Helping Women Veterans - VFW Department of New Mexico

Official Publication of the Department of New Mexico Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary
January 2016
Helping Women Veterans
Five and a half years ago it was brought to my attention
that the then New Women’s Health Clinic at the VA
Hospital in Albuquerque was in need. The VA was
started before women became an integral part of our
military. Many of the needs for women are not
addressed. Our efforts have been to fill some of those
needs.
I asked the VA what they needed. Their answer:
ANYTHING you can help with. I started a program
through the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 7686, now just
the Auxiliary. Hygiene items were chosen, since they
are the most basic and immediate need. Many of these
ladies are homeless or very low income. We fill a
reusable tote bag with 12 oz shampoo, 20 oz lotion,
comb and brush set, toothbrush and holder, 6.4 oz
toothpaste, soap and a pack of tissues. Sanitary items
are provided.
Vol. 40 Issue 2
family was entering William Beaumont Army Memorial
Center for a double mastectomy. She was provided 2
new robes, 2 new nightgowns, and 2 new pairs of
slippers. We also coordinated with the post in El Paso to
provide transportation as needed. Our local Disabled
American Veterans drivers pick up and deliver items
monthly, saving us delivery costs. Thanks to the DAV
for helping us this way.
Donations have been generous. We have received
money and/or items from throughout the state of New
Mexico, as well Department of New Mexico VFW and
Auxiliary members. We have also received donations
from members in Arizona, Kansas, South Carolina, and
Virginia. If anyone is interested in donating, please send
to: Auxiliary to VFW Post 7686 700 US Hwy 70 West
Alamogordo, NM 88310, and on memo line, note “Aid to
Female Veterans.” All donations will be deposited into a
restricted account, usable only for this project.
Approximately 1500 of these bags have been sent to the
Women’s Health Clinic already. Every female veteran or Paulette Hyland
spouse of a veteran receives a bag along with a note
Chairperson Aid to Female Veterans Auxiliary Post 7686
thanking them for their service. Spouses do not deploy
but serve in a special and necessary way.
We also collect small size soaps, lotion,
shampoo, and many other items. These are
sent to be distributed to all of the veterans at
the VA.
We have donated 12 new pairs of pajamas,
clothing and $200 for bras. This has all been
sent to the clothes closet at the hospital.
We have purchased 2 breast pumps for the
VA clinic in El Paso; one for an Iraqi veteran
with an immediate need, and the other for
the supply room there. A homeless veteran
with no
2
New Mexico
National Representative
Glen M. Gardner, Jr.
Commander-in-Chief 20082009
Veterans of Foreign Wars of
the United States
Glen Gardner was elected
Commander-in-Chief of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars on
August 21, 2008, at the VFW
109th national convention, held
in Orlando, Fla.
Glen M. Gardner, Jr.
New Mexico
VFW News
Official Publication of the Department of New Mexico Veterans
of Foreign Wars of the United States.
Three issues: September, January and May. News Items and
photographs, etc., should be sent to VFW Dept. Editor, 4705
Baltic Ave, Farmington, NM 87402 or email to
[email protected] no later than the 10th day of the
month preceding the month of publication. Editor is Mark
Decker.
All articles must be typed (please do not use all capital letters) or
Glen served in the U. S. Marine printed.
Corps in 1966-1970. He
served as an aircraft mechanic with the 1st Marine
Aircraft Wing, Marine Aircraft Group 12 in Chu Lai,
Vietnam, 1968-69. He was awarded the Combat Action
Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal,
the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign
Medal with device, and the Vietnamese Cross of
Gallantry.
In 1969, Glen joined VFW Post 2993 in Olathe, Kansas.
Later, when he moved to Texas, Glen joined Post 3359
in Garland where he maintains his life membership. He
was elected Post Commander in 1977 and again in
1983, and served as Post Quartermaster for five terms.
He earned the title of All American District Commander
in 1981-1982. Glen served as the Adjutant/
Quartermaster for the Department of Texas, 1984-2006.
Glen has served on several national committees,
including the National By-Law Review Committee for 19
years and as chairman of the Budget and Finance
committee.
He was instrumental in forming the Texas Coalition of
Veterans Organizations. He chaired that 600,000member group for 15 years.
Glen’s hobbies include golf and antiquing.
Glen is a member of Military Order of the Cootie,
American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and
National Association of Uniformed Services.
Glen and his wife, Jean have four children, seven
grandchildren and reside in Round Rock, Texas.
VFW
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
New Mexico VFW
State Officers 2015-2016
National Councilman - Allan Kuchinsky 7686 Alamogordo
Commander - Lawrence Vargas 3259 Taos
Sr. Vice Commander - Len Hampton 6917 Las Cruces
Jr. Vice Commander - Charles Eaton 9515 Portales
Quartermaster - Dave Fouse 7686 Alamogordo
Chaplain - Mark Decker 9517 Shiprock
Judge Advocate - Cathy Brock 3274 Hobbs
Surgeon - Richard Nutt 7686 Alamogordo
Inspector - Dave Wimmer 7686 Alamogordo
Chief of Staff - Raul Sanchez 6917 Las Cruces
Past State Cmdr - Kathie Schiebel 401 Albuquerque
Service Officer - Cynthia Archuleta 5890 Rio Rancho
District Commanders
District 1 - Kyrk Westbrook 9517 Shiprock
District 2 - Ernest Garcia 401 Albuquerque
District 3 - John Rider 11999 Cloudcroft
District 4 - James Zawacki 3347 Arenas Valley
District 5 - Eusebio Esparza 1793 Raton
District 6 - Ramon Jaramillo 3259 Taos
District 7 - Edwardo Rodriquez 3274 Hobbs
District 8 - Joe Bob Mann 3280 Clovis
New Mexico
3
Commander’s Corner
Comrades and Sisters:
As we are approaching the
halfway mark of my year as
your State Commander, it
has been challenging and a
learning process as I go
along.
Since I became your State
Commander, I have done
some traveling out of state
and throughout the
Department. I’m still not
finished, and as I said, I'm
still learning and meeting
Lawrence Vargas
new friends and some
enemies, but that goes with
the job. I still enjoy what I was elected to do for my Department, and working for you, my comrades.
I believe the school of instruction we had went fairly well.
I would like to thank all that attended; we had great
instructors to share different topics, and hope all left with
a little more knowledge that will help your Posts and
Districts.
The most important of all are the ones that have
canteens and gaming facilities. I don't know how to
stress that each one of these Posts abide with the State
Gaming Regulations, and if you do this, you won't have
any problems. Again, let me stress that the Department
of New Mexico Veterans of Foreign Wars is NOT IN
THE GAMING BUSINESS. Any issues that the Post has
with canteens is settled with the House Committee, and
any issues at Post level are settled at Post level.
Remember, use the chain of command.
Also Post Commanders and District Commanders,
please go by your by-laws and BY-LAWS MANUAL OF
PROCEDURE RITUAL. All your questions that you need
to know are answered in our Bible as we know it.
If you don't find what you need, again, use the Chain of
Command until it reaches Dept.
As for the remainder of the year, let's concentrate on the
programs, membership and anything else that the posts
need to get in order, and in a timely manner too.
Department minutes, audits, and bonds should have
been turned in before the end of August 2015. Poppies
should have already been ordered.
I have visited the majority of the Districts, and I should
be done with all by the end of February. Throughout my
visits I have been received with warm welcomes. Next
goal is to visit as many Posts as possible.
In closing, Comrades, I hope each and every one of
you, with your families and friends, had very enjoyable
and pleasant holidays. Also, let us not forget our
Veterans that couldn't spend the holidays with their
families, and let's keep all of them in our prayers. As the
saying goes, WE CAN WE WILL accomplish our goals
that we set to do for this great Department of New
Mexico Veterans of Foreign Wars, with each and every
one of us to do our job that we volunteered to do. We
can do it.
God Bless each and every one of you and God Bless
the United States of America. NO ONE DOES MORE
FOR VETERANS.
