VFW Post 5864 Newsletter 333 S. Washington St., Greenwood, IN 46143 – Phone 317-888-2488

Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864 – September 2019 Newsletter

"It’s not the dues you pay to be a member, it’s the price you paid to be eligible!”

“Like us” on --Facebook -- Greenwood VFW 5864-- and visit our --Website-greenwoodvfw.com—

2017 and 2018 VFW First Place Award winner in the District / Post level for “Large e Frequency” Publications. 2019 Silver Award winner at the District / Post level l

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Dirt work now

underway at

new VFW site

After just over a year and a half of committee meetings, contractor, engineer and architect meetings and then nearly 100 pages of paperwork for many government agencies, the first day of work finally came on our new VFW site. Monday, Aug. 12, the surveyor staked out the lot.

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Started in Columbus, Ohio in a tailor shop

VFW to celebrate 120th birthday September 29

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States came into existence in 1913 because of amalgamations over a period of years since 1899 of five separate foreign service organizations that had the same ideals and similar requirements for membership. These organizations came into being entirely independent of one another and without the knowledge of each other at the time of their origin. A brief resume of these units is as follows: September 1899, American Veterans of Foreign Service organized as a national body in Columbus, Ohio. They were chartered by the State of Ohio

on October 10, 1899 and elected J. C. Putnam as their first Commander-in-Chief. They were organized through the efforts of James Romanis in December 1899; The Colorado Society of the Army of the Philippines organized at Denver, Colorado by General Irving Hale and became the National Society of the Army of the Philippines on August 13, 1900 with Francis V. Greene as their first Commander-in-

Chief. At their Encampment in August 1909 they changed the name to Army of the Philippines. On July 7, 1901, H.O. Kelley organized Philippine War Veterans in Altoona, Pennsylvania. In July 1902 reorganized with C.O. Knighton as President. October 1901, Philippine War Veterans organized at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with G.H. Smith being elected Commander. On April 27, 1902 reorganized as Foreign Service Veterans with Jacques La Belle as Commander. July 24, 1902, American Veterans of Philippine and China Wars organized at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by Captain Robert S. Hansbury. The Philippine War Veterans-Altoona, Philippine War Veterans-Pittsburgh, and American Veterans of Philippine and China Wars-Philadelphia met together September 10-12, 1903 at Altoona, Pennsylvania and formed the Eastern society of the American Veterans of the Philippines, Cuban, Puerto Rican & China Wars organization. In 1903 the name was changed by plebiscite to American Veterans of Foreign Service-Eastern Branch. During the period of September 13-15, 1905, at Altoona, Pennsylvania, the Eastern Branch of the American Veterans of Foreign Service, which was formed in 1903 at Altoona, Pennsylvania, amalgamated with the original American Veterans of Foreign Service of Columbus, Ohio to become one society known as the American Veterans of Foreign Service. Herbert O. Kelley, of Altoona, was elected Commander. In August 1913, at Denver, Colorado, the Army of the Philippines and the American Veterans of Foreign Service united under the temporary name of Army of the Philippine, Cuba and Puerto Rico with Rice W. Means as the first Commander-in Chief. During the year, the organization's name was changed by plebiscite and General Order No. 1 to the present-day Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. At the Encampment in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1914, the name Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and a constitution were formally adopted. On May 28, 1936, Congressional Charter incorporated the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. The Great Seal -- The Cross of Malta is the VFW's official emblem. The cross, radiating rays, and Great Seal of the United States together symbolize the character, vows and purposes distinguishing VFW as an order of warriors who have traveled far from home to defend sacred principles. Its eight points represent the beatitudes prescribed in the Sermon on the Mount: Blessed are the poor in spirit, the meek, the pure, the merciful, the peacemakers; blessed are they who mourn, seek righteousness and are persecuted for righteousness' sake. The eight-pointed Cross of Malta harks back to the Crusades, launched during the 12th century. The VFW Logo -- Redesigned in November 2018, the official logo of the VFW includes an artistic ◼ Continued to page 6

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A Message from the Commander . . .

VFW and Auxiliary Members:

In September we begin our fourth month of the new VFW year. Our Post continues to stay very active and busy. As you have heard or seen on Facebook, our building is well underway. When it is completed, we will be excited to get moved into our new facility. We are currently working on our third 100 bricks for our flagpole area. There is a form on page 10. If you’re interested, please get the form in as quickly as you can. In order to save the Post money, we need to order a minimum of 100 bricks each time. Also, if you wish, there are several other ways you can help financially. That information is in this newsletter too. While we are in the process of building, we will make sure that everyone gets up-to-date information on our progress as we receive it. Our Bingo and Pull-Tab business on Wednesday nights has been holding steady around $1,200 plus weekly. We have a terrific crew of people who Commander Steve Milbourn

are dedicated volunteers helping on Wednesday nights. Sherri Jones, John Keith, John Hasty, Mike Delaney, Mike Tomes, Al Kessinger, Chuck Eyer, Bill Clark, Samantha Jones, Cheyanne Jones, and a few others who help as they can. We still need help in this area. I know that we are all busy doing many things throughout the week. If you can spend three or four hours a week on Wednesday beginning around 6 p.m., we would be most appreciative. Because Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are on a Wednesday, and we could lose two weeks’ worth of income, we have given some thought to opening on New Year’s Day and, also have Bingo that evening. If you would be interested in playing on that evening, please let us know. We will also have a sign-up sheet at the bar. It is possible that we could provide a Cover-All prize of $700 or $800 if we are able to attract 80 or more people that evening. We have several other exciting events going on between now and then. We have an Oktoberfest on October 12; our annual Vietnam get-together at the Post in November and providing food and gifts to a few families at Christmas. We are planning to host a Trivia game each week as we have for the last two years. It will be on Saturday’s directly after the Stars & Stripes drawing and the new weekly drawing. We are putting the plans together now and should get started in the next month. Anyone interested in helping with Trivia, please let us know. If you have any ideas of things, we could make money doing, let us know. Beginning in September we will have 10 knives of various sizes and shapes that will be raffled off. We plan to see 200 tickets at $2 each. The knives are brand new and are being donated free of charge. The entire $400 will be given to the Post for any building related expense. We also feel that donations will pick back up. For several months, we were dormant, and it appeared that nothing was happening. There was more happening that you could imagine. Completing paperwork for Johnson County Board of Health, Indiana Dept. of Environmental Management, Greenwood Fire Dept., Greenwood Planning Dept., and so on and so forth. We finally got in front of those things and now are heading full steam toward the finish. When completed, we will hold several open houses – our people, all the businesses in our area, the construction folks we’ve worked with and all the groups of people in other groups we’ve worked with since the beginning. Thanks.

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Military history over the years in September . . .

