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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections.
Collection: Blackwell, Morton: Files
Folder Title: [Veterans of Foreign Wars]:
Memos
Box: 50
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
National Archives Catalogue: https://catalog.archives.gov/
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
September 28, 1983
MEMORANDUM TO: FAITH RYAN WHITTLESEY
THROUGH:
FROM:
Joyce Thomann
Jonathan Vipond, Joyce ИТ
SUBJECT:
Colonel Frank Phelps Jones, USAF (Ret.)
Phelps Jones has been the National Security/Defense
Director of the Veterans of Foreign Wars for as long as I
have know him (which is over 10 years now). Phelps is
dying of lung cancer. He is, at the moment, in Walter
Reed Army Hospital and according to Cooper Holt may be
released from the hospital on Thursday -- IF all the
oxygen equipment he will require can be installed in his
home in time.
Phelps knows he is dying. He has know it for sometime
now, however, it appears that the end of his struggle against
lung cancer is now very close.
I know Phelps would enjoy receiving a letter from
you, Faith. Phelps has been a longtime warrier in the
trenches to maintain the defensive strength of this great
nation. He has served his country well and remains its
dedicated servant even now. In talking with Cooper Holt
this morning, I learned that Phelps is "chomping at the bit"
to get back to the office to work on the Central American
problem.
Yesterday I sent over our copy of the VFW magazine
which ran the big article on Central America - Phelps was
responsible for that article.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 13, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR ELIZABETH H. DOLE
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL m
SUBJECT:
State Dinner Invitation
This is per Cooper Holt's request. I suggest
you forward it on to Muffie.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 13, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR MUFFIE BRANDON
FROM:
ELIZABETH H. DOLE
SUBJECT:
State Dinner Invitees
Morton Blackwell of my staff has asked that I pass along
to you the names of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Currieo as being
a high priority for invitation to a State Dinner.
Mr. Currieo is the new Commander-in-Chief of the Veterans
of Foreign Wars and a long time Reagan supporter.
The V.F.W. broke all past precedent by endorsing President
Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover, they endorsed
and fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts last year.
This was the first time the V.F.W. had taken a major role
in issues that were not primarily defense or V.A.
In the fights for both the budget cuts and the tax cuts,
the decisions of the 1.9 million member V.F.W. to support
the President were followed immediately by support from
the 2.7 million member American Legion.
An invitation to a State Dinner for the new Commander-in-
Chief of the V.F.W. would show the President's appreciation
for their past and continued efforts on President Reagan's
behalf.
The invitation should be sent to the following address:
V.F.W. Memorial Building
200 Maryland Avenue, N.E.
Washington, D. C. 20006
Thank you for your consideration of this matter.
Memo
from the desk of
COOPER T. HOLT
March 12, 1982
The enclosed letters are forwarded
per our phone conversation. Any-
thing you can do to persuade any
of these individuals to attend our
Congressional Dinner would cer-
tainly be appreciated.
As I indicated to you on the phone,
we invited all the Cabinet Members
and all have regretted.
Cooper
VFW
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 15, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE JAMES G. WATT
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL
SUBJECT:
Invitation to Attend the Annual Dinner of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Attached is a copy of a letter from V.F.W. National Commander-
in-Chief Art Fellwock inviting you to be a head table guest
at the V.F.W. annual dinner on March 30, 1982 at the Sheraton
Washington hotel.
I strongly urge you to accept this invitation if your schedule
permits.
As you may recall, the V.F.W. broke all past precedent by
endorsing President Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover,
they endorsed and fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts
last year. This was the first time the V.F.W. had taken
a major role in issues that were not primarily defense or
V.A.
It is significant as well that, in the fights for both the
budget cuts and the tax cuts, the decisions of the 1.7 million
member V.F.W. to support the President were followed immediately
by support from the 2.6 million member American Legion.
As the White House liaison to the veterans groups, I have
worked with the V.F.W. for over a year and I know first hand
how supportive they have been of the President's legislative
programs. This would be a good occasion to show Administration
appreciation for their past and continued efforts on President
Reagan's behalf.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 15, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE RICHARD SCHWEIKER
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL
SUBJECT:
Invitation to Attend the Annual Dinner of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Attached is a copy of a letter from V.F.W. National Commander-
in-Chief Art Fellwock inviting you to be a head table guest
at the V.F.W. annual dinner on March 30, 1982 at the Sheraton
Washington hotel.
I strongly urge you to accept this invitation if your schedule
permits.
As you may recall, the V.F.W. broke all past precedent by
endorsing President Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover,
they endorsed and fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts
last year. This was the first time the V.F.W. had taken a
major role in issues that were not primarily defense or V.A.
It is significant as well that, in the fights for both the
budget cuts and the tax cuts, the decisions of the 1.7 million
member V.F.W. to support the President were followed immediately
by support from the 2.6 million member American Legion.
As the White House liaison to the veterans groups, I have
worked with the V.F.W. for over a year and I know first hand
how supportive they have been of the President's legislative
programs. This would be a good occasion to show Administration
appreciation for their past and continued efforts on President
Reagan's behalf.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 15, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE RAYMOND DONOVAN
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL
SUBJECT:
Invitation to Attend the Annual Dinner of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Attached is a copy of a letter from V.F.W. National Commander-
in-Chief Art Fellwock inviting you to be a head table guest
at the V.F.W. annual dinner on March 30, 1982 at the Sheraton
Washington hotel.
I strongly urge you to accept this invitation if your schedule
permits.
As you may recall, the V.F.W. broke all past precedent by
endorsing President Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover,
they endorsed and fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts
last year. This was the first time the V.F.W. had taken a
major role in issues that were not primarily defense or V.A.
It is significant as well that, in the fights for both the
budget cuts and the tax cuts, the decisions of the 1.7 million
member V.F.W. to support the President were followed immediately
by support from the 2.6 million member American Legion.
As the White House liaison to the veterans groups, I have
worked with the V.F.W. for over a year and I know first hand
how supportive they have been of the President's legislative
programs. This would be a good occasion to show Administration
appreciation for their past and continued efforts on President
Reagan's behalf.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 15, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HONORABLE DREW LEWIS
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL
SUBJECT:
Invitation to Attend the Annual Dinner of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Attached is a copy of a letter from V.F.W. National Commander-
in-Chief Art Fellwock inviting you to be a head table guest
at the V.F.W. annual dinner on March 30, 1982 at the Sheraton
Washington hotel.
I strongly urge you to accept this invitation if your schedule
permits.
As you may recall, the V.F.W. broke all past precedent by
endorsing President Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover,
they endorsed and fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts
last year. This was the first time the V.F.W. had taken a
major role in issues that were not primarily defense or V.A.
It is significant as well that, in the fights for both the
budget cuts and the tax cuts, the decisions of the 1.7 million
member V.F.W. to support the President were followed immediately
by support from the 2.6 million member American Legion.
As the White House liaison to the veterans groups, I have
worked with the V.F.W. for over a year and I know first hand
how supportive they have been of the President's legislative
programs. This would be a good occasion to show Administration
appreciation for their past and continued efforts on President
Reagan's behalf.
VFW
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
February 5, 1982
The Honorable James G. Watt
Secretary of Interior
Department of the Interior
Washington, D. C. 20540
C
Dear Mr. Secretary:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has scheduled its annual
dinner honoring Members of Congress for Tuesday, March 30, 1982. This
dinner, which will be held at the Sheraton Washington Hotel at 7 P.M.,
will be preceded by a reception at 6 P.M. Attending this function will
be Members of Congress, government and military leaders, as well as
national and state officers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The total
O
attendance will exceed 2,000 persons.
Highlighting the dinner this year will be the presentation of the Veterans
of Foreign Wars Congressional Award to the Honorable Samuel S. Stratton,
U. S. House of Representatives, for his "outstanding service to our nation."
The influence of Congressman Stratton stems from his reputation for intel-
ligence and expertise. He is, without question, one of the hardest
working members of the Congress, who, as you know, has always conducted
P
D
himself with utmost dignity and, in our opinion, has added much prestige
to the deliberations of the U. S. House of Representatives.
The purpose of this letter is to invite you to attend this annual dinner as
a HEAD TABLE GUEST. Your presence would add much to this important occasion
and I know that Congressman Stratton and the national and state officers
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States would be most pleased
if you are able to attend.
