February 2013 - Military Locator and Reunion Service

Transcription

February 2013 - Military Locator and Reunion Service
Volume 17 Issue 1
What’s Hot This Issue??
2013 Convention Preview, Cover
Page
The editor speaks his piece on page 4
Jodrey announces his candidacy,
page 5
Commander’s Column, page 6
Back Talk, the readers write, page 7
How is the convention site selected?
Find out on page 8
Divisions’ Doings, page 9
Convention Information and
Registration, page 16
Taps and Welcome Mat begin on
page 21
Financial Report is on page 26
Dedicated to all Combat Infantrymen
Jan-Feb-Mar– Apr 2013
2013 Convention Set For SC
The 2013 Combat Infantrymen’s Association annual convention will be held
in Columbia, SC October 16-20. All members are urged to attend and participate in the activities. You will note that the convention check in day is on
Wednesday October 16th. The extra day is necessary in order to attend a
recruit graduation and guided tour of Ft Jackson on Thursday the 17th (Ft
Jackson rules, not the Associations.) If you do not wish to attend the ceremony and make the tour, you are free to arrive any time you wish—though the
trip to Ft Jackson is the reason for choosing Columbia. See the itinerary for a
full description of the activities.
Host hotel will be the Holiday Inn Airport located in West Columbia, SC.
This hotel was selected only after visiting numerous other properties in Columbia; two major chain hotels were not interested in being our host.
In addition to the Ft Jackson tour, a tour of Columbia with stops at historical and cultural sites as well as shopping time for the ladies. As you will see
in the registration material (found later in this issue) this trip is contingent
upon having enough people to justify the cost. There are minimum numbers
for each day’s tour for the trips to go—with the CIA’s large membership we
should not have an attendance problem.
The convention is open to all association members. We urge everyone to
make a special effort to be with us in Columbia, especially if you are a Division Commander or National Officer.
All members are urged to attend the annual business meeting which will be
held at 9:00 AM on Saturday morning (location to be announced on site). You
must be a member in good standing (dues current) and you must present
your membership card to the Master at Arms to gain entrance to the meeting,
Don’t forget your membership card!
There is no charge to attend the meeting but you are encouraged to stay
(Continued on page 4)
Page 2
Blue Badge/Admin “Stuff”
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
STATEMENT OF
PUBLICATION
ADMINISTRATIVE
GUIDELINES
The Blue Badge is the official publication of the
Combat Infantrymen’s Association. Beginning in July
2013 it will be published two times a year. Issue 1
covers Jan-June and will be published in July; issue 2
covers July-Dec and will be published in January. All
official information pertaining to the Association will
be found here. The Blue Badge is intended to keep
you informed about the activities of the Association,
not necessarily the entire veterans’ community. So,
even though such items may be of interest to some
members, you will not normally find articles pertaining
to veterans’ benefits or other veterans’ issues in the
Blue Badge.
Each member is encouraged to communicate with
the Blue Badge. Give us your ideas, comments, and
complaints. Give us your human interest stories,
share personal memories from your days in combat
and the aftermath. Tell us what your unit is doing. Because of the volume of mail received, sometimes we
cannot print all of the letters. But be assured that
every letter is read and considered. Space is also a
consideration. The Blue Badge must be printed in
multiples of four pages, i. e. 8 pages, 12 pages, 16
pages, etc. Sometimes we have too much for, let’s
say 20 pages, but not enough for 24 pages, some
things may have to wait.
The Blue Badge is not a political tool. Articles portraying a political position or negative or demeaning to
another member will not be printed. We do not accept
any type of advertising (except for Gold Support
Members), and we will not promote commercial products. Finally, articles, poems, etc which are not the
original work of the sender, must be accompanied by
the author’s permission before it can be published in
the Blue Badge. Remember there is a cutoff date for
items to be published. __________
One of the delays that causes some confusion and aggravation among members is sometimes perceived as a
lack of response to the member needs. The staff works
hard to answer your questions, act on your requests, and in
general be responsive to your needs. One of the problems
encountered is requests being sent to the wrong place. In
order to simplify the process, the following GUIDELINES
have been established. Please use them:
Blue Badge Deadline
All items for publication in the Blue Badge must be
received on or before the 15th of the month before the
publication month. Beginning in July 2013 Blue Badge
will be published two times a year in January and July.
This means your items must arrive at the Blue Badge
on or before the 15th of December or June. Items received after those dates will be held until the next issue is published. ALL ITEMS INTENDED FOR PUBLICATON IN BB SHOULD BE SENT DIRECTLY TO
THE EDITOR—NOT TO YOUR LOCAL OR DIVISION COMMANDER. DO NOT SEND ITEMS YOU
WISH TO HAVE RETURNED!!
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Articles to be printed in the Blue Badge including letters
to the editor; poems, personal stories, etc,
Items pertaining to the annual convention
Taps notices
Address changes
Failure to receive a Blue Badge
Requests for additional Blue Badges
Send to:
Larry Eckard
Editor, Blue Badge
PO Box 11438
Hickory, NC 28603
FAX: 828 -256-6559 E-mail: [email protected]
When corresponding, please give your name, CIA #, address, phone number, and e-mail address.
This type of information should only be sent via e-mail, fax,
or thru US Postal Service, not
via telephone
<DO NOT SEND THE BLUE BADGE MATERIALS
YOU WANT RETURNED>
__________
A Little Humor-very little
Two blondes shared an apartment. One evening they
were trying to cook dinner when the grease in the frying
pan caught fire. “What can we do cried Blonde #1?” “Let’s
yell for help”, said the other. So, they took turns yelling,
“HELP” but apparently no one heard them because no one
responded. # 1 then said, “maybe if we yell together some
one will hear us.” “TOGETHER!!!”
Barbara Walters asked Gov Chris Christie if he was too
fat to be president. A lot of people are criticizing her asking
that question. But in fairness, she asked that exact same
question to William Howard Taft when she interviewed him.
Jay Leno
An old man told his grandson that when he was young
you could take a dollar to the store and get a loaf of bread,
a dozen eggs, and a watermelon. “You can’t do that today”
he moaned, “too many surveillance cameras”.
Page 3
National CIA
Command
Structure
CORRECT AS OF 15 March 2013
National Headquarters is historically located in Asheville, North
Carolina. Administrative HQ is located at the National Commander’s
residence. Members should take
note of the states within each division.
National Commander
ZALPH T. (BILL) CROSS
14979 Rivers Edge Ct, Unit 122
Ft Myers, FL 33908
708-209-6193
[email protected]
DEP CO-JAMES BOURGEOIS
253-224-0817
[email protected]
Blue Badge/Command Structure
EARL KENNEDY— IMMEDIATE
PAST COMMANDER/NATIONAL
AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
239-292-6854
(NOTE-ALL ELEVEN ABOVE COMPRISE THE VOTING EXECUTIVE
BOARD)
NEW POSITION (non-voting):
SUPPORT GROUP CDR
O. H. “SGT” HUBBARD
903-815-3890 (no e-mail)
__________
Division Cdrs
Division 1
(AK, ID, MT, ND, SD, OR, WA, WY)
Bud Gonzales
253-582-9443
[email protected]
EARL KENNEDY
INTERIM FINANCE OFFICER
239-292-6854
Division 2
(CA)
Lorenzo Ortega
562-943-9941
[email protected]
CHIEF OF STAFF
NICK HUBBELL
[email protected]
Division 3
(AZ, NV, UT)
Commander’s Position Vacant
LARRY ECKARD-BLUE BADGE
EDITOR-DATA BASE MANAGER828-256-6008
[email protected]
Div 4
(NM, TX, LA)
Tony Martinez
512-228-7045
[email protected]
VINCENT ARFUSO
MEMBERSHIP OFFICER
[email protected]
PHILIP BRADLEY-JUDGE
ADVOCATE-614-239-1389
[email protected]
STEVE HUFF—SUPERVISOR Of
QM VENDOR
239-398-7855
[email protected]
DAVE ULMER-5 YEAR TRUSTEE336-357-2158
[email protected]
COL RALPH L. SMITH-CHAPLAIN
972-255-4537
[email protected]
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Division 8
(New York)
Perry Marchigiani
914-457-4440
[email protected]
Division 9
(CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT)
Michael Prestianni
508-879-5209
[email protected]
Division 10
(Hawaii)
Henry Pascua
808-668-1972
[email protected]
__________
The CIA
Monument at
Ft Benning, GA
Div 5
(AR, CO, IA, KS, MO, MN, NE, OK, WI
J.L. Rhodes
580-332-8811
[email protected]
Div 6
(AL, GA, FL, MS, PR)
Jack Wagner
239-826-6062
[email protected]
Division 7
(DE, KY, IL, IN, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH,
PA, SC, TN, VA, WV)
Robert E Stewart
419-260-1722
[email protected]
Above is the monument purchased by the Combat Infantrymen’s Association and placed at Ft
Benning, GA “Home of the Infantry.”
If you are ever in the Ft Benning
be sure to stop by and look at our
monument. You would also enjoy a
visit to the infantry museum also
located on the post.
The above photo was taken in
October 2012.
_________
Page 4
Blue Badge/ Commentary
Columbia
(Continued from page 1)
after the meeting and participate in the afternoon activities and banquet. There is a charge for the banquet
and hospitality room after the meeting.
A new National Commander will be elected at this
meeting. So far, only one eligible - the key word
here is ELIGIBLE - candidate has stepped up to run
for the office. His bio and qualifications can be found
elsewhere in this issue. There are literally dozens of
decisions that will have to be made—most with no
prior precedence to draw from. So it is not a job for the
weak-hearted or thin-skinned. You are not going to
satisfy everyone, but it is a rewarding job to serve your
fellow combat infantrymen.
In order to give every member an opportunity to vote
on the new Commander, a ballot was mailed to all
members for you to use to cast your vote. Do not return the sample ballot from the Blue Badge, use the
one you get in the mail. Follow the instructions on the
ballot to be sure your vote is counted. There is a place
for a write-in candidate if you prefer to vote for someone other than the announced candidate. The ballot is
also posted on our website.
Members who have business to bring before the
assembly from the floor are asked to please notify the
Commander of your intentions so you can be placed
on the agenda and have time to present your business. Thank you in advance for this courtesy to the
commander.
______
Our View
By
Larry Eckard, Editor Blue Badge
Thanks to the cooperation of those members who
have address changes we have made some real progress in address corrections. In a significant turnaround only one copy of the past issue (Sept-Oct-NovDec) of Blue Badge was returned with an incorrect
address. Two years ago we hit the peak of 115 copies
returned due to incorrect addresses. There was—and
still is— a $1.68 postage due on each one of the returns—so you can see the savings having your correct
address brings. Please tell us if you move!
We still mail out about the same number of Blue
Badges, but having people request their BB by mail
also provided us with a new address if applicable. Simultaneous with this new policy, some Division Commanders—most notably Jim Kyzer (Div 7), Mike Prestianni (Div 9), and J.L. Rhodes (Div 5)—contributed
greatly by contacting their own members obtaining
updated addresses and passing them on to the data
base manager. I think you’d be surprised at how many
bad addresses were on file simply because the data
base manager had never been notified of an address
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
change. We sincerely appreciate everyone’s help and implore you to keep up the good work.
