under the ommander’s manual toolbar on the website patriot...
TRANSCRIPT
1
The on-line version of the 2014-2015 Commander’s Manual differs slightly from the
printed copy.
The following information is not included in the on-line version, but is available as
separate files under the Commander’s Manual Toolbar on the website:
Membership Plan Diagram (page 51 of the hard copy)
State Community Service Log (page 63 of the hard copy)
Voice of Democracy Entry Form (page 79 of the hard copy)
Patriot’s Pen Entry Form (page 81 of the hard copy)
Teacher of the Year Nomination Form (page 83 of the hard copy)
Scout of the Year Entry Form (page 85 of the hard copy)
Public Servant of the Year Award Citations for EMT/Law Personnel and Firefighters Form
(page 87 of the hard copy)
JROTC/ROTC Recognition Program Brochure (page 89 of the hard copy)
Civil Air Patrol Recognition Awards Program Brochure (page 91 of the hard copy)
VFW Mentoring Program Brochure (page 93 of the hard copy)
Citizenship Education Materials Brochure (page 95 of the hard copy)
VFW National Scholarship and Awards Program Brochure (page 97 of the hard copy)
Promoting VFW Youth Programs Brochure (page 98 of the hard copy)
Post Special Project Entry Form (Page 103 of the hard copy)
2
State of West Virginia
5532 MacCorkle Avenue, SW Phone: (304) 768-7514
Post Office Box 9431 FAX: (304) 768-1407
South Charleston, WV 25309 email: [email protected]
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S.
http://wvvfw.org
STAND UP AND THINK BIG I want to thank the membership for allowing me to represent the Department of West Virginia and its 16,000 plus combat veteran family for the 2014/2015 year. Additionally, I want to congratulate all newly elected Commanders, and thank you for taking the responsibility of being a member of this year’s leadership team. We have many challenges ahead of us but together we will work to overcome them. I pledge to each of you my full support and that of the entire State Staff. Our number one priority is supporting and looking out for our brothers and sisters who have worn the uniform along with us. Added to that commitment we must dedicate our efforts to Community Service and especially Membership Recruiting and Retention. Knowing this, let us go forward as a team, doing good and accomplishing great things. Let’s all stand up, think big and walk tall. Be Proud,
Doug Knotts, Commander VFW State of West Virginia
3
Table of Contents
Explanation of difference between hard copy and on-line version 1
of the 2014-2015 Commander’s Manual
Commander’s Letter 2
Table of Contents 3
Opening Post Ceremonies 5
Chaplains Prayers 10
Order of Business Opening Joint District Meeting 12
Order of Business District Meeting 13
District Meeting Report Form (State Representative) 16
District Commander Council of Administration Report Form 20
District Commander Monthly Activity Report 21
Policy for State Officers Expenses 22
National Membership Program 24
Mid-Winter Conference Awards 33
Posts By Division 34
Department Convention Awards/All-State Requirements 35
Program and Reporting Deadlines 40
Example Quarterly Audit Report 42
Member Eligibility Guide 43
Member Dues Processing 48
Notes from Director, VFW Programs on Community Service Reporting 55
4
Robert M. Kusterer JROTC Scholarship Program 58
Past National Commander Rich Homan Memorial Award 59
Buddy Poppy Order Form 60
Post Poppy or Recruiting Event Form 61
Post Officer Change Notice Form 62
Report of Deceased Member Form 63
Member Personal Change Notice Form 64
State Emergency Assistance Eligibility Instruction 65
State Relief Fund Application Form 67
Policy and Instructions for Conditional Donation of Military 70
Equipment, Ceremonial Rifles and blank ammunition
5
1. OPENING POST CEREMONIES
(The hour of opening has arrived, the Officer of the Day displays the Flag of the United States
and Bible on the altar, leaving Bible closed, after which the Commander takes station and gives one rap
for attention).
One (1) gavel rap for attention if sitting, one (1) gavel rap if standing, to sit down, two (2) gavel raps to
stand.
COMMANDER: THE OFFICERS WILL TAKE THEIR RESPECTIVE STATIONS. ALL PERSONS NOT MEMBERS
OF THE V.F.W. WILL KINDLY RETIRE, AND THE GUARD WILL CLOSE THE DOORS. (The
Commander ascertains if nonmembers have retired). All unauthorized caps to be removed, only
VFW regular caps allowed.
COMMANDER: BY THE POWER AND AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME, I AM ABOUT TO OPEN ________ POST
NO. _____ FOR THE TRANSACTION OF ANY BUSINESS THAT MAY LAWFULLY COME BEFORE IT
(two gavel raps). OFFICER OF THE DAY, SATISFY YOURSELF THAT ALL PRESENT ARE ENTITLED TO
REMAIN.
6
OFFICER OF THE DAY: COMRADE COMMANDER, I FIND ALL, EXCEPT THOSE STANDING, IN POSSESSION
OF OFFICIAL V.F.W. DUES RECEIPTS FOR THE CURRENT CALENDAR YEAR.
COMMANDER: OFFICER OF THE DAY, YOU WILL PREPARE THE POST ROOM FOR THE
SALUTE TO THE COLORS. (two gavel raps).
COMMANDER: ATTENTION: COMRADE CHAPLAIN, YOU WILL DELIVER THE OPENING PRAYER.
COMMANDER: UNCOVER, PARADE REST.
CHAPLAIN OPENS THE BIBLE AND GIVES FOLLOWING PRAYER:
CHAPLAIN: LET US BOW OUR HEADS. O, SOVEREIGN RULER OF THE UNIVERSE, WHO ARE THE LORD OF
HOSTS AND GOD OF PEACE, WITHOUT THEE OUR EFFORTS ARE VAIN.
CONTINUE THY BLESSINGS UPON US AND OUR FAMILIES, WE PRAY THEE, AND GUIDE US DURING
OUR DELIBERATIONS.
WE BESEECH THEE, O GOD, TO BLESS THE DEPENDENTS OF OUR DEPARTED COMRADES, AND TO
COMFORT ALL WHO GAVE THEIR LOVED ONES TO OUR NATION’S CAUSE.
BLESS AND STRENGTHEN THE SICK, THE NEEDY AND THE AFFLICTED.
BLESS, WE ASK THEE, THE WIDOWS AND CHILDREN IN OUR NATIONAL HOME FOR CHILDREN,
AND HELP US TO FULFILL OUR DUTY TOWARD THEM.
CONTINUE THY FAVOR UPON OUR ORDER, AND HELP US TO PRACTICE THE SPIRIT OF TRUE
COMRADESHIP, BOTH IN OUR COUNCILS AND WITH THE WORLD AT LARGE. ENABLE US TO
BETTER THE COMMUNITY IN WHICH WE LIVE THROUGH OUR DEVOTION TO DUTY AS CITIZENS.
WE NOW HAVE A MOMENT OF SILENT PRAYER FOR OUR DEPARTED COMRADES AND FOR THOSE
MISSING IN ACTION AND THOSE HELD AS PRISONERS OF WAR.
(Short Pause).
THESE AND ALL OTHER NECESSARY BLESSINGS WE ASK OF THEE, MIGHTY RULER OF THE
UNIVERSE. AMEND.
COMMANDER: ATTENTION, COMRADES, YOU WILL JOIN ME IN THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE
FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. ONE (salute) ‘I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS, ONE NATION
UNDER GOD, INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL’.
7
COMMANDER: COMRADES, WE ARE ASSEMBLED AGAIN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS OF MUTUAL
BENEFIT. DO NOT LET PETTY JEALOUSIES OR TRIVIAL PERSONALITIES INFLUENCE OUR
DELIBERATIONS. LET US UPHOLD ALWAYS THE OBLIGATIONS OF UNSELFISH COMRADESHIP
AND LOYALTY TO OUR ORGANIZATION AND TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA.
I NOW DECLARE __________________ POST NO. ________ DULY OPENED FOR THE
TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS. GUARD, YOU WILL ADMIT ANY IN WAITING WHO MAY BE
WORTHY. (One gavel rap to be seated).
2. ORDER OF BUSINESS
(Post)
COMMANDER: (Leading all members in recitation of Section 230102 of the Congressional Charter).
THE PURPOSE OF THIS CORPORATION SHALL BE FRATERNAL, PATRIOTIC, HISTORICAL
CHARITABLE AND EDUCATIONAL; TO PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN COMRADESHIP AMONG ITS
MEMBERS; TO ASSIST WORTHY COMRADES; TO PERPETUATE THE MEMORY AND HISTORY OF
OUR DEAD, AND TO ASSIST THEIR WIDOWS AND ORPHANS; TO MAINTAIN TRUE ALLEGIANCE
TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND FIDELITY TO ITS
CONSTITUTION AND LAWS; TO FOSTER TRUE PATRIOTISM; TO MAINTAIN AND EXTEND THE
INSTITUTIONS OF AMERICAN FREEDOM; AND TO PRESERVE AND DEFEND THE UNITED STATES
FROM ALL HER ENEMIES.
3. CALLING THE ROLL OF OFFICERS
4. READING, REFERRING, MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS.
5. REPORT OF INVESTIGATING COMMITTEE ON MEMBERSHIP.
6. BALLOTING FOR APPLICANTS.
7. MUSTERING IN OF RECRUITS.
8. READING OF MINUTES AND APPROVAL.
9. QUARTERMASTER’S REPORT; DISBURSEMENTS.
10. QUARTERMASTER’S REPORT; RECEIPTS
8
11. READING OF BILLS.
12. REPORT OF SERVICE OFFICER.
13. IS THERE A COMRADE OR THE FAMILY OF A COMRADE IN DISTRESS?
14. REPORT OF ALL COMMITTEES (Membership, Buddy Poppy, etc.)
15. REMEMBER OUR NATIONAL HOME FOR CHILDREN.
16. (Interrupt business at 9:00 p.m. or as close to 9:00 p.m. as is practical for the National
Home Ceremony).
COMMANDER: (Raps gavel twice). ALL PRESENT WILL RISE. PARADE REST. COMRADE CHAPLAIN, YOU
WILL ASK DIVINE BLESSINGS UPON OUR NATIONAL HOME).
CHAPLAIN: ALMIGHTY GOD, WE ASK FOR YOUR DIVINE BLESSING ON THE CHILDREN, FAMILES, AND
STAFF OF OUR NATIONAL HOME FOR CHILDREN IN EATON RAPIDS, MICHIGAN.
MAY YOUR SPIRIT DWELL WITH THEM FOREVER, GIVING THEM HEALTH AND GUIDING THEIR
LIVES. HELP US TO ALWAYS BE FAITHFUL TO OUR FALLEN COMRADES BY PROVIDING (SHELTER
AND GUIDANCE) SUPPORT FOR THEIR FAMILES. WE ASK IN YOUR HOLY NAME. AMEN.
(Commander raps gavel).
17. UNFINISHED BUSINESS.
(Reading of communications associated with unfinished business. Read and vote).
16. NEW BUSINESS.
(Reading of communications associated with new business. Read and vote).
17. GOOD OF THE ORDER.
(Reading of communications associated with Good of the Order. Read and vote).
9
18. CLOSING CEREMONIES
COMMANDER: THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, WE WILL HAVE OUR CLOSING CEREMONY. (Two
raps, all rise).
COMMANDER: OFFICER OF THE DAY, PREPARE TO RETIRE THE COLORS.
