Veterans of Foreign Wars 333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143 – Phone 317-888-2488

Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864 – May 2017 Newsletter

"It’s not the dues you pay to be a member, it’s the price you paid to be eligible!”

“Like us” on --Facebook -- Greenwood VFW 5864-- and visit our --Website-greenwoodvfw.com-- ________________________________________________________________________________

Post Adjutant Connie Wallace visited with Damon Monschein in late March after he was hospitalized at the VA Medical Center in Indianapolis with symptoms of the flu. __________________________________________________________________________

6-week air war and 100-hour ground war ended 26 years ago

VFW marks official end of Operation Desert Storm

Last month, April 11 marked the 26th anniversary of the official end of Operation Desert Storm. The war, which lasted six weeks in the air and 100 hours on the ground, proved not only the devastating lethality of the U.S. military, but also that it was extremely capable of fighting as an interoperable and expeditionary force against what was then the fourth largest standing army in the world. Each of the nearly 700,000 American soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast

Guardsmen who served in the Gulf helped to achieve the victory, but the success did come with a price of 374 dead, 467 wounded, and two servicemen whose remains have yet to return home. As the public's attention of the war fades with time, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States remains dedicated to remembering all Gulf War veterans, and

ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. The VFW has successfully pushed for legislation to expand the list of presumptive service-connected ailments associated with service in the Gulf, and to date, the VFW is the only major veterans service organization to pledge $500,000 toward the construction of the National Desert Storm War Memorial. "The VFW is proud to serve those whose bravery and resolve helped to liberate a nation," said Gulf War veteran and VFW National Commander Brian Duffy. "Please continue to remember all who served."

2 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Message from the Commander . . .

VFW and Auxiliary Members: The Post’s 2017-2018 VFW and Auxiliary elections were held on Tuesday, April 18. Members of the VFW elected the following members – Steve Milbourn, Commander; George Wallace, Sr. Vice Commander; Sherri Jones, Jr. Vice Commander; Mike Tomes, Quartermaster; Ken Hall, Chaplain; Jermey Miner, 3-Year Trustee; and Mike Millhoff, 3-Year House Committee Member. Jermey Miner and Mike Millhoff are part of our contingency of “young veterans” as are George, Connie and Sherri. I am excited that our younger members are coming forth and beginning to get involved by taking various positions at the Post. The Auxiliary elected the following members for 2017-2018 – Linda Kessinger, President; Roberta Arthur, Sr. Vice President; Heather Coghill, Jr. Vice President; Katie Janes, Treasurer; Carol Puckett, Chaplain; Julie Sigalow, Conductress; Darius Janes, Guard; Mike Arthur, 3-Year Trustee and Cindy Coram, Secretary. Commander Steve Milbourn The Post now has seven active younger veterans who hold elected or appointed positions for 2017-2018. As Commander, my focus will be on building the Post’s “brand” through news stories, advertising and events to make our name more recognizable and friendly to those who do not know us. Currently, we are known by most all of Indiana’s 150 VFW Posts by our Service work which includes helping veterans and their families in their time of need’ our claim work; and providing information concerning anything related to veterans. During this upcoming year, I am planning to train a new Service officer. My year as the Service Officer at American Legion Post 252 ends shortly and I will not be involved with doing that job any longer. The amount of time that is required for both Service positions is unbelievable and I simply do not have the ability to do both positions. If anyone needs a claim filed, I will direct them to the Johnson County Service Officer or to the Service Offices in the Federal Building in downtown Indianapolis. It is my belief that we need to make some changes to the way we manage our overall operation. With that said, here are a few things I would like to see changed or modified so the Post can become more efficient. 1. Meet with Auxiliary officers at least every other month to make sure we are all on “the same page”. To make our entire operation run as smoothly as possible, we must have more communication. This is the key to keeping things moving on the right path. An e-mail will be set-up and sent out to all the primary officers in both groups of our day-to-day activities. 2. We need a Calendar of Events for the entire year which will is available on Page 24 of this issue of the newsletter. If you know of any events that may need to be added, please e-mail me your information to make the additions or changes. 3. We need volunteers for some of the work that we do daily. 4. We need to review and possibly change the way we operate the kitchen. One of our most recent and successful ventures is with Dave Whapham, from the Blind Pig, and our own Bar Manager, Kristina Serna. They have been volunteering their own time to cook and serve meals three times a month for the Sertoma Club; and clean-up afterwards. We are generating between three and four times the amount of money on food and liquor / beer than we previously did on Thursday evenings and we have no costs involved. 5. We will continue to listen to any ideas that members in both the VFW and Auxiliary may have. So, if you do have an idea, let us know and we will give it serious consideration. Lastly – I would like to challenge each one of you who reads this newsletter to ask yourself this question – “What did I do to help a veteran or his or her family this year?” If you can provide two, three or four hours on Saturday, May 27 to help the Post with its Poppy program. That consists of going to a location within a few miles of the Post, standing or sitting and asking people who come by your location “Would you like to donate to help veterans?”.

Steve Milbourn, Commander – (317) 525-7291 – steve.milbourn@aol.com

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 3

Ralph D. Napier Scholarship application available

Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s annual Scholarships to assist a deserving young man or woman pursue their education after high school, will be awarded to three graduates of the class of 2017. The applicants must be from an accredited Indiana high school. The sum of $1,000, to be applied as the recipient wishes to the cost associated with continuing education at any technical school or degree granting college or university within the United States. The scholarship will be paid in two equal amounts, one payment per semester. A grade

report for the semester and the registration for the second semester is required to receive the second payment. Eligibility for the Scholarships is as follows: Applicant must be a resident of Indiana who is currently a senior in high school in the class of 2017 or enrolling in an accredited university or college. The applicant must be the child, stepchild, grandchild or step-grandchild sponsored by a member in good standing of VFW Post 5864. If the sponsor is deceased, he or she must have

been a member in good standing in VFW Post 5864 at the time of death. The VFW membership number of the sponsor must be provided on the application for verification. Selection criteria includes: -- Academic achievement (e.g., GPA, official academic transcript requires)

-- Leadership and participation in school and/or community activities -- Honors (e.g., academic, church, community, Scouting, etc.) -- Community Service and -- Patriotic Involvement -- A biographical essay including the above selection criteria (i.e., leadership, participation, and service in school, church, or community; honors received), the responsibilities of citizenship in a democratic society, and the personal goals for the future. The essay shall be the original work of the applicant. Any other material must be footnoted. The essay shall not be less than one page or longer than three typed pages, and will be formatted with one inch margins, 1.5-line spacing and 12-point font. This essay will be reviewed and graded based on grammar, spelling, originality, context and content at a level consistent with exceptional academic work. A grade report and course registration must be submitted to receive the second payment of the scholarship if the applicant is selected. Send all required material and supporting documentation to VFW Post 5864, 333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143, Attention: Scholarship Committee. Please include your name, address, phone number and email address for contact information. Applications must be delivered to the VFW Post 5864 by May 31, 2017. The decision of the Scholarship Committee Judges will be final and all applicants will receive written notification that a decision has been reached. The winner will be notified by telephone. Presentation of this award will take place on the evening of July 18, 2017 at the VFW Post 5864 meeting.

