Purple Heart

Purple Heart Magazine©

Of cial Publication of the Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A., Inc.

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ConstitutionalLaw 18

J.J.: WeRemember 24

Roger JosephDion Sr Honored 28

OperationDenali 2009 8

American LakeVeterans GolfCourse 14

It’s not for you—it’s for the generations that follow.You become a part of America’s history in a tradition that began with

General George Washington during the American Revolution.

If you are a Purple Heart recipient or you know someone whose memory shouldbe preserved in the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, let us know. Considersharing your story, whether on paper, through photographs and personal me-mentos, or videotaped interviews.For more information contact:The National Purple Heart Hall of HonorP.O. Box 207 Vails Gate, NY 12584Phone: (845) 561-1765 Fax: (845) 561-6577www.thepurpleheart.com

2008 - 2009

Year ofthe

Volunteer

Are you in the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor?

MOPH VISION STATEMENT“MOPH is to undertake a Pro-Active Representation in all fo-rums of public opinion that willconsistently seek to improve thestatus and stature of its VeteranMembers, their dependents, fami-lies and survivors.”

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TABLE OF CONTENTSNovember / December 2008

®

THE COVER

This story spells out details of aplanned mission by four brave

warriors who were seriously woundedin the Global War on Terror to over-come their devastating combat inju-ries by successfully summiting the20,320 foot Mt. Denali (Mt. McKin-ley), the North American continent’stallest peak.

The mission ts in with the Military Order of the Purple Heart’s legislativeefforts that, hopefully, will enable se-riously wounded military members tobe retained on active duty in limitedduty billets where quali ed.

Story on page 8.)

Medal ofHonorSocietyNational

Convention 30

Purple Heart Magazine November / December 20084

Purple Heart Magazine ©

The Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A., Inc. (MOPH) is comprised of combat-wounded veterans who have been awarded the Purple HeartMedal by the Government of the United States. Purple Heart Magazine Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A.,

Inc ., a Congressionally chartered national veterans organization. Copyright 2008 by Military Order of the Purple Heart, Inc. All rights reserved.The cost of subscription to Purple Heart Magazine is included in the annual dues paid by members. Rates for non-members in the United States and its posses-

sions are $12 per year (6 issues) or $3 per single issue; in other countries, $22 per year, which includes postage. Published bi-monthly.SUBSCRIPTIONS, CHANGE OFADDRESS, REPORT OF MEMBER’S DEATH: Contact MOPH National Headquarters at 5413-B Backlick Road, Spring- eld, VA 22151; Phone 703-642-5360; Fax 703-642-1841; Email: [email protected]: Contact Advertising Manager, J&S Publications, 8220 Hilton Rd., Gathersburg, MD 20882 • 301-482-0720 [email protected]: Address all correspondence regarding editorial content and submit all materials for publication or reprint authorization, to Cy Kam-meier, Editor, Purple Heart Magazine, P.O. Box 1577, Inwood, WV 25428-1577; Phone 571-218-5235; Fax: 707-897-2637; Email: [email protected]. Includeself-addressed envelope with return postage for material to be returned.POSTMASTER: Please send change of address information to: Purple Heart Magazine 22151. Postage for periodicalmailing of Purple Heart Magazine

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VOLUME LXXIII, NO. 6 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2008Of cial Publication of the

MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART OF THE U.S.A., Inc.Chartered by Act of Congress


RECRUITED BY INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS*Name Chapter Dept. No. RecruitedHarry C “Kip” Monroe Jr 0717 FL 11Stephen H Cobb 0353 VA 10Colin H Carter 0628 MN 8Barry D Gasdek 0707 WY 7Harry H Clark Jr 0992 PA 5William M Ebersbach 0636 NC 5Daniel T Finn 0575 IL 5Joseph R. Hems, PNC 0181 NJ 5Luis Rivera 0083 CA 5Dennis A Roy 5354 WY 5

RECRUITED BY NATIONAL SERVICE OFFICERSMike Presslitz PA 10Dave Srock MN 10William H. Jones PA 6Ray Peltier MI 4Rodney Stowers CA 3Dan Ashcraft MI 2Corinne Hogg CO 2

TOP RECRUITER HONOR ROLLMEMBERSHIP YEAR 2008 - 2009

O O MOPH CALENDAR O ONATIONAL CONVENTIONS

2009 – Rogers/Springdale, AR – Aug 11 - 152010 – Orlando, FL – August 10 - 142011 – St. Paul, MN – August 9 - 13

REGION MEETINGSMonth of October

CHAPTER ELECTIONSMonth of April

DEPARTMENT CONVENTIONS / ELECTIONSBetween May 1 - June 30MARCH ON THE HILL

March 2009Publication Committee & Finance Committee Meetings

August 2008 and March 2009NATIONAL COMMANDER /

PRESIDENT, LADIES’AUXILIARY /NAT’L EXECUTIVE CMTE. MTG. & TESTIMONIAL DINNER

TBD 2009MEMORIAL DAY

May 31, 2009KOREAN ARMISTICE 56th ANNIVERSARY

July 27, 2009NATIONAL PURPLE HEART DAY

AUGUST 7, 2009ARTICLES & REPORTS FOR PURPLE HEART MAGAZINE

1st day of even months: Feb., Apr., June, Aug., Oct., & Dec.Distributed each odd month of the year:

Jan., Mar., May, July, Sep., & Nov.

LETTERS TO THE EDITORHow long does it take?

Some years ago, when I was na-tional Chaplain, there was a serious

discussion on whether or not somewho died while and as a POW should

be awarded a PurpleHeart. The then exist-ing regulation did notpermit such awarding.

Prior to the conven-tion, I had a very heart-

felt conversation with the Commanderof Ex Prisoners of War organization.His concept was that the POW de-cedent should be awarded a PurpleHeart.

And memory serves that there was aletter in thePurple Heart magazine onthe same subject.

I presented their pleas and mine inthe memorial address I had that year.Prior to the address, the national bodyhad voted to go along with existingregulations. I was roundly chastisedby the National Commander and otherhead end types for going against themembership and the regulation.

Evidently (my ego at work) the con-cepts of the Ex-POWs and myself wereheard in the Hallowed Halls of Con-gress. The award can now be made.It will be tough on the next of kin. Itwill revive memories long latent. Yet,it will ll the void as many questioned where was the notation of the PH inthe DD214.

In that there is a connection betweenhere and Heaven, the Ex-POWs willknow that their wishes are now incompliance.

Some seeds take a little longer tosprout than others.Pro Deo et Patria,Padre Francis JefferyEditor: Like good wine ...

NEW CHAPTERSRegion IV Flagler County Flagler Beach, Fl9/23/2008 — Organized by Felix Garcia IIIRegion IV Cpl. Matthew Vincent Dillon Memorial Aiken, SC9/11/2008 — Organized by Clarence PalmerRegion IV Greenville and Simpsonville Greenville, SC9/211/2008 — Organized by Billy Rodgers

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The mission ofthe Military

Order of the PurpleHeart is to fosteran environment ofgoodwill and ca-maraderie amongCombat WoundedVeterans, promotePatriotism, supportnecessary legisla-tive initiatives, andmost importantly,provide service toall veterans andtheir families.O

MISSIONSTATEMENT

The mission ofthe Military

Order of the PurpleHeart is to fosteran environment ofgoodwill and ca-maraderie amongCombat WoundedVeterans, promotePatriotism, supportnecessary legisla-tive initiatives, andmost importantly,provide service toall veterans andtheir families.O

November / December 2008 Purple Heart Magazine 7

Mail, phone or email your change of address to:

MOPH5413-B Backlick Rd.

Email: [email protected] Fax: 703-642-1841

CHANGE OF ADDRESSName: _____________________________Member #: __________________________Old Address: _____________________________________________________________New Address: _____________________________________________________________Email: _______________________________Phone: ______________________________

By taking the time to notify us of your change of address (preferably byemail) when it occurs, you save your organization the cost of receiving thePostmaster’s Noti cation of Patron’s Change of Address at 70¢ each.

REGION COMMANDERS/AUXILIARY PRESIDENTS2008-2009

David BowmanWest eld, IN

Region IIIA, IL, IN, KY, MN,MI, MO, NE, OH,

WI, & WV

Bruce McKentyLakewood, WA

Region IIIAK, ID, MT, ND,

OR, SD, WA & WY

Bruce McIverTallahassee, FL

Region IVAL, FL, GA, MS, NC,

PR, SC & TN

Joeseph GendusoWorcester, MA

Region ICT, DE, MD, MA,ME, NH, NJ, NY,PA, RI, VA, & VT

Ellen BishopSacramento, CA

Region VI, Auxiliary

Barbara CheroneNew Berlin, WI

Region II, Auxiliary

EdithShownCedar Hill, TN

Region IV, Auxiliary

William HuttonThousand Oaks, CA

Region VIAZ, CA, HI, NV,

UT & GUAM

Doris MonsonCamas, WA

Region III, Auxiliary

Ken O’KeefeAlbuquerque, NM

Region VAR, CO, KS, LA,

NM, OK & TX

Elaine ReyAustin, TX

Region V, Auxiliary

Elizabeth (Betsy)Robins

Milton, PARegion I, Auxiliary


O O O O F E A T U R E O O O OO

operation denali 2009

Iwas wounded in April 2007 in a roadside bomb attack inAl Hillah, Iraq while serving with the 4th Brigade 25th

Infantry Division (Airborne) from Fort Richardson, AK. Isustained severe damage to my left arm, side and head. As aresult, I have mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), acute stressdisorder, and the titanium in my body that now brings meone step closer to being ‘the bionic man’but, unfortunately,without the Herculean bene ts.

I have extensive nerve damage and limited use of my handand arm. No worries though—it is manageable and I’m stillaround to grow old with my loving wife and family. I workhard to keep my injuries hidden from the casual observer.As an avid outdoorsman and endurance athlete, my woundshave rede ned many things in my life, but they haven’t changed who I am or what I dream to achieve.

The reason I write this article today is not for sympathy orin pursuit of any acknowledgement of sacri ce. The reason is actually completely opposite. People are severely injuredevery day—disabled in accidents, on the job, on the high-way, you name it. But combat wounded Soldiers, unlike thegeneral population, receive honors, medals and the thanksof our Nation. Everyone else is simply expected to moveon and deal with it. I have been personally overwhelmed

by the recognition I’ve received from this community forsomething that, to me, is a normal and acceptable job risk.I don’t think anyone joins my line of work or goes intocombat actually thinking it’s a safe occupation. Throughmy efforts, We hope to inspire others with the story of sev-eral brave men, our recovery, and our goals for the future.We hope our aspirations will motivate others with similarobstacles, combat wounded or otherwise, to aggressivelypursue their dreams.

The mission of Operation Denali is to enable four war-riors wounded in the Global War on Terror to overcometheir devastating combat injuries and successfully summit20,320 foot Denali, the highest mountain in NorthAmerica.The climb symbolizes the strength of our Nation and thosewho defend it.

We live in a very goal oriented society. We in the militarytend to be even more so. Most successful Soldiers are TypeA, task driven, and measure progress through very de ned metrics. When I speak with people about Operation Denali,everyone immediately de nes success as all of us achiev-ing the summit. While the summit is our objective (yes, Iam goal oriented), our mission is truly about the journey.This journey will focus us, de ne us, and drive us to go

By Major Marc F. Hoffmeister, U.S. ArmyTeam Leader, Operation Denali


O O O O F E A T U R E O O O O

beyond what we believe we are capable of. This is whatrecovery is about and it is what I envisioned when I beganOperation Denali.

When I began recruiting team members, I wasn’t look-ing for hardened mountaineers. I was looking for warriorsin need of a mission of rediscovery. Soldiers who had adesire to push themselves further than others expectationsbut no avenue by which to achieve it. I not only foundthem among the ranks of our wounded service members,I was overwhelmed by the volunteers, all with impressivestories of heroism and a re inside them yearning to be let out. Selecting the nal team was not an easy process. I’d like to take a moment to tell you a little about each of thewarriors I will climb with next year.

The rst is Specialist Dave Shebib who by all rights should not be alive today. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion ofthe 40th Cavalry Regiment from Fort Richardson, AK. Hewas in Iraq for only two months when in December 2006 animprovised explosive device detonated beneath him during afoot patrol. He suffered a severed carotid artery and a host ofother injuries. During medevac, he survived a stroke whichshould have paralyzed the left side of his body. Instead,he’ll be climbing Denali with me in June 2009. Pins holdhis knee together and he has to hide the scars of his facefrom exposure to sunlight, but Dave still considers himselflucky. Two of his friends in the lower right picture of theaccompanying photo did not make it home at all.

Jon Kuniholm, a former Captain in the Marine Corps,lost his right arm in an ambush in Iraq on New Year’s Day,2005. Before his injuries, he was an engineer, spending hisfree time with family, long distance running, and pilotingan airplane. Following the loss of his arm, the most basic ofthings became a challenge: writing his name, putting on apair of pants in the morning, tying his shoes, cutting a steak.After putting up a ceiling fan that Spring with his 5 year oldson, Sam, he realized that as long as he was patient enough,he could do whatever he wanted. Realizing the de ciencies in arm prostheses, he now works as an engineer on theDARPA Revolutionizing Prosthetics 2009 program, andhas started a non-pro t called The Shared Design AllianceOpen Prosthetics Project to address the lack of innovation

in arm prosthetics. That’s why anytime the team has to gure out something technical, Jon gets the job. As you would espect of an energetic, good Marine, Jon managedto break his prosthetic several times during the time we’vespent training up around Denali. With a little ingenuity, werebuilt it every time. Climbing Denali should be an excellentproving ground for his own prosthetics. Jon says that theclimb won’t make getting dressed, eating, or anything elseany easier, but it’s his hope is that it will make any challengeseem possible, and less of a chore to undertake.

Next is Matt Nyman. Matt is a consummate warrior, cur-rently assigned to Special Operations Command. In 2005,he was on a little bird helicopter in Iraq when it crashed.He was tossed into the rotor, cutting off his right leg belowthe knee, crushing his left foot, and causing a compoundfemur fracture, and collapsed lungs. Matt says that it hasalways been his dream to climb a big mountain. Since hegot hurt, it just made him want to do it even more to proveto himself that he could overcome anything. We bring Mattalong becomes if someone falls in a crevasse and we haveto make an expedient snow anchor, we can always just buryhis leg. (Okay, so that was a bit of dark humor, but trustme, he suggested it!) Matt is as tough as they come. All histraining and experience in Special Operations translatespretty easily to the rigors of the mountain. I’ve watched


him climb things on a prosthetic leg that most people won’teven attempt with four limbs.

Oh yeah, and nally it’s me. I’m the guy on the blame linefor this whole Denali plan. After months of hospitalization,surgeries, and the constant pain of therapy, I admit, I allowedmy wounds to convince me, for a brief moment, that mydreams were gone, but not anymore. I will climb Denali toremember who I am and for the Wounded Warrior’s likeme, to shrug off the limits of perception formed within thescars of our wounds. If my ght can be an inspiration to another Warrior, then I don’t want it to be a secret. Andwhen I summit, I will have these accompanying likemindedWarriors at my side because I know that I am not alone inthis common dream. O


EXECUTIVE SUMMARYOperation Denali 2009

The physical struggle to survive and overcome visiblecombat wounds is obvious to the casual observer, but

it is the battle of rediscovery that is the longest, most hardfought struggle a Wounded Warrior must face. There is aninsidious threat, buried in the soul of every warrior whohas left a part of himself upon the eld of battle. To fall prey to this threat is to become the greatest casualty …hewho forgets himself—what he once was and what he canstill be. To be this casualty is to give up the ght, to wallow in your condition with no trace of hope, no recognition ofwhat is still possible. We will not be that casualty!

Expenses:

Event Cost/climber

Mountaineering Course Fee $2,500Course Equipment Rentals $650Denali Climb Guide Service Fee $5,300

Denali Climb Equipment Rentals $1,050Personal Equipment Requirements $2,500Air Fare to Alaska x 2 (est)(3 climbers only)Es mated expense per climber

$2,000$14,000

Total Team expense (see note): $74,850

The team consists of 6 total climbers: 4 wounded war-riors and 2 team mentors to assist with wound limita-tions and care (one wounded warrior spouse and oneEMT) Three require travel from lower 48, three are fromAlaska. Only ve will attend the mountaineering course.All donations/grants are fully tax deductible and processedby the Veterans Fund of the United States, a non-pro t veterans service organization with an IRS determinationof 501 (c) (3) and ID #23-287794. Any funds not usedto nance the climb will be contributed to the Wounded Warrior Project and the Veterans Coalition to enable theircontinued support of Warriors in need. Donations/grantsmay be directed to the below address:

The Veterans Fund of the United States (or VFUS)805 So. Township BoulevardPittston, PA 18640-3327570-603-9740Further details available online at:http://www.theveteranscoalition.org/operation_denali/Marc Hoffmeister: [email protected] O

Several of the Denali climbers re ect their optimism in a patriotic pose, (composite at left) along with the memorial located at Ft. Richardson, AK. The inscription is from President Abraham Lincoln’s letter of 1864 to Mrs. LydiaBixby, a widow who lost ve sons during the Civil War. It states: I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pridethat must be yours to have laid so costly a sacri ce upon the altar of freedom.” Appropiately added to the inscription is: “Freedom is Not Free.”

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYOperation Denali 2009

The physical struggle to survive and overcome visiblecombat wounds is obvious to the casual observer, but

it is the battle of rediscovery that is the longest, most hardfought struggle a Wounded Warrior must face. There is aninsidious threat, buried in the soul of every warrior whohas left a part of himself upon the eld of battle. To fall prey to this threat is to become the greatest casualty …hewho forgets himself—what he once was and what he canstill be. To be this casualty is to give up the ght, to wallow in your condition with no trace of hope, no recognition ofwhat is still possible. We will not be that casualty!

Expenses:

EventEvent Cost/climberCost/climber

Mountaineering Course FeeMountaineering Course Fee $2,500$2,500Course Equipment RentalsCourse Equipment Rentals $650$650Denali Climb Guide Service FeeDenali Climb Guide Service Fee $5,300$5,300

Denali Climb Equipment RentalsDenali Climb Equipment Rentals $1,050$1,050Personal Equipment RequirementsPersonal Equipment Requirements $2,500$2,500Air Fare to Alaska x 2 (est)(3 climbers only)Es mated expense per climberEs mated expense per climber

$2,000$14,000$14,000

Total Team expense (see note):Total Team expense (see note): $74,850$74,850

The team consists of 6 total climbers: 4 wounded war-riors and 2 team mentors to assist with wound limita-tions and care (one wounded warrior spouse and oneEMT) Three require travel from lower 48, three are fromAlaska. Only ve will attend the mountaineering course.All donations/grants are fully tax deductible and processedby the Veterans Fund of the United States, a non-pro t veterans service organization with an IRS determinationof 501 (c) (3) and ID #23-287794. Any funds not usedto nance the climb will be contributed to the Wounded Warrior Project and the Veterans Coalition to enable theircontinued support of Warriors in need. Donations/grantsmay be directed to the below address:

The Veterans Fund of the United States (or VFUS)805 So. Township BoulevardPittston, PA 18640-3327570-603-9740Further details available online at:http://www.theveteranscoalition.org/operation_denali/Marc Hoffmeister: [email protected] O

Denali (The High One) is the Native (Athabascan) American word for NorthAmerica's highest peak, Mount McKinley, in the mountain chain called theAlaska Range. Denali was renamed Mount McKinley for William McKinley,a nominee for president, by the Princeton graduate and gold prospector, Wil-liam Dickey. Dickey was one of the hundreds of prospectors seeking gold inthe 1896 Cook Inlet stampede. He had written an article for the New YorkSun where he described the mountain as the highest in North America at over20,000 feet.



