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Veterans of Foreign Wars--Washington Conference 3/6/89 [OA 6343] [2]
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Veterans of Foreign Wars--Washington Conference 3/6/89 [OA 6343] [2]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13659
Folder ID Number:
13659-006
Folder Title:
Veterans of Foreign Wars--Washingto n Conference 3/6/89 [OA 6343] [2]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
18
6
7
LA
SMG2
page I
January 23, 1989
President George Bush
Washington, DC 20500
Dear President Bush,
Do not let the old, elderly sick, dis-
abled homeless, Veterans and disabled Vets
down. They have paid their dues over and
over. most of the elderly and DI's came up
in the dust bowl days. so give them credit for
their time. They also gave what they could at
that time and during the war days. most of
them gave what they could of themselves and
raised money for the war. So d ask you not
to give the Congress and all the staff a raise.
Do not Cut social security. medicare, pensions
or any help for the elderly Do not take health
Care, pensions or compensation from the veter-
ans or disabled vets. Do not close the hospitals
or nursing care centers for the veterans. most
of these people are not properly taken care of
and it is not altogether their fault. l am an
page II
old disabled vet so I know what l an
talking about. l am at the bottom of the
toten pole for compensation and social
security l worked in the third largest steel
plant in the U.S., a defense plant in Cali-
fornia and was drafted my disability after
the war did not let me go back to my job,
so D became a farmer. l still farm with my
disability, but it is very hard to make a living
at age 69. Shere is plenty of fat in the rest
of the government to cut corners, so d ask you
again not to cut these benefits. I also came
from a broken home, so was cold and hungry
as a kid.
This will he my first and last letter to you
mr. President; and also to the Senators and
Representatives in South Dakata. There are to
many odds against an old person, especially
when you are no longer needed or wanted. you
feel like you have become a "has been". In
plain words. we the elderly do the best we
can, we are a has been. we are not in the
main stream no more, we are not needed any
more, we are not an asset to society, we are a
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
01. Letter
Clifford Clark to POTUS, re: benefits for the elderly and
01/23/89
P-6, (b)(6)
disabled veterans; personal information redacted. (1 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Subseries:
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
Veterans of Foreign Wars - Washington Conference 3/6/89 [2]
Date Closed:
9/21/2004
OA/ID Number:
06343
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4). of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
den.
President Bush, we wish you and your
the very hest in your new job and
cially for all the hard decisions you have
nake during your presidency.
thank you for listening.
Sincerely yours,
Clifford Clark
p-6,(b)(6)
Vet sample
Jan 23, 1989
to Lillie
Dear President Bush,
Permyer
Bay! are we glad you Won
ant our the ACLU candidate. d had all my Gongs and
purple hearts in a Coffee can and was all set to give
Greg
them the deep sip out in the swamp. I really ment it.
But it was not even close, thank the Good Land for that.
Sir I dont use fancy stationery,
my spelling in not to hot and my princtuation is
a disaster about to happen. Hawever I do pay my topes
on time, In raising my Daughter to he a good american,
and I used to toss a mean grenade, so maybe the
good falks who screen your mail will let this slip
through.
Mr. President you really got
in a good zinger on "Big mike" when you asked him
if you could have a ride in his Tank. By Gally I got
a real belly laugh ant of that one, and Im still laughing.
all of us conservatives thank you for that one.
It looks like the american
People are going to be twice blessed with your
election, once from you and once from mrs. Bush.
Inrs. Bush is mom and apple pie. mrs. Bush is the
all american lady, mother, wife and Grandmather.
& he does Carry her self very well and has a meat
sense of humor. She is sort of a female
Cool Hand Luke" and we just love her.
Well Sir they said you could
not dance, you were mat your awn man. you
did not have a sense of humar and you were not
a tough person. Hog wash! They are all wrong and
on all Counts. Before its over, 8 years from now, you
will go dawn as aur best President since Teddy R. and
F.D.R., one of our best ever. I have great faith in
you President Bush and thank the Good Land you
Came along just when this country needs you the
most.
I how a feeling Sir that you
are in for a tough scrap. Would it not be a
wonderfull idea-if We were allowed to send over
all our left wing Democrats to help aut in the
USSR. Sort of a lend lease plan as it were. I will
sleep better to night dreaming about it.
mr. President to he honest with
you I never, ever thought I would dare write
to the President of the USOfA. The closest l lole got
to a politisian was when Senator claude Pepper visited
a young, waunded, marine Sgt. in the Novel hopital
in Japan in 1950, We had just Come aut of the
Frozen Chosin operation and this nice old Gent took
a liking to mev guess. We talked far over an hour
and he told me get ahold of him if I ever
had any questions concerning america ar how
it was supposed to be run. I never did of
Course but I will always remember him,
He was and is a fine old Gentleman.
Sir you remarked on your
thousand paints of light. It had a nice ring to
it and I like it. Would you Consider this:
There are about 1000 of us old timers that formed
Gn organization called the chosin few. We 1000
are the U.S. marines of the 1st marine Division and the
41st Royal marine Commondos who Jought our way
into that frozen hell and back out. Our Logo
is a very bright light, the North Star, on a blue
background. We would he honored if We could
be your first official point of light in your
thousand points of light.
I dont say this lightly mr.
President as it was the best thing any of us
has labe done. It provid what americans are
all about; and we are proud.
I would like to remark on
your Vice President. mr. Quale got a terrific
and aur left bearning T.V. He did mothing wrong
thrashing from the Left Wing, the Liberals,
and I feel he is a decent person who deserves
much better than he gat. mr. Quale may not
be a JFK-and thats good; JFK was mat all he
was cracked up to be. I would give five
hundred bucks and my good pack mule if
you could give Vice President Quale a good, hard
chose to do and he did it Very well, thus
making those people eat a whole bunch of
Crow. That would give me another good
nights sleep.
President Bush- we do not trust the
Russians, no time and no way. I hope we do not have
to take another Sucker punch from the Russian Bear.
Sir, we are had by those people every time we turn
around. I cant imagine any one being gooled by
them. maybe Jim Wright and Senatar Dodd, but for
sure no self respecting marine ever Would. In
sure you, as a Combat Hero of WWII, are not about
to he taben in.
you know mr. President its the
little guy out here on the Sauthfaurty who is the real
strength of america. We fix the bayonets, we toss
the grenades, We go into the teeth of enemy fire and
we do not falter. We take the hill and weep, deep
in our heart, where no one can see, for our fallen
Comrsdes. We win and yet we lose, again and
again, and yet again.
We see our Country torro apart
by race hatend, by drugs, by liberal garbage, by
had schooling. We see graft and corruption
at the highest buel. We are afraid of our medical
hills and do not trust the system. Its a hitter
brew we have in our hearts mr. President,
and yet all you have to do is ask of us and
we will fight - again, and again, and yet again.
you see Sir; Im a first
generation american, my people were from Norway
and Denmark. mother gove 3 sons to 3 different wars
and it did her in. But oh how my parents
loved this Country, as did her sons and In
passing it on to my 14 year old daughter. We
care, maybe deeper than some. In my 60 yrs.
thats the best thing I ever learned- Be a goodamerican.
well Sir I would like to thank
you for your time. I guess a couple of wars
under my belt and some years in the Corps
das not make me an expert on any thing, but
I had some things to say.
m. President- when the going
gets tough, just do as one of our farmer Novel
heros did; and it goes like this:
Dam the torpedos six-full speed ahead.
god Bless and Good Luck.
with Respect,
Don Hansen
Naples, Idaho
COOPER T. HOLT
FROM
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
OF THE UNITED STATES
200MARYLAND AVENUE N.E. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20002
To
Ms. Stephanie Blessey
Old Executive Office Building - 111
Washington, D. G- 20500
Photocopy-Preservation
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE
4
1ST STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright (c) 1988 The New York Times Company;
The New York Times
September 8, 1988, Thursday, Late City Final Edition
SECTION: Section B; Page 10, Column 1; National Desk
LENGTH: 738 words
HEADLINE: Bush, Before the Legion, Vows a Strong Defense
BYLINE: By GERALD M. BOYD, Special to the New York Times
DATELINE: LOUISVILLE, Ky., Sept. 7
BODY:
Warning that the United States is 'not out of the woods'' in dealing with
the Soviet Union, Vice President Bush today urged the continued modernization of
American nuclear forces as the only way to achieve further arms reductions.
Mr. Bush's remarks at the American Legion Convention here were characterized
by campaign aides as a far tougher and more realistic approach to international
relations than has been offered by Gov. Michael S. Dukakis, the Democratic
nominee.
''Let me be clear, I do not question his patriotism,' Mr. Bush, the
Republican nominee, said of Mr. Dukakis. ''But patriotism is not the issue. The
issue is how best to deter war, to keep the peace and to fulfill our country's
unique responsibility as leader of the free world.
Mr. Bush appeared far more subdued than he did delivering a similar speech
two weeks ago to members of the Veterans of Foreign wars. His reception
today was also more reserved.
No Defense of Quayle
He made no mentioned of Senator Dan Quayle, his running mate, as he had done
before the Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he had issued an impassioned
defense of the Indiana Senator's decision to enter the National Guard almost 20
years ago at the height of the Vietnam War.
'There was no particular reason for not doing so,'' said Sheila Tate, Mr.
Bush's press secretary. 'Sometimes he does and sometimes he doesn't.'
Mr. Bush quoted from a variety of leaders, such as John F. Kennedy and
Winston Churchill, in arguing that his military policies were more realistic
than those of Mr. Dukakis.
Perhaps John F. Kennedy said it best,'' he said at one point. 'Bad
domestic policy could get us defeated, bad foreign policy could get us killed.
Suggesting that Churchill had ' ' put it best,' he quoted the former Prime
Minister as saying, Before we cast away the solid assurances of national
armaments for self-presevation, we must be certain that our temple is built,
LEXIS NEXIS® LEXIS NEXIS ®
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE
5
(c) 1988 The New York Times, September 8, 1988
not upon shifting sands, or quagmires, but upon the rock.
My friends, I will keep America's defenses built upon rock, Mr. Bush
said.
The Republican nominee's said that his foreign policy will be based on four
pillars: pride, realism, strength and engagement. Such an approach, he said, had
led to the agreement with Moscow to destroy intermediate range nuclear missiles,
a theme Mr. Bush has sounded frequently.
He Warns of New Weapons
Mr. Bush is scheduled to travel to Marshall, Tex., Thursday to witness the
first destruction of American missiles. But despite the progress, Mr. Bush
warned that the United States must contine to keep its nuclear forces 'up to
date.
'We're not out of the woods yet,'' he said. ''The Soviets are now deploying
two new ICBM's, the SS-24 and SS-25. So even with perestroika, reform, Soviet
military modernization, including their own research into strategic defense, has
not slackened. Soviet military spending continues to rise.
Mr. Bush argued, ''Only a willingness to modernize gives the Soviet Union the
incentive to negotiate real arms reduction.
Mr. Dukakis, who is scheduled to address the American Legion Thursday, was
assailed by Mr. Bush and by President Reagan, who appeared before the group on
Tuesday. The Republicans have been attempting to portray the Massachusetts
Governor as naive on foreign policy.
Clarification on Missile Defense
The Vice President also attempted to address a perception among some
conservative Republicans that he is wavering on deployment of a defense system
against nuclear missiles, which Mr. Reagan calls his Strategic Defense
Initiative.
Mr. Bush said he supported research and 'evaluating the full range of
promising S.D.I. technologies and then by deploying those that work.'
Mr. Bush's text included the word 'testing,' in addition to research, but
he did not speak the word. Testing has emerged as a major issue because of
concern among some Congressmen that the testing would violate the Antiballistic
Missile Treaty with the Soviet Union.
Despite the failure to use the word, Dennis Ross, a senior foreign policy
adviser to the Bush campaign, said the Republican nominee supported testing. Mr.
Ross said the type of deployment would depend on what the research determined.
'What the nature of the strategy to deploy will be dictated by the
technology,' he said, adding that such issues as cost efficiency and
reliability would enter into the decision.
GRAPHIC: photo of Vice President Bush (AP)
LEXIS® ® NEXIS® ® LEXIS NEXIS ®
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE 6
(c) 1988 The New York Times, September 8, 1988
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION OF 1988; ARMS CONTROL AND LIMITATION AND
DISARMAMENT; UNITED STATES ARMAMENT AND DEFENSE; UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL
RELATIONS
ORGANIZATION: AMERICAN LEGION
NAME: BUSH, GEORGE (VICE PRES); BOYD, GERALD M
GEOGRAPHIC: UNION OF SOVIET SOCIALIST REPUBLICS (USSR)
LEXIS® ® NEXIS® ® LEXIS® NEXIS® ®
CHAPTER 4
NATIONAL ISSUES
NAT
2350
throughout the country.
Jeanette
NATIONAL WOMEN'S POLITICAL CAUCUS (1971)
R. Jack Powell
Exec. Director
Jean Las
1275 K St., N.W., Suite 750
Fred Bigood
Assoc. Exec. Director, Administration
Anne He
Washington, DC 20005
Tel.: (202) 898-1100
Gordon Mansfield
Priscilla
Members: 77,000
Assoc. Exec. Director, Government Relations
Martha
Dr. John Mather
A multi-partisan, non-profit membership organization that helps more
women get elected and appointed to public office, the National Women's
Assoc. Exec. Director, Medical and Research Affairs
2460
Political Caucus' ultimate goal is parity at all levels of government. The
Victor S. McCoy Sr.
Assoc. Exec. Director, Veterans Benefits
WOME
Coalition for Women's Appointments is a project of the Caucus.
Robert L. Nelson
General Counsel
1250 Ey
Irene Natividad
National Chair
Joseph A. Sternburg
C.F.O.
Washing
Lillie Richardella
Exec. Director
Linda Mansfield
Director, Development
Budget:
Andrew Fleming
Director, Sports and Recreation
A not
2360
Philip Rabin
Director, Public Education and Communication
economic
NATIVE AMERICAN RIGHTS FUND WASHINGTON
David Orris
Director, Information Management Systems
litigation
OFFICE (1970)
Kim Beasley
Director, Architecture and Barrier Free Design
responsit
1712 N St., N.W.
Dr. Donald L. Custis
Senior Medical Advisor
issues afl
Washington, DC 20036
Tel.: (202) 785-4166
Douglas Vollmer
National Legislative Director
women.
A non-profit, public interest law firm specializing in Indian law: treaty
David Capozzi
National Advocacy Director
Mary W
rights, tribal sovereignty, land claims and natural resources.
Doris E
2410
Headquartered in Boulder, CO.
Anne T
PENSION RIGHTS CENTER (1976)
Vincent
Henry Sockbeson
Directing Attorney
918 16th St., N.W., Suite 704
Ellen D
2370
Washington, DC 20006
Tel.: (202) 296-3776
Char M
OLDER WOMEN'S LEAGUE (1980)
Concerned with the rights of individuals dependent on pension
programs for a secure retirement. Educates the public, represents
2470
730 11th St., N.W., # 300
Washington, DC 20001
Tel.: (202) 783-6686
pensioner interests before government agencies/courts and serves as an
WOME
Budget: $800,000
Members: 20,000
information clearinghouse.
2000 P
The national headquarters of a grass roots membership organization
Karen W. Ferguson
Director
Washing
Budget:
focusing exclusively on the concerns of mid-life and older women, OWL
2430
works for policy changes to correct the inequities faced by older women.
A non
It provides mutual support to members and works to foster a positive
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED
the legal
image of aging.
STATES - WASHINGTON OFFICE (1899)
family la
Joan Kuriansky
200 Maryland Ave., N.E.
cases, pr
Exec. Director
Washington, DC 20002
Tel.: (202) 543-2239
services
discrimir
2380
Members: 2.2 million
discrimir
ORGANIZATION OF CHINESE AMERICAN WOMEN
National veterans organization headquartered in Kansas City, MO
domestic
(1977)
Adopts resolutions and policy statements. Staff members located in VFW
Rita Ba:
1525 o St., N.W.
Washington office lobby and provide testimony to Congress.
Pauline
Washington, DC 20005
Tel.: (202) 328-3185
Cooper T. Holt
Exec. Director
Judith I
Employees: 3
Frederico Juarbe Jr.
Director, Nat'l Veterans Service
Donna
OCAW is a non-profit service organization seeking to integrate Chinese
William G. Smith
Director, Public Affairs
Ann Pa
American women into the mainstream of women's activities and
Kenneth A. Steadman
programs. It was created to address a number of issues and concerns
Director, Nat'l Security & Foreign Affairs
including: equal employment and training opportunities at the professional
James N. Magill
Director, Nat'l Legislative Service
Sara-An
and non-professional levels; stereotypes, racial discrimination and
Jane Do
restrictive traditional beliefs; assistance to poverty stricken recent
2440
Helen (
immigrants; and access to leadership and policy-making positions. (Only
VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA (1978)
Nikki H
Washington area officers are listed.)
2001 S St., N.W., Suite 700
Patricia
Julia Chang Bloch
Chair
Washington, DC 20009
Tel.: (202) 332-2700
Marilyn
Faith Lee Breen
V. President, Programs
Members: 36,000
Ellen R
Cynthia Tam
V. President, Finance
A national service organization with over 450 chapters and state
Virginia Cheung
Treasurer
councils. Primarily concerned with Vietnam Veterans and their families
Nancy Hwang
Secretary
VVA was recognied by the Veteran's Administration as a service
Pauline Woo Tsui
Exec. Director
organization in 1981. It was also granted a congressional charter in May,
1986.
2390
ORGANIZATION OF CHINESE AMERICANS (1973)
Mary R. Stout
President and Board Member
Richard O'Dell
V. President and Board Member
2025 Eye St., N.W., Suite 926
Tel.: (202) 223-5500
Tom Corey
Secretary and Board Member
Washington, DC 20006
John Messmore
Treasurer and Board Member
Budget: $120,000
Members: 5,000
Wayne F. Smith
Director, Membership Services
A national non-profit educational and civic organization of concerned
Michael Leaveck
Director, Public Affairs
Chinese Americans. Encourages active participation by Chinese
David F. Addlestone
Director, Legal Services
Americans in all areas of civic life. Works to end discriminatory
immigration quotas and other aspects of inequality of treatment or
2450
opportunity for Chinese and other Asian Americans. Seeks enhanced
cultural opportunities and an end to traditional stereotypes and prejudices.
WOMAN'S NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CLUB (1922)
1526 New Hampshire Ave., N.W.
Melinda Yee
Exec. Director
Washington, DC 20036
Tel.: (202) 232-7363
2400
Members: 2,000
PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA (1947)
Established primarily to educate its members in political science and the
801 18th St., N.W.
study of the processes of democracy and the procedures of government
Washington, DC 20006
Tel.: (202) 872-1300
Jean Jensen
President
Members: 12,500
Janet Koch
V. President, Administration
Helps paralyzed veterans with spinal cord injuries or disease, as well all
Shirley S. Henderson
V. President, Development
disabled individuals and veterans. Has over 40 chapters and subchapters
Phyllis Fineshriber
V. President, Programs
132
Veterans 491
terans, veterans' life insurance, med-
Thomas J. Kilcline (USN, ret.), president.
Vietnam Veterans of America, Legal Services,
veterans' hospitals, health care pro-
Membership: retired commissioned or warrant
2001 S St. N.W. 20009; 686-2599. David
patient programs, readjustment to
officers of the uniformed services. Assists mem-
Addlestone, director.
e, housing loans, special loans for
bers, their dependents, and survivors with serv-
Assists Vietnam veterans with appeals before
;' housing, employment, cemetery
ice status and retirement problems; provides
benefits and state veterans' homes,
the Veterans Administration for benefits claims.
employment assistance. Monitors legislation af-
tional assistance for survivors of de-
fecting veterans affairs and military compensa-
See also veterans' service organizations in Vet-
erans. Oversees operations of the Vet-
tion issues.
erans, Benefits, Compensation, and Pensions,
inistration.
below.
Veterans of World War I of the U.S.A., 941 N.
ietnam Era Veterans in Congress (p.
Capitol St. N.E. 20002; 275-1388. James G. King,
national commander.
Benefits, Compensation, and Pensions
Fraternal organization of veterans of actual war-
nmental:
time service in World War I. Chartered by
Agencies:
Veterans Committee, 1717 Massa-
Congress to assist veterans with claims for bene-
Veterans Administration, Compensation and
Ave. N.W. 20036; 667-0090. June A.
fits; maintains representatives in Veterans Ad-
Pension Service, 810 Vermont Ave. N.W.
executive director.
ministration hospitals. Holds annual national
20420; 233-2264. Vacant, director.
hip: veterans of the World Wars, the
conference.
Administers disability payments.
/ar, and the Vietnam War. Monitors
affecting veterans.
Vietnam Veterans of America, 2001 S St. N.W.
See also Veterans, General, agencies section (p.
20009; 332-2700. Mary Stout, president. Toll-
489)
Conference of Employment Security
free Agent Orange hotline, (800) 645-1355 (ex-
444 N. Capitol St. N.W. 20001; 628-
,
cept in New York), (800) 832-1303 (New York).
Congress:
in Lafferman, assistant director.
Membership: Vietnam era veterans. Provides
legislation and regulations regarding
See Veterans, General, Congress section (p.
information concerning legislation that affects
489)
ent and training programs in support
Vietnam era veterans and their families.
ins, particularly the involvement of
bloyment security agencies.
See also Naval Reserve Assn. (p. 483)
Non-governmental:
Most of the following private veterans' service
Var Veterans of U.S.A., 1811 R St.
009; 265-6280. Steve Shaw, national
organizations are either chartered by Congress
Appeals of VA Decisions
or recognized by the Veterans Administration
e director.
(VA) to assist veterans in the preparation,
ed by the Veterans Administration to
terans with claims for benefits. Offers
Agencies:
presentation, and prosecution of claims for
benefits under laws administered by the VA;
in community relations and service,
Veterans Administration, Board of Veterans
congressionally chartered groups must con-
affairs, and veterans' affairs; monitors
Appeals, 810 Vermont Ave. N.W. 20420; 233-
form to certain federal regulations of incorpo-
n and regulations affecting veterans.
3001. Kenneth E. Eaton, chairman.
ration and must submit annual reports to Con-
Corps League, 956 N. Monroe St.,
Reviews and makes final decisions on claims for
gress; groups recognized by the VA do not.
n, Va. 22201; 524-1137. Robert N. For-
veterans' benefits on appeal from VA field
Both types of groups must assist all veterans,
offices.
not just their members.
ecutive director.
ship: active duty, retired, and reserve
Non-governmental:
American Legion National Organization, 1608
Corps groups. Chartered by Congress to
K St. N.W. 20006; 861-2711. Mylio S. Kraja,
terans with claims for benefits; operates
American Legion National Organization,
executive director.
eer service program in Veterans Admin-
Claims Service, 1608 K St. N.W. 20006; 861-
Membership: honorably discharged wartime
hospitals.
2762. Harold T. Kelly, assistant director.
veterans of World War I, World War II, the
Order of the Purple Heart of the
Membership: honorably discharged wartime
Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Chartered
5413-B Backlick Rd., Springfield, Va.
veterans of World War I, World War II, the
by Congress to assist veterans with claims for
Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Assists
benefits.
42-5360. Frank A. Athanason, adjutant
veterans with appeals before the Veterans Ad-
ministration for benefits claims.
American National Red Cross, Service to the
rship: veterans awarded the Purple
Armed Forces and Veterans, 17th and D Sts.
or combat wounds. Chartered by Con-
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States,
N.W. 20006; 639-3586. Sally MacDonald,
assist veterans with claims for benefits;
Appeals, 810 Vermont Ave. N.W. 20420; 233-
manager.
S service and welfare work on behalf of
3343. George Estry, chief appeals consultant.
Assists veterans and dependents with claims for
1 and needy veterans and their families.
Assists veterans, their dependents, and survi-
benefits.
Officers Assn., 201 N. Washington St.,
vors with appeals before the Veterans Adminis-
dria, Va. 22314; 549-2311. Vice Adm.
tration for benefits claims.
American Veterans of World War II, Korea,
and Vietnam, 4647 Forbes Blvd., Lanham, Md.
492 National Security
20706; 459-9600. Morgan S. Ruph, national
Distributes information on special education for
ans
paralyzed veterans; supports and raises funds
far
executive director.
for research; chartered by Congress to assist
Chartered by Congress to assist veterans with
Sm
veterans with claims for benefits.
claims for benefits; informs members of eligibil-
fair
ity for benefits; sponsors visits to disabled veter-
United Spanish War Veterans, 810 Vermont
Elli
ans in Veterans Administration facilities.
Ave. N.W. (mailing address: P.O. Box 1915,
Co
Army and Air Force Mutual Aid Assn., Fort
Washington, D.C. 20013); 347-1898. Beulah M.
atic
Myer, Arlington, Va. 22211; 522-3060. Bradley
Cope, adjutant general.
me
J. Snyder, president.
Assists Spanish-American War veterans, their
Private service organization. Recognized by the
spouses, and children with pensions and bene-
Cori
fits: chartered by Congress.
Veterans Administration to assist veterans with
claims for benefits.
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States,
See
National Veterans Service, 200 Maryland Ave.
Blinded Veterans Assn., 1726 M St. N.W.
App
N.E. 20002; 543-2239. Fred Juarbe, director,
464,
20036; 223-3066. Sumner A. Vale, director of
Chartered by Congress to assist veterans with
administration.
claims for benefits.
Ager
Seeks out blinded veterans to make them aware
of benefits and services available to them: char-
See also Veterans, General, non-governmental
Def
tered by Congress to assist veterans with claims
The
section (p. 490)
Gre
for benefits.
Civi
Catholic War Veterans U.S.A., 419 N. Lee St.,
Burial Benefits
corr
Alexandria, Va. 22314; 549-3622. Paul P.
char
Zawicki, national commander.
Agencies:
serv
Performs community service programs for chil-
Veterans Administration, Compensation and
dren; offers scholarships; supports benefits for
Pension Service, 810 Vermont Ave. N.W.
Non-g
Vietnam veterans commensurate with those of
20420; 233-2264. Vacant, director.
Ame
World War II veterans; recognized by the Veter-
Handles claims for burial and plot allowances by
view
ans Administration to assist veterans with
veterans' survivors.
N.W
claims for benefits.
visor
Disabled American Veterans, 807 Maine Ave.
Veterans Administration, Memorial Affairs,
Mem
S.W. 20024; 554-3501. Charles E. Joeckel, exec-
810 Vermont Ave. N.W. 20420; 233-5202.
veter
Wilfred L. Ebel, chief; Harold F. Graber, direc-
utive director.
Kore
tor, state cemetery grants, 233-2313.
Assists families of disabled veterans; chartered
befor
by Congress to assist veterans with claims for
Administers VA national cemeteries; furnishes
upgra
markers and headstones for deceased veterans:
corre
benefits.
administers grants to states to establish, ex-
Fleet Reserve Assn., 1303 New Hampshire
pand, and improve veterans' cemeteries.
Ame
Ave. N.W. 20036; 785-2768. Robert W. Nolan,
view
national executive secretary.
Congress:
J.A.
Membership: active duty, reserve, and retired
See Veterans, General, Congress section (p
Repre
Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard person-
seekin
489)
nel. Recognized by the Veterans Administration
charg
to assist veterans and widows with benefit
Non-governmental:
Amer
claims.
See veterans' service organizations in Veterans,
chuse
Benefits, Compensation, and Pensions (p. 491)
Willei
Non-Commissioned Officers Assn., 225 N.
Washington St., Alexandria, Va. 22314; 549-
Meml
0311. Charles R. Jackson, vice president, gov-
Korea
Business Assistance
ernment affairs.
before
Provides legislative assistance; accredited by the
upgra
Agencies:
Veterans Administration to assist veterans and
Farmers Home Administration (Agriculture
Disabl
widows with claims for benefits.
Dept.), Farmer Programs, 14th St. and Indepen-
S.W. 2
dence Ave. S.W. 20250; 447-4671. Glenn I
utive
Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 18th St.
N.W. 20006; 872-1300. R. Jack Powell, execu-
Hertzler Jr., assistant administrator.
Repres
tive director.
Gives preference to honorably discharged veter
seekin
Veterans 493
ation on special education for
ans in processing their applications for FHA
charges and to correct alleged errors in military
S; supports and raises funds
farm loans.
records.
tered by Congress to assist
Small Business Administration, Veterans Af-
Marine Corps League, 956 N. Monroe St.,
ms for benefits.
fairs, 1441 L St. N.W. 20416; 653-8220. Dick E.
Arlington, Va. 22201; 524-1137. Robert N. For-
Var Veterans, 810 Vermont
Ellis, director.
syth, executive director.
ng address: P.O. Box 1915,
Coordinates programs to give special consider-
Membership: active duty, retired, and reserve
20013); 347-1898. Beulah M.
ation to veterans in loan, counseling, procure-
Marine Corps groups. Represents before the
neral.
ment, and training programs.
Defense Dept. veterans seeking to upgrade less-
merican War veterans, their
than-honorable discharges.
ren with pensions and bene-
Correction of Military Records
National Veterans' Legal Services Project,
Congress.
2001 S St. N.W. 20009; 686-2741. Keith D.
;n Wars of the United States,
See also Military Grievances, Discipline, and
Snyder, director.
Service, 200 Maryland Ave.
Appeals, Correction of Military Records (p.
Offers guidance on upgrading of less-than-hon-
239. Fred Juarbe, director,
464); Review Boards (p. 466)
orable discharges.
gress to assist veterans with
Agencies:
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States,
S.
Military Claims, 200 Maryland Ave. N.E. 20002;
General, non-governmental
Defense Dept., Legislation and Legal Policy,
543-2239. Robert Manhan, chief.
The Pentagon 20301; 697-3387. Col. Fred K.
Green (USA), director.
Represents before the Defense Dept. veterans
seeking to upgrade less-than-honorable
Civilian office that coordinates policy for the
discharges.
correction of military records boards and dis-
charge review boards of the various armed
Vietnam Veterans of America, Legal Services,
services.
2001 S St. N.W. 20009; 686-2599. David
Addlestone, director.
stration, Compensation and
Non-governmental:
810 Vermont Ave. N.W.
Represents before the Defense Dept. Vietnam
Vacant, director.
American Legion National Organization, Re-
veterans seeking to upgrade less-than-honorable
view and Correction Boards Unit, 1608 K St.
burial and plot allowances by
discharges and to correct alleged errors in mili-
N.W. 20006; 861-2764. Francis J. Henry, super-
tary records.
S.
visor.
istration, Memorial Affairs,
See also veterans' service organizations in Vet-
Membership: honorably discharged wartime
ve. N.W. 20420; 233-5202.
erans, Benefits, Compensation, and Pensions
veterans of World War I, World War II, the
hief; Harold F. Graber, direc-
(p. 491)
Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Represents
ry grants, 233-2313.
before the Defense Dept. veterans seeking to
national cemeteries; furnishes
upgrade less-than-honorable discharges and to
Istones for deceased veterans:
correct alleged errors in military records.
Education and Vocational
S to states to establish, ex-
Rehabilitation
e veterans' cemeteries.
American National Red Cross, Discharge Re-
view Services, The Pentagon 20310; 695-5130.
J.A. Maclnnis, coordinator.
Agencies:
Represents before the Defense Dept. veterans
Education Dept., Veterans Educational Out-
eneral, Congress section (p.
seeking to upgrade less-than-honorable dis-
reach Program, 7th and D Sts. S.W. 20202; 732-
charges and to correct their military records.
4406. Neil McArthur, program manager.
Provides postsecondary institutions with funds,
11:
American Veterans Committee, 1717 Massa-
based on their eligible veterans' enrollment.
ice organizations in Veterans,
chusetts Ave. N.W. 20036; 667-0090. June A.
Institutions receiving funds must maintain a
sation, and Pensions (p. 491)
Willenz, executive director.
veterans' affairs office and provide veterans
Membership: veterans of the World Wars, the
with outreach, recruitment, counseling, and spe-
Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Represents
cial education programs.
ance
before the Defense Dept. veterans seeking to
upgrade less-than-honorable discharges.
Veterans Administration, Vocational Rehabili-
tation and Education Service, 810 Vermont
Administration (Agriculture
Disabled American Veterans, 807 Maine Ave.
