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Iraq vet speaks to Waupun students
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Veterans Day observed at Pearl Harbor
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Students Honor Vietnam Veterans
Vol. 25 no. 4
Wisconsin Welcomes Commander-In-Chief to Mid-Winter Conference in Green Bay
National VFW Commander-inChief George Lisicki will be our honored guest at our M i d - Wi n t e r Conference in Green Bay. It is a rare and distinct honor to have the Commander-inChief serve as a Department’s VfW commander-in-chief National Representative at george lisicki a Conference or Convention. Commander Lisicki has been doing a lot of traveling in his year of command, and has miles to go before he’s finished. We hope his Wisconsin visit will be a favorite memory for him.
Mid-Winter Conference Will Be Held February 15-17
Ladies Auxiliary National Chaplain Is Representative At Mid-Winter Conference
Cortina Barnes of Herndon, Va., was elected National Chaplain of the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States at its 94th National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri, ladies auxiliary on August national chaplain 23, 2007. She cortina barnes is now in the third of five offices leading to the National Presidency, which she is expected to hold in 2010-2011. A life member of Woodbridge Auxiliary #9755 in Washington, D.C., she is eligible through her father, Benjamin F. Willis, who served in the United States Army from 1944-1946 in the European Theater. Since joining in 1987, she has served in several capacities for the organization including Auxiliary President and 2000-2001 District of Columbia Department President. As Department President, she earned Outstanding Department President of the Year. Commander-in-Chief Lisicki hails from New Jersey, and is a Life Member of Post 2314, Carteret. He is a Vietnam Vet, having served with the U. S. Army 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division in the Central Highlands near Pleiku. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal among others. He was discharged in 1969. After 33 years with Union Carbide Corporation, George retired in 2002. He is currently on leave of absence from the State of New Jersey, where he works as an investigator in the Weights & Measures Division. He won All American State Commander’s honors in 1988, and has held numerous elective and appointed offices at the Post, District, State and National levels. He was New Jersey Department’s state membership director for nine years and the instructor for the New Jersey Officer Training Institute for 24 years. George Lisicki is also a member of Military Order of the Cootie, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Catholic War Veterans, 4th Infantry Association, and 2nd Bn., 35th Infantry Association. He also serves as the chairman for the Carteret Veterans Alliance. He and his wife, Gloria, reside in Carteret.
commitment
January 10, 2008
2008 Mid-Winter Reminders
Our Mid-Winter Conference at the Radisson in Green Bay is fast approaching and we would just like to pass along reminders: 1. All room reservations are due by January 15. The room rate of $89 will not be honored after January 15. If you want to come in on February 14 (Wednesday) call immediately as the number of rooms for that day (Valentine’s Day) is limited. The direct number to the hotel is 920-494-7300. 2. All registration and food reservations must be in by February 1. We would like to see everyone attend the Voice of Democracy luncheon. Let’s all come out and give support to our youth. Please send registration form to Ed and Carla Stockel at 1019 N. Church St. #104, Elkhorn, WI 53121-1185. Any questions, you can call Ed or Carla at 608-732-1430. We cannot promise that any banquet or VOD lunch tickets will be available on site. Please get your reservations in now. Don’t be left out. 3. All meetings will be held at the Radisson Conference Center beginning on Friday. Meeting rooms will be posted in the lobby. Registration times are Friday, 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday, 7 a.m. until 10 a.m.
She has served several terms as Auxiliary Treasurer, Auxiliary Secretary, and Department Secretary. She also served three terms as the Ladies Auxiliary National VFW-Political Action Committee Director. This year she will serve on the National Bylaws Review Committee. Barnes has been employed with the Federal Government for 29 years. She is currently employed with the Department of Defense Human Resources Activity outside of Washington, D.C., as a Resource Manager. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Psychology and a minor in Speech Communications from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pa. She is a life member of the VFW National Home for Children, a member of Sodality of Our Lady at St. Francis de Sales Church, American Society of Military Comptrollers and the Military Order of the Cooties Auxiliary (MOCA). She is married to Vietnam Veteran Gerald C. Barnes, Sr., and is stepmother to three adult children and stepgrandmother to five. In her spare time, she helps her husband, who is a Native American, with their home business, “Baskets by Tradition.” He gives lectures and demonstrations on the traditional Native American culture and the art of basket-making in addition to weaving traditional Native American baskets.
4. Convention Committee members will meet at 9 a.m. on Friday. Comrades and Sisters, please join us in February for the Mid-Winter Conference. Meet new friends and visit with old ones. You will enjoy!!! 5. For any other schedule information, please call Steve Lawrence at Department Headquarters. See you in Green Bay, Veterans of Foreign Wars & Ladies Auxiliary 2007-2008 Convention Committee
2007-2008 1st Joint VFW-LAVFW Raffle
$21,500 in Total Prizes! Drawing at Mid-Winter Conference February 16, 2008 - 1:00 p.m.
official Publication: Wisconsin Veterans of foreign Wars
Phone: (608) 255-6655 • Fax: (608) 255-0652 Website: www.vfwofwi.com • wivfw@tds.net
VFW Department Headquarters
Editor: William Knudson
Phone: (715) 384-2500 E-mail: vfwnews.wi@verizon.net
Page
Jan/Feb, 008
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
state officers
I would like to thank all the Posts and Auxiliaries, The Military Order of the “twiggy” JohnCootie Pup Tents and their Auxiliaries and individual VFW and Auxiliary members son for their donations to the National Home. State Jr. Vice All of you put the smiles on the faces of Commander the children at the National Home. Because of your donations to the home, there have 920-766-1491 been thousands of children and families jrvicecdr@wi.vfwwebmail.com cared for these past 80 years. You made this happen. Thank you so very much! Here are some of the main programs at the National Home: AFTERCARE PROGRAM – Upon high school graduation, residents of the National home are eligible for this program. If the youth do not feel prepared to live on their own, they can stay, by living in a specific home set aside for them. In their next step in life, youth may choose to live at the National Home, by attending school or working in the area. Some may come back on weekends or holidays to rest, do laundry or study. VETERANS FAMILY PROGRAM – This is designed to serve children within the whole family - when the veteran in the family meets certain criteria: 1. The veteran is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars 2. The veteran is in receipt of VA service connected disability compensation 3. The veteran is in pursuit of an approved VA Vocational Rehabilitation Program This program is designed to supplement VA Vocational Rehabilitation. MILITARY FAMILY PROGRAM – Activation of National Guard and Reserve forces to supplement regular military has resulted in an increased strain on military families and local communities. It’s the mission of this National Home program to help the children when their loved ones are called to active duty. The children will be reunited with their parents upon completion of service or deployment. SINGLE PARENT PROGRAM – The National Home’s resources are available to families in crisis. This program promotes training, emotional and financial support. Professional case management staff assists these families directly to promote a stable life for them. The program also helps prepare both parent and child to regain their self confidence. RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM This is for children at school age - children whose parents are deceased, disabled, or whose home environment is not conducive to their physical or emotional well being. Children remain in this program until they are 18 or graduate from high school, at which time may leave, rejoin family members, or remain at the National Home under the Aftercare Program. The work of our VFW National Home is truly the heart of our great organization. Keep up your great support! To help you do that, programs like the Campbell’s UPC program provide valuable monetary assistance. (See inset) Report! Report! Report Your Programs! December 31, 2007 was the end of the VFW Quarter. Everyone does something, so let your Commander know what you did for the community. Wilfred “Twiggy” Johnson State Jr. Vice Commander Directions on how to submit Campbell’s UPC codes to the National Home: 1. Cut out the UPC codes - if you tear or rip, send them. The little boy on the label does not have to be included. 2. Do not send front labels anymore. 3. When sending your UPC codes, place them in a bag or envelope. Do not staple, paper clip or tape together. National Home has volunteers who will do this for you. 4. Send to: VFW National Home for Children, Attn: Campbell’s Labels for Education Program, 3573 S. Waverly Road, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Comrades and Sisters, here it is January, and time for another article. The Com- steve lawrence mander has requested that I write about State Adjutant eMembership. I have found eMembership Quartermaster to be an easy and convenient way to update membership records. EMembership is a 608-255-6655 quick and easy way for you, as the Post Quartermaster, to handle all reporting of qm@wi.vfwwebmail.com membership dues to National Headquarters as well as maintain information on members of your Post. I encourage you to log on and to start using eMembership today. Listed below are the instructions on how to take advantage of this program. POST QUARTERMASTER Log in to the VFW National Website www.vfw.org Click on Quartermaster Tools Set up your Quartermaster account by entering your email address and password How do I create an eMembership Quartermaster account? To register for an eMembership Quartermaster account, do the following: 1) Go to the VFW eMembership home page 2) Click the Register link 3) On the registration page, provide your First Name, Last Name, Email address, a password of your choice, and your Card Number. See AdjutAnt QuArtermASter, PAge 8
Please note I have changed my address to: (Please print.) Name _________________________________________________________ Street _________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________________ Zip Code ________________________ Post No.______________________ mail address change to: VFW Circulation Department 406 West 34th Street Kansas City, MO 64111 address change
Comrades, Sisters, Men’s Auxiliary, and Junior Girls, William hustad JOINT VFW and LADIES AUXILIARY RAFFLE – This is our major fundraiser State Commander for running the necessary programs for 608-527-2942 both the Ladies Auxiliary and our VFW. Please send in the tickets you have bought cdr@wi.vfwwebmail.com or sold NOW. Membership – I challenge all of our 320 Posts to some goals (this is based on membership as of Dec. 31, 2007): 1 - If you are 100%, thank you very much! You are an outstanding Post. Now, please sign up a few more to offer some growth to your Post and to qualify for All-State consideration. 2 – If you are short by less than 5 members, thank you very much for your efforts. You are close! Please try to get to 100% by Jan. 31, 2008. 3 – If you are short by more than 5 members, try to cut your deficit in half by January 31, 2008. Then we can concentrate on the rest in February and March. This can be done, but it takes all of us working together. The membership team is ready to assist those Posts that do not think they can reach 100% by March 31, 2008. Contact the membership team, your District Commander or me, and let’s get it done. Each District Commander has an excellent prospect list for you to work on. Please contact them if they have not contacted you yet. It takes you, me and COMMITMENT. Why should young prospective veterans join the VFW? First, they need us. We are representing veterans in the Halls of Washington DC and Madison, Wisconsin. The recent budget negotiations in both arenas resulted in getting more than what was first presented. That was because the VFW and other veteran organizations were there and our voices were heard. The VA is the best hospital system in the USA and veterans are clamoring to get in for their health care needs. This would not be the case without a strong VFW. For young Veterans, the Wisconsin GI Bill was slated for some cutting back, in the end we held the line and our young veterans attending school can continue to get excellent benefits. Also, our National magazine and State newspaper keep members up to date with veterans issues. We are there representing the whole range of age groups and their vested interests. Second, we need them. The long term viability of the VFW depends on the present membership passing the leadership onto the next generation. Just a few days ago there was an assassination of a world figure – a reminder that our world, in general, is a very dangerous place. I went to the mall with my grandchildren. I marveled at the play area of the mall. There were obviously many colors of skin, many religions, and many ethnic groups represented. They were all playing together. How different this country is from most other countries! We are truly a melting pot with democracy and freedom of religion and a very diverse population. Freedom and this great country are a beacon to the rest of the world. However, we all know that Freedom is not free. It has been earned over many generations of veterans that were willing to sacrifice for our country’s ideals. With the coming Presidential primaries, I am also reminded of the smooth transition of power that we have in this country after a spirited debate of qualifications and issues. We are so blessed as a country and our veterans are to be thanked for it. The VFW year is now one half over. Where are we on the accomplishment of our goals? Please attend the District meetings coming up - programs are explained, questions are answered, and there is also good fellowship with some outstanding veterans. Please send in your program reports for the reporting period ending December 31, 2007. I hope you had a great Christmas celebration, happy holiday season, and attended a Happy New Year’s party. We all took a little break from the VFW during this period. We now need to focus on the task ahead of us. Let’s get the membership program completed so we can enjoy getting ready for the other challenges we face. A great Midwinter Conference has been planned. All members of the VFW are invited to attend, so please attend and introduce yourself to me during the Conference. I would like to meet you and hear your ideas on how we can improve this already great organization. Bill Hustad, State Commander Comrades and Sisters, gary I hope you and your family had a very merry Christmas. I am sending to all of you erickson my best wishes for a joyful and prosperous State Sr. Vice new year. Commander We will hold the first Council of Administration meeting for the new VFW 608-723-7373 year at the Mead Inn in Wisconsin Rapids on Friday, July 11 and the O.T.I. officers srvicecdr@wi.vfwwebmail.com training on Saturday, July 12. I have made this decision so that we can have the C of A and the O.T.I. all in one weekend, instead of two. The Officers Training Institute (O.T.I.) will be one of the requirements for all Post, District Commanders, and Quartermasters to be considered for the All State Team. I have asked Sue Samson, Bill Knudson, Charlene Cobb and Leroy Jansky to conduct the O.T.I. They did an outstanding job last year. The meeting times for the C of A and O.T.I. will be posted at a later date. I would like to see more comrades turn out for the King Day Picnic on Sunday, July 13, the day following the O.T.I. King is only 45 miles from Wisconsin Rapids, so please take the time to show our veterans at King how much we appreciate the service they gave to our country. Best wishes and safe travels, Gary Erickson, Sr. Vice Commander
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Name _________________________________________________________ Street _________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________________ Zip Code ________________________ Post No.______________________ send this form along with payment to: VFW State Headquarters P.O. Box 1623 Madison, WI 53701-1623
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state officers
Who is Protecting Post Funds? The Post Trustees duties are probably the most misunderstood of any of the michael borg Post Officers. They are primarily the watchdogs of the Post funds. They make Judge Advocate certain that no one has his fingers in the 920-739-5730 till. They audit the Post funds regularly – at least once each quarter. judgeadv@vfwofwi.com The Trustees also have authority and responsibility to assure the proper handling of funds. It is only reasonable that their authority should not be limited to catching a dishonest person. Equally important should be the prevention of incompetency. Where funds are guarded carelessly or records are kept inefficiently, the Trustees should call attention and make every effort to correct it. The Trustees duties extend to every operation of the Post. Their audits must cover all activities, including the clubroom, the bar, bingo, or any other source of income or financial transactions. Many larger Posts employ private accountants to audit the books. In these cases, the auditors report to the Trustees and the Trustees make certain that the audit is conducted correctly. This should be encouraged in large operations. A quarterly audit of all funds and accounts is not only necessary, it is mandated by our National Bylaws. Failure to conduct audits can result in the cancellation of the Post Quartermaster Bond and will take away all voting privileges at District and Department Conventions. If the Trustees don’t do their jobs, the Commander may deem it an emergency situation and appoint an auditing committee on his own initiative. The largest number of complaints that requires the attention of our department is the misappropriation of Post funds. Many of our Posts elect Trustees to “fill a position” and then explain away their duties as mere signatures on the Quartermaster’s Quarterly Report. After all, some Post Quartermasters do their reports in full detail and only ask the trustees’ signatures. This failure to properly exercise Trustees’ duties is caused by the lack of knowledge and training. Trustees’ duties are explained in National’s Manual of Procedure, Article II – Posts, Section 218 – Officers: Duties and Obligations, (a) officers, (11) Trustees. Generally speaking, the three trustees fill out the quarterly report with information supplied by the Quartermaster’s ledger and checkbook. They look at all income and expenditures of the Post’s ledger and verify those entries, comparing them to deposits and checks written against the checkbook. Each account in the ledger should be reviewed to verify those funds are entered properly in assigned accounts. The Quartermaster is there only to supply the necessary information and answer questions that might be required to assist the trustees. No trustee should ever place his signature on a Post’s Quarterly Report without doing a proper audit. Once the trustees sign off on the Post’s Quarterly Report, it releases the Quartermaster of any responsibility for information supplied during the audit of the ledger, checkbook and other records. If embezzlement is later uncovered, prosecutors may now hold the Post’s Trustees accountable for those missing funds, because they attested that the Quarterly Report was correct. We spend a large amount of time training our officers at the annual O.T.I. program. Trustees should attend O.T.I. so they benefit from this training program as well. Posts and Districts should be certain that Trustees are adquately trained. One last issue, the trustees do not have any authority over the management of the Post Home, nor is property held in their name in an incorporated Post. They cannot serve on any committee having to do with the handling of Post funds, and cannot, therefore, serve as members of the House Committee, Bingo Committee, or a club manager, bar manager and etc. Mike Borg State Judge Advocate From the Chief... I hope everybody enjoyed the holidays with their families and friends. It is truly State a special time of the year to be with your Chief-of-Staff loved ones. Year 2008 is now upon us and our VFW Department has less than 6 262-285-7618 months in order to achieve another 100% chiefofstaff@wi membership year. Remember what our mission is: We are dedicated to supporting vfwwebmail.com those who sacrifice so much for this country – veterans, service members in the U.S. Armed Forces, and their families. The VFW provides veterans’ services to our individual veterans and his/her families. We assist our currently deployed military and their families. We keep the pressure on at Capitol Hill by lobbying for legislation that directly impacts our veteran community. We provide youth programs and services in developing our next generation of patriots. This organization needs you, so please, stay with us and renew your membership today! District meetings will once again commence during the months of January and February. So please, review the District meeting information elsewhere in this newspaper. It is important for all Posts to participate in their District meetings. The Post level is the foundation of this organization; and its voice and vote is absolutely critical in keeping the VFW vibrant. Let’s keep Wisconsin a forerunner in taking care of veterans. For all Posts, County Councils and Districts, please review the All-State requirements in the 2007-08 Programs and Membership Guide. It would be great to see maximum participation from all in pursuing this prestigious award. The deadline to our Department Headquarters for submitting the All-State packet is Friday, May 9. Don’t wait until the last minute! See you at the Mid-Winter Conference in Green Bay. Let’s do it!