1676 – Nathaniel Bacon led an uprising against English Governor William Berkeley at Jamestown, Virginia, resulting in the settlement being burned to the ground. Bacon’s Rebellion came in response to the governor’s repeated refusal to defend the colonists against the Indians. 1752 – The Liberty Bell arrived in Philadelphia. 1772 – Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa formed in California. Father Junipero Serra held the 1st Mass at San Luis Obispo. He left Father Jose Cavalier the task of building the state’s 5th mission. 1858 – The 1st transatlantic cable failed after less than 1 month. 1861 – Ulysses Grant assumed command of Federal forces at Cape Girardeau, MI. 1861 – Lincoln received news late at night from Secretary of the Navy Welles of Flag Officer Stringham’s victory at Hatteras Inlet, in the initial Army-Navy expedition of the war. Coming shortly after the defeat at Bull Run, it electrified the North and greatly raised morale. 1862 – A federal tax was levied on tobacco, especially that grown in Confederate states.

1879 – Dissatisfied Ute Indians killed Agent Nathan Meeker and 9 others in the “Meeker Massacre.” 1899 – Veterans of Foreign Wars established on Sept. 29, 1899 in Columbus, Ohio. 1918 – US troops landed in Vladivostok, Siberia, and stayed until 1920. 1925 – Navy CDR John Rodgers and crew of 4 in PN-9 run out of fuel on first San Francisco to Hawaii flight. Landing at sea, they rigged a sail and set sail for Hawaii. 1939 – At 04:45 a.m. German forces invade Poland without a declaration of war. The

operation is code named Fall Weiss (Plan White). The Germans allot 52 divisions for the invasion (some 1.5 million men), including the 6 armored divisions and all their motorized units. Of the divisions left to defend against an Anglo-French front, only about 10 are regarded by the Germans as being fit for any kind of action. General Brauchitsch, the Commander-in-Chief of the German Army, is in command of the campaign. 1942 – Establishment of Air Force, Pacific Fleet, VADM Aubrey W. Fitch, USN. 1942 – First Seabee unit to serve in a combat area, 6th Naval Construction Battalion, arrives on Guadalcanal. 1942 – A federal judge in Sacramento, Calif., upheld the wartime detention of Japanese-Americans as well as Japanese nationals. 1942 – Joseph C. Jenkins was given a temporary promotion to warrant officer (Boatswain); becoming the first African-American warrant officer in the Coast Guard. 1950 – U.S. Company C, 1st Battalion of the 23rd Infantry Regiment, was almost annihilated as North Korean divisions opened an assault on U.N. lines on the Naktong River. Only Company C and other elements of the 2nd Infantry Division stood in the path. 1950 – U.S. Air Force Captain Ivan C. Kincheloe, 51st Fighter-Interceptor Wing, claimed his fifth air-to-air victory in his F-86 Sabre “Ivan” to become the 10th ace of the Korean War. Kincheloe accounted for four MiG’s in six days. 1950 – U.S. Navy Lieutenant Eugene F. Clark was put ashore at Yonghung-do to command an operation to gather intelligence for the impending amphibious assault at Inchon. 1966 – In a speech before 100,000 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, President Charles de Gaulle of France denounces U.S. policy in Vietnam and urges the U.S. government to pull its troops out of Southeast Asia. De Gaulle said that negotiations toward a settlement of the war could begin as soon as the United States committed to withdrawing its troops by a certain date. He and Prince Norodom Sihanouk signed a declaration calling for noninterference in the Indochinese peninsula by foreign nations. Three days later, Assistant Secretary of State William Bundy on NBC-TV’s Meet the Press n

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Military history over the years in September . . .

◼ Continued from page 4 rejected De Gaulle’s proposal and said that the United States intended to withdraw its forces when “the North Vietnamese get out.” During the same speech, he also revealed that the United States now had 25,000 military people in Thailand, principally for air force operations. 1969 – A coup in Libya overthrew the monarchy of King Idris and brought Moammar Gadhafi to power. Gadhafi emerged as leader of the revolutionary government and ordered the closure of a U.S. Air Force base. 1969 – The 1st Marine Regiment was presented the Presidential Unit Citation for Operation Hue City. 1969 – President Richard Nixon announces the second round of U.S. troop withdrawals from Vietnam. This was part of the dual program that he had announced at the Midway conference on June 8 that called for “Vietnamization” of the war and U.S. troop withdrawals, as the South Vietnamese forces assumed more responsibility for the fighting. The first round of withdrawals was completed in August and totaled 25,000 troops (including two brigades of the 9th Infantry Division). There will be 15 announced withdrawals in total, leaving only 27,000 U.S. troops in Vietnam by 1972. 1974 – President Ford announced a conditional amnesty program for Vietnam War deserters and draft-evaders. Limited amnesty was offered to Vietnam-era draft resisters who would now swear allegiance to the United States and perform two years of public service. 1996 – Kuwait allows the U.S. to send 3,300 troops to its soil over the confrontation with Iraq. 1997 – Two Air National Guard F-16 fighters collided off Atlantic City, N.J. The crew survived. 1998 – Iraq urges the Security Council to reverse its decision on sanctions reviews. 2001 – Pakistan told Afghanistan to surrender Osama bin Laden within 3 days or face almost certain military action.

Euchre games held every Saturday at VFW 5864

Euchre games are being held every Saturday at the VFW. Players begin showing up around 12 noon and play will begin at 1 p.m. There are four places with cash prizes. Prize money will be paid out based on the number of individuals who play the game. There is also a cash prize for the high game score. The Indiana Gaming License Number is 002855. Food will be available for a donation and of course coffee, soft drinks and water can be purchased from the bar. Members interested in working the Euchre games, should let Bill Clark, 317-442-7086, know.

Shelter House not available due to impending move

VFW Banquet Room is currently available for rent

The VFW’s Banquet Room is available for rental throughout the year. The Banquet Room seats approximately 135 people, has a separate bar area, separate entrances and exits, and two adjoining restrooms. There is parking and on-site management. The building is air conditioned and heated and is a non-smoking facility. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available. The VFW’s website is greenwoodvfw.com. To discuss a date, call Steve Milbourn at 317-525-7291.

6 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

VFW celebrates 120 years on September 29 . . .

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representation of service stripes, easily recognizable insignia indicative of military service. Worn on most service uniforms, they denote length of service. As such, the first and leaner of the two service stripes represents the VFW's steadfast entry into its second century of service to America’s veterans, service members and their families. The second, broader stripe represents its first storied century of service, spanning back to 1899. The bold letters and sharp angles of this text represent the strength and stability of the organization, and the clarity with which it works to fulfill our mission. The use of vibrant red represents the danger its members have faced, the bloodshed they experienced and the energy with which the organization operates. The gallant gold represents members’ achievements, acts of valor and the unique VFW eligibility status they’ve earned. Further, it epitomizes our gold standard of service. The custom upper-case letters were especially designed with an extended width to symbolize an organization that is well established. Combined with a tight letter spacing, these letters visually build a solid and confident block that reflects the unified culture of our organization. In addition to the direct metaphor of the stripes, the visual progression leading to the build of the letter “V” represents their sustained and forward movement into achieving the VFW’s mission. In order to bring the acronym and title together, the gold stripes and the “V” from “VETERANS” have been carefully drawn to align on the same axis, emphasizing the element of continuity.

