vol. 65, no. 2

AMVET SERVINGVETERANS

SINCE1945

Summer, 2010 Vol. 65, No. 2

MICHIGAN NEWS

It is hard to believe that my year as your State Commander is coming to an end. It seems like only yesterday that I was writing my first article and thanking all of you for allowing

me to serve. Once again I would like to express my appreciation for all of the hard work and extra effort that all members of the various Executive Committees have put in throughout this year. We have had numerous areas with problems to work out and I feel that progress was made in many of these areas. However we still have a long way to go.

I would like to let you all know of some of our successes though. As I mentioned in my last article we had been trying to qualify for one of the five grants being given by the State for the continuation of the AMVETS Service Department. I am proud to say that the AMVETS Service Department is the only stand alone organization that was given one of the grants. All others were awarded to the Coalition of Organizations which included the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Order of the Purple Heart, Marine Corps League and Disabled Veterans of America. This was and still is a major accomplishment for our entire organization and was only possible through the hard work and dedication of those involved. I would especially like to thank Glenda Cogswell who spent many long and arduous hours put-ting the grant packet together and ensuring that all of the criteria were met. But I should tell you that as with any success comes some compromise. The Department of Military and Veterans affairs who oversees the grant process has put us on a probation-

ary period to ensure that we meet all of the requirements for the grant. These requirements forced us to make some adjustments on how we, as a Department, do business. We can no longer have a dual position of State Executive and Service Director and the two positions had to be separated. Nor can any portion of the grant money be spent in support of the Department Headquarters staff. This in itself creates numerous problems and adjustments within the Department which are currently being evaluated and hopefully resolved through coordination between the Depart-ment Executive Committee, Department Service Foundation, Personnel Board and many others. This effort will also need the support of all of the subordinate organizations, posts and mem-bers. I am confident that with all of us working together we can make our Department and the Organization as a whole not only self sufficient once again but stronger and more unified.

I would also like to thank those posts who stepped up to the plate and held fund raisers to help the Department with its ever growing financial burdens. Their efforts and donations have gone a long way toward getting the AMVETS back on our feet. We still have a long way to go and I encourage all of our posts to either continue their wonderful efforts or for those who still are on the side lines to get involved and help out. Keeping our Department operational will only benefit us all.

As many of you are now aware we have developed a new and hopefully user friendly web site this year with a wealth of information available to all members and non members alike.

COMMANDER'S CORNER

BY CMDR. Bob Downer

As we wrap up the 2009-2010 membership year a big thank you should go out from each of us for the fine job done this year by our Commander, Bob Downer and our Executive Director, Glenda

Cogswell and associates. Without the leadership and acumen of these AMVETS our future would be far more desperate. As it stands we will be hard pressed in the coming year to fulfill all of the obligations required of us as a Veterans Service Organization.

The membership numbers for the first quarter of calendar year 2010 show growth of 7.66% over the same period in 2009 with a renewal percentage of 73.71%, that is the highest in AMVETS National 4th District. That percent-age also indicates that more than 25% percent of our annual membership has failed to renew. Keep after these members with a letter or a phone call and get them back.

I want to thank all of the District and Post Membership Chairpersons for your hard work this year. Each of you is responsible for that 73%+ member-ship renewal rate and you should take satisfaction in the results of a job well done.

I will be accepting nomination at the Depart-ment of Michigan Convention June 14-27, to serve AMVETS as Department Commander. I hope that my service as 1st Vice Commander this year reflects favorably and that you will all attend the convention and support my effort. It will take all of us working together to further the causes of AMVETS and the Department of Michigan in the coming years. If you are available to serve on the Department level and you have District or Post Executive Committee experience you should con-sider making yourself available for nomination or appointment. It is an awarding experience and you get to wear a white hat.

Best RegardsVince Carr

1st Vice Commander's ReportContinued on page 3

By Vince Carr1st Vice Commander

- 2 - Michigan AMVETS News Vol. 65, No. 2

Next DEADLINE for The Michigan AMVETS News is 10/07/2010

AMVETS Department Of Michigan

2009-2010State Executive Committee

Department Commander .....................................................Robert Downer1st Vice Commander ................................................................Vincent Carr 2nd Vice Commander .......................................................Anthony M. Lema Finance Officer ........................................................................Jean BennettJudge Advocate ............................................................. Daren R. Heckman Provost Marshal ..................................................................... Roger Lanting NeC Man ...................................................................PDC Dennis M. ButlerAlternate NeC .................................................................. PDC John Dowd Immediate PDC .................................................................. Mary Wilseck District I Commander ...........................................................James Meloche District II Commander ................................................................Dave ewald District III Commander ...................................................Michael Wainwright District IV Commander ................................................................Alan Abels District V Commander .............................................................Perry Corwin District VI Commander ............................................................Paul Ladochi District VII Commander ........................................................... Carol Hebert executive & Service Director .............................................Glenda Cogswell Aide De Camp ........................................................................ Dennis Butler Chaplain ..............................................................................Donald Cooney Legislative Director ................................................................John Hoechrel Inspector General ....................................................................Alan NormanDepartment PRO .................................................................. Martin Bennett

Subordinate OrganizationsLadies Auxiliary President ....................................................... Kathy KeizerAuxiliary Legislation/Liaison .......................................................Kathy Biela Auxiliary executive Secretary ............................................Nancy Middleton Jr. AMVetS President ............................................................Ashley KeizerJr. AMVetS Coordinator .................................................. Robert Middleton Sons of AMVetS Commander .......................................... Douglas Beedon Sons of AMVetS Coordinator ........................................... PDC John Dowd Service Foundation President .....................................PDC Harold L. Reed Saddest Sad Sack .................................................................John Hoechral

Official Publication of the AMVetS Department of MichiganAmerican Veterans who have served honorably since September 1940

Chartered by Congress July 28, 1947

Owned, edited and Operated by theAMVetS Department of Michigan

Published Quarterly Publication design by JM Publishing

editorial Office:Mail: P.O. Box 254 Dryden, MI 48428 UPS: 5489 Main St. Dryden, MI 48248

Phone 810-796-3876 Fax 810-796-3896E-mail address: [email protected]

the Department Headquarters business hours are 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday - Friday.

NON-PROFIT POSTAGE PAID IN ROYAL OAK, MICHIGANSubscription Rates:

50 cents per year to members * $1 per year to non-membersAdvertising Rates on Request

Spring Issue January 7Summer Issue April 7Fall Issue July 7Winter Issue October 7

Upcoming Events

The Michigan AMVET News

ANNUAL DEADLINE DATES

66th Department of Michigan State ConventionJune 24-27, 2010

Auburn Hills Marriott at Centerpoint3600 Centerpoint Parkway

Pontiac, MI 48341(248) 253-9800, Rooms Rate: $81

66TH NATIONAL CONVENTIONAUGUST 7-14, 2010

The Galt House Hotel140 North Fourth Street

Louisville, KY 40202 www.galthouse.com

Reservations: (800) 843- 4258(502) 589-5200

Room Rate: $113.86-$148.36 (inclusive of taxes*)

Cut-off Date: July 9, 2010Parking: $9 Per Night

AMVETS Department of Michigan Fall Conference and SEC

October 1-3, 2010 Ramada Inn Grayling

2650 I75 Business Loop(989) 348-7611

Rooms Rate: $60

http://www.galthouse.com/


We continue to add benefits for our users such as a discount for all who visit the site on flowers from a highly reputable wholesale group which promises great products at reduced cost. We are also working hard with a company called Performance Group who, with your help and input, will work with the various food distributors to gain each post and subordinate organization the best possible discount when purchasing food or other operational supplies. But we can’t do it until everyone gets involved and sends in the information providing power to the Performance Group when dealing with the distribu-tors. If you don’t have the information forms sent in please do so. If you need additional information or forms please contact the Department Headquarters.

