Vol. 13, No. 1

Volume 13Number 1Winter, 2010Chartered by Act of Congress, July 23, 1947

Commander’s Column

The MinnesotaAmerican Veterans News

From Commander Cook

What’s Inside

Happy new year to all AMVETS comrades. The holiday season is a special time of the year. Families come together from near and far to be with loved ones dur-

ing this time of the year. Like every holiday, there are some loved ones (family and friends) who will be missing from these gatherings. In this case, I am talking about the men and women in uniform, serving our country all over the world, especially those in harm’s way. Please take a minute and say a prayer that they return safely to their loved ones.

I know it is the holiday season, but I have to talk about some business. As all of you know, I have travelled around the state and listened to your concerns. At each post that I visited the first topic was always membership.

Allow me to back track for a moment. The vast majority of our service members that are in combat come from the Guard and Reserve units that were in combat and at my stops around the state, it was my privilege to talk with them. Some of them sat in on some of the meetings and learned about AMVETS. After the meetings, I had a chance to talk with them informally. Their first question to me was: “Why should I join the AM-VETS and not another veterans organization?”

I informed them that being combat they qualified for other organizations, such as the VFW and the American Legion, but that after the war was over, any new member that joined their unit who was not with them in combat would not qualify. I suggested Reserve components, National Guard units, our home town units and that people whom they have known all their lives were serving with them; and that people who are too young to serve now, would be in there serving in years to come. It would make their unit closer if they could all be-long to the same veteran’s organization. I think this is making them think, because there has been an increase in the number of Guard and Reserve personnel joining AMVETS.

I encourage all posts to go to their closest Reserve and National Guard units to drop off our newspaper and talk with everyone that they know in those units about joining the AM-VETS.

Once again, I would like to remind everyone to send pic-tures, articles and upcoming events at your local posts to the Department office so we can put them in the next issue of the newspaper.

Our next SEC is coming up. It will be held on Saturday, February 6 at the Forest Lake AMVETS Post 556.

Finally, I would like to remind everyone that our state con-vention is May 15th and 16th in Aitkin. I am asking you to plan ahead, so we can have the most attended and the best con-vention ever.

Best wishes in the new year,Mike Cook

Commander Mike Cook

Application for Membership .........................Page 2

Post Reports ....................................................Page 3

Taps .................................................................Page 8

State Officers/Post Meeting Locations .........Page 9

Veteran’s News & Updates ..........................0

Membership Incentives ...............................Page 12

Meetings & Locations ..................................Page 12

Post Officers ..................................................Page 14

VAVS Report .................................................Page 15

“The future of our Armed Services and the future of this country will be integrally linked to how we treat our veterans.” - George Washington

“Why should I join the AMVETS and not another veterans organization?”

Vol. 13, No. 1 2

Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Winter, 2010

AMVETS Membership Application

Yes, I want to join AMVETS! I certify that I meet the membership requirements— I am serving or have honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces (Active, Guard or Reserve) after September 15, 1940.

Membership Type: Annual ($30.00*) Life ($180.00 *as of 1/1/2010 ) Name: Address: City: State: ZIP Code: Gender: Male Female E-mail Address: Home Phone: Date of Birth: Branch of Service: Date Entered Service: Date of Discharge: Type of Discharge: Method of Payment: VISA or MasterCard Check or Money Order Credit Card Number: Expiration Date: Signature: Date:

* A national minimum amount that many vary from state to state or from post to post.

Members must be prepared to provide proof of military service.

AMVETS Membership Department 4647 Forbes Boulevard

Lanham, MD 20706-4380

* A national minimum amount that may vary from state to state or from post to post.

Vol. 13, No. 1 3


Post 1 - MendotaCommander Mark Kronholm

Post 1 has been quite busy. We held our annual membership dinner in Oc-tober where we had a civilian ex-POW from WWII speak. He was over in the Malaysia area imprisoned by the Japanese. He was only nine-years-old

when he and his family—who were missionaries—were captured. He had many photos, maps and lots of memorabilia along with him. It was quite moving.

Over the Veterans Day week, we had several of our post members out at the Eagan Walmart, once again, for the White Clover Campaign. We had another member at the Fridley Walmart. We had a successful campaign.

Our bingo and pull tabs are holding their own, and then some. We are able to donate to many more veterans organizations, activities, etc. Each month we donate to the VAMC in Minneapolis and the VA Home in Hastings. We recently went out on our annual Anonymous Santa shopping spree where we purchased gifts for two families. This year one family was from Neighbors Inc. and the other was from Minnesota Military Families. It is always a good time to shop for this, as these families would more than likely have nothing on Christmas.

In January, we are looking to expand our bingo and pull tabs to an additional site in Bloomington. This will increase our donating capabilities.

Hope you have a blessed holiday season and a very happy new year.

Post 4 - Don Trestor Commander David Graves

Winona Amvets Post # 4 Community Services July, 2009 - September, 2009• Sponsored a softball team for the season and held a cookout/fund-

raiser• Sponsored a hole on Winona Eagles Golf tournament for two col-

lege scholarships• Held cookout/fundraiser for Cancer awareness/fundraiser for Wi-

nona Eagles• Cooked the food for the Great Dakota Homecoming Unity Feast• Supported VFW and American Legion programs with cookouts/

fundraisers• Supported Winona Veterans Memorial Park with computer pro-

grams and assistance with the Park.Our Computer Workshop is designed to provide at little to no cost com-

puters to veterans, disadvantaged children, seniors, and disabled individu-als in the City of Winona and the County of Winona. Additionally, we fully support all Veterans Clubs in the City of Winona. All computers are obtained at little or no cost to the Winona AMVETS. They are completely refurbished by our computer technicians to meet the standards we have established. Our public relations people scout and investigate needy indi-

viduals throughout the county and make recommendations to the member-ship. The membership votes upon each case. After a positive vote (we haven’t have a negative one) the individuals are contacted and a date is set for delivering the computer or for picking it up.