Additional business and members expected at new location

More operators and workers needed for gaming

The upcoming move to our new location should bring additional business and more individuals to sign up as members of the VFW and Auxiliary. If you wish to help us with gaming once a month or

more often, you will need to be an operator or a worker. Bingo, Bar Bingo, Euchre, selling raffle tickets or any other form of gaming requires those helping have an operator or worker’s status. An operator is an individual who has been a member for one year or longer and a worker must have been a member for at least 30 days. Operators can perform any function including paying out large sums of money, selling tickets, tallying and reconciling all the paperwork we complete after each event. Workers are limited on what they can do. The Post would need some basic information including your full legal name, home address (no post office boxes), your driver’s license

number, date of birth, daytime telephone number, and the date you joined the VFW or VFW Auxiliary. Your name would be submitted to the Indiana Gaming Commission. It takes about four to six weeks for them to process the applicants. Once you are approved, your name will be placed on a list and it is posted in the Post. If you can help, it would be greatly beneficial. See Steve Milbourn or Mike Tomes or simply provide the information above to either Steve or Mike and it takes about four to six weeks to get added to the licenses. The Post has one license for our three events. They are renewed annually in June.

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Join VFW Post 5864’s Auxiliary to help

with Bar Bingo throughout the year!

Monday Night Bar

at 6 p.m. -- Limited food is available

⬧ No tables reserved ⬧ Limited seating

Bar Bingo continues to be a success. Those working must be listed with the Indiana Gaming Commission as a registered “Operator” or “Worker”. An updated list of individuals who are eligible to work in Gaming is posted behind the bar in the Canteen area. The Annual

Bingo License, Annual Raffle License and the Annual Charity Game Night License # is 002855. If you need help, please let Sherri Jones, 253-278-1980 or Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291

know so they can get the information that is needed to place you on VFW Post 5864’s gaming license.

◼ Public Welcome -- ◼ Please sign the book at the door ◼ No outside food or drinks -- ◼ Bingo License # 002855

8 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

U.S. Army Vietnam veteran Clarence Capps dies

Seventy-one-year old husband and father, Clarence Capps passed away June 30. He was born on August 22, 1947 in Du Quoin, Illinois. His family moved to Chicago in 1955 and then to Crest Hill, Illinois in 1957. Clarence attended Public Grade School and Lockport High School where he was active in sports including football, boxing and baseball. He received a degree from Aurora University in Management Arts. Clarence served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam in 1967 and 1968 where he met David Delrose and formed a life-long friendship. Clarence was a member of Greenwood VFW Post 5864.

On November 21, 1970 Clarence married the love of his life, Rosalie Monaghan. They raised a son, Clint and daughter, Jolie in Plainfield, Illinois, before the family moved to Greenwood in 1990. Clarence retired after more than 30 years as a supervisor at General Motors. He enjoyed volunteering for the boy scouts, was active in the church as a Eucharistic minister and eighth CCD teacher. He also was a member of the Elks Club and enjoyed serving on two homeowner boards. He was a master woodworker, hand-making everything from furniture to jewelry boxes. He loved to fish and camp, go to baseball games, cook and barbecue, read and work out with friends at LA Fitness. Clarence was known for his sense of humor, loyalty and generosity. He was an extremely hard worker who would have helped anyone at any time. Clarence was proceeded in death by his father, Connie R. Capps; mother,

Clarence Capps Laura Capps; and mother-in-law, Marge Monaghan. He is survived by his wife, Rosalie; son, Clint; daughter, Jolie and her husband Adam; brother, Jerry (Marlene) Capps; sister, Cecelia (Robert) Palucki; sister, Connie (Joe) Dziubczynski; sister, Laura (Ron) Mrozek; brother, Dennis (Diane) Capps; sister, Diana (Steve) Cole; brother-in-law, Mike Monaghan; many nieces and nephews; and many friends. A Mass of Christian Burial was conducted on July 6 at St. Barnabas Catholic Church.

Website, Facebook and e-mails keep members

abreast of all VFW Post and Auxiliary activities

Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s website has generated an average of just over 119.92 “hits” daily since the beginning of November 2015. The website is updated at the beginning of each month with the newest Newsletter and Calendar. Other changes are made throughout the month as needed. The website has garnered 165,485 people viewing it for the past 46 months, or a total of 3,598 views per month. Commander Steve Milbourn remarked, “It is truly remarkable that nearly 120 people per day, seven days a week are viewing our website.” For those of you who have not been on our VFW website, please go to greenwoodvfw.com and look through it. Our Facebook is updated daily. Sherri Jones, Carol Puckett and Steve Milbourn post

various news stories and photos to this media. E-mails are sent out on an “as needed” basis and they are sent via Blind Carbon Copy. The reason for this is so that individuals will not use the e-mail addresses to benefit themselves or a business. If you think of something that needs added, or you

have a news story or photo which you think needs to be shown, please e-mail it to Steve Milbourn at steve.milbourn@aol.com. The Post’s publicity has been stellar for the past seven years and we have received much notoriety.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- September 2019 Newsletter – 9 ________________________________________________________________________________

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Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- September 2019 Newsletter – 11

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4-inch x 8-inch Brick -- $100 each

8-inch x 8-inch Brick -- $175 each

Bricks come in either 4-in. x 8-in. for $100; or 8-in. x 8-in. for $175.

A brochure is available on our website – greenwoodvfw.com to review the colors of bricks that are available.

Profits from the sale of the bricks will go toward expenses related to the new building and land.

Bricks are available for anyone – a Member of the Military; a Veteran; Deceased Veteran;

Businessmen or women; and the public.

There will also be bricks laid on walk-ways about 4 ft. wide leading up to our flag poles

The bricks are lasered and have a life-time guarantee.

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12 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

This was 2018’s Opening Day at Kokomo An 8 ft. x 12 ft. American flag is raised on opening day of the Vietnam Veterans get-together.

Howard County Healing Field

37th Howard County Vietnam Veterans reunion

The 37th annual reunion of Vietnam Veterans gathering will be held Thursday, September 19 thru Saturday, September 21 from 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The entry fee for the reunion is $10 for the entire event. The camping fee for the annual reunion is $10 per day with a three-day minimum and an eight-day maximum. If you wish to camp for ten (10) days, you will only have to pay for eight (8) days plus the entry fee. Live entertainment will begin at 4:30 p.m. Thursday thru Saturday.

2019-2020 District 7 meetings are scheduled

The five upcoming District 7 meetings were bid at the July 14 meeting based on when a Post last held a District meeting at their facility. The September 22 meeting will be held at Brazil VFW Post 1127; the November 17 meeting will

be held at Linton VFW Post 7118; the January 26, 2020 meetings will be held at Mooresville VFW Post 1111; the March 22 meeting will be held at Spencer VFW Post 1405; and the May 17 meeting will be held at Odon VFW Post 9627. Meetings begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday on the day listed above.