I’m sure that all of you Purple Heart recipients out therethink that an article about a golf course, in this maga-

zine, is ludicrous. Let me tell you about a special golfcourse and what a dedicated group of volunteers doesfor combat wounded veterans and disabled veterans.Sit back and read.

The American Lake Veterans Golf Course, located inLakewood, Washington, on the grounds of the AmericanLake VA Medical Center, was built and maintained by theVeteransAdministration in the early 1960’s. The mission ofthis golf course was to give all veterans an affordable golfcourse and to provide disabled veterans with a golf coursethat they can enjoy and use for rehabilitation. But in 1995the VAstopped funding golf courses. That same year, a smallgroup of veterans made a proposal to take over the golfcourse, maintain it, and keep it going for our veterans. Thegolf course limped along for about nine years. The turningpoint was in 2004, when the group called The Friends oftheAmerican Lake Veterans Golf Course, referred to simplyas The Friends, applied and received IRS 501(c)(3) statusand began raising funds to rehabilitate the golf course. Theyreceive their funding from donations, grant requests, andon-going fund raisers. The Friends are now credited withfunding all major improvements to the course.

Their rst project was funding a new watering system that began to revive the course. They then began to planand seek funding for a covered activity center for lunchesand awards ceremonies after tournaments, a requirement

for this rainy Northwest environment, a covered drivingrange for practice, golf carts, new tee boxes, renovated sandtraps, a three-hole course for handicapped golfers, and SoloRider golf carts for use by mobility-impaired golfers. Thecourse now has nine of the Solo Rider carts (more than anyother golf course in the nation), four of them purchased bythe MOPH Service Foundation in May 2008. These SoloRider golf carts are designed to drive on all of the surfacesof a golf course to include tee boxes, sand traps and put-ting greens. This course is speci cally designed and has been modi ed to accommodate these golf carts and their disabled golfers.

The golf course is operated and maintained by approxi-mately 150 volunteers, many of them Purple Heart recipi-ents from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. These volunteersperform all the tasks necessary to run the course including

American Lake Veterans Golf CourseBy Bruce McKenty



cutting grass and mowing greensat 6 a.m. every morning. Theaverage age of the grounds crewsis 79 and most are WWII veter-ans. Other volunteer positionsinclude golf course manager, as-sistant manager, operations andmaintenance manager, check-incounter personnel, golf marshals,golf instructors, range ball crew,

cooks, and volunteers to assist with the many activities fordisabled veterans that the course provides. Every Mondaythey conduct a golf clinic for wounded warriors and otherhandicapped and disabled veterans and serve them a bar-beque lunch. The primary participants of this clinic arewounded warriors from the Warrior Transition Battalion,the veterans from our two closest State Veterans’ Homesin Orting and Retsil, and the local in-patients at the VAHospital. Receipts from green fees, cart rentals, and rangeball sales allow the course to remain open almost all yearround except for a brief two-week period over the end-of-year holidays.

Throughout the year the golf course hosts a variety of tour-naments, ranging from fundraisers for the new projects tocharity tournaments for our current wounded warriors. Thegolf course pays for everything to include prizes, green fees,cart rentals and feeding participants breakfast and lunch.Each May the golf course hosts a tournament for the WarriorTransition Battalion at Fort Lewis. This year we hosted 144golfers in the tournament and over 600 participants in otherrelated activities. In June, Chapter 407 of the Military Orderof the Purple Heart held its second annual fundraising tour-nament in conjunction with the Department of WashingtonAnnual Convention. The MOPH Tournament this year madeover $6,000—all of which will bene t our veterans in the State Veterans’ Homes in Orting and Retsil. The highlightof the year comes in September with the 9-11 Tournament.Last year the 9-11 Tournament raised over $35,000 whichwas used to complete the covered driving range.

A high point during the year is the Champions Tour GolfClinic held in conjunction with the Boeing Classic GolfTournament at Snoqualmie Ridge, WA. Five of the Cham-pions Tour players, including Jim Thorpe, Dana Quigley,Ed Dougherty (a Vietnam veteran), Lonnie Watkins, andAlan Doyle come and give a two-hour clinic and hand outautographed hats, shirts, and balls to approximately 200veterans in attendance. They put on a great show everyyear. Other highlights are the tournaments the golf courseconducts for disabled golfers. The course holds specialtournaments for physically disabled golfers, blind rehabgolfers, and wounded warriors from OIF and OEF.

The golf course is currently seeking funding for a newLearning and Rehabilitation Center (LRC) which we referto locally as our clubhouse (the old one, not handicap ac-

cessible, was about 700 sq. ft. and has been demolished),and an additional nine holes to be added to the golf course.The existing nine-hole course is becoming inundated withdisabled veterans from OIF and OEF and needs a back nineto support the population. We are mounting a campaign tosolicit funding for the LRC (club house) and the additionalholes from all veterans’ organizations, especially the fourlargest: the VFW, American Legion, DAV, and AMVETS.These organizations may be embarrassed if they will notfund this new Learning and Rehabilitation Center and theadditional nine holes.

Hole sponsors is another project we’re working on. Golfcourse hole sponsors receive a redwood sign and other ame-nities at the tee box. Local Chapter 407 recently sponsoredthe rst hole and dedicated it as the “Purple Heart” hole on Purple Heart Day, August 7, 2008. The third hole, oursignature hole, will be sponsored by the Legion of Valorand will be named the “Medal of Honor” hole. We arecurrently seeking other veterans’ organizations to sponsorthe other holes, each one to be named after a prestigiousmilitary medal. We hope to have the entire original nineholes sponsored by early 2009. If you are a member of anyother veterans’ organization, please urge your leadership,national, department and chapter to contact Bruce McKentyat e-mail [email protected]. or cell phone 253 209-3166 tolearn how to make a donation or sponsor a hole. The latestword is thatAMVETS, Department of Washington, has justoffered $5,000 to sponsor a hole. Negotiations are currentlyunderway to determine which hole and what medal theywill sponsor.

If you are ever in the Paci c Northwest, please make an ef-fort to visit theAmerican Lake Veterans Golf Course and seethis “crown jewel” for yourself. You’ll see why it recentlywon the American Hospital Association “OutstandingVolunteer Organization of the Year” award because of theefforts of and for veterans. O

In rainy Washington, a covered driving range wasconsidered an important investment in the rehabilitationof the American Lake Veterans Golf Course.



The United States Constitution was signed into lawon September 17, 1787, this date has been forever

enshrined in Article VII of the U.S. Constitution. By anact of Congress the week of September 17 is now NationalConstitutional Week; however, as veterans we should studyour Constitution every day of our lives and give thanks tothe greatest, freedom and liberty document in man’s his-tory. It is our agreement upon the U.S. Constitution thattruly makes all of us Americans. When you study the U.S.Constitution you’re actually studying Constitutional Law.Every study of Basic American Civics must begin with thefact that America is a Republic. The truth of this is found inArticle IV Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution which states:“The United States shall guarantee to every State in thisUnion a republican form of government, and shall protecteach of them against invasion. . .”

This article is not referring to any party, it’s referring tothe word republic.REPUBLIC versus DEMOCRACY:

There is no doubt that America is a Republic, with rule byConstitutional Law. America has never been a democracy,with rule by majority. 1) Article IV Section 4 guaranteesthat every State in this Union shall be a Republic. 2) Theword democracy cannot be found in the Constitution or inany State Constitution. 3) The California ag reads: CALI-FORNIA REPUBLIC. 4) When We, the People, recite ourpledge we say: “and to the republic for which it stands.” 5)The word republic comes from the Latin words res publica;res meaning thing and publica meaning public; the publicthing is the law and in our nation this means ConstitutionalLaw.

6) China calls itself The Peoples Republic of China. How-ever, remember that republic means to rule by law. In Chinatheir rule of law comes from the Communist Party.

7) When Benjamin Franklin walked out of the Constitu-tional Convention of 1787 he was asked by a Mrs. Powellof Philadelphia, “Well, Doctor, what have we got, a republicor a monarchy?”

With no hesitation whatsoever, Franklin replied, “A Re-public, if you can keep it.” This exchange was recordedby Constitutional signer James McHenry in a diary entrythat was later reproduced in the 1906 American HistoricalReview.

8) James Madison, who is rightly known as the “Fatherof the Constitution,” wrote in The Federalist, No. 10:“... democracies have ever been spectacles of turbulenceand contention; have ever been found incompatible withpersonal security, or the rights of property; and have ingeneral been as short in their lives as they are violent intheir deaths.”

Samuel Adams, a signer of the Declaration of Inde-•pendence, stated: “There was never a democracy thatdid not commit suicide.”During his inaugural address, on April 30, 1789,•President George Washington stated: I shall dedicatemyself ‘To the preservation ... of the republican modelof government.”

9.) Under our Republic the Founding Fathers created amixed-form of government.

10) “An unconstitutional act is not law; it confers norights; it imposes no duties; affords no protection; it cre-ates no of ce; it is in legal contemplation, as inoperative as though it had never been passed.” —Norton vs. Shelby County

118 US 425 page 491.

LIVING CONSTITUTION VERSUSLEGAL CONSTITUTION:

This argument is often put forth: “Since the Constitutioncan be amendment under Article V, it’s a living documentand therefore there are no absolutes.”

Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia is quoted fromC-SPAN: “The Constitution is not a living document, it’sa legal document.” Black’s Law Dictionary states: “OurConstitution is a rigid constitution because it has a formalamendment process.”

An easy way to understand Constitutional Law is to viewthe Constitution as a contract. Would anyone sign a contract,if they were told: ‘This is a living contract and it’s subjectto change according to future opinion.” Would you feel safeabout buying a home, a car, or your veterans bene ts under a living contract?

Of course our Constitution/contract can be amended un-der Article V; however, the Constitution contract stands asagreed upon until a formal amendment process has takenplace.

Our Constitution/contract is to be read as a document ofequal distribution: meaning one clause cannot be read as ifto stand alone. Article 1 Section 9 clause 3 states: “No billof attainder or ex post facto law shall be passed.” A Bill ofAttainder is a pain or punishment without bene t of a trial. When someone is not allowed to exercise a right, this is aBill of Attainder.

For example: Going to war without a Congressional Dec-laration of War is unconstitutional. Taken taxes from thepeople to pay for an unconstitutional war is taxation with-out proper representation and this is a pain or punishmentwithout a trial. To say there is no need for a Declaration ofwar because its merely a police action, like Korea, underthe authority of a treaty made with the United Nations orthat Congress can pass a resolution giving the president war

Constitutional LawBy Gene Owens


making powers is all unconstitutional. Under Article V1all treaties and all laws must be made in pursuant of theConstitution and there is no enumerated power for Con-gress to abdicate their war making powers. There are nowar making powers enumerated in the Constitution for thepresident. The president has no war making powers underConstitutional Law. The president cannot make laws byexecutive order and he cannot hold signing statementswhere he refuses to obey laws passed by Congress.

The Electoral College elects a president: our chief ex-ecutive of cer who is directed by the Constitution to “take care that the laws be faithfully executed.” The presidentdoes not automatically become “commander in chief.”The president must be called into service by Congress; ifthis were not true, the president would be our King.

The following is from the Congressional Record of1922: “In their nal and deliberate judgment one of the most important features of our Constitution is that ourcountry should be distinguished from other nations in itsrefusal to concentrate in one man exclusive power overforeign relations of the government and especially overissues of peace and war.”

Once a contract is signed into law, or a poker game hasstarted, under Article I Section 9 there can be no ex postfacto laws. If the signers of a contract disagree, or theplayers of poker wish to change the rules, the game mustbe stopped, new agreements must be made, and then thecontract or game can continue. Until a formal amendmentis made by Congress our Constitution is set in stone.

All of our representatives are elected to of ce; however, they all must take an Oath of Of ce to obey the Consti-tution/contract. When they go beyond the pale and kenof the Constitution they’re no longer our representativesacting under Constitutional Law.

When studying the Constitution millions of Americansget confused because of all the lies they have heard.Millions of Americans falsely believe they have morefreedom in a democracy; when, iN fact, under majorityrule there are no unalienable Rights. Unalienable andinalienable both mean that which cannot be changed, notby a dictator of by majority vote. Under our Republicevery individual is actually protected from the tyrannyof the majority.

LIBERAL VERSUS CONSERVATIVEMillions of Americans claim to be liberal or conserva-

tive; however, what are they actually saying? They’resaying: “I am an American liberal,” or “I am anAmericanconservative.” If a liberal or a conservative goes beyondthe pale and ken of Constitutional Law they’re no longeran American liberal or an American conservative.

To put this in simple terms, suppose you’re playing agame of poker. Afew American liberals and a few Ameri-can conservatives set down to a game of poker. The rules

of poker are set before the play begins (remember underConstitutional Law there can be no Bill of Attainder or expost facto laws). The liberal and the conservative playersagree to the rules. Now a liberal may bet a little too high andthe conservative may tend to hang on to his money, however,they both stay with the rule of law—the rules of poker.

Suppose someone stated: ‘The rules of poker are livingrules and I say two-of-a-kind is higher than three-of-kind.”The players stop, check the written rule of law and nd that two-of-a-kind is not higher than three-of-a-kind. Whatshould the players do? Should they agree with the protesteror with the rules of poker? Suppose they decide to followthe rules of poker and still the protester continues. In fact theprotester says: ‘This game is under a democracy and I wantto vote that two-of-kind is higher than three-of-a-kind.”

The players check the rules of poker again and nd that the rules are actually under a Republic. They nd that the powers to make rules for poker has been given to a Gam-ing Commission. They nd that under Article V the rules of poker can only be amended by the Gaming Commission.The game is stopped. They discover that under the 1stamendment any player has a right to le a “redress of griev-ances;” however players have no amendment powers.

Black’s Law Dictionary de nes our Constitution as a rigid Constitution because under Article V we have a formalamendment process. To add or subtract a single word in theConstitution, without a formal amendment by Congress, isan illegal amendment and it is null and void.

The U.S. Constitution is a document of perfect equipoise,meaning one of perfect distribution; not one clause can beread as if to stand alone.

Article I Section 1: “All legislative powers herein grantedshall be vested in a Congress. . .”

Article I Section 9: “No bill of attainder or ex post factolaw shall be passed.”

Article IV Section 4: Every State shall be a Republic, withrule by Constitutional Law.

Now put this all together! Congress can only make lawsthat are “herein granted.” Congress cannot pass any “ex postfacto laws” and suddenly make two-of-a-kind higher thanthree-of-a-kind. Congress cannot give a pain or punishment,which is a “bill of attainder,” without a trial by jury. UnderArticle IV Section 4 Congress must obey the rule of law.

Think about the rules of poker. The power to make rulesfor poker was given to a Gaming Commission (their Con-gress). The people can either obey the rules of poker or le a “redress of grievances” against the Gaming Commission.Until Congress, or the Gaming Commission, changes therules, all players must obey the rule of law.

POLITICIAN VERSUS STATESMAN.The dictionary de nes a politician as someone who is

artful, crafty, cunning, or even deceitful. A Statesman isde ned as someone who is well versed in their own form of government.



Democracies breed politicians be-cause there are no unalienable rightsand everything is simply up for a ma-jority vote. Politicians get involve inthe art of politics. They become crafty.In a democracy people do not want to“talk politics” because the rules simplybecome the stronger opinion.

Republics, with a written rule of law,breed Statesmen, people who are wellversed in their own form of govern-ment. Millions of Americans, whohave never met, can agree upon ourform of government simply by read-

ing Article IV Section 4 of the U.S.Constitution. Americans can becomeunited under the rule of law simply bystudying the U.S. Constitution. Withunited understanding, We, the People,can protect our Liberty. Our actual ght is not liberal against conservative; it’s limited government against totalgovernment.

America was founded under theMadisonian Dilemma: self governmentversus total-government. Too muchself-government and we would haveanarchy. Too much total governmentand we would have tyranny. That’s

why our Founders instituted a limitedform of government, with a written ruleof law that all American citizens mustobey—a Constitutional Republic.

This article is not talking politics,it’s talking statesmanship. Become astatesman by studying the Constitution.Become unitedAmericans for freedomfor standing up for freedom and libertyunder our Constitutional Republic.

May God bless our Republic.

Editor’s note: Gene Owens is aVietnam Marine veteran who takesgreat pride in his research and studyof Constitutional issues. This is hisfourth contribution to Purple HeartMagazine, which provides stimulatingthought for our readers. While some ofthe Constitution of the United Statesis left to interpretation, the draftersmeant for it to be what it says, andto read as it reads. Through it theyprovided a great gift to the Americanpeople that transcends generationsand which is intended to provide uswith an unintrusive, restrictive formof government “of the people, by thepeople, and for the people.” One of thecharges in belonging to our MilitaryOrder of the Purple Heart is to main-tain true allegiance to the Constitutionand its laws. Gene Owens gives uscause to revisit our obligation in thisregard. O




Recently, I was preparing to attend my very rst 101st Airborne Division Association reunion in Reno, Ne-

vada, and it was suggested that since I was in Nevada thatI should consider visiting the grave of a soldier who hadgave his all in a battle that I, along with ve others, were wounded in on May7, 1970. He, in addition to six otheryoung men lost their lives in this battle.

In the 38 plus years since, I thought of these seven every-day and can still see their faces as if it was yesterday.

The soldier’s name was Lloyd Jackson and he was fromAustin, Nevada. Lloyd was what I term one of the rst Americans, a Shoshone Indian and his nickname was J.J.

I joined the 1st of the 506th, 101st Airborne Division inMarch of 1970 in the extreme northern part of what was thenSouth Vietnam. I was a veteran of the Big Red One whichhad just been sent back to the states or at least the colorswere sent and we soldiers were reassigned throughout theremaining divisions inVietnam.

During the next few weeks I couldn’t help but notice whata good soldier Jackson was. He did everything by the bookand was probably the best warrior I have ever known. Heonce told me that he would have been in line for a promo-tion to sergeant had it not been for my arrival. I certainlywasn’t a better soldier than he, I just happened to have morecombat experience. When he told me this there wasn’t anyjealousy in his voice.

Our platoon, numbering 22 men, was attacked by a vastlylarger force during the early morning hours of May7, 1970.J.J. along with the six others were killed almost immediatelyand never really had much of a chance of survival. The sideof the perimeter they were defending was the easiest side toattack. So what I have always termed as the perfect soldiernever really had a chance.

I thought on this going to Austin for several days anddecided that J.J. would have done this for me and it wasthe right thing for me to do for him.

I, via e-mail, got in touch with the Austin, Nevada Cham-ber of Commerce and was given the location of the graveand an offer that, when I was certain of the date I wouldbe arriving, to advise them and they would try to have afellow veteran meet us at the cemetery. This was in Aprilof 2008.

The 101st Airborne reunion was set for August 13-17,2008. I decided that I would go to Reno a date early, rent acar and journey to Austin on August the 13th. This was all

J.J.: We RememberBy Gregory P. Phillips

Birmingham, AL(Photos provided by the author)

done and a fellow veteran from Austin, Ray Williams wasin touch with me and proved to be most helpful in my questto visit the grave. He invited Lloyd’s remaining family tovisit with us at the gravesite if they desired to do so.