Ave. N.W. 20420; 233-5154. Dennis R. Wyant,
ograms, 14th St. and Indepen-
S.W. 20024; 554-3501. Charles E. Joeckel, exec-
director.
20250; 447-4671. Glenn I
utive director.
Administers vocational rehabilitation and coun-
tant administrator.
Represents before the Defense Dept. veterans
seling programs, including financial support for
to honorably discharged veter
seeking to upgrade less-than-honorable dis-
education, disabled veterans and the spouses
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE
2
4TH STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright (c) 1981 The New York Times Company;
The New York Times
March 21, 1981, Saturday, Late City Final Edition
SECTION: Section 1; Page 10, Column 3; National Desk
LENGTH: 460 words
HEADLINE: WHITE HOUSE WITHDRAWS SUPPORT OF LONG ISLANDER TO BE V.A. HEAD
BYLINE: By IRVIN MOLOTSKY, Special to the New York Times
DATELINE: WASHINGTON, March 20
BODY:
The Reagan Administration has decided not to nominate John Behan, a Vietnam
War amputee from Long Island, to head the Veterans Administration, a White House
official said today.
The decision to withdraw the nomination of Mr. Behan, the official said,
resulted from protests by politically active veterans' groups and their allies
in Congress who asserted that Mr. Behan, a New York State Assemblyman, lacked
the managerial skill and power to fight for veterans' programs.
Reached at his home in Montauk, L.I., Mr. Behan said that he had not been
notified of the decision by the White House and expressed disappointment.
Mr. Behan said it was his understanding that the most forceful opposition to
his appointment had come from the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Mr. Behan and three Congressional aides who asked not to be identified said
that his chief opponent was Cooper T. Holt, executive director of the Veterans
of Foreign Wars. Mr. Holt did not respond to a telephoned request for comment.
Other Names Proposed
When the White House disclosed plans last month to name Mr. Behan, the V.F.W.
leadership recommended a candidate, William Ayres, a former Congressman from
Ohio, the White House and Congressional sources said.
Mr. Ayres was also opposed, one of the Congressional aides said, and two more
candidates were proposed and supported by other members of Congress. ' 'Those
four people sort of killed each other off,'' the aide said.
The Administration decided against nominating Mr. Behan and the three
challengers and instead began interviewing new candidates this week.
Mr. Behan said he would be available to the Veterans Administration ''to try
to help the Vietnam era veteran and work with the new administrator, whoever he
is.
An Achiever in Athletics
LEXIS NEXIS® LEXIS ® NEXIS ®
Services of Mead Data Central
PAGE
3
(c) 1981 The New York Times, March 21, 1981
Mr. Behan, who is 36 years old, won varsity letters in three sports when he
attended East Hampton, L.I., High School. He joined the Marine Corps after he
graduated in 1963.
In 1966, while on patrol in Vietnam, Mr. Behan was wounded and both legs were
amputated above the knee. Mr. Behan was a member of the United States
Wheelchair Team at the Pan-American Games in Lima, Peru, in 1972 and at the
Wheelchair Olympics in Toronto in 1976.
He has won gold medals in the discus, shot-put and javelin events and he
holds the world record for the javelin event among wheelchair athletes.
As a member of the New York Assembly, Mr. Behan organized the Vietnam
Veterans Caucus in the Legislature to draw attention to the needs of veterans of
that conflict, particularly those exposed to the toxic herbicide Agent Orange.
SUBJECT: APPOINTMENTS AND EXECUTIVE CHANGES; VETERANS; UNITED STATES POLITICS
AND GOVERNMENT
NAME: REAGAN, RONALD WILSON (PRES)
LEXIS® ® NEXIS® ® LEXIS® ® NEXIS ®
THE white HOUSE
Stephame:
washington
pls. check with the UFW
organization to see what
types of community programs/
projects they are involved
in / any to do with drugs?)
Also, plo. find out how
many Vederavo there are - -
# must be 10 milion or more
Thank,
Dan
THE white HOUSE
washington
Stephanie:
Can you set me
copis of the following
2 Reagen speeches:
i) Morow St. University
2) Note Dame 4.
Thanks,
4
13/60/19 18/7/50
3/3/31
2/24/89
VFW Speech
Kenned
Km.
veterons offairs
VA
priorities
Bill Anderson
Advance
norm. questions
Cooper Holt, ED of VFW, Washington office
543-2239
200 Maryland Ave NE
Ency of Ass
Roblications
VA Library 976
810
VFW Magpzine
Vermont
Washington Action Reporter
Rooder's buide
National Headquarters
Christian Century 2/25/87
"A VFW Post with A Spiritual Vision"
P. 193-4
People 12/5/88 Viet Vet finds peace in Vietnam
P. 156-63
Esquire Nov. 88 p.67+ Comm. of Viet. Vet want legs
People 10/24/88 p.119 Viet Vet helps Soriet Vet
P.135-6
Forbes 7/11/88 Nam sturnees make good
TheNew Yorker 2/8/88 p.71-8% Rennion of
Repder's Direct 4/88 p.65-7 Encousigement to Nom Amputee
2.2. mill.
750,000 ladies ALL concer research
10,000 communities
youth
BoyaScats
Drugs
brochwas
coloring speakers books
NoH. Convention Report
Cooper Holt - is retiring in Sapt.-sending
bio; thinks GB wants to meation it.
2:00 messenger lobby @ receptionist desk
of VFW
Quotes
street strength quotes
Correspondence
veterans letter
VFW
JPP
drugs
enlist drugs them in the war against
I'm calling on you to enlist in the
wor
ya've Eaght for your country once
def & veterans Are wasted for the
news
hordatory - exortation
ASK Bennett for 2 specifico
joint program
Drug
2613
X
2992 673-2636
Chrman of Day Council of VFW or
dins w/ GB
2/23/89
V.A. Library
Heodlihe Issues:
VFW2/89 Central America
English Do official hargwage
Homeless Veterans
p43
2/89
Wolk-s-thon to by -norcotics dog
p.64 jokes
p.4. herry Rivers, Denwinski * Bush mut
P.8 Wello WALLA, Washington; Christmas spirit
2.30
10/86
collecting money for Korean Uar Memorial
Corrasp. 2304; Mpil thalysis 6600 - Mrs Bell letters vot,
Quotes
Oxford Dict.
defense: Anon 7:16, Anon 5:1; Homer 254:2,
Pray
315:22 ) Burke 109:23
Since wars begin in the minds of men it is in
the minds of men that the defenses of peace
must be constructed.
Const. of the un Educ. Scientific &
Cultural Organization
Defense not defince
Motlo of the Volunteurs Morement 1857
This is the one best omen, to fight in
defense of one's country.
gryrwer It over consept
IMP ? TMT our prof DUTV to the W
FON triend own_let sit to sholl
Draver Not grower
1 why no 3Nt to tonal
way pr
wang to cronotab 3N+ taNt NOAN to abnim with
2.455 MOLD ! +pn wings of WEV It 12. !!
BON
212: 33 ? Bage 10d:53
graven: you 4:15 you ₹:1
oxpra
STRIP
proof 920d ΓΓOO - WE R11 of Act
3.30 10/88 callefine wourd for Karrow not Working
& & ! 2014
b.d. paid fines Drusings: *B*N wry
bed loke
by N3 9/8 to pal qo?
examits destrmott
Even 00 official princes
asims faitned
and wilbasH
5/33/82
1V
VFW
2/24/89
Navan
Earl Stock
Commission in Chrefy theme: For America:
Whatever it takes!"
Drugs planse:
Chairman - Paul Fleur delys
Director - Joseph D. Ross
[(615) 320-1700 Rm. 1001 I
VFW Living. obson "Honor the Dead by Helping the
Defense budget
1990- 93
O%
1%
growth
OMB
1%
Comptraller
2%
89 - 5.7% st GNP
90 - 5.590
Histor, Tables
91 - 5.490
P.140
92 5.340
93 - 5.2%
94 - 5.1%
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 1, 1989
MEMORANDUM
RE: Drug Initiatives in VFW Speech
* Call veterans to enlist in the "War on Drugs" by getting
involved in volunteer programs in their communities. Programs
include:
- DARE
- Chaperone parties
- Community meetings with the clergy and law
enforcement officers
- Lobbying for anti-drug legislation in their states
and city councils
- Teaching or pushing for anti-drug curriculum in
elementary and high schools
- Asking the police department how you can help.
- (Call upon the Boy Scouts, 4-H Clubs, and teams they
coach to fight drugs)
- (Volunteer at inner-city schools)
*
Meet with Drug Czar Bennett to enlist the VFW in an
anti-drug war.
VFW
2/28/89
Volunteer Initiatives
Comm! meetings is/ clergy de police
Choperone porties
Roshtor teach
Lobby for local anti-frug les is/istron
Anti - drug curricular
can help
DSK your local police dept. how you
Think about being involved d give
them D few examples
inviting 4/hm and all Americans to
get involved in drugs
Coll upon Boy Scouts
&
4-H clubs
to set involved.
3/2/89
VFW Speech
4624
David Morrison
OMB
historical table & Food
Adv.
who to acknowledge
Darid Tell
to o.k.
VFW material
Winston Churchill quote
Bottlett's on Churchill
142, 781, 642, 743
VFW - Bill Smith 543-2239
2/27/89
VFW
Advance
nobody's been assigned yet
David Tell
will coll me bak
2/28/89
volunteer to mon D desk to free up on
officer for drug potrol
-
declared P took force.
justice
volunteer of inner-city schools
-
take D look Dround nighpshoods
constellation of Aspirations
moke oure children have right
community of Ada Its to footer
those VFID positive feelings
Jim Burke pres. of Johnson Johnson
private sector intitioves for dry abuse
BB il be confirmed D 1st drag (EON
bul P policy to win war on drugs.
To by low he 5 must come up
I'm committee asking you to do the some in pur
mention Y2 dozen Volunteer initiatives
DARE
NAME
OFFICE
Bus. Phone
Home PL
Bill Smith
VFW WASH
543-2239
250-9602
Leo Tomeu
WH staff
456-7565
BoB RISNEY
WH Comm
395-6310
395-2000
TIM M°CARTHY
USSS
395-4112
.395-2000x833
MAS BRUCE CAUGHMAN
WH MIL OFFICE
456-2150
395-2000
Mitch Price
USSS
395-4011
273-8239
Bob MADEL
USSS/TSD
336-9460
249-6927
Stephanie Blessey
WH Speechwriting stall SAP
456-7750
483-4914
DOUG WEAD
456 7142
703/920 2843
BARRY HAmmonn
SWH COMPINATO
328-2913
483-2253
Bob Drescher SWH Securityfoir
3282000
552303(
BOB SCHULIEN USSS-WFO
634-5100
250-5333
Leo Andrew
VFW
543-2239
280-7520
ELI VIDNIVICH
SHERATON WASH,
328-3000
270-8022
AREA CODE 202
543-2239
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
OF THE UNITED STATES
WILLIAM G. SMITH
WASHINGTON OFFICE
DIRECTOR
200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
washington, D.C. 20002
Tower's service.
NAVY ENSIGN ?
Combat - medals.
545-6700
695-5261
697-7200
Kim Gervin
of during ,II 2 sow combat
pge 17 in 1943, June 17 - March 25, 1946
served time on sunboot
Sect. Boll's off. bontswoins mote
soy combot sumpot in West. Pacitic
Jeff Zockem dock responsibilities
695 48841
693 got roting in 67
697-7491 -
Remained in Reserve wrtil he earned the ronk
of Moster Chief Boats woins Mate
Transferred to Ret. Reserve on Feb. 1, 1989
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 1, 1989
MEMORANDUM
RE: Drug Initiatives in VFW Speech proposed by David Tell
* Call veterans to enlist in the "War on Drugs" by getting
involved in volunteer programs in their communities. Programs
include:
- DARE ?
- Chaperone parties ?!
- Community meetings with the clergy and law
enforcement officers
- Lobbying for anti-drug legislation in their states
and city councils
<
- Teaching or pushing for anti-drug curriculum in
elementary and high schools
- Asking the police department how you can help. VW
- (Call upon the Boy Scouts, 4-H Clubs, and teams they
coach to fight drugs)
- (Volunteer at inner-city schools)
VUJ
*
Meet with Drug Czar Bennett to enlist the VFW in an
anti-drug war.
= good
= very good
VJJ = excellent
?! = I wonder about Ins
? = no ider
NATIONAL CONVENTION
89th
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
0
G
2
AA
J
I
H
C
The vision of youth is helping
shape the future at General Motors.
At General Motors we listen to the ideas
who specializes in both current and advanced
of our young people. Their commitment to
models. And Dave Riegner, project engineer,
excellence and their fresh, innovative thinking
who is working with new composite materials
help guide us in a changing automotive world.
that will save weight and help make tomor-
And their dreams will become our cars and
row's cars more durable. Their vision, and that
trucks of tomorrow.
of thousands of other young experts, is helping
Innovators such as Eric Clough (right), a
create the foundation for the automobiles we
creative designer who helped design this
build today and the ones we'll build in the future.
advanced version of a two-seater sports car.
All of us at General Motors salute this
Marietta Kearney, an interior creative designer
commitment to excellence.
GM
MARK OF EXCELLENCE
CHEVROLET
PONTIAC
OLDSMOBILE
BUICK
CADILLAC
GMC TRUCK
NO ONE SHOULD HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN
OUR NATIONAL SECURITY AND THEIR JOB SECURITY.
But that's just the position volunteers in
When they ask for one weekend a month
the National Guard and Reserve find them-
and at least two weeks a year for training,
selves in every day. They're torn between
give them all the support you can.
serving their country and serving their
It may be the only time you benefit
employers.
more from employees not being at
We can't afford for them
work than when they are.
to have that dilemma. The
Protect their future
Guard and Reserve
while they protect yours.
makes up a full one
For more informa-
third of our nation's
tion, write Employer
defense, which means
Support, Arlington,
without them
VA 22209. Or call
our country would
1-800-336-4590.
be a lot weaker.
EGR
Ad
Council
EMPLOYER SUPPORT OF THE GUARD & RESERVE
CONVENTION HOTEL DIRECTORY
Chicago Hilton
561-0500
Essex Inn
939-2800
Chicago Marriott
836-0100
Americana Congress
427-3800
Palmer House
726-7500
Blackstone
427-4300
McCormick Center
791-4900
ALABAMA
MARYLAND
PENNSYLVANIA
Palmer House
Hilton
Marriott
ALASKA
MASSACHUSETTS
RHODE ISLAND
Marriott
Hilton
Palmer House
ARIZONA
MICHIGAN
SOUTH CAROLINA
Palmer House
Marriott
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ARKANSAS
MINNESOTA
SOUTH DAKOTA
Hilton
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Palmer House
CALIFORNIA
MISSISSIPPI
TENNESSEE
Hilton
Palmer House
Palmer House
COLORADO
MISSOURI
TEXAS
Palmer House
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Palmer House
CONNECTICUT
MONTANA
UTAH
Hilton
Hilton
Palmer House
DELAWARE
NEBRASKA
VERMONT
Hilton
Marriott
Palmer House
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
NEVADA
VIRGINIA
Hilton
Palmer House
Palmer House
EUROPE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
WASHINGTON
Hilton
Marriott
Marriott
FLORIDA
NEW JERSEY
WEST VIRGINIA
Palmer House
Hilton
Palmer House
GEORGIA
NEW MEXICO
WISCONSIN
Marriott
Hilton
Hilton
HAWAII
NEW YORK
WYOMING
Hilton
Hilton
Palmer House
IDAHO
NORTH CAROLINA
NATIONAL
Marriott
Marriott
VFW HEADQUARTERS
ILLINOIS
NORTH DAKOTA
Hilton
Hilton-Essex Inn-Blackstone
Palmer House
NATIONAL
INDIANA
OHIO
VFW CONVENTION
Essex Inn-Blackstone
Palmer House-Blackstone
HEADQUARTERS
Hilton
IOWA
OKLAHOMA
Palmer House
Palmer House
NATIONAL
LADIES AUXILIARY
KANSAS
OREGON
HEADQUARTERS
Hilton
Palmer House
Marriott
KENTUCKY
PACIFIC AREA
NATIONAL
Palmer House
Hilton
MOC HEADQUARTERS
LOUISIANA
PANAMA CANAL
Americana Congress
Hilton
Hilton
MAINE
Marriott
2
CONTENTS
Schedule of Convention Events
4
Greetings
6
Convention Board of Directors
12
Convention Committee Chairmen
13
Official Call
14
National Officers
15
National Council of Administration
16
Chicago Welcomes You
17
The VFW Story: For America, Whatever It Takes
19
Past Commanders-in-Chief
21
Ladies Auxiliary
24
Military Order of the Cootie
30
Table of Organization
33
Member Benefits
34
National Officer Reports
Commander-in-Chief
38
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief
40
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief
41
Adjutant General
42
Quartermaster General
43
Judge Advocate General
52
Surgeon General
52
National Chaplain
53
Chief of Staff
54
Inspector General
54
Washington Office
55
Assistant Adjutant General, Administration
58
Assistant Adjutant General, Programs
59
Administrative Services
60
Americanism
61
Buddy Poppy
62
Community Activities
63
Membership
64
National Civil Service and Employment
66
National Legislative Service
68
National Security and Foreign Affairs
74
National Veterans Service
77
Post Development
80
Post Services
82
Publications and Public Relations
83
Safety
84
Voice of Democracy
85
Youth Activities
86
National Home
87
Political Action Committee
88
3
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
All events are scheduled for the Chicago Hilton Hotel unless otherwise noted.
Friday
August 19
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
Saturday
August 20
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
National Veterans Service Committee
Private Dining Room
2 p.m.
VFW Council of Administration
Waldorf Room
4 p.m.
Catholic Mass
Williford Rooms A & B
4 p.m.
Protestant Vesper Service
Private Dining Room 7
Sunday
August 21
8 a.m.
Catholic Church Service
Williford Rooms A & B
8 a.m.
Protestant Church Service
Williford Room C
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
Annual Memorial Service
Arie Crown Theatre, McCormick Place
(Buses will leave from designated hotel locations to the McCormick
Place and return after the service; no charge)
12:00 noon
Awards Luncheon
International Ballroom
3 p.m.
Convention Committee Meetings:
Parade Meeting (Parade Committee and
Department Commanders)
Astoria Room
Committee on Veterans Service
Williford Room C
Committee on National By-Laws, Manual
of Procedure & Ritual
Waldorf Room
9 p.m.
Eastern Conference Caucus
Wiliford Room
Western Conference Caucus
International Ballroom South
Southern Conference Caucus
Grand Ballroom
Big Ten Conference Caucus
International Ballroom North
Monday
August 22
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
Joint Opening Session
Arie Crown Theatre, McCormick Place
(Buses will leave from designated hotel locations to the McCormick
Place and return after the session; no charge)
2 p.m.
Convention Committee Meetings:
Americanism, Community Activities, Loyalty,
Safety and Youth Activities
Williford Room B
By-Laws, Rules, Procedure & Ritual
Astoria Room
Finance & Internal Organization
Williford Room A
General Resolutions
Private Dining Room 2
National Security & Foreign Affairs
Waldorf Room
Veteran & Legislative Committee
Williford Room C
Convention Rules
Private Dining Room 3
6 p.m.
Reception for Distinguished Guests
Boulevard Rooms A-B-C
(By invitation only)
6 p.m.
General Reception
Grand Ballroom
7 p.m.
Distinguished Guests Banquet
International Ballroom
4
Tuesday
August 23
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
VFW Business Session
International Ballroom
2:30 p.m.
Post Development Meeting
Astoria Room
2:30 p.m.
VAVS Conference
Waldorf Room
7 p.m.
Annual Military Parade
Michigan Avenue
Wednesday
August 24
7 a.m.
All American Commanders Breakfast
Williford Room
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
VFW Business Session
International Ballroom
2 p.m.
VFW Ritual Team Competition
Astoria Room
2 p.m.
VFW Membership Workshop
Waldorf Room
Thursday
August 25
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
VFW Business Session
International Ballroom
2 p.m.
VFW Programs
Astoria Room
2 p.m.
National Home Meeting
Williford Room A& B
3 p.m.
Department Commanders & National
Officers Reception (By invitation only)
Williford Room C
7 p.m.
Eastern Conference Banquet
Grand Ballroom
Western Conference Banquet
Grand Ballroom, Marriott Hotel
Big Ten Conference Banquet
Grand Ballroom, Palmer House
Dixie Banquet
International Ballroom
Friday
August 26
9 a.m.
Registration-VFW
Continental Room
9 a.m.
VFW Election & Installation of
Officers
International Ballroom
2 p.m.
VFW Council of Administration
Waldorf Room
8:30 p.m.
Commander-in-Chief & National
President's Reception
International Ballroom
VFW Convention Headquarters
Conference Room 5J
VFW National Headquarters
Continental Room
VFW Registration
Continental Room
VFW Supply Department
Continental Room
VFW Displays & Exhibits
Continental Room & South Lobby
Military Displays & Exhibits
Continental Room & South Lobby
Public Relations & Press Headquarters
Marquette Room
Distinguished Guests Headquarters
Joliet Room
VIP (holding room)
Boulevard Room A
Parade & Contest Headquarters
Conference Room 4D
Transportation Headquarters
Private Dining Room 6
Non-denominational chapel
Private Dining Room 7
First Aid Headquarters
Private Dining Room 5
5
GREETINGS
President Ronald Reagan
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 5, 1988
It is an honor to extend warmest greetings to the
members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United
States as you gather in Chicago for your 89th Annual
Convention.
Although I am unable to be with you at this special
time, I want to assure each of you that I deeply appre-
ciate the enormous beneficial impact your organization
has had on our Nation. I will always be grateful to
you for the wonderful support that you have shown me
and my Administration during these last eight years.
We Americans owe far more than we can ever repay to
those of you who have answered the call to defend the
liberty of our Republic. Wherever you served, in
whatever capacity, you lived up to our trust, willingly
shouldering the burdens and doing what had to be
done. Millions of you endured terrible hardships, and
made tremendous sacrifices, so that your fellow citizens
might live in freedom. Some of your brothers paid the
ultimate price. Many of our heroes now sleep in the
soil of lands far from home, but they are never far
from our thoughts. We will never forget them.
It is an honor to salute each of you on the occasion of
this final meeting during my time in office and to thank
you for your continuing dedication and commitment to
flag and country. God bless you, and God bless America!
Ronald Reagon
6
GREETINGS
Vice President George Bush
THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
July 14, 1988
TO THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS CONFERENCE
It is an honor for me to extend greetings to
everyone gathered for the 89th Annual Convention of
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
The freedom we enjoy as Americans has been won at
great cost, and all Americans owe a lasting debt of
gratitude to our nation's veterans. Through the many
programs and activities of this fine organization, you keep
alive our awareness of this debt as you advance the welfare
of the men and women who served in our Armed Forces.
As a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars,
(in Houston's Post #4344) I am proud of the work our
organization has done. This work, truly, is a credit to
the United States of America.
Barbara joins me in sending you our best wishes
for an enjoyable and successful national convention and for
continued success in the years ahead.
Sincerely,
Gy
George Bal Bush
7
GREETINGS
United States Senator Paul Simon
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, DC 20510
June 20, 1988
Dear Fellow VFW Members:
I'm pleased to be able to welcome you to Chicago for the 89th
National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
While you're here I hope you will be able to sample many of the
"Magnificent Miles" our great city has to offer.
I'm proud to be a Life Member of VFW and a partner with you in
many legislative battles over the years.
I speak for all Illinoisians in expressing gratitude to you for
your allegiance to this nation -- to the preservation of
freedom at home and abroad. For all of us in Illinois, it is
an honor that you have chosen to gather here, and may your days
in Chicago be productive and memorable.
My best wishes.
United States Senator
8
GREETINGS
United States Senator Alan J. Dixon
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, DC 20510
August, 1988
Dear VFW Members:
On behalf of the people of Chicago and all Illinoisans,
it is my great pleasure to welcome the 89th National
Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
We are proud to have the opportunity to host this most
important meeting. We hope that our hospitality can begin to
express our deep appreciation and gratitude for the
contributions you have made, and continue to make, to the
freedom and security of our great nation.
As a veteran and a member of the United States Senate
Armed Services Committee, I am particularly aware of the
dedicated efforts of those who have sacrificed for America
during times of peace and times of war.
Best wishes for a successful and enjoyable convention.
Sincerely
United States Senator/Illinois
9
GREETINGS
Governor James R. Thompson
STATE OF ILLINOIS
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
SPRINGFIELD 62706
August 22. 1988
Greetings:
As Governor of the State of Illinois, it gives me great pleasure to send
greetings to everyone attending the VFW National Convention. I want to
personally thank you for choosing Illinois and the City of Chicago as the site
of your convention. I am sure that as you discover Chicago's hospitality and
the excitement of the "Windy City," you will be glad you chose Chicago to host
your convention.
I commend your dedication and strong sense of duty to your country; you
are greatly appreciated and admired by the people you have served. You have
given much to your country through your selfless and persistent endeavors to
protect and improve it, even to the point of risking your life.
Best wishes for a successful and enjoyable convention.
GOVERNOR
10
GREETINGS
Acting Mayor Eugene Sawyer
CITY OF CHICAGO
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
July 11, 1988
Dear Commander in Chief Stock:
As Mayor of the City of Chicago, as well as personally, I am very pleased to extend
a cordial welcome to you, the delegates, families and friends of the Veterans of
Foreign Wars of the United States on the occasion of your Eighty Ninth National
Convention - August 19-26, 1988, here in Chicago.
Chicago is proud of its reputation as "Convention Capital of the Nation." We are
quite confident that the unparalleled facilties of our city will enhance the success
of your meeting bringing about the maximum in attendance.
During the few moments available to you during your business and technical sessions,
please be assured that there are many regular and special events in the city for your
mutual enjoyment and interest.
We hope your group will return to Chicago many times in the future.
Sincerely,
Eugane Samp
11
CONVENTION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
GREETINGS FROM THE 89TH NATIONAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE
C
hicago is a great city. Those of us
who live in Chicago or its environs
VFW
8081
believe it is the greatest city in the
world. It is a manufacturing center, a trans-
portation hub and the core of America's
vast heartland.
As delegates to the 89th National Convention of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, you will
find our people generous and willing to help you in any
way they can.
This is the sixth time since the end of World War II that
the VFW has met in Chicago, so you can see that our
organization likes Chicago, and Chicago likes the VFW.
Many of you will remember Chicago from your service
Vernon Soukup
Chairman
days. The Navy's Great Lakes Training Center is not far
away, nor is Fort Sheridan. If you did not serve in the
Chicago area, you probably did pass through our city on
your way overseas and had a chance to enjoy the
hospitality for which Chicago is so richly and justly
famous.
While you are here, be sure to take advantage of some
of the attractions our city has to offer. Chicago is noted
for its museums, its shopping facilities, its glittering
nightlife and its world class restaurants catering to every
VFW
2149
6869
taste.
It is an honor to welcome all of you to Chicago. You may
be sure that we will do all in our power to make your visit
pleasant and memorable.
Vernon Soukup
Ray Soden
Chairman, Board of Directors
George Cramer
Vice Chairman
Secretary-Treasurer
VFW
VETERAND
SENSTERANG SPT
6498
VFW
VETERAMENT
5789
VETERANS
6467
Earl L. Stock, Jr.
Larry W. Rivers
Walter G. Hogan
Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr.
Herbert W. Irwin
Commander-in-Chief
Sr. Vice
Jr. Vice
Adjutant General
Quartermaster General
Commander-in-Chief
Commander-in-Chief
VFW
VFW
573
9759
VFW
3579
VEW
4737
Omar Kendall
Dwight Tanner, Jr.
Robert McMahon
Ed Gjirtsen
Eugene Lewandowski
Convention Director
Member
Member
Member
Member
12
CONVENTION COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN
NEW
V.F.W
2149
VETERANG FR
7660
VFW
2258
367
Ray Soden
Robert McMahon
Arthur Harrison
Jack McCraith
Distinguished Guests
Parade
Transportation
Meeting Halls and Info.
VFW
9759
MEMBER
VFW
5869
3579 VFW
V.F.W.
Dwight Tanner, Jr.
Ed Gjirtsen
Donald Palmer
George Cramer
Memorial Service
Advance Registration
MOC Liaison
Finance
VFW 5915 STATE
VFW
VFW
4737
6870
Henry Majewski
Walter Such
Eugene Lewandowski
Carl Di Grazia
Contests
Signs
Military Coordinator
Medical
13
CONVENTION CALL
A
S we assemble in Chicago for our
89th National Convention, we are
COMMANDE
charged with the responsibility of
considering a vast array of resolutions. They
VETERANS
will provide our great organization with the
firm foundation for continued improvements
in veterans' entitlements, for a national
defense that will make the United States SO
strong that no aggressor will dare attack, for
an America imbued with the ideals for which
we and those who came before us fought SO
valiantly and for continued growth.
It is only through our traditionally reasoned approach
to the challenges in the years that lie ahead that the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States can be sure
of overcoming whatever obstacles may stand in the way
of achieving the goals you, the delegates to this 89th
National Convention, set for this organization for the
1988-89 year.
Earl L. Stock, Jr.
In assessing the future, we must be ever-mindful of the
Commander-in-Chief
heavy burden we bear as veterans. We have served our
country in time of national peril. In this, we take great
a glorious record in all its endeavors. It is up to us at this
pride. At the same time, however, we must remember
89th National Convention to set the agenda for the future
that most Americans have not had this opportunity.
to assure that the coming years will be as memorable.
Therefore, it is up to us, as veterans, to impress on our
fellow citizens what that service entailed and what the
Yours in Comradeship,
needs of veterans are.
Now on the threshold of the 90th birthday of the
Earl L. Stock, Jr.
Veterans of Foreign Wars, our great organization has set
Commander-in-Chief
In assessing the future, we must be ever-mindful of the
heavy burden we bear as veterans. We have served
our country in time of national peril.
14
NATIONAL OFFICERS
VICE CON 1986,
VFW
ADJUDITE
VFW
1736
SENIOTRANS OFT.
6498
SIGNSIN
VFW
VETERANSUE
6467
Larry W. Rivers
Walter G. Hogan
Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr.
Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief
Adjutant General
QUARTER
ADVC
VFW
VFW
5789
VETERANS
1178
VFW
323
Herbert W. Irwin
James B. Lund
Dr. Philip J. Begley, Jr.
Quartermaster General
Judge Advocate General
Surgeon General
NATIL
VFW
VETERANS
veteraisc
4855
B33
603
Bishop Boyd W. Winterton
Paul E. Wampler, Jr.
Peter E. Olson
National Chaplain
National Chief of Staff
Inspector General
15
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION
VFW
6240
Norman G. Staab
Curtis E. Brown
Louis Reale
James R. Ross
John J. Lieb
Past Commander-in-Chief
Dist. 1 (ME, NH, VT)
Dist. 2 (MA, CT)
Dist. 3 (MD. RI)
Dist. 4 (DC. DE. EU)
1987-89
1986-88
1987-89
1986-88
John P. Walker, Jr.*
George Magurany
Otis N. Berry
George B. Simons
George H. Pugh
Dist. 5 (MO, IN)
Dist. 5 (IN, MO)
Dist. 6 (WV, VA)
Dist. 7 (TN. KY)
Dist. 8 (GA, AL)
1987-89
Serving unexpired term
1986-88
1987-89
1986-88
Henry S. Allen, Sr.
Robert B. Thomas
Charles Arndt
Paul S. Aaberg
Earl Stiner, Jr.
Dist. 9 (SC, NC)
Dist. 10 (OK, AR)
Dist. 11 (WI. IA)
Dist. 12 (SD. ND. WY)
Dist. 13 (NE. KS)
1987-89
1986-88
1987-89
1986-88
1987-89
Jack C. Huislander
Christian L. Hammond
Louis Balasanos
Patrick L. Jordan
A.O. Cummings
Dist. 14 (MT. WA, ID)
Dist. 15 (NM. CO. AZ)
Dist. 16 (PC, PAC. AK. HI)
Dist. 17 (UT. NV. OR)
Dist. 19 (LA. MS)
1986-88
1987-89
1986-88
1987.89
1987-89
Tavio Angelo
Thomas Morgan
Charles J. Schnobrich
Glen A. Rohr
Patrick T. Bohmer
Dist. A (PA)
Dist. B (IL)
Dist. C (NY)
Dist. D (OH)
Dist. E (MN)
1987-89
1987-89
1987-89
1986-88
1986-88
VFW
8245
Irving Wendt
C. W. Kelly
Robert J. Lyons, Sr.