Lawrence R Vargas, Sr
Coming Events
District 8 Mtg. Jan. 10 - 2528 Tucumcari
Bataan Memorial March 17-19 - White Sands
District 3 Mtg. Jan. 31 - 6917 Las Cruces
District 4 Mtg. April 2 - 3347 Arenas Valley
Mid-Winter Convention February 6 Albuquerque
District 4 Mtg. Feb. 13 - 12008 Hatch
District 2 Mtg. Feb. 20 - 6216 Albuquerque
District 7 Mtg. Feb. 21 - 8703 Carlsbad
District 1 Mtg. Mar. 5 - 9517 Shiprock
District 2 Mtg. April 16 - 401 Albuquerque
District 5 Mtg. April 16 - 1793 Raton
District 6 Mtg. April 16 - 8874 Los Alamos
District 7 Mtg. April 17 - 3274 Hobbs
District 8 Mtg. April 17 - 9515 Portales
District 3 Mtg. April 24 - 7686 Alamogordo
District 1 Mtg. April 30 - 615 Aztec
4
New Mexico
Senior Vice Commander’s Message
Comrades and Sisters:
Some of the tools of technology include computers, and
smart phones. Post and members can employ social
The year is at the halfway
point. How successful has media – Facebook, Twitter, and email – to create and
sustain an online presence. Arm yourself with these
your membership
tools, the knowledge of what the VFW offers, along with
campaign been?
commitment and consistency, and watch your
Membership is the life
membership grow! New members will bring their particublood of our Great and
Proud organization. Finding lar expertise as well as new ideas and directions.
new ways, new places and
communicating with our
You say you are technologically challenged. Remember,
younger brothers and
in order to succeed and grow we must not only be willing
sisters are a few ways to
to change, we must embrace change.
increase membership.
Lenwood Hampton
What is your plan to
increase membership? We’ve all heard: “Failure to plan
is planning to fail.” To be successful, every Post needs a
strong and effective membership campaign. Part of your
campaign armament must include technology.
Yours in Comradeship,
Len Hampton
Junior Vice Commander’s Message
Comrades and Sisters:
Let me first begin by
thanking all of you
comrades who expressed
your confidence in me by
voting me in as your Junior
Vice Commander. I will
always strive to earn your
confidence and be worthy of
your trust. Though this year
is only about half way
through, I have learned a
great deal about the inner
workings of our
Charles Eaton
organization. The heart of
the VFW really is service to
Veterans. Whether that service is helping veterans locally
through local food banks, or pressing the US Congress to
enact legislation favorable to veterans and their families,
the VFW is leading the charge.
So what can you do to make this VFW of ours better,
more powerful, able to serve more veterans, and have a
much greater influence in Congress? The answer is so
very simple. All you need to do is to enroll one more
member. That’s it. Make it your goal to enroll one new
member prior to state convention. It is an easy thing to
accomplish, but makes a powerhouse of our National
Influence.
Part of the programs at the local post level should be the
recognition of local veterans, and specifically those
veterans from earlier conflicts such as WWI, WWII and
Korea.
Don’t forget that success is deeds “Well done and well
advertised.” Make certain that your community knows
who you are, where you are, and what you are doing.
People love to be part of a winning team; show them that
you are.
Charles Eaton
New Mexico
5
Adjutant’s Message
Trustees Report of Audit must be completed in detail at
the close of each quarter, one of which ends March 31,
I hope all of you had a great 2016. Commanders are reminded that accurate and
complete records shall be kept by all persons handling
and safe holiday season.
Although the department is Post funds, including Canteen, Game Room and Bingo
Managers. These records, as well as the records of the
a little behind on
membership, (739 members Post Quartermaster, shall be audited by Post Trustees.
@ 90.25% last year to 626
As a reminder to all Post Commanders and Adjutants, the
members @ 88.17%) for
upcoming Nomination and Election process begins next
this year; a difference of
month. During your Post meeting in March, nominations
113 members short from
will be held for next year’s Officers. In April’s meeting,
this time last year. Buddy
the Elections will be held, and May (usually) is when you
Poppy orders are down;
can invite the families to come and enjoy the installation
(58,500 ordered last year
ceremony of your newly elected Officers.
vs. 45,500 ordered so far
Dave Fouse
this year) a difference of
Once the Elections are held during the April’s meeting;
13,000 poppies. The
generous donations to fund the Department scholarships the Post Adjutant should be working on completing and
filing the Post Election Report online. DO NOT WAIT!! If
and programs are $6,230.00 donated last year vs.
00
00
there are any vacancies, those can be filled (elected,
$4,895. in donations so far this year, down $1,335. . I
installed and processed online) at a later date. It is
am hoping we can pick up the pace a little quicker and
surpass our ending totals and amounts from last year.
imperative that these Election reports are processed
during the month of April. This will allow my staff to
All members are reminded that their annual membership create and publish the Department Directory in time to
in the Veterans of Foreign Wars expires on their
distribute at the first Council meeting after the State
anniversary date of joining the VFW. Your Post QM will
Convention.
be able to find that information for you if needed. Too
many of our officers are being removed for not paying
For the District Commanders and Adjutants, your
their dues.
Nominations and Elections will take place during the
As a reminder, pursuant to the provisions of Section 215 District Convention; unfortunately, your election report
of the National By-Laws and, the officers and committee form is done manually, either handwritten or filled out on
members whose membership is not in good standing by the computer.
Comrades,
reason of failure to pay their current dues by their
anniversary date shall forfeit eligibility to hold any office in
that administrative year. (2015-2016.) Posts have been
notified via email of any officer(s) who are no longer a
member in good standing, and have been removed by
National HQ’s. Nominations and elections must be held to
replace those positions.
For those reports that are handwritten, please send these
election reports to Department Headquarters. I will be
glad to type them before sending to National. All I need is
the completed form with addresses, emails and a good
home phone and/or cell number.
The attention of Post Commanders is directed to section
218 of the Manual of Procedure, “Duty of Trustees.”
David Fouse
For the rest of you, I will need a copy either faxed,
emailed or snail mailed to this office. I do not receive a
The distribution of VFW Buddy Poppies will be conducted
copy from National HQ’s like I do with the Posts.
according to the provisions set forth in sections 711 of the
National By-Laws and Manual of Procedure. Department,
Along with your Election Report, jot down on a separate
District, and Post Commanders should arrange now for
piece of paper the meeting dates, times and Post location
the distribution of Buddy Poppies for the Memorial Day
for all upcoming District meetings.
campaign in their respective areas. All profits accruing
from the distribution of Buddy Poppies shall be used in
If at any time there is a need for my assistance, PLEASE
accordance with sections 219 and 704 of the Manual of
send me an email, text or give me a call. I am here to
Procedure.
help.
6
New Mexico
Chaplain’s Message
Comrades and Sisters,
Mark Decker
them. The Department cares for each and every
member out there, but without notification, we do not
Greetings from your know about these situations.
Department Chaplain, Mark
Decker. I hope you had a
I look forward to seeing all of you at the Midgreat holiday season. We Winter Convention in February. If you have any
are over six months into the questions or concerns, please just ask me. If I cannot
VFW year. I have heard
give you the correct answer, I will help you find the
from a few posts about
resources to get it.
members that are sick or
passed away this year so
Yours in Comradeship,
far. If you have any
member that is sick or
passes away, please let me Mark Decker
know so that I can send out
a “Get Well” or
“Condolences” card for
Surgeon’s Message
VA Makes Changes to
following criteria:
Veterans Choice Program  Enrolled in VA health care by 8/1/14 or able to enroll
as a combat Veteran to be eligible for the Veterans
Choice Program;
The Department of

Experienced unusual or excessive burden eligibility
Veterans Affairs today
determined by geographical challenges,
announced a number of
environmental factors or a medical condition
changes to make
Impacting the Veteran’s ability to travel;
participation in the Veterans

Determined eligible based on the Veteran’s current
Choice Program easier and
residence being more than 40 miles driving distance
more convenient for
from the closest VA medical facility.