One of the significant changes implemented by former
National Commander Earl Kennedy was having all renewals due at the same time, 03/31 each year. Until that time
everyone’s renewal date was one year after he joined.
That simply was not working. There was no central
source—no one person—designated to keep track and mail
renewal notices. Consequently, we lost many members in
the shuffle because they were never notified of their renewal date. The single expiration date has worked miracles
in terms of renewals. We still have a few members with
“odd” expiration dates but this round of renewal mailing
should take care of that and everyone will have the same
renewal date.
By the time you read this, if you are an annual member
due to renew in 2013 or past due from a previous year, you
should have already received your renewal notice
Please support the association by re-newing your membership. For the many life members, would you consider a
small donation to the Blue Badge fund– that would go a
long way in allowing the BB back to return to three or even
quarterly issues.
The question has been asked numerous time, “What if I
join the association in November, do I have to renew again
in March?” No, if you join the association in the last quarter
of the year, you get the remainder of the year plus the next
year. Example, if you join the association in November
2012, your renewal date will be 03/14
Once again, you, the members have been doing a really
good job keeping the BB addresses updated; thank you
very much, it is so helpful to have the correct address—and
it saves money in return fees as well. Thanks again!
This is one of the issues of BB that lacked space to include everything that we’d like to have included. We’ll
make every effort to get your item into the next issue. It
really is a difficult choice of what to leave out because most
letters or articles are really good—and we appreciate all of
them. The editor’s “rule of thumb” is to print letters or other
articles in the order they are received and not make judgment of which one is the best or the most print worthy. The
point is don’t stop sending your articles.
As you can see from other pages in this issue, our divisions and support group members are doing some really
good things. These are the activities that need to be
shared. Not only will it give your CIA unit well deserved
publicity, it will give other units ideas. Tell us what you do!!!
By the way, there is a need for a Division Commander in
Division 3 (NV, UT, & AZ). If interested, contact the National Commander.
Trustee Reappointed
Trustee Joey Liles has accepted an appointment to serve
an additional two years as a Trustee. Trustee fill highly
responsible positions within the CIA and are necessary for
financial oversight and transparency. The entire association thanks Joey for being one of the Pacesetters!
Page 5
Blue Badge/ Announcement
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Jodrey Announces Candidacy For Commander
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself
as a candidate for National Commander for the upcoming
2014-15 term of office. I fully understand all the duties
and challenges that will be before me.
I think with our staff of officers we can continue to
make the Combat Infantrymen’s Association the best service organization for CIB recipients, and their families.
With everyone’s help we can continue to promote our
core principles of camaraderie and service to veterans
throughout the country. Looking forward, our mission
needs to focus on growing our membership from both
within and from outside our association. By this I mean
we need to grow more Companies throughout all the Regions and grow our Support Membership within all of our
local communities.
Following is some background information.
 Retired Master Sergeant, US Army
 Awarded two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star, CIB
and other campaign and personal awards
 Retired Deputy Sheriff, Franklin county, OH
 Current CDR of Sunbury, OH VFW Post 8736
 Current All-American Post Commander—one of a
handful in the USA
 Founder, Ohio Fallen Heroes Memorial (the Official
Ohio Memorial for deceased military from the War on
Terrorism
 Attended the last National Convention and am acquainted with the current board of officers.
Endorsement by Chris Callen, Ohio State Commander
I have spoken to Jerry about this appointment and he is
willing to step up and assume this leadership position if
the other members vote for him. He would be a good
choice as there is no one more fervent regarding affairs of
veterans. Jerry has a vision for the future of the CIA ~ to
develop it into a much bigger and broader organization.
His goal to expand our influence in the American community and grow the organization significantly.
There should be no CIB holder that is not a member.
He also thinks it is important to expand the Support member base. This would be a good way to strengthen our association and bring more needed funds to allow us to support more veteran’s issues.
Another idea Jerry has, and the CIA could really benefit
from his leadership in the CIA and the VFW, is to begin
new start up CIA headquarters and local affiliates with a
partnership with the local VFW’s. This has been done in
Ohio and it has worked quite well. By being able to use the
VFW facilities the CIA is able to attract new members,
have a meeting place and an instant facility to hold events
like our Steak Night dinners we are doing monthly. None
of this could be done without the support of our local VFW.
This combined with the fact that many CIA members are
already a member of the VFW ..
If you want to get a good glimpse of Jerry and his fight
for veteran’s causes please have them view this TV Channel 4 News (Columbus, OH) news piece they recently did
on him this past Christmas.
With all of your help I know we can accomplish great
things in the future. In Comradeship,
TV 4 - Mindy Dryer Interview With Board Member - Jerry
Jerry Jodrey
Jodrey:
Ohio Headquarters Company
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
H-1-1-01
__________
Page 6
Commander’s
Column
A warm greeting to all members and
their families as we approach the end
of what has been a fairly strong Winter
season.
In this issue you will find plans for
the 2013 Mid October reunion to be
held in Columbia SC. Larry Eckard,
Jim Kyzer & Stan Thonnburg and
team have planned a great meeting for
us. I strongly encourage all members
to attend. Meet other members from
around the USA and enjoy the camaraderie that only being a holder of the
Combat Infantry Badge can offer. For
the past several years, attendance has
not been what is needed to foster
member input of ideas and thoughts
about how we will proceed as an organization going forward. Everyone's
thoughts are needed and appreciated, and the exchange of ideas is
more robust when participation is by a
larger number of members. Please try
to attend. Please get your filled out
registration forms to Larry asap.
We are working at National level to
develop electronic communications
more quickly than in the past. We
have had the Blue Badge on the WEB
SITE, www.cibassoc.com for a long
while now and several years of issues
are available as well as downloading
to printable form. With the continual
rising cost of printing the Blue Badge
we found it necessary to reduce the
Blue Badge/ Commander’s Page
annual issues from three to two per
year for the foreseeable future. We
will not penalize those members
who may not have or enjoy computers but we do need to reduce the
number of issues printed as we go
forward. Advantages of using
more electronic formats include developing an e-mail list that can be
used to notify members when the
current Blue Badge issues are
ready, sending out communication
messages on update and organizational developments, and quite possibly moving to more frequent meetings of our Executive Board and Division Commanders via computer
format We would invite all members
to suggest additional ways that Electronic means and programs will enhance overall communications. Let's
hear from you, there have to be
some great ideas out there.
We have also discussed having
to move some functions outside the
organization due to lack of Volunteers. We now have a reasonable
cost for maintenance of our WEB
SITE. We are using Alan Knox Web
Development to handle changes and
additions and he is doing a great job
for us. We have already discussed
going outside for a person to handle
our finances, auditing, and budget
preparation, Mary Ann Henry has
helped us greatly with these duties.
At some point in the future, Larry
Eckard may decide to step down as
Data Base Manager and Blue Badge
Editor. Larry has worked harder than
any one else in the organization to
keep these two very important functions up and running in superior
style and we thank him. We are currently reviewing a possible contract
with his Daughter and her team that
have been assisting Larry with all
CIA organizational matters Larry has
handled. They will be able to step in
and continue to service the Association as they have been doing for a
long while at a reasonable cost.
There may be other functions we
need to consider for which we need
to look outside for professional management.
We wish to put together a committee to review the By-laws prior to
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
the Columbia meeting. I would like
a committee composed of several
people who understand the current
By-laws and can make common
sense recommendations for
changes if needed. Please call me
or forward your names to me if you
wish to participate and I will contact you. We can then take a look
at the proposed changes and review them during our Executive
Board meeting and apprise the
members by motion. Our last update was in 2010.
Plans are being made in late
May/ early June for our annual lottery open to all members. The annual lottery has been a way to help
fund our charitable donations and
helps offset Blue Badge and other
expenses. the participation has
been strong and we will review the
pay out amounts prior to mailing
out tickets. In addition to the Lottery, the association is always in
need of general fund donations or
donations for specific causes.
Thank you.
I wish to give thanks to our hard
working Division Commanders and
local unit Commanders around the
country. They are the people who
truly hold the organization together. As information, several of
our local units are struggling due to
declining participation. I can attest
to the difficulty of any one person
trying to do all or most of the duties
of by himself. Please give a little
time each month to helping a local
unit or Division Commander with
some assistance. Most of our Division Offices are either single member or two members trying hard to
meet the needs of their members.
It can be frustrating finding time to
tie up loose ends and member's
needs. Jump in and help where
you can, you will enjoy it.
Our Executive Officer, Jim Bourgeois has recently helped form
a new local unit in the Lake
Charles Louisiana. We are also
looking at the possibility of a new
unit in the Northwest corner of
Georgia and the Salt Lake City,
Utah area. If you wish information
(Continued on page 7)
Page 7
Blue Badge/Back Talk
Commander’s
(Continued from page 6)
on starting a local unit please contact CSM
(Ret) Bourgeous for information at
[email protected] or 253-224-0817.
A special thanks also to our senior WW11 and Korean War Veterans for their many years of devoted service to our Association and showing all of us how to do
Volunteer work and do it well. We appreciate you very
much.
Please contact me with concern or questions. I enjoy
hearing from you at any time.
__________
Back Talk
The Readers Write
Editor:
I joined the Combat Infantrymen’s Association in July
1998. I am not airborne qualified; I spent my time in a 13
ton coffin called a APC with 2 M-60 machine guns and
one M2 .50 caliber. I served in two Cav outfits, the 11th
ACR (Blackhorse) and the 17th Cav, part of the 199th
LIB. For years I wondered if I was actually in Viet Nam
as I was not in the 1st Air Cav or 101st. I know guys from
the 82nd and 173rd so I had to look at my DD-214 just to
be sure I was there, and I was. It is history 45 years ago
so maybe this letter is pointless but there were other people who did as much, maybe more, than the airborne.
Now it is the Navy SEALS—God Bless them, and keep
them safe. Think about the Armored Cav once in a while.
Thank you,
Rodney Emerson
__________
Editor:
Veterans Day & VJ Day are officially over, but for
many of us who are veterans and have survived the
sounds of guns and the ugliness of the battlefield it exists
every day of our lives. I’ve written this article to find
some closure and resolve by opening up some thoughts
on my first and second visits to the Vietnam’s Veterans
Memorial Wall of Remembrance, but this letter is really
for all of us who earned the right to be recognized as
Vietnam veterans.
This was my experience the two times at the Wall … It
was a beautiful fall Veterans Memorial Day, as you are
aware, inside this person I had a deep emotional swelling
from within because of the anticipation of finding names
of my fallen warriors. In my thoughts I could see the reflections of my fallen comrades, soldiers, and friends on
the Wall. I should note that after 45 years I was finally
able to visit “The Wall” with the support of my friends
(other veterans) and memory of fallen soldiers of Co B,
2/12th Cav Airmobile who I had led or served with in
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
combat in ‘65-67. Believe me it was really difficult going
up to The Wall to find the names of those who paid the
ultimate sacrifice. Those names on The Wall who bravely
and courageously sacrificed their all for Flag and Country
and the American Way of Life. The as the veterans before
and after them put honor and loyalty above all! On this
Veterans Memorial Service I was enveloped with such an
emotional inner stirring that there were tears in my eyes
because my heart ached. Yes, I was weeping as my memory reflected their faces and I remembered the valor and
courage of these soldiers. To this day I still see faces in
life’s shadows.