Post 5 - St. PaulAmerican Veterans/Mexican American

Post 5 held a Veterans Day Commemorative Celebration on Saturday, No-vember 7, from 1:30 -3:00 PM at the Neighborhood House- 179 E. Robie St., St. Paul (Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center)

The theme was “Remembering the Past”. The program included a rifle salute, taps and the honoring and reading of names of deceased veterans. Special recog-nition was given to Vietnam War Veterans. JROTC members from Humbolt High School participated in the program and refreshments were served.

Continued on the next page

Post ReportsPost News is excerpted from written reports submitted at the SEC meeting.

For membership or program forms, go to www.amvets.org. Don’t forget to submit your programs to Department each month. Let us know what the program was, how many people, hours, cost, and donations made. I know most posts donate to the VA’s and to their communities. Blow your own horn! We want to know what you have been up to! To see the types of programs AMVETS National has already, go to www.amvets.org and

click on Programs. They have material for planning your programs and events. Lots of useful tools. Hope to hear from you soon!

Vol. 13, No. 1 4


Post Reports

Post 5 - St. PaulContinued from previous page

Above: ROTC AMVETS Recognition Award went to a Humboldt High School ROTC Hawk Cadet presented by U.S. Marine veteran Sgt. John Obregon who fought in Korea.

Left: Post 5 members ready to participate in one more patriotic observance.

Post 5 member Manuel Aguirre, a WWII Navy veteran is shown at the state of Minnesota capital complex WWII memorial area.

Some Post 5 members “fall in” assembling for the parade.

Vol. 13, No. 1 5


Post 8 - AitkinAdjutant Lloyd Gerard

We had our third annual picnic in the city park August 24th. It proved to be very good. Got to know the wives and friends. Also impressed the public. We will keep it up.

We have a new younger commander named John Washtock.Robert Wold went for life. He is a summer resident here. We now have all

life members except two. At least six of our members winter in Arizona at a new AMVETS home strictly for members only.

Looking forward to the 2010 AMVETS Convention at Aitkin, MN. V.F.W.

Post 11 - St. CloudBob Kmitch, VAVS Representative

Steve Titus of St. Cloud Valhalla Detachment, Marine Corps League, was awarded the 2009 Marine of the Year Award at the Minnesota State Conven-tion of the Marine Corps League in Mankato.

Titus was cited for his active involvement and leadership in the many com-munity programs sponsored by the Valhalla Detachment.

Titus has served in all of the various officer capacities in the detachment and is currently detachment chaplain.

His involvement includes the various programs for veterans at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud, rifle squad, color guard and highway cleanup.

It was Titus’ involvement in Toys For Tots that was highlighted in his selec-tion for the award.

Titus is St. Cloud chairman for the Toys For Tots program. With his wife Carol’s assistance, Titus overseas about 50 Marine Corps League volunteers who place more than 250 toy collection boxes at 215 sites in the St. Cloud area.

Last year, under Titus’ leadership, the program furnished 21,120 toys to 2,704 children in 980 homes.

Titus was presented his Marine of the Year medal at the annual Birthday Ball, which celebrates the birthday of the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps celebrated its 234th birthday this year. He is also a member of AMVETS Post 11.

Photo submitted by Bob Holscher, St. Cloud. Steve Titus (left) is congratulated by St. Cloud Valhalla Detachment Marine Corps League Commandant Bob Holscher.

1) Programs for Vet-erans at the VA Medical Center: Our post spon-sored a catered chicken and beef dinner for 50 veterans who receive services at ADHC at the VA Medical Center. We also sponsored a picnic of brats, fresh sweet corn, watermelon and relishes during the summer. We always invite the family members of the veterans to join us.

This was the thirteenth year that we also coordinated a special Christmas pro-gram for outpatients who receive treatment through the VA programs, and who would have been alone on Christmas Day. This program included providing trans-portation, prime rib dinner and social activities. This program was cosponsored through donations by many of the area auto dealers. Pat Sell coordinated all of these donations. Their donations provided a generous gift of a jacket, sweatshirt, gloves, hats, snacks, gift certificates and money for each veteran. The value of these gifts was $5,104.50

2) Service to community as member of St. Cloud Area Metro Vets: AMVETS Post 11 is a member of St. Cloud Area Metro Vets. We plan to be represented at the Veterans Day Ceremony, which will be held at the VA Medical Center.

3) Activities that provide income: We plan to sell White Clovers on Dec. 7th. Last year, we raised over $390 and donated our profits for the Festival of Nations and the Ely Fishing trip, which are programs of the St. Cloud VA Medical Center.

4) AMVETS meetings: Our meetings are held on the Adult Day Health Care Unit at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud. Over half of our membership in-cludes veterans who receive care through Adult Day Health Care. Below is the thank you card that we received from the staff.

Post Reports

Vol. 13, No. 1 6


Post 12 - HibbingCommander William Cogger

AMVETS Post 12 of Hibbing, Minnesota remains involved in the com-munity by sponsoring and donating to local programs and events as well as increasing membership.

Our goal is to help the community as much as possible along with “remember-ing our veterans”. Our veteran programs included our Veterans Day Observance and a Family Troop Teddy Bear give away with a book written by a child of a de-ployed father, as well as, a horse drawn sleigh ride for the kids in our local com-munity. Although the numbers in attendance becomes less and less, we continue to honor our veterans and help our youth, the needy, and disabled.

Donations include youth sports and school programs, Honor Guard, AMVETS and VFW Veteran programs, veteran funerals, scholarships, as well as, assist with benefits for persons of all ages who are stricken with a rare or terminal disease.

Our local youth programs and events spread from one end of the Iron Range to the other. We assist the athletic programs, scholarship programs, health and safety, patriotic programs and events at all grade levels. We encourage our youth to help out by volunteering.

Post 13 - waconiaAMVETS Appleton SEC September 12, 2009Mike Nelson

All meeetings are still the third Tuesday of every month at 8 p.m. We stay active in the community with other non-profits. We try to do a couple of fundraisers each year. This year, we have donated to the Waconia High

School band and the Fourth of July Fireworks.