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Jan/Feb, 008
How come Vitamin e is Not Good for Me anymore?
Sorting Out Conflicts in Health News!
Vitamin E supplements don’t prevent heart disease and may increase death rates. Fish oil might prevent heart attacks, strokes and Alzheimer’s disease – but it might not! Jeff Whittle, Eggs are really not so md, mPh bad after all, since it clement J. is the saturated fat, not Zablocki Va medical center the cholesterol, that is the problem. Substituting margarine for butter used to be good because there is less saturated fat in margarine, but now it is bad because it has trans fat. These statements show that doctors and scientists often don’t know what is really true. I admit this because “know” says that you are certain, when most medical practice is based on our best judgement using the research that is currently available. Unfortunately, not all research is reliable. Partly because studies that would really answer a question once and for all cost lots of time and money. So we make decisions as best we can using what studies we have. Vitamin E story is a good example. Many large studies found that people with more vitamin E in their diet were less likely to develop heart disease. This made sense because vitamin E, an antioxidant, can slow down certain chemical processes that contribute to heart disease. Since getting a lot of vitamin E in the diet usually requires that people eat a lot of leafy vegetables or olive oil, which many people don’t do, some scientists suggested it would be easier if people took vitamin E supplements. Sure enough, people who took vitamin E supplements had less heart disease than those who did not. This stirred excitement about vitamin E as a safe, low cost way to prevent heart disease. Even many doctors took vitamin E themselves! More cautious scientists suggested a “randomized placebo controlled trial. A large group of volunteers was randomly assigned to take either vitamin E or a “placebo.” (A placebo is something that has no ingredients that anyone thinks will do anything.) The volunteers didn’t know which pill they were taking, and did not take vitamin E on the side. The volunteers were monitored for as much as ten years. In study after study, the people getting vitamin E did no better than the people getting placebo. In fact, when someone put together all these randomized trials, it turned out that people who got placebo were LESS likely to die than those who got more than 400 International Units (IU) of vitamin E. For some brands of vitamin E, 400 IU is the amount of vitamin E in just one pill. These kind of results happen because people are so complicated. In the early studies, the scientists did not assign people to get vitamin E, they just compared people who chose to eat a diet that gave them lots of vitamin E to people who ate a diet that gave them less vitamin E. Eating lots of vitamin E means eating lots of vegetables and oils. Vegetables contain many things besides vitamin E. Also, eating more vegetables and oils means eating less of something else – maybe something bad for you. And people who ate lots of vegetables probably had other habits that were different, too – for example, they may have been more likely to be gardeners. When the first scientists suggested that vitamin E supplements might be good for you, it is likely that health conscious people were the most likely to take vitamin E supplements. They probably also did other things that they thought were healthy. It could have been any of these other things that made the people taking vitamin E do better in these studies. All of these things are avoided in a randomized trial because people are equally likely to get vitamin E or placebo no matter what other habits they have and no matter how many vegetables they eat. Of course, it takes a lot of time to enlist and track thousands of volunteers for years, make sure they take their pills, and finally, analyze the results and write up the reports. Unfortunately, by the time the studies are done, it may be too late to act. In the case of smoking, the tobacco industry took advantage of this delay. It took time to link lung cancer, emphysema and heart attacks to smoking. During that time, it was common for tobacco industry scientists to interpret interim results in favor of their products. Waiting until we were absolutely sure probably caused a lot of premature deaths. So what can you do? The simplest advice is to use common sense: if something is too good to be true, it probably isn’t; don’t be the first or the last person to believe anything; seek advice from reputable sources. There’s a lot of health information out there, and in the next issue I’ll deal with other approaches to sorting it out. Dr. Jeffrey Whittle, MD, MPH Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center jeffrey.whittle@va.gov
sue samson
Why do I get so much mail from VFW?
If you’re wondering why you receive so much mail from VFW, consider this … Membership dues alone cannot possibly cover the costs of all the great work we do. Our Department relies heavily on the generosity of members like you. Our mailings are more than just “feel-good” gifts … they are vital to the strength of our programs and success of our organization. So please respond if you can. If not, please remember it’s all for a good cause, our cause!
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News is published six times per year by the Department of Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, 214 N. Hamilton Street, Madison, WI 53703. Periodical Postage Paid at Madison, WI. Subscription rates $6.00 per year for non-members, $.60 per year membership dues is for the official publication Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News. Postmaster: send address changes to: V.f.W. circulation department, 406 West 34th street, Kansas city, mo 64111. I.S.S.N. #1061-4591 U.S.P.S. #007787 Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars committee: Robert Bolz - Post 1691, News Chairman Arlene Banks, Post 10549 Charlene Cobb, Post 10173 Bernie Olson, Post 10510 “Twiggy” Johnson, Jr.Vice Cmdr., Post 10544 Rita Garcia Rindahl, Aux. 8514, Ladies Aux. Liaison editor: William Knudson 505 S. Apple Ave., Marshfield, WI 54449 Phone: 715-384-2500 vfwnews.wi@verizon.net deadline first of the month of Publication
Wisconsin VFW News
attention VfW & auXiliary members
do you need tickets? Persons on orders to the conference will have one banquet ticket. if they need extras, they are $50.00 each and i have a limited number available. First come, first served. tickets need to be requested prior to february 1, 2008. Thanks, Steve Lawrence, Adjutant/Quartermaster
are you attending the Washington conference?
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Jan/Feb, 008
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
MeMbersHip statistics
Military assistance PrograM for DePartMent of Wisconsin
dave behrend, state chairperson
The Department of Wisconsin has started an account for our Military Assistant program. At the National level, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has operated the Military Assistance Program for our soldiers on active duty and for those who have served in this current war. As your chairperson, I am asking every post, county and district in the state to donate to our Department of Wisconsin Military Assistance Program before winter ends. Earmark your checks Department of Wisconsin Military Assistance Program. Last winter we had many calls from spouses who had soldiers on active duty and needed furnaces, hot water heaters, stoves and automobiles repaired and we didn’t have the funds to assist them. This year I am asking for your help in reaching out to our comrades when they turn to the Veterans of Foreign Wars for assistance. Dave Behrend Chairperson Department of Wisconsin Military Assistance Program
legislative
vfW
of
Mike “gunner” furgal Wisconsin legislative & Pac chairMan
anD
Pac rePorts
Mark your calendars and plan to attend the 2008 Veterans Salute to the Legislature to be held at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, Exhibition Hall A, One John Nolen Drive in Madison on Wednesday, February 20, 2008. The salute program will be held from 4 to 5 p.m., followed by a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. The reception costs only $7. The salute is an opportunity to meet with your state government officials, including the governor, the legislature, and some of the staff of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs. It also is an opportunity for you to recognize those legislators who have worked on behalf of the state’s veterans. The WDVA Stakeholders Conference precedes the salute. The conference will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is designed to give you the opportunity to participate in shaping the future of Wisconsin’s state-level veterans programs. Between the conference and the salute there is ample time for you to visit with your legislators on your own. Come to Madison on February 20 to provide input to veterans’ programs, meet with government officials and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow veterans from around the state.
Legislative report:
MeMbershiP statistics
latest stanDings Dist 9 7 4 10 3 6 5 8 11 2 1 At Large Life 3422 3705 1408 2668 1186 2496 975 2900 2107 4909 3846 740 New 52 64 23 44 16 57 8 53 94 90 61 149
as of
pac report:
According to federal law, the Veterans of Foreign Wars cannot legally endorse candidates. To overcome the legal challenges of influencing on Capitol Hill, the organization established a Political Action Committee. This is a separate nonpartisan organization charged with the single task of working in Congress to support candidates who share key views about veterans’ issues. Funding for VFW-PAC comes from concerned VFW and Auxiliary members. To donate, make the check payable to VFW-PAC and mail it to Mike “Gunner” Furgal, 1411 14th Ave., Monroe, WI 53566. Mike “Gunner” Furgal Legislative & PAC Chairman
JR Weber State Recruiter of the Year Award
Hi all! Now it is time to start working the Recruiter of the Year Award. Just so everyone is on the same page, the Second District has come up with $5000.00 for a Recruiter of the Year Award. It will be a State award and the person will be recognized at our State Convention. Now for the criteria: For a Paid Recruiter you need a minimum of 200 new or reinstated members. And for a Non-Paid Recruiter you need a minimum of 50 new or reinstated members. The Award will be $250.00 and your Name and Year on a plaque at State HQ. If both (Paid & Non-Paid Recruiter) qualify for the award it will be split between the 2 (two) $125.00 each and both names on the plaque. If not, the Top Recruiter will win the whole prize, $250.00 and their name on the plaque. Any questions, please contact me: Bill Backes State Membership Co-Chairman VFW Dept. of WI 2007-08
Reinst 30 16 9 26 6 11 19 9 26 55 8 28 243
MonDay, January 07, Prior Cont Total Year 420 3924 4192 1055 4840 5236 297 1737 1887 832 3570 3914 355 1563 1714 717 3281 3621 335 1337 1476 914 3876 4291 552 2779 3086 1411 6465 7275 609 4524 5412 455 7952 1372 39268 1448 43552
2008 Percent 93.61 92.44 92.05 91.21 91.19 90.61 90.58 90.33 90.05 88.87 83.59 94.75 90.16
State 30362 711
VFW Post 5470 Donates to Southern Center at Union Grove
WiNsa’s USS Edson application sent to the Navy!
in June 2007, their Naval Consultant Joseph Lombardi, of Ocean Technical Services, has lowered WINSA’s original project cost estimate from $8.5 to $5.4 million dollars and provided the professional technical expertise to complete the extremely detailed donation application. WINSA president, Dick Caswell, CAPT, CEC, USNR (Ret.) said that, “With the application submitted, a major milestone has been achieved. Our application was viewed as a watershed event for the WINSA organization. Efforts will now concentrate on raising the required funds.” The application, prepared by Joseph Lombardi, President of Ocean Technical Services, is a complex document. It includes sections that deal with the ship’s mooring system, maintenance, museum development and, most importantly, financial goals and projections. The business, marketing and educational plans that WINSA has completed played prominent roles in the foundation for the application. The community will benefit greatly by bringing the USS Edson to Sheboygan. Using the financial spending Parameters provided by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism for the expected numbers of day-trippers and overnight visitors, the economic boost for Sheboygan’s tourist industry is expected to be an estimated $7 million dollars annually! Chad Sorce, WINSA Museum Director, said, “The beauty of this major economic benefit for Sheboygan is that it will be accomplished at no cost or risk to the city or county!”
the USS Edson underway Officials from the Wisconsin Naval Ship Association, Inc. (WINSA) announced that their 436 page application to acquire the USS Edson (DD946) has been submitted to the U.S. Navy. This is a major milestone in their efforts to bring the ship to Sheboygan, Wisconsin’s U.S. South Pier as a historic naval ship museum, educational platform, veterans’ memorial, tourist attraction and a site for preserving military history. With the application submitted, WINSA can now turn their efforts towards meeting the lease contingencies and the continuation of the capital campaign. In recent months, WINSA has made tremendous progress in bringing the National Historic Landmark USS Edson to Sheboygan. Its community reception has been excellent. They now have a signed contingent lease for a beautiful berthing site at Sheboygan’s US South Pier. The ship available for donation is in excellent condition. An exhaustive Business Plan and favorable Feasibility Study have been completed. Local business and community support for the project continues to grow. Best of all, since coming under contract
hoping to make thanksgiving and christmas holidays a bit more festive for residents, Veterans of foreign Wars Post 5470 of Whitewater transported a donation of turkeys and coffee to the Veterans assistance Program at the southern center at union grove this week. Pictured are commander evan Wynn (l) of Post 5470 and Peter berghuis (r), a building resident and all around helper. in addition to the foods, the post members collected and donated good used clothing and books and puzzles for the residents. the Veterans assistance Program is designed as a residence for homeless veterans and to treat those with various addictions and is located at the southern center along with the southern Veterans home and a Va medical clinic. Post 5470 has ‘adopted’ the VaP at union grove and regularly contributes to the residents with food or other items to make life more satisfactory.
