Chartered by The Congress ofthe United States of America

AMVETS ★ DEPARTMENT OF WISCONSIN VOLUME 28 ISSUE 1 – fALL 2016

AMVETS Department Elects New Commander,

Ladies Auxiliary President and White Clover Princess

2016-2017

2016-2017 Officers & Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Ladies Auxiliary News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

White Clover Princess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Post News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Veteran’s News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

2016 Department Convention Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Inside This Issue

Commander Bill Forry

PresidentSandra Conradt

White Clover PrincessCassie Slaney

2

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

2

HAVE YOUPAID YOURDUES?

Mail to: AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

* A National minimum amount that may vary from state to state or Post to Post.

Yes! Enclosed is my $20.00* annual mem­bership dues for AMVETS. I certify that I have met the minimum membership require­ments–that I have served actively and hon­orably (since September 15, 1940) or am currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard or Reserves.

Name______________________________

M ______________ F________________

Address ___________________________

City, State, Zip ______________________

Telephone ( )_____________________

D.O.B. _____________________________

Branch of Service ____________________

Entered Service ______________________

Discharged _________________________

Type of Discharge ____________________

Signature ___________________________

Date _______________________________

History of AMVETS In 1944, while World War II was still rag­ing in Europe and in the Pacific, thousands of young men were being sent home with battle wounds and medical discharges. These veterans had a desire and felt a need to stick together; therefore, they began forming clubs which they called American Veterans of World War II. Soon, representatives of in dividual clubs united to help veterans help themselves; thus AMVETS was born. On July 23, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the Congressional Charter and since then, AMVETS has amended its charter in 1953, 1966 and 1984 so that today, AMVETS is the only Congressionally Chartered veterans organization open to all honorably discharged veterans who served honorably after September 15, 1940, plus those personnel presently serving on active duty or in the reserve component. Through the years, AMVETS has proven to be the most progressive veterans organi­zation through exhibits of volunteer work, programs and service to veterans, their fami­lies and communities throughout America. Your membership fee entitles you to each and every issue of Wisconsin AMVETS ‘Sound Off,’ published quarterly.

Get Involved with AMVETS

Announce Your Post and DistrictEvents on Our Department Websiteat www.amvets-wi.organd then visit the site often.

Contact our Webmaster,Jim Ruppel, today!

MILWAUKEE COUNTYWAR MEMORIAL

CENTER, INC.“TO HONOR THE DEAD BY

SERVING THE LIVING”We acknowledge the continuing support of Milwaukee County in making this facility

available under the auspices of the War Memorial Corporation.

750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

Hold Your Next Veteran or family Eventin our convenient rental facilities.

MEMORIAL HALL – 5,100 sq. ft.Walnut wood paneling, wood parquet floor,

colorful display of United States flags adaptable for different events

MEETING ROOMS – 415-564 sq. ft.all with lake views, some with service kitchens

*SPECIAL RATES FOR VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS*

Convenient Parking Lotfor More Information Call:

414-273-5533(Monday thru friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Dedicated to the Principles of Peace.

“In tribute to those who did their duty as God gave them the light to see that duty .”

– General Douglas MacArthur

Sound Off News is an official publication of the Department of Wisconsin AMVETS and is pub­lished as a service to members and other interested individuals and organizations.

Views expressed herein are those of individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions of AMVETS, as a whole.

All AMVETS members are urged to submit mate­rials for publication. The Editor reserves the right to edit any materials for length, clarity, brevity, etc.

Howie Pegelow, Editor

MOVING?LET US KNOWEIGHT WEEKS

BEfORE YOU MOVE

Attach your address/labelfrom current issue here

New Address:

Name_________________________________

Address_______________________________

City__________________________________

State _________________________________

Zip___________________________________

Then fill in your new address and mail to:AMVETS Dept. of WIWar Memorial Center

Room 306750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Sound OffMaterial Due Dates in 2016-2017:

Winter Issue: October 15, 2016

2016-2017 Due Dates

Spring Issue .........................January 15, 2017

73rd Convention Issue .............April 15, 2017

Fall Issue ................................... July 15, 2017

3

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

I want to start by saying thank you to all the attendees at Convention for your support and electing me your Department Commander for 2016­2017. It is also a little historical fact that I am the first AMVETS Commander from the U.S. Coast Guard. Now all 5 branches of the military are represented. If you want me for an event or Post activity, please e­mail me at chiefsqtrs@yahoo.com or telephone me at 920­559­8019.