Post 23 - OwatonnaCommander Tom Voge

Greetings from Post 23 AMVETS in Owatonna, MN. Our organization has a total of 96 members from Owatonna, New Richland, Faribault, Brownsdale, Medford, Blooming Prairie, Hayfield, Claremont, Ellendale,

Waseca, Hope and Nerstrand.Tom Voge is our new commander. He is a Vietnam veteran, having served in

the Navy from 1961 to 1965.Our post has donated money to the Homestead Hospice House for a new flag

and flag pole. We have also worked to earn money by serving hamburgers and brats at a local grocery store over the noon hour.

We had a pancake breakfast on November 15th.We invite any AMVETS members to join us at our meetings that are held on

the fourth Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Owatonna VFW club rooms.Rodger Hagen and a friend helped with the clean up of the Straight River in

Owatonna. We have recruited three new members in the last month.We had a benefit breakfast on November 8, 2009 at the VFW Hall. All went

well.

On the left is Jack Dillemuth (Chaplain), Middle is Tom Voge (Commander),

Right is Jim Stienbauer (1st Vice Commander). Mike Cook, State Commander, is doing the swearing.

Post 31 - WasecaCommander Roger W. StelterFall 2009 SEC Meeting; Appleton, MN

Post 31 most recently met on September 1, 2009. We were honored to have State Commander Mike Cook in attendance at our meeting. Topics of discussion with the state commander included how to get post member-

ship actively involved and initiatives for recruitment. What are other posts doing to keep members active? How can this best be shared with all posts? How can we reach the newer and younger vets? How do we find out who they are? How do we reach the National Guard and Reserve members?

Post 31 has every intention of maintaining its post as a current, valid and active post into the future. This is very important to maintenance of the local membership, of which two thirds are annual members. The post maintains a solid financial base thanks, in part, to the watchful eye of Finance Officer Lyle Cromer.

Post 53 - Mille LacsPost #53 members meet on the second Monday of each month to discuss

future events and activities and any other concerns. Members of Post #53 have always assisted and participated in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe

community events and activities as well as the surrounding non Native American communities. Often members volunteer their services on an individual basis when asked or when they see the need to assist various programs in the tribal govern-ment departments. They also assist city and county programs bordering the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe when requested.

Currently new member recruitment is ongoing and it is hoped that we will in-crease membership over the remaining months of this year. Post #53 membership at this time is 25 members total. Ladies Auxiliary membership is approximately 15 members total.

Post Reports

Vol. 13, No. 1 7


Post Reports

Post 151 - AppletonAMVETS Post 151 held election of officers in June 2009. Gary Running

was elected commander. He assumed his new duties in July.The annual membership dinner was held on Monday, October 12.

Approximately 35 members and their spouses attended the dinner. Mr. Tom Rice was the special guest and speaker for the evening. Mr. Rice is a local historian and Civil War buff. He talked about the role of the First Minnesota Regiment in the Civil War, and especially at Gettysburg. The First Minnesota suffered the highest percentage of casualties at Gettysburg of any outfit in the Civil War. He talked about the establishment of the First Minnesota monument on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Post 151 membership currently stands at 71 members, with 30 life mem-bers. Members are still seeking to increase our membership by contacting area veterans.

The post puts out and takes down the 100 Flags of Honor during patriotic holidays, the last being Veteran’s Day. AMVETS members Richard Anderson, Gary Running, and Mike Crosby presented a Veteran’s Day program at the Appleton-Milan Elementary School for grades K-4. The presentation discussed what a veteran is, patriotism, and flag etiquette.

Post members are now collecting items to send to troops from the Appleton area currently serving in the Iraq theater. In addition, the post has made itself available to assist the local Freedom Support Group as necessary during the deployment.

Post 556 - Forest LakeCommander Jerry Ewald

Post 556 here in Forest Lake is holding our own, al though it is not attract-ing new comrades to our ranks.

We have held our summer picnic along with the F.L. Legion Post and our post home VFW comrades.

Monies we have made by holding pancake breakfasts in June, July and Au-gust are being used mostly toward veteran commitments such as VA hospitals, help for cancer patients, and other needs for those we can help.

Even though we are a small organization of AMVETS, we are nevertheless proud to be members of this dedicated group of veterans.

Vol. 13, No. 1 8


Taps

We must be grateful that by the service of these AVMETS in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, we are truly a free people in a free land.

Members at LargeElwin Dillerud - January 16, 2009Floyd Lundeen - No date available

Post 11-Saint CloudGlen F. Waterman - November 28, 2009

Post 12-HibbingRobert J. Kitchen - July 14, 2009

Post 23-OwatonnaEllsworth M. Olson - September 21, 2009

Post 24-St. PaulJohn Cox - August 10, 2009

Post 31-WasecaStewart W. Peterson - October 19, 2009

Post 33-VirginiaHarry E. Dantes - October 26, 2009

Post 290-MorrisMerlin Beyer - August 2, 2009Donald R. Young - May 2009

Dennis Sayre - September 2009

Vol. 13, No. 1 9


State Officers

Post Meeting Locations

Department Commander Mike Cook6175 132nd Way, Apple Valley, MN 55124

[email protected]

Dept. 1st Vice Cmdr/Adj./Office Manager Kelly Nguyen

648 Marie Avenue W.Mendota Hts., MN 55118

[email protected]

Dept. 2nd Vice Commander/1-Yr Trustee Allen Elsbury

3328 Corliss Trail, Rosemount, MN 55068651-322-7489

[email protected]

Finance Officer Mike Nelson1011 41st Avenue NE #103Columbia Hts, MN 55421

612-978-6368

John Fuchs Judge Advocate/Historian507 W 10th Street, Morris, MN 56267

320-589-4395Provost Marshall/3-Yr. Trustee Allen Weyaus

P.O. Box 647 Onamia, MN 56359-0647320-630-2489

Finance Man/Chaplain Nick Basarich4020 9th Avenue West #325Hibbing, MN 55746-3028

218-263-5657

Service Officer Chuck Conroy9285 Robert Trail South

Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076651-544-6906

NEC Ray Gerving 2700 94th Avenue, Brooklyn Park, MN 55444

763-639-5670

Alternate NEC/2-Year Trustee Dick Volkert2400 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights, MN 55120

651-454-4422

VAVS Minneapolis John Austin2268 7th Street West

Saint Paul, MN 55116651-698-3104

[email protected]