Robert E. Wallace
Edwin H. Shuman
Dist. F (MI)
Dist. G (CA)
Dist. H (TX)
Dist. (NJ)
Dist. J (FL)
1987-89
1987-89
1986-88
1987-89
1987-89
*Deceased
16
CHICAGO WELCOMES YOU
F
ew other cities offer as much for
C
convention delegates to do or see
THE
when business sessions have con-
cluded for the day as Chicago.
Restaurants of all types abound, appealing to even
the most jaded palates. To the standard Chinese, Italian
and Hellenic have been added Afghan, Cajun, Korean,
Mexican, Thai, Indian and Armenian. One of the city's
most famous restaurants features traditional German
dishes.
Shopping has made the Miracle Mile and the State
Street Mall world-famous for the type, quality and variety
H
of the merchandise available.
Museums are devoted to scientific, industrial and
artistic interests. Even ethnicity is recognized in a variety
of museums.
This Picasso sculpture has won worldwide acclaim.
The Chicago Theater.
17
CHICAGO WELCOMES YOU
This is the view of downtown from the Kennedy Expressway.
The Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most noted attractions.
The Buckingham Fountain shimmers at night.
18
'FOR AMERICA, WHATEVER IT TAKES'
C
ommander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock,
under glasnost and perestroika.
Jr., elected at the 88th National
When Secretary of Defense Weinberger resigned to be
Convention of the Veterans of Foreign
succeeded by Frank C. Carlucci, Stock had high praise for
Weinberger and expressed the hope that under Secretary
Wars of the United States in New Orleans,
Carlucci the same close relationship with the VFW would
chose as his theme "For America, Whatever
continue.
At the annual Mid-Winter Conference in Washington,
It Takes" to emphasize the organization's
President Reagan addressed the National officers and
dedication to its purposes set forth in its
committee members, praising the VFW for its strong
Congressional Charter.
stand in support of the anti-Sandinista Nicaraguan resis-
tance and efforts to gain passage in Congress of legislation
These are a strong national defense, care for veterans
to provide the Contras with the money to continue the
and survivors, love of country and aid for disabled and
struggle.
needy veterans.
Commander-in-Chief Stock told a joint meeting of the
Further, undergirding these chartered aims, Commander-
House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees that the
in-Chief Stock worked with National committees at the
1989 VA budget, while seeming to be higher than this
beginning of his administration to develop Priority Goals
year's, actually was inadequate to provide current services.
in areas of veterans' concerns. The Priority Goals were
Throughout the year also, Commander-in-Chief Stock
based on resolutions passed by delegates to the 88th
worked constantly to gain passage of a bill backed by
National Convention.
Reagan, that would elevate the VA to Cabinet-level and
Commander-in-Chief Stock, immediately after his
make the VA an executive-branch department. The bill
election, alerted Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger
overwhelmingly passed the House, and Senate and now is
and Secretary of State George P. Shultz of VFW positions
in a conference committee.
on national security and foreign affairs, particularly in
This bill would fulfill a longstanding VFW priority goal
view of what have been perceived as Soviet policy
and give the VA ready access to the President. It would
changes leading to a more open and less belligerent
recognize the role veterans have played in protecting the
Soviet Union under Communist Party General Secretary
nation's freedom.
Mikhail Gorbachev.
Stock's work, complemented by the efforts of VFW
With the signing of the Intermediate-range Nuclear
members on every echelon of the organization, culminated
Forces Treaty with the USSR at the Washington Summit
in the 33rd straight year of membership growth.
meeting between President Reagan and Gorbachev,
Not only is this gain indicative of the reaction of eligible
Commander-in-Chief Stock urged Senate ratification of
American veterans to the VFW's role as their spokesman,
the instrument.
but it is a tribute to the dedication of VFW members who
The reason he cited was that the INF Treaty contains
consistently bend every effort toward increasing the
provisions for verification of compliance that VFW
organization's membership. Their hard work and old-
resolutions called for. The Commander-in-Chief, however,
fashioned door-to-door and telephone campaigns, plus
warned against being beguiled by Gorbachev's genial
the vast array of programs sponsored by this organization,
demeanor and apparent openness in contrast to the
once again made the difference.
hostility of his predecessors. In short, action, not words,
Founded in 1899, the VFW includes veterans of all
should be the dominant factor in assessing changes
American wars of this century, plus numerous "peace
19
'FOR AMERICA, WHATEVER IT TAKES'
time" campaigns and expeditions. Time and time again,
Since the Spanish-American War, government assis-
therefore, it has proved that there is no generation gap in
tance to veterans has increased tremendously, largely at
the VFW.
the urging of the VFW, which contends that the cost of
With 10,000 Posts, more than 2 million members and
veterans' benefits should be included in the cost of war.
programs designed to aid youth, improve communities,
The outbreak of World War II came as no surprise to
foster patriotism and assure a strong national defense,
the VFW, which had for years been warning against the
the VFW is looking forward to another successful year in
rise of Hitler and Nazi Germany's aggressive intentions.
1988-89.
For World War II veterans, the VFW advocated a wide
In 1936 Congress chartered the VFW as a fraternal,
range of benefits, which later became the GI Bill of Rights,
patriotic, historical and educational organization "to
the basis also for much legislation relating to Korean and
perpetuate the memory and history of our dead and to
Vietnam War veterans. While supporting the GI Bill, the
assist their widows and orphans
to maintain and
VFW advocated even further benefits for veterans who
extend the institutions of American freedom and to
would not be able to take advantage of the GI Bill's
preserve and defend the United States from all her
provisions.
enemies, whomsoever."
In the post-war years, the VFW warned against Soviet
In its 89 years, the VFW has numbered among its
designs on the free world and the danger of Communist
members many of the nation's foremost military leaders,
subversion. Through VFW efforts, Congress established
as well as six Presidents: Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy,
Loyalty Day, observed annually on May 1, to counteract
Johnson, Nixon and Ford. Teddy Roosevelt joined after
Communist May Day.
he left the White House. Each was unstinting in his praise
With the invasion of South Korea by the Communist
of the VFW.
North Koreans, the VFW went to work to design entitle-
The Veterans of Foreign Wars traces its beginnings to
ments for the Americans who went to fight there. The
1899 when Spanish-American War veterans in Columbus,
VFW also supported Presidential efforts to halt the
Ohio, and Denver, Colo., met separately to form organ-
spread of Castro's Communism in Latin America.
izations that would work for the veterans of that era. This
During the Vietnam War, the VFW advocated a more
was especially important since the government provided
vigorous prosecution to prevent further bloodshed. The
little for them in benefits or care, even for the disabled or
VFW also was active in the campaign for the release or
those who had contracted tropical diseases.
humane treatment of American prisoners of the Com-
The U.S. entered World War I in 1917 and approx-
munists in Southeast Asia. It continues to demand an
imately 2 million served overseas. Even after World War I,
accounting of prisoners and missing.
there were only seven years between 1918 and U.S.
Expanded entitlements for veterans, a VA budget
involvement in World War II in which no American
adequate to provide proper medical and hospital care
earned a campaign medal making him eligible for VFW
and a greater public esteem for Vietnam veterans have
membership.
been constant demands of the VFW.
Between the two wars, VFW membership grew rapidly.
For the VFW, the age,the rank, the gender or the war in
For example, in 1916 it was only about 5,000, but by 1940
which the veteran fought is not a concern. The organi-
it had climbed to more than 200,000. After World War II,
zation regards all veterans of overseas service as being
it reached 1.5 million and has been increasing each year.
special and needing the government's compassionate
It is now more than 2 million, of whom a fourth are
concern.
Vietnam veterans.
20
PAST COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF
AMERICAN VETERANS OF FOREIGN SERVICE
AMERICAN VETERANS OF FOREIGN
James C. Putnam*
1899-00
George Metzger*
1905-06
J. Alfred Judge*
1908-09
SERVICE (EASTERN BRANCH)
Maj. Will S. White*
1900-02
Charles H. Devereaux*
1906-07
J. Alfred Judge*
1909-10
Capt. Robert S. Hansbury*
1903-04
James Romanis*
1902-05
David T. Nevin*
1907-08
Robert G. Woodside*
1910-13
H. 0. Kelley*
1904-05
ARMY OF THE PHILIPPINES, CUBA AND PUERTO RICO
Gen. Francis V. Greene*
1900-01
Gen. Wilder S. Metcalf*
1904-05
Capt. H. A. Crow*
1907-08
A. H. Anderson*
1910-11
Gen. Irving Hale*
1901-03
Col. Alfred S. Frost*
1905-06
Maj. P.J.H. Farrell*
1908-09
F. Warner Karling*
1911-13
Gen. Charles King*
1903-04
Gen. Arthur MacArthur*
1906-07
Col. Charles L. Jewett*
1909-10
501
Rice W. Means*
Thomas Crago*
Gus Hartung*
Albert Rabing*
William Ralston*
1913-14
1914-15
1915-16
1916-17
1917-18
Colorado
Pennsylvania
Colorado
New York
Pennsylvania
F. Warner Karling*
Robert G. Woodside*
Tillinghast Huston*
Lloyd M. Brett*
John H. Dunn*
1918-19-20
1920-21-22
1922-23
1923-24
1924-25
Missouri
Pennsylvania
New York
Washington, D.C.
Massachusetts
Fred Stover*
Theodore Stitt*
Frank T. Strayer*
Eugene P. Carver*
Hezekiah N. Duff*
1925-26
1926-27
1927-28
1928-29
1929-30
Pennsylvania
New York
Indiana
Massachusetts
Michigan
Paul C. Wolman*
Darold D. DeCoe*
Robert E. Coontz*
James E. Van Zandt*
Bernard W. Kearney*
1930-31
1931-32
1932-33
1933-34-35-36
1936-37
Maryland
California
Washington, D.C.
Pennsylvania
New York
21
PAST COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF
582
1818
Scott P. Squyres*
Eugene I. Van Antwerp*
Otis N. Brown*
Joseph C. Menendez*
Max Singer*
1937-38
1938-39
1939-40
1940-41
1941-42
Oklahoma
Michigan
North Carolina
Louisiana
Massachusetts
186
VETERANS
497
582
Robert T. Merrill
Carl J. Schoeninger*
Jean A. Brunner*
Joseph M. Stack*
Louis E. Starr*
1942-43
1943-44
1944-45
1945-46
1946-47
Montana
Michigan
New York
Pennsylvania
Oregon
COMMANDERING
VETERANS
1318
3591
Ray H. Brannaman*
Lyall T. Beggs*
Clyde A. Lewis
Charles C. Ralls*
Frank C. Hilton
1947-48
1948-49
1949-50
1950-51
1951-52
Colorado
Wisconsin
New York
Washington
Pennsylvania
COMMANDES
HOW
VETERARS
VETERANS
1289
3096
James W. Cothran*
Wayne E. Richards*
Merton B. Tice
Timothy J. Murphy
Cooper T. Holt
1952-53
1953-54
1954-55
1955-56
1956-57
South Carolina
Kansas
South Dakota
Massachusetts
Tennessee
COME
COMM
VETERAL
VETERAN
1867
1116
203
Richard L. Roudebush
John W. Mahan
Louis G. Feldmann
Ted C. Connell
Robert E. Hansen
1957-58
1958-59
1959-60
1960-61
1961-62
Indiana
Montana
Pennsylvania
Texas
Minnesota
*Deceased
22
PAST COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF
VETERAN
V.F.W.
B47
Byron B. Gentry
Joseph J. Lombardo
John A. Jenkins*
Andy Borg
Leslie M. Fry
1962-63
1963-64
1964-65
1965-66
1966-67
California
New York
Alabama
Wisconsin
Nevada
COMMANY
COMMA
VETERANS OF
V.F.W.
VETERANT
154
9666
VETERANS
1774
Joseph A. Scerra
Richard W. Homan
Raymond A. Gallagher
H.R. Rainwater
Joseph L. Vicites*
1967-68
1968-69
1969-70
1970-71
1971-72
Massachusetts
West Virginia
South Dakota
California
Pennsylvania
COMMANDER
VEW
COMMANDE
2149
VETERANS
ETERANG
OF
3147
Patrick E. Carr
Ray R. Soden
John J. Stang
Thomas C. Walker
R.D. (Bulldog) Smith
1972-73
1973-74
1974-75
1975-76
1976-77
Louisiana
Illinois
Kansas
Connecticut
Georgia
COMMANDE
COMMIT
VETERANS
VETERANS
V.F.W.
V.F.W.
TERANS
CF
2529
John Wasylik
Eric Sandstrom
Howard E. Vander Clute
T.C. Selman*
Arthur J. Fellwock
1977-78
1978-79
1979-80
1980-81
1980-81-82
Ohio
Washington
New Jersey
Texas
(Died in Office)
Indiana
COMMA TERANS 1982-8
COMBLISHIP
COME
VFW
VFW
8699
VFW
VETERANE
6240
9625
James R. Currieo
Clifford G. Olson, Jr.
Billy Ray Cameron
John S. Staum
Norman G. Staab
1982-83
1983-84
1984-85
1985-86
1986-87
Arizona
Massachusetts
North Carolina
Minnesota
Kansas
LADIES AUXILIARY
GREETINGS FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT
W
elcome to the 75th National Con-
vention of the Ladies Auxiliary to
the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
This is a very special convention for the Ladies
Auxiliary and I am glad you are here to join in the
celebration. I hope you will find it informative as well as
fun and that it will serve as a reward for your job well
done during this past year.
It is because of your dedication and your willingness to
recruit just one more member or to accept one additional
duty that we have surpassed last year's achievements
and have set new records in our programs. Therefore, I
want to take this opportunity to thank each and every
member of the Ladies Auxiliary for your role in helping us
provide much-needed services FOR THE PEOPLE of
America during this past year.
I feel fortunate that I was able to meet so many new
Sisters during my year, and I will remember your
friendship as well as the warm hospitality shown to me
on all my visits for many years to come.
As we enter our 75th year of service, it is humbling to
reflect on the hundreds of others who have served before
Joan Katkus
us and the responsibility we now hold for continuing our
President
service to veterans and others in our communities.
Together I know we can meet the challenge FOR THE
PEOPLE!
Sincerely,
Joan Katkus
National President
24
LADIES AUXILIARY NATIONAL OFFICERS
Mona Longly
Alice Hutto
Glenn Grossman
Senior Vice-President
Junior Vice-President
Secretary-Treasurer
Frances Booth
Mary Sears
Maye Vontin
Chaplain
Conductress
Guard
Fran Downey
Sharon Reidinger
Ida McCracken
Chief of Staff
Patriotic Instructor
Historian
25
LADIES AUXILIARY NATIONAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE
Frances Roche
Norma Hayne
Eileen Tanner
Alice Tatosian
Convention Director
Chairman
Co-Chairman
Secretary
Rosemary Kaiser
Glenn Grossman
Sophia Goldstein
Helen Remily
Treasurer
National Secretary Treasurer
Past National President
District Council Member
Marilyn Schultz
Harriet Cagle
Evelyn O'Rourke
National Soloist
Past Department President
Department President
26
LADIES AUXILIARY
National President Joan Katkus
AUXILIARY REPORT
T
he Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of
Six Auxiliaries were honored with the National Dis-
Foreign Wars now has 750,014 mem-
tinguished Community Service Award and 23 received
the Outstanding Community Service Citation for their
bers working FOR THE PEOPLE of
efforts to provide unique and worthy services to their
this great nation. That's an increase
communities.
of 4,804 over last year making this the 33rd
Five students from the VFW National Home received
monetary gifts from the Auxiliary upon their graduation
consecutive year of growth for our
from high school and one upon his graduation from
organization.
college.
In addition, this year we sold 7,590,580 Buddy Poppies,
Auxiliary's Programs
volunteered 3.8 million hours in the Hospital and VAVS
We also continue to set records in the funds raised for
program, and provided numerous services For the People.
our Cancer Aid and Research program which came to
Mid-Year Conference
$2,968,474.70. Our success in this program enables us to
A highlight of the year was our Mid-Year Conference at
provide grants to help Sisters who have cancer as well as
the Omni Hotel in Charleston, S.C. Participants met actor
to contribute to our country's research effort.
Eddie Albert, who received the BETTER WORLD AWARD.
This year we awarded $1,763,200 in 5,681 grants to
He charmed those in attendance with his eloquent recital
members. In addition, we awarded funds for research as
of his favorite poetry. Accompanying the award was
follows: $25,000 at my Homecoming to Providence Hospital
$5,000 which he donated to the Plaza de la Raza Cultural
in Anchorage; $15,000 to St. Jude Children's Research
Center in Los Angeles, an organization begun by his late
Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.; and $15,000 to the Jackson
wife to help students of all ages and financial means
Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine. At this convention,
receive an education in the arts.
$5,000 will be presented for research to the University of
Illinois, and $10,000 for educational materials will be
Statue of Liberty
presented to the American Cancer Society and will be
The 101st birthday observance of the Statue of Liberty's
Commemoration was marked on Oct. 28. I was proud to
accepted by actress Martha Smith.
Three postdoctoral fellowships were awarded to: John
present $2,500 to purchase United States Flags as the gift
W. Ludlow, Ph.D., Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston,
from the Auxiliary at our 51st celebration.
Mass., Thomas A. Simpson, Jr., M.D., Comprehensive
Official Visits
Cancer Center, University of Alabama, Birmingham; and
As National President, I visited 51 Departments as well
Michael B. Kastan, M.D., Ph.D., Johns Hopkins Oncology
as the Auxiliaries in Guam, Japan, and Taiwan. It was a
Center, Baltimore, Md.
marvelous experience to meet so many people from
A contribution of $5,000 was made to the Ronald
different areas and realize that we are all Sisters in the
McDonald House to cover the cost of a room in the new
Auxiliary with our bond of service and friendship.
house being built in Kansas City, Mo. We also donated
While in the Far East, I also met with our friends of the
$5,000 to help cover the cost of transportation during the
Vocational Assistance Commission in the Republic of
8th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games which
China and the Korean Veterans Association and was
were held in San Antonio, Texas.
briefed at several military installations.
Our Junior Girls Scholarship program was increased
CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS
this year, with the first place $3,000 awarded to Denise
In addition to recognizing Martha Smith with the
Cushaney, Unit #2149, Bensenville, Ill. and second place
SERVE AMERICA AWARD and giving $10,000 to the
$2,000 to Tracie Cutbirth, Unit #3990, Paris, Texas. In
American Cancer Society, at this convention, we will
addition, 11 Junior Girls who received first-place in their
honor Mother Clara Hale as the UNSUNG HEROINE of
states and whose applications were entered in the
1988, for helping children born to drug addicts. We will
national competition also received $100 each.
also present $10,000 to the National Kidney Foundation.
Our Young American Creative Patriotic Art Competition
Our 1987-88 team can be very pleased with our
awards also were increased to $1,500-first place,
program results and the new records we have set. After
$1,000-second, $500-third, $300-fourth, and $200-
all, those statistics represent thousands of individuals
fifth. The top five winning entries will be on display during
who have benefited from our services. The Ladies Aux-
this convention.
iliary is truly FOR THE PEOPLE.
27
75th NATIONAL LADIES AUXILIARY CONVENTION
Friday
August 19
12 Noon-4 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
12 Noon-4 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
Saturday
August 20
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
10 a.m.
Council of Administration Meeting
Ballroom E 5th Fl. Marriott
1:30 p.m.
Community Activities Workshop
Ballroom E 5th Fl. Marriott
Safety Workshop
Ballroom G-H 5th Fl. Marriott
3 p.m.
Ritual Rehearsal
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
4 p.m.
Catholic Mass
Ballroom F-G-H 5th Fl. Marriott
Sunday
August 21
8:00 a.m.
Devotional Service
Ballroom F-G-H 5th Fl. Marriott
8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
9 a.m.
Joint Memorial Service with VFW
Arie Crown Theatre, McCormick Place
12 Noon
Awards Luncheon
International Ballroom Hilton Hotel
1:30 p.m.
45-Years Plus Reception
Lincolnshire II 5th Fl. Marriott
3 p.m.
Auxiliary Opening Ceremony
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
Welcome by Frances Roche, National Convention Director. Tribute by Local Committee,
Norma Hayne, National Convention Chairman. Presentation: National President by Local
Committee. Presentation: Aides-de-Camp by Donna Ouart, National Membership Director.
Presentation: Past National Presidents by Fran Downey. Presentation: 45-Years Plus members
by Aides-de-Camp and Donna Ouart, National Membership Director.
8 p.m.
Auxiliary Conference Meetings
Big Ten States
Grand Ballroom III 7th Fl. Marriott
Eastern States
Grand Ballroom I 7th Fl. Marriott
Southern States
Grand Ballroom II 7th Fl. Marriott
Western States
Ballroom E 5th Fl. Marriott
Monday
August 22
8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
9 a.m.
Joint Opening Session with VFW
Arie Crown Theatre, McCormick Place
1 p.m.
National President's Luncheon (by invitation only)
Grand Ballroom I, Marriott
3 p.m.
Publicity Workshop
Ballroom F-G-H 5th Fl. Marriott
3 p.m.
Page Meeting
Miami Room, 5th Fl. Marriott
3 p.m.
Assistant Guard Meeting
Scottsdale Room, 5th Fl. Marriott
7 p.m.
Distinguished Guest Banquet
International Ballroom, Hilton Hotel
28
Tuesday
August 23
7 a.m.
Flag Presentation Rehearsal
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8:30 a.m.
Auxiliary Business Session
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
Ritualistic Opening. Rules Committee (National Rules and Convention appointments are
printed in the National Officers' and Directors' Report Book in packet). National Program
Awards. Presentation: Voice of Democracy Scholarship Winner. Presentation: Junior Girls
Units Scholarship Winner. Presentation: Young American Creative Patriotic Art Winner.
Presentation: Department Presidents with Flags and Banners by Sharon Reidinger, National
Patriotic Instructor.
2 p.m.
Hospital and VAVS Workshop
Ballroom F-G-H 5th Fl. Marriott
7 p.m.
Annual Military Parade
Michigan Avenue
Wednesday
August 24
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8:30 a.m.
Auxiliary Business Session
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
National Program Awards. Presentation: UNSUNG HERIONE AWARD to MOTHER CLARA
HALE. Presentation: Cancer Aid & Research Grant to the University of Illinois. Special Guest.
SERVE AMERICA AWARD to MARTHA SMITH and $10,000 for American Cancer Society.
Greetings from Allied Organizations. Memorial Service. Memorial Address by Harriet
Timmons.
2 p.m.
Cancer Workshop
Ballroom F-G-H 5th Fl. Marriott
Thursday
August 25
7 a.m.
Past Councilors' Club Breakfast
Ballroom E 5th Fl. Marriott
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration (Credentials)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Registration (Advance)
Ballroom A-B-C-D 5th Fl. Marriott
8:30 a.m.
Auxiliary Business Session
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
National Program Awards. Visit by Commander-in-Chief. Special Guest. 1989 Membership
Kick-off. Nomination of Officers.
7 p.m.
Conference Banquets
Big Ten States
Grand Ballroom, Palmer House
Eastern States
Grand Ballroom, Hilton
Dixie Banquet
International Ballroom, Hilton
Western States
Grand Ballroom, Marriott
Friday
August 26
8:30 a.m.
Auxiliary Business Session
Grand Ballroom 7th Fl. Marriott
Greetings from Alaska. Unfinished Business. New Business. Re-open Nomination for Officers.
Election of Officers. Announcement of Appointed Officers. Installation of Officers. New
President's Acceptance Speech. Presentation: Past National President's Pin. Ritualistic Closing.
29
MILITARY ORDER OF THE COOTIE
GREETINGS FROM THE SUPREME COMMANDER AND THE SUPREME OFFICERS
W
e are greatly honored and pleased
to extend our heartiest greetings
and best wishes to the 89th Nation-
COMMANDER
al Convention of the Veterans of Foreign
Wars of the Untied States and its Ladies
SUPREME
Auxiliary for most successful and enjoyable
conventions.
M.O.C.
During the past year, the Military Order of the Cootie,
in support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United
States, has continued our VFW-MOC Supreme Programs
of VFW Booster, Hospital, Blood, Christie J. Braun Mem-
orial Scholarship and Athletic Program and our Special
Projects Fund for the VFW National Home.
We extend our deep appreciation and sincere gratitude
to Commander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock, Jr., and his staff for
their continued splendid cooperation which has contri-
buted greatly to a successful, united team.
It is with great pride and pleasure to emphasize our
continued dedication and support to the parent organi-
zation and its Auxiliary for their principles and objectives.
Albert S. Thomas, Jr.
Supreme Commander
SUPREME
COMMANDO
GRAND
SUPREME
M.O.C.
KY.
M.O.C
Robert Cortright
Thomas Atkins
M.W. Welliver
Supreme Senior Vice Commander
Supreme Junior Vice Commander
Supreme Quartermaster/Adjutant
30
SUPREME PUP TENT
MILITARY ORDER OF THE COOTIE 69TH SUPREME SCRATCH
AMERICANA CONGRESS HOTEL
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
August 22, 23 & 24
9
a.m.-4
p.m.
MOC Registration, Advance & Regular-Conrad Hilton Hotel
Tuesday
August 23
7 p.m. (stepoff)
MOC & MOCA Participation in VFW 89th National Convention
Parade. Authorized Units only.
Thursday
August 25
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
MOC Registration-3rd Floor Escalator Foyer, Americana Congress
Hotel
9
a.m.-12
Noon
MOC Committee Meetings:
By-Laws Committee-Lake Shore Room
Resolutions Committee-Seminar Room
Ritual Committee-Columbian Room
Hospital Committee & Blood Committee-Grant Park Room
Rules Committee-Chairman's Room
Year Book Committee-Music Room
VFW National Home Committee-Victorian Room
Special Project Committee
Audit Committee-Supreme QM Suite
Chaplain of the Year Award-Chairman's Room
12:30
p.m.-3
p.m. Supreme Hospital Visitation-VA Medical Center
Busses leave Americana Congress Hotel promptly at 12:30 p.m.
4 p.m.-6 p.m.
MOC Old Council Meeting-Buckingham Room
9 p.m. 10:30 p.m.
Supreme Commander & President Reception-To be announced
Friday
August 26
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
MOC Registration-3rd Floor Escalator Foyer, Americana Congress
Hotel
7 a.m.- 9 a.m.
MOC Awards Breakfast
10 a.m.-12 Noon
MOC Seminar, Grand & Pup Tent Officers-Oxford Room
1:30 p.m.-5 p.m.
MOC 69th Supreme Scratch-Opening Session-Gold Room
7 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
MOC-MOCA Joint Memorial Service-Windsor/Alcove
9 p.m.
MOC Caucus Meetings-Assignment of rooms by Caucus Chairman
Saturday
August 27
8 a.m.-Noon
MOC Registration-3rd Floor Escalator Foyer, Americana Congress
Hotel
10 a.m.-Noon
MOC-MOCA Joint Session-Windsor/Alcove
1 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
MOC 69th Supreme Scratch Reconvenes-Windsor/Alcove
6 p.m.-7 p.m.
MOC-MOCA Supreme Scratch Banquet Reception-Francis I
7 p.m.-9 p.m.
Supreme Banquet-Gold Room
9 p.m.
Joint Installation of Officers-Gold Room
10 p.m. Reception by Supreme Commander & President-To be announced
31
Sunday
August 28
7
a.m.-8:45
a.m.
MOC Press Association Breakfast-To be announced.
8:45a.m.-9:15a.m.
Cootie Prayer Service-To be announced by the Supreme Chaplain
9:15a.m.-12Noon
Supreme MOC New Council Meeting-Buckingham Room
Supreme MOC Headquarters, Storage & Security Police-Washington & Shelby Rooms.
SUPREME AUXILIARY MILITARY ORDER OF THE COOTIE 27TH SUPREME CONVENTION
Tuesday
August 23
7 p.m. (stepoff)
MOC & MOCA Participation in VFW 89th National Convention
Parade. Authorized units only.
Thursday
August 25
1 p.m.-5 p.m.
MOCA Registration-Rendezvous Room
8 a.m.- 9 a.m.
MOCA Floor Practice-Great Hall
9 a.m.-Noon
MOCA Meeting-Great Hall
12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.
Supreme Hospital Visitation-VA Medical Center
Busses leave Americana Congress Hotel promptly at 12:30 p.m.
3:30p.m.-5:30p.m.
MOCA Old Council Meeting-Windsor Room
9 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
Supreme Commander & President Reception (To be announced)
Friday
August 26
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
MOCA Registration-Rendezvous Room
8 a.m.-Noon
MOCA 27th Supreme Auxiliary Convention-Great Hall
1 a.m.-5 p.m.
MOCA Reconvenes 27th Supreme Auxiliary Convention-Rendezvous
Room
7 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
MOC-MOCA Joint Memorial Service-Windsor/Alcove
9 p.m.
MOCA Caucus Meetings-By Assignment
Saturday
August 27
8 a.m.-11 a.m.
MOC Registration-Rendezvous Room
8:30a.m.-9:45a.m.
MOCA 27th Supreme Auxiliary Convention-Great Hall
10 a.m.-Noon
MOC-MOCA Joint Session
12:30p.m.-4:30p.m.
MOCA 27th Supreme Auxiliary Convention Reconvenes-Great Hall
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
MOC-MOCA Supreme Scratch Banquet Reception-Francis I Room
7
p.m.-9 p.m.
Supreme Banquet-Gold Room
9 p.m.
Joint Installation of Officers-Gold Room
10 p.m.
Reception by Supreme Commander & President (To be announced)
Sunday
August 28
7 a.m.-8:45 a.m.
MOC Press Association Breakfast (To be announced)
8:45a.m.-9:15a.m.
Cootie Prayer Service, (To be announced by the Supreme Chaplain)
9:15 a.m.-Noon
MOCA New Council Meeting-Windsor Room
Supreme MOCA Headquarters Storage-Francis Room.
Committee Room-Belmont Room.
32
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES NATIONAL TABLE OF ORGANIZATION
NATIONAL CONVENTION
NATIONAL VETERANS
SERVICE COMMITTEE
SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
POLITICAL ACTION
JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
COMMITTEE
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION
JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL
SURGEON GENERAL
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
NATIONAL CHAPLAIN
STANDING COMMITTEES AND
SPECIAL COMMITTEES
QUARTERMASTER
CHIEF OF STAFF
GENERAL
ADJUTANT GENERAL
INSPECTOR GENERAL
33
ASSISTANT
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT
QUARTERMASTER
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT
GENERAL
GENERAL AND
GENERAL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
GENERAL PROGRAMS
ADMINISTRATION
WASHINGTON OFFICE
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
AMERICANISM
VOICE OF
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
PUBLICATIONS
POST DEVELOPMENT
NATIONAL
ADMINISTRATIVE
POST SERVICES
VFW - PAC
AND COMMUNITY
DEMOCRACY AND
MEMBERSHIP
GENERAL SERVICES
AND
AND SAFETY
CONVENTION
SERVICES
AND BUDDY POPPY
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
PUBLIC RELATIONS
ACTIVITIES
EDITOR
TREASURER
VFW MAGAZINE
VFW PAC
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
NATIONAL
NATIONAL
NATIONAL
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
LEGISLATIVE
SECURITY AND
VETERANS SERVICE
WASHINGTON OFFICE
SERVICE
FOREIGN AFFAIRS
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
DIRECTOR
NATIONAL EMBLEM
DATA
PURCHASING AND
INSURANCE
VFW PROPERTIES
VFW PROPERTIES
ACCOUNTING
AND SUPPLY
PROCESSING
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
PROGRAMS
K.C.
D.C.