So far since becoming your Commander, I have installed Post Officers at Post 1032, Post 51, Post 120 and District 2 Officers. I have attended Post picnics in Stevens Point (Post 1051) and Oshkosh (Post 7), Districts 2 and 4 meetings. Upcoming events include installation of Post Officers of Post 37, Timber Rattlers game, Greenville (Post 30) military ceremony and parade and Red Granite (Post 13) Labor Day Parade, King weekend and State Campout. The hospital tours will be announced later.

My program, combined with Auxiliary President Sandy Conradt, is Dog Tags and Capes (Save Veterans and Save Dogs. Save Dogs to Save Veterans), for Veterans

suffering from PTSD/TBI based in Kaukauna. All dogs are Rescue Dogs matched to the Veterans needs and trained with the Veteran involved.

William forryCommander

3

Greetings from Your Department Officers…

Commander’s Welcome

Bill Forry

The following are guidelines to aid you in pre­paring your articles for publication.

1 Typewritten, double­spaced, on one side of standard white paper. Typewritten, double­spaced, on one side of standard white paper; e­mail preferred.

2. Normal rules of capitalization and punctua­tion should be followed.

3. Each photograph should identify the person(s) or group(s) in the photo and the activity in which they are involved. Please indicate the article the photo(s) accompany.

4. Captions can be written on the back of photos (please do not use felt­tipped pens as they smear), on a separate piece of paper and attach to their respective photo or at the bot­tom of articles with the number of the caption corresponding to the number on the back of the photo.

5. Photographs should not be stapled to the articles or each other (the staple marker will show in reproduction).

6. Articles should not be written on the backs of photos but on a separate piece of paper as prescribed in Number 1.

7. Articles must be in on time!!

8. Regarding digital photos - please send editor e-mail photos or hard copy photographs.

Editorial Criteria

AMVETS Sound Off

Official Publication of theAMVETS Department of Wisconsin750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, Suite 306,Milwaukee, WI 53202

Published quarterly at Miltown Creative LLC.

AMVETS Sound Off is created under the Direction of the Executive Director of AMVETS, Department of Wisconsin, a Congressionally Chartered nonprofit organization.

Subscription Fee: Annually, which is paid through membership dues.

Sound Off StaffHowie Pegelow, EditorJane Pegelow, Co-EditorBob Dessort, Photographer

Editorial OfficeAMVETS Department of Wisconsin750 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, Suite 306Milwaukee, WI 53202414-273-5288 or 414-273-5240 Fax: 414-273-1270E-mail: amvetswi@yahoo.com

Department Officer Hours:Monday through Friday - 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Thank you for putting your trust in me as your First Vice Commander / Membership Chairman for the coming year. With your help, we desperately need to stop the downward trend in our numbers, a problem that is affecting most of the AMVETS Posts in the State and at the National level as well.

At the local level, emphasis needs to be placed on not only gaining new members, but retaining members as well. Every member should always carry at least one membership application at all times. You never know when you are going to talk to a Veteran who may be interested. I have found that doing volunteer work is a great place to find potential members. People see us helping other veterans and often question who we are. As far as retaining members, try to get new people involved in your Post activities. Don’t just ask for volunteers, but attempt to get new members involved who may have fresh ideas. Try to make new members feel welcome at every meeting.

At the State level, there are a lot of areas out there that have no knowledge of who AMVETS are and what we do. If you happen to be on vacation, often times you

will run into veterans in the bar or at the golf course. I have found interest at local VFW or Legion Posts as well. Many veterans may be frustrated that they aren’t eligible to join these organization for one reason or another, and AMVETS can be a good option. Most Legion and VFW posts, if approached as an additional Veteran resource, rather than competing for their members, will be supportive of assisting in getting an AMVETS Post organized.

As members of the new Post Committee, we need to focus on not only new Posts, but existing Posts that may be struggling. There have been to many new Posts formed, only to fall on hard times, partially due to lack of following up on them by the District and State.

I hope to see many of you at the next SEC meeting on October 1st in Beaver Dam.

Jim RuppelVice Commander - Membership

Jim Ruppel

1st Vice Commander – Membership Report

First of all, THANK YOU, for allowing me to serve you for another year. I hope everyone had a good summer and was able share your AMVET experiences with new or prospective AMVET, Auxiliary or Son Squadron Members.

As of August 8, 2016, Wisconsin has only 11 out of 56 Posts that have reported programs since July 1st, or 20%. That puts us at fourth place in the 4th National District. We can do better than that. I would like to thank those 11 Posts, but where are the rest of you? District and Post Commanders, please see that your Programs Officers are entering them online at the National web site. https://www.amvets.us/reports. If you need help, you can mail your reports to me, PO Box 271, Burlington, WI 53105­0271 or email them to me at dalewpeterson1@gmail.com.