In closing I would once again like to express my thanks to all of the of-ficers and staff, which have helped and supported me during my term as State Commander. I would also like to thank the many posts and members that I have visited and spoken with this past year. A number of friendships were de-veloped and I’m sure that they will continue for many years to come. I leave with the knowledge that I did my best for the organization as a whole and even though some may not have agreed with my methods they have to know that any actions taken were for the betterment of the AMVETS Organization in Michigan.

Thank all of you for letting me serve as your Commander and it is my hope that I may continue to serve the AMVETS in other roles. I have faith that the leadership to follow will continue our strides to make this organization the strongest and most respected in the nation.

In gratitude,Robert Downer

COMMANDER'S CORNER, cont.

Keep an eye on our website for new member benefits that are up and coming, one of which will enable the members to link to a florist and receive $10 or more off of their order. Convention will be

upon us in a couple of weeks and the beginning of a new year along with new officers. Good luck to all that are running for office. We also have a new post in Eaton Rapids. Welcome Post 1583.

I am happy to inform everyone that we received a grant for our Service Department. The terms of the grant are quite specific and we will only cover the south east quarter of the state and has additional requirements on it that we are working on at this time. Below is a listing of our Service Officers and where they will be working beginning May:

Kevin Reed: (810) 627-0082 Post 29, Mt Clemens US Army Reserve Center, Waterford VA Regional Office, Detroit

David Downer: (810) 627-0050Saginaw VA Medical Center, SaginawPost 1583, Eaton RapidsBay Area YMCA, Bay CityClinton County Senior Center, St JohnsWe are waiting for approval from Gratiot, Midland, and Ingham Counties on work sites there

Nathan Pierpont: (810) 627-0104VA Medical Center, Ann ArborShiawassee County Office of Veterans Affairs, CorunnaPost 2273, DurandHamburg Senior Center, HamburgMt. Morris Senior Center, Mt. MorrisLoose Senior Center, LindenFenton Community Center, Fenton

Glenda Cogswell: (586) 604-4744VA Regional Office, DetroitAMVETS HQ, DrydenWe are currently waiting on confirmation from Sanilac, St Clair, Tuscola, and Huron Counties for work sites.

And we will be hiring a new Service Officer for the following areas:VA Medical Center, DetroitJackson, Lenawee, and Monroe Counties.

Executive Director's Notes

By Glenda CogswellExecutive Director

Legislative CornerBy John Hoecherl, Legislative Director

House Military and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Current as of 5/4/2010 12:13:41 PM

HB 4127—referred 1/27/2009 re-referred on 4/29/2009 by Jones, Rick—Traffic control; driver license; designation of veteran status on driver li-cense; provide for. Amends sec. 310 of 1949 PA 300 (MCL 257.310).—2/17/2009 Reported out with recommendation as substitute (H-1) on 2/17/2009

HB 4203—referred 5/5/2009 by McDowell, Gary—Rec-reation; outdoor activities; waiver or reduction of state rec-reational fees; require for certain veterans. Amends secs. 43537, 74117 & 83106 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.43537 et seq.).—5/12/2009 Reported out with recommendation as substitute (H-1) on 5/12/2009

HB 4276—referred 2/17/2009 by Griffin, Martin—Cemeteries and funerals; funeral practices; procedure to screen for veteran status when cremation order is signed; require of funeral homes. Amends 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.101 - 339.2919) by adding sec. 1807a.—2/17/2009 Reported out with recommendation on 2/17/2009

HB 4512—referred 3/4/2009 by Polidori, Gino—State financing and management; purchasing; state construc-tion contract preference to firms owned by veterans with certain disabilities; establish. Amends sec. 241 of 1984 PA 431 (MCL 18.1241).—3/10/2009 Reported out with recom-

mendation on 3/10/2009

HB 4751—referred 4/1/2009 by Calley, Brian—Labor; other; unpaid leave for imme-diate family members of military personnel being deployed; allow. Creates new act. 4/28/2009—Reported out with recommen-dation on 4/28/2009

HB 4770—referred 6/18/2009 by Lahti, Michael—Highways; name; renaming a por-tion of US-2; designate as the “Iron County Veterans Memorial Highway”. Amends 2001 PA 142 (MCL 250.1001 - 250.2080) by add-ing sec. 1061.—7/14/2009 Reported out with recommendation on 7/14/2009

HB 5076—referred 6/16/2009 by Kurtz, Kenneth—Highways; name; portion of


Legislative CornerBy John Hoecherl, Legislative Director

M-99; designate as “75th Infan-try Combat Division Memorial Highway”. Amends 2001 PA 142 (MCL 250.1001 - 250.2080) by adding sec. 1062.

HB 5102—referred 6/16/2009 by LeBlanc,Richard—Communica-tions; cellular telephone; termina-tion of cellular telephone contracts by certain active military personnel; allow. Creates new act.—8/26/2009 Reported out with recommendation on 8/26/2009

HB 5219—referred 10/15/2009 by Ball, Richard—Highways; name; renaming a portion of M-21; designate as “PFC Harold R. Cooley-WWII Marine Corps League Memorial Highway”. Amends 2001 PA 142 (MCL 250.1001 - 250.2080) by adding sec. 1079.—10/20/2009 Reported out with recommendation on 10/20/2009

HB 5245—referred 8/19/2009 by Polidori, Gino—Occupations; mortuary science; registry of names of unclaimed cremated remains; require. Amends 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.101 - 339.2919) by adding sec. 1809b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5246’09 8/26/2009 Reported out with recommendation as substitute (H-2) on 8/26/2009

HB 5246—referred 8/19/2009 by Kurtz, Kenneth—Cemeteries and funerals; burial or crema-tion; funeral director liable for properly disposing of unclaimed cremated remains; grant immu-nity. Amends title of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.101 - 339.2919) & adds sec. 1809a. TIE BAR WITH: HB

5245’09—8/26/2009 Reported out with recommendation as substitute (H-1) on 8/26/2009

HB 5540—referred 11/4/2009 by Espinoza, John—Income tax; income; compensation earned by the spouse of an individual called into active duty; deduct from tax-able income. Amends sec. 30 of 1967 PA 281 (MCL 206.30). 11/10/2009—Reported out with recommendation as substitute (H-1) on 11/10/2009