COMMANDER: COMRADE CHAPLAIN, YOU WILL DELIVER THE CLOSING PRAYER.
COMMANDER: PARADE REST!
PRAYER
CHAPLAIN: ALMIGHTY GOD, THE HOUR HAS COME WHEN WE MUST PART. WECOMMIT OURSELVES
TO THY CARE. THOU, WHO ART OUR STRONG TOWER OF DEFENSE, AND OUR PROTECTION, GRANT
THAT IN LIFE’S BATTLES WE MAY BE STRONG AND BRAVE, LIVING SUCH LIVES OF STAINLESS INTEGRITY
AS SHALL REFLECT HONOR UPON OUR COUNTY AND THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE
UNITED STATES, AND GLORIFY THY GREAT AND HOLY NAME.
MAY THY GOOD PROVIDENCE SHIELD US FROM ALL HARM, WATCH OVER THOSE WHO EVEN NOW
GUARD THE GATES OF FREEDOM, AND BRING US TOGETHER AGAIN IN TRUE COMRADESHIP AND
PEACE, AMEN.
COMMANDER: ATTENTION! (Chaplain closes Bible).
COMMANDER: COMRADES, I NOW DECLARE THIS BUSINESS OF _____________ POST
NO. _______ CLOSED. OUR NEXT REGULAR MEETING WILL BE ___________________.
10
OPENING PRAYER
CHAPLAIN: LET US BOW OUR HEADS. O, SOVEREIGN RULER OF THE UNIVERSE, WHO
ARE THE LORD OF HOSTS AND GOD OF PEACE, WITHOUT THEE OUR EFFORTS ARE VAIN.
CONTINUE THY BLESSINGS UPON US AND OUR FAMILIES, WE PRAY THEE, AND GUIDE US
DURING OUR DELIBERATIONS.
WE BESEECH THEE, O GOD, TO BLESS THE DEPENDENTS OF OUR DEPARTED COMRADES,
AND TO COMFORT ALL WHO GAVE THEIR LOVED ONES TO OUR NATION’S CAUSE.
BLESS AND STRENGTHEN THE SICK, THE NEEDY AND THE AFFLICTED.
BLESS, WE ASK THEE, THE WIDOWS AND CHILDREN IN OUR NATIONAL HOME FOR
CHILDREN, AND HELP US TO FULFILL OUR DUTY TOWARD THEM.
CONTINUE THY FAVOR UPON OUR ORDER, AND HELP US TO PRACTICE THE SPIRIT OF
TRUE COMRADESHIP, BOTH IN OUR COUNCILS AND WITH THE WORLD AT LARGE.
ENABLE US TO BETTER THE COMMUNITY IN WHICH WE LIVE THROUGH OUR DEVOTION
TO DUTY AS CITIZENS.
WE NOW HAVE A MOMENT OF SILENT PRAYER FOR OUR DEPARTED COMRADES AND
FOR THOSE MISSING IN ACTION AND THOSE HELD AS PRISONERS OF WAR.
(Short Pause).
THESE AND ALL OTHER NECESSARY BLESSINGS WE ASK OF THEE, MIGHTY RULER OF THE
UNIVERSE. AMEN.
11
NATIONAL HOME PRAYER
CHAPLAIN: ALMIGHTY GOD, WE ASK FOR YOUR DEVINE BLESSING ON THE CHILDREN,
FAMILIES, AND STAFF OF OUR NATIONAL HOME FOR CHILDREN IN EATON RAPIDS,
MICHIGAN. MAY YOUR SPIRIT DWELL WITH THEM FOREVER, GIVING THEM HEALTH
AND GUIDING THEIR LIVES. HELP US TO ALWAYS BE FAITHFUL TO OUR FALLEN
COMRADES BY PROVIDING (SHELTER AND GUIDANCE) SUPPORT FOR THEIR FAMILIES.
WE ASK IN YOUR HOLY NAME. AMEN.
CLOSING PRAYER
CHAPLAIN: ALMIGHTY GOD, THE HOUR HAS COME WHEN WE MUST PART. WE
COMMIT OURSELVES TO THY CARE. THOU, WHO ART OUR STRONG TOWER OF DEFENSE,
AND OUR PROTECTION, GRANT THAT IN LIFE’S BATTLES WE MAY BE STRONG AND
BRAVE, LIVING SUCH LIVES OF STAINLESS INTEGRITY AS SHALL REFLECT HONOR UPON
OUR COUNTY AND THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES, AND
GLORIFY THY GREAT AND HOLY NAME.
MAY THY GOOD PROVIDENCE SHIELD US FROM ALL HARM, WATCH OVER THOSE WHO
EVEN NOW GUARD THE GATES OF FREEDOM, AND BRING US TOGETHER AGAIN IN TRUE
COMRADESHIP AND PEACE, AMEN.
12
ORDER OF BUSINESS FOR OPENING JOINT DISTRICT MEETING
1. Call to order
2. Officer of the Day prepare for salute - Hand salute
3. Opening prayer – Our Heavenly Father, we come to You in this moment because we believe
that You are our God and we are Your people, and You are the creator and sustainer of life. We
acknowledge that every good and perfect gift comes from above and that all that we have comes
from Your divine beneficent hand. We thank You for this food and ask for Your blessing upon us as
we partake. Teach us to be always mindful of Your loving kindness and tender mercies. Amen.
4. Pledge of Allegiance
5. Welcome notes: Thanks to Post ____ CDR _____ President _____
6. Special program (if any)
7. Recess meeting to eat; directions from Post Commander
8. Resume meeting:
A. Intro of Veterans side head table – Chaplain __________, Post Commander
___________, VFW State Rep _____________
B. Acknowledge past State Commanders
C. Acknowledge past District Commanders
D. District Officers and Chairman
9. Turn over to Ladies Auxiliary President _______
A. Intro of Ladies Auxiliary head table
B. Past State Presidents
C. Past District Presidents
D. District Officers and Chairman
10. Committee Reports
11. Good of the order – presentations
12. 33 1/3 drawing (if any)
13. Closing ceremony
A. Hand salute
B. Prayer
C. Meeting now closed –The next district meeting will be
_________________________________
D. Please help clean and clear the area
E. Veterans to meet
F. Ladies to meet
13
ORDER OF BUSINESS FOR DISTRICT MEETING
1 - OPENING CEREMONIES
(The hour of opening has arrived, the Officer of the Day displays the Flag of the United States
and Bible on the altar, leaving Bible closed, after which the Commander takes station and gives one Rap
for attention).
One (1) Gavel Rap for Attention if sitting, one (1) Gavel Rap if standing, to sit down, two (2) Gavel Raps
to stand.
COMMANDER: THE OFFICERS WILL TAKE THEIR RESPECTIVE STATIONS. ALL PERSONS NOT MEMBERS
OF THE V.F.W. WILL KINDLY RETIRE, AND THE GUARD WILL CLOSE THE DOORS. (The
Commander ascertains if nonmembers have retired).
COMMANDER: BY THE POWER AND AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME, I AM ABOUT TO OPEN District No.
________, VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA, FOR THE TRANSACTION OF
ANY BUSINESS THAT MAY LAWFULLY COME BEFORE IT (Two Gavel Raps). OFFICER OF THE DAY,
SATISFY YOURSELF THAT ALL PRESENT ARE ENTITLED TO REMAIN.
COMMANDER: OFFICER OF THE DAY, YOU WILL PREPARE THE ROOM FOR THE SALUTE TO THE COLORS.
(Two Gavel Raps).
COMMANDER: ATTENTION! COMRADE CHAPLAIN, YOU WILL DELIVER THE OPENING PRAYER.
COMMANDER: PARADE REST.
PRAYER BY THE DISTRICT CHAPLAIN
COMMANDER: ATTENTION, COMRADES, YOU WILL JOIN ME IN THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE
FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. ONE (salute) ‘I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND TO THE REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS, ONE
NATION UNDER GOD, INDIVISIBLE, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL’.
COMMANDER: COMRADES, WE ARE ASSEMBLED AGAIN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS OF MUTUAL
BENEFIT. DO NOT LET PETTY JEALOUSIES OR TRIVIAL PERSONALITIES INFLUENCE OUR
DELIBERATIONS. LET US UPHOLD ALWAYS THE OBLIGATIONS OF UNSELFISH COMRADESHIP
14
AND LOYALTY TO OUR ORGANIZATION AND TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA.
I NOW DECLARE DISTRICT NO. _____, VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, STATE OF WEST
VIRGINIA, DULY OPENED FOR THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS. GUARD, YOU WILL ADMIT ANY
IN WAITING WHO MAY BE WORTHY. (One Gavel Rap to be Seated).
2 - ORDER OF BUSINESS
COMMANDER: (Leading all members in recitation of Section 230102 of the Congressional Charter).
THE PURPOSE OF THIS CORPORATION SHALL BE FRATERNAL, PATRIOTIC, HISTORICAL
CHARITABLE AND EDUCATIONAL; TO PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN COMRADESHIP AMONG ITS
MEMBERS; TO ASSIST WORTHY COMRADES; TO PERPETUATE THE MEMORY AND HISTORY OF
OUR DEAD, AND TO ASSIST THEIR WIDOWS AND ORPHANS; TO MAINTAIN TRUE ALLEGIANCE
TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND FIDELITY TO ITS
CONSTITUTION AND LAWS; TO FOSTER TRUE PATRIOTISM; TO MAINTAIN AND EXTEND THE
INSTITUTIONS OF AMERICAN FREEDOM; AND TO PRESERVE AND DEFEND THE UNITED STATES
FROM ALL HER ENEMIES.
3. CALLING THE ROLL OF DISTRICT OFFICERS.
4. READING OF DISTRICT MINUTES.
5. DISTRICT ADJUTANT’S REPORT DISBURSEMENTS.
6. DISTRICT QUARTERMASTER’S REPORT: RECEIPTS.
7. READING OF DISTRICT BILLS.
8. ROLL CALL OF POSTS AND REPORTS (Post Commander or Representative to give his report of
activities, also Post Total Membership and Number of Post Members present).
9. REPORT OF DISTRICT SERVICE OFFICER.
10. REPORT OF ALL DISTRICT COMMITTEES.
11. REMEMBER OUR NATIONAL HOME.
COMMANDER: (Raps Gavel Twice). ALL PRESENT WILL RISE. PARADE REST. COMRADE CHAPLAIN, YOU
WILL ASK DIVINE BLESSINGS UPON OUR NATIONAL HOME).
DISTRICT CHAPLAIN: ALMIGHTY GOD, WE ASK FOR YOUR DEVINE BLESSING ON THE CHILDREN,
FAMILIES, AND STAFF OF OUR NATIONAL HOME FOR CHILDREN IN EATON RAPIDS, MICHIGAN.
MAY YOUR SPIRIT DWELL WITH THEM FOREVER, GIVING THEM HEALTH AND GUIDING THEIR
LIVES. HELP US TO ALWAYS BE FAITHFUL TO OUR FALLEN COMRADES BY PROVIDING (SHELTER
AND GUIDANCE) SUPPORT FOR THEIR FAMILIES. WE ASK IN YOUR HOLY NAME. AMEN.
15
(Commander Raps Gavel).
12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS. (Reading of communications associated with Unfinished
Business. Read and Vote).
