vol. 12, no. 1

Volume 12Number 1Summer, 2009Chartered by Act of Congress, July 23, 1947

Commander’s Corner

The MinnesotaAmerican Veterans News

A Message from the Commander

What’s Inside

I would be remiss if I did not thank all of you for the vote of confidence that you put in me to be your state commander for the

upcoming year. It will be a daunting task, but with the support of the state officers and post commanders and the rank and file, I know that my term as AMVETS Commander will be a success.

At the State Convention, I listed a set of objectives that I would like to come to frui‑tion in the upcoming year.

Get a newspaper up and running. We can

check that off the list, because you are read‑ing this column in the first issue of that pa‑per. Without the dedication of Roger Stelter, Post 31 Waseca, our Department PR Man for this 2009-2010 membership year and Kelly Nguyen, Post 1 Mendota, our Department Adjutant, we would still be talking about the newspaper instead of reading it.

I made a pledge to visit all posts through‑out the year, and so far I have visited 11.

Membership is always an issue, but I think with the incentives that I brought forward, I

am confident that we will have a substan‑tial increase during the year.

If you have any sug‑gestions or questions about anything, feel free to call me anytime at 952-956-2211 or Kelly at the office at 651-293-1212.

Once again, thank you for the opportunity to serve as your commander this year.

Mike Cook

Commander Mike Cook

Application for Membership .........................Page 2

Post Reports ....................................................Page 3

Taps .................................................................Page 5

Legislative Update ..........................................Page 6

State Officers/Post Meeting Locations .........Page 7

Photo Editorial ...............................................Page 8

Minutes of Convention - May, 2009............0

Membership Incentives ...............................Page 12

Post Officers ..................................................Page 13

“The future of our Armed Services and the future of this country will be integrally linked to how we treat our veterans.”

- George Washington

Vol. 12, No. 1 2

Minnesota American Veterans News - - - Summer, 2009

AMVETS Membership Application

Yes, I want to join AMVETS! I certify that I meet the membership requirements— I am serving or have honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces (Active, Guard or Reserve) after September 15, 1940.

Membership Type: Annual ($30.00*) Life ($150.00*) Name: Address: City: State: ZIP Code: Gender: Male Female E-mail Address: Home Phone: Date of Birth: Branch of Service: Date Entered Service: Date of Discharge: Type of Discharge: Method of Payment: VISA or MasterCard Check or Money Order Credit Card Number: Expiration Date: Signature: Date:

* A national minimum amount that many vary from state to state or from post to post.

Members must be prepared to provide proof of military service.

AMVETS Membership Department 4647 Forbes Boulevard

Lanham, MD 20706-4380

Congratulations to our New National Officers

The 2009-2010 AMVETS National Officers are:

National Commander Duane Miskulin from WisconsinNational 1st Vice Commander Jerry Hotop from Missouri

National 2nd Vice Gary Fry from PennsylvaniaNational Judge Advocate Dan Snyder from Ohio

NSF Board of Trustees Jimmy T Smith from TennesseeNSF Board of Trustees S. John Sisler from Illinois

Vol. 12, No. 1 3


Post 1 - MendotaSubmitted by Commander Kelly Nguyen

Post 1 has had a great year, both in activities as well as membership. We started out with Memorial Day ceremonies on the Sunday prior to Memorial Day at the Fort Snelling Chapel where we post over

200 crosses. Each cross has the name, rank, and hometown of each soldier who has

lost his life since September 11, 2001. Each of the next of kin is notified to come to the service, held at 11:00 a.m. in honor of their loved one. The soldiers are from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North and South Dakotas. It is a memorial service like no other.

The saddest is the addition of approximately 50 names per year since 2002 when we first started this.

EVENTSOn Monday, Memorial Day, our Post Honor Guard holds ceremonies

at five cemeteries from Eagan, Inver Grove Heights and Mendota Heights. In June, some members head up to the Veterans Rest Camp on Big Marine for Flag Day where they have a ceremony for the destroying of the flags. In July, it is a big one for us on the second weekend with Mendota Days. We have a beer garden along with the AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary who have a food booth. We also celebrate our anniversary on July 17. This year will mark Post 1’s 27th anniversary.

In October, we hold our annual membership dinner at the club. In No‑vember, we have our annual White Clover drive at Walmart in Eagan. We also have two Veterans’ Day ceremonies. One on the Sunday nearest at the Fort Snelling Chapel and another on Veterans’ Day. In December, we help our auxiliary with the shopping, wrapping and shipping presents for two families to Neighbors Inc.

COMMUNITY SERVICE Post 1 is also involved in sending care packages to the soldiers over‑

seas. We recently sent five boxes of toiletries, batteries, candies and more to the troops in Afghanistan. We also donate to local schools for held trips and scholarships.

We have a White Clover Princess who is currently attending the Uni‑versity of Minnesota Duluth.

We donate and participate in the Glass Slipper. This is a program where people donate shoes and dresses; they are hemmed/fitted for girls less for‑tunate so they can go to prom in style. This last year, not only did we do‑nate the dresses, but also $1,000 towards their program. The woman cried when these were delivered to her. It was quite moving. We also donate to the Armed Forces Service Center and the Fisher House. We need to sup‑port our troops and as much as possible.

We hold an annual Super Bowl party at the VA Home in Minneapolis. We were last out at the VA Home in Minneapolis for the Muskies Inc. fish‑ing opener. This is a fabulous time, not only for us, but for the residents as well. This year the weather was fantastic. The residents have a pond that is

put up outside Building 15. It is then stocked with fish. The residents then fish and as they catch them, they receive a hat, have their picture taken with their fish. It is then that the fish is taken to the filleting table, filleted, then whisked over to the deep fryer. In just a matter of moments, the fish is on their plate! Our post donated $1,500 towards the program this year. There are also antique cars that come In and park alongside the road near‑est the door. This year there were over 20 cars. You are able to take rides in them, also. It is great fun.

Post 5 - St. PaulSubmitted by Commander Joe Mauricio

Have a taco nights each week at Spinners to raise money for dona‑tions. They received $1,000 from a private donor to donate to their Veterans’ Memorial Fund. Post had a play they put on, “Mennecanos

Play”. The play was well worth the money they spent. They donate monies to the food shelf. They held their annual enchiladas sale on Friday, May 20th at Our Lade of Guadalupe Church.

They marched in the Cinco de Mayo parade. The post donated 2,000 pounds of food to the Food Bank. They marched in a parade in West St Paul.

Post 8 - AitkinSubmitted by Adjutant Lloyd Gerard

Their membership is 22, with 19 being life members. They do the best they can with who they have, as some are snowbirds and/or retired. They are looking for improvement with helping to grow from the

top, like getting our AMVETS Department newspaper back up and running.