HB 5850—referred 2/23/2010 by Miller, Fred—Probate; other; disposition of decedent’s remains; require that directions by a person properly designated by a service member be followed. Amends secs. 3206 & 3209 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.3206 & 700.3209). 3/16/2010—Reported out with recommendation as substitute (H-1) on 3/16/2010

HB 5899—referred 2/25/2010 by Kurtz, Kenneth—Cemeteries and funerals; burial or crema-tion; immunity for funeral director properly disposing of unclaimed cremated remains; revise effec-tive date. Amends enacting sec. 1 of 2009 PA 149.—3/2/2010 Reported out with recommendation on 3/2/2010

HB 5900—referred 2/25/2010 by Polidori, Gino—Occupations; mortuary science; registry of names of unclaimed cremated remains; revise effective date. Amends enacting sec. 1 of 2009 PA 148.—3/2/2010 Re-

ported out with recommen-dation on 3/2/2010

SB 0204—referred 6/18/2009 by Olshove, Dennis—Liens; other; self-service storage facility’s right to deny access to property and sell property if rent is unpaid; prohibit for units rented by certain military personnel. Amends secs. 2, 3, 4 & 5 of 1985 PA 148 (MCL 570.522 et seq.). 8/26/2009—Reported out with recommen-dation on 8/26/2009

SB 0313—referred 4/29/2009 by Pappageorge, John—State financing and management; purchasing; state construction contract preference to firms owned by veterans with certain disabilities; establish. Amends sec. 241 of 1984 PA 431 (MCL 18.1241).

SB 0371—referred 6/11/2009 by Garcia, Valde—Communica-tions; cellular telephone; active duty military personnel; allow to cancel cellular telephone contract without penalties. Creates new act. 11/10/2009—Reported out with recommendation on 11/10/2009

HJR AA—referred 8/26/2009 byJones, Rick—Public employ-ees and officers; other; veteran’s preference for state jobs; revise. Amends sec. 5, art. XI of the state constitution. 11/10/2009—Re-ported out with recommendation on 11/10/2009

HR 0012—referred 2/4/2009 by Knollenberg, Marty—A resolution to express support for the people of

India following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai and to memorialize the President and Congress to work with Indian authorities in both humanitarian and strategic capaci-ties. —2/17/2009 Reported out with recommendation on 2/17/2009

HR 0034—referred 2/25/2009 by Green, Kevin—A resolution to memorialize the United States Con-gress to continue funding the F-22 Raptor fifth generation air domi-nance stealth fighter. —5/12/2009

HR 0201—referred 1/20/2010 by Elsenheimer, Kevin—A resolu-tion to urge the United States Coast Guard to operate a cutter ship out of Charlevoix.

HCR 0012—referred 3/4/2009 by Lahti, Michael—A concurrent resolution to memorialize the Congress of the United States to appoint an independent counsel to investigate the Prisoner of War - Missing in Action issue. 3/10/2009—Reported out with recommendation on 3/10/2009

HCR 0017—referred 10/22/2009 by Opsommer, Paul—A concurrent resolution to urge Michigan’s public institutions of higher education to adopt veteran-friendly policies. —3/16/2010 Reported out with recommendation on 3/16/2010


AMVETS RIDERSAMVETS Riders News

By Josh Feltman

Warmer weather is here and as always this is the time to enjoy the road. It is also the time for the riders to kick their programs into high gear. In this spirit the Department riders will be conducting their own

fundraiser. The riders in Michigan are selling first aid kits that are small enough to fit in a saddle bag, or be tucked away in your car. We generally hesitate to think that we may need one but we all know that being prepared is always the better path to take. These kits sell for $10 each and they will be delivered at the summer convention. Please see a rider before convention to secure yours.

Michigan now has eight riders chapters. Congrats to Kentwood and Bay City as they are Michigan’s newest chapters. I hope that these chapters will continue the trend we have started, and be a positive light wherever they shine.

I have only one thing to ask all of the other posts in michigan, why haven’t you chartered a riders chapter yet? I challenge you to contact your members and start a chapter today. Our charter process is painless and it requires less time than you think. A quick call or email is all it takes to get started. Please take the initiative and change your post forever.

In closing, I will leave you with this quote by Vince Lombardi, the quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence regard-less of their chosen endeavor.

Josh Feltman(517) [email protected]

Department Commander Robert Downer & Riders Department President Josh Feltman Welcome Two New Post Chapters 0f The Riders. Riders Chapter 22 In Bay City

Middle right: Commander Downer and Distinguised Guests Welcome A New Post To The AMveTs Department of Michigan. Right: Lcpl. Troy D. Nealey Post 1583 In eaton Rapids Received Its Charter From state Commander Downer During A Cerimony At Their Meeting Location On 23 May 2010.Congressman Mark H. schauer, 7Th District Of Michigan Was Present At The Cerimony and Presented the Post With An American Flag That Had Been Flown Over The Capital.

The post was named in memory of Lance Corporal Troy D. Nealey who was killed during combat while serving his country. Also present as an honored guest was Troy Nealey’s mother, Annette Nealey.

Riders Chapter 23 in Kentwood


OIF U.S. Military Casualties by Phase total Deaths KIA Non-Hostile WIA RtD ** WIA Not RtD **

OIF U.S. DoD Civilian Casualties 13 9 4

OeF U.S. Military Casualties total Deaths KIA Non-Hostile WIA RtD ** WIA Not RtD **In and Around Afghanistan*** 964 753 211 2,472 3,204Other Locations**** 78 8 70 1OeF U.S. DoD Civilian Casualties 2 1 1Worldwide Total 1,044 762 282 2,472 3,205

4,246

** these columns indicate the number of servicemembers who were Wounded In Action (WIA) and Returned to Duty within 72 hours AND WIA and Not Returned to Duty within 72 hours. to determine the total WIA figure, add the columns "WIA RtD" and " WIA Not RtD" together. these figures are updated on tuesday unless there is a preceding holiday.*** OPeRAtION eNDURING FReeDOM (In and Around Afghanistan), includes casualties that occurred in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan.**** OPeRAtION eNDURING FReeDOM (Other Locations), includes casualties that occurred inGuantanamo Bay (Cuba), Djibouti, eritrea, ethiopia, Jordan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Philippines, Seychelles, Sudan, tajikistan, turkey, and Yemen.

OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF) U.S. CASUALTY STATUS FATALITIES AS OF: April 30, 2010, 10 a.m. EDT

* OPeRAtION IRAQI FReeDOM includes casualties that occurred on or after March 19, 2003 in the Arabian Sea, Bahrain, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Persian Gulf, Qatar, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab emirates. Prior to March 19, 2003, casualties in these countries were considered OeF.

