Veterans Day 2013 - Joint Veterans Commission of Cuyahoga County

A SPECIAL THANK YOU FROM
JOINT VETERANS COMMISSION OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY
P.O. Box 5350 Cleveland, Ohio 44101-5350
Tel. (216) 373-7799 E-mail: [email protected] www.jvcocc.org
We recognize the following individuals and organizations for their support and contributing to the success of this event.
JOINT VETERANS COMMISSION
OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY
with
BASE CLEVELAND
VETERANS COMMITTEE
OUR CO-SPONSORS
BASE CLEVELAND VETERANS COMMITTEE
CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
OUR GRACIOUS HOST
Mayor Frank G. Jackson
CITY OF CLEVELAND
CITY OF CLEVELAND
OUR SUPPORTERS
AUSA – NEWTON D. BAKER CHAPTER - www.ausa.org
KABB LAW FIRM – www.kabblaw.com
US WINGS – www.uswings.com
and
- In Partnership With –
FREEDOM AND PEACE
ORGANIZING TEAM
Rick DeChant - Executive Director, Veteran Services & Programs
Cuyahoga Community College
www.tri-c.edu
Marty Flask - Director, Cleveland Department of Public Safety
Chairman, Base Cleveland Veterans’ Committee
http://basecleveland.city.cleveland.oh.us/index.html
Ronald A Schwachenwald – Colonel US Army (Retired)
President, Joint Veterans Commission of Cuyahoga County
Printing Provided by Maximum Graphix Inc. – North Ridgeville, Ohio
******
VETERANS PROJECTS
LIBERTY VETERANS HONOR GARDEN
www.jvcocc.org/LVHG Presentation 20090704.pdf
SEA OF GOODWILL
www.equalhonor.org
PRESERVING AT HOME,
DELIVERING TO THE WORLD
Welcome You To
Veterans Day 2013
www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org
HONORING ALL
MARCH 29TH VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
Monday – November 11th - 11:00 a.m.
FISHER HOUSE AT CLEVELAND VA MEDICAL CENTER
www.march29vietvetday.org
VIETNAM WAR 50 ANNIVERSARY
TH
www.vietnamwar50th.com
CLEVELAND CITY HALL
601 Lakeside Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44114
JOINT VETERANS' COMMISSION OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY
Army and Navy Union
Paralyzed Veterans of America
Association of the U.S. Army
Polish Legion of American Veterans
Catholic War Veterans
Reserve Officers Association
Italian American War Veterans
Southwest Asia Veterans
Jewish War Veterans
Ukrainian American Veterans
Korean War Veterans Association
United Spanish War Veterans
Marine Corps League
Vietnam Veterans of America
Military Order of the Purple Heart
Waves National
Navy Seabee Veterans of America
82nd Airborne Division Association
JVCOCC HISTORY AND GOALS
The Joint Veterans Commission of Cuyahoga County (JVCOCC) was established in 1935 to bring
together the energies of the various Veterans organizations, work on common goals and commemorations. The
JVCOCC sponsors the following events: Flag Day with U.S. Army Birthday and Naturalization Ceremony;
Veterans Day; and the annual Officer Installation and Outstanding Veteran of the Year Dinner in February;
supports the Memorial Day Association of Greater Cleveland to sponsor the Traditional May 30 th Memorial
Day observance; and now has partnered with the Association of the United States Army to sponsor the Armed
Forces Outstanding Patriot event. It has also undertaken the establishing of a Liberty Veterans Honor Garden
amongst the Cleveland Cultural Gardens and the restoration of Liberty Row, a memorial dedicated in 1919
with trees planted and medallions placed at their bases for those who were killed from the Greater Cleveland
area during WWI.
JVCOCC P.O. Box 5350 Cleveland, OH 44101-5350
Tel. (216) 373-7799 [email protected] www.jvcocc.org
A CALL TO PRESERVE A LEGACY
At this moment, in our country, we have about 24 million veterans but our numbers are rapidly dwindling.
We share a unique bond in that most have experienced the sacrifice or have a great understanding of it. Also
there is an extension of us veterans, our families and friends, and the families of those who gave their lives for
our country, most of whom also have a very personal knowledge of what call to duty demands and its toll on
those who serve and their families. We have to work together, across all veterans’ organizations and as
individuals, to make sure that future generations of veterans and families will receive the best care they
rightfully deserve and our fellow citizens have a clear reminder of the price for the freedoms they enjoy. The
significance of our contributions should not die with us and we should leave an easier path for future veterans
to assert their role in our society. We salute and commend all who make a lifetime commitment to serve their
fellow veterans, those who are currently serving our country and their respective families. Our numbers, when
working in unison, can guarantee an outcome worth the legacy that we share.