Public Relations Officer Roger Stelter16451 Snake Trail

Waseca, MN 56093507-835-7901

[email protected]

Hospital Service Foundation Lawrence Dean 1247 East County Road BMaplewood, MN 55109

[email protected]

Dept. White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy

[email protected]

Post 11323 Sibley Memorial DriveMendota, MN 55150651-688-7408Last Weds at 7pm

Post 3Ponemah, 56666Sat 7pm

Post 4302 E SarniaWinona, MN 559871st Tues at 7pm

Post 5209 W BakerSt Paul, MN 2nd Thurs at 6:30pm

Post 820 1st Ave NEAitkin, MN 564312nd Tues at 7pm

Post 10Giant Valley A.L. #23438 Minnehaha Ave SMpls, MN 554062nd Sat at 2pm

Post 11VAMC St Cloud4801 Veterans DriveSt Cloud, MN 563033rd Tues at 10:30am

Post 12704 W 41st StreetHibbing, MN 557461st Tues at 5pm

Post 13233 S Olive StWaconia, MN 553873rd Tues at 8pm

Post 19218 W 4th StRedwing, MN 550664th Weds at 6:30pm

Post 23135 W Oakdale StOwatonna, MN 550604th Mon at 7pm

Post 241247 E Cty Rd BMaplewood, MN 55109Thurs 7pm

Post 26Brainerd A.L.708 Fort St Brainerd, MN 564011st Thurs 7pm

Post 28Carlton VFW3rd Tues at 7pm

Post 31VFW Post 1642113 Elm Ave WWaseca, MN 560931st Tues at 7pm

Post 33Servicemens Club227 Chestnut StVirginia, MN 55792Last Weds at 6:30pm

Post 47142 N BoradwayAlbert Lea, MN 560075th Mon at 7pm

Post 53777 Grand AvenueOnamia, MN 563592nd Mon at 6pm

Post 151448 S MunstermanAppleton, MN 562082nd Mon 7pm/winter 8pm/summer

Post 290507 Pacific AveMorris, MN 562671st Mon at 8pm

Post 556556 SW 12th StForest Lake, MN 55025As Needed

Post 612Frazee VFW120 West Main AveFrazee, MN 565441st Thurs at 7 pm

Post 20007510 Concord Blvd EInver Grove Hts, MN 550761st Tues

If you would like to be added to this list, please send your information to:[email protected]

Vol. 13, No. 1 10


Veterans News & Updates

Waiver of DeductibleA waiver of the deductible will be provided if you are eligible for travel and you:

1. are in receipt of a VA pension or;

2. are a NSC veteran and your previous year’s income does not exceed, or your

projected current calendar year’s income, in the year of application will not exceed

the applicable VA pension rate, or

3. are a SC veteran and your previous year’s income does not exceed, or your

projected current calendar year’s income, in the year of application will not exceed

the applicable national means test income threshold or,

4. are traveling for a scheduled compensation and pension exam

Note: For detailed information visit the following links for VA National IncomeThresholds http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/library/pubs/VAIncomeThresholds/ and Pension income thresholds http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/rates/pen01.htm.

Additional InformationFurther information can be found in the Beneficiary Travel “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQ) at http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/FAQs/BeneTravelFAQ.asp.

Page 2 of 2

Fact Sheet 16-2 June 2009

Beneficiary Travel BenefitsBenefit Description

If you meet the criteria below, you may be eligible for mileage reimbursement or special mode transport in association with obtaining VA health care services.

You Qualify If:1. you have a service-connected (SC) rating of 30 percent or more, or

2. you are traveling for treatment of a SC condition, or

3. you receive a VA pension, or

4. your income does not exceed the maximum annual VA pension rate, or

5. you are traveling for a scheduled compensation or pension examination

You Qualify for Special Mode Transportation (Ambulance, Wheelchair van etc.) if:

1. your medical condition requires an ambulance or a specially equipped van as

determined by a VA clinician, and

2. you meet one of the eligibility criteria in 1 through 4 above, and

3. the travel is pre-authorized (authorization is not required for emergencies if a delay

would be hazardous to life or health)

Mileage RatesGeneral Travel ...........................................……………...$0.415 (41.5 cents) per mileScheduled appointments qualify for round-trip mileage. Unscheduled visits may be limited to return mileage only.

Deductible (effective January 9, 2009) ................. $3.00 one-way ($6.00 round trip)Deductible requirement is subject to a monthly cap of $18.00. Upon reaching $18.00 in deductibles or 6 one-way (3 round) trips, whichever comes first, travel payments made for the balance of that particular month will be free of deductible charges.

Page 1 of 2

DISABLED VETERANS

ELIGIBLE FOR FREE TRANSIT

Minnesota’s disabled veterans are now able to use public transportation throughout Min-nesota at no charge beginning today. The

transit benefit was passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Tim Pawlenty this year.

Disabled veterans simply need to show the proper identification card to bus operators of any fixed-route service in the state, including Metro Transit and sub-urban transit providers in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area as well as regular-route services in Duluth, St. Cloud, Rochester, Moorhead, East Grand Forks and Mankato.

“This initiative will provide a tremendous service for disabled veterans in Minnesota. They are our na-tion’s heroes,” said Clark Dyrud, commissioner of the Mimlesota Department of Veterans Affairs.

“How appropriate that this benefit for disabled veterans begins so close to the Fourth of July when we show our respect and support for those who de-fend the freedoms we enjoy,” said Peter Bell, chair of the Metropolitan Council, which oversees public transportation in the Twin Cities.

The free ride benefit also extends to a personal care attendant who may be assisting a disabled vet-eran as they travel.

The benefit is available on the Hiawatha light-rail line and on the Northstar commuter rail line, which will begin operations late this year between Big Lake, Minn., and downtown Minneapolis.

“The transit providers in Greater Minnesota are an important part of our multi-modal transportation sys-tem. I appreciate that the fixed-route transit providers are acknowledging the contributions of our disabled veterans by offering them free service,” said Tom Sorel, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Transportation, which oversees and funds transit service outside of the metro area.