auxiLiary
I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday Joyce hoffman season. It’s hard to believe this year is half over. Department Many things need to be done yet. President If you have any raffle tickets, please get them sent in as the drawing will be held at Mid-Win- 715-223-3844 ter in Green Bay. Good luck! joycehoffman@tds.net Membership: Sisters, please get out there and pick up those members. So many continuous Sisters have not paid and we need you for the Dept. of Wisconsin to reach 100%. “Our Motto is to Recruit, Collect and Transmit.” Traveling through the state, I have met so many Sisters and learned how each Auxiliary is unique. Report what you do for our youth, communities and our veterans. This is what we are all about. Legislative Day: In February in Madison. When our young people put on the uniform of our nation, they took an obligation, so should we! Have you kept in touch with your legislators to educate them about VETERANS’ ISSUES? It only takes a phone call, postcard or a short e-mail to accomplish this. Salute to Hospitalized Veterans will be the week of February l0, 2008. Thank you to the department officers for helping distribute the gifts. Publicity: Dept. Chair Pat Holzhueter-Roth is looking for articles to fill Rachel’s Bin. Let’s help her out. Thank you for all the friendships that have come about as I travel to many VFW and Auxiliary functions. May each one of you send a “SPECIAL” message to someone you love on Valentine’s Day. It could be a Comrade or Sister in the military, thanking them for their service. Through a ‘Tradition of Caring’ Wisconsin Auxiliaries are ‘Serving Veterans!’ Love and friendship, Department President Joyce
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Joyce’s Jingles
ladies auXiliary cancer aid and research
Shirley Sabatke, Department Cancer Aid & Research Chairman
With the holidays over, Sisters, we have much to accomplish. Have you been collecting ‘Coins For Cancer’? That is one of the questions in the year-end report. Or how about sending in a memorial for a comrade, friend, relative, or an Auxiliary Sister in lieu of flowers? Most importantly, did you send in your Cancer Quota? Thank you to Auxiliary Cancer Chairmen for sending me names of Research Centers. I sent out five Postdoctoral Cancer Research Fellowship Forms. Wouldn’t it be great if a Wisconsin Research Center received a grant? With all the help from our VFW Posts and Auxiliaries, we are winning the battle---U.S. CANCER DEATH RATE CONTINUES TO FALL! For the first time in decades, cancer deaths are declining in the United States. However, remember that cancer remains a serious disease. Experts are calling it a “glimmer of hope” against a leading killer. The American Cancer Society reports in “Cancer Statistics 2007” that fewer people died of cancer than in 2004. In 2004, there were fewer deaths than in 2003. The ACS attributes the decline to better cancer detection and more effective treatment. But, despite the good news about fewer cancer deaths, cancer remains the secondleading cause of death in the U.S. Sisters, please have your checkups. Early detection pays off. Sisters, have you held a Cancer Education Program through your Auxiliary? Please report to me what was done. Cancer of the Larynx: Who’s at risk? No one knows the exact causes of larynx cancers. Doctors cannot explain why one person gets this disease and another does not. We know that cancer is not contagious. You cannot catch cancer from another person. People with certain risk factors are more likely to get cancer of the larynx. Studies have found the following risk factors: Age. Larynx cancer occurs most often in people over the age of 55. Gender. Men are four times more likely than women to get cancer of the larynx. Race. African Americans are more likely than caucasians to be diagnosed with Larynx cancer. Smoking. Smokers are far more likely than nonsmokers to get cancer of the larynx. The risk is higher for smokers who drink alcohol heavily. People who stop smoking can greatly decrease their risk of cancer of the larynx, as well as of the lungs, mouth, pancreas, bladder and esophagus. Quitting smoking reduces the chance that someone with cancer of the larynx will get a second cancer in the head and neck region. Alcohol. People who drink alcohol are more likely to develop laryngeal cancer than people who don’t drink. Drinking and smoking increases the risk of laryngeal cancer. Another risk factor for larynx cancer is having gastroesophageal reflux disease. Symptoms: hoarseness or other voice changes; a lump in the neck; a sore throat or feeling that something is stuck in your throat; a cough that does not go away; problems breathing; chronic bad breath; an earache or weight loss. These symptoms may be caused by cancer or by other, less serious, problems. Only a doctor can tell for sure. “Wisconsin Auxiliaries Serving Veterans” through a “Tradition Of Caring.” Shirley Sabatke, Department Cancer Aid & Research Chairman
district 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11 11
drAPing of the ChArter
Person’s name Gladys Carroll Mildred Pivek Helen Tobias* *** Dorothy A. Wendt* Sada Loasching Frances Quaerna* Eileen Shaw Rose Marie Spencer Kathryn Fritz Margaret B. Kuster Sadie Oostdik Margaret Reichenbach Hazel Green Joan Haas Josephine Hagen Elizabeth Schmeling Lena M. Johnson Leora Lazar Doris B. Benson Eileen Richter Diana L. Weyers Mary Huffert* Doris Wattawa* Bernice V. Nehmer Wanita Kulibert* Ruth Mueller* Dora Wiser Vivian Smerke Josephine Walter Judy Schultz Margaret Bohn* Carol Grisa Ruth Mueller* Gertrude Durst* Thelma Kunich Arlene Flick LaVera Hamann* Harriet Mach Alice Thompson Angeline Zoromski Joyce Klabunde Alice Day Caroline Diedrick Mae F. Vanderbloomin Irene Kresse Virginia Bellile Marjorie Van Ryzin* Myrtle Wilson* Gloria Geier Lucille Swetlik Marie Truttier Carol M. Wilson* Grace Koch* Anna M. Narichaiet* Carol W. Clark* Eleanare Martinson* Judith Mueller Elizabeth Pieterick* Gerty C. Padelford Anita Knoll Florence Singleton Marcia Bayuk Darlene Herpst Virginia Rogers* Margaret Le Voy June L. Tomlanovich* Genevieve Tuttle Minnie Rego Noressa Steinbrink city Racine Racine Racine Racine Janesville Janesville Janesville Kenosha Monroe Monroe Monroe *Silver Lake Stoughton Jefferson Madison Day Watertown Marshall Marshall Platteville Platteville South Milwaukee South Milwaukee Milwaukee Milwaukee Oshkosh Barton Hartford Sheboygan Sheboygan Wausau King Merrill Merrill Marshfield Colby Wisconsin Rapids Wisconsin Rapids Antigo Mosinee Mosinee Manitowoc Two Rivers Two Rivers Two Rivers Mountain New London Appleton Appleton Kewaunee Kellnersville Laona Duck Creek Freedom Gillette Eau Claire Eau Claire Eau Claire Eau Claire Dresser/St. Croix Medford Medford Glidden Amery Eagle River Eagle River Eagle River Iron River Sparta Camp Douglas
auxiliary 1391 1391 1391 1391 1621 1621 1621 1865 2312 2312 2312 8375 328 3589 7591 3709 10510 10510 5274 5274 3742 3742 9469 2923 1908 8658 8834 9156 9156 388 1464 1638 1638 1866 2227 2534 2534 2653 8733 8733 659 1248 1248 1248 2119 2732 2778 2778 3392 6179 6823 7534 7692 8314 305 305 305 305 4186 5729 5729 7300 7929 8637 8637 8637 10197 2112 1091
Auxiliary Membership Report
Sisters, now is the time to really put your noses to the grindstone, by making phone calls, personal contacts or whatever it takes to get the balance of your dues paid up. Encourage life memberships because dues never go down...only up, and life members never have to pay the increase. Congratulations to the Auxiliaries that are 100%--- many of you are so close--KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! WE reached the 85% mark prior to the deadline. President Joyce will be able to attend the Stars and Stripes Party at MidWinter in Palm Springs. But we can’t stop now, we need to continue to push for the goal of 100%. Working together we can accomplish anything. MAKE WISCONSIN 100% THIS YEAR. Don’t forget the drawing at Mid-Winter for bringing in a new member----the eagle picture. God bless everyone, and bless our veterans and bless America. In friendship, Linda Moran, Dept. Membership Chr.
rocky wants this membership bin filled with new, continuous and lapsed members for 100% membership this year.
* Life Member ** Past National President or Past Department President *** Past Department Secretary “Rejoice, the Lord has been born, and I have been reborn in eternity with our God.”
The VFW has 36 state newspapers in the United States? The State of Wisconsin VFW News received 2nd Place at this year’s National Publication Contest? The Wisconsin VFW News – Getting The Job Done!
Editor: William Knudson 505 S. Apple Ave., Marshfield, WI 54449 Phone: (715) 384-2500 • E-mail: vfwnews.wi@verizon.net
Did You Know… Did You Know…
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Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
teMporary cLiNic opeNs
Donation to VFW Operation Uplink
VA Opens Temporary Clinic in Rice Lake Hotel
The Minneapolis VA Medical Center (VAMC) opened a community clinic serving veterans in northwestern Wisconsin in the AmericInn Hotel in Rice Lake, as of Monday, December 17, 2007. The clinic is staffed by medical and support personnel from the Minneapolis VAMC. The clinic will operate on a temporary basis until a permanent clinic is established. On Monday, Dec. 10, Corporate Health & Wellness (CH&W) of Paris, Ky., a private contractor, without warning, closed clinics serving veterans in Hayward and Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Negotiations continue between the VA and the CH&W to reach a favorable resolution on the use of clinic space that had been leased by CH&W in the two Wisconsin communities. “We are taking this action because patient care is our priority,” said Steven Kleinglass, director, Minneapolis VAMC. “We will do whatever it takes” to continue service to veterans. Dr. Michael Koopmeiners, medical director of the VAMC outreach clinic program, will head a team of staff who will treat patients in Rice Lake until a permanent solution is found. The AmericInn will be declared a “federal facility” under policies that allow the VA to take emergency actions to care for patients. The AmericInn, located at 2906 Pioneer
employees of rice lake cViKota company and diagnostic radiology donate their christmas fund money to the Veterans of foreign Wars Operation Uplink Phone card Program for deployed service members. each year, employees donate to a charitable organization instead of buying gifts for their doctors. Pictured (back row) susie Johnson, amy cook, becca richter, rhonda anderson and donna frank. (front row sitting) michelle stouffer and shay soldner. (receiving donation) VfW 9th district commander John fredrickson, Post 2204 commander ben anderson and leeann Kritch presenting donation. (missing from picture) linda gruenhagen and Kathy gens.
Connecting
Serve...
With Those
Those Who
Avenue South, in Rice Lake, is making space available for the clinics. Approximately four rooms will be converted into examining rooms. A conference center will be used as a waiting area. The clinics offer primary and preventative care. No urgent care or emergency care is available. Technical support, including computer access to electronic medical records, will be arranged over the weekend. Security issues are being addressed. Supplies and examining tables will be shipped from Minneapolis VAMC. During this week, the 95 veterans who were to be seen at the Rice Lake and Hayward clinics were personally contacted by Minneapolis VAMC staff and offered services at other clinics in Twin Ports or Chippewa Falls, WI., or Maplewood, a suburb of Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis VAMC. Some were referred to non-VA local providers in Wisconsin who were reimbursed by VA for services. About 100 patients are scheduled next week. VA staff will continue to work with neighboring VA clinics or community providers to obtain services not available at this temporary location. VA officials continue to explore longterm options for restoring primary care services in Hayward and Rice Lake. If veterans have questions, they should call: 1-866-414-5058 ext 9 1100.
Pat Moran, Operation Uplink Chairman
Well, the new year has finally arrived and it’s hard to believe that we are saying good-bye to 2007 already. But, just as last year, the United States military is still overseas and it doesn’t look like it will be coming home soon. So, now is the time to dig a little deeper in that old Relief Account and see if we can’t make someone’s new year a little brighter by donating for some Uplink phone cards. I would like to thank all the Posts and Auxiliaries and individuals that have donated to Uplink so far this 07-08 year. The Department of Wisconsin can claim donations of $39,487.40, and so far we haven’t made use of any of the programs which are Operation Uplink, Unmet Needs or MAP. Pat Moran, Operation Uplink Chairman
oPeration uPlink
Who Care
eMergency/Disaster PrograM
Fred Mercord, Department Chairman
Comrades and Sisters, The Emergency/Disaster program is for you, the members of this great organization. If you have any happening that causes property(primary residence only) damage in excess of $5000 you qualify for assistance. See forms in Wi website for further details or contact your Post Commander or District E/D chairman. Donations are lagging this year, so let’s see if we can do better the last half of the year. The ladies are leading the race for giving with 60 Auxiliaries donating $2545 compared to only 38 Posts donating $2355. My challenge for the year was for $11,000 total donations which, if you do the math, is only $1000 per District. If we reach the $11,000 figure, we are going to increase all assistance checks to the maximum $600. Commanders, presidents, and chairmen, please do what you can to attain these goals. Thanks to all who have generously donated to date. Fred Mercord, Department Chairman
Help Our American Heroes! (800) 479-5228 www.operationuplink.org
Verna White 90 Years Young!
Verna White, charter member of Klossner-dietzler VfW auxiliary #5729, celebrated her 90th birthday november 17, 2007 at the community center in medford. the auxiliary was instituted march 19, 1949 with Past district President Mae Johnson, of Rhinelander, serving as the Installing Officer. Verna is an active 58-year member along with her daughters and granddaughters. Pictured with Verna are her daughters and granddaughters, all members of the Auxiliary with over 320 years of combined service. That’s a lot of cupcakes, fish fries and soup lunches! two daughters, Vicki newbauer of auxiliary #2977, Jump river and Jackie gregory of auxiliary #5729, medford have served the organization as department President, and Pam higgins of auxiliary #5729 served as Department Assistant Treasurer for five years. Verna joined the Auxiliary under the eligibility of her husband, alfred “Pete” White, a WWii army veteran. (story/photo submitted by Vicki newbauer)
Back issues of the Wisconsin VFW News will soon be back online. We are in the process of reloading the complete library. Keep checking our main page at either
The wisconsin vfw news
www.vfwofwi.com or www.vfwofwi.org
NeWs froM tHe state Vso
Researchers Looking to Improve the Rehabilitation of Vietnam Veterans Traumatic Amputees
Recently, much national media has focused on the traumatic amputees of the Iraq and Afghan conflicts. However, there is little known about the long-term outcomes of traumatic amputations arising from war. The lee guerrero largest remaining group with a lifetime of experience is the Vietnam War amputees. It is estimated there were 6,000 or more Vietnam veterans that came home with missing limbs. The Department of Defense has funded a partnership between Indiana University and Ohio State University to create the Indiana-Ohio Center for Traumatic Amputation Rehabilitation Research. They are trying to locate Vietnam veteran amputees in hopes of gaining a better understanding of the needs of these veterans. Their objective is to study the health, psychological, and rehabilitation needs of veterans with amputations to help determine the needs of Vietnam veterans and aid in the rehabilitation and adjustment of traumatic amputees from present and future conflicts. The Center is currently establishing a database of Vietnam veterans who had amputations. The researchers are asking for those veterans to register by filling out an online questionnaire or obtaining a hardcopy version through the mail. Participant confidentiality will be strongly protected. The study currently has 125 Vietnam veterans enrolled but there are many more out there and are encouraged to call or visit the website for more details. For more information visit: www.vietnamwaramputee.org or robbinsc@iupui. edu, veterans call also at (866) 283-2599 Toll Free. Also, as part of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) ongoing commitment to improve services, it is conducting a program evaluation study of the VA Burial Benefits program administered by the National Cemetery Administration and Veterans’ Benefits Administration. A mailed survey of veterans will be conducted from January 3 through February 28, 2008. Focus groups with veteran next-of-kin and funeral directors will also be conducted. VA will use the information gathered to improve benefits, set priorities and plan national and state veteran cemeteries. The survey will work as follows: VA has drafted a notification letter that will be mailed to veterans by Caliber/ICF, a national research firm, the first week of January 2008 in advance of the survey package. The veteran will then receive a second letter and the questionnaire for completion a few days later. In order to collect the necessary number of responses, 38,733 surveys will be sent in January, with additional surveys in February if needed. The focus group mailings will be sent at the same time as the survey. Letters informing next-of-kin and funeral directors that they may be selected to participate in focus groups will be sent the first week in January. Phone calls will then be made to recruit participants at five sites (Springfield, VA; Tampa, FL; Minneapolis, MN; Denver, CO; Los Angeles, CA) through January 23. Those who agree to participate will receive confirmation letters by January 30. The focus group sessions will then be held during the month of February. Lee Guerrero VFW Veterans Service Officer
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The Veterans Assistance Program has a continuous need for donations to cover personal items for veterans that cannot be provided for in our budget. The tax-deductible donations we receive from various corporations, groups and individuals help make possible many of the services the veterans at our centers desperately need. Donations can be accepted for a specific assistance center or in general. Our Veterans Assistance Centers currently are located at King, Fort McCoy, Union Grove and Chippewa Falls. We are extremely grateful for your donation and support to our locations and to those needy veterans! Items currently needed are listed below, however, other items are accepted; please contact us… KING VAP (715) 256-1118 • Telephone calling cards • Monetary funds and other items for the Therapeutic Dog – “Hooter” • Gifts for the holidays • Gift certificates for bowling: Waupaca Bowl (715) 258-8915 or Nelsons Strike Zone (715) 258-2622 • Gift certificates for haircuts in Waupaca; Family Barber Shop (715) 258-8191 • All foods to include meat • Clothing, personal care items, linen,
Veterans Homeless Programs In-kind Donation Wish List
pillows • Computer games • Cash donations for the program FORT MCCOY VAP (608) 269-0234 • Telephone calling cards • Gifts for the holidays • Computer games • Gift certificates for haircuts in Sparta: Fantastic Sams (608) 372-4747 or Cost Cutters (608) 374-5007 • Cash donations for the program UNION GROVE VAP (262) 878-9151 • Monetary funds and other items for the Therapeutic Dog – “Rhoda” • Gifts for the holidays • All foods to include meat • Clothing, personal care items, linen, pillows • Computer games • Cash donations for the program CHIPPEWA FALLS VAP (715) 726-2541 • Telephone calling cards • Gifts for the holidays • Monetary funds and other items for a Therapeutic Dog • All foods to include meat • Clothing, personal care items, linen, pillows • Computer games • Cash donations for the program As of December 18, 2007
mid-Winter meeting schedule
Dist. Meeting Location 7 VFW POST 1638 MERRILL @ THE ARENA 1 VFW POST 2312 MONROE 8 VFW POST 2778 APPLETON 11 VFW POST 10911 CAMP DOUGLAS 2 VFW POST 3709 WATERTOWN 3 VFW POST 8244 AVOCA 5 VFW POST 6498 HART PARK 4 VFW POST 2903 MILWAUKEE 6 VFW POST 9156 SHEBOYGAN 9 VFW POST 10405 ALTOONA 10 No Midwinter Meeting Date Time Rep. Bill Hustad Bill Hustad Wilfred Johnson Gary Erickson Bill Hustad Gary Erickson Wilfred Johnson Wilfred Johnson Sue Samson Bill Hustad 1/13/2008 12:00 NOON 1/20/2008 1/26/2008 1/26/2008 1/27/2008 1/27/2008 1/27/2008 10:00 AM 12:00 PM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 9:00 AM 1:00 PM
Waupun Retired Honor Guard Recognized
2/10/2008 12:00 NOON 2/10/2008 2/23/2008 1:30 PM 10:00 AM
Waupun’s WWii navy veteran gordon r. abrahamson was recognized for his many years of service to the honor guard for bently-hull VfW Post 6709. He was honored at the December meeting and presented with a ‘Certificate of appreciation and thank you.’ shown (l-r) are members of the Post honoring him with a ‘salute,’ norman dean, Wayne buteyn, and cliff teletzke.