Thanks for my fellow veterans who were standing
shoulder to shoulder with me I was able to stand at The
Wall. There’s little question that we shall never forget
those who fell with honor, bravery and courage on the battlefield and killing zone of war. It was my experience as I
found my way to the Wall that to find closure and find resolve that a person cannot do it by himself. He needs others to assist him, and this is seen when you go to The
Wall by the bonding among the Brothers in Arms. Yes,
going to The Wall of Remembrance a person will witness
veterans—buddies or strangers—participating in honoring
one another. We, soldiers who survived combat and the
ugliness of war to become a veteran have earned the right
to receive or present the salute to the veterans and carry
the American Flag as defenders and protectors to all who
desire freedom, liberty and democracy. Once again, here’s
to all the leaders and followers who stand tall shoulder to
shoulder in honor bravery and courage as warriors and
peacemakers. We, veterans who were willing are still able
will carry the Banner of Excelsior as soldier ambassadors
and make if required the ultimate sacrifice for flag and
country. We have been tested and tried and shall always
hold high the Stars and Stripes to fly free in the breeze,
the veterans will never quit and or loyalty to the red, white
and blue and what you are trying to accomplish will be
accomplished because you can count on us. We will
stand shoulder to shoulder with you. If you haven’t been to
The Wall try to go; but know it will take all of your inner
strength, especially if you are a veteran who has lived this
experience and see faces reflected in the shadows. Believe me, it will require standing in the reflection of The
Wall for find closure and it will take your fellow veterans’
support and their strength to bring about resolve. This is
why reunions are so important to the Brothers in Arms!
Donald E Stump
Ed Note: Please take note of Donald’s last sentence, and be
with us at the combat Infantrymen’s Association convention in
Columbia, SC.
_________ Page 8
Blue Badge/Convention Facts
2014 and 2015 FAQ About The
Convention
Convention
decides where the convention will be
Sites Selected Who
held?
In accordance with the By-Laws
of the CIA the 2014 and 2015 annual convention sites have been
selected.
The following potential convention sites were received from the
membership:
Killeen, TX (Ft
Hood), Watertown, NY (Ft Drum),
San Antonio, TX (Ft Sam Houston);
Kissimmee, FL; Junction
City/Manhattan, KS (Ft Riley), Ft
Polk, LA).
Using the established criteria
(see FAQ about the Conventions)
Kissimmee, FL was selected as
the 2014 site and San Antonio, TX
as the 2015 site.
Kissimmee was selected because the selection board felt we
needed a break from the purely
military aspect. This is somewhat
of a gamble because organized
tours other than to an army post
have never been well received.
The idea is to give it one more try
and offer tours to the local attractions—or at least enough free time
that members can visit some of the
attractions on their own. When
hearing Kissimmee/Orlando most
people think Disney—and of
course the Disney attractions are
there. But there are dozens of
other non-Disney attractions available, including Gator Land, an airboat ride over the swamp, Fantasy
of Flight and a couple other military
museums. More on the Kissimmee attractions will be published in
a future Blue Badge.
San Antonio was chosen to get
back into the military theme. Historic (and still an active army post)
Ft Sam Houston will be one of the
attractions.
Then there is the
Alamo, Spanish Missions, the
Riverwalk, and a host of other
sights and sites.
The dates or hotels have not yet
been selected but be sure to put
these cities in your memory bank.
The National Commander, Deputy
Commander, and Blue Badge Editor/
Reunion Manager review all nominations sent in by members and select
the location from that list.
Who can nominate a location?
Every member is encouraged to submit
his recommendation for a convention
site to the Commander and committee
for consideration.
What criteria is used to select the location?
Numerous factors go into the city selection. Among them are the member’s
input, ease of getting there. Is there
good air service, good highways, is it
close to a major army post, what local
attractions are apt to entice people to
the area, are there adequate full service hotels; are the prices reasonable;
is the area, especially the hotels, intere s te d i n t h e m i l i ta r y m a r k e t
(surprisingly, some hotels are not interested and do not respond to inquiries.)
The location has been selected, now
what?
The reunion manager steps in and obtains “bids” from several hotels and
usually visits them to see first hand
which property best fits our needs.
Only full service hotels (those with an
on-site restaurant, cocktail lounge,
meeting and banquet space) are considered. Most Hampton Inns, Days
Inns, Fairfield Inns, - that type of property— though less expensive are not
adequate and therefore are not considered. After compiling all of the information a hotel is selected and contracts
signed. The reunion management
company—Premier Reunion Services,
LLC—then assumes all responsibility
relieving the Association of liability—
except for liquor liability which is why
there is no private alcohol allowed in
the hospitality room. The rest of the
agenda is developed with the responses from the surveys that are in
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
the Blue Badge and the Commander’s input. The registration
documents are prepared and published in the Blue Badge.
Why can’t I just drop by and hang out
in the hospitality room without paying
a registration fee?
Because it isn’t fair to the other
members. Otherwise they would be
paying your share of the hospitality
room rental, your share of the food
and beverage in the hospitality
room, your share of the liability insurance (you are covered while you
are there), your share of the admin
costs and leg work for setting up the
reunion. A more accurate question
is why should you not be expected
to pay your fair share? If you stop
by “just to hang out, you are most
certainly welcome ”but there ain’t no
free rides.”
Why do I need to Pre-Register?
You need to pre-register to insure
you can be accommodated and so
there can be an accurate count provided to the hotel and/or tour company. This is especially true if you
have special handicapped or dietary
needs.
Why is there a cut-off date?
Banquet, meeting, and hospitality
space is assigned based on the
number of pre-registered guests on
the cut-off date. If the numbers increase significantly after the space
has been assigned there is a risk of
being crowded or worst case, turning someone away. Not only is seating a concern, but we must remain
within the room’s established fire
code maximum occupancy. Depending on the seating configuration, it is possible to have a vacant
seat, but be at the fire code maximum. “Walk-Ins” will be accommodated
when possible, but preregistered guests will be given priority.
What if my question was not answered?
Send your question to the Blue
Badge Editor who will get your answer.
Page 9
Blue Badge/Divisions’ Doings
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Division 1 Hq in WA
NO REPORT SUBMITTED
Division 2 Hq in CA
Division 2, CA Commander Lorenzo Ortega (second
from right), Bob Castillo (second from left) and Allan
Eckert (third from left) participated in the annual Rose
Bowl parade in Pasadena, CA on New Year’s day 2013.
They are shown below posing with other parade participants. The 124th Rose Bowl parade also featured the
“Freedom is not Free” sponsored by the Korean War
Commemoration Committee (see photo top right.)
Members of Div 2 CA celebrating their 10th anniversary!
In the photo below members of Div 2 CA gather round an
ancient artillery piece at the museum on Ft Campbell, KY.
L to r are Larry Ortega, Lorenzo Ortega, Vance Marsh,
and Allan Eckert.
Division 3 Hq in NV
NO REPORT SUBMITTED
Division 4 Hq in TX
Ed Note: Think about this for a moment, these four members
plus Don Campen and Jack Poole (not shown) came all the
way from California to Tennessee show their loyalty and support for the association. We have literally hundreds of members just in the TN, NC, SC, GA, FL, VA that didn't show up.
We had more people from CA than from Tennessee and that
is a shame.
__________
Page 10
Blue Badge/Divisions’ Doings
Division 4 cont’d
On 21 August 2012, Tony Martinez, the Commander
of Division 4 and H 2 1 Southern Chapter in Austin, delivered a Combat Infantrymen’s Association life membership award to LTG William B. Caldwell, IV—our most
senior active duty member.
A veteran of Desert Storm, OIF and OEF, LTG Caldwell was also the Division Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division as a Major General, in addition to other
commands in the past (e.g., the 25th Infantry Division,
10th Mountain Division, etc) . He is currently the Commanding General of US Army North – 5th Army and Fort
Sam Houston, Texas,
LTG Caldwell was so pleased with this professional
looking plaque that he placed it on the wall of his office
at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, in a “spot of honor.” By
placing it in his “spot of honor” - where it could be seen
by all, LTG Caldwell demonstrates the value that he
places on the CIB.
Presenting the award to LTG Caldwell were:
Tony Martinez – CIB Association Commander of Division 4, and H21, Southern Branch in Austin, Texas.
As the leader of the chapter for over 2 years, Tony has
worked hand-in-hand with other Veterans’ organizations
(such as the 82nd Airborne Division Association Alamo
Chapter in Austin and San Antonio). He has led the CIA
effort for events such as CAMP MABRY’s MUSTER
DAY / AMERICAN HEROES CELEBRATION.
A Combat veteran of the Vietnam War, Tony was also
honored recently in Washington, D.C. at the Vietnam
Veterans monument, when he received his Bronze Star,
with “v” device for valor. This was a special recognition
(over 40 years since the combat situation where he
earned the award) because his former Americal commander was the one who pinned the Bronze Star on his
chest. Tony Martinez also led the CIB Association representation at the event sponsored by LTG William Caldwell of WELCOME HOME, VIETNAM VETERANS, in
November, 2012.
D.G. Harris – who stood in for National Commander,
Bill Cross (who was not able to be there in person)..
As our most senior veteran member. D.G. was a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division during WWII. He
made 3 combat jumps and was one of the very first in
the US Army to receive the CIB in 1943 for his parachute combat assault in Operation Husky (the invasion
of Sicily) and the beach parachute assault at Salerno
(ironically, to save the day for General Mark Clark and
the US 5th Army). In addition to making a beach landing
assault at Anzio, he also made the parachute combat
jump into Holland for Operation Market Garden in 1944
and rowed across the Waal River to capture the Bridge
at Nijmegen (as immortalized in the book by Cornelius
Ryan and the motion picture, A BRIDGE TOO FAR.
Lastly, D.G. Harris also fought in the Battle of the Bulge
in 1944.
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Fred Castaneda, the Public Affairs Officer for H21
Southern Branch, Austin Chapter. Both Fred and Tony
Martinez were combat veterans with the 23rd Infantry Division (Americal) in Vietnam. Fred also had 2 tours as a
paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division.
_________
Division 5 Hq in OK
CIA Member and WW II
Vet Gets French Medal
Nearly 68 years ago, Pfc. James G. Cook and other soldiers of the Allied forces defeated the Germans in World
War II Europe. On Friday, the French government
thanked him for his role in liberating France from the Nazis by naming him a Knight of the French Legion of
Honor. The presentation ceremony was held in the Columbus Unified High School auditorium. Established in
1802 by Napoleon to recognize French military service, its
scope has been expanded, and U.S. veterans who risked
their lives during World War II to fight on French territory
qualify for the honor. Cook, 93, served as a combat infantryman in the 38th Regiment, Second Division, U.S. Army.
He noted that there were 16.3 million in uniform during
World War II, and only 14 percent served as combat infantrymen.
He wore an authentic World War II uniform for the occasion. “My uniform wore out long ago, and I picked this
one up at an auction,” he said. On the Eisenhower jacket
were his other decorations, including his Combat Infantryman Badge, a three-inch badge with a blue field on which
is superimposed a War of Independence-era Springfield
Arsenal Musket, along with his two Bronze Stars, Sharp
Shooter Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct
Medal, Army of Occupation Medal and World War II Vic(Continued on page 11)
Page 11
Blue Badge/Divisions’ Doings
Division 5 OK
(Continued from page 10)
tory Medal.