To qualify for the free rides, disabled veterans must show a Veterans Identification Card, or VIC is-sued by a VA Medical Center with the words “Ser-vice Connected” or the initials “SC” below the photo. The cards are available at the VA medical centers in Minneapolis and St. Cloud. Visit http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/application/IDCard.asi) for more in-formation.

Editors: For additional information contact Bob Gibbons, director of customer services at Metro Transit, 612 349-7509 or, Kevin Gutknecht, director of communications, Minnesota Department of Trans-portation, 651-366 4266 or Kevin. [email protected]. us or Anna Lewicki Long, communications director of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Af-fairs at 651-757-1536.

Vol. 13, No. 1 11


Veterans News & Updates, cont.

REIMBURSEMENT OF TRAVEL ExPENSES for Medical Appointments and Procedures Scheduled at

Non-VA Facilities (Fee Basis authorized appointments)

WASHINGTON (Oct. 13, 2009) - Relying on an independent study by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki decided to establish a service-connection for Vietnam Veterans with three specific illnesses based on the latest evidence of an association with the herbicides referred to Agent Orange. The illnesses affected by the recent decision are B cell leukemias, such as hairy cell leuke-mia; Parkinson’s disease; and ischemic heart disease. Used in Vietnam to defoliate trees and remove concealment for the enemy, Agent Orange left a legacy of suffering and disability that contin-ues to the present. Between January 1965 and April 1970, an estimated 2.6 million military personnel who served in Vietnam were poten-tially exposed to sprayed Agent Orange. In practical terms, Veterans who served in Vietnam during the war and who have a “pre-

sumed” illness don’t have to prove an associa-tion between their illnesses and their military service. This “presumption” simplifies and speeds up the application process for benefits. The Secretary’s decision brings to 15 the num-ber of presumed illnesses recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). “We must do better reviews of illnesses that may be connected to service, and we will,” Shinseki added. “Veterans who endure health problems deserve timely decisions based on solid evidence.” Other illnesses previously recognized under VA’s “presumption” rule as being caused by exposure to herbicides during the Vietnam War are: * Acute and Subacute Transient Peripheral Neuropathy http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/peripheral_neuropathy.asp

* AL Amyloidosis http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorang /conditions/al_amyloidosis.asp* Chloracne http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/chloracne.asp * Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/chronic_leukemia.asp * Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2) http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/diabetes.asp * Hodgkin’s Disease http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/hodgkins.asp

Dear Veteran,

If you have a medical appointment or procedure that is not conducted in a VA facility you must do the following to request reimbursement of travel expenses:

• Ensure that the appointment has been authorized by the Minneapolis, Fee Basis Office. You should have received a letter of authorization prior to scheduling the appointment. If you did not receive prior authorization and made the appointment based on other instructions or travel was for an emergency, we will not be able to reimburse your claim until the authorization can be verified. If the appointment was under a “clinic contract” or a “prosthetic authorization” the ordering clinic should provide a letter stating the contract information and authorization for

patient scheduling.

• When you complete your appointments) have the agency provide you with documentation on their letterhead with address identified. We must verify that each scheduled appointment was completed before payment can be made and calculate the mileage to the location of the

appointment to determine the amount of payment. Caution, you have 30 cal-endar days, from the date of the appointment., to apply for travel pay. Do not hold the appointment verifications for a lump sum payment. You or the agency may fax the completion verification to our office at 612-970-5864 for process-

ing or you may bring in the documentation at your next scheduled appointment if it is within the 30 day window.

• If you traveled by any mode other than your private auto to the appoint-ment you must provide the information to our office. Travel by commercial conveyance (bus, train, etc ...) requires a receipt of the cost for reimbursement. Travel by the MN County Van program is based on the current fee of record on file in our office. Travel pay is always calculated based on most

economical means to the government.

After our office has verified you are administratively eligible to receive travel reimbursement, the appointment was authorized by the VA, and you completed the appointment as scheduled we will process the reimbursement for payment. You will receive a treasury check by mail delivered to the above address from our central processing office. If any portion of the claim is denied, you will re-ceive written notification of the reason directly from our office. For answers to questions not covered in this letter call 612-467-1396.

Sincerely,

TRINA AVERSupervisor, Beneficiary Travel

VA Extends “Agent Orange” Benefits to More Veterans: Parkinson’s Disease, Two Other Illnesses Recognized

Continued on next page

Vol. 13, No. 1 12


* Multiple Myeloma http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/multiple_myeloma.asp * Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/nh_lymphoma.asp * Porphyria Cutanea Tarda http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/porphyria.asp

* Prostate Cancer http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/prostate_cancer.asp * Respiratory Cancers http://www.publichealth.va.gov/PUBLI-CHEALTH/exposures/agentorange/conditions/respiratory_cancers.asp, and * Soft Tissue Sarcoma (other than Osteosar-coma, Chondrosarcoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, or Mesothelioma) http://www.publichealth.

va.gov/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/agen-torange/conditions/st_sarcoma.asp

Additional information about Agent Orange and VA’s services and programs for Veterans exposed to the chemical are available at www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange.

VA Extends Agent Orange Benefits Continued...

Agent Orange - Office of Public Health and Environmental Hazards

http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange/[1/15/2010 12:09:27 PM]

Useful Links

Office of Public Health andEnvironmental HazardsHome

Health Information

Hazardous Exposures

Clinical and ResearchInformation

Women Veterans HealthCare

Employee Health andSafety

Emergencies and Disasters

Publications and Productsby Topic

About Us

Planes spraying junglefoliage with herbicides

Agent OrangeInformation about Agent Orange, possible health problems, and related VA benefits

New Diseases Associated with Agent Orange

October 13, 2009 Secretary Shinseki decided to establish service-connection for VietnamVeterans with B cell leukemias, such as hairy cell leukemia; Parkinson’s disease; andischemic heart disease. This is based on an independent study by the Institute of Medicineshowing an association with exposure to Agent Orange. Vietnam veterans with thesediseases may be eligible for disability compensation and health care benefits.

Agent Orange is the name given to a specific blend of herbicides usedin Vietnam from 1961 to 1971 during the Vietnam conflict. The U.S.military sprayed millions of gallons of Agent Orange and otherherbicides to remove leaves from trees that provided cover for enemyforces. Some Vietnam veterans were exposed to these herbicides.