On August 13 I along with my wife Krystal, a Vietnamveteran comrade of mine, Dick Doyle (we served in threedifferent combat units together) and another friend of minefrom California, Dr. Ralph Matkin (Ralph was awarded twoSilver Stars while serving as a medic attached to the 101stin early 1970) set out at eight o’clock in the morning headedeast of Reno on Highway 50 for 175 miles. Interestinglyfor the last 150 miles of the journey we saw nothing buthighway, no service stations, no rest stops, nothing.

We arrived at the cemetery after a three hour journey andwere greeted by Lloyd’s sister and her daughter plus Mr.Williams and a friend of J.J.’s from high school, Justice ofthe Peace Joe Dory.

Much to my surprise J.J.’s family never knew how hedied; they only knew that he died from wounds sustainedin combat. I had the opportunity to tell them what a greatsoldier he had been and how he had died defending ourperimeter and helping save the lives of the remaining 15members of the platoon.

Members of the 101st Airborne Division Association taketime to visit the family and gravesite of fallen soldier Lloyd(J.J.) Jackson, a Shoshone Indian Warrior of Austin, NV.Jackson, was killed in Vietnam on May 7, 1970, when anoverwhelming force attacked along a parameter beingdefended by a 22-man platoon of the 1st Battalion of the506th Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.


After this visit with the family we visited the gravesite andplaced 101st Airborne Division pins on the simple whitecross atop J.J.’s grave. The family didn’t realize that Lloydhad used the nickname J.J. in Vietnam until just before ourvisit and couldn’t gure where he had got the nickname until we passed by Lloyd’s fathers grave. Just after his namewere the letters J.J. Lloyd had taken his father’s nicknamein a place where we all had gone by nicknames.

Once we had paid our respects at the cemetery Mr. Wil-liams gave us a tour of Austin and allowed us to view theV.F.W. post which was named for Lloyd. It turns out thatLloyd was the only soldier from the area that lost his lifein Vietnam.

We, then dinedwith the family andMr. Williams at Mr.Williams’ Café inthe heart of Austin.Here we learned thehistory of the tribeand how they maketheir livings today.

After lunch inAustin our groupthanked the family

and Mr. Ray Williams for an eventful visit and headed westto Reno. On the way back I re ected on what a treat it would have been if Lloyd had lived and could have actually joinedus at the 101st reunion since it was so close to his home.

My point in writing this article is if you lost friends in com-bat and have never visited the graves or the families pleasetry to do so while there is still time. It will warm the heartsof the family members and yours as well for rememberinga fallen warrior. Currahee! (Stands Alone) O

The VFW Post in Austin, NV, is named to honor thememory of fallen Warrior Lloyd (J.J.) Jackson, the solemember of that community killed during the VietnamWar.

A Christian cross, name, Lloyd WilnerJackson, unit designation, Vietnamand dates appear on the bronze gravemarker in an Austin, NV, cemetery.

O F E A T U R E O



In a solemn ceremony, oneof New Hampshire’s be-

loved sons, Roger JosephDion Sr., was given a place inhistory on July 30, 2008 bythe New Hampshire Chapterof the Military Order of thePurple Heart, on U.S. Route4 in Northwood, New Hamp-shire. The sign which bears hisname and the war in which hefought (Vietnam) is the last tobe mounted on New Hamp-shire’s Purple Heart Trail.

Roger Dion Sr. was bornin Laconia, NH, the son ofWalter and Cecile Cote. He servedwith distinction and bravery duringhis 22 year career with the UnitedStates Army, retiring in the grade ofMaster Sergeant. As a Green Beret hevolunteered for four tours in SpecialForces during the Vietnam War. Earlierin his military career he was with the82nd Airborne Division based at FortBragg, NC.

Among his personal awards are fourPurple Hearts, four awards of theBronze Star, the Air Medal, Meritori-ous Unit Badge (500 jumps), threeawards of the Army CommendationMedal with Combat “V”, two awardsof the Combat Infantryman Badge,the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry withPalm and five awards of the GoodConduct Medal. Unit awards includethe Presidential Unit Citation, VietnamCampaign Medal, Vietnam ServiceMedal, Armed Forces ExpeditionaryMedal and the National Defense Ser-vice Medal.

David Smith, State Representativefor Hillsborough District 22 and Com-mander, Chapter #804, Military Orderof the Purple Heart stated, “It is very tting that a man like Roger Joseph Dion Sr. be named on this trail. A quiet

ROGER JOSEPH DION SR. HONOREDAND MEMORIALIZED AT THE PURPLE HEART TRAIL

IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

reserved man, Roger never spoke of hismilitary experiences. He came homeduring the era of the Vietnam Warwhen many did not want to hear ofsuch things. Roger, along with his fel-low Vietnam veterans, kept their feel-ings to themselves. Today, he and allthose who served in Vietnam and shedtheir blood in the eld of combat, are recognized along the New HampshirePurple Heart Trail. We should neverforget their great personal sacri ce. The New Hampshire Chapter of theMilitary Order of the Purple Heart, theorganization responsible for establish-ing the trail, decided that on Route 4, asmaller and very beautiful Purple Heartsign, with a design unique to NewHampshire, would have inscribed thename of the individual who receivedthe Purple Heart medal and the war inwhich it was received by him.

“The intent is not so much to honorthe individual directly, but rather forthat serviceman to perform a highercalling; that being to serve as a lastingreminder to passing motorists, thatbehind every Purple Heart there isan individual who shed his blood forfreedom. It was also necessary he be

a citizen of New Hampshire.Visitors at this site may neverhave known the person namedpersonally, but they are re-minded that a wounded NewHampshire man or womenserved their country in timeof war. It serves as a powerfulwitness to the greatness of ourmilitary.” Roger is survivedby his three children, RogerJ. Dion Jr., Daniel Dion, andLorrie Gasses. His daughterLorrie offered these touchingwords about her father. “MyDad was a very private man.

He didn’t speak of his military career

very often. He loved the military andhis fellow comrades in arms, and con-tinued to follow everything about themilitary after his retirement. He passedaway on Veterans Day, November 22,2003. My brothers, Roger and Dan,like myself, are very proud of him andhis military career as well as those whoknew him. We love you and miss youvery much Dad. Your spirit continuesto live on within our hearts.” O

Members of the Military Order of thePurple Heart Ceremonial Team. (l.-r.)Gerard Dumon, Sergeant-at-Arms;David L. Smith, Commander; andAlbert G. Grow, Chaplain.

Photos by Larry Pelland

By Larry PellandContributing Writer

The late MSgt. Roger Joseph Dion Sr.


The Medal of Honor Society recently concluded its’ an-nual convention in Denver on September 20th. The last

event was the Patriot Awards Gala Dinner, attended by nu-merous local digni- taries and 50 Medalof Honor recipients. The Society honoredwriter, comedian and economist BenStein, presenting the John McCrary Ex-cellence in Journal- ism Award. The So-ciety also honored Academy Awardwinning actor/director Clint Eastwoodby presenting the Bob Hope Awardfor Excellence in entertainment.

The recipients of the Medal of Honor,the nation’s highest award for militaryvalor, are quite simply the bravest of the brave. Being intheir presence is an extremely humbling experience, a senti-ment echoed by Mr. Stein and Mr. Eastwood. However, therecipients are the most humble men in the room. A numberof recipients greeted the enlisted members of the joint colorguard, thanking them for their service.

This week-long event was billed as “A Celebration ofValor.” At every opportunity, they seem to focus attentionaway from themselves. They visited schools to educatechildren about the value of military service. They havevisited the wounded from the Global War on Terrorism inVA hospitals.

MOH recipient Brian Thacker praised Denver for thewarm reception they received, stating that “it has been anincredible event, from the concert the rst night [featuring Carrie Underwood]… I’m just blown away by the kids.”When asked about the humility of the recipients, he re-sponded that “It’s an ‘us’ award, not a ‘me’ award.”

MOH Recipient Gary Weitzel summed up what motivatedhim during combat this way “[You act]…with a servants’heart of love for others more than oneself.” Recipient GaryBeikirch added, “To really live, you must almost die. Thethings I took away from the war affect my life every day.For me getting better was someone I could hurt with … andmy faith in God.”

Clint Eastwood was honored for his work positivelyportraying the military. The rst thing he said was, “Like everyone here, I am humbled to be among the Medal ofHonor recipients.” Mr. Eastwood portrayed a MOH recipi-ent in his lm Heartbreak Ridge. “It was great to portray a MOH recipient because I got to wear that ribbon for nineweeks. … There is something about the feeling of wearingthat ribbon, because [the recipients] have given so much..It’s inspiring. [You should] realize that here’s a guy that

served in the US military; but only at the swimming pool atFort Ord. … You think about the current generation, untila real emergency comes, people are very blasé [about theirsacri ces]. The elds of stone of Normandy and Arlington never fail to bring tears to one’s eyes, and I am no excep-tion.” He added his support for the current generation ofwarriors saying “I’ll be out there supporting whatever wecan do in the rear lines.”

Ben Stein was also honored for his patriotism and sup-port of the military. He began “People say to me you livein Malibu, near all the stars…[I tell them] No! All the realstars are wearing BDUs and body armor in Mosul, Kirkuk…Baghdad!” When asked recently in a C-SPAN interview‘Who was the most impressive person you ever met?’ , heresponded “Anyone in Walter Reed Army Hospital. Everytrip to Washington, I make it a point to visit Ward 58 and59, where the men and women who were injured in Iraq andAfghanistan are. They are so brave, you cannot believe it,especially Specialist Chris Levy, who had his legs blown off.He was riding down a street in Baghdad when an Iranianmade Explosively Formed Projectile struck his HMMWV.He said I am not going to give up. I am going to stay in theArmy and teach others to use prostheses. These are stars.These are the heroes!”

He went onto recount his visit to Arlington NationalCemetery, where, in section 62 the veterans of Iraq and Af-ghanistan are laid to rest. Teddy bears and children’s booksadorn the graves, and the ground is still soft. “I looked overtoward the Capitol and see the ags ying. There really is

Medal of Honor Society National ConventionMaj. Robert O’Brien, U.S. Army

Leonard B. and Mrs. Keller (center) are greeted by twoyoung admirers during their National Convention GrandBanquet.



an equation here. Those ags ... our freedom … our pros-perity … paid for by these men [in military cemeteries], …the guys in Walter Reed paid for this ... these men and theirfamilies paid for this. Do not forget that the military wife isthe backbone of the United States of America.”

This sentiment was repeated by all the speakers and therecipients. These men, MOH recipients, the Nation’s FinestHeroes, disagree when called a “national treasure.” Theyhonor the sacri ces of the current warriors who have made so many sacri ces in the Global War on Terrorism. They highlight the accomplishments of today’s Soldiers, Sailors,Airmen and Marines.

I spoke to one of the many volunteers at the conven-tion who worked to ensure the success of the event. Heis a Vietnam veteran and a hero in his own right. He wasa helicopter crew chief and has several awards for valorincluding a Soldier’s Medal. He took time off from workto volunteer in support of the MOH convention. He stated,“The convention went fantastic! The recipients are all soincredibly humble. They really are for the kids and theyounger generation.”

This nation has heroes, the living MOH recipients, thereturning warriors, and the military spouses. They do notmake 20 million dollars a year. They have paid for their herostatus with blood. They have done the right thing when noone would have blamed them if they didn’t act. They didthe hard, right thing, at risk of life and limb, simply becauseit was the right thing to do.

The Medal of Honor Society has a book in bookstoresnow: Medal of Honor, Portraits of Valor: Beyond the Callof Duty, published by Artisan. It recounts the deeds of theliving recipients. The pro ts support the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s efforts. You can visit their websiteat www.cmhos.org.

Ultimately, the convention was a tting tribute to all the recipients of the nation’s highest honor. They in turn,honored the sacri ces of today’s warriors. The chances are that there is a hero of the current con ict living in your very own neighborhood. It is up to all veterans to reachout to each other.

Colonel Marty Barnon, USMC (Ret.) put it best when hesaid, “It [this event] shows what America is all about. Toobad CNN wasn’t here to report it.”The Author Maj. Robert O’Brien, U.S. Army, Military Po-lice Branch, is a student at the Command and General StaffCollege, FT Leavenworth, KS. He returned from Iraq lastDecember where he was assigned as a Combat Advisor toa National Police Battalion. Maj. O’Brien enlisted in 1982was commissioned in 1987 via ROTC. He served for eightyears, had a break in service, served in the Army Reserve andreturned to active duty status in 2006. O

O F E A T U R E O

Here’s what Chapter 771 does three times a month. Theyhave two ice cream parties at the Biloxi VAMedical Center.The parties are held on the 1st, 3rd and 4th Wednesdays.At 1300 they have an ice cream event featuring premiumice cream, on one of the wards for patients and staff.Immediately afterwards they proceed to one of the outpatient clinics and treat the staff to an ice cream party.Needless to say, their arrival is much anticipated at theBiloxi Medical Center. (l.-r.) Patriot Tom Dempsey,Ch. #771 adjutant, Patient Eugene Friday, a U.S. Armyveteran, Mary Dempsey, Unit President and Patient AvisHart eld, US Army veteran enjoying ice cream treats at a patient ice cream party.

Submitted by Henry J. Cook, III, PNC

O F R O M T H E H E A R T O


The Honorable Shelly Moore Capito, U.S. Representative(WV) with Harold Payne at the Kanawha CountyCourthouse in Charleston, WV. Payne was recognizedfor his service in World War II in a ceremony on October10, 2008, where he received the Purple Heart for woundshe received in combat. Payne was wounded in a mortarblast and taken prisoner by the Germans in 1945,but after lost records and 60 years, he never receivedhis Purple Heart—until Friday, October 10, 2008.Thanks to the hard work of the Payne family and membersof Capito’s staff, they were able to cut through the redtape and nally honor Mr. Payne with his Purple Heart at a ceremony at the Kanawha County Courthouse.Mr. Payne served our nation with honor and now wecan all be proud that he’s received the recognition hedeserved.

O O O O F R O M T H E H E A R T O O O O

John Tarasuk, Chapter Commander, and Victor Miller,Finance Of cer, Broward County, FL, Ch.#674, presented a check in the amount of $1,250 to Millicent Sucoff,Representing VAVS at the Oakland Park, VA Clinic. Theyalso presented another check in the same amount to BobBanebury, Executive Director of the Veterans Multi-Purpose Center in Davie, FL. Tarasuk is a twice woundedveteran of the Guadalcanal Campaign and Miller waswounded in the Battle of the Bulge.

Submitted by Patriot John Tarasuk

Mr. Richard Green, co-manager of the Winston Salem,NC, Wal-Mart summoned most of his employees together,about 30, for the presentation of a grant check of $1,000for use in support of Ladies’Auxiliary Unit #638 projectsthat support hospitalized and needy veterans. The checkwas accepted by Joe K. Clary, Commander, Ch.#638.(l-r) Richard Green, Co-Manager, Wal-Mart; Joe Clary,Commander, Ch. #638; and Judy Taylor, President, Unit#638. Wal-Mart in Winston Salem and across the countryhas been a consistent supporter of community serviceactivities, and Green states it’s good for morale of theemployees to know that they work for an employer thatbelieves in giving back to the community.

The Patriots ofAaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Departmentof Florida, presented a $500 donation for patient needson behalf of the Purple Heart Service Foundation to theVACommunity-based Outpatient Clinic, Lecanto, Florida.Accepting the donation from Chapter 776 CommanderJ.B. Haskins is Linda Morris, Administrative Assistantat the VA facility. Submitted by Patrio Curt Ebitz., Adjutant, Chapter 776


Members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Ch.1916, of Brookville, IN, celebrate the dedication of theircompleted memorial. The huge concrete base surroundedby brick is in the shape of a heart which lies to the frontof the memorial. (See inset.) (l.-r.) Edward Ison, RobertWelhelm, Kenneth Huber, Kenneth Hertel, Virgil Tebbe,David Stutzman, Herschel Ertel, David Brooking andWilliam Pierce attended the dedication. The bricksaround the Purple Heart include the names of deceasedand wounded veterans. Names of those who served inthe Armed Forces are at the bottom portion. Over 850bricks have been donated to date and they have space formore.

Submitted by Patriot Virgil J. Tebbe

Chapter #10, Milltown, NJ, along with friends and familymembers marched in the 2008 Plain eld, NJ Annual Labor Day Parade. They handed out over 2,000 American ags to parade on lookers along the 2 ½ mile route. March music was played from the chapter’s vehicle which wasdecorated for the event. This the largest annual LaborDay parade in New Jersey and the crowd appreciatedthe ags and participation by the Purple Heart members, families and friends.

Submitted by Donald J. Zolkiwsky, Adjutant

O F R O M T H E H E A R T O

34 Purple Heart Magazine November / December 2008


Felix Delgado, Chapter #792 Adjutant, and WarrenAmbrose, Jr. Vice Commander, receive a $1,000 checkfrom Rachel Ruiz, Avondale Wal-Mart SuperCenter StoreManager, Avondale, AZ, for use in support of veteransprograms.

Subm itted by Felix Delgado, A djutant/Serv ice Offi cer Glendale, AZ., MOPH

The Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 83, heardthat the Sepulveda VA Ambulatory Care Center needed anew at screen for their “Welcome Home” center for the returning veterans from Afghanistan and Iraq. Present-ing the new 42” at screen TV to the VA are Luis Rivera, Vietnam Veteran, and Chapter Commander of Ch. #83along with VAVS volunteers Frank Romero, Paul Roblesand Isadore Binder on September 6, 2008, when theydelivered the new TV to the Sepulveda VA Hospital inSouthern California. On hand to receive the new TV isRobert Gutierrez, Special Assistant to the Director.

Submitted by Patriot Luis Rivera and Larry H. Wong, MS, Volunteer Service Specialist

Let’s keep working it! Wewant the Purple HeartStamp to be a ForeverStamp—a single pricereflecting the current priceof a First Class PostageStamp.



The John D. Goodin Chapter 244 in Johnson City, TN, isthe oldest chapter in the state started by John D. Goodinshortly after WWII. Goodin also served as NationalCommander 1950-51. The chapter attempts to participatein community events and make contributions to veteransand service organizations when possible. On October 21,2008, the chapter purchased $1,000 of sod that was neededat the local National Cemetery to be used on variousgravesites. The Mountain Home National Cemetery inJohnson City, TN, is one of the nation’s largest NationalCemeteries and the ground crew does an excellent jobin maintaining the grounds. The photo was taken onOctober 21 when the chapter made the presentation forthe purchase of the sod when it was delivered. Fromleft to right are Eugene Hancock, Finance Of cer, Ch. #244; Paul Serchia, Adjutant and Commander for theDepartment Tennessee; and at far right is Donald C.Reece, program support assistant at Mountain HomeNational Cemetery.

Submitted by Paul Serchia, Adjutant/Cdr., Dept. of TN

Attention Vietnam Veterans

A survey of Vietnam veterans who have sustained a traumatic ampu-tation during the Vietnam War began this month and is expected togather information to help identify and examine lifelong challengesthat they have experienced. The survey results should help ful ll an urgent need for information regarding the Vietnam veterans’ ongo-ing care, as well as the care of veterans returning from the MiddleEast.

