Volume VI Number 3 A non-profit official publication 20 Sep 2010

Transcription

1 Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Department of Pacific Areas Commander James Oden Military Order of the Cootie Grand of the Pacific Commander Orville Humfleet Volume VI Number 3 A non-profit official publication 20 Sep 2010 The Around the Pacific newsletter showcases local activities throughout the VFW Department of Pacific Areas and the MOC Grand of the Pacific. PDC Larry Lyons, PDC Bob Zaher, CDR Jim Oden, Post 2485 CDR Bob Chesko, PDC Bill Wichmann and VOD Chairman Bill Bradford led by Army JROTC Cadet in the VFW Patriotic Rally. JPDC Jim Malott was marching with the Department Commanders led by CINC Tommy Tradewell. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 1

2 VFW National Home for Children staff welcomed the flag from Pacific Areas. It will be displayed with other state flags from the ceiling in the gymnasium. CDR Jim Oden with the VFW National Home for Children Buddy Poppy Child, Taylor Peek District 1 Okinawa Japan District CDR Stan Stewart and Dennis Provencher presenting a well deserved award to John Zaher, Commissary Manager at Camp Foster. John attended the Post 9723 Breakfast held at the Kadena Air Base NCO Club on 14 Aug In appreciation for his assistance to Post 9723 on their Buddy Poppy Drives and many other Post functions John was recognized for his support. It is contributors like John Zaher who make a big difference towards the success of VFW community activities. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 1

3 District Commander Stan Stewart presenting a $ Check from Department, a gift certificate and Eagle plaque from District I and Post 9723 to Joseph Wartella, the Eagle Boy Scout of the Year. Joseph was the Post, District and Department winner & submitted to National for further recognition consideration SCOUTING BUILDS GOOD CITIZENSHIP and LEADERS Comrades follow the example set by Post 9723 and District I in supporting local scouting programs and recognizing the scouts for their hard work and community involvement. Contact DPA JVC Darin Combs for more information. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 1

4 District 2 Mainland Japan DISTRICT FUNDRAISER HELD AT U.S. EMBASSY TOKYO RAISED OVER $1,100 VFW POST 9612 ACTIVITIES PATRIOT DAY REMEMBERED CAMP ZAMA From left to right inside the booth are Comrades Vinnie Dean, Homer Kemper, and Robert Moses serving food and providing VFW information. TOKYO, JAPAN This year's Friendship Day on 21 August 2010, held at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo Japan was an amazing success for the District 2 Mainland fundraising activity which raked in over $1,100 to use for the district. It was also a great opportunity to reach out into the community providing VFW awareness and recruiting. District Senior Vice Commander Robert Moses (Post 9555), District Junior Vice Commander Homer Kemper (Post 1054), District Service Officer T.J. Noonan (Post 1054), and Post Commander Vinnie Dean (Post 9612). Department Adjutant Dick Keeley as master of ceremonies for the event. CAMP ZAMA, JAPAN On Friday, 10 September 2010, Department Adjutant and Post Commander Dick Keeley attended the Patriot Day ceremony on Camp Zama and served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event. VFW Post 9612 also donated $ for the commemorative wreath used in the ceremony. Dick s famous ribs were a big hit with the Japanese community. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 4

5 Commemorative wreath donated by VFW Post PATRIOT DAY REMEMBERED NAF ATSUGI COMRADE ASSISTS WITH CHIEF PETTY OFFICER INDUCTION NAF ATSUGI NAF ATSUGI In the early morning hours of 11 September 2010, Department Adjutant and Post Commander Dick Keeley and District Commander Joe Mortimer (both members of VFW Post 9612) were invited by NAF Atsugi to attend the Chief Petty Officer Selectees on board U.S. Naval Air Facility who conducted Patriot Day remembrance and flag retirement ceremony on board NAF Atsugi Japan. District Commander Joe Mortimer (left) during Code of Conduct training as an opposing force prisoner interrogator with safety observers. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 5

6 NAF ATSUGI, JAPAN Every year after the results of the Chief Petty Officer selection boards, District Commander Joe Mortimer, a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, volunteers his free time to assist the new Chief Petty Officer Selectees during their induction period. This year was no exception. From when the results came out in August until 16 September, Mortimer tested the new Chief Selectees with questions related to leadership, historical, battle watch, protocol, watch standing, etc., and for every question answered correctly, they would receive $1.00 donation. There were other questions ranging from $1.00 to $20.00 and the new Chief Selectees did very well. On the final night, just past 1:00am, 16 September 2010, the Chief Selectees were put through the paces for Code of Conduct training where Mortimer acted as an opposing force prisoner interrogator trying to get them to sign confessions and divulge information from his personal experience as a Navy Chief Master-at-Arms. His knowledge of the Japanese language was very useful as there was a Japanese maritime Self Defense Force Chief Petty Officer going through the same training with her American counterparts, the first in the history of NAF Atsugi COMRADE CONDUCTED REMEMBRANCE FOR POW-MIA RECOGNITION DAY NAF ATSUGI Comrade Joe Mortimer (left) joins the Colors detail in raising the POW- MIA flag at Command Headquarters. District Commander Mortimer reads the VFW s POW-MIA Recognition Day Speech to an audience of command personnel at the headquarters building of NAF Atsugi. POW-MIA display table made by District Commander Joe Mortimer. NAF ATSUGI, JAPAN In the early morning hours of Friday, 17 September 2010, POW-MIA Recognition Day, on board U.S. Naval Air Facility Atsugi, members of NAF Atsugi gathered at Command Headquarters to observe and commemorate the our nation s POW- MIAs. District Commander Joe Mortimer along with NAF Atsugi Command Chaplain LT Brandon Hood conducted the observance. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 6

