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Boo Coo News
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154
VVA154.com
Mount Clemens, Michigan
MARCH 2015
WELCOME HOME!
VETERANS SUPPORT CENTER
18025 E. 15 MILE ROAD
CLINTON TOWNSHIP MI 48035-2403
586-776-9810 PHONE
586-776-9683 FAX
MONDAY - FRIDAY 10 A.M. - 4 P.M.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME.
STOP BY. HANG OUT & HELP OUT.
***
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS
7 P.M. SECOND WEDNESDAY
OF THE MONTH
AT AMERICAN LEGION POST 4,
401 N. GROESBECK HIGHWAY
SOUTH OF ELIZABETH ROAD
***
BOO COO NEWS DEADLINE:
PREVIOUS MONTH’S MEETING
TO SUBMIT ITEMS, PHOTOS, AD COPY:
MAIL, FAX OR DELIVER TO THE
VETERANS SUPPORT CENTER
1,636
AMERICANS
STILL MISSING IN
SOUTHEAST ASIA
49 FROM
MICHIGAN
Fraser VFW Presentation
FW Fraser Post Quartermaster John
Gammiccia (right) and life member
Mike Sand (left) present a welcome
letter and certificate of appreciation on
behalf of post commander John Murphy and
post members to VVA Chapter 154 president,
Brian Bobek (center). VVA 154 moved to
their new 15 Mile Road location. The Fraser
Post has had a long-standing positive
relationship with VVA, and many Vietnam vets belong to both organizations.
Chapter 154 has provided support services and community involvement
throughout Macomb County and beyond for over 30 years. The VFW Corp. Neil W.
Reid Post that closed its building on Gratiot Avenue in Roseville has merged with
the Fraser VFW Post. The merged post is now known as Corp. Neil W. Reid-Fraser
Post 6691.
V
Scholarship Program
he annual program for the Jack Boyd Thomas Memorial Scholarship Award is
continuing. Up to four $1,000 scholarships will be
awarded to deserving seniors who are graduating from
high school this next year. To be considered, an applicant
must submit a transcript of grades, rank in class, SAT results
plus a personal dissertation stating the applicant’s goals,
extracurricular activities, achievements, and any offices
and/or leadership positions held while in high school.
Eligibility is limited to sons and daughters, stepchildren,
legally adopted children and grandchildren. They must be dependent on the
chapter member for their care. Chapter members must be current on their dues.
This program also extends to the same categories of children shown above of
Associate members.
The deadline for submission of applications is April 1. As always, completed
applications should be submitted to Woody Horne. Selection will be made on or
about May 1. Typically, people delay submitting their applications until the last
minute, making the work of the selection committee tougher, so please make every
effort to get your applications in by the deadline of April 1.
Further information is contained in information packets that are available at the
vet center or by contacting Woody Horne.
T
2015 Chapter Golf Outing
his is advance notice for the 2015 golf outing. It will again be
held at Hickory Hollow Golf Course, North Avenue at 22 Mile
Road. The date is confirmed for August 29 with a 9 a.m.
shotgun start. We need golfers, hole sponsors, and donations of items
for the raffle. Forms will be available soon to allow you to solicit for
individual and business support. Contact Dave Schoenherr or Mike
Schneider for more info.
T
President’s Message
ow, another whirlwind month for Chapter 154. We made the big move the last week of January from the old vet center to our new
facility. We had a “member’s move day” where our members came in and helped move all the small stuff that we could manage.
Then on January 30, the movers came in and moved the bigger items that we didn’t want to deal with. The move went off flawlessly
and we got everything moved in with some semblance of order to allow us to officially open our doors on February 2. Of course, there is still
a great deal of clutter to deal with over the next few months but we have two excellent guys, well versed in “housecleaning”, those being
Gary Purcell and Gary Stephens. We caution everyone not to stand too close to the door leading to the Dumpster for fear of getting trampled.
It appears that people are finding us without any difficulties, as the food bank and the service officers are seeing a steady line of traffic. We
got the new sign up on the front lawn and no one will have an excuse for not being able to find us. At night you can see the sign from Kelly
Road! If you haven’t been by the new building yet, I encourage you to do so. Everyone who has been by has been very impressed with the
layout and is certainly a huge step up from our previous facilities.