Veterans who need to use
it. The move, which
Under the updated eligibility requirements, a Veteran
streamlines eligibility
is eligible for the Veterans Choice Program if he or
requirements, follows
she is enrolled in the VA health care system and
Richard Nutt
feedback from Veterans
meets at least one of the following criteria:
along with organizations
 Told by his or her local VA medical facility that they
working on their behalf.
will not be able to schedule an appointment for care
within 30 days of the date the Veteran’s physician
“As we implement the Veterans Choice Program, we are
determines he/she needs to be seen or within 30
learning from our stakeholders what works and what
days of the date the Veteran wishes to be seen if
needs to be refined,” said VA Secretary Robert A.
there is no specific date from his or her physician;
McDonald. “It is our goal to do all that we can to remove
 Lives more than 40 miles driving distance from the
barriers that separate Veterans from the care they
closest VA medical facility with a full-time primary
deserve.” To date, more than 400,000 medical
care physician;
appointments have been scheduled since the Veterans
 Needs to travel by air, boat or ferry to the VA
Choice Program went into effect on November 5, 2014.
medical facility closest to his/her home;
Under the old policy, a Veteran was eligible for the
Veterans Choice Program if he or she met the
~continued on page 7~
New Mexico
7
Surgeon’s Message - cont.
~continued from page 6~


Faces an unusual or excessive burden in traveling
to the closest VA medical facility based on
geographic challenges, environmental factors, a
medical condition, the nature or simplicity or
frequency of the care needed and whether an
attendant is needed. Staff at the Veteran’s local VA
medical facility will work with him or her to
determine if the Veteran is eligible for any of these
reasons; or
Lives in a State or Territory without a full-service VA
medical facility which includes: Alaska, Hawaii, New
Hampshire (Note: this excludes New Hampshire
Veterans who live within 20 miles of the White River
Junction VAMC) and the United States Territories
(excluding Puerto Rico, which has a full service VA
medical facility).
Veterans seeking to use the Veterans Choice Program
or wanting to know more about it, can call1-866-6068198 to confirm their eligibility and to schedule an
appointment. For more details about the Veterans
Choice Program and VA’s progress, visit: www.va.gov/
opa/choiceact.
VA Launches Hepatitis C–Advanced Liver Disease
Disparities Dashboard
Secretary for Health. “VA will provide data directly to
facilities for any of the vulnerable groups identified by the
dashboard and support outreach efforts to Veteran
populations disparately impacted and not currently
served by VA health care. This is an important step in
assuring all Veterans with ALD receive timely,
appropriate care.”
VA’s Veterans Health Administration’s Office of Health
Equity developed the dashboard as part of its efforts to
target and accelerate care of Veterans with this serious
disease. The new resource promotes equitable diagnosis
and treatment of underserved Veterans with hepatitis C
and ALD nationally and compliments existing clinical
hepatitis and liver disease dashboards available in some
Veterans Integrated Service Networks or VISNs.
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the most
common blood-borne infection in the world.
Complications that result from untreated HCV infection
include progressive liver damage leading to cirrhosis,
primary cancer of the liver, liver failure and death.
Although many of these complications are treatable or
even preventable, three-quarters of the individuals with
HCV infection in the U.S. are unaware they are infected.
VA leads the country in hepatitis screening, testing,
treatment, research and prevention.
The Hepatitis C-ALD dashboard further advances the
vision for quality care and improved access to care
The Department of Veterans Affairs is stepping up
identified in VA’s Blueprint for Excellence. For more
its efforts to accelerate treatment for Veterans with
hepatitis C and advanced liver disease (ALD) through the information on the dashboard, visit:http://
www.hsrd.research.va.gov/news/video/heap.cfm.
creation of a Hepatitis C–ALD dashboard. The
dashboard works by using a set of criteria, including age,
gender, geography, service era along with and race and I ask that all Comrades and family members continue to
ethnicity, to distinguish Veteran groups at highest risk for log onto www.va.gov on a regular basis to receive the
latest information on all health matters that the
ALD as a result of hepatitis C.
Department of Veterans Affairs are pursuing on your
“The dashboard is a powerful data tool to help VA identify behalf.
Veteran groups disproportionately affected by Advanced
Liver Disease and to ensure they receive the appropriate Richard Nutt
health care,” said Dr. David Shulkin, VA’s Under
State Surgeon
8
New Mexico
Inspector’s Message
District Commanders:
Dave Wimmer
Inspections are coming in
very slowly. By this time
you should have had the
chance to visit the posts in
your District, and inspected
them. If you want, you can
always run an inspection
form off the NMVFW.org
web site as a tool. I have
found out over the years
that if you provide the post
with a copy of the
inspection form, they know
exactly what they need to
have ready for you when you show up. This not only
saves time, but gives the post a chance to find items they
may be missing. If there is question concerning a current
bond, call me (575-491-3808) and I will obtain the
required information for you.
DON'T FORGET to forward a copy of the completed
Inspection to me at: Dave Wimmer, 5980 Hwy 54S unit
3753, Alamogordo, NM 88311-9522.
I can't mark you off as complete until I have that. Janis
and I wish you and your family a joyous holiday.
Dave Wimmer
Department Inspector
New Mexico
9
VFW Names National JVCIC Designee
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (December 7, 2015) — Vincent
“B.J.” Lawrence of Alamogordo, New Mexico has been
selected by the VFW Western Conference as the
candidate for Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars for the upcoming 2016-2017
year. As such, Lawrence will spend the months leading
up to the July 16 VFW National Convention attending
VFW leadership meetings and conferences, preparing
himself for election to the office of one of the top spots in
the VFW, and one that will position him to be elected as
National Commander in 2019.
Mr. Lawrence served with the U.S. Army from 1982-86,
earning his VFW eligibility in Korea. His decorations
include the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service
Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal, and Army
Achievement Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster.
Upon joining VFW at Post 7686, Alamogordo, New
Mexico in 2000, Comrade Lawrence immediately began
to dedicate his efforts toward moving the organization
forward into the new millennium and beyond. He has
proven to be a highly effectual and dynamic leader,
serving in a myriad of critical leadership positions
including: VFW Post, District, and Department
commander, as well as on the National Appeals
Committee and as Vice Chairman of the National
Legislative Committee. “B.J.” Lawrence was elected to a
two-year term on the VFW’s National Council of
Administration in 2009 representing District 15,
comprised of two Departments, Arizona and New
Mexico.
During the 2010 VFW National Convention, Comrade
Lawrence joined the ranks of a select few when he was
recognized for his distinctive membership-recruiting
achievements at the Department, District and Post levels
by earning the coveted designation of “VFW Triple
Crown Winner.”
Mr. Lawrence attended the New Mexico State Law
Enforcement Academy, New Mexico Firefighters
Academy, and the United States Drug Enforcement
Administration Narcotics Enforcement School. Mr.
Lawrence served his community as a police officer for
several years, including time as an undercover narcotics
agent. He is currently employed as a Private Investigator
and owner of Lawrence Investigations.
In 2008, he became a Legacy Gold Life Member. He is a
Life Member of the VFW National Home for Children and
the Military Order of the Cootie.
A Personal Note from Our National JVCIC Designee
Having been duly elected
by the Western Conference
at our recent National
Convention in Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania, I would like
to take this opportunity to
thank each and every one
of you for all of your
support over the past four
years of my campaign.
throughout our Great Organization, I never lost touch of
where my roots were and always made it my first priority
to represent the Department of New Mexico in a proud
and professional manner.
I am so proud to be a member of VFW Post 7686 and
the Department of New Mexico. I am well aware and
humbled by the fact that if not for each of you standing
beside me, pushing me, and encouraging me, I would
not have been able to achieve all of my goals and
culminate my VFW career as a National Officer. As I
Your guidance, motivation, progress into National Office, I will continue to represent
and support, allowed me to each of you in a professional, dedicated, and
visit every Department in
hardworking manner. I will never be able to thank you
the Western Conference
enough for all you have done for me over the years.
during my campaign and I Again, thank you, God Bless each of you, and I look
B.J. Lawrence
was able to visit most
forward to continuing my service in your honor.
Departments two or three
times. This was all made possible by your kind and
In Your Service,
generous donations, fundraisers, and a special donation B.J. Lawrence
of airline travel on numerous occasions. As I travelled
Jr. Vice C-in-C Designee, 2016
10 New Mexico
New Mexico National Representative Candidate
I am announcing that I am
running for National Council
member. I have been
endorsed by VFW Post 401
& by District 2. I feel that I
can make a difference and
that I can represent New
Mexico well. I joined the
VFW as a life member on
12/16/1991. I have been
active in Pennsylvania and
in New Mexico. I served as
Sr.Vice Commander, Jr.