The Indiana-Ohio Center for Traumatic AmputationRehabilitation Research is conducting the study. A collaborative ef-fort between Indiana University and The Ohio State University, theCenter is funded by the U.S. Department of Defense in an effort tounderstand the long-term health challenges that are likely to affectveterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as con icts that occur in the future.

To date, the Center has enrolled 419 Vietnam veterans whoexperienced traumatic amputations and investigators are recruitingthroughout the United States to nd and register more veterans in the coming months. Enrollment in the TraumaticAmputation Rehabilita-tion Research project is restricted to Vietnam veteran amputees. Toregister for our study or for additional information visit our websiteat www.vietnamwaramputee.org. You can also call toll-free at (866)-283-2599. Mail all inquires to Mr. Chris Robbins, Project CoordinatorSchool of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Indiana University,

1140 West Michigan Street, Coleman Hall CF 124, Indianapolis, IN46202

A wise and frugal govern-

ment, which shall leave

men free to regulate their

own pursuits of industry

and improvement, and shall

not take from the mouth

of labor and bread it has

earned—this is the sum of

good government.

—Thomas Jefferson

37November / December 2008 Purple Heart Magazine


Col. Dave Ulmer, U.S. Army (Ret.) (r.), of Lexington,NC, Ch. #638 presented the Military Order of the PurpleLeadership Medal and Citation at the Central DavidsonHigh School Awards Ceremony to Cadet CommandSergeant Major Will Everhart, a U.S. Army JROTC Cadet.At left is LtCol. Mike Dawkins, U.S. Army (Ret.), who isthe Senior JROTC Instructor in Lexington.

Submitted by Col. David T. Ulmer, SF, USA (Ret.)

Chapter #558, Dept. of Kansas, donated $500.00 worth ofitems to veterans’facilities (emptying nearly all the shelvesin one local Walmart store!!!). Participating from Chapter#558 areCommander Warren Lewis, Susan Lee, ServiceCoordinator Wichita VA Center; Tom Creel, Adjutant,Chapter 558; and Ray Banks, Welfare Of cer, Chapter 558. Submitted by Patriot Tom Creel

This is a long shot, but I never give up trying! My dadwas a B29 crewmember, shot down over Korea in 1952

and was awarded the Purple Heart. His high school buddyhad quit school and joined theArmy, ending up with Btry. B,57th FA Bn, 7th Inf Div. in the Hagaru-ri Valley/Chosin. Hewas also awarded a Purple Heart. I believe it was the deathof his HS buddy that made my dad quit a college scholarshipand enlist in the Air Force. I am writing a book, in novelformat, intertwining the lives of my dad, his friends and hisbuddy killed at Chosin, along with my life and career in theArmy. I am trying to locate anyone from the 7th Infantry orother units involved in the Chosin disaster who might haveknown Cpl JohnA. Spruell, 17259651 or been connected insomeway with his unit on the day he died in Hagaru-ri Val-ley, on December 6, 1950, plus anyone that is still alive whowould have been connected with my dad, A1C Jimmie R.Hobday, 17329984, assigned to the 19th Bomb Grp, 307thBomb Wing, 371st Bomb Sq, out of Kadena, Okinawa. Hedied on September 13,1952 over Suiho, Korea. I have leftnotices with as many Veterans Reunion, website and militarygroups as possible over the last eight months with only afew direct leads, and some good information. But I wouldlike my book to be as accurate as possible and not just use‘stock photos and general quotes.”

Both John Spruell and my dad were incorrectly listed inmilitary records somewhere along the line. My dad, thoughlisted as “no next of kin,” three members of the family werenoti ed by the AF of his MIA/KIA status, but the les on

Spruell listed him from another State with no next of kin.Both records were corrected this summer. The Spruell fam-ily, only knew of John’s death because three letters werereturned “Indiv. deceased.” Being “back country folk,” theynever inquired further. They have now received a gravestoneand they will hold a memorial service in November in Cor-tez. My dad will have a memorial service in the Remains NotRecovered Section of Arlington National Cemetery withina few months. I will be there for the ceremony.

I am looking for any survivors that may have knowneither men? I would like to try to obtain photos, or at leasta letter or two from folks that knew them, or were at leastin their respective units in order to add factual informationto my book and to give both the Spruell family and myselffurther closure.

Dane Hays (Hobday) US Army E7 Ret.100 Service Connected Disabled.Email: [email protected]

LOOKING FOR???

A Bill of Rights is what the people areentitled to against every government,and what no just government shouldrefuse, or rest on inference.

—Thomas Jefferson



Commander Carl Marks, Dept. of Nebraska, presents acheck in the amount of $2,000 to John Liebsack, NebraskaState Quartermaster for the VFW. The monies will beused to fund the Honor Flight for World War II veteransto visit Washington and their WWII Memoral. (l.-r.) areJames Pierce, VFW Project coordinator; John Liebsack;Carl Marks; Helen Marks, President, Dept. of NE Ladies’Auxiliary and Linda Varejcka, Project chairwoman for theMilitary Order of the Purple Heart.

Photo provided by Carl Marks

Jim Holland, Florida State Commander; Mrs. JacquelineEverett, outgoing President of Unit #566, LadiesAuxiliary;Bill Everett, outgoing Commander of Ch. #566; GeneLoving; and Carol Loving, new President of Unit #566receiving Florida’s Chapter of the Year Award. Chapter#566 received the award a second time in two years. Thechapter was recognized primarily for its outstanding workin support of Wounded Veterans, Fallen Heroes and forsupport of the families involved. It is noted that Bill Everettwas also recognized as Patriot of the Year during theOrder’s August National Convention in Las Vegas.

Photo submitted by Patriot Bill Everett

Members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart inHawaii assembled at the J.W. Marriott in Las Vegas, NV,during the 2008 National Convention. Present were (l.-r.) Thomas Tanaka, Commander, Dept. of Hawaii; DaleWilson, Ph.D., Nat’l Historian; (rear row) Jack Shimizu,Commander, Dept. of the Paci c and Bob K. Young, Past Sr. Vice Commander, Dept. of Hawaii and presentlyDepartment Inspector.

Submitted by Patriot Robert K. C. Young

Cancer Prevention Communications Initiative

This year, more than 1.5 million Americans will be diagnosed withcancer and more than a half a million will die of the disease.

Furthermore, cancer is responsible for one in every four deaths inour country. However, research shows that as many as 7 in 10 cancerdeaths can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes.

There are four simple things everyone can do each day to reducetheir risk of cancer.

Eat Well•Be Active•Don’t Smoke & Avoid Tobacco•Get Screened•

Too manyAmericans are unaware that they have the power to reducetheir risk of cancer by taking these small steps.

This is why C-Change, a coalition of the country’s key cancer lead-ers has partnered with the Ad Council to develop a communicationsprogram that utilizes the collective strengths of the 130 C-Changemembers from the public, private, and non-pro t sectors to address Americans with consistent, evidence-based messages about reducingtheir risk of cancer. Through extensive research C-Change has devel-oped a series of cancer prevention and early detection messages thathave been proven to change the minds and hearts of the public.

This initiative encourages all C-Change members and partners toincorporate these messages into their own communications programs.This includes advertising, marketing, or any form of communicationswith their constituents and the general public.

By providing a range of organizations with a focused list of provenmessages for dissemination, C-Change believes that this effort canachieve the critical media mass necessary to turn the tide on cancerin this country.

Please visit http://www.c-changeprojects.org/Communications-Plan for additional information and a more detailed overview of the

initiative.

Cancer Prevention Communications Initiative

This year, more than 1.5 million Americans will be diagnosed withcancer and more than a half a million will die of the disease.

Furthermore, cancer is responsible for one in every four deaths inour country. However, research shows that as many as 7 in 10 cancerdeaths can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes.

There are four simple things everyone can do each day to reducetheir risk of cancer.

Eat Well•Be Active•Don’t Smoke & Avoid Tobacco•Get Screened•

Too manyAmericans are unaware that they have the power to reducetheir risk of cancer by taking these small steps.

This is why C-Change, a coalition of the country’s key cancer lead-ers has partnered with the Ad Council to develop a communicationsprogram that utilizes the collective strengths of the 130 C-Changemembers from the public, private, and non-pro t sectors to address Americans with consistent, evidence-based messages about reducingtheir risk of cancer. Through extensive research C-Change has devel-oped a series of cancer prevention and early detection messages thathave been proven to change the minds and hearts of the public.

This initiative encourages all C-Change members and partners toincorporate these messages into their own communications programs.This includes advertising, marketing, or any form of communicationswith their constituents and the general public.

By providing a range of organizations with a focused list of provenmessages for dissemination, C-Change believes that this effort canachieve the critical media mass necessary to turn the tide on cancerin this country.

Please visit http://www.c-changeprojects.org/Communications-Plan for additional information and a more detailed overview of the

initiative.



Six members (l.-r.) Ken Stormer, Fred Rosenbaum, KenArterbury, Chris James, Earl Shannon and J.T. Stanleyof Chapter #744 of Cooke County, Military Order of thePurple Heart, went to Dallas Fort Worth Airport USO onMonday October 6, 2008 to see the troops off to Kuwait,Iraq and Afghanistan. They took decks of playing cards tobe given to the troops for their long 21 hour ight overseas. 150 to 250 troops depart daily from D/FW. The cards weredonated by a casino. This will become a regular scheduledevent by the Chapter. Plans are to also to provide playingcards to the Veterans Administration Medical Centersin Dallas and Bonham, outpatient clinics in Sherman,Ardmore and Denton, and State Veterans Nursing Homesin Bonham and Ardmore. MOPH members spend asmuch a six hours at the USO reception area, lounge anddeparture gate.

On August 27, 2008, eight Southern Florida veteranswere recognized by the French Government for their

“eminent services to the Republic of France” during WorldWar II.

These men were decorated with the highly honored andprestigious “Chevalier de la Légion d ‘Honneur” Medal.Previously each had received a certi cate signifying the award.

Among the eight recipients were two Life Members ofthe Military Order of the Purple Heart, and both membersof Ch. #475 of Miami, FL.

“Patsy” Centimole, 85, also serves as Chapter Com-mander, a post he has held for several years. Pat servedwith the 141st Infantry of the 36th Division and was twicewounded—once in Italy in the summer of 1943 and againin France in the winter of 1944. In addition to two awardsof the Purple Heart, he also holds the Silver Star and theBronze Star, plus other campaign and service awards. Cen-timole entered the Army in Redbank, NJ, and now residesin the Cutler Bay area of Miami.

Life Member Mitchel Chockla, 88 served with the 7thRegiment of the 3rd Infantry Division. After landing inNorth Africa in June 1943, he was assigned to the 3rd Di-vision, just in time for the invasion of Sicily. He was thenengaged in the Italian campaign from Salerno to and throughthe Anzio-Rome battles. Then in August 1944, Mitch wasassigned to the French campaign, beginning with the land-ing at St. Tropez, on the Riviera, and on up to the VosgesMountains where, on November 22 he was wounded in thebattle for Nayemont. In addition to the Purple Heart, Mitchholds the Bronze Star, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, sixcampaign awards that included two amphibious landings.He entered the Army from Derry, PA, and retired from theU.S. Postal Service in Miami where he now resides.

Both men were surprised and highly honored to be sorecognized by the French Government and the awards wereaccepted as a re ection upon all their former comrades in arms performances and sacri ces. O

France Honors WWII Veterans

Patriot “Patsy” Centimole Patriot Mitchel Chockla

William (Bill) Czyzewski, Elliot Carpenter and RichardSeeley of Martinsburg, WV, manning Chapter #646Recruiting Booth during a major air show held at theEastern Panhandle West Virginia airport in nearbyMartinsburg. The show brought in over 20,000 visitorseach day for the two-day event. While recruiting is tough,MOPH received a lot of exposure. The air eld is a shared USAF Air Guard C-5 / commercial facility.



During the Military Order of the Purple Heart’s annualtribute to military nurses on September 12, 2008, atArlington National Cemetery, Patriot Kevin Kavanaughand Rick Cherone, Commander, Department of Wisconsintook time to pay tribute to one of the most recent citizensof Wisconsin who gave the nal full measure of devotion and lies in a gravesite area of the Arlington cemeterypopulated by Operation Iraqi Freedom and OperationEnduring Freedom war dead.

MOPH photo by Cy Kammeier

Nat’l Commander Jeff Roy honors Patriot Jim Casti ofthe Department of North Carolina with the Commandant’sSpecial Award for Casti’s exceptional service on behalf ofveterans. MOPH photo by Cy Kammeier

Commander Sergio Antonio Morales of the Elite Badgeof Military Merit Chapter 1782 based out of Washington’sHeadquarters and Patriot Warren Craig with a billboardsign which is going to be placed in the city of Newburgh,NY, and various places throughout NY. The sign is intendedto convey a positive message in every aspect. It conveysthe message of our very existence as an “elite or unique”organization and to promote the the National Purple HeartHall of Honor.

Submitted by Patriot Sergio Antonio Morales

Chapter 164 participation in the 2008 Pulaski Polka DaysParade in Green Bay, WI. The Black Camaro has Dave Westphal(White Shirt) waving to the crowd. Lee Frangquist is hiddenby the ags. John Dedrich is riding shot gun and Gary Lapp is driving.

Submitted by Patriot Gary Lapp, Green Bay, WI

A veteran - whether active duty, retired, NationalGuard or Reserve - is someone who, at one point inhis or her life, wrote a blank check made payable to“The United States of America”, for an amount “up toand including my life”. That is honor, and there areway too many people in this country who no longerunderstand that. ~ Author unknown.


Earlier this year, Rep. Peter King, R-N.Y., and Sen. Hil-lary Clinton, D-N.Y., introduced a bill in Congress to

create the Purple Heart Forever stamp, eliminating the needto keep reissuing such stamps with speci c postage rates. As long as the U.S. Postal Service must decide whetherto reissue the stamp, it may eventually be retired fromcirculation.

The Perpetual Purple Heart Stamp Act sought to create astamp that would forever honor U.S. servicemembers killedor wounded in combat. The American Legion joins MOPHin endorsing the legislation.

But the Purple Heart Forever stamp can no longer becreated via legislation, since congressional committees onoversight and government reform no longer consider suchbills. So King and Clinton need a groundswell of nationalsupport, directed at the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Com-mittee (CSAC), to convince the Postal Service to issue the“forever” version of the Purple Heart stamp.

“I am grateful for The American Legion’s dedication tothe creation of the stamp,” King told the Online Update.“Its endorsement demonstrates the wide range of supportfor making the Purple Heart stamp a permanent xture. I am certain that the support from our nation’s veterans willresonate even stronger.”

Sen. Clinton also commended The American Legionfor its strong support of the Purple Heart Forever stamp.“I hope that by working together, we can ensure that thistribute receives the permanence it deserves,” she told the

Earlier this year, Rep. Peter King, R-N.Y., and Sen. Hil-lary Clinton, D-N.Y., introduced a bill in Congress to

create the Purple Heart Forever stamp, eliminating the needto keep reissuing such stamps with speci c postage rates. As long as the U.S. Postal Service must decide whetherto reissue the stamp, it may eventually be retired fromcirculation.

The Perpetual Purple Heart Stamp Act sought to create atstamp that would forever honor U.S. servicemembers killedor wounded in combat. The American Legion joins MOPHin endorsing the legislation.

But the Purple Heart Forever stamp can no longer becreated via legislation, since congressional committees onoversight and government reform no longer consider suchbills. So King and Clinton need a groundswell of nationalsupport, directed at the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Com-mittee (CSAC), to convince the Postal Service to issue the“forever” version of the Purple Heart stamp.

“I am grateful for The American Legion’s dedication tothe creation of the stamp,” King told the Online Update.“Its endorsement demonstrates the wide range of supportfor making the Purple Heart stamp a permanent xture. I am certain that the support from our nation’s veterans willresonate even stronger.”

Sen. Clinton also commended The American Legionfor its strong support of the Purple Heart Forever stamp.“I hope that by working together, we can ensure that thistribute receives the permanence it deserves,” she told the

Online Update. “I have urged the Postal Service to make ita permanent ‘forever’ stamp. Our gratitude for the sacri ces of our heroes is eternal.”

On Oct. 6, DoD announced that an estimated 17,000deceased U.S. prisoners of war could be awarded PurpleHearts under a new policy. The medals have been deniedin the past to POWs who died in captivity, if it could notbe proven they had been wounded or killed by the enemy.The revised Pentagon policy, retroactive to Dec. 7, 1941,presumes that such deaths were the result of enemy action,unless compelling evidence is presented to the contrary

King and Clinton are asking Legionnaires to help make thePurple Heart Forever stamp a reality by sending a letter ofsupport to the CSAC. In July, King wrote to the committeeand received this reply from Katherine A. Sitterle, govern-ment relations representative for the Postal Service:

“Your letter of support for the issuance of the Purple Heartstamp as a ‘forever stamp’ is being included in the Com-mittee’s les. If it is approved for issuance in the future, the announcement will be made publicly, in keeping with ourstandard practice.” Sitterle did not indicate whether CSACwould make a determination anytime soon, and new stampdesigns are already locked in through the end of 2010.

Letters of support for the Purple Heart Forever stampshould be mailed to: Citizens’Stamp Advisory Committee,c/o Stamp Development, U.S. Postal Service, Suite 5013,1735 N. Lynn St., Arlington, VA 22209. O

PURPLE HEART “FOREVER” STAMP


This setting depicts a typical National Staff Meeting. This was National Commander Jeff Roy’s rst get together with his National Of cers since National Convention. The meetings are conducted in accordance with a ritual as contained in the bylaws and are no-nonsense and highly constructive toward planning service and programs for veterans.


Chapter #794 was organized in Panama City, FL, on May 29, 2008 with sevenmembers. They now boast 31 members. They meet the fourth Thursday of eachmonth at the local VFW Post. The photo follows election of Patriot James E.Doescher as their current commander—(l.-r.) Frank Coleman, Dale Clark,Jim Doescher, Albert Belisle, Raymond Dozier and Sam Thurman.

Submitted by Patriot Samuel R. Thurman Jr


Jeff Roy

National Commander

O O O O O F F I C E R S’ C A L L O O O O

Jeff Roy, Nat’l Commander, Military Order of the PurpleHeart addresses the group assembled in the hall of Womenin Service for America Memorial, during the Order’sannual special ceremony in which military nurses arehonored. The event included remarks by CommanderRoy and General Deborah C. Wheeling,Deputy Surgeon General for the ArmyNational Guard and a wreath layingat the nurse memorial in Section 21of Arlington National Cemetery. Theceremony paid special tribute to the lateCaptain Maria Ortiz, who was the rst female Army nurse to die in the Iraqcon ict. On July 10, 2007, she was hit by a mortar round in Baghadad’s Green Zone. A specialgranite statue of a nurse in uniform was sculpted byFrances Rich, and originlly honored nurses who servedin the U.S. armed forces in WWI, may of whom rest inSection 21.

Capt. Maria Ortiz

We will soon be entering into ourHoliday Season; a time when

everyone is busy planning dinners,trips to families, etc., but this yearlet us not forget our fellow veterans

who cannot or just are not fortunate enough to do thesesame things. Most of all let us not forget those young menand women serving throughout the world who protect usfrom those who wish us harm. To all a very happy and safeholiday season!