As we look forward to spring and summer, the calendar is already getting filled in. The folks at Clinton Township are sponsoring bringing
back “The Wall That Heals,” the scaled-down replica of the national wall that was here five years ago, over the Memorial Day weekend. I am
gratified that the township has asked Chapter 154 to have a significant role in the planning of the details. I can only assume that, as the
newest addition to veterans organizations in the township, coupled with our reputation, we were selected with this honor. Details will be
forthcoming after some of the initial planning meetings are held.
Also, I was approached by the township on behalf of Congressman Sander Levin for another honor. Congressman Levin is going to have a
U.S. flag flown over the Capitol Building in Washington, DC on a day of our choosing. This flag will then be presented to Chapter 154 as part
of the ceremony to be held in conjunction with “The Wall That Heals” event over Memorial Day. We were asked to designate a day that was
significant to our chapter as the day to have it flown over the capitol. After polling our board of directors, and coming to the conclusion that
most of “our significant” dates were later in the year, we selected April 30 as the date. This coincides with the conclusion of U.S. involvement
with Vietnam.
The last event staring us in the face will be the dedication of our new building. We have selected Saturday, April 25 for this ceremony.
Clinton Township is definitely interested in participating, and more details will be forthcoming as we get closer to the date. Mark it on your
calendar and plan on attending as I assume this will be the last time we’ll be doing something like this. Keep your fingers crossed for good
weather.
Please realize YOUR role in having our chapter recognized in these events. It wouldn’t be happening if it weren’t for the hard work over
these past 30 years that all of you in this chapter have put forth to raise awareness of who we are, and what we do for veterans and the
community alike. These events will be a testimonial to YOU, so join us in receiving your just accolades.
Lastly, I cannot adequately thank all those people, members and non-members alike, who supported us during the building renovations and
move. It made a tough job a whole lot easier, and I was impressed by the energy exhibited by everyone. We need to keep that enthusiasm
moving forward. I hope to have a listing of everyone who helped out in the next newsletter. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Brian Bobek
20th Engineering Brigade (Combat) Vietnam, 1967-68
W
TRUSTEES
Fred Warner (2015), Mike Gardner (2016), Gary Sox (2017)
VVA CHAPTER 154 OFFICERS
President Brian Bobek
1st VP Gary Purcell
2nd VP Steve Bago
Secretary Mike Schneider
Treasurer Mike Jacobi
586-524-3806
586-243-6293
586-419-2212
586-567-0731
586-504-0781
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mike Gardner (2015)
Larry May (2015)
Chris Scalise (2015)
Donn Sinclair (2015)
Gary Stephens (2015)
Greg Bowman (2016)
Gil Claunch (2016)
Ron Drdul (2016)
Dave Schoenherr (2016)
Jim Watts (2016)
586-615-1509
586-790-0008
810-278-1907
586-243-0222
586-747-8149
586-850-1800
586-854-7842
586-899-7112
586-940-2568
586-524-9705
Boo Coo News Publisher
The Board of Directors
Boo Coo News Editor
Brian Bobek
Typesetting ~ Linda May
Thank you! to all of our
advertisers, and to the
dedicated volunteers who
provide copy and photos,
those who act as printer,
proofreaders, mailing crew,
facilitators & advisers for Boo
Coo News.