116

17,732 13,513

Totals 4,398 3,483 915 17,848 13,942

Post Combat Ops -1 May thru Present

429

3,365 881

OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM (OIF) U.S. CASUALTY STATUS *FATALITIES AS OF: April 30, 2010, 10 a.m. EDT

Combat Operations -19 Mar 03 thru 30 Apr 03 139 109 30

Burial in a national cemetery is open to all members of the armed forces and veterans who have met minimum active service

duty requirements and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Their spouse, widow or widower, minor children, and, under certain conditions, unmarried adult children, may also be eligible for burial. Eligible spouses and children may be buried, even if they predecease the veteran. Members of the reserve components of the armed forces who die while on active duty or while performing training duty, or were eligible for retired pay, may also be eligible for burial.

• Gravesites in Department of Veterans Af-fairs (VA) national cemeteries cannot be reserved in advance. However, families are encouraged to prepare in advance by discussing cemetery options and setting aside copies of any discharge docu-ments.

• VA will provide—at no cost to the veteran’s family—a gravesite, headstone or marker, Presi-dential Memorial Certificate, U.S. flag, perpetual care of the gravesite and will open and close the grave. Fees for services provided by funeral direc-tors and other related costs must be paid for by the veteran's family.

• VA's Veterans Benefits Administration pays a burial and plot allowance for those veterans eli-gible by law. For information, please contact the nearest VA regional office at 1-800-827-1000.

• To establish eligibility for burial in a VA na-tional cemetery, the family should provide: the veteran's discharge document; report of casualty; or the veteran's full name; military rank; branch of service; dates of entry and discharge; serial, social security, and/or VA claim numbers; date and place of birth; and date of death.

• If the discharge document is not available, a copy may be obtained from the National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records Of-fice, 9700 Page Boulevard, St. Louis, Mo. 63132-5100. This should be done prior to the time of need.

• At the time of need, a funeral director or the next of kin should contact the national cemetery where burial is desired.

• The same procedures should be followed to determine the eligibility of a veteran's spouse or dependent. In most cases, one gravesite is pro-

vided for the burial of all eligible family members, marked by a single headstone or marker. When both spouses are veterans, two gravesites and two head-stones or markers may be provided, if requested.

• The Department of Defense (DOD) is respon-sible for providing military funeral honors. The DOD program “Honoring Those Who Served” calls for funeral directors to request military funer-al honors on behalf of the veteran’s family.

Veterans’ organizations may assist in the provision

of military funeral honors.

• Formal funeral services are not held at nation-al cemeteries, but a final committal service may be performed at the cemetery. For safety reasons, these services are held in committal shelters locat-ed away from the gravesite.

Burial will take place following the commit-tal service. Immediate family members may be allowed to view the actual burial only if arrange-

ments have been made in advance with the cem-etery director.

• National cemeteries do not usually conduct burials on weekends or federal holidays. However, weekend callers may schedule burials for the up-coming week.

• Floral arrangements may accompany the cas-ket or urn and will be placed on the grave after burial.

Source:Department of Veterans AffairsNational Cemetery AdministrationCommunications & Outreach Support DivisionWashington, DC 20420(202) 461-6240FAX (202) [email protected]

Arranging Burial in a VA National Cemetery


In MemoriamDeceased Members as of January 1, 2010

Post Name District

13 JosephBurzynski 6

14 AdolphFydryk 1

22 LarryIrish 2

23 StanleyBiernat 5

23 DonaldHoeve 5

23 DennisSimpson 5

29 PeterDevor 2

29 CharlesDodson 2

29 EltonJobse 2

29 JosephLaBabera 2

29 RobertLockwood 2

29 JamesMeldrum 2

29 TedSteiner 2

52 JosephAllard 2

52 RichardMcClintock 2

52 IvanShaw 2

57 MedarBackers 1

57 WilliamDishman 1

57 DaleJohnson 1

57 CalvinMorrison 1

57 JulienVanbiesbrouck 1

57 AlanWaller 1

72 ThomasDalton 2

72 HaroldKendrick 2

72 LyleMelkerson 2

72 ThomasPalmer 2

Post Name District

93 JacobKashouty 2

110 EverettAllen 6

110 JohnMcCann 6

114 DonFedrigon 6

114 GordonHays 6

121 RaymondPiscopink 2

121 RobertRemsine 2

123 WallaceGasman 7

123 C.J.Perryman 7

126 DonaldDavis 5

171 AlbertBorieo 1

171 DavidHickel 1

171 BernardMaczuga 1

1988 CharlesBrown 6

1988 AlvinHolmes 6

1988 DonaldKamrowski 6

1988 BrucePark 6

1988 Anthony(Ned)Watters 6

1994 DanielFicelli 5

1994 LauraGilman 5

2273 JimRainwater 3

2273 WilbertWilliamson 3

MAL JamesAnderson 0

93 JohnClark 2

14 Edward Masar 1


Bolt one on for the troops today!

Yes, today! The Michigan Support Our Troops! plates are available at all branch offices of the Secretary of State and on the

Department of State’s Plate It Your Way website.

Isn’t it time to show them how much we care?

Switching into the Michigan Support Our Troops! Plate costs just

$35.00 (the same as other specialty plates), and the troops are more than worth it. Nothing compared to what

they do for all of us. Funds will benefit the programs of SupportOurTroops.Org, working for the troops and their

families.

Act Now! Don’t Delay. Don’t wait for your renewal month to get into this great new plate!. The troops didn’t wait. They went half way around for the world for us; let’s all do this simple thing for them! For more information you can go to www.supportourtroops.org

JOHN DINGELL VAMC VAVS ACTIVITY - By Rose SolakEASTER PARTY

The veterans at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, in the Day Activity Group enjoyed the Easter Punch and

Cookies and Easter Egg Contest, held in the Multi-Purpose Room. The Veterans enjoyed coloring and decorating eggs, receiving a Certificate ofAppreciation for the most creative egg.

All enjoyed the special treats of cupcakes, cookies, chips and punch. The veterans re-ceived personalized Easter cards and Easter baskets, filled with treats, donated by the VA lady volunteer. The students from O.W. Hol-mes School, made Easter cards and letter for the veterans. The veterans shared their memo-ries of Easter stories. Easter egg hunt, coloring eggs, dressing up, attending church, visiting family, grandma favorite desserts and coloring egg by boiling onions, potatoes and beets.

NATIONAL SALUTE TO HOSPITALIZED VETERANS

The veterans at the John D, Dingell VA Medical Center were treated to a Spaghetti Luncheon and Bingo; in

Honor of National Salute To Hospitalized Veterans. We served 80 veterans a delicious meal of spaghetti, garlic bread; tossed salad,

upside-down pineapple cake and pop. Veterans also received canteen books, comfort kits, heart shape valentine tray favors, valentine cards, letters, and gifts. Auxiliary members assisted in serving the luncheon and Madam President Gloria Canfield called bingo. We also toured the VA Medical Center and were impressed with the services that the VA provides for the veterans and admired the veterans living in the Community Living Center, formerly known as the Home Nursing Care Unit.

National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans is a time to honor, pay tribute and express appre-ciation to America’s veterans. It’s an opportu-nity to increase community awareness and en-courage citizens to visit and become involved. It’s an opportunity to say thank you to the men and women, of the US Armed Forces, who have helped to preserve the freedom and the values Americans cherish.