Cook said he’d learned two or three weeks ago that the
French Legion of Honor was coming. “I believe the paperwork had been sent in a year or year and a half ago,” he
said. There was an exhibit in the auditorium lobby of Cook’s
war memorabilia, including a Bible his mother had given him
that he always carried in his left front shirt pocket and a
piece of shrapnel that struck the heel of his shoe as he was
fighting to take a hill from German troops. “If it had been any
closer, I would have lost my foot,” Cook said. There was
also a banner that his parents, Lee and Imogene (Stauffer)
Cook hung in their window while he was away at war. His
time, from 1944 to 1945, coincided with some of the most
intense fighting of the war in Europe, and Cook spent many
days on the front lines. He said that prayer helped many get
through those days and nights. “There weren’t many atheists
in the fox holes,” Cook said. The award ceremony opened
with presentation of the U.S. and French flags by Charlie
McColm and Jerry Hudson, then the Star Spangled Banner
and the Marseilles played by the CUHS Brass Choir. Lt. Col.
Michaela Skahan gave the welcome and introduction, while
Sgt. Steve Jamison read the citation from French Ambassador Francois Delattre, thanking Cook for “your personal and
precious contribution to the United States’ decisive role in
the liberation of our country during World War II.” “The Story
of Jim Cook,” a video prepared by Buddy Derfelt, was
shown, and Skahan presented the award. “I was supposed
to give him a French kiss on each cheek, but we decided to
do away with that,” Skahan said. Cook had some comments
of his own to make.
“I’m one of the few surviving combat infantrymen,” Cook
said. “I was in two major battles, Rhineland and Central
Europe, and we had 65,000 casualties in those two battles.”
“I feel the combat soldiers who sacrificed their lives deserve
this honor more than I do,” he said. Cook noted that he
turned 93 in December. “There was a time I thought I would
never see another birthday,” he said. “There are times when
I have nightmares, but I won’t go down that path.” Instead,
he thanked those present for attending. “I’ve got relatives
who came from all across the country to be here,” he said.
Two of them were seated with him onstage, Sgt. Jordan
Parker and Sgt. Ryan Boyd. Both said their greatgrandfather was a great influence and role model for them. “I
actually joined the army because of that man and I followed
the same career path and became a combat infantryman,”
Boyd said. “I hope I’m as good as he is when I’m half his
age.”
James Cook speaks briefly after being presented with the
French Legion of Honor Friday afternoon. Text and photos excerpted from article by Sean Steffan, The Morning Sun
Pittsburgh, KS, Jan26, 2013.
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
DURING MY MILITARY CAREER, BOTH
ENLISTED AND COMMISSIONED, I WAS ALWAYS
IMPRESSED BY THE TALENT THAT COULD BE
FOUND WITHIN THE RANKS.
FOR EXAMPLE, IF YOU HAD A REQUIREMENT
FOR A CARPENTER, MUSICIAN, FENCE BUILDER,
ELECTRICIAN, PLUMBER OR WHAT EVER THE REQUIREMENT WAS YOU COULD GENERALLY FIND
A SOLDIER THAT COULD MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS.
THESE SOLDIERS WERE WILLING TO WORK
ON COMPANY PROJECTS IN ADDITION TO THEIR
SPECIFIC TABLE OF ORGANIZATION AND EQUIPMENT (TO&E) ASSIGNMENTS TO HELP IMPROVE
THE STATUS AND MORALE OF THEIR RESPECTIVE COMPANY'S.
EVEN TODAY THERE ARE INDIVIDUALS WHO
ARE MEMBERS OF COMBAT INFANTRYMEN'S ASSOCIATION (CIA) COMPANY'S WHO HAVE THE
TALENT AND EDUCATION TO PREFORM DUTIES
LIKE THE ONES MENTIONED.
THE CIA COMPANY LOCATED HERE IN ADA,
OK IS NO DIFFERENT. WE HAVE A MEMBER WHO
IS RETIRED FROM A MAJOR OIL COMPANY PLUS
FARMERS, RANCHERS, AVIATION MECHANICS
AND AN INDIVIDUAL WHO OWNED HIS OWN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY. ALSO, IN THE COMPANY
THERE ARE MEMBERS WHO HAVE ATTENDED
COLLEGE AND ARE NOW TEACHING SCHOOL.
IN CIA COMPANY, H I I OK, THERE IS ONE MEMBER, RICHARD R. PUTMAN, THAT SERVED IN THE
ARMY IN VIETNAM AS A CORPORAL AND WAS ASSIGNED TO THE 173RD AIRBORNE BRIGADE AND
WAS AWARDED THE COMBAT INFANTRYMAN
BADGE (CIB). WHEN HE WAS DISCHARGED HE
RETURNED HOME AND ENROLLED IN COLLEGE.
THROUGH HIS EFFORTS AND PERSEVERANCE
HE EARNED BOTH HIS BACHELOR AND DOCTOR
DEGREES IN PSYCHOLOGY. AT THE PRESENT
TIME HE IS SERVING AS THE ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF PSYCHOLOGY AT EAST CENTRAL
UNIVERSITY LOCATED IN ADA, OK. DOCTOR
PUTMAN IS CURRENTLY SERVING AS THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF CIA COMPANY H I I OK.
IN THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA THERE IS AN
AGENCY KNOWN AS THE WAR VETERANS COMMISSION OF OKLAHOMA. THIS COMMISSION IS
THE GOVERNING BODY FOR THE OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (ODVA). IT
OPERATES THE 7 VETERAN CENTERS IN THE
STATE AS WELL AS PROVIDING FEDERAL VA
CLAIMS AND BENEFITS ASSISTANCE FOR OKLAHOMA VETERANS. THIS COMMISSION IS COMPOSED OF 9 MEMBERS: 4 FROM THE AMERICAN
LEGION, 3 FROM THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN
WARS AND 2 FROM THE DISABLED AMERICAN
(Continued on page 12)
Page 12
Blue Badge/Divisions’ Doings
Division 5 OK
(Continued from page 11)
VETERANS. ALL MEMBERS ARE APPOINTED BY
THE GOVERNOR FOR 3 YEAR TERMS.
RECENTLY DOCTOR PUTMAN WAS APPOINTED TO SERVE AS COMMISSION CHAIRMAN.
ALSO, HE REPRESENTS THE AMERICAN LEGION
ON THE COMMISSION.
DOCTOR PUTMAN WE ARE PLEASED THAT
YOU ARE A CIA MEMBER AND HAVE TIME TO
SERVE AS THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF H I I OK
IN ADDITION TO YOUR OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES.
J. L. RHODES
COMMANDER
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
feels teaching citizenship to the very young is one way to
retain patriotism in America. He speaks about important
dates between December 7, 1941, a day that will live in
infamy, to the Japanese surrender in 1945. He is an active
volunteer at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center
where he often rallies Battle of the Bulge Veterans to veteran causes.
He is an active member of the DAV, Military Order of
Purple Heart, Combat Infantrymen’s Association, the Jewish War Veterans, and the 26th Infantry Division Association.
George is an individual who cares greatly about veterans as well as young people. He enjoys spending time
with both groups.
He is the Commanding Officer of the Combat Infantrymen’s Association’s newly reestablished Company B in
southwest Florida, part of Division 6. Congratulations to
this CIA Pacesetter!
Div 6 Hq in FL
AMO names CIA Member George Fisher FL
Vet of the year
The American Military Organization presented
George Fisher an engraved plaque naming him South
Florida Veteran of the Year. The honor is a lifetime
achievement award
George served as an infantryman with the 26th Inf
Div during WW II in the ETO, participating in the Battle
of the Bulge where he was wounded. He is the recipient of the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and Combat Infantrymen’s Badge. He also received the French Legion of Honor for services on French soil during the
liberation of France.
George is deeply involved with teaching the proper
use of our flag to students in our public schools. He
At their December 20 meeting Div 6 FL A 1 1 made Max
Mustain, a former WWII fighter pilot who flew off USS Yorktown an honorary member of Company A. Max is in the
center holding the certificate; Co A Commander Jack Wagner is on the right and the ole silver Foxx Dan Sankoff on
the left. For those interested the Yorktown is now a museum ship open for tours and overnight camping is home
ported at Patriots Point, Charleston SC.
_________
Division 6’s A 1
1 held their annual party in
February 2013.
This was the
12th anniversary
for
this
extremely successful unit. Everyone enjoyed the
event and as the
photos
show,
turnout was excellent.
Page 13
Blue Badge/Divisions’ Doings
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Div 6 cont’d
Judy Thornburg wrapping gifts for the fund raiser
On 11 Oct 2012 Col Nick Hubbell (Retired) pictured below on the left who serves as our National Chief of Staff
and Chaplain Major Vincent A Cummings (Support
Group) along with Major Earl Kennedy (Not Pictured) attended and participated in these services. Col Hubbell
spoke and presented the US Flag to the family. The burial took place at the Sarasota Florida National VA Cemetery. A request was made to Div # 6 for senior officers to
assist in this honorable ceremony. All three Div 6 officers
were honored to help in this solemn and honored ceremony.
_________
Julia Scott wrapping gifts for the fund raiser
Division 7 Hq in SC
The Combat Infantrymen’s Association’s Division 7
Support Group members held a Christmas gift wrapping
fund raiser on Dec 12, 2012 at the Fort Jackson main
exchange (PX). They raised $1250.00 and purchased a
$650.00 Gift Certificate which was presented to the
“Angels House”, a rehabilitation home for female service
members; and a $600.00 check was presented to the
Warrior’s Transition Unit on Fort Jackson Participating in
the project were Inge Kyzer (organizer), Judy Thornburg,
Julia Scott, and Gale Morris. Many thanks to these ladies
for their work and contribution.
_________
Inge Kyzer wrapping gifts for the fund raiser
Page 14
Blue Badge/ Divisions’ Doins
Division 7 cont’d
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Ohio Unfurls Flag
Division 7’s Ohio State Commander Chris Callen announced the unfurling of the Ohio state Combat Infantrymen’s Association official flag. The flag will be displayed
at all Ohio CIA meetings and functions. Great job to the
Ohio Company, and thanks for sharing the photo with
us.
Division 8 Hq in NY
No report submitted
The gift wrapping waiting line
Division 9 New England
No report submitted
Division 10 in Hq HI
No report submitted
Roberta Lockwood, Director of Angels’ House is presented w
$650.00 gift certificate from fund raiser organizer Inge
Kyzer.
Mascot Gordie
Kyzer (left)
had to tag
along to keep
the patrons
occupied while
their gifts were
being wrapped.
Inge wants
everyone to
know he does
not have a
CSM bite.
BB to be Published
Semi-Annually
Because of the increasing cost of postage and printing
costs it has become necessary to reduce the publication
of the Blue Badge from three times a year to semiannually– in January and July (beginning in July 2013).
We have tried to avoid this cut by asking members to
view the BB on line and print their own copy but fewer
than hoped for members are willing to participate in the
electronic distribution. For those of you who do participate, we are sincerely grateful. Thank You! When (if)
funding allows we will go back to three issues a year.