In this issue of Purple Heart Magazine you will see the rst of what we all hope to be several articles regarding Operation Denali. This is the story of a journey that fourwounded warriors are undertaking in an attempt to climbMount Denali, the highest peak in the State of Alaska thisJune. Several of us have had the opportunity to meet MajorMarc Hoffmiester and Dave Shebib during a recent staffmeeting in Washington. It is dif cult to convey the passion and motivation that these brave warriors have in their desireto overcome any obstacle they feel is standing in their way.Mount Denali represents an especially rigorous challenge.In their quest, they deserve our support for this journeyand we have pledged to do so. Some may ask the questionwhy? Well who better than the Military Order of the PurpleHeart, the only Congressionally Chartered Veterans ServiceOrganization, comprised of Combat Wounded Veterans tosupport such a physical challenge. Operation Denali also ts into our support of legislation that will permit disabled warriors to remain on active duty when t for limited duty assignments. What better way to demonstrate to Congressthat wounded (disabled) warriors can continue to serve inlimited capacities on active duty than by showing that fourwounded warriors can literally climb mountains.

We are progressing on our Action Plan for the year,which is publishedon the opposite page. As I write this, Iam preparing to travel to the Boston area to meet with therepresentatives of ‘Cell phones for Soldiers’ a fund raisingprogram that defrays expenses and for items in support ofveterans. If successful, I will report on the program in thefuture.

With regard to homeless veterans, Kevin Kavanaugh hasalready met with representatives from the VA to map outwhat we might do to assist these unfortunate veterans. OurEmployment Of cer, Don Nichols, is also working on sev-eral initiatives to achieve gainful employment for veteranswho are out of work. We conducted a leadership meeting inSeptember in which we, among other things, laid out plansfor improving our service to veterans through our serviceprogram and our VeteransAffairs Voluntary Service (VAVS)

program. Much of this information will be coming to youthrough your department and chapter commanders followingtheir Region and Department (State) meetings.

There is much to do and it seems like such a short time toaccomplish all that we desire. However, I want to assure youthe we are working hard to ensure that the Military Order ofthe Purple Heart achieves an earned reputation as the bestVeterans Service Organization in the country.

In closing I want to congratulate our VAVS Director DelTurner for his appointment as Chairman of the RecruitingCommittee on the VAVS Advisory Board. This is a presti-gious appointment and is not only an honor for Del, but anhonor for our Order. O



Members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart(MOPH) and its Ladies’ Auxiliary paid special tributeto military nurses in a wreath laying ceremony andreception on Friday, Sep. 12, 2008. An initial gathering inthe Women in Military Service to America Auditorium atArlington National Cemetery included remarks by Nat’lCommander Jeff Roy and MajGen. Deborah C. Wheeling,Deputy Surgeon General for the Army National Guard.The assembled members of the Order and Army, Navy andAir Force nurses, paid special tribute to Captain MariaOrtiz, who was killed in Iraq and among her awards wasposthumously awarded the Purple Heart. The wreathlaying was at the foot of the Nurses Memorial at ArlingtonCemetery, Section 21, honoring the service of the manynurses who served and who lay in permanent rest in theirspecial section of Arlington Cemetery. The photo at thememorial includes principal guests Navy Captain ColleenK. Gallagher, Head, Nurse Intern Program, Navy NurseCorps; Chaplain Conrad Walker, Nat’l Chaplain, MOPH;MajGen. Wheeling; Jeff Roy, Nat’l Commander, MOPH;Jane Stoel, Nat’l President, Ladies’Auxiliary, MOPH andCol. Gloria Twilley, U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps.


NATIONAL COMMANDER’SACTION PLAN

2008 – 2009The following action plan was disseminated to all Region,

Department and Chapter Commanders. It should havebeen or be included in agenda items for Region and Depart-ment Fall Conferences. Assistance from members who arenot regular attendees at meetings should be aware of whatthe leadership is attempting to achieve on behalf of the entiremembership and which will lead to an organization betterable to serve the best interests of the veteran community.

ACTION PLANFocus – Return to the basic precepts and objectivesof the Order – those being “…educational, fraternal,historical, and patriotic, perpetuating the principlesof liberty and justice which have created the UnitedStates of America…” Additionally we will focus onthe business of the Order by being more open to themembership with our nances and business and being accountable to the membership and the Foundationwith our grant request and expenditures. Develop in-ternal policies and procedures to meet these areas aswell as compliance with applicable IRS regulationsand Sarbanes – Oxley recommendations for non-pro t organizations. Most of all we will seek to improve oursupport to veterans by increasing our volunteer servicehours and improving our VAVS grant administrationand our Service Program.The following goals and objectives are established tomeet these focus areas:Goals –

Develop the annual grant request (bud-♥get) to meet the target of 85 percent program ex-pense—15 percent adminis t ra t ive expense.(To meet this objective the Commanders, Adjutant,Service Director, Finance Committee Chairman andFinance Of cer will work collectively to develop and administer the annual grant request and budget. Thebudget will re ect major program areas such as Head-quarters Administration, VAVS, Americanism, otherNational Programs, Service Program Administrationand Service Program Operating Expense and any otherprogram areas that are identi ed to open up and explain our annual expenses.)

Institutionalize the National Audit Committee to♥meet the recommendations of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

Develop a Service Program Staf ng Standard to in-♥sure adequate and proper placement of National Serviceof cers and facilities.



Assume responsibility and administration of the♥VAVS Grant program from the Service Foundation.Develop policies and procedures for proper administra-tion and accountability of the VAVS grants (applicableto non grandfathered states).

Increase VAVS volunteer hours by 15 percent na-♥tionally.

Conduct four MOPH sponsored Job Fairs with the♥sub-goal of nding employment for 1000 veterans.

Membership program, under the direction of the Se-♥nior Vice Commander will seek for a 5 percent increasein total membership.

(To assist in meeting this goal we will continue with♥the current individual, department and chapter incentiveprograms. Additionally we will seek approval of thecurrent $50 life membership to be permanent and dropannual memberships.) (Done at National Convention2008.)

Initiate a Homeless Veteran Program by appointing♥a National Homeless Veteran Program Coordinator.(Kevin Kavanaugh appointed to position.)

Partner with the Cell Phone for Soldiers organization♥and develop a nation wide donation program in conjunc-tion with the Departments and their Chapters.

Increase the responsibilities of the Region Com-♥manders in the areas of membership recruitment andVAVS administration.

Improve Legislative support at the Department level♥by taking national positions in support of local veteranissues.

Develop a National Public Relations Program in♥conjunction with the Service Foundation to further thePrinciples and Objectives of the Military Order of thePurple Heart and the Service Foundation.

Seek a viable working relationship with the Service♥Foundation to improve our annual request for funding,daily operations and Service Program administration thatresults in ef cient operations of the order and improved support to veterans. O

All that is necessary for thetriumph of evil is for goodmen to do nothing.

—Edmund Burke

MOPH NATIONAL COMMITTEESAwards Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyGORDON BRENNER, CHAIR, LEON THOMAS RICK WEEKSBylaws—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyDAN MURPHY- CO-CHAIR CLAYTON JONES- CO-CHAIR, JIMYOUNG, KEVIN KAVANAUGH, GORDON BRENNER, MIKE GRIGSBY,SID SHOWN, NICK MCINTOSH, JOE GENDUSOCredentials Committee—Nat’l Cdr. Roy RetainedCLARENCE STOEL- CHAIR, AL FLYR, DENNIS WALLOT, JOHN LO-GAN, ,JIM CASTI, HARRY SMARTFinance Committee—ElectedDENNIS WALLOTT- CHAIR, DEL TURNER, AL FLYR, JOHN AGEN-BROAD, BOYD BARCLAY, DAN MURPHY, JEFF ROY Ex-Of cio with vote, JACK LEONARD, JIM SIMS, CLAYTON JONESGrievance Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr.RoyLOU SPINELLI- CHAIR, TOM POULTER, AL SILVANOLegislative—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyHERSHEL GOBER- CHAIR, DEL TURNER, GREG BRESSER, KEN SAN-TOR, JACK LEONARDPublications—ElectedROBERT LINDEN- CHAIR, TONY RIVERA, JR, RICK CHERONE, NICKMCINTOSH, CYRIL KAMMEIER, BOYD BARCLAY, JEFF ROY- Ex-Of cio with vote, JACK LEONARD, ANN TURNERRules Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyJOHN AGENBROAD- CHAIR, DAN MURPHY, HERSHEL GOBER, DR.DALE WILSONScholarship Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr.Roy/Sr. Vice Cdr. SimsJIM SIMS- CHAIR, ROBERT LINDEN, DAVID PRICE, DELEON WESTON,REV. FRANCIS JEFFERY, NEIL VAN ESS, DR. ALEX WAIGANDTTime And Place—(Region Commanders)KEN O’KEEFE- CHAIR, DAVID BOWMAN, JOSEPH GENDUSO, BILLHUTTON, BRUCE MCIVER, BRUCE MCKENTY

MOPH NATIONAL COMMITTEESMOPH NATIONAL COMMITTEESAwards Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyGORDON BRENNER, CHAIR, LEON THOMAS RICK WEEKSBylaws—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyDAN MURPHY- CO-CHAIR CLAYTON JONES- CO-CHAIR, JIMYOUNG, KEVIN KAVANAUGH, GORDON BRENNER, MIKE GRIGSBY,SID SHOWN, NICK MCINTOSH, JOE GENDUSOCredentials Committee—Nat’l Cdr. Roy RetainedCLARENCE STOEL- CHAIR, AL FLYR, DENNIS WALLOT, JOHN LO-GAN, ,JIM CASTI, HARRY SMARTFinance Committee—ElectedDENNIS WALLOTT- CHAIR, DEL TURNER, AL FLYR, JOHN AGEN-BROAD, BOYD BARCLAY, DAN MURPHY, JEFF ROY Ex-Of cio with vote, JACK LEONARD, JIM SIMS, CLAYTON JONESGrievance Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr.RoyLOU SPINELLI- CHAIR, TOM POULTER, AL SILVANOLegislative—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyHERSHEL GOBER- CHAIR, DEL TURNER, GREG BRESSER, KEN SAN-TOR, JACK LEONARDPublications—ElectedROBERT LINDEN- CHAIR, TONY RIVERA, JR, RICK CHERONE, NICKROBERT LINDEN- CHAIR, TONY RIVERA, JR, RICK CHERONE, NICKMCINTOSH, CYRIL KAMMEIER, BOYD BARCLAY, JEFF ROY- Ex-Of cio with vote, JACK LEONARD, ANN TURNERRules Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr. RoyJOHN AGENBROAD- CHAIR, DAN MURPHY, HERSHEL GOBER, DR.DALE WILSONScholarship Committee—Appointed By Nat’l Cdr.Roy/Sr. Vice Cdr. SimsJIM SIMS- CHAIR, ROBERT LINDEN, DAVID PRICE, DELEON WESTON,REV. FRANCIS JEFFERY, NEIL VAN ESS, DR. ALEX WAIGANDTTime And Place—(Region Commanders)KEN O’KEEFE- CHAIR, DAVID BOWMAN, JOSEPH GENDUSO, BILLKEN O’KEEFE- CHAIR, DAVID BOWMAN, JOSEPH GENDUSO, BILLHUTTON, BRUCE MCIVER, BRUCE MCKENTY

Atypical committee meeting either at National Conventionor at a Special Staff Meeting. Here the National FinanceCommittee, Chaired by Denis Wallot, is deliberatingduring the National Convention this past August.Deliberations are no nonense by dedicated Patriots andmost have backgrounds and experience in areas relatedto the committee to which they are elected, assigned orappointed.


National Chaplain

Patriots, Ladies Auxiliary, Family and Friends:Grace and Peace to you, and and to all whom you hold in your hearts of

Prayer, from God our Father, Redeemer and Winsome Holy Spirit.


Isaiah 40: 28-31:

Do you not know, have you not heard? The Lord God the everlastingGod, creator of the wide world, grows neither weary nor faint; no mancan fathom his understanding. He gives vigour to the weary, new strengthto the exhausted. Young men may grow weary and faint, even in theirprime they may stumble and fall; but those who look to the Lord willwin new strength, they will grow wings like eagles; they will run andnot be weary, they will march on and never grow faint.

Ephesians 6:10-11:Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put onthe whole armor of God that you will be able to stand.

Have you ever observed themighty eagle in a vicious storm

in a mountainous area? Suddenly, highamid the mountain crags and threats,the heavy storm strikes. It seems thatthe mighty and proud eagle will bedashed against the boulders and hugetrees. But the extraordinary bird wheelsinto the storm, tilts its wings and letsthe fury of the gale lift him upwarduntil he soars high above the swiftwinds that might have destroyed him.

Our living faith in our Blessed Lord isthe tilt of our wings.

Our Lord God has given us faithwings and a vibrant living hope. Hehas endowed us with an inner life anddisciplines—a soul. We are made tosoar in heart and mind. We are madefor storms and storm centers. As wedeeply remember and honor our faith-ful Patriots our Comrades who havefallen in combat of wounds and theWounded Warriors who succumb to

age—no matter how—as we blessthem and remember them—we arewalking on ‘Holy Ground’—yes, weare to soar into a life with our LivingGod and all the company of heaven.We will not be spared the storms. Infact, the higher we go, sometimes thewinds are stronger. No storm or dif- culty need crush us. Tragedy, hurt, pain and death faced in bold and vic-torious faith may actually strengthenand deepen the splendid qualities andexperiences of life now and forever.This is carried out in noble form withwings of our souls and the trustingtilt of steadfastness and faith. It is ourLiving Lord who makes this a reality.He never leaves us alone without Hispresence. He is nearer than the air webreathe, as we follow Him. He, by Hiswork, forgives our sins, lls our hearts with His kind of Peace to a living hope.He gives us zest for His kind of life andlove in the midst of storms and stormcenters. Yes, He lets us mount up withwings like eagles!

A most joyous and meaningfulThanksgiving,Advent, Hanukkah, andChristmas Season to the entire MilitaryOrder of the Purple Heart family.

Blessings in abundance.O

AMERICANISM DISTILLED

As a transplant to the fair Com-monwealth of Kentucky it has

been my pleasure to enjoy the manydistinct avors of Kentucky’s second nest export, Bourbon. Having now fuller appreciation for the ‘distillersart,’ I can see it is more than merehigh-end squeeze’ns over moonshinein mason jars. It is the essence ofthe individual’s craft; unique as each

practitioner. What’s that got to do withMOPH Americanism Programs, youask? Stick with me.

Not withstanding the averageAmeri-can citizen and distiller’s naturaldisdain of the “revenuers,” each mustselect their own ingredients and ap-ply their craft to reap the best fruitsof their intended labors. The result ofthe distilling process is an application

of high-energy [heat] to the choseningredients, where the end product isa pure distillate of uncompromisingdelight.

Each patriot must apply a similarprinciple to achieve their own purest-form of a successfulAmericanism Pro-gram. No one person can dictate yourprogram’s ingredients or recipe. Sug-gestions are plentiful. We can agree,however, that the amount of energydedicated to your process will go a longway to ensuring its success.

Since the 1929-30’s when nationalcommanders of four veterans organiza-tions adopted a common de nition of Americanism: “…an unfailing love of



Country, loyalty to its institutions andideals, eagerness to defend it againstall enemies, individuals allegiance tothe Flag; and a desire to secure theblessings of liberty to ourselves andour posterity.” A better de nition has yet to appear.

Our goals at Chapter, Departmentand Region must re ect our individual approaches to foster love of the UnitedStates, promote patriotic principles,teach the history ofAmerican heritage,proper ag etiquette: demonstrate the proper care of the U.S. Flag, encouragea proper salute, respectful recitation ofthe Pledge of Allegiance, and respon-sible ag display. Your local program’s ingredients are as individual a choiceas the ‘shiners’pick of rye, corn, wheat,or barley. The essence of your program,your goal, should be the purest formof accomplishing the principles of theAmericanism de nition highlighted above. Can’t tell you one fool-proofsecret of how to do it; but encourageyou to apply your talent to nd your own method.

Patriots seeking assistance throughAmericanism products, packagedprograms and presentations to promote

Citizenship and Americanism needlook no farther than the resources oftheir local Americanism Of cer who, in turn, will ensure national-levelproducts and items are available toassist in local programs. National isaggressively editing, updating, printingand distributing professional four-colorbooklets: (Old Glory pamphlets, Amer-ica’s Quest for Freedom—History ofU.S. Con icts), folders, cards: (Pledgeof Allegiance, America the Beautiful,God Bless America song, NationalAnthem), bookmarkers, book covers,windshield cards, applications andnew products to re ect the Order’s dedication to fellow veterans and thisgreat country.

No national Americanism Officershould tell you how to conduct yourprogram; only ask, “…how may wehelp you execute the best American-ism program for your community?” Ifyou will permit, suggestions of priorsuccessful techniques, tips, and easymethods will be forwarded to aid yourchapter program. If you have ideasthat you wish to share/brag to otherpatriots; well let us know.

Tip one: get inventory of your in-gredients. What you get out of youprogram depends on what you putinto it. Note, National supply of someitems are “out of stock” until the newprintings arrive. Go on-line or call inan order for the items currently in ourSupply Room. While you wait for theirarrival, plan out your program. Whatis the desired effect of your American-ism Program? What is your speci c target audience. Basic is best. We allwant grand, intricate, complex, andimpactive programs; “KISS.” Buildyour unit program on a series of smallsuccesses. Connect with local grade/high/home schools, scouting clubs,civic organizations, and churches;they are the bedrock of our Americanhistorys—and its future.

While it would be impolitic to divulgemy favorite Kentucky distillate, knowI’ve never turned away an invitation totry local “ avors.” Let us each enjoy and share the spirit(s) of American forthe betterment of our country and thenext generation. Light the ame, we got another batch to bottle. O

Purple Heart Memorial dedication May 26, 2008 at the Milwaukee County,Wisconsin, War Memorial Center Veterans Court. Unveiling the memorial arePatriots Greg Jacobs and Clayton Chipman.

Purple Heart Memorial CommitteeChairman Clayton “Chip” Chipmanand his wife Alice were relieved to seetheir mission accomplished. Gettingthe memorial through to completionwas a lot of hard work on the parkof the chairman and members of theDepartment of Wisconsin.

Photos provided by Patriot Chipman


According to our National By-laws, the purpose of Associate

Membership is to assist in furtheringand perpetuating the objects of theMilitary Order of the Purple Heartof the U.S.A., Inc., as set forth inArticle III of the Constitution of theNational Corporation, with particularreference to “assisting, comforting,and aiding all distressed membersand their dependents.” AnAssociateMember shall be without a vote andmay not hold an elective of ce but may hold an appointed position ex-cept that of Department and ChapterAdjutant.

To be eligible for Associate Mem-bership, the applicant must be aspouse (male or female), parent,sibling (brother or sister) or linealdescendant (children, grandchildren,great-grandchildren, etc.) of eithera living or deceased Purple Heartrecipient. Children shall include

ON ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIPSMILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART

legally-adopted children. If the PurpleHeart recipient is not a member ofMOPH, a copy of DD-214, DD-215,WD AGO 53-55, or General Or-ders showing the award of the PurpleHeart must accompany the applica-tion. Documentation of relationship(birth certificate, adoption papers,or marriage certi cate) to the Purple Heart recipient listed above MUST ac-company the application. Certi cation of the relationship by a member is nolonger accepted. For example: If theapplicant is a grandchild of an MOPHMember, a legible copy of applicant’sparent’s birth certi cate and a legible copy of the applicant’s birth certi cates must be submitted showing the namesof the birth parents in order to establishthe relationship. The NationalAdjutantwill make the nal determination on eligibility.

