Happy Thanksgiving 2019

From our house to yours, wishing you a happy Thanksgiving.  We all have so much to be thankful for, so set aside a few moments today and reflect on those things.

And, if you haven't already thought about Alice's Restaurant by Arlo Guthrie from 1967 or Les Nessman and WKRP's Turkey Drop from 1978....you are now!

The Self-Licking Ice Cream Cone [The SLICC]

A while back, when I worked for the Air Force Communications Agency, our leader was Colonel [later General] Hawk.  A very driven man, he understood what it took to manage and project a highly efficient organization world-wide.  One of his common statements in staff meetings was “Why are we building [or maintaining] this self-licking ice cream cone?”

Our extremely smart folks were building systems that promised huge gains in the communications arena.  We became known for them. Upgrading and maintaining these became paramount so our reputation could continue to excel.  Users wanted this technology although at times it seemed the “want” of an Agency system outpaced the “need” in a new environment.  No one ever asked if we were continuing these systems just for the sake of sustaining our reputation.  Along came Hawk, and with him the frequent question of “If I was not already doing this would I start, and if yes, would I do it this way?”  He scuttled a lot of long-standing programs because they no longer served a purpose other than to make us look good to ourselves.

Many of you have heard me talk about The SLICC in conjunction with processes and programs in the VFW, but it applies to all aspects of our lives.  Perhaps we need to take a hard look at what we are doing on a daily basis. Can we do things better?  Do we even need to do them at all?

Let’s be honest and introspective:  Maybe we only need things because we have them.

National Blasé Day

I was going to write something, but....meh.

Jesse James Dupree and Jackyl!

As some of you already know, the National VFW Foundation recently partnered with JJD to assist with our Unmet Needs program.  JJD is a social influencer of the highest degree and has already substantially assisted VFW in our programs, most notably at the Full Throttle Saloon in Sturgis, South Dakota.

I got in from Cozumel around midnight, picked up Mama Cass early Friday morning and we headed north for the four hour drive to Watseka to see JJD and his band, Jackyl, play.  On the way, JJD called and said if I got in early Mama and I should drop by the bus and hang out, so of course we did!  I met State Senior Vice Laurie and Junior Vice Bobby in the parking lot and invited them to come along.  We had a great time hanging with Jesse and the band and the topics of discussion ranged from music to the environment to politics to children and much, much more.  Jesse is well rounded guy and it was a pleasure to share his time....and his bourbon!  If you've never tried the Original Jesse James American Outlaw Bourbon Whiskey, I suggest you give it a try!

The concert was really fun in a small, premium venue.  State Commander Brad, Mama, and I went on stage to present an Illinois VFW Check for Unmet Needs in the amount of $1800.  The crowd was very appreciative of veterans and they showed it in their enthusiasm.  The show continued and later ended with Jesse's signature chainsaw playing.  He even dedicated the final song to Mama....I think he really likes her!

Jesse and Mama on the band bus

Playing the VFW logo Chainsaw!

When the Boss tells you to celebrate The Big Check....

Mama and her VIP [Very Important Pup] backstage pass.  The Watseka Theater owner bent over backward to make sure she was comfortable the entire time.  She even got a row of seats to herself!

Cozumel Break

I had a few days off from traveling and we decided to do something different.....travel!  We enjoyed several days of diving and unscheduled days of relaxing.  Sadly, the Federal Government in Mexico just closed off about one-third of the diving sites in Cozumel due to deteriorating reef conditions.  The reef off Cozumel is the second largest in the world and is showing signs of fatigue.  Even the areas where we were allowed to dive showed coral bleaching and the usual swarms of many types of fish were lacking.  Still nice diving, but not like it was even a few years ago.  While the cause of this is uncertain, there is no doubt that pollution in South America, increases in cruise ships, and the general build up of hotels [with poor waste management protocols] are adding to the problem.