District 7 lost one VFW, Post 12153 in Franklin at the beginning of the new year – June 1. The District is currently at 19 Posts.

VFW meetings are the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.

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October deadline is Thursday, September 19 at 5 p.m.

News and photo submission policy is announced

Members of the VFW and the Auxiliary are encouraged to submit news articles and photos to be published in the Post’s monthly newsletter. Auxiliary members (formerly Ladies Auxiliary) should

contact Carol Puckett via e-mail at carolbulpuck@yahoo.com, or by dropping off the information at the Post addressed to her. All other news and photos can be e-mailed to Steve Milbourn. Information can also be dropped off at the VFW and given to the bartender on duty. It is important that you place your name and phone number on the item in case there are any questions. Please ensure that names are legible. Your article may be edited for clarity. All photos must have the following information with them: who, what, when, where, why and how the photo was taken, and who is in the photo. Please submit all articles by the 10th of each month for the next month’s

publication. The VFW’s Editor is Steve Milbourn, and his phone number is 317-525-7291 or steve.milbourn@aol.com. The deadline for the October newsletter is Thursday, Sept. 19 at 5 p.m.

Resource meeting set for Thursday, September 5

The September 2019 Resource meeting will be held on Thursday, September 5. The Resource meeting will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. The Resource meeting is to determine what upcoming events we wish to host for the next three months. We have a month to come up with ideas that can be sent out to everyone ahead of time so that we can be thinking about the event and it will cut down on the discussion time at each meeting. Members from the VFW Auxiliary, American Legion Centennial Post 1919 and its Auxiliary, the 40 & 8 Voiture # 145 and anyone else interested in attending the meeting.

DAV urges veterans to contact their Senators

In July, Senator Johnny Isakson (GA), Chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, introduced S. 2072 -- the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2019. This bill, if enacted, would authorize a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for veterans in receipt of compensation and pension, and for survivors of veterans who died from service-incurred disabilities and are in receipt of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). It would provide a COLA increase at the same percentage rate as Social Security and would be effective December 1, 2019.

Receipt of annual COLA increments aids injured and ill veterans, their families, and their survivors to help maintain the value of their VA benefits against inflation. Without COLAs, these individuals, who sacrificed their own health and their family life for the good of our nation, may not be able

to maintain a quality of life in their elder years. The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) strongly supports S. 2072, as it is in accordance with DAV Resolution No. 038. Earlier this year, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1200, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2019. This bill, S. 2072, is the Senate version.

Donations to Greenwood Memorial VFW Post 5864 for our new

land and building are tax deductible! Make a donation today.

14 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Greenwood VFW Bingo played every Wednesday

Each Wednesday around 60 or more individuals gather at the VFW to play Bingo. VFW Post 5864 member John Keith, a longtime worker at the Greenwood Knights of Columbus (K of C) Bingo games has been overseeing the Post’s weekly Bingo games for over two years.

John Keith, Sherri Jones, Steve Milbourn, Al Kessinger, Linda Kessinger, Bill Clark, Chuck Eyer, John Hasty, Kristina Serna, Mike Delaney, Mike Tomes and others are also working weekly to support the event. Bingo is held Wednesday evening starting at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. The Gaming Commission forbids any entity holding a Bingo License to pay individuals for working at any game. Patrons are also not allowed to tip volunteer Bingo workers or staff. In addition, Bingo workers cannot play pull-tabs or other gaming devices or buy tickets on the same day, while being a Bingo worker. There continues to be a need for additional volunteer workers to

sell pull-tabs. Bingo starts with four “Early Bird” games at 6:30 p.m. Bingo is open to the public and provides an evening out for all. If you are interested in helping, contact Sherri Jones at 253-278-1980 to get signed up! The Post’s Bingo Gaming License, the Raffle License and the Casino Game Night License Number is 002855.

Greenwood VFW 5864 gaming and pull-tab rules

As a reminder to those individuals who play Bingo and / or purchase gaming tickets or pull-tabs at the VFW, the following rules are in effect: All Pull-Tabs or other gaming tickets which are deemed to be winners by the VFW, must be cashed in by the close of business on the day the sale was made, otherwise the ticket will become null and void. No gaming tickets are to leave the VFW’s building under any circumstances. Pull-Tabs have Serial Numbers and the VFW is required to keep a record for the Indiana Gaming Commission and therefore the VFW has the date each set of Pull-Tabs is sold. Bingo players must be 18 years old or older to play or purchase any Bingo tickets or Pull-Tabs. These rules have been in effect for several years. The Post wanted to reiterate them. If there are any questions, please call VFW Post 5864 at 317-888-2488. Also, if your winning ticket is over $250, you must print your name on the ticket, sign the ticket and place your date of birth on the ticket. This is an Indiana Gaming Commission rule.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864’s Indiana Gaming License # is

The Annual Bingo License, Annual Casino

Game Night License, and Annual Raffle

License is # 002855

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Also includes VA employees to increase the quality of care

VA modifies smoke-free policies at health care

As part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) commitment to a smoke-free health care environment for Veterans, in October, the department will extend its smoke-free policies to include employees at its health care facilities. This follows the department’s June 10 announcement of a new policy restricting smoking by patients, visitors, volunteers, contractors and vendors at its health care facilities. The integration of these two efforts guarantees a fully smoke-free environment for Veterans.

“This policy change is consistent with our mission to promote a healthy environment for patients, visitors and employees at our facilities and is an important element of improving our health care system,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “It will reduce the harmful effects of smoking, including exposure to second and third-hand smoke, as well as increase safety and

reduce fire hazards caused by smoking.” The VA has collaborated with key stakeholders to update and recertify the employee policy to be consistent with department’s commitment to Veterans and the community. Implementation of the employee smoke-free policy will be completed no later than January 2020 based on employee union-negotiated timelines. The Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) smoke-free policy applies to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, any other combustion of tobacco and non-Federal Drug Administration approved electronic nicotine delivery systems, including but not limited to electronic or e-cigarettes, vape pens or e-cigars. To learn more about health risks associated with smoking, visit the Surgeon General’s website at https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/tobacco/index.html or https://smokefree.gov/.