Post 12 - HibbingSubmitted by Commander William Cogger

The post remains involved in the community sponsoring and donat‑ing to local programs and events, as well as increasing membership. Their goal is to help the community as much as possible along with

“remembers our Veteran’s”. They are having a Memorial Day Observance and a troop send off is scheduled for June 2009. They continue to honor the veterans. With their gambling venture, their donations include youth sports, school programs, Honor Guard, AMVETS and VFW Veteran programs, veteran funerals, scholarships, and assist with benefits for persons of all ages that are stricken with a rare or terminally ill disease. They cover a large area of the Iron Range with the athletic and scholarship programs, health and safety, and patriotic programs and events. They encourage their youth to help out by volunteering. NEC Ray Gerving: Our National 4th District Commander Harold Reed has reported that the membership in the 4th Dis‑trict has 76,649 members; this makes us the largest district in the country.

Post ReportsPost News is excerpted from written reports submitted at the SEC meeting.

For membership or program forms, go to www.amvets.org. Don’t forget to submit your programs to Department each month. Let us know what the program was, how many people, hours and the cost, if any. Also donations made. I know most posts donate to the VA’s and to their communi-ties. Blow your own horn! We want to know what you have been up to! To see the types of programs AMVETS National has already, go to www.

amvets.org and click on Programs. They have material for planning your programs and events. Lots of useful tools. Hope to hear from you soon!

Vol. 12, No. 1 4


National Commander Chad Hapner stated the national finance is being watched closely during these times, but we are holding our own. National Programs Director Beryl Love continues to call on all posts to fulfill their charter obligations by providing the post level support we have sworn to provide. National Legislative Director Ray Kelly continues to be an advo‑cate on Capitol Hill for all veterans. National Membership Director Mark DelPiano is pleased that AMVETS members continue to use the on-line data base for membership reporting. It is growing in usage. Membership has stepped up recruitment of female veterans. National Service Director Denny Boller is pleased with the AMVETS National Service Officers throughout the country. They helped to recover more than $400 million in benefits for our veterans. And this was done with fewer service officers.

Post 23 - OwatonnaSubmitted by Commander Jim Steinbauer

Working on care packages for servicemen/women currency over‑seas. The Post has a stand at the Cashwise Foods for May 29~’ & 3e for fundraising. The Post will have a new commander next

year, Tom Voge. Hopes we have a good convention and apologizes for being unable to attend, due to family.

Submitted by Charter Member John Standke

Asking where the quarterly newspaper is. Talks about all the meet‑ings he has attended nationwide. He will continue to be a member of the Military Honor Color Guard to pay tribute to our deceased

veterans. He is a special deputy with Steele County, volunteer driver for the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society. He will maintain his membership, but will not be an active member. Wondering what direction the AMVETS Department of MN is going. Concerned the show of past commanders at our department meetings is low. Will continue to work with the VAMC for a possible clinic in the Owatonna area. He will always cherish and remember his association with many veterans from the WWII to present. A great association. Wishes for a great convention and future and the enjoyment of time spent at the convention.

Post 31 - WasecaSubmitted by Commander Roger W. Stelter

Membership is at 33, 13 of which are life members. Like many other posts, struggling to keep its membership actively involved. Looking to expand its membership in the coming year by reaching

out to new potential members and revisiting older veterans or those who have not renewed their membership.

Post 290 - MorrisSubmitted by Commander Tom Tucker

They are working on getting a new Veterans’ Van for the area. They work with their auxiliary with things as Meet the Candidate, troops leaving, WWII & Korea veterans recognition, Membership Happens,

fish fries, and other things. They were really excited to host the SEC meeting in February. They are very proud of their post and those currently serving in our Armed Forces. He is sorry he could not make it to the convention as

he has to work. Have a good convention, Commander. Submitted by John Fuchs

Helped with sales of fundraising tickets for the post, Honor Guard at funerals, sent get well & sympathy cards, attended Memorial Day in Morris, WWII & Korea recognition and gave medals to local

WWII veterans. As JA for the Department, he reviewed three posts in need of updates to their Post Constitution/By-Laws. Very happy with the new Alexandria clinic that takes a burden off the St Cloud VA and helps cut costs in travel for veterans. Proud of Post 33 in Virginia and notes they are a very good bunch of people that are doing wonderful. We need new blood from young and new members. Let them express their ideas as they need to be involved to keep the ball rolling.

Post 556 - Forest LakeSubmitted by Commander Jerry Ewald

Hoping that many of our post commanders attend as new officers will again be elected to do the important jobs of leading our organization. The Post will be having their pancake breakfasts this summer. The

proceeds are donated to worthy causes. Many of their members also belong to other veterans organizations. And all are proud to belong to AMVETS.

AMVETS Millennium Post 2000 - Inver Grove HeightsSubmitted by Commander William CoggerGeorgia and Richard Salsbury have promoted White Clovers at the en‑

trances of super markets and “big box” stores for seven years and have raised over $30,000, which is being donated back into the community via civic projects, sponsorship of a boy scout troop, packages to Iraq troops, etc. Most recently, Millennium Post 2000 has donated, in their name, $11,000 to the BEST Foundation which will select a Simley High School senior of a veteran, or active military parent, to receive a $500 scholarship

Post ReportsPost News is excerpted from written reports submitted at the SEC meeting.

Vol. 12, No. 1 5


Taps

We must be grateful that by the service of these AVMETS in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, we are truly a free people in a free land.

Post 1 Mendota: Terry Ayd - March 8, 2009

Post 4 Winona: Michael Pellowski - November 14, 2008

Post 11 St. Cloud: Donald R. DeChambeau - January 9, 2009

Post 19 Lake City: Alvin Hinck - November 10, 2008

Post 23 Owatonna: Rick R. Mork - December 15, 2008

Post 31 Waseca: Victor Charles St. John - December, 2008

Post 33 Virginia: George Moylan - December 21, 2008

Post 151 Appleton: Bernard Sprauge - September 15, 2008

Post 2000 Inver Grove Heights:Kevin C. Salsbury - June 14, 2009Alfred C. Woolgar - June 22, 2009

Marion “Mick” Lumby - June 30, 2009

Submitted by Gene Richgels, PDC

We are sad to inform you of the passing of Alfred (Al) Woolgar, Minnesota PDC. He died June 22, after a long battle with diabetes, cancer and heart ailments. At 14, he “misrepre‑

sented” his age as 16, and was a glider pilot in the D-Day invasion. After years in the Army Air Corps, he left and joined the Air Force, where he was instrumental in forming the SAC Elite Honor Guard at Moffett Air Force Base in Nebraska. He served his country well in three wars, and was active in the Minnesota AMVETS until his health slowed him down. He will be sorely missed by friends and family.

Right: Gene Richgels, Minnesota PDC, Al’s wife Jolly, who was a department officer, and Al holding a veterans home made mantel clock with an engraved plate thanking them both for their service to AMVETS and their community.

A Special Tribute In loving memory of Al Woolgar

Vol. 12, No. 1 6


Federal Legislative Update

House Passes Bill Extending Veterans' Benefits to World War II Mariners

The House of Representatives has approved a bill that will entitle Merchant Mariners from World War 11 to additional veterans

benefits. H.R. 23, the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War 11 Act of 2009, establishes a Merchant Mariner Equity Com‑pensation Fund and allows qualifying Merchant Mariners to receive monthly payments of $1,000 out of that fund. House Veterans’ Affairs Com‑mittee Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) introduced this same bill in 2007, and he reintroduced it on January 6, 2009.