DEPARTMENT
MEMBER BENEFITS
National Service Programs
Service Officer Programs
Activities are based on the American tradition of people
National, State and Post Service Officers are ready and
helping people. To learn more about Community Activities
willing to provide expert help and assistance to each and
and how you can participate in the program or programs
every member wishing to file a claim or needing informa-
of your choice, talk with your Post's Community Activities
tion relating to hospital care, education, pension or other
Chairman or write to National Community Activities
benefits to which you may be entitled. For information
Director, VFW National Headquarters, Broadway at 34th
and assistance, contact your Post Service Officer or write
Street, Kansas City, MO 64111.
to National Service Officer, VFW Washington Office, 200
Maryland Ave., N.E., Washington, DC 20002
VFW Magazine
VFW Magazine is published and distributed by mail to
Legislative Services
every member. It's a high-quality, color publication that
Through the VFW National Legislative Service Office in
provides factual information of interest and importance
Washington, D.C., and each State Legislative Committee,
to all members, as well as timely, inspirational articles on
the VFW fights to protect veterans' benefits that you are
a broad range of topics. Regular features include Mail
now receiving or may be entitled to in the future. In fact,
Call, Washington Wire, Reunions, Command Post and
every major veterans' law now on the books was either
more.
initiated or strongly supported by the VFW through its
Your inquiries and suggestions are invited. Write to
Legislative Services activities: Enactment of compensa-
Editor, VFW Magazine, Broadway at 34th Street, Kansas
tion, pension, hospital and bonus benefits for World War I
City, MO 64111. To change your mailing address, notify
veterans and the GI Bill of Rights for veterans of World
VFW Magazine Circulation Department at the same
War II, Korea and Vietnam, to name just a few. For more
address. Include your old and new address and Post
information on VFW Legislative Service, write to National
number.
Legislative Director, VFW Washington Office, 200 Mary-
land Ave., N.E., Washington, DC 20002.
Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW
The Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW has a membership of
National Home
more than 745,000 proud Americans belonging to and
The National Home in Eaton Rapids, Mich., is a residential
working through more than 7,000 local Auxiliaries.
child-care facility whose campus and programs have
Members are involved in an outstanding variety of
been developed and funded by the VFW and the Ladies
patriotic, community and public service programs and
Auxiliary to the VFW. The sole purpose of the National
annually volunteer over 19 million hours of service.
Home since its founding in 1927 is to provide love, care
Members have also contributed over $26 million to
and education for orphaned or dependent children of
communities, states, nation, veterans, elderly and youth.
VFW and Auxiliary members. Admission to the National
Auxiliary members participate in conventions and
Home is free. For more information, write to VFW
conferences on National, Department, and District levels.
National Home, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827.
To be eligible to join the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW,
candidates must be a close relative of a veteran of
Community Activities
honorable service in the U.S. Armed Services authorized
Community service activities provide every VFW and
to wear a campaign medal or ribbon for overseas service.
Auxiliary member opportunities to participate in pro-
For more information, write to National Headquarters,
grams designed to benefit your city, town or neighbor-
Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW, 406 West 34th Street,
hood, and organizations, institutions, or individuals not
Kansas City, MO 64111.
affiliated with the VFW or the Auxiliary. Community
34
MEMBER BENEFITS
Voluntary Member Benefits
VFW members have the opportunity to take advan-
65. The benefit amount depends on your age when you
tage of excellent pricing and service when buying various
apply and the number of units you select.
goods and services for home, work, travel and everyday
living. The VFW Member Benefit Department receives and
Hospital Benefit Plan
evaluates requests from many companies to offer a wide
Thousands of VFW members are insured under this
variety of goods and services to all members. Some earn
excellent plan. Among its many benefits and features are:
our endorsement; most do not. Only those that meet our
Your choice of $150, $100, $80, $60, $40 or $20 a day
high standards for quality, fair pricing and service after
benefit amount. Double benefits for up to 8 days per
the sale are awarded the "Official Seal of Approval."
confinement in an intensive care unit while you're under
65. Family protection option. Benefits paid directly to
VFW Insurance Programs
you. No waiting period.
As a VFW member, you are entitled to economical group
rates for a variety of excellent Supplementary Life,
Medicare Supplement Plan
Health and Accident Insurance Plans. Today, more than
VFW members eligible for Medicare can choose either our
2-million members of the VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary
Comprehensive Plan or the Economy Plan. Dollar for
to the VFW are covered under various Sponsored Supple-
dollar, these VFW-Sponsored Medicare Supplement In-
mental Insurance Plans. And over the years, more than
surance Plans are among the best available. The Com-
$170,000,000 in benefits have been paid to participating
prehensive Plan covers virtually all expenses Medicare
members!
leaves for you to pay. The Economy Plan provides the
essential benefits necessary to supplement Parts A and B,
$2,500 Personal Accident Protection
but costs considerably less. Spouse coverage is available
This is a new, improved version of our $1,000 All-Risk
(if eligible for Medicare).
Personal Accident Protection Plan that increases the
maximum benefit payable by $1,500 (while under age 70)
National Life Insurance
for Accidental Death occurring while traveling on any
The VFW-Sponsored National Life Insurance Plan offers
licensed public conveyance for hire to or from (or while
Term Life protection up to $65,105 for members under
attending) any VFW-Sponsored event-Post, Department,
age 60. There's a special plan for members 60-70. You may
District or National. This important protection is pro-
apply for coverage for your spouse and eligible depend-
vided at no cost to every member in good standing.
ent child(ren).
Maximum coverage for members under age 70 is $2,500;
$1,250 for members age 70-74; $625 for members age 75
Cancer Expense Assistance Plan
and over. To get this valuable coverage, ask your Post
This plan offers guaranteed acceptance to VFW members
Quartermaster for a beneficiary form, fill it out and
who have never had cancer, regardless of age. It pays
return it to the VFW Insurance Department.
scheduled benefits toward the cost of treating cancer.
Coverage is not effective while you are outside the
United States or Canada for 30 consecutive days or more
Post Accident
while serving in the Armed Forces.
Your Post may choose one of two plans. Each plan
provides a lump sum benefit amount for loss of life
Group Term Life Insurance
and/or dismemberment due to accident. See your Post
This outstanding plan offers a special Simplified Issue
Quartermaster for details.
Benefit feature which allows you to apply for up to
$15,000 (depending on your age) term life protection
To get free information on all VFW-Sponsored Insur-
without a medical exam or detailed health questions.
ance Plans, applications, beneficiary forms, advice and/or
And once you're insured under the Simplified Issue Bene-
assistance in filing a claim, to change address or benefi-
fit, you can apply to increase your coverage to as much as
ciary, or any other aspect of any VFW-Sponsored Supple-
$50,000 (depending on your age). Coverage for your
mental Insurance Plan, write to Director, VFW Insurance
spouse and dependent child(ren) is also available.
Department, Broadway at 34th Street, Kansas City, MO
64111. Or call toll-free 1-800-821-2606 (In Missouri, call
Cash Value Life Insurance
toll-free 1-800-237-1765. In Kansas City, MO and its
This is whole life coverage that builds cash value over
environs, call: 561-2338). Hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00
time with double benefits for accidental death before age
p.m., Central Time, any business day.
35
MEMBER BENEFITS
Discount Prescription Drug
Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64111. Or call TOLL-FREE
and Vitamin Program
1-800-325-9377. In Missouri, call COLLECT 816-968-
Through special arrangement with National Pharmacies,
1123. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Central Time, any
Inc., VFW and Auxiliary members can save 30% and more
business day.
on prescription drugs and vitamins. Registered pharma-
American International Rent-A-Car (AI). Call 1-800-
cists ensure excellent quality control. All incoming orders
527-0202 and identify yourself as a VFW member. When
are mailed postage-paid to your door-normally within
arriving at an airport served by AI, dial 1-800-I-AM-HERE
48-hours of receipt and carry a 30-day unconditional
for courtesy van pick-up and escort to your rental car.
guarantee. An automatic reminder service tells you when
Show your VFW membership card at the office.
it's time to reorder, and a year-end statement is provided
Avis. Call 1-800-331-1212. Give VFW Identification
for tax and insurance purposes.
Number: AWD-A/A 993500.
Registration is free. To register for this outstanding
Hertz. Call 1-800-654-3011. VFW Identification Number
program and get your free drug and vitamin information
is CDPD-164126.
and your free I.D. card, write to National Pharmacies,
National. Call 1-800-CAR-RENT. VFW Identification
Inc., P.O. Box 1000, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407.
Number is 5180005.
Snappy Car Rental. Call 1-800-321-7159 (1-800-321-
Discount Merchandise Buying Program
0736 in Ohio), identify yourself as a VFW member and
Brand-Name Merchandise At Low Prices.
give the VFW special ID number - 003120. All rentals,
Our Member Benefit Department has made arrangements
except in Florida, feature 150 miles per day at no
with Purchase Power, Inc., to provide one of the finest
additional charge.
discount buying programs in America for VFW members.
Ramada Inn. Call for advance reservations directly to the
Purchase Power negotiates extraordinary discounts on
Ramada Inn of your choice or call 1-800-2-RAMADA
major appliances, home entertainment items, home fur-
(1-800-272-6232) for reservations anywhere in the U.S.
nishings, gifts and many other big-ticket items, even
Give the VFW ID number 918-761-0001. Discounts may
exercise equipment. Each purchase is backed by this
vary by location.
guarantee: "If you buy a product for $150 or more
Regal 8 Inns. Present your VFW membership card at
through Purchase Power and within 30 days find the
check-in at any participating Regal 8 Inn for a 10%
same item for less, Purchase Power requires that the
discount off published room rates. 1-800-851-8888 for
participating dealer mail you double the difference in
reservations.
price." This guarantee covers advertised sales, discount
Holiday Inn "Priority Club." VFW members can join
houses and other buying plans. (Silver and gold items not
Priority Club, Holiday Inn Hotels' frequent guest program,
covered by this guarantee.)
for a one-time charge of only $5, ½ off the regular $10
VFW members who want to participate in this
enrollment fee. Priority Club members earn points re-
outstanding service pay only $5 per year. Even this
deemable for Holiday Inn Guest Certificates, luxury mer-
annual fee is on a money-back guarantee if not completely
chandise, airline travel and car rentals. Members also
satisfied. To sign-up for Purchase Power, send your name,
receive special privileges and benefits each time they stay
address and VFW Post Number, along with your check
at any Holiday Inn or Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza Hotel.
made payable to VFW Purchase Power in an envelope to
Member benefits include: Guaranteed Corporate Room
the following address: VFW Purchase Power, Member
Rates, Express Reservations and Check-In, Extended
Benefit Department, Broadway at 34th Street, Kansas
Check-Out until 2 p.m., Free Weekday Newspaper, Com-
City, MO 64111.
plimentary Morning Coffee or Tea and MORE! Contact
VFW Travel Service for your Priority Club Application.
VFW Travel Service
Carnival Cruise Lines. Special rates for VFW members
Next time you travel, use the VFW Travel Service to get
and families on the "Most Famous Cruise Line in the
reduced rates on airline tickets, cruises and travel
World." For information and rates call the VFW Travel
packages. Write: VFW Travel Service, Broadway at 34th
Service Toll-Free Number.
36
OF FOREIGN z
HOME
There's no place like your VFW National Home.
For over 60 years, the VFW
Each year, dozens of them
Like any home, the National
tion or wish to become a
National Home has been
return to the campus to say
Home needs three things to
Life Member of the VFW
more than a stopping off
"thanks for caring." When
make it work: people, money
National Home
place for hundreds of wid-
they needed it most, VFW,
and caring.
If you care enough to pre-
ows, orphans and depend-
through its generous sup-
If you know a family who
serve the tradition of serv-
ents. They remember it as
port, was there extending a
can use a helping hand
ing the needy dependents of
home!
helping hand.
If you can make a contribu-
our comrades and sisters
Please call or write today: VFW National Home,
3573 Waverly Road South, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827-9799 (517) 663-1521.
37
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
Earl L. Stock, Jr.
T
wo and a half years ago, we put to-
treasury instead of being taken out. It was our joint effort,
gether plans for the 1987-88 Commander-
along with our continuous membership growth, that
in-Chief's year. This being our 200th
made the difference in convincing the President to sign
this bill into law.
anniversary of the Constitution, what strug-
We made sure that all veterans would be considered,
gles and problems in the erosion of veterans'
including our active military and retired military persons
entitlements would we be faced with.
who have successfully preserved and protected our
Constitution for the past 200 years in the name of
Our men's and ladies' response in membership and
democracy and freedom.
programs has been overwhelming. Along with our friends
Yes, we have earned the entitlements by defending and
in Congress who were aware of our veterans' concerns,
protecting the peace for all Americans and for the free
we joined forces with other veterans' organizations to
world.
prevent further cuts and added new veterans' legislation
We are disappointed that we are still without a Cabinet
affecting all our veterans and their family members.
post for the Veterans Administration. Our President,
Even President Reagan had a sympathetic understand-
however, is supporting this legislation, and if we can get it
ing of veterans' concerns, signing on May 20 more than 80
through the conferees, this will conclude a fine year.
pieces of veterans' legislation. A few are the Radiation-
President Reagan's early endorsement, along with a
Exposed Veterans' Compensation Act of 1988, Public
friendly Congress, has been most helpful for this long
Law 100-321, and the Veterans' Benefit and Service Act,
overdue and needed post.
now Public Law 100-322.
We enjoyed a close working relationship with other
I can now report that the Employment, Training and
veterans' organizations when it came time to fight back
Counseling Veterans' Amendments of 1988 is now Public
on cuts as well as new veterans' entitlements. I am most
Law 100-323.
grateful for this support.
At one time, it appeared that this legislation was dead
Yes, it has been an exciting and rewarding experience
for veterans. But we explained to the President that
serving as your Commander-in-Chief. I owe so many a
when people are put to work, it puts money into the
deep and sincere gratitude. I shall never forget the
38
opportunity you have given me to serve our country and
Thank you, one and all.
our veterans and America in working for improvements
To the entire national membership of our ladies and
in veterans' programs and entitlements as well as for the
men, I can never thank you all enough for your support
growth of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
and the hospitality you provided Jean and me and the
Without all of you working as a team, we could never
many wonderful gifts. Your generosity will always be
have accomplished our mission.
remembered.
The support of my entire corps of officers and the
To Joan Katkus, a wonderful National President and
National Council of Administration was very much
her officers and staff who made it so easy for me to work
appreciated. The Kansas City staff and the Washington
with, thank you, girls, for all your support and help.
people have given me total support and sometimes doing
I was blessed with a fine young man as my Senior Vice
the nearly impossible in getting material out into the field.
Commander-in-Chief, Larry W. Rivers, and Wally Hogan
Persons like Howard Vander Clute, Herb Irwin, Edward
as Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief. Thank you both for
Burnham, Cooper Holt, Frederico Juarbe, Benny Bachand
your wisdom, the long hours and travel and most of all for
and Joe Ross, to name a few of our office staff, gave
the team effort which has made this year successful.
advice, put the material together and saw that our other
And in conclusion, it would never have been possible
very capable staff members put the programs into action.
had I not had the support of my lovely, understanding
Thank you all so much for your support and dedication
wife, Jean. Darling, I shall always be grateful for your love
to our nation's veterans and our country, America.
and the sacrifices you have made in my long periods away
I would be remiss if I did not thank Gertrude and John
from home and the griefs and joys we have shared.
Ray for all their help and support, along with the New
Yes, you and our wonderful children made it all
York VFW Department Headquarters, the VFW Service
possible for me do what only a very few have the
Officers and their staff.
opportunity to experience. Thank all of you for this
I must thank my District 3 people, under the guidance
opportunity to do For America, Whatever It Takes.
of John Ray, and the entire membership of the New York
Department who provided a Homecoming that was a
first class festivity from its beginning to its completion.
Shortly after Commander-in-Chief Stock met with
President Reagan, the President announced his support
for the bill that would raise the Veterans Administration to
Cabinet level. The bill passed the House and then the Senate,
both overwhelmingly, and is now in a conference committee.
39
SENIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
Larry W. Rivers
T
his past year has been the
Frequent visits to Kansas City provided me with even
greatest period of my life
greater appreciation for the work done at our National
Headquarters on both the Adjutant General's and Quarter-
When I was elected to serve you as
master General's sides.
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief at the 87th
On overseas trips, I was fortunate in being able to meet
National Convention, I was thrilled because
with authorities on conditions in the countries to our
south in Latin America, so vital to our security, and to
I was given the opportunity to serve the
view at firsthand the struggle for democracy those people
marvelous people who make up the Veterans
are working so valiantly to achieve.
of Foreign Wars of the United States.
Visiting the refugee camps in Thailand showed me the
privation and hardship people are willing to endure in
Then came the 88th National Convention, and you
order to live in freedom and just how precious this is to so
elected me Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, and for the
many people. We should never take it lightly. But veterans
past year I have been a member of Commander-in-Chief
like yourselves, from your own experience, hardly need to
Earl Stock's team.
be reminded of this simple fact of life.
His leadership, emphasizing that we will do whatever it
The annual Mid-Winter Conference in Washington was
takes for America to be strong in national defense and
indeed an event that was stamped indelibly on my
compassionate in its treatment of and concern for vete-
memory. The great outpouring of enthusiasm that I wit-
rans, has been an inspiration to us all and especially to
nessed at all the meetings, especially the General Session
me.
when President Reagan visited and addressed us. Then
So let me express my gratitude to Commander-in-Chief
there was the Congressional Dinner where Rep. Bill
Stock for his counsel, wisdom and guidance as we all have
Nichols and the Voice of Democracy first-place winner
worked the past year to make certain that this 1987-88
spoke. These events certainly went far toward making my
year would be the greatest in the history of our great
year complete.
organization.
For all of this, I am deeply grateful to each of you.
Serving you great Americans who are members of the
Electing me your Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief, you
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and meet-
have enabled me to share with you the hopes and
ing so many of you in my travels across this nation have
dreams, the joys and even the sadness that often marks
proved to me once again that you are the finest. You have
our lives as we worked to make the future even finer than
demonstrated your loyalty to our country by your service,
the present.
and you continue to do SO by your willingness to do
Special thanks for all his aid go, first, of course, to
whatever you are asked and to do it right.
Commander-in-Chief Stock. Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief
This past year has been SO filled with excitement that I
Hogan has my gratitude for his untiring help. Adjutant
hardly know where to begin in making my report to you.
Gen. Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr., has been tireless in his
In Washington, witnessing the legislative process gave me
assistance as has Quartermaster Gen. Herbert W. Irwin.
new insight into the complexities of winning passage of
Executive Director Cooper T. Holt, of the Washington
specific bills. In Washington also, I was able to meet with
Office, has been equally generous.
Congressional leaders who are so vital to us as we work
Now let us look to 1988-89.
for veterans.
On overseas trips, I was fortunate in being able to
meet with authorities on conditions in the countries
to our south in Latin America.
40
JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
Walter G. Hogan
t doesn't seem possible that my
In traveling to many of our Departments, I was
year as Junior Vice Commander-in-
inspired by meeting comrades of such quality. They show
initiative and concern toward the growth of our organi-
Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars is
zation and the quality of its programs. Because of that
near completion. It has been a year of
enthusiasm and tireless effort and because of the unified
extensive travel in the United States and
belief in our organization, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of
the United States will endure. We represent honor,
abroad, a year of broadening my knowledge,
confidence and total loyalty to veterans and their families.
a wonderful year of making new friends and
I sincerely thank my own Department of Wisconsin for
renewing old friendships
its encouragement and support. My year as Junior Vice
Commander-in-Chief was made easier because of the
Of the nations abroad, those in Central America
leadership and counsel of Commander-in-Chief Earl L.
constitute a hotspot of political strife. Civil war continues
Stock, Jr., and the guidance of Sr. Vice Commander-in-
to run rampant. We must be ever alert to the perils poised
Chief Larry W. Rivers. I am very grateful for the cooper-
on our southern border. As mandated by you, the
ation of Adjutant Gen. Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr.,
membership, we will persevere in our support of demo-
Quartermaster Gen. Herbert W. Irwin, Executive Director
cracy in these countries.
of the Washington Office Cooper T. Holt and their
One of the most poignant visits was to the refugee
excellent staffs.
camps in Thailand. There we witnessed the plight of
As we head to Chicago for our National Convention, let
nearly 250,000 people who were seeking freedom from an
us dedicate ourselves to the deliberation of the many
unjust system of government. To see this only heightened
issues to come before us and make the sound decisions
our appreciation of America and all its freedoms.
that are required of us to heighten the awareness of our
At home on the legislative scene, we are unrelenting in
organization and our policies.
our efforts to perpetuate veterans' entitlements. We are
You are the organization, and it has been a honor to
on the threshold of having the Veterans Administration
serve as your Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief. Always
elevated to a Cabinet position, a goal long sought after by
remember that we are all "FOR AMERICA, WHATEVER
our organization.
IT TAKES."
We must be ever alert to the perils poised on our southern border.
As mandated by you, the membership, we will persevere
in our support of democracy in these countries.
41
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
(Chartered By An Act Of Congress)
NATIONAL
COMMUNITY
KANSAS CITY
HEADQUARTERS
AND
PROPERTIES
OFFICE OF THE QUARTERMASTER GENERAL
AND NATIONAL
VETERANS
MAINTENANCE &
LIFE
BALANCE SHEET, MAY 31, 1988
PUBLICATION
SERVICE
IMPROVEMENTS
MEMBERSHIP
FUNDS
FUND
FUND
FUND
(Restricted)
(Restricted)
(Restricted)
ASSETS
Cash and temporary cash investments
$
11,190,258
$
1,450,818
$
200,000
Securities held and managed by Trustee - at cost (market value -
$16,428,482 for National Headquarters and National Publications
Funds and $82,673,207 for Life Membership Fund)
16,211,606
$
79,993,044
Receivables
286,624
751,002
Accrued interest receivable on cash and securities held by Trustee
430,609
1,854,270
Due from National Headquarters Fund
4,941,976
951,760
Inventories
1,084,303
474,676
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment (less accumulated depreciation - -
$1,625,809)
1,382,500
National Headquarters property - Kansas City, Missouri:
Land
1,041,703
Building and improvements (less accumulated depreciation -
$1,900,933)
2,164,051
Other improvements - unamortized portion
1,883,830
National Memorial Building property - Washington, D.C. - Land,
building, and improvements
2,362,312
Prepaid and deferred charges
923,216
18,090
TOTAL
$ 38,961,012
$
7,636,562
$
200,000
$
82,799,074
LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCES
Accounts payable
$
523,325
$
4,452,505
Accrued liabilities
54,935
Other liabilities
813,533
87,384
Due to Community and Veterans Service Fund
4,941,976
Due to Life Membership Fund
951,760
Deferred credits:
National dues allocable to subsequent periods
5,168,498
Insurance programs
792,596
Fund balances
26,506,985
2,304,077
$
200,000
$
82,799,074
TOTAL
$ 38,961,012
$
7,636,562
$
200,000
$
82,799,074
See the notes to financial statements.
AUDITORS' OPINION
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States:
We have examined the balance sheet of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States - Office of the Quartermaster General as of May 31, 1988 and the related summary of
income and changes in fund balances and summary of expenses for the nine months then ended. Our examination was made in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards and, accordingly, included such tests of the accounting records and such other auditing procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.
In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly the financial position of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States - Office of the Quartermaster General at May
31, 1988, and the results of its operations and the changes in its fund balances for the nine months then ended, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles applied on
a basis consistent with that of the preceding period.
Deloitte, Haskins & Sells
Kansas City, Missouri
June 21, 1988
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
OFFICE OF THE QUARTERMASTER GENERAL
SUMMARY OF INCOME AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED MAY 31, 1988
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS AND NATIONAL PUBLICATION FUNDS
INCOME:
National dues
$
6,690,347
Contributions from VFW Ladies Auxiliary
140,000
VFW Magazine advertising
1,939,361
Supply Department - net income
846,821
Property Operations - net loss
(504,737)
Interest earned
1,786,618
Other
112,022
Total income
11,010,432
EXPENSES (See summary)
9,032,710
INCOME BEFORE OTHER CHARGES
1,977,722
OTHER CHARGES - Net charges applicable to prior periods
(38,415)
NET INCOME
1,939,307
FUND BALANCES, SEPTEMBER 1, 1987
24,567,678
FUND BALANCES, MAY 31, 1988
$ 26,506,985
SPECIAL FUNDS (RESTRICTED)
COMMUNITY AND VETERANS SERVICE FUND:
Income:
National Insurance Program
$ 3,810,461
Poppy Department operations
295,697
Miscellaneous
2,239
Total
4,108,397
Expenses:
Community and Veterans Service Programs (See summary)
2,007,449
Allocation of National Headquarters Fund and
National Publication Fund expenses
2,359,589
Total
4,367,038
Decrease in Fund Balance
(258,641)
Fund Balance, September 1, 1987
2,562,718
FUND BALANCE, MAY 31, 1988
$ 2,304,077
KANSAS CITY PROPERTIES MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENTS FUND
Fund Balance, September 1, 1987 and May 31, 1988
$
200,000
LIFE MEMBERSHIP FUND:
Receipts:
Life membership fees
$ 4,404,554
Interest and dividends on investments
6,412,046
Total
10,816,600
Expenses:
1988 annual dues of life members
6,911,412
Administrative expenses
149,673
Trustee's charges
36,242
Total
7,097,327
Increase in Fund Balance
3,719,273
Fund Balance, September 1, 1987
79,079,801
FUND BALANCE, MAY 31, 1988
$ 82,799,074
See the notes to financial statements.
45
88th NATIONAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE FINANCIAL REPORT
The following is a summary of receipts and disbursements pertaining to the VFW's 88th
National Convention which was held in New Orleans, Louisiana:
CASH RECEIPTS:
Registration
$
92,757.00
Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW
26,000.00
New Orleans Tourist & Convention Commission
30,000.00
Awards Luncheon Ticket Sales
30,422.50
Dištinguished Guest Banquet Ticket Sales
51,945.00
Concessions and Miscellaneous
12,250.00
Total Receipts
$ 243,374.50
DISBURSEMENTS:
Audio-Visual
$
29,687.09
Awards Luncheon
30,105.00
Badges & Signs
14,794.85
Convention Committee & Director's Expense
8,915.67
Distinguished Guest & National Officers' Expense
30,528.80
Distinguished Guest Banquet
62,876.47
Meeting Halls and Set-Up
55,278.84
On-Site Transportation
5,378.25
Parade and Contest Expense
1,321.25
Postage and Freight
1,072.31
Printing and Paper
3,826.01
Professional Services
11,513.35
Stationery & Office Supplies/Equipment Rental
3,855.93
Miscellaneous
3,193.51
Total Disbursements
262,347.33
EXCESS OF DISBURSEMENTS OVER RECEIPTS
$
18,972.83
48
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
OFFICE OF THE QUARTERMASTER GENERAL
SOURCE OF REVENUE
Budgeted income for the fiscal year ending August 31, 1988, is $19,674,311
compared to $18,077,715 for the previous year. The following schedule shows the
proportionate composition of this year's budgeted income by department:
Percentage of
Total Revenue
Dues
45.7
Group Insurance Programs
25.4
VFW Magazine Receipts
12.0
Interest on Investments
11.8
Emblem & Supply Department
5.3
Property Operation - Net Loss
(2.7)
All other sources
2.5
Total
100.0%
MEMBERSHIP AND NATIONAL DUES
The current budget is based on dues income of 2,052,000 members, which
includes 578,226 Life Members. As of June 17, 1988, annual dues have been paid
on 2,047,576 members which is 6,049 more than at the same date last year and
the highest in the Organization's eighty-nine year history. Dues are paid on a
calendar year basis, therefore, one-third of the dues collected is set aside in a
reserve applicable to the next fiscal year.
VFW INSURANCE PROGRAMS
The National Organization first sponsored a group insurance program in
1962. Over the years we have added a variety of programs, and at the present
time we have nine. The most recent additions are an Accidental Death and
Dismemberment Insurance program and a Medicare Supplement Economy plan.
Details of these and other insurance programs appear elsewhere in this official
program.
National Headquarters receives an administrative expense reimbursement
for handling the billing, collection of premiums, policy issuance, etc. For the
current nine months ended May 31, 1988, the net income from this source is
$3,810,461 compared to $3,598,450 for the same period last year. In addition, the
administrative expense reimbursement from the National Life Insurance
program, which is not included in the above figures, is distributed to VFW
Departments. Since 1971, VFW Departments have received approximately
$2,437,000 for the assistance they give us in the advertising and promotion of
that program.
Beginning in June of 1983, a new insurance underwriter increased our
reimbursement for administration of the programs and as a result of this
increase, coupled with a growing expertise in mass marketing, our annual net
income from the insurance programs has more than tripled. In 1986, the
underwriting was transferred to the North American Life & Casualty Insurance
Company and its subsidiary, Preferred Life Insurance of New York. The amount
reimbursed to VFW National Headquarters for administration of the programs
remains the same. This new company receives the highest (A+) rating possible
from the A.M. Best Company, an independent insurance industry analyst.
The reception of the new accidental death program has been very good
because the first $2,500 of coverage is at no cost to the member and requires
only that the member send in a beneficiary card which has been provided in the
dues notice mailing. This new program has been a valuable addition to our
membership program as well. Each of the other programs has been well received
over the years, and they all offer a valuable incentive for belonging to the
Organization.
49
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
OFFICE OF THE QUARTERMASTER GENERAL
MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS
We have attempted to design a member benefit program for our members, and all of
these programs-including the insurance programs previously mentioned, are optional
with the member and cost him nothing unless he elects to use them. In the spring of 1982,
we announced a prescription drug program. Some of our members who do not otherwise
have access to a discount source for prescription drugs have found this program very
useful. In 1983 we announced a travel service (hotels, motels, rental cars, etc.) and a
discount merchandise purchase service.
Details of our insurance programs, and these additional member benefits, have been
included in a "Member Benefit Handbook" which has been mailed to all members during the
period June-July 1988.
Again, our insurance and other member benefit programs are available to our
members at what we believe is a fair cost, but cost the member nothing unless, at his
option, he wishes to utilize them.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
From the inception of the program in 1950 through May 31, 1988, members purchasing a life membership
total 689,256. During the same period, 112,236 became inactive due to death, etc., leaving 577,020 names on
the active list.
During this past year, 51,027 members paid $6,397,839 to become Life Members.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP FUND
May 31, 1988
Fees Collected Jan. 1, 1951 to May 31, 1988
$77,966,248
Total dues paid Post, Department and National
$53,098,749
Add -- Administrative Expenses since 1-1-51
2,193,294
55,292,043
Income from Investments
(Incl. gains and losses from sale of securities)
$60,124,869
Excess of Income over Disbursements
4,832,826
Reserve for Future Dues Payments and Expenses
$82,799,074
Total Investments in Trust Funds
$79,993,044
Temporary Investments and Cash on Hand
2,806,030
Total Investments and Cash
$82,799,074
Note: The estimated Dues Payment due 8-31-88 is $7,125,732.
Life Member fees have been set actuarially SO that the fee life member applicants pay, plus the
investment income from it, will equal the VFW dues for the life of the Life Member. Since the Life Member
Program began, we have had three separate plans, Plan A, B & C. Each Plan had a different fee schedule
with a different dues payout. The sole purpose in changing plans was to bring the dues payout more in line
with the dues structure for annual members.
Because investment income in the last several years has substantially exceeded that which was originally
anticipated when the fees were set, the Board of Trustees has been able to increase the Life Member dues
payout three of the last six years. It must be remembered, however, that the Board has the right to reduce
the payout to that originally set in the By-Laws, should it become necessary because of financial and
economic conditions.
For the 1989 dues payment, the dues payout will remain the same, at $12.00 on each Life Member. After
the 1989 payment, an additional $13.3 million over the required amount will have been paid to Posts,
Departments and National Headquarters since 1982.
All levels of the Veterans of Foreign Wars have benefited from the well managed and financially sound
Life Membership Trust. Not only has the total number of Life Members increased substantially over the past
few years, but the financial condition of National Headquarters and each Post and Department has been
helped by the increased payouts.