7 COMRADE ATTENDS KHAKI BALL WITH NEW CHIEF PETTY OFFICER AT NAF ATSUGI Ombudsmen are volunteers appointed by the commanding officer to serve as an information link between the command leadership and command families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information official Department of the Navy and command information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and good deals around the community. They also provide resource referrals when needed and are instrumental in resolving family issues before they require extensive command attention. On September 14, 1970, the U.S. Navy adopted the Navy Family Ombudsman Program, which originated out of a need for better communication between families and Navy commands. In 1970, Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, the 19th Chief of Naval Operations, established the Navy Family Ombudsman Program. He issued one of his famous messages, affectionately known as a Z Gram, in which he outlined the importance of the Navy wife as a member of the Navy command team. Therefore, representation was needed for her on that team; this was to come in the form of the command ombudsman. Comrade Mortimer with four of the new nineteen Chief Petty Officers. NAF ATSUGI, JAPAN After attending the Chief Petty Officer Pinning Ceremony on NAF Atsugi on 16 September 2010 where the new Chief Petty Officers received their anchors, on the evening of 17 September 2010, District Commander Joe Mortimer was also invited to attend the Khaki Ball to celebrate the more than thirty days of training and successful completion of the Chief Petty Officer induction period. Once a Chief always a Chief! th ANNIVERSARY OF NAVY FAMILY OMBUDSMAN DONATION AT NAF ATSUGI The Navy Family Ombudsman Program has grown in size and importance over the years. The day-to-day service to Navy families, in addition to the services of ombudsmen during crises like the USS Cole disaster, 9-11, and Hurricane Katrina, have been invaluable. In 2004, Commander Naval Installations Command (CNIC) conducted a comprehensive field study of the Navy Family Ombudsman Program. As a result of the findings, they assembled a working group in San Diego, CA in 2005 to review and update the Navy Family Ombudsman Program Manual and Ombudsman Basic Training. NAF ATSUGI, JAPAN District Commander Joe Mortimer donated $50.00 on behalf of VFW Post 9612 to support the Navy Family Ombudsman Program on NAF Atsugi during the 40th anniversary. The U.S. Navy is the only military service with this type of support program for military members and spouses. =================================== VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 7

8 District 3 Korea Another Fallen Comrade: Korean War Veteran Major Curley Knepp (US Army, Retired) It is ironic that Major Curley Knepp was our featured Then and Now article in last month s Around the Pacific. Little did we know that our dear friend Curley would depart us so soon after our VFW interview. American Hero Major Curley Knepp passed away on 5 August 2010 from complications of pneumonia. Curley was a member of VFW Post in Songtan and held an honored title as one of our country s Korean War Veterans. The VFW and Osan military community honored Curley in events throughout August. Major Curley Knepp was laid to rest at a cremation ceremony on 7 August in Pyongtaek City. A VFW Honor Guard carried the casket and performed a flag ceremony. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 8

9 Post members who participated included (from front left and around) Past Post Commander Ron Tichota, Mark Wood (USO), MSgt Chris Howell (303 rd IS), Commander Doc Higgins, Dennis Huggler, SSgt Robbie Normand (303 rd IS) and MSgt Matt Sullivan (303 rd IS); Keith Michael not in photo as photographer. Active Duty members of the 303 rd Intelligence Squadron participated in the ceremony; Post Commander Doc Higgins escorts Curley s wife Mag Na Knepp. Post Trustee Dennis Huggler and MSgt Matthew Sullivan fold the flag.. VFW Post Commander Patrick Doc Higgins presents the American Flag to widow Mag Na Knepp. Post honored Major Knepp with the formal Draping of the Charter Ceremony on 10 August. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 9

10 VFW Post held the official VFW Draping of the Charter Ceremony at their Post Home on 10 August Family, friends and Comrades gather to honor Curley Knepp Post Chaplain Billy Quintero says a prayer as part of the Draping Ceremony. Doc Higgins later said This ceremony is the hardest thing that a Commander can ever do in the VFW. The Veteran s of Foreign Wars continue to render service to Major Knepp by caring for his widow Mag Na. Our Service Officer Jack Terwiel is assisting the widow in all claims, benefits, death certificates and financial matters to ensure her welfare. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 10