VA and many other government departments and agencies haveconducted research studies on the possible health effects of AgentOrange exposure on U.S. veterans.

VA has recognized certain cancers and other diseases associated withAgent Orange exposure.

For Veterans and the Public

Agent Orange BasicsDiseases Associated withAgent Orange ExposureHealth Care BenefitsCompensation BenefitsRegistry Health Exam

More > >

For Health Care Providers

Research on HealthEffectsDiseases Associated withAgent Orange ExposureResources for Treatingand Diagnosing HealthEffects

More > >

Toll-free Helpline1-800-749-8387

About Agent Orange

HomeFor Veterans and thePublicFor Health CareProvidersHealth Care BenefitsCompensation BenefitsRegistry Health ExamFAQsResources & MaterialsContact Us

Other HazardousExposures

Noise ExposureCold and Heat Injuries(Thermal Injuries)Occupational &EnvironmentalExposures

More > >

OFFICE OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS

Office of Public Health and Environmental Hazards Home | Environmental Health Strategic Health Care Group | Public Health Strategic Health Care GroupEmergency Management Strategic Health Care Group | Occupational Health, Safety and Prevention Strategic Health Care Group

Women Veterans Health Strategic Health Care Group

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - 810 Vermont Avenue, NW - Washington, DC 20420

Reviewed/Updated Date: January 7, 2010

2010

Spring SECSaturday, February 6, 2010

11:00 a.m.Forest Lake Post 556

Commander Jerry EwaldMeet at VFW Post 4210

556 SW 12th StreetForest Lake, MN 55025

2010 ConventionSaturday, May 15-Sunday, May 16, 201011:00 a.m. Saturday/ 10:30 a.m. Sunday

Aitkin Post 8Commander John Washtock

Aitkin VFW Post 1727Aitkin, MN 56431

Membership

Incentives 2010

Plan to increase membership with the following incentives:

1. Three-Day weekend at Grand Casino Hinckley

2. Two Tickets to a Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball game

3. Two tickets to the Minnesota Wild Hockey game

4. Two-day weekend at Mystic Lake Casino

5. $100 Gift Certificate

In order to be eligible for any of these prizes, the post must increase their membership by 20%. The post with the largest increase over 20% will get first choice from the prize pool, with the remaining posts being awarded prizes based on the next largest percentage.

The incentive program runs through our 2010 Department Convention in Aitkin.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. 952-956-2211.

Sincerely,Kelly NguyenAMVETS Department MN 1st Vice

Meetings&

Locations

Vol. 13, No. 1 13


Updates Continued...

Secretary Announces Expansion of Veterans Appeals Board: Four New Judges Will Speed Veterans’ Appeals WASHINGTON (Oct. 21, 2009) - Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced the addition of four new Veterans Law Judges to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA), which will enable the board to increase the number of cases being decided. “Veterans have earned the right to prompt, exhaustive and professional review of their claims for benefits,” Secretary Shinseki said. “This expansion of BVA will enable Veterans to receive more expeditious decisions on their appeals.” BVA is an appeals body to which Veterans, their de-pendents or their survivors can go when they are not satisfied with decisions about claims for benefits ad-ministered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). BVA reviews decisions on benefit claims made by local VA offices and issues decisions on appeals. The board currently has 60 Veterans Law Judges. These law judges are attorneys experienced in Veterans law and in reviewing benefit claims. They are the only ones who can issue BVA decisions. Staff attorneys, also trained in Veterans law, review the facts of each appeal and assist the board members. In fiscal year 2008, the board decided 43,757 appeals and handled 48,804 cases in fiscal year 2009. Most of the cases involve claims for disability compensation and pensions. “We must foster a responsive approach when we con-sider Veterans,” Shinseki said. “Reducing the backlog of benefits decisions and waiting times are essential to providing our Veterans and their families with the service they deserve.” VA provides a pamphlet entitled, How Do I Appeal, to anyone who is not satisfied with the results of a ben-efits claim that was decided by a VA regional office, medical center or another local VA office. The pam-phlet explains the steps involved in filing an appeal. For more information about BVA or to download a copy of the pamphlet, visit www.va.gov/vbs/bva.

“Veterans have earned the right to prompt, exhaustive and professional review of their claims for benefits.” - Secretary Shinseki

AMVETS has partnered with PrintingForLess.com, the leader in online commercial printing, to make buying print materials easier through PFL’s exclusive website for AMVETS Members. PrintingForLess.com specializes in delivering high-quality, on-time print products backed by their award-winning customer service, and 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Special Offer for Department and Post CommandersAs a special introductory offer, your post will receive $300 in FREE printing if you place your order before May 30th through your exclusive AMVETS website at: www.printingforless.com/C/AMVETS.

Save 10% on All OrdersAMVETS members will receive a 10% discount on all orders placed with PrintingForLess.com. PFL’s exclusive website offers a wide variety of products ranging from business cards, postcards, stationery, catalogs...and more!

Convenient Ordering The AMVETS member website is easy to access and a breeze to use. You can learn about the products offered by PFL and place your order in just minutes. To get started, visit www.printingforless.comC/AMVETS, choose your product, and enter your quantity. An online proof will be emailed to you within hours after placing your order and your order will ship within 4 days.

Dedicated Customer Service TeamHave questions? The PFL Yellowstone Team is available to assist you with anything related to your full color printing project. Give them a call at 800-924-1664 or drop them an email at [email protected].

Vol. 13, No. 1 14


Post OfficersPOST 1

COMMANDERMark Kronholm

2184 Schoolmaster Dr.Chaska, MN 55318

612-708-1910

POST 1 ADJUTANTKelly Nguyen

648 Marie Ave.Mendota Hts., MN 55118

651-406-8152kellymnguyen@

comcast.net

POST 2 COMMANDERJolene Patterson

3008 Salem Meadows Dr. SWRochester, MN 55902

POST 3 COMMANDER

Lawrence E. Stillday, Sr.P.O. Box 85

Ponemah, MN 56666218-554-7425

POST 3 ADJUTANTRichard Graves

P.O. Box 85Ponemah, MN 56666-0085

218-554-7401

POST 4 COMMANDER

David Graves416 Steuben StreetWinona, Mn 55987

507-454-1613

POST 4 ADJUTANTDave Brand

106 Wisconsin Ave.Cochrane, WI 54622

608-248-2474

POST 5 COMMANDER

Raymond J. Rangel2220 Conway Street

Saint Paul, MN 55119651-698-7273

POST 5 ADJUTANTMichael Medina1618 Hague Ave.