I hope to see ALL of you at our next SEC in Beaver Dam October 1st. Once again, Thanks for your support.

Dale “Pete” PetersonPrograms Vice Commander

Dale Peterson

2nd Vice Commander-Programs

Answer on page 11

4

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

I attended the Pre­convention meeting of the NEC on the afternoon of 9 August at National Convention in Reno, Nevada in the absence of NEC Committeeman Jim Tratz.

The meeting was called to order by Commander Pidgeon. Reports were presented by all National District Commanders. Under old business the Committee went into closed session to discuss dis­ciplinary action being considered for some National Officers. A report was given by the Inspector General which guided the Committee members in making their recommendations and final decision.

Contracts were approved for new leadership positions at National including: Joseph Chenelly,

National Executive Director (x4004) jchenelly@amvets.org, Anita Claytor­Jackson, Executive Assistant to the Director and National Commander (x4003) acjackson@amvets.org, John Hoellwarth, National Communications Director (x4035) jhoellwarth@amvets.org, Amy Webb, Legislative Policy Advisor (x4015) awebb@amvets.org, and Karla Lathroum, National Programs Director (x4027) klathroum@amvets.org. The staff for Membership will remain the same: Harry Neal, National Membership Director (x4020), hneal@amvets.org, Carolyn Taylor­Harrison, Membership Assistant to the Director (x4021) ctaylor­harrison@amvets.org, and Linda Hudson, Membership Processing & Accounting (x4023) hudson@amvets.org. Please keep the contact information for these staff members handy, as you may need them in the future.

Yours in AMVETSRalph BeckAlternate NEC

4

Greetings from Your Department Officers…

Ralph Beck

NEC Report

Fellow members of the AMVETS family:I want to thank everyone for the encouragement

and assistance through the transition period as I assumed the responsibilities as your Executive Director. I realize that Mike K’s decision to leave and my appointment as ED was difficult for some. However, I hope that you will support the direction that we are taking and that we can continue to work as a family to move the Department of Wisconsin forward.

I also want to thank the Personnel Committee for endorsing the temporary appointment of Angie Hill as Assistant Executive Director, pending final approval at the next SEC. Angie is highly qualified

and I would ask that you welcome her aboard as I am confident that she will do an excellent job for our membership.

As you all may know, there has been much consideration given to the possible surrendering of our office space at the Milwaukee County War Memorial and establish a “virtual” office for our Department. Many legitimate concerns have surfaced that need our attention before any final decision can be made. One issue that concerns all of us is the disposition of all the awards, historical documents, and memorabilia that the Department has accumulated over the years. One pos­sibility under consideration is asking one or more of the Veterans Museums in our State to house and display the more important and memorable artifacts that we have collected over the years. The Veterans Museum in Madison has a very impressive display for the American Legion that honors their service to Wisconsin veterans and I believe that something similar can be done to publicly honor and recognize the years of service that AMVETS has provided to veterans and their loved ones in Wisconsin for decades.

Other logistical issues will need to be addressed, and I have spoken with the leadership of the Florida Department of AMVETS on several occasions seeking their guidance. Florida has successfully transitioned into a virtual office and much can be learned from their journey to achieve that success. We are going to use the next few weeks to experiment with the concept of a virtual office so we can make an informed and tested recommendation to the body at our next SEC. I am anxious to hear the suggestions that any of you may have, and invite your input. A decision will most likely be made before the end of the calendar year, as that is when our current lease expires with the War Memorial.

The Department Office exists for one reason and one reason only: to support our elected and appointed officers, our Posts and membership. We are here to serve you and will do all we can to grow our membership, explore alternative ways to increase our revenue, and meet the needs of those who have sacrificed so much to help secure our freedoms and liberty.

Please know that while we may not be physically located in the Office, we stand ready to communicate with you and provide every possible service that we can as quickly as possible. You can always reach me on my cell phone (920­420­8871) or on my personal email rwb.ontos@gmail.com. I also check messages left on our office phone or the Department email, so communicating with me should be relatively easy.

Also, having just returned from our National Convention in Reno, Nevada, I am pleased to report that there have been some significant changes in the lead­ership at the National level and I am optimistically encouraged by some of the things I am hearing. I think we can all look forward to some new policy and pro­cedure coming from National that will make a positive difference in the public awareness of AMVETS and growth of our organization.

Thanks to all of you for your service to our country, our fellow veterans, and to the greatest Veteran Service Organization in existence. God bless all of you, our organization and God bless America.