11 51 st Fighter Wing and 8 th US Army BCD Honor Major Curley Knepp Osan s 51 st Fighter Wing and the US Army s Battlefield Coordination Detachment honored Major Curley Knepp in a special retreat ceremony held on 27 August at the Osan Air Base Hill 180 Memorial Park. Osan s Honor Guard performs a flag folding ceremony during this special retreat. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 11

12 Osan s active duty military and VFW members pay tribute to an American Hero. Post Commander Pat Doc Higgins represented the Post and District III Commander Shawn Watson accompanied Curley s widow Mag Na Knepp. VFW comrades (from left) Ricky Thomas, Ron Tichota and Mark Wood say farewell to a dear friend. 3 rd BCD Commander E.J. Degen gave a heartfelt farewell oration to honor Major Knepp. 51 st Fighter Wing Commander Colonel Andrew Malackowski consoles Mrs. Knepp. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 12

13 Eulogy of Major Curley Knepp rendered by US Army Colonel E.J. Degen: Distinguished guests, Airmen, Soldiers and most importantly, family and friends of our fallen hero, Curly Knepp, thank you for attending today s simple Retreat Ceremony. The Almighty Lord has given us a glorious day to capture the spirit of our fallen and honored hero and what an appropriate spot to do it on, the very hill that honors those who served with Curley to ensure the freedom of the Korean people. A Soldier s life is not an easy one for them or their family. They constantly deal with adversity, separation, the elements, sleepless nights, lack of good food, and the list goes on. The Soldier we honor here today did not just give a military career to his country with multiple combat tours in Korea and Vietnam, he continued to serve another career right here on Osan while contributing to countless organizations and functions in the community. MAJ Curley Knepp is a shining example of selfless service. What separates a Soldier, Airman, Sailor and Marine from the common man or woman is the fact that they are willing to sacrifice all that they have for others. What makes men like MAJ Knepp do what they do? It clearly is not the money. It is not the fame that accompanies this uniform. It is not the accolades and paparazzi that you see a Hollywood star receive. I would argue it is the drive to effect change. Heroes do not sit on the sidelines watching the passing of time. They voluntarily stand up and work for the greater good of all mankind. They work for what is right. President Lincoln captured this thought ever so eloquently in his second inaugural address to a very troubled nation. With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right. Curley Knepp saw the right and that right was the freedom he fought for. Through my travels I have personally seen the fruits of this American labor and sacrifice. I saw it in the eyes and smiles of Kosovar children; who were free to go to school for the first time without fear of being beaten or killed. I have seen in it the thirst for western democracy in the former Soviet Eastern Bloc countries of Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic. I surely felt it in Iraq with the first hug I received from an old man who had never known freedom. With tears in his eyes he muttered Thank You America over and over again. I see it today in Korea in a bustling economy and a flourishing democracy. Today we honor and remember one simple Soldier and Patriot; a hero for all eternity, a hero who spent his time on Earth turning wrong to right and making a positive impact on his community every day. As we honor him today, I challenge you to feel and capture the spirit of MAJ Curley Knepp. Remember him fondly for all time; remember him for what he stood for. We build lasting memorials to our heroes all around us. We inter them in the most sacred shrines. They are buried in Arlington overlooking the bastion of modern democracy and freedom. They are buried in Normandy, France; overlooking the very cliffs of Omaha Beach they died climbing. They are buried in the National Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii, the Punchbowl, overlooking the beautiful blue waters they fought to defend. Here we honor our special heroes, CPT Millet and his men, with this humble monument on Hill 180. This hill symbolizes the courage and spirit of not just that one charge up this very hill, but is a lasting symbol of all the United Nations Allies and their brave Korean brothers who fought to make this country free and great. In the words of John Gay, Give me, kind Heaven, a private station, a mind serene for contemplation: title and profit I resign; the post of honor shall be mine. This hill beneath us will forever be a Post of Honor for our heroes. Join me in adding MAJ Curley Knepp, United States Army and Osan family member as one of those heroes. May God bless our deployed Warriors, God bless Korea and America, and may God grant special blessings upon the loved ones of our heroes The VFW Service Officer for Post Jack Terwiel has developed a superb slideshow to honor Curley on his Retiree Website. It is a fitting tribute and can be found at: VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 13