2011-2012 STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Community Service
Constitution/By-Laws
ETABO
Finance
Government Affairs
Membership
Minority Affairs
Nominating Committee
Public Affairs
Veterans Affairs
Veterans Benefits
Women Veterans
POW/MIA
Agent Orange/Dioxin
Incarcerated Veterans
Veteran’s Health Care
State Delegates
Mike Gardner
Donn Sinclair
Chris Scalise
Mike Jacobi
Ron Drdul
Larry May
Steve Bago
Gary Sox, Bob Steward, Mike Bilyk
Brian Bobek
Gary Stephens
Brian Bobek
Jim Watts
Tom Duff
George Sawyer
Dave Schoenherr
Gil Claunch
Mike Gardner, Brian Bobek,
Mike Schneider
SPECIAL & AD HOC COMMITTEES
AVVA Rep
Patrick Bozzi
Color Guard
Jim Watts
Food Bank
Gil Claunch
Hospitalized Vets
Tom Duff
Lottery
Jim Auito
Merchandise
Tim Ignash
Michigan Memorial
Dave Schoenherr
Scholarship
Woody Horne
Speakers Bureau
Ed Zysk
Webmaster
Larry Sauger
Welcome Home
Mitch Argyris
Operation Christmas
Gary Purcell chairman; Ron Drdul dance;
Gil Claunch food; Peggy&Terri toys
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 2
# HONOR
GUARD REPORT- Jim Watts, Commander
ince my last report out on January 14, the color guard has conducted the
following services:
S
Total of 7 funerals
2 Army, 3 Navy, 1 USMC, 1 Air Force
2 Vietnam, 2 pre-Vietnam, 2 WWII, 1 Middle East era
Walter Kulczycki
Joan Kurrie
Anthony Bertoni
Albert Johnson
Harold Denby
Roy Slankster
Gary Nowaczyk
Army
USAF
Navy
Army
Navy
USMC
Navy
Vietnam
Middle East Era
WWII
pre-Vietnam
WWII
Vietnam
pre-Vietnam
Other Details & Functions
Honor Guard also participated in:
•
•
•
Flag detail for Alumni II ribbon cutting for Innovation Acceleration for U.S. Navy
Presentation of colors at Detroit Athletic Club
Flag detail Valentines for Veterans at Beck Elementary School
Honor Guard Installation of
Officers
# Submitted by Jim Watts
n Sunday, January 18, the
installation of color guard
officers took place at Gino's
Surf in Harrison Township. This had
to be one of the warmest
installation ceremonies we've been
involved with in recent years. As
warm as it was, the lake still had a
lot of crazy people out there ice
fishing.
O
The 2015 officers were sworn in by President Brian Bobek. While the majority of the slate looked an awful lot like prior years,
we did install a new assistant chaplain. The results of the election are as follows:
Jim Watts
Steve Bago
John Mohan
Gary Stephens
Ted Szymanski
Ron Drdul
Glen Cash
Commander
Vice Commander
Treasurer
Armorer
Armorer and Property Officer
Chaplain
Assistant Chaplain
We look forward to another busy and gratifying year for the color guard with the leadership of the new officer group.
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 3
VETERANS SUPPORT CENTER
18025 E. 15 MILE ROAD
CLINTON TOWNSHIP MI 48035-2403
FREE SERVICES
10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. MONDAY - FRIDAY ! 586-776-9810
MACOMB COUNTY VETERANS AFFAIRS OFFICE SERVICE OFFICERS (FILE CLAIMS AND ANSWER QUESTIONS)
MARY BARRETTE ~ TUESDAYS ~ FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS
CAROL ANN TURNER ~ THURSDAYS ~ APPOINTMENTS ONLY
HELP WANTED: VOLUNTEERS TO STAFF THE VET CENTER AND WORK ON THE FOOD BANK.
*****
SICK CALL & CONDOLENCES
Contact Ron Drdul
[email protected] or 586-899-7112
If you know of a death or illness of a chapter member or their family, please
notify Ron Drdul so that we may get the information in the Boo Coo News in a
timely manner. All of the kind thoughts and prayers offered up by our
membership are truly appreciated by these folks, and apparently are working
to help them through their tough times. Keep ‘em coming.
Sick Call
•
•
•
•
•
Chapter member Greg “Guido” Bowman has left the hospital and is
home recovering from a respiratory issue. He is on medication and
is expected to make a full recovery. He'll be on “light duty” for a
while.
Chapter member and website administrator Larry Sauger had a
recent heart problem. He was in a coma for four days. They have
determined he had congestive heart failure resulting from a
complication with a blood transfusion he received as part of his MDS
treatment. He is starting in-patient physical therapy now.
Chapter and color guard member Roger Krzeminski is undergoing
aggressive treatment for cancer.