VFW Auxiliary welcoming all qualified prospects

The VFW, at the 116th National Convention in 2015 began allowing male spouses and family members to join the VFW Auxiliary. Subsequently, the Men’s Auxiliary was also dissolved effective Dec. 31, 2016. Many members of the VFW Men’s Auxiliary have joined in the new VFW Auxiliary. Males who wish to join the VFW Auxiliary will be required to complete a membership application, provide proof of eligibility, and pay your dues. If you wish to join or know of someone interested in joining, please provide a copy of a DD-214 of the individual you would be coming in under and complete an application. VFW Auxiliary applications are at the bar.

Free Notary Service to Veterans and Auxiliary Members of

VFW Post 5864 – Contact Steve Milbourn – 317-525-7291

4 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Golf committee to meet on Tuesday, May 9 and 23

The Post’s May meetings of the Golf Committee for 2017 will be held on Tuesday, May 9 and May 23 at 7:30 p.m. There are approximately 32 days until the tournament. If you know of an individual or company that may be interested in participating in this golf outing, please call Steve Milbourn at 317-525-7291 or e-mail him steve.milbourn@aol.com Again, this year we plan to host a maximum of 25 teams or 100 golfers and we will again be at Smock Golf Course on Saturday, June 10. Our sign-in time will be 8 a.m. and golfing will begin around 9 a.m.

If you know someone who be interested in being a sponsor, have them call Steve also.

Girl Scouts to benefit

VFW 5864 Auxiliary collecting plastic bottle caps

The Auxiliary is in the process of collecting plastic bottle caps from water bottles and other containers (please see photo at left).

The caps, once collected, will be turned into durable plastic benches that will be installed at several Girl Scout camps in 2017. They will replace wooden benches, some of which are showing their age. Needed are clean plastic caps and lids from medicine bottles, soda pop bottles, milk jugs, yogurt and cottage cheese cups, peanut butter and

mayonnaise jars, detergent bottles, toothpaste and ointment tubes, ice cream buckets, butter tubs, hair spray and deodorant cans, cream and cheese and butter tubs. Caps and lids needed should be marked with recycling numbers 2, 4 or 5. In the days ahead, several collection points in the city will be announced. The first is VFW Post 5864, located at 333 S. Washington St., in Greenwood. Not wanted for the drive are drink bottles, plastic bags, trigger sprays, food containers, soap pumps, lotion bottle pumps, grocery bags, fast-food drink lids and any caps with silicon/rubber lining. Will you please help our local Girl Scouts?

Help needed for this visit – call the VFW and place your name on the list

VFW to visit Domiciliary May 11 to aid veterans

Spring and summer donations are needed for the VA Domiciliary. Please bring any items that you may have to the VFW by Tuesday, May 9, for everything to get organized for the visit on Thursday, May 11. Please contact the Post at 317-888-2488 for any donations. Co-chairs of the event George and Connie Wallace will be out of town for this trip, so we are looking for volunteers for the evening. You are welcome to meet us at the VFW around 5 p.m. on May 11 and leave from there. The Domiciliary’s new address is just west of Ivy Tech at 9045 E. 59th St., Indianapolis, on the old Ft. Benjamin Harrison campus. The Domiciliary Care Program is the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) oldest health care program. Established through legislation passed in the late 1860's, the Domiciliary’s purpose was to provide a home for disabled volunteer soldiers of the Civil War. Domiciliary care was initially established to provide services to economically-disadvantaged Veterans. The Domiciliary has evolved from a "Soldiers' Home" to become an active clinical rehabilitation and treatment program for male and female Veterans and domiciliary programs are now integrated with the Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation and Treatment Programs. Bingo is played and snacks are provided. Volunteers are always needed. The Domiciliary houses both men and women Veterans who are homeless and in need. The Domiciliary actively encourages them to find work and improve their situation.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 5

Sgt. Eric McElhaney is “Policeman of the Year”

On the morning of Dec. 10, 2016 Greenwood Police units were dispatched to the scene of a person who was reportedly stabbed. Sgt. Eric McElhaney responded to the scene, and was

the first responding officer. Sgt. McElhaney encountered a male, who had stabbed a woman. After repeated orders to drop the knife, the man moved away from the woman, yet still refused to drop the knife. The man then suddenly lunged and attempted to stab the woman again. Sgt. McElhaney discharged his duty weapon, shooting the man and thus stopped the threat. The man died at the scene. Sgt. McElhaney’s quick and decisive actions resulted in the saving of the woman’s life who had already suffered severe wounds. Chief of Police John Laut accepted Sgt.

Sgt. Eric McElhaney McElhaney’s certificate for being named the 2017 Outstanding Police Officer of the Year. At the time of the awards ceremony, Sgt. McElhaney was in Chicago on police business. _________________________________________________________________________

Kitchen to host “Regular menu” on several Fridays

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 will host “Regular menu” items on several Fridays except those meals on the calendar this month. The Sandwich Menu is as follows – Breaded Tenderloin; Breaded Chicken Sandwich; Cheeseburger – Fresh; Double Cheeseburger – Fresh; Hamburger – Fresh; Fish Sandwich; Grilled Cheese and Chicken Salad. The Basket Menu is as follows – Chicken Drums – 16 pieces; Chicken Drums – 8 pieces; Chicken Drums – 4 pieces; Chicken Strips – 3 pieces with 6 oz. Fries; Shrimp – 6 pieces with 6 oz. Fries; Fish – 2 pieces with 6 oz. Fries; Cheese Sticks – 6 pieces; Mushrooms – 10 pieces; Mushrooms – 5 pieces; Onion Rings – 10 pieces; Onion Rings – 5 pieces; Basket of Fries – 8 oz.; Regular Fries – 6 oz.; Loaded Fries – 10 oz.; Potato Skins – 6 pieces and Potato Skins – 3 pieces. Thanks for your patronage to the VFW.

VFW is continuing carrying two “Craft Beers”

Monarch Beverage is currently carrying “Craft Beers” through Sun King Brewing Company. Sun King is an Indianapolis-based craft brewery with a focus on continually

creating traditional seasonal and unique specialty beer. Wee Mac Scottish-Style Ale is an enticing and malty brown with caramel, cocoa and hazelnut characteristics balanced with toffee undertones. Sunlight Cream Ale celebrates the American brewing tradition by balancing smooth malt complexity with a crisp, clean finish.

The “Craft Beer” at the VFW was first suggested by the local Sertoma Club which meets three times a month. A 12-ounce can of the “Craft Beer” is $3.50 which is extremely competitive with other bars and lounges in the Marion and Johnson County areas.

Congress oks “bill” honoring Vietnam Veterans

The House of Representatives passed a bill which would amend the flag code to include National Vietnam War Veterans Day on the list of days that Americans should fly the U.S. flag. March 29 of each year is the designated day. The bill now goes to the President’s desk for signature.