The students in the 1st and 2nd grade, their teacher Miss Foster, her guests and the school secretary, from O.W. Holmes Elementary School, toured the hospital, distributing their handmade creative Valentine cards, letters and candy, giving thanks to the veterans for their service to our country and for their freedom. Mr Bill Browning, Chief of Voluntary Service, accompany us on the tour.

What a sight to see the many smiling faces and handshakes; among the veterans and the students, expressing thanks for sacrifices their

lives for our freedom. God bless our veterans and God bless America.

ST PATRICK DAY LUNCHEON

Celebrating St Patrick Day Luncheon, the veterans at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, were treated to

a scrumptious Corned Beef and Cabbage Luncheon and Bingo, served in the Multi-Purpose Room,

All enjoyed the corned beef cabbage, po-tatoes, carrots, banana cake, pop and the extra special delicious barbecue spare ribs.

Auxiliary members donated bags of candy, assisting in making Shamrock tray favors and the students at O.W. Holmes School, made St Patty Day cards and letters that were distrib-uted throughout the hospital.

As I walk through the halls of the hospital, veterans are give us compliments like, "what a delicious meal" and "it’s the best meal that was served."

The veterans also enjoyed playing bingo, receiving canteen books, Thanks to the four auxiliary members and two AMVETS, who at-tended and help served the luncheon.

http://services1.sos.state.mi.us/plates/

http://www.supportourtroops.org


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Department of Veterans Affairs

Burial Flags

Why Does VA Provide a Burial Flag?

A United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased veteran who served honorably in the U. S. Armed Forces. It is furnished to honor the memory of a veteran's military service to his or her country. VA will furnish a burial flag for memorialization for each other than dishonorable discharged

veteran who served during wartimeveteran who died on active duty after May 27, 1941veteran who served after January 31, 1955

• peacetime veteran who was discharged or released before June 27, 1950

• certain persons who served in the organized military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines while in service of the U.S Armed forces and who died on or after April 25, 1951

• certain former members of the Selected Reserves

Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag?

Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next-of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it. For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue of Flags, families of veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays.

How Can You Apply?

You may apply for the flag by completing VA Form 21-2008, Application for United States Flag for Burial Purposes. You may get a flag at any VA regional office or U.S. Post Office. Generally, the funeral director will help you obtain the flag.

Can a Burial Flag Be Replaced?

The law allows us to issue one flag for a veteran's funeral. We cannot replace it if it is lost, destroyed, or stolen. However, some veterans' organizations or other community groups may be able to help you get another flag.

How Should the Burial Flag Be Displayed?

The proper way to display the flag depends upon whether the casket is open or closed. VA Form 21-2008 does provide the correct method for displaying and folding the flag. The burial flag is not suitable for outside display because of its size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather.

For More Information, Call Toll-Free 1-800-827-1000

or Visit Our Web Site at http://www.cem.va.gov.

Compensation and Pension Service – October 2008


Department of Veterans Affairs

Pension

What Is VA Pension?

Pension is a benefit paid to wartime veterans with limited income, and who are permanently and totally

disabled or age 65 or older.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible if:

• you were discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions, AND

• you served 90 days or more of active duty with at least 1 day during a period of war time*, AND

• your countable family income is below a yearly limit set by law, AND

• you are permanently and totally disabled, OR

• you are age 65 or older.

*Note: Anyone who enlists after September 7, 1980, generally must have served at least 24 months or the full period for which called or ordered to active duty. Service from August 2, 1990 to present is considered to be a period of war (Gulf War) in addition to other periods of war such as World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.

FAMILY INCOME LIMITS (EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2008)

If you are a...Your yearly income must be less than...

Veteran with no dependents $11,830Veteran with a spouse or a child $15,493 (Veterans with additional children: add $2,020 to the limit for EACH child)Housebound veteran with no dependents $14,457Housebound veteran with one dependent $18,120Veteran who needs aid and attendance and has no dependents $19,736Veteran who needs aid and attendance and has one dependent $23,396

Note: Some income is not counted toward the yearly limit (for example, welfare benefits, some wages earned by dependent children, and Supplemental Security Income.)

How Much Does VA Pay?

VA pays you the difference between your countable family income and the yearly income limit that describes your situation (see chart above). This difference is generally paid in 12 equal monthly payments rounded down to the nearest dollar. Call the toll-free number below for details.

Note: Certain expenses (i.e., medical expenses, education expenses, or expenses related to the last illness or burial of a dependent) paid by you are taken into consideration when arriving at your countable family income.

How Can You Apply?

You can apply by filling out VA Form 21-526, Veteran's Application for Compensation and/or Pension. If available, attach copies of dependency records (marriage & children's birth certificates) and current medical evidence (doctor & hospital reports). You can also apply online through our web site at http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp.

Related Benefits

Vocational Rehabilitation ProgramMedical Care

For More Information, Call Toll-Free 1-800-827-1000or Visit Our Web Site at www.va.gov .

Compensation and Pension Service – December 2008


The Michigan AMVETS NewsDO's and DON'TS

moRE WoRDS

LESS PICTuRES

PoST CITY DISTRICT mEmBERS1. 1988 BALDWIN VI 1,167

2. 120 MESICK VI 449

3. 29 MT.CLEMENS II 419

4. 23 KENTWOOD V 370

5. 171 WESTLAND I 305

6. 121 ST.CLAIRSHORES II 273

7. 22 BAYCITY II 263

8. 2273 DURAND III 251

9. 57 HARPERWOODS I 243

10. 1957 ADRIAN I 234

TOP TEN Posts As of April 15, 2010

DO have the articles in before deadline!Deadlines are:7th of October for the Winter Issue7th of January for the Spring Issue7th of April for the Summer Issue 7th of July for the Fall Issue. If articles are not in by the deadline they

WILL NOT appear until the following issue. If you are having an event that you want in the paper ensure that the information is received in time for the appropriate issue before your event.

DO make sure the pictures are clear and well-contrasted. Fuzzy or dark pictures won’t reproduce well. Black and white are the best, but color will do if contrasted well.

DO send in articles. Posts and districts have something newsworthy going on. Why not share it with the rest of the department? If you send pictures make sure you have an article for them. I will not write your article and the pictures will not appear in the paper.

DO send credits with your articles.Also send credits for articles from other

publications and permission to reprint if nec-essary.

DO write post numbers on the back of each picture so they can be returned to you.

DO refer to an individual as an AMVET.The organization is AMVETS.

DO refer to the AMVETS Auxiliary as the “AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary.”

DO type the article. You’re the only person who can read your writing.

DON’T use all caps when typing.

DON’T EMBED YOUR PHOTOS IN A WORD DOCUMENT

DON’T tape pictures to articles. Paper clip them to the article. We have to be able to scan the pictures to put them in the paper. This can’t be done if pictures are taped to the article and the article gets torn when we try to remove the pictures.

DON’T print or type your captions on the back of photos. Ink smears!