I care for our environment above and below the sea.  We need to be more mindful of the footprint we leave on our Planet. Remember, we all live downstream from someone!

Gateway Hammerheads and the Circle of Heroes

Shortly after the dedication and dive at the Circle of Heroes Memorial in Clearwater, Florida, I was approached by my local dive group, the Gateway Hammerheads, to provide a briefing and show my video.  The date finally came and I was pleased to talk about the monument, the dive, and of course, the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

We had a group of about 20 and it was a nice evening renewing old acquaintances and talking about our passion for diving. Even VFW friends Paul and Sharon showed up to listen.   Sadly, I don't get to do as much diving or teaching lately but there is always time for that after I finish my mission with the VFW.

Many of you have already received your November/December issue of VFW Magazine and may have read the article on pages 22-24 about the Monument.  If you'd like to see a video of the dive, check out this link:

https://youtu.be/ztMDW8wxc8o

Sport Clips!

Need a haircut?  Of course you do!  Head over to Sport Clips and support their Help A Hero Scholarship Program.  I just got back from my cut and as always they did a great job.  You know you're a regular when you walk in without your dog and the first thing they ask is "Where's Mama?".  FYI, I gave her the night off and she enjoyed just lazing in front of the fire place at home.

Did you see Monday Night Football last night?  Sport Clips and VFW had a commercial touting the Scholarship Program.  Everyday, no one does more for veterans!

Veterans Day 2019

Well, I didn't get a free haircut, didn't go out for half price appetizers, and didn't ask for free drinks today.  I did think about the men and women I served with a long time ago, as well as the many men and women past and present who served but I will never know.  I'm proud to be a member of this special club.  You can't buy your way into it; there are no shortcuts.  You make up your mind to serve and you do it for your country.  I salute you all!

And now, the obligatory pic of me in my war, taken long ago in a land far away...

A wedding, a district meeting, and a birthday!

There is no rest when you have so much going on!  I got back from a great trip in West Virginia Friday and early Saturday morning drove to Lee's Summit for the wedding of long-time friends Matt and Tammy.  So happy for them and it was great to see so many VFW friends in the crowd.  Sunday morning I woke up early and drove home [what's four hours between friends?] so I could attend my own District meeting at the Metzger-Crook Post 6504.  During the joint session Waterloo's own Mayor Smith spoke about veterans and a great project he has finally completed.  There is now a book of POW and MIA service personnel from Monroe County!  Each page has the name, photos, and information about these special veterans from our County. It's a great project!  Last, how could I forget the birthday of our United States Marine Corps?  Semper Fi Devil Dogs!

World Freedom Day

November 9 is a federal observance commemorating the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.  Designated in 2001 by President Bush, it celebrates the end of communism in East Germany and the beginning of freedom for Germans separated by the Iron Curtain.  The destruction of the wall paved the way for German reunification, which formally took place on October 3, 1990.

West Virginia Friday Good Bye!

West Virginia is a wonderful state full of gracious people and exciting vistas and views.  It's been a pleasure touring with State Commander Vern, Junior Vice Commander Jeff, and Adjutant/Quartermaster Kevin.  These fine gentlemen took great care of me....and greater care of Mama!  They are all about serving veterans and this Air Force guy was proud to ride over 900 miles with a bunch of Sailors.

We stopped to get gasoline and a young man, Lee, saw our car with the VFW Commander's sign.  He walked over and asked whether we could help with disability benefits as he had been let down by two other service organizations.  Commander Vern talked with Lee, they exchanged information, and I have no doubt he will be getting a call very soon from one of the best service officers in the state.  That's what we do on a daily basis:  We Help Veterans!

Left to Right:  A/QM Kevin, Yours Truly, Commander Vern, Junior Jeff
at the Wall of Commanders in Clarksburg Post

Not in that picture and wondering why!