Chapter member Jerry Clara continues with his chemotherapy.
Associate member Pam Charbeneau, wife of Chuck Charbeneau, has
received good news in her ongoing struggles with cancer. Latest test
results show a dramatic improvement in her condition.
Hospital Report
Submitted by Tom Duff
O
n February 11, Bob Steward, Carol
Gernand, Pete Gernand, Joe Spencer, Gil
Claunch, Judy Haag, John Hages, Carlene
Cremin, Don Cremin, John Vierheilig, Linda
Baisden, Joan Bassett and I went to the VA
hospital. We went to wards A-4 north and A-3
north, the substance abuse ward and the
dialysis ward. We visited with 54 vets. We
passed out personal items bags, magazines,
crossword puzzle books and Boo Coo
Newsletters, scarves, blankets, lap robes,
bananas, pretzels, Little Debbie and Hostess
products, Snickers candy bars. We passed out
valentine cards made and donated by school
children. We had a great time and most of all
we let at least 54 vets know that we care and
they are not forgotten.
The next hospital visit will be on March 11,
leaving the new vet center at 8 a.m.
Taps
•
•
•
Life member Tony LaFata drowned while scuba diving in Hawaii.
Chapter and color guard member, John Mohan, lost his mother
Marion at the age of 93 years of age.
Gary Geister has died and the honor guard did a ritual for him.
These folks all require your thoughts, prayers and support.
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 4
ASSOCIATES OF VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA
http://www.avva.org
The Mission and Vision of the Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. is to advance the work of
Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc. through cooperative projects and/or programs, to facilitate, enhance and
improve communication with our members and the general public and to continue legislative efforts to
ensure the rights of and benefits for all veterans and their families. Associates of Vietnam Veterans of
America, Inc., are dedicated to the aggressive advancement of realistic goals with integrity and in the spirit
of unity that reflects our commitment of Vietnam Veterans of America, Inc., all veterans, their families and
communities.
JOIN THE ASSOCIATES! We meet on the third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. AT THE VET CENTER
Minutes of February 18, 2015 AVVA Meeting
M
eeting opened at 7 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.
Phyllis was once again chaired the meeting in the absence of Boz, who is home recuperating
from surgery.
American House and Hospice of Michigan macaroni and cheese cook-off to be held on February 27
was discussed. Mary Squires added her name to the people making it. Marge, Carlene, Karen Mack,
Vicky Armes and Mary will represent the associates in the cook-off. Mike Jacobi from the chapter
will also join in. Phyllis encouraged people to come and participate by tasting the wares. All
proceeds will be returned to the chapter.
Good Help – Gary
Cake and coffee will be served at the March 11 chapter meeting. Members of the associates were
Purcell says that “good
invited to come and help serve.
help is hard to find,
April 25 will be the open house of the new vet center. At this time we do not know what the
chapter and/or Brian would like from us. It will be discussed further when we have an idea of how regardless of the cost!”
we can help.
The Wall That Heals will be at the Clinton Township library the weekend of Memorial Day. Marge
said that the chapter will be manning a hospitality tent and our help may be needed. Again this was
tabled until we know what may need doing. The Memorial Day BBQ (if there will be one) will be
discussed at future meetings.
It was announced that associate members who may have a grandchild, child, etc. graduating from
high school are eligible to apply for the chapter scholarships. Time is of the essence so if you are
applying get an application from the front office of the vet center.
Marge reported that she has been in touch with a master gardener program and she will meet with
a volunteer from there to walk the grounds and get help designing some landscape for the building.
There is no charge for the help, however the chapter would purchase the flowers, shrubs, etc. and
the woman would help by showing us how to plant. The woman is also interested in helping in other
ways, so Marge will give her a tour of the building and talk about the associates.
Golf outing was announced for August 29. This is being chaired by chapter members.
Second round of nominations were held, no new names were submitted.