FYI, I can foresee the time when the BB will be all electronic.
Larry Eckard, Editor
Page 15
Blue Badge/ Brothers In Arms
THIS SPACE OPEN
TO SHARE YOUR
UNIT AD, CALL
253-224-0817
27 Infantry Regiment
Historical Society
th
Wolfhounds
John Coon, President
If you have ever served in the 27th Infantry Regiment at any time come and join us.
Call Tom Donovan (513) 523-1603
e-mail [email protected]
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Page 16
Blue Badge/ Convention Information
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
The 2013 Combat Infantrymen’s Association annual convention will be held October 1620, 2013 at the Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia Airport located at 110 McSwain Dr, West Columbia, SC 29169. The Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia Airport is a full service hotel dedicated to
insuring a successful event. It is located just minutes from the airport and complimentary airport
shuttle service is available by using the courtesy phone located near the baggage claim area or
by calling the hotel direct at 803-391-4000. You can catch up on the past year with friends or
meet new ones over dinner and drinks at the Sporting
News Grill. The all-day menu features upscale choices like
juicy steaks and shrimp and grits, as well as over-sized
sandwiches and burgers. You can order room service, too. There is ample meeting, hospitality and banquet space (left). All rooms are smoke free and feature phones, complimentary
high speed internet connection 32” flat screen TV, all the normal personal care items you
expect from a first class hotel. Parking on the hotel property is free and the parking lot will
accommodate mobile homes or campers. You may not live in a mobile home or camper on
the hotel property. Normal check-in time is 3:00 PM, but every effort will be made to have
rooms ready before then. In case you arrive before your room is available, just stow your
gear and relax in the hospitality room until the room is ready. Directions to the hotel will be
in your confirmation letter. Questions: The information contained herein should answer most of your questions; however, if anything is unclear, please do not hesitate to call our Customer Service Representative at 1-828-256-6008.
Your Choice: You may select one of the two options shown below, or create your own limited agenda. You may fax, mail
or phone in your registration. Reservations via fax or phone require the use of Discover, MASTERCARD or VISA, American Express credit cards.
1. Payment Schedule: Initial deposit is due on or before September 16, 2013. Final payment is due before September 27,
2013. You may make up to three installment payments in any amount, at any time as long as the balance is paid by September
27, 2013.
2. Cancellations: For cancellations received on or before October 11, 2013. There is a $50.00 cancellation fee plus the cost of
any activities that have already been paid for, or for which guaranteed numbers have been provided to the vendor. There will be
NO REFUNDS – for any reason – for cancellation requests received after October 11, 2013. Yes, we know emergencies do happen
that is why we strongly recommend Trip Cancellation Insurance; see your local insurance agent for details. Premier Reunion Services does
not offer this service.
3.
If there is an activity (except breakfast, which is included in room rate) included in the option you select that you cannot participate in you may deduct that activity. See the Registration Form, Adjustment Opportunities Block and deduct the activity
Option A
Arrive on Wednesday, depart on Sunday
This Option contains the following activities and services for each person who selects this option
Four nights lodging (Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat); Four breakfasts (Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun); Thursday recruit graduation and
tour of Ft Jackson; Thursday welcome reception with light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar; Friday night dinner buffet; Saturday night banquet with music provided by the 218th Army band combo; Wednesday through Saturday use
of hospitality room (stocked with soft drinks, coffee, fruit and snacks); Columbia, SC City Tag; memorial service
program; roster of attendees; all applicable taxes and gratuities (except tour guide & driver); bartender, set-up fees;
registration fee; and the full time services of a Premier Reunion Services manager. Cost of this option is only
$412.00 per person (based on double occupancy) or $610.00 single occupancy. A $100.00 per person deposit must accompany your reservation. You may make up to three installment payments in any amount,
at any time as long as the balance is paid by September 27, 2013.
Option B
Arrive on Thursday, depart on Sunday
This Option contains the following activities and services for each person who selects this option
Three nights lodging (Thur, Fri, Sat); Three breakfasts (Fri, Sat, Sun); Thursday welcome reception with light hors
d’oeuvres and a cash bar; Friday night dinner buffet; Saturday night banquet with music provided by the 218th
Army band combo. Wednesday through Saturday use of hospitality room (stocked with soft drinks, coffee, fruit
and snacks); Columbia, SC City Tag; memorial service program; roster of attendees; all applicable taxes and gratuities (except tour guide & driver); bartender, set-up fees; registration fee; and the full time services of a Premier
Reunion Services manager. Cost of this option is only $320.00 per person (based on double occupancy) or
$468.00 per single. A $75.00 per person deposit must accompany your reservation. You may make up to
three installment payments in any amount, at any time as long as the balance is paid by September 27,
2013.
Page 17
Blue Badge/Convention Itinerary
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
2013 Convention Itinerary
Wednesday October 16
1200 hours: Registration begins and hospitality room opens
There are no planned activities for today, just arrive & get registered, get settled in, relax in the hospitality room, and
have dinner on your own.
Thursday October 17
0630—0730 hours: Breakfast will be in the hotel restaurant (coupons provided). Eat at your leisure during normal
restaurant hours, keeping in mind when the Ft Jackson tour departs. Since breakfast is included in the room rate you
cannot opt-out.
0745 hrs: Trip to Ft Jackson departs. This is why we came to Columbia to see how today’s army recruits are
trained. Today we will be privileged to attend a recruit graduation ceremony (1st Bn, 61st Inf Regt) followed by a tour
of Ft Jackson including lunch in the mess hall (dining facility). Charge for lunch is $4.60 per person. Be sure to bring
your wallet. Correct change would be greatly appreciated by the mess sergeant (dining facility manager). Other training sites stops will include observing trainees negotiating the confidence course and victory tower, hands on weapons
simulator training, tour of the Basic Combat Training Museum and the Drill Sergeants school. What a day for old soldiers and we owe our thanks to Jim Kyzer and Stan Thornburg for arranging this tour. We’ll return to the Holiday Inn
around 1330 hrs. There is a minimum of 35 persons to retain the quoted price. Less than 35 the cost will be adjusted
to cover the difference. The cost of the Ft Jackson trip is included in Option A. If you do not wish to make the Ft Jackson
trip, we recommend you sign up for Option B and save a night’s lodging.
1700 hours: Welcome Reception. This is the first official function of the convention. Commander Bill Cross will welcome everyone and make a few admin announcements and turn you loose to enjoy the comradeship of fellow infantrymen. While you sip your favorite beverage from the cash bar and munch on a few hors d’oeuvres chat with your
neighbor and solve some of the world’s problems and talk him into doing some CIA volunteer work. Dinner is on your
own tonight! The cost of the reception is included in Options A and B. If you cannot participate in the reception, you may opt
out; see the Registration Form, Adjustment Opportunities deduct “Thursday’s reception”.
Friday October 18
0630—0730 hours: Breakfast will be in the hotel restaurant (coupons provided). Eat at your leisure during normal
restaurant hours, keeping in mind when the Columbia city tour departs. Since breakfast is included in the room rate you
cannot opt-out.
0845-0900 hours: Load ‘em and move ‘em out. Today is about Columbia, SC. Learn about your host city. As you
travel along your guide will point out some of Columbia’s culture history, culture and heritage. Some of the educational
and interesting stops you will make include the South Carolina State Museum & Military Museum, State House, National Guard Museum, and more. There will be a stop for lunch on your own—from the menu— at the Lizzard Thicket
restaurant. The State Museum (left) with 70,000 artifacts, has four large
floors devoted to the disciplines of art, history, natural history and science/
technology. It houses both long-term exhibits and five changing exhibit galleries. The Museum is housed in its largest artifact, the former Columbia Mill.
This former textile mill also is a world-first. When it opened in 1894, manufacturing cotton duck cloth (a canvas-like material), it was the first totallyelectric textile mill in the world. Also housed in the same building is the Confederate Relic Room and Military History Museum. For over a century, this
museum’s mission has been to collect and preserve the military history of
this state from the Revolutionary War
to the present War on Terror.
Strategically centered in Columbia, the current South Carolina State House
(right) is the result of construction which lasted half a century-spanning from
1855 to 1907. Built primarily out of blue granite, South Carolina’s official state
stone, the State House is completely fireproof allowing it to safely store many
important state documents and house two of our three branches of state government. Both the executive and legislative branches meet in the lower and upper State House lobbies, respectively. The building contains several unique architectural features that can be observed from both the exterior and interior,
including a false dome centered within the main lobby and an outer dome made
(Continued on page 18)
Page 18
Blue Badge/Convention Itinerary
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
(Continued from page 17)
of copper centered to the outside of the building
The rich history of the SC National Guard is captured in the South Carolina National Guard Museum's (left) many
exhibits. From the SC Guard's early days during the Colonial Wars to its
current efforts in the Middle East, each time period is included and
weapons and artifacts from each era are displayed. The museum has
four of the most important collections in the country. The “Hall of Heroes: These are the South Carolinians who by birth or residence have
received the Congressional Medal of Honor. “Carbine” Williams Collection: Williams developed the Carbine rifle for the U.S. Army, which
was in use from WWII through Vietnam. Captain Peter Mason Collection: Mason was part of the British OSS as well as the official Assassin
for the Queen and later head of Churchill’s Death Squad. Colonel
Melvin Purvis Collection: Purvis was the Agent that shot John Dillinger at the Biograph Theatre. Things maybe done
in a different sequence than describe but we’ll visit all of them. There is a minimum of 25 persons for the tour to go.
Less than that the tour will be cancelled and your money refunded. We’ll return to the hotel around 3:00 PM where the
hospitality room will be open. This is an optional tour so the cost is not included in either of the options. You must register
separately; see the Registration form, page 5, Adjustment Opportunities block, Add Friday’s tour. Admission fees to the museums are included in tour price.
1800 hrs: Social hour. Once again enjoy the company of fellow infantrymen for your favorite beverage while you anticipate a good South Carolina Western meal.
1900 hours: Mess Call. Sit down for a few welcome remarks and enjoy the dinner buffet— Western— South Carolina
style featuring home-made chilli, salads, potato salad, cole slaw, BBQ chicken, BBQ ribs, corn-on-the-cob, baked
beans, and desserts. Following dinner sit back and relax, for a quiet evening of conversation and discussion—or retire
to the hospitality room or the sports lounge. The cost of the dinner is included in Options A and B. If you cannot participate
in the dinner, you may opt out; see the Registration Form, Adjustment Opportunities deduct “Friday’s dinner
Saturday October 19, 2013
0630—0730 hours: Breakfast will be in the hotel restaurant (coupons provided). Eat at your leisure during normal
restaurant hours, keeping in mind when the Business Meeting begins. Since breakfast is included in the room rate you
cannot opt-out.
0800 hours: Executive Board Meeting (location announced on site)
0900 hours: General membership meeting. All members are invited to attend this important meeting. There is of
course no charge to attend the meeting, but you will need to show a current membership card to gain entrance. A
meeting agenda will be in your registration packet when you check in.
0900 hrs: Ladies only trip to the One Eyed Cow Glass Blowing Studio and factory. Here you can see glass blowing
demonstrations, visit the galleries, and get a real understanding of the art of glass blowing. This plus a wee bit of
shopping and lunch (on your own) makes for a perfect outing for the ladies. You’ll return to the hotel around 2:00 PM.