Yours in AMVETSRalph BeckExecutive Director

Ralph Beck

Executive Director

Hello AMVETS Wisconsin,The Riders of Chapter 2 have been very busy get­

ting ready for out fundraiser on Aug. 20, 2016. It will have been a great event. If you missed it it is your loss!

Chapter 6440 Riders had their fundraiser in July, I went, I won, I was Happy!! It was a rainy day but we did take a ride to the last stop which was a wet seated trip!!! But L had fun with Mr. Ed as my driver, we had a great time!

Chapter 13 is having a ride but it is very short notice for me. I hope I can make it, but it does not look promising, I wish them well!

As for the Chapter 2 Riders, I was nominated for the AMVETS Riders to receive the award for the work we do for the homeless Vets of Cottage 16 from the WDVA. This was such an HONOR!! It is due to all the hard work we all do to help our Veterans at Cottage 16. Someone said, “If they aren’t in dire need why help them?” To me, when they are in dire need, is when suicide comes in to play. I want to help them before this happens. And thanks to the Riders Chapter 2, and Posts like Post 4, Post 33, Post 60 and Aux. 60, and so many friends and family I have that support me, which helps support the Veterans’ of Cottage 16 and Tomah. So this award is as much yours as it is mine, Thank you all!! I hope to have more Posts support this cause! Hint, Hint!!

Enjoy the rest of your summer and see you in the fall,

Sincerely,Kim BarbianAMVETS Riders State President

AMVETS RIDERS of Wisconsin

Kim Barbian

5

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

5

We, the mothers, wives, widows, grandmothers, sisters, daughters, stepdaughters and granddaughters of the American Veteran and female veterans, fully realizing our responsibilities to the community, state and nation, associate ourselves for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to safeguard the principles of freedom, liberty and justice for all; to promote the cause of peace and goodwill among nations; to maintain inviolate the freedom of our country; to preserve the fundamentals of democracy and Americanism; to perpetuate the friendship and associations of the American Veteran and to dedicate ourselves to the cause of mutual assistance…this by the grace of God.

AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary has been serving their families, communities and our nation’s veterans for over 50 years. All of our service is accomplished through volunteer hours and contributions of our members and supporters. Because of our members and people like you, who care and want to make a difference, we are able to support our various projects throughout the United States. Donations to John Tracy Clinic, St. Jude’s Research Hospital, PAWS With A Cause, and Freedom’s Foundation enable each of these organizations to provide the care to those children with disabilities and medical conditions, physically challenged adults and children, and instill patriotism in the youth of America.

Auxiliary Preamble

Greetings to my fellow AMVET Auxiliary Members and AMVETS! It was a great honor to be elected Department President at this year’s Convention. Congratulations to Commander Bill, his officers, and White Clover Princess Cassie. I look forward to work­ing with each and every one of you.

Commander Bill and I are promoting the joint program of “Dog Tags & Capes”. This program unites Veterans with rescue

Ladies Auxiliary NewsA Message from Department Auxiliary President

Sandy Conradt

dogs­to be a trained companion in their battle with PTSD. More information can be found at the website http://www.dogtagsandcapes.org. At our December SEC Meeting, Founder­Tony Austin will be presenting to the joint body of AMVETS and AMVETS Auxiliary.

I have been very busy since the Convention, attending Post 51’s installation of officers, Parades at Bonduel, Gillett, and Navarino, the dedication of a park bench for deceased AMVETS Member John Schmidt at Oshkosh’s Sawdust Days, golf at WI Veterans Home at King, Flag retirement at New London, and Post 1051’s picnic. If you would like me to join you for any of your functions or meetings, please contact me with the date, time, and address. I would be happy to come if available.

No words can express the gratitude I and all our Auxiliary Families have for each and every Veteran. God Bless our Troops, God Bless our Veterans, God Bless our Country, and God Bless each and every one of you!

Yours in AMVETS,

Sandy ConradtDepartment of WI - President

PresidentSandy Conradt

1st ViceCarol Amborn

2nd ViceShari Hagel

3rd ViceJudy Berna

Legislative LiasonLynda Taylor

TreasurerKelly Koellner

Exc. SecretaryLouise Paul

ChaplainJoanne Johnson

Sgt.-at-ArmsMary Woiak

ParliamentarianMarvell Ruppel

PRO/HistorianHelen Dessort

Americanism OfficerDarlene Hempel

NECBernie Flatoff

Alt. NECAnn Palm

ScholarshipBeth Bettenhausen

White Clover LiasonJoan Sirek

Hospital ChairCathy Tratz

By Laws and ResolutionsMarvell Ruppel­ChairmanEllen SchmidtLouise Paul

Convention/Election RulesPaula Cummings

finance CommitteeKelly Koelher­Chairman Louise PaulEllen Schmidt Elaine LudkaJoAnn Leinweber Sandy ConradtCarol Amborn Linda Dueno DufekMarvell Ruppel­Advisor