DON’T think we’re being too tough!We just want to make sure the paper is

done right.

THIS IS YOUR PAPER IF YOU DO NOT LIKE THE CONTENT THEN YOU SHOULD SUBMIT ARTICLES FOR IT.

In an effort to make the Michigan AMVET News a true newspaper and not a pictorial quarterly, the publica-tions committee is asking all contribu-tors to consider writing more articles and submitting fewer pictures. The old saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” is only true if everyone knows what the picture relates to. Keep in mind the four Ws:

Who, Where When, WhatThis will make your articles easier

to write.Articles should normally be 300 –

500 words and may be accompanied by one or two pictures for each article.

By increasing the number of writ-ten articles, we can increase the read-ing time of the paper vastly and spur members’ interest in what’s going on around the state.

You do want a better Michigan AM-VET News, don’t you?

Submit your digital original directly to the editor!We accept almost any file from a computer.Simply type your report, including the title, byline and story, and addnumbered captions at the end. Name the photo files to correspondwith the caption number in your report and you’re ready to go!Questions? Call me anytime at 810-796-3876.E-mail your submissions to: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Post News

Post 27 Post 57

Post 115

AMVETS Post 27 Shipping Kards to TroopsBy Gerald moore, 3rd Vice Commander Post 27

On April 8th members and friends of AMVETS Post 27 gathered at the home of Vice Commander Gerald Moore. They pulled 50,000 decks of playing cards from the garage and loaded them

into a trailer for shipm.ent to the Army National Guard Armory in Van Nuys, California. There, operation gratitude places a deck of cards into each care package going to the war zone. By the 4th of July 50,000 soldiers will receive a package. Another 67,000 decks will

go in time for the Christmas Holidays. As of this writing, over 425,000 decks have been shipped.

The program is in its 5th year. Local casinos donate used cards off their blackjack tables. Post 27 members distribute them to 40 local re-tirement communities whose residents volunteer their time, year round, to sort the cards into complete decks. Finished decks are stored until the next shipping date. In the past 6 months 400 loyal seniors put in over 9,000 hours to complete their task.

Members of Post 27 are dedicated in their support of this program. They work fundraisers 16 to 20 days each year to fund the expenses. They assist in picking up and delivering cards to the senior communities, and loading the trucks on scheduled ship dates. They make deliveries of cards to every VA hospital in Michigan, the shelter for homeless veterans and the Veterans Home in Grand Rapids.

Post 27 will donate cards to anyone sending care packages to the war zone. Call Gerald Moore at 1-248-765-0719.

AMVETS POST #57 FAMILY NEWSBY mAuREEN JACKSoN

AMVETS Post #57 has become a true AMVET Family as we have along with our AMVETS, Sons and Auxiliary now chartered our own Riders and Juniors organizations. Both groups have begun with their feet on the ground running!

We have been working together already as a family on several events at our post. We look forward to this harmonious relationship to continue for many years to come.Third and Fourth Generations Now Serve Post #57

Having sworn in the Juniors this past month, we now have the pleasure of announc-ing two very special families that belong to our post.

The first is the “Hartway Family”. Russ and Connie Hartway along with Connie’s sisters and Russ’s brotherDon joined our post in the early days and their children grew up at AMVET family functions. Russ passed away a few years ago but Connie is still very active attending all our meetings and helping out at many of our functions. Her daughters Patty, Janet, Joyce and Diane are all very active with the Auxiliary. Patty served as our Auxiliary President for two years, and Janet is currently serving her sec-ond year as President. Joyce has been our First Vice Membership Chairman for the past eight years. Janet’s two Daughters are active auxiliary members and now her grandsons have become charter members of the Juniors. Brandon Hoffman is the Juniors Secretary and Dylan Hoffman is the Juniors Srgt.-at-Arms. We know how proud

Connie is and we know Russ is beaming up in Heaven watching down on all of them.

Back Row: Janet Hirth, Brandon Hoffman, Joyce Fox, Diane Binkowski,Front Row: Dylan Hoffman Patty scully and Connie Hartway.

The second Family is the Rusak Family. Yvette has been a member of Post #57 Auxiliary since 1987. She has held every office at the local and was District President

twice. She now serves as Depart-ment Second Vice. Her Daughter Cynthia Lutt is an active Auxiliary member and now her two daughters Ashley Lutt, who is First Vice and Lauren Lutt, who is Chaplain are now Charter members of the Ju-niors. The AMVET Post #57 Fam-ily are very proud of the tradition being carried on here!

First vice Ashley, Mom Cynthia, Grandmother Yvette and Chaplain Lauren


Post 122AMVETS Post 122 Honors Eagle Scouts

James Shearer, Joseph Compton and Bridger Cherry were awarded their Eagle Scout rank at an Eagle Scout Court of Honor held by Boy Scout Troop 370 on Dec 30, 2009 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Marquette.

They were also awarded certificates from Phillip Petry AMVETS Post 122, The Richard Joplin American Legion Post 44 and the Marquette County Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 380. Presenting the awards was Marvin R Gibson (Eagle 59), AMVET Post 122 Boy Scout Chairman.

Left to Right Marvin R. Gibson (eagle 59), James shearer, Joseph Compton, and Bridger Cherry

Post 57, cont.

Post 72By James may

New Havens Duncan-Sullivan AMVETS Post 72 held their 2010-2011 election of officers on May 6, 2010. The new

officers are:Commander: John Dave Sopfe1st Vice Commander: Iver “Joe” Hansen2nd Vice Commander: Robert BrethauerAdjutant: Dale LindoFinance officer: James Ponder Judge Advocate: James may Provost marshal: Curtis Lyons Service officer: Al Brzusek Jr. Chaplain: Roy King 3-Year Trustee: Terry meyer 2-Year Trustee: Lester Dobberowskk1-Year Trustee: Gary Gagleard


AMVETS DEPARTMENT OF MICHIGAN - POSTS1957 ADRIAN 122 N. MAIN 12497 ALPENA 2900 CONNON STREET 693 ARMADA 75185 NORTH AVE. 21988 BALDWIN JAMES RD. & 24TH ST. 624 BATTLE CREEK A/L POST 54 422 BAY CITY 520 N. PINE 246 BEAVER ISLAND NO POST HOME 6436 BEECHWOOD NO POST HOME 71941 BIG RAPIDS 420 S. FOURTH AVE. 5110 CADILLAC 127 W. CASS ST. 61190 COVINGTON VFW POST #8945 74 DEARBORN NO POST HOME 153 DEARBORN HGTS NO POST HOME 19 EASTPOINTE NO POST HOME 145 DETROIT 3401 GILBERT 155 DETROIT NO POST HOME 169 DETROIT NO POST HOME 185 DETROIT NO POST HOME 1910 DETROIT 21431 FENKELL AVE. 12273 DURAND 8495 M-71 3588 EDMORE VFW POST 5114 ELK RAPIDS 410 BRIDGE ST. 6123 ESCANABA 1315 N. LINCOLN RD. 711 EVART 4681 85TH AVE 6 1020 FARWELL 10651 N. VANDECAR RD. 61993 FENVILLE VFW 2373 S. 53RD ST. 48962 GERMFASK VFW POST 730 GRAND RAPIDS NO POST HOME 5126 GRAND RAPIDS 2929 MARSHALL, S.E. 514 HAMTRAMCK NO POST HOME 157 HARPER WOODS 19730 HARPER 113 HIGGINS LAKE 8009 N. AU SABLE RD. 6