14 Osan Air Base, Korea, commemorated the annual POW/MIA Recognition Day with special events that were held throughout the week of 17 September. This observance is one of six days throughout the year that Congress has mandated the flying of the National League of Families' POW/MIA flag. VFW Post of Songtan was a partner with the base on all of these events and our Pacific Areas Past Commander Larry Lyons was the guest speaker at the ceremony. The week s events began with POW/MIA informational booths at the High School, Middle School and Base Exchange, manned jointly by military members and the VFW. Candlelight vigils were also held nightly at the base chapel. One of the highlights of the week was a 24-hour Run to honor our POW/MIAs that began on 16 September and ended at 1645 on the 17 th. Formations from organizations throughout Osan participated and VFW Post had the honor of the next to last formation. Post was led by their illustrious Commander Doc Higgins. A big group began the run, but.. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 14

15 Only four made it! I must be crazy doing this at my age! I m glad I dropped out after one lap! Doc Higgins suffered from exhaustion, heat stroke and heart problems. Being congratulated by Dennis Huggler....and had to be carried away on a stretcher. I m pleased to report that he eventually recovered and remains Post Commander. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 15

16 The POW/MIA Recognition Week culminated in a solemn ceremony on 17 September. The 24-hour run concluded with a posting of the POW/MIA Flag at the Commemoration Monument. Past Department of Pacific Areas Commander Larry Lyons was the guest speaker and gave an emotional speech recognizing and remembering our POWs and MIAs. As a former member of Osan s 303 rd Intel Squadron Skivvy Nine, Larry is an honored guest of Osan Air Base. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 16

17 World War II Re-enactors from Mark Wood of VFW Post added a special touch to the ceremony. The ceremony was truly a joint effort and included a formation of US Air Force, US Army and Republic of Korea Air Force. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 17

18 Larry Lyons, Commander of Post Doc Higgins (recovered from run) and Post s POW/MIA Chairman Charles Wood celebrates another successful week of POW/MIA Recognition Week. The 51 st Fighter Wing Commander Colonel Malokowski presents Larry Lyons with the prestigious Mustang, the symbol of the 51 st Wing. Larry has been the guest speaker for this event for the past three years. Larry then graciously presented the crystal Mustang to Post Commander Higgins for display in their Post. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 18

19 VFW Post of Songtan, Korea, participated in the 7 th Annual Korean-American Friendship Cultural Festival on September. The two-day event was held in the Shinjang Shopping Mall, just outside Osan s main gate. The themes for this year's festival were "We Go Together," and "Be a Good Neighbor." The Festival shares Korean and American hospitality and provided a cultural exchange. This year's event featured American and Korean stage performers, martial arts demonstrations, cultural food and entertainment booths, and a parade. The local VFW Post participated with a food booth selling BBQ Spareribs and in the Parade by fielding a formation of troops and our VFW Motorcycle Group. Here s some of the fun! Over 40 VFW members and their spouses volunteered with our BBQ Sparerib food booth, many putting in over 12 hours per day! Great support from our members! The wives were especially welcomed, as they manned the sales booth. Vicky Dillingham and Sally Tichota shown here attracting customers as Ed Jankowski gets the ribs ready! Ron Davis cooked with his special sauce that he won t share the recipe! Ron was key to our success, along with his hand-picked cooking team of Tom Passwater and Damien Cone! VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 19

20 Post Commander Doc Higgins was in charge of Public Affairs with the Koreans, shown here serving Soju; and quality assurance was performed by Adjutant Keith Michael. The parade consisted of both Korea and American formations. The ROKAF Band shown here also supports our VFW Loyalty Day Parade. Osan Air Base s military units and organizations were part of the parade; the Osan High School Junior ROTC shown here. Post is working with the Junior ROTC on the Voice of Democracy Program. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 20

21 A highlight of the Parade for the Koreans are the VFW s own Motorcycle Group, shown here in the climactic end of the Parade. The MG President H. VanHazel leads the group and District III Commander Shawn Watson shown enjoying himself on a ride. This group is the only official VFW Motorcycle Group in the Pacific and includes members from Posts and The Festival was a huge success for the Osan Community and the VFW was proud to be a partner. The Post made over $3,000 in profit that goes directly to the General Fund to support our troops and veterans. ****************************************************************************************************************************************************************** Comrades we need to look closely to see if our Surgeon is who we voted for or. The infamous character from the STALAG in Hogan s Heroes VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 21

22 The resemblance is absolutely uncanny! Go to the next page if you dare! The Cootie Colonel Klink of Pup Tent 8 VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 22

23 District 7 Philippines COMRADES OF POST 2485 MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR LOCAL SCHOOL Post 2485 Commander Bob Chesko presenting the principal of Malabanias Elementary School s 1600 students a printer. The Post has been active in supplying computer equipment. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 23