13. NEW BUSINESS. (Reading of communications associated with New Business, Installation of
Officers. Read and vote).
14. GOOD OF THE ORDER. (Reading of communications associated with Good of the Order.
Read and vote).
3 - CLOSING CEREMONIES
COMMANDER: THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, WE WILL HAVE OUR CLOSING CEREMONY. (Two
Raps, All Rise).
COMMANDER: OFFICER OF THE DAY, PREPARE TO RETIRE THE COLORS.
COMMANDER: COMRADE CHAPLAIN, YOU WILL DELIVER THE CLOSING PRAYER.
COMMANDER: PARADE REST!
PRAYER BY DISTRICT CHAPLAIN
COMMANDER: ATTENTION! (Chaplain closes Bible).
COMMANDER: COMRADES, I NOW DECLARE THIS BUSINESS OF DISTRICT NO. ____, VETERANS OF
FOREIGN WARS, STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA, CLOSED. OUR NEXT REGULAR MEETING WILL BE
(date)___________
at (time) __________________, POST. NO. (host location)__________________.
16
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA
TO: COMMANDER, STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
SUBJECT: REPORT ON DISTRICT #______________ MEETINGS HELD AT (CITY)_________________________
ROLL CALL OF POSTS: _____________ REPRESENTED______________COMMANDERS_____________DELEGATES
THE FOLLOWING POST COMMANDERS OR QUARTERMASTERS WERE PRESENT (COMMANDER’S NAME AND POST #):
1._______________ 2._______________ 3._______________ 4._______________ 5._______________ 6. ___________
7._______________ 8._______________ 9._______________ 10._______________ 11.______________ 12. ___________
13.______________ 14.______________ 15.______________
QUARTERMASTER REPORT: OPENING BALANCE $ ______________ RECEIPTS $______________
DISBURSEMENTS $_______________ ENDING BALANCE $______________
COMMUNICATIONS WERE READ
REGARDING:__________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: IF ADDITIONAL SPACE IS NEEDED, PLEASE USE THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS SHEET
COMMITTEES’ REPORTS WERE MADE ON:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEW BUSINESS:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
(CONTINUED ON BACK)
DATE:
17
GOOD OF THE ORDER:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
I SPOKE ON THE FOLLOW SUBJECTS:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
COMMENTS/REMARKS:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
DID THE DISTRICT COMMANDER HAVE HIS STATE AND NATIONAL COMMANDER’S BOOK WITH HIM?
YES _______ NO_______
SIGNED:
________________________________________
(STATE REPRESENTATIVE)
18
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS
Report of Post Attendance
DISTRICT: ________ DATE:_________________
HELD AT: _______________________________________________________________________________
NUMBER REGISTERED:__________________________________________________________________
STATE REPRESENTATIVES(S)_____________________________________________________________
POST # POST NAME CDR
Senior
Vice
Junior
Vice QM Others TOTAL
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
_________ __________________________ ____ ____ ____ ____ ______ ______
19
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS, STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA
PLEASE SIGN YOUR NAME, LIST YOUR POST NUMBER AND YOUR POST OR DISTRICT OFFICE.
NAME POST # TITLE
(NOTE): LIST POST TITLE OF COMMANDER , QUARTERMASTER, SR. VICE
COMMANDER OR JR. VICE COMMANDER ONLY.
20
DISTRICT COMMANDER COA REPORT FORMAT
Commander Name: ____________________________________
District: __________
District Membership: _______%
Highest Post Membership: _______%
Lowest Post Membership: _______%
Number of Posts contacted by phone: ______ (since last COA meetings)
Number of Posts personally visited ______ (since last COA meetings)
Number of Posts remaining to visit ______
Number of Post inspections completed and forwarded to inspector ____
Statement on Community Service reporting __ I.E. Post cooperation Any significant issues or comments:
21
DISTRICT COMMANDERS MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT
DISTRICT MEMBERSHIP STANDING _____________________________%
POSTS CONTACTED BY PHONE _____________________________
POSTS PERSONALLY VISITED _____________________________
POST INSPECTIONS COMPLETED _____________________________
POST ACTIVITIES ATTENDED _____________________________ _____________________________
_____________________________
_____________________________
IE: RECRUITING EVENTS VETERANS DAY
MEMORIAL DAY 4TH. OF JULY
PARADES/FAIRS VA HOSPITAL VISITS
POPPY EVENT FUND RAISING EVENT
COMMUNITY SERVICE POST MEETINGS ATTENDED
INSTALLATION OF POST OFFICERS VOD/PP FUNCTIONS
COMMENTS: ________________________________________________
________________________________________________
________________________________________________
MAIL TO: QUARTERMASTER
VFW STATE OF WV
5532 MacCORKLE AVE, SW
CHARLESTON, WV 25309
SUBMITTED BY: ________________________DISTRICT _________________
DATE: _____________
22
POLICY REQUIREMENTS AS TO THE EXPENSES FOR STATE OFFICERS
1. The Veterans of Foreign Wars, State of West Virginia, will operate it's Financial Affairs on a
FISCAL YEAR of July 1st thru June 30th. All requests for reimbursement of expenses shall be submitted
on an Expense Voucher provided by the Adjutant at State Headquarters.
2. All State Officers will submit an itemized account of their expenses and forward said voucher
directly to the State Commander for his approval, then to the Quartermaster for payment.
3. Due to the Department Financial System, only members of the Council of Administration will
receive reimbursement of expenses. The exception to this being the travel of other officers on State
Business at the direct request of the State Commander.
a. Mileage may be charged at thirty five cents (.35) per mile, however, when more than one
(1) person entitled to expenses rides in the same car, ONLY one person (1) will receive
reimbursement for mileage.
b. Meals may be charged at an amount not to exceed $20.00 per day and must be
accompanied by a receipt.
c. Hotel and Motel Rooms may be charged out at the Single Rate of the hotel or motel in
which you are staying. Such expenses will be allowable only when authorized and accompanied
by a receipt.
d. Other expenses can be submitted if in the direct interest of Veterans of Foreign Wars
business, such as postage and telephone.
23
e. All expense vouchers must be forwarded to State Headquarters for approval not more than
thirty (30) days following any council of administration meeting, they must also be turned in
every thirty (30) days between council meetings.
f. AII expenses incurred during the State Convention MUST be turned in before June 30th.
4. Any Council Member who fails to answer the Roll Call of Officers at the opening of the Council
of Administration Meeting or Roll Call at the Convention without a valid excuse will not receive Travel
and Hotel Expenses. Valid Excuse will mean attending a Committee Meeting, sickness, excused by the
State Commander or late in arriving in the City where the meeting is being held. It will be incumbent
for the Council Member to see that his name is recorded as he enters the meeting after the Roll Call
has been taken.
5. The State Commander will be given a VISA Card chargeable to his Expense Account.
6. The State Quartermaster/Adjutant will be given a VISA Card, chargeable to the Other Officers
Account.
7. When given an auto allowance for vehicles used by the State Commander and Quartermaster,
said vehicles MUST BE LETTERED (No stick-on signs).
8. Neither the State Commander nor a full-time State Quartermaster/Adjutant shall hold a
Political Office during their term of office.
24
NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP
PROGRAM
2014-2015
John W. Stroud
Commander-in-Chief
25
VFW NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM
2014-2015 MEMBERSHIP MISSION and VISION
Recruit, retain and instruct a stable membership base, including all generations of
veterans, which is well-versed in institutional knowledge and actively involved at all
levels of the organization.
MEMBERSHIP GOALS 2014-2015
Our national membership goals demonstrate how we intend to reach our vision. Here
are our priorities:
1. BUILD A STRONG ORGANIZATION FOR THE FUTURE AS WELL AS TODAY.
2. WORK TOGETHER TO ACHIEVE VFW GOALS. VFW NATIONAL IS HERE FOR THE “BIG FIGHT”, SHAPING
VFW’S IMAGE NATIONALLY, DEVELOPING NEW MEMBERSHIP MARKETS, AND ENSURING THAT OUR
CURRENT MEMBERSHIP IS AWARE OF WHAT OUR ORGANIZATION IS DOING FOR THEM.
VFW HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN RECRUITING YOUNGER MEMBERS (39 AND YOUNGER) FOR THE PAST
SEVERAL YEARS. THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO MAKE THIS SUCCESS PERMANENT: RETAIN, RECOVER AND
RECRUIT NEW MEMBERS.
WE HAVE TO IMPROVE THE WAY WE COMMUNICATE WITH OUR MEMBERS. THIS NEEDS TO BE DONE AT
THE GRASSROOTS LEVEL.
DO YOU HAVE A NEWSLETTER, OR AN EMAIL, OR A TEAM THAT GOES OUT AND VISITS OUR MEMBERS?
IN MANY CASES WE HAVE LOST TOUCH WITH OUR MEMBERS. WE NEED TO KNOW WHO THEY ARE AND
WHAT THEIR NEEDS ARE.
WE HAVE TO GET BACK TO THE BASICS, AND THAT IS TAKING CARE OF OUR MEMBERS AND VETERANS
AS A WHOLE. THIS IS PRIORITY #1.
MEMBERSHIP BENCHMARKS FOR 2014-2015
RECRUIT NEW AND RECOVER UNPAID MEMBERS 115%
RETAIN EXISTING MEMBERSHIP 85%
INCREASE LIFE MEMBERSHIP 2%
INCREASE LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP 5%
26
2014-2015 AWARDS
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
5 FIVE MEMBER PIN 10 TEN MEMBER PIN 15 15 MEMBER PIN 25 COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF MEMBERSHIP COIN 35 BALL CAP AND CITATION 50 RED COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF SHIRT & CITATION 75 $50 VFW STORE GIFT CERTIFICATE 100 A CITATION AND COMMEMORATIVE MEDALLION SET OR CENTURY CAP 200 LEATHER FLIGHT JACKET AND PLAQUE
25-member STATE aide-de-camp, 50-member NATIONAL aide-de-camp, and 100-member CENTURY caps may be purchased at the discretion of the recruiter.
EARLY BIRD AWARD-D.C. LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE
THE TOP POST COMMANDER AND QUARTERMASTER IN EACH DIVISION WITH OVER 50 MEMBERS AND THE TOP
DISTRICT COMMANDER IN EACH DIVISION THAT EXCEEDS 100% IN MEMBERSHIP AND ACHIEVES 85%
RETENTION GOAL BY DEC. 31, 2014, WILL BE AWARDED:
ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO THE WASHINGTON D.C. LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE
A $599 STIPEND, LESS ANY OTHER NATIONAL STIPENDS, TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
SPECIAL SEATING AT THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF’S TESTIMONY
*One winner per division
**may only receive one National paid compensation package
***non-transferable
POST COMMANDER AND QUARTERMASTER NEW and RECOVERED
THE TOP TEN POST COMMANDERS AND QUARTERMASTERS IN EACH DIVISION WITH OVER 50 MEMBERS WHO
REPORT THE MOST NEW AND RECOVERED ANNUAL MEMBERS AS OF DEC. 31, 2014, WILL BE AWARDED:
DISTINCTIVE LEATHER ZIPPERED PADFOLIO FOR BOTH THE COMMANDER AND QUARTERMASTER
$75 VFW STORE GIFT CERTIFICATE TO THE POST
*A minimum of 50 new and recovered unpaid annual members is required to qualify
27
KANSAS CITY SPREE
THE FIRST PLACE POST COMMANDER IN EACH OF THE TEN POST DIVISIONS WITH OVER 50 MEMBERS AND THE FIRST PLACE DISTRICT COMMANDER IN THE SIX DISTRICT DIVISIONS AND THEIR SPOUSE/GUEST CAN WIN THIS EXCITING KANSAS CITY AWARD TRIP MAY 14-17, 2015. COMMANDERS HAVE TO BE 100% IN MEMBERSHIP AND MEET THE 85% RETENTION GOAL TO QUALIFY FOR THIS AWARD BY MARCH 31, 2015 TO WIN.