“The greatest citizens of each of our nation’s generations: those who died defending our country, those who
served, those who stand vigilant now and will in the future, their respective families, and the loving citizens
who supported them and their loved ones while the defenders were in harm’s way and embraced them and
their families when they came home and made it their lifetime duty to help them all heal”.
Sea of Goodwill
Matching donors with the needs of Service members, veterans, their families, and the families
of the fallen
Excerpts from www.equalhonor.org/Sea_of_Goodwill_17_May_2010.pdf
The potential of the Sea of Goodwill is not just the nation’s government, non-governmental
agencies, benevolent organizations, and institutes of higher learning. Its potential is in the heart of
our nation’s communities – the citizens of those towns and cities. The country understands the
interdependent relationship and responsibility of all participants, military and civilian, to care for our
veterans and families. However, we may not have a clear understanding of how each support the
other. Some of us are sergeants, commanders, captains, and generals who lead men and women into
harm's way on faraway fields to preserve liberty. Others are community leaders, college deans,
CEOs, and presidents who lead Sea of Goodwill - men and women in education, productivity, and
change on the fields of capitalism and philanthropy. There are at least 400,000 websites for
donors/organizations that support our Service men and women, including veterans’ service
organizations.
Donors may also be found on sources like the National Resource Directory
www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov, published by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, for
wounded, ill, and injured Services members, veterans, their families, and those who support them.
Other venues to locate support are collated on Web sites like “Warrior Gateway”
www.warriorgateway.org or www.military.com .
They may also be institutions, businesses, healthcare facilities and organizations, financial
institutions, and other infrastructure that advance society. The visitors to these websites can find
information on a variety of topics including benefits & compensation, education & training,
employment, family & caregiver support, health, homeless assistance, housing, transportation &
travel and other services & resources.
The Sea of Goodwill assists our veterans in achieving the capacity for greatness that exists in
them, their families, and the families of our fallen as they transition into civilian society. A
successful transition and continued support will enhance not only veterans and families, but also the
community.
A veteran comes from an experienced and talented group that has demonstrated a willingness to
serve their nation and community. This paper will enable a shared vision that is understood by both
civilian and military members. It will provide a suggested Sea of Goodwill general azimuth towards
which all of these diverse, well-meaning actors can channel their efforts to provide the most good for
those they so strongly and lovingly wish to help.
VIETNAM WAR
50TH ANNIVERSARY
www.vietnamwar50th.com
&
MARCH 29TH
VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
www.equalhonor.org
Currently we commemorate a half century milestone in the Vietnam War experience with
the Department of Defense leading the commemoration of the Vietnam War 50th
Anniversary. We also have embarked to establish a national March 29th Vietnam Veterans
Day. It will be a day when the nation will remember and deliver in perpetuity, the respect
and gratitude of its citizens to those who during the Vietnam War Era: made the ultimate
sacrifice and served as well as their respective families; the citizens who supported the
nation’s defenders and their families while in harm’s way and when they came home, and
our allies who served alongside our troops throughout the world as well as their families.
50th ANNIVERSARY PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
The Department of Defense is assisting a grateful Nation in commemorating the 50th
Anniversary of the Vietnam War with a series of events, activities, and programs. Events
will honor veterans and their families, recognize contributions and sacrifices made on the
home front, provide Americans with a clear understanding and history of the Vietnam War,
and recognize the contributions of civilian organizations to the war effort.
(1) To thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as
prisoners of war or listed as missing in action, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the
United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans.
(2) To highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and the
contributions of Federal agencies and governmental and non-governmental organizations
that served with, or in support of, the Armed Forces.
(3) To pay tribute to the contributions made on the home front by the people of the United
States during the Vietnam War.
(4) To highlight the advances in technology, science, and medicine related to military
research con-ducted during the Vietnam War.
(5) To recognize
the contributions
and sacrifices made
by the allies
of the United States
THE JOINT
VETERANS COMMISSION
OF CUYAHOGA
COUNTY
during the Vietnam War.
2013 VETERAN HONOREE
War I, the Cleveland was assignedJOHN
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The Cleveland was decommissioned in 1929 in accordance with the Washington Naval
Treaty limiting naval armament.
John grew up living in a home built by his father on Sprecher
Avenue off West 130 Street on Cleveland’s west side on property
The bell was held at the Western Reserve Historical Society and transferred to the third USS
that was part of his Grandfather’s farm. A playground was just
Cleveland
across the street. It was only a ball field and some swings, but it
did give him the opportunity to become a good ballplayer. In high
school he lettered in baseball. basketball and wrestling. In 2012 he
was entered into the West Tech High Hall of Fame “in recognition
of a lifetime of achievement, success, and reaching out to make a
positive difference in our world.”