West Virginia Thursday

Woke up to a cold, rainy day but that didn’t stop the mission!  Off we went to Westin Post 1976.  A small post but powerfully active in their community, this Post has an Afghanistan veteran in charge but he is quick to point out that he couldn’t do it alone.  Without a canteen or Post Home, these comrades believe in doing the good work of the VFW every day.  As we were leaving they were all headed to the local military museum as they were hosting about 200 8^th graders to tell them all about America and its veterans.

Next stop, the birthplace of Stonewall Jackson…Clarksburg!  Officially named the Muese-Argonne Post 573, it was chartered 99 years ago by members of the Great War, 9 Dec 1920.  Their Auxiliary was chartered 21 May 1921 and is named after Lucinda Rose, a nurse who died in the War in 1918.  Post Commander Donna is an Iraq War veteran and a Computer Science Professor at nearby Fairmont State College. While the Post has had some hiccups in the past, she and the rest of the team are firmly convinced they are turning things around and it shows.  They have over 600 members and the Post itself is a treasure trove of historical artifacts. While looking around I saw a flag next to their Post flag.  When I looked at it I was amazed to see that it was the Post’s flag from when it was part of the United Spanish War Veterans, 1898-1902!  What a find to see part of our VFW past in this Post!  They even had a VFW Post Band back in the day! I could have spent all day wandering around in the Post looking at the artifacts but we had to move on.

We next arrived at the Hershel "Woody" Williams Post 7048 in East Fairmont.  This is the only Post in the VFW named after a living Medal of Honor recipient.  Woody was nominated for the Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II with the United States Marine Corps during the Battle for Iwo Jima in the Pacific theater. After reading the Citation, I can only thank God that men like Woody were fighting for the United States!  The Post maintains a high level of membership year in and year out but their most impressive actions are their continued stellar performances for Community Activities.  They are so many awards for their work it would be difficult to count them all. I’d be remiss to mention that they provided an excellent lunch, serving a local favorite called a “Pepperoni Roll” crafted by the Country Club Bakery since the 1920’s.  And, of course, Mama got to have her “Patton Moment” in the downstairs meeting room!

Last stop:  Morgantown!  We had a late meeting here because they have a large number of younger veterans who are working, in school, and/or raising families.  They don’t have a canteen and they focus on community service while also helping student veterans at the West Virginia University.  Morgantown 548 shares the city with Westover Post 9916 but they work together well, sharing resources and collaborating on things like their Honor Guard and other events.  There was a spirit of cooperation rather than competition and it was refreshing to see that.  We enjoyed a nice carry in dinner and had ample time to get to know each other before I gave a short talk hitting on many things pertinent to their situation.  In the small world category, Post Commander Jason currently works Biometrics issues as a Military Operations Specialist…these are the same issues I was working as an attorney years ago assigned to the Biometrics Identity Management Agency!

By the way, Morgantown is the home of the great comedian, Don Knotts.  Don served in the Army during World War II, from 1943 to 1946.  ;- )

After a long drive, we arrived at our hotel in Pittsburgh. I’m finishing this write up and going to bed.  Early flight in the morning because we never stop working for veterans!

West Virginia Wednesday

Up and at ‘em, bright and early, we headed to Milton Post 9796 for a hearty breakfast which included scratch biscuits and homemade apple butter produced by the Post members themselves.  Although Mama isn’t allowed to have any, she certainly didn’t mind the wonderful aroma!  Milton Post works hard in their community and during the annual Pumpkin Festival they take in a lot of donations from folks who can’t resist buying a jar or two.  From these donations the members built their Post home and parking lot.  An interesting item on the wall at the Post was a framed copy of John Clark, Jr.’s “War Emergency Diploma”.  John’s senior year in high school was interrupted by the bombing of Pearl Harbor.  John’s Uncle Sam invited him to see the world and liberate it, so off he went.  When he returned in May 1946, Milton High School awarded John a special diploma in lieu of the one he was unable to earn because he was off doing his patriotic duty.