Partnership Awards Presented to VFW Post and Auxiliary #1879
Post 10301 Honors Volunteer Barber
Kim ngam ma is a barber at a local barber shop and spends every monday (her day off) at the union grove home cutting hair. along with funds raised by the post, Kim’s boss, Ken, is donating a barber chair to the union grove home. in december, Kim was honored by Post 10301 and given a prestigious community service award. shown in the photo, (l-r) are: nicole sprader, union grove volunteer coordinator; ron turner, first district commander; Kim ngam ma, barber and honoree; Ken beecher, owner of the Plaza barber shop in racine; thomas Weatherston, Post 10301 Service Officer.
the fort atkinson board of education presented Partnership awards to edwin frohmader Post and auxiliary #1879 at their monthly meeting november 15, 2007. the Post was nominated by brad schroedl, of Purdy elementary school. shown here (l-r) are robin White, auxiliary President, brad schroedl and brian cluver, Post Quartermaster. schroedl’s nomination cited the VfW #1879 and their auxiliary for involvement with Purdy elementary and other schools in the fort atkinson district, including athletic recognitions, honor and color guards for ceremonies, rock day ceremony, Veterans Day at Purdy School and presentation of flags for the schools.
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Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
aMericaN fLaGs retired
adjutant Quartermaster
Continued from PAge 2 4) To confirm your identity as a member, provide your Home Zip Code and your Birth Year. 5) In order to validate your email address (and activate your eMembership account), eMembership will e-mail a PIN number to your email address. Use this PIN number to activate your eMembership account. 6) Once your account is activated, eMembership will identify your account as a Quartermaster account, and will ask you to request a *second* PIN, to be mailed to the current Quartermaster’s mailing address (not email). This will ensure that the Quartermaster is the person requesting this special Quartermaster account. 7) When you receive your printed letter containing the QM PIN (2 or 3 business days in the mail), go back to the eMembership website, sign in, and you will be prompted to enter the PIN you requested. 8) Enter the PIN, and your account will be upgraded to a Quartermaster account. 9) You will now have access to Quartermaster tools. 10) When you sign out and back in again, you do not need to complete all of the above steps anymore, just sign in with your email address and password. Why do I need PIN numbers? When creating a VFW eMembership Quartermaster account, two PIN numbers are required. The first PIN number is generated right after you create the account, and it is sent to the email address you provided during account creation. You use this PIN number to activate your eMembership account, to gain access to Member Tools only. After entering the first PIN number, eMembership will (if you are a Quartermaster) indicate that this account belongs to a Quartermaster, and that it requires a second PIN number. Click “Request a PIN be mailed to me.” This PIN will be sent via U.S. mail to your Post/Department address, so that we can confirm your identity as the Quartermaster. When you receive this PIN in the mail, come back to eMembership and sign in. When you sign in, you will be asked to either Request a PIN, Enter a PIN that was mailed to you, or Skip this process for now. Click “Enter a PIN that was mailed to me.” When prompted, enter the PIN that is on the letter you received, and click Submit. Your account is now a Quartermaster account, and you have access to VFW eMembership Quartermaster tools. Please note that you do not need to keep these two PIN numbers; they are only used for account activation. All future log-ins on eMembership will only require the email address and password you provided when creating the account. Note: There are instructions for the Post Quartermaster on this site. Here is a list of processes you may now do online. Please note that these transactions are the quickest way to keep your membership up to date. 1. Report annual and life membership dues to National Headquarters 2. Maintain current mailing address for your membership. 3. Request replacement membership annual or life cards for your members 4. Transfer annual or life members into your Post. 5. Report annual or life members as deceased. 6. Become a Legacy Life Member. By using this tool, your information is updated within one business day. This not only saves time, but money – no more postage. This also expedites everything because you do not have the time for mailing, and national does not have to re-key material that you filled out forms for. As Quartermaster, you will have access to “Manage Your Account” where you can see every transaction that you submit through eMembership. If you have questions or concerns, you can contact me. Comrades and Sisters, thank you for the good work you do each day for veterans and their families. If you would like to contact me, I can be reached by e-mail sdlvfw@yahoo.com or by phone (608) 835-7494 evenings, or by mail: Steve Lawrence, P.O. Box 23, Oregon, WI 53575-0023.
State Veterans Agency Head Praises Baldwin, Bill
Vision Equity Act signed into law to assist visually-impaired veterans
A bill to give veterans who are visually impaired in one eye greater compensation if they suffer loss of sight in the other eye was signed by President Bush recently, after it was repeatedly introduced by U.S. Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin (D-Madison) beginning seven years ago and eventually passed unanimously by both houses of Congress. “Thanks to the persistence and hard work of Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin and Dr. Jim Allen, veterans who are left vision impaired as a result of their military service will now be able to receive increased disability compensation,” said Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary John A. Scocos. “Rep. Baldwin and Dr. Allen worked tenaciously for seven years to build solid bipartisan support for this measure to rightfully assist thousands of visually impaired veterans from World War II to the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, including those here in Wisconsin.” The Dr. James C. Allen Veteran Vision Equity Act changes the law to allow veterans who lost an eye or their eyesight through their military service to receive greater compensation if they subsequently suffer loss of sight in the other eye. Dr. Allen, for whom the bill is named, is a 79-year-old retired Madison ophthalmologist and Korean War veteran who treated veterans at the Wm. S. Middleton VA Hospital in Madison for more than two decades, and has remained active in advocating for his fellow veterans.
ANNUAL ELECTRONIC FILING REQUIREMENT FOR SMALL EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS – E-POSTCARD (Form 990-N)
Don’t Throw Away Your Tax-Exempt Status Beginning in 2008, small tax-exempt organizations will have a new filing requirement. It’s short, easy and electronic – it’s the new e-Postcard. If you are a tax-exempt organization that normally has annual gross receipts of $25,000 or less and does not have to file Form 990 or 990-EZ, you must file the e-Postcard. The e-Postcard is due by the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of your tax year. So if your organization operates on a calendar year, the e-Postcard is due by May 15 of the following year. What happens if you don’t file? You risk losing your tax-exempt status! If you think this new filing requirement may apply to your organization, go to www.irs.gov/eo for complete details and, while you’re there, sign up for Exempt Organization’s free email newsletter, EO Update, to receive upto-date information posted on the charity pages of irs.gov. Until we get clarification from the Internal Revenue Service, do not file the 990 EZ. The postcard will be much easier for you to complete. At the present time, this postcard (990-N) is not available on the web. I encourage you to sign up Exempt Organizations free e-newsletter. Go to www.irs.gov/eo for details. I will update you in a separate mailing with the 990EZ and instructions, and the link for the 990-N Postcard as soon as information becomes available.
VFW 8483 Men’s Auxiliary Teams with Madison Area Boy Scouts
Together they retire 200 American flags in ceremonies at Truax-Longmire
With solemn ceremony and honor, members of Boy Scout Troop 23 retired 200 American flags with the help of members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Men’s Auxiliary. Working from bags and boxes of “past-theirprime time flags,” veterans and scouts alike folded each flag into a triangle. Then one by one, the scouts, accompanied by veterans, brought the flags with military bearing to the burn barrels, unfolded them, opening them to the southeast one final time in a display of honor to our nation’s capital. Safely secured, they were then placed into the flames, where the flags retired to ashes in the hot fire. The culmination of a myriad of coordination, the event brought together America’s Heroes with America’s future. “America’s Boy Scouts show tremendous pride and patriotism. We are extremely happy and honored to join them in their efforts,” said 8483 Men’s Auxiliary President Patrick Fitzpatrick An honor guard from VFW 8483 and members of other local VFW Posts joined in the ceremonies. “It is not uncommon to witness the Madison area VFW Posts conducting joint ceremonies and events,” said Dane County Council Commander Jeffrey Unger. “Rightfully so, it should be commonplace. It is a very simple and productive principle to have two or more posts come together for the same purpose to support our chartered programs and organization, with a single event. Our combined achievements are a force multiplier and carry a tremendous impact to the communities in which we serve, and the end results are nothing short of spectacular when you measure the value added to our communities and their citizens.” Over the past few years, scouts and veterans’ organizations have gathered to retire Old Glory. “What we have accomplished with our area Boy Scouts at 8483 is not unique to the VFW or 8483,” states Post Commander Bob Simonis. He went on to say, “To have our Men’s Auxiliary members here to help just makes our job easier. They help us in so many ways, this is but one.” There are a number of veterans service organizations who welcome and conduct flag retirement ceremonies across the area. After all, it is the proper way of retiring our nation’s standard, and who better to do that than a veteran who has fought for and maintained the freedom and liberty those colors represent for hundreds of millions of Americans. These flags come in all sizes, including the oversized version that requires more than a dozen to fold, prepare and retire. The largest flag on this day, 40 feet in length, resembles a snake as a team of veterans, scouts and Men’s Auxiliary members slowly retire it to the flames. As the Men’s Auxiliary leadership led the closing ceremonies, one young scout was overheard commenting, “never before in all my life have I ever felt so good about what I had just accomplished.” When it comes to America’s youth and the VFW, that sums it all up right there. We truly make a difference with the programs we sponsor, present, organize and execute.