There is minimum of 25 for the trip to go. Less than 25 the trip will be cancelled and you money refunded
.
1830 hours: Social hour. Enjoy your favorite beverage from the cash bar. This is an optional tour so the cost is not
included in either of the options. You must register separately; see the Registration form, page 5, Adjustment Opportunities
block, Add Saturday’s tour. Admission fees is included in tour price.
1900 hours: Combat Infantrymen’s Association Banquet. Enjoy your last night in a more formal atmosphere. Coat
and tie or complete and correct uniform is suggested for the gentlemen and corresponding dress for the ladies. The
memorial service will be part of the banquet program. With the understanding that last minute military commitments
take precedence, there will be a Color Guard from Ft Jackson to post and retire the Colors and a combo from the
218th Army band to provide dinner music and music for dancing after the formalities have ended. The cost of the dinner
is included in Options A and B. If you cannot participate in the banquet, you may opt out; see the Registration Form, Adjustment Opportunities deduct “Saturday’s banquet.
Sunday October 20, 2013
0630—0730 hours: Breakfast will be in the hotel restaurant (coupons provided). Eat at your leisure during normal
restaurant hours. Since breakfast is included in the room rate you cannot opt-out. If you do not have an early flight or be
on the road at the crack of dawn, join everyone for breakfast at 0800 hrs and say those final goodbyes until next year
in Kissimmee, FL.
Page 19
Blue Badge/Registration Form, part 1
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Office Use Only: Dep Rec’d _________________ / Payment Method _______________________ / Date Rec’d ______________________
Combat Infantrymen’s Association
Please complete both sides of this form and return it with your deposit on or before September 16, 2013.
Mail or fax to: Premier Reunion Services; PO Box 11438, Hickory NC 28603.
Phone: 828-256-6008; Fax: 828-256-6559. Web: www.mlrsinc.com/cia
Attendee Info: If sharing a room with another CIA member each must fill out a separate Registration Form
Last Name: _________________________________ First Name: ___________________________________ MI: ______
Who are you sharing a room with (if anyone)? _________________________________________________
Spouse or Guest Name: ____________________________ Cell Phone ________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________ City, State, Zip: __________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________ check here if you want your confirmation letter by e-mail _____
Emergency Contact Info
If there should be an emergency during the reunion and we need to contact a member of your family, who should that be?
Name: ____________________________ Relationship: _______________ Phone Number _________________________
Name Tag Info
If this is your first CIA reunion, or if you have misplaced the nametag you received at a previous reunion, we encourage you to
order one now. The white plastic nametag is engraved with blue letters and a CIB. This is a great conversation starter and
group member identifier. Options A and B will include a city tag (Columbia, SC 2013) to hang below your nametag. If you sign
up for an individual option and do not have a name tag, we encourage you to order a name and city tag.
If ordering a name tag, please fill in the information below to insure you name tag is printed correctly. If you fill in the info below you will be charged for the tags. Cost is $6.25 each.
Your Nametag Name: ______________________________ Guest Nametag Name: __________________________
Which years were you in the infantry? _______________ What was your highest rank?:_________
Cancellation Policy
By submitting this registration form I understand and agree that for cancelations received on or before October 11, 2013 there
will be a $50.00 cancellation fee plus the cost of any activities that have already been paid for, or for which guaranteed
numbers have been provided to a vendor. There will be no refunds—for any reason—for cancellation requests received after
October 11, 2013. Emergencies do happen therefore Trip Cancellation Insurance is highly recommended. See your local insurance
agent. Premier Reunion Services does not offer this service.
Signature required: __________________________________________________
Personal Check # ________
Payments
Make Checks Payable to: “Premier Reunion Services”
Money Order _______ Discover _______
MasterCard________
Visa _______
Premier Reunion Services is authorized to bill the below listed credit card in the amount of $ ______________
Name as it appears on Credit Card: _______________________________________________
Account #: ______________________________________________________________ Exp Date: _______________
House # where you get your credit card statement: ________ Zip Code where you get your credit card statement _________
SIGNATURE REQUIRED: (sign here) ____________________________________________________________________
Check here if you want us to bill your remaining balance to this same account on September 16, 2013:_____
Page 20
Blue Badge/Registration Form, part 2
Special Needs
If you have any special dietary, handicapped, or other special requirements, please provide the details below. Be
VERY specific. Special dietary meals are available. List
any special needs below.
Handicapped or special room requests
________________________________________________
________________________________________________
Special Dietary Needs:
________________________________________________
________________________________________________
Lodging Preferences
# of People: ___________
Room Preference: ALL ROOMS ARE NON-SMOKING
Single______
Double______ King/Queen______
(not guaranteed – based on availability)
Activity Selection
You may wish to choose one of the following prepackaged options. You may add to or deduct from these
options using the Individualized Option and/or Adjustment Opportunities selections below. Check your selection.
Option A: Requires $100.00 per person deposit. Includes
all activities—EXCEPT Friday and Saturday TOURS—
from Wednesday noon thru Sunday morning departure.
See Option Box of Reservation Packet for details
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Individualized Options
(**these activities are all already included in Options A and B
Normally you do not need to use this section if you chose
Option A or B to begin with. If you live in the area and only
wish to participate in select activities, this section is for you!)
If none of the options fit your needs, you may select one or
all of the activities below. The DAILY registration fee is
included in the prices shown below – except if you only
go on a tour, the registration fee will be added to your
tour price. Example – if you register for Saturday’s activities, but go on Friday’s tour (and do nothing else on
Friday), a registration fee will be added to Friday’s tour
cost.
** Thursday - hospitality room, welcome reception w/cash
bar, registration fee
@ $43.00 per person X ______ = $_________
** Friday - hospitality room, registration fee, social hour
(cash bar), dinner
@ $61.00 per person X ______ = $ ________
**Saturday – hospitality room, registration fee, social hour
(cash bar), banquet
@ $57.00 per person X ______ = $ ________
If you sign up for individualized activities, we encourage you
to order a name tag and city tag. (If you fill in the nametag
info on page 3, a tag set will be ordered for you and you
will be charged for the applicable number of tags.) One
nametag and one city tag equals one set.
@ $10.00 per set X _____ = $ _______
Single (one person in room): $610.00 __________
Total Cost of Individualized Options Selected: $__________
Double (2 people in room):
$412 per person _________
Option B: Requires $75.00 per person deposit. Includes
all activities—EXCEPT Friday and Saturday TOURS—
from Thursday thru Sunday morning departure. See Option Box page of Reservation Packet for complete details.
Call 828-256-6008 for “meal only” prices (Will include
registration fee)
FULL PAYMENT FOR THIS OPTION MUST
ACCOMPANY YOUR RESERVATION
Single (one person in room): $468.00 __________
Double (2 people in room):
$320.00 per person ______
Adjustment Opportunities
You may make the following adjustments to the options
presented above. Indicate quantity and extended cost.
Deduct Thurs Reception @ $16.00 pp X ____ = $ ______
Add Friday’s tour
@ $32.00 pp X ____ = $ ______
Deduct Friday’s Dinner @ $34.00 pp X ____ = $ ______
Add Saturday’s tour
@ $35.00 pp X ____ = $ ______
Deduct Sat Banquet
@ $30.00 pp X ____ = $ ______
Add nights lodging & bkfst
@ $99.00 per night X ______ = $ ______
Which nights ____________________________
Deduct nights lodging & breakfast
@ $99.00 per night X ______ = $ ______
Which nights ___________________________
Option A B or C Payment Calculator:
Option Cost:
__________
Additions:
__________
Additions:
__________
Deletions:
__________
Deletions:
__________
Total Cost:
__________
Amount of Deposit or Full Payment Included: $__________
Page 21
Blue Badge/Taps/Welcome Mat
Taps
The Blue Badge was notified of the death of the
following Combat Infantrymen’s Association members. The Association
thanks them for their service and members in good
standing (paid up dues)
are honored in TAPS and
their name placed on the
Honor Roll for recognition
at the Memorial Service.
Names received after February 15 will be listed in
the next issue of Blue
Badge. The entire association sends our deep sympathy to the family and
friends of the deceased
member.
Names are
shown in order received.
Alberto Guzman
Brownsville, TX Div 4
Died in 2006
Michael Anderjack
Manchester, TN Div 7
Died 07/05/2012
Robert Sulzer
Sun City, AZ Div 3
Died 11/01/08
John S. Kniewell
Augusta, GA Div 6
Died 01/28/10
Tom Boles
Pottsboro, TX
Died 08/05/12
Div 4
Joseph Dickinson
Plymouth MI Div 7
Died 09/13/12
Joseph Ferron
Williamston, PA
Died 10/12/10
Div 7
Ralph Winsor
Seaside, OR Div 1
Died 08/09/12
Richard Bise
Yucaipa, CA Div 2
Date not reported
James Watkins
Garden Grove, CA Div 2
Died 03/26/12
William Bird Mounsey
Evergreen, CO
Died 11/11/12
Ernest Morton, Jr
Webster Springs, WV
Div 7
Date not reported
Ciro E. Creea
Div 6 FL A 1 1
Died 11/23/12
Reinhold Spicker
Div 6 FL A 1 1
Died 11/19/12
Lee Zane
Div 4 TX
Leander, TX
George Webb
Div 7 SC (NJ)
Date not reported
John Spencer
Yonkers, NY Div 8
Died 08/09/12
Charles Corcoran
Plaines, PA Div 7
Died 07/11/11
Ada, OK
Div 5
Died 01/10/13
101st Abn
Desert Storm NC Nat Hq
Francis X. McDonough
Fredonia, NY Div 8
Date not reported
Richard L Nolte
Thomas Garcia
Lawrence, KS Div 5
Died 01/05/13
Timothy M Haag
Co C, 2/108th Inf, NYARNG
Vincent Logiudice
Hopewell Junction, NY
Div 8
Date not reported
Richard Jepsen
Manhattan, KS Div 5
Date not reported
_________
Welcome
Mat
The Combat Infantrymen’s Association cordially welcomes the
following new individual and support group
members. Names are
not listed in any particular order. Members
who joined after Feb
15 may not see their
name; if not it will appear in the next issue.
Welcome to the club!