Y
Sincerely,
ARTHUR J. FELLWOCK
National Commander-1n-Chief
V.F.W. MEMORIAL BUILDING 200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
61
VFW
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
February 5, 1982
The Honorable Drew Lewis
Secretary of Transportation
Department of Transportation
Washington, D. C. 20590
C
Dear Mr. Secretary:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has scheduled its annual
dinner honoring Members of Congress for Tuesday, March 30, 1982. This
dinner, which will be held at the Sheraton Washington Hotel at 7 P.M.,
will be preceded by a reception at 6 P.M. Attending this function will
be Members of Congress, government and military leaders, as well as
national and state officers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The total
0
attendance will exceed 2,000 persons.
Highlighting the dinner this year will be the presentation of the Veterans
of Foreign Wars Congressional Award to the Honorable Samuel S. Stratton,
U. S. House of Representatives, for his "outstanding service to our nation."
The influence of Congressman Stratton stems from his reputation for intel-
ligence and expertise. He is, without question, one of the hardest
P
working members of the Congress, who, as you know, has always conducted
D
himself with utmost dignity and, in our opinion, has added much prestige
to the deliberations of the U. S. House of Representatives.
The purpose of this letter is to invite you to attend this annual dinner as
a HEAD TABLE GUEST. Your presence would add much to this important occasion
and I know that Congressman Stratton and the national and state officers
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States would be most pleased
Y
if you are able to attend.
Sincerely,
ARTHUR J. FELLWOCK
National Commander-1n-Chief
V.F.W. MEMORIAL BUILDING 200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E. WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
61
VFW
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
February 5, 1982
The Honorable Richard Schweiker
Secretary of Health and Human Services
Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Ave., S. W.
C
Washington, D. C. 20201
Dear Mr. Secretary:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has scheduled its annual
dinner honoring Members of Congress for Tuesday, March 30, 1982. This
dinner, which will be held at the Sheraton Washington Hotel at 7 P.M.,
will be preceded by a reception at 6 P.M. Attending this function will
be Members of Congress, government and military leaders, as well as
O
national and state officers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The total
attendance will exceed 2,000 persons.
Highlighting the dinner this year will be the presentation of the Veterans
of Foreign Wars Congressional Award to the Honorable Samuel S. Stratton,
U. S. House of Representatives, for his "outstanding service to our nation."
The influence of Congressman Stratton stems from his reputation for intel-
P
D
ligence and expertise. He is, without question, one of the hardest
working members of the Congress, who, as you know, has always conducted
himself with utmost dignity and, in our opinion, has added much prestige
to the deliberations of the U. S. House of Representatives.
The purpose of this letter is to invite you to attend this annual dinner as
a HEAD TABLE GUEST. Your presence would add much to this important occasion
and I know that Congressman Stratton and the national and state officers
Y
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States would be most pleased
if you are able to attend.
Sincerely,
ARTHUR J. FELLWOCK
National Commander-1n-Chief
V.F.W. MEMORIAL BUILDING
200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
61
VFW
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
February 5, 1982
The Honorable Raymond Donovan
Secretary of Labor
Department of Labor
Washington, D. C. 20210
C
Dear Mr. Secretary:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has scheduled its annual
dinner honoring Members of Congress for Tuesday, March 30, 1982. This
dinner, which will be held at the Sheraton Washington Hotel at 7 P.M.,
will be preceded by a reception at 6 P.M. Attending this function will
be Members of Congress, government and military leaders, as well as
national and state officers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The total
0
attendance will exceed 2,000 persons.
Highlighting the dinner this year will be the presentation of the Veterans
of Foreign Wars Congressional Award to the Honorable Samuel S. Stratton,
U. S. House of Representatives, for his "outstanding service to our nation."
The influence of Congressman Stratton stems from his reputation for intel-
ligence and expertise. He is, without question, one of the hardest
P
D
working members of the Congress, who, as you know, has always conducted
himself with utmost dignity and, in our opinion, has added much prestige
to the deliberations of the U. S. House of Representatives.
The purpose of this letter is to invite you to attend this annual dinner as
a HEAD TABLE GUEST. Your presence would add much to this important occasion
and I know that Congressman Stratton and the national and state officers
of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States would be most pleased
Y
if you are able to attend.
Sincerely,
ARTHUR J. FELLWOCK
National Commander-1n-Chief
V.F.W. MEMORIAL BUILDING
200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
61
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
September 20, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR BILL HINKLE
FROM:
MORTON BLACKWELL
inth
SUBJECT:
Ohio Veterans Event
I have spoken to Mylio Kraja, Executive Director of the
American Legion's Washington office, and Cooper Holt,
Executive Director of the Veterans of Foreign Wars national
office, regarding the rescheduling of an American Legion
V.F.W. sponsored event in Columbus, Ohio, on Monday, October
4.
Both are optimistic that their national and Ohio organizations
will agree to reschedule this event.
Kraja will get back to me this afternoon. Holt will call
tomorrow morning.
There was a press inquiry to the Communications Office as to
why just these organizations were invited by the White House
to schedule this Presidential event. Our response was that
the President had accepted speaking engagements this summer
at both American Legion and V.F.W. national conventions, but
the President's schedule had to be altered and he was not
able to go to either national convention. Thus we felt it
appropriate to offer the President to these groups.
Presuming that both groups agree to sponsor the October 4
event, their offices will leave it up to their respective
state organizations to determine how other veterans organi-
zations will be involved. So far as the White House is
concerned, this will be jointly sponsored by the American
Legion and V.F.W.
As soon as I hear back from Holt and Kraja, I will notify
your office.
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
V
OF
VETERANI
P
DIRECTOR
F
STATE
A
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Cooper T. Holt
Ted C. Connell, Texas, Chairman
THE
UNITED
John Stang, Kansas
TREASURER
W
C
Earl Muse, West Virginia
Al Poteet
Ray Gallagher, South Dakota
Charles Kinney, New Jersey
POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE
Ernest Stratychuk, Michigan
May 6, 1982
TO:
BOARD OF DIRECTORS VFW-PAC, NATIONAL OFFICERS, NATIONAL
COUNCIL MEMBERS, PAST COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF, STATE
COMMANDERS, STATE SR. VICE COMMANDERS, STATE JR. VICE
COMMANDERS, STATE ADJUTANTS, STATE QUARTERMASTERS,
STATE VFW PUBLICATIONS, NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE,
NATIONAL SECURITY & FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE, VFW-PAC
COORDINATORS, LADIES AUXILIARY PAC COORDINATORS, STATE
LADIES AUXILIARY PRESIDENTS AND NATIONAL LADIES AUXILIARY
OFFICERS
FROM:
COOPER T. HOLT, DIRECTOR, VFW POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE
SUBJECT: UNSOLICITED ARTICLE REGARDING OUR POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE
The enclosed article, extremely complimentary of our VFW Political Action Committee,
was lead article in the "Campaign People," a national newsletter, published weekly
for individuals and groups participating in America's political campaigns.
The author, Christopher J. Daley, in my opinion, has a very good handle on our
VFW political action commitments. The article was extremely well written and con-
veys a message that should be called to the attention of every VFW and Auxiliary
member in your state. We would certainly appreciate your cooperation in conveying
this message to all with whom you come in contact.
In order to be successful in the 1982 Federal elections your VFW-PAC must have
more members and certainly more contributors. This, you can help us accomplish
with very little effort. --Speak favorably of your PAC and send your contributions
today.
Remember, your VFW-PAC is the only way to go. We must keep our friends in
the Congress.
Sincerely yours,
Cooper COOPER T. HOLT
Director, VFW-PAC
CTH/ket
Enclosure
Suite 201
200 Maryland Avenue, N.E.
Washington, D.C. 20002-5799
Copy of our report is filed with the Federal Election Commission and is available for purchase from the Federal Election Commission, Wash., D.C.
Campaign
People
The national newsletter for people in America's campaign industry
VOLUME 1 NUMBER 4
APRIL 19,1982
INDEX
VFW'S PAC: A SLEEPING GIANT?
VFW PAC...P. 1.
In the summer of 1979, meeting at their annual con-
vention, members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars endorsed
New Jersey's 9th C.D,
the creation of a political action committee.