Fundraiser for the Michigan Coalition of Homeless will be held on Thursday, February 26 at Bath City Bistro in Mount
Clemens. A flyer is needed, Phyllis will email the flyer to members.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Marge Schoenherr, Acting Secretary
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 5
Minutes of General Membership Meeting 2/11/15 ~ Submitted by Mike Schneider
eeting called to order by President Brian Bobek at 1900 hours. Pledge of Allegiance recited and moment of silence observed. New
members introduced, Charlie Gabelsberger, Army, Vietnam 69-70, Charles White, Air Force, Vietnam 65-66, 67-68, John Talarico,
Army, Vietnam 67-68. Welcome home guys and welcome to the chapter. Motion made by Ben E, seconded by Mitch M to accept
minutes as published in the Boo Coo News. Treasurer's report given by Mike Jacobi showing that major expenses for new building have been
paid and all accounts are good. Motion by Terry D, seconded by Larry M to accept report, which was audited.
M
COMMITTEES:
OLD BUSINESS:
POW/MIA, hospital and honor guard to
follow. No Speakers Bureau,
Merchandise, State Council or
Membership reports this month.
Jim C stated that airport security at Metro informed him of the Freedom Center for vets. Dave
Porter said that the center is three years old and has hosted many vets who pass through the
airport. Many of the vendors at the terminal have donated items and you can also purchase
items from them to give. The center is at gate A43 of the McNamara Terminal. The Agent Orange
Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for April 18 at American House. Speakers are being lined up.
The Senate and House have introduced new bills to help offspring of those exposed to Agent
Orange. The new vet center is finally getting in shape thanks to many of our members who have
worked tirelessly to make the transition. The Wall That Heals will be at the Clinton Macomb
Public Library for the Memorial Day weekend; plans are underway for the event and Chapter
154 has been asked to participate. More information will follow. There was still a very limited
participation at the last MCCVO meeting but they will continue on for now.
Scholarship
Ten applications have been handed out
so far and they are still available at the
vet center or through Woody Horne. If
you have any questions, you may
contact Woody through the vet center.
Food Bank
In January there were 60 families and a
total of 150 people who were taken care
of. Gil thanked all who helped and
especially Ron Squires for the work
table that he made.
Monthly Raffle
This is a selling month and Jim thanked
all the sellers and John S. & Terry D. for
their help.
Agent Orange
New forms for comp & pension claims
must be used when filing. They are
mandatory on 3/15/15 or your claim
will not be processed. Currently many
foods do not have labels that state that
GMOs were used in growing the
products. Check labels for contents.
NEW BUSINESS:
There will be a golf outing August 29 at Hickory Hollow. More information will follow. Gary P
thanked all the bowlers and contributors at the fundraiser sponsored by Autumn Woods Health
Care Facility. Dave Schoenherr's granddaughter, Sophie, bowled with us and she was a hit with
all. Thank you all at Autumn Woods, we had a fun evening. Thanks to the gentleman who gave us
the contact at General Dynamics for the toy donation. Thanks to all who helped move from the
old center to the new one. Larry Sauger, our webmaster is recovering from illness. Larry has
sponsored our website and updated it. Thanks a million Larry; be well. We are having computer
problems at the vet center which will be rectified. Brian filed for personal property tax
exemption for contents of vet center. Light fixtures will need to be replaced as bulbs become
obsolete. State Council meeting will be in Flint this month. The board of directors okayed the
hosting of the May 2015 meeting of the State Council at our new center. Sander Levin wishes to
fly a flag over the Capitol building to present to the chapter. We chose April 30, the final
evacuation of Saigon, as the day of choice. Dedication of the new vet center is scheduled for
April 25. Brian met with our old landlord and he approved the repairs that we made and we
turned over all keys.
50/50 ticket #884161 won by Greg Bowman. Motion to adjourn by Dave S, seconded by Leo M.
Results of nominations and acceptances, second round:
Traveling Memorial
We were at the Bruce Post VFW for
their welcome home celebration, thank
you one and all for hosting this event.
We will start getting busy almost
weekly from now on.
Associates
Their meeting was on the 18th, second
round of nominations for officers and
they will have cake and coffee for us at
the next chapter meeting for a welcome
home. Thanks Associates.