John served about 11 months of active duty during his 6 years as
a member of the Ohio National Guard; some of that time was at
Lackland Air Force Base San Antonio, Texas, Air National Guard.
He was called to active duty during the Berlin Crisis, but not
deployed. He then joined the 83d Infantry Division and was sent to AP Hill Virginia, Army
National Guard for training. The time in both branches of the Guard included annual training
programs. His Honorable Discharge came from the federally recognized Army National Guard on
May
13, Cleveland
1961.
USS
(LPD-7) was an Austin-class amphibious transport dock, the third ship of
the United States Navy to be named for the City of Cleveland. The Cleveland was
In 1963
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to 21,
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from Ward
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the State of Ohio. In 1971 he was appointed director of the Landmarks Commission and served
in that
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as director,
he received
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then began a series of seven Western Pacific
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called “Inspiring
the Youth
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deployments between 1974 and 1985.
As president of the Early Settlers Association of the Western Reserve, he worked to have moved
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activities,
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throughout
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Oliver Hazard Perry. He was instrumental in preserving Fort Huntington Park, the onlyworld.
site in
Cleveland to honor those who fought in the War of 1812. Worked with the U.S. Navy and the
TheRecruiting
ClevelandCenter
is nowtoincelebrate
an inactive
Navy
thereserve
Navy’s status
Bicentennial, and conducts annual programs at Fort
Huntington Park on the anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie.
As president of the Early Settlers Association of the Western Reserve, he worked to have moved and
restored the first public monument in the State of Ohio, the statue of navy Hero Commodore Oliver
Hazard Perry. He was instrumental in preserving Fort Huntington Park, the only site in Cleveland to
honor those who fought in the War of 1812. Worked with the U.S. Navy and the Navy Recruiting Center
to celebrate the Navy’s Bicentennial, and conducts annual programs at
Fort Huntington Park on the anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie.
As a Bicentennial project, worked to have a statue of George Washington accepted and placed on the
plaza of the federal building. He then had the General Services
Administration place an historic marker telling its history. Inspired the city of Cleveland to designate
East 6th and Lakeside Avenue as George Washington Square. Each year on Flag Day conducts a program
and lays a wreath at the Washington statue and takes part in a Flag Day celebration of the Joint Veterans
Commission of Cuyahoga County.
Each year on the anniversary of the founding of the city of Cleveland, he conducts a ceremony of
the Early Settlers Association on Public Square in front of General Moses Cleaveland’s statue. This
program on July 22 is to remind Clevelanders of the city’s birthday and that Moses Cleaveland was a
Revolutionary War officer and a Brigadier General in the Connecticut state militia.
Worked to have the USS Cod placed on the National Register of Historic Places. He received an award
of appreciation for continuing cooperation and support in efforts to maintain the submarine and its
grounds. Had an engraved stone dedicated to the memory of fallen heroes of Pearl Harbor placed on the
grounds of the Cod. It reads: “Dedicated to the memory of the fallen heroes at Pearl Harbor, HonorValor-Sacrifice. More then 2,400 lives were lost in the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Imperial Naval
Forces of Japan. With love and remembrance they are not forgotten.”
Worked with the Cleveland Metroparks to develop improvements to the relics of the U.S. Maine
Memorial in Newburgh Heights Washington Reservation and also the placement of a historic marker
telling the story of the U.S. Battleship Maine and that time in our nation’s history.
On September 8, 2004 he received The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Silver
Good Citizenship Medal in recognition of notable services on behalf of our American principles.
Wrote and had published a book under the Images of America series called Erie Street Cemetery.
Chapter three is dedicated to the veterans buried in Erie Street Cemetery, called “Our Veterans, Lest We
Forget.” There are over 165 veterans buried in Erie Street Cemetery from the Revolutionary War on
to the many conflicts that followed. Today there is a flagpole and a plaque that reads: “Dedicated to the
veterans who served, lived and died for their country.” The foundation stone is in poor condition as well
as the site itself. He is now working on a project to improve the site.
MARCH 29TH VIETNAM VETERANS DAY
www.equalhonor.org
* PROPOSED LEGISLATION *
On behalf of the citizens of our great nation, the United States of America, and on behalf of the 111 th Congress and the
President of United States, this legislation is enacted to be an expression of eternal gratitude and respect to those who
served during the Vietnam War Era and to be commemorated as Vietnam Veterans Day on the 29th of March of each
year in perpetuity.