Second iteration of music retreats to launch

Operation Song continues mission of telling stories

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today it is expanding its partnership with nonprofit Operation Song to launch a series of songwriting retreats aimed at helping Veterans share and cope with military experiences through music. Operation Song hosted 10 Veterans for a three-day retreat in Nashville, Tennessee, in August. “VA is committed to exploring new and innovative ways to care for Veterans,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “This includes using creative arts therapies in conjunction with community partners to help Veterans express themselves when conventional therapeutic methods may not be enough.” Founded by Grammy and Dove-award nominated songwriter, Bob Regan, Operation Song’s first three-day music retreat in partnership with VA was held in Nov. 2018. During that event professional songwriters and VA therapists worked with Veterans to write and record songs. The Nashville-based organization has worked with hundreds of Veterans from nearly every military conflict to tell their sometimes-challenging stories using music. While a background in music is not necessary to participate, interested Veterans must be referred by their VA health care provider, be able to function independently and willing to travel to the retreat location. The program is offered at no cost to Veteran participants. VA’s Voluntary Service, Veterans Canteen Service and Recreation Therapy Service, collaborate with Operation Song to coordinate these events. This year’s program will be fully funded through the generous support of Veterans Canteen Service. VA encourages donations and sponsor-ships from organizations and individuals who would like this type of programming to reach as many Veterans as possible.

16 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Indy Polkamotion to play Saturday, Oct. 12 at VFW

Greenwood VFW has secured “Indy Polkamotion” to entertain members near the annual Oktoberfest on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 8 p.m. to midnight. The cost will be $20 per person if you attend the music show and eat. If you only come to see the show, the price is $10 per person. The group is a six-member band featuring Bob Klemen - Accordion - 4 String Banjo – Vocals; Fred Riffel - Lead Guitar – Vocals; Denise Riffel - Small Percussion - Vocals – Manager; Don Dailey - Drums, Percussion - former Drummer for Gary Lewis and the Playboys. He brings 45 years of amazing professional experience. James Ganzberg - Keys and Vocals – he is a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of fame with Alabama and toured 13 years with the Blues Brothers and Craig Martindale - Bass Guitar and Vocals - one of the premier Bassists in Indianapolis, Craig toured the United States with rock bands opening for Foreigner, Rare Earth, and many more before settling down and performing with their family of musicians. For the past 29 years, they have refined their technique and musicianship while taking it upon their ensemble to perfect their performances. The result of their labors is a string of a successful performances, from playing for State Senators and House Speakers to the most recent performance for the State of Indiana Bicentennial celebration. The Post will serve German food, have Polkas, Waltzes, 50's-60's-70's-80's Rock & Country, Italian, Euro Pop, Macedonian and Greek Horo's. The Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, having been held since 1810. Other cities across the world also hold Oktoberfest celebrations that are modeled after the original Munich event. The group is available for Weddings, Festivals, County Fairs, Corporate Functions, Birthday and Anniversary Parties. They also perform for schools and civic organizations. It lets children and adults know that the music they perform is for everyone. Tickets are now available at the bar. You can purchase them with cash, check or credit card. Below is a “sample ticket”.

Indy Polkamotion

1st Annual Oktoberfest at Greenwood VFW Post 5864

on Saturday, October 12 -- 8 p.m. to Midnite No. xxx ❑ Dinner & Show -- $20 ea. ❑ Show only -- $10 ea.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- September 2019 Newsletter – 17

From left are Heidi J. Milbourn, Lydia M. Delaney, Alexia L. Kincaid and Greenwood VFW Post 5864 Scholarship Chairman Ralph Schuster.

Scholarship recipients receive certificate, money

Three grandchildren of three current VFW Post 5864 members received a certificate and their first installment of $500 for the 2019-2020 Ralph D. Napier Scholarship award provided by the VFW. The three recipients, listed alphabetically by their last name, include: Lydia M. Delaney, daughter of Kevin Delaney and Nicki Ferguson and granddaughter of Mike and Sue Delaney; Alexia L. Kincaid, daughter of Robert and Michelle Kincaid and granddaughter of Fred and Sandy Carpenter; and Heidi J. Milbourn, daughter of Michelle Milbourn and granddaughter of Steve and Patti Milbourn and Sally Poston. The three grandfathers are Vietnam veterans and members of Greenwood VFW Post 5864. The Award’s ceremony was held on August 6.

On military retirement benefits

Hoosier veterans no longer must pay state taxes

INDIANAPOLIS — A newly signed law in Indiana will be a big help to military veterans and their spouses by exempting their retirement income and survivors benefits from the state income tax. Governor Eric J. Holcomb held a ceremonial signing for House Bill 1010 recently at the Indiana State Fair. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1990 to 1996. The law could potentially save veterans and their dependents thousands of dollars and lawmakers hope that it will keep more veterans in Indiana and bring others to the state.

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Credit Cards accepted by VFW

The VFW’s bar and kitchen have been accepting credit cards for about four years. Since that time gross and net income has

increased tremendously. Banquet rentals can also be paid by credit card as can VFW Post and Auxiliary membership and membership to American Legion Centennial Post 1919 and its’ Auxiliary.

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18 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Seven Honor Guard members prepare to fire three volleys at an Honor Guard presentation.

Greenwood and Whiteland

Local Honor Guard seeks to boost their ranks

The Greenwood and Whiteland Honor Guard is looking for military veterans to boost their ranks in serving the southern half of Marion and all of Johnson counties. They provide Military Funeral Honors for local veterans, including folding and presenting the burial flag, the firing of seven M1-Garand rifles and playing taps. Much of the time these services are coordinated with the associated military branch funeral team to provide the veteran “full military honors”. If you’re looking for something important and meaningful to do with some of your free time, joining the team may be just what you’d like to do. If interested, please contact Bob Tuttle at 317-888-5617 for more information.

VFW meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

The VFW holds their membership meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. The VFW meets in the canteen.

Auxiliary meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

The VFW Auxiliary meets in the Banquet Room on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m. Members are encouraged to attend.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 -- September 2019 Newsletter – 19

7th District attendees to meet at Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Annual bus trip to National Home is Sept. 28-29

The annual bus trip to the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, Michigan will be Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29. The cost for the trip is $125 per person / double occupancy and includes the bus ride to and from the National Home and the hotel room for Saturday evening. Those attending the National Home visit will stay in Lansing, which is about 25 miles from the National Home. The hotel does have an indoor swimming pool and an adjoining restaurant. There will be a joint Hospitality Room off the lobby. There are many other restaurants nearby. There will also be a visit to the local VFW, which is just minutes away from the hotel. A shuttle will take and return those attending the visit to the local VFW during the evening hours.

The District 7 bus will depart Greenwood VFW Post 5864 at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28. The Post is located at 333 S. Washington St., Greenwood. Reservations and money should be turned in as quickly as possible. The bus company requires payment 30 days in advance. First come, first served.

For questions and reservations, please contact: Keiston Holloway at 812-887-6130. Deadline is Sept. 7 or sooner if bus is full. Make checks out to District 7. Be sure to put a note in the memo section – NHC Bus Trip. The bus will make a stop for restroom, smoking and to stretch your legs. There will be no stop for lunch, however there will be snacks and drinks on the bus. Drinks will be $1. They will also be playing games, so plan to bring some money. When everyone arrives, there will be a joint Hospitality Room. Greenwood VFW Post 5864 will serve breakfast on Saturday morning prior to departing for Michigan. The Post will open at 7:30 a.m. and breakfast is $8. Ala Carte items are also available. Parking will be available behind the Post or next door at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles just to your north while you are visiting the National Home. If you have an interest in taking the trip, don’t wait, there may not be a spot for you.