8 HIGHLAND PARK 55 VICTOR AVE. 1

204 HOLLAND DAV POST 5362 HOWELL HOWELL A/L POST 3777 IRON MOUNTAIN VETS’ CENTER 7122 ISHPEMING LAKE UNKY, CO. RD. CD. 774 KALAMAZOO EAGLES LODGE #526 41234 KENT CITY A/L — BALL CREEK AVE. 523 KENTWOOD 98 52ND ST. S.E. 51072 KINGSTON VFW — KINGSTON RD. 21899 KINROSS NO POST HOME 769 LIVONIA 19801 FARMINGTON RD 182 LUDINGTON NO POST HOME 6120 MESICK M-37 SOUTH 629 MT. CLEMENS 1 AMVET DRIVE 23652 MIDLAND VFW POST 3651 22006 MILFORD POST MILFORD A/L 31942 MONROE VFW POST 152 NEW BALTIMORE 51285 COUNTY LINE RD. 272 NEW HAVEN 57581 AMVET DR. 21978 NILES 2627 S. 11TH ST. 4108 OXFORD 130 E. DRAHNER 34064 PERRY VFW POST 4063 3101 PONTIAC VFW POST 3115 PORT HOPE 8011 RUBICON RD. 279 RABER-GOETZVILLE NO POST HOME 72965 REED CITY VFW POST 2964 6316 SAGINAW 3309 RUCKLE ST. 21994 SPRING LAKE NO POST HOME 5121 ST. CLAIR SHORES 22427 E. NINE MILE RD. 23720 SWARTZ CREEK VFW — 3131 S. ELMS RD. 327 WARREN VFW 9021 32100 RYAN RD 2171 WESTLAND 1217 MERRIMAN 17 WYOMING NO POST HOME 5269 YPSILANTI 2839 E. MICHIGAN AVE. 1

POST# CITY ADDRESS DISTRICT#POST# CITY ADDRESS DISTRICT#


VA FUNDRAISER FOR FUNSeptember 25, 2010

POOL TOURNAMENTStarting at 10:00 a.m. play until 5:00 p.m.

$10 per personNORTHERN MI vs SOUTHERN MI

Traveling Winners TrophyALSO: Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffles, other items to be raffled

Grayling Moose Lodge to have food and beverages for saleALL PROCEEDS DONATED TOWARDS MICHIGAN VA HOSPITALIZED VETERANS CONCERNS AND NEEDS

Lodging available at the AMVETS Lodge$30-$33 per night

Call Mike Hettinger (989) 348-4055Frank Rusak (586) 219-5059

Or Higgins Lake Lodge (989) 821-6574 for informationSPONSORED BY THE VA FUNDRAISING FOR FUN INC.

VA aims to open mental health clinic in Saginaw Township, plans showBy Barrie Barber | The saginaw News

May 03, 2010, 11:40AMSAGINAW TWP. — A mental health clinic for veterans could soon be-

gin taking shape in Saginaw County.The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs has picked a nearly four-acre

locale in Saginaw Township, southeast of Fashion Square Mall, the town-ship confirmed.

The 18,000-square-foot center would have 50 staff members and could serve up to 180 clients a day, according to the township. The proposed loca-tion is on Barnard, between Schust and McCarty.

A construction date hasn’t been released, but Township Planner Bridget Smith said the federal agency has indicated it hopes to start soon.

Carrie Seward, spokeswoman at the Aleda E. Lutz Veter-ans Affairs Center, said she could not comment on the clinic un-til after the Township Planning Commission votes on the project at a 7 p.m. Wednesday session.

The VA announced in September it would open a mental health treatment center in the Saginaw area and outpatient treatment clinics in Bad Axe, Ca-dillac, Cheboygan and Grayling by the end of the year. The federal agency has outpatient clinics in Alpena, Clare, Gaylord, Oscoda and Traverse City.

The VA also is spending $9 million to upgrade its 60-year-old hospital at 1500 Weiss in Saginaw.

The agency is expanding staff and services across the nation to treat growing numbers of returning veterans from wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In September, the VA reported it provided mental health services to 361 soldiers from the two wars alone within the last year. That number was ex-pected to grow to 400. The number of veterans from past conflicts who re-ceive the same treatment wasn’t immediately available.

“We’re expanding mental health service so rapidly we just need that ex-tra space to be able to do that,” Seward said in September.

Last fall, the agency counted about 36,000 veterans enrolled in the VA health care system in a 35-county region that spanned mid-Michigan and the northern Lower Peninsula.

Higgins Lake Clean-upBy James may Sr.

The Higgins Lake Lodge spring clean-up this year was very productive:with the help from posts 14, 23, 30, 57, 72, 120 and1941 for a total of 7 posts and 21 workers.

Some of the items accomplished this spring were: the never ending chore of raking and blowing leaves and cleaning out eaves, installing new batteries in smoke detectors, replaced burned out and missing light bulbs changed furnace filters in all cottages and lodge, repaired broken fence rails, repaired storm doors and screens, moved door stops in cottages, painted walls in cottages, painted handicap ramp on lodge, set out B.B.Q. pits and picnic tables in front of all cottages and lodge, repaired two tables in kitchen, put new floor tiles and wall paneling in porch bathroom, repaired holes in dry walls, and much more (but much left undone due to the short time frame) we will tackle those items at the fall clean-up, which is Oct. 15&16 and 17, 2010.

Top left: Well, just don’t stand there get a brush! Top right: Repairing Fence Rails. Right: Just taking a rest.


If you are planning a vacation, now is the time to call Kari at the AMVETS Higgins Lake Lodge and reserve your dates. If you are unaware, there are six - four-bedroom,

two-bath cottages, one two-bedroom cottage, and the lodge with 17 bedrooms and meals. A swimming beach, a boat dock, fire pits, five row boats (no motors) for fishing. In the fall there are color tours.

Call Kari, our manager at 1-989-821-6574.

FourBedroomCottagesTax Included

Per Week .............................. $850(Sat. 4 PM – Sat. 10 AM)*$100 security deposit

Weekends ............... $180 Plus TaxFriday-Sunday per night

*$100 security deposit

LodgePer Night – Tax Included

AMVETS ............................... $30Non-Members ........................ $33

RoyLoveMemorialRoomPer Night – Tax Included

One bed ................................. $50Two beds ................................ $60Three beds .............................. $70CabinPer Night – Tax Included

One bed ................................. $50Two beds ................................ $60

MealsinLodgeBreakfast or Lunch ..... $5 Plus TaxDinner ....................... $8 Plus Tax

For your next vacation you must visit the AMVETS Lodge on beautiful Higgins Lake.