This Official Day of Recognition will serve as a vivid reminder that:
On March 29, 1973, the last 2,500 troops were withdrawn from South Vietnam thus ending military involvement
in what is now the longest war in our country’s history, and
March 29, 1974 was declared Vietnam Veterans Day by Presidential order with the support of Congress, and
March 29, 2012 was declared Vietnam Veterans Day by Presidential Proclamation with the support of Congress
on the eve of the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the beginning of the Vietnam War, and
58,195 honorable and brave souls who fought and died during the Vietnam War, ones who are missing, and those
who died since from the consequences of that war, deserve the eternal gratitude and respect of this nation, and
The men and women who served with dedication, honor, and pride during the Vietnam War, both in country and
in support of those in harm’s way as well as those protecting our freedoms at home and throughout other parts of the world
at that time, deserve the eternal gratitude and respect of this nation, and
The families whose loved ones gave their lives for our country during the Vietnam War, deserve the eternal
gratitude and respect of this nation, and
The families of those men and women who came home with the physical and emotional wounds of the Vietnam
War and committed to a lifetime of care and support for their loved one, deserve the eternal gratitude and respect of this
nation, and
The fellow citizens who stood by and supported, the families of the fallen as well as the Vietnam veterans who
returned and their families without reservation and with loving care and respect, deserve the eternal gratitude and respect of
this nation, and
The professionals and volunteers who committed themselves to the loving care and healing of the bodily and
emotionally wounded from the Vietnam War at home, and have already the utmost gratitude of those they cared for and of
their families, deserve the eternal gratitude and respect of this nation, and
The men and women of our Allies who served with dedication, honor, and pride alongside our Nation’s defenders
during the Vietnam War, both in country and in support of those in harm’s way as well as those protecting our freedoms
and throughout other parts of the world at that time, deserve the eternal gratitude and respect of this nation, and
This expression of gratitude and respect to the Vietnam Veterans and their families will also give hope and
assurance, to current and future generations of our Nation’s Defenders and their respective families, that their sacrifice and
service will not be forgotten and deserving of a distinct recognition of the eternal gratitude and respect of this nation, and
And this expression of gratitude and respect for the honorable sacrifice and service by the Vietnam Veterans and
past as well as current and future generations of our nation’s defenders and their respective families, needs to remain in the
hearts and thoughts of our fellow citizens forever, passed on from generation to generation.
Guest Speaker - John J Lasko, Jr. (continued)
Our mission is to honor and empower Wounded
Warriors.
We do this through:
- raising awareness and enlisting public support for
the wounded;
- fostering peer networks where wounded warriors
can aid and assist one another; and
- providing unique, direct programs and services to
meet www.woundedwarriorproject.org the needs of
the wounded warriors.
Our programs and services are structured to reflect our goal to make this the most
successful, well adjusted generation of wounded warriors in our nation’s history. Wounded
Warriors who are well-adjusted in mind, well adjusted in body, and economically
empowered.
Thus, our programs are focused on:
- Mind
-Project Odyssey
-Online Combat Stress Recovery Program
- Family Support
- Body
-Adaptive Sports Programs
- Soldier Ride
- Hospital Outreach
- Economic Empowerment
- Track Program
- Transitional Training Academy
- Warriors to Work
Background on other Wounded Warrior Programs
AW2 or Army Wounded Warrior Program is an internal program to assist Army Wounded
in their transition while in the service.
The Wounded Warrior Regiment is the Marines version of AW2.
serving clients throughout the northern Ohio region. In particular, Lasko
focuses on the business, financial and legal needs of closely-held, small
businesses and of their owners and key employees. He is admitted to practice
in all Federal, Ohio and local courts.
In addition to a wide range of charitable and community involvements,
Lasko has been a member of the Board of Education of the North Olmsted City
School District since 2004. During his tenure on the Board, he has served at
various times both asTri-C
its Vice
President and
as its President. He also has
is committed
to veterans.
served as the District’s representative on the Board of Education of the Polaris
Whether youHeights
are a discharged
veteran, times
on activeduring his time in
Career Center in Middleburg
at different
duty or a member of the Guard and Reserve, know
office.
that you and your family are welcome home at
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®).
Mr. Lasko and his wife, Mary Margaret (“Margie”), are the parents of
six adult children: John,
Michael,include
Elizabeth,
Charles,
Amanda and Emily.
Opportunities
fast-track
certification,
degree programs, apprenticeship programs and
many support
services. with B Company,
“Charlie,”
is a Sergeant
Their son,
1 st Battalion, 148th
Infantry Regiment, an infantry battalion of the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat
Tri-C has the resources to help you succeed.