Now is the time to get involved

VFW Auxiliary in need of secretary and other help

After the Aug. 20 meeting of the Auxiliary, President Carol Puckett stated that the Greenwood Auxiliary’s Secretary has had to reluctantly step down due to some health issues. She was also the

Membership Chairman for the organization. Carol further remarked that the individual did not have a time when she will be well enough to return. Puckett said the Auxiliary was short-staffed and she is hopeful that some current members were able to step up and help where needed. The Auxiliary’s largest money-

making event is their Monday evening Bar Bingo which is held on Mondays at 6 p.m. There is always a need for help and if you’re a member, you can be placed on the Gaming License. See the related news story on page 6. The Auxiliary meets twice monthly on the first and third Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. The meetings normally last less than two hours. If you’re interested in helping, call President Carol Puckett at 317-714-7062 or e-mail her at carolbulpuck@yahoo.com.

40 & 8 meets on the first Friday at 7 p.m. at the VFW.

Annual Dues are $20 – A Great Organization.

20 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

1. Have you made a donation to VFW Post 5864?

2. Have you purchased a brick for your loved one?

3. Have you purchased a leaf for the Tree which

will be hung in the VFW?

Please support your VFW Post with a donation to one or more of the above projects. A donation can be as little as $5 or if you feel generous, we will accept more. Our bricks are either $100 each for a 4 in. x 8 in. or $175 each for an 8 in. x 8 in. brick. They come in three different colors. Leaves are $125 for a Bronze Leaf; $250 for a Silver Leaf and $375 for a Gold Leaf. Doves and Rocks are $500 each. Information on all three projects are in this newsletter. If you have any questions, please call Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at steve.milbourn@aol.com. Once we move into our new facility, we will still need to build a Shelter House. The

new Shelter House will be slightly larger than our current one due to needing some additional storage space. We certainly appreciate everyone who has made a donation.

Greenwood Memorial

VFW Post 5864

333 S. Washington St. ⧫ Greenwood, Indiana 46143 ⧫ 317-888-2488

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 – September 2019 Newsletter – 21

300 Leaves, 3 Doves and 10 Rocks on “Giving Tree”

We have another opportunity for members and non-members to help fund our new facility. The tree below could be placed on a wall for all to see. There are 300 leaves. We can order them in Bronze, Silver and Gold and they can be inscribed with any information you wish. There are also 3 Doves within the leaves and 10 Rocks below the tree. The Doves and Rocks can also be inscribed. The Bronze leaves are $125 each; the Silver leaves are $250 each and the Gold leaves are $375 each. At the right is a sample of a leaf showing you can get up to 7 lines of type on them and the number of letters per line. The Doves and Rocks are $500 each. The tree and accessories are open for sponsorship to anyone interested in helping with this project. The project could generate between $70,000 and $86,000. This money will be used to purchase additional items associated with the new building. Samples of the leaves will be at the bar in the VFW for anyone to look at prior to purchase. If you’re inclined to help support us through this project, it would be greatly appreciated. We are hopeful that we can finish the sale of all the leaves prior to the first of the year (2020) and show casing it when we hold our grand opening. VFW 5864 gives you yet another opportunity to help fund the new Post. Call Steve Milbourn, 317-525-7291 or e-mail him at steve.milbourn@aol.com

22 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

American Legion Auxiliary Post 1919 given Charter

Fourteen women and four juniors are on the Charter given by the National American Legion.

American Legion Auxiliary Post 1919 is chartered

Auxiliary President Parislynn Sproles worked very diligently to get the new American Legion Auxiliary open. On July 14, 2019 the National Legion Auxiliary issued their Charter. Mrs. Sproles had others helping her along the way. The new Secretary is Margaret Tiano. Members who were taken in and were able to get their name on the Charter (alphabetically) included: Teresa E. Armstrong, Mary Atkins, Angela D. McCrae Baracas, Danielle M. Dale, Courtney Everett, Lorrie B. Garrigus, Linda Lashbrook, Tonda D. Logan, Gina Owens, Carol S. Puckett, Gabrielle Tiano, Margaret Tiano, Parislynn Sproles, and Carrie Zehner. The Junior Girls included: Keylee Dale, Alyssa Everett, Lilian Sproles, and Adriazann M. Wiley, The Auxiliary will meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 8 p.m. at the VFW at 333 S. Washington St. The American Legion Post 1919 will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the same location. To join the organization, please call 225-934-1001 or e-mail them at indyaux1919@gmail.com

Euchre is held every Saturday at the VFW.

Post opens at 12 noon.

Call Bill Clark at 317-442-7086 for info.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 – September 2019 Newsletter – 23

Hits major milestone

VA’s long-awaited electronic health record solution

For years, VA employees, Veterans and community care providers have looked forward to a seamless electronic health record (EHR) solution to improve patient care and support. Recently, that dream came closer to becoming reality with the successful transfer of 23.5 million Veterans’ health records to a shared data center with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). This massive accomplishment sets the stage for the “go-live” of VA’s EHR solution next year. Go-live refers to the point when the current health record system, called Veterans Information Systems and Technology Architecture (VistA), is “turned off” within a facility, and VA’s new EHR system will be “turned on.” During go-live, all designated systems and services will transition to the new VA EHR platform.

VA Secretary Robert Wilkie shared VA’s community sentiments: “For decades, VA and DoD have been struggling to achieve interoperability and seamlessly share patient records between our health systems — placing an unfair burden on our Veterans and their families. No Veteran, family member or caregiver should have to carry boxes of paper, medical and service records around. This data migration is the first step to solving that problem for good.” This initial data migration phase, which began in late spring, foreshadows even more exciting improvements to come. When the new EHR completes implementation, it will replace the 130 plus instances of the current VistA system in a streamlined solution that also powers DoD’s Military Health System (MHS GENESIS). To put the magnitude of this OEHRM milestone into perspective, here are some fun data facts:

• Collectively, over 78 billion records have been compiled from all VA medical centers to include in this transfer.

• These records total 50 terabytes (equivalent to about 850,000 hours of music) of data storage. • This data spans 21 clinical domains of patient health records, which includes lab results;

pharmacy prescriptions; inpatient and outpatient diagnoses and procedures; and other Veteran medical data.

This milestone moves VA one step closer toward achieving an interoperable EHR system that will provide Veterans, service members and their families with a single health record and a lifetime of seamless care. The efficiency and improvements found in the EHR will also make for a more welcoming, customer-centric environment with streamlined messaging and scheduling capabilities, improved interoperability and enhanced self-service options for VA staff, Veterans and caregivers. For more information about VA’s Electronic Health Record Modernization, visit https://www.ehrm.va.gov/.