President:
1st Vice-president:
2nd Vice-president
Secretary:
Treasurer:
Board of Directors:
Trustees:
Nominating Committee:
State Delegates:
Brian Bobek
Gary Purcell
Steve Bago
Woody Horne
Ron Drdul
Thomas Budzynski (Stone)
Mike Schneider
Mike Jacobi
Gary Stephens, Terry Dickinson, Leo Miller, Donn Sinclair, Bob
Steward, Ron Squires, Larry May, Joe Spencer, George Chicklas, Leo
Lalonde
John Hages, Tim Ignash
Mike Bilyk, Gary Sox
Brian Bobek, Mike Schneider, Chris Franklin
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 6
POW/MIA
Welcome Home!
1,636 Missing
49 Michigan
“I was prepared to be wounded --- prepared
to be captured --- even prepared to be killed. I
was not prepared to be abandoned by my country.” Former
POW U.S. Navy Captain Eugene “Red” McDaniel
Support your POW/MIAs. Fly your POW/MIA flag. Display a
POW/MIA decal. If you need a POW/MIA decal for your car,
truck or bike, or certificate of appreciation for flying a flag,
see Tom Duff. If a company or homeowner is flying a
POW/MIA flag, let Tom Duff know so we can give them a
certificate.
A man is not dead until he is forgotten. We will never forget.
Welcome Home!
“When one member of the armed forces is not worth the
effort to be found, then we have lost our honor.” ~~ VVNW
POW/MIA Reports
Submitted by Tom Duff
REMEMBER THE MICHIGAN POW/MIAS
FOR MARCH
YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN!
HARRY BECKWITH
FLINT, MIA 3/24/71, SOUTH VIETNAM, ARMY
CRAIG DIX
LIVONIA, MIA 3/17/71, CAMBODIA, ARMY
LARRY GREEN
MT. MORRIS, MIA 3/26/68, SOUTH VIETNAM MARINES
MICHAEL MAY
VASSAR, MIA 3/2/69, CAMBODIA, ARMY
RICHARD ROBERTS
LANSING, MIA 3/25/69, SOUTH VIETNAM, ARMY
DONALD WOLOSZYK
ALPENA, MIA 3/1/66, NORTH VIETNAM, NAVY
*
Memories of Lance Cpl. kept alive since 1967
By Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency
Public Affairs | December 31, 2014
s the propellers of the CH-46A Sea Knight helicopter cut
across the sky, the peace of that June 30, 1967, night belied
the danger inherent in the mission to the men on board.
Tasked with inserting a Marine reconnaissance team into Thua
Thien-Hue Province, Vietnam, they realized the danger as the
aircraft came upon the landing zone and received enemy fire. In an
instant, the crack and boom of enemy guns brought the moment to
a crisis, and the helicopter was forced to crash land, claiming the
lives of U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Merlin Allen and four others.
“It was devastating,” said Marilyn Neff, Allen’s older sister, upon
hearing the news that her brother was killed but not recovered
from the crash-site. Remembering Allen as a fun-loving, patriotic
young man with a contagious smile, it was difficult for her to face
the prospects of him never returning from Vietnam. “We were
never the same.”
For nearly 46 years, Neff and her family dealt with that
devastation of knowing that their “Merle,” as they affectionately
called him, was not coming home to Wisconsin. For 46 years, they
only had their memories of him hunting and fishing and dancing to
keep his image firmly planted in their lives. Recently, after all those
years without a physical connection to their beloved son and
brother, Allen’s family received the information that Merle was
A
finally coming home from Vietnam. Allen’s remains were
discovered by the accounting community’s recovery operations in
Thua Thien-Hue Province in 2012.
Working diligently to connect Allen to the remains discovered at
the helicopter’s crash-site, scientists at the Central Identification
Laboratory in Hawaii were able to positively make identification in
June 2013. “I was in shock,” said Neff, speaking about her reaction
to the news her brother was recovered. “We as a family never
forgot [Merle], so it was nice to know that his country never forgot
him as well.”
Now buried beside his mother and father in his home state,
Allen’s return to his family has brought peace and closure, said
Neff, appreciative of the effort and consideration taken by Allen’s
country to continue its search for him years after his death. “He
would have done the same thing for someone else,” she said.