THE AWARD WINNERS WILL RECEIVE ROUND-TRIP TRAVEL FROM THE AIRPORT NEAREST THE
COMMANDER’S HOME TO KANSAS CITY, MO.
A FUN- FILLED WEEKEND IS PLANNED THAT MAY INCLUDE TOURING, SHOPPING, A MAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALL GAME, AND A COMPLETE TOUR OF NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
100% COMMANDER DRAWING
EVERY POST WITH OVER 50 MEMBERS AND THE DISTRICT COMMANDER WHO ACHIEVES 100% ON OR
BEFORE JUNE 30, 2015 WILL BE PLACED IN A DRAWING TO ATTEND THE 116TH NATIONAL CONVENTION IN
PITTSBURGH, PA
20 POST COMMANDERS AND 12 DISTRICT COMMANDERS WILL BE DRAWN TO WIN:
ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO THE 116 TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
A $599 STIPEND, LESS ANY OTHER NATIONAL STIPENDS, TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
100% POST, DISTRICT AND DEPARTMENT
A DISTINCTIVE STREAMER WILL BE AWARDED TO EVERY POST, DISTRICT AND STATE/DEPARTMENT THAT
ACHIEVES 100% IN MEMBERSHIP PRIOR TO JUNE 30, 2015
POST’S OF OVER 50 MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE A $25 VFW STORE GIFT CERTIFICATE
LEGACY LIFE MEMBERSHIP ACQUISITION
THE POST WITH OVER 50 MEMBERS AND DISTRICT THAT RECORDS THE GREATEST NUMERICAL GAIN OF NEW
AND/OR UPGRADED LEGACY LIFE MEMBERS BY JUNE 30TH, 2015, WILL BE AWARDED:
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF COMMEMORATIVE MEDALLION SET
$100 VFW STORE GIFT CERTIFICATE
*one winner per division
**minimum three per post
***minimum one per Post in a District
28
ELITE RECRUITER AWARD
RECRUITERS WHO SIGN UP A MINIMUM OF 250 NEW AND/OR RECOVERED ANNUAL MEMBERS BY JUNE 15,
2015, WILL BE AWARDED:
ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO THE 116TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
A $599 STIPEND, LESS ANY OTHER NATIONAL STIPENDS, TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
SPECIAL SEATING AT THE JOINT OPENING CEREMONIES ON MONDAY
DISTINCTIVE CAP, CITATION, AND NAME BADGE
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
RECRUITER OF THE YEAR AWARD
THE RECRUITER WHO SIGNS UP THE GREATEST NUMBER OF NEW AND/OR RECOVERED ANNUAL MEMBERS IN
EXCESS OF 250 BY JUNE 15, 2015, WILL BE AWARDED:
ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO THE 116TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
A $599 STIPEND, LESS ANY OTHER NATIONAL STIPENDS, TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
SPECIAL SEATING AT THE JOINT OPENING CEREMONIES ON MONDAY
DISTINCTIVE CAP, CITATION, AND NAME BADGE
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF’S CRYSTAL EAGLE
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
CERTIFIED NATIONAL RECRUITER (CNR) OF THE YEAR AWARD
THE CERTIFIED NATIONAL RECRUITER (CNR) WHO SIGNS UP THE GREATEST NUMBER OF NEW AND/ OR
RECOVERED MEMBERS IN EXCESS OF 250 BY JUNE 15, 2015, WILL BE AWARDED:
ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO THE 116TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
A $599 STIPEND, LESS ANY OTHER NATIONAL STIPENDS, TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
SPECIAL SEATING AT THE JOINT OPENING CEREMONIES ON MONDAY
DISTINCTIVE CITATION, CAP AND NAME BADGE
COMMANDER IN CHIEF’S CRYSTAL EAGLE
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
29
ALL-AMERICAN
THE ALL-AMERICAN PROGRAM EXISTS TO RECOGNIZE EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP AND AUTHENTIC
ACCOMPLISHMENT IN MEMBERSHIP GROWTH AND RETENTION. DEADLINE JUNE 30TH, 2015
ALL-AMERICAN –POST CRITERIA
ANY POST COMMANDER THAT ACHIEVES THE ASSIGNED MEMBERSHIP PERCENTAGE AND MINIMUM RETENITON
PERCENTAGE WILL BE AWARDED ALL-AMERICAN.
MEMBERSHIP - 100% PLUS
DESIGNATED A 2014-2015 ALL-STATE POST
POST MUST HAVE OVER 50 MEMBERS ON JUNE 30, 2015
85% OF PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEMBER TOTAL
ACHIEVE YOUR ASSIGNED DIVISION MEMBERSHIP QUALIFYING PERCENTAGE
ALL-AMERICAN POST AWARD
VFW MAGAZINE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
FRAMED POST CITATION
ALL-AMERICAN POST STREAMER
ALL-AMERICAN NAME BADGE – Commander
ALL-AMERICAN CAP – Commander - *Quartermaster may purchase cap
ALL-AMERICAN CITATION – Commander
ALL-AMERICAN LAPEL PIN, Commander - *Quartermaster may purchase pin
THE FIRST-AND SECOND-PLACE COMMANDER IN EACH MEMBERSHIP DIVISION WILL RECEIVE:
o ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE TO THE 116 TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
o A $599 STIPEND TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
o SPECIAL SEATING AT THE 2015 VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION JOINT OPENING
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
ALL-AMERICAN DISTRICT CRITERIA
ANY DISTRICT COMMANDER THAT ACHIEVES THE ALLOCATED MEMBERSHIP PER CENTAGE WILL BE AWARDED
ALL AMERICAN.
30
MEMBERSHIP-100% PLUS
DESIGNATED A 2014-2015 ALL-STATE DISTRICT
ACHIEVE YOUR ASSIGNED DIVISION MEMBERSHIP QUALIFYING PERCENTAGE
ALL-AMERICAN DISTRICT AWARD
ALL-AMERICAN DISTRICT STREAMER
ALL-AMERICAN NAME BADGE–Commander
ALL-AMERICAN CAP–Commander - *Quartermaster may purchase cap
ALL-AMERICAN CITATION–Commander
ALL-AMERICAN LAPEL PIN, Commander - *Quartermaster may purchase pin
THE FIRST AND SECOND PLACE COMMANDER IN EACH MEMBERSHIP DIVISION WILL RECEIVE:
o ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE 116 TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
o A $599 STIPEND TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
o SPECIAL SEATING AT THE 2015 VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION JOINT OPENING
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
ALL-AMERICAN –DEPARTMENT CRITERIA
MEMBERSHIP-100% PLUS
ONE NEW POST OR INCREASE THE MEMBERSHIP OF THREE POSTS OF 50 MEMBERS OR LESS TO OVER 50
MEMBERS BY JUNE 30, 2015
NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE SERVICE (NLS)
o SUPPORT AN ONGOING VFW WASHINGTON WEEKLY REGISTRATION DRIVE
o NLS CHAIRMAN QUARTERLY REPORT
NUMBER OF NEW WASHINGTON WEEKLY SUBSCRIPTIONS
MONTHLY NLS COMMITTEE MEMBER/CHAIRMAN REPORT SUBMITTED TO NLS IN
WASHINGTON D.C.
STUDENT VETERANS OF AMERICAN (SVA)
o MUST HAVE A STATE/DEPARTMENT SVA CHAIRMAN SELECTED AND NAME SUBMITTED TO VFW
MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT, KANSAS CITY, MO, NO LATER THAN JULY 31, 2014
o COMPLETE ONE SVA EVENT FOR EACH SEMESTER (FALL, SPRING AND SUMMER) - SUBMIT EACH
OF THE THREE (3) ACTIVITY REPORTS TO: VFW MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT, KANSAS CITY, MO
NATIONAL VETERANS SERVICES (NVS)
31
o MUST HAVE A STATE/DEPARTMENT SERVICE OFFICER
o MONTHLY NVS COMMITTEE MEMBER/CHAIRMAN REPORT SUBMITTED TO NVS IN
WASHINGTON, DC
VFW PROGRAM/NMS
o VOICE OF DEMOCRACY - AN ENTRY ADVANCED TO NATIONAL JUDGING
o PATRIOT’S PEN - AN ENTRY ADVANCED TO NATIONAL JUDGING
o NATIONAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION TEACHER AWARD - AN ENTRY IN ALL THREE CATEGORIES
(K-5, 6-8, 9-12) ADVANCED TO NATIONAL JUDGING
NATIONAL MILITARY SERVICES (NMS) - STATE/DEPARTMENT NATIONAL MILITARY SERVICES FUND
RAISER–PROCEEDS TO NMS
ALL-AMERICAN DEPARTMENT AWARD
ALL-AMERICAN DEPARTMENT STREAMER
ALL-AMERICAN NAME BADGE – Commander
ALL-AMERICAN CAP – Commander - *Quartermaster may purchase cap
ALL-AMERICAN CITATION – Commander
ALL-AMERICAN LAPEL PIN, Commander - Quartermaster
ROUND-TRIP AIRFARE 115TH NATIONAL CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH, PA
A $599. STIPEND TO HELP DEFRAY EXPENSES
SPECIAL SEATING AT THE 2015 VFW NATIONAL CONVENTION JOINT OPENING
*may only receive one National paid compensation package
**non-transferable
ALL-AMERICAN –CAPTAIN
THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF WILL ANALYZE THE ACHIEVMENTS OF EACH OF THE ALL-AMERICAN
STATE/DEPARTMENT COMMANDERS AND WILL NAME THE CAPTAIN. THE CAPS OF THE ALL-AMERICAN
STATE/DEPARTMENT COMMANDER SHALL HAVE FIVE STARS AND CAPTAIN, THE LEADING POST AND DISTRICT
COMMANDER IN EACH MEMBERSHIP DIVISION WILL HAVE FIVE STARS AND CO-CAPTAIN EMBROIDERED ON
THEIR RESPECTIVE CAP.
CONFERENCE MEMBERSHIP AWARD
THE STATE/DEPARTMENT LEADING ITS CONFERENCE WILL BE ENTRUSTED WITH THE CONFERENCE
MEMBERSHIP COLORS FOR THE ENSUING YEAR. TRANSFER OF COLORS WILL OCCUR AT EACH ENSUING
NATIONAL CONVENTION.