Representing Veterans in Northeastern Wisconsin for over 50 years
Social Security Disability (Including PTSD) Workers Compensation ∙ Personal Injury ∙ Family Bankruptcy ∙ Wills/Trusts/Estates Contact: William B. Kulkoski, Esq. Lawrence G. Vesely, Esq. Walter N. Neta, Esq., CPT (Retired)
416 S. Monroe Ave. Green Bay, WI 54305 Office: 920-437-5405 Fax: 920-437-5917 www.okgv.com
Mid-WiNter coNfereNce
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Wisconsin
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Jan/Feb, 008
MID-WINTER CONFERENCE
Green Bay, WI Friday & Saturday, February 15 & 16, 2008
Guestroom Block Information: Overnight accommodations for the Convention are available on Thursday, February 14 – Sunday, February 17, 2008 at a special group rate of $89.00 Casino Package. Our casino package includes two $10.00 gaming certificates per room, per night that is redeemable in the Casino for $20.00 cash and is good for Bingo, Black Jack, or the Slots. As well as one coupon page per room, per night that has a total value of $30.00. Group rate also includes complimentary full breakfast buffet per day. For reservations please contact central reservations at 800-333-3333 or the hotel directly at 920-494-7300 and reference the Veterans of Foreign Wars room block. Make reservations prior to Tuesday, January 15, 2008 to receive this special rate LOCATION The Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Green Bay is nestled in a wooded area directly across from Green Bay’s Austin Straubel Airport. It is conveniently located within easy access to all major highways and provides ample, free parking. Complimentary airport shuttle service is also available. FEATURES • Adjacent to the Oneida Bingo & Casino • Indoor pool/whirlpool, sauna & fitness
center • Java Coast Gift & Coffee Shop • Business Center • The Pine Tree Grill is the answer for casual, tasteful dining. Open for lunch and dinner, The Pine Tree Grill offers variety for every palate. • Looking to satisfy a variety of tastes? Then the Standing Stone Buffet and Grill is perfect for you. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. GUESTROOM FEATURES • In-room Coffee Makers • Handicap accessible rooms • Iron/Ironing Boards • Hairdryers • Complimentary Bottled Water • High Speed Internet Access • In-room movies with HBO • Two line speaker phones and data port lamps
2040 Airport Drive Green Bay, WI 54313 (920) 494-7300 • (920) 494-9599 fax
• Stuffed chair and ottoman • Complimentary local and long distance calls • Complimentary full Breakfast Buffet per day AREA ATTRACTIONS • Green Bay Packers Lambeau Stadium & Packer Hall of Fame • National Railroad Museum • Heritage Hill State Historical Park • Green Bay Botanical Garden • Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary • Hazelwood Historic House • Oneida Nation Museum • Tour Oneida Nation of Wisconsin • Neville Public Museum • Weidner Center for the Performing Arts • AirVenture Museum EAA • Door County with Al Johnson’s Goats on the Roof Swedish Restaurant, Maritime Museum and many Scenic Wonders
Department of Wisconsin MID-WINTER CONFERENCE February 15-16, 2008 Green Bay, Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars Schedule of Events All meetings will be held at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center 2040 Airport Drive, Green Bay, WI 54313 Friday, February 15, 2008 1-6:00 p.m. Registration 9:00 a.m. Convention and Mid-Winter Conference Committee 10:00 a.m. VFW News Committee Meeting 11:00 a.m. Veterans Service Committee Meeting 1:00 p.m. Finance Committee Meeting Saturday, February 16, 2008 7-10:00 a.m.Registration 7:00 a.m. Past Commander’s Breakfast 8:30 a.m. General Session Begins 12:00 p.m. Lunch/Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen Winners 1:00 p.m. VFW/LAVFW Raffle Drawing Grand Council North 1:30 p.m. General Session Reconvenes 6-7:00 p.m. Social Hour 7:00 p.m. Banquet Ladies Auxiliary To The Veterans Of Foreign Wars Of The United States February 15-16, 2008 Green Bay, Wisconsin Schedule of Events (Subject to Change) Friday - February 15, 2008 8:00 a.m. Registration 11:45 a.m. National Chaplain arrives 3:00 p.m. Line Officers Meeting, Presidents Suite 4:30 p.m. Cocktails for Dutch Treat Dinner 5:00 p.m. Dutch Treat Dinner for National Respresentative – Invitation Only 7:00-9:00 p.m. Council Meeting Saturday - February 16, 2008 7:00-9:00 a.m. Registration 7:00-9:00 a.m. Buddy Poppy Entries Judging at Noon 8:00 a.m. Auxiliary Chairman’s Promotional Meeting 11:30 a.m. Morning Sessions Close 12:00 p.m. Voice of Democracy/ Patriots Pen Luncheon 1:00 p.m. Raffle Drawing 1:45 p.m. Afternoon Sessions Reconvene 4:00 p.m. Closing of Mid-Winter Conference 6:00-7:00 p.m. Cash Bar Reception 7:00 p.m. Mid-Winter Banquet
Pine Tree Grill Ext. 7920 Lunch 11 am - 4 pm Dinner 4 pm - 10 pm In-room Dining Ext. 486 Daily 6 am - 11 pm Standing Stone Buffet & Grill Ext. 409 Monday-Thursday Breakfast Buffet 6 am - 10 am Lunch Buffet 1130 am - 230 pm Dinner Buffet 5 pm - 830pm Friday Breakfast Buffet 6 am - 10 am Lunch Buffet 1130 am - 230 pm Dinner Buffet 5 pm - 9 pm Saturday Breakfast Buffet 7 am - 1030 am Lunch Buffet 1130 am - 230 pm Dinner Buffet 430 pm - 10 pm Sunday Breakfast Buffet 7 am - 1230pm Dinner Buffet 4 pm - 830 pm Purcell’s Lounge Ext. 7901 Monday – Thursday 3 pm - 1 am Friday 3 pm - 2 am Saturday 11 am - 2 am Sunday 11 am - 12 am Daily Menu 11 am - 11 pm Live Bands (Friday & Saturday nights) Snack Shop Tel. 429-3103 (Located inside the Main Casino) Sunday-Thursday Open 6 am - 2 am Friday & Saturday Open 24-Hours Java Coast Coffee & Gift Shop Ext. 7907 Monday-Thursday 630 am - 7 pm Friday 630 am - 8 pm Saturday 7 am - 8 pm Sunday 7 am - 5 pm The Gathering Restaurant Tel: 429-3487 (Located inside the Irene Moore Activity Center-IMAC) Monday - Sunday 1030 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Veterans of foreign Wars and ladies auxiliary department of Wisconsin 2008 mid-Winter conference-february 15-17, 2008 radisson hotel & conference center green bay
VFW and Auxiliary members may register on this one form. Please read and fill in the form below, total both columns and make out one check. When registering more than one Post or Auxiliary member please list each name on the back of the form. Deadline for reservations is February 1, 2008. VFW Registration $7 in advance-$8 at conference Name_____________________________Post # ________ Title ___________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City/State/Zip ___________________________________ Phone # ________________________________________ _________#____registrations @ $7.00 = $_____________ VFW Auxiliary Registration $7 in advance-$8 at conference Name_________________________________Aux. # _______ Title ______________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________ City/State/Zip _______________________________________ Phone # ___________________________________________ _________ #____registrations @ $7.00 = $_______________
Please make an *** next to the persons name to call if there are any questions. Mid-Winter Banquet $20.00 per person, Saturday 7 p.m #____tickets @ $20.00 = $____________ _____________ Please mark choice: Herb Baked Chicken ______________________________ Braised Beef Short Ribs ___________________________ Mid-Winter Banquet $20.00 per person, Saturday 7 p.m ___________ #_____tickets @ $20.00 = $________________ Please mark choice: Herb Baked Chicken _________________________________ Braised Beef Short Ribs _______________________________
VFW members on travel orders mark TO next to your meal choice. One banquet will be deducted from your expense check. Voice of Democracy Luncheon, Saturday Noon _________ Burgundy Beef Tips over noodles #_______tickets @$12.00=$ ________________________ TOTAL_________________________________________ TOTAL of BOTH SIDES___________________ SEND THIS FORM ALONG WITH CHECK MADE PAYABLE TO: VFW 2008 Mid-Winter Conference AND MAIL TO: ED & CARLA STOCKEL ANY QUESTIONS? PLEASE CALL 1019 N. CHURCH ST. #104 262-743-1373 or 608-732-1430 to leave message ELKHORN, WI 53121-1185 Registration times: Friday 1 p.m till 6 p.m and Saturday 7 a.m. till 10 a.m. NOTE: Past Commander’s Club members staying at the Radisson can utilize the free breakfast at the Standing Stone Buffet then proceed to the Tuscarora/Oneida room for a 7 a.m. meeting. Voice of Democracy Luncheon, Saturday Noon ____________ Burgundy Beef Tips over noodles #_______tickets @$12.00=$ ___________________________ TOTAL ____________________________________________
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Jan/Feb, 008
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
studeNts Visit WitH iraQ Vet
Klossner-Dietzler VFW Post 5729 Prepares to Charter Men’s Auxiliary
Last April, the members of Medford’s Klossner-Dietzler VFW Post 5729 set the ball in mortion for the creation of a Men’s Auxiliary to the VFW, Its structure and regulation will closely resemble that of the Ladies Auxiliary, which was chartered in 1949. But VFW Men’s Auxiliaries are in no way intended to replace VFW Ladies Auxiliaries. One major differentiation is that Men’s Auxiliaries are limited in scope to individual post operation. There is no larger organizational structure at State or National levels, as is the case with the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW. Membership in a VFW Men’s Auxiliary is limited to males over the age of 16 who are the son, husband, brother, father, grandfather, half-brother, grandson or widower of a VFW-eligible veteran. Some of the functions will be to help the veterans at funerals, parades, special events, and the community. The new organizational concept became a reality at the 102nd National VFW Convention in 2001 with the passage of bylaws changes that made the new Auxiliaries possible. Glidden VFW 7300 became the first Post in the state to charter a Men’s Auxiliary. Since then, Post 8483, Madison, has chartered a Men’s Auxiliary. VFW Post 5729 has requested a charter be issued in accordance with National and State bylaws. On Jan 19, 2008, the post will host an informal gathering of those who have applied, as well as others that may be interested. The session will help to pass along information about the new unit. Applications can also be obtained at the VFW Clubhouse during normal work hours Tuesday thru Sunday. Clubhouse address is 240 S. 8th, Medford. For additional information, contact Ken Patterson, State Chairman, or Dennis Mayotte, Post 5729 Commander at 748-3322.
more info: www.wisvets.com/events (800) Wis-Vets / 800-947-8387
On Monday, November 12, 2007, a program was held at Waupun Area Middle School to honor all veterans. Captain Benjamin Buchholz, who works full-time for the Wisconsin National Guard, presented a video and spoke to the students about his experiences in Iraq. He was the civil affairs officer of the 2nd Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Brigade Combat Team of the Wisconsin National Guard, when they were deployed in 2005 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Waupun Students Hear Firsthand From Iraq Vet
up and down the line, its crew watching for trouble. Of the 620 soldiers deployed to Iraq, three were killed in action: Sergeant Andrew Wallace, Specialist Michael Wendling and Sergeant Ryan Jopek. All three died of wounds received from IED blasts while escorting convoys on the main supply route from Kuwait to Baghdad. Following his presentation, Ben allowed a question-andanswer session with the students. He said that temperatures in Iraq were 115 degrees and higher, which required plenty of drinking water. He also mentioned that upon returning home in 2006, the first thing he did was to smell the fresh green grass --- Iraq is miles and miles of sand. He told the students that serving in the military is not only an adventure, but a great experience and honor, and will give you a greater appreciation for the little things at home that make the efforts of fighting for freedom worthwhile. Ben, a widely published writer of fiction and nonfiction, wrote a book, Private Soldiers – A Year in Iraq with a Wisconsin National Guard Unit. The book includes pictures from two professional photographers, First Lieutenant Nathan Olson and Staff Sergeant Joseph Streeter, who were also deployed with his unit. Ben lives in Brandon, Wisconsin with his wife, Angie, and sons Wesley and Jack. Ben’s aunt, Jodi Steger, is the mayor of Waupun. Ben is one of the newest members of VFW Post 6709 Waupun. (Photos and story by Larry Q Duer, VFW Post 6709)
shown (l-r) are frank mesa (commander of Waupun’s Bentley-Hull VFW Post 6709), Capt. Benjamin buchholz and Jodi steger (mayor of Waupun). His unit was responsible for providing armed convoy escort and route security throughout all of Iraq. Most of the semis in the convoys were civilian contracted with the drivers speaking only Urdu or Arabic or Hindi, turning the convoy into a rolling Tower of Babel. Communication among drivers was a problem and involved some creative use of gestures or pre-fabricated picture cards captioned in multiple languages. Most missions involved three security vehicles, up-armored Humvees, along with thirty to fifty semis. One security Humvee usually led the convoy and another almost always brought up the rear, while the third Humvee moved
capt. buchholz’s iraq experiences are detailed in his latest book.
date:
Wed., feb. 20, 2008
at the 2008 Wis. dePt. of Veterans affairs
POW/MIA Remembered In Park Falls
members of VfW Post 5778, Phillips, and their ladies a u x i l i a r y, t o gether with fifield and Park falls american legion Posts, honored our mia and PoW in a moving ceremony at st. anthony’s catholic church in Park falls on PoW/ mia day, september 21. members of VfW auxiliary 5778, Phillips, pose following PoW/mia ceremony at Park falls. (l to r) are: therese trojak, President; n a n c y m i l l e r, chaplain; staff sgt. elisha higgins; elsie hanish, Patriotic instructor; Jean Klimowki; elaine rauchle, sr. Vice President.
Veterans - Join us
staKeholders’ conference Wisconsin Veterans’ salute to the legislature
• Participate in shaping the future • meet with your state government officials, including the Governor, the legislature, and the Wisconsin dept. of Veterans affairs. • Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow veterans from around the state. location: monona terrace community and convention center exhibition hall a one John nolen drive madison, Wis. time: 12 noon - 5 P.m. recePtion ($7): 5 P.m. AND THE 16TH ANNUAL
studeNts receiVe aWards
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Jan/Feb, 008
VFW Post 10519 and Auxiliary Present Awards
Stratford Post 6352 and Auxiliary Present VOD, Patriot’s Pen Awards
Recently, the Stratford VFW and LAVFW 6352 held the annual Patriot’s Pen Essay Contests and Voice of Democracy contest. Winners received a certificate and a monetary prize. Co-Chairmen of Youth Activities are John A. Southworth, Stratford VFW 6352 and Betty Southworth, Stratford Ladies Auxiliary VFW 6352. Patriot’s Pen — “Why I am an American Patriot” St. Joseph’s Stratford Winners 1st Austin J. Hoffman 2nd Anna M. Brickheimer 3rd Andrea R. Wenzel 6th Grade Stratford Elementary School Winners 1st Brett Roeglin 2nd Shae Kellner 3rd Kelsey Boeger 7th Grade Stratford Junior High 1st Taylor Joswiak 2nd Hannah Schmitt 3rd Alex Hem 8th Grade Stratford Junior High 1st Kayla Redman 2nd Brooke Binder 3rd Samantha Fromback Voice of Democracy - “My Role In Honoring America’s Veterans” Voice of Democracy Winner Caramon A. Ives
greendale VfW Post 10519 commander, david Kriesel, presents Voice of Democracy winner Brenna Patterson with her certificate. At the table are (l-r) nancy ustruck, auxiliary treasurer; amanda Patterson, Vod chair; and to far right, Qm roger Volland.
Post and auxiliary 10519 Vod winner brenna Patterson of greendale high school with her brother, garrett Patterson, and parents, Pat and mary Patterson.
John and betty southworth, Post and auxiliary Vod and Patriot’s Pen Co-Chairs, present the first place award to VOD winner Caramon a. ives, of stratford.
brooke howard, a student at greendale middle school, won the Post 10519 Patriot’s Pen essay contest. she is pictured with her parents, Kristine and christopher howard.
TournamentMay 3rd dates: The First 3 Weekends of April and the Weekend of
Area Motel Information Select Inn* 1828 S Hastings Heritage Motel Maple Manor Super 8 Comfort Inn Exel Inn Holiday Inn Days Inn Best Western Quality Inn The Plaza 1305 S Hastings 2507 S Hastings 1151 MacArthur 3117 Craig Rd 2305 Craig Rd 2703 Craig Rd 631 Truax Lane 3340 Mondovi Rd 809 W Clairemont 1202 W Claire866-913-6466 800-711-8180 800-624-3763 800-800-8000 715-833-9798 800-367-3935 800-472-3297 800-950-4850 888-634-5330 800-424-6423 800-482-7829 800-950-6121 $80 $80 $52 $65 $60 $56 $59 $59
observing Veterans day, matt hauke (l) and aJ Pratt (r), 7th graders at st. leonard school in muskego, demonstrate how to fold an american flag, while Greendale VFW Ladies Auxiliary 10519, Mary Jo Garinger, explains the significance of each fold. The presentation was made to three classes of 7th and 8th graders, a total of about 65 students. (Photo from mary Jo garinger)
Ramada Conv Ctr 205 S Barstow St
* Select Inn Shares parking with the bowling lanes
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Jan/Feb, 008
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
LoyaLty day 2008 iNfo
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS & LADIES AUXILIARY DEPARTMENT OF WISCONSIN
loyalty day Parade
new glarus, Wisconsin april 26, 2008
Sponsored by New Glarus VFW Post 10549 New Glarus, Wisconsin The theme of the Loyalty Day Parade is “honoring all Veterans.” The April 26, 2008 Loyalty Day Parade will step off at 1:30 p.m. loyalty day chairman Ed Andreas VFW Post 10549 N4169 Pine St. Brodhead, WI 53520 608-897-2469 emandreas@tds.net Bill Hustad W4489 Exeter Crossing Road Monticello, WI 53570 608-527-2942 wfhus1@tds.net
SponSoring Donor ADvertiSing orDer Form
Business Name: ____________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________,________Zip_________________ Phone:(______)_____________________________________________________ Contact Name: _____________________________________________________ Ad Size Selected: Full Page [ ½ Page ¼ Page 1/8 Page 1/16 Page ] $150 (Inside) [ [ ] Standard [ ] Standard [ ] Standard [ ] Standard ] $200*(Inside cover) [ [ ] Vertical [ ] Vertical [ ] Vertical [ ] Vertical $80.00 $45.00 $25.00 $15.00 ] $250*(Outside Back)
SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2008 NEW GLARUS WI LINE-UP: 12:00 NOON STEP-OFF: 1:30 P.M. The VFW, Department of Wisconsin, is pleased to announce that the Village of New Glarus has been chosen to host the 2008 State Loyalty Day Parade and ceremonies. The event takes place on Saturday, April 26, 2008. Your Post and Auxiliary are cordially invited to participate in this grand event. Loyalty Day is set aside by Presidential Proclamation as an opportunity for the American People to reaffirm their loyalty to the United States of America, and as a reminder to every American that loyalty to our nation is vital to the maintenance of our freedoms. The VFW Posts and Ladies Auxiliaries are working together to make this date a special day of celebration of our wonderful nation. If you have additional questions, please call Ed Andreas (608) 897-2469 or Bill Hustad (608) 527-2942. Please complete the registration form below, clip and mail before April 7, 2008 to: Loyalty Day Chairman Ed Andreas N4169 Pine St. Brodhead, WI 53520 Please enter the following unit in the 2008 Loyalty Day Parade in New Glarus, WI on April 26, 2008. Name of Unit/Post /Auxiliary: _______________________________________ Type of Unit (Band, Color Guard, Float, etc):____________________________ Do you want to be judged for competition? (Check One) _____Yes _____No Will your unit perform at the judge’s stand? ______Yes ______No Unit Contact Person: _______________________________________________ Mailing Address: _________________________________________________ Phone Number including area code: ___________________________________ Please print or type all information.