Now 69, Neff still thinks fondly of how her brother could light up
a room when he entered, and how he always made people feel
special when they spoke with him. And though he lives only in her
memories, knowing that he rests beside those who he loved and
likewise loved him brings her a comfort that eluded her for the
nearly 46 years.
Bowling Fundraiser A Huge Success
ur friends at Autumn Woods Health Facility recently held a bowling
fundraiser, with the proceeds going to Chapter 154. The event was held
at Sterling Lanes and was well attended by members and non-members
alike. A few days after the event, 1st Vice President Gary Purcell attended an
event where Autumn Woods presented the chapter with a sizeable check.
Pictured is Gary and Moses Coleman from Autumn Woods. We extend our
thanks to all the folks at Autumn Woods for thinking of Chapter 154, and we
appreciate their generosity.
O
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 7
Chapter Reaches Out to WWII Vet
ecently, some of the chapter members have been going over to visit with “Joe,” a
93-year-old veteran of WWII, at a senior living facility in Warren. Joe does not
get many visitors and his family asked our chapter if some of our members
would be willing to go over and spend a few minutes with him, cheer him up and just
let him know that someone cares about him. Chapter members George Chicklas,
Bobby Steward and Joe Spencer have stopped in, as have several of the color guard
members. Joe is also blind, which makes any visit very meaningful to him.
R
Submitted by
feature writer Leo Lalonde
hicago-born Dave Porter met
his future wife, Nancy, when he
was in Thailand. He wasn't
writing home as he should have, so
Dave's mom asked Nancy's mom if she would write to
Dave. Well, the rest is history. They married in 1972 and, even
though he’s a Vietnam vet, they’re still married today. They
have three children; one boy and two girls, and also have two
grandchildren. Dave proposed while he was in Thailand, but
Nancy accepted only when he agreed to tolerate her cooking.
Porter enlisted in the Army in 1969.
He did basic training at Fort Bragg, NC
and AIT at Fort Leonard Wood,
MO. His MOS was Combat Engineer,
specializing in heavy construction. He
was stationed in Thailand after AIT for
12 months (44th Engineer Group, 538th
Engineer Battalion), followed by a 3½
month tour in Germany. He then
volunteered for Vietnam, serving with the 18th Engineer
Brigade, 815th Engrs., C&D companies as a 20-M scraper
operator. He spent nine months in country, was wounded, and
was medivaced in 1971, spending eight months at a Fort Knox,
KY hospital for his injuries. He discharged from active duty in
1972.
After his military service, Porter worked for the Chrysler
Corporation Huber Foundry for seven years. He graduated from
gunsmith school at Colorado School of Trades after 14 months
of training. He went back to manufacturing for another 18
years, while continuing his gunsmith activities. He worked for
C.S. Ohm-Ag Simpson Manufacturing in Quality Control, retiring
in 2001.
When asked what Chapter 154 means to him, Porter's one
word answer was, “brotherhood.” “We all remember how we
were treated after we were discharged,” Porter said. “It's all
about helping others. There is unity in what we do.” He has
been a chapter member for over 25 years.
Porter also assists the chapter in maintaining the grounds at
Freedom Hill. “It is my honor to do this for my brothers who
have died,” Porter said. He volunteers every Tuesday morning
delivering food from Costco to our vet center food bank. Since
2012 Dave also regularly volunteers at the Freedom Center at
Detroit Metropolitan Airport, McNamara Terminal, gate A-43,
greeting troops returning home from overseas duty.
Thank you Dave for all you do for your fellow veterans and
Chapter 154.
C
Facility Update from Brian Bobek
e had a “member’s moving day” to get all the small stuff
moved from the old vet center to our new facility. I
wish to extend my thanks to everyone who helped out/
You made the job easy. Everyone involved put their shoulder to
the wheel and were justly rewarded with FOOD as payment for
their efforts. Nothing brings out the guys like a free feast!
Moving day went off without a hitch. Thanks to Arnie Stefani
and his moving company, Rose Moving; the move was
accomplished in a little over 2½ hours. Furniture got placed as
well as we can for now, but I'm certain that we'll be moving
stuff around for months until we get it properly situated. There
is more information in the "President's Message" article as well.