32
POST MEMBERSHIP DIVISIONS AND MINIMUM QUALIFYING PERCENTAGE
MEMBERSHIP ASSIGNED %
DIVISION 1 750 UP 105%
DIVISION 2 356 749 110%
DIVISION 3 246 355 115%
DIVISION 4 185 245 120%
DIVISION 5 143 184 125%
DIVISION 6 112 142 130%
DIVISION 7 88 111 135%
DIVISION 8 68 87 140%
DIVISION 9 51 67 145%
DIVISION 10 0 50 150%
NO POST HAVING 50 OR FEWER MEMBERS ON JUNE 15TH, 2015 WILL BE QUALIFIED FOR ANY POST AWARD
DISTRICT MEMBERSHIP DIVISIONS AND MINIMUM QUALIFYING PERCENTAGE
MEMBERSHIP ASSIGNED %
DIVISION 1 5,000 14,000 103%
DIVISION 2 3,282 4,999 104%
DIVISION 3 2,172 3,281 105%
DIVISION 4 1,447 2,171 106%
DIVISION 5 906 1,446 107%
DIVISION 6 0 905 108%
85% RETENTION DEFINED
YOUR POST RETENTION PERCENTAGE FOR 2014-2015 IS DERIVED FROM SIX TYPES OF PAYMENT
COMPONENTS BASED ON YOUR PRIOR YEAR COUNT OF ANNUAL MEMBERS:
1) A PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEMBER PAYS 2014 DUES
2) A PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEMBER PAYS AN INSTALLMENT LIFE FEE
3) A PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEMBER PAYS A FULL LIFE MEMBERSHIP FEE
4) A PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEMBER TRANSFERS AND PAYS 2014 DUES
5) A PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEBMER TRANSFERS AND PAYS AN INSTALLMENT LIFE FEE
6) A PRIOR YEAR ANNUAL MEMBER TRANSFERS AND PAYS A FULL LIFE MEMBER FEE
NOTE: NEW, RECOVERED AND TRANSFERED ANNUAL MEMBERS INTO YOUR POST DO NOT COUNT IN
YOUR RETENION PERCENTAGE.
33
2014 – 2015
MID-WINTER CONFERENCE AWARDS
The District Commander in each of the two (2) District categories that reports the Highest Percentage in Membership (that equals or exceeds 90%) by December 15th of its assigned Membership quota will receive a Special Award at the Mid-Winter Conference. The Post Commander in each of the five (5) Post categories that reports the Highest Percentage in Membership (that equals or exceeds 90%) by December 15th of its assigned Membership quota will receive a Special Award at the Mid-Winter Conference. ALL AWARDS WILL BE BASED ON MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS OBTAINED FROM VFW NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS. District and Post categories are defined as follows.
DISTRICT
CATEGORY I - Districts under 1,700 Members for 2014/2015 Districts 1, 3, 9, 10 & 12 CATEGORY II- Districts with 1,700 and above Members for 2014/2015 Districts 4, 5, 6 & 8
34
VFW STATE OF WEST VIRGIIA
POSTS BY CATEGORY CATAGORY 1; 10-50 CATEGORY 3; 101-200 CATEGORY 4; 201-400 222 Saint Marys 578 Terra Alta 410 Belington 3008 Rowelsburg 826 Kingwood 437 Moundsville 3757 Burnsville 1589 Masontown 548 Morgantown 4940 Lewisburg 2102 Wardensville 1101 Romney 5469 Glenville 3112 Bramwell 3081 Grafton 5583 Coalton 3466 Charleston 3518 Keyser 5781 Harman 3488 Sandyville 3522 Charles Town 5783 Spencer 3526 New Cumberland 3647 Elkins 6737 Renick 3554 Harrisville 3663 Buckhannon 7780 Mathias 4019 Berkeley Springs 4442 Elm Grove 8001 Delbarton 4484 Rainelle 6327 Sistersville 8363 Chesapeake 4595 Marlinton 6450 Chester 5501 Ripley 6454 Petersburg CATEGORY 2; 51-100 6106 Summersville 7048 East Fairmont 6153 Chapmanville 9097 Hurricane 1144 Iaeger 6418 Saint Albans 9916 Westover 1976 Weston 6452 Ridgeley 2345 Tunnelton 6667 Fort Ashby CATEGORY 5; 401-UP 2523 Bruceton Mills 7695 Ansted 3110 Oak Hill 8127 Vienna 573 Clarksburg 3408 West Union 8129 Charleston 629 Fairmont 3738 Webster Springs 9151 Salem 896 Martinsburg 4419 Clay 9606 Moorefield 1064 Huntington 4469 Beckley 9666 Sugar Grove 1212 Parkersburg 4500 Hinton 2716 Weirton 4523 Wilkinson 4326 Sophia 4768 Alum Creek 5578 Madison 5131 Jane Lew 9738 Huntington 5269 Belle 9926 Mason 5959 Grantsville 6669 Ravenswood 6723 Alderson 8364 Oceana 8413 Welch 8516 Elkview 8614 Craigsville 9796 Milton 11307 Bolt
35
DEPARTMENT CONVENTION AWARDS
DISTRICT COMMANDER OF THE YEAR
Only one District Commander will be selected for District Commander of the year, But, in the event of a tie, both Commanders will receive a distinctive award.
100 Points For achieving All State 50 Points District reaches 90% of assigned Membership quota by November 30, 2014. 40 Points District reaches 95% by December 31, 2014 25 Points District reaches 100% of assigned Membership quota by March 31, 2015. 50 Points District reaches 100% in Post Inspections by September 30, 2014. 25 Points District reaches 100% in Post Inspections by October 31, 2014. 25 Points District Commander holds a School of Instruction. 25 Points District donates $275.00 for VFW Programs. 25 Points District donates $125.00 to Youth Camp equipment and administration
restricted account. 10 Points For each article submitted for the WV Veteran Newspaper. May submit
more than one article for each issue. 10 Points For each District Commander monthly activity report received by 15th day
of following month. 10 Points For each Monthly Community Service report received by 15th day of
following month. NOTE UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, THE DEADLINE FOR ACCOMPLISHING THE
ABOVE REQUIREMENTS IS MAY 1, 2015.
36
ALL-STATE BASIC DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS District Commanders achieving All-State Basic Requirements
will be awarded All-State Status
1. District must achieve 100% plus of its assigned membership quota by May 1, 2015.
2. District Quartermaster must be bonded by August 15, 2014. 3. Post inspections must be completed and submitted by November 30, 2014. 4. All District Officers will have dues paid by November 15, 2014. 5. District forwards a Voice of Democracy entry for state judging. 6. District forwards a Patriots Pen entry for state judging. 7. District forwards an entry in all three (K-5, 6-8, 9-12 grades) National Citizenship
Education Teacher Award for state judging. 8. District Commander attends Department annual School of Instruction. 9. District Commander attends all three (3) Council of Administration meetings. 10. District Commander conducts a District Commanders School of Instruction.
NOTE UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, THE DEADLINE FOR ACCOMPLISHING THE
ABOVE REQUIREMENTS IS MAY 1, 2015.
37
ALL-STATE POST SELECTION All-State Post selection will be based on the Post meeting all basic requirements and additionally their accumulated point score (exceeding 200 points). The number of Posts awarded All-State is defined in the below table. There will be (16) All-State Posts selected. POST MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES AND NUMBER OF ALL-STATE WINNERS BY CATEGORY
CATEGORY I 10 - 50 1ST and 2nd Place Winner CATEGORY II 51 - 100 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Place Winner CATEGORY III 101 - 200 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Place Winner CATEGORY IV 201 - 400 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Place Winner CATEGORY V 401 and up 1st and 2nd Place Winner
ALL-STATE BASIC POST REQUIREMENTS
1. Post must achieve 100% plus of its assigned membership quota by May 1, 2015. 2. Post must be in good standing in accordance with the National By-Laws Article II,
Section 213 (Arrearages, Deficiencies and Omission) as of May 1, 2015. 3. Post must purchase at least 1,000 Poppies by April 15, 2015. 4. Post must submit four (4) Post Trustee’s Quarterly Audit Reports. Reports must
be received at State Headquarters within 30 days after the close of the quarter. 5. Post quartermaster must be bonded by August 15th 2014. 6. Post will submit to State Headquarters elected Delegate names in accordance
with the National Manual of Procedure Article II, Section 202, by May 1, 2015. 7. Posts must make donations to the following programs by December 31, 2014.
Post donates $50.00 to State Hospital Fund.
Post donates $50.00 to State Relief Fund. Post donates $50.00 to Operation Uplink. Post donates $50.00 to the MAP Program. Post donates $25.00 to the VOD/Patriot Pen. Post donates $25.00 to Teacher of the Year. Post donates $25.00 to the National Home.
8. All Post Officers will have dues Paid by November 30, 2014.
38
POINT SYSTEM TO DETERMINE ALL-STATE AND POST COMMANDER OF THE YEAR WINNERS Accumulated points are in addition to above Basic All-State requirements. 50 Points Post reaches 100% of assigned Membership quota by October 31, 2014. 40 Points Post reaches 90% of assigned Membership quota by November 30, 2014. 30 Points Post reaches 95% of assigned Membership quota by December 31, 2014. 20 Points Post reaches 97% of assigned Membership quota by March 31, 2015. 05 Points For each member over 100% of assigned Membership quota. 20 Points For each new Life Member the Post recruits. 25 Points For each new Legacy Life Member the Post recruits. 20 Points For each new up-grade from Bronze to Silver Legacy Life. 20 Points For each new up-grade from Silver to Gold Legacy Life. 25 Points Post Commander attends District meeting (3 each). 25 Points Post Quartermaster attends District meeting (3 each). 25 Points Post Commander attends Mid-Winter Conference. 25 Points Post Quartermaster attends Mid-Winter Conference. 25 Points Post Commander attends an annual Department School of Instruction. 25 Points Post Quartermaster attends an annual Department School of Instruction. 25 Points Post exceeds last year’s Buddy Poppy purchase. 10 Points For each Community Service Report submitted to District Commander for
inclusion in District Commanders Monthly Community Service Report. NOTE: UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, THE DEADLINE FOR ACCOMPLISHING THE
ABOVE REQUIREMENTS IS MAY 1, 2015.
POST COMMANDER OF THE YEAR
The top scoring Post Commander in each of the five (5) categories will be designated as a Post Commander of the year. Selection will require meeting of all Basic Post All-State Requirements in addition to the highest accumulation of points.
39
AWARDS FOR THE POST COMMANDER OF THE YEAR
The top scoring Post Commander in each of the five categories will receive the Department Commanders recognition, and a distinguished commemorative for being Post Commander of the year 2014/2015.
POST OF THE YEAR AWARD In conjunction with the Post Commander of the Year award, the Commanders Post will receive a distinctive plaque recognizing the Post as a Post of the Year
ALL STATE TEAM CAPTAIN The highest scoring All-State Team Commander will be named All-State Team Captain and will receive an appropriately embroidered cap. Only one (1) Team Captain will be awarded.