24 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Flying the flag at half-staff to honor other citizens

Gettysburg Flag Works has some facts about flying the American flag at half-staff. Only the President of the United States or the Governor of the state may order the flag to be at half-staff to honor the death of a national or state figure. In addition to the traditional half-staff salutes, the United States Flag Code mentions the use of our flag for honoring leading citizens. Private citizens and non-government buildings may choose to fly their flags at half-staff to honor more local leaders. The Flag Code does not exclude any citizen, whether belonging to an organization or not, whether they are recognized very locally or regionally. Examples of deceased citizens who might be honored by lowering the flag to half-staff include local religious leaders, youth leaders, honored teachers or sports coaches, local politicians or a local hero. There need be no authorization from the government for the private sector (non-government) to use the Flag to honor any citizen. It is important to note that the Flag Code is a code, it is intended to provide guidance and is not obligatory. It carries no civil or criminal penalties for

“misuse” of the Flag. Individuals are not acting illegally when using the flag according to their own rules. The Flag Code is only required to be followed on public or government buildings.

Meals at VFW Post 5864 for the next 6 weeks

Friday, August 30 – Chipotle Honey Chicken Skewer, Rice, Vegetable, Salad and Roll -- $13 Wednesday, September 4 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, September 6 – Steak, Baked Potato, Vegetable, Salad and Roll -- $15 Wednesday, September 11 – Regular Kitchen Menu Friday, September 13 – Regular Kitchen Menu Wednesday, September 18 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, September 20 – Pork Chops, fried potatoes, salad -- $14 Wednesday, September 25 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, September 27 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Wednesday, October 2 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, October 4 – Steak, Baked Potato, Vegetable, Salad and Roll -- $15 Wednesday, October 9 – Regular Kitchen Menu. Friday, October 11 – Spaghetti, meatballs and salad -- $12

Wednesday, October 16 – Regular Kitchen Menu.

Breakfast at the VFW will

return on Sept. 21 at 8 a.m.!

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 – September 2019 Newsletter – 25

Remembering the WW-2 Navajo Code Talkers

Posted in Honoring Vets, Native American Veterans By Reynaldo Leal

Thomas H. Begay didn’t want to be a radio operator. In fact, up until he graduated from bootcamp, he thought he was going to become an aerial gunner for the Marine Corps during World War II. “They sent me to a confidential area,” he said. “I walked in and there’s a whole bunch of Navajo.” His previous MOS didn’t matter. Begay would attend code talking school. The Navajo language had become the basis of a new code, and they were going to train to become code talkers. It was hard to see it then, but Begay and his fellow Navajo would help turn the tides of war and save countless lives.

An Unbreakable Code The Code Talkers used native languages to send military messages before World War II. Choctaw, for example, was successfully used during World War I. But the Marine Corps needed an “unbreakable” code for its island-hopping campaign in the Pacific. Navajo, which was unwritten and known by few outside the tribe, seemed to fit the Corps’ requirements. Twenty-nine Navajos were recruited to develop the code in 1942. Thomas H. Begay They took their language and developed a “Type One Code” that assigned a Navajo word to each English letter. They also created special words for planes, ships and weapons. But just because a person understood Navajo didn’t mean they could understand the code. While a person fluent in the language would hear a message that translated into a list of words that seemingly had no connection to each other, a code talker would hear a very clear message. Here is an example: Navajo Code: DIBEH, AH-NAH, A-SHIN, BE, AH-DEEL-TAHI, D-AH, NA-AS-TSO-SI, THAN-ZIE, TLO-CHIN Translation: SHEEP, EYES, NOSE, DEER, BLOW UP, TEA, MOUSE, TURKEY, ONION Deciphered Code: SEND DEMOLITION TEAM TO … In addition to being unbreakable, the new code also reduced the amount of time it took to transmit and receive secret messages. Because all 17 pages of the Navajo code were memorized, there was no need to encrypt and decipher messages with the aid of coding machines. So, instead of taking several minutes to send and receive one message, Navajo code talkers could send several messages within seconds. This made the Navajo code talker an important part of any Marine unit.

On Iwo Jima Begay did well in training and picked up the code quickly. A month after arriving at code talking school, he was given orders to his new unit and sent overseas. “They told us we were going to Tokyo,” he said with a chuckle. “In February, we were told we’re supposed to land on Iwo Jima.”

On Feb. 19, 1945, at 0900 hours, Begay landed on the north side of the island with the 5th Marine Division. One code talker had already been killed during the first wave of attacks, and five more would be injured by the time the fighting stopped. In the face of machine gun fire and mortar rounds, Begay and his fellow Navajo Code Talkers continued to relay messages that were vital to the eventual victory on the

island. In all, nearly 800 coded messages were sent during the assault on Iwo Jima. There were zero mistakes.

“I was protected by the Marines,” Begay said. “They were protecting us; we were protecting them. I was lucky. But some didn’t get lucky – like those who got killed on the beach.”

26 – September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Allows a wider eligibility criteria

The Legion Act signed into law by President Trump The newly signed Let Everyone Get Involved in Opportunities for National Service Act of 2019 – The LEGION Act – honors those veterans, their spouses and descendants, extending membership eligibility in the American Legion Family to hundreds of thousands who had previously been excluded. In a significant legislative victory for the American Legion, President Trump signed a bill July 30 that declares the United States has been in a state of war since Dec. 7, 1941. The American Legion sought the declaration to honor approximately 1,600 U.S. service members who were killed or wounded during previously undeclared periods of war. The LEGION Act (Let Everyone Get Involved in Opportunities for National Service Act) also opens the door for approximately 6 million veterans to access American Legion programs and benefits for which they

previously had not been eligible. “Recognizing the service of these wartime veterans is the right thing do and it is long overdue,” National Commander Brett Reistad said. “The families of those who were killed or wounded during these wartime acts should take pride in knowing that we recognize their sacrifice and service. Moreover, we are proud to welcome any of the six million living veterans from the previously unrecognized periods into our

organization and call them ‘Legionnaires.’” The American Legion’s eligibility criteria immediately changes from seven war eras to two: April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time later determined by the federal government. No other restrictions to American Legion membership are changed. The law’s journey began on Feb. 14 when Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., introduced S. 504, along with Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C. A companion measure, H.R. 1641, was introduced in the House by Reps. Lou Correa, D-Calif., and Ben Cline, R-Va. Reistad expressed gratitude to the bipartisan members of Congress for passing the legislation. Reistad said. “In an era of partisan gridlock, Republicans and Democrats in Congress overwhelmingly recognized the importance of allowing thousands of honorable but previously ineligible veterans the right to join the largest and most influential veteran’s organization in the country.” He also pointed out that existing American Legion membership applications are in the process of being updated but can still be used. “In the meantime, I recommend that prospective Legionnaires and recruiters write ‘LEGION Act’ in the eligibility date section of American Legion membership applications if they fall outside the previous war eras,” Reistad said. American Legion Centennial Post 1919, the newest Legion Post in the State of Indiana, meets at the Greenwood VFW Post 5864. ________________________________________________________________________________

Legislation Introduced for Veterans Exposed to Burn Pits: VFW-supported H.R. 4137, Jennifer Kepner HOPE Act, has been introduced. This legislation would make individuals eligible for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care provided the individual served as a member of the Armed Forces in support of a contingency operation and was based or stationed at a location where an open air burn pit was in use after Jan. 1, 1990. The eligibility for care would be open even for those who have insufficient medical evidence to conclude that a disease or disability is associated with burn pit exposure.