Only life membership is availableand the life dues are $50.00. The life

membership dues can be paid in fullby check, credit card, and money order,or by Partial Payment Plan. The PartialPayment Plan requires an initial pay-ment of $25.00 and second paymentof $25.00 within 24 months of the ap-plication date. A member who fails tocomplete the nal payment will forfeit the initial payment of $25.00 and loseactive membership status. Reinstate-ment of membership will require a new$50.00 dues payment.

Please note that at this time, theMOPH National Bylaws restricts lifemembership to applicants ages 18 orover. The National Bylaws commit-tee will be reviewing the bylaws andpropose all necessary amendmentsin order to accommodate the recentchange in eliminating annual member-ship and offering only life member-ship. O

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP CONVERSION TO LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Attention all Patriots and associate members with annual membership. As a result of the August 2008 National Con-vention, membership dues are now simpli ed. Annual membership has been discontinued. Only life membership

is available for a one time cost of $50.00 regardless of age or disability level.Life membership dues may be paid in full by check, credit card, and money order, or by Partial Payment Plan. The

Partial Payment Plan requires an initial payment of $25.00 and a second payment of $25.00 within 24 months of theconversion date.

You have 60 days grace period from your expiration date to convert to life membership before your membership isdropped from the active roll. We need you among us, so please don’t forget. Your continual membership in the Orderis essential to all of us.

If you have any questions, please contact the membership department at [email protected] or 703-642-5360.

Credit Card Type: ( ) Visa ( ) Master Card ( ) Discover ( ) AmEx

Credit Card Number _________________________________

Member Dues: $ ___________Expiration Date: ___________

____________________________ Date of Birth: __________Authorization Signature Required

PLEASE MAKE ADDRESS CORRECTIONSMember ID: _____________________________________________Name: _________________________________________________Address: ________________________________________________City/State/ZIP: ___________________________________________

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPCONVERSION

CONVERSION DUES:$50.00

o Enclosed is my full payment of$50.00

o Enclosed is my initial payment of $25.00. The nal payment of

$25.00 will follow within 24 months.


O O O O B O O K R E V I E W S O O O O

NORMANDYBreaching the Atlantic WallFrom D-Day to the Breakout andLiberationBy Dominique FrancoisZenith Press (an imprint of QuaysidePublishing Group)Hardcover: 10 ½” x 12”304 ppgs: 100 color, 400 b/w photos,100 diagramsISBN: 978-0-7603-3327-3Pub. Date: Oct. 15, 2008

With these words, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhowerlaunched one of history’s most iconic battles: “You

are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward whichwe have striven these many months. The eyes of the worldare upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-lovingpeople everywhere march with you. In company with ourbrave Allies and brothers-in-arms on other Fronts, you willbring about the destruction of the German war machine, theelimination of Nazi tyranny over the oppressed peoples ofEurope, and security for ourselves in a free world.”

Now, over sixty years later, Dominique Francois’ new il-lustrated history chronicles the complete story of Normandyin WWII—from pre-war life to invasion and occupation toliberation.

In June 1940, the French defeat at the hands of a Germanmilitary began a period of occupation, shame, repression,and deprivation. Four years later, the dawn landings ofAllied forces on the coastal beaches of France began theepic Battle of Normandy, rekindling hopes for liberationwhich French citizens, including the grandfather of JosephFrancois dreamt of revenge, of washing away the stain ofthe French defeat, and of freedom. But he did not live tosee that long-awaited day, the day his country was liberatedfrom the Germans.

Ten years of writing and research went into this excep-tionally comprehensive work. The WWII veteran of theNormandy landings will learn what was happening on hisright and left ank; the history buff will get one of the most comprehensive views of what really occurred during thisepic battle.

This ne coffee table size presentation would make a great Christmas gift for the WWII veteran, or as a presentationto your local school library. An outstanding history and ahearty Well Done to the author and the publisher.The Author: Domonique Francois is a French military his-torian specializing in D-Day and the Normandy campaign.This is his ninth illustrated military history book related toD-Day and Normandy. He lives in France.O

PURPLE HEARTS—BATTLE SCARSMemories from the Forgotten WarBy John SchneiderForward by LtGen. Bernard E. Trainor,USMC (Ret.)200 pages, 17 photosAvailable thru Amazon.com

The Korean War has the misfortune of being labeled“The Forgotten War.” It certainly has not been forgotten

by the families of the 136,826 who were killed, woundedor missing from its start until its unsatisfactory cease- re three years later on July 27, 1953. As most followers ofthe news know, the war remains under a cease re and the North Koreans have proven to be a stubborn adversary eventoday, mostly at the expense of the people who must liveunder this oppressive regime. A recent satellite night shotof the Korean Peninsula re ects a well lighted South Korea with only a spot of light over the North Korean capital cityof Pyongyang.

The Korean War exploded onto the scene in June, 1950,when the tense border between post-WWII South and Com-munist North Korea, along the 38th parallel, was rent bythe North’s assault against its southern borders. The UnitedStates, under the ag of the United Nations and under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme AlliedCommander, Far East, went to the aid of its South Korea ally.Initial setbacks that included the initial push of the NorthKorean Communist forces, the historic Chosen Reservoircampaign, the entry of Chinese forces into the war, and theWWI trench-style warfare that ensued on both sides of the38th parallel, which ultimately led to a teneous peace treatysigned at Panmunjom.

The gist of Purple Heart–Battle Scars is a tale of a youngMarine assigned to a weapons company, detached to an in-fantry unit along a trench line within killing distance fromthe enemy on the opposite side of “no-man’s land.” Thisdescriptive word picture provides a ashback into the very soul of a Marine’s life in a combat unit in Korea, ghting and surviving in the cold that was at times in conditions under30 degrees below zero. His vivid recollection of events andin being hit by a fragment from an enemy 82mm mortar thatresulted in his “medevac” to the U.S. Navy Hospital ShipRepose in Inchon Harbor and his ultimate transfer to Japanwhere he served for two years as an armorer provides aglimpse of what military life was like in the 1950s.

This obviously dif cult piece of writing provides a great contribution to the history of the Korean War. It is a snapshotof what it truly was like from the standpoint of the individualGI. While it should be a best seller, in this era that hasforgotten the value of history, it will not swell the coffersof Amazon nor the author. Purple Hearts-Battle Scars is aheartwarming read and I recommend it to anyone who hasan interest in life of the GI in the “Frozen Chosen.” O


O F R O M T H E H E A R T OAdvertisement

A unique Purple Heart Monument was dedicated onAugust 13, 2008, which was attended, despite a heavy rain,by some 500 people from the Beaufot / Parris Island, SC,area. The monument will be seen by the approximately3,000 visitors who come weekly to graduation ceremonies,as well as by thousands of Marine recruits who passthrough Parris Island Marine Recruit Depot.

Submitted by Col. Charles W. Stockell, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Advertisement


O O O O S P E C I A L O O O O

Nine of the nation’s largest veteransservice organizations, represent-

ing a combined 8 million members,on September 18, 2008, praised SenateVeterans’ Affairs Committee Chair-man Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii), HouseVeterans’Affairs Committee ChairmanBob Filner (D-Calif.), and a group ofbipartisan cosponsors for introducinglegislation to reform the budget processto assure suf cient, timely and predict-able funding for veterans’ health careprograms.

The Partnership for Veterans HealthCare Budget Reform (www.funding-forvets.org), which worked closelywith the bill sponsors in drafting thelegislation, is comprised of AMVETS,Blinded Veterans Association (BVA),Disabled American Veterans (DAV),Jewish War Veterans (JWV), MilitaryOrder of the Purple Heart (MOPH),Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA),The American Legion, Veterans ofForeign Wars (VFW), and VietnamVeterans of America (VVA).

“For almost two decades, veteranshealth care funding has either been

The Partnership for Veterans Health Care Budget ReformRepresenting America’s Veterans

Historic Legislation To End Delays in Veterans Health Care FundingNew National Poll Shows Large Majority Supports Funding Reform

insuf cient or late, and usually it is both,” said PVAPresident Randy Pleva,speaking on behalf of the Partnership.“While funding bills have increasedin recent years, especially the last twoyears, they are still consistently late.We must reform the funding systemif we are to assure comprehensive andtimely health care services for currentand future generations of veterans,”he said.

American Legion National Com-mander David K. Rehbein, also speak-ing for the Partnership, praised thebill’s bipartisan cosponsors, SenatorsOlympia Snowe (R-ME), Russ Fein-gold (D-WI), and Mary Landrieu (D-LA), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) andCongressmen Walter Jones (R-NC),Michael Michaud (D-ME), and PhilHare (D-IL). “We applaud all of thebill’s sponsors who have taken the leadin Congress to create a lasting legacyfor our veterans by reforming the bud-get process to ensure that veteranshealth care funding is suf cient, timely and predictable,” Rehbein said.

The new legislation, called the “Vet-erans Health Care Budget ReformAct”, would authorize advance appro-priations for Department of VeteransAffairs (VA) health care programs oneyear in advance of the start of the scal year, an idea favored by more than 80percent of American voters, accord-ing to a survey released today by theDisabled American Veterans.

The Veterans Health Care BudgetReform Act would also require theGovernment Accountability Office(GAO) to audit VA’s budget forecastingmodel and report to Congress and thepublic on the integrity and accuracyof the model. With these estimates inhand, Congress would be greatly en-hanced in their ability to develop andenact suf cient funding levels for VA health care.

The Partnership for Veterans HealthCare Budget Reform

P.O. Box 71084Washington, DC 20024 O

Sgt. Stephanie A. Roberts of Quincy,Illinois (left) is the frst woman inQuincy Ch. #138 and the fourthfemale member of the Department ofIllinois. She received her wound whileon foot patrol with three other soldiersin Baghdad when an IED explodedkilling one civilian; one soldier wasseriously hurt and she and two othersoldiers received minor injuries. Shereceived the Purple Heart, and laterin Germany, LtGen. Ramond Odiernois shown presented Sgt. Roberts witha bronze star.Submitted by Daniel T Finn, Department Commanderand Christina Finn, Department President, Dept. of IL

Aslenderacquain-tance with the

world must convinceevery man that ac-tions, not words, arethe true criterion ofthe attachment offriends.

—George Washington


DEPARTMENT NAME PHONE OFFICE / CELL EMAIL ADDRESSAlabama BYRON W WHITE (205) 637-0585 [email protected] RON SIEBELS (907) 562-4254 [email protected] ROBERT J PUSKAR (480) 922-3161 (480) 363-0140 [email protected] EMANUEL S LAWBAUGH (479) 442-8132 [email protected] Paci c JACK SANTOS SHIMIZU (671) 632-1011 (671) 777-0895 [email protected] JOHN A LOGAN (707) 528-3120 (707) 479-0750 [email protected] PHILLIP J WILLIAMS (303) 772-8232 [email protected] STEPHEN J KUPECKY (860) 872-2508 [email protected] JOHN PATRICK LITTLE (610) 268-1621 (302) 888-1074 [email protected] JAMES G HOLLAND III (850) 668-5203 (850) 410-5298 [email protected] JEFFREY L LEAR (770) 591-4581 (404) 277-8235 [email protected] THOMAS Y TANAKA (808) 988-2820 [email protected] ROBERT E LENIGAN (208) 286-0730 [email protected] DANIEL T FINN (708) 499-0685 (773) 535-5271 [email protected] ORBEN E BENNETT JR (574) 256-2171 (574) 286-0565 [email protected] JERRY L MEEK (515) 222-1748 [email protected] RAYMOND L RHODD (785) 271-9886 (785) 640-8751 [email protected] JOHN R BURCH (859) 624-8908Louisiana RICHARD L GARNER (318) 746-5724 [email protected] JAMES A HONTZ JR (301) 577-0878 [email protected] WILLIAM C TAYLOR II (978) 318-8084 [email protected] LINO B PRETTO (517) 694-5923 [email protected] RICHARD L JENKINS SR (651) 459-6446 [email protected] NEWTON F RONCALI (662) 754-5519 (662) 754-5310 [email protected] CARL A DIETRICH (417) 882-9282 (417) 864-0192 [email protected] CARL G MARKS (402) 782-8752 [email protected] DAVID M PERELMAN (702) 395-7177 (702) 755-1957 [email protected] Jersey RAYMOND H TAYLOR (732) 636-3167 [email protected] Mexico PETER J COMSTOCK (505) 270-4689 [email protected] York RUBEN R PRATTS (718) 643-0689 [email protected] Carolina JESUS (JESSE) G TORRES (919) 241-4109 (919) 923-5846 [email protected]. New England COLIN H CARTER (802) 525-3430 [email protected] ROBERT W BURR (740) 369-0652 [email protected] JAMES D PUMPHREY (405) 769-3040 (405) 641-8300 [email protected] WILLIAM N WALKER (541) 601-4032 vets [email protected] VANCE H CARTER (814) 454-4809Rhode Island THOMAS J KENNEY JR (401) 847-6751South Carolina WALTER S LABAN (843) 524-8007Tennessee PAUL A SERCHIA (423) 282-1085 (423) 534-2633 [email protected] FEDERICO REY (512) 339-8034 (512) 567-6862 [email protected] Carribean JOSE L RIVERA (787) 856-2062 (787) 501-2891 [email protected] FRANKLIN D MAUGHAN (801) 782-7005 [email protected] JOHN P KEITH JR (703) 781-1727 (703) 704-1084 [email protected] GARY J YEAGER (509) 235-8588 [email protected] Virginia TROY L VARNEY (304) 752-6555 [email protected] RICHARD A CHERONE (262) 786-9663 (262) 786-5663 [email protected] BARRY D GASDEK (307) 745-6030 (307) 399-0545 [email protected]

O O O D E P A R T M E N T C O M M A N D E R S O O O


O O O O V E T E R A N S A F F A I R S O O O O

VHA AUGMENTS RESOURCESTO PROVIDE TREATMENT

FOR SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is strength-ening its programs for substance use disorders by add-

ing counselors to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)teams at medical centers nationwide, increasing intensiveoutpatient treatment programs and conducting specializedtraining for providers.

Under Secretary for Health Dr. Michael J.Kussman has approved augmenting PTSDteams with drug and alcohol treatmentspecialists so that both problems may be ad-dressed more effectively and ef ciently.

“This integrated approach puts treatmentfor PTSD and Substance Use Disorders underone roof and should improve mental healthoutcomes for patients who suffer from both,”said John P. Allen, PhD, VHA’s Associate Chief Consultantfor Addictive Disorders.

Professionals will assess PTSD patients for substanceuse disorder and provide treatment in coordination withthe PTSD intervention. The treatment will include continu-ing care and case management for patients suffering bothproblems and will offer preventive education to veteranswith PTSD who may be at risk for developing such prob-lems later.

Allen said substance use disorders cannot cause PTSD,and PTSD does not cause substance use disorders. However,there are advantages to addressing both disorders within thesame treatment planning process. The initiative enhancesPTSD services provided to Global War on Terror veterans,as well as veterans of all eras.

Adding substance use disorder clinicians to PTSD teamswill cost about $13.3 million per year. The enhanced teamsshould be in place at all VA medical facilities by Oct. 1,2008.

A second recently announced initiative will provide ap-proximately $17 million per year to establish Intensive Out-patient Substance Use Disorder Programs at 28 additionalmedical centers, bringing the total number of facilities withthese programs to 105. These units provide a minimum ofthree hours of treatment services per day at least three timesper week to veterans who have substance use disorders thatmay be too severe to be successfully treated in less intensiveambulatory care settings.

Dr. MichaelJ. Kussman

VA, DOD ELECTRONICALLY“HAND OFF” RECORDS OF

WOUNDED PATIENTS

On September 25, 2008, Secretary ofVeterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake

annonced that instant electronic medi-cal information from the Department ofDefense (DoD) about severely woundedtroops soon will be transferred to four De-partment of VeteransAffairs (VA) specialtreatment centers. The two departmentscompleted a successful pilot project shar-ing patient information between WalterReed Army Medical Center and the Polytrauma Unit at theTampa, FL, VA Medical Center.

The pilot’s expansion will share enhanced data betweenVA’s four polytrauma centers in Tampa, FL; Richmond,VA; Minneapolis; and Palo Alto, CA, and all Army medicaltreatment facilities.

The patient information to be shared between DoD andVA involves electronic notes on the patient’s situation andbackground, an assessment of his or her condition, andrecommendations for future care.

This uniform, standard method of communicating patientinformation will ensure veterans receive high quality careimmediately after being ransferred and the information isavailable and accessible at all times.

“I’m proud to announce the launch of this partnership,”said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake. “Be-cause it is targeted at severely wounded veterans transferringdirectly from DoD to VA, it enhances their care.”

The VA-funded project is the result of collaborationamong VA and DoD nurses and information technologyprofessionals. The departments are working to make all oftheir electronic patient records interoperable. Peake saidthe announcement represents a signi cant step forward in those efforts. O

The HonorableJames B. Peake,Secretary ofVeterans Affairs

The issue is not war and peace, rather,

how best to preserve our freedom.

—General Russell E. Dougherty


O O O O V E T E R A N S A F F A I R S O O O O

Research has strongly demonstrated the effectiveness ofthese programs. They also will feature more involvement offamily members and signi cant others than is often possible in less intense ambulatory care programs.

A third initiative will provide specialized training for aminimum of two physicians in each medical facility to dealwith substance use issues such as withdrawal, detoxi cation and the use of medications in treatment.

Other steps being taken to bolster substance use disorderservices include providing an additional 40 substance usedisorder therapists to high volume Community-BasedOutpatient Clinics (CBOCs), and assuring that each largemental health residential rehabilitation treatment programhas at least one substance use disorder specialist on staff.

“These initiatives represent important efforts by VHA tomore effectively address the needs of veterans who suffersubstance use disorder problems and do so in manner thatis most convenient for them,” said Dr. Kussman. O

VA ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO THEDISABILITY RATING SCHEDULE FOR

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIESAND BURN SCARS

Increased Compensation Possible For Some Veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announcedon September 23, 2008, changes in the way VA will

evaluate traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and burn scars forpurposes of determining the appropriate level of compensa-tion veterans receive for these injuries.

“These important regulatory changes will allow VA de-cision makers to better assess the consequences of theseinjuries and ensure veterans are properly compensated fortheir residual effects,” stated Secretary of Veterans AffairsDr. James B. Peake.

VA has revised the Disability Rating Schedule in light ofcurrent scienti c and medical knowledge in order to provide VAemployees with more detailed and up-to-date criteria forevaluating and compensating veterans with these injuries.

Two groups of veterans may be affected by these changes.The rst group includes veterans who will be awarded disability compensation for TBI and burn injuries in thefuture. The second group includes veterans already receiv-ing compensation for these injuries whose disabilities arereevaluated under the new criteria.

The effects of blast injuries resulting from roadside explo-sions of improvised explosive devices have been commonsources of injury in the con icts in Iraq and Afghanistan and appear to be somewhat different from the effects of traumaseen from other sources of injury.

As of September 2008, there are more than 22,000 veter-ans being compensated for TBI, of whom more than 5,800are veterans of the con icts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Traumatic brain injuries result in immediate effects such asloss or alteration of consciousness, amnesia and sometimes

neurological impairments. These abnormalities may all betransient, but more prolonged or even permanent problemswith a wide range of impairment in such areas as physical,mental, and emotional/behavioral functioning may occur.