AWARDS FOR THE ALL-STATE TEAM COMMANDERS
1. An Official All-State Team Cap (for first time awardees only) 2. A beautiful All-State lapel pin with year bar. 3. Commanders coin
AWARDS FOR THE ALL-STATE TEAM QUARTERMASTERS
1. An Official All-State Team Cap (for first time awardees only). 2. A Beautiful All-State lapel pin with year bar. 3. Commanders coin
DUAL AWARDS
In the event a District Commander also serves as a Post Commander and achieves All-State in both positions only one cap will be provided
40
Program and Required Reporting Deadlines
First Post Audit to State Headquarters July 31
Post Quartermaster Bond August 31
Second Post Audit to State Headquarters October 31
Voice of Democracy to Post November 1
Patriot's Pen Youth Essay to Post November 1
Citizenship Education Teacher Awards to District November 15
Voice of Democracy to District December 1
Patriot's Pen Youth Essay to District December 1
Citizenship Education Teacher Awards to State Headquarters December 15
Public Servant of the Year (one each Law/FF/EMT) to State HQ January 1
Voice of Democracy to VOD/PP Chairman January 1
Patriot's Pen Youth Essay to VOD/PP Chairman January 1
Citizenship Education Teacher Awards to National January 15
Voice of Democracy to National January 15
Patriot's Pen Youth Essay to National January 15
Voice of Democracy Department report to National January 15
Patriot's Pen Youth Essay Department report to National January 15
Third Post Audit to State Headquarters January 31
Public Servants of the Year (Law/FF/EMT) to National February 1
Scout of the Year Entry to Post March 1
Citation of Recognition Requests to National (Chairman lead) March 1
Scout of the Year to State Headquarters April 1
Citation of Recognition Requests to National April 1
Post Community Service Log to District Commander April 1
District Community Service selection to State Chairman April 15
Fourth Post Audit to State Headquarters April 30
All requirements for All State selection due May 1
State District Community Service selection to National May 1
“Bob Kusterer” JROTC Cadet of the Year to State Headquarters May 1
Scout of the Year to National May 1
41
Buddy Poppy King/Queen donations to State Headquarters May 1
Rich Homan Award nominations to State Headquarters May 15
All-State Team selected May 15
Post and District Election Reports to State Headquarters June 1
42
43
MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY GUIDE
The following is to be used as a guide in determining eligibility for membership and is furnished as a matter of information concerning the periods during which campaign and/or service medals were authorized. Eligibility for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is based on honorable service in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard performed by officers or enlisted personnel who have served in any foreign war, insurrection, or expedition, which service is recognized by the award of a campaign or service medal of the United States, or who served in Korea as outlined in the following guide, or who earned Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay. Persons still serving in the active armed forces may be accepted for membership provided they meet eligibility requirements. Proof of service to establish eligibility for membership rests with the applicant. The Post is responsible for assuring the eligibility of every member accepted to membership. The Department Headquarters and the National Headquarters are accountable for the eligibility of their respective Members-at-Large. The following campaign medals have been recognized as meeting campaign medal requirements of membership:
Campaign Medal Military Service Qualifying Dates Expeditionary Navy/Marine Corps Feb. 12, 1874 - Open
Spanish Campaign Army May 11, 1898 - Aug. 16, 1898
Navy Apr. 20, 1898 - Dec. 10, 1898
Army of Cuba Occupation Army Jul. 18, 1898 - May 20, 1902
Army of Puerto Rico Occupation Army Aug. 14, 1898 - Dec. 10,
1898
Philippine Campaign Army Feb. 4, 1899 - Dec. 31, 1913
Navy Feb. 4, 1899 - Sep. 15, 1906
China Relief Expedition Army Jun. 20, 1900 - May 27, 1901
Navy Apr. 5, 1900 - May 27, 1901
Cuban Pacification Army Oct. 6, 1906 - Apr. 1, 1909
Navy Sep. 12, 1906 - Apr. 1, 1909
Mexican Service Army Apr. 12, 1911 - Jun. 16, 1919
Navy Apr. 12, 1914 - Feb. 7, 1917
First Nicaraguan Campaign Navy Jul. 29, 1912 - Nov. 14, 1912
44
Haitian Campaign Navy Jul. 9, 1915 - Dec. 6, 1915
Apr. 1, 1919 - Jun. 15, 1920
Dominican Campaign Navy May 4, 1916 - Dec. 5, 1916
World War I Victory Army Apr. 6, 1917 - Apr. 1, 1920
(with battle or service clasp Navy Apr. 6, 1917 - Mar. 30, 1920
including Siberia and European Russia)
Army Occupation of Germany Army Nov. 12, 1918 - Jul. 11, 1923
Second Nicaraguan Campaign Navy Aug. 27, 1926 - Jan. 2, 1933
Yangtze Service Navy Sep. 3, 1926 - Oct. 21, 1927
Mar. 1, 1930 - Dec. 31, 1932
China Service Navy Jul. 7, 1937 - Sep. 7, 1939
Sep. 2, 1945 - Apr. 1, 1957
American Defense Service Army-Navy Sep. 8, 1939 - Dec. 7, 1941
(with foreign service clasp)
European-African- Army-Navy Dec. 7, 1941 - Nov. 8, 1945
Middle Eastern Campaign
American Campaign Army-Navy Dec. 7, 1941 - Mar. 2, 1946
(30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive
days of duty outside continental limits of the U.S.)
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Army-Navy Dec. 7, 1941 - Mar. 2, 1946
Army of Occupation (30 consecutive days of duty)
Italy May 9, 1945 - Sep.15, 1947
Germany (except West Berlin) May 9, 1945 - May 5, 1955
Korea Sep. 3, 1945 - Jun. 29, 1949
Japan Sep. 3, 1945 - Apr. 27, 1952
Austria May 9, 1945 - Jul. 27, 1955
Germany (West Berlin) May 9, 1945 - Oct. 2, 1990
Navy Occupation Service Medal
Italy May 8, 1945 - Dec.15, 1947
45
Trieste May 8, 1945 - Oct. 26, 1954
Germany (except West Berlin) May 8, 1945 - May 5, 1955
Austria May 8, 1945 - Oct. 25, 1955
Asiatic Pacific Sep. 2, 1945 - Apr. 27, 1952
Korean Service Medal Jun. 27, 1950 - Jul. 27, 1954
Navy and Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal
Cuban Military Operation Jan. 3, 1961 - Oct. 23, 1962
Thailand Military Operation May 16, 1962 - Aug. 10, 1962
Iranian, Yemen and Indian Ocean Operation Dec. 8, 1978 - Jun. 6, 1979
Nov. 21, 1979 - Oct. 20, 1981
Lebanon Aug. 20, 1982 - May 31, 1983
Libyan Expedition Jan. 20, 1986 - Jun. 27, 1986
Persian Gulf Feb. 1, 1987 - Jul. 23, 1987
Panama - (pre and post invasion) Apr. 1, 1988 - Dec. 19, 1989
Feb. 1, 1990 - Jun. 13, 1990
Operation Sharp Edge - Liberia Aug. 5, 1990 - Feb. 21, 1991
Operation Distant Runner - Rwanda Apr. 7-18, 1994
(11th Marine Expeditionary Unit USS Peleliu)
Vietnam Service Medal July 4, 1965 - Mar. 28, 1973
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Lebanon Jul. 1, 1958 - Nov. 1, 1958
Taiwan Straits Aug. 23, 1958 - Jan. 1, 1959
Quemoy and Matsu Islands Aug. 23, 1958 - Jun. 1, 1963
Vietnam Jul. 1, 1958 - Jul. 3, 1965
Congo Jul. 14, 1960 - Sep.1, 1962
Laos Apr. 19, 1961 - Oct. 7, 1962
Berlin Aug. 14, 1961 - Jun. 1, 1963
Cuba Oct. 24, 1962 - Jun. 1, 1963
Congo Nov. 23-27, 1964
Dominican Republic Apr. 23, 1965 - Sep. 21, 1966
Korea Oct. 1, 1966 - Jun. 30, 1974
Cambodia Mar. 29, 1973 - Aug. 15, 1973
Thailand - (only those in direct support of Cambodia) Mar. 29, 1973 - Aug. 15, 1973
Operation Eagle Pull - Cambodia (includes evacuation) Apr. 11-13, 1975
Operation Frequent Wind - Vietnam (includes evacuation) Apr. 29-30, 1975
Mayaquez Operation May 15, 1975
46
El Salvador Jan. 1, 1981 - Feb. 1, 1992
Lebanon Jun. 1, 1983 - Dec. 1, 1987
Operation Urgent Fury - Grenada Oct. 23, 1983 - Nov. 21, 1983
Eldorado Canyon - Libya Apr. 12-17, 1986
Operation Earnest Will - Persian Gulf Jul. 24, 1987 - Aug. 1, 1990
(only those participating in, or in direct support)
Operation Just Cause – Panama Dec. 20, 1989 - Jan. 31, 1990
(USS Vreeland & other SVS-designated
aircrew mbrs. outside the Conus in direct support)
United Shield - Somalia Dec. 5, 1992 - Mar. 31, 1995
Operation Restore Hope - Somalia Dec. 5, 1992 - Mar. 31, 1995
Operation Uphold Democracy - Haiti Sep. 16, 1994 - Mar. 31, 1995
Operation Joint Endeavor - Nov. 20, 1995 - Dec. 19, 1996
Bosnia, Croatia, the Adriatic Sea & airspace.
Operation Vigilant Sentinel - Dec. 1, 1995 - Feb. 15, 1997
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, & Persian Gulf.
Operation Southern Watch - Dec. 1, 1995 - Mar. 18, 2003
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Persian Gulf, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman,
Gulf of Oman W of 62o E Long., Yemen, Egypt, & Jordan.
Operation Maritime Intercept - Dec. 1, 1995 - Mar. 18, 2003
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Red Sea, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman W
of 62o E Long., Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman, Yemen, Egypt, & Jordan.
Operation Joint Guard - Dec. 20, 1996 - Jun. 20, 1998
Bosnia, Croatia, Adriatic Sea & airspace.
Operation Northern Watch - Jan. 1, 1997 - Mar. 18, 2003
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Persian Gulf W of 56o E Long.,
and Incirlik AB, Turkey (only pers. TDY to ONW)
Operation Joint Forge - Jun. 20, 1998 - Mar. 23, 1999
Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Adriatic Sea & airspace.
Operation Desert Thunder - Nov. 11, 1998 - Dec. 22, 1998
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman, Yemen,
Egypt, Jordan, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea support.
Operation Desert Fox - Dec. 16, 1998 - Dec. 22, 1998
Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman, Yemen,
Egypt, Jordan, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, USN Red Sea support.
Southwest Asia Service Medal
Operation Desert Shield/Operation Desert Storm Aug. 2, 1990 - Nov. 30, 1995
(combat areas of operation only)
47
Personnel assigned to support units serving in Jan. 17, 1991 - Apr. 11, 1991
Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Jordan.
Kosovo Campaign Medal
Operation Allied Force - Kosovo Air Campaign Mar. 24, 1999 - Jun. 10, 1999
Kosovo Defense Campaign - Ground Action Jun. 11, 1999 - Open
Combat Infantry Badge & Combat Medical Badge Army Dec. 6, 1941 - Open
Combat Action Ribbon Navy, Marine, Coast Guard Dec. 6, 1941 - Open
Air Force Combat Action Medal Sep. 11, 2001 - Open
Combat Action Badge Army Sep. 18, 2001 - Open
SSBN Deterrent Patrol Insignia Navy Jan. 21, 1961 – Open
Korea Duty Jun. 30, 1949 - Open
Service on the Korean Peninsula, its airspace and territorial
waters for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days of duty
Korea Defense Service Medal Jul. 28, 1954 - Open
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal Sep. 11, 2001 - Open
Afghanistan Campaign Medal Sep. 11, 2001 - Open
Iraq Campaign Medal Mar. 19, 2003 - Open
Air Force Expeditionary Service with GOLD BORDER Apr. 2004 - Open
Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay Jan 1, 1971 - Present
48
MEMBER DUES PROCESSING
MISSION: Member Dues Processing is a service-oriented function established to
process life membership fees and annual dues payments in an efficient and accountable
manner.