St. Paul, MN 55104651-645-0587

POST 8 COMMANDERJohn Washtock

46356 287th LaneAitkin, MN 56431

218-927-6830

POST 8 ADJUTANTLloyd Gerard

31142 380Ph St.Aitkin, MN. 56431

218-549-3441

POST 10 COMMANDER

Archie Webb4285 Lindsey Lane

Minnetonka, MN 55345952-412-8044

[email protected]

POST 10 ADJUTANTCraig Maehling

1082 14th Ave SEMpls, MN 55414

612-331-2593

POST 11 COMMANDER

Don Gilbert24870 22nd Avenue

St. Augusta, MN 56301612-272-1557

POST 11 ADJUTANTPhilip Landwehr

56 - 33rd Ave S #243St Cloud, MN

56301320-253-0703

POST 12 COMMANDERWilliam Cogger

704 W 41st StreetHibbing, MN 55746

[email protected]

POST 12 ADJUTANTDick Mattson715 E. 39th

Hibbing, MN. 55746218-262-1523

POST 13 COMMANDERGuy Streater

217 1/2 E Lake StWaconia, MN 55387

952-442-5002

POST 13 ADJUTANTWalter Schmakel

348 W. 4th St.Waconia, MN. 55387

953-442-4272

POST 19 COMMANDER

Janice Hinz29676 Flower Valley Rd.Red Wing, MN 55066

651-338-2970

POST 19 ADJUTANTJoyce Maldondo

N. 4003 U.S. Hwy. 63 Ellsworth, WI 54011

715-792-5407

POST 20 COMMANDER

Eugene Koopmeiners15722 390th StreetAvon, MN 56310

320-746-7676

POST 20 ADJUTANTT. Joseph Schwab

335 Golfview DriveAlbany, MN 56307

320-845-4848

POST 21 COMMANDER

Eugene Fohs1233 Richard Ave.

Det. Lakes, MN 56501 218-847-4144

POST 23 COMMANDER

Tom VogeP.O. Box 81

Nerstrand, MN 55053507-334-3238

[email protected]

POST 23 ADJUTANTEvelyn Hershberger

422 E VineOwatonna, MN 55060

507-451-6091

POST 24 COMMANDER

Al Busse956 Cook Ave. E.

St. Paul, MN 55106651-771-1568

POST 24 ADJUTANTLawrence Dean1247 Co. Rd. B

Maplewood, MN 55109651-484-2837

POST 26 COMMANDER

Floyd Hardy8200 Woodrow Rd. N.E.

Brainerd, MN. 56401218-764-3122

POST 26 ADJUTANTClayton Eisel

8514 Sleepy Hollow Rd.Fort Ripley, MN 56449

218-829-6860

POST 28 COMMANDER

William J. Warren, Jr.3678 Carlton StreetBarnum, MN 55707

218-389-6014

POST 28 ADJUTANTGary Aho

P.O. Box 35Wrenshall, MN 55759

218-384-4587

POST 31 COMMANDER

Roger Stelter16451 Snake Trail Road

Waseca, MN 56093507-835-7901

[email protected]

POST 31 ADJUTANTLyle Cromer

219 7th Ave. NEWaseca, MN 56093

507-833-7722

POST 33 COMMANDERGeorge Howard

1033 6th Avenue N., #6Virginia, MN 55792

218-741-6474

POST 33 ADJUTANTMike Holter

227 Hampshire RdHoyt Lakes, MN 55750

218-225-3377

POST 47 COMMANDER

Ruth Perry121 Fenton Road

Albert Lea, MN 56007507-373-2245

POST 47 ADJUTANTLes Shaunce

528 Alice Ave.Albert Lea, MN. 56007

507-373-0134

POST 53 COMMANDERKenneth Weyaus16004 Migizi Dr.

Onamia, MN. 56359320-532-3632

POST 53 ADJUTANTDiane Nickaboine

19100 452nd StreetOnamia, MN 56359

POST 151 COMMANDER

Gary Running385 210th Avenue

Appleton, MN 56208320-289-1240

[email protected]

POST 151 ADJUTANT

Dennis Kohlman 350 Rooney Ave W

Appleton, MN 56208320-289-3284

POST 290 COMMANDER

Tom TuckerN 841 Maylott AvenueHancock, MN 55045

320-392-5901

POST 290 ADJUTANTErv Krosch

509 E. 9th StreetMorris, MN 56267

320-589-2916

POST 556 COMMANDER

Jerry Ewald13735 Nurelius Ln.

Lindstrom, MN 55405612-257-5791

POST 556 ADJUTANT

Keith Hegstrom56 N.W. 4th St.

Forest Lake, MN 55025651-464-2497

POST 612 COMMANDERMatthew Riewer202 Willow Ave

Frazee, MN 56544218-334-2181

[email protected]

POST 612 ADJUTANTHarriet Stech

33723 Peace River Ranch Rd

Frazee, MN 56544218-849-8882

[email protected]

POST 2000 COMMANDER

Richard B Salsbury2205 Congress St

S St Paul, MN 55075651-451-1629

POST 2000 ADJUTANTGene Richgels

8417 Corcoran CircleInver Grove Hts., MN 55076

651-699-1537

______________

If you have additions and/or changes

to be made to this list, please

send them to:

AMVETS Dept. MN MN AMVETS News

Room 302 Veterans Service

Building20 West 12th St.

St. Paul, MN 55155

Vol. 13, No. 1 15


T H A N K YOU!

T H A N K YOU!

THAN

K YO

U CO

RPOR

ATE S

PONS

ORS

06/30/2009 - 01/06/2010

Centra Pipeline Minnesota Inc.

Country Liquor Inc.

Famous Dave’s of America Inc.