This bill establishes in the Treasury the Merchant Mariner Equity Compensation Fund for payments by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of a monthly benefit of $1,000 to each individual who, between December 7,1941, and December 31,1946, was a documented member of the U.S. Merchant Marine including the Army Transport Service and the Naval Transport Service. Of the 250,000 Mer‑chant Mariners during World War II, fewer than 10,000 are believed to still be alive.

Senator Ben Nelson (D-NE) has introduced a companion bill, S. 563, but it has not had any legislative action yet. H.R. 23 will nest be heard by the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs.

Minnesota Congressman Introduces Bill for Improved spouse Benefits

Congressman Tim Walz (H-LAN) has joined Representative Steve Buyer (R-IN) in introducing H.R. 2243, the Surviving

Spouses Benefit Improvement Act of 2009. This bill increases Dependency and Indemnity Com‑pensation (DIC) paid to surviving spouses of vet‑erans who died while on active military duty or as a result of service-connected injuries or illnesses.

Currently, the DIC rate is 43% percent of the compensation paid to a totally disabled veteran. The Surviving Spouses Benefit Improvement Act of 2009 would increase the amount of de‑pendency and indemnity compensation (DIC) to 55% percent. The increase would bring DIC in line with other federal proms that give survivors 55% percent of their spouses retirement pay. Furthermore, H.R. 2243 would end the SBP DIC “widow’s tax” where DIC offsets SBP $1 for $1 of DIC paid.

About 340,000 spouses get DIC payments. Other than cost-of-living adjustments the rates have not been increased in more than 26 years. The bill has been referred to the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Agent Orange Equity Act

In May 5, 2009, House Veterans’ Affairs Com‑mittee Chairman Bob Filner introduced a bill that would clarify the legal presumption of

exposure to Agent Orange for veterans who served in the vicinity of Vice H.R. 2254, the Agent Or‑ange Equity Act, would allow Blue Water veterans and every service member awarded the Vietnam Service medal, or who otherwise deployed to land, sea or air in the Republic of Vietnam, full coverage under the comprehensive Agent Orange laws Congress passed in 1991. If enacted, this bill

will make it easier for VA to process Vietnam War veterans’ claims for service‑connected conditions that are linked to toxic exposures during the Viet‑nam War and that are identified in current law.

Currently, VA requires Vietnam veterans to prove a “foot on land” occurrence in order to qualify for the presumptions of service-con‑nection for herbicide-exposure related illnesses afforded under current law. This issue has been the subject of much litigation. However, Con‑gress did not intend to exclude these veterans from compensation based on arbitrary geo‑graphic line drag by VA.

Chairman John Hall (D-NY) leads the Subcom‑mittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, the subcommittee with jurisdiction over these issues. He stated, “With this legislation Congress will leave no doubt that the ‘Blue Wa‑ter Navy’ and all combat veterans of Vietnam are intended to be covered and compensated; thus ensuring that these veterans will receive the disability benefits they earned and deserve for exposure to Agent Orange. This is the cost of war. We asked these brave men and women to fight for us and serve their country, and it is a grave injustice that they have had to wait this long for treatment. We must place care of our soldiers among our top priorities. This applies for all past, present, and future conflicts.” The bill has been reed to the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

Senate Veterans’ AffairsCommittee Approves Four More VA Nominees

At a hearing on Tuesday, May 13, the Sen‑ate Veterans’ Affairs Committee unani‑mously approved four more nominees

to be part of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) leadership team.. The approvals were Roger W. Baker for Assistant Secretary for Informa‑tion and Technology; Will A. Gunn for General counsel; Jose D. Riojas for Assistant Secretary for operations, Security and Preparedness; and John U. Sepulveda for Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and Administration. The nominations now go to the Senate floor for final confirmation.

Vol. 12, No. 1 7


State Officers

Post Meeting Locations

Department Commander Mike Cook6175 132nd Way, Apple Valley, MN 55124

[email protected]

Dept. 1st Vice Cmdr/Adj./Office Manager Kelly Nguyen

648 Marie Avenue W., Mendota Hts., MN 55118

[email protected]

Dept. 2nd Vice Commander/1-Yr Trustee Allen Elsbury

3328 Corliss Trail, Rosemount, MN 55068651-322-7489

[email protected]

Finance Officer Mike Nelson1011 41st Avenue NE #103Columbia Hts, MN 55421

612-978-6368

John Fuchs Judge Advocate/Historian47633 250th Street, Morris, MN 56267

320-589-4395Provost Marshall/3-Yr. Trustee Allen Weyaus

P.O. Box 647 Onamia, MN 56359-0647320-630-2489

Finance Man/Chaplain Nick Basarich4020 9th Avenue West #325Hibbing, MN 55746-3028

218-263-5657

Service Officer Chuck Conroy9285 Robert Trail South

Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076651-544-6906

NEC Ray Gerving 2700 94th Avenue, Brooklyn Park, MN 55444

763-639-5670

Alternate NEC/2-Year Trustee Dick Volkert2400 Dodd Road, Mendota Heights, MN 55120

651-454-4422

VAVS Minneapolis John Austin2268 7th Street West

Saint Paul, MN 55116651-698-3104

[email protected]

Public Relations Officer Roger Stelter16451 Snake Trail, Waseca, MN 56093

[email protected]

Hospital Service Foundation Lawrence Dean 1247 East County Road BMaplewood, MN 55109

[email protected]

Dept. White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy

[email protected]

Post 11323 Sibley Memorial DriveMendota, MN 55150651-688-7408Last Weds at 7pm

Post 3Ponemah, 56666Sat 7pm

Post 4302 E SarniaWinona, MN 559871st Tues at 7pm

Post 5209 W BakerSt Paul, MN 2nd Thurs at 6:30pm

Post 820 1st Ave NEAitkin, MN 564312nd Tues at 7pm

Post 10Giant Valley A.L. #23438 Minnehaha Ave SMpls, MN 554062nd Sat at 2pm

Post 11VAMC St Cloud4801 Veterans DriveSt Cloud, MN 563033rd Tues at 10:30am

Post 12704 W 41st StreetHibbing, MN 557461st Tues at 5pm

Post 13233 S Olive StWaconia, MN 553873rd Tues at 8pm

Post 19218 W 4th StRedwing, MN 550664th Weds at 6:30pm

Post 23135 W Oakdale StOwatonna, MN 550604th Mon at 7pm

Post 241247 E Cty Rd BMaplewood, MN 55109Thurs 7pm

Post 26Brainerd A.L.708 Fort St Brainerd, MN 564011st Thurs 7pm

Post 28Carlton VFW3rd Tues at 7pm

Post 31VFW Post 1642113 Elm Ave WWaseca, MN 560931st Tues at 7pm

Post 33Servicemens Club227 Chestnut StVirginia, MN 55792Last Weds at 6:30pm

Post 47142 N BoradwayAlbert Lea, MN 560075th Mon at 7pm

Post 53777 Grand AvenueOnamia, MN 563592nd Mon at 6pm

Post 151448 S MunstermanAppleton, MN 562082nd Mon 7pm/winter 8pm/summer

Post 290507 Pacific AveMorris, MN 562671st Mon at 8pm

Post 556556 SW 12th StForest Lake, MN 55025As Needed

Post 20007510 Concord Blvd EInver Grove Hts, MN 550761st Tues

If you would like to be added to this list, please send your information to:[email protected]

Vol. 12, No. 1 8


Commander Mike Cook with our Department White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy.

Dick Volkert and Jack O’Brien, both members of Post 1, are building needed crosses for the Memorial Day service at the Fort Snelling Chapel. Each cross represents a ser-viceman/woman who has given the ultimate sacrifice for our country since 9/11. The name, rank, hometown and where served, of the soldier, is listed on each individual cross and layed out in the island area at the Chapel. The families of the fallen are invited to the service. Post 1 has been doing this with the Chapel for the last seven years. The soldiers listed are from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North and South Dakotas.

Members at the SEC meeting in Morris in February.

Vol. 12, No. 1 9


Post 1 Honor Guard at Fort Snelling Chapel on Memorial Day.

Minnesota Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Clark Dyrud with Commander Allen Weyaus at 2009 Department Convention.

Installation of officers at the 2009 Department Convention at South St Paul, Sunday, May 17.

White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy at the VA Home Minneapolis with a resident on Super Bowl Sunday. Jayme sat and visited for most of the af-ternoon with this resident. They had a great time together.

Vol. 12, No. 1 10


Saturday, May 16, 2009 11:00amPost Colors by Provost Marshall Dick Volkert, stepping in for Ken Weyaus.InvocationPledge of AllegiancePreamble by Mike CookRoll Call of Officers: Cmdr Allen Weyaus Present, 1st Vice Mike Cook Present, 2nd Vice John Austin Present, Adjutant Kelly Nguyen Present, Judge Advocate/Historian John Fuchs Present, Finance Officer Mike Nelson Present, Chaplain Nick Basarich Present, Provost Marshall Ken Weyaus Excused, 1-year trustee Allen Elsbury Present, 2-year trustee John Fuchs Present, 3-year trustee Dick Volkert Present, Finance Committee Man Nick Basarich Present, Hospital Service Foundation Lawrence Dean Absent, VAVS Minneapolis John Austin Present, VAVS St Cloud Bob Kmitch Absent, Legislative Officer Mike Cook Present

Roll Call of Past Commanders: Immediate Past Gene DeGier Absent, John Standke Present, Dick Volkert Present, John Fuchs Present, Gene Richgels Present, Mike Nelson Present, Hank Johnson Excused, Erv Krosch Absent, Ray Gerving Present, Al Woolgar Excused, Richard Lynch Absent, Lawrence Dean Absent

Roll Call of Posts: 1 Mendota Present, 2 Rochester Absent, 3 Ponemah Absent, 4 Winona Absent, 5 St Paul Absent, 8 Aitkin Present, 10 Minneapolis Absent, 11 St Cloud Absent, 12 Hibbing Present, 13 Waconia Present, 19 Red Wing Absent, 20 Albany Absent, 21 Detroit Lakes Absent, 23 Owatonna Present, 24 St Paul Present, 26 Fort Ripley Absent, 28 Carlton Absent, 31 Waseca Present, 33 Virginia Absent, 47 Albert Lea Absent, 53 Onamia Present, 151 Appleton Absent, 290 Morris Present, 556 Forest Lake Present, 2000 Inver Grove Heights Present

Reading of Official Minutes from February 7 SEC meeting in Morris. Correction: Post 556 was present, not absent. M/M by Ray 2nd by Allen to accept the minutes as mailed out and corrected. M/C

Introduction of guests: Barb Meyer President Aux 295 & Cmdr Mike Post 295. White Clover Princess from Post 1 Jayme Conroy. Finance Report: Given verbally by Mike Nelson

Old Business: None

New Business: Cmdr Weyaus stated that ONLY 1. Motions and discussions on motions to be brought before the convention and 2. Rules of Convention and 3 All Post Reports.

Suggestions for the good of the organization: NoneBenedictionRetiring of ColorsClosing of the SECOpening of Convention: 12:05pm.Post Colors by Provost Marshall Dick VolkertInvocation by Chaplain Nick BasarichPledge of Allegiance by allPreamble by 1st Vice Mike CookRoll Call of OfficerRoll Call of Past CommandersRoll Call of PostsConvention Rules: Read by Mike NelsonFinance Report: Given verbally by Finance Officer Mike Nelson. M/M by Kelly Nguyen Post 1 to approve

finance report 2nd by Mark Kronholm Post 1 subject to audit. Discussion. M/C

Reminder: When making a motion or addressing the floor…the delegate shall rise, addressing the chair, state name and post prior to proceeding. Budget Report by Finance Man Nick Basarich M/M by Nick Basarich Post 12 2nd by Ray Gerving Post 1 to accept the budget report for this year. M/C

Bills / communications…Read by Office Manager Kelly Nguyen Post 1Officers Reports: 1st Vice Commander Mike Cook: Membership: in correspondence with what was discussed at the SEC Meeting regarding the membership drive contest. (Sent to all post commanders/adjutants with minutes)2nd Vice Commander John Austin: June 20…be out at the Veterans Home in Minneapolis. There will be no cost to us. Americanism contest…committee will be meeting after this meeting. NEC Ray Gerving: Report on table. I have a copy of Nationals proposed budget. I also have a copy of the National District Commanders, NEC reports, etc. if anyone wants to see this. National 4th District is largest district. Submit programs to Department so that the Adjutant can submit them to National. It is important to have this done. There are only a few posts that have submitted anything.VAVS Report John Austin: I would like to congratulate Post 1 for their donations. We are going to have a banner year.Legislative Officer Mike Cook: Nothing getting done this year, as the budget doesn’t have much there. They really didn’t cut the veterans affairs budget. M/M by Kelly Nguyen Post 1 to accept all reports with the inclusion of the written reports. 2nd by Mike Nelson Post 13 M/CGene Richgles Post 2000. In the absence of the Commanders report: Giving verbal report: We do blackjack at VAMC each month. Gave over $1000 for fishing dock at Inver Grove Heights. There is a boy scout troop that we sponsor financially. Testimonial luncheon for Al & Jolly Woolgar. We gave an award to Richard O Salisbury and his wife. The Salisbury’s have single handedly raised over $30k with white clovers. Gene Richgels Post 2000: One major thing…of the 30k from their raising…going to give 11k to “Best Foundation” elect seniors from Sibley High School for scholarships. We try to give the scholarship to a son or daughter of veteran/soldier. The award is given in the name of the Salisbury’s.Post 53 has no written report. Given verbally by Cmdr Weyaus. April 29 helped sponsor a Pow-Wow. They have done other Pow-Wows. He gave a short report of what they have been doing and what they are up to.5 min break…new business will be up when we get back.Reconvene:New Business: Credential reports…11 posts…22 delegates…8 voting states…1 for charter 2 for 1st 10 and then upscale. Ie Post 1 = 8 delegates.M/m by Ray Gerving Post 1 2nd by Dick Volkert Post 1 to accept credential report. M/C1st Round nominations: Allen Weyaus for Commander. Declined. Mike Cook nominated. 1st Vice John Austin/Kelly Nguyen. 2nd Vice Allen Elsbury. Finance Officer

Mike Nelson. Judge Advocate Jack Fuchs. Provost Marshall Allen Weyaus. Finance Committee Man Nick Bassarich. Nominations will remain open until tomorrow.John Fuchs Post 290: Resolutions…read fully today and shorten them tomorrow. 1st Reading: 2 resolutions for By-Laws; 17 resolutions to the Constitution. Allen Elsbury Post 1: White Clover Princess: Appointed by new commander.

Mike Nelson Post 13: From the Finance Meeting, 4 donations $1000 each for each…MACV, DAV Rest Camp, Valley Forge Sauk Center, VICTRI…for $4000.00 total. Move that we accept the 4 donations for $1000 each 2nd by Kelly Nguyen Post 1. Q: by Roger Stelter Post 31 as to where the money come from? Mike Nelson…savings account.

Discussion regarding checks coming in from Midwest Publishing and where the newspaper is at. Need to contact them and find out about the newspaper.Mike Nelson Post 13: Suggest Dick Volkert handle newspaper: Dick: Can we do this tomorrow after the elections to discuss about who sits on this committee.

Dick Volkert Post 1: Newspaper report: Has WI newspaper in hand. Passed around. Our Posts have to send in reports on what the posts are doing. Wisconsin goes through American Graphics and Design Inc.

Constitution and By-Laws…administrative changes to changes. Ray Gerving read.

Discussion on State Fair and whether or not we should continue this. Comments from the floor:Kelly Nguyen Post 1: Didn’t care for what I witnessed. Sponsor…don’t put them all in your post. Lyle Cromer Post 31: Can’t sign up a member at that table…Joe Mauricio Post 5: When I was out there, they would take applications…don’t know where (which post) they are going to? A few were doing Legion work from the AMVETS booth.Ray Gerving Post 1: Incoming commander should choose a new person to head the committee out at the state fair. Standke Post 23: Worked state fair…our new incoming commander was signed up at the state fair.

Roger Stelter Post 31: Commenting on the WI AMVETS newspaper: Think it’s a good format…they pay for the paper thru the membership dues. How would we pay for this? Where do we advertise? Limits on how we advertise and who advertises? I will volunteer with Dick to get paper going. Dick Volkert Post 1: They do the mailing. They pay for the postage. They get a percentage of what they take in off the ads. Dan Smoot Post 1: Leave it to the committee.

Mike Cook Post 1: M/M to move the convention up to the last weekend of April…2nd by Dan Smoot Post 1. Lyle Cromer Post 31: VFW/Legion…state conventions…It was decided after moving the convention around that you can have it when you want it, we’ll have it when we want it.

Dan Smoot Post 1: This is AMVETS…not the VFW, Legion, DAV, etc. We are AMVETS, not an auxiliary to the other veteran’s organization. Mike: withdraw motion. Withdraw 2nd by Dan Smoot.

Kelly Nguyen Post 1: M/M to donate $500.00 to Special Olympics. 2nd by Joe Mauricio M/C

Minutes of Convention-May 2009 Submitted by Kelly Nugyen

Vol. 12, No. 1 11


Lyle Cromer Post 31: ROTC at Mankato State…Had the flags in the color guard on wrong side. Unacceptable.

Old Business: June 20th…VA Home…John Austin…we are going to do it. Are we going to play bingo? We can donate about $75.00 - $100.00. Be there at 1pm. Present colors, callers, ice cream, etc.

Good of the order: Allen Elsbury: Post 1: DAV Rest Camp…literature up on table. Jerry Ewald 556: Rest camp: Pics new things going on. Mike Nelson Post 13: Vets home bingo night..need check for this.Ray Gerving Post 1: M/M to donate $100.00 for bingo on the 20th. 2nd by Dick Volkert. Sat June 20th. M/CJerry Ewald Post 556: Recently we received 200 pins. Handed out to many people. Allen Elsbury Post 1: Rest Camp: Our chairman invited the AMVETS Dept commander to a meeting anytime he wants to.

Mike Nelson Post 13: Thank you, Dan Smoot for getting this convention together. (Applause)

M/M by Nick Basarich 2nd by John Austin to adjourn. M/C

Retiring of ColorsConvention adjourned at 3:15pmWill Reconvene at 10:00am for Memorial Service

AMVETS Department of MN Memorial ServiceSunday, May 17, 2009

Chaplain: (Invocation) Loving God, eternal in Heaven, our hearts are lifted to You in prayer. We do so, Lord, in thanksgiving for the life of these AMVETS. We thank You, Lord, for the love of them for You, for our country, and for family and friends; loves that has enriched all of our lives.

We must be grateful that by the service of these AVMETS in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, we are truly a free people in a free land. Your holy and infinite blessings be with the family and loved ones of these AMVETS in all of time.

Lord, receive these AMVETS as Your own. Bless them with life everlasting. Amen.

Post 1 Mendota: Terry Ayd March 8, 2009Post 4 Winona: Michael Pellowski November 14, 2008Post 11 St Cloud: Donald R DeChambeau January 9, 2009Post 19 Lake City: Alvin Hinck November 10, 2008Post 23 Owatonna: Rick R Mork December 15, 2008Post 31 Waseca: Victor Charles St John December 2008Post 33 Virginia: George Moylan December 21, 2008Post 151 Appleton: Bernard Sprauge September 15, 2008

Chaplain: (Benediction) The love of God, which brings to us comfort and peace from our Lord, be with us always. Amen.

Memorial Service Concluded

Reconvene of Convention Sunday, May 17, 2009Post Colors by Dick VolkertInvocationPledge of AllegiancePreambleRoll Call of Officers Cmdr Allen Weyaus Present, 1st Vice Mike Cook Present, 2nd Vice John Austin Present,

Adjutant Kelly Nguyen Present, Judge Advocate/Historian John Fuchs Present, Finance Officer Mike Nelson Present, Chaplain Nick Basarich Present, Provost Marshall Ken Weyaus Excused, 1-year trustee Allen Elsbury Present, 2-year trustee John Fuchs Present, 3-year trustee Dick Volkert Present, Finance Committee Man Nick Basarich Present, Hospital Service Foundation Lawrence Dean Present, VAVS Minneapolis John Austin Present, VAVS St Cloud Bob Kmitch Absent, Legislative Officer Mike Cook Present

Roll Call of Past Commanders: Immediate Past Gene DeGier Absent, John tandke Present, Dick Volkert Present, John Fuchs Present, Gene Richgels Absent, Mike Nelson Present, Hank Johnson Excused, Erv Krosch Absent, Ray Gerving Present, Al Woolgar Excused, Richard Lynch Absent, Lawrence Dean Present

Roll Call of Posts: 1 Mendota Present, 2 Rochester Absent, 3 Ponemah Absent, 4 Winona Absent, 5 St Paul Absent, 8 Aitkin Present, 10 Minneapolis Absent, 11 St Cloud Absent, 12 Hibbing Present, 13 Waconia Present, 19 Red Wing Absent, 20 Albany Absent, 21 Detroit Lakes Absent, 23 Owatonna Present, 24 St Paul Present, 26 Fort Ripley Absent, 28 Carlton Absent, 31 Waseca Present, 33 Virginia Absent, 47 Albert Lea Absent, 53 Onamia Present, 151 Appleton Absent, 290 Morris Present, 556 Forest Lake Present, 2000 Inver Grove Heights Present

Finance: Mike Nelson: Approved yesterday.Reports: Lawrence Dean: Nothing from Hospital Service Foundation

Old Business: By-Laws change/update…Read over by Ray Gerving…Went thru all changes/updates/corrections. M/M by Kelly Nguyen Post 1 2nd by Mike Nelson Post 13 to accept the constitution & bylaws. M/C

Resolutions: Judge Advocate Jack Fuchs address the resolutions…short version. John Standke: requested to be excused from rest of convention. M/M by Jack Fuchs to accept all resolutions. 2nd by Dick Volkert Post 1. M/C

Guest: Commissioner Dyrud entered/addressed membership. Presented award…certificate of recognition from Gov Pawlenty to Commander Weyaus.

Roger Stelter Post 31 Cmdr Waseca-addressing Commissioner…college system/National Guard soldiers…when called up in middle of semester and getting the tuition/credits/ when called up and resuming…they are losing the tuition/credits and having to start over. Is there a way to help these students so they may receive their tuition back or earn the portion of the credits for the class?Send Commissioner Clark Dyrud this as email…need to protect their monies and time spent. Dick Cruz Post 5: Trade schools too. Commissioner will look into this. Thanked Commander Weyaus for an outstanding year. Glad to be a member of AMVETS.John Fuchs Post 290: (addressing Commissioner) Happy you joined our group. Break…

Credential Report: Mike Nelson Post 13: 28 registered…11 posts 25 present to vote.13 is quorum

New Business Nominations: go thru the offices then vote on them.2009-2010 Department Commander: Mike Cook

nominated. Dan Smoot moved to have unanimous ballot for Mike Cook. 2nd by Kelly Nguyen. M/C1st Vice Commaner: Kelly Nguyen nominated. John Austin nominated. Ballots distributed. Counters selected. Kelly Nguyen is elected.2nd Vice Commander: Allen Elsbury. M/M by Ray Gerving 2nd by Dick Volkert to have unanimous ballot for Allen Elsbury. M/CFinance Officer: Mike Nelson. M/M by John Austin 2nd by Nick Basarich to have unanimous ballot for Mike Nelson. M/CJudge Advocate: John Fuchs nominated. M/M by Lawrence Dean 2nd by Dick Volkert to have unanimous ballot for John Fuchs. M/CProvost Marshall: Allen Weyaus nominated. M/M by Jack Fuchs 2nd by John Austin to have unanimous ballot for Allen Weyaus. M/CFinance Committee Man: Nick Basarich nominated. M/M by Mike Nelson 2nd by Allen Elsbury to have unanimous ballot for Nick Basarich. M/C

Commander-elect Mike Cook spoke to membership. Put out proposed short/long term ideas for next year. 1. Getting posts more involved in the Dept. 2. Each post should send newsletters to department monthly. I will commit to everyone that I will sit in on one meeting at each post.

Jack Fuchs: Provost Marshall is empty. Commander Weyaus stated this will be handled with the new commander.

Installation of officers.M/M by Lyle Cromer 2nd by Mark Kronholm to bring in any guests for the officers…m/c

Mike Nelson Post 13: Presented check to Dan Smoot for room here at VFW. Token of appreciation for use of meeting room.He then presented a check to outgoing commander.

Suggestions for the good of the order Motion to adjourn by Dick Volkert Post 1 2nd by Mike Nelson Post 13 M/CBenedictionRetiring of ColorsSEC Meeting: Opened by Outgoing Commander Allen WeyausPosting colorsInvocationPledgeTurn gavel over to commander elect Mike Cook1st order of business: appointments now or at 1st SEC…White Clover Princess Jayme Conroy spoke to membership thanking her for appointing her as the White Clover Princess for the Department and that if anyone would like her to be at their post for parades and/or events, contact the Department office as Kelly has her information.Mike Nelson Post 13: If a Post requests her, the Post is responsible for her bill.

M/M to accept all appointments by Lyle Cromer Post 31 2nd by Dick Volkert Post 1 M/C

The Fall SEC will be September 12. I’ll let you know where it will be and give you adequate time so you can be there.

Commander-elect Mike Cook’s phone number: 952-956-2211. Call anytime when your Post needs something. I want to let you know I’ll be there for you and help in any way I can.

M/M to accept the findings of Americanism contest by Mike Nelson Post 13 2nd by Allen Elsbury Post 1. M/C

Minutes of Convention-May 2009

Vol. 12, No. 1 12


2009-2010

Fall SECSaturday, September 12, 2009

11:00 a.m.Appleton Post 151

Commander Richard Anderson448 South Munsterman

Appleton, MN 56208

Spring SECSaturday, February 6, 2010

11:00 a.m.Forest Lake Post 556

Commander Jerry EwaldMeet at VFW Post 4210

556 SW 12th StreetForest Lake, MN 55025

2010 ConventionSaturday, May 15-Sunday, May 16, 201011:00 a.m. Saturday/ 10:30 a.m. Sunday

Aitkin Post 8Commander Jack Steffes

Meeting location to be determinedAitkin, MN 56431

Stephen Engel from Post 151 Appleton, grade 12 won the essay contest at Department level.

Ray Gerving Post 1: Valley Forge: National gives state airfare, weekend at Valley Forge…doesn’t cost us anything…9-12 grade. M/M by Mike Nelson that by August we have some names we still have to work on a drawing…2nd by Lawrence Dean Post 24…Lyle Cromer Post 31: If there isn’t enough info to the students…Mike Nelson Post 13: Drop this motion/2nd Withdrawn by Lawrence Dean Post 24.

Kelly Nguyen Post 1: explained that the info sent to each post at least three times for

the National Americanism contest. There should be no reason they couldn’t have gotten something into Department. It is also on Amvets.org under programs.

Good of the order: M/M by Mike Nelson 2nd Dick Volkert to adjourn. M/CGene Richgels Post 2000: I brought some pictures of Al Woolgar and his wife, Jolly. I also have pictures for the newspaper and for National.

Meeting adjournedBenedictionRetiring of Colors

Membership

Incentives 2009-2010

From Commander-Elect Mike Cook

At the Spring SEC in Morris, this proposal was brought on the floor and later adopted to go into effect at the Department Convention in South Saint Paul. I have designed a plan to increase membership with the following incentives:

1. Three Day weekend at Grand Casino Hinckley

2. Two Tickets to a Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball game

3. Two tickets to the Minnesota Wild Hockey game

4. Two day weekend at Mystic Lake Casino

5. $100.00 Gift Certificate

In order to be eligible for any of these prizes, the post must increase their mem‑bership by 20%. The post with the largest increase over 20% will get first choice from the prize pool, with the remaining posts being awarded prizes based on the next largest percentage.

The incentive program runs through our 2010 Department Convention in Aitkin.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. 952-956-2211.

Sincerely,Mike CookAMVETS Department MN 2009-2010 Commander-Elect

Minutes Continued...

Meetings&

Locations

Vol. 12, No. 1 13


Post OfficersPOST 1

COMMANDERMark Kronholm

2184 Schoolmaster Dr.Chaska, MN 55318

612-708-1910

POST 1 ADJUTANTKelly Nguyen

648 Marie Ave.Mendota Hts., MN

55118651-406-8152

[email protected]

POST 2 COMMANDERJolene Patterson

3008 Salem Meadows Dr. SW

Rochester, MN 55902

POST 3 COMMANDER

Lawrence E. Stillday, Sr.P.O. Box 85

Ponemah, MN 56666218-554-7425

POST 3 ADJUTANTRichard Graves

P.O. Box 85Ponemah, MN 56666-

0085218-554-7401

POST 4 COMMANDER

David Graves416 Steuben StreetWinona, Mn 55987

507-454-1613

POST 4 ADJUTANTGeorge Braunteiter106 Wisconsin Ave.Cochrane, WI 54622

608-248-2474

POST 5 COMMANDER

Raymond J. Rangel2220 Conway Street

Saint Paul, MN 55119

POST 5 ADJUTANTMichael Medina1618 Hague Ave.

St. Paul, MN 55104651-645-0587

POST 8 COMMANDERJohn Washtock

46356 287th LaneAitkin, MN 56431

POST 8 ADJUTANTLloyd Gerard

31142 380Ph St.Aitkin, MN. 56431

218-549-3441

POST 10 COMMANDER

Danial Till5220 W. 102nd St.,

#311Bloomington, MN

55437952-831-6959

POST 10 ADJUTANTCraig Maehling

1082 14th Ave SEMpls, MN 55414

612-331-2593

POST 11 COMMANDER

Don Gilbert24870 22nd Avenue

St. Augusta, MN 56301612-272-1557

POST 11 ADJUTANTPhilip Landwehr

56 - 33rd Ave S #243St Cloud, MN

56301320-253-0703

POST 12 COMMANDER

Bill Cogger704 W 41st Street

Hibbing, MN 55746218-749-5187

[email protected]

POST 12 ADJUTANTDick Mattson715 E. 39th

Hibbing, MN. 55746218-262-1523

POST 13 COMMANDER

Guy Streater217 1/2 E Lake St

Waconia, MN 55387952-442-5002

POST 13 ADJUTANTWalter Schmakel

348 W. 4th St.Waconia, MN. 55387

953-442-4272

POST 19 COMMANDER

Janice Hinz29676 Flower Valley Rd.Red Wing, MN 55066

651-338-2970

POST 19 ADJUTANTJoyce Maldondo

N. 4003 U.S. Hwy. 63 Ellsworth, WI 54011

715-792-5407

POST 20 COMMANDER

Eugene Koopmeiners15722 390th StreetAvon, MN 56310

320-746-7676

POST 20 ADJUTANTT. Joseph Schwab

335 Golfview DriveAlbany, MN 56307

320-845-4848

POST 21 COMMANDER

Eugene Fohs1233 Richard Ave.

Det. Lakes, MN 56501 218-847-4144

POST 23 COMMANDER

Tom VogeP.O. Box 81

Nerstrand, MN 55053507-334-3238

[email protected]

POST 23 ADJUTANTEvelyn Hershberger

422 E VineOwatonna, MN 55060

507-451-6091

POST 24 COMMANDER

Al Busse956 Cook Ave. E.

St. Paul, MN 55106651-771-1568

POST 24 ADJUTANTLawrence Dean1247 Co. Rd. B

Maplewood, MN 55109651-484-2837

POST 26 COMMANDER

Floyd Hardy8200 Woodrow Rd.

N.E.Brainerd, MN. 56401

218-764-3122

POST 26 ADJUTANTClayton Eisel

8514 Sleepy Hollow Rd.Fort Ripley, MN 56449

218-829-6860

POST 28 COMMANDER

William J. Warren, Jr.3678 Carlton StreetBarnum, MN 55707

218-389-6014

POST 28 ADJUTANTGary Aho

P.O. Box 35Wrenshall, MN 55759

218-384-4587

POST 31 COMMANDER

Roger Stelter16451 Snake Trail Road

Waseca, MN 56093507-835-7901

[email protected]

POST 31 ADJUTANTLyle Cromer

219 7th Ave. NEWaseca, MN 56093

507-833-7722

POST 33 COMMANDERGeorge Howard

1033 6th Avenue N., #6Virginia, MN 55792

218-741-6474

POST 33 ADJUTANTMichael Neubarth

173 FernbergEly, MN 55731218-365-6441

POST 47 COMMANDER

Ruth Perry121 Fenton Road

Albert Lea, MN 56007507-373-2245

POST 47 ADJUTANTLes Shaunce

528 Alice Ave.Albert Lea, MN. 56007

507-373-0134

POST 53 COMMANDERKenneth Weyaus16004 Migizi Dr.

Onamia, MN. 56359320-532-3632

POST 53 ADJUTANTDiane Nickaboine

19100 452nd StreetOnamia, MN 56359

POST 151 COMMANDER

Gary Running385 210th Avenue

Appleton, MN 56208320-289-1240gmrunning@

fedteldirect.net

POST 151 ADJUTANT

Ronald Kohlman350 Rooney Ave W

Appleton, MN 56208320-289-3284

POST 290 COMMANDER

Tom TuckerN 841 Maylott AvenueHancock, MN 55045

320-392-5901

POST 290 ADJUTANTErv Krosch

509 E. 9th StreetMorris, MN 56267

320-589-2916

POST 556 COMMANDER

Jerry Ewald13735 Nurelius Ln.

Lindstrom, MN 55405612-257-5791

POST 556 ADJUTANT

Keith Hegstrom56 N.W. 4th St.

Forest Lake, MN 55025651-464-2497

POST 2000 COMMANDER

Dale Larson3256 70th Street EastInver Grove Hts., MN

55076651-455-6558

POST 2000 ADJUTANTGene Richgels

8417 Corcoran CircleInver Grove Hts., MN

55076651-699-1537

______________

If you have additions and/or changes

to be made to this list, please

send them to:

AMVETS Dept. MN MN AMVETS News

Room 302 Veterans Service

Building20 West 12th St.

St. Paul, MN 55155

Vol. 12, No. 1 14


THANK YOU!

THANK YOU!

THANK YOU!

THAN

K YO

U CO

RPOR

ATE S

PONS

ORS

03/25/2007 - 06/30/2009

Abdo Consulting Group Incorpor

Adjustable Joist Co.

Allison-Williams Co.

Amplio Marketing Inc.

Becker Bros Inc.

Broadway Station Restaurant Inc.

C R A

Christopher Maclennan

City View Hardwoods Inc.

Concrete Mobility LLC

Construction & General Labor

Country Liquor Inc.

Damarc Quality Inspection Services

Dean Pelnar

Delano Dairy Queen

Drexel Vanevery

Duffey Paper Co.

EAP Fleet Service

Eclipse Salon and Spa

El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant

Engineered Polymers Corp.

Express West Inc.

Eye Fashions

Famous Dave's of America Inc.

Frank's Cleaning Service

Gene Elling

Gene Klaphake

Goldberg Bonding

Goltz Pharmacy

Grand Commercial Real Estate

Gruys Borden Carlson & Associates

Jessica Grosset

Jimmy John's

Joe Rice

Kees Foreign/Domestic Auto Work

Kim

Layton Landscaping

Mc Donalds of Rogers

Metals Marketing Inc.

Metro Produce Distributors Inc.

Michael Trucano

Michaud, Cooley, Erickson

Midland Equipment Company

Midwest Superior Drywall

Modem Express

Moran Incorporated

Mr. David Satnan

Vol. 12, No. 1 15


THANK YOU!

THANK YOU!

THANK YOU!

Mr. John Dearing

Neaton Brothers Erosion

Neisen Liquors

Network Management Company

New Horizon Feeds

Nicollet Technologies Corp.

North Shore Agency Ins. Center

O'Connell Excavation and Plumbing

Oliva's Welding & Millwrights Service

Olmstead County Lumber Mart

Omni Environmental Inc.

Prestige Cleaning

Roettger Ridge Kennels

Ron Christenson

Rudy Luther's Hopkins Honda

Ruth Arneson

Schindler Elevator Corp.

Schlenner Wenner & Co.

Sears Imported Autos Inc.

September House

St. Anthony of Padua

St. Clements Church

Starkey Labs

Strike Master Inc.

Tabaka's Super Value

Teams Corp.

Terry Graff

The John Roberts Co.

The Olive Garden

Timberwolf Lumber

Transmission Shop Inc.

Twin City Refreshments

Universal Spray & Dry Wall Co.

Wayne Transports Inc.

Zayic Concrete Work

GOLD

Dicklich and Associates

Hubbard Broadcasting

SILVER

Lakeland Construction

Minnesota Twins

CORPORATE

Berg Professional Staffing

Kasper Farms

Mankato Implement Co.

Northwest Excavators Inc.

Retail Contracting Inc.

Structured Frisbee Corp.

Ulland Brothers Inc.

THAN

K YO

U CO

RPOR

ATE S

PONS

ORS

SS

The Minnesota American Veterans NewsRoom 302, Veterans Service Building20 West 12th StreetSt. Paul, MN [email protected]

The History of American VeteransTruly AMVETS was born in the midst of war, for it was in August 1943, with

victory still two years away, that a new organization, later to be known as the American Veterans of World War II, had its beginning. Overseas, the tide of

battle was turning. The Allies had swept through North Africa and Sicily. In the Pacific, fighting raged in New Guinea. Thousands of Americans had made the supreme sacrifice. Hundreds of others were being mustered out of uniform with battle wounds and medi‑cal discharges. These men who fought in history’s greatest war found it natural to seek each other’s company. They were united by similar experiences ... in jungles, in the Arctic, in deserts, on mountains, at sea and in the skies. Thus, out of such comradeship, AMVETS came to be formed in Washington, D.C., two independent veterans clubs, one on the campus of George Washington University, the other of veterans employed by the government, joined together to sponsor a servicemen’s party. By September 1944, other such veterans’ clubs organized throughout America—in California, Florida, Louisiana, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Texas.

On November 11, 1944, a Veterans Day article entitled “12,000,000 in Search of a Leader” appeared in Collier’s. This story, written by Walter Davenport, introduced the clubs and outlined their three mutual aims: to promote world peace, to preserve the American way of life and to help the veteran help himself. In December, 18 leaders representing these nine groups met in Kansas City, Mo. There, a national organization was formed and on December 9, 1944, the name “American Veterans of World War II” was chosen. The word AMVETS, coined by newspaper headline writers, soon became the official name. The white clover, a flower that thrives in freedom throughout the world and is symbolic of the struggle during World War II, became the adopted flower of AMVETS.

In October 1945, two months after the end of World War II, the first national convention was convened in Chicago. In 1946, AMVETS petitioned Congress for a federal charter. AMVETS, having displayed dignity and a sound approach to national problems, won the deep respect of Congress and on July 23, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the AM-VETS charter. The words of the Senate Judiciary Committee echoed throughout the land: “The veterans of World War II are entitled to their own organization” and AMVETS being “organized along sound lines and for worthy purposes ... having demonstrated its strength and stability is entitled to the standing and dignity which a national charter will afford.”

President Truman also commented, “Were I a veteran of this war, I would prefer to have a veteran of World War II looking after my affairs, than a veteran of some other war.”

When the war broke out in Korea and again in Vietnam, AMVETS requested Congress to amend the charter so that those serving in the U.S. Armed Forces would be eligible for membership. On September 14, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the bill redefining the eligibility dates for AMVET membership, stating “Any person who served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America or any American citizen, as an American citizen, who served in the armed forces of an allied nation of the United States at anytime after September 15, 1940, and on or before the date of cessation of hostilities as determined by the government of the United States, is eligible for regular membership in AMVETS, provided such service when terminated by discharge or release from active duty be by honorable discharge or separation.” On May 7, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed Proclamation 4373, terminating the Vietnam era and announcing the cessation of hostilities. Effective May 8, 1975, the armed forces became a peacetime service.

For nearly 10 years, AMVETS did not accept into membership servicemen and women who served after May 7, 1975. On May 31, 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed Public Law 98-304, which amended AMVETS’ congressional charter to open membership to those who served honorably and actively after May 7, 1975. AMVETS is now the only congressionally chartered veterans’ service organization that recognizes the sacrifices of these veterans and service persons by extending membership eligibility to them.

At the 46th and 47th national conventions, the contributions made by the National Guard and Reserve forces were recognized and membership eligibility was extended to include all ready reserves. Membership in AMVETS is now open to any person who is currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or who has served actively and honorably at anytime after Sept. 15, 1940, including all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are now serving or have been honorably discharged since that date. At the 49th National Convention in 1993, the eligibility of merchant marines who served this country in time of war was addressed and approved. Merchant marines who are considered veterans and eligible for VA benefits (and have received a DD-214 from either the Navy or the Coast Guard) are eligible for AMVET membership.

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