Team, Ohio Army National Guard. After completing both Basic Combat
Training and Advanced Individual Training at Ft. Benning, Georgia, Charlie
served a 15-month deployment to Iraq at Camp Cropper in connection with
“Operation Iraqi Freedom” from June 2006 to September 2007. He also
recently completed 12-month deployment to Afghanistan at Forward Operating
Base Kunduz in support of “Operation Enduring Freedom” from September
2011 to September 2012. Of all of his awards and decorations, Charlie is most
proud of his Combat Infantryman Badge.
Enroll today for spring 2014.
Classes start Jan. 13
After they were married in June 1979, Mr. and Mrs. Lasko lived in
Rocky River for one year and Fairview Park for three years before moving to
| www.tri-c.edu/veterans
North Olmsted, where 216-987-3193
they have lived
in their same home since 1983.
THE JOINT VETERANS COMMISSION OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY
2013 MEDIA AWARD OF EXCELLENCE
BRIAN ALBRECHT
“2013 IN SERVICE TO VERTERANS AND COMMUNITY AWARD”
Have You Been Denied
Veterans Benefits?
Brian Albrecht is a Cleveland native who graduated from Mayfield
High School in 1969. He then attended Ohio State University in
Columbus where he graduated with a BA in journalism in 1973.
Albrecht worked as a reporter and photographer for a variety of newspapers and magazines before coming to The Plain Dealer in 1980. He has covered veterans and military affairs for
The Plain Dealer’s Metro section since 2001.
We’re here to get the results you deserve.
H Service-Connected Disability
H PTSD and TBI
H Gulf War Illnesses
H Chronic Diseases
H Agent Orange Exposure
H Correction/Upgrade of Disability Rating
H Increased Disability from VA Health Care
H Estate Planning for Veterans and Their Families
H Social Security Disability/SSI
H Elder Law and Life Care Planning
H Firearms Trusts
Call today for a free consultation.
He authored the “World At War” column about World War II veterans, which appeared in The
Plain Dealer for five years, and currently writes the “Profiles of Service” column which tells the
stories of all veterans.
He and his wife, Gretchen, live in Chardon and have two children.
Thomas G. Sweeney Jr.
Master of Ceremonies
Military:
Kenneth S. Kabb
Veteran’s Advocate Attorney
216-991-KABB (5222)
21625 Chagrin Boulevard H Suite 240 H Beachwood, Ohio 44122
[email protected] H www.kabblaw.com/veteranlaw
Married:
U.S. Army, Infantry Sergeant, 11th Brigade,
Americal Division, Republic
of Vietnam, Honorable Discharge
Elizabeth A. Sweeney
Two sons, Tom, 16 and Connor, 14
Self employed: President, The Thomas Sweeney Group, a communications consultancy.
President of Greater Cleveland Fisher House Task Force
Retired WKYC TV3 Cleveland anchor/reporter. THE JOINT VETERANS COMMISSION OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY
2013 STUDENT VETERAN OF THE YEAR
ALAN K. HENRY
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C)
“2013 IN SERVICE TO VERTERANS AND COMMUNITY AWARD”
Anyone who has served in the Armed Forces knows the phrase, “Can
do!” That exclamation captures the attitude of those who wear the
uniform for their ability to get the mission done despite obstacles that
may be in their way. It also describes the 2013 Cuyahoga Community
College Student Veteran of the Year, Alan Henry.
Alan is an alumnus of the U. S. Army’s elite 101 Airborne Division (the Screaming Eagles)
where her served as a Telecommunications Specialist from 1981-1985, earning an Honorable
Discharge. Since his discharge from the Army, Alan has held positions with companies including Ohio Business Machines, IKON Office Solutions, and his current position in logistics with
Veterans Industries at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center in Cleveland.
During this same period Alan also never lost his focus on the importance of education. Thanks to
the financial support provided from the Department of Veteran Affairs’ Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP) and the College’s Veterans’ Initiative, Alan has been able to complete his
course of study in Massage Therapy at Cuyahoga Community College and will be graduating in
December 2013 with his Associate’s Degree of Applied Science. His long-term goal is to move
into a career with the Department of Veteran Affairs in using massage therapy as a supplemental
treatment for those veterans suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What makes this achievement so special is that Alan has accomplished this goal as a homeless
veteran. The ups and downs of on-again, off-again employment in an uncertain economy, as well
as a medical condition that nearly threatened his eyesight, made permanent residency a tough
issue for Alan. He currently resides in the Volunteers of America Domiciliary at the Louis Stokes
VA Medical Center. However, this obstacle has not prevented him from accomplishing his goal
of a college degree.