24 VFW Post 9892 recently received a request for assistance from the local Paringao National High School. They were requesting that we provide CR facilities for a specific classroom. Upon investigation it was ascertained that the school, which has a total student population of 427 students, only had one functional toilet for the entire school. Post Commander Hilliard immediately enlisted the support of a local respected builder, Max Wilson, and the two discussed designs, and the requirements they felt were badly needed. As there was only a source of fresh water available, plans had to be made to install a Septic Tank, a leach field, and then build a CR on top of it. Further discussions with Post members and our Outside Contributor resulted in our deciding to build a CR that could function in support of the entire school. As this was a major outlay of funds, the proposed project was brought before the membership at the regular monthly meeting and voted unanimously to fund in the amount of P50, After the vote, a collection was taken from members willing to donate and a total of P27, was realized. Once the actual project was commenced, we realized that we needed a much larger Septic Tank than originally planned for only a CR for one Classroom. This was built, and then we decided that in order to properly indoctrinate the student body in proper hygiene it was deemed that the facility should be tiled prior to installation of the equipment. These changes incurred a cost overage, which was presented to the members again at the next Post meeting, and once again the members voted to pay the total cost of P77, Additionally, members individually chipped in and donated another P18, Truly showing their Community Service attitudes. The facility was turned over during the first week of August 2010, to the High School Principal, who stated that it was, better than any he had ever seen in a local school. Post 9892 continues to Proudly Support their Community, and is gearing up for its 19th Annual Chili Cook Off which generates the funds for these projects. Above: Boys (l), and Girls completed CR facilities. Lalak Designed and Funded by: Col. B.J. Smith VFW Post 9892 Proudly Supporting our Community Babae Built by: Max Wilson Associates A project of: Mrs. Lina B. Hilliard PTA Vice President VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 24

25 Comrade Roger Limle is Post 9892 s Chairman for it s Elementary Schools program. Currently, the post is supporting over 3,500 young Elementary students in six area schools with twice annual supplies of pencils, crayons, scissors, candies, and pencil sharpeners for every classrooms, and pens for the staff. We are also furnishing them with Cinnamon rolls on a monthly basis, and sports equipment as available. The photos show post members during the school opening deliveries. Post members involved in the deliveries were: Commander Hilliard, Senior Vice Commander Dozier, Chairman Limle, Surgeon Hignight, and Comrades Pound, Worley and Ross. Also assisting were Mrs. Pound, Mrs. Ross and Mrs. Limle. The six schools supported by the Post are: San Augustin, Pagudpud, Paoay, Bawanta, San Roque, and Paringao. The total student population of these schools is in excess of 3,500. This is our primary Community Project effort and requires funding in support of amounting to more than $ a month. Comrade Limle is working every month to find the best deals available to furnish the needed supplies. Supplies are then amassed, collated, and prepared for our next delivery, which we plan just prior to the Christmas break. All of the children are very appreciative and we post the thank you letters in our post Canteen for all to see.

26 Grand of Pacific Areas Military Order of the Cootie GRAND OF PACIFIC AREAS REPORT of 91 st SUPREME CONVENTION (Scratch) (Marriott East Indianapolis, Indiana August 26-29, 2010 Attendees: (Left to right) Supreme District 15 Councilman Bill Wichmann, Grand SVC Jim Oden, Past Supreme Commander Steve Mason, Grand Commander Orville Humfleet and Past Grand Commander Jim Malott. August 26 Mid-afternoon Outgoing Council Meeting: The Council reviewed the budget and made final adjustments with following report given by Jack Roberts the QM/Adj; Total Income: $249, (estimated) ~ $241, (actual) Total Budgeted: $ (budgeted) ~ $216, (actual) Profit/Loss: + $24, VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 25

27 August 27 Morning Joint Opening Ceremonies: A joint opening ceremonies of the MOC 91 st Supreme and MOCA 49 th Supreme Conventions commenced with distinguished guests introduced by Supreme Commander C. Maurice Theriac and a few short speeches were rendered. Then the MOC and MOCA were entertained by the National Home Buddy Poppy Girl and Home singers, with remarks by the staff of the Home. From left to right Jack Roberts, Supreme Commander C. Maurice Theriac, Ladies Auxiliary President Pamela Hamilton, SVC George Dennis, JVC Joe McCullough, Surgeon Darrell Olson and Judge Advocate Jerry Constable. VFW National Home The Supreme Commander introduced the National Home Buddy Poppy Child Taylor Peek who told the Cooties about herself and how much the children of the home appreciated the funny Cooties. The VFW National Home Executive Director Patrice Green spoke on the Home and thanked the Cooties for the new car and scholarship awarded to a resident of the Home. (Left to right) Patrice Green, Executive Director VFW National Home, Taylor Peek, Buddy Poppy Child Taylor Peek, Raymond Warren, President of the Board of Trustees VFW National Home, David Schmidt, Supreme VFW National Home Chairman, and sitting Supreme Ladies Auxiliary President Pamela Hamilton. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 26