Bob Torricelli P. 3.
That move, by one of the country's largest veteran
Democratic Party
organizations, sent shockwaves through the political commu-
Conference...P. 4.
nity. It meant that the nation's more than 30 million vet-
erans were moving beyond their traditional role of letter
Arkansas Governor's
writing and lobbying and into a more direct involvement in
race P. 4.
the electoral process. The VFW, with more that 1.9 million
members, backed by an auxiliary of 660,000 wives and mothers,
Assorted Notes
is the second largest national veteran group. Though their
P. 6
PAC is now close to three years old, it is slowly growing
into what soon may be one of the more formidable PAC's in
Signing on Signing
the country.
Off P. 8.
A1 Poteet, VFW PAC Treasurer, explains that the VFW PAC
is still very much in the organizational process and is
purposely not developing at an accelerated rate. Poteet notes
that the VFW is taking this task "one step at a time", be-
cause of the necessity to educate the membership as to the
role that the PAC will play, as well as the criteria that will
go into the political endorsements.
While the VFW membership shares the common background of
past military service, the fact is that these men and women
now cover the entire spectrum of society. They include blue
collar workers, white collar professionals and military
retirees. Many members are diehard Republicans or Democrats
and hold strong partisan feelings. For these reasons, the
VFW's PAC educational process is quite thorough with strong
emphasis on the fact that the PAC limits its political en-
dorsements to the area of legislation dealing with national
security and continuation of veteran benefits.
Copyright 1982 by CAMPAC PUBLICATIONS, INC., 306 A Street, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20003.
Published bi-weekly. One year $69. Half year $45. Reproduction by any means is prohibited. Quotation is permitted as long as the source is given.
Christopher J. Daly, Editor and Publisher.
-2-
Getting the message to an organization with a membership as large and di-
verse as the VFW's has not been easy. The members were originally introduced
to the PAC via the VFW MAGAZINE. This initial exposure was followed up with
direct mail (though they have yet to reach all of the members), speakers working
the VFW circuit, and exposure at state and national conventions and meetings.
A network of PAC coordinators in each state will eventually serve to facilitate
the flow of information and contributions. This same network will also be used
to build up a "volunteer" organization which may eventually be used to back money
with manpower in various campaigns across the country.
In 1980, the Veterans of Foreign Wars PAC backed President Reagan in the
Presidential race, as well as 250 individual candidates in House and Senate contests.
These endorsements were accompanied by total contributions of close to $250,000.
The endorsement process is quite cut and dried but as Poteet says, "it's pretty
fair." The Board of Directors of the VFW (which makes all of the decisions re-
garding the PAC) choose some 14 key votes involving veteran or national security
issues. The staff then plugs the issues into their computer and matches them
against the incumbent legislator's voting record. Those members of Congress who
score a 60% favorable rating get an automatic endorsement. Those who fall below
the magic number find that their opponents are soon solicited for their views on
the same issues. The endorsement does not always guarantee a check, but the odds
are quite favorable that the VFW's "friends" will find some assistance with their
campaigns. Too date, the VFW PAC has refrained from any endorsements in primary
contests.
The latest quarterly report filed with the Federal Elections Commission showed
that the VFW PAC has more than $170,000 in cash on hand as of March 1st. Consider-
ing that their major fundraising push is still ahead, Poteet has little doubt
that they will match, and hopefully far surpass, their 1980 activity.
A1 Poteet came to his position as treasurer of the VFW PAC after six years in
the organization's legislative office. He still serves under Cooper T. Holt, the
VFW's longtime Capitol Hill lobbyist who also serves as Executive Director of the
VFW PAC.
The slow development of the VFW PAC thus far has been very well planned in
assuring a stronger, more viable PAC in the long run. If the VFW PAC increases its
contributions to candidates this year by only 50% it will probably join the FEC
list of the "Top Ten Trade/Membership/Health PAC Contributors" quite soon. How
quickly it takes for the VFW membership to realize their clout, and how quickly
their PAC moves to the top of that list, is only a matter of time.
It is worth noting that the Veterans of Foreign Wars is the only major
veterans organization with a political action committee. The American Legion,
with more than 2.7 million members and a million member women's auxiliary is
chartered by Congress and as a result they are precluded from partisan political
activity. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) has more than 650,000 members
but has yet to organize them politically.
Further information: Mr. A1 Poteet, Treasurer, VFW Political Action Committee,
200 Maryland Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002 202/543-2239
VFW
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 5, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR ELIZABETH H. DOLE
THRU:
DIANA LOZANO
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL m
SUBJECT:
Cooper Holt attack at Bob Nimmo
Last week in testimony before Senator Alan Simpson's Veterans
Affairs Committee Cooper Holt, Executive Director of the VFW's
Washington office, expressed displeasure with the conduct of the
Veterans Administration Administrator Robert Nimmo and suggested
Nimmo should resign.
Mr. Nimmo called immediately to alert me on this, and I was able
to take the matter up with VFW officials during the course of
the VFW mid-winter conference.
It appears that this is a matter of personal pique with Holt;
it does not respresent other high VFW officers. There has been
no move toward a condemnation of Mr. Nimmo by any national VFW
governing group.
Cooper told me that his problem with Mr. Nimmo arises from a visit
between them when Mr. Nimmo took umbrage over a letter which
Cooper had written to him.
Considering the strong assurances I received from others in the
VFW hierarchy, it appears that Holt is at least for the time
being alone in his complaint against Bob Nimmo.
I'll keep on top of this and try to help restore cordiality.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 18, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR FLO RANDOLPH
FROM:
MORTON BLACKWELL
SUBJECT:
Meeting of Veterans Groups
with Mr. Meese
The executive directors of the three
largest veterans groups have requested
a meeting with Ed Meese regarding their
dissatisfaction with the Administration's
handling of veterans' affairs. They
are Mylio Kraja, American Legion;
Cooper Holt, Veterans of Foreign Wars;
Gabby Hartnett, Disabled American Veterans
I understand the coming week is impossible
but would appreciate having them scheduled
as soon as possible. They represent large
constituencies which have been largely
supportive of the President.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (file
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
WASHINGTON, D.C.
20210
March 23, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR: Morton C. Blackwell
Special Assistant to the President
FROM:
Susan L. Summerall
Special Assistant to the Secretary
Suie
SUBJECT:
Veterans of Foreign Wars Dinner
Regarding your memorandum of March 15th, I must regretfully
tell you that I was unable to accept the invitation for Secretary
Donovan to attend the Veterans of Foreign Wars Annual Dinner
on March 30th.
I was called by Jim Ciccone in the Chief of Staff's Office
and requested to have the Secretary speak on that same
evening in Philadelphia to a meeting of the U. S. Conference
of Mayors on the President's "New Federalism" program.
I have extended the Secretary's best wishes to them, and
also explained what his conflict is. Thanks for your interest,
and I hope we can do it next year!
05 FEB 1982
THE WHITE HOUSE
merille
WASHINGTON
February 4, 1982
MEMORANDUM FOR EDWIN MEESE III
off
FROM:
ELIZABETH H. DOLE
SUBJECT:
VFW Washington Conference Invitation
March 29, 1982
I strongly urge you to accept an invitation you received from
VFW National Commander-in-Chief, Art Fellwock, inviting you to
speak at their annual D.C. meeting, March 29, 1982 (copy
attached).
As you may recall, the VFW broke precedent by endorsing Presi-
dent Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover, they endorsed and
fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts last year. This was
the first time the VFW has taken a major role in issues not
primarily defense or VA-oriented.
It is significant that, in the fights for both the budget cuts
and the tax cuts, the decisions of the 1.7 million-member VFW
to support the President were followed immediately by support
from the 2.6 million-member American legion.
Your appearance is very important to the VFW. They will give
you a great welcome and be a very receptive audience.
Attachment
Char -
This is a YES.
glad to help.
M.
1/2
05 FEB 1982
moston
THE WHITE HOUSE
merille
WASHINGTON
the FYI
February 4, 1982
yes
MEMORANDUM FOR EDWIN MEESE III
$
FROM:
ELIZABETH H. DOLE
SUBJECT:
VFW Washington Conference Invitation
March 29, 1982
I strongly urge you to accept an invitation you received from
VFW National Commander-in-Chief, Art Fellwock, inviting you to
speak at their annual D.C. meeting, March 29, 1982 (copy
attached).