Without question Alan’s drive and perseverance stand as a shining example to all of just exactly
what “Can do!” really means. It is for these reasons that Alan K. Henry has been selected as
Cuyahoga Community College’s 2013 Student Veteran of the Year.
Fred M. Midgette
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard
Rear Admiral Midgette assumed duty as the Ninth
Coast Guard District Commander in June 2013. He is
the senior Coast Guard commander for the five Great
Lakes and Saint Lawrence Seaway, which includes
1,500 miles of international border. He leads 6,000
Coast Guard active duty, reserve, civilian and auxiliary
men and women serving at 77 subordinate units and on
the District staff.
His previous assignment was as Military Advisor to the
Secretary of Homeland Security where he supported
the Secretary in affairs relating to the coordination and
execution of policy and operations between the
Department of Homeland Security and the Department
of Defense.
He is a Coast Guard Cutterman, and a U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer having served
over 12 years afloat in seven Coast Guard Cutters and a Navy Destroyer.
Prior assignments in the Great Lakes included duty as Chief of Staff of the Ninth Coast
Guard District; Sector Commander and Captain of the Port of Detroit; and Commanding
Officer of Coast Guard Cutter KATMAI BAY in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. He also served in a
number of joint and liaison positions including tours on the Joint Staff at the Pentagon;
with the legacy U.S. Customs Service; and as a liaison officer to U.S. Northern Command.
Rear Admiral Midgette is a native of Virginia Beach, VA and he holds a Bachelor of
Science in Civil Engineering (Coast Guard Academy), a Masters of Science in
Management (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute), and a Master of Arts in National Security
and Strategic Studies (Naval War College).
THE JOINT VETERANS COMMISSION OF
CUYAHOGA COUNTY
2013 CITIZEN HONOREES
John and Elizabeth Franklin
“2013 IN SERVICE TO VERTERANS AND
COMMUNITY AWARD”
John and Betty Franklin are a team that promote a we
can do it feeling within all the organizations to which
they belong. John is very active in the Sons of the
American Revolution where he traces his ancestor
back to one who served during the Revolutionary War.
Franklin is a past president and Color Guard
Commander at the Chapter and State levels and has opened many new horizons to Betty. She is a
past president of the National Ladies’ Auxiliary of the NSSAR. John and Betty met at Cleveland
Heights High School and just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.
NEWTON D. BAKER CLEVELAND CHAPTER
ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY
Since 1950, the Association of the United States Army
has worked to support all aspects of national security
while advancing the interests of America's Army and the
men and women who serve.
AUSA is a private, non-profit educational organization
that supports America's Army - Active, National Guard,
Reserve, Civilians, Retirees, Government Civilians,
Wounded Warriors, Veterans, and family members.
AUSA provides numerous Professional Development
Opportunities at a variety of events both local and
national.
Many Memorial, Flag Day, Fourth of July, and Veterans Days are focused on remembering
those who gave us our freedoms. The Franklins participate at Lake View Cemetery, TriC, and
City Hall and many other church ceremonies in memory of our veterans. John is commander
of the Western Reserve Society Archibald Willard Color Guard where he arranges the events
and contacts the guardsmen to assist at about 50 events a year. He was presented the flag by the
parachutist who proudly waved the flag on his descent at the Peace Memorial Plaza. Nationally,
he was recognized by the NSSAR as the Guardsman of the year and received the Gold Color
Guardsman medal.
OUR MISSION - AUSA represents every American Soldier by:
- Being the voice for all components of America's Army
- Fostering public support of the Army's role in national security
- Providing professional education and information programs
Over the years the guardsmen have visited the patients at the Stokes VA Hospital and the Ohio
Veterans’ Home taking thank you cards, clothing, books, and dopp kits. Betty and her Ladies
Auxiliary group currently send care packages to our servicemen in harms way.
OUR VALUES
- Excellence – Innovation – Professionalism – Inclusiveness – Integrity - Responsiveness
After presenting the colors at many Naturalization ceremonies in Cleveland at the Justice
Center and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Key Plaza, and in Mentor at President Garfield’s
estate, John and Betty recently flew to California when their niece received her Naturalization
Certificate. It meant so much to John and Betty and it was a day of celebration for all that she
had accomplished.
A favorite celebration was at One World Day along East Boulevard showcasing the beautiful
Cultural Gardens. The soil from a new country’s land was added to the urn for a combined
melting pot of nations.
OUR VISION - As the premier voice for America's Soldiers, we are a dedicated team
committed to building the best professional and representative association for the world's
best Army.