Patron Listing (name only)……………………....$ 5.00 *Note: Cover pages include color. ---Please Note--• Include camera ready artwork with order. • Make checks payable to VFW Post 10549 LOYALTY DAY • Deadline for advertising orders is March 10, 2008 • If you have additional questions you may call Loyalty Day Ad Chairman Ed Andreas at 608-897-2469, email emandreas@tds.net, or Bill Hustad at 608-527-2942 email wfhus1@tds.net. SATURDAY, APRIL 26 A Day to Declare Our Loyalty to Our Great Nation Each year, by Presidential Proclamation, the last Saturday of April is Loyalty Day. On this day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States celebrates the remarkable freedoms that make America a beacon of liberty throughout the world. This year, the VFW Department of Wisconsin has chosen New Glarus as the site of this celebration. We will feature a parade starting at 1:30 p.m., where we will then present a special program of celebration, and award trophies to outstanding participants. Refreshments will follow. Your generous support will help defray the costs of this event. One way for you to help is by placing an ad in our commemorative booklet. The order form is above. Please help us make this year’s Loyalty Day a smashing success. Select the ad size that suits your budget, submit it along with any artwork you would like us to use and your contribution payable to VFW Loyalty Day to: VFW Loyalty Day Chairman Ed Andreas VFW Post 10549 N4169 Pine St. Brodhead, WI 53520
lodging guide for neW glarus area
neW glarus: chalet landhaus 801 hwy. 69 new glarus, Wi 53574 Ph: 800-944-1716 swiss aire 1200 hwy. 69 new glarus, Wi Ph: 800-798-4391 hoch haus b & b 218 second st. new glarus, Wi Ph: 608-527-4019 monroe: gasthaus motel 685 30th st. monroe, Wi Ph: 608-328-8395
Wisconsin state loyalty day - aPril 26, 2008
sponsored by VfW Post 10549 new glarus, Wisconsin
gross-yaksh Post 6498 SupportS the VFW NeWS the albert h. groska VfW Post 8320
Past “all-state” home Post of national Jr. Vice commander-in-chief tommy t. tradewell
Junker-Ball VFW Post 1865 and Ladies Auxiliary PUBLIC BAR OPENS 9 A.M. 7 DAYS A WEEK Visit us at 6618 39th Avenue Kenosha, WI check our web site! www.vfw1865.org
• Daily Food Specials • 2 Halls for Rent • Complete Catering
VFW Post 7232 Eau Claire’s “Other Post”
2 Blocks west on Folsom St. off North Clairmont Ave.
Bar Open to the Public Hall Rental Available 4/08
Phone: 262-652-2751
8/08
Meetings on the 3rd Wed. of the Month Post is open 4 til 8 p.m., Mon.-Fri. HOME OF THE STATE HONOR GUARD The greatest little post in the state 1/08
PEWAUKEE MEMORIAL POST 9537
The Wisconsin VFW News salutes these local Wisconsin Posts and thanks them for their patronage!
WorkiNG toGetHer Working Together To Help Our Vets
Gary Gullickson, a Marine Veteran from Minnesota, linked up with fellow vets from Wisconsin to help supply Hams for the Holidays to residents of Veterans Homes, hospitals and VAP programs throughout Wisconsin. Working with members of Rolling Thunder, the VFW and American Legion, among others, the group managed to provide Holiday Ham Dinners for 1150 vets in Wisconsin, and another 1500 or more in Minnesota. Many caring and giving individuals supplied money to the Feed the Vets program. In Wisconsin, Rolling Thunder Chapter 1, and volunteers from Adams/Friendship VFW Post 6279 and Amereican Legion Post 250, joined together to deliver the hams and a variety of other gifts and necessities to the Randlin Homes in Wausau, Klein Hall in Chippewa Falls, Tomah and Union Grove VA, The King Home and the Veterans Assistance Programs (VAP) at Tomah, King and Union Grove. Donations are always welcome, and the needs of veterans in these programs continues to be of concern. Soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo and other toiletries are among the many items in short supply. (See the VAP Donations List of Needs on page 7.) The VFW Department of Wisconsin salutes Gary and his many volunteers, and thanks them for helping our veterans in need.
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
NOTES FROM
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Jan/Feb, 008
The Editor’s Corner
Comrades and Sisters, What a busy time we’ve had! Oh, sure, the holidays came and went, leaving torn wrapping paper and exhausted family in their wake, stuffed with turkey and such, but it was more than that. Since September, your editor has had his hands more than full with additional duties as we restructure our VFW Department of Wisconsin Web presence. It’s a tremendous system, and a smoother transition would definitely have been preferred, but sometimes things don’t always go all that smoothly. Still, our affiliation with VFW WebCOM is beginning to bear fruit. Most of our past editions of the VFW News, for example, are back up and available for viewing on our new website. (We are unaccountably missing all but one of the 2005 editions, which never got transferred to us from the old site.) Our online reporting capability is improving. The temporary e-reports we created have helped, but we are currently finishing up new PDF versions that will be significantly smoother and more efficient in operation. In the next few weeks we’ll be unveiling a revised, brighter, cleaner template for all our pages and, at the same time, creating a more orderly and easier-to-follow directory, to make finding what you want online much, much easier. Mid-Winter Conference is headed our way and, based on our great experience in Green Bay for the past Department Convention, we expect to have a very upbeat and productive session in February. We are especially honored that National VFW Commander-in-Chief George Lisicki will be our VFW Department Representative. That is a distinct honor for a Department, and we hope many of you will turn out to welcome our leader. I had the pleasure of meeting CIC Lisicki at the Big 10 Conference in Minneapolis not all that long ago, and I can vouch for the fact that he is likeable, approachable and has a good sense of humor. He pays attention to what members have on their minds, so when you get the chance, introduce yourself. Also at Mid-Winter, we are setting up a Wi-Fi capable room with laptops (ours and yours!) and a projector. We plan to have it available on Friday afternoon as well as throughout the day Saturday so that our growing cadre of blogmasters and those interested in adding their posts to our expanding list of participants can get some advice, share experiences and ideas, and generally help move our electronic communications network forward. We also expect representatives from VFW WebCOM to be present to explain this remarkable system in more detail. I’d like to thank those out there who have taken up the cause and are producing some really great stories already on our web. It’s the way of the future, no doubt about it. But never fear, our Wisconsin VFW News will continue to be the voice of record for our organization. The experience of editing this unique publication is both exhilarating and humbling. It is a great responsibility, and we hope you like what you’ve seen so far.
JANUARY 9 Dane County Council Meeting, Verona Post 8653, 7:00 p.m. 11-12 Cootie Grand Testimonial & MidWinter Scratch - Appleton. 13 District 7 Meeting, 12:00/1:30 p.m. - “The Arena” in Merrill. Hosted by Post 1638. 17 Dodge County Council Meeting, Lowell Post 9392, 7:30 p.m. 20 District 1 Meeting, 10:00 a.m. - Monroe - Post 2312. 26 District 11 Meeting, 9:00 a.m. - Camp Douglas - Post 10911. 26 District 8 Meeting, 11:30 a.m./1:00 p.m. - Appleton, Post 2778. 27 District 2 Meeting, 9:00 a.m. Watertown, Post 3709 27 District 3 Meeting, 9:00 a.m. - Avoca, Post 8244 27 District 5 Meeting, 12:00/1:00 p.m. - Hart Park, Post 6498. 31 Deadline Quarterly Audit (10/1-12/31). FEBRUARY 6 Waukesha County Council Mtg., Waukesha Post 721, 7:30 p.m. 7 Brown County Council Meeting, Bellevue Post 9677, 8:00 p.m. 10 District 4 Meeting, 12:00 p.m. Milwaukee, Post 2903. 10 District 6 Meeting, 12:00/1:30 p.m. - Sheboygan, Post 9156. 15-17 VFW & LAVFW State Mid-Winter, Green Bay. 20 Stakeholders’ Conference and the 16th Annual Wisconsin Veterans’ Salute to the Legislature, noon-5 p.m., Monona Terrace, One John Nolen Dr., Madison. 23 District 9 Meeting, 1:00 p.m. - Altoona, Post 10405. MARCH 2-5 VFW National Legislative & Community Service Conference, Washington, D.C. 12 Dane County Council Meeting, Sun Prairie Post 9362, 7:00 p.m. 20 Dodge County Council Meeting, Lowell Post 9392, 7:30 p.m. APRIL 4-6 LAVFW Mid-Year Conference, Palm Springs, CA. 5-6 State Bowling Tourney - Eau Claire. 12-13 State Bowling Tourney - Eau Claire. 13 District 8 Meeting, 11:30 a.m./1:00 p.m. - De Pere, Post 2113. 19 District 11 Meeting, 9:00 a.m. - Sauk Prairie, Post 7694. 19-20 State Bowling Tourney - Eau Claire. 19-20 Cootie Grand, Kenosha. 20 District 7 Meeting, 12:00/1:30 p.m. - Comfort Inn, Shawano. Hosted by Post 2723. 26 State Loyalty Day, New Glarus. 26 District 9 Meeting, 12:00/1:00 p.m. - Rice Lake, Post 2204 27 District 3 Meeting, 9:00 a.m. - Boscobel, Post 10393 31 Deadline Quarterly Audit (1/1-3/31). MAY 3 District 6 Meeting, 10:00 a.m. Waubeka at the Americanism Center. 3-4 State Bowling Tourney - Eau Claire. 7 Waukesha County Council Meeting, Oconomowoc Post 2260, 7:30 p.m. 14 Brown County Council Meeting, Denmark Post 6705, 8:00 p.m. 14 Dane County Council Meeting, Deerfield/Cambridge Post 9424, 7:00 p.m. (Nora’s Rest., Hwy. 12/18).
calendar of eVents
Pictured with the staff of the chippewa falls VaP are, (standing, left) former state senator dave Zien, VP rolling thunder chapter 1, Wi, and (kneeling, front row) rich leistikow, state President, rolling thunder, Wi, and earl J. hahmens Jr., board chairman, rolling thunder, Wi, (and member of VfW Post 6279, adams/friendship).
Como Memorial Post 5811 Lake Geneva....announces
LARRY KUTSCHMA
Candidate for
State Junior Vice Commander ’08/’09
U.S. Army, Vietnam ...........................................................Kontum ’68/’69 All-American District 1 Commander .............................................’06-’07 All-American Post Commander .....................................................’06-’07 Post 5811 Commander ......................................................... ’99 to Present All State Team ................................................................................. 6 Years All State Team Co-Captain ................................................................... ’04 All State Team Captain .......................................................................... ’05 All State District 1 Commander .....................................................’06-’07 State Youth Dev. Chairman ................................................. ’03 to Present State Scouting Chairman .................................................... ’03 to Present National Youth Dev. Committee ..................................................... Present National Scouting Team .................................................................. Present National Security & Foreign Affairs Committee ..........................’06-’07 National Deputy Chief of Staff........................................................’06-’07 • 1st Commander in Wisconsin to receive National “Fred C. Hall Memorial Award” • 1st Wisconsin Commander to make front page of USA Today national newspaper two years in a row, ’04 and ’05 • Department of the Army Commander’s Award for Civilian Service ........................ Nov. 21, 2006
– THANK YOU –
The Wisconsin VFW News would like to thank you for continually submitting information & story ideas for your VFW newspaper. If you think it’s worth reading, share it with everyone.
Editor: William Knudson 505 S. Apple Ave., Marshfield, WI 54449 Phone: (715) 384-2500 E-mail: vfwnews.wi@verizon.net
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#lname BOLLE HAKALA EHLEY, JR ENGELHARDT HOFFMAN KARCH PLOECKELMAN LARSEN ANDREWS FIETZER PAUL OVERBY THOMPSON ANNOYE BARBEAU KEMP KOWNASKI PABICH ROBOKOFF ZIELKE BUNIJ GILLESPIE GRUBER PREEZ QUARTUCCIO SLINDE BAIN SPRANG VAN DYKEN OLSON BERTHUIAUME MARSHALL BANNA WHITE SMITH, JR WINCKLER FLOETER DUPUIS COLEMAN EHLERT HOFFMAN MATZDORF PERMAN SCHMITT SIZONEN SZERBAT NOTTESTAD TRINROD KAPELKE LUSTER STENZEL SNIPPEN THOMPSON WOOLSEY DASSOW KOESSL SR. BERGIN fname DALE HALL VINCENT WILLIAM WILLIAM LEROY KENNETH DONALD ROBERT HAROLD CLARENCE JOHN ROGER EDWARD JAMES JOHN DANIEL RAYMOND ERNEST CLARENCE CASMIR ROBERT CLETUS RALPH JOHN RUSSELL ALVIN HARVEY JAMES RICHARD RICHARD CLEO JOHN WILLIAM NORMAN EDWARD HARLEY JAMES GIFFORD RICHARD RONALD EDWARD RAYMOND ROBERT ALEX STANLEY CLYDE KERMIT HAROLD FREDRICK RAYMOND DONALD LAWRENCE WILLIAM JOHN RUSSELL EDDIE mi J W city WHITELAW SUSSEX GREENFIELD MILWAUKEE MILWAUKEE COLGATE BROOKFIELD DENMARK WAUPUN RHINELANDER WAUPUN MILLTOWN EVANSVILLE GREEN BAY GLIDDEN GLIDDEN GLIDDEN GLIDDEN GLIDDEN GLIDDEN ELMWOOD PK, IL MONONA MADISON MADISON WAUPUN BARABOO ONEIDA TWO RIVERS LA CROSSE BIRNAMWOOD SOLON SPRINGS SOLON SPRINGS WIND LAKE JANESVILLE DE FOREST WEST BEND WESTFIELD MOSINEE CARLTON, MN SHEBOYGAN SHEBOYGAN SHEBOYGAN SHEBOYGAN SHEBOYGAN SHEBOYGAN JUNEAU CAMBRIDGE STOUGHTON FOND DU LAC LANNON NEKOOSA WASHBURN STRATFORD KEY WEST, FL WAUTOMA KENOSHA SURING
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John R. Moses
Former WDVA Secretary MADISON) – John R. Moses, former Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, passed away on Saturday, December 8, 2007, at the age of 88. “John Moses was a reJohn r. moses vered leader 1919-2007 of the department for twenty years,” said WDVA Secretary John A. Scocos. “His leadership was of great benefit to Wisconsin’s veterans, and he will be greatly missed.” In 1961, John Moses was appointed Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs and assumed the post in 1962. Among his many achievements during his tenure as Secretary, he led the revitalization of the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King and worked to improve the financial standing of the department, including the WDVA home loan program. Exhibits at the G.A.R. Memorial Hall were significantly improved during the mid-1960s when Secretary Moses, a
obituaries
Helen W. Tobias
Our Wisconsin VFW Ladies Auxiliary lost a unique and wonderful sister last October. Helen W. Tobias passed away at the age of 82, leaving a loving family and helen W. tobias hundreds of 1925 - 2007 warm friendships from her many years of service in our great organization. Helen was a special lady. She was born in Racine in 1925 to Soren and Marie Hansen. Growing up with 2 brothers and 3 sisters, she developed her trademark sense of humor and genuine enthusiasm for life. In 1947, Helen married World War II Air Force Veteran Bob Tobias. It was under his eligibility that she joined the William F. Ehrlich Auxiliary to Post 1391, Racine. Her brother, Gordon Hansen, was also a Marine Veteran of the 2nd World War and belonged to Post 1391, as did 3 brothers-in-law. Helen Tobias, in the words of longtime friend Trish Mortensen, was one you could always rely on for a job not only well-done, but “done with thoroughness and class!” She was totally devoted to working for the betterment of not only the Ladies Auxiliary, but of the VFW and all veterans. In 1966-67, while serving as President of her Auxiliary, Helen was awarded the coveted “Auxiliary Woman of the Year” award. Even after the loss of her husband in 1975, Helen continued to assume important posts for the organization – even serving as State Chief of Staff for the 1975-76 year under Betty Kurz. Over subsequent years, Helen remained active at her local post, and also assumed responsibilities at the state level including Secretary (for 10 years!), Treasurer and more. Her friends recall with great fondness the many happy moments of laughter they shared with this lovable jokester, who had a knack for getting the maximum laughs out of a funny story. Her daughter, Diane Hogan, shared a special closeness with Helen and inherited her spirit of humor and devotion to the cause of veterans. Helen was very proud of Diane’s achievements as she went through the chairs and ultimately served as State Auxiliary President. It is said that in life there are rare individuals who make a lasting and wonderful impression on all they meet. Such a person was Helen Tobias. She will be missed, but she left great joy in our hearts.