Marshall Lewis
Lewisberry, PA Div 7
Died 07/16/11
John J Flynn
ARIC East
Afghanistan
NC Nat Hq
Wyett Colclasure II
Jarrettsville, MD Div 7
Died 11/23/11
Joshua D Ferris
Wesley Ko
E. Falmouth, MA Div 9
Died 12/15/12
Jay Goodman
Div 6 FL A 1 1
Died 12/14/12
Harold G. Evans
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Co D, 2/502nd Inf, 101st
Abn
Afghanistan NC Nat
Hq
Lyle S Hewitt
Combat unit not listed
Viet Nam
Div 8 NY
Ed Rawlins
Co D, 3/187th Inf,
Co D, 1/502nd Inf, 101st Abn
Viet Nam
Div 7 SC
Iraq
NC Nat Hq
Zachary A Zuehlsdorf
2/127th Inf, 32nd Inf Bde
Iraq
NC Nat Hq
Robert H Young
326th Inf, 101st Abn
Viet Nam NC Nat Hq
Robert K Young
Co B 1/17th Inf, 7th ID
Korea Div 10 HI
Christopher L Parker
Co B, 2/327th Inf, 101st Abn
Afghanistan NC Nat Hq
Rodney W Yount
Co C, 3/15th Inf
Iraq
NC Nat Hq
Louis T Seneca
Support Member
Cape Coral, FL
Alfred C Serrato
Co A, 1/5th Inf, 25th ID
Viet Nam
Div 2 CA
Patrick P Ryan
Co C, 2/501st PIR
Viet Nam
Div 8 NY
Thomas A McGloine
206 RCAC, TF Phoenix
Afghanistan
Div 8 NY
Thomas E Benton
27th Inf, 25th ID
Iraq
Div 8 NY
Scott D Rector
Hq 312 SCR
Afghanistan NC Nat Hq
Christopher S Rector
Co B, 1/504th PIR
(Continued on page 22)
Page 22
Welcome
Mat
(Continued from page 21)
Panama/Desert Storm
NC Nat Hq
Joseph W Roberson
1/5-1st PIR
Afghan/Iraq NC Nat Hq
Joshua J Mommaerts 3/89th
Cav, 4th Bde, 10th Mtn Div
Afghan NC Nat Hq
John Stockard
Co A, 142nd Inf
Iraq NC Nat Hq
Ronald J Porter
Co C, 1/22nd Inf, 4th ID
Viet Nam Div 7 SC
Justin J Howard
Co B, 3/39th Inf, 9th ID
Viet Nam Div 7 SC
Arthur L Luneau
Co D, 1/101 Cav NYARNG
Cornwallville, NY
Eleonai D Israel
1/149th Inf
Hull, MA IRAQ
George Book
Support Member
Ft Myers, FL
John J Sullivan
Support Member
Cape Coral, FL
T. D. Surplus
Support Business Mbr
Mount Vernon, OH
Robert Wittenberg
Support Member
Lehigh Acres, FL
George Adams
Support Member
Roseville, CA
Blue Badge/ Welcome Mat
Madonna Bogner
Support Member
Muskegon, MI
Harry Berkheimer
Support Member
Fremont, CA
Ben Baker
Support Member
Enumclaw, WA
Combat Unit Not Listed
Korea NC Nat Hq
John Donnelly
Co K, 3/5th Cav, 1st CD
Korea NC Nat Hq
Alan W. Copeland
Combat Unit Not Listed
Viet Nam NC Nat Hq
Margaret Cybulski
Support Member
Steilacoom, WA
Robert D. Boyer
Co K, 3/331st Inf,
83rd Div
WW II NC Nat Hq
Paul J. Landolfi
Support Member
Mineola, NY
Kenneth J Allen
Hq 86th Inf, 10th Mtn
WW II NC Nat Hq
Sean Kier
Co C, 1/502nd Inf,
101st Abn Div
David A Sims
Co A, 2/16th Inf, 1st ID
Viet Nam Div 7 SC
Johnny Naranjo
Co A, 4/31st Inf,
10th Mtn Div Div 8 NY
Thomas A Wasilewski
Co C, 20th SFG
Iraq Div 8 NY
John Smith, Jr
Hq 1/12th Cav 1st Cav
Viet Nam Div 7 SC
Thomas A. Wasilewski
Co C, 20th SFG
Iraq
Div 8 NY
Jesse T. Sparkman
Co G, 2/7th Inf, 3rd ID
WW II 3rd ID
Clayton A Friedberg
Hq 2.`60th If, 40th ID
Korea NC Nat Hq
Steven Perez
Combat Unit Not Listed
Viet Nam Div 6 FL
John Rollins
Co B, 2/8th Inf, 4th ID
Viet Nam Div 3 AZ
David K Pinnet
Combat Unit Not Listed
Korea/Viet Nam
NC Nat Hq
Valentin Delgado
Combat Unit Not Listed
Not Listed Div 5 KS
Gene Mieszerski
Co K, 3/23rd Inf, 2nd ID
Korea Div 8 NY
Daniel A. Marasco
Co C, 14th Inf, 25th ID
Viet Nam Div 7 SC
Joeph Lake, Jr
Combat Unit Not lIsted
Viet Nam NC Nat Hq
Ernest Fintor
John Donnelly
Co K, 35th Cav, 1st CD
Korea
NC Nat Hq
Christopher Hayden
Co A, 2/14th Inf
Iraq
NC Nat Hq
John A. Ryan
2nd BCT 109th Inf
Iraq
NC Nat Hq
William MacClellan
Co A, 2/35th Inf, 4th ID
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Viet Nam
Div 9 NE
Keith O. Bailey
473rd Inf
WW II Div 1 Hq 1 1
Paul E. Sprouse
Co A, 46th Inf, 198th LIB
Viet Nam Div 7 SC Div Hq
George Chonga
Co g, 2/27th Cav, 1st Cav
Korea
Div 2 CA
Philip O. Freeman
Co C, 1/9th Inf
Panama
Div 8 NY
Jeffrey D. Ross
Co B, 2/87th Inf,
10th Mtn Div
Afghanistan Div 8 NY
Ronald J. Kutz
Co D, 58th Inf
Viet Nam Div 4 TX
Domingo Lozano
Combat unit not listed
Viet Nam NC Nat Hq
Cullen G. Lyons
Co C, 2/108th Inf
Afghanistan Div 8 NY
Benjamin Fox
Co D, 1/387th Inf, 9th ID
WW II
Div 6 FL B 1 1
Paul A. Bower
Combat unit not listed
WW II Div 6 FL B 1 1
Jesus Matanane
1/45th ADT
Afghanistan Div 5 OK
Thomas M Huezek
Support Member
Ft Myers, FL Div 6
Dobbs Oil, Inc
Support Member
Cherry Hill, NJ Div 7
Jose O.Towns
Co B, 508th PIR,
(Continued on page 23)
Page 23
Welcome
Mat
(Continued from page 22)
4th Bde, 82nd Abn Div
Afghanistan Div 8 NY
Roserie J. Comas
Combat unit not listed
Viet Nam Div 7 SC
James Jordan
Co B, 2/12th Cav,
1st Cav Div
Viet Nam Div 4 TX
Charles Dykes
Co A, 2/5th Cav,
1st Cav Div
Viet Nam Div 6 FL
Watch
Your E-mail
As technology changes,
so does the way we have to
do business. A huge change
is in the works with regards
to e-mailing. Please watch
your email carefully! If we
have an email address for
you in the database, you will
be receiving (if you have not
already) an invitation to subscribe to the “Combat Infantrymen’s EMAILERS” list.
In an effort to reduce the
amount of junk email that is
being sent, there have been
standards established to control the way emails are sent
to groups of people. The
server that hosts our web site
has adopted these standards, and we must abide by
them. This means that we
can no longer just copy a list
of email addresses out of our
database, and paste that list
into the “To:” or “BCC:” fields
of an email. We can now
only send group emails to
recipients who have sub-
Blue Badge /Welcome Mat/Brother-In-Arms
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
scribed to a particular email
list. This process involves sending out an invitation to group
members.
 When you receive the invitation in your e-mail you will be
asked to click on a link within
the email that takes you to the
subscription page.
 On the subscription page, you
fill out your email address,
and then submit it.
 You will then receive another
email from the DADA Mailing
Service confirming that you
are the actual owner of the
email address you provided.
 When you click on the link in
the confirmation email, you
will then be “subscribed”.
This process is called a
“double opt-in” subscription. It is
designed so that a computer robot can’t just go in and fill out random email addresses in forms –
they want to know a real person is
submitting the email address, and
that same person really has access to that email account.
This subscription list is totally
independent of the database we
maintain for your group. If you
change your email address, you
will still need to let us know, and
you will need to re-subscribe with
your new address. If you have
not ever submitted your email
address and would like to, there is
a link to the subscription process
on the reunion web site. You will
also need to send us an email
with your email address in order
to get it added to the database.
We experimented with several
different email programs before
selecting this particular one. It is
the least complicated of the ones
that were tried. Thank you for
your patience as we implement
this new procedure.
We all get a ton of junk mail,
and I suspect you would not mind
at all if standards like this reduced
the amount has to be weeded
through every day!
Why does this effect me and
why should I subscribe? Because future plans
call for the CIA to significantly reduce the number of mailings via USPS thus saving hundreds
of dollars in postage and printing costs. Once
this system is in place you can expect to receive
notices when the BB is posted on line, probably
your annual renewal notices, messages from
the commander and other information by e-mail.
You can also look for the day when nearly everything will be on line and having your correct email address on file is critical to the success of
this program.
Right now our members without computers
will continue to receive information via the postal
service. For now participating in the subscriber
program is voluntary—but at the expense of
being repetitious—the time is coming when everything is going to be done electronically. As we
indicated earlier, every member with an e-mail
address on file will be sent a copy of the subscription e-mail. If you have e-mail capability
and do not receive the subscription notice,
please take the initiative and go to
www.mlrsinc.com/cia scroll down to “subscribe”
and follow the prompts. The prompts will lead
you through the subscription process. We cannot stress enough the importance of you participating in this project.
You cooperation is requested.
_________
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Blue Badge/ Monument Paver Brick
Page 24
Combat Infantrymen’s Association
Order Your Brick /Paver Here
Name: ____________________________________________
Address: __________________________________________
City: ______________________ State: _____ Zip Code: _________________
Phone: ____________________ e:mail: ______________________________
Brick/Pavers are $25 00 each
Makes checks payable to Combat Infantrymen’s Association and mail to:
Ray Dunn
490 Mountaineer Rd
Whittier, NC 28789
828-497-6374
Limit of three (3) lines per paver AND fourteen (14) characters per line (punctuation marks, spaces, and numbers all count toward the total)
Page 25
Blue Badge/Brothers-in-Arms/Website
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
It’s Our Website, Use It
Our webmaster is Alan Knox.
If you have visited the CIA website recently, you already know it is a
professionally maintained website—a credit to the association. Hard work,
dedication, and loyalty, to The Combat Infantrymen’s Association is reflected in the site.
If you have not visited the site recently now is the time. Check it out at
www.cibassoc.com. You will find all sorts of interesting information about
the association, photos, rosters, constitution and by-laws, convention information—just about anything you are looking for relating the association.
Some of you that are familiar with “old-time” country music stations will
remember a common phrase from the “radio announcer” (they we not DJ’s
back then), “Keep them cards and letters coming”. Well, that is what Alan
says too, except to the time being at least, you need to send your input to
the National Commander so it can be passed on to Alan. He is especially
interested in photos of your units participating in community activities, fund
raisers, or patriotic events, and the like. We know you take photos of
them—if the photos are printed, get an extra copy and send one to Alan
via the National Commander along with a description of the event. (Don’t
forget to send them to the Blue Badge as well). If you are using film, the
photos reproduce best if the film is at least 400 ASA speed. If you are using digital pictures they need to be printed with at least 600 dpi. The preferred way to get your stories/photos to Alan is through the Commander’s
e-mail [email protected] , but you can mail the photos and stories to Alan
in care of National Commander 14979 Rivers Edge Court, Unit 122, Ft
Myers, FL 33908
If you think we are looking for publicity, you are right. There are literally
hundreds of visitors to the site that are not CIA members. Seeing photos of
and stories about the various activities our members participate in helps
maintain the good name of the association—and perhaps will encourage
other eligible CIB holders to join.