Next stop, Alum Creek to see the home Post of State Adjutant/Quartermaster Kevin, Bennie Padilla Post 4768.  Although it’s a small Post by membership, it’s a giant when it comes to community service.  In 2018 they were the winners of the National Community Service Award.  Four Post members distinguished themselves when the Commander died suddenly and they all stepped up to take positions to keep the mission going.  I awarded my Junior Vice Commander coin to them for their courage and faith in the VFW.  Patricia Cantrell is the current Commander and, in 1973, was in the first group of women to be allowed to attend the Air Force Security Police Academy.   She broke barriers then and she continues to break them in her new role.  The picture shows us standing in their poppy garden, where steel poppies greet visitors as they enter the building.

Our last Post stop was in Chesapeake at the Dav-Lew-Welch Post 8363.  There is no Post home, no Post canteen.  But at their monthly meeting in the community center they always have an incredible 40 or so members show up … in a Post of only 90 members!  I certainly wasn’t expecting the huge crowd of veterans, town members, the Mayor, and three Gold Star Mothers waiting to hear me speak. As I mingled in the crowd I was drawn to these women and listened to their stories.  One in particular hit home as her son committed suicide after multiple tours in the wars.  For this crowd, I was moved to speak about PTSD and the need to help our returning warriors.  I shared my story and promised I would do all I could in my position to continue our war on suicide.  I believe I connected with this crowd; I saw many knowing nods as I recounted the long battle of recovery I’ve endured.

From Chesapeake, we quickly drove to Charleston to meet with Mr Dennis Davis, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs.  The working relationship the State VFW has with Secretary Davis and his office is off the chart.  They are working together to make life better for all veterans.  In areas where things could be better, State Commander Vern held the Secretary’s feet to the fire and politely got his point across that veterans need more access to claims offices instead of the state closing them down.  Secretary Davis got the message and promised to do all he could to ensure more offices and more personnel would be available.  I was duly impressed!

We’re in Flatwoods tonight.  Tomorrow… four more Post visits!

West Virginia Monday and Tuesday

Monday after the airport we visited New Cumberland Post that was chartered in February of 1941.  The charter members were World War I veterans and had no inkling their lives were going to be turned upside down in just a few months.  This quaint post does the hard work with a small membership.  It was nice seeing the auxiliary President present, as both the VFW and the Auxiliary work together very closely here. New Cumberland is very proud of the fact that they have been in charge of a very successful state VFW golf tournament for many years.  Our next stop was the largest post in the state, located in the town of Chester.  The Bob Milby Post 6450 is named after their quartermaster of 65 years.  Bob was a banker and used his skills to set this post up for success over the long haul.  They literally donate several hundreds of thousands of dollars every year to their community!  Their Post Home and vast grounds are simply a sight to see.  Just to the left of the post is a memorial square with remembrance pavers and a huge statue of a B-52.

Tuesday found our group up early and on the road to Sistersville and the remarkable Post 6327.  As you walk up their front porch you are greeted with wooden cut outs of military uniforms. On closer inspection you see these are replicas of actual post member uniforms and the name tags identify the members.  When I walked in I was greeted with a double line of post and auxiliary members eagerly waiting to shake my hand and welcome me.  After some remarks, they were eager to show me their post and talk up the fact they soon will have a tele-health facility!  Only one of ten in the country sponsored by a partnership between the VFW and the VA, this fully wired space will allow veterans the opportunity to have telemedicine visits with care providers.  In honor of my visit the Post donated $1,000 to the Unmet Needs Program.  They also gave me some nifty marbles in celebration of the 20th Sistersville Marble Festival.  More than 20 marble factories once operated within 60 miles of Sistersville and the majority of all children's marbles were made here!