World War II tank commander, received legislative approval to upgrade the museum displays. Moses hired a professional curator and a staff assistant in 1970 as the exhibit function of the G.A.R. Hall became the main activity of the memorial. Historical artifacts were systematically catalogued. The American Association of Museums accredited the G.A.R. Memorial Hall Museum. Attendance figures reflected the popularity of the museum as visitation averaged 80,000 per year for over a decade, the highest attendance of all Madison museums at the time, helping to set the stage for the later successful efforts in creating the Wisconsin Veterans Museum in its current location. Secretary Moses retired from the department in 1982, continuing to live in Madison with his wife, Mildred. He was a Life Member of VFW Post 3032, Viroqua. On June 16, 2006, following a meeting of the Board of Veterans Affairs, WDVA dedicated a key facility at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King as the, “John Moses Central Services Building,” in recognition of Secretary Moses’ vision and achievements, including helping to fully establish the King Home as one of the largest state veterans homes in the nation.
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obituaries Lee Sherman Dreyfus
Former Governor The colorful and sometimes controversial “Man in the R e d Ve s t , ” former Wisconsin Governor Lee Sherman Dreyfus died January 2, 2008. He was 81. After a calee sherman dreyfus reer in education, both as a faculty member of the University of Wisconsin and as Chancellor of UW Stevens Point, Dreyfus resigned in 1978 to run for Governor of Wisconsin. He defeated acting Gov. Martin Shreiber in that election. Serving as the state’s 40th governor through 1982, he will be remembered for his tax cuts in response to a large budget surplus, as well as for his pragmatic and effective political dealings. Dreyfus once said the Legislature controlled by the rival party “forces you to think in terms of compromise. You don’t have an option. Your only power is to stop things with the veto.” Dreyfus was a Milwaukee native, earning his undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degrees at UW-Madison. He was a naval veteran of WW II, and became a Life Member of the VFW at Post 568, Stevens Point at the behest of current Wausau Post 388 member James Maas.
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Never Forgotten….
Earl Banks, Jr., National VFW Council Representative (District 11), personifies our VFW dedication to remembering all veterans. The photos below were taken during Earl’s Veterans Day visit at the Rock Haven Nursing Home in Janesville. Aging veterans always appreciate a visit from Comrades and Sisters of the VFW and Auxiliary.
Classified Listings
For Sale
J & R MILITARY SURPLUS Thursday thru Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed holidays. Hwy. 35, De Soto, WI 54624. Toll free (877) 315-8773; (608) 648-2112. www.jrmilitarysurplus.com Real U.S. military surplus! (No catalog.) 4/08 FOR SALE: VILAS COUNTY, EAGLE RIVER: 1.4-acre wooded lot on paved road. All utilities available. One mile from “28 Chain-O-Lakes” boat landing. Asking $24,900. Call (715) 477-0007. 2/08 FOR SALE: GREEN BAY PACKER MEMORABILIA: Jackets, figurines and more. Must see. Call 715-547-8409, 5002 Heart Lake Rd., Conover, WI 54519. 12/08
Department of Wisconsin Mourns the Loss of James Lamboy
James R. “Jim” Lamboy was a proud veteran and high achiever. He hailed from West Allis, Wisconsin. Jim earned his eligibility for the VFW by serving with the 7th Infantry James r. lamboy Division as a Staff Sergeant in the Pacific during World War II. Upon his return home in 1946, Jim joined Post 1912, where he was an active member from the start. Eventually, he served as Post Commander from 1963-1965, garnering All State Honors during his second term. In 1965, Jim started through District chairs, being elected as the 4th District Junior Vice Commander. By 1967, Jim Lamboy became 4th District Commander and, as usual, achieved great success: He was named District Commander of the Year, 1967-68. Jim Lamboy continued to serve in many capacities in the VFW over the succeeding years. He was appointed to many Council, District, State and National Committees. He was a frequent National Aide de Camp, and in 1968-1969 was appointed Special Aide de Camp to National Commanderin-Chief Ray Gallager. By the Mid ‘70s, he was on his way through the chairs of the Department of Wisconsin, ultimately becoming State Commander for 1979-80. His characteristic energy and drive propelled him to further honors. He was named All-American Commander for his efforts on behalf of our Department. Jim was also a member of Pup Tent 31, MOC. He was a leader outside the VFW world as well. In civilian life, he was in charge of the Real Estate Section for the Department of City Development for the City of Milwaukee. Jim’s community involvement has been enormous. He was a past Scoutmaster and Committee Chairman of Boy Scout Troop #589; he served as a basketball and baseball coach for the C.Y.O. of St. Mary’s help of Christians Church in West Allis; and served on the Advisory Committee of the Milwaukee Boys Club. Jim Lamboy set a great example of leadership and achievement for the VFW, and brought honor and recognition to the Department of Wisconsin. Retiring to Sarasota, FL, some time ago, Jim continued to lead an active life. A talented professional musician, he played drums and xylophone with several bands, and even drummed with a bagpipe group in West Allis from time to time. He was on the Board of Directors of the Sarasota Jazz Festival. James R. Lamboy was 80 years old when he died at his home in Florida, on October 13, 2007. Survivors include daughters Linda Shields of Slinger, WI, Nancy Lamboy of Madison, WI, and Tracy Webb of Charlotte, NC; a son, James C. of Norwalk, WI; stepdaughters Lynn Shannon of Etowah, NC, and Patricia Leidolf of Mukwonago, WI; 17 grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren. A memorial service was held on Sunday, January 6, 2008, at Post 8483, Madison, WI. Participants included the VFW State Honor Guard, Chaplain Charlene Cobb, Department Line Officers and numerous Past State Commanders. Participants in the service included members of the Celtic Brigade bagpipers. Chaplain Charlene Cobb closed her memorial remarks by saying, “Jim, we thank you for the devotion you displayed your entire life to our country and our organization. My prayer is that your legacy will be preserved and your service to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, your family, and God will never be forgotten.”
Wanted to Buy
Earl presents a miniature flag to guenther Kromminga, a member of edgerton Post 2708.
WAR RELICS WANTED: VFW member will buy your relics for cash – any country, any period. Craig Luther, P.O. Box 63, Oak Creek, WI 53154-0063. (414) 750-6589. 12/08 BUYING VINTAGE SPORTCARDS & NONSPORTCARDS, memorabilia, Milwaukee Braves and Green Bay Packer yearbooks, bobbing heads, Hartland statues, etc. Call Paul at (262) 827-9583. 2/08
For rent
CABIN ON HEART LAKE, Conover, WI, sleeps 6. $500 per week. (715) 5478409. Boat & motor. www.kenheiser.com. 12/08
Warren rudolph, a WWii Vet, is also past district 1 historian and Post 2708 member.
Classified Listings Information: You get up to 25 words for $25.00 in 3 issues (over 45,000 circulation each) of our newspaper, plus a 3 month listing on our web site http://www.vfwofwi.com. We are accepting listings for: • For Sale – Autos, trucks, boats, motorcycles, furniture, etc. • Rentals – Homes, apartments, equipment, storage, commercial, etc. • Service – Repair, cleaning, roofing, heating/cooling, painting, etc. • Notices – Meetings, Professional, Auctions. Travel, etc. • Want to Buy – Merchandise, homes, equipment, etc. • Want to Rent – Apartments, equipment, etc. • Employment – Help wanted, work wanted by job type. Sorry, no personals. Please include a phone number, ad copy, typed or printed and a check for $25.00 per ad and send to: Veterans of Foreign Wars, Dept. of Wisconsin, Newspaper / classifieds, P.O. Box 1623, Madison, WI 53701-1623
state honor guard commander matt mayer presents the folded flag to nancy lamboy, daughter of the late James lamboy.
here, earl visits with Warren rudolph’s wife, beulah, who is a life member of Post 2708’s ladies auxiliary.
Support Our Troops
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Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
aLL VeteraNs reuNioN
neW glarus, Wisconsin • January 18-19, 2008 Friday, January 18, 2008 2:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Hospitality Suite on 2nd floor at the Chalet Landhaus Inn. 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Veterans and friends meet at Swiss Lanes for social time. 9:00 p.m. - 9:15 p.m. Burning of Winter Ceremony on Railroad Street 9:15 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. Line-up Parade by Burning of Winter Ceremony. 9:30 p.m. Parade begins on Railroad Street and 6th Avenue Intersection 9:30 p.m.-12:30 p.m. Parade ends at Fire Station where there is a bar and dance with music. $5 cover. 9:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m. New Glarus Brewery Tours Saturday, January 19, 2008 9:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m. New Glarus Brewery Tours 10:00 a.m.-10 p.m. Village Wide Poker Run - Starts & ends at Ott Haus Pub. Veteran owned. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 Winterfest Auction, New Glarus Hotel, “Salute to All Veterans.” Free admission. 2:30 p.m. Sharp Annual group picture of all the veterans in front of Kleemans Pub Tavern 5:00 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Buffet Banquet, Veterans Program, and Dance to Music by “Badge” at the New Glarus Hotel. Price is: $25 Per person in advance or $30 At door. Main speaker: Sammy Davis CMOH. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - CONTACT: Bill Hustad 608-527-2942 or e-mail: wfhus1@tds.net or write: WINTERFEST 2007, P.O. Box 14, New Glarus, WI 53574 Website for information: http://www.war-veterans.org/Winter.htm Motels and Bed & Breakfasts in and around New Glarus Chalet Landhaus Inn 1-800-944-1716 or 608-527-5234 Swiss Aire Motel 1-800-798-4391 or 608-527-2138 Hoch Haus B&B 1-608-527-4019 My Friends B&B 608-527-3511 Motels outside of New Glarus (15 minutes away) Monroe, WI: Alphorn Inn 1-800-325-1178 / 608-325-4138 Super 8 Motel (pool) 1-800-800-8000 or 608-325-1500 AmericInn 1-800-634-3444 / 608-328-3444 Gasthaus Motel 1-608-328-8395 Verona, WI: Cozee Inn 1-608-845-6471 Super 8 1-800-800-8000 22nd Annual Winterfest - DINNER - PROGRAM & DANCE to “BADGE” **************************************************************** Date: Saturday night, January 19, 2008 Where: New Glarus Hotel, 100 Sixth Street, New Glarus, WI Agenda: 5:00 p.m. Cocktails / Free Spotted Cow beer 5:30 p.m. Dinner 6:30 p.m. Veterans Program 7:30 p.m. Music starts Dress Code: Come as you are Menu: Hot Buffet - 3 kinds of meat, house salad, mashed potatoes/gravy, 2 vegetables, bread/butter and free coffee. Cost: $25. in advance or $30. At door Contact: Bill Hustad (608) 527-2942 Send Reservations to R.S.V.P. William Hustad W4489 Exeter Crossing Road Monticello, WI 53570 E-mail: wfhus1@tds.net Cost: $25.00 advance reservation per person. Make check out to: WVV Chapter 3
VFW To Assembly: Let’s Keep The Red, White and Blue!
22nd annual Winterfest all Veterans reunion
Past State Commander Bill Backes testifies at a hearing in Madison on January 3. backes has rallied support for assembly action mandating continued use of the red, White and blue design currently reserved for Veterans’ Plates. the state dot wants to do away with the special design in ‘accordance with current law.’ On Thursday, January 3, a contingent of VFW representatives attended a Legislative Hearing to testify in favor of reverting back to the Red, White and Blue Veterans’ License Plates. According to current rules, those plates are to be replaced with simple red and white plates which carry only a small decal indicating branch of service. This has become a hot-button issue, thanks in part to publicity garnered by Past Commander Bill Backes, who has led the charge against the change in plate design and has strongly supported the efforts of Representative Terry Musser and others who have proposed the bill which would exempt Veteran’s License Plates from the mandatory 10-year redesign rule now in effect. Attending and testifying with PSC Backes were Tommy T. Tradewell, newly elected National Jr. Vice Commander in Chief of the VFW, John Miller of Pewaukee, Michael “Gunner” Furgal, State VFW Legislative Chair, and State QM/Adjutant, Steve Lawrence. Ours was by far the largest contingent present, but supporting testimony came from Mark Weber of the Oconomowoc Chapter, VVA. Anthony Harding, of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, also spoke in favor of the bill. The only dissenting testimony was a note sent from the Department of Transportation, which cited a busy schedule as the reason they couldn’t have a spokesperson present. Bill and Karen Backes have fielded many telephone calls since the story first began last Fall. They have asked that, rather than call them at home, supporters of the bill should call their state representatives and senators and impress upon them the importance of passing this key piece of legislation. Tell them you want their vote in support of Assembly Bills 518 and 538.
Duck Creek VFW Delivers Christmas
Thornberry Cottage owner Sue VanDenElzen wanted to do something for the soldiers or their families. She approached the Veterans of Foreign Wars in the Village of Howard VFW 7534 to adopt military families for Christmas. With the assistance of the Army and Marine units in the Green Bay area, families with soldiers on active duty were chosen to be adopted for Christmas. Thornberry Cottage, a high quality gift shop not far from the VFW post, hung paper ornaments from a Christmas tree listing gifts needed for the children of our soldiers’ families. Gifts came in from the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary, patrons of the store and from the community. The VFW Duck Creek in the Village of Howard can say” Thank You” to the people of Thornberry Cottage and our active duty units who made this Military Assistance Christmas program possible for the VFW to deliver Christmas to the children on December 22.
If you lived or worked on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune between 1957 and 1987, you may have been exposed to contaminated drinking water.
the united states marine corps encourages all those who resided on the base prior to 1987 to register at the official Camp Lejeune water study website to receive updated information and notifications regarding the ongoing water study. The Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry (ATSDR), a federal public health agency, is conducting this study to determine whether potential health risks are associated with exposure to the impacted drinking water. The projected completion of the study is expected mid-2008. At that time the Marine Corps will notify former residents with the results. Additional Information Camp Lejeune Water Study Call Center (877) 261-9782 monday - friday, 8:30 am and 5:00 Pm, est or online at: www.usmc.mil/clsurvey thornberry cottage owner sue Vandenelzen and duck creek Post 7534 (howard) dave behrend load presents for delivery. atsdr’s informational line: (888) 422-8737 headquarters marine corps Public affairs: (703) 614-4309
attention marines!
WaL-Mart supports troops Wal-Mart Supports The Troops
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Veterns Continue to Serve Community
the rice lake Wal-mart store made a very generous donation to the chetek Veterans of foreign Wars Post 10331. the donation has been used to purchase VfW calling cards for hospitalized veterans and veterans deployed in iraq and afghanistan. Part of the funds have been used to directly support the local troops at the rice lake and new richmond army national guard. units. receiving the donation from the rice lake Wal-mart store manager, mr. brad houghton, is Pete breed, a member of the chetek VfW Post.