6 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Plan to help veterans by volunteering for a few hours

VFW needs volunteers for Poppy drive May 27

The Saturday, May 27 Poppy Drive for Greenwood VFW Post 5864 needs approximately 47 volunteers for the day. One hundred (100%) percent of the money collected will be go into the Post's Relief Fund which helps veterans and their families in a time of need. The veteran must have an honorable discharge. Anyone interested in donating to the Relief Fund can do so by simply mailing a check to the Post, call in with your credit card number or stop by the Post to make your donation. Please put Relief Fund in the memo area of the check. We will send you a receipt with our Federal Tax ID number and you can use it as a deduction on your taxes next year. Sherri Jones, chairperson of the Post’s Poppy event, remarked, “I am extremely impressed that our Post is a very active participant in this program. It is truly a tremendous feeling to volunteer to help get donations which will be used for veterans and their families.” Auxiliary member Cindy Coram, is also a co-chairperson of the event. A sign-up sheet has been placed on the bulletin board across from the ATM in the Post. Please consider helping with this project. Commander Steve Milbourn stated, “This is one of the VFW’s core programs and was started in 1922. It is a great feeling helping those veterans that are in desperate need.” If you can’t stand, you are welcome to bring a lawn chair. The requirement to receive aid is the individual must show a DD-214 or a document showing that they served and were honorably discharged. The Relief Fund is to help veterans and/or their families in emergency type situations. Locations that VFW Post 5864 will be offering Poppies and the people needed to “man” the location include – 2 at Tractor Supply, U. S. 31 in Greenwood; 1 at Tractor Supply on Brookville Rd.; 2 at Rural King on U. S. 31 in Greenwood; 3 to 4 at Marsh Supermarket on St. Rd. 135 in Greenwood; 2 at Sam’s Club in Greenwood for two days for a total of 4; 4 at Walmart on Emerson St., near County Line Rd., in Greenwood; 4 at Walmart on St. Rd. 135 in Greenwood; 4 at each of seven Kroger Stores. They are S. Emerson St. near County Line Rd.; 3100 Meridian Parke Dr.; 2200 Independence Dr.; 5961 N. St. Rd. 135 all in Greenwood. 1330 W. Southport Rd.; 5325 E. Thompson Rd. and 5911 S. Madison Ave., in Indianapolis. Call Sherri Jones for info at 253-278-1980 or e-mail her at sajones721@hotmail.com.

Greenwood VFW Auxiliary News . . .

Euchre on Saturdays in June Cancelled: Linda Rosebrock, Auxiliary chair of the weekly Euchre games held at the Post, said that all the Euchre games that were previously scheduled for the month of June have been cancelled. Linda said the decision was made due to the various activities being held at the Post on Saturdays in June.

Coach Bingo: The VFW Auxiliary 5864 has scheduled the Spring Coach Bingo for Thursday May 4 at the Greenwood Moose Lodge. Tickets are available at the Post. Donations of Raffle Baskets would be greatly appreciated if anyone knows of a business that would donate or if someone wants to make one to donate. Receipts can be provided for tax tracking purposes.

Kentucky Derby Day: We will be having a pitch-in the night of the Kentucky Derby, Saturday May 6, 2017. Bring your best Derby food! There will be a hat decorating contest, Horse Races, raffles, and Karaoke.

Bake Auction: Another Silent Bake Auction for Saturday June 10. Donations of baked items are greatly appreciated and are the key to this being a successful event. Please have all donated baked goods at the Post by 10 a.m. on June 10. We will start taking bids at 11 a.m. and high bid will be final at 3 p.m. All proceeds will go to the Auxiliary Cancer fund.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 7

Greenwood, New Whiteland VFW’s and Greenwood Legion are involved

Honor Guard presents 2017 three-month report

In 2016, the Honor Guard attended 186 funerals; had 1,306 Post members present; expended 2,749 man-hours; and drove 10,179 miles to the various funeral homes and cemeteries. The total funerals were 41 more than the year ending 2015. The funerals are for veterans who have served honorably in the United States military for their country. For the month of January 2017, they attended 14 funerals; had 96 Post members present; expended 193 man-hours; and drove 835 miles to the various funeral homes and cemeteries. For the month of February 2017, they attended 8 funerals; had 61 Post members present; expended 126 man-hours; and drove 503 miles to the various funeral homes and cemeteries. For the month of March 2017, they attended 10 funerals; had 82 Post members present; expended 162 man-hours; and drove 504 miles to the various funeral homes and cemeteries.

The three-month total for 2017 includes: attended 32 funerals; had 239 Post members present; expended 489 man-hours; and drove 1,842 miles to the various funeral homes and cemeteries. All the members of the Honor Guard are volunteers. The current members include: Chris Baldwin, Lisa Baldwin, Bill Borst, Ed Bullock, Bill Clark, Roger Crum, Anthony Edwards, Steve Emery, Dave Everett, Ken Hall, Charlie Johnson, Sherri Jones, Al Kessinger, Irvin Kliethermes, Richard Lime, Don Metcalf, Mike Millhoff, Irina Muchler, Claud Pace, G. K.

Puckett, Matt Ranbarger, Jack Riser, Ralph Schuster, Leal Smith, Stan Sowder, Steve Sowder, Paul Thompson, Mike Tomes, Bob Tuttle, Nena Wheat, and Dan Wheat.

6 years of faithful service to visitors and deceased

Honor Guard to be at Forest Lawn May 26-29

Forest Lawn Memory Gardens has invited the Greenwood-Whiteland Honor Guard to be present at the entrance of Forest Lawn Memory Gardens on Memorial weekend from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, May 26 thru 29. This will be the sixth year in a row that the unit has participated in doing this event.

The group hands out surveys and flags both given by Forest Lawn. Forest Lawn also provided lunch for those collecting money for the Poppies. On Saturday morning, many of the Honor Guard, as a team, visit each of the four Greenwood cemeteries starting at 9 a.m. with the last of these being at Forest Lawn for the Memorial Program at 11 a.m. In the past at Forest Lawn, as they have done in the other cemeteries (at a distance) the Honor Guard fire one rifle volley using

Honor Guard members wait for the public to come in. seven rifles, followed by the playing of taps in honor of all Soldiers and Sailors who have given their lives, defending our country in all past wars and conflicts. This gesture, scheduled at the end of the program, usually makes a lasting impression on all those in attendance.

8 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Aa aThank You Very Much! aa

To the following individuals who help those in need and help with the chores at the Post.

Dave Syrus (for donating coats and jackets to us for the Domiciliary on a regular basis. Kristina Serna and Dave Whapham for volunteering to cook, serve and clean-up after the Sertoma Club’s meeting and meals three times monthly. Ron Hanan (for donating his time to drive veterans to the VA (in Florida) from their parking lot). By the way, Ron lives in Florida and is a member of our VFW. George and Connie Wallace, Cindy Coram, Sherri Jones for going to the Domiciliary each month, playing Bingo with the residents and passing out clothing. Mike Tomes, G.K. Puckett, Don LaFountaine, Roger Green, Teresa Daugherty, Dereke Lawson, Mike Millhoff and Roger Crum (the Clean-up Crew and others for spending time nearly daily arranging the Banquet Room, putting up chairs and tables and sweeping and mopping. Patti Milbourn for reviewing our monthly newsletters spelling. I am sure there are many others who should and could be recognized. Send us their names so we can recognize them.