Vice Commander,
Chaplain, Judge Advocate
& a trustee in VFW Post
Kathie Schiebel
264 in Corry, PA. I also
served as District 28
Commander that consisted of 26 posts. I achieved All
State Commander, and I also was All American
Commander at National. I moved to New Mexico in 2008,
and I transferred my membership to VFW Post 401. I
served as Post Commander in 2009 & 2010. I achieved
All American Post Commander in 2010. I was also
District 2 Commander in 2010. I went through the chairs
at the state level, starting as Surgeon, and I served as the
State Commander last year. I made All American State
Commander, and I received the triple crown during the
National Convention in Pittsburgh, PA. I am also a Past
Grand Commander in PA and in New Mexico. I received
the All Star Grand Commander in 2012 in Reno, NV. I
was also the Co-Captain of the All Star team.
I served on several committees at the National level,
including the Women Veteran’s Committee for four years
until they did away with that Committee. I have also
served on the National By-laws Committee three times,
and I was on a couple of other National Committees. I
El Defensor Chieftain - September
11 at 8:46am
Remembering the fallen of
September 11, 2001 at
Cottonwood Valley Charter School.
VFW Service Officer Greg Doss
leads students in the Pledge of
Allegiance to the flag, flying at
half-staff today.
have attended all National Conventions except for
Orlando, FL since 1994. I attend all Post, District and
State meetings. I also have been to several Western
Conference meetings, and I attend them during National
Conventions.
In addition to the VFW, I am a life member of American
Legion Post 526 in Fairborn, OH, where I was the Post
Chaplain and I served on several committees there. I am
a member of BPOE #769 in Corry, PA and I was the
Treasurer for 5 years before I came to New Mexico. I am
also a member of the Women of the Moose, Chapter 717
in Corry, PA. I have been a member since March of
1993, and I made the Academy of Friendship and also
the College of Regents, which hadn’t been done in 13
years. In addition, I am a life member of the DAV and the
AmVets in PA. I am also a life member of the VFW
Auxiliary Post 169 in PA. I have attended the legislative
Conference in Washington, DC for the last five years.
I feel that I am well qualified to represent the Department
of New Mexico at the National level and that I can make a
difference. I am asking for your support for this very
important position. If you have any questions, please feel
free to call me or e-mail me & I will be happy to discuss
any issue or concern with you.
Remember to always honor our Veterans. We need to
support them and give them the rights that they fought
for.
Yours in Comradeship,
Kathie D. Schiebel
Past State Commander, 2015-2016
New Mexico 11
New Mexico National Representative Candidate
Comrades,
Mid-Winter Conferences.
I am announcing my
interest in being the next
National Council of
Administration for the
Department of New Mexico.
I have received three National appointments, which
allowed me to travel to Washington D.C. In 2006-2007 I
was a National Youth Education and Community Service
Committee Member; in 2007-2008 I was a member of
the National Veterans Care Committee. As the State
Commander for the year 2012-2013, I was a State
Commander of the National All American Team.
I joined VFW Post 3280 in
2004 as a Life Member, and
immediately became very
active. I served Post 3280
as Post Jr. Vice
Commander, Sr. Vice
Commander, and three
terms as Post Commander.
Vernon Luce
As Post Commander, our
Post was a member of the
All-State Team. I also served two terms as District 8
Commander. During my tenure as Post and District
Commander, Post 3280 hosted three very successful
I feel I have the knowledge, experience, and dedication
to be your next National Council of Administration
Member for the Department of New Mexico.
Your support in my bid for this position will be greatly
appreciated. Please feel free to contact me with any
questions, comments, or concerns.
In Your Service,
Vernon L. Luce
PSC 2012-2013
New Mexico National Representative Candidate
Comrades of the
Department of New
Mexico,
Cathy Brock
Convention in Charlotte , NC.
During the 2015
Department Convention, I
announced that I am a
candidate to replace
Comrade Allan “Ski”
Kuchinsky when his term as
New Mexico’s
Representative on the
National Council of
Administration is over, at
the 117th National
In addition, I attended the Western Conference Caucus at
each Convention as well as the conference’s mid winter
meetings in San Diego, Bismarck, Wichita, Ogden, and
the one we hosted right here in Albuquerque. I learned
ever more about our National Organization through my
attendance at these functions.
I believe that your Representative to the National
Organization should not just be aware of the operation of
the Department of New Mexico, but be versed in the
workings of the organization as a whole, since the
Council of Administration is the governing body of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars between Conventions. I
believe that I am the most experienced candidate to
represent and speak for the Department of New Mexico.
Throughout the year I will being attending both District
and Post meetings to further expand on my experience
I feel that I’m well qualified to represent our fine
and views. I look forward to discussing your ideas on
department as a member of the National Council. Since I how New Mexico should be represented at the National
moved to New Mexico, not only have I been active in the level.
department but I have attended all National Conventions
(except the ones in Cincinnati and Salt Lake City). I have Yours in Comradeship,
observed both the outgoing C of A and the incoming C of CATHY BROCK
A at each convention, and learned more about the
operation of the National Organization at each one.
12 New Mexico
National District 15 Council Member’s Message
“Membership Exit Survey” to members that had not paid
their 2015 dues. I’m sure that they will be sharing the
I hope that you all had a responses with us in the near future and I’m sure that we
wonderful Christmas and will not be surprised to hear some of the reasons that are
best wishes for a healthy given for not coming back. So please treat each other
with kindness and respect.
and blessed 2016!
Comrades and Sisters:
There still seems to be a
lot of misinformation
circulating about the status
of the Men’s Auxiliary and
its members. If you have
any questions about this,
Kim Sloan
please contact Department
President Janet Huft. She
should be your first point of contact.
Thank you for your continued support of all of our
programs. What would we do without our grass roots
volunteers? You all are not just the grass – the beautiful
green on the top, but you’re also the roots that bind this
organization together.
I’m looking forward to attending your conference in
February in Albuquerque. I know quite a few of you but
am looking forward to meeting many more of the New
Mexico VFW Auxiliary members. Right after your
conference, we’ll be at the National Mid-Year
Conference. If you have any questions or concerns that
you would like me to pass on to the National Officers or
staff, please let me know.
Kim Sloan
National District 15 Council Member
Home Phone: 520.887.8339
Cell Phone: 520.307.7940
Email: [email protected]
The staff from National Headquarters recently sent out a
Increase your Membership!!!! Partner with your local SVA chapter to bring in new members. Local SVA
Chapters can be found at these New Mexico College/Universities: San Juan Community College, University
New Mexico Gallup, Eastern New Mexico University, Northern New Mexico College, Santa Fe Community
College, University New Mexico, Brown-Mackie College New Mexico, New Mexico State University, and
Vista College Computer Career Center. Partnering with SVA Chapters brings new members into the VFW
while providing experienced veterans as mentors to newly discharged student veterans. For any questions
or to report your SVA activity please contact Mark Decker at [email protected]
New Mexico 13
President’s Corner
Comrades, Sisters and
Brothers,
Time flies by faster than
you know it. Hope
everyone had a Happy
Thanksgiving, a Merry
Christmas and a Happy
News Years!
Janet Huft
October was my
Homecoming, I want to
thank everyone that was
able to make it. I had a
great time.
November was a busy month. Western Conference was
in Boise, Idaho. Department of New Mexico Auxiliary did
a School of Instruction on Historian. I thank everyone that
took their time and came to the Western Conference, if
you plan on going next year (2016), start saving your
money! It is going to be in Hawaii.
Veterans Day was on November 11, 2015 and December
7, 2015 was the 74th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor. I thank
all Veterans for their sacrifices every day. I wish to thank
all the Posts and Auxiliaries that hosted an open house
for Veterans in their area, thanking them for what they
have done for our country.
Even though a lot is going on; there is always something
you could be doing for our Veterans.
Now is the time to start getting ready for the Mid-Winter
Conference, February 6, 2016 in Albuquerque, New
Mexico. We are going to be busy going over a lot of
things, so please have everything ready for the Council of
Administration and Chairman Workshops (Your area of
expertise!)