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VA Updates the Schedule for Rating Disabilities: VA has updated three portions of the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities: infectious diseases, immune disorders, and nutritional deficiencies. VA started to rewrite all the fifteen regulations in 2017 in order to reflect modern medicine as the regulations have not been updated since the original code was written in 1945. Any claims in these three areas pending on Aug. 11, 2019, will be considered under both the new and old rating schedule with the more favorable rating result going to the veteran. All claims filed on or after Aug. 11, 2019 will be rated on the new standards.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 – September 2019 Newsletter – 27

Named after Ralph D. Napier

2019-2020 Scholarships provided to 3 young ladies

Grandchildren of three current VFW Post 5864 members received a scholarship in the amount of $1,000 each at the August 6 meeting. A total of only three applications were submitted for the 2019-2020 Ralph D. Napier Scholarship provided by the VFW. According to Scholarship Chairman Ralph Schuster, “After a careful review of the applications of the three recipients, they were selected to receive the scholarship award”. The three recipients, listed alphabetically by their last name, include: Lydia M. Delaney, daughter of Kevin Delaney and Nicki Ferguson and granddaughter of Mike and Sue Delaney; Alexia L. Kincaid, daughter of Robert and Michelle Kincaid and granddaughter of Fred and Sandy Carpenter; and Heidi J. Milbourn, daughter of Michelle Milbourn and granddaughter of Steve and Patti Milbourn and Sally Poston. The three grandfathers are Vietnam veterans and members of Greenwood VFW Post 5864. Schuster also remarked “There was no bias in the decision regarding any of the applicants’ relationship to their sponsor or the sponsor’s status in the Post. Each of the recipients was judged on their own merit.” Letters were sent to each of the recipients. A biographical essay including the above selection criteria (i.e., leadership, participation, and service in school, church, or community; honors received), the responsibilities of citizenship in a democratic society, and the personal goals for the future. The essays were their original work.

From left is Mike Delaney, Lydia Delaney and From left is Fred Carpenter, Alexia Kincaid, Sue Delaney. Sandy Carpenter and Michelle Kincaid. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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VFW Post 5864 members

are deployed to Kuwait At least three members of Greenwood VFW Post 5864 are deployed to Kuwait. Staff Sergeant Dillon Sutton, Annex, HSC, DHHB, 38th ID, APO AE 09306 and Staff Sergeant Irina Muchler, BCO, DHHB, 38th ID, APO AE 09306. They are both stationed at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait. Sergeant First Class Fred Rivera is with HSC, 38th Infantry Division (ID). Fred’s address is HSC

38th ID, APO AE 09306. He is also in Kuwait. From left is Michelle Milbourn-Adkins, Heidi These soldiers are 6,818 miles away from home. Milbourn and Jim Adkins. You’ve been there, send a card or pack a box.

28 -- September 2019 Newsletter – Greenwood VFW Post 5864

Greenwood VFW 5864 has started construction

After much anticipation, our VFW has started construction of our new facility. By the time you receive this newsletter, the “dirt work” should be completed. Then they will prepare for the concrete and then on to the utilities and finally the frame. Although there is much more work than it seems,

depending on the weather, the facility will be completed in late November or early December. Giving members a final date that the building will be completed is quite impossible. It is dependent on many factors – weather, availability of work-ers and materials. ________________ At left is the land from near the road looking toward I-65. Below is the site looking due north toward Mays Chemical Co. ________________

The Garrett Co. has three to four employees working on our project daily. A small construction trailer will be set-up very soon. No trespassing signs have been placed around the perimeter of the property to let those who might attempt to enter know that they cannot be there due to the construction equipment which will be in use. You will be kept updated through Facebook and our newsletter.

Greenwood VFW Post 5864 – September 2019 Newsletter – 29

Weekly drawing may replace all three

Daily, Weekly and Monthly drawings are lack-luster

There have been several discussions in Post meetings, House Committee meetings and generally around the bar concerning the three drawings held at Post on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. A quick look at the books that members sign to be included in the drawings shows that less than 12 individuals sign up per game during the given period of time. Currently, in order to play the game, you must be a member of the VFW or its’ Auxiliary. In all three games there are either “pill casings” or some other type of “doo-dad” that have a number on them, and they correspond to the number assigned to the member. The problem with that is that the newer members or those transferring in don’t always get in the drawing immediately because we must wait until they get put in the system. During the year-end change-over at the end of June, the system was down about two weeks or more. Again, on Dec. 31, the same thing happens. There has been discussion concerning changing the drawing to a “Weekly Drawing” and having members sign up much like we do for the “Stars & Stripes” weekly drawing. ________________________________________________________________________________

VFW Life Member Is Secretary of Defense: The Senate last week confirmed former

Secretary of the Army Dr. Mark Esper as the new Secretary of Defense. Esper is a retired Army lieutenant colonel and Life member of the VFW Department of Pennsylvania. He is a 1986 West Point graduate who served as an infantry officer with the 101st Airborne Division during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

2019 Indianapolis Colts Schedule

Week Date Opponent Time (ET) TV______ Week 01 Sept. 8 @ Los Angeles Chargers 4:05 p.m. CBS Week 02 Sept. 15 @ Tennessee Titans 1 p.m. CBS Week 03 Sept. 22 Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m. CBS Week 04 Sept. 29 Oakland Raiders 1 p.m. CBS Week 05 Oct. 6 @ Kansas City Chiefs 8:20 p.m. NBC Week 06 -------- BYE WEEK -------- -------- Week 07 Oct. 20 Houston Texans 1 p.m. CBS Week 08 Oct. 27 Denver Broncos 4:25 p.m. CBS Week 09 Nov. 3 @ Pittsburgh Steelers 1 p.m. CBS Week 10 Nov. 10 Miami Dolphins 4:05 p.m. CBS Week 11 Nov. 17 Jacksonville Jaguars 1 p.m. CBS Week 12 Nov. 21 @ Houston Texans 8:20 p.m. FOX Week 13 Dec. 1 Tennessee Titans 1 p.m. CBS Week 14 Dec. 8 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1 p.m. CBS Week 15 Dec. 16 @ New Orleans Saints 8:15 p.m. ESPN Week 16 Dec. 22 Carolina Panthers 1 p.m. FOX Week 17 Dec. 29 @ Jacksonville Jaguars 1 p.m. CBS

The 8 Colts home games are in bold type.