28 Also, the National Home Children s singing group in decorative white with red butterflies shirts is seen above singing some loveable songs to the Coots. The Buddy Poppy Child then took to the floor and mixed with the Cooties collecting donations for the National Home. Upon completion of the National Home entertainment the opening ceremonies were closed, with Cooties and Lady Cooties going to their respective business sessions. Seen above at the MOC 1 st Business Session from far left to right is Historian Cecil Reno, Chaplain Barry Walker, QM/Adj Jack Roberts, Supreme Commander Maurice Theriac, SVC George Dennis, JVC Joe McCullough, Surgeon Mark Newman and Judge Advocate Jerry Constable. MOC 1 st Business Session: The 91 st Supreme Scratch commenced in mid-morning with opening remarks by Supreme Commander C. Maurice Theriac and then followed by Supreme Quartermaster Jack Roberts (hereinafter, QM/Adj) reading the Rules of the Scratch that were moved and approved by the delegates. It was then moved that roll call vote be made on questionable motions and elections, which was adopted by the Scratch. Delegate strengths were then taken for those present. The published minutes of last year s 90 th Supreme Scratch were then read, moved and approved by the Scratch. The QM/Adj then briefed on the following; Budge and Investments The QM/Adj indicated because of the world economic situation in the past year that the investments of the MOC has been paying off better then a few years ago and that a profit was realized in final income/budget figure of $24, With that said, the following are some facts on life plans for Pup Tents: Life Member Plan A $4 pay per member Life Member Plan B $3 pay per member Life Member Plan C $6 pay per member (note plan only has 540 members) Life Member Rebate Checks The above rebate are considered anticipated, however the Life Fund custodians shall determine the final rebates paid on the plans. Pup Tent Bonds Cost of QM bond of $14 (two years coverage) will remain the same for ensuing year. Units not bonding with the Supreme Organization must furnish a copy of any commercial bond to Supreme Headquarters that they may purchase to fulfill the bonding requirement of Supreme By-Laws. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 27

29 Pup Tent QM Kits It was reported all kits have been mailed and those Pup Tents that do not have warrants on file with Supreme will get no kits issued until warrants are received. MOC Store QM/Adj indicated the store had been backlogged on Cootie caps and it will take six to eight weeks to ship from time ordered to shipping out. The QM/Adj did investigate in purchasing hats from overseas at cheaper costing; however, it was found that a license to ship would be too costly, so hats are made in the USA. Jack Roberts says he ll still attempt to outsource for hats, but for now they will be made locally. VFW National Home It was reported by the QM/Adj that donations of $12, were received this year for the special projects program in support for certain areas of the home. The Ladies Auxiliary also donated $8, to the Home. This year a car and scholarship was presented the National home. Scholarship Program The $148, Scholarship Fund paid for one scholarship of $4, that went to the National Home. This was first scholarship given since 1984 from this fund. Membership It was reported by QM/Adj that the MOC membership ended up at 98% of last year s 21,105 members. He indicated that membership was the heart beat of the organization and we need to gain more Cooties as membership was over 30,000 a few years ago. He emphasized that loss in membership meant a good amount in moneys loss to run the organization. August 27 Afternoon MOC 2 nd Business Session: The Scratch commenced in the afternoon with a visit by VFW National s three chair officers, Awards presentation, and nominations for next year elected officers. VFW Commander-in-Chief Visit The Commander-in-Chief Richard Eubank, SVC Richard Denoyer and JVC John Hamilton visited and made some remarks. It is noteworthy that all three National chairs are Marines and Cooties. With the JVC John Hamilton also a Past Supreme Commander dating back to1993 from the state of Florida. He is the only PSC ever to server in the chairs at National level, which ought to be put in Guinness Book of Record. The Chief addressing the MOC and MOCA stating among other things that his priority this year is membership knowing the Cooties can provide the bullets for the rifles to build the organization. The chairs then departed receiving a standing ovation of applause from the convention floor. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 28

30 Awards Supreme Commander Theriac announced that awards would be presented with the All Star Grand Commanders awards presented last. The following are the awards that were presented to the Grand of Pacific Areas: Seen here is Supreme Commander Theriac presenting Grand Commander Orville Humfleet the Grand of Pacific 1 st Place Membership (Silver Division) Award with Supreme Membership Director Franky Hicks seen on the left side. Also, Grand Commander Humfleet was presented the 2 nd Place Hospital (Division 6) Award plaque for the Grand s outstanding work in the Hospital Program. Picture on the left Supreme Command Theriac presenting 32 sets of Booster Awards patches and pins for those Cooties recruiting 5 plus new/reinstated VFW members during the year. Also, Grand received a Certificate of Achievement Booster 1 st Place (Silver Division). It was noted that Grand recruited the most new/reinstated members for the VFW in Supreme at 1,052 members as reported by the end of June. The picture on the right shows Grand Commander Humfleet being presented All Star Pup Tent Award Certificates for Pup Tents 1, 6, 7,8,15 and 303 for outstanding work in Supreme programs and membership during the year. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 29