I thank you all for everything you have done so far in
2015. Happy Holidays and God Bless You.
Love, Hope and Care – Past, Present, Future - Now and
Forever!
Sincerely,
President
Janet R. Huft
Department President NM
New Mexico VFW Auxiliary
State Officers 2015-2016
National Councilwoman - Kim Sloan 10188 Tucson
President - Janet Huft 3015 Clovis
Sr. Vice President - Vondale Man 3280 Clovis
Jr. Vice President - Alison Slate 3015 Clovis
Treasurer - Penney Howard 614 Aztec
Secretary - Louise Salas 401 Albuquerque
Chaplain - Mary Sanchez 4384 Anthony
Conductress - Kelly Fouse 7686 Alamogordo
Assistant Conductress - Danielle J. Garcia 401 Albuquerque
Guard - Lynda Putzier 9515 Portales
Assistant Guard - Judy Hayes 7686 Alamogordo
Chief of Staff - Janis Wimmer 7686 Alamogordo
Past State Pres. - Jeanette Garcia 401 Albuquerque
Color Bearer #1 - Velma Bollinger 3015 Clovis
Color Bearer #2 - Kandy Brazell 401 Albuquerque
Color Bearer #3 - Clara Montano 3015 Clovis
Color Bearer #4 - Sue Frappier 3015 Clovis
Flag Bearer - Nancy Tabb 5890 Rio Rancho
Banner Bearer - Dominique Garcia 401 Albuquerque
Musician/Soloist - Diana Wong 401 Albuquerque
District President
District 1 - Vickey Westbrook 614 Aztec
District 2 - Kandy Brazell 401 Albuquerque
District 3 - Judy Hayes 7686 Alamogordo
District 4 - Nancy Evans 1389 Elephant Butte
District 5 - Penny Esparza 1793 Raton
District 6 - Lucretia Henson 2951 Sante Fe
District 7 - Laverne Lester 3274 Hobbs
District 8 - Alison Slate 3015 Clovis
14 New Mexico
Conductress’s Message
Hello everyone,
have a small part of the truth, and a lot of their own
perceptions. What’s more, their perception or opinion is
usually a long way from the truth. Gossip and one’s own
I hope everyone had
blessed holidays, and I pray perceptions without facts have brought harm to many
good people. It has ruined reputations, gotten people
that we all have a
fired from jobs, destroyed relationship and ended many a
productive and healthy
good situation. All because someone thought they knew
2016. It is hard to believe
more than they did, and had a right to judge someone or
the VFW/VFWA/MOC/
something that was none of their business to begin with,
MOCA 2015-2016 year is
already half over! There is, and worse, ran their mouth and/or instigated/persuaded
as always, much work still to others to do the same.
be done.
As I said before, when I hear or see what we do to each
I realize most Officers,
other all over our state and our nation with words, it
Chairmen etc., will be
addressing their perspective saddens me, it makes me stop and try to take an honest
look at myself and my words. I have been sucked into the
offices, and the upcoming
Kelly Fouse
Mid-Winter and membership gossip trap. I have had to apologize, more than once, to
someone because I believed and trusted something
(for example). However, I
am going to address something that I have seen going on someone told me. I didn’t get the facts, I didn’t talk to the
all over our State, and it is hurting our organization(s), our person being talked about; and the worst part is I let
membership, and most importantly each other.
myself get involved in something that was none of my
business to begin with. I have been asked, “Why do you
I have been blessed to be able to travel to many Post and always put up for them?” Most the time it isn’t putting up
for someone, I am just trying to show there is always
Districts across our beautiful State. I have been able to
meet so many wonderful and amazing people across our more than one side or perspective to everything. Maybe I
am not comfortable with talking about someone that isn’t
state and the nation that are members of the VFW and
there, and it is my nice way of trying to end a
VFWA. When the talk of membership comes up, as it
conversation, and maybe if someone is doing that with
always does J, it then usually leads to problems in the
you, it is time to stop and think about what you are
Posts, Districts and Departments. After a short bit, it is
saying, and change the subject. We need to quit talking
obvious that the problems usually stem from the same
thing: members gossiping and judging other members. It about each other - unless it is positive and uplifting - and
is always sad to me, and makes me wonder, how can we start talking about programs, membership, how to help
our veterans, active duty, each other and our community.
take care of, and be good to veterans outside of our
Let us channel all that negative energy into positive
organization(s) if we do not take care of and be good to
energy!!! If you don’t like someone, tough, that is your
our own veterans first, and for that matter, take care of
each other as brothers and sisters? Yes, we are going to problem, not the VFW/VFWA'S. Be polite and remember
this isn’t about you! Being polite to someone isn’t being
have some problems, misunderstandings and hurt
feelings; this is what happens any time a group of people two-faced; it is being professional!
get together. However, let us remember it isn’t about
As members of this organization we are, or should
us. It is about the Veterans of Foreign Wars, our
be, about the programs of the Veterans of Foreign
veterans, our husbands, wives, children,
Wars, its Auxiliary, the MOC, its Auxiliary and the
grandchildren, grandparents, friends, etc. Without
work that we all do together. Let us all work to promote
them there wouldn’t be an Auxiliary, and all the good
the programs, our veterans, each other and leave the
works that we do. The VFW and VFWA isn’t about the
drama in the Canteen, who is saying what or who should drama and self-centered stuff for the little kids in the
or shouldn’t be doing what in Gaming or Bingo. It amazes school yards J . Then other people can see our good
me that we as members think we have the right to judge work, enjoy being around us and want to be an active
part of our organization(s). For those that have a
people’s personal lives;. Other member’s personal lives
are nobody’s business, and we do not walk in their shoes Canteen, Bingo, maintain a positive atmosphere, one
or live behind their walls! We have found that if we listen without the gossiping, judging and complaining.
long enough to someone’s negative gossip, they only
~continued on page 15~
New Mexico 15
Conductress’s Message cont.
~continued from page 14~
More people will come and there will be more hands and
money for our programs. People are attracted to happy
environments, not negative ones. Next time I am blessed
to travel to somewhere in our great state or nation, I truly
hope I hear people being positive and uplifting to each
other. I also pray that I am aware of what I say, hear and
allow myself to be a part of. It is extremely easy to get
dragged into gossip and negativity; and honestly, after
seeing the hurt it has caused our organization(s) over the
last 12 years, I do not want any part of it.
This also goes to the level of our Post and District
meetings. I bring this up, because over the years in
different places in our state, and listening at National
Convention, I have heard that a member wouldn’t come
back/or didn’t come back to meetings, or worse, quit
altogether, because they were embarrassed or made
mad by someone publicly scolding them over the Ritual. I
remember Colette Bishop, our National Sr. Vice
President, Jan Owens, National Secretary/Treasurer,
and Past National President Dixie Held and a few others
stating basically: do not embarrass or correct a member,
Officer or Chairman during a meeting, especially over the
Ritual, and do not interrupt a meeting because someone
made a mistake. (You never see someone at
Department, Western or National stopping the Ritual to
correct an Officer (and yes, they do make mistakes, just
like the rest of us.) I have seen them laugh or smile, but
never stop, and they are NEVER interrupted over it. I
remember when Madam Sr. Vice President Colette was
talking about it, and she folded the podium edition in half
and discussed flexibility and people being more
important than the Ritual. Anyway, we were instructed to
always educate the President, Guard, a member or
whomever, after the meeting and away from other
people, to be kind and to show the person in the Podium
Edition the relevant information. I remember many years
ago being at another Post’s Auxiliary meeting and a new
member, a young lady and fairly new member, she was
almost in tears because someone got on to her during
the meeting. It should never be that way! People should
always come first, not the Ritual. Trust me, if we give our
new members time, they will come to love our
organization and our Ritual, for the good works that we
do; but only if we don’t run them off first with all our
“wisdom and knowledge” of how and when to stand
during a part of our meeting! DO NOT EVER
EMBARRASS YOUR OFFICERS OR MEMBERS OVER
THE RITUAL. I know for a fact no one has ever had a
perfect meeting J, and no one ever will. We are about
people; therefore it cannot be perfect.