More than 90 percent of combat-related TBIs are closedhead injuries, with most servicemembers sustaining a mildTBI or concussion. Dif culties after TBI may include headache, sleep dif culties, decreased memory and atten-tion, slower thinking, irritability, and depression.

To view the entire regulation published today in theFederal Register, go to: www.federalregister.gov/OFRU-pload/OFRData/2008-22083_PI.pdf. For more informa-tion about VA disability compensation, go to www.va.govor call 1-800-827-1000. O

VETERANS’ COMPENSATIONCOST-OF-LIVING-INCREASE

ANNOUNCED5.8 percent increase effective December 1st

Effective December 1, 2008, veterans’disability compen-sation, among other bene ts, will be increased by 5.8

percent, to respond to the increasingly high cost-of-livingin the United States. This increase was secured by an Actof Congress, authored by U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka(D-HI), Chairman of the Veterans’Affairs Committee. Theexact percentage increase of 5.8 percent was determinedby the Bureau of Labor Statistics, corresponding with theincrease in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). O

PREPARING IN ADVANCE FORFINAL ARRANGEMENTS

All of ces of the Department of Veterans Affairs are prepared to assist next of kin in making arrangements

for that day of nal departure from this world. For Burial in a VA National Cemetery

Gravesites in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) na-tional cemeteries cannot be reserved in advance; however,reservations made prior to 1962 will be honored. Familiesare encouraged to prepare in advance by discussing cem-etery options, collecting the veteran’s military informationincluding discharge papers, and by contacting the cemeterywhere burial is desired.For Burial in a Private Cemetery

The VA suggests that if burial will be in a private cemeteryand a Government headstone or marker will be requestedfor the veteran’s grave, that the family complete VA Form40-1330, Application for Standard Government Headstoneor Marker for Installation in a Private or State Veterans’Cemetery, in advance and place it with the veterans militarydischarge papers for use at the time of need. O


Ladies’Auxiliary

O O O O L A D I E S’ A U X I L I A R Y O O O O

General Orders

National PresidentJane Stoel

Remember our Veterans who are1.hospitalized during the holidays. A visit, asmile or a card can mean so much.

Continue to support our troops with your2.care packages, cards and especially yourprayers.

Check to see if there are any families of our3.servicemen and women that are in need ofhelp in your area.

Plan to participate with the MOPH in the4.“March On The Hill this spring.” Thisis the time when you can meet with yourCongressional leaders.¤

Ihope everyone attended their Region Conferences andtook back pertinent information to your Units. Depart-

ment Presidents, please share your information with anyUnits in your Department that were not represented.

I had the honor of attending and addressing the NationalCommander’s Staff Meeting in Washington, DC the morn-ing of September 12. Cy Kammeier, Editor of the NationalPurple Heart Magazine, has asked for more input andphotos from the Auxiliary. So ladies, here is your chanceto let the rest of the membership know what you are doing.Be sure to check out our new Auxiliary Website at www.LAMOPH.org. Do you have something you would like toshare on the Website? Contact A.J. Herran, our Webmasterat [email protected] (under stroke _between H and d)with your information.

The afternoon of September 12, I attended the MemorialCeremony at the Nurses Memorial Auditorium at Arling-ton Cemetery honoring all Military Nurses, which wasdedicated to the memory of U.S. Army Captain Maria I.Ortiz, who was the rst female Army nurse to be killed in the Iraq con ict. On July 10, 2007, she was hit by a mortar round in Baghdad’s Green Zone. Captain Ortiz has beenposthumously awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, IraqCampaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal and theGlobal War on Terrorism Service Medal. She put herself inharm’s way by volunteering for duty in Iraq, and, accordingto friends, had looked forward to serving in Iraq becauseshe felt she could make a difference.

Thank you Captain Ortiz, you have made a difference.We were honored to have Major General Deborah C.

Wheeling as our guest speaker. She also presented a slidepresentation along with her remarks. Immediately followingwe went to the Nurses Monument in Arlington Cemeteryfor the wreath presentation. When I looked out and saw allthe nurses in uniform from the Army, Navy and Air Forcecoming down the hill to the monument, it was one of themost beautiful and awesome sights I had ever seen. Thesebrave men and women giving so much to our Servicemenand women and willing to sacri ce their lives if need be. Following the wreath presentation, we were bussed back tothe Nurses Memorial building for a lovely reception put on

by the MOPH. It was great to get to talk personally withour great military nurses.

I was privileged to meet some of our nurses from WorldWar II and hear of some of their experiences. For some ofour “old timers,” I had the privilege of meeting and talkingwith Martha Downing formerly from Florida, who was theNational Region IV President in 81-82. She misses you alland sends her love.

Veterans Day is November 11. Contact your local schoolsand see if your Chapter andAuxiliary could come in and talkabout Veterans Day and also have the Veteran bring along hisPurple Heart Medal. Most children don’t even know aboutthe Purple Heart Metal or what it means, let alone seen one.Contact National Headquarters for Americanism materialyou can pass out to the students. “Together we can makea difference” in the lives of our students.

Don’t forget about our great $50.00 life membership inhonor of our 75th anniversary. With Christmas comingup, what a great gift to give to your loved ones. Don’t missout on this great opportunity to become a life member ofthe greatest organization, the Ladies’ Auxiliary MilitaryOrder of the Purple Heart.

My very best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving and a mostBlessed Christmas and joyous and healthy New Year.

God Bless You, God Bless Our Troops, and God BlessAmerica!



Members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart(MOPH) and its Ladies’ Auxiliary paid special tribute tomilitary nurses in a wreath laying ceremony and receptionon Friday, September 12, 2008. An initial gathering inthe Women in Military Service to America Auditoriumat Arlington National Cemetery included remarks byMajGen. Deborah C. Wheeling, Deputy Surgeon Generalfor the Army National Guard. Her remarks and theassembled members of the Order and Army, Navy andAir Force nurses, paid special tribute to Captain MariaOrtiz, who was killed in Iraq and among her awardsposthumously awarded were the Purple Heart. The wreathlaying was at the foot of the Nurses Memorial at ArlingtonCemetery, Section 21, honoring the service of all nurseswho served and the many who lay in permanent rest intheir special section of Arlington Cemetery. The photoat the memorial includes principal guests Navy CaptainColleen K. Gallagher, Head, Nurse Intern Program, NavyNurse Corps; Chaplain Conrad Walker, Nat’l Chaplain,MOPH; MajGen. Wheeling; Jeff Roy, Nat’l Commander,MOPH; Jane Stoel, Nat’l President, Ladies’ Auxiliary,MOPH. Not pictured is Col. Gloria Twilley, U.S. Air ForceNurse Corps.


It is not how much you do,but how much love you put

in the doing.”—Mother Theresa

It was pure joy to see so many of you at National Con-vention 2008 and the 75th Anniversary Celebration of

the Ladies’ Auxiliary Military Order of the Purple Heartin Las Vegas. The entire event was awesome! Abundant“kudos” to the MOPH and LAMOPH Department of LasVegas for being one of the nest host/hostesses encoun-tered. The hotel and their services were as beautiful as ourhost/hostess Department—service always with a smile-toall.—Thank You!

Congratulations to the new slate of of cers for the MOPH and LAMOPH 2008-2009—both elected and appointed,and a hearty thank you to now the past of cers. As we have already taken off into this new scal year, I look forward to working with you on behalf of our veterans and theirfamilies, as well as for the good of the order of MOPH andLAMOPH, enthusiastically and with pleasure.

Most of you are aware by now, that the LAMOPH adoptedthe “$50.00 Life Membership Fee” at National Conven-tion 2008—(whoopee!!)—and has been approved for this2008-2009 membership year in honor of our National Or-ganization of the LAMOPH 75th Anniversary. What thisnow means for all of our Ladies is found inclusive of theLAMOPH Bylaws, Article I under Membership Eligibil-ity that states: “Membership in this Ladies’Auxiliary shallbe limited to: mothers, wives, widows, sisters, daughters,stepdaughters, granddaughters, direct lineal female de-scendants and legally adopted female descendants, frombirth, of persons who were awarded the Purple Heart, and,women who have been awarded the Purple Heart in theirown name.”

Please note that this new fee is a great savings of up to$75.00. Also, if a member has already paid $20.00 for the2008-2009 Annual Membership Year, she can now send inan additional $30.00 for conversion to a Life Membershipand no more annual fees.

In one of the previous articles I wrote as the National Ju-nior Vice-President, I chose the acronym of TEAM whichmeans Tasking (asking) EachActive Member. We need eachother and this new gift now offers our Ladies an opportunityof opportunities to actively pursue contributing and support-ing our organization as a TEAM to increase and enhance ourmembership. This also presents us with an opportunity torekindle friendships and camaraderie with those Ladies who

National SeniorVice PresidentGwendolyn Gilliard

CELEBRATING OUR 75THANNIVERSARY

OF OUR LADIES’AUXILIARY



O O O O L A D I E S’ A U X I L I A R Y O O O ONATIONAL OFFICERS 2008-2009

PRESIDENTJANE STOEL (Clarence)1984 Rambling Rose RdWaukesha, WI 53186262 542 [email protected] t

SR. VICE PRESIDENTGWENDOLYN GILLIARD (Isaac)102 Norland AveNew Orleans, LA 70131504 391 1127cell 504 481 [email protected]

JR.VICE PRESIDENTKAREN HALTINER (Robert)19138 Bedford DrOregon City, OR 97045503 657 [email protected]

CHAPLAINA. J. HERRAN (Jeff Roy)PO Box 414Longmont, CO 80502720 494 1106ajh [email protected](understroke between H_d)

SECRETARYSHARON CARLTON PNP14363 Amapola CircleFt. Pierce, FL 34951772-489-8176cell 772 332 [email protected]

TREASURERNANCY LEE BIRSCHBACH(Paul)PO Box 72Mount Calvary, WI [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP OFFICERPAT RICHARDPO Box 567New Castle, OK [email protected]

REGION 1 PRESIDENTELIZABETH (Betsy) ROBBINS (Jesse)50 Mahoning St. #411Milton, PA 17847570 713 7846Cell 570 713 7846fax 570 524 [email protected]

REGION 2 PRESIDENTBARB CHERONE (Rick)12880 Wimbledon DrNew Berlin, WI 53151262 786 9663cell 262 424 [email protected]

REGION 3 PRESIDENTDORIS MONSON608 SE Sumner StCamas, WA 98607360 834 6770cell 360 450 [email protected]

REGION 4 PRESIDENTEDITH SHOWN (Sid)3428 Glen Raven Rd.Cedar Hill, TN 37032615 696 [email protected]

REGION 5 PRESIDENTELAINE REY (Fred)4903 Transit CircleAustin, TX 78727-5144512 339 [email protected]

REGION 6 PRESIDENTELLEN BISHOP (Arthur)2910 American River DrSacramento, CA 95864916 359 2910 Cell 916 600 0096bishiop@win rst.com

PARLIAMENTARIANDONNA POULTER (Tom)2178 Warwick DrSanta Rosa, CA 95405707 576 0513cell-Tom’s 707 479 5051Fax 707 546 [email protected]

MARSHALLCHARLOTTE DUNN213 E MainWeatherford, OK 73096Cell 580 471 [email protected] orcharlotte s [email protected]

PATRIOTIC INSTRUCTORMARGARET A. SCHIPPER (William)2225 NW 25Oklahoma City, OK 73107405 524 5749 cell 4058 203 6250

INSPECTORJEANNE HELLARD (Danny)14 Maple CircleSand Springs, OK 74063918 242 3390 cell 918 695 [email protected]

SGT- AT-ARMSJEANETTE MOSLEY (Jack)208 NE 85TH #20Newcastle, OK 73086405 735 9808Cell 940 367 5226

SECURITIES AND FINANCEJUDITH SPAULDING PNP (Leroy)85 Michael BlvdFrankfort, KY 40601-9032502 223 0564 cell 504 229 [email protected]

SECURITY AND FINANCEJOAN WALSH PNP4716 Rohrway NWMassillon, OH 44647330 837 2907 cell 330 309 [email protected]

APPOINTED OFFICERS

AMERICANISMAlice Martha Lash (Gene)2400 Kyle Robert LaneMoore, OK 73160405 735 [email protected] t

COMMUNITY HOSPITALShirley Kopshinsky (Charles)2012 S East Ave #13Waukesha, WI 53189263 5842 1656

COMMUNITY SERVICEEvelyn Carter (Colin)2038 E Albany RdWest Glover, VT [email protected]

HISTORIANGloria German (Larry)9101 Barrington TerraceBrooklyn Park, MN 55443763 424 [email protected]

LIAISON TO PUBLICATIONSAnn Turner (Del-Bulldog)105 O’Hara DrAlbertville, AL 35950256 891 [email protected]

LIAISON TO NATIONALSERVICE OFFICEJanet Sullivan (Tom)1016 Sullivan LnCrystal Springs, MS 39059601-892-3384 fax [email protected]

CO- LIAISON TO NATIONALSERVICE OFFICEEdith Shown (Sid)3428 Glen Raven RdCedar Hill, TN 37032-5104615 696 [email protected]

MUSICIANLinda Jackson (Kerry)6221 S. 53rd St #9Lincoln, NE 68516-3282402 423 6005

PUBLICITYMaxine DeLaPena (Gilbert)4804 N Diana StFresno, CA 93726-0232559 224 [email protected]

VAVS REPRESENTATIVEMary Margaret Martin5619 East Third StTucson, AZ 85711520 745 2144fax 520 571 [email protected]

VAVS DEPUTYRhunette Haywood (Henry)1733 Smyrna RdElgin, SC 29045803 438 1779 cell 803 260 7778

VIOLAElaine Kemper (Don)617 So. 51 AveOmaha, NE 68106402 553 4769

CONSTITUTION ANDBY-LAWS COMMITTEENancy Lee Birschbach (Paul)PO Box 72Mount Calvary, WI 53057920 753 [email protected]

Jan Knapp (Tom)Elaine Rey (Fred)Donna Poulter (Tom)

PAGESLisa Carstensen WIVal Ortiz VALorraine Irman MN

WEB MASTERA.J. Herrian (Jeff)PO Box 414Longmont, CO [email protected] stroke _ between h and d

have not renewed their membership orattended a meeting in a while—a goodmeans of networking and reaching out.What a grand way to embrace eachother and our newer recipients of thePurple Heart spouses and female fam-ily members, to not only express oursupport and pride of our Patriots butto include them.

With this being said the membershipdrive is on and Pat Richard, NationalMembership Of cer, is on standby and ready to serve. I encourage you to getinvolved, step out boldly, strengthenour organization, give a legacy (makesa great gift), take up the challenge of

recruiting at least two new LAMOPHLife Members.

Remember, it’s a good thing that wecan do and if it’s gonna’be—it’s up tous–you–me—the TEAM—National,Regional, Departments and Units.Thank you—thank you very much!

On a final note, with the holidayseason (Hanukah, Christmas, and NewYear) upon us, let us not forget thosewho have paid, and those are paying theprice for our freedom. Please rememberit is a blessing to give and I hope andpray your celebrations are awesome!Asalways, I am so humbly grateful for allthat you do in service to our veterans,

their families, our troops and our greatnation.

As we pursue our goals and commonmissions, my prayer is for you to staybeautiful, be blessed, and may Godcontinue to bless America and mayAmerica bless God. ª


NationalSecretary

Sharon Carlton, PNP


Thank you so very much for your vote of con dence in electing me to be your National Jr. Vice President

of the LAMOPH. Also my sincere congratulations to allthose who also were elected to their National MOPH andLAMOPH Of ces. I am looking forward to working with each and every one of you for the betterment of our greatorganization.

Remember we must communicate, communicate andcommunicate. Also if we work together we can get thingsdone. We “can make a difference,” whether it is with ourUnit, State or National Of cers or our veteran’s and their families. Also if you see a returning Iraqi/Afgan Soilder(man or woman), reach out and help. Remember we arehere to help all not just us. God bless you and God blessAmerica. ª

National JuniorVice Presidnet

Karin Haltner

COMMUNICATION—THE KEY TOMAKING A DIFFERENCE

We have completed our Region Conferences; theyare a school of instruction. The Region presidents

should be letting the ladies in their Region know what wasaccomplished during their meeting. Sharing of informationis a help to all. Presidents and Secretaries, when you receivecommunication from your Department or National, this isnot information for just you, it is to be shared with yourladies. Communicate, communicate communicate! Thesewords should always be foremost in our minds.

The Holidays will soon be upon us. Veterans Day is No-vember 11. Let us honor those who are and have served.Marine Corp Birthday is November 10. Remember allbranches for their service—Army, Navy, Air Force andCoast Guard.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I nd I have much to be thankful for. I also remember those who do nothave enough to eat or a warm place to sleep, our servicepeople around the world, all can use our caring.

Christmas, Hanukkah, and any other day you may cel-ebrate. Remember others. Do you have a Veterans hospitalnear to you, a Veterans Home, a Nursing Home? So manyare away from their families or no longer have familiesnear by. Share your time and wealth (no that is not meant

THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US

as money) with someone less fortunate than you. It does nottake much to put a smile on a lonely persons face.

If you are looking for a group to send a care package toand no one you know has a loved one away ghting for our country, why not adopt a unit of your National Guard or Re-serve unit. Most states have units that have been activated,and wouldn’t they enjoy news from home in the form ofgoodies and needed items. I am sure your local NationalGuard or Reserve Unit would be delighted to give you nec-essary information on getting packages to your troops. Donot forget our female soldiers who can use feminine itemsand something a little frilly. Yes we all know they are tough,but most have a soft side.

When you are going to a veterans home or nursing home,what they do not need is another doo daad. Why not takea box of cards, put a stamp on all the envelopes (a purpleheart stamp, or course), and if they need help, address thecards for them. We seniors are easy to please.

Rank or the lack of it has no place in our meetings. Howmany times have I heard, “my husband was a colonel, myhusband was a captain or major.” Well heck, my husbandwas a corporal when his legs were blown out from underhim. I am sure the bullets and bombs did not have a rankstamped on them, so let us remember we are here to helpone another, be a friend, be loyal. We are blessed for whatwe have; let us remember others that have not. ª

The Ladies’Auxiliary of the Military Order of the PurpleHeart rcently received $500 from the proceeds of the2007 Harp (Grocery Chain) Charity Golf Tournament.The Ladies’ Auxiliary Unitwas founded in 1958, and iscomprised of the female relatives and the direct linealdescendants of veterans who were awarded the PurpleHeart for wounds incurred in battle. (l.-r.) Mike Thurow,vice presiddent of Harp’s Store Systems; Judy Henbestand Brooke Henbest, both of the Ladies’ Auxiliary atthe presentation of the check. The funds will be used todefray expenses of the Unit in conjunction with veteransassistance programs.

Photo provided by Judy Henbest


O O O O D E P A R T M E N T O F D E F E N S E O O O O

NATIONAL PUBLICATIONSCOMMITTEE – 2008-2009

ROBERT LINDEN(CHAIRMAN & 3-year Mbr.