As you may recall, the VFW broke precedent by endorsing Presi-
dent Reagan in the 1980 campaign. Moreover, they endorsed and
fought for our budget cuts and tax cuts last year. This was
the first time the VFW has taken a major role in issues not
primarily defense or VA-oriented.
It is significant that, in the fights for both the budget cuts
and the tax cuts, the decisions of the 1.7 million-member VFW
to support the President were followed immediately by support
from the 2.6 million-member American legion.
Your appearance is very important to the VFW. They will give
you a great welcome and be a very receptive audience.
Attachment
Char -
Thisisa YES.
glad to help.
M.
2/17
10 - 2hrs
, hr
3.30 3:30-1hr , hr
disb-Dium
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 13, 1982
TO:
Charlotte Ellis
FROM:
Morton Blackwell
RE:
Ladies Auxiliary to the V.F.W.
I strongly recommend that Mrs. Dole accept
the invitation.
During both the budget cuts and tax cut
battles, the V.F.W. decision to support
was the key to the immediate subsequent
decision of the American Legion to follow
suit.
We have just succeeded in getting a short
private meeting between the American Legion
National Commander and the President.
It is therefore very important that this
office go out of its way to accomodate
reasonable requests of the V.F.W., the
other giant veterans organization.
Ladies Auxiliary to the V.F.W.
OF THE UNITED STATES
January 4, 1981
TO: marton/Disce 1/9'
Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
Assistant to the President
PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR RECOMMENDATION/
for Public Liaison
COMMENTS ON THE FOLLOWING REQUEST
White House
RETURN TO CHARLOTTE BY 1/12
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mrs. Dole:
Our Patriotic organization of over 658,000 members AGAIN requests the
opportunity of honoring you as an OUTSTANDING AMERICAN at our National
Convention in the Los Angeles Civic Center, Tuesday morning, August 17
presenting to you our special "UNITED AMERICAN" AWARD.
Last year, due to a prior commitment, plus the illness of your mother-in-law,
you were unable to participate in our National Convention.
Our National President, Mrs. Marion Watson of Louisville, Kentucky, admires
your many projects and programs that UNITE AMERICANS in all walks of life, and
strengthen our Country.
We would also hope that you would address our members at this
Convention. Super doers in their communities, cities, and states, they
represent women from all over the nation, plus members in France,
Germany, Taiwan, Guam, Japan, Panama -- all races, ages, and creeds --
all PATRIOTIC AMERICANS!
Members include lawyers, restaurant operators, accountants, homemakers,
teachers, secretaries, office workers, nurses, newspaper reporters,
artists, elected county, state, and city officials -- a great cross
section of America.
We know that your message will enthuse, inspire, and motivate our members to
continue to STAND UNITED FOR AMERICA!
Over 3,000 members will be present to salute you as you are escorted to the
platform with colors. We will, of course, provide first class air transportation.
hotel suite, etc. We certainly hope you will say YES! It will be an HONOR
to HONOR YOU!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Glenn Grossman,
National Secretary-Treasurer
GG:rw
CC- Marion Watson, National President
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, 406 W. 34TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO. 64111
File
MEMORANDUM
UFW
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 9,1981
TO:
Elizabeth H. Dole
FROM: Morton C. Blackwell
MB
RE:
Additional Support on AWACS
Attached are two concrete examples, from the Veterans of Foreign
Wars and the Non Commissioned Officers Association, of results
from our AWACS briefing on October 6.
General Milnor Roberts has asked for a list of all the attendees
at that briefing. He intends to work with them in the time
available to convince the Senate to approve the sale. You may
remember that General Robert's organization, the Reserve Officers
Association was the first of the military and veterans organizations
to take a leadership role on behalf of the AWACS sale.
NATIONAL CAPITAL OFFICE
NON COMMISSIONED OFFICERS ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
STRENGTH IN UNITY
110 Maryland Ave., N.E., Suite 304
Box 43
Telephone (202) 546-7891
Washington, D.C. 20002
546-7892
October 8, 1981
Dear Senator:
The Non Commissioned Officers Association of the USA (NCOA), representing
more than 250,000 members, is convinced that the sale of the AWACS
(Airborne Warning and Control Systems) aircraft is in the best interest
of national defense.
The Association has been reluctant to give its undivided support to the
sale because it shared some of the concerns expressed by many members of
the Senate and House. However, recent developments, coupled with the
situation existing in the Middle East since 1978, have overshadowed the
controversy demonstrating the need to move forward on the sale.
The United States has realigned its forces to provide permanent defense
capability in that strategic area. It is imperative that we have full
and equal participation with the Saudis in our efforts to maintain secu-
rity in the region and, at the same time, recognize Saudi Arabian sovereign
interest in their own defense as we have done for the Israelis.
The Association believes the President is offering the proper solution by
providing the Saudis with their own defense cap bility- one that insures
U.S. presence for some years yet to come. This can be done without jeop-
ardizing the security of the State of Israel. Most importantly, it will
offer the United States prepositioned facilities, equipment and weapons
systems in the event our interests are openly threatened requiring the
interdiction of U.S. Forces.
The Association urges your favorable consideration of the sale and extends
appreciation for your commitment to an adequate defense of the United
States and its vital interests abroad.
Sincerely,
Richard W. Johnson, Jr.
National Legislative Director
International Headquarters
NCO ASSOCIATION
USA
USM
P.O. Box 33610
San Antonio, Texas 78233
USA!
USED
(512) 653-6161
USCG
NEWS
Release
THE
I
I
Washington Memorial Building
Telephone
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
202-543-2239
200 Maryland Avenue, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002
"THE VOICE OF TWO AND ONE HALF MILLION MEN AND WOMEN OF THE V.EW. AND ITS AUXILIARY"
FOR RELEASE:
IMMEDIATELY
(7 OCTOBER 1981)
VFW TERMS AWACs SALE A "POLICY IMPERATIVE"
WASHINGTON, D. C. -- "Following the shocking, brutal assassination of President Sadat
it should be as clear to the 97th U. S. Congress, as it is to us, that a body of 535
individuals is spectacularly ill-equipped to 'fine-tune' American foreign policy
initiatives in a turbulent and unpredictable world.
"I now describe the AWACs sale, which I earlier supported on a narrower basis,
as a policy imperative and I urge the Congress to approve it promptly and by a generous
margin."
Arthur Fellwock, VFW National Commander, continued by citing the following factors
as adding up to a policy imperative on AWACs:
"(a) the clear need to extend clear support to a moderate Arab regime--Saudi
Arabia--in the wake of the loss of Anwar el-Sadat, our best Arab friend;
"(b) the ungrudging support for the AWACs sale by all three living ex-Presidents,
all six living ex-Secretaries of Defense, all five living ex-Presidential National
Security advisors, two former Secretaries of State, and all three living former
Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shows the wide, bi-partisan support for this
national security initiative; and, finally
"(c) a short two days before his death, President Sadat warned of a Libyan plan
to invade the Sudan as part of a larger Soviet scheme to control the oil-rich Middle
East. President Sadat termed the 36,500 Communist Bloc troops in Libya and Ethiopia
PAGE 2
a Soviet 'Rapid Deployment Force' in place for use in the Persian Gulf, North Africa
or the Horn of Africa.
"Surely," Mr. Fellwock concluded, "this is no time for America to wobble or falter
as we seek to build an area-wide strategic consensus to halt further Soviet encroachment.
"The AWACs sale was important before President Sadat's passing; it is an inescapable
strategic necessity today."
-30-
File/
MEMORANDUM
Junell H recep
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
for W. econ supportan
TO:
JACK BURGESS
FROM:
MORTON BLACKWELL
RE:
White House reception June 11, 1981
The V.F.W. has requested that we issue an additional
invitation for Cooper Holt, Executive Director, to attend
the reception on Thursday evening.
Holt and National Commander Fellwock, who has been invited,
are travelling together on V.F.W. business at this time.
I strongly recommend that we do make an exception in
this case and invite Holt.
The V.F.W. was the first Veterans group to break ranks
and support the President's Bipartisan Budget Resolution.