In the future, let us all kindly remind each other not to
talk of someone in a negative way, especially if they are
not present. Be forgiving of each other and our mistakes,
for we are all human. Don’t discuss people’s personal
lives unless you have been asked to, and don’t judge
them. Mostly, may we all remember, it isn’t about self; it
is about our veterans! Let the Department of New Mexico
set the standard of being good to each other; therefore
having more energy and people to do the good works of
the VFW/VFWA/MOC/MOA and continue to strive to be
“The Best in the West”!
May God continue to bless the United States of America,
and may He bless, protect and guide all of us and ours
throughout the New Year and beyond.
Kelly L. Fouse
VFW Auxiliary Department Conductress
State VFW Secretary
VFW Auxiliary District 3 Jr. Vice President VFW
Auxiliary President, Post 7686, Alamogordo
16 New Mexico
Supreme Hospital Commissioner
Janis Wimmer
If you did not pay your
dues to your MOCA to be
received by the Supreme
Treasurer by December
31, you are no longer a
member in good
standing. This means that
you cannot hold an
office. Please pay your
dues ASAP. When I had to
write this article, AHO 5
needed five members,
Loco 7 needed four
members, Cucaracha 13
needed seven members,
Mt. Kia Mia needed sixteen
members, and Apollo 20
needed three members.
Also remember that males may become a member after
they have been a VFWA member for 6 months. That
means that starting in February 2016, we can have male
members in the MOCA. Get out there and bring in new
members.
Remember to send me your Mid-Winter Report for
membership by Jan.
15, 2016. It was
given out at the
October School of
Instruction, and it is
also on the NM Cootie
web site.
Thanks,
Janis
Congratulations to Itchin 'N 'Bitchin 19 for being 104%. I
hope all the auxiliaries made their 100% by December
31st. If you did not, get out there and have another
membership drive and collect those dues.
MOCA National Treasurer Penney Howard and
MOCA Supreme Hospital Commissioner Janis
Wimmer laying NM MOCA Wreaths at the Tomb
of the Unknown Soldier
MOCA Supreme President Peggy Bell, MOC
Supreme Commander Don Lynch & Past New
Mexico Grand Commander Warren Booker
attending the rededication of the Cootie
Monument at the National Home for Children
New Mexico 17
District 1 Commander’s Message
Comrades and Sisters,
Hello from Northwest New
Mexico. I speak for all of the
officers of District 1 by
saying I hope you had a
Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year. The year
is over halfway done
already. I know District 1 is
a little behind in some
programs this year, but we
will make it up in the second
half of the year. We had our
2nd District meeting in
December and went over all
Kyrk Westbrook
of the programs and
requirements for the posts.
We will get our Buddy Poppies ordered soon, make sure
all of our minutes and audits are turned in on time, and
get all post inspections completed. The posts will donate
to the programs as they can. We had two Voice of
Democracy entries this year at the District level. We did
not have any Patriot Pen entries, but all of the posts will
work on that for next year. The Teachers Award is due
to the posts by February 15. We are looking for some
great entries this year from our posts.
Our membership this year to date is as follows: Aztec
needs 18 more, Farmington needs 22 more, Grants is so
close at 3, and Shiprock is in need of 12. So the District
is only down 55 members from being at 100%. I know
we can get there. Keep up the good work.
Our posts have done many hours of community service
work already this year. Please keep reporting your work
so you can get the credit you deserve. The more we let
people know what good work we are doing, the more
likely we are to get new members to join and help. This
is just another way of getting out to everyone what a
great organization we are.
Lastly, I look forward to seeing everyone from District 1
at our last two meetings of the year; in March at
Shiprock, and April in Aztec. Please get as many of our
members to these meetings as possible. This is the way
we can get the new member’s ideas about the VFW, and
enthused for the work we do.
Sincerely,
Kyrk Westbrook
District 1 Commander
District 1 President’s Message
DISTRICT #1 is 100% with
the inspection. Thanks to
VFW Auxiliary Grants Post
3221 for their hospitality.
To VFW Auxiliary Post 614,
we passed our inspection
thanks to PDP Jeanette
Garcia. To VFW Auxiliary
Post 9517, for everything
you have done as a new
auxiliary; you are doing a
great job and thanks for
making me feel welcome at
all of your meeting I have
attended. To VFW Post
Vicky Westbrook
2182, thank you for hosting
the District meeting and for
your hospitality. Their building has been repainted and
looks awesome, so if you are ever passing through
Farmington, don’t forget to look at their building. Now
about our Membership; we all need to work harder in
getting our members transmitted so we can make our
100% goal. Hope everyone had a nice Christmas.
Happy New Year and God Bless everyone, and to our
troops for fighting for our freedom.
VICKY L. WESTBROOK
18 New Mexico
District 2 Commander’s Message
Ernest Garcia
Commanders, as
announced at the District
meeting by State
Commander Lawrence
Vargas, Post 6216 will be
reaching a milestone of 50
years of existence within
our ranks come
January. We are in
the planning stages for a
full-blown celebration at
Post 6216; date TBA in
January. I am asking from
every post within District 2
to please consider donating
to your sister post any
amount to insure the
celebration of a lifetime honoring their longevity.
Invitations will be forwarded as we determine a date.
District 2 will be donating $100.00 to kick off the
fundraiser. Your presence as post line officers to show
unity and support would be highly appreciated. All State
line officers, State Auxiliary President, and line officers
will also be invited. The Auxiliaries play an intricate roll in
our success and deserve to be honored as well.
District 2 Commander
Ernest Garcia.
District 8 Commander’s Message
District 8 is doing very well
for this time of the year.
The four posts of district 8
have a membership total of
73.85% at this time. Post
3015 has a total of 93.17%
I feel confident that they will
be 100% by mid-winter, and
I hope they are not the only
post from District 8 to do it.
Joe Bob Mann
The posts of District 8 have
ordered a total of 11,000
buddy poppies so far this
year. They have donated
$750 to Veterans
Military Support, $550 to
vod, pat pen, teacher, and $410 to the service officer.
Post 3280 provided 71 thanksgiving meals to the troops
that were on duty and could not leave Cannon Air Force
base to join the annual post meal.
Post 9515 held an honor ceremony to honor home town
vets, some living; some departed. They placed plaques
on their wall of honor in order that these vets will be
remembered always.
Post 3015 held a benefit to raise funds to help two vets
with medical expenses.
District 8 Commander
Joe Bob Mann
VETERANS TRAVEL TO THE
PLACES THEY FOUGHT
Rupiper’s Travel in Yankton, SD is still taking WWII and Vietnam veterans back to the places where they fought.
Unbelievable as it is, there were still veterans in their 90s on the two WWII trips to Europe that Rupiper’s offered in
2015, and more and more veterans are going back to Vietnam, a place they thought they never wanted to ever
return to.
For 2016, two WWII tours are planned that include France, Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany, with departures on
June 2 and August 11, 2016. One trip is planned for Vietnam, departing March 13, 2016. If you are interested in
these all-inclusive tours, call toll free 1-888-414-4177. The website is www.RupiperTours.com Everyone is
New Mexico 19
National Jr. Vice Commander in Chief 2020 Candidate
Tim is a candidate for the
VFW Western Conference’s
nomination for National Jr.
Vice Commander in Chief
Select in July 2019. Tim
earned his eligibility to join
the VFW during his long 28
Year career in the U.S.
Army, retiring as a First
Sergeant at Ft. Huachuca in
Sierra Vista, Arizona with
deployments to Korea and
Iraq. If selected, Tim will
then advance to National Jr.
Vice Commander in Chief
in 2020-21 and then
Tim Borland
Commander in Chief in
2022-23. Tim has
demonstrated his ability to lead and is not afraid to take
on any task in front of him. He’s a huge advocate for
Veterans Affairs and marches on Capitol Hill every year
during our Legislative Conferences in D.C. He’s a Triple
Crown winner, and has been recruiting over 100
members each year for 12 consecutive years. He was
our Western Conference Chairman in 2013-14 and is
now filling the role as National Council Member from
Arizona since 2012.