Here are some pictures taken during the two move events.
Gary Stephens has put together a very nice display area
adjacent to the conference room. It's amazing to see how many
artifacts we hadn't seen before because of the space limitations
we had in the old building. In fact, Gary has room for more
items so, if you have something you'd like to donate or loan to
the chapter for the display area, give Gary a call. Anything you
put on display will have your name attached to it if you wish. It
will eventually be a little "mini-museum" of member artifacts,
something we can take pride in.
W
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 8
Member(s) of the Year Nominations
Because of the move to the new facility, we
are late in getting this program out to the
membership. The annual Member of the
Year nominations are now underway. A
form is enclosed in this newsletter, and
additional copies may be picked up at the
Vet Center. This is an opportunity for
members to nominate someone who
consistently goes beyond the call of duty in
some facet of service to this chapter.
Persons previously receiving this award
are not eligible to be nominated again.
It has been decided to, once again, make
awards to more than one Chapter member.
The MOTY Committee cites advancing age
as a necessity for making multiple awards.
If you feel strongly that someone deserves
this recognition, please fill out an
application and drop/mail it back to the
Vet Center to the attention of Gary
Stephens. Note that you have until April
15 to get the application back. Your
nominee will be reviewed by the
committee, and the awardees will be
named at the May general membership
meeting. Time is getting short, so act
quickly. We apologize again for the delay in
getting this out.
VVA CHAPTER 154 MEMBER OF THE YEAR NOMINATING FORM
Nominating forms must be turned in by April 15, 2015
Member of the Year will be announced at the May general membership meeting
Nominee’s Name:
_________________________________
I believe this person should be selected as Member of the Year because:
(add additional sheets if necessary)
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Completed forms should be submitted to:
Gary Stephens
c/o Veterans Support Center
18025 15 Mile Road, Clinton Twp., MI 48035 (mail)
Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (drop off)
Thank you for your help and support
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 9
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Clinton Twp.
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586-463-9551
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Residential & Commercial Real Estate
Private Sales – Short Sales –
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Realtor and Chapter 154 member
•Office 586-262-2000 • Cell 248-705-3794
[email protected]
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 - Boo Coo News MARCH 2015 - Page 10
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
March 2015
1
2
3
Service
Officer
Pointman
Ministries
8
9
10
Service
Officer
Honor guard
meeting
4
Board
Meeting
5
Service
Officer
Al Anon
6
7
11
12
Service
Officer
Al Anon
13
United
Military
Families
14
21
Hospital visit
Chapter
meeting final
round of
nominations
15
16
17
Service
officer
18
Associates
Meeting 7pm
final
nominations
19
Service
Officer
Al Anon
20
22
23
24
Service
Officer
25
26
Service
Officer
Al Anon
27
31
Service
Officer
looking ahead:
April 3-4
memorial at
Laingsburg
looking ahead:
April 8 elections
April 18 Agent
Orange Town
Hall at
American
House
looking ahead
April 25
dedication of
new vet center
29
30
Welcome
Home Vietnam
Veterans
at Native
American vet
center 2pm-?
28
memorial at
Bruce Post
Welcome Home
Vietnam
Veterans 3-7pm
looking ahead
April 29
memorial at
John Glenn HS
Westland
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154
18025 E. 15 Mile Road
Clinton Township MI 48035-2403
OPEN to read the GOOD NEWS about Chapter 154
WWW.VVA154.COM
a VVA CHAPTER OF THE YEAR!
MARCH 2015 issue of BOO COO NEWS
Veterans Support Center
18025 E. 15 MILE ROAD ~ CLINTON TOWNSHIP MI 48035-2403
(586) 776-9810 ~ (586) 776-9683 fax
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
All Volunteer-Run
Chapter Business Center
Veterans Food Bank
Employment Assistance
Veterans Benefits Service Officer
Free Counseling
Information
Camaraderie
Drop In & Hang Out & Help Out
1,636 still
unaccounted for;
49 from Michigan