Our travels continued to Mason County Post 9926 and men and women of the post and auxiliary welcomed us with open arms.  They had some great floor and wall displays, and Mama found a patriotic place to nap with I was talking to the group. The Auxiliary presented me with an Auxiliary Cookbook.  If anything I make from that book tastes half as good as how they made it for us, I’ll be ecstatic.  I had the great pleasure to meet 93-year-old Milford Mowrey, a Navy veteran of WWII.  He regaled me with memories of escorting oil shipments from Venezuela to Iceland, while fighting off German Submarine U-Boats in the Atlantic.  Milford posed next to a picture taken of him at age 17, just after completing basic training!

Our last big stop was at Ravenswood Senior Center, where we met with members of State Junior Vice Commander Jeff’s Jackson County Post 6669.  I was speechless when they presented me with a piece of West Virginia Black Gold….a solid piece of coal milled into the shape of the state.  I will display this proudly.

We ended up in the town of Hurricane and visited the local post for a short while, grabbed a bite to eat, and talked about our game plan for Wednesday. Sorry this was so long, but it was a packed day of excitement!

West Virginia Walkabout

Actually it's West "By God" Virginia as I've been told!  So, when in Rome, or West Virginia, you do as the citizenry does!

Monday was an 0300 wake up to get to the airport. Finally landed in Pittsburgh and was picked up by State Commander Vern, Junior Jeff, and Adjutant/Quartermaster Kevin. We drove immediately to our first two stops at local VFW Posts, then off to Wheeling for the night at Oglebay Resort.  What a beautiful place!  Too bad it was dark when we got here and dark when we left.

Mama likes it here but we are heading on the road again.  I'll write about our trip adventures as I can. It's been great so far!

Oklahoma!

Well, the winds weren’t really sweeping down the plains, but it was a great three days in Oklahoma City for their Fall Conference.  The VFW and the Auxiliary work well together and that means great things happening in the future.

Mama had a gift basket waiting for her in our room, courtesy of the Auxiliary. She definitely enjoyed the snacks and all the attention she received this weekend.  It’s a pleasure knowing the entire VFW/Auxiliary cares so much about her.  The real plus is the PTSD awareness we are raising about the great work service animals can provide.

The joint and individual meetings were packed full of information and many items were “cussed and discussed” but always in a professional manner and with a positive attitude toward making things better.  I have to commend State Commander Darryl for his unbelievable enthusiasm, pride, and joy every minute of every day.  He could make a fortune if he could bottle that energy.  I was also able to spend time with dear, old friends Juanita and Dr. Curtis Bohlman.  She’s a dear and he’s old!  He’s currently serving again as the National Surgeon General and I had the good fortune to serve as National JAG with him on many occasions.  It has been my honor to know these two for almost twenty years!

Last, I commend Oklahoma for trying new things.  Friday night we had a chili cook-off and tailgate party.  Saturday, instead of a stuffy banquet, they presented a murder mystery theater.  Somehow I got roped into a part and ended up being the killer!  After that, it was Halloween costume party time with camaraderie and Karaoke.  Families attended with their children and it was a fun time.  If you want to bring in newer, younger veterans with families this is the way to do it.

One Hundred Days!

100 Days!  It’s gone by so fast.  Here’s a big Shout Out to all of you who have been following since my election as Junior Vice Commander in Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

This is Post #59.  We have over 160 direct subscribers, plus many non-subscribing viewers who access the blog in other ways.  Combined you have read these pages almost 4,000 times.  Although the majority of views come from the United States this truly has become a global project.  Here, in descending order of views, are the rest of the countries where people are enjoying the journey: 

Germany

France

India

Japan

Netherlands

Philippines

Canada

Italy

Brazil

Bulgaria

Mexico

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Special thanks to Randi, Maggie, and Michael at VFW HQ for taking the seed of an idea and working hard to make it bloom into this project.  I am truly indebted to them for their faith in me to keep this alive after they created it.  Up to now, this has been a one-way conversation.  For this post only, we’re going to open up the comment section for a week or so.  Let me know what you think of the project and if you have any suggestions feel free to toss them in too.