AUSA is open to all Army ranks and all components -- including Active, National Guard,
Army Reserve -- Government civilians, retirees, Wounded Warriors, Veterans, concerned
citizens and family members. Indeed AUSA welcomes anyone who subscribes to the
philosophy of a strong national defense with special concern for the Army. Community
businesses and defense industry companies are also welcome to join AUSA – www.ausa.org
THE NEWTON D. BAKER CLEVELAND CHAPTER
ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATE ARMY
THANKS THE IRAQ WAR VETERANS,
ALL VETERANS, THOSE WHO SERVE AND THEIR FAMILIES
Greater Cleveland Fisher House
At Cleveland VA Medical Center
www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org
The Fisher House program is a unique private-public partnership that supports America's military in
their time of need. The program recognizes the special sacrifices of our men and women in uniform
and the hardships of military service by meeting a humanitarian need beyond that normally provided
by the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
Because members of the military and their families are stationed worldwide and must often travel
great distances for specialized medical care, Fisher House Foundation donates "comfort homes,"
built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. These homes enable family members
to be close to a loved one at the most stressful times - during the hospitalization for an unexpected
illness, disease, or injury.
There is at least one Fisher House at every major military medical center to assist families in need
and to ensure that they are provided with the comforts of home in a supportive environment.
Annually, the Fisher House program serves more than 11,000 families, and have made available
nearly three million days of lodging to family members since the program originated in 1990. By
law, there is no charge for any family to stay at a Fisher House operated by the Department of
Veterans Affairs; and Fisher House Foundation uses donations to reimburse the individual Fisher
Houses operated by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. No family pays to stay at any Fisher House!
In addition to constructing the new houses, the Fisher House Foundation (www.fisherhouse.org)
continues to support existing Fisher Houses and help individual military families in need. They also
are proud to administer and sponsor Scholarships for Military Children, the Hero Miles program, and
co-sponsor the Newman's Own Award.
DONATE ONLINE / GET INVOLVED – Greater Cleveland Fisher House
www.greaterclevelandfisherhouse.org
Mail Donations to:
Greater Cleveland Fisher House
21886 Seabury Avenue Cleveland, OH 44126
Typical Fisher House
Last year when Navy week celebrated their 200th Anniversary at Fort Huntington Park, The
Early
Reserve
and of
Western
Reserve
Society
SonsofofEagles
the
HattieSettlers
is alsoAssociation
a member of
of the
TheWestern
Independent
Order
Foresters,
Fraternal
Order
American
Revolution
forces to have
a major celebration
in honor
of Perry’s
Battleof
#3505. She
is active combined
in the community
as a member
of The Grand
Knights
and Ladies
on
Lake Erie.
Theoffices
Franklins
were there
with
John
marching
andarea
Betty
photographing
the
Pulaski
and held
of President
and
Vice
President
in her
senior
center.
event. All of the ceremonies in which John actively participates are documented by Betty
and
photos
by John committee
to those sponsoring
the event.
This year
onPark,
Southuntil
BassitIsland,
Hattie
wasare
onsent
the finance
of her church,
St. Patrick
West
closed in
th
they
joined
others
and
had
a
bus
load
of
friends
to
celebrate
the
200
Anniversary
of Perry’s
2009. She rejoined the church family when it reopened in 2012.
Victory.
Hattie experienced another heartbreak then, in that Arthur passed away in 2009. Their son
John
andtook
Betty
arethe
active
in many other organizations including Friends of Fort Laurens,
James
over
business.
Hudson Genealogical Study Group, Mayflower Society, Early Settlers Association, New
England
Society,
of thetoWestern
Reserve
Historical Veterans.
Society, Ohio
Hattie is
deeplyFriends
committed
the needs
of hospitalized
She Genealogical
volunteers at Wade
Society,
and
Descendants
of
George
Washington’s
Army
at
Valley
Forge.
In
addition
Park Veterans Administration Medical Center, has dedicated over 4000 hours
in that mission
Betty
enjoysthe
being
a member
of Antique
Garden
Club, Deputy.
Woman’s Club and being a
and holds
office
of Veterans
Affairs Club,
Volunteer
Services
Eucharistic Minister at her church.
She is in her seventh year as Deputy, its duties include quarterly meetings to discuss needs
and is
fund
raising necessary
the good
of the
Sundaysphotographer.
you will find Betty
Hattie at
John
a graduate
of Robert for
Morris
College
andveterans.
a retired Most
professional
Wade Park
Hospital
down veterans
church and
later serving
coffee and
donuts.
graduated
from
Notre bringing
Dame College
and was afor
Children’s
Librarian
in Cleveland
Heights.
Their son Bill is VP at Discover Financial. He and Deirdre have four children and live in
She also joins
Chapter
#30 on
their
semi-annual
treatyears
outreach,
where
Hattie
Chicago.