3367 Virginia StreetAtwater, CA 95301-2032Phone: (209) 357-1462

[email protected]

JEFF ROY (Ex-Of cio wi th vote)National Commander1342 Terrace Drive

Longmont, CO 80501H: (303) 702-1956

Cell: (720) [email protected]

NICK MCINTOSH (4-year Member)4112 Chapel Lane

New Albany, IN 47150-9611H: (812) 944-3562

[email protected]; [email protected]

RICK CHERONE (2-year Mbr.)12880 Wimbledon DriveNew Berlin, WI 53151

H: (262) [email protected]

TONY RIVERA, JR. (1-year Mbr.)1647 William Street

Fort Lee, NJ 07024-2624Phone: (201) 585-8026FAX: (201) [email protected]

CYRIL L. KAMMEIER (Non-voting)Editor

10 Tocoma CourtInwood, WV 25428Cell: 571-218-5235(H) (304) 229-7445

Fax: (707) [email protected]

BOYD BARCLAY (Non-voting)National Finance Of cer

820 N. E. 63RDOklahoma City, OK 73105-6442

O: (405) 842-1971FAX: (405) 842-1972

CELL: (405) [email protected]

JACK LEONARD (Non-voting)National Adjutant

5413-B Backlick RoadSpring eld, VA 22151-3960

O: (703) 642-5360Fax: (703) 642-1841

[email protected]

ANN TURNER (Del) (Non-votingLAMOPH Liaison)

105 O’Hara Dr.Albertville, LA 35950H: (256) [email protected]

DOD REVISES PURPLE HEART ELIGIBILITYCRITERIA TO ALLOW AWARD TO POWS

WHO DIE IN CAPTIVITY

On October 6, 2008, the Department of Defense announced it has expandedthe Purple Heart eligibility criteria allowing prisoners-of-war who died in

captivity to receive the award.The revised department policy presumes, for service members who die in cap-

tivity as a qualifying prisoner-of-war, that their death was the “result of enemyaction,” or the result of wounds incurred “in action with the enemy” duringcapture, or as a result of wounds incurred as a “result of enemy action” duringcapture, unless compelling evidence is presented to the contrary.

The revised policy allows retroactive award of the Purple Heart to qualifyingprisoners-of-war since December 7, 1941. Posthumous award will be made to thedeceased service member’s representative, as designated by the secretary of themilitary department concerned, upon application to that military department.

Each military department will publish application procedures and ensure theyare accessible by the general public. Family members with questions may con-tact the services: Army: Military Awards Branch, (703) 325-8700; Navy: NavyPersonnel Command, Retired Records Section, (314) 592-1150; Air Force: AirForce Personnel Center, (800) 616-3775; Marine Corps: MilitaryAwards Branch,(703) 784-9340. For further information, media representatives should contactEileen Lainez, (703) 695-3895, [email protected].


PRESIDENTJames M. Blaylock

P.O. Box 308Tucker, GA 30085-0308First Vice President

R. Louie Spinelli17 Seventh Street

New Brunswick, NJ 08901Vice President

Frederick A. Taylor4213 Raccoon Loop

New Port Richey, FL 34653Treasurer

William A. Wroolie111 Lakeview Lane

Brainerd, MN 56401-2174SecretaryAl Silvano

20 Lady’s WalkLady’s Island, SC 29907

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (Acting)Greg Bresser

7008 Little River TurnpikeP.O. Box 49

Annandale, VA 22003Email: [email protected]

(703) 256-6139

DIRECTORSFrank A. Athanason

12205 Candlelight CircleFt. Washington, MD 20744

Boyd BarclayP.O. Box 5276

Edmond, OK 73083John M. Duchessi42 Lincoln Avenue

Amsterdam, NY 12010James Durkin

42 Whitebank LaneBluffton, SC 29909Carl A. Falkowski

653 Belland AvenueVadnais Heights, MN 55127

John L. Hammel2752 Lake Forest Park Drive

Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235Joseph R. Hems

1271 StocktonNew Brunswick, NJ 08902

Tom Poulter2178 Warwick Drive

Santa Rosa, CA 95405-8373James D. Randles

344 Brookshire DriveLilburn, GA 30047-2106

Thomas F. Sharpe170 Bloomingrove Drive

Troy, NY 12180Louis C. TebbeP.O. Box 976

Gaylord, MI 48735

O D E P A R T M E N T O F D E F E N S E O

Servicemembers from all over Iraq gathered in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on CampVictory, to re-enlist and celebrate America’s Independence Day on July 4, 2008.

All 1,215 servicemembers celebrated by raising their right hand and pledging to continuedefending the ‘land of the free’ in what is the largest re-enlistment ceremony since theall-volunteer force began in 1973, according to the Multi-National Force—Iraq CommandSergeant Major, Command Sgt, Maj. Marvin L. Hill.

“Volunteering to continue to serve our nation, while deployed—is both noble and inspir-ing,” said Gen. David Petraeus, commanding general, Multi-National Force-Iraq. “It is, asaward citations often state, in keeping with the nest traditions of our military services.”

Petraeus presided over the ceremony and led the airmen, Marines, Sailors, and Soldiersin their oath to defend their country against all enemies both foreign and domestic on thisday of celebration of America winning its independence.

“We recognize the sacri ces they make and the sacri ces their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq,” Hill said. “These servicemembers know the cost of war andthey are still re-enlisting.”

All together, the servicemembers pledged more than 5,500 years of additional serviceto their country.

“It makes me feel proud to serve this great nation,” said Spc. Zackary Cunningham,mechanic, 602nd Maintenance Battalion, Tactical Base Balad, who plans on making theArmy a career.

The re-enlistees have every right to feel proud, according to Petraeus.“You and your comrades here have been described as America’s new greatest genera-

tion, and, in my view, you have more than earned that description,” Petraeus said. “It isthe greatest of honors to soldier here with you.” O

1,215 U.S. servicemembers from all over Iraq re-enlisted during a ceremony in the AlFaw Palace rotunda at Camp Victrory in Baghdad, July 4, 2008. Multinational Force-Iraq Commander Army Gen. David Petraeus led the ceremony.

Photo by MNF-I Public Affairs

Ido not mean to excludealtogether the idea of

patriotism. I know it ex-ists, and I know it hasdone much in the presentcontest. But I will ventureto assert, that a great andlasting war can never besupported on this principlealone. It must be aided bya prospect of interest, orsome reward.

—George Washington


O O O O T A P S O O O O

Name Service Dept Ch. .

Name Service Dept. Ch.

ABROMEIT, ARTHUR M AR CO 0375ADAMS, THOMAS D MC IN 0720ADDY, LARRY C AR TX 1919AHMED, ALI A MC VA 0353ALLISON, CALUPH W AR TX 1919ALLSBROOKS JR, CHARLES D MC AL 2203AMSTUTZ, WILLIAM W AR KS 0684ANDERSON, CLIFFORD C AR MN 0308ANDERSON, R STANLEY AR ID 0509ARIE, JAMES E AR IA DMLARTERBEY, PHILLIP C AR CA 0002ASMOND, LEONARD H AR NJ 0036ATENCIO SR, JUAN P AR NM 0372ATKINSON, CARL R AR OH 0743ATKINSON, WILLIIAM P AR AL 2204BABCOCK, IRADELL B MC NE 0632BAGGETT, ALONZO T AR FL 0535BAKER, STEWART L AR MI 0110BARNS, JAMES J AR OH 0590BASHAW, EDWARD T AR MI 1976BEEAN, CLARE JOHN AR MI 0037BELL, JOSEPH R AR MS 0690BENTON, JAMES V AR IN 0720BETHEL, EDWARD VOLEN MC FL 0087BOOZE, RAYMOND E AR MO 0621BOOZER JR, WILLIAM A MC SC 0402BOYD, JOHN W AF KY 0585BRAUNS, TIMOTHY J MC PA 0992BRAY, MARCUS NV IN 1916BRENNAN, JAMES AR NY 0405BRONTMIRE, GEORGE C AR NY 0264BROPHY, ROBERT T AR WI 0096BROWN, LONNIE AF TX 1919BROZEK, JOHN W MC NY 0264BRUNO, SABINO A NV MN 0194BUNKERS, PHILIP C AR NE 0632BUSE, HOWARD L AR PA 1983BUTTRICK, ALLEN W AR TX 1919BYRD, ARDEN F AR WV 0697CANNON, WILSON E AR KY 0585CARLUCCI, KENNETH C AR NY 0187CARMOUCHE, ASHTON J AR LA 1955CARTER, LOYD H NV SC 1948CASTILLO, INES G AR NM 0773CASTLE, LUTHER T AR OH 0671CHAFFEE, EDWIN E NV NN 0614CODER JR, JAMES B AR NJ 0701COHEN, IRVING J AR FL 0717COHEN, MARCUS AR TX 1919COLLEY, ROBERT L AR MI 0075CONKLIN, LLOYD E AR IL 0175COOPER, WILLIAM B AR AZ 0472CORDEIRA, ERNEST F AR CT 0552CORWIN, WILLIAM D NV PA 0034COSTA, JAMES AR NN 0395COTTRIEL, FRED AR CA 0604COUTURIER, ALFRED L AR NN 4570CROOK, MORGAN AR GA 0425CYR, RAYMOND J AR NN 2699D’AGOSTINO JR, JOHN AR CA 0049DALMAN, HAROLD L MC MI 0091DAVIS, ROBERT L MC NE 0200DAY, FRANLKIN D AR OH 0620DELAHORNE, LLOYD J AR TX 1919DEVITT, JOHN A MC TX 0723DICKSON, FRANK L AR TX 1836DILLOW, EVERETT H AR KY 0591DOESECKLE, PATRICK F AR MD 2222DONOGHUE, DANIEL J AR NJ 0033DOWD, WAYNE F NV CA 0729DOWLING, LEO E AR TX 0612DOYLE, JOHN R AR PA 0063DUCHESSI, PNC 1976, JOHN M AR NY 0118EICHFELD, TIMOTHY J AR NJ 0116FIRENZE, MICHAEL S MC NY 0406FLORY, JOSEPH L AR NY 0394FLOWERS, J C AR TX 1919FLYNN SR, RICHARD P AR WI 0096FRABER JR, JOHN W AR FL 0524FREDERICK, CLYDE G AR OH 0643FREEMAN, ARTHUR E AR NC 0638FRETWELL, CHARLES E AR MI 1818FRY, HAROLD E MC TX 0553GARRAMONE, JOSEPH THOMAS AR NY 0490GIDEON, SCOTT E AR TX 1919

GOETZ, MILTON L NV FL 0466GORE, JAMES F AR AR 0678GRANATO, JAMES J AR NJ 0336GRENEVICKI, JOSEPH J AR PA 0654GRIBBLE, RAYMOND L AR TX 1876GRILLS, WILLIAM A AR AR 0678GUIDRY, HENRY W AR CA 0002HAGEL, WARREN I AR MN 0268HAINES, ALBERT P AR PA 0190HALL, JOHN L NV TN 0457HALLIDAY, CLEMENT D AR NJ 0336HAMANN, KENNETH C NV IL 0175HAND, RICHARD D AR TX 1836HARMON, FRED M AR SC 0402HARNISH, JOHN L AF FL 0400HARPAIN, WALTER W AR CA 0106HARTMAN, ROBERT K AR MI 0091HATFIELD, HAROLD A AR MI 1985HAYHURST, CLYDE S AR FL 0466HAZLEWOOD, QUINCY A AR TX 0612HEBBLETHWAITE, ROY V AR MO 0621HEIM, JACK W AR PA 0455HERNANDEZ, ANTHONY B AR CA 0379HICKERSON, ARLISS T AR CA 0379HILL, DUANE S AR ID 0509HILL, JOHN F AF OH 0625HILT, RALPH E NV OH 0148HOEGH, HAROLD B AR IA 0777HOLBROOK, LLOYD J AR KY 0769HOLTEN, JOE T AR TX 0740HOPWOOD, EVERETT J AR OH 0148HOUSE, RALPH NV MI 0091HOUT, MARVIN J AF MD 2222HOWARD, ELLIE WESLEY AR SC 0402HUGHES, BILLY H MC TX 1919HUGHEY, THOMAS M NV FL 0087JARDELL, PRESTON E AR TX 1991JIMENEZ, JOSEPH W AR NV 0726JOHNSON, DALE L AR NJ 0027KEFFER, DENNIS K AF NE 0260KENT II, ROLAND J MC NV 0719KIRSCHENHEUTER, RAYMOND E AR NJ 0026KISHMAN, GERALD L AR MI 0091KITCHEN, LARRY W AR TX 1919KLOOTE, ROGER J AR MI 0091KNOLLINGER, RICHARD W AR WV 0709KOSCINSKI, CHARLES J AR NC 2226KRUEGER, KENNETH R AR WA 0470KRUPA, FRANCIS L AR MI 0482KULL, KENNETH C AR MN 1977KUNKEL, JOHN E AR OH 0620LANDIS, MAX E AR IA 0462LARSON, MICHAEL LEONARD AR MN 0194LARSON, NORMAN K AR MN 0268LARY, ROBERT W AR MI 0110LATALL, RAYMOND F MC VA 0353LAWLOR, JOHN J AF TX 1836LEWELLEN, LUTHER L AR IN 0720LEYBA, LUIS AR NM 0559LITZAU, ROBERT W AR MD 0122LOIACONO, E L (LUCKY) AR MD 0122LONDON JR, FRED AR NY 0021LUCAS, JACKLYN H MC MS 0690MAIO, TONY P NV WI 0096MALYSKA, JOHN S AR NJ 0702MANN, CHARLES E AR TN 0457MATHERN JR, LOUIS G AR AZ 0572MATOUSHEK, MARTIN A NV WI 0165MATTOX, RALPH A AR MI 0035MATUSKO, MICHAEL E AR MN 0268MATZKIW JR, WILLIAM MC CA 0493MCBEE, ROBERT C MC MS 0771MCCLENDON, CARL AR TX 0612MCCONNELL, WILLIAM F X AR AZ DMLMCDONALD, CURTIS J MS0677MCDONALD, DONALD R AR MI 0482MCLANE, STANLEY S MC AK 0830MCMASTERS III, THOMAS A AR MI 0035MCMILLAN, BRUCE F MC NN 0395MEDLEY, WELMER B AR MI 0075MEEKER, ROBERT C AF NY 0394MELORE, THOMAS O AR NY 0417MENTIER, WAYNE J AR MI 0609MERSKI, EDWARD C AR NJ 0010MEUTH, BERNARD A MC TX 1876MILLER, ABRAHAM AR NY 0003MITCHELL, DUANE E AF IA 0777MONCADA, HENRY MC TX 1919MONTGOMERY, RADFORD S AR GA 0425MORSE, FRANCIS D MC FL 0524MOUTON, SALVADOR M AR LA 1955MUNCH JR, PAUL O AR NM 1966MURKEY, MURRELL F MC MD 0577MURPHY, ROBERT E AR MO 0125

NAKANO, STANLEY S AR MO 0621NASH, KENNETH R AR OH 1984NAUMCZIK, JOHN AR TX 1991NEESON, VERN J MC MI 0035NELSON, LAWRENCE I AR MI 0091NELSON, NODELL T AR MT 0343NETT, ROBERT B AR GA 0492NICKELL, C DUANE AR KY 0585NISTLER, GERALD M AR MN 0005NORRED, EARL A AR TX 1919NORRIS, HAROLD GLENN AR OH 0625NORWOOD, JOSEPH E AR WV 0579NOVAK, ANDREW H AF IL 0575OKAMURA, PAUL AR HI 0489OLIVA, CHARLES J AR NJ 0522O’REILLY, JOHN V AR MO 0125OSTICK, CHARLES AR GA 0531OTT, WILLIAM H AR OH 0156PACHOLSKI, CHESTER AR WI 0764PAPPAS, HARRY J AR IL 0575PARKER, ROBERT C AS* MI 0110PARKER, THOMAS D AR MN 1977PARYS, JOSEPH AR MI 0041PETITTI, LARRY A MC PA 0455PETROVICH, ANDREW AR FL 1980PIERCE, JAMES H AR OH 0765PIERCHALSKI, CHESTER E AR PA 0519PIGOTT, CHARLES W AR CA 0729POLNIK, EDWARD AR NJ 0246POPHAM, DAVID E AR ID 0509POWLUS, JAMES C AR PA 0529PRATHER, FRED VOGEL AR AR 0436PRUITT SR, ROBERT S AR PA 0529QUINLAN, JACK A AF KS 0684RADONICH, PETER J AR CA 1850RAYMOND, GROVER F AR MI 0482RAYMOND, STEPHEN E AR FL 0776REMSTER, GEORGE L MC NJ 0336RICCIARDI, WILLIAM G NV NM 0559RICE, LEONARD E AR TX 1919ROBINSON, FRED W AR NN 2699ROPER, EDWIN AR AL 2202ROSENKRANZ SR, JOHN J AR WV 0646ROSVOLD, MARVIN J AF NE 0681RYAN, ROBERT E AR MI 0075SALAMONE, PAUL F AR NY 0394SAMPLES JR, GUY AR OH 0148SANTUCCI, PETER F AR MN 0005SCHAFER, ROBERT JOHN AR MN 0745SCHNUG, EDWARD MC VA 0353SCHULTHEIS, JOSEPH R AR OH 3620SELLERS, RICK G AR TX 1919SGOMBICK, JOHN W AF NJ 0036SHAFFER, RUSSELL E AR MD 0577SHIFLET, FOEY M AF TX 1937SHIPP, HAROLD G AR PA 0034SHUPP, LEONARD E AR PA 0190SILVA, RICHARD R AR CA 1850SINGLETON, GEORGE AR AL 2202SINSKI, WILLIAM J AR NJ 0336SMITH, CHARLES K AR TX 4077SMITH, ELMER W AR WV 0698SMITH, GORDON L AR AZ 1958SMITH, RICHARD W AR IA 0861SMITH, ROWLAND AR TX 0393SNOPEK, JOSEPH E AR PA 0654SOUTHWORTH, EARL AR MI 0091SUCOFF, MARTIN MC FL 0674SWAFFORD, L C AR AR 0460TAPIA, JOHN G AR AZ 0442THOMAS, ELDER M AR TX 1991THOMAS, JACKSON R AR MO 0115THOMES, DELBERT C AR FL 0087TODD, MARION R AR TN 0457TORRES, RALPH Q AR TX 0393TROUT, HAROLD C MC IN 1922TYLER, RICHARD D AR PA 0170VAN PEURSEM, CECIL P AR FL 0717VAN SCOTER, BERNARD AR OH 0031VOOGD, EDWARD J AR MI 0110WALLS, FRANKLIN M AR WV 0697WARD, JAMES D MC FL 0524WEAVER JR, ERNEST S MC WV 0697WENDELL, DONALD F AR CA 0049WENKER, ROBERT G AR MN 0987WHEAT, KENNETH E AR WV 0646WHITE, JOHN H AF LA 1955WIDEROE, EDWIN I AR CA 0729WILSON, WILLIAM R AR VA 0607WIMPEE, LEALON C MC CA 1850WINN, CHESTER AR IA 0777WINTTER, JACKSON E AR AL 2202WOLFE, CHESTER MC PA 0529WOOD, CHARLES N AR GA 0525YORK, WILLIAM T AR MO 0621

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The author, John M. Reed, a near 90 year old World War II veteran fought in Africa, Sicily, Italy, Southern France,Battle of the Bulge, Battle for the Rhine and who served in every Army in the European Theater except the 1st Army.He made two amphibious landings in Europe and proudly wears the Purple Heart, three Bronze Stars, two Arrowheadsand seven campaign stars. He resides in Windfall, Indiana.

Purple Heart

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