Convention BoardJoan Sirek­1st yearHelen Dessort­2nd yearDarlene Hempel­3rd yearWays & MeansShari Hagel­ChairmanJudy BernaEmily RataichekJoAnn Leinweber, Advisor

Luncheon ChairPaula Cummings

President’s fundMary Woiak

Appeals BoardMarvell RuppelKathy HawkinsLouise MahoneyElaine Ludka

Personnel CommitteeMarvell Ruppel­AdvisorJoAnn LeinweberRobin SterletkeElaine Ludka

Audit CommitteeJoanne JohnsonRobin SterletskeCharmaine Wagner

Nominating CommitteeHelen DessortLynn BeckCharmaine Wagner

Convention CredentialsEmily RataichekJudy BernaDeb Suchon

New Auxiliary CommitteeCarol Amborn­ChairmanSandy ConradtLouise PaulJoan Sirek

Support CommitteeCarol Amborn­ChairmanLouise PaulLynda TaylorJoAnn LeinweberRobin SterletskeAnn Palm

2016-17 Officers and Committee Chairs – Ladies Auxiliary

6

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

66

AMVETS & Auxiliary – SEC October 1stThe next SEC is October 1st, 2016 in Beaver DamSackette’s meeting will be at 9:00amSEC meeting starts at 10:00amOfficers meeting at 12:00pm (for about 15 minutes)Lunch will be served (cost not known at this time)

Hotel Information:Hotels – Beaver Dam AmericInn ­325 Seipple Blvd., Beaver Dam, WI 53916, (920) 356­9000.

12 room block $85.00 night plus tax. Cut off date 8/31/16. Super 8 ­ 711 Park Ave., Beaver Dam, WI 53919, (920) 887­8880. 15 room

block,10 rooms 2 beds; 5 rooms 1 bed(queen). 2 Beds $71.10/night plus tax; 1 Bed $62.10/night plus tax. Cut off date 09/09/16.

Quality Inn & Suites ­ 815 Park Ave., Beaver Dam, WI 53916, (920) 887­7171. 10 room block, 2 Beds $89.89/night plus tax. Cut off date 08/31/16.

President Sandy asked that proper uniforms are wore during SEC for all officers and committee chairs. No jeans, shorts or sandals please. If you have parts of uniforms that you are not using please bring them to the SEC to sell or give away to help others that may not have them. Also the website for Blair is www.blair.com. You can find the forest green pants and white blazers here.

See you soon,Louise Paul - Executive Secretary

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin Ladies Auxiliary newly elected officers at State convention in Green Bay, WI June 26, 2016.

1. Out going president­Elaine Ludka 2. Newly elected president­Sandy Conradt3. 1st Vice President­Carol Amborn 4. 2nd Vice President­Shari Hagel5. 3rd Vice President­Judy Berna 6. Chaplain­Joanne Johnson7. Treasurer­Kelly Koelher 8. NEC­Bernie Flatoff9. Alternate NEC­Ann Palm (Lynn Beck is standing in for Ann)

Auxiliary Officers Auxiliary Ladies Auxiliary Post 50, Phillips

In the poster drawing/essay contest “AMVETS Against Drugs and Alcohol Abuse” Butternut students in Second, Fourth, Fifth and Eighth Grade participated. The theme for this year’s contest was “Be Smart, Don’t Start.” Kaycie Scherwinski, who was in Mrs Dural’s Fourth Grade class won First Place at the State level with her poster. Also winning was Fourth Grader Abby Lyons. She won second place with her entry. Eighth Grader Grace Wegner, in Mr. Barnes’ class won second place with her entry. Pictured front row Kaycie Scherwinski and Abby Lyons. Back row AMVETS Auxiliary members Mae Mattison, Dolores Gradinjan and Grace Wegner.

The AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary Phillips held a “Slice of Pie” and flag sale fun­draiser during the 4th of July weekend. All money collected went to helping send two local Vietnam veterans to go on the Never Forgotten Honor Flight which will leave on October 10, 2016.

Slice of Pie

Poster Drawing/Essay Contest

Standing L to R: Auxiliary members Judy Atchley, Judith Stanke, Linda Schweikert, Carol Ponshock, Carol Lapp, Winnie Kolanowski, Lonnie Sherry and Marilyn Flietner . Seated L to R: Mae Mattison Veterans Pastor John Trewyn, Dennis Schroeder and President Dolores Gradinjan .