1st annual event scheduled for rural Shelbyville

VFW Turkey Shoot set for Saturday, September 9

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 will host their first annual Turkey Shoot on Saturday, Sept. 9. The “rain date” is Saturday, Sept. 16 with the same times. Registration for the event will begin

at 11 a.m. and continue to 12 noon. The Turkey Shoot starts at 12 noon. The cost is $25 for 10 shots. There will be two or three Meat Shoots at $5 each, which will be held half-way through the event. Near the conclusion of the event, there will be a 50/50 Shoot for $5. Pre-sale tickets for the events are available at the bar or from one of the committee members. The committee consists of John Branson, Robert Crafton, Jeff King and Cindy Coram. The Range Master is John Branson; Target Runner is Jeff King; Concession Stand is Cindy Coram and Kristina Serna; and Bobby Crafton will oversee Parking. Other

volunteers are welcome to help with the event. Please call the Post at 317-888-2488. Food and beverages will be for sale. Directions to the Range, located at 2746 N. 350 W., Shelbyville, Indiana, from Greenwood area – take Main St. east to Rocklane. Continue east on Rocklane and it becomes Co. Rd. 525 N. Turn right at the “T” at Co. Rd. 825 W. and follow Co. Rd. 825 W. to the crossroads at Co. Rd. 400 N. Turn left at Co. Rd. 400 N. and continue east to Walnut St. in Fairland. Turn right (south) on Walnut St. which is Co. Rd. 425 W. and continue south until you come to the “T” at Co. Rd. 300 N. Turn left (east) onto Co. Rd. 300 N. and go east to Co. Rd. 350 W. Turn right onto Co. Rd. 350 W. Bobby Crafton’s property is on the left. The house is white and there is a large red barn next to the house. The Range Rules include: 1. All participants must sign an Indemnification-Hold Harmless-Defense Waiver-Release and Assumption of Risk Agreement; 2. Only 12 gauge shotguns allowed for this event; 3. Maximum barrel length is 42 inches; 4. All shot shells are provided; 5. No other shot shells allowed for this shoot; 6. Ear and eye protection required for all shooters; 7. Ear protection required for all spectators; 8. Absolutely no loaded firearms behind shooting line; 9. All firearms are to be handled in a safe manner; 10. No fingers on triggers until ready to shoot; 11. Barrel is to be pointed in a safe direction at all times; 12. No alcoholic beverages or drugs allowed on premises and anyone found to be intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs shall be immediately ejected from the property and their entry fees will be forfeited; and 13. Anyone found not adhering to these rules will be expelled from the activities.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 9

Honoring our military war dead

Memorial Day to be celebrated on Monday, May 29

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America. Over two dozen cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. While Waterloo, N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it’s difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. Regardless of the exact date or location of its origins, one thing is clear – Memorial Day was borne out of the Civil War and a desire to honor our dead. It was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11. “The 30th of May,1868, is designated for strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village Gen. John Logan and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried there. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring

their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now observed in almost every state on the last Monday in May with Congressional passage of the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 – 363). This helped ensure a three-day weekend for

Federal holidays, though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas; April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis’ birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee. Today, Memorial Day is celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. It is customary for the president or vice president to give a speech honoring the contributions of the dead and to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. More than 5,000 people attend the ceremony annually. In 1971, in accordance with the Uniform Monday Holiday Act passed by the U.S. Congress in 1968, observation of Memorial Day occurs on the last Monday in May, rather than on the actual date, May 30.

Saturday Darts

At the VFW

Every Saturday evening Time – 7:30 p.m. Cost -- $5

* Double Elimination ** Blind Draw *** High Game

10 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Honorably discharged veterans

Military exchanges opening on-line to millions

The Defense Department (DoD) announced earlier this year that veterans will soon be able to shop online at military exchanges. As many as 16 million veterans stand to benefit. The policy change will extend limited online military exchange shopping privileges to all honorably discharged veterans of the military, DoD officials said in a news release. The shopping benefit will be effective this Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2017. While shopping privileges exclude the purchase of uniforms, alcohol and tobacco products, it includes the Exchange Services’ dynamic online retail environment known so well to service members and their families, according to reports. The change follows careful analysis, coordination and strong public support, officials stated. They are excited to provide these benefits to honorably discharged veterans to recognize their service and welcome them home to their military family an undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. “In addition, this initiative represents a low-risk, low-cost opportunity to help fund morale, welfare and recreation programs in support of service members’ and their families’ quality of life. And it’s just the right thing to do,” Levine added. The online benefit will also strengthen the exchanges’ online businesses. Inclusion of honorably discharged veterans would conservatively double the exchanges’ online presence, according to DoD officials, thereby improving the experience for all patrons through improved vendor terms, more competitive merchandise assortments and improved efficiencies. “As a nation, we are grateful for the contributions of our service members,” Levine said. “Offering this lifetime online benefit is one small, tangible way the nation can say, ‘Thank you’ to those who served with honor.”

A reminder -- no tipping allowed at Bingo games

A reminder for volunteers working at the VFW Post 5864 Bingo games – tipping is not allowed per the rules and regulations of the Indiana Gaming Commission. As the holder of the gaming licenses, VFW Post 5864 can be fined, placed on probation and our licenses can be suspended. Please remember, if individuals wish to offer a tip, as a volunteer worker, you cannot accept it under any circumstances.

VFW Post 5864 check cashing policy stated again

1. Members of VFW Post 5864 or its’ Auxiliary can cash one (1) $100 check once a day. 2. Non-Members can cash one (1) $50 check once a day. 3. No 2-party checks will be cashed. 4. If you write a check to this VFW and it is returned for Insufficient Funds, you will be charged $36 for returned check fees. 5. We do have an ATM in the bar area that you can access for additional cash.

Banquet Room, Shelter House are available

The VFW’s Banquet Room and Shelter House are both available for rental throughout the year. The Shelter House is typically rented in the summer and fall for outdoor events, etc. the Banquet Room seats approximately 140 people, has a separate bar area, separate entrances and exits, and two adjoining restrooms.

There is plenty of parking and on-site management. The building is air conditioned and heated and is a non-smoking facility. Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages are available. You are welcome to go to the VFW’s web-site at greenwoodvfw.com and review the info. To check availability or to look at the facilities, call Steve Milbourn at 317-525-7291.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 11

Military history over the years in May . . .

1562 – The first French colonists in the U.S., a 5-vessel Huguenot expedition led by Jean Ribault (1520-1565), landed in Florida. He continued north and established a colony named Charlesfort at Parris Island, N.C. 1844 – Samuel Morse sent the first telegraphic message. 1845 – During a celebrated round-the-world tour in 1844-46, the Constitution dropped anchor in the bay outside of Tourane, Cochin China (Da Nang, Vietnam). While there, an imprisoned French missionary requested the assistance of the ship’s captain, “Mad Jack” Percival. The Americans attempted to negotiate with the Cochin Chinese, to no avail. Frustrated, they set

sail from Cochin and continued their course on May 26 without further word about or from the missionary, who was eventually retrieved by his own countrymen. 1857 – William Walker, conqueror of Nicaragua, surrendered to U.S. Navy. 1863 – The Confederate Congress passed a resolution to kill black Union soldiers. 1863 – Confederate “National Flag” replaced “Stars & Bars.” 1865 – In Charleston, S.C., some 10,000-people paraded to a mass grave site of Union soldiers at a former race track. This was likely the