Horne-Mudlitz Post Says ‘Merry Christmas’ In a Big Way!
the day of the horne-mudlitz VfW Post 6377 Kids’ christmas Party came, and santa was nowhere to be found. (he was at the north Pole frantically building iPods and other toys!) so, one of his favorite elves, who happens to be a member of the post and goes by the name of tom Lemmer, put on his disguise and filled in for the old guy! (He’s got some experience at this!) shown here with ‘santa’ are baby chloe lloyd and courtney and chrissy lehrke, chatting up santa for some christmas goodies. in addition to gifts given to the kids, the post also collected food items for the sussex food Pantry.
on november 12, 2007, members of the sturtevant Veterans of foreign Wars memorial Post 9948 attended a ceremony hosted by the Village of sturtevant to recognize the veterans’ continued contributions to the Village of sturtevant. members of the VfW Post recently donated three flags to the Sturtevant Rail Depot in remembrance of the Village of sturtevant military service members, past and present. a plaque was placed under the flags to acknowledge the services that these veterans continue to provide their country and their community. in attendance were service members from WWii, the Korean War, the gulf War, operation Joint endeavor – bosnia and the global War on terrorism (operation enduring freedom). (Photos by chuck snyder)
Need To Get The Word Out?
horne-mudlitz Post 6377 commander chuck eberhardt and 6377 ladies auxiliary secretary gloria unverrich present a check to christina hartwig of the sussex food Pantry. the check accompanied many boxes of food collected at the december 6 christmas party. to the left of christina is Post chaplain leroy eichhorst. (Photos courtesy chuck eberhardt, Post 6377)
if you have a business, if you are running for a political office, or whatever the need may be, you can place an ad in our Wisconsin VFW News Phone: 715-384-2500 E-mail: vfwnews.wi@verizon.net
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Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
VeteraNs day at pearL Harbor
eran is: “a person that has written a blank check to America and the country gets to fill in the amount up to and including death.” The longer I live, the more I understand this statement. I just hope the average American appreciates what this statement means. The band played several great hymns and some truly American songs and the ceremony started. As the wreaths were presented and laid in position, the arrangement took its own form and shape and color. Beauty beyond any description. A very fitting tribute to the veterans whose blood was spilled as they paid the ultimate sacrifice for us all and for us who survived to be remembered with them. We had one more duty to be done on this day. We needed to bring our other wreath to the USS Arizona and lay it there to finish our plan. We arrived at the USS Arizona reception center and got our tickets to go out to the memorial. It is a solemn ride across Pearl Harbor on a Navy shuttle boat. The spirit is one of deep respect as all the visitors are told that they are standing on the final resting place of 1177 US Sailors and Marines. Inside the USS Arizona Memorial are several plaques and informational displays. The gun turrets are still visible above the water and the ship’s decks are easily visible under the water. The far end of the memorial is white marble with the names of the casualties inscribed in the wall. There were 12 sailors and 2 marines from Wisconsin listed on that wall. I placed our wreath there with great respect and humility. Our trip was a huge success and we were blessed to have been a part of the Veterans Day events in this beautiful land in paradise. I hope to return to Hawaii again, but next time I cannot wait 42 years to make it back. Enjoy your freedom, as it has been bought with a great price.
Princeton Man Observes Veterans Day at Pearl Harbor
By Sam Hennessee On February 21, 1965, in the early morning hours, I arrived in Pearl Harbor aboard a troop carrying re-supply ship headed for my assignment as a helicopter repairman in Korea. Most of us were US Army privates fresh out of basic training and our military occupation specialty school with zero military experience. We stood on the deck of this ship and marveled at the sights of just being in Hawaii and seeing Diamond Head and Waikiki, to say nothing about Pearl Harbor. After spending all day unloading military supplies, lots of who knows what, and some military dependents, sometime during the following night we sailed off into the darkness, never being allowed to ever leave the ship. During the night as I watched the flickering night lights of Honolulu, I made myself a promise that someday I would return. It took 42 years to make good on my promise. My wife, Sharon, and I were spending fourteen days on two of the Hawaiian Islands. On November 9, we landed at Honolulu International Airport. A big piece of our trip plan was to spend Veterans Day 2007 honoring the service of the veterans of Wisconsin by laying wreaths at the National Cemetery of the Pacific at the “Punchbowl” and at the USS Arizona Memorial. I knew it would be a day of high voltage patriotic emotions so I had tried to make myself ready for these events. But nothing could have prepared me for what was going to take place. In the weeks before we left for the vacation, I had communicated with the several government agencies that operate and control these national treasures so that we would be approved through all the necessary security channels. I had also communicated with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Hawaii who directs the Veterans Day Program and everything had been worked out for us to participate in the ceremonies on Veterans Day. Knowing that there was too much to see in one day concerning the World War II monuments and memorials, we decided to go to the submarine Bowfin and the battle ship USS Missouri on November 10, the day before Veterans Day. The USS Bowfin’s nickname was “the Avenger of Pearl Harbor.” This one submarine sank dozens of Japanese ships and did a great job of helping to save American lives and bring the War in the Pacific to a close. The tour starts out in the front of the ship and you are given a recorder to listen to as you walk through the sub. In the words of the last Captain and some of the crew members, they tell you the story of how the sub operated and what it was like to be on a submarine combat patrol. As you come up out of the rear of the ship, you look across Pearl Harbor and see Ford Island and the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri, nicknamed the “Mighty MO.” After the impressive Bowfin tour, we were off to the Air Warfare Museum of the Pacific and then on the Mighty MO. One of my life’s goals has been to stand on the deck of the USS Missouri on the spot where World War II ended. There is just no way to describe the overpowering emotions that come over a person when you realize what you are looking at as you start up the walkway and begin to put your feet on the deck of the USS Missouri. The ship’s massive structure and the 16 inch guns are just too big for your eyes to see it all without turning your head completely from one side to the other. Then off to your left, about a block away in the front
the Japanese surrendered at this spot on the deck of the USS Missouri.
Every Dec. 7, visitors lay flowers at the memorial.
A veteran lays a wreath of the USS Arizona. of Mighty MO, stands the USS Arizona Memorial in what used to be called “battleship row.” Think about this picture for a moment, the battleship USS Arizona “the first to fight in WWII,” and the battleship USS Missouri “the ending place of WWII” sitting there in peaceful rest. The beginning and the end of WWII, and there I was taking it all in. I did not have much to say, but I had a lot to look at, ponder on and comprehend. It did not take long to find the spot of the deck where the Japanese surrendered. There were glass cases holding the United States copies of the documents of surrender and several plaques and pieces of history. What a sight!! What a delight to be standing there!! What a great country we are blessed with!! It was a wonderful end to a day of historic sightseeing. We needed to get back to our hotel to make ready for the next big day, November 11th, Veterans Day. I had been instructed to be at the Punchbowl at 9:30 a.m. to be assigned a spot to participate in the Veterans Day wreath laying ceremony. I have been to many Veterans Day programs, but nothing like I was about to be a part of. The Punchbowl is an extinct volcano crater on a mountaintop overlooking Honolulu, about a mile and a half wide, that was a sacred sight dating back hundreds of years into the ancient Hawaiian culture. Following the end of WWII, it became the National Cemetery of the Pacific with the first interments being done in 1949, with many of them being casualties of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941. Like all our military national cemeteries, this place is sacred American ground bought and paid for with the blood of our heroes. There was a Navy band, a local Hawaiian choir, more generals
flowers at the memorial for and admirals than I have ever seen in one place, the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Hawaii, soldiers from at least 20 countries, and lots of veterans from every war and organization in existence and other international delegations from lots of places. They had all come to pay tribute to the American Veteran and the fighting spirit for freedom that we have. The whole military establishment had turned out. On occasion, a person may hear something profound during one of the speeches, but not every time. On this day, I learned a new profound definition of a veteran. I learned that a vet-
sam and sharon hennessee visited Pearl harbor on the weekend of dec. 7.the memorial for the USS Arizona is in the background.
the hennessees visited the Punchbowl crater.
poLar pLuNGe
New Year’s Day was a cold one for the dedicated group of volunteers in Kansasville. The Eagle Inn on the Lake was the site of the first annual “Polar Plunge” on behalf of the veterans at the Wisconsin Veterans Home, Union Grove. According to Nicole Sprader, Volunteer Coordinator at the home, the event was a splashing success! At last report, around $5,000 had been raised from a combination of intrepid Plungers and more rational attendees who bid up items at the silent auction. Plans are already in the works for a repeat next New Year’s Day.
Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
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Jan/Feb, 008
kansasville inn Hosts polar plunge for Veterans Home
‘Just in case,’ volunteers from the Kansasville fire department were on hand to help anyone ‘out’ if they needed a hand.
This intrepid jumper displays the $500 he raised for the plunge, and then...
...shows how to earn that $500!
here’s a couple of cold condiments on their way to the deep freeze!
kenosha post partners With sheriff’s association to bring christmas cheer
For the second consecutive year, Kenosha Post 1865 sponsored the annual Kenosha County Sheriff’s “Shop With A Cop” event, helping the deputies raise $5,000.00 for Kenosha County kids. The Post 1865 donation of $500.00 got the project rolling as area merchants and other good samaritans kicked in the rest. The fund paid for a day of shopping at the Kenosha Target Store. Twenty-five students selected from Kenosha area schools gathered at the store to meet Santa and to “Shop With A Cop,” including Post 1865’s Chaplain (and recently retired deputy) Richard Tiherina. Each student received $170.00 to shop with, plus a $60.00 gift card from Pick ‘N’ Save Grocery Stores. The young shoppers were escorted by the deputies who volunteered their time to help spread some holiday happiness. It’s good to see that Christmas still brings out the best in all of us! This shows what working with other organizations can accomplish.
Chaplain Tijerina presents a check for $500.00 to Kenosha county deputy sheriffs association representative.
Post 1865 Chaplain Richard Tijerina with his shopper.
even santa takes time off from his busy schedule to help!
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Wisconsin Veterans of Foreign Wars News
studeNts HoNor VietNaM Vets
Medford Students Shape Their Future By Learning Of The Past
By William Knudson, WI VFW Editor Reviled by some, shunned by others, returning Vietnam Veterans faced a difficult time. A divided nation, and a strident generation of youth caught up in an anti-war movement, found it easy to become virulently anti-military. And an older generation, victorious in their titanic struggle of the Big One, often found it difficult to accept these returning warriors as true comrades, painting them with broad brushes of apprehension and even disrespect. Military service was, for a while, a largely unappreciated calling. The construction of the now beloved Vietnam Wall marked a turning point. Its design intends to remind us of the scar this era left on our nation. Many expected it to remain as a mute reminder of our capacity for misadventure in the world. Almost surprisingly, though, it has truly become a shrine. At first, its effect was limited to the survivors: The vets themselves and the families of the fallen. But over time, The Wall has made an impact on new generations who were born long after the Vietnam War. For many, The Wall stands as a solemn reminder of the serious and essential nature of Service to our great nation. This is the story of how The Wall has spawned a new appreciation of a once disparaged generation of American Service Men and Women. budding generation by engaging these young minds in a remarkable project that is focused on a past generation. Ground-zero of this unique project is the classroom of 8th grade history teacher Bryce Kelley. Kelley, himself, is not a veteran. But his father is, and through his knowledge of Dad’s experiences, Bryce has developed a keen interest in the Vietnam War. It ended around the time Bryce was born in Medford (1975), so he had no first-hand recollection of it. But his fascination with the controversial era grew over the years, and the enormity of the sacrifices of so many young men and women strikes a resounding chord in this unique teacher. “Wisconsin gave 1,159 lives over the course of that war,” Kelley notes. “It became important to me, the more I thought about it, that each one of those lives was a life cut short. And I believe their stories need to be told. Their sacrifices cannot be forgotten.” This past July, Bryce Kelley made a journey to the Vietnam Wall in Washington, DC.
the Wisconsin VfW is asking all its members to help the medford middle school in their quest to honor the 1,159 comrades lost in Vietnam. if you have photographs or information that could be of help to bryce Kelley and his students, or would like to contribute to their support of “think about the children,” you may write directly to: bryce Kelley, medford middle school, 509 clark st., medford, Wi 54451. You will also find links to this class project and other related information on our VfW state Website at http://www.vfwofwi.com
Kelley and one of his students check out the processing of one of the many photos already in hand for their Vietnam Wall project. Tom Dzicek and Dennis Mannion, left the conference with a new dedication to honoring the sacrifices of those, living and lost, who had served in Vietnam. They also came away with a new awareness of the overall impact of this devastating war. Dzicek went home to Connecticut and, with his students, created the 612 Project, which set out to honor each of the 612 Connecticut soldiers lost in Vietnam. Capen dedicated herself to the idea of putting a face with each name on The Wall. To date, through her “Put A Face With A Name Project,” she has found thousands of pictures that will eventually be on display at the new Vietnam Veterans Center, soon to be built near The Wall in Washington, DC. Mannion, a Vietnam Vet, returned to Vietnam along with a former student who filmed a documentary of his visit to Khe Sanh, where he found his old foxhole he had occupied during the 77 day siege. The result was the video documentary “A Walk In The Clouds.” It is a “must see” for every high school American History class. In the summer of 2005, Murray and his wife, Cathy, visited Vietnam where they spent 10 days touring the land, seeing and learning much about the war and the enemy we faced. Cathy returned home, but Tom stayed on to teach English for a month at a Jesuit compound in Vietnam. Seeing how the Jesuits work and sacrifice to provide the people of Vietnam the basic freedoms we tried so hard to impart, inspired Murray… so much so, that it spawned the creation of the organization “Think About The Children,” which is dedicated to improving and safeguarding the lives of Vietnam’s poorest children. Given these inspiring experiences, it is little wonder that Bryce and his fellow teachers
have taken to their awesome projects. On November 11, 2009, the Moving Vietnam Wall will be on display in Medford, in the athletic field behind Bryce’s school. It is the intent of his students to have completed a separate poster with a photograph, branch insignia, and brief detail of the fate of each and every one of Wisconsin’s 1,159 troops lost in that struggle. Almost daily, information or pictures arrive to be processed, scanned and printed. The scanned photos are then forwarded to the Put A Face With A Name Project, and are posted on the Virtual Wall. These students at Medford Middle School are also well taught about all aspects of the Vietnam War era. They study Mannion’s video. They learn about Agent Orange, the native plants of this far-away place, and of a people they might never have known. And they actively and voluntarily fundraise around the year and throughout their community to help support an orphanage cared for by Think About The Children. “Our entire administration and faculty has gotten behind us on this,” says Kelley. “It’s
the Vietnam experience has always been history tobryce Kelley, but of late it has become an even more important lesson to pass along to his students. At first glance, Medford Area Middle School looks like any other school. It’s a modern, well-kept building populated with active, energetic kids. But inside that building is a classroom that opens on to a much bigger world, and is introducing the meaning of “service” to a
There, he found himself dramatically moved by the feeling that, when you reach out and touch a name on that wall, “you can almost sense they’re reaching out and touching back from beyond the reflections.” Before he returned to Medford, a plan was already taking shape in his mind. Over the balance of the summer, Kelley honed his concept, and by the time the school year started, he had enlisted the enthusiastic support of fellow history teachers, and, in fact, of teachers in a variety of disciplines, from English to chemistry and more. Also during his visit to The Wall, Bryce made the acquaintance of Tom Murray, a professor at the University of Santa Fe. Murray, it turns out, was part of a group that had attended a 2002 conference sponsored by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund called the Inaugural Teach Vietnam Teachers Network. He, along with fellow attendees Sara Capen,
a student carefully prepares the various elements going onto one of the 1,159 display pages being prepared. each sheet is then checked for accuracy, neatness, and layout. once okayed, it will be laminated in plastic to make it weatherproof. become more than a project – It’s evolved into a curriculum, not just on a war or an era, but much more. I believe we’re teaching these young people the true value of service.” The Traveling Wall makes many stops in its endless journey across our land. But when it gets to Medford, do yourself a favor and plan to visit and see what these extraordinary young people have learned and done to honor the memory, the spirit and the legacy of our fallen Comrades. Veterans Day, November 11, 2009. Make it a date in Medford. See how Service is honored there.
While we were there, we saw completed work logged in, and new assignments handed out. the students have great respect for their assignments and show much compassion for the strangers whose lives they honor.
Periodically, Kelley and a group of students will gather for a quick ‘brain-storming’ session. notice the sample panels posted above them on the wall.