Lynn Forry, Chris Mahloch, Marsha Lippert, Helen Herrmann, Linda Dueno-Dufek, Jade Moore, Deb Mahone, Anne Bruechert, and Karen Spittlemeiste .

Auxiliary Post 99 Attendees

Auxiliary at Convention

7

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

7

White Clover Princess Report

Why I would like to represent AMVETS as Miss AMVETS White Clover Princess

I would be honored to represent AMVETS as Miss AMVETS White Clover Princess because this is how I can honor the veterans and their families for their sacrifice, listening first hand on different soldier’s stories, and to thank all past, present, and future vet­erans for our freedoms.

Honoring the soldiers and their families for their sacrifices is a duty that every American should do. A way to do this is by visiting the VA hospitals to

help speed up the recovery process by helping to keep their spirits high. I’m planning on becoming a nurse once I graduate so that one day I could help those who have served. We must also listen to the stories of those who have come before us. This will allow me to learn about my family members who have served through the experiences of other veterans. This is also the way I can give my thanks to all veterans for my freedom. It would be a huge pleasure to help further the interests in AMVETS. It would be a tremendous honor to be chosen as Miss AMVETS White Clover Princess.

Cassie SlaneyWhite Clover Princess

Cassie SlaneyWhite Clover Princess

WCP Introduction

WCP past and present with coordinator .

Addressing the Convention .

Flowers presented to Princess .

Family .

Just time to relax .

Princess .

Past and Present Princesses .

Princess with our Governor .

Time to relax . Welcome Essay .

8

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

8

Post 10Shawano, WI

During the AMVETS Department of Wisconsin 2016 Convention Shawano AMVETS Post 10 donated $3,200 to Ken Wendt Chairperson of AMVETS Hospital and Service Committee. The Hospital and Service Committee oversees 8 Veteran Affairs hospital and nursing facilities in Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Upper Peninsula. From left to right: Stu Kohlin Post 10 CDR, Ken Wendt H&S chair.

Post 50Phillips, WI

The 14th Annual Veterans “Welcome Home” picnic was held July 21st, 2016 at the Wisconsin Concrete Park in Phillips, Wisconsin. The dedication of the 1966 Vietnam Memorial stone was conducted be for dinner.

About 100 veterans and their families attended the event.

Post 99Manitowoc, WI

Post 99 Color Guard getting ready to participate in the Memorial Day festivities .

ANNOUNCEMENTAMVETS Family members:I am pleased to inform you that the Personnel Committee has approved the

appointment of Angie Hill, USAF veteran and 1st Vice Commander of Post #7 for the position of Assistant Executive Director for our Department. The Personnel Committee will present the issue at the next Administrative Board and State Executive Committee meetings on 1 October for final approval. Angie›s resume is impressive and I am confident that she will serve our mem­bership well. She will temporarily serve as AED from now until her hiring is official working from home and at the Department Office as needed. Please join me in welcoming Angie to our staff. Thank you so much.

Ralph BeckExecutive Director

9

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Post 1051Stevens Point, WI

Post 2180Necedah, WI

Joan Sirek with Wil Lehner, from Stevens Point, a Pearl Harbor Survivor .

The Commander’s Home/Hospital tours for October are scheduled as follows:

07 October 2016 a Friday 1000 – Iron Mountain Veterans Hospital, Iron Mountain, Michigan. Lunch site to be determined after tour at your expense.

21 October 2016 a Friday 1000 – Union Grove Veterans Home, Union Grove, WI. Lunch at Michaels on the Lake after the tour at your expense.

28 October 2016 a Friday 1000 – Chippewa Falls Veterans Home, Chippewa Falls, WI. Also pos­sible tour at Homeless Veterans Shelter across from Veterans Home after Veterans Home tour. Lunch after tour at Rumor Mill Bar & Grill at your expense. The tours are open to all members of AMVETS or

Auxiliary wishing to attend. AMVET State Officers are encouraged to attend if possible, along with District Commanders from Districts representing the above areas of the Homes/Hospitals.

Yours in AMVETSWilliam forryCommanderAMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Future Tentative AMVETS – Department SEC SiteOctober 1st ­ SEC meeting at Beaver Dam Veteran’s Center­ Hotel Info @

www.amvets­wi.org

***Officer Meeting at 9:00 am prior to Hospital and Service Foundation meeting ­ all Dept Officers and District Commanders are required to attend***

December 9th and 10th ­ Fall Dance and SEC meeting ­ Hotel Info @ www.amvets­wi.org

Commander’s Tours - 2016

Bill Forry

VA – News ReleaseTri­Agency Partnership Working to Tailor Cancer Care Based on Genes, Proteins

­ The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is partnering with the Department of Defense (DoD) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to tailor cancer care for patients based on the genes and proteins associated with their tumors.