Cooper Holt's date of birth is August 3, 1924
and his social security number is 415-14-0541.
Thankyou.
OK
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
SCHEDULE PROPOSAL
JUNE 2, 1981
TO:
GREGORY J. NEWELL, DIRECTOR PRESIDENTIAL
APPOINTMENTS AND SCHEDULING
FROM:
ELIZABETH H. DOLE
REQUEST:
5 minute meeting for presentation
PURPOSE:
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is
the only veterans organization with a political
action committee which supported the President's
candidacy for President of the U.S. in 1980.
This was totally unprecedented.
BACKGROUND:
The VFW has 1.9 million members. They were
the first veterans group to come over to
support the Reagan Bi Partisan Budget in the
House.
PREVIOUS
PARTICIPATION:
President Reagan has spoken often before 1980
to VFW meetings. He made a drop-by at the VIP
reception prior to the VFW national banquet in
March, 1981. But he did not appear at the
banquet.
DATE: July17
June 3 or 4
DURATION: 5 minutes
(VFW Commander Fellwock will only be in town
June 3 and 4)
LOCATION:
OVAL OFFICE
PARTICIPANTS:
Arthur Fellwock, National Commander of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
Cooper T. Holt, Executive Director, Washington
Office
OUTLINE OF EVENT:
Presentation of Lladro porcelain sculpture of
elephants and handshake
REMARKS REQUIRED:
Thank you for sculpture and continued support
MEDIA COVERAGE:
Photo of presentation
RECOMMENDED BY:
Dr. Donald Custis, Acting V. A. Administrator
OPPOSED BY:
PROJECT OFFICER:
Morton C. Blackwell
VFW
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WASHINGTON OFFICE
July 2, 1981
Mr. James Baker, III
Chief of Staff and
Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mr. Baker:
My office has been working with Mrs. Dole's office trying to arrange an
appointment for our National Commander in Chief, Arthur Fellwock, to
meet with President Reagan at his convenience. For reasons cannot
understand, that request has not been forthcoming,
I am sure you realize, Mr. Baker, our organization's Political Action
Committee endorsed President Reagan last July when things were not as
certain as they are today. Incidentally, we were the only veterans
organization to do so In addition, our organization took the lead so
far as veterans organizations go in endorsing the Gramm-Latta Budget
Amendment in the House of Representatives.
Finally, at a time when a few. Vietnam Veterans are receiving much news
media coverage demanding to see the President, it would appear to me
it would be good politics for the President to see a national veterans
organization leader whose membership presently boasts over one half
million Vietnam veterans.
Your cooperation in obtaining this request would certainly be appreciated.
I may be reached by phone at 543-2239.
Sincerely yours,
Copn COOPER T. HOLT
Executive Director
CTH:nlp
V.F.W. MEMORIAL BUILDING
200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20002
VETCKANS
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
7 July 1981
Dear Mr. Holt:
Thank you for your letter of 2 July 1981 to Mr. Meese,
informing us that you are working with Mrs. Dole's office to
try to arrange an appointment for your National Commander-
in-Chief, Arthur Fellwock, to meet with President Reagan.
We have checked with the President's scheduling office and
was informed that your request for an appointment with the
President has been received and it is presently under
consideration. Also, you will be hearing from their office
shortly, or through Mrs. Dole's office in the very near
future.
It goes without saying that your support of President Reagan
has been outstanding and greatly appreciated. If we can be
of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Swn EDWIN W. THOMAS
Assistant Counsellor
to the President
Mr. Cooper T. Holt
Executive Director
Veterans of Foreign Wars
of the United States
V.F.W. Memorial Building
200 Maryland Avenue, N.E.
Washington, D. C. 20002
JULOBREED
VFW
7 JUL 1981
ET
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WASHINGTON OFFICE
July 2, 1981
Mr. Edwin Meese, III
Counsellor to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mr. Meese:
My office has been working with Mrs. Dole's office trying to arrange an
appointment for our National Commander-in-Chief, Arthur Fellwock, to
meet with President Reagan at his convenience. For reasons I cannot
understand, that request has not been forthcoming.
I am sure you realize, Mr. Meese, our organization's Political Action
Committee endorsed President Reagan last July when things were not as
certain as they are today. Incidentally, we were the only veterans
organization to do so. In addition, our organization took the lead so
far as veterans organizations go in endorsing the Gramm-Latta Budget
Amendment in the House of Representatives.
Finally, at a time when a few Vietnam Veterans are receiving much news
media coverage demanding to see the President, it would appear to me
it would be good politics for the President to see a national veterans
organization leader whose membership presently boasts over. one half
million Vietnam veterans.
Your cooperation in obtaining this request would certainly be appreciated.
I may be reached by phone at 543-2239.
Sincerely yours,
Copin
COOPER T. HOLT
Executive Director
CTH:nlp
V.F.W. MEMORIAL BUILDING
200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20002
Office of the
Washington, D.C. 20420
Administrator
of Veterans Affairs
W
Veterans
Administration
JUN 2 1981
THE
Mr. Morton C. Blackwell
Assistant to the President
for Public Liaison
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mr. Blackwell:
We have been advised that Mr. Arthur Fellwock, Commander-in-
Chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, has requested an
appointment with the President in order to present him with
a porcelain elephant sculpture.
As you know, Mr. Fellwock was a strong personal supporter
of the President during the campaign and presently represents
the Veterans of Foreign Wars which for the first time in its
long history took a position in support of a Presidential
candidate.
We think this offers a splendid opportunity for the President
to recognize the support of Mr. Fellwock and, through him,
the support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars during the
campaign. This support has carried forward and was notable
in the recent successful effort to obtain Congressional approval
of the Gramm-Latta compromise.
We strongly urge that Mr. Fellwock's request be honored if
the President's schedule will permit.
Sincerely,
Hew!
DONALD L. CUSTIS, M.D.
Acting Administrator
William Baker
11504 Dundee Drive
Mitchellville, Maryland 20716
(Scott)
chese K three 3/7/82
Mrs. Marion Watson
President
Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW
3302 Allison Way
Louisville, Kentucky 40220
(Marion)
Arthur J. Fellwock, Commander-in-Chief
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U. S.
2825 South Court Drive
Evansville, Indiana 47711
(Art)
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 3, 1982
TO:
PHOTO OFFICE
FROM: MAISELLE SHORTLEY/room 191 OEOB
I would appreciate obtaining three
copies of picture # 31MA82 C 7157-16,
as soon as possible.
Thank you for your help once again.
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
OF
DEPARTMENT
WARS
THE
DEPARTMENT
UNITED
THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
April 29, 1982
Mr. Morton Blackwell
Special Assistant
to the President
Office of Public Liaison
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mort:
I certainly would appreciate your kindness in having these pictures autographed and
mailed to the individuals I have identified with a 3x5 card.
Also, Mort, if possible, I would like to obtain three more of the same pictures and
have them autographed for the following individuals:
Mrs. Norma Fellwock (lady in red dress)
2825 South Court Drive
Evansville, Indiana 47711
sent
(Norma)
James R. Currieo (gentleman behind VOD winner)
Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief, VFW
5/12
P. O. Box H
Fort Huachuca, Arizona 85613
(Bob)
Clifford G. Olson, Jr. (gentleman on far left of picture)
Jr. Vice Commander-in-Chief, VFW
1019 Morton Street
Mattapan, Massachusetts 02126
(Cliff)
Your cooperation regarding this request will certainly be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Caper COOPER T. HOLT
Executive Director
CTH/ket
WASHINGTON OFFICE
MEMORANDUM
file
THE WHITE HOUSE
- voling gove "Ja January
WASHINGTON
VFW
1981
MEMORANDUM FOR ELIZABETH H. DOLE
THRU:
DIANA LOZANO Tyana
FROM:
MORTON C. BLACKWELL
MB
SUBJECT:
American Legion and V.F.W. Problems
I received a call today from Mylio Kraja asking about
appointments to the American Battle Monuments Commission.
You will recall that I forwarded through you the names of
Mylio Kraja of the American Legion and Cooper Holt of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars, both of whom had this commission
as their first choice when I contacted them about boards
and commissions per your request.
We received today, after my call from Mylio Kraja, the
attached list of the eleven appointees who will fill this
board. Neither Kraja or Holt is on the list.