50
VFW EMBLEM AND SUPPLY DEPARTMENT
Nine months ending May 31,
1988
1987
1986
1985
Net Sales
$ 3,557,523
$ 3,212,706
$ 3,050,545
$ 2,952,720
Cost of Sales
1,930,989
1,755,978
1,719,146
1,703,356
Gross Profit
1,626,534
1,456,728
1,331,399
1,249,364
EXPENSES
Salaries
229,277
227,313
212,480
203,306
Advertising
26,223
33,296
20,583
4,268
Catalog Expense
48,848
41,070
37,611
58,178
Electricity
11,364
10,895
9,700
9,153
Postage
194,372
161,568
156,879
142,234
Shipping Supplies
21,662
11,502
13,167
16,564
Rent
61,500
61,500
54,000
54,000
Data Processing Allocation
46,913
55,841
53,307
49,467
Other
45,463
41,879
40,613
32,364
Total Expenses
685,622
644,864
598,340
569,534
Net Income Before Commissions
940,912
811,864
733,059
679,830
Less Commissions to Departments
94,091
81,186
73,306
67,983
NET INCOME
$
846,821
$
730,678
$
659,753
$
611,847
Section 715 of the By-Laws states that 10% of the net profits of supplies sold within a
Department shall be paid to such Department within thirty days following the close of each
fiscal period. The Quartermaster General will be mailing these payments to the
Departments in September. The 1989 Supply Catalog will be mailed to Posts and
Departments in August.
Net income from the Supply Department and Group Insurance Programs, and interest
income earned from investments, total over eight million dollars annually and help
substantially in meeting the monetary needs of all VFW programs. Still, the bulk of our
income is, from membership dues, SO we are like a retired person on a fixed income.
Expenses for printing, postage, travel and our many other activities continue to rise. VFW
magazine expenses, alone, represent over a quarter of our total outlay. Many of the costs of
printing the magazine, including postage and paper, are not within our own control. While
inflation has somewhat abated, it has had a tremendous effect on us over the years.
Our financial statements as of May 31, 1988, indicate that we are having another good
year. The August 31 surplus cannot be predicted, but is generally more than that of May 31
of each year. One of the biggest uncertainties is the cost of the National Convention, which
will be enormous by any standard. We have had a surplus every year since 1962, and we
believe that this year will be no exception.
I would like to express my thanks to the National Officers, the members of the National
Council of Administration and the Budget & Finance Committee who have contributed
substantially to making 1987-88 a very fine year.
I hope that this report gives you some indication of the financial stability of your VFW
National Headquarters. A solid financial base is essential to support our VFW goals which
are common to units at all levels of our Organization. While there are many other things to
be done, I urge you to pay attention to the finances of your particular unit and leave it in
better shape than when you came on board.
51
JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL
James B. Lund
S
easoned combat veterans Para-
service, guide us to success in VFW aims and objectives.
trooper Commander-in-Chief Earl
Washington Office Executive Director Cooper T. Holt
L. Stock, Jr., Marine Sr. Vice
eloquently addressed the Minnesota governor and legis-
lators who gathered with 12,000 veterans and Auxiliary
Commander-in-Chief Larry W. Rivers, and
members on the Minnesota capitol steps and "lit the
Infantryman Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief
candle" to have state veterans' homes returned to the
Department of Veterans Affairs. Advice and counsel from
Walter F. Hogan lead the attack for the
District 8 National Council Member Robert B. Thomas, of
Veterans of Foreign Wars supported by
Oklahoma, was helpful. Visits by Chief Stock, Adjutant
Quartermaster Gen. Herb Irwin and Adjutant
Gen. Vander Clute and Assistant Adjutant Gen. Curtis
Jewell to Minnesota have spurred courage and member-
Gen. Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr.; Surgeon
ship through a banner year culminating in the dedication
Gen. Philip J. Begley cares for our health,
of the Fort Snelling VA Replacement Hospital. Rep. G.V.
and National Chaplain Boyd W. Winterton
(Sonny) Montgomery, chairman of the Veterans' Affairs
Committee, in his visits to Minnesota, has called it the
guides us spiritually and morally. These
newest, largest and best equipped in the Free World.
leaders are of great assistance to your rear
Buildup of funds obtained from charitable gambling
should be watched to avoid Internal Revenue Service
echeloner Judge Advocate General.
confrontation.
Effective national leadership visits to our Departments,
Extreme caution is urged in the use of VFW courts-
Posts and world's "hot spots" stimulate VFW vitality and
martial. Prior consultation for discussion and possible
growth. Publications on veterans' benefits, Congressional
arbitration of disputes before instituting courts-martial
testimony and national security from our Washington
would serve the good of the order.
Office and advice to our many committees from National
Support from my Department and the Big Ten Con-
Headquarters in Kansas City, together with the newest
ference has made it possible for me to serve as your JAG.
studies on membership growth and extension of claims
SURGEON GENERAL
Dr. Philip J. Begley
t has been an honor and a priv-
more important. The VA does not have enough nursing
ilege to serve the Veterans of
homes and should strive to increase the number and
Foreign Wars as Surgeon General for the
availability of nursing home beds.
My own state, Kentucky, has passed enabling legislation
past year. The year has gone by SO fast that
for a veterans' nursing home, and we hope to begin
have probably left undone many things that
construction in the next 12 to 18 months. We need both
I should have done, and I have probably
state-supported and VA-supported nursing homes in
order to help our government keep its commitments to
done a few things that I should have not
that special class of citizen - the veteran.
done. However, "The moving finger writes,
During the year, I have visited a few hospitals, have
assisted some veterans with their claims and have held
and having writ, moves on."
offices in the Post, District and State organizations, as
In general, it has been a good year for the VFW.
well as on the National level. My major disappointment
Membership is holding up. Our record for service to
for the year was having to miss the Washington Confer-
veterans and for community service is untarnished. The
ence and National Council of Administration meeting
chief concern I have is the increasing mortality rates for
because of illness.
us World War II veterans. I would like to urge all veterans
I have been impressed with the organization and
to have regular blood pressure checks and to limit salt
efficiency of our officers in Kansas City and Washington.
and, if at all possible, to abstain from the use of tobacco. I
We are extremely fortunate to have two able adminis-
am of the opinion that veterans over 60 can have their
trators, our Adjutant General, Howard E. Vander Clute,
life-span extended by following this advice.
and probably one of the most respected men in
Because of the increasing age of the largest group of
Washington, Cooper T. Holt. I feel fortunate to have
our veterans, nursing homes are becoming more and
known and associated with them.
52
NATIONAL CHAPLAIN
Bishop Boyd W. Winterton
wish to express heartfelt gratitude
ingful. Finally, being an arm's length away, as it were, from
to comrades and ladies of Atomic Post
the President of the United States as he approached the
platform to address those assembled was exciting and
4355 and the Department of Utah for
memorable.
encouragement and support leading to my
The week of March 6-13 with the Commander-in-Chief
election last Aug. 23 in New Orleans.
and staff, and all who qualified for the membership trip
to Epcot, Disney World, Kennedy Space Center and a
My wife, Bonnie, and I had just arrived home from the
Caribbean cruise aboard the SS Oceanic is described by
National Convention, only to be on our way to Albany,
one adjective: Superlative! When we first boarded the
N.Y., as guests of the Commander-in-Chief for his gala
Oceanic, the cruise director said, "Prepare to be pampered."
homecoming celebration, under the genial chairmanship
And pampered we were for four fun-packed days, an
of John Ray. We partook of the activities of three action-
unforgettable experience.
packed days, including a homecoming banquet, a night at
Bonnie and I have just returned from Kenosha, Wis.,
the races (OTB teletheater) and several special tours of
where we were guests of Post 1865 for the 26th Annual
historic sites.
National Chaplain's Day festivities. We were received at
Attendance at two National Council of Administration
the airport by Kenosha's outstanding Honor Guard, as
meetings in New Orleans and Kansas City, respectively,
well as Post, Department and National VIPs, including
enabled me to gain insight, increased understanding and
Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Hogan. Then we pro-
appreciation for the inter-relationships among National
ceeded in a nine-passenger limousine with a Kenosha
Officers, National District Council members and National
County Sheriffs escort. All this proved to be the mere
Directors. I would like to express appreciation to the
beginning of three incredible days over the Memorial Day
many services provided me during the past year, par-
weekend. Saturday's Order of the Day included a char-
ticularly by the Adjutant General and his staff and the
tered fishing excursion on Lake Michigan and a traditional
National Directorate personnel.
banquet that evening where the Chaplain was honored
Saturday, Oct. 24, 1987, shall always be a day to
as the evening's speaker. It isn't often that a Chaplain is
remember as comrades, ladies, family and friends came
speechless, but I was for a moment when presented with
to my homecoming at Post 4355. Telephone conversations
a portrait of myself by world-class artist, George Pollard,
from Past National Chaplains Schneider, Braun and
a member of Post 1865. Sunday, I was privileged to deliver
Reinewald were deeply appreciated. Nov. 6-8 was also a
the sermon at Memorial United Methodist Church Wor-
homecoming of sorts, returning to comrades and friends
ship Service. Sunday and Monday, I was invited to
of the Western Conference at Wichita, Kans. Being able to
participate in two Community Memorial Services and a
thank personally Past Commanders-in-Chief Staab,
Post Flag Service. Upon boarding the plane in Milwaukee,
Currieo and Stang for their acts of kindness and guidance
we told Chairman Kloet and his lovely wife, Audrey, "We
made the occasion even more special.
are going home, but our hearts remain in Kenosha."
Nov. 30 through Dec. 3, I attended a conference at
Commander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock, Jr., made an official
Hampton, Va., for all Chiefs of Chaplain Service, VA
visit to the state of Utah May 30 to June 2. His visits to the
Medical Centers, U.S.A. I was honored, as VFW National
VA Medical Center, with the mayor of Salt Lake City, the
Chaplain, to speak on: What Has Membership in Veterans'
governor of the state of Utah and Church officials were
Service Organizations to Offer the VA Chaplaincy?
highly effective and well received. At a dinner hosted by
The Mid-Winter Conference, March 4-8, in Washington,
Utah's Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, the Chief
D.C., was an inspiration to all who attended. The Voice of
commended local military and veterans' organizations
Democracy finals, responses at the religious services
for their unanimity in gaining legislative approval for a
provided, attendance at the Congressional Banquet and
Veterans' Memorial Park. I consider it a signal honor to
being present as Commander-in-Chief Stock appeared
have served as a Team member with Earl L. Stock, Jr., this
before the joint hearing for House and Senate Veterans'
past year, a man who lives what he believes: For America,
Affairs Committees were heartwarming and most mean-
Whatever It Takes!
53
CHIEF OF STAFF
Paul E. Wampler, Jr.
C
ommander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock,
in numerous VFW activities, meetings and conferences.
who has led us to another successful
At each one, I have been overwhelmed by the courtesy
year in achieving our goals on virtually
and generosity shown me by hosts and hostesses and
other participants in these events. To each of you, let me
all levels of VFW activity, appointed me
express my most heartfelt thanks.
Chief of Staff at the conclusion of the 88th
This report would not be complete without a special
National Convention in New Orleans.
mention of Comrade Ross. His work as Post Development
Director this past year has been exceptionally beneficial
Over the past year, I have worked to justify the
to the National organization, and he has been most
confidence he placed in me 12 months ago when he
cooperative with me.
assigned to me the duties of this appointive office.
Most of all, however, I must thank Commander-in-
One of the principal functions of the Chief of Staff is to
Chief Stock for appointing me to this office and enabling
oversee the Post Development program. Under the
me to serve the Veterans of Foreign Wars as an organ-
directorship of Joe Ross, 277 new Posts were chartered
ization of men and women who served their country
between July 1, 1987, and May 18, of this year.
overseas.
This gain represents an increase of nine over the
Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief Larry W. Rivers, Jr. Vice
previous year. Leading the Departments is California
Commander-in-Chief Wally Hogan, Adjutant Gen. Howard
with 34, comprising 1,183 new and reinstated members.
E. Vander Clute, Jr., Quartermaster Gen. Herbert Irwin
In all, the new and reinstated members added to the VFW
and Washington Office Executive Director Cooper' T. Holt
this year total 10,144. Only 13 Departments failed to add
and their staffs have been outstanding in assisting me in
any new Posts.
carrying out the functions of Chief of Staff. To all of them,
Since the old Post Extension program was begun in
I must express my gratitude.
1965-66 and later renamed Post Development, more
But I am equally grateful to each of you in the VFW for
than 5,335 new Posts have been established. The retention
helping to make this one of the greatest years in the
rate is 77.14%. This record should silence critics of the
history of our organization and demonstrating that we
program.
will do "For America, Whatever It Takes."
Over the past year, I have had the honor to participate
INSPECTOR GENERAL
Peter E. Olson
t has been a privilege and a distinct
indicate whether or not a Post needs assistance to avoid
honor to serve the past 12 months as
what might well become a serious problem. The progress
made in Post Inspections has been most gratifying, and
Inspector General. I sincerely thank
virtually all Posts have been inspected. Dedicated District
Commander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock for the
and Department Inspectors are responsible for this
opportunity to gain a greater knowledge of
accomplishment. Thank you for a successful and enjoy-
able year.
our outstanding organization. It has been
The opportunity to travel and represent the National
one of the most rewarding experiences of
organization and our great Commander-in-Chief has
been most worthwhile. The many courtesies and warm
my many years as a VFW member.
hospitality extended to me throughout the year and the
To the National Organization and its staff, I am grateful
many friendships developed always will be cherished.
for the guidance and complete cooperation extended to
To serve under Commander-in-Chief Stock, who is an
me during the past year. I am convinced that the
inspiration to all who know him, is an honor I will never
principles and purposes of this organization are the
forget. Thank you, Comrade Earl, for a memorable year.
greatest in the world. Your dedicated leadership is
Leadership like yours has enabled the VFW to reach its
appreciated.
goal of "For America, Whatever It Takes."
Post Inspection Reports are most important. They
54
WASHINGTON OFFICE
Executive Director Cooper T. Holt
A
the conclusion of the 88th National
proud to say that the interests of this nation's veterans
Convention in New Orleans last year,
have been well represented. But something very curious
is going on. It seems that whenever the VFW comes
Commander-in-Chief Earl Stock re-
forward to take a stand, we encounter this increasingly
appointed me Assistant Adjutant General
shrill cry: "There go those professional veterans again!"
For example, when the VFW let it be known in no
and Executive Director of the Veterans of
uncertain terms that we supported elevating the VA to a
Foreign Wars Washington Office.
cabinet-level department and that we did not want the
legislation diluted or distorted with amendments, the
Your VFW Washington Office consists of five separate
piercing cry of "the professional veterans are causing
services: Administrative, National Veterans Service,
trouble" could be unmistakably heard. When we took a
National Legislative Service, National Security and Foreign
stand for awarding this nation's atomic veterans com-
Affairs, and Public Affairs. Each of these offices represents
pensation for certain disabilities, we were accosted once
service to veterans that no other veterans' group offers in
again with "watch out for those professional veterans."
the nation's capital. I was directed to coordinate all
When we spoke strongly in favor of providing VA health
activities of these offices and to represent the Com-
care to poor and impoverished veterans for non-service
mander-in-Chief personally in contacts with Congress-
connected disabilities, the alarm of "those professional
ional, governmental and military leaders.
veterans are on the prowl" was quickly raised. Time and
The primary work of your Washington Office staff is to
time again, when we step forward to protect this nation's
carry out to a successful conclusion the mandates which
veterans' hard-earned entitlements, we are decried as
you, the member, offer, debate and pass at our National
being a bunch of professional veterans with altogether
Convention. I am the first to remind you that we are not
too much clout.
always successful in this endeavor, but you can be sure
True enough, the VFW is justifiably proud of the work it
we are always trying.
has done on behalf of America's military veterans. We are
As all of you know, I, for one, cannot express my
neither afraid nor ashamed to do whatever it takes so
gratitude enough for the work you do. Many times it is a
veterans may enjoy the recognition they deserve for
thankless job. But I want you all to know we in the
having set aside personal gain and ambition in order to
Washington Office appreciate and value your efforts. It is
ensure America's freedom. Yes, we have won some tough
not just the VFW that appreciates your work; the
battles against the anti-veteran factions in this country;
Congress knows you are out there too.
we have worked hard and long and will continue to do so;
I am going to confine my remarks in this report to
but too much clout, too much influence with the
veterans' programs, and I am going to talk about Congress
Administration and the Congress? I don't think so.
and what it is doing and not doing.
Furthermore, if the pejorative accusation of professional
It is no secret that the VFW has had its work cut out for
veterans means a patriotic American who has proudly
it this Congress. Making the VA a cabinet level department,
served his or her country and who is ready, willing and
obtaining compensation and health care for atomic
able to fight for what is right, then we should all gladly
veterans, realizing adequate funding for veterans' health
accept the designation as a badge of our commitment
care, strengthening employment and educational pro-
and patriotism and redouble our work on behalf of
grams, and resisting the attacks on veterans' entitlements
veterans and the nation.
by anti-veteran factions are just some of the issues on
Our advocacy is strong, but it is firmly grounded in
which the VFW has taken a strong and active stand.
representing the facts of veterans' service and sacrifice to
It is a tough, uphill battle, but we are resolved, and I am
an always grateful, yet sometimes forgetful nation. We do
55
WASHINGTON OFFICE
not lobby on behalf of special interests or unearned and
budget, adjusted for inflation, is a full $370 million short
undeserved programs-we only ask for that which a
of even providing for current health-care services by the
grateful American people, through ceremony and law,
VA. In fact, total expenditures for discretionary items in
have shown to be what the veterans justly deserve. Put
the VA budget would rise by only 1.8% over the 1988 level
another way, we win because we persevere and our cause
even though inflation is projected to be 4.5% in 1989.
is just. But we surely do not have too much clout.
The VA Home Loan Program, one of the most beneficial
One proof of this lies in the problems we are now
veterans' programs in existence, also would fall under the
confronting with the proposed VA budget. At first glance,
budget-cutter's ax. Even though the current strained
the Administration's proposed $30.1 billion VA budget at
economic climate has resulted in the loan guaranty
least would seem to be in keeping with the objective of
program suffering a dramatic increase in foreclosures
providing veterans with a current services budget. But a
and in the amount of time foreclosed properties must be
more thorough review reveals this spending plan to be
managed and maintained by the VA, FY '89 budget calls
painfully inadequate and far below what is even necessary
for a reduction of 75 loan guaranty personnel.
to keep pace with inflation.
The entire Veterans Administration falls under the
The deception lies in the fact that even though the
Administration's proposed budgetary assault. Despite a
requested budget authority is larger than the current
demonstrated need for an additional 3,500 nursing-
year's authority, it includes $1.6 billion for expenditures
home beds by 1992, the VA is slated to receive only 120
from VA-managed trust funds which do not, in fact,
new beds in FY '89. In an area of major concern to this
require appropriations. Furthermore, $1.5 billion is in-
nation's Vietnam veterans, the Veterans Administration
cluded in the budget for proposed legislation of which
Vet Center Program would suffer a reduction of 79 full
about $1.3 billion is to be used to fund the Administration's
time employees and a budget cut of $4.7 million.
so-called credit reform plan.
Additionally, the Administration has declined to seek
This plan is nothing more than a scheme to require
additional funding for the Veterans' Job Training Act.
Congress to appropriate money equal to the estimated
This invaluable employment program has placed almost
subsidy value (the additional amount OMB claims a VA
60,000 Vietnam Era and Korean War veterans into jobs
loan is worth to an individual) of the loans it makes or
and is now just about completely out of money. Of major
guarantees. Along with using actual appropriations
concern to all veterans and particularly to older veterans
dollars to cover the OMB-estimated paper losses, once
is the fact that there will be a more than $34 million
the appropriation is used up, the VA will not be allowed to
reduction in money available to purchase new medical
guarantee any more loans without an additional appro-
equipment, and the funding for facility construction,
priation. This would cap the program effectively and
modernization and renovation would be reduced by $22
potentially prevent untold thousands of veterans from
million.
getting VA loans. The money earmarked for the credit
The Administration's FY '89 budget calls for the
reform scheme also inflates the VA budget and makes it
elimination of 2,439 VA employees. At a time when the
appear to be much larger than it actually is.
demands on the VA health-care system are rapidly on the
So when the misleading numbers and deceptive rhetoric
rise, 1,782 health-care employees would be eliminated.
are washed away, we are faced with a VA budget woefully
The Department of Veterans Benefits would be forced to
inadequate to the task of caring for this nation's veterans.
eliminate 492 employees, including 248 regional office
For example, overall health-care funding would increase
claims adjudicators. Conceivably, in spite of the fact that
by only 2% over the 1988 level. At a time when the number
over the past five years the VA has struggled to handle
of veterans requiring inpatient, outpatient and long-term
claims in a prompt manner, the Administration would
care is on the rise, the proposed FY '89 health-care
eliminate over 7% of the already overtaxed regional office
56
WASHINGTON OFFICE
claims work force.
official functions. I have presented the needs of your
Also of major concern is the issue of judicial review.
Washington Office before the National Budget Committee
Judicial review of veterans' claims has been before
and members of the National Council of Administration. I
Congress for many years. Since the 94th Congress,
had the privilege of participating in the Senior Vice
proposals have been introduced to afford veterans the
Commanders' and Adjutant-Quartermastersi meetings
right to their day in court.
in Kansas City and attending staff meetings called by the
The VFW is acutely aware of the fact that the VA is one
Commander-in-Chief to discuss VFW programs.
of the few client agencies, one that awards monetary
It was my distinct pleasure to address the Ladies
compensation and various other benefits to individuals
Auxiliary Mid-Winter Conference in Charleston, S.C., and
and whose decisions are final with no further legal
to attend various functions in Georgia, Virginia, Illinois,
recourse available to its claims.
Oklahoma, Mississippi, Arizona, Minnesota, Tennessee
Accordingly, the VFW has adopted a position supporting
and Wisconsin. It was also my honor to attend the
judicial review of VA benefit determinations only in in-
Eastern Conference meeting held in Wilmington, Del.,
stances concerning questions of law and regulation. This
and the Southern Conferences in Columbia, S.C., and
position is fully in keeping with the determination made
Oklahoma City, Okla. In addition, it was my pleasure
by the Special Committee appointed in 1981 by the
during the past year to represent the Washington Office
Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars to
at Flying Squadron meetings in Dallas, Memphis, Rich-
study and evaluate the question of judicial review. The
mond and Atlanta.
voting delegates to the most recent National Convention
I was also asked to accompany Sr. Vice Commander-in-
reaffirmed this longstanding position by approving Reso-
Chief Larry W. Rivers and Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief
lution 613, Judicial Review.
Wally Hogan on a tour of Central America and the
The VFW believes this carefully circumscribed position
Caribbean that included fact-finding trips to Mexico, El
allows a proper means of redressing erroneous VA
Salvador and Grenada.
benefit determinations through the courts while not
I have had the opportunity to represent personally
threatening to undermine the VA's own highly successful
Commander-in-Chief Stock in contacts with Congress-
appeals mechanism. Accordingly, the VFW recently testified
ional, governmental and military leaders; to assist in
before the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee in favor of
planning meetings of the National Security and Foreign
a bill which adheres to the mandates of our current
Affairs, National Legislative, Civil Service and Employ-
resolution. As called for in VFW Resolution 613, this
ment, National Awards and Citations Committees and
legislation provides for judicial review of law and regu-
the annual Washington Conference and to arrange visits
lation and would not allow a challenge to a VA decision
of distinguished guests to the National Convention and
involving a question of fact. The bill also would give much
appointments for the Commander-in-Chief with govern-
more independence to the VA's Board of Veterans
ment leaders.
Appeals, an action which we believe will alleviate
Finally, I am most grateful to Commander-in-Chief
apprehension among some veterans when having their
Earl Stock, Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief Larry W. Rivers,
cases presented to the BVA. We are resolved to advance
Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief Walter Hogan, Adjutant
successfully the VFW's position on this critical issue
Gen. Howard E. Vander Clute, Jr., and Quartermaster
before the Congress.
Gen. Herbert Irwin for their many courtesies to this office.
During the past year, I have been assigned by your
To the entire membership of the Veterans of Foreign
Commander-in-Chief to attend conferences, National
Wars, I wish to convey my deep appreciation for the
Council of Administration meetings, various mid-winter
opportunity to serve you.
conferences and state conventions, as well as other
57
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL, ADMINISTRATION
Edward L. Burnham
T
he Assistant Adjutant General,
most Quartermasters fulfill their responsibility to keep
Administration, is tasked with the
their Councils of Administration informed of their Depart-
ment's financial status as the By-Laws require. Special
assignment of assisting the Adjutant
briefings are conducted by the Administrative Staff at
General in conducting and managing the
National Headquarters for beginning Department
Adjutants/Quartermasters.
administrative and executive functions of
As statutory requirements of doing business increase
the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His responsi-
in complexity, the need for maintaining records and up-
bilities include supervision of Administrative
to-date and approved By-Laws at every level becomes
increasingly urgent. The Commander-in-Chiefs Statement
Services, General Services and Post Services
of Policy for the operation, management and control of
and the Buddy Poppy division at National
Post canteens/clubs addresses these concerns and VFW
Headquarters.
requirements for such operations. The wide acceptance
of this policy has served to strengthen canteen/club
The functions of this office are wide-ranging and
operations. As financial responsibility laws become more
include such diverse tasks as monitoring and reviewing
restrictive, there is a compelling need for subordinate
Department budgets and financial reports; reviewing By-
units to insure that Articles of Incorporation have been
Laws and Corporation documents of subordinate units
submitted through channels to the Adjutant General for
for compliance with the National By-Laws; preparation
the review of the Commander-in-Chief in accordance
of administrative pamphlets and forms required for
with the National By-Laws and then properly recorded
internal and external use; composition and preparation
with the appropriate state authority. Approved By-Laws
of National Awards, citations and letters of commen-
serve to smooth out internal Post operations, while
dation; the publication annually of the VFW Constitution,
Articles of Incorporation provide for the corporate entity
By-Laws, Manual of Procedure and Ritual following the
of the Post and afford individual members protection
National Convention; filing of statutory Congressional
from legal obligations of the Post. All Posts should have
and State reports; publication and dissemination of the
current by-laws and valid Articles of Incorporation
National Headquarters Bulletins, General Orders and
reviewed by the Commander-in-Chief and filed with the
Special Orders; validation of requests for surplus military
secretary of state of their respective states.
equipment; maintenance of historical and legal files;
Other administrative matters under the supervision of
dissemination of summaries and preservation of pro-
the Assistant Adjutant General, Administration, include
ceedings of the National Convention and Council of
the resolution of questions concerning membership eligi-
Administration meetings; establishment and mainte-
bility, review of court-martial proceedings and appeals
nance of eligibility files of National Officers; insuring the
for the Commander-in-Chief, research in the preparation
proper recording of names and addresses of National
of Commander-in-Chief rulings, handling questions con-
Department and Post Officers and all other established
cerning emblematic matters and the unauthorized re-
and administrative functions required for the proper and
production and/or use of the VFW name and emblem
efficient operation of the organization.
and membership lists.
Department Quartermasters have been observant in
Credentials for the National Convention, resolutions
forwarding quarterly and annual financial reports and
and proposed amendments to the National By-Laws,
budgets required by the National By-Laws. All reports are
Manual of Procedure and Ritual submitted by National
carefully reviewed and monitored by the Administrative
Officers and Department Conventions are processed,
Staff of the Adjutant General. Every effort is made to
printed and disseminated under the direction of the
clarify any financial matters perceived to be unclear and
Assistant Adjutant General, Administration.
to provide on-site assistance to Quartermasters who
My special thanks go to Adjutant Gen. Howard E.
request or need help. The records will show that most
Vander Clute, Jr. and Quartermaster Gen. Herbert W.
Departments have adopted sound money-management
Irwin, as well as to the National and Department Officers
procedures and policies, and we are pleased to note that
with whom I have worked this past year.
58
ASSISTANT ADJUTANT GENERAL, PROGRAMS
Curtis M. Jewell
O
nce again the Veterans of Foreign
Troops, countless Sons of VFW Units and Boys Clubs and
Wars of the United States has met
Junior and Special Olympic programs throughout the
the challenge of keeping intact its
country.
record of continuous membership growth.
The Voice of Democracy scriptwriting contest continues
to attract more than 250,000 high school students each
For the 33rd consecutive year, the VFW
year, as they vie for scholarship awards that assist them
increased its membership. But it has not
in gaining higher education, thus increasing their value as
American citizens and tomorrow's leaders.
been easy, for 1988 can be characterized
More than 1,200 VFW and Ladies Auxiliary members
as a year of ups and downs as far as mem-
contribute 1.5 million hours of volunteer service to the
bership is concerned. At this writing, we
Veterans Administration Volunteer Service (VAVS) program
every year. In addition to this service, VFW, Ladies Auxil-
have had a moderate increase in member-
iary, Military Order of the Cootie and members of its
ship that should remain through the balance
Ladies Auxiliary donate countless hours entertaining
of the year.
and visiting veterans in VA local hospitals throughout the
country.
Possibly we have reached crossroads as far as member-
The impact of community service work VFW members
ship is concerned. Questions arise as to whether we
perform is endless and bodes well for the future of our
should change the format of our membership program,
organization as we compete with other organizations for
design new methods of recruitment or initiate modern
the time and talents of people who want to join an organ-
marketing techniques to meet the challenge of the future.
ization that pursues the American dream of building
Some of the plans I have mentioned will be incorporated
a better life for the citizens of this nation.
in next year's membership program which already has
Voluntarism, as we know it, has been a way of life since
been announced. It is anticipated they will prove
this country was founded more than two centuries ago.
productive.
In fact, America's independence is the direct result of a
Pride in our accomplishments of the past should
volunteer militia that fought and won our freedom in
inspire current and future leaders to greater effort as we
1776, thus establishing the grass roots of volunteer forces
approach a new year in membership and the other pro-
in this country. The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the
grams the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxil-
United States has continued to extend this philosophy
iary carry on.
during its 89 years of existence.
Dr. Kenneth Wells, former president of Freedoms
Work of this nature cannot be accomplished without
Foundation, expressed the work the VFW and its Ladies
leadership. The VFW is fortunate to have had leaders who
Auxiliary perform as "a concept
an idea
a
rallying
contributed their time, effort and talents that allowed us
point
a center of patriotic concern and love of fellowman
to grow over the past 89 years.
such as the world has never seen." And it is. This fact
We must continue to seek out the best leadership
stands out in bold relief as one views the work VFW and
available and improve the service and development of
Ladies Auxiliary members perform each year in carrying
procedures that will guarantee the future success of our
on programs that benefit veterans and their families, as
organization.
well as other segments of our nation's population.
Membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars is a mark
The fact that the VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary con-
of distinction. The privilege of serving as a leader at any
tinue to grow in numbers reflects the image and prestige
level is even greater. It displays a confidence and trust, by
our organization commands. The donation of more than
others, in recognizing the leadership qualities of an indi-
100 million hours and $90 million to community
vidual. Individuals who are elected, or appointed, to posi-
service projects during the past year by VFW and Auxil-
tions of leadership should not betray that trust but
iary units attests to this fact. More than 950,000 people
should grasp the opportunity to serve the VFW to the best
have availed themselves of the VFW Drive to Survive
of their ability.
educational training program since its inception in 1973.
I am confident the leaders and members of our organi-
Thirty million bicycles have been reflectorized with Lite-
zation can and will accept the challenge of writing new
A-Bike tape as a safeguard against bicycle accidents since
record-shattering chapters in the history of the Veterans
1963.
of Foreign Wars of the United States as WE REMEMBER
More important to the future of our country is the fact
the past and build for the future of America and the
that VFW Posts sponsor more than 1,100 Boy Scout
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
59
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Director John J. Senk, Jr.