The tri­agency program will create the nation’s first system in which cancer patients’ tumors are routinely screened for gene and protein information, with the goal of finding targeted therapies for each individual patient. The process will also continually generate new information to boost clinicians’ ability to treat the disease.

VA provides service dog benefits to Veterans with mental health disorders ­ The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today that it is piloting a protocol to implement veterinary health benefits for mobility service dogs approved for Veterans with a chronic impairment that substantially limits mobility associated with mental health disorders.

The Joint Commission Releases Results of VA Health Care Surveys to VA ­ The Joint Commission provided the results of its Special Focused Surveys of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare facilities to VA leadership.

The special focused surveys, prompted by reported allegations of scheduling improprieties, delays in patient care and other quality­of­care concerns, were con­ducted October 2014 to September 2015 and focused on measuring the progress VA has made to improve access to care and barriers that might stand in the way of providing timely care to Veterans.

VA Releases Report on Nation’s Largest Analysis of Veteran Suicide ­ The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today released its findings from the nation’s most comprehensive analysis of Veteran suicide rates in the United States in which VA examined more than 55 million Veterans’ records from 1979 to 2014 from every state in the nation. The effort advances VA’s knowledge from the previous report in 2012, which was primarily limited to information on Veterans who used VHA health services or from mortality records obtained directly from 20 states and approximately 3 million records. Compared to the data from the 2012 report, which estimated the number of Veteran deaths by suicide to be 22 per day, the current analysis indicates that in 2014, an average of 20 Veterans a day died from suicide.

Million Veteran Program is Now Largest Genomic Database in the World ­ The Department of Veterans Affairs’ Million Veteran Program has reached an impor­tant milestone when an Army Veteran from Montgomery, Alabama, became the 500,000th to voluntarily enroll in the research database program – making MVP the largest genomic database in the world.

10

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Here are some statistics for the Year 1910: The average life expectancy for men was 47 years. Fuel for this car was sold in drug stores only. Only 14 percent of the homes had a bathtub. Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone. There were only 8,000 cars and only 144 miles of paved roads. The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph. The tallest structure in the world was the Eiffel Tower! The average US wage in 1910 was 22 cents per hour. The average US worker made between $200 and $400 per year. A competent accountant could expect to earn $2,000 per year, A dentist $2,500 per year, a veterinarian between $1,500 and $4,000 per year, and a mechanical engineer about $5,000 per year. More than 95 percent of all births took place at HOME. Ninety percent of all Doctors had NO COLLEGE EDUCATION! Instead, they attended so-called medical schools, many of which were condemned in the press AND the government as “substandard.” 

Sugar cost four cents a pound. Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen.   

Coffee was fifteen cents a pound. Most women only washed their hair once a month, and used Borax or egg yolks for shampoo. Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people from entering into their country for any reason. The Five leading causes of death were:

1. Pneumonia and influenza2. Tuberculosis3. Diarrhea4. Heart disease5. Stroke

 The American flag had 45 stars. The population of Las Vegas, Nevada, was only 30! Crossword puzzles, canned beer, and iced tea hadn’t been invented yet. There was no Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. Two out of every 10 adults couldn’t read or write and only 6 percent of all Americans had graduated from high school. Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter at the local corner drugstores. Back then pharmacists said, “Heroin clears the complexion, gives buoyancy to the mind, regulates the stomach and bowels, and is, in fact, a perfect guardian of health”  Eighteen percent of households had at least one full-time servant or domestic help. There were about 230 reported murders in the ENTIRE U.S.A.! Try to imagine what it may be like in another 100 years. 

 1910 Ford Model ‘R’ The year is 1910 One hundred six years ago. What a difference a century makes!

Land of the Free, Home of the BraveAnd I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free.And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.

~ Lee Greenwood

11

AMVETS Department of Wisconsin

Did You Know !!!New Information for those who visit

to Social Security Administration

Starting this past August 2016, Social Security is adding a new step to protect your privacy as a my Social Security user. This new requirement is the result of an executive order for federal agencies to provide more secure authentication for their online services. Any agency that provides online access to a customer’s personal information must use multifactor authentication.

When you sign in at ssa.gov/myaccount with your username and password, we will ask you to add your text­enabled cell phone number. The purpose of provid­ing your cell phone number is that, each time you log in to your account with your username and password, we will send you a one­time security code you must also enter to log in successfully to your account.