This morning Kraja told me that it had been traditional
for the Legion and other veterans groups to be represented
on this commission. The previous American Legion representative
was informed recently of his termination.
The failure of this office to obtain board or commission
appointments for any of the people we recommend through
channels is made more conspicuous because we asked supporters
in our constituency groups for their preferences.
This situation is exacerbated by the fact that we have just bumped
off the commission the past National Commander of the American
Legion, Alfred P. Chamie. Chamie was first appointed in November of
1971. I am told that he was chief counsel to the movie industry.
He was also next door neighbor to the Reagans in California.
I am taking it upon myself to have Mike Farrell recommend an
appropriate commission now for Chamie. Farrell had offered a
slot on an advisory commission to the VA Administrator but
Chamie was not interested.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
(Los Angeles, California)
For Immediate Release
December 29, 1981
The President today announced his intention to appoint the
following individuals to be Members of the American Battle
Monuments Commission:
FRANCIS J. BAGNELL, is Resident Manager of Fahnestock & Company
(investment bankers) in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania. ile was
Senior Vice Président, New York Stock Exchange, in 1967-70.
ESTHER "KITTY" BRADLEY, is an author and television writer.
She is the widow of former General of the Army Omar N. Bradley.
She resides in Los Angeles, California.
GENERAL MARK NAYNE CLARK, U.S. Arny (Retired). He is President
Emeritus of The Citadel filitary College and was Commanding
General of U.S. Armed Forces in the Far East in 1949-52. He
resides in Charleston, South Carolina.
AUDREY O. COOKIAN, was formerly Director of Public Affairs,
Universal Oil Products Company, Des Plaines, Illinois. He
is currently retired and resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
REXFORD C. EARLY, is Sccretary-Treasurer, nid-States Engineering
Company, Indianapolis, Indiana. lie resides in Indianapolis,
Indiana.
WILLIAM E. HICKEY, is an attorney in Quincy, Massachusetts,
specializing in Real Estate Law and Estate Planning and Probate
Law. He resides in Quincy, Nassachusetts.
ARMISTEAD JONES FAUPIN, is Senior Partner, Maupin, Taylor &
Ellis (attorneys) in Raleigh, North Carolina. Lie resides in
Raleigh, North Carolina.
JOHN c. MCDONALD, is Senior Partner, McDonald, Keller & Brown
(attorneys) in Dallas Center, Iowa. Ile resides in Dallas Center,
Iowa.
FREDA J. POUNDSTONE, is a homemaker in Englewood, Colorado.
She is an active Republican and was involved in the Reagan
for President Campaign in 1980.
HAJOR GENERAL EDWIN BLISS WHEELER, U.S. Marine Corps (Retired).
He was Deputy Secretary of Health and Welfare, State of
California, in 1972-74. He resides in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
LAURENCE A. MRIGHT, is Senior Partner, Gravel, Shea & Nright,
Ltd. in Burlington, Vermont. lie resides in South Burlington,
Vermont.
###
( VETERANS)
12.
NAME
POSITION APPLIED FOR
STATUS
BACKGROUND
Holt, Cooper
American Battle Monuments;
Executive Director of the Veterans of
Wash., D. C.
Air and Space Museum;
Foreign Wars, the largest of all the
Intelligence Oversight Board
veterans' organizations and supporter
Advisory Board
of the President during the campaign.
He issued a formal endorsement of the
budget resolution and worked actively
on its passage and has been supportive
of the tax package.
Kraja, Mylio
American Battle Monuments;
Subjt be hard
Executive Director of the Washington
Wash., D. C.
Armed Forces Museum Advisory Bd.;
office of the American Legion, one of
Air & Space Museum Advisory Bd.
the largest of the veterans organiza
tions. He issued a formal endorsement
of the budget resolution and worked
actively on its passage and has been
supportive of the tax package. He has
been very cooperative & testified in
favor of the VA Administrator,
R. Nimmo.
Graham, Daniel O.
Strategy Council
Heads a PAC and works with American
(Lt. Gen'l)
Security Council, the largest pro-
Wash., D. C.
defense lobby. Former head of
Defense Intelligence Agency.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 29, 1981
Presidential Personnel
1. National Transportation Safety Board
- J. J. O'Donnell of ALPA requests, in October 20 letter,
assurance that NTSB will have some membership based on
aviation experience and technical expertise.
- Elizabeth Dole, in October 30 memo to Pen James
endorses O'Donnell request and asks sensitivity to his
concerns, as a loyal supporter of the President.
- Press release of December 1 announces nomination of
Eugene Lipp, individual with no apparent aviation
experience/technical expertise. No advance notification
made regarding this nomination.
2. Ken Moffett
- Announcement made that Moffett, a Carter Democrat, will
head Federal Mediation and Reconciliation Service.
- Confusion ensues as to whether this is temporary or
permanent appointment.
- No advance notice of appointment.
- Labor supporters upset at announcement, particularly
without prior notification.
3. Arthur Flemming
- Merits of Flemming loyalties/qualifications completely
lost in method used in replacing him.
- Staff telephone call advising him he was being dismissed.
- Irrespective of reasons, Flemming is a Republican who had
served seven Presidents.
4. Nita Gibson
- President of W.I.F.E. (Women Involved in Farm Economics).
- Has been in "pipeline" for months regarding possible appointment
(either full time or board/commission).
- When OPL called to inquire on status prior to EHD's
trip to W.I.F.E. Covention, OPP had no record of Gibson;
were informed she was "lost in the computer."
2
5. Robert Godoy
- Have been telling him he would be appointed to
something, based on information received from OPP and
his GOP background.
- Godoy was, in fact, slated for board of "Radio Marti"
but removed from consideration to satisfy Cuban American
community.
- Notation on OPP board/commission list indicated Godoy
will not be considered for any appointment.
Also
- Complete lack of follow-through. Never know what
happens to recommendations after we make them.
- Also, never notified in advance of appointments so
we can comment/notify key constituents.
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
OF
THE
STATE
UNITED
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR
TO:
NATIONAL OFFICERS, NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION, PAST COMMANDERS-IN-CHIEF,
DEPARTMENT COMMANDERS, DEPARTMENT ADJUTANTS, DEPARTMENT PUBLICATIONS, NATIONAL
SECURITY COMMITTEE
FROM:
PHELPS JONES, DIRECTOR
NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
DATE:
8 FEBRUARY 1983
SUBJECT: THE DEFENSE BUDGET: THE "CRUNCH" IS NOW
"It has never ceased to amaze me that the same Senators who stand
on the floor and argue against increases for defense are just as
likely to call me aside and ask for my personal support for
projects or programs of interest in their states.
"Never in my 22 years in the Senate have I received a recommendation
from any member for a reduction in defense spending from a program
or facility located in his own state.
"But perhaps that's because I've never asked. Today I'm asking."
-- Senator John G. Tower (Texas), Chairman
Senate Armed Services Committee and
1983 VFW Congressional Award Honoree
la. The unblinkable fact of the matter is that when Defense Secretary Weinberger presented
the President's Fiscal Year 1984 defense budget to the Senate Armed Services Committee on
January 31st, he walked into a veritable firestorm of dissent from both sides of the aisle.
Even such a defense stalwart as Senator John Warner (Va.) called for a 5 - 7% cut in the
size of the active duty force -- a 100,000 to 140,000 decrease, not the 37,000 increase
called for by the President. Michigan Senator Carl Levin put it bluntly, "the issue is
not whether we're going to cut this defense budget but where and by how much."
b. Here is what Secretary "Cap" Weinberger requested for the year ahead:
(1) $238.6 billion in spending for FY 1984, up $29.7 billion over FY 1983 -- an increase
of 14.2%;
(2) the military share of the total federal budget would rise to 28% from 25.9%;
(3) defense spending, as a percentage of the Gross National Product (GNP), rises from 5.4%
(FY 1982) through 6.5% this year (FY 1983) to 6.8% in the new budget request; in sum, an
increase of about one-third in defense spending since President Reagan took office two years
ago.
WASHINGTON OFFICE
VFW MEMORIAL BUILDING
200 MARYIAND AVENUE. N.F.
WASHINGTON
2
C. The reasons for the dissent on the size of the defense budget are, of course, the
poor state of the economy and the resultant cuts in non-defense spending.