31 Volume VI Number 3 AROUND THE PACIFIC 20 Sep 2010 Supreme Commander presenting to Grand Commander Humfleet the st Certificate of Achievement 1 Place Special Projects (Silver Division) for Grand. Sounds Buggy Where s my All Star Hat? All Star Grand Commanders The presentation of All Star Hats for outstanding Grand Commander s including their Quartermaster and Adjutant were given out. However, the Grand of Pacific was not mentioned nor were two other Grands who took many awards in their respective divisions. Mistake in Calculations? Not to be outdone after taking more awards then the majority of Grands that were presented All Star hats the Supreme Commander was approach by me as a Supreme District officer and PGC Jim Malott, to ask WHY no hat. His answer; it was a mistake in calculations by my staff. He offered apologies and stated that after nominations he would announce the mistake to the Convention delegates and present the names of Grands left out during the All Star Grand Commander presentations. Nominations Opened Nominations were made for officers elect, with nominations held open until the final business secession of the Supreme Scratch. Those Cooties nominated for office were Supreme Commander George Dennis, SVC Joe McCullough, JVC Jerry Constable, QM Jack Roberts, Surgeon Mark Newman, Chaplain Berry Walker, Judge Advocate Jessie Kitson, and Supreme Historian Cecil Reno. All Star Grand Commanders Recognized The Supreme Commander true to his word announced on the floor of the Supreme Scratch the mistake in not honoring all of the All Star Grand Commanders. He then presented All Star Grand Commanders George Brown (New Mexico), Orville Humfleet (Pacific Areas) and Bert Logan (Oregon) their recognition with hats ordered latter. Left to right are George, Orville and smiling Bert comforting the Supreme Commander for mistakes made in determining the All Star Grand Commanders. (Note: Someone is wearing Orville s shorts.) VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 30

32 August 28 Morning MOC 3 rd Business Session: In the morning the Supreme Scratch continued with a visit by the MOCA Clowns dancing away with Cooties and the By-Laws Committee presented amendments to be voted on by the delegates. MOCA Clowns The Clowns of the Ladies Auxiliary entered the room in gala fashion and stopped the scratch to collect donations for their Hospital Program. The Cooties dug deep for duffle to donate for a most worthy cause, which the ladies were very grateful. Hi, Cooties I have candy for duffel. Hey there Coot, dig deeper and I ll give you candies By-Laws and Resolutions Committee Past Supreme Commander Steve Mason was Co- Chairperson of the committee and Pacific Areas PGC Jim Malott was a member of the committee. Steve introduced the proposed amendments. He stated notification was given on proposals to Supreme By-Laws In the July 15, 2010, issue of the Cootie Courier and then explained details of each amendment. The following are amendments to the by-laws that were adopted at the Scratch: B 1 Adopted (deleted section wording and substituted a new paragraph.) ARTICLE I ~ Membership Section 108 Admission Fees Each local Pup Tent may fix its own initiation fee, but in no case shall this fee be less than the total of two ($2.00) dollars. The two ($2.00) dollars is to be sent to the Grand Quartermaster, together with the Grand and Supreme copies of the membership card. The Grand Quartermaster retains one ($1.00) dollar and the Grand copy of the card and forwards one ($1.00) dollar along with the Supreme Record Card to the Supreme Quartermaster. The Admission fee shall accompany the application in all cases, and upon obligation, the applicant shall subscribe to a copy of the By-Laws, Rules and Regulations. The Nit shall receive a membership card only when all Admission fees and dues have been paid. The official Cootie Hat Style #102, less tassels, shall be issued at the time the Nit degree is conferred or as soon after as possible. One green tassel shall be issued and affixed to he left tip of the Cootie Hat at the time the Grayback Degree is conferred. The second green tassel and official pin will be issued at the time the Cootie Degree is conferred. In case there is no Grand Pup Tent having jurisdiction, the local Pup Tent shall send the Grand Record Card and the Supreme Record Card and one ($1.00) dollar to the Supreme Quartermaster direct. Comment: The above change to this section is effectively eliminating the Admission Fee from the MOC. The Extension Fee of $1.00 remains in place. This fee, known over the years as the Initiation Fee, or New Member Fee was set as the cost to produce the Basic Member Hat, and lately was $ This hat will still need to be purchased, but from this point on will be at the Supply Department price. New members will now pay the $9.00 Supreme Per Capita Tax, the Grand Per Capita Tax and the $2.00 extension fee to their Grand Quartermaster for each new member. New members will then be required to purchase a model 201 New Members Hat and Tassels and a collar pin at Supply Department Pricing. Also, the Supreme Supply Department now will have a new item that may be purchased in bulk by Pup Tents so that they can present a cover for their head while they wait for their Cootie hat to arrive. B 4 Adopted (deleted wording in first sentence prior to semi-colon and substituted new wording as shown below.) VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 31