Galtier Subway Sandwiches

Gene Elling

Gordon C. Carroll & Sons Inc.

Gruys, Borden, Carlson & Assoc.

Krech’s Exteriors Inc.

Lala's Bar & Grill

Mc Phillips Bros. Roofing Co.

North Shore Agency Ins. Cntr.

Schindler Elevator Corp.

Sears Imported Autos Inc.

Smith-sharpe Fire Brick Supply

Starkey Labs

The Olive Garden

Walter & Lynda Mai

We Pour Walls Inc.

PLATINUM

Hubbard Broadcasting

GOLD

Construction & General Labor

Metro Produce Distributors Inc.

VAVS ReportJohn Austin

The VA Volunteer Services (VAVS) Committee met last month re-garding hospital issues. There was an emphasis on washing your hands. You should do this between each patient’s room. This can

also be done by using a hand sanitizer, which are posted outside the door of each room. To be sure you do not spread so many germs, it has been advised to cough into your elbow…

As always, there is a great need for volunteers. You may contact the Volunteer Office at 612-725-2050 and let them know you are interested in volunteering.

Supplies are still needed…travel sized lotions, shampoos, toothpaste, soaps, puzzles 500 pieces or less, batteries, etc. MaryAnn Davis heads this up. Her office is located next door to the Volunteer Office.

When you or your post are making donations for a specific program such as bingo night, Christmas for the vets, etc., please earmark as such on the memo line on the check.

Consider visiting your neighborhood nursing homes. Due to the de-mand for space, some of our veterans are being placed at nursing homes out in the community. Check into setting up a visiting schedule or you may choose to have a bingo session, poker game, or simply visitation.

We all know that there comes a time in ones life where they may be home bound. Many of our veterans are facing this each day. So the VA set up a new voluntary service for those veterans. It is called Care Giv-ers Support Volunteer Program. It is the opportunity for us to sit with a Veteran at their home. No medical support is needed, just the chance to give them companionship for an hour or two. This allows the primary care giver to run errands and such outside the home. Ronda Boisvert is in charge of this outstanding program through the VAVS office at 612-725-2050.

Thank you for your support and keep the donations coming in.

SS

The Minnesota American Veterans NewsRoom 302, Veterans Service Building20 West 12th StreetSt. Paul, MN [email protected]

The History of American VeteransTruly AMVETS was born in the midst of war, for it was in August 1943, with

victory still two years away, that a new organization, later to be known as the American Veterans of World War II, had its beginning. Overseas, the tide of

battle was turning. The Allies had swept through North Africa and Sicily. In the Pacific, fighting raged in New Guinea. Thousands of Americans had made the supreme sacrifice. Hundreds of others were being mustered out of uniform with battle wounds and medi-cal discharges. These men who fought in history’s greatest war found it natural to seek each other’s company. They were united by similar experiences ... in jungles, in the Arctic, in deserts, on mountains, at sea and in the skies. Thus, out of such comradeship, AMVETS came to be formed in Washington, D.C., two independent veterans clubs, one on the campus of George Washington University, the other of veterans employed by the government, joined together to sponsor a servicemen’s party. By September 1944, other such veterans’ clubs organized throughout America—in California, Florida, Louisiana, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Texas.

On November 11, 1944, a Veterans Day article entitled “12,000,000 in Search of a Leader” appeared in Collier’s. This story, written by Walter Davenport, introduced the clubs and outlined their three mutual aims: to promote world peace, to preserve the American way of life and to help the veteran help himself. In December, 18 leaders representing these nine groups met in Kansas City, Mo. There, a national organization was formed and on December 9, 1944, the name “American Veterans of World War II” was chosen. The word AMVETS, coined by newspaper headline writers, soon became the official name. The white clover, a flower that thrives in freedom throughout the world and is symbolic of the struggle during World War II, became the adopted flower of AMVETS.

In October 1945, two months after the end of World War II, the first national convention was convened in Chicago. In 1946, AMVETS petitioned Congress for a federal charter. AMVETS, having displayed dignity and a sound approach to national problems, won the deep respect of Congress and on July 23, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the AM-VETS charter. The words of the Senate Judiciary Committee echoed throughout the land: “The veterans of World War II are entitled to their own organization” and AMVETS being “organized along sound lines and for worthy purposes ... having demonstrated its strength and stability is entitled to the standing and dignity which a national charter will afford.”

President Truman also commented, “Were I a veteran of this war, I would prefer to have a veteran of World War II looking after my affairs, than a veteran of some other war.”

When the war broke out in Korea and again in Vietnam, AMVETS requested Congress to amend the charter so that those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces would be eligible for membership. On September 14, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the bill redefining the eligibility dates for AMVET membership, stating “Any person who served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America or any American citizen, as an American citizen, who served in the armed forces of an allied nation of the United States at anytime after September 15, 1940, and on or before the date of cessation of hostilities as determined by the government of the United States, is eligible for regular membership in AMVETS, provided such service when terminated by discharge or release from active duty be by honorable discharge or separation.” On May 7, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed Proclamation 4373, terminating the Vietnam era and announcing the cessation of hostilities. Effective May 8, 1975, the armed forces became a peacetime service.

For nearly 10 years, AMVETS did not accept into membership servicemen and women who served after May 7, 1975. On May 31, 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed Public Law 98-304, which amended AMVETS’ congressional charter to open membership to those who served honorably and actively after May 7, 1975. AMVETS is now the only congressionally chartered veterans’ service organization that recognizes the sacrifices of these veterans and service persons by extending membership eligibility to them.

At the 46th and 47th national conventions, the contributions made by the National Guard and Reserve forces were recognized and membership eligibility was extended to include all ready reserves. Membership in AMVETS is now open to any person who is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or who has served actively and honorably at anytime after Sept. 15, 1940, including all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are now serving or have been honorably discharged since that date. At the 49th National Convention in 1993, the eligibility of merchant marines who served this country in time of war was addressed and approved. Merchant marines who are considered veterans and eligible for VA benefits (and have received a DD-214 from either the Navy or the Coast Guard) are eligible for AMVET membership.

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Vol. 13, No. 1

Documents

Transcript of Vol. 13, No. 1