106ThorpeAve,Roscommon,MI48653I-75Exit244orUS127MilitaryRoadExit

Forreservationscall:989-821-6574

mAKE yOUR

RESERVATIONS TODAy!


AuxIlIARy NEWS

Kathy Keizer, PRESIDENTAuxiliary President

Kathy Keizer with Kurt from Penrickton and Auxiliary Members

Kathy Keizer with Penrickton Mascot

Department President Kathy and GranddaughterAshley Keizer, Department Junior AMveTs President

Kathy Keizer with District II President Peggy Liss on Kathy’s official visit

Kathy Keizer and National 3rd vice at Paws with a Cause. Mike sapp gave group - a wonderful tour of Paws

Kathy Keizer at Gildas club on her official visit to District v. L to R: Wendy Lynema, President Auxiliary 126, Kathy Keizer, Department PresidentAnd Marilyn Boring, District v President


Keeping up With KathyI have to say my year as your President definitely “Kept Moving Forward”! I can’t

believe that as you read this you will have a new Department President. I extendcongratulations to all of the commanders and presidents for their service and

dedication to the AMVET family this past year. I am honored to have served with you.also wish the best for our new leaders for the next year.To finish up my year, I made visits to District I and District V. I also toured Aleda E. Lutz, Battle Creek

and John Dingell VA hospitals. I want to thank everyone across the state for the hospitality, support and friendship you gave me this past year.

Locals, I hope you will always continue to move forward in your service work to our veterans and communities. There is nothing more rewarding than the smile you get from a veteran for making a root beer float for them, passing out fruit or calling the number needed for a “Bingo” at one of the hospitals or homes. What a wonderful feeling when you see a “PAWS” dog out in public and you know that you have helped to earn money for a veteran to receive the service dog they need. Can you imagine the smiles when one of our service personnel opens a package from us while so far away from home? And what a great feeling to hand a young person a check from your scholarship program that will help in so many ways to further their education.

While trying to “Keep Moving Forward” there were a few bumps in the road butwe worked together and got through them. If we follow the “Code of Ethics”, it makes the road a lot smoother for everyone. Again, I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for showing me so manykindnesses and lots of fun. Next to becoming a grandmother it has been a ride to emember. Thanks for the memories!

Life is a gift. Unwrap your present!Kathy Keizer, Immediate Past President

It is with great pleasure that we publish the following letter received from the VA Medical Center in Detroit. Many thanks to

Rose Solak and June Bell for their continued dedication to our veterans, and to all of the volunteers that contribute their time to these effeorts.

FriendsRoss mortgage Corporation

Shawna GoodloeSilver Lake Resort-Campultra-Tech Printing Co.

urgent CareGOLD

Barton malow Rigging Co.SILVER

American IndustrialStifel Nicolaus & Co. Inc.

T H manufacturing CompanyWest michigan Recycling

VAVS Regognition


VAVS Regognition

Greetings from the Sons of AMVETS Department of Michigan,

I wish to thank all of you who attended my Testimonial Dinner on April 10th it was a very special evening and we had a real good time. As this year comes to a close I wish to thank all of my Officers for their hard work ad dedication. We have had a good year our renewals are up and

the project reporting has increased. With Dedicated Sons of AMVETS Members that we have in the Department of Michigan I believe we can receive several awards at this years National Convention.

As our membership continues to grow it is important that we continue to teach any of our new members what they need to learn about the AMVETS Family, who we are, what we stand for, and how they can help. We also need to remind those of us who have become complacent that service to our Veterans and our communities should be necessary as well as gratifying to our heart and soul.

We all volunteer our time, helping a neighbor, working a dinner at your Post, visiting a friend in the hospital etc. I would like to encourage each Squadron to file Project Reports. This only takes a few minutes each month and they make a huge impact on the AMVETS Family. If each Squadron will send in Project Reports every month the Sons of AMVETS Department of Michigan could be second to none in the nation.

Please remember that I or my officers are here to assist you or you Post whenever it may be

needed if you have any questions, comments or concerns feel free to call.

Yours in Service to our veterans,

Douglas S. Beedon Commander Sons of AMVETS Department of Michigan 1715 N. Greenfield Cir. NE #101 Grand Rapids MI [email protected]

SONS OF AMVETS NEWS

Douglas S. BeedonCommander

Sons of AmVETS Department of michigan

1715 N. Greenfield Cir. NE #101 Grand Rapids

MI 49505

[email protected]

616-719-2294 Home 616-304-5479 Cell

mEmBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY: ANY PERSON WHO SERVED OR IS CURRENTLY SERVING IN THE ARMED FORCES OF THE U.S.A. AT ANY TIME AFTER SEPTEM-

BER 15, 1940 INCLUDING RESERVISTS AND NATIONAL GUARDSMEN WITH HONORABLE DISCHARGE, HONORABLE SEPARATION OR GENERAL DIS-

CHARGE UNDER HONORABLE CONDITIONS.

DuES AT lARGE ARE $25. DuES VARy AT POSTS.

AmVETSApplication for Membership

(Please Print Information Below)

PERSON RECEIVING DUESNAME______________________________PHONE (HOME)______________________ (WORK)_______________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE OF PERSON RECEIVING DUES

DATE_________ POST#_________ STATE_________THE SUM OF $__________IN PAYMENT OF AMVETS MEMBERSHIP DUES FOR THE YEAR ____________HAVE BEEN RECEIVED FROM:NAME_______________________________________

AMVETS TEMPORARY MEMBERSHIP CARD NOT VALID MORE THAN 60 DAYS

AFTER DATE ISSUEDYour official Membership Card will be forwarded to you. If you do not receive your card within 60 days, contact AMVETS Michigan Headquarters.

MICHIGAN HEADQUARTERS5489 Main St., P.O. Box 254, Dryden, MI 48248

JOIN AMVETS TODAY!

I APPLY FOR ____NEW ANNUAL ____ RENEWAL ____LIFE MEM. AND PRESENT

$__________FOR DUES POST#__________ STATE__________

SPONSOR__________________________________________________________________

NAME__________________________________________________ SPOUSE____________________________

ADDRESS___________________________________________________ PHONE_________________________

CITY, STATE, ZIP______________________________________________________________

BRANCH OF SERVICE______________________ YEAR ENTERED SERVICE____________

DISCHARGED__________SERVICE NUMBER______________________________

TYPE OF DISCHARGE________________ SEX_____M _____F

DATE OF BIRTH_______/_______/_______

SIGNATURE_____________________________________________________

DATE___________________________________ POST_____________________________________________

AUTHORIZING OFFICER_____________________________________________________________________

THE MICHIGAN AMVETS NEWS

5489 Main St.P.O. Box 254Dryden, MI 48248

NON-PROFITU.S. POSTAGE

ROYAL OAK, MI 48068PERMIT #792

PAID

AMVETSMICHIGAN.ORG

vol. 65, no. 2

Documents

amvets service department

department of military

department operational

department service foundation

department headquarters

long way

hard work

service director