T
he volume and scope of duties and
apprised of any and all corrective action taken during
periods of suspension to return the Post to good working
responsibilities assigned to Admini-
order.
strative Services are ever expanding
The complexity of doing business in today's society is
and changing. These include assisting the
ever expanding and the realities of people's ever-increas-
ing litigiousness today call for steps to be taken to protect
Adjutant General and Assistant Adjutant
the individual members of Posts. In order to accomplish
General, Administration, in the day-to-day
this, we strongly urge each and every Post to incorporate
administrative functions of the organization.
in compliance with Section 708 of the National By-Laws
and in accordance with the laws of the state in which it is
Department budgets and financial reports of each
located. The Director of Administrative Services works
Department's financial operation are reviewed and
closely with the Assistant Adjutant General, Admin-
monitored for compliance with the National By-Laws.
istration, in reviewing and processing Articles of Incorpor-
One of a Post's most important historical documents is
ation for the consideration of the Commander-in-Chief.
its offical charter. Once a Post is instituted, it becomes the
After Articles of Incorporation have been approved by
responsibility of Administrative Services to correspond
the Commander-in-Chief, it is necessary for the Posts to
with the newly formed Post to insure that the official
file the approved incorporation papers with the agency
charter is engrossed correctly and issued as expeditiously
of their state government having jurisdiction.
as possible. Complete and accurate records are main-
More and more Posts are realizing the need to adopt
tained on microfilm to facilitate the preparation of a
Post by-laws and club rules in order to properly handle
replacement charter should the original become lost or
destroyed.
individual problems that arise. The National By-Laws
Section 209 of the National By-Laws provides the
provide that the Commander-in-Chief must approve all
authority and procedure for two or more Posts to
By-Laws or amendments to existing By-Laws before they
become effective. The Director of Administrative Services
consolidate. When this occurs, Administrative Services
initiates the necessary paperwork to correct the records
again works closely with the Assistant Adjutant General,
at National Headquarters to reflect the consolidation,
Administration, in reviewing Post by-laws and club rules
and a Certificate of Charter is engrossed and issued
to insure that there is no conflict with National By-Laws
reciting the facts of the consolidation.
and the documents are in proper form for the approval of
Upon receipt of a written request for a Life Membership
the Commander-in-Chief
Perpetual Charter, the membership records are reviewed
VFW Travel Services Department is administered by
to verify that the Post has the requisite 25 Life Members.
the Director of Administrative Services. The establishment
Once the membership figures are verified, a charter
of this department has insured the lowest possible
number is assigned and the Life Membership Perpetual
airfares for anyone traveling on VFW business or personal
Charter is prepared and mailed to Department Head-
pleasure. The toll-free number was announced in the
quarters for presentation.
Member Benefit Handbook allowing the entire membership
Administrative Services has been assigned the respons-
to take advantage of our VFW travel services.
ibility of processing requests, preparing applicable orders
The goal of Administrative Services and the entire
and maintaining permanent files for the Adjutant General
administrative staff is to serve the needs of our member-
on all suspension and cancellation actions. It is Admin-
ship better and to allow the VFW to be For America,
istrative Services' duty to keep the Adjutant General
Whatever It Takes.
60
AMERICANISM
Chairman Paul R. Phillips, Jr.
Director Raymond N. Price
0
nce again the people of the United
self-government without the involvement of the governed
States will go to the polls in Nov-
isn't self-government. It is the first step towards oligarchy
and tyranny.
ember to decide who will guide this
The Americanism program for 1988 is in good shape. As
nation's "ship of state" for the next four
of this writing, we have 17 Departments that have
years.
reached the 100% accreditation plateau. They are Arizona,
Delaware, District of Columbia, Kansas, Maine, Maryland,
I wonder how many of those who cast their quadrennial
Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Rhode
ballots on Nov. 8 realize they will be selecting not only an
Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia and
American President but the leader of the free world.
Wyoming.
For in the eyes of the world, the titular head of that
Twenty Departments are at better than 90%, and each
portion we call free is the leader of the globe's most
of these Departments has a pretty good shot at reaching
powerful nation, the United States of America. The
100%.
President's role, however, is greater than that of a titular
The national average for Americanism accreditation is
head, for he must become an active leader in world
89.05% and it could be well into the 90% range by National
affairs. The Constitution assigns the conduct of foreign
Convention time.
affairs to the executive branch of government. Therefore,
In the conference races, the Big Ten leads, as usual,
the President must accept much of the responsibility that
with 96.42%. The Western Conference is a strong second
goes with world leadership.
with 92.51%. The Southern Conference and the Eastern
The United States Presidency is an awesome job. One
Conference are currently at 85.09% and 82.15%
that can, and in most cases does, age a man far beyond
respectively.
his years. If a President takes his job seriously, and I know
The VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary have always been
of none who have not, it is said that four years in the
among the leaders in advocating patriotic education that
White House can be more stressful than 16 hard years in
begins in elementary schools. The VFW and its Ladies
the private sector.
Auxiliary have always been among the leaders in per-
While it's true that Presidential responsibilities are
forming patriotic projects. We will continue to be the
awesome, it should be noted that the responsibilities of
leaders in these areas, because without patriotic good
the electorate, those who elect the President, are equally
works and the patriots who perform them, the freedoms
awesome. They must know the issues, know the candidates
and liberties of all Americans stand in jeopardy.
and their positions on those issues, and above all, it is
I can think of no better way of fulfilling the motto we
their responsibility to cast the ballots that elect the
have lived by for the past year, "FOR AMERICA,
person who will be charged with the vast power of the
WHATEVER IT TAKES!" We look forward joyfully, filled
American Presidency.
with pride in what we have done and with confidence for
It is not my position to tell you for whom to vote, but I
what we will do in the future. We've had 90 years of
plead with you to vote. Your vote is as important to this
service to America's veterans and to our communities,
country as the vote of any other person. Remember that
and we will continue because "WE REMEMBER!"
The United States Presidency is an awesome job. One that can,
and in most cases does, age a man far beyond his years.
61
BUDDY POPPY
Chairman Dominic J. Romano
Director Thomas L. Kissell
T
he words "to assist worthy
average sales of fewer than 45,000.
comrades, to perpetuate the memory
Last year the Over One-Million Sales Club was instituted
to pay special recognition to the Departments whose
and history of our dead, and to assist
total sales exceeded 1 million with five Departments
their widows and orphans" are found in
qualifying. This year the Department of California joined
Article | of the Constitution of the Veterans
the ranks of the over 1 million sellers.
Divisional winners for 1987-88 are Division 1, Depart-
of Foreign Wars of the United States and
ment of Wyoming and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 2,
are repeated countless times at Post meet-
Department of New Jersey and its Ladies Auxiliary;
ings throughout the country.
Division 3, Department of Wisconsin and its Ladies
Auxiliary; Division 4, Department of Nevada and its
One way this pledge is kept is through the sale of Buddy
Ladies Auxiliary; Division 5, Department of New Hamp-
Poppies, and this year the largest in Buddy Poppy history
shire and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 6, Department of
was realized with 17,121,670 VFW Buddy Poppies being
Pennsylvania and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 7, Depart-
sold. Each and every VFW and Ladies Auxiliary member
ment of Maryland and its Ladies Auxiliary; Division 8,
can be extremely and justifiably proud of this accom-
Department of Alabama and its Ladies Auxiliary; and
plishment and is to be commended for a job well done.
Division 9, Department of Pacific Areas.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars has a proud heritage of
This outstanding year of Poppy sales would not have
service to disabled and needy veterans. Without that
been possible without the hard work and dedication of
service, we would be hard pressed to justify our existence.
the many comrades and sisters who toiled in the field. To
Worthy comrades are assisted through our nationwide
you, we say thank you.
system of Veterans Service Officers; the memory and
We also express our sincere thanks and appreciation
history of our dead are perpetuated through the wearing
to the National Officers, Department Commanders and
of the Poppy, and our widows and orphans are aided at
Department Adjutants/Quartermasters.
the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids.
The National Buddy Poppy Committee members
The Department of Minnesota led in sales this year
worked exceptionally hard this year to attain the record
with 1,200,755. Thirty-two Departments contributed to
17 million plus in sales. They are Dominic J. Romano, of
this great year for the Buddy Poppy Program by increasing
Connecticut; T. William Bossidy, of New York; David L.
their sales over last year's.
Hutto, of South Carolina; Robert C. Jordan, of Maine;
Buddy Poppy plaques are awarded to the Departments
James Kimery, of New Mexico; Dwaine Wilson, of
and Auxiliaries that have the greatest percentage increase
Nebraska, and Lois Marshall of Kansas, representing the
over their own previous three-year average in each of the
Ladies Auxiliary. Each is to be commended for perfor-
nine divisions. Divisions are determined by the three-year
mance and dedication to the Buddy Poppy Program
average sales per thousand of population, with the
throughout the year, thereby reinforcing our commitment
exception of foreign and domestic Departments with
to our nation's veterans and their dependents.
This outstanding year of Poppy sales would not have been
possible without the hard work and dedication of the
many comrades and sisters who toiled in the field.
62
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
Chairman AI Gordon
Director Raymond N. Price
T
he National Community Activities
Every VFW Post, County Council, District and/or
Recordbook Contest is one phase of
Department is invited to submit a recordbook of any
the VFW's Community Activities Pro-
especially noteworthy project through Department Head-
quarters as an entry in the Community Activities National
gram that receives a great deal of recognition,
Awards Program.
especially this time of year. During the
This year is proving to be another outstanding year in
awards luncheon, the three winning entries
Community Activities. It is extremely likely that we will
have as many as 41 Departments that are 100% by the
are presented national awards and the top
end of the year. Currently, 28 Departments are at the
ten winning entries are on display in the
100% accreditation level and another 13 are in the 90%
Continental Room of the Chicago Hilton.
range. This tends to make me believe that the Community
Activities Program is sound.
The Community Activities National Awards Program
Once again the Big Ten Conference leads with 98.08%.
deserves an equal amount of recognition, however. This is
The Western Conference is less than three percentage
designed to recognize VFW Posts, County Councils, Dis-
points behind with 95.64% and the South trails the West
tricts and/or Departments for single outstanding projects
by less than three percentage points with 92.92%. The
in the field of community service.
Eastern Conference is fourth with 88.60%.
Single outstanding projects, reported in the form of
Throughout our great republic, VFW Posts and Aux-
recordbooks, that are local, area, state or national in
iliaries are considered valuable and highly desirable parts
scope may be submitted to National Headquarters for
of their communities. Why? Because they are truly
judging. A brochure containing an entry form in the
interested in and take an active part in the affairs of their
Community Activities Kit currently is being mailed to
communities. Because they believe and live by the motto,
every Commander and President of record.
"FOR AMERICA, WHATEVER IT TAKES!"
During the 1987-88 year, 43 entries in this program
The VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary raise the conscious-
have been judged at National Headquarters, as of this
ness of the communities in such vital areas as patriotism,
writing. Of these, one earned the Gold Award of Honor,
safety and concern for youth through their involvement
six won the Silver Award of Excellence and 13 received
in VFW National Programs.
the Bronze Award of Merit. All other entries were given
The VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary promise constant
either a Certificate of Commendation or a Letter of
effort to keep America safe, free and strong because "WE
Appreciation.
REMEMBER!"
Single outstanding projects, reported in the form of recordbooks,
that are local, area, state or national in scope may be submitted
to National Headquarters for judging.
63
MEMBERSHIP
Director W. Benny Bachand
B
y the time this membership report
Much of the credit for this membership success must
be given to those who occupied positions of leadership on
is published, the Veterans of Foreign
the Post, County Council, District, Department and
Wars will have recorded its 33rd
National levels. In the final analysis, however, it is the
rank and file members who dedicate their time and
consecutive year of membership growth, a
service to our cause and who, each year, work so
record unmatched and unparalleled by any
diligently at recruiting, renewing and reinstating
other major organization and one in which
members.
In examining our membership statistics, we find that
our members take great pride.
we have increased our retention rate again, while suffering
Achieving this goal took a lot of hard work, long hours
our eighth consecutive deficit in the recruiting of new and
and dedication by the men and women of our more than
reinstated members. We reported 136,873 new and
10,000 Posts committed to doing FOR AMERICA, WHAT-
reinstated members or 6.67% of our total membership
EVER IT TAKES to be successful in 1988.
and far, far short of our goal necessary to sustain our
Commander-in-Chief Earl Stock set the tone for the
growth in the future.
1987-88 membership year by declaring that we in the
The shotgun direct mail solicitation program con-
Veterans of Foreign Wars will do whatever it takes to
tinued to expand in 1988 with discounted offers and the
fulfill our responsibility to our vetérans and to our
introduction of the VFW Campaign Map of the World as a
country.
premium offer for a Post using the shotgun and for new
We can do no less, and we didn't. What we did was to
and reinstated members joining as a result of answering
record our fifth consecutive year over the 2 million
our invitation to join.
member mark and, as of June 30, 1988, had a membership
More than a million letters were sent out by in excess of
total of 2,052,521. This membership strength will provide
500 Posts as a method of interesting prospective members
our organization with the influence and power to carry
by inviting eligible veterans to join our Posts. Again, we
on its goals and objectives for another year.
are suggesting that more of our Posts utilize this program
The 1987-88 membership year had many twists that
to assist them in their new and reinstated program to
created an emotional rollercoaster. For the first three
help overcome our downward slide in getting new and
months of the year, we had sizable membership gains and
former members.
then went through a couple of lean months, bounced
Commander-in-Chief Stock provided us with out-
back in February, dropped down in March and finished
standing leadership and motivation this year. His chal-
strong for the year.
lenge to do Whatever It Takes, his innovative programs
At the end of June, 42 of our 54 Departments had
and his great love of this organization have propelled us
exceeded the 100% barrier while 30 Departments sur-
to the position we hold today. His sincere interest in
passed the National Average of 100.34%.
recognizing the grassroots workers of the VFW have
In examining our membership statistics, we find that we have
increased our retention rate again, while suffering our eighth
consecutive deficit in the recruiting of new and reinstated members.
64
MEMBERSHIP
made it possible for thousands of our members to meet
exceeded 2,000 and the Eastern Conference lost more
our top VFW officer for the first time. We were able to
than 1,400 members.
succeed because of the time and effort expended by
At this National Convention, we will honor once again
hundreds of thousands of volunteers.
those distinguished Commanders who have earned the
For America, Whatever it Takes created an attitude
right to be recognized as the champions of champions,
that enabled us to achieve our goals and objectives this
the elite group of leaders who distinguished themselves
year.
by earning the honored recognition of All American
Our future depends upon how well We Remember our
Commander.
past successes and our desire and commitment to keep
Twenty-five Department Commanders achieved this
our organization strong into the 1990s.
distinguished award by meeting or exceeding their
As we begin our 90th year of patriotism and service,
assigned membership percentage and reporting 85%
remember that the Veterans of Foreign Wars can succeed
overall in the VFW programs. Forty District Commanders
only if we are committed to being the best.
qualified as All Americans by excelling in membership
To expand even further our capabilities to attract
growth, VFW programs and chartering new VFW Posts
eligible veterans, the Veterans of Foreign Wars began
and 88 Post Commanders were selected to wear the
putting together a membership marketing strategy that
distinguished red, white and blue cap and join this elite
will expand our role in public relations and other
group by demonstrating membership growth, VFW pro-
marketing techniques to enhance our image and make
gram participation and Buddy Poppy purchases.
recruiting easier for both the prospect and the recruiter.
Commander-in-Chief Earl Stock, recognizing the con-
Life Memberships continue to increase each year. More
tributions County Councils have made for past and
members are joining as Life Members and utilizing the
future successes, reinstated the All American County
covenience of paying their Life Membership fees via Visa
Council Commander program and is pleased to present
or MasterCard. This trend is expected to continue for
two County Council Commanders with their awards and
years to come because VFW Life Membership is a bargain.
welcome them to this elite group of achievers.
All this membership activity produced an exciting and
A special salute is given to all the District, County
interesting membership year. Competition on all levels
Council and Post Commanders who earned a place on
was very close. The conference races once again were
the year-end National Honor Roll of Districts, County
exciting with the Big Ten, as usual, leading going into the
Councils and Posts. Noteworthy recognition is given to
Washington Conference and the Big Ten Conference the
the top Commanders in each of the 12 National District
winner on June 30th. Three Conferences broke through
Divisions, four National County Council Divisions and 20
the 100% barrier. The Big Ten Conference racked up
National Post Divisions. These Commanders deserve our
membership gains in excess of 5,000. The Western Con-
thanks for the contributions they made to this successful
ference gained more than 1,700; the Southern Conference
year.
Life Memberships continue to increase each year. More members
are joining as Life Members and utilizing the convenience of
paying their Life Membership fees via Visa or MasterCard.
This trend is expected to continue for years to come
because VFW Life Membership is a bargain.
65
NATIONAL CIVIL SERVICE AND EMPLOYMENT
Chairman Norman G. Staab
Special Assistant for Employment Robert L. Jones
D
uring the past year the Nat-
was held in Washington, D.C., last April.
ional Civil Service and Em-
The NCSEC representative to the forum stated, "There
is an immediate need for policymakers of the Departments
ployment Committee (NCSEC)
of Labor, Defense, Education and Commerce and the
pursued the implementation of the 27
Veterans Administration to collectively target intellectual
and financial resources to examine the effectiveness,
national employment resolutions adopted
efficiency and appropriations of institutions, programs
at the 88th National Convention in New
and policies that address employment and training
Orleans. In spite of Congressional procras-
services for veterans."
He called on "all organizations and agencies to demon-
tination concerning major revisions of the
strate a commitment to applying cooperative, innovative
law concerning the VA (Chapter 41, Title 38
reforms to ensure veterans who are a valuable commodity
U.S. Code), as of this writing 17 of our
are competitive in the future labor force."
It is hoped that the report generated by the conferees
employment resolutions have been fulfilled.
at this forum will result in the implementation of
It is hoped the VA administrator will take
administrative and legislative reform to redesign or
refine, as appropriate, employment and training programs
swift action to enact the proposed changes
to enhance services for all veterans.
to Chapter 41, thus fulfilling another six
Considering the pockets of high unemployment and
national employment resolutions.
readjustment difficulties that continue to plague Vietnam
combat veterans and disabled and minority veterans,
Resolution 606, which called for a change in federal
special emphasis for these veterans must continue
regulations to recognize the role of the National Guard
through refinement of programs specifically targeted to
and Reserve forces in today's national defense by providing
their needs.
members an opportunity for employment assistance, has
America cannot dismiss these middle-aged veterans
met with controversy among traditionalists. The Veterans
who continue to be confronted with significant employ-
of Foreign Wars noted that historical military roles and
ment barriers. So far, current structures, programs and
missions have been altered significantly to fulfill strategic
services have not effectively resolved the historical em-
national defense requirements using a total-force concept.
ployment and training needs of these veterans.
The leadership displayed by the VFW in recognizing the
Our aging workforce, though experienced, stable and
National Guard and Reserve roles has been complimented
reliable, may increase the rigidity of the economy. The
by senior policymakers of the Departments of Labor and
average age of the workforce in the future will increase
Defense.
from 35 to 39. This workforce will be less willing to
Looking toward the future is a painful but necessary
relocate, retrain or change occupations, even though the
process that must be accomplished in preparing systems,
economy will demand increased flexibility and dynamism.
structures and programs to meet national labor-force
There will be an intense job squeeze among middle-aged
requirements. Workforce 2000 has become a popular
workers.
theme in discussions held by representatives of both the
There is no consensus that workers should learn new
public and private sectors. The NCSEC, after reviewing
skills over the course of their work lives. The U.S.
Workforce 2000 publications, called for a national forum
Department of Labor estimates that 27 million adults are
to be held by the secretary of labor to discuss future
functionally illiterate and have basic skill deficiencies in
programs for veterans. A three-day forum attended by
oral communications, reading, writing and calculation.
service providers, program managers and policymakers
Added to this figure each year are 2.3 million adults. In
66
NATIONAL CIVIL SERVICE AND EMPLOYMENT
the work place, efficient cost-effective training focused on
2000 occupational skills demands and continuing ed-
higher levels of analytical skills, as well as the requirement
ucation requirements as set forth in Resolution 790.
of conjunctive and reasoning skills, must be encouraged.
The Veterans Education Outreach Program authorized
Private employers invest billions of dollars each year on
by Title IV of the Higher Education Amendment Act of
worker education. Most of this money is spent on
1986 requires refinement to encourage veterans, in
professionals, technicians, managers and the highly
particular those dislocated and without VA education
skilled. Little or no systematic approach to ensure
entitlements, to pursue acquisition of remedial skills and
workers do not become obsolete is offered. Few workers
training and education. In view of the current cost per
in vulnerable jobs seek training to prevent their
credit hour at community colleges, tuition assistance for
displacement.
disadvantaged veterans should be incorporated into this
Former Secretary of Labor William Brock said:
program.
"Education and occupational training too often are
Veterans' preference continues to receive the attention
viewed as institutional processes that end when a young
of policymakers at all levels. Veterans are more likely to
person begins earning a living. We need to look beyond
work for federal, state or municipal governments than
the classroom and realize that education-especialy
non-veterans. A non-scientific NCSEC survey of state civil
work-related education and training-is a life-long
service/merit system reflected that of the 40 respondents,
endeavor. We must make the rhetoric of 'continuing
17 are attempting to modify existing local veterans'
education' a reality."
preference laws. At the federal level, 37% of the 2 million
Today's veterans, compared with those of the immediate
plus labor force are veterans. Though the director of the
future, have a level of education slightly less than 13
Office of Personal Management has a strong personal
years. While the Montgomery GI Bill provides a mechanism
commitment to veterans and has transmitted her support
for future veterans to pursue advanced education, today's
to the field, the decentralized nature of personnel
veterans have lost educational entitlements through
management in federal agencies has led to innovative
mandated delimiting dates. Thus, in the context of the
manipulation of regulations to circumvent veterans'
Workforce 2000 hypothesis, an artificial barrier to
special hiring authorities.
employment has been erected. The intent of the GI Bill
Veterans' spokesmen must become increasingly vocal
must be revitalized, especially Sections 1662(a)(3) and
in their participation on state veterans' advisory com-
1691, 38 U.S. Code. Assistance on a recurring basis to
mittees and federal executive boards to emphasize the
veterans educationally disadvantaged or requiring vo-
use of special hiring authorities (Resolution 780) and
cational training should be provided on a recurring basis.
affirm veterans' preference (Resolution 699).
Cooperative education programs utilizing two-year
The VFW has exercised national leadership in pursuing
colleges and private learning centers that offer alternating
the refinement of existing programs as well as preparing
or parallel periods of employment and study should be
new entitlements for the future. Our outreach efforts
explored. Such a program is envisioned as linking federal
conducted by Department and Post employment officers
programs and employers with veterans in a mutually
must identify deficiencies in local structures and systems.
funded partnership designed to provide continuing ed-
We must aggressively pursue corrective action through
ucation tailored to fulfill specific geographic labor-force
local administrative entities. Our presence must consist-
requirements. Employer participation should be encour-
ently be felt by local policymakers in order to ensure that
aged through tax credits and incentives similar to the
all veterans have an opportunity to provide for their
present Veterans' Job Training Act that will defray
families in a meaningful way.
continuing training costs. Temporary income and relo-
cation cost provisions must be incorporated to encourage
veterans' readjustment to rapidly changing Workforce
67
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
Chairman Clyde A. Lewis
Director James N. Magill
100th Congress First Session
T
he first session of the historic
The first session of the 100th Congress produced very
few new public laws affecting veterans. One new law,
100th Congress convened Jan. 6, 1987,
however, was the result of one of the most effective lobby-
and adjourned Dec. 22, 1987. During
ing efforts on Capitol Hill - making the New GI Bill
this time, the House and Senate were in
permanent. While there have been four previous pro-
grams of educational benefits for veterans, this marks the
session 169 days and 170 days, respec-
first time that such a valuable program has been made a
tively. There were 7,542 legislative proposals
permanent fixture on the national scene.
introduced with 247 being enacted into law.
Under the new law, participating recruits must com-
plete three years of active duty with an honorable dis-
The first few months of the first session were almost
charge in order to qualify for $300 a month in educational
exclusively devoted to the adoption of the Fiscal Year
benefits to a maximum of $10,800. An individual complet-
1988 budget. The VFW appeared before many Congres-
ing two years of active duty plus four years of service in
sional committees during this period to present its views
the Selected Reserve is entitled to $250 a month in educa-
and concerns on the Administration's proposed VA
tional benefits to a maximum of $9,000. In return, the
budget. While the President's budget proposal was $550
basic pay of personnel participating in the program is
million over the previous year's level, the VFW was quick
reduced by $100 a month during his first year of service.
to point out this increase would provide only for uncon-
Basic benefits are administered and paid by the VA, but
trollable expenses such as cost-of-living adjustments,
the various service branches can offer recruits increases
salary increases and inflation. In reality, the VFW deter-
over the basic monthly benefit in order to increase
mined the President's budget fell $288 million below what
entitlements in critical areas or to encourage longer
the VA needed just to provide current services. Fortu-
enlistments. Individuals signing up for at least six years in
nately, the House and Senate listened to the VFW's con-
the Selected Reserve can receive up to $5,040 for under-
cerns and adopted a more realistic funding level for the
graduate college education, with no reduction in basic
Veterans Administration.
pay. These benefits are administered by the VA but are
With the adoption of the FY '88 budget, the way was
paid by the branch of the service involved.
clear for Congress to move on to consideration and pas-
Rep. G. V. (Sonny) Montgomery, chairman of the House
sage of the 13 appropriation bills which specifically pro-
Veterans' Affairs Committee and the author of this bill,
vide the actual dollars to fund the various departments
received an additional honor for his untiring work in
and agencies of the federal government. However, Con-
seeing the New GI Bill become permanent when the pro-
gress failed to advance any of the individual appro-
gram was renamed the Montgomery GI Bill Act.
priation bills and was forced to adopt an omnibus spend-
Another new law, Public Law 100-198, substantially
ing bill based on an agreement between the White House
changes the VA Home Loan Guaranty Program. The new
and the Congress. This agreement provided for reduced
law revises the formula used by the Veterans Admini-
spending to meet deficit-reduction needs. Following is
stration to guarantee loans. While the VA does not make
the line-item breakdown of the $27.024 million Fiscal
loans, it does guarantee a lending institution that, in the
Year 1988 VA appropriation:
event of loan default, the VA will pay off a certain portion
FY 1988
of the loan. The formula used in the past guaranteed 60%
Compensation & Pension
$14,334,287,000
up to a maximum of $27,500. The new law authorizes the
Readjustment Benefits
625,700,000
VA to guarantee 50% on loans under $45,000 and 40% on
Veterans Insurance & Indemnities
14,290,000
loans over $45,000 with a maximum guarantee of $36,000
Medical Care
10,094,808,000
and a minimum guarantee of $22,500. This new formula
Medical & Prosthetic Research
192,899,000
should allow veterans to purchase homes in areas with a
Medical Administration &
high cost-of-living and where housing is higher priced.
Misc. Operating Expenses (MAMOE)
46,628,000
Public Law 100-198 authorizes nonprofit organizations
General Operating Expenses
762,810,000
to help homeless veterans and their families by purchasing
Construction, Major
402,884,000
homes foreclosed by the VA at a discount. These then
Construction, Minor
115,942,000
would be utilized as shelters for homeless veterans and
Parking Garage Revolving Fund
3,936,000
their families.
Grants for Construction of
Congress also approved and the President signed into
State Extended-Care Facilities
40,320,000
law H.R. 2945 which provides for a 4.2% cost-of-living
Grants for the Republic of the
adjustment (COLA) in the Veterans Administration's
Philippines
480,000
Loan Guaranty Revolving Fund
389,800,000
68
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
compensation benefits paid to the more than 2.2 million
sions affecting veterans will be made at the highest level
veterans with service connected disabilities. This increase,
of government.
retroactive to Dec. 1, also applies to Dependency and
Making the Veterans Administration an executive
Indemnity Compensation (DIC) paid to spouses and
department will enable it to serve the nation far better.
children of veterans who have died of service-related
One of the most important roles of the cabinet is ensuring
causes.
that national policy and federal programs be coordinated
In addition, the new law, P.L. 100-227, extends for six
and achieve the highest possible level of efficiency - that
months the application deadline for the Veterans' Job
limited national resources be used to achieve the greatest
Training Act from Dec. 31 through June 30. The act
national good. It is vital that the achievements and
partially reimburses employers who train and hire long-
expertise associated with the VA's enormous and far-
term unemployed Korean War and Vietnam-Era vete-
reaching activities be brought to bear in the evolution and
rans. Since it became effective in November, 1983, this
development of national public policy. Transition of the
veteran's employment program has placed more than
VA to cabinet status is essential to achieve this end. The
57,000 veterans in jobs.
U.S. Senate, at this writing, is awaiting floor action on its
While H.R. 2945 originally contained numerous pro-
version of legislation which would elevate the VA to a
visions addressing a variety of issues, the House and
federal department. The Senate Committee on Govern-
Senate Veterans' Affairs Committees agreed to pursue
mental Affairs has held three hearings on the issue and
the advancement of this legislation with only the COLA
has reported the legislation to the full Senate.
increase and the two provisions affecting veterans' em-
Unfortunately, the close of the first session of the 100th
ployment so as to achieve enactment during the first
Congress saw a setback for the Vietnam Women's
session of the 100th Congress. The committees continued
Memorial. In a surprising move, the Commission of Fine
their negotiations on the remaining provisions of H.R.
Arts rejected placement of a statue of a woman Vietnam
2945 at the outset of the second session of the 100th
veteran at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington,
Congress.
D.C., despite VFW endorsement and that of all the other
The closing weeks of the first session also saw the VFW
major veterans' organizations, Interior Secretary Donald
move one step closer in realizing a long-term priority goal.
Hodel, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and many
In a rare point of agreement, the Administration,
members of Congress.
Congress, Veterans Administration, Veterans of Foreign
As a result, Sens. Dave Durenberger and Alan Cranston
Wars and all of the other major veterans' service organi-
and Rep. Sam Gejdenson introduced legislation speci-
zations support designating the VA as the Department of
fically authorizing the placement of a statue of a woman
Veterans Affairs.
veteran at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Sen. Dale
Proposals to make the Veterans Administration a
Bumpers, chairman of the Subcommittee on Public
cabinet-level executive department have been introduced
Lands, National Parks and Forests, has conducted a
in every Congress since at least the 88th Congress. Now at
hearing on this issue. While these two pieces of legislation
last, it would appear that this long-sought goal is to be
differ, a compromise agreement has been reached and
realized. There is unanimity among the experts that ele-
legislation will emerge from the committee reflecting this
vating the Veterans Administration to a cabinet-level
agreement.
executive department is a good idea. House members
demonstrated their support by overwhelmingly passing
100th Congress Second Session
H.R. 3471, a bill which would elevate the VA to a federal
The second session of the 100th Congress convened
department.
Jan. 25, 1988. Once again, the budget for the upcoming
Elevating the VA to cabinet level just makes good sense.
fiscal year commanded much attention during the first
Along with having performed a very special patriotic
few months of 1988.
service to the nation, veterans represent a more diverse
At first glance, the Adminstration's proposed $30.1
and complete cross-section of this nation's population
billion VA budget at least seemed to be in keeping with the
than any other group. Black and white, rich and poor,
objective of providing veterans with a current services
urbanite and farmer, they are the men and women who
budget. But a more thorough review revealed this
for awhile set aside personal gain and ambition in order
spending plan to be both painfully inadequate and far
to ensure America's freedom. Veterans' programs are
below what is even necessary to keep pace with inflation.
much too important to be left to mid-level decision mak-
The deception was in the fact that even though the
ers at OMB. The establishment of a cabinet-level depart-
requested budget authority is larger than the current
ment of Veterans Affairs will guarantee that policy deci-
year's authority, it included $1.6 billion for expenditures
69
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
from VA-managed trust funds which do not, in fact,
mandates increased attention to loan servicing and
require appropriations. Furthermore, $1.5 billion was
property management. Of one thing we may be certain,
included in the budget for proposed legislation of which
the last thing in the world the VA home loan program can
about $1.3 billion is to be used to fund the Administration's
tolerate at this time is a reduction in personnel.
so-called "credit reform" plan.