Tim is no stranger to New Mexico. He’s been visiting our
Department now for over 8 years and will continue to as
long as his schedule allows. Tim’s passion and loyalty
for this organization is overwhelming as he continues to
travel all over the nation promoting the VFW and
encouraging younger members from Iraq and
Afghanistan to join. He provides them assistance and
guidance when needed and listens to their concerns. Tim
cares for the veterans making his drive to become Chief
as strong, honest and motivational. He truly believes that
no veteran should be left behind. His passion truly shows
his care for each and every veteran who has ever
served, is serving or will serve this great nation.
If you would like to help Tim in his quest to become VFW
National Commander in Chief, then please contact him
at 520-678-9180 and join his team. At this time
donations are being accepted to help alleviate travel
expenses. If you would like to donate, please feel free to
do so by either visiting his website at
www.everyveterancounts2020.org, or make checks
out to “Every Veteran Counts 2020,” earmark the check
“Tim Borland’s Campaign,” and send it to: Tim
Borland ● P.O. Box 2801 ● Sierra Vista, AZ 85636.
If you are interested in supporting
National Jr. Vice Commander in Chief
2020 Candidate Tim Borland and would
like to purchase a campaign shirt or
coin send contact information to Tim
Borland ● P.O. Box 2801 ● Sierra Vista,
AZ 85636.
20 New Mexico
VFW POST 9515 Wall of Honor Dedication
The VFW Posts in Roosevelt County have been
celebrating Veterans Day for more than 50 years. This
year, VFW Post 9515 did something a little different. We
commemorated our Post’s Wall of Honor by conducting
our first annual ceremony honoring some very special
heroes from Roosevelt County. The Wall of Honor is a
partnership between VFW Post 9515 and Boy Scout
Troop 18 in Portales. The wall started when Curtis Utley
of Troop 18 was working on his Eagle Scout and needed
a project. Under the stewardship of the previous Post
Commander, Rich Lewis, and Boy Scout Troop 18
Leader, Gary Riedel, Curtis completely framed and
dry-walled the majority of the east wall of the Post. The
only thing that was left to do was finish the drywall, and
paint what members of VFW Post 9515 accomplished.
We are planning on honoring approximately 300
Roosevelt County veterans on the wall. Our first six
inductees were chosen because they symbolized the
history of Roosevelt County. We had one World War I
and five World War II veterans who were inducted; one is
still living, Comrade Joe Blair, who attended the
ceremony. A brief history of the six inductees follows:
Douglas B. Stone (for whom the Post is named) entered
the U.S. Army February 26, 1942. He trained at Fort
Knox, Kentucky, and went overseas in April, 1942
serving in the European Theater as a pilot. He flew and
fought from bases in Ireland, England, Africa, Italy,
Tunisia and fought in the battles at Anzio, Cassino and
Kasserine Pass. First Lieutenant Douglas Stone was
discharged September 22, 1945.
McDermott also wrote that he’d been involved in heavy
fighting somewhere in France, and was looking forward
to a leave of absence that he said had been due for
about six months. It was clear he’d been involved in
fighting that led to multiple casualties.
Deward H. (Tiny)
Reed entered the
U.S. Army Air
Corps July 24,
1942. He left for
overseas April 5,
1943. He served
in the European
Theater
participating in
the battles in
Sicily, Tunisia, Po
Valley, Rhineland
and others. He Eagle Scout, Curtis Utley
served 28
honoring Frank McDermott.
months in the
European Theater. Captain Deward Reed was
discharged November 29, 1945.
Johnny D. Morgan entered the U.S. Army March 10,
1941 and sailed for the European Theater in August of
1942. Army Corpsman Morgan served with tank
destroyers at Rome-Arno, Southern Ardennes and Po
Valley. Corpsman Morgan spent over three years
overseas and never came off the front line for a period of
two years. Army Corpsman Johnny Morgan was
Private Frank C. McDermott was Roosevelt County’s first discharged September 21, 1945.
soldier killed in action in June of 1918. He had written a
Joe M. Blair entered the U.S. Navy October 16, 1942.
letter to his parents just two days earlier, the Portales
News Journal reported. He joked with his mother in the He served both in the Atlantic and Pacific. Gunners
Mate Blair fought in the battles at Kiska, Attu, Tarawa,
letter stating: “I feel good and must be in pretty good
health to stand six days and nights without rest.” Private Hollandia, Palau, Truk, Saipan, Guam and Okinawa. He
served aboard the USS Farragut and the USS LSM 443.
Gunners Mate Joe Blair was discharged February 21,
1945.
Burl A. Brewster entered the U.S. Army March 23, 1941.
He served with the 200th Coastal Artillery at Bataan.
Sergeant Brewster was captured by the Japanese and
spent almost four years as a prisoner of war. Sergeant
Burl A. Brewster was discharged in 1946.
Surviving Hero, Joe Blair and his family.
VFW Post 9515 will induct six more heroes on Memorial
Day 2016, and another six on Veterans Day in 2016.
Our next inductees will include the Korean and Vietnam
Wars.
New Mexico 21
Martial Arts and Their Benefits to VFW Members
and Their Families
I am the Post Service Officer for the NM Dept. of the
VFW, Post 2387, and a VFW Life Member. I have
studied martial arts on and off for about 3 years and
started my formal instruction as a teenager. My
instruction started with Filipino styles, and has had some
Japanese, Chinese, and Korean influences along the
way. Martial arts is a hobby, life style, and life sport that I
enjoy. My interest in martial arts started as a child. My
interest started with watching martial arts movies as a
child. My interest is backed by my ethnicity and the
cultures I grew up with while living in Hawaii and Nevada
in the United States as a child, and while being stationed
in South Korea, Hawaii, and a few other places while
serving in the Air Force. Martial arts helps me out with
stress reduction, focus, and fitness and gives me some
father-son bonding time, camaraderie with people with
similar interests, and is a way to spend some quality time
with my family. Participation in the martial arts, in my
opinion, also helps show how Veterans and their families
can be positive role models and active members of the
community they live, work, and serve in.
excited by how well the team does each year. If any of
you reading this article have an interest in learning
martial arts, Dr. Maiga, in my opinion, is one of the best
instructors to teach someone the internal and external
lessons about martial arts. He evaluates you using the
whole person concept, when considering you to become
his student, and accommodates you to ensure that any
physical or mental hindrances you experience will not be
aggravated while in class.
I encourage the members of the VFW to look into this
hobby and life sport as a way to get involved with your
community, a potential way to have a business venture,
stay fit and flexible, and have an outlet for your children
and families to have some time together. I like other
things as hobbies and to stay active as well, but the
martial arts is a large community that treats other martial
artists as family, and will try to help those in need and
the families of martial artists if they can. The
camaraderie that comes with being a martial artist feels
very familiar to how we felt while serving in the military
and by being a member of the VFW.
On August 22, 2015, the team from Socorro Academy of
Martial Arts competed in the 26th Annual Bushido Open Gregory Doss, VFW 2387 Service Officer
Martial Arts Tournament in Tijeras, NM. The
team for the tournament consisted of Dr.
Bokary “Abba” Maiga, Dr. Stephen Davis,
myself (Gregory Doss), Ian Doss, Brendan
Dennis, and Aaron Perea. The competition
included teams from martial arts schools in
New
Mexico, Texas, and Arizona. Socorro
Academy of Martial Arts did well at the
tournament, and gained over 300 team
points from the tournament for the U.S.
Association of Martial Artists 2015 national
point year. The team gained these points
due to winning eight first places, five second
places, and three third places for the events
at the tournament. The team members
change for each tournament due to personal
and professional obligations, but consistency is always there by those who
participate at tournaments.
My current instructor, Dr. Maiga, is a very
humble man, but is very proud of his
students and teams and is always super
Names are from left to right view of picture: Dr. Bokary
"Abba" Maiga, Aaron Perea, Ian Doss, Dr. Stephen Davis, and
Gregory Doss. Missing from picture was Brendan Dennis.
22 New Mexico
Post 3271 Thanksgiving Dinner
VFW Post 3271, VFW Auxiliary, and the Elks Lodge served breakfast to 42 veterans and their families on Veterans
Day. We were also honored to have our District 5 Commander Joe Esparza and District 5 VFW Auxiliary President
Penny Esparza join us on this day.