Annual Des Processing, receipt Processing Department (RPD), Data Entry, and the Life
Membership departments were consolidated in October 2002 to achieve maximum
workflow and personnel utilization. The utilization of cross-trained associates is more
vital to the success of Member Dues Processing.
Member Dues Processing is organized along functional lines. The department’s primary
responsibilities are the processing of life and annual members’ dues and the
maintenance of member data.
Annual Member Processing
Data Entry / Life Membership
Annual Dues Processing managed more than 413,000 VFW annual members and the
VFW Men’s Auxiliary members of Alaska, California, Connecticut, Florida, Missouri,
Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island and Texas.
Additionally, a total of 18,530 Life Members have been processed since July 2013. The
Life Membership Installment Plan enrolled 8,223 new requests and administered 48,638
payments to existing accounts. The Legacy Life program has processed 631 applications,
enrolled 132 using the Legacy installment plan and administered payments to over 943
existing accounts.
Our success in processing these dues in a timely manner hinges, to a great extent, on
what the Post Quartermasters do.
49
Why should Posts take advantage of ACH/EFT?
Checks are very expensive to produce and mail…the average cost to print
and mail is $13.79 plus employee handling time
Currently National has over 1,000 outstanding checks to VFW Posts
State escheat laws require:…if a check is not cashed within five years
(depending on state) National has to turn that money over to the
government
ACH is the quicker, safer and more efficient than check writing
Recipient will have money in their account the next day, instead of the time
to mail, deposit, etc.
Excluding Life Member payouts (which are usually larger), 80% of all dues
checks written are under $50, and 60% are under $25
National can send e-mail to V-Mail accounts or any other e-mail address
you specify to provide instant notification that an ACH has been sent to the
Post or Department bank account
Department and National leadership is supportive of ACH/EFT as the most
effective and safe payment method
A Post, not using ACH/EFT will receive payment of their Post per capita
semi-annually – July and January
An Authorization Agreement for Automatic Deposit Form is provided on the
next page. One can also be obtained by logging into your On-line
Membership System (OMS) account. Click on the VFW Leadership
Reference Guide and go to forms. You may also obtain a copy by
contacting the Accounting Department at National Headquarters. Please
allow approximately three weeks for processing and activation of your
electronic deposit request.
50
AUTHORIZATION AGREMENT FOR AUTOMATIC DEPOSITS (ACH CREDITS)
SOCIAL SECURITY/TAX ID
NAME_________________________ Number _________________________
I (we) hereby authorize Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, hereinafter called VFW of US, to initiate credit
entries and to initiate, if necessary, debit* entries and adjustments for any credit entries in error to our ( ) Checking or ( )
Savings account (select one) indicated below and the depository named below, hereinafter called DEPOSITORY, to credit
and/or debit* the same to such account.
DEPOSITORY
NAME _____________________________ BRANCH __________________
CITY _______________________________ STATE _____ ZIP__________________
TRANSIT/ABA NO. _________________ ACCOUNT NO.______________________
This authority is to remain in full force and effect until VFW of US has received written notification from me (or either of us)
of its termination in such time and in such manner as to afford VFW of US and Depository a reasonable opportunity to act
on it.
NAME(S) ___________________________________________________________
DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER ____________________________________________
E-MAIL ADDRESS TO SEND DEPOSIT NOTIFICATION ________________________
DATE __________________ SIGNED ____________________________________
Be advised, it takes approximately 1 week to process, therefore, it is important to return this form as
soon as possible.
FOR DIRECT DEPOSIT, PLEASE RETURN THIS COMPLETED FORM TO:
VFW NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
ATTN: DONALD HOLLAND
406 W. 34TH ST., SUITE 1100
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI 64111
816-756-3390 Ext 230
Fax# 816-968-1137
PLEASE ATTACH VOICED CHECK HERE
*Debits will only be initiated to correct an error. Under no circumstances will the debit exceed the
error amount.
51
AUTOPAY
Automatically Renew Your VFW Membership.
Easy. Fast. Fully Secure.
Encourage your members to say goodbye to paper dues notices. With VFW AUTOPAY,
you provide your payment information (credit, debit card or bank account) at
www.vfw.org, and your membership is automatically renewed annually. It’s just that
easy. Best of all, you’re in full control of your membership record. You can change your
payment information or cancel at any time. Plus, you can make other changes yourself,
like updating contact information, requesting replacement membership cards and more.
Why sign up today?
Your membership always stays current
Saves you time and postage
24/7 access to your membership record
Get started today:
Click “Login” at www.vfw.org. (You can set up an account if it’s your
first time.)
Click “Member Services.”
Click “Manage Account” and “Yes” under the Autopay option.
Enter payment information.
52
General Information
National Headquarters administers dues processing for all 54 Departments and Eleven (11)
state Men’s Auxiliaries.
Processing begins on the day the mail is received at National Headquarters
Processing time is based on a normal five day work week.
Renewal notices received from the member with a check for the full amount of the Post dues
will be processed and the membership card mailed within five working days or less.
Exception mail represents the following:
New member applications
Post Continuous Member Transmittal Form (PCMT) received with Post payment
Handwritten transmittals
Splits (one check for continuous and life members)
Member payments that are more/less than the full Post dues
Correspondence received with dues payment
Credit card payments
These payments will be processed and membership cards mailed within ten working days or
less.
All dues payments forwarded by the Post should only include National and Department dues
amounts. The Post should retain its portion of the dues payment.
All new members must be submitted on an approved VFW application form. This form must be
signed by the Post Quartermaster, certifying the investigative committee has performed its
duty and the Post has voted to accept this member.
An application for the Life Membership installment plan must be mailed to National
Headquarters. Post Quartermasters cannot process installment u sing the On-line Membership
System (OMS).
$45.00 is required for enrollment.
The new membership application (ver. 01/14) does allow us to set the member up for
the automatic payment option. If an older application is submitted, the member must
complete and return an authorization agreement for automatic payments or set up a
payment profile using OMS.
53
Life Member Installment enrollees whose account goes past 120 days without payment will be
removed from the installment plan. Previous payments will be left on the members account to
be applied towards future annual dues.
Encourage the usage of the On-line Membership System (OMS) to your Post Quartermaster and
Members. OMS is a very powerful tool and results in instantaneous processing via the web.
OMS also saves time and money as there are no forms to complete or mail.
The Monthly Maintenance Journal (MMJ) is accessible to the Post Quartermaster through
his/her OMS account. This report is updated monthly and archived for 12 months.
A membership payment that has been removed (e.g., returned check, deceased, etc.) appears
as a reversal on the MMJ. This will deduct the dues payment previously made to the Post for
that member, as well as deduct the member from the Post membership count.
The Membership Statistic total represents all payments processed for the current dues year.
The Post Query is a current register of active members only and does not list reported deceased
members, non-paying transfers from your Post, cancelled memberships, etc. Because of the
difference in tabulation, these totals may not match.
Upon processing annual or life payments, the system immediately generates a membership
card, which is mailed directly to the member the following business day. If a member’s address
is listed at National Headquarters as “Undeliverable”, no membership card is issued.
Post Quartermasters requesting that membership cards be sent to them must submit this
request in writing. These transmittals will only be processed the third Friday of the month.
Keep an eye on contest dates. Be sure to consider Saturday, Sunday and holidays and do not
wait until the last minute to mail your transmittal.
Assure that your transmittal is in balance for the number of members being mailed and the
amount of the payment.
A replacement membership card can be requested by logging into your OMS account or by
calling 1-800-963-3180.
54
Member Dues Processing
CONTACT INFORMATION Director
Patrick J Botbyl
VFW National Headquarters
Member Dues Processing, Suite 300
406 W. 34th Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
Toll free number: 800-963-3180
Direct: 816-968-2794
Annual Dues payments should be sent to:
VFW National Headquarters
Member Dues Processing, Suite 300
406 W. 34th Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
Toll free number: 800-963-3180
LaDonna Miles, Supervisor
Life Membership payments should be sent to:
VFW National Headquarters
Life Membership Department, Suite 300
406 W. 34th Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
Kath Pratt, Supervisor
Name and address corrections should be sent to:
VFW National Headquarters
Data Entry, Suite 300
406 W. 34th Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
55
NOTES FROM THE DIRECTOR, VFW PROGRAMS ON
COMMUNITY SERVICE REPORTING
Mid-year reports covering the period May 1 to October 31 are due to
National VFW Programs Director on December 1.
End of year reports covering the period November 1 to April 30 are due to
National VFW Programs Director on June 1.
Actual money amount expended for Post or Auxiliary funds in support of community
service projects; in-kind dollar value of donated items to non-members or use of Post
home by a community service organization, and the use of the IRS authorized $.14 per
mile for use of a volunteer’s automobile for charitable work, are some important dollars
to report. Please make sure you include hours and dollars for hospital work and all VFW
and Ladies Auxiliary Recognition Programs (i.e. Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, etc.).
The National Ladies Auxiliary Headquarters requested Department Auxiliary
representatives to cooperate with VFW Department representative in providing the
above information to you.
Community service, as defined by the National Community Service Trust Act
“encompasses any human act serving the common good; in the interest of the
community.” Elsewhere, community service is further defined as “a service that is
performed for the benefit of the public or its institutions.”
The VFW subscribes to the above, but adds that, for the purposes of volunteer
recognition VFW community service must be performed by and as a representative of
the VFW for an organization outside of the VFW and its Auxiliaries, and must be verified
by an authorized representative of that organization. As it is the intent of VFW
community service to impact a broad spectrum of the local community, credit will only
56
be given for a maximum of 1,000 hours to any single outside organization within a
twelve-month period.
In addition, efforts performed for the benefit of the Post or Auxiliary’s should not be
considered community service. An example of this type of effort would be
maintenance, upkeep or beautification of the Post home, cooking or serving a meal for a
Post fundraiser, or working on bingo night. Additionally, efforts that are part of the
normal requirements of a Post or Auxiliary would not be considered community service.
Examples of this would be providing an honor guard for a member’s funeral, flying the
American Flag, and conducting Flag retirement programs (unless this is performed for
the entire community).
A particularly controversial area in VFW community service is service to one’s church.
Generally, these efforts are not considered community service for two reasons: 1) they
are not performed for the community at large; 2) they are part of an individual’s service
to their faith and not to the VFW. The exception to this would be performing the same
service for all the churches, etc. in a given community.
Analysis of the most recent Community Service Reports revealed that too many Posts
are not clear on how community service hours and dollars should be reported.
HOURS: When the Post reports to the Department, they should list the hours of
community service performed by the Post, affiliated Cootie Scratch, Ladies Auxiliary,
Men’s Auxiliary, Sons of the VFW and Junior Girls for that reporting period. Only
volunteer service hours benefiting the community are to be reported. Volunteer hours
committed to projects and activities benefiting the Post and its affiliated units listed
above cannot be reported.
MONEY: The money that should be reported are the dollars donated or expended by
the members in the performance of the community service hours reported, plus $.14
per mile for each mile driven by the volunteers.
57
DO NOT REPORT: The value of the hours worked is a calculation made at the national
level only. Posts and Departments should never report any figures derived from the
value of hours worked.