(1) DEFICITS: the deficit will hit a record $208 billion for the current fiscal year,
almost twice the $111 billion of last year. In fiscal 1984, the deficit is projected at
$189 billion and falls to $118 billion in fiscal 1988, assuming passage of the President's
proposed spending cuts and tax increases;
(2) REDUCTIONS: a package of 1984 spending cuts, including $19 billion from a spending
and pay freeze, $8 billion less than the President originally proposed for the military,
and another $19 billion in so-called structural reforms, including the proposed payroll
tax increases and cost-of-living delays for Social Security, cuts in Medicade and Medicare
benefits and a new tax on health insurance provided to employees. From 1984 through 1988,
the Administration estimates this package will save a total of $558 billion.
With the freeze on non-military domestic spending, some programs, including the subsidy
for the Post Office, mass transit and Amtrak grants, and energy research and development,
will be cut to below their 1983 spending levels.
2. What will the new defense budget buy? A lot of "high tech" hardware, for certain, and
a slight increase in people:
Active duty military forces are expected to increase to 2,165,000 from the 2,127,000
authorized in the current year. The largest part of the 1.8% increase would go to the
Air Force, which would swell to 613,000 people from 593,000.
Civilian Pentagon employment is expected to rise by about 1.6% to 1,072,000 from
1,056,000 this year.
Here is a listing of proposed spending in fiscal 1984 for the President's major weapons
programs. The figures include funds for procurement and research and development, though
most exclude the cost of related military construction:
MX MISSILE: the budget requests almost $7 billion for this embattled program, despite
continued uncertainty about how the missile will be based. Included in the request is
$2.9 billion for 27 missiles. Congress last year slashed procurement funds for the missile
leaving only enough to build the first five "test" missiles while a bipartisan panel
studies basing alternatives;
B-1 BOMBER: the Air Force seeks more than $6.9 billion for the new strategic bomber pro-
gram, up from about $4.8 billion last year. Included in the funding would be almost
$6.2 billion for building 10 of the planes, as well as about $750 million in development
funds. Plans call for buying seven in the current fiscal year;
TRIDENT MISSILE SUBMARINE: the Navy proposes spending $2.5 billion on the program and
building one of these huge, nuclear-powered submarines. It had sought money for two this
year, but Congress cut funds for one. The Navy also seeks $596.7 million for 43 of the
Trident I missiles, which submarines fire.
In addition, the Navy is asking for $1.5 billion for further development of the new
Trident II missile. The Navy plans to put the new, more accurate missile on the new sub-
marine for which it is seeking fiscal 1984 funds, as well as on two Trident submarines
previously authorized by Congress.
3
CRUISE MISSILE: the budget allocates about $1.2 billion to develop and buy air, sea and
ground-launched versions of this low-flying missile. That total is down from about
$1.5 billion being spent on the programs this year, largely because the current air-
launched version is being phased out. Plans for the sea-launched program also are being
scaled back;
PERSHING II MISSILE: funds for the Pershing program will fall slightly in the new budget
as the Pentagon completes development of this medium-range nuclear weapon designed for
use in Europe. The Army seeks $456.4 million for the Pershing program, including
$434.6 million to buy 95 of the missiles and $22.8 million for development costs. This
year, the Army asked for a total of $589.6 million for 91 of the missiles;
B-52 BOMBER MODERNIZATION: to improve the engines and electronics systems of B-52s and
equip them to carry cruise missiles, the Air Force plans to spend $719.5 million, up from
$621.8 million this year;
F-16 FIGHTER: the Air Force proposes acquiring 120 of these jets, the same as planned
for this year. The total budget of the program would be $2.2 billion, slightly less than
the $2.3 billion planned for this year;
F-15 FIGHTER: the new budget shows the Air Force is slowing down its earlier plans for
purchases of these planes. The Air Force is asking for more than $2.2 billion to buy 48
of the aircraft; it had once planned to seek 60 of the planes in the new budget. The
Air Force is spending about $1.6 billion for 39 planes this year. Current programs call
for buying 408 F-15s by fiscal 1988, and the Pentagon said it plans to continue buying
the jet into the early 1990s;
C-5 CARGO PLANE: the new budget includes funds for four of these huge transports, as well
as additional money to strengthen the wings of existing C-5s. The Air Force seeks
$1.4 billion for the new planes, up from $803 million being spent this year to revive the
program and buy one plane. The Air Force has signed a contract to buy 50 new C-5в
eventually. The new budget also includes a request for $26.8 million to continue research
into a new airlift plane called the C-17;
The Air Force also is seeking $349.3 million to pay for modifications to strengthen the
wings of 24 C-5s built in years past, up from $297.6 million being spent for that purpose
this year;
KC-10 CARGO PLANE: the Air Force wants $813 million to buy eight of these military
versions of the DC-10 jumbo jet in fiscal 1984. The Air Force also is buying eight this
fiscal year;
AWACS RADAR PLANE: the budget does not call for the Pentagon to acquire any of these
airborne warning and control system planes in fiscal 1984, although the Air Force had
earlier planned to buy one. But the Pentagon still plans to buy 12 of these surveillance
aircraft, at a rate of three a year, beginning in fiscal 1985. Thus, the new budget
contains $145.3 million in funds for the AWACS program. In the current fiscal year, the
Air Force is buying two AWACS planes for $216.5 million;
F-18 FIGHTER-BOMBER: the Navy wants almost $2.8 billion to buy 84 of these fighter and
attack jets. That request is up from $2.6 billion being spent for 84 planes in fiscal
1983. The Nayy plans to buy 562 of the planes from fiscal 1984 to fiscal 1988;
F-14 FIGHTER: for 24 of these fighters, the Navy seeks about $1.2 billion. It is
budgeted to buy the same number for roughly the same amount of money this year.
4
AV-8B BOMBERS: the Marine Corps wants to spend about $1.2 billion to buy 32 of these
British-designed advanced Harrier bombers. This year, about $1 billion is being spent for
21 of the planes, which can land and take off vertically;
NUCLEAR AIRCRAFT CARRIERS: the Navy is seeking $98.2 million for its nuclear carrier
program. It is spending $6.6 billion 10 the current fiscal year to build two huge Nimitz-
class carriers;
NUCLEAR POWERED ATTACK SUBMARINES: the budget allocates $2.2 billion for three of these
deep-diving vessels. This year, the Navy is spending $1.7 billion and getting two 00
the submarines;
AEGIS CRUISER: the Navy wants three of these air-defense ships for $3.7 billion. Ic is
spending about $3 billion for the same number this year;
BATTLESHIPS: the budget allocates $72 million to continue the Navy's plans to reactivate
four big battleships. One, the New Jersey, was recommissioned last month, and work on a
second, the Iowa, has begun;
M-1 BATTLE TANK: the Army has cut back its plans for M-1 production. It seeks about
$1.8 billion to build 720 of the tanks. It had once planned to buy more than 1,000 M-1s
in fiscal 1984. The Army is spending $2.1 billion to buy 855 of the tanks this fiscal year;
INFANTRY FIGHTING VEHICLES: the Army wants to buy 600 of these armored personnel carriers,
the same number it is buying in the current fiscal year. The budger allocates $877.7
million, down from $920.9 million this year;
AH-64 ATTACK HELICOPTER: the Army has allocated nearly $1.5 billion to buy 112 of these
aircraft. The request is up sharply from this year's plan to spend $928.8 million for
48 AH-64s.
32. As forecast, the new budget does not include even of 4% troop pay raise - let alone
the 7.6% increase originally budgeted.
b. The Department of Defense terms this situation "a one year sacritice" that will be
made up for in next year's budget. Given the bleak economic situation throughout the
country: little impact on recruitment is foreseen. Retention of skilled people could be
another marter.
C. With support of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Senator Tower is proposing a 4% increase
to take effect 00 April 1, 1984 -- a S1% month delay.
Fearless forecast: there will be a pay increase probably along the lines put forward
by Senator Tower.
4a. Two additional factors.
(1) the relentless Soviet drive for military superiority - strategic and cactical
continues undiminished.
Their sullen people are being required to pay the social and economic costs of their
massive arms buildup - and this they continue to do without any organized dissent,
whatever they may think or prefer.