One more time, visit the website at www.cibassoc.com.
__________
Page 26
Blue Badge/Finance Report
PRIMARY CHECKING ACCOUNT
$7,185.80
BLUE BADGE ACCOUNT
$2,504.85
PAY PAL ACCOUNT
$4,192.56
MONUMENT ACCOUNT
$4,414.90
SUPPORT GROUP ACCOUNT
$3,975.00
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT
$6000.00
MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT
$27,383.78
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
FORMS FROM DIVISIONS ARE RECEIVED ANNUALLY NOT LATER THAN DECEMBER 31 ST. DIVISIONS
DO NOT RECEIVE ANY MEMBERSHIP DUES UNLESS REPORTS ARE PROPERLY SUBMITTED ON THE
REQUIRED FORM. COLLECTION ACTIONS WILL BE IMPLEMENTED AGAINST THOSE DIVISONS NOT REPORTING.
DIVISION TOTALS ( MINUS DIVISION 7-NOT REPORTED
$50,056.77
NEW YORK ACCOUNT REMIANS FROZEN DUE TO PREVIOUS COMMANDER/UNIT REPORTING. COMMANDER PERRY MARCHIGIANI ISTHE CURRENT TRUSTEE UNTIL A FINANCE OFFICER IS APPOINTED.
NEW YORK FUNDS REMAIN SEPARATE FROM NATIONAL FUNDS
$4,997.16
GRAND TOTALS
$110,071.82
ANTICIPATED EXPENSES:
POSTAGE AND MAILINGS
CURRENT BLUE BADGE
LOTTERY PRINTING
WEB SITE MAINTENANCE
BOOK KEEPING/BUDGET PREPARATION
FLORIDA INCORPORATION FEE
RESPECTFULLY
BILL CROSS
ASSOCIATE FINANCE OFFICER
The ads for sister organizations that appear
on this and other pages
of the Blue Badge are
scanned exactly as received. Members of these
organizations should
periodically review them
for time sensitive matters,
address or e-mail
changes. The Blue Badge
takes no responsibility for
the accuracy.
Page 27
Blue Badge/Support Group Application—Individual
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Support Group Membership Application ~ Individual
Date: _______________
Last Name: ____________________ First Name: _________________________ MI: ______
Address: __________________________ City: _____________________ State: _____
Zip: _____________
Phone: ( _____) _______ -_____________ e-mail: _______________________________________
We men of the Combat Infantrymen’s Association are extremely honored for your enrollment into our Support Group Membership. It was because of the support of men women and families like you that we were successful in fighting for our Nation. The excellent business support and donations we received, both on and off the battlefield, made the difference between victory and defeat. We are now extremely honored for your contribution
toward our mission to provide charitable activities throughout our nation. We are a 501-c tax deductible organization. Some of our causes are: Pride and Patriotism activities in schools, JROTC scholarships and award activities, donations to charities who directly support active armed forces men and women, donations for youth centered training facilities which encourage and help young men and women who are in need of guidance. Use a
separate tell us something about yourself, use additional pages if necessary.
I Am a Veteran Supporter, please name the veteran you are supporting: __________________________
Family of Veteran Supporter (name of veteran) __________________________________________
Please mail your $20.00 contribution to one of the following:
14979 Rivers Edge Ct, Unit 122
Ft Myers, FL
[email protected]
708-209-6193
Contact me if you have questions
PLEASE CHECK THE APPROPRIATE SPACES BELOW
_____ I prefer to receive the Blue Badge by mail
_____ I will read the Blue Badge on line and help save the postage and printing costs
_____ I am already an individual support member and renewing
_____ I am a new individual member.
(NO LIFE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE)
YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND OUR EXCELLENT ANNUAL CONVENTION
Visit our website at:
www.cibassoc.com
Page 28
Blue Badge/Support Group Application—Business
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Support Group Membership ~ Business
Date: _______________
Business Name: ____________________________________________________________
Address: __________________________ City: _____________________ State: _____
Zip: _____________
Phone: ( _____) _______ -_____________ e-mail: _______________________________________
We men of the Combat Infantrymen’s Association are extremely honored for your enrollment into ours
Support Group Membership. It was because of the support of businesses such as yours that we were successful in fighting for our Nation. The excellent business support and donations we received, both on and off the
battlefield, made the difference between victory and defeat. We are now extremely honored for your contribution toward our mission to provide charitable activities throughout our Nation. We are a 501-c tax deductible organization. Some of our causes are: Pride and Patriotism activities in schools, JROTC scholarships and award activities, donations to charities who directly support active armed forces men and women,
donations for youth centered training facilities which encourage and help young men and women whom are
in need of guidance. Use a separate sheet of paper and tell us something about your business
Please mail your contribution to :
National Commander
14979 Rivers Edge Ct, Unit 122
Ft Myers, FL 33908
[email protected]
708-209-6193
Contact me if you have questions
PLEASE CHECK THE APPROPRIATE SPACES BELOW
_____ I prefer to receive the Blue Badge by mail
_____ I will read the Blue Badge on line and help save the postage and printing costs
_____ I am already a Business member
_____ I am a new business member.
(NO LIFE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE)
YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND OUR EXCELLENT ANNUAL CONVENTION
Bronze Member $100.00 - receives a Combat Infantry Certificate suitable for framing and hanging on the wall of your
business
Silver Member $200.00 - receives a beautiful plaque for your business. You will also have the name of your business
placed in each issue of our BLUE BADGE MAGAZINE annually.
Gold Member $300.00 - receives a beautiful plaque and one year of advertising with a link on our website for your
business.
(ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE)
Page 29
Blue Badge/Enlistment Form (Membership Application)
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Combat Infantrymen’s Association, Inc
National Headquarters
708-209-6193 [email protected]
www.cibassoc.com
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Date: __________________________
Last Name: _____________________ First Name: _____________________________ MI: __________
Street: __________________________ Apt: __________ Unit: __________
City: ___________________________ St: _________ ZIP: ____________- ____________
Phone: (______) ______________ E-Mail: _______________________________ DOB: ___/____/______
(day) (mo) (yr)
Would you be willing to start a new company in your area? _____ yes; _____ no
Would you like your name to be included on the national roster? _____ yes; _____ no
Membership Requirements
The applicant must have been awarded the Combat Infantrymen’s Badge as certified by official notification on the
applicant’s DD-214, Official Army Orders, or other official documents.
A copy of the DD-214 or other documentation must be attaché dot this application
Do not send documents you want returned
Annual Membership dues are $30.00 (dues year is April 1 through 31 March)
Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan Warriors get first year free.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
$150.00 FROM AGE 75 AND OLDER (OR THREE PAYMENTS OF $50.00 PER YEAR)
$400.00 FOR AGE 74 AND YOUNGER (OR FOUR PAYMENTS OF $100.00 PER YEAR)
CIB earned for combat services during the following periods—Circle all that apply
WW II— Korea—Korea DMZ—Vietnam—Dominican Republic—Grenada—Panama- -Dessert Storm—Bosnia—
Afghanistan—Iraq—Costa Rica—Somalia—El Salvador—Other _________________
Combat Unit in which you earned CIB ____________________________________________________
To help save printing and postage costs I will view and/or print the Blue Badge on line _________
Please mail my copy of Blue Badge __________
I hereby apply for membership in the Combat Infantrymen’s Association, Inc and I certify that I am eligible as explained
above. A copy of the document verifying my eligibility is attached.
Enclosed is my check ____ Money Order ____ in the amount of $ ________
Make Check or MO payable to “Combat Infantrymen’s Association”
Mail your application and dues to:
National Commander ~ 14979 Rivers Edge Court, Unit 122 ~ Ft Myers, FL 33909
Note: Application is available on line @ www.cibassoc.com
Sponsor: National Commander CIA Unit____________
Applicant’s Signature_________________________________________ Date: __________________
THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY. AS INFANTRYMEN WE SHARE A SPECIAL BOND..
Please contact the CIA Support Group Commander for your business, family members, and friends membership information
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE, FOR OFFICE USE ONLY ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
CIA Number ________________________________
Date Member Accepted _______________________
CIA Unit ___________________________________
Valid until date ______________________________
This is the only authorized application form. Destroy all other versions
Form CIA 1-NC
Revised 02/25/13
Page 30
Blue Badge/Re-Enlistment Form (Renewal Form)
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
This is to remind you your membership dues are payable. We want you to reenlist today!!!!
Please Print legibly
CIA # if known ______________________ Please renew Jan-Feb-Mar to help our volunteers
Present CIA Unit ____________________ Request transfer to CIA Unit ________________
Last Name: __________________ First Name: __________________ MI: _______
Address: ___________________________________________
City: ______________________ State: __________ Zip Code: ___________ - _________
Phone: (________) _____________________ E-Mail ______________________________
Check the box below
if you are willing to
help save on printing and postage by
receiving your Blue
Badge on line
There is discipline in a Soldier
You can see it when he walks
There is honor in a Soldier
You can see it when he talks
There is courage in a Soldier
You can see it in his eyes
There is loyalty in a Soldier
That he will not compromise
____ Angela Goodwin
Check the box below if
you wish to receive the
Blue Badge by mail
Annual dues are $30.00 effective Jan 2011
Gulf War, Afghanistan, Iraq warriors FREE FIRST YEAR
LIFE MEMBERSHIPS
Life membership dues, effective July 2011
75 years and older $150.00 (or three $50.00 payments)
Under age 75 $400.00 (or four payments of $100.00)
Enclosed is my dues/payment of $ __________ for (check one) annual: ______ life: ______
Please fill out your renewal form completely. Make check or money order payable to:
COMBAT INFANTRYMEN’S ASSOCIATION and mail it with your dues in the enclosed envelope to
National Commander
Combat Infantrymen’s Association
14979 Rivers Edge Court, Unit 122
Ft Myers, FL 33908
ADDRESS BECOMES OBSOLETE FOR NATIONAL OFFICERS WHEN COMMAND CHANGES; SEE OUR WEBSITE
(WWW.CIBASSOC.COM) AND BLUE BADGE FOR UPDATES
CIA QM VENDOR—HATS, SHIRTS, ETC CALL 1-800-456-8288 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE
Page 31
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Blue Badge/Sample Ballot)
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
SAMPLE BALLOT
SAMPLE BALLOT
DO NOT USE
DO NOT USE
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Page 32
Blue Badge /Back Cover
THE BLUE BADGE
Jan-Feb-Mar-Apr 2013
Nonprofit Org
The Combat Infantrymen’s Assn, Inc
PO Drawer 11438
Hickory, NC 28603
US Postage Paid
Hickory, NC 28603
Permit # 54
National Commander
POPO
Box
14979 Rivers
Edge
Ct Unit 122
Ft Myers, FL 339088
Distribution
Mail address changes to:
Combat Infantrymen’s Association
Database Manager
PO Box 11438
Hickory, NC 28603
1 copy to gaining unit
1 copy to losing unit
1 copy to database manager @ PO Box 11438 ~ Hickory, NC 28603
1 copy to Membership Officer @ 1639 John St ~ Ft Lee, NJ 07024