33 Volume VI Number 3 AROUND THE PACIFIC 20 Sep 2010 ARTICLE II ~ Pup Tents Section 201 Formation of A Pup Tent may be formed by charter from the Supreme Pup Tent on application of not less than fifteen (15) members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States who are members of the Military Order of the Cootie in accordance with Section 101 of the MOC By-Laws ; (With all remaining sections/provision remaining the same.) Comment: The above wording change in the first sentence of the section allows more flexibility in standing up viable Pup Tents. th August 28 Afternoon th MOC 4 Business Session: The afternoon started with an announcement, introduction of the VFW National Organizations three chairs and ended with final nominations and elections for year. th Tomb Trek Announcements QM/Adj made an announcement concerning Tomb Trek that; 1) 76 Annual Tomb Trek is th th th schedule 5, 6 and 7 November, 2) advance registration and checks for hotel must be received before 10 October, and th 3) wreath ordered and check to be received before 13 of October at cost of $ Nomination and Elections The Supreme Commander announced that nominations were again open with elections to follow. The QM/Adj reviewed the delegate strengths with those present and nominations continued with no positions contested. The vote was then taken with following results: Commander George Dennis Senior Vice Joe McCullough Junior Vice Jerry Constable Quartermaster Jack Roberts Surgeon Mark Newman Chaplain Barry M. Walker Judge Advocate Jessie Kitson Historian Cecil Reno WOWEE I M ELECTED August 28 Evening Supreme Installation Banquet: The installation banquet commenced in early evening with Master of Ceremonies Supreme Senior Vice Commander (elect) Joe McCullough introducing the guests and dignitaries. He first introduced the VFW representative the National Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief John Hamilton who just happens to be a Past Supreme Commander. He made a short effective speech ending with a Marine Semper Fideles. Then Supreme Commander C. Maurice Theriac was recognized and thanked all the Cooties for their outstanding hospital work and community support ending his remarks saying I Care, You Care, We All Care. Finally, the MOCA Ladies Auxiliary President Pamela Hamilton was introduced and gave her blessings on the MOC Cooties for all their support for the Auxiliary during the past year. With speeches over dinner was served followed by the in stallation officers. The Ladies Auxiliary installed their officers first and the new President K. Rosemarie Brown gave a short acceptance speech. Then Past Supreme Commander Fred Garcia who was the installing officer for Supreme called to order officers to be installed that included elected, appointed and councilmen. After the officers installation the newly installed Supreme Commander George Dennis expressed his appreciation of the MOC and the work of the Cooties and requested full support in the coming year to advance the Honor D egree of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. He stated his motto for this coming year is WE TEAM. He further stated the WE TEAM is the VFW and the MOC. There is no I in TEAM. With both installations completed the closing ceremonies were conducted st th and the Cooties 91 Supreme Convention (Scratch) and Ladies Cooties 49 Supreme Convention closed. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 32

34 Supreme officers seen above being installed taking the oath of office from front center Commander George Dennis, SVC Joe McCullough to the right and on his left JVC Jerry Constable with other officers in the back. August 29 In the morning the Incoming Council meeting was held. Since, those attending from the Pacific Areas had to catch early flights no member attended the meeting, which only reviewed the budget and approved it for the ensuing year. A copy of the approved budget should be forwarded to the District 15 Council member. At the conclusion of this report I would like to thank All Star Grand Commander Orville Humfleet, SVC Jim Oden and PGC Jim Malott who attended the entire Supreme Convention representing the Grand of Pacific. This proved to be a fantastic year for the Grand as the awards showed that the Cooties of the Pacific were on top of all programs. My congratulations go out to all the Pup Tents who contributed their time and efforts in doing hospital work, booster recruiting, special projects and membership, plus other donations to the cause of MOC. Again, well done, and remember the Supreme Staff knows that the Grand of Pacific is one of the better Grand s in the MOC, so let s do it again this year and keep pumping out All Star Pup Tents so we can be an All Star Grand again. Just remember you can do it, as the We Team and Keep Them Smiling in Beds of White. Yours in L.O.T.C.S., Bill Wichmann Supreme District 15 Councilman VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 33

35 Pup Tent #1, Honey Bucket Special Grand of the Pacific, Military Order of the Cootie COOTIES OF PUP TENT #1 REMEMBER KIRK McKNIGHT A Great Friend, Past Seam Squirrel, and Cootie Cooties of Pup Tent #1 recently mourned the passing of Cootie Kirk McKnight, Past Seam Squirrel of Pup Tent #1 and sitting District Commander of District 2 Mainland Japan. Kirk was a powerful presence in District 2 Mainland Japan and Honey Bucket Special Pup Tent #1. We will all miss him! Lest we forget! ============================================== COOTIES OF PUP TENT #1 RECEIVE HOSPITAL WORKER PATCHES From Left to right Grand Council Member / Seam Squirrel Joe Mortimer presents Hospital Worker Patches to Cooties Robert Moses, Eugene Stump, and Gil Gauntz. VFW Department of Pacific Areas Page 34