first large-scale U.S. Memorial Day event. 1865 – In Kentucky, Union soldiers ambush and mortally wound Confederate raider William Quantrill, who lingers until his death on June 6. 1921 – The first radio fog signals in the United States were placed in commission on Ambrose Lightship, Fire Island Lightship, and Sea Girt Light Station, N.J. 1925 – Malcolm Scott Carpenter, astronaut (Mercury 7-Aurora 7), was born in Boulder, Colo. 1927 – Adolf Hitler held the first Nazi meeting in Berlin. 1934 – The Philippine legislature accepted a U.S. proposal for independence. 1937 – President Franklin Roosevelt signed an act of neutrality, keeping the United States out of World War II. 1943 – Lt. Akers demonstrates blind landing system for Carrier aviation at College Park, MD in OJ-2 aircraft. 1943 – U.S. forces complete the occupation of Hill 609 in “Mousetrap Valley.” The Axis defenses in Tunisia hold American attempts to advance further. 1943 – Food rationing began in U.S. 1944 – An American force of 7 battleships and 11 destroyers, commanded by Admiral Lee, bombards Ponape. The carriers of Task Group 58.1 (Admiral Clark) provide cover for the operation. 1944 – The Messerschmitt Me 262 Sturmvogel, the first jet bomber, made its first flight. 1945 – Hamburg radio announces that Hitler is dead and that Donitz is the second Fuhrer of the Reich. A German newsreader officially announces that Adolf Hitler has “fallen at his command post in the Reich Chancellery fighting to the last breath against Bolshevism and for Germany”. The Soviet flag is raised over the Reich Chancellery, by order of Stalin. Donitz himself broadcasts, announcing that “it is my duty to save the German people from destruction by Bolshevists.” Meanwhile, in Berlin, Goebbels and his wife commit suicide after poisoning their six children. 1948 – The People’s Democratic Republic of Korea (North Korea) was proclaimed. The border between North and South Korea was sealed when Kim Il Sung established his communist regime. 1950 – Guam is organized as a United States commonwealth. 1951 – U.S.S. Princeton aircraft attack Hwachon Dam using aerial torpedoes, only use of this weapon in Korean War. They knocked out two floodgates. 1951 – The first phase of the Chinese offensive was halted north of Seoul. 1958 – Memorial Day: the remains of two unidentified American servicemen, killed in action during World War II and the Korean War respectively, are buried at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. 1967 – Secretary of State Dean Rusk charges that the North Vietnamese have rejected 28 peace proposals presented by the U.S. and other nations. -- Continued to page 12

12 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Loss of grants causes HVAF to realign times

HVAF now closed on weekends for donations

If you donate to HVAF (Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation), please note the new hours: Monday thru Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on weekends. They are also changing the REST (Residential, Employment and Substance Treatment) program to a new program. As many already know, the REST program (and four other local organizations) lost a grant last year which is the catalyst for the change and new hours. The current REST veterans will stay in our transitional houses and continue to complete classes until they graduate successfully. HVAF management and the Board are in the process of determining what the new program will look like based on market demand, etc. No one lost their job and will work in other departments until the new REST 2.0 program starts up and funding is secured. A new Chief Development Officer position has been approved and will start soon. Just a quick note for drop off donations: They accept food, clothing and hygiene. Currently they are good right now with women’s clothing and men’s clothing except for underclothing. The biggest need is food. We also accept microwaves, toasters and flat-screen TVs. No furniture is needed now.

Help needed! New Volunteer Shifts 9 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday thru Friday

In the past, the REST veterans have always helped when donations came in. They helped unload, sort and organize. Now that they are no longer available, we need to increase our volunteer hours to include everyday Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. One-to-two people will work in the clothing pantry working on the donations that have come in the day before. Contact HVAF at 317-951-0688 to sign up to volunteer.

Military history over the years in May . . . – Continued from page 11

1969 – The U.S. 9th Marine Regiment and the 3rd Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division, along with South Vietnamese forces, commence Operation Apache Snow in the A Shau Valley in western Thua Thien Province. The purpose of the operation was to cut off the North Vietnamese and prevent them from mounting an attack on the coastal provinces. The operation began with a heliborne assault along the Laotian border and then a sweep back to the east. First contact with the enemy was made by a rifle company from the 101st Airborne on the slopes of Hill 937, known to the Vietnamese as Ap Bia Mountain. Entrenched in prepared fighting positions, the North Vietnamese 29th Regiment repulsed the initial American assault and on May 14 beat back another attempt by the 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry. An intense battle raged for the next 10 days and the mountain came under heavy Allied air strikes, artillery barrages, and 10 infantry assaults. On May 20, Maj. Gen. Melvin Zais, commanding general of the 101st, sent in two additional U.S. airborne battalions and a South Vietnamese battalion as reinforcements. The communist stronghold was finally captured in the 11th attack, when the American and South Vietnamese soldiers fought their way up to the summit of the mountain. In the face of the four-battalion attack, the North Vietnamese retreated to sanctuary areas in Laos. During the intense fighting, 597 North Vietnamese were reported killed and U.S. casualties were 56 killed and 420 wounded. Due to the bitter fighting and the high loss of life, the battle for Ap Bia Mountain received widespread unfavorable publicity in the U.S. and American media dubbed it “Hamburger Hill,” a name evidently derived from the fact that the battle turned into a “meat grinder.” Since the operation was not intended to hold territory but rather to keep the North Vietnamese Army off-balance, the mountain was abandoned soon after the battle and occupied by the North Vietnamese a month later. American public outrage over what appeared to be a senseless loss of American lives was exacerbated by publication in Life magazine of the pictures of the 241 U.S. soldiers killed the week of the Hamburger Hill battle. Gen. Creighton Abrams, commander of U.S. Military Assistance Command Vietnam, was ordered by the White House to avoid such battles. Because of Hamburger Hill, and other battles like it, the U.S. started to shift its policy towards Vietnamization, wherein primary responsibility for the fighting would be handed over to the South Vietnamese.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 13

VFW awards honor to Eagle Scout

Nicholas A. Heilman is

named Scout of the Year

Eighteen-year-old Nicholas A. Heilman was recently named Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s Scout of the Year. He is a senior at Greenwood Community High School. Nicholas has been involved in numerous activities during six to seven years. He was presented the Presidential Service Award by President Obama for volunteering 100 + hours to a community service project. In his case, it was his Eagle Scout project at Spectrum Ministries. He was also inducted as a member of the National Honor Society for three years with a GPA of 3.65. In addition, he volunteered 50 + hours each school year; showed leadership and has good character. He was in the Marching Band, four years;

Scout Chairman Ralph Schuster, left, Concert Band, four years; Pep Band, four presents Nicholas Heilman a certificate years; Solo and Ensemble Contests, four and a check for $100. years; Winter Percussion, three years; and

Jazz Band, two years. In addition, he has taken piano lessons for nine years and has won multiple awards for his piano playing. Nicholas was a Cub Scout with Pack 264 from 2006-2009 at Greenwood Christian Church; a Boy Scout with Troop 264 since 2010 earning the ranks of Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle. He also earned a Bronze and then a Gold Palm. He also was named Assistant Patrol Leader (four times); Chaplain’s Aide; Den Chief (two years); Fire-crafter Spark (one time); Librarian (two times); Patrol Leader (three times) and Scribe (one time). He has also earned the following Scout Honors and Awards – Camper; Woodsman; Arrow of Light Award; Fire-crafter; National Outdoor Camping Award; Den Chief Service Award; Order of the Arrow Ordeal Member; God and Life Religious Emblem and 42 Merit Badges earned between 2010 and 2015. Nicholas’ Eagle Project was to rebuild a Fire Pit. After seven days, he had torn the old pit out, removed benches, leveled the ground, built and installed larger connecting benches, dug a fire pit, spread river rock over the area and landscaped everything.

VFW membership is service in Korea

Ken Hall presented photos

to American Legion officers

Greenwood American Legion Post 252 Commander Ken Hall recently received a photo of the 2016-2017 American Legion officers. He also presented a copy to each officer. Ken is Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s Surgeon and was recently elected as the VFW’s Chaplain for 2017-2018. He served as a Captain in the U. S. Army in South Korea. Ken and VFW Commander Steve Milbourn have visited numerous members in the hospital, nursing homes and those who have been in rehab.