5
(2) It is well when the U. S. FY 1984 Defense budget is described as being "bloated,"
"record breaking," "massive," etc., to put these charges into some perspective over time.
The figures that follow do just this:
ALLOCATION OF FEDERAL BUDGET DOLLARS
THE DECADE OF
1940's 1950's 1960's 1970's 1980's
(1) DEFENSE
PERCENT OF GROSS NATIONAL PRODUCT
17.2
10.1
8.6
6.0
6.9
PERCENT OF FEDERAL BUDGET
55.4
54.5
44.3
29.1
29.0
(2) HUMAN RESOURCES
PERCENT OF GROSS NATIONAL PRODUCT
3.4
4.1
6.0
10.4
11.7
PERCENT OF FEDERAL BUDGET
19.2
22.6
30.2
48.2
49.5
(3) ALL OTHER FUNCTIONS OF FEDERAL
GOVERNMENT
PERCENT OF GROSS NATIONAL PRODUCT
4.4
4.1
4.8
4.4
5.1
PERCENT OF FEDERAL BUDGET
25.4
22.9
25.5
22.7
21.5
The inescapable conclusion that jumps out is that it is "Human Resources" not defense,
that can now be more fairly described as "bloated," "massive," "record breaking," etc.
The bottom line: a scant two years ago there was a clear electoral mandate to re-arm
America. Today that mandate is under sustained assault.
Where does the VFW stand?
First, last, and always, a free, proud, and secure America.
Everything else is in second place; and we mean everything.
Cordially in comradeship,
Pleaps
Phelps Jones, Director
National Security and Foreign Affairs
PJ/mmt
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
OF
OF
THE
STATE
UNITED
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR
STATEMENT OF
DONALD H. SCHWAB, DIRECTOR
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES
BEFORE THE
COMMITTEE ON VETERANS' AFFAIRS
UNITED STATES SENATE
WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR
1984 VETERANS ADMINISTRATION BUDGET
WASHINGTON, D. C.
FEBRUARY 16, 1983
MR. CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE:
Thank you for the privilege of appearing before this distinguished Committee
to present the views of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.
My name is Donald H. Schwab, and it is my privilege to serve the more than
1.9 million men and women of the Veterans of Foreign Wars as their National Legis-
lative Director.
The budget proposed by the President of the United States for the Veterans
Administration is $26.08 billion in budget authority and $25.69 billion in outlays.
Respectively these figures represent an increase of $1.1 billion or 2.89 percent
of the federal budget of $900.1 billion in budget authority and an increase of
$1.3 billion or 3.02 percent of the federal budget of $848.5 billion in outlays.
WASHINGTON OFFICE
VFW MEMORIAL BUILDING
200 MARYLAND AVENUE, N.E.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20002
AREA CODE 202-543-2239
Page 2
Permit me to state at the outset, Mr. Chairman, that in our opinion this pro-
posed budget reconfirms the President's commitment to our nation's veterans as did
his original budget submitted to Congress last year, but rejected by the Budget
Committees of both the Senate and House of Representatives. This is not to say,
however, that certain areas do not cause us concern.
The medical care portion of the budget is $8.07 billion in budget authority,
an increase of $383 million, and $7.98 billion in outlays, an increase of $417 mil-
lion over the current fiscal year. This additional funding provides for an increase
in average employment of 2,306 personnel and raises the staff to patient ratio to
2.27 to 1 overall and in surgical bed sections to 2.97 to 1.
Although medical and prosthetic research at $156 million in budget authority
and $153 million in outlays represents an increase of $1.4 million in budget author-
ity and $1.3-million in outlays, it is regretted that budgetary constraints require
a reduction in average employment of 170 personnel in this most important function.
Beneficiary travel for eligible veterans requiring treatment at VA facilities
would be increased $6 million for a total budget in this area of $91.2 millioma
which should be adequate.
Mr. Chairman, the proposed budget for major and minor construction at $868.2
million in budget authority and $673.6 million in outlays represents an increase
of $319.1 million and $195.5 million respectively which is not only a substantial
increase over the current year but the highest construction budget in the history
of the Veterans Administration. Needless to say, we are delighted that the pro-
posed budget includes funding for an 845 bed replacement hospital in Minneapolis,
Minnesota, substantial modernization of the Biloxi and Gulfport, Mississippi
facilities and nursing care homes of 60 beds at Loma Linda, California, 240 beds
Page 3
at Lyons, New Jersey, 120 beds at Miami, Florida, 120 beds at Northport, New York,
60 beds at Providence, Rhode Island and 120 beds each at San Francisco and West
Los Angeles, California. Not only will this construction remedy an untoward
situation in Minneapolis and alleviate the rapidly increasing need for nursing care
beds, but provide considerable employment in the areas listed.
Mr. Chairman, without question, the most sensitive portion of the proposed
budget is the six month delay in cost-of-living increases in the compensation,
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and pension programs. It is proposed that the
5.1 percent pension increase be delayed until December 1, 1983, and that the 5.1
percent increase in compensation and DIC be deferred until April 1, 1984. In this
one instance the President has asked veterans and their survivors, as all other
beneficiaries of federally funded programs, to make this sacrifice and contribu-
tion to curbing the escalating annual deficit now projected at $188.8 billion for
the fiscal year 1984. These delayed cost-of-living increases will, without question,
require a belt tightening on the part of some, but, in our opinion, our patriotic
veterans who fought for this nation during periods of war and hostility will stand
just as ready to do their share in fighting the anticipated huge deficits in this
and the out years to maintain the integrity of their programs. However, Mr.
Chairman, should any federal beneficiaries be exempted from the deferral in cost-
of-living increases, then we would object in the strongest possible terms to our
disabled veterans and their survivors being subjected to a delayed COLA.
Mr. Chairman, we are deeply concerned with the projected decrease in the
average daily census in Veterans Administration hospitals of 100,000 patients.
Although we realize that the average length of stay of patients in VA hospitals
has been reduced over the years, the veteran population is rapidly aging and re-
Page 4
quiring more care. We question also the wisdom at this time of reducing domiciliary
care by $4.1 million and 110 FTEE's, the outpatient fee program by $9.6 million and
contract hospital care by $2.8 million. Again, we cite the increased need for all
types of care by aging veterans and the growing number of women veterans who re-
quire specialized care not readily available in all VA facilities.
Another area of concern, Mr. Chairman, is the continual decline in average
employment within the Department of Veterans Benefits which is to be reduced by 419
personnel from the current year down to 14,404. The reduction of personnel in DVB
can only result in far less timely service to claimants at every stage from the
initial application to resolution of the appeal.
One of the proposed cost-savings provisions is to eliminate correspondence
training for some 22,000 Vietnam veternas to save $4.9 million. We oppose this
whittling away of a beneift for Vietnam veterans, particularly those who are
severely disabled and housebound and those still on active duty in the Armed Forces
who are stationed at sea or in remote areas and, therefore, unable to advance their
education in any other way.
Mr. Chairman, it is unfortunate no provision is made in the proposed budget to
grant any cost-of-living increase to veterans availing themselves of educational
benefits under the GI Bill. The last such increase was granted by Public Law
96-466 and was a two-step increase with five percent effective October 1, 1980,
and five percent effective January 1, 1981. It is my understanding the Veterans
Administration anticipates requesting a cost-of-living increase for GI Bill bene-
ficiaries in the fiscal year 1985 budget: but, of course, we would then be talking
about the 1984-85 school year. It is also regrettable that the budget proposes
the discontinuance of advanced payment of educational assistance allowances for
Page 5
a savings of $15.6 million which will undoubtedly cause many students to undergo
severe hardship.
Having stated the foregoing, Mr. Chairman, it is the VFW's position that, all
things considered, the proposed budget is an extremely good one in view of the
deep cuts proposed in other budgets. We realize federal spending must be brought
under control or the cost of all federally funded programs will become prohibitedly
costly and eventually require severe reduction or even the termination of very
worthy programs. The enormous growth of federal spending is most graphically illus-
trated when one considers the projected budget deficit for 1984 of $188.8 billion
exceeds the entire federal budget for 1969 which was $184.5 billion in outlays.
This concludes my testimony, Mr. Chairman, and I will be happy to respond to
any questions you may have.
Thank you.