The entire Veterans Administration falls under the
This plan is nothing more than a scheme requiring
Administration's proposed budgetary assault. Despite a
Congress to appropriate money equal to the estimated
demonstrated need for an additional 3,500 nursing-
subsidy value (the additional amount OMB claims a VA
home beds by 1992, the VA would be slated to receive only
loan is worth to an individual) of the loans it makes or
120 new beds in FY '89. In an area of major concern to this
guarantees. Along with using actual appropriation dol-
nation's Vietnam veterans, the Veterans Administration's
lars to cover the OMB estimated paper losses, once the
Vet Center Program would suffer a reduction of 79 full-
appropriation is used up, the VA would not be allowed to
time employees and a budget cut of $4.7 million. Addi-
guarantee any more loans without an additional appro-
tionally, the Administration has declined to seek addi-
priation. This would effectively cap the program and
tional funding for the Veterans' Job Training Act which is
potentially prevent untold thousands of veterans from
now just about completely out of money. Of major con-
getting a VA loan. Also the money earmarked for the
cern to all, but particularly to older veterans, is the fact
credit reform scheme inflates the VA budget and makes it
that there would be more than a $34 million reduction in
appear to be much larger than it actually is.
money available to purchase new medical equipment,
So, with the misleading numbers and deceptive rhetoric
and the funding for facility construction, modernization
removed, we are faced with a VA budget woefully inade-
and renovation would be reduced by $22 million.
quate to care for this nation's veterans. For example,
This budget proposal is absolutely unacceptable; we
overall health-care funding would be increased by only
are going to fight it tooth and nail. With hard work and
2% over the 1988 level. At a time when the number of
determination and the help of our friends on Capitol Hill,
veterans requiring inpatient, outpatient and long-term
the VFW will do its utmost to see that veterans' programs
care is on the rise, the proposed FY '89 health-care
are properly funded. Even so, as long as the Veterans
budget, adjusted for inflation, is a full $370 million short
Administration is dominated by OMB bureaucrats, we're
of even providing for current services health care by the
going to be confronted with these abhorrent proposals
VA. In fact, total expenditures for discretionary items in
over and over again.
the VA budget would rise only by 1.8% over the 1988 level
Aside from the budget, many hearings were held dur-
even though inflation is projected to be 4.5% in 1989.
ing the early months of the second session. At one hear-
The Administration's FY '89 budget calls for the elimi-
ing, the VFW testified before a subcommittee of the House
nation of 2,439 VA employees. At a time when the
Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs with respect
demands on the VA health-care system are rapidly on the
to the siting of the Korean War Memorial. During the 99th
rise, 1,782 health-care employees would be eliminated.
Congress, legislation was enacted which placed strict
The Department of Veterans Benefits would be forced to
controls on where memorials may be erected in and
eliminate 492 employees including 248 regional-office
around our nation's capital.
claims adjudicators. Conceivably, in spite of the fact that
Under this new law (P.L. 99-652), monuments and
over the past five years the VA has struggled to handle
memorials dedicated to wars or those who fought in
claims in a prompt manner, the Administration would
them would be restricted to what is defined as Area II, a
eliminate over 7% of the already overtaxed regional-office
site located within Washington, D.C., or its environs but
claims work force.
excluding the Mall area which contains such monuments
The VA Home Loan Guaranty Program - one of the
and memorials as the Washington Monument and the
most beneficial veterans' programs in existence - would
Lincoln, Jefferson, and Vietnam Veterans Memorials. In
also fall under the budget-cutter's ax. Even though the
order to place the Korean War Memorial within the more
current strained economic climate has resulted in the
prominent Area I, Congress must grant an exemption to
loan guaranty program suffering a dramatic increase in
Public Law 99-652.
foreclosures and in the amount of time foreclosed prop-
The VFW pointed out that we have a monument for the
erties must be managed and maintained by the VA, this
veterans of every major conflict except the Korean War.
FY '89 budget calls for a reduction of 75 loan guaranty
During our annual National Convention in New Orleans
personnel.
last August, the VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary contributed
The Administration seems to have lost sight of the fact
$250,000 to the American Battle Monuments Commission
that Congress only recently enacted legislation which
to build this memorial.
70
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
Over the Korean War's bloody three-year span, more
disability.
than 5.7 million Americans served in the military forces.
So even though we may not agree with the structure
In the ensuing battles to achieve peace and democracy
and intent of this law pertaining to military retired pay
for the Korean people, more than 54,000 American soldi-
and disability compensation as it was originally for-
ers, sailors, airmen and Marines lost their lives while an
mulated many years ago, we at least recognize that it was
additional 103,000 were wounded and 8,200 were miss-
in accordance with the standards of those times. In this
ing in action. Of those who served, more than 5 million are
day and age, when retirement and early retirement sys-
alive today.
tems have become commonplace, the prohibition against
We stated it is our strongly held conviction, now that
the concurrent receipt of military retirement and VA
this monument to these brave and all-but-forgotten
compensation is an outdated inequity.
patriots is at long last to be constructed, that it should be
We concluded by stating, "It is the VFW's contention
prominently located in the nation's capital.
that disabled military retirees should not be asked to pay
The VFW told the committee we strongly support and
for their disability compensation out of their hard-
encourage the erection of the Korean War Memorial
earned retirement money. Disabled military retirees,
within what is designated under Public Law 99-652 as
through long service and great sacrifice in the defense of
Area I. The memorial to honor the sacrifices and
the nation, are entitled to both."
achievements of those brave Americans who fought in
The Veterans of Foreign Wars also appeared on Capitol
this war of major national and international consequence
Hill to call for legislation that would restore equity to the
is decidedly of preeminent historical and lasting signifi-
Social Security system. The Subcommittee on Social
cance to the nation and may appropriately and properly
Security of the House Ways and Means Committee con-
be located within the special historical Area I.
ducted the hearing to hear testimony on the recently
Another hearing saw the VFW testify in support of
released General Accounting Office (GAO) study entitled
legislation which would allow certain service-connected
"Social Security: The Notch Issue."
disabled veterans to receive military retirement pay in
Notch is a highly controversial issue centering on those
conjunction with VA compensation. At the hearing, the
persons born between 1917 and 1921 who are receiving
VFW told the committee it is an unfortunate but a gener-
less compensation than those born prior to 1917. Congres-
ally known fact that a large number of this nation's
sional action in 1972 allowed those born prior to 1917
retired military veterans are being deprived of a portion
automatic cost-of-living increases to Social Security
of their retirement pay. This is due to the existence of a
benefits. In 1977, Congress, faced with a potential bank-
19th century law that still bars concurrent receipt of
ruptcy of the Social Security system because of the 1972
military retired pay based on length of service and vete-
action, passed amendments designed to eliminate over-
ran's disability compensation. It should be noted, how-
indexing and stabilize replacement rates. The GAO
ever, that the 1944 law does permit retirees to receive
report clearly indicated that the replacement rate (the
tax-free compensation if they forfeit the equal amount of
percentage of a worker's salary at retirement that is
taxable retired pay. Military retirees comprise the only
replaced by Social Security benefits) was found to be pro-
group of retirees subject to such a forfeiture or offset of
portionally higher for those persons with the same earn-
retired pay. The civil service retiree or private sector
ings history born prior to 1917 than those persons born
retiree can collect the full amount of retirement annuity
after 1916. Those born after 1921 receive less than those
and disability compensation without reduction in either.
born before 1922 with the same earnings history.
This law came into existence in a period when retire-
Citing the GAO study, the VFW said that "no amount of
ment was an all-too-seldom realized privilege for those
technical discussion and sophisticated analysis is suffi-
members of the armed forces who were both sufficiently
cient to convince an individual that it is equitable for him
hearty and fortunate to serve long enough to qualify for
to receive a benefit that is $100 less than his nearly
Old Age Retirement. When VA compensation was created,
identical neighbor." The VFW maintains that Americans
it was the basic means by which persons could receive
born during the notch years should be given exactly what
disability benefits if they had served fewer than 20 years
they were promised back in 1977, a gradual and equitable
in the military service. It was also the only means by
downward transition to the new lower benefit structure.
which enlisted men could receive disability benefits if
Aware of several VFW resolutions seeking legislation
they were discharged from military service prior to com-
that would provide equity to all persons in the Social
pleting 20 years of service. In fact, it was not until well
Security system, the House Subcommittee on Social
after World War II that legislation was approved to per-
Security invited the VFW to testify. The VFW's testimony
mit enlisted men to retire from military service because of
noted the complexities of the issue and called for Con-
71
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
gress "to rethink this problem and devise a new transition
World War I whose annual income exceeds the maximum
phase-in formula that would fairly compensate
annual rate of pension; and,
those Americans caught up in the transition (notch)
- veterans in receipt of increased pension or
period."
compensation based on the need of regular aid and
The hearing was well attended by those older
attendance or by reason of being permanently house-
Americans affected by the notch. The VFW testimony was
bound but whose income is below the Category A thresh-
well received by those in attendance and an unprece-
old ($15,833 for a single veteran or $18,999 for a veteran
dented round of applause was given for our unwavering
with one dependent).
support of legislation to restore equity to the Social
Provide that the Administrator may furnish needed
Security system.
domiciliary care to any veteran whose annual income
Action was finally completed on H.R. 2616 during the
does not exceed the maximum annual rate of pension
first few months of the second session of the 100th Con-
payable to a veteran in need of aid and attendance or to
gress. This bill, originally passed by both houses of Con-
any veteran who the Administrator determines has no
gress during the last weeks of the first session, languished
adequate means of support. Veterans who were patients
for months in conference committee. Known as the Vete-
or residents in a state or a Veterans Administration
rans' Benefits and Services Act of 1988, the measure
domiciliary during the period Jan. 1, 1987, through April
literally impacts on all programs administered by the
1, 1988, whose income exceeds the maximum annual
Veterans Administration. Following are highlights of this
rate of pension may remain in the State or VA facility.
massive piece of legislation. With respect to health-care
Clarify the Veterans Administration definition of
program, the bill would:
nursing-home care to include care delivered in skilled,
Require that the Administrator furnish on an
intermediate and combined nursing-home care facilities
ambulatory or outpatient basis such medical services as
and to exclude domiciliary care.
the Administrator determines are needed to:
Authorize contracts for hospital care and medical
- any veteran for service-connected disability;
services in non-Veterans Administration facilities to
- any veteran with a service-connected dis-
include diagnostic services on an inpatient or outpatient
ability rating of 50% or more for any disability; and,
basis for observation or examination of a patient to
- any veteran disabled as a result of VA treat-
determine eligibility for a benefit or service administered
ment or in pursuit of vocational rehabilitation.
by the Veterans Administration.
Require that the Administrator furnish outpatient
Provide authority for fee-basis care outside of the
or ambulatory medical services reasonably necessary in
United States for service-connected disabilities related to
preparation for or to obviate the need for hospital admis-
service in the U.S. military forces by citizens of the Repub-
sion for any disability to:
lic of the Philippines or Canada or elsewhere as deter-
- any veteran with a service-connected dis-
mined by the Administrator.
ability rating of 30% or 40%; and,
Reduce the minimum internment period required
- any veteran whose annual income does not
for eligibility for outpatient dental care for former pri-
exceed the maximum annual rate of nonservice-
soners of war from six months to 90 days.
connected pension payable to a veteran in need of aid
Repeal the mandatory transition of Vietnam vet-
and attendance for any disability.
erans' readjustment counseling centers from a program
Provide that the Administrator may furnish on an
operated primarily in locations apart from VA medical
ambulatory or outpatient basis medical services which
facilities to a program primarily operated in VA medical
the Administrator determines are needed to veterans in
facilities; requires the Administrator to submit a national
the following priority order:
plan at any time except within 60 days before and 60
- any veteran who has a service-connected
days after the end of a session of Congress which sets
disability rating of less than 30% or any veteran for a
forth plans with respect to each readjustment counseling
compensation or pension examination;
center in existence on February 1, 1988; and prohibits
- former prisoners of war and veterans with
any action being taken with respect to any center for 120
eligibility based on exposure to toxic substances in Viet-
days after submission of the national plan.
nam or to ionizing radiation during atmospheric detona-
Provide that, effective July 1, 1988, during any fiscal
tion of a nuclear device, or who were exposed to ionizing
year in which the Administrator exercises the authority
radiation following the detonation of such devices
to make beneficiary travel payments, payments shall be
in Japan during World War II;
made for travel in connection with examinations, care or
- veterans of the Mexican Border period or
treatment (i.e. hospital, nursing home, domiciliary or
72
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
outpatient treatment) for which the veteran is eligible to:
facilities. The per diem rate for domiciliary care would be
veterans for scheduled VA compensation and pension
increased from $7.30 to $8.70; the per diem rate for
medical examination; veterans for a service-connected
nursing-home care would be increased from $17.05 to
disability; veterans with a service-connected disability
$20.35; and the per diem rate for hospital care would be
rating of 30% or more; veterans in receipt of pension;
increased from $15.25 to $20.35 effective Jan. 1, 1988.
veterans whose annual income does not exceed the max-
Authorize the VA to increase the state home per
imum annual rate of pension which would be payable if
diem rates annually, beginning in fiscal year 1989 (Oct. 1,
such veteran were eligible for pension; veterans for whom
1988) by a percentage not greater than the percentage
ambulance transportation, wheelchair van transporta-
increase in the cost of care in VA hospitals.
tion or other special modes of transportation are medi-
In the area of veterans' benefits, the bill would:
cally indicated and a determination is made by the
Increase the specially adapted housing assistance
Administrator that the veteran is unable to bear the cost
allowance from $35,500 to $38,000 effective April 1, 1988.
of such transportation; veterans whom the Administrator
Increase the specially adapted housing assistance for
determines to be unable to defray the expenses of travel;
service-connected blindness in both eyes or loss of or loss
or such other persons as the Administrator determines
of use of both hands from $6,000 to $6,500.
by regulation. Eligible veterans will be responsible for the
Increase the automobile assistance allowance from
first $6 of the cost of travel to receive VA medical care. For
$5,000 to $5,500 effective April 1, 1988.
eligible veterans whose medical conditions warrant fre-
Increase the burial allowance for veterans who
quent visits, the maximum monthly amount for which
died as a result of a service-connected disability from
the veteran will be responsible is $18.
$1,100 to $1,500 effective April 1, 1988.
Extend the authority to provide adult day health
Provide a presumption of service-connection for
care for these years, from Sept. 30, 1988, to Sept. 30, 1991.
lupus erythematosus, systemic, which became manifest
Permit the Administrator to conduct a two-year
to a degree of 10% or more within one year from the date
pilot program to evaluate the use of mobile health care
of discharge from service.
clinics for eligible veterans residing in areas at least 100
Restore to a very limited number of beneficiaries
miles from the nearest VA health-care facility to furnish
Social Security equivalent benefits paid by the Veterans
eligible veterans with health-care services at a location
Administration to survivors of veterans who died from
convenient to their residences. The pilot program may be
service-connected causes and who were inadvertently
carried out using at least two mobile health-care clinics in
omitted from the restoration of such benefits in 1982.
the Northeast, the Midwest, the South and the West sub-
Permit the VA to place flat markers on graves in
ject to specific appropriations of $5 million for each of
cemeteries located on the grounds of or adjacent to a VA
fiscal years 1989 and 1990 for the program.
health-care facility and in the national cemeteries in Riv-
Authorize a pilot program of contract community-
erside, Calif.; Bourne, Mass.; Augusta, Mich.;
based residential care - for homeless chronically men-
Indiantown Gap, Pa.; and the proposed national cemetery
tally ill veterans, veterans being furnished hospital or
for Northern California.
nursing-home care by the Administrator for a chronic
Permit the Administrator to make contributions
mental illness disability and veterans with service-
for construction on land adjacent to national cemeteries
connected chronic mental illness - in halfway houses,
in order to facilitate safe ingress and egress from the
therapeutic communities, psychiatric residential treat-
cemetery.
ment centers and other community-based treatment
Authorize the Administrator to provide graveliners
facilities for the period ending Sept. 30, 1989. Authorizes
for use in national cemeteries. The Secretary of the Army
appropriation of $6 million for each of fiscal years 1988
is also authorized to provide graveliners at Arlington
and 1989.
National Cemetery.
Require the VA to report annually not later than
Establish a currency fluctuation account for the
Dec. 15 in each of three fiscal years beginning in 1988 on
American Battle Monuments Commission to protect
the activities of the VA in assisting homeless veterans.
Commission operations from the negative effects of dec-
Increase the per diem rates for payments by the
lining dollar values abroad for fiscal year 1989 and each
Veterans Administration to states for hospital care,
succeeding fiscal year.
domiciliary care and nursing-home care in state home
73
NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Chairman Fr. Albert G. Salmon
Director Kenneth A. Steadman
"T
WO hundred years ago, we Americans
Weinberger, Chief Stock discussed the U.S. role and
gained our freedoms in the war for
mission in the Persian Gulf. The discussion led the
independence.
Commander-in-Chief to urge the Pentagon to recognize
the contribution of U.S. servicemen and women by
"Our independence gave us the responsibility for
awarding an appropriate expeditionary force medal to
defending our newly won freedoms. In nine major wars
those eligible for such a medal.
and countless smaller conflicts, we have borne that
"Such an award would, I believe, tell our servicemen
responsibility. Today, thanks to those who carried out
and women that we appreciate their efforts and the
their responsibility, we remain free. We will continue to
sacrifices they make on behalf of our national security,"
share the blessings of liberty if we continue to share the
he said.
responsibility for its defense.
Secretary Weinberger later did authorize the Armed
"This is a responsibility we in the VFW take seriously
Forces Expeditionary Medal, thus fulfilling the mandate
and it is time more Americans thought seriously about
of the VFW's resolution on the Persian Gulf.
our national security.
When an Iranian mine ship was captured and the U.S.
"We took our responsibility seriously when we in the
Navy responded, Commander-in-Chief Stock announced
VFW warned of the spreading danger of Communism in
the VFW's support for the action.
Central America. We took our responsibility seriously
"Our Navy has a peaceful, defensive mission in the
when we warned that a divided and weak foreign policy
Persian Gulf," he said. "We in the VFW support our Navy
in Central America only invited further Communist
and its mission. When Iran or Iranian forces and their
expansion
bases endanger the accomplishment of our Navy's mis-
"We are more convinced than ever before that we have
sion, then the Navy should and must take action to
sounded the right warnings. Now it is our responsibility to
defend itself and successfully complete its mission. Iran
ensure that the warnings have been heard in time. Time
may have to learn this lesson the hard way, but they have
may be running out in Central America. But there is still
to learn that the United States means what it says and
time to act and to act decisively to protect our national
the U.S. Navy is there to back up our word."
security interests in Central America. We, who sounded
As secretary of defense, Weinberger earned and en-
the warnings, can do no less."
joyed the support of the VFW for his leadership in
Commander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock took the VFW's
achieving a strong national defense. So when he an-
priority National Security and Foreign Affairs goals to
nounced his resignation, Commander-in-Chief Stock
U.S. government officials in a series of visits to
praised him for his work:
Washington's policymakers. The Commander expressed
"The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has
the VFW's concerns for arms reductions, Central America
had a close relationship with Secretary Weinberger and
and the POW/MIA issue. In meetings with the President
has supported his work and his efforts because we knew
and the Vice President and with the secretaries of
our goal of a strong national defense was his goal. Mr.
defense and state, he urged support for our priorities and
Weinberger has our sincere appreciation for a job
pledged the VFW's help in reaching these goals.
well-done."
Stock met with members of Congress to whom he
Committed himself to working closely with members of
outlined our veterans' and national security positions.
Congress on the POW/MIA issue, Stock, following the
The Chief went on record soon afterward in urging a
mandates of the resolutions passed at the 88th National
stronger Coast Guard, noting it has suffered severe cuts
Convention, wrote members of Congress to outline the
in appropriations which it has absorbed with difficulty
VFW position and encourage their continued efforts.
but without degrading its services to the nation.
"The Veterans of Foreign Wars remains convinced that
This year's appropriation cut of $150 million, however,
government-to-government contact is the best means of
is so severe as to cripple the Coast Guard for years to
attaining our goal. We are further encouraged by and
come, he said. "I strongly urge you, therefore, to restore
fully endorse the appointment of Gen. John W. Vessey as
the Coast Guard's funding level to that requested by the
Presidential emissary to Vietnam. It is our hope that his
President."
appointment will signal our highest concern about our
In his meeting with Defense Secretary Caspar
men and convince Hanoi to move as rapidly as possible to
74
NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
fulfill this humanitarian goal. We also believe that every
to address a joint session of Congress, Commander-in-
effort should be made to stimulate similar progress with
Chief Stock called upon the President to maintain his
the Laotian government."
firm stance against Communism and not provide the
After the Presidential emissary's talks with the Viet-
foreign dictator of an oppressive regime the distinction of
namese and the Vietnamese announcement of the re-
being the first Communist leader to address a joint
sumption of the return of remains, the Commander-in-
session of Congress.
Chief was hopeful but cautious when he said:
"We are still dealing with a regime that after shooting
"The return of three honored servicemen is a hopeful
down a civilian airliner with one of our Congressmen on
sign that Vietnam is living up to its recent pledge to speed
board can't even bring itself to apologize," he said.
up the return of our MIAs, but it is still up to the
The Washington Summit between President Reagan
Vietnamese to prove their sincerity by keeping the pledge.
and Gen. Secretary Gorbachev was closely watched by
If we see that rapid progress is being made, it may change
the VFW's Commander-in-Chief. After he examined the
some attitudes towards Vietnam."
Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) and
He was also encouraged by U.S. action to bring a foreign
VFW resolutions on the subject, the Commander-in-Chief
terrorist suspect to the U.S. for trial. When the FBI
added his support. In letters to the leadership of the
captured a suspected terrorist in territorial waters, the
Senate, the Chief announced his endorsement:
Chief supported the action by reminding that "the
"The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has
Veterans of Foreign Wars has been pushing our govern-
resisted endorsing arms treaties, unilateral freezes and
ment to take the offensive against these terrorists who
other past arms-control initiatives which would have
hunted Americans in airports, hijacked airplanes and
placed the United States in a position of military infer-
murdered our citizens. I'm encouraged that bringing this
iority. Instead, in the interest of our national security, we
terrorist suspect to trial will finally signal that the United
have stood firmly in support of balanced and verifiable
States has assumed the offensive against terrorism. The
reductions in nuclear weapons.
VFW hopes European and Mideastern countries would
"We believe our patience and determination have been
follow U.S. leadership and crack down hard on all
justified and rewarded. The proposed INF Treaty reduces
terrorist suspects."
Soviet and U.S. nuclear warheads by approximately a 4 to
He was critical, however, when the State Department
1 ratio, thus achieving a balanced reduction. The treaty is
and Congress remained silent about the repression of
the first of any arms agreement to contain on-site
Tibet by the Chinese Communists. He urged action and in
verification provisions which reduce the opportunity for
letters to Secretary of State George P. Shultz, and Senate
and danger of cheating. It is vitally significant that the
Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Claiborne
proposed treaty will maintain the current strategic
Pell noted a double standard:
military balance while offering a pattern for future
"The United States government has remained strangely
strategic arms reductions. While some risks will always
silent about the latest outrage committed by the Chinese
remain, we believe the treaty supports the security
Communists against the people of Tibet. For over a week,
interests of the United States and its European allies
the Chinese have been engaged in the violent suppression
while reducing the danger of nuclear conflict. In con-
of the human rights of the Tibetans who have demon-
clusion, the treaty meets the requirements of the delegates
strated for freedom and against their Chinese occupiers.
attending the VFW's 88th National Convention held last
"Yet, our government, which has been quick to condemn
August in New Orleans."
non-Communist countries such as the Republic of Korea
As the issue of Communism in Central America was
during public disturbances, remains silent about this act
renewed during the end-of-year budget debate, Stock
of Communist suppression of human rights and fund-
threw his support behind continuing aid to the
amental freedoms.
Nicaraguan freedom fighters. After discussing the issue
"It is time to stop coddling the Chinese Communists,
with Central American leaders and U.S. officials, he said,
end our double standard of treatment between Com-
"The democratic process created by the Arias Peace Plan
munist and non-Communist countries and help the
and U.S. security interests are endangered by Nicaragua's
Tibetan people regain their freedom."
plans to field a 600,000-man army. With Soviet and
When Soviet Party Chief Mikhail Gorbachev was invited
Cuban help, Nicaragua can dominate and dictate its
75
NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
terms to all of Central America.
zation of our strategic arsenal. In the past we have
"Costa Rica with only 8,000 civil guardsmen and
publicly supported and lobbied Congress for the de-
Honduras with only 23,000 military are not threats to
ployment of the MX missile, construction of the B1-B
Nicaragua, but a 600,000-man Nicaraguan army is cer-
bomber and development of a small, mobile ICBM.
tainly a major threat to the security of those countries,
"Now, however, we understand the Air Force proposes
the whole of Central America and to our own security."
to end the small ICBM program as part of the FY 1989
He said that Administration and Congressional efforts
budget cut.
for the short-term continuation of aid to the Nicaraguan
"In view of the importance of the small ICBM, as
resistance was a compromise.
outlined in the Scowcroft Commission report, we in the
"We have got to look at the long-term efforts of a
VFW do not understand why this program is being ended.
Communist regime in our hemisphere. We cannot com-
Also, in light of the ongoing Strategic Arms Reduction
promise our security or the security of our Central
Talks, it seems more important than ever to modernize
American neighbors," he continued.
our land-based deterrent with a mobile, survivable missile
"Certainly, we hope the Arias Peace Plan achieves what
system.
the nations of Central America want. We are watching
"Therefore, on behalf of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, I
the process closely. In the meantime, the American
urge you to reconsider this proposal and continue
people have to wake up to the serious threat that we and
support for the small, mobile ICBM."
the democratic governments in Central America face.
Thanks to the VFW's determined stand, the Congress
The American people and the Congress must provide to
relented and funds were restored to continue this
democratic governments and movements the economic
important defense program.
and military aid needed to resist the expansion of
The VFW also stood up for American servicemen and
Communist intrusion into this part of the world."
women. Recognizing that they are the backbone of a
When the Central American crisis headed for a show-
strong national defense, Commander-in-Chief Stock laid
down vote in Congress, the Commander-in-Chief grew
the VFW position on the line in support of an increase in
more determined in urging support for the freedom
military pay:
fighters:
"The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is
"The real issue before the Congress and the country is
concerned that the foundation for our national defense
not the Contras; it is Communism in Central America.
will be weakened if action is not taken to provide
The cosmetic appearance of democracy in Nicaragua is
adequate pay to our servicemen and women.
only to disguise the fact that at their core, the Sandinistas
"Over the last six years military pay has fallen behind
are Communists. Now they are intent on building an
private sector wages by over 10%. The pay caps enacted
overwhelming military force in alliance with Cuba and
by Congress have kept our servicemen and women well
the Soviet Union that represents a clear and alarming
below the general wage average. These actions now have
threat to their neighbors as well as to our own security."
led to falling recruiting and retention rates that jeopardize
With VFW support, Congress finally enacted an aid
our ability to attract and retain highly motivated people
package that supported the needs of the Nicaraguan
for the Armed Forces.
resistance.
"On behalf of the dedicated and patriotic men and
When U.S. defense needs were jeopardized by the
women who provide our security, the more than two
budget problem, Commander-in-Chief Stock stood firmly
million members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars strongly
for defense. In their desire to cut defense spending,
urge you to support a full 4.3% pay raise for our
Congress and the Administration proposed to eliminate
servicemen and women."
the Midgetman strategic missile program. The
Commander-in-Chief Stock has made new headway in
Commander-in-Chief, backed by the VFW's resolutions,
VFW efforts to reach the goals set forth in the VFW
stood firm. In a letter to defense and Congressional
National Security Priority Goals. He has dedicated himself
officials, he expressed the VFW's position:
to ensuring that the VFW is heard in Washington because
"The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States,
he believes in America and WHATEVER IT TAKES to
knowing of the threat to our security posed by the Soviet
keep it strong and secure.
Union's missile forces, has long supported the moderni-
76
NATIONAL VETERANS SERVICE
Chairman Clifford G. Olson, Jr.
Director Frederico Juarbe, Jr.
A
S we gather from across the nation
Director, VFW Washington Office, and through him the
to assemble for our annual National
entire VFW leadership on veterans' issues.
Although principally housed at the VFW Memorial
Convention, it is a time to look back
Building in Washington, your NVS staff operates from a
to the past and forward to the future. This
variety of locations. Those making representations before
the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) have offices
article is intended as a report to you on the
collocated with that agency in Washington. Others man
activities of your National Veterans Service
the VFW office at the Washington VA regional office
(NVS).
which serves veterans overseas, as well as those in and
around the nation's capital. That office also operates an
Since one of the founding principles of our great
expanding outreach program for this large metropolitan
organization is service to our comrades, fellow veterans,
area and very importantly functions as a training center
their dependents and survivors, it is only appropriate
for new NVS staff members and Department service
that we review for you on these pages the extent and
officers. Although their chief operates from the VFW
breadth of that commitment.
Memorial Building, our military claims consultants have
In order to carry out your mandate to "Honor the Dead
an office at the Pentagon where they can be near the
by Helping the Living," it is essential that the duties and
scene of the action. Three of our staff members located at
function of your NVS be widely known. Accordingly, this
our National Headquarters in Kansas City are a field
report to you serves the added purpose of making those
representatve, service officer and a secretary. Finally, a
who may have a need for our assistance aware of the
new and especially positive force for the future is the fact
important services provided by the Veterans of Foreign
that eight Departments with 17 staff members are
Wars of the United States.
currently participating in the Department service office
Service Work
pilot program. This is an experiment to determine the
Let's start out with a reminder of the NVS mission. We
feasibility of extending the VFW National umbrella over
are charged with administering the VFW Service Program
large numbers of our nationwide service offices. This
of assistance to veterans, their dependents and survivors
listing constitutes only an outline of the services available
through a network of Post and Department service
to you.
officers coordinated by your NVS staff. We are assigned
Nationwide more than 600 accredited representatives,
the duty of surveying Veterans Administration medical
including your Department service officers and others,
centers, regional offices, Vet Centers and national ceme-
function at all levels of our service network. Included also
teries to ensure that those elements of the huge VA
are state and county employees serving the VFW as
system are responsive to the needs of the population they
accredited representatives and our network of VFW Post
are intended to serve. In addition to the VA, which is our
service officers.
primary focus, we maintain liaison with a variety of
During 1987, field representatives of your NVS staff
federal agencies which may impact on veterans' programs.
surveyed 33 Veterans Administration medical centers,
We are asked to provide research assistance and staff
four VA regional offices, four Department service offices
expertise to the VFW National Legislative Service for the
and one national cemetery. In addition, they participated
preparation of testimony before the Congress expressing
in State and Post service officers training conferences,
your views and concerns regarding veterans' issues.
assisted in training three new Department service officers
Finally, we are called upon to advise the Executive
and surveyed eight Departments in conjunction with the
77
NATIONAL VETERANS SERVICE
pilot service office program. The goal for our field
allowance percentage rate of 12%, 20% and 10% respec-
representatives for 1988 is to visit and survey 70 facilities,
tively. Also during 1987, a total of 1,500 informal presen-
thereby providing you with useful information on VA
tations and nearly 350 formal presentations were made
facilities in your respective states and on the activities of
before Army, Navy and Air Force discharge review
your Department service offices. Improving the training
boards. The favorable allowance rates for those actions
and advising the appropriate Commanders of the
were 9%, 5% and 15% respectively.
strengths and weaknesses of their Department service
The 21st edition of the VFW Service Officer's Guide was
offices is a vital part of our NVS mission.
published in the early spring of 1987 and is available from
Your NVS appeals consultants presented 5,288 cases to
the Emblem and Supply Department in Kansas City. Your
the BVA during 1987. This was an increase of almost 1,000
NVS staff is already planning and preparing for the
cases over the previous calendar year's total. Decisions
publication of the 22nd edition which we hope to have
favorable to the veteran appellants were achieved in
ready in the spring of 1989. Your NVS is particularly
12.5% of those cases. Another 19.5% of the appeals were
proud of this publication, held in high regard throughout
remanded or returned to the regional office for further
the veterans' community. Painstakingly compiled and
development, based upon the presentations of VFW
edited by the NVS staff, the guide is updated every two
appeals consultants. Of those cases remanded, or re-
years, and interim changes, as they occur, are distributed
turned to the field, 16.6% were allowed upon reconsid-
throughout our VFW service officer network via technical
eration. Thus, in total, we can point with pride to an
information bulletins and Our Service to Others publi-
overall allowance rate of almost 16% in 1987. During the
cation. Every Post service officer should have a copy of
1987 VA Fiscal Year, VFW appeals consultants achieved
this guide, as it is an invaluable reference tool and symbol
an overall allowance rate of 23% on claims appealed by
of the VFW's continuing commitment to provide service
former prisoners of war. Also, during that same period
on a wide range of matters.
our appeals consultants achieved an allowance rate from
VOLUNTARY SERVICE
the Board of Veterans Appeals of 19.5% for cases that
Your NVS is also deeply involved in the VA Voluntary
involved an appeal of a denial of an initial claim for
Service Program (VAVS). The NVS Director serves as your
post-traumatic stress disorder. For the first quarter of
National VAVS representative, and the six field represen-
Fiscal Year 1988, the overall allowance rate achieved by
tatives on the staff serve as deputy national VAVS
VFW appeals consultants in their presentations before
representatives. There are 172 dedicated VFW members
BVA was 19.2%.
serving as VAVS representatives, 282 serving as deputies
Military claims consultants of your NVS staff appear on
and 42 serving as associates. They encompass every VA
a regular basis before four military correction boards and
medical center in the nation. These often unsung heroes
four military discharge review boards in the Washington
of our organization coordinate the efforts of more than
metropolitan area. In addition, they are responsible for
6,000 volunteers who have devoted more than 900,000
providing prompt responses to incoming corre-
hours to veteran patients. The NVS staff recognizes these
spondence and phone calls, as well as providing technical
volunteers with certificates and lapel pins attesting to
information on military matters for inclusion in VFW
hours of service devoted to this worthy cause. Also, the
publications. This staff, overseen by a chief of military
VFW encourages inclusion of young persons in the
claims and supported by one secretary, participated in
volunteer force. To stimulate the participation of young
1,380 informal presentations before the correction boards
persons, one of our field representatives serves as the
of the Army, Navy and Air Force during 1987 with an
treasurer of the James H. Parke Memorial Youth Scholar-
78
NATIONAL VETERANS SERVICE
ship Award. In October, 1988, at the 42nd Annual VAVS
ficiency training conferences, coordinated by your NVS
National Advisory Committee meeting in Albuquerque,
staff, have laid the groundwork in improving represen-
N.M., seven scholarships will be awarded from this fund
tation skills on the part of those who interact with the VA.
to young volunteers. The total amount of scholarships
Therefore, we feel we can face any challenges posed by
this year is $8,000. In support of this program, the VFW
judicial review confidently.
added $1,000 this year to the $5,000 the National
As a result of several court actions, the VA has agreed
organization provided earlier. The VFW can do much in
to expand due-process rights of veterans who appeal a
transporting veteran patients to and from VA health-
decision to deny or amend a benefit. Essentially, the
care facilities. A variety of duties in the various VA
veteran must be granted a personal hearing by someone
medical centers need the volunteer support. We owe our
other than the rating body which made the unfavorable
veteran comrades who are patients whatever assistance
decision. It is expected that by Oct. 1, 1988, the VA will
we can provide. If you can spend a little time at your
have 36 special-hearing officers in place at some 24
nearest VA medical center, we urge you to contact your
centrally located regional offices around the nation.