Each time you sign into your account, you will complete two steps:Step 1: Enter your username and password.Step 2: Enter the security code we text to your cell phone (cell phone pro­

vider’s text message and data rates may apply).The process of using a one­time security code in addition to a username and

password is one form of “multifactor authentication,” which means we are using more than one method to make sure you are the actual owner of your account.

If you do not have a text­enabled cell phone or you do not wish to pro­vide your cell phone number, you will not be able to access your my Social Security account.

If you are unable or choose not to use my Social Security, there are other ways you can contact us.

Shrimp SaladBy: Reggie Arkens

Ingredients3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt1 lemon cut into quarters4 pounds’ large shrimp in the shell (16 to 20 shrimp per pound)2 cups good mayonnaise1 teaspoon Dijon mustard2 tablespoons white wine or white wine vinegar1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper6 tablespoons minced fresh dill1 cup minced red onion (1 onion)3 cups minced celery (6 stalks)

DirectionsBring 5 quarts of water, 3

tablespoons salt, and the lemon to a boil in a large sauce­pan. Add half the shrimp and reduce the heat to medium. Cook uncovered for only 3 minutes or until the shrimp are barely cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon to a bowl of cold water. Bring the water back to a boil and repeat with the remaining shrimp. Let cool; then peel, and devein the shrimp.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, wine or vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, and dill. Combine with the peeled shrimp. Add the red onion and celery and check the seasonings. Serve or cover and refrigerate for a few hours.

What is Memorial Day?When your kids ask, “What is Memorial Day?” be prepared to give them the

proper answer. Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in our nation’s service. Though some form of Memorial Day has been celebrated in various areas of the country beforehand, Memorial Day was officially proclaimed by General John Logan on May 5, 1868 and was observed later that month on May 30 when flowers were placed on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers who were buried at Arlington Cemetery.

Not all fun and gamesThough it’s great to use Memorial Day weekend as a time to get together

and have fun with family and friends, you also shouldn’t lose sight of the meaning behind the holiday. Over Memorial Day weekend, in addition to the fun and games at your backyard barbecue, you should also teach your kids about the history of the holiday and take part in community events such as processions and memorials. In the days leading up to Memorial Day, read books and watch movies about our nation’s servicemen and women. Contact your parks and recreation department and local library to find out about other community events for families during Memorial Day weekend.

Wisconsin Veterans Home at KingThe Wisconsin Veterans Home at King is where love of country merges with

over 125 years of Caring for America’s Heroes. All branches of the armed forces are represented here. Each branch has its own esprit de corps, but all are united as veterans of this great country in a community with camaraderie borne out of shared military experience.

The Wisconsin Veterans Home at King is a long term and rehabilitative care facility caring for veterans, a veteran’s spouse, a veteran’s widow and Gold Star Parents (parents who have lost a son or daughter in combat).

We offer quality medical and nursing care that enhances their quality life. Our highly trained and dedicated staff strive to meet the unique needs of vet­erans by providing compassionate care built on the foundation of integrity, honor and respect.

Spanning across 320 acres of the richest, most picturesque scenery, the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King is a gem like no other. Exquisitely nestled between the bluest of blue spring­fed lakes, embraced by lush green rolling hills, the sights and sounds of this magical setting will take your breath away. This unsurpassed beauty is not commonly home to a long term care facility, but how appropriate a setting providing peace and tranquility for those who bore the battle.

★★★★★

1966 2016Long hair Longing for hair

KEG EKG

Acid rock Acid reflux

Moving to California because it’s cool Moving to Florida because it’s warm

Trying to look like Marlon Brando or Liz Taylor

Trying NOT to look like Marlon Brando or Liz Taylor

Seeds and stems Roughage

Hoping for a BMW Hoping for a BM

Going to a new, hip joint Getting a new hip joint

Rolling Stones Kidney stones

Screw the system Upgrade the system

Disco Costco

Parents begging you to get your hair cut

Children begging you to get their heads shaved

Passing the driver’s test Passing the vision test

Whatever Depends

ANSWER to comic on page 3:

A-Salt and Battery

2016 Department Convention

Awards presentation . Members between sessions . Awards recognition .

Awards throughout the Department . Having a great time . Commander Peter .

And Jim actually remembers the Civil War…amazing!

Individual award recognition . Check presentation . Honor to the flag . Our Princess .

Recognition . Say sit down for the session . Someone has to do the paperwork .

Governor Walker addressing the attendees . Salute welcome .

Speaking to the attendees . Talk time .

Recognition award .

Sec . of VA John Scocos . Time to relax . Welcome our Governor .