14 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Only 25 teams of 4-members each to golf

Annual VFW golf tournament getting underway

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5864 will host their 10th Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at Smock Golf Course. The net proceeds of the tournament will be used to fund the VFW’s Military Assistance Program, financial help to veterans and their families and many of our local charitable programs which include the Patriot’s Pen for junior high school students; Voice of Democracy for high school students; Boy and Girl Scouts of the Year; Teacher of the Year in elementary, junior and senior high school categories; and at least three $1,000 college scholarships every year paid twice annually. VFW Post 5864 awards plaques to the Outstanding Citizen of the Year; Policeman of the Year; Fireman of the Year and EMT of the Year in the City of Greenwood. We help our community by aiding Indiana homeless veterans; and assisting local veterans and their families in financial need. VFW Post 5864 acts as a resource to veterans by locating other

organizations as needed to help the veteran confront the issues they may be facing today. You can join with VFW Post 5864 to achieve the mission of helping veterans by becoming a sponsor of our 9th Annual Golf Tournament. If you are unable to provide a sponsorship with a cash donation, please consider donating merchandise to be awarded as prizes to our players. Each player will be provided with a “Ditty Bag” provided by Humana Insurance which will include coupons and business gratuities for the golfers. Contributions and Sponsorships are 100% tax deductible as VFW Post 5864 is a non-profit organization. Sponsors will receive

a letter acknowledging the contribution or donation provided. There are seven levels of sponsorship available to both businesses and individuals: Presenting and Co-Sponsor - $5,000; Diamond - $2,500; Platinum - $1,000; Gold - $500; Silver - $250; Bronze - $100; and Individual Sponsors - $50. Each Sponsor and golfer will receive a complimentary meal at VFW Post 5864 after the golf tournament concludes. We thank you in advance for your support of VFW Post 5864 and the veterans of this area. If you have any questions, please contact Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at steve.milbourn@aol.com

Legacy Life Membership available at 3 levels

Legacy Life membership enables VFW Life members to leave a lasting impression on our great organization. Three prestigious levels of Legacy Life membership are available: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Each level offers generous benefits reserved for Legacy Life members. Once your Legacy Life membership begins, an annual endowment in your name will be made to your Post, Department and the national organization. You will feel confident knowing your contributions to our organization are not only helping today’s veterans but the veterans of tomorrow. The cost is $1,200 for Gold; $800 for Silver; and $400 for Bronze levels. To become a Legacy Member, you must be a Life Member first. You can make payment in full via check or credit card. An installment option is available by making four equal payments. The first payment must accompany the form and be equal to 1/4 of the level being purchased. (Bronze $100; Silver $200; and Gold $300.) The remaining balance will be billed by National Headquarters quarterly. You can choose to have a one-time payment made in your behalf or an annual endowment made to your Post. For info, contact Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291. ________________________________________________________________________

VFW National Home for Children: The VFW National Home for Children was created to help veteran families in your community. Active duty military families, veteran families, and the families of VFW and Auxiliary members may qualify for the program. If there is a struggling veteran family in your area, please refer them to the VFW National Home or tell them to call toll free at 1-800-313-4200 to learn more about this life changing opportunity.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 15

Pin-Ups on Tour returns to VFW on Friday, May 19

Pin-Ups on Tour has been extremely busy since visiting VFW Post 5864 last June. They have performed for Veterans in over 36 states across the United States. Dixie Mae Rebel, a spokesperson for the group recently remark- ed, “It is because of the generosity of supporters like your Post that we have been able to visit and perform for so

many hospitalized Veterans as well.” The group hails from California and has traveled throughout the U. S. volunteering their time to bring smiles and laughs to those in attendance. Their appearance was remarkable. Pin-Ups on Tour is a good time for a great cause. From the moment guests enter the event, they will be treated to something special. Their goal is to recreate the magic of the Hollywood Canteen that operated during the 1940's as a club offering dancing, drinks and entertainment for servicemen, usually on their way overseas. The evening will feature dancing showgirls, Comedy, Variety Acts, Soulful Lounge singers, raffle-ticket selling beauties and more than a few surprises! With entertainment and atmosphere around every turn, guests will feel like they stepped into another era. They are committed to providing low or no-cost entertainment for veterans as part of their "Morale Boosting Mission." In addition, proceeds from our shows go to support their work entertaining our nations veterans inside and outside our nations VA hospitals. Veterans may attend free; however, they must get tickets ahead of time or the cost is $25 at the door, while tickets last. General Admission tickets are $20 online and $25 at the door. Reserved seating $35 and VIP Reserved seating is $50. Vintage attire is encouraged. Since Pin-Ups on Tour started two (2) years ago, they have performed for Veterans in 37 different states across the U.S.! The organization has been able to bring over 7,000 people together to support our troops, has been able to donate over 2,100 tickets back to our military heroes, and has been able to entertain close to 2,700 Active Duty and Veteran Service Members in our nations VA Hospitals. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will be from 8 to 10 p.m. After the program is completed, “Super Dave” will play karaoke on the “bar side” that evening. Pin-Ups on Tour has tickets available for the May 19 event. To obtain tickets in advance, please go to the following Link: http://greenwoodpinups.brownpapertickets.com/

Greenwood VFW Bingo held every Wednesday

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 holds Bingo every Wednesday evening. Please contact Steve Milbourn, at 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at steve.milbourn@aol.com for further information. The Indiana Gaming Commission forbids any entity holding a Bingo License to pay individuals for working at the Bingo games. It is also not allowed to tip volunteer Bingo workers or staff. VFW’s weekly Bingo games continue to grow at the Post. However, there continues to be a need for additional workers to keep things flowing and keep the attendance up. Bingo begins each Wednesday with an “Early Bird” game at 6:30 p.m. Bingo is open to the public and provides an evening out for all. If you are interested in helping, please contact Steve Milbourn to get signed up! The Post’s Bingo Gaming License number is 141829.

16 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

For tickets, please stop in at the Post after 2 p.m., Monday through Saturday

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 17

Veterans of Foreign Wars news briefs . . .

Veterans Want VA Fixed, Not Dismantled: President Trump recently announced the creation of a White House Office of American Innovation to “bring together the best ideas from government, the private sector, and other thought leaders to ensure that America is ready to solve today's most intractable problems.” One of the new office’s targets is to fix an old problem — the Department of Veterans Affairs — and the VFW wants to be part of the solution. “The VFW prides itself in evaluating what works at the VA and in identifying what needs to be fixed,” said VFW National Commander Brian Duffy. “Veterans turn to VA for the high-quality, individualized care they provide, but there is always room for improvement, especially in the areas of information technology, scheduling, data analysis, and access to quality care out in the communities.” The purpose of OUR CARE 2017: A Report Evaluating Veterans Health Care, is to continue to evaluate the impact of the Veterans Choice Program, which was enacted in 2014 in response to the VA’s crisis in access to care. “The most important takeaway is the overwhelming majority of respondents said they want to fix, not dismantle the VA health care system,” said Duffy, who believes the VA is on the right track, but much work remains, as the need to hire more doctors, hold wrongdoers accountable, improve customer service, and to make VA’s programs and systems more user-friendly.

VFW Testifies on VA Health Care: Recently, the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health held a hearing to discuss 10 bills pending before the subcommittee. VFW Legislative Associate Kayda Keleher expressed the VFW’s strong support for mental health retreat programs for recently discharged female veterans, expanding child care services to veterans accessing health appointments, as well as homeless veterans utilizing employment services, extending coverage for newborn children, and authorizing VA to provide adult day care services at State Veterans Homes. The subcommittee discussed health care eligibly for veterans who received administrative discharges for a minor infraction but do not have access to needed VA health care. The subcommittee also considered a bill to ban smoking in and around VA medical facilities, which has been a VA legislative proposal for several years.

VFW Testifies on Veterans Affairs Budget: The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction and Veterans Affairs held a hearing to discuss VA’s budget for fiscal year 2018 and advance appropriations for fiscal year 2019. VFW National Legislative Service Director Carlos Fuentes urged the subcommittee to join the VFW’s campaign to end sequestration which has limited our nation’s ability to provide service members, veterans and their families the care and services they have earned. Fuentes also discussed the need for increased funding for VA’s capitol infrastructure needs so VA can build and expand its facilities and expand access to care for veterans. The VFW’s Independent Budget co-authors Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) also testified and discussed the Budget’s recommendations to properly fund VA health care and benefits.

VFW Testified in Support of Blue Water Sailors: On April 5, 2017, the VFW testified in front of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs. While the testimony will concern a total of six bills, this is the first testimony in the 115th Congress on H.R. 299, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2017. Those veterans who served in the U.S. Navy during the war in Vietnam are impacted by an arbitrary and capricious decision by VA to not be included under presumptive coverage unless they were operating on land or inland water ways. This decision prevents veterans who suffer from the same conditions as other Vietnam veterans from receiving care for these conditions and ending this exclusion is a major priority for the VFW.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day: The President signed into law recently a VFW-supported bill that officially designates March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The legislation was sponsored by Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., and Sen. Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., to

-- Continued to page 18

18 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

VFW News Briefs . . . -- Continued from page 17 7

recognize the service and sacrifice of a generation of American patriots. March 29 marks the anniversary of when combat forces departed South Vietnam in 1973, even though some troops remained until their final departure in 1975. According to Department of Veterans Affairs, there were 8.7 million Vietnam Era veterans, with 3.4 million deployed downrange. There were 47,434 combat deaths, 10,786 in-theater deaths, and 153,303 non-mortal soldiers wounded, which also include casualties from the ill-fated S.S. Mayaguez rescue attempt in 1975. The number of unaccounted-for Americans from the war is 1,614, of whom 1,260 are MIA in Vietnam, 298 in Laos, 49 in Cambodia, and seven in China.

VA Seeks Under-Secretary for Health: The VA announced that there will be a commission to identify the best candidate for the position of under-secretary for Health from a pool of applicants. The under-secretary is responsible for the nation’s largest integrated health care system, with more than 1,200 sites of care and more than 9 million enrolled beneficiaries. The commission, with yet-to-be-appointed members, is expected to make a recommendation by May 22. _________________________________________________________________________

Horseshoes at VFW will begin in May

The annual VFW Horseshoe contest will begin the first week in May. The Mixed League starts Monday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. The Men’s League is on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and will begin May 11. Both leagues will run until October. Horseshoe throwing offers exercise, and the ability to meet old friends and new members.

__________________________________________________________________________

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 19

“Reunion Band” to play at VFW Friday, June 23

The “Reunion Band” is looking forward to being a part of the Freedom Fest and their band playing “sock hop” music on Friday, June 23. Their music lends itself to dancing, and people should be on their feet most of the night. The “Reunion Band” is a combination of two bands from Seymour High School class of 1963-1964. Some of the members of the bands collaborated for their 40th class reunion, with the expectation of being a one and done performance. Much to their delight they kept getting invitations to play class reunions. They have added other venues. That was 15 years ago. The band is made of 8 or 9 performers, Bill Pfaffenberger on the keyboard, Donnie Meyer on the drums, Jim Darnell on the sax, Paul Kranning on the electric bass, Ed Banta and Bill Foster lead guitar, and Janos Bingham, Tom Pfaffenberger and Larry Boggs vocalists. The members have spread out across the state, even as far away as Oklahoma City, the town along the famous Route 66. Some of the songs we feature this year are: Old Time Rock N Roll, At the Hop, California Dreamin’, Louie-Louie, Wooley Bully to name a few.

Greenwood VFW Gaming and Pull-Tab rules

As a reminder to those individuals who play Bingo and / or purchase gaming tickets or pull-tabs at the VFW, the following rules are in effect: All Pull-Tabs or other gaming tickets which are deemed to be winners by the VFW, must be cashed in by the close of business on the day the sale was made, otherwise the ticket will become null and void. No gaming tickets are to leave the VFW’s building under any circumstances. Pull-Tabs have Serial Numbers and the VFW is required to keep a record for the Indiana Gaming Commission and therefore the VFW has the date each set of Pull-Tabs is sold. Bingo players must be 18 years old or older to play or purchase any Bingo tickets or Pull-Tabs. These rules have been in effect for several years. The Post wanted to reiterate them. If there are any questions, please call VFW Post 5864 at 317-888-2488.

- Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s -

Indiana Gaming License Numbers are

Bar Bingo and Bingo is # 141829

Raffle is # 141833

Charity Game Night is # 141830

20 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Jerald E. Nothstine

Irvin L. Kliethermes

Commander and Jr. Vice

visit four members in VA

Commander Steve Milbourn and Jr. Vice Commander Sherri Jones recently visited four Greenwood VFW Post 5864 members at the VA Hospital in Indianapolis. Three of the four members are Vietnam veterans and one is a Panama Canal veteran. Upper left photo is “Irv” Kliethermes and Sherri Jones; upper top right is Jerald E. Nothstine and at right is David P. Hilton. David P. Hilton David L. Shelton, an employee of the VA Hospital was just coming into work when Sherri and Steve arrived at the hospital. Shelton stated, “I’ve had some infection near my heart from the open-heart surgery I had last year”. “Irv” Kliethermes was at the VA a week before getting an eye check-up and ended up back in the VA Hospital and ended up getting a couple more stents. Jerald Nothstine has been in with Leukemia and said he hoped to go home in another week. He was in great spirits at the time of the visit. David Hilton’s arthritis had been acting up and he was unable to walk on his own. He said he was feeling much better and was being moved to a “rehab” facility in a few days.

Congress and VA update Camp Lejeune exposure

For years, the VFW has worked with Congress and VA to establish a streamlined disability compensation process for veterans who suffer from health conditions associated with exposure to toxic water at Camp Lejeune. Recently, VA began to implement a rule which established a presumptive service-connection for veterans, reservists and guardsmen exposed to contaminants in the water supply at Camp Lejeune from Aug. 1, 1953, through Dec. 31, 1987, who later developed one of the following eight diseases: adult leukemia; aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes; bladder cancer; kidney cancer; liver cancer; multiple myeloma; non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; and Parkinson’s disease.

Credit cards accepted at VFW 5864

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 accepts American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa. The VFW doesn’t charge a surcharge for a patron to use their card.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 21

Jr. Vice Commander Sherri Jones, at right, presents a check in the amount of $100 to Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation in remembrance of VFW Post 5864 and its Auxiliary’s former “Santa Claus” who recently passed away. Accepting the check in the center is Talisha, an HVAF employee. At left is Commander Steve Milbourn.

__________________________________________________________________________

VFW to host Hamburger Steak Dinner for $10

on Friday, May 19 with 2 sides from 6 to 8 p.m.

Karaoke by Soup’r Dave from 9 p.m. to midnight

VFW to host a “500 Chicken Box Lunch” with 2 sides

on Friday, May 26 for $10 from 6 to 8 p.m.

__________________________________________________________________________

Attention Johnson County Veterans

If you need a free ride to a bank, your grocery store or pharmacy within your grocery store, your doctor’s office, Johnson Memorial Hospital, Community South Hospital, or to a nursing home to visit

your spouse, please call – Access Johnson County at (317) 738-5523 to arrange a ride.

Office hours are 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

You must call 48 hours in advance to make a reservation. Van transportation is available from

6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. This van service is available for transportation

in Johnson County, only. ____________________________________________________________________

22 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

VA Cemeteries offers pre-enrollment to veterans

The Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced it now provides eligibility determinations for interment in a VA national cemetery prior to the time of need. Through the Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility Program, upon request, individuals can learn if they are eligible for burial or memorialization in a VA national cemetery. The Office of Veterans Affairs stated, “This new program reaffirms our commitment to providing a lifetime of benefits and services for veterans and their families.” Interested individuals may submit VA Form 40-10007, Application for Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility for Burial in a VA National Cemetery, and supporting documentation, such as a form DD-214, if readily available, to the VA National Cemetery Scheduling Office by toll-free fax at 1-855-840-8299; email to Eligibility.PreNeed@va.gov; or mail to the National Cemetery Scheduling Office, P.O. Box 510543, St. Louis, MO 63151.

Johnson Co. Service office helps with filing claims

Any veteran with an Honorable Discharge interested in filing a claim can contact Charles Russell, Johnson County Service Officer at the Courthouse Annex N., 1st Floor, 34 W. Jefferson St. in Franklin. Their phone is (317) 346-4563. They are open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Greenwood VFW Service Officer Steve Milbourn is available for consultation only, however, he is currently no longer filing or helping with any of the paperwork that claims need, due to the amount of time that is required to analyze and complete the claims.

If you have a news story or a photo and

want to get it in the Post newsletter – call us!

VFW Post 5864 Officers – 2016-2017

Steve Milbourn…..…… Commander 317-525-7291 steve.milbourn@aol.com

George Wallace……..… Sr. Vice Cmdr. gmwallace67@gmail.com

Sherri Jones…..……….. Jr. Vice Cmdr. sajones721@hotmail.com

Mike Tomes…………… Quartermaster 317-888-2488 mrtomes80@comcast.net Bobby Jennett………… Chaplain iubobj@comcast.net Steve Milbourn……….. Service Officer 317-525-7291 steve.milbourn@aol.com

Connie Wallace……….. Adjutant cjwallace73@gmail.com

George Wallace………. Judge Advocate gmwallace67@gmail.com

Connie Wallace………. Judge Advocate cjwallace73@gmail.com

Ken Hall……………….. Surgeon akennethhall@sbcglobal.net Roger Green…………… 1 Yr. House Com. rogergreen@att.net Don LaFountaine……... 2 Yr. House Com. donla46184@gmail.com G. K. Puckett…………. 3 Yr. House Com. gkpuckett1@hotmail.com Ralph Schuster…..……. 1 Yr. Trustee rgschuster@gmail.com

Darrold Rodda………… 2 Yr. Trustee s.rodda@att.net Ed Dunham…….……… 3 Yr. Trustee tninonied@netzero.net Jermey Miner…….……. Sgt. at Arms miner2187@gmail.com

Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864

333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143

Phone 317-888-2488

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 23

Flags need to be retired when tattered and torn

We raised our flags September 11, 2001 and flew them proudly. Our flags stand tall as we leave our mark on foreign soil. Each year, Americans across the nation unfurl their flags on

Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Flag Day. For some, the Stars and Stripes decorates their porches all year as a daily reminder of what it means to be an American. But what do we do when our flags become tattered and torn, and can fly no longer? There is a justified reason and dignified way of burning the flag when the time has come for Old Glory.

U.S. Flag Code simply reads: “The flag, when it is in such a condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 hours of operation

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 is open six days a week – Monday thru Saturday, from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. Closing hours on Friday and Saturday are extended depending on the number of members at the Post. Individuals who are not members of VFW Post 5864 or their Auxiliary are welcome to stop in and visit with us. Those individuals, however need to sign in as a guest and write down their sponsor. Most holidays, the Post is closed but you are welcome to call 317-888-2488 to make sure the Post is open. Closures are generally posted in our monthly newsletters.

Johnson Co. Veterans transportation needs drivers

Johnson County Veterans Transportation Network is seeking volunteers to drive veterans to their medical appointments at the Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis. Benefits of providing service include breakfast and lunch, a free physical and flu vaccination and volunteer appreciation events. To volunteer, call 317-885-9209 or 317-738-5523.

Annual membership in VFW is only $35 per year

If you have a friend who is qualified for membership in the VFW, bring them in. All they had to do was serve in a designated combat area during the time of a war or incursion.

24 – May 2017 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- May 2017 Newsletter – 25

Website, Facebook and e-mails show all activities

Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s new website has generated an average of just over 112 “hits” daily since the end of October 2015. The website is updated at the beginning of each month with the newest Newsletter and Calendar. Other changes are made throughout the month as needed. The website has garnered 57,268 people viewing it for the past 17 months, or a total of 3,369 views per month We are in the process of determining the best way to add the multitude of photos we have taken in the last three or four years. For those of you who have not been on our VFW website, please go to greenwoodvfw.com and look through it. Our Facebook is updated daily. George and Connie Wallace, Sherri Jones, Cindy Coram and Steve Milbourn post various news stories and photos to this media. E-mails are sent out on an “as needed” basis and they are sent via Blind Carbon Copy. The reason for this is so that individuals will not use the addresses to benefit themselves or a business. If you think of something that needs added, please e-mail it to Steve Milbourn at steve.milbourn@aol.com.

VFW membership applications made simple

A VFW Membership Application is really very simple to complete and should not intimidate you. Applications should be completed for New Members, Transfers, and Reinstatements and to apply for a Life Membership. An application should be behind the bar. If you plan to take credit for the member – you should complete the application. Why? More than likely you can read what you write down, but you may not be able to read or understand what the incoming member has written down. This is extremely important in getting the proper information on the application to input it into the National VFW data-base. Also, only VFW members of our Post can take credit for the member coming in, regardless of who spoke to him or her, i.e., an employee talks to the prospective member and gets them to join – the employee cannot get the credit, unless the employee is a member of the VFW. If the member is transferring into our Post, we need his or her current VFW Card # and current or previous VFW Post #, otherwise we will have to call VFW National Headquarters. The new form has a line where the veteran is to let you know what month and year he or she arrived in the combat zone and when they left. This is extremely important. An e-mail address is also very, very important. The one area of the application that is forgotten nearly 100% of the time is to get the veteran to sign the back of the application. The final part of the membership procedure is to collect $35 dues for one-year plus an extra $1 if they are a new member and a copy of a DD-214 or document showing honorable service in a combat zone. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call Steve Milbourn, Membership Chairman at 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at steve.milbourn@aol.com.

-Please show the prospective member respect and follow thru-

-with the Membership process and don’t leave them hanging!-

If you speak to a prospective member and you want credit for bringing him or her into the Post, then you must do the work – get the application filled out, have the prospective member sign it on the back; get documentation showing the prospective member is eligible to join; and collect the first year’s dues. If this isn’t completed in an adequate amount of time and someone else has to pick up where you left off, they will get the credit for the

member. Transfers into the Post will not get you any credit. Members who are past due between one and 2 years will not get you any credit. “Credit” is a term used that you received for bringing a new or reinstated member into our Post. After you get 5, 10, 15 and 25 members, you will receive a pin for your cover (VFW cap). Each member is a credit.