improved and relaunched to promote services provided by the Texas General Land Office.

www.texasveterans.com

by Nicole Chavez, American-Statesman

Terry Bruce Burkett, a Navy veteran, died Saturday at his Austin, Texas home. He was 69.

The Iowa native enlisted in the Navy in 1964 and served for almost 23 years. He was deployed three times to Vietnam in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Burkett logged more than 6,000 flight hours and received numerous medals before retiring as a senior chief petty officer.

After Burkett retired, he and a few other Vietnam veterans in 2008 formed the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument committee to honor the more than 3,417 Texans who were killed in Vietnam.

He worked to build support for the monument, which led him to drive his pickup around the state and travel hundreds of miles to meet with veterans.

It was in 2014, four decades after the last American combat troops left Vietnam, when he finally saw his efforts realized. A monument that included five figures representing a squad of soldiers after a battle, had been placed on the Texas Capitol grounds.

Sitting on his wheelchair, he addressed a crowd of 4,500 attendees who had gathered on northeast lawn of the state capitol for the dedication of the monument.

“This monument is a testament to your honor, your courage, your sacrifice, and that of your families. Today marks the end of a long mission,” he said.

Burkett is survived by his wife Karen Ayn Burkett; children Christopher Leigh Burkett, Kelly Ann Fanelli, Jeffrey Allen Burkett, and Lowell David Burkett; stepchildren Franklin James Barnard, Charles Michael Barnard, Douglas Gene Moore, and Samantha Kay Graham; two siblings and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Terry was the Department webmaster and admin for the Texas VFW facebook page. n

In Memorium

Terry Burkett 1946-2015

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Texas VFW Post 688, Boerne, held a Somalia 1995

remembrance at Boerne Veterans Park.

L-R: Post Commander Andrew Camplen, Ray

White, Post Quartermaster Bob Worrall, Ray Hancock, Post Sr. Vice Commander

Ken Schatte, Post Judge Advocate Charlie

Wetherbee, Post Chaplain Tony Spall.