Bettyher
andPLAV
John have
enjoyed
their
volunteer
work ward
for many
and now
make
is
in
charge
of
packing
treat
bags
and
distributing
them
to
the
wards.
time for their wonderful grandchildren, too.
Christmas time is also a time for packing bags of needed items supplied by the hospital and
donations for all the hospitalized veterans. Summers include attending a picnic hosted by the
VA Medical Center, where she sometimes also assists.
Hattie retired from TOPS Supermarkets after 31 years of service. She started as Dairy
Manager and then progressed to Computer Prices Programmer, the position she held until
her retirement.
Maximum Graphix Inc.
Congratuates
all of Jason)
the as
Hattie enjoys her family, spoiling her grandchildren Nicholas
and Amy (husband
well as her one great granddaughter, Emma Margaret-Marie.Awardees and Thanks All
Veterans for Their Service.
Thank You.
SALUTING IRAQ VETERANS
VETERANS DAY 2013
FOR A JOB WELL DONE
WE OFFER OUR PRAYERS FOR THOSE CONTINUING THOSE MISSIONS,
AS WELL AS FOR THOSE SERVING ELSEWHERE
PROTECT YOUR LEGACY
“You and your families will not be forgotten”
We take this opportunity to welcome our new generation of veterans and thank you for your
sacrifice and service throughout Southwest Asia and beyond. We congratulate all for your
commitments to continue to contribute to your country, communities, families, fellow veterans and
citizens through your pursuits in education, volunteering and careers.
You are special, take the opportunity to reach out to each other and continue those special bonds
that you forged while in the service and especially while in harm’s way. Your mutual understanding
will carry you through whatever obstacle life sends your way. Embrace the help of your family and
friends to navigate past any turbulent experiences and take good care of yourselves and your
families, take advantage of any help offered and available.
Those of us who preceded you in service to our nation, along with our families and many a
citizen, stand ready to continue to support you and your families. We have stood by you with our
hearts and our efforts, rallied resources for you and your families while you were serving our country
and we shall not forget our duty to continue in providing the care and resources needed to help you
benefit from what you and your families have earned and deserve. You can reach out to us and we
will be there for you and your families, we hope you continue to share with us your needs and
successes.
We welcome you into the universal brotherhood of veterans, its traditions, and most of all our
care for each other, our families, our fellow man, our communities and our country. May you find it
as pleasurable and fulfilling as we have, find the passion to continue this legacy. Pass it on to those
who will follow you with the enthusiasm and commitment that hopefully we have shown to you
through our words and deeds.
PLEASE NOTE: As we, Vietnam War and Era Veterans, strive to establish a day of recognition
with the March 29th Vietnam Veterans Day, for your service we will also pave the way for a day of
recognition with a date and title to be determined by your own generation
“ You and us are the voices for those who no longer have a voice or a choice ”
Vietnam Veterans Motto - Never again will one generation of Veterans abandon another
Welcome
Martin L. Flask, Director
Cleveland Mayor
Frank G. Jackson
Proclamation
Cleveland Department of Public Safety
Base Cleveland Veterans Committee
Mayor Frank G. Jackson
Greater Cleveland Fisher House
Master of Ceremonies
Tom Sweeney, President: the Thomas Sweeney Group Inc.
President: The Greater Cleveland Fisher House
Presenting of Colors
Color Guard
U.S. Coast Guard Ninth District, Cleveland Department of Public Safety
National Anthem
Lisa Padro-Baire
Invocation
Commander, Jeffrey S. Plummer, U. S. Navy, Chaplain
Acknowledgments/Greetings
Ronald A. Schwachenwald, Col. U. S. Army (Ret.) President
Recognitions
Ron Schwachenwald
Richard DeChant
“SERVICE TO VETERANS AND COMMUNITY AWARDS”
Citizen Honoree’s- John H. and Elizabeth Franklin
Media Honoree – Brian Albrecht, The Plain Dealer
Veteran Student Honoree – Alan Henry, Cuyahoga Community College
Veteran Honoree - John D. Cimperman
Tom Sweeney
“SALUTE AND THANK YOU - WAR VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES”
Guest Speaker
Rear Admiral, Fred M. Midgette,
U. S. Coast Guard Ninth District Commander
God Bless America
Lisa Padro-Baire
Benediction
Commander, Jeffrey S. Plummer, US Navy Chaplain
U. S. Coast Guard Ninth District
Amazing Grace
Public Safety Pipes and Drums
U.S. Coast Guard Ninth District
Joint Veterans Commission of Cuyahoga County
Cleveland Department of Public Safety
Taps
Volley
Brook Park 3rd Battalion 25th Marines Detachment,
Marine Corps League