IMPORTANCE OF ACCURATE REPORTING: It is of the utmost importance that VFW
Posts report their volunteer hours and especially their donations accurately. A Post that
inflates the amounts of money they donate, intentionally or otherwise, may place their
not-for-profit status in jeopardy.
58
ROBERT M. (BOB) KUSTERER JROTC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The Veterans of Foreign Wars, State of West Virginia is proud to announce that a $500.00
Scholarship is being awarded to the top JROTC Cadet in the state. This award is named the Robert M.
(Bob) Kusterer JROTC Scholarship in honor of the late State Jr. Vice Commander, Robert M. Kusterer.
The winning Cadet in the state will be given a check in the amount of $500.00 to be used as
needed to further their education (i.e. clothing, books, etc.).
The following criteria has been established for each nominee (must be a senior and only one
nominee from each school).
CRITERIA:
1. Positive attitude toward the JROTC Program
2. Outstanding military bearing and conduct in and out of uniform
3. Personal attributes (self-confidence, initiative, flexibility, judgment).
4. Patriotism, promotes Americanism
5. Courtesy (dependability, punctuality, human relations, respect, cooperation)
6. Growth potential
a. Must be a High School Senior. b. Must have a ”B” or better average. c. Must be active in at least one other student co-curricular
activity or club.
The recipient of the $500.00 Scholarship will be selected by a panel of at least three (3) JROTC
Instructors.
All nominations for this scholarship must be submitted in writing to VFW State Headquarters, P.O.
Box 9431, South Charleston, WV 25309.
Deadline for nominations to be received: MAY 1, 2015.
The presentation of the $500.00 scholarship will take place as directed by the State Commander.
You will receive 25 Points on the All-State Team for donating $50.00 or more to the Scholarship
Fund.
59
Rich Homan Memorial Award
This award will be presented to an outstanding VFW Member, from West Virginia,
during the banquet at the VFW State Convention. This plaque will be awarded for a
comrade’s VFW achievements such as, Membership Program, Community Activities,
Youth Activities, Project Chairman, and the leadership they have demonstrated at their
Post, that has brought prestige to the VFW.
All nominations must be submitted in writing to State Headquarters no later than May
15th. The State Commander will designate a selection committee.
60
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS AND ITS LADIES AUXILIARY
STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA “VFW BUDDY POPPY ORDER FORM”
SHIP TO:__________________________________Ordered by: POST/AUX/BOTH NO.________
(circle one)
MAILING ADDRESS_________________________________________________________
(Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code)
DO NOT USE A PO BOX FOR A MAILING ADDRESS. ORDERS ARE SHIPPED VIA UPS.
DATE OF POPPY SALE:______________________________________________________
NUMBER OF POPPIES___________1,000 for $102.00……........................................$________
500 for $51.00 (minimum order)….……....$________
NUMBER OF COIN CANS_________10 @ $16.50 (min order) plus $4 shipping……..$________
25 @ $34.50 plus $8 shipping………………..$________
NUMBER OF SELLER CAPS________10 @ $3.50 (min order) plus $4 shipping...…...$________
25 @ $8.25 plus $4 shipping…………….…$________
50 @ $15.25 plus $7 shipping……………. $________
Enclosed is our check in the amount of $_____________to cover the above Poppy Order.
The above Poppies and Poppy Supplies are to be delivered on or Before_____________.
(Date)
Signed:__________________________________________________________________________________
(Name) (Title)
NOTE: ALL ORDERS MUST BE SENT TO THE STATE ADJUTANT/QUARTERMASTER. ORDERS FAX’D OR MAILED TO STATE
HEADQUARTERS. ORDERS WILL BE FORWARDED TO NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS ONCE PAYMENT IS RECEIVED.
Please make checks payable to: VFW STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA.
Send all Orders and checks direct to: VFW State of West Virginia
PO Box 9431
South Charleston, WV 25309 (Rev. 03/31/14)
61
REPORT OF POST
POPPY OR RECRUITING EVENT
Post Name ____________________________ Number _____________________ Type of Event _______________________________________________________ Date of Event ____________________ Location of Event ___________________________________ Number of people attending __________ Number of hours contributed _______ Number of members recruited ________ Money collected ____________ Mail To: Ed Kirby, Buddy Poppy Chairman
VFW State of West Virginia 104 Meadowlane Avenue Fairmont, WV 26554
Submitted by: _________________________________ Position: _________________________________ Date: _________________________________
62
POST OFFICER CHANGE NOTICE
POST NO _________________ POST LOCATION __________________________
VACATED MEMBER
MEMBER NAME: LAST ___________________ FIRST _____________MIDDLE I__ MEMBER POSITION ___________________CARD NO________________________
CIRCLE ONE
RELIEVED DECEASED RESIGNED INACTIVE TRANSFERRED OTHER
NEW MEMBER
MEMBER NAME: LAST _______________FIRST ______________MIDDLE I ____ MEMBER CARD NO: ___________________________________ MEMBER MAILING ADDRESS: _______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________ MEMBER E-MAIL: _________________________________________________ MEMBER PHONE: _________________________________________________ MEMBER CELL PHONE: ___________________________________________ MAIL TO: QUARTERMASTER VFW STATE OF WV SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV 25309 SUBMITTED BY: __________________________________POST______________
63
REPORT OF DECEASED MEMBER
POST # __________________________ LOCATION ______________________ MEMBER NAME __________________________________________________ BRANCH OF SERVICE ______________________________________________ DEPLOYMENTS___________________________________________________ VFW POSITION PAST/PRESENT IF AN OFFICER ((and year(s)) ________________________________________________________________________ ANY COMMENTS RELATIVE TO FAMILY OR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ MAIL TO: QUARTERMASTER VFW STATE OF WV 5532 MacCORKLE AVENUE, SW SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV 25309 SUBMITTED BY: _________________________ POST ______________________
64
MEMBER PERSONAL CHANGE NOTICE
POST _________________________ LOCATION ___________________________ NAME : LAST _________________FIRST __________________MIDDLE I._______ CARD NO. IF KNOWN: ____________________________
1. ADDRESS CHANGE 2. HOME PHONE CHANGE 3. CELL PHONE CHANGE 4. E-MAIL CHANGE
ADDRESS CHANGE OLD ADDRESS: _____________________________________ _____________________________________ ______________________________________ NEW ADDRESS: _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ HOME PHONE OLD PHONE NO.: ________________ NEW PHONE NO.: ___________________ CELL PHONE OLD PHONE NO.: _________________ NEW PHONE NO.:___________________ E-MAIL: OLD___________________________NEW________________________ MAIL TO: QUARTERMASTER VFW STATE OF WV 5532 MacCORKLE AVENUE, SW SOUTH CHARLESTON, WV 25309 SUBMITTED BY: __________________________ POST ____________________
65
VFW STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA REQUEST FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
The Service Member or Veteran must have been Honorably Discharged from the military. The applicant must be the Veteran, a relative or eligible dependent. The Hardship cannot be caused by:
Civil, legal or domestic issues, misconduct, or any issues that are a result of spousal separation or divorce
Financial mismanagement by self or others, or due to Bankruptcy
All grants are paid directly to the creditor and not to the applicant. Second requests for assistance must be caused by a new situation or deployment.
Expenses Eligible for payment:
Housing expenses – mortgage, rent, repairs, insurance
Vehicle expenses – payments, insurance, repairs (vehicle not to be over 10 years old)
Utilities and primary phone
Food and incidentals
Children’s clothing, diapers, formula, necessary school or childcare expenses
Medical bills, prescriptions & eyeglasses – the patient’s portion for necessary or emergency medical care only
Commercial transportation, funeral or burial expenses
Ineligible Expenses
Credit cards, military charge cards or retail store cards
Personal, student and payday loans
Negative bank accounts (over draft fees and charges etc.)
Cable, Internet, or secondary phones
Investigational or cosmetic medical procedures & expenses
Taxes (Federal, State, Local, Property or Real Estate)
Child support, alimony, or legal expenses
Military debt, or debt owed to a friend or family member
66
Furniture, electronic equipment or vehicle rentals
Down payments on homes or vehicles
Reimbursements for items already paid for
Bills obviously due to excessive use or mismanagement
The Veterans of Foreign Wars reserves the right to make exceptions on a case-by-case basis to the afore mentioned criteria.
Maximum Disbursements
Commander jointly with Quartermaster – up to $100.00 Council of Administration required - between $100.00 and $750.00 An investigation of legitimate standing will be conducted as directed by the Department Commander or, in his absence, the Department Quartermaster. At the Commanders discretion, he or she will appoint an appropriate VFW representative to conduct an investigation and make a recommendation regarding approval or disapproval of the request. The recommendation will be provided on a signed and completed application form. The VFW will not disburse partial payment of a specified need without conformation of any remaining balance being provided by another source.
** Maximum state disbursement $750.00 **
67
VFW STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA RELIEF FUND APPLICATION FORM
All applications are individually processed on a case by case basis. Submitting an application does not guarantee payment of funds. The VFW reserves the right to make exceptions. Applicant Information NAME____________________________ AGE__________PHONE_____________ ADDRESS______________________________E-MAIL_______________________ CITY_______________________________STATE______________ZIP__________ RELATIONSHIP TO VETERAN (IF APPLICABLE)______________________________ MARRIED: YES ____ NO ____ NUMBER OF DEPENDENTS_________ STATUS: ACTIVE ____ RETIRED ____ DISCHARGED ____ DISABLED _____% PAY GRADE AT DISCHARGE _____________ SERVICE __________________ DATE OF LAST DEPLOYMENT OR DISCHARGE______________________________ DESCRIBE NATURE OF NEED OF ASSISTANCE: (RENT, CAR REPAIR, FOOD, MEDICAL, TRANSPORTATION) DESCRIBE WHY YOU ARE UNABLE TO MEET THIS NEED ON YOUR OWN. LIST AMOUNT OF FUNDS REQUESTED _____________________
68
LIST ANY OTHER AGENCIES YOU ARE WORKING WITH (I.E., VA, SALVATION ARMY, RED CROSS or CHURCH) ______________________________________________
A B C MONTHLY INCOME SELF_________SPOUSE _________TOTAL________ MONTHLY EXPENSES HOUSING _____________ UTILITIES _____________ AUTO _____________ MISC. _____________ TOTAL _____________
TERMS AND CONDITION OF GRANT
I understand that proper information is required to substantiate my request. This information will be kept confidential. I further understand that if the request cannot be substantiated it will not be possible for the VFW to consider or approve the grant. I am further willing to be interviewed by telephone, at a designated location or in my home. I understand that the VFW Relief Program is to meet immediate and urgent needs. _______________________
SSN (Required by IRS)
_______________________ Signature of Applicant _______________________ Printed Name Date
69
INVESTIGATOR, COMMENTS AND MANNER OF CONTACT: (I.E. TELEPHONE – HOME VISIT –DESIGNATED LOCATION) RECOMMEND: APPROVAL ______ DISAPPROVAL _______ If approved list who check is payable to and address where to be mailed.
_________________________
SIGNATURE OF INVESTIGATOR _________________________ PRINTED NAME DATE
70
POLICY AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONDITIONAL DONATON OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT,
CEREMONIAL RIFLES, AND BLANK AMMUNITION TO VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS
1. INTRODUCTION
a. Public Law 106-65 (10 USC Code 4683) allows for the conditional donation of M1
rifles to eligible organizations for use by that organization for funeral ceremonies