The Post also served a Thanksgiving dinner at the Post on Thanksgiving Day to about 20 members and their
families. We gave a big turkey and all the fixings to a needy family, Margaret Sanchez and her son, who is almost
blind.
Post 5890 Rio Rancho Reports
VFW Post 5890 in Rio Rancho participated in a flag
ceremony on 9/10, where the cadets from Cibola High
school, along with their instructors, 1stSgt Archuleta and
GySgt Flores, placed over 3000 flags. Then on 9/11 we
went back and participated in the ceremony that Daniels
Funeral home held for the city. It was an honor to be
present and participate in this event.
We renovated our post by painting and cleaning the
whole post. We closed on Columbus Day, and with the
volunteer help of 40-plus veterans, we were able to
complete all the painting and cleaning that was required.
Here are some websites that show the 9/11 ceremony in
Rio Rancho. Also attached is a picture of Officers
Webster’s funeral procession:
VFW post 5890 participated with the Patriot Guard in the
burial of Officer Daniel Webster, who was killed in the
http://www.abqjournal.com/643212/news/headline-hereline of duty.
112.html
We have donated $7,000.00 to charity, which includes
the local Rio Rancho schools and Cibola high school,
Horses for Heros, and the Fisher house that will break
ground here in Albuquerque sometime next year.
We did a buddy poppy drive on Veterans Day which
raised over $1000.00, and then had open house where
we served over 100 people.
http://krqe.com/2015/09/09/rio-rancho-holds-911remembrance/
http://www.kob.com/article/stories/
s3901877.shtml#.VmmnGrgrKM8
New Mexico 23
VFW POST PRIDE’ TO SHOWCASE WORK OF VFW
POSTS WORLDWIDE
Show how your Post is making an impact!
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (November 19, 2015) – The VFW is pleased to introduce “VFW Post Pride,” a new platform to
showcase the dedicated support that VFW Posts, Auxiliaries and their members provide to veterans, service members, military families and to their communities.
For more than 116 years, VFW Posts have acted as pillars of support to local communities worldwide. From coordinating welcome home celebrations and picnics, to building playgrounds and organizing clothing drives, VFW members take great pride in their work, and VFW Post Pride will allow them to share it not only with the entire VFW community, but with the world.
Participation is simple! Capture a photo or video during your Post’s next community service project, activity or troop
support event, and share it to social media using the hashtag #VFWPostPride. Your content will then be displayed
on the VFW national website alongside all other postings containing #VFWPostPride. See the page at: www.vfw.org/
VFWPostPride.
In addition, VFW national staff will compile news stories, leads and submissions, also putting them on display here.
Not only is this a great way to show the world how the VFW continues to positively impact local communities, but it
will also serve to provide ideas, success stories and collaboration opportunities to other Posts looking for ways to get
involved, or to implement new projects.
If you or your VFW Post are already active on social media, this is a great opportunity to engage with VFW members
worldwide. For those without a social media account, VFW Post Pride provides a great incentive to take a step toward establishing an account and getting involved.
For guidance on establishing a Post, District or Department presence on social media, log in to the VFW website, and visit the Media and Public Relations link in the Training and Support section.
-vfwABOUT THE VFW: The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is a nonprofit veterans service organization comprised
of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. Founded in 1899 and
chartered by Congress in 1936, the VFW is the nation's largest organization of war veterans and its oldest major veterans organization. With more than 1.7 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in more than 6,800 Posts worldwide, “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS.” The VFW and its Auxiliaries are dedicated to veterans service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit our website
at www.vfw.org.
Contact: Randi K. Law, Manager, Communications & Public Affairs, [email protected]
24 New Mexico
Veterans Around the State
VFW Auxiliary
Members attend
Western
Conference 2015
MOC Grand Commander Dale Huft,
MOCA Grand President Jeanette
Garcia VFWA President Janet Huft
and VFW Commander Lawrence
Vargas attending VFWA President
Janet Huft’s Homecoming
Representative Ben Ray Lujan
presented Post 3015 with a flag
which had flown over the White
House. Seen here folding the
flag is Quartermaster Dale Huft,
Post Commander Nichole Rux,
and Sr. Vice Commander Clayton
LeMaire
New Mexico 25
Veterans Around the State
District 3
meeting and
luncheon
Commander Lawrence Vargas,
Past Department Commander
Vernon Luce, By– Law Committee
Member Bart Bartosiewicz and
VFWA District 3 President Judy
Hayes celebrating at Western
Conference
Post 614 Aztec Veteran’s Day Breakfast
26 New Mexico
New Mexico 27
28 New Mexico
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
DEPARTMENT OF NEW MEXICO
MID-WINTER CONFERENCE AGENDA
ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO
FEBRUARY 6, 2016
Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown Hotel
2600 Louisiana Blvd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
http://www.sheratonalbuquerqueuptown.com/
National Reservation # 1-888-625-4937
Online Registration: (Preferred Method)
Local # 1-800-325-3535 (reference: VFW 2016)
https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/VFW2016
Fax at front desk: 1-505-881-6933
Conference Chairman: Kathie Schiebel
Cell: 1-814-462-4422 Fax: 1-575-653-4207
State Commander: Lawrence Vargas
VFW National Representative: Past National CIC; Glen Gardner- Department of Texas
VFW MID-WINTER CONFERENCE AGENDA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM VFW & Auxiliary Registration
Galleria (Outside Ballroom)
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2016
7:00 AM - 1:00 PM VFW & Auxiliary Registration
Galleria (Outside Ballroom)
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Audit
Uptown Boardroom
9:00 AM - Noon VFW & Auxiliary Joint Session
Ambassador/Registry
Noon - 1:30 PM Lunch on Your Own
Noon - 1:30 PM PSC Luncheon
BJ Brewhouse
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM VFW Council of Administration
Ambassador
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cocktails in Hospitality Room
Ivory
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Dinner
Ambassador/Registry
8:30PM - Hospitality Room
Ivory
(Note: All meetings will be held in the Ambassador Ballroom unless noted and are subject to change)
Room Rates
Single/Doubles: $90.00 per night plus 13.00% in local and state taxes
Reservations must be made prior to 5:00 PM, January 15, 2016 to get the VFW rate.
New Mexico 29
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
VFW AUXILIARY
MID-WINTER CONFERENCE AGENDA
ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO
FEBRUARY 6, 2016
Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown Hotel
2600 Louisiana Blvd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
http://www.sheratonalbuquerqueuptown.com/
National Reservation # 1-888-625-4937
Online Registration: (Preferred Method)
Local # 1-800-325-3535 (reference: VFW 2016)
https://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/VFW2016
Fax at front desk: 1-505-881-6933
Aux Conference Chairman: Jeanette Garcia
Phone: 1-505-898-7612 Email: [email protected]
State President: Janet Huft
VFW National Representative: Kim Sloan, National Council Member #15, Dept of AZ
VFW AUXILIARY MID-WINTER CONFERENCE AGENDA
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2016
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM VFW & Auxiliary Registration
Galleria (Outside Ballroom)
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Budget Meeting (Department Line Officers)
Uptown Boardroom
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2016
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM VFW & Auxiliary Registration
Galleria (Outside Ballroom)
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Council of Administration
Registry
9:00 - Noon VFW & Auxiliary Joint Session
Ambassador/Registry
Noon - 1:30 PM Lunch on Your Own
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM Chairman Workshop
Registry
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cocktails in Hospitality Room
Ivory
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Dinner
Ambassador/Registry
8:30PM - Hospitality Room
Ivory
(Note: All meetings rooms are subject to change)
Room Rates
Single/Doubles: $90.00 per night plus 13.00% in local and state taxes
Reservations must be made prior to 5:00 PM, January 15, 2016 to get the VFW rate.
After this date, room rates will be based on current hotel rates.
30 New Mexico
New Mexico 31
32 New Mexico
New Mexico 33
34 New Mexico
MOC GRAND MID-WINTER REGISTRATION FORM (DUE BY 01/25/16)
Name:
Pup Tent#:
Title(s):
PGC (Y/N)
Address:
Phone:
Richard Nutt
Membership #:
Amount Enclosed $
($7.00)
CK#
Grand MOC QM
1210 S. Florida Ave