VFW VAVS Representative.
These specially-trained hearing officers are expected to
preside at some 25,000 personal hearings annually. The
Hospital Committee
special-hearing officers concept was developed since the
Your NVS staff also works with the VFW National
VA is insufficiently staffed to provide an additional three-
Hospital Committee. Purpose of this committee is to
member hearing panel at most regional offices. The VFW
address the VFW's concern for the morale and comfort of
will be watching closely to see whether there are any
the growing number of veterans receiving treatment in a
pitfalls to this effort to expand due process.
variety of acute and long-term care facilities in the
On the medical side, it is quality of care that counts.
community-at-large and in those of the Veterans Adminis-
Our field representatives have been charged with the
tration. The committee's principal objective is to en-
responsibility to survey and report on a number of
courage Posts, Districts and Departments to honor every
specific activities which are indicators to us of quality
hospitalized veteran and to act as an information source
medical programs and which point to any flaws in that
for the Commander-in-Chief on matters pertaining to
quality. Your NVS staff will remain active by letter writing,
veterans' health care delivery. Your NVS staff has been
attending meetings and taking part in forums in our
selected to support the activities of that committee. It is
constant effort to protect, preserve and expand veteran
our hope that this committee will lead to renewed vigor
entitlements.
and an expanded commitment to hospitalized veterans
This is our report to you, the delegates to our annual
and also to complement, although their roles are com-
National Convention. We assure you that in mid-1988 the
pletely different, the efforts of our VAVS volunteers.
service program mandated by our membership remains
vigorous and is expanding. Under the guidance of your
Now a look at some of the major issues confronting
NVS Committee and the Executive Director of the VFW
your NVS staff during this past year. As of this writing,
Washington Office, your NVS staff is always vigilant in
some form of judicial review of any denial or reduction of
order to fend off assaults on veterans' programs and
VA benefits to a particular veteran seems a strong
entitlements and is always ready to lend a hand to carry
possibility. As a result, VFW representation activities on
out your mandate to "Honor the Dead by Helping the
behalf of veterans may become subject to increasing
Living."
scrutiny by outsiders. Fortunately, the semiannual pro-
79
POST DEVELOPMENT
National Chief of Staff Paul E. Wampler, Jr.
Director Joseph D. Ross
T
he Veterans of Foreign Wars estab-
dependents in their local areas; and the opportunity to
lished 277 new Posts in communities
further the goals and ideas of the Veterans of Foreign
Wars.
across the nation from July 1, 1987,
Most important for a new Post is the followup. This will
through May 18, 1988. These new Posts
be stressed more in the coming year. We must profit from
past experience and be sure a new Post is well informed
reported more than 10,000 new and/or
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars' basic aims, purposes and
reinstated members to National Headquar-
programs. We must make every effort to assist the newly
ters. This membership is vital to the con-
established Post until it is on a sound basis. A well-versed
member should be assigned to the new Post by the
tinuous growth of the Veterans of Foreign
Department to keep watch and be responsible for its
Wars.
success. In many cases, an older Post will volunteer to
assist or adopt the new Post as a project. This has proven
The Post Development Program was established in
highly successful in many Departments. Each Post is
1965-66 as Post Extension, with its primary function the
important to the overall success of the Veterans of
strengthening of membership throughout the country by
Foreign Wars and its programs. No program runs smoothly
organizing new Posts. Twenty-three years have passed,
all the time. Therefore, we find Posts that are having
and the record speaks for itself. More than 5,335 new
problems. True leadership will confront the problem
Posts have been established. This represents a yearly
situation and step forward with wisdom and foresight to
average of 232 new Posts a year since the program was
detect and correct the problem. Too often, officers take
founded. Frequently, it is asked how many of these Posts
the easy way out, that of seeking cancellation of the Post
last. The retention rate for Post Development is 77.14%.
Charter. This is not the way to overcome the problem. We
Thus, almost eight out of every ten have succeeded.
must face the situation with optimism.
Review the New Post Development and Membership
Past experience shows that most problems can be
section to determine the number of new Posts your
worked out with proper attention from the District,
Department developed this year.
County Council or Department. Interest must have
New Posts have given the Veterans of Foreign Wars an
existed among veterans in the area for a Post to be
opportunity to expand its many outstanding programs in
formed. It is a challenge to the leadership to rekindle the
new communities and to enhance the VFW's image in
members' interest and to inspire them to become active
these communities. Additional benefits to the Veterans of
again. Remember, when we lose a Post, we lose our
Foreign Wars are added per capita tax to Departments
representation in that community, and the community
and National Headquarters; increased sales of Buddy
loses the benefits provided by the Veterans of Foreign
Poppies; increased sales of merchandise from the Emblem
Wars.
and Supply Department; a source of new ideas and new
As we close the 1987-88 year, the cooperation of each
leadership at the Post, District, County Council, Depart-
and every VFW member and officer is needed for the
ment and National levels; service to veterans and their
future, as we will be "For America, Whatever It Takes."
Most important for a new Post is the followup. This will be
stressed more in the coming year. We must profit from past
experience and be sure a new Post is well informed of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars' basic aims.
80
POST DEVELOPMENT
New Post Development and Membership
July 1, 1987 to May 18, 1988
By Department
Department
Total Posts
Total
Developed
Membership
Alabama
0
0
Nevada
1
35
Alaska
1
32
New Hampshire
2
63
Arizona
1
34
New Jersey
7
250
Arkansas
4
139
New Mexico
2
57
California
34
1,183
New York
11
429
Colorado
4
117
North Carolina
16
759
Connecticut
0
0
North Dakota
0
0
Delaware
0
0
Ohio
15
668
District of Columbia
1
26
Oklahoma
17
755
Florida
8
351
Oregon
5
186
Europe
0
0
Pacific Areas
0
0
Georgia
4
132
Panama Canal
0
0
Hawaii
1
35
Pennsylvania
4
162
Idaho
2
60
Rhode Island
1
42
Illinois
20
693
South Carolina
4
139
Indiana
17
525
South Dakota
0
0
Iowa
5
225
Tennessee
4
170
Kansas
7
291
Texas
4
103
Kentucky
4
116
Utah
0
0
Louisana
2
63
Vermont
0
0
Maine
0
0
Virginia
5
194
Maryland
6
163
Washington
4
150
Massachusetts
2
51
West Virginia
2
89
Michigan
18
537
Wisconsin
3
95
Minnesota
2
77
Wyoming
0
0
Mississippi
5
167
Foreign
0
0
Missouri
10
320
Montana
1
30
Nebraska
11
431
Total
277
10,144
81
POST SERVICES
Director Thomas L. Kissell
T
he office of Post Services is charged
As corrections and/or changes are reported and made,
with the responsibility for the
these, too, are acknowledged so the Post Quartermaster
always has a return postcard in his possession to report
collection, recording, maintenance and
changes during the year.
storage of the official records of over 10,000
Reviewing questions and documentation of eligibility of
officers at all levels, as well as of current members and
Posts.
potential members, is an on-going process of Post Services
The annual Post Election Report is the primary source
and continues to be a very time consuming project.
of information from which the Post Officer files are
Special Orders are issued terminating the membership of
constituted and from which the rosters of Post Officers
those who fail to provide documented proof of their
and the amount of annual dues for each Post are
eligibility.
compiled and stored in electronic data processing.
Another area of responsibility for Post Services is the
Inasmuch as the Post Officer file is one of the most
Post Inspection Program. In recent years, the Post
frequently used at National Headquarters, it is absolutely
Inspection Program has taken on increased significance.
essential that the maintenance of the file be current at all
This program provides State Commanders and other
times and that special attention be given to accuracy in
officers with important information concerning the oper-
storing and updating the records in data processing. The
ation of each Post under their jurisdiction. Post Inspec-
data processing file contains the names and addresses of
tions insure that financial safeguards are maintained
the Commander and Quartermaster, the amount of
and that the Post is operating in accordance with the
annual dues, the name, location, date of muster and
provisions of the National By-Laws and regulations of the
status of each of our over 10,000 Posts.
Department as well as governmental statutes. All In-
The importance of the Post Election Report in the
spection Reports are reviewed by the Director of Post
maintenance of the Officer file is paramount. Without the
Services. Where possible or known discrepancies are
information provided in the annual report of election, it is
reflected, copies of the Inspection Reports are returned
impossible for the Department or the National Organiza-
to the State Commander asking for a review of the
tion to communicate with the Post. Annual dues notices
discrepancies and requesting that corrective action be
cannot be mailed until the election report is revised
taken. As a result of these review procedures, the
because of the need to know the name and address of the
Inspection Program has become more purposeful. When
Post Quartermaster and the amount of the Post dues.
appropriately used, the results provide Commanders at
As the reports of election of Post Officers for the 1988-
all levels with a reliable indication of potential trouble
89 year are received and processed, computer-generated
areas and give early indication of those Posts which are in
acknowledgements will be sent to the Post Quarter-
need of assistance. Department Inspectors, along with
master-elect to confirm the names and addresses of the
their deputies who conduct inspections in a conscientious
Post Commander and Post Quartermaster and the
and concerned manner, can be assured that this program
amount of annual dues. Copies of these acknowledge-
will become a management tool of great value.
ments and any subsequent changes are sent to the
Other matters falling within the area of the respon-
respective Departments.
sibility of the Director of Post Services include the
The acknowledgement is made on a preaddressed and
preparation and dissemination of General Orders, Special
prepaid return postcard with space provided for cor-
Orders and the monthly National Headquarters Bulletin.
rections and/or changes in any of the information shown
Our goal in Post Services, along with that of the entire
on the card. If the information is correct, the Post retains
administrative staff, is to ensure that the needs of our
the card for use during the 1988-89 administrative year
membership are better served as we continue to be For
to report any changes in the amount of Post dues and/or
America, Whatever It Takes.
in the offices of Post Commander and Post Quartermaster.
82
PUBLICATIONS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Chairman Howard Silber
Director Wade LaDue
Director Public Affairs, VFW Washington Office, William G. Smith
0
ur collective welcome back to the
Convention and Flying Squadron audio-visual pro-
Windy City after a four-year in-
ductions, special events, support of the National Chair
Officers, speech-writing and responses to media ques-
terval. The staff again will operate
tions. All of this was carried out in support of the
the VFW Press Room in the Marquette
resolutions you adopted last year in New Orleans.
Room of the Chicago Hilton.
Through a media distribution syndicate, thousands of
medium size market, suburban and small market news-
Publications
papers have used VFW generated articles on critical
Since the 88th National Convention in New Orleans,
issues. Radio and television stations across the national
the VFW Magazine has enjoyed another fine year in
also carried these reports.
advertising revenues while exploring new national
A media kit is being prepared for all Departments and
markets applicable to readership demographics. PABCO
Posts which should assist public relations appointees in
Representatives, of New York City, has handled all
their dealings with local media.
advertising related matters for over 25 years.
The Public Relations Office also sponsored a one-day
The magazine, 27th in circulation among all magazines
media course for the National Chair Officers and a
nationally, has, like other publications, experienced the
similar three-hour session for the Department Senior
postal increase along with rising costs of paper. Higher
Vice Commanders and Adjutant/Quartermasters,
prices in both areas may be on the horizon.
It has been a good year, but even more emphasis in
The Communicator and Washington Action Reporter
telling the VFW story is a must at all levels. No one, at least
were published nine and 12 times, respectively, along
no eligible veteran, should be able to say, "I didn't know
with this National Convention Program. Several other
the VFW did that" or "I have never been asked to join."
organizational pamphlets and brochures were reassigned
Your staff in Kansas City and in Washington point to "We
and republished.
Remember" with even more determination to tell our
The staff would like to extend congratulations to the
story through every means of communication at our
winners of the National Publications competition and
disposal. The resolutions passed here in Chicago become
certainly extend deep appreciation to all the many
our responses to the media and our positions in other
editors and public relations appointees who work in the
public forums, so we encourage thoughtful consideration
trenches informing the membership and general public
of these proposals.
about our organization. This contribution is invaluable to
The staff also wishes to thank the National Officers for
the overall success of the Public Relations and Publi-
their support and input. Also deserving of kudos are the
cations operations.
members around the world who write and call with
comments and constructive suggestions which are gladly
Public Relations
received and taken to heart.
The Public Relations offices in both Kansas City and
Our best wishes for a productive, enjoyable and safe
Washington, D.C., were extremely busy with news releases,
89th to all.
It has been a good year, but even more emphasis in telling the
VFW story is a must at all levels. No one, at least no eligible
veteran, should be able to say, "I didn't know the VFW did that"
or "I have never been asked to join.'
83
SAFETY
Chairman Paul R. Fleurdelys
Director Joseph D. Ross
C
hairman Paul R. Fleurdelys and I wish
programs in bicycle safety: Lite-A-Bike and safe bicycling.
to thank you and every other member
Lite-A-Bike, one of the most effective VFW community
service activities, has provided reflective tape for more
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and
than 30 million bicycles since the program was initiated.
its Ladies Auxiliary who participated in the
VFW and Auxiliary members affix pre-cut strips of
reflective tape that illuminate and silhouette the bicycle.
Safety Program this past year. I am sure
Many police and fire departments, PTA groups and
that many long hours of hard work and
other civic and fraternal organizations lend support and
extra effort by these comrades and sisters
assistance to this program which has saved the lives of
many cyclists.
account for the Safety Program's success.
Safe bicycling, sponsored by the VFW and Ladies
The interest and enthusiasm of our members have
Auxiliary, brings an audiovisual presentation into the
made the Safety Program one of our organization's
classroom of local elementary schools. It provides a real
fastest growing. In the 1987-88 year, the Veterans of
learning experience for children in the essentials of
Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary presented a six-
bicycle safety. All schools have the equipment to utilize
point National Safety Program.
this program.
Home Protection
Recognition and Public Commendation
This is two-fold: fire prevention and home security.
Certificates of Appreciation are available from the
Posts and Auxiliaries across the nation and overseas
VFW Emblem and Supply Department. The citations are
conduct seminars in an effort to educate persons in their
available for law enforcement agencies or officers and fire
communities in how to protect themselves and their
departments or individual firefighters and emergency
medical technicians.
property.
Working in conjunction with local law enforcement
Veterans Fight Drugs
and fire officials, VFW members have distributed thou-
The VFW Drug Abuse Program is an action-initiated
sands of VFW fire prevention and home security checklists
effort to assist in controlling and eliminating the abuse
as a community service.
and illegal use of drugs. Sponsored seminars conducted
Drive to Survive
by trained law-enforcement officers provide the adult
This VFW program's a three-hour course that teaches
community with the necessary information to combat
good drivers to be better drivers. It is designed to prevent
the drug problem.
traffic accidents by showing how to recognize road
Hunter Safety
hazards, to understand the defense against these hazards
This educational program is sponsored by Posts and
and to take the necessary preventative action in time.
Auxiliaries in coordination with their state fish, game
Law enforcement agencies are cooperating with VFW
and wildlife commissions.
Posts and Auxiliaries by providing traffic specialists to
The primary purpose is to promote responsible and
assist in the project.
ethical conduct in order to emphasize the importance of
Bicycle Safety
laws and regulations and to learn safe handling of
The current popularity of the bicycle, combined with
hunting equipment.
grim, new accident statistics, is establishing the bicycle as
This year, the Safety Program did play a vital part in
a major safety concern. Accident statistics can be greatly
communities across our nation and overseas confirming
reduced if proper instructions are provided. The Veterans
that the VFW is "For America, Whatever It Takes."
of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary presented two
84
VOICE OF DEMOCRACY
Chairman Jack Mclsaac
Director Larry LeFebvre
T
he foremost youth activity sponsored
totaling $42,500, all state winners received expense-paid
trips to Washington, D.C., where they visited national
by the Veterans of Foreign Wars is
shrines and observed firsthand the workings of the
the annual Voice of Democracy Broad-
federal government. State winners who were sponsored
cast Scriptwriting Scholarship contest.
by their respective Departments also attended the Amer-
ican Academy of Achievement's Salute to Excellence
In completing its 41st year at the VFW Washington
Weekend in Nashville, Tenn., June 30 to July 3, 1988. Each
Conference, the Voice of Democracy program again
received the academy's Golden Scroll Award and was
reached a quarter of a million 10th, 11th and 12th grade
enrolled in the academy's Hall of Fame for America's
students in public, private and parochial schools across
Young Captains of Achievement. The National winner
the country.
received the academy's Golden Eagle Award for the
Two additional $1,000 scholarships were perpetuated
Promise of Greatness.
this past year, and the sixth place award was increased
The nine winners for the 1987-88 program were first
by $500. The National scholarships now total $42,500.
place, $16,000, Rick Speer, Reifenberg, West Germany,
The sixth place award for $1,500 is given by Joseph O.
sponsored by VFW Post 9659 and its Ladies Auxiliary;
Hansen, of Maryland, a Past Department Commander
second place, $9,000, Lori Martens, Gustine, Calif.,
of Maryland and a strong supporter of the Voice of
sponsored by VFW Post 7635 and its Ladies Auxiliary;
Democracy.
third place, $6,000, Patrick Jordan, Smithfield, N.C.,
The seventh place award of $1,000 is given annually by
sponsored by VFW Post 5886 and its Ladies Auxiliary;
the Tallman Insurance Agency in the memory of Francis
fourth place, $4,000, Julie Jackson, Kansas City, Mo.,
J. Tallman, a longtime friend of the VFW and supporter of
sponsored by VFW Post 5606 and its Ladies Auxiliary;
its youth work.
fifth place, $3,000, Scott Rowland, Evergreen, Colo.,
The eighth place $1,000 Robert A. Stock Memorial
sponsored by VFW Post 8991; sixth place, $1,000, Dylan
Award is donated by Commander-in-Chief Earl L. Stock,
Townsend, Seattle, Wash., sponsored by VFW Post 3348
Jr., in memory of his brother who was killed in World War
and its Ladies Auxiliary; seventh place, $1,000, Ziad
II.
Munson, Duluth, Minn., sponsored by VFW Post 137 and
The ninth place $1,000 Walter and Doris Marshall
its Ladies Auxiliary; eighth place, $1,000, Heather
Award is donated by Doris Marshall, of Montana, in the
Easterday, Meade, Kans., sponsored by VFW Post 3661
name of her late husband, Walter. Both have worked
and its Ladies Auxiliary; and ninth place, $1,000, Meliesa
tirelessly for Voice of Democracy on all levels.
Hawley, Broadus, Mont., sponsored by VFW Post 1595
In addition to competing for the national scholarships
and its Ladies Auxiliary.
Two additional $1,000 scholarships were perpetuated
this past year, and the sixth place award was increased
by $500. The National scholarships now total $42,500.
85
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Chairman George T. Kelley
Director Lawrence LeFebvre
T
he membership of the Veterans of
Special Olympics
A major fundraising effort sponsored by the Veterans
Foreign Wars recognizes the import-
of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Ladies
ance of shaping America's youth. Pro-
Auxiliary is to bring the next to 1 million mentally
viding wholesome activities that stress fair
retarded citizens into the Special Olympics programs and
to support the year-around programs to accomodate
play and good citizenship has been the goal
them.
and guiding principle of the National Youth
Posts are active in all facets of youth sports in addition
Activities Committee this year. Some of the
to baseball, basketball, football, hockey, swimming,
wrestling, golf and tennis.
foremost youth programs in the organization
Hundreds of other youth activities have been docu-
today are:
mented in reports from more than 8,000 VFW Posts
during the past year.
Sons of the VFW
The VFW has endorsed the Junior Olympics and
This activity is for boys whose parents or grandparents
American Youth Soccer Organization. Brochures and
are eligible for membership in the VFW. At the present
pertinent information regarding these youth programs
time, VFW Posts have 650 active Sons Units.
are available from National Headquarters.
Child Identification
Scouting
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, in
Some 1,360 Posts sponsor Boy Scout units. An equal
keeping with its commitment to community service,
number support the VFW-BSA partnership by providing
provides child identification booklets to Posts and Aux-
adult leadership, meeting space, Americanism materials
iliaries, free of charge, to enable them to conduct
and safety aids to thousands of Cub packs, Scout troops
identification and fingerprinting programs for the chil-
and Explorer posts. Twelve VFW outstanding Scouters
dren in their communities.
were selected from six regions to receive Woodbadge
American Youth Soccer Organization
scholarships. This annual program provides recognition
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, in trying to provide
and incentive for VFW members who are serving Scouting
outstanding programs for the youth of America, has
in leadership roles.
officially endorsed the American Youth Soccer Organi-
Junior Rifle
zation (AYSO). Founded in Los Angeles in 1964, AYSO is
The VFW and the National Rifle Association provide an
dedicated not only to the promotion of youth soccer, but
opportunity for boys and girls to receive training in gun
also in developing young men and women into becoming
safety and marksmanship and to experience the fellow-
contributing citizens. The AYSO philosophy guarantees
ship and competition of a rifle club activity, an individual
that each child will play at least half a game. A balanced
and team postal match is conducted annually. NRA
team concept assures that all teams play in a healthy
furnishes aids for affiliated Junior Rifle Clubs of VFW
competitive atmosphere.
Posts and Sons of the VFW Units.
Pledge of Allegiance Coloring Book
The Pledge of Allegiance Coloring Book is geared for
Youth Bowling
Teams sponsored by Posts in every Department provide
children in grades 1 to 4, and it affords children the
instruction and competition for boys and girls in one of
opportunity to learn how to recite the Pledge of Allegiance
the nation's principal lifetime sports and fun activities.
correctly as well as to enjoy coloring our nation's Flag and
various scenes in the book. In the middle of the book is a
ROTC
map of the United States, which is also useful in teaching
If a school in your area sponsors the ROTC program,
geography. These books can be presented on behalf of the
this is an opportunity for your Post to be active in youth
Post and/or Ladies Auxiliary, along with a small patriotic
programs. The VFW ROTC awards for special recognition
program, which could also include the passing out of the
of outstanding achievement and exceptional leadership
Pledge of Allegiance cards, small Flags and similar pa-
ability are available for Junior and Senior ROTC programs.
triotic materials.
86
NATIONAL HOME
President, Board of Trustees, Ronald G. Tyler, Sr.
Secretary Treasurer Joseph Epling
T
he VFW National Home is a reflec-
Contact VFW National Home, Eaton Rapids, Mich.
tion of the commitment and pride
48827-9799 for information on programs, referral, in-
VFW members have in their organ-
expensive educational seminars or funding.
ization. A community of caring that has
Eligibility requirements have been expanded. Grand-
parents who are VFW or Auxiliary members do not have
been serving veterans' families since 1925,
to have custody of the child for him or her to be admitted
the National Home houses children without
to the program. Eligibility is in four categories:
1. A child whose parent is deceased or totally disabled
parents and single-parent families who need
and that parent is a VFW member.
help. Eligibility is based on VFW or Ladies
2. A child whose parent is deceased or disabled and
Auxiliary affiliation.
the living or non-disabled parent is a VFW or Ladies
Auxiliary member.
There have been several indicators of a bright future
3. A child whose grandparent is a VFW or Ladies
for this facility during the past year. Extensive renovation
Auxiliary member.
of the interior of the Health and Education Building,
4. A child whose parent is a VFW or Ladies Auxiliary
following exterior refurbishing completed last year, is a
member, and a home-study investigation by National
tremendous financial investment by the Ladies Auxiliary.
Home staff reveals that the child's home situation is not
Home Life staff are responding to more referrals, and
conducive to the health of the child.
population has averaged in the mid-80s since last
Children coming to the National Home enjoy a wide
summer. A newly-produced video, "Caring for Our Own,"
range of recreational activities planned by Community
provides those who cannot travel to Eaton Rapids an
Center personnel, ample opportunity to become involved
accurate glimpse of life and progams there. It is intro-
with Eaton Rapids school and church groups, tutorial
duced by Commander-in-Chief Earl Stock, Jr., and
and enrichment programs within the Home's Education
National President Joan Katkus.
Department, a weekly chapel service and a full staff of
The VFW National Home is completely funded by the
counselors and support personnel to help them cope
VFW and Ladies Auxiliary. It does not receive federal
with problems and build for the future.
money. Programs to raise operational funds include the
Other National Home features include a well-equipped
annual Seals campaign, bequests and National Home Life
fire department (adult and some teenage volunteers are
Memberships, as well as special gifts.
licensed firefighters), a working farm providing 4-H
Increasing the number of residents continues to be an
experience, a student training program, a full scholarship
important issue. The VFW National Home is actively
program, Independent Living (for upper level high school
serving veterans' children and families, and homeless
students demonstrating responsible behavior) and after-
American families attest to its needs. You are the key to
care for those who have been graduated from high
finding those who can use the help this Home has to offer.
school.
87
POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE
Chairman Charles E. Kinney
Director Charles F. Ball, Jr.
D
elegates to the 80th National
of John Stang, member, Kansas; Arthur J. Fellwock,
Convention held in New Orleans
member, Indiana; Charles F. Ball, Jr., director,
Washington, D.C.; Ronald A. Duchin, treasurer,
adopted Section 718 an Amendment
Washington, D.C.; Ted C. Connell, member, Texas; Herbert
to the National By-Laws establishing the
R. Rainwater, member, California; Charles E. Kinney,
chairman, New Jersey; John R. Ray, member, New York,
Veterans of Foreign Wars Political Action
and Glenneta Vogelsang, Ladies Auxiliary liaison,
Committee
Missouri.
How Are Candidates Chosen?
The following financial report is provided in accordance
Candidates are selected by the VFW-PAC Board of
with Section 718 of the VFW National By-Laws:
Directors based on their votes cast on veterans' entitle-
ments and national defense-related issues. Each of the
Political Action Committee
selected votes is measured against resolutions adopted
June 30, 1987, to May 30, 1988
by the delegates to VFW National Conventions and
Cash at Hand as of 6-30-87
$438,956
priority national security and legislative goals.
Non-incumbent candidates are considered for endorse-
Income:
ment when an incumbent's voting record is less than 50%.
Contributions Individual
$188,192
In such races a position paper dealing with veterans'
Contributions Post & Auxiliaries
$158,235
entitlements and national defense is requested by the
Interest Income (investment)
$ 39,682
VFW-PAC Board of Directors. After reviewing these
Total $386,109
position papers and information received from the VFW
leadership and PAC coordinators in each state, the board
makes its final endorsement decisions.
Expenses:
The VFW-PAC separates fact from fiction regarding the
Operating Expenses
$190,017
complex votes on issues of importance to the Veterans of
VFW-Power PAC Report (newsletters)
$ 25,154
Fundraising Expenses
$175,250
Foreign Wars of the United States.
Candidate Contributions
The VFW-PAC is non-partisan in making its endorse-
$ 5,500
ments. The VFW-PAC does not tell anyone how to vote
Pin Awards Program (start-up)
$ 30,000
Total
$425,921
but informs the VFW membership on how Congress has
voted on non-partisan issues of interest to the VFW.
Endorsements and contributions are made to Democrats,
Total Difference Cash and Expenses
$399,284
Republicans and independents alike, SO long as they meet
or exceed the endorsement threshold based on their
Cash at hand
$342,284
votes.
Other Assets (equipment)
$ 56,860
The VFW-PAC and its Board of Directors are composed
Total Cash and Assets
$399,921
Candidates are selected by the VFW-PAC Board of Directors
based on their votes cast on veterans' entitlements
and national defense-related issues.
88
Teamwork:
Profile in Quality #6: At Ford Motor Company we've all made a commitment to quality. And the results
FORD
have been rewarding. Nationwide surveys have shown that for 8 years running, owners of Lincoln, Mercury
MERCURY
and Ford cars and light trucks have reported fewer problems, on average, than owners of any other vehicles
designed and built in North America.* This is another example of what happens when management and
LINCOLN
employees work together for a common goal. At Ford, that goal is quality:
One more reason
Ford Motor Company
has designed and built
the highest quality
American cars and trucks
for 8 years running.
Ford
Quality is Job 1.
FORD
LINCOLN
MERCURY
FORD TRUCKS
FORD TRACTORS
Buckle up-Together we can save lives.
*Based on an average of owner-reported problems in a series of surveys of '81-'88 models designed and built in North America.
MILLER BREWING COMPANY
SUPPORTS THE U.S. OLYMPIC
TRAINING CENTERS
UNITED
STATES
As sole sponsor of the
U.S. Olympic Training
Centers since 1981, the
CENTER
Miller Brewing Company
has been proud to help
TRAINING
America's athletes
go for the gold
The American Way.
At sites in Colorado
NTAINS NO ADDU
NO ADDITI
SERVATIV
SERVATIVES
Springs, Colorado;
Lake Placid, New
York; and Marquette,
Michigan our athletes
Lite Beer Certificate
an
anotysis
-
train for the Olympic
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Mitter
provider
Games using the most
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Yeast,
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Havor,
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CONTAINS ADDITIVES OR PRESERVATIVE
GENUINE
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equipped sports
facilities. Aspiring,
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given the true oppor-
tunities to develop
18.3557
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12FL07
QUALITY
Many U.S. athletes
who eventually
miller
The Champagne
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THE
MISNER
Miller
become Olympic
A
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champions receive
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WITH MILLER'S SUPPORT OUR ATHLETES TRULY ARE
OLYMPIANS MADE THE AMERICAN WAY
36USC380
Beer Brewed by Miller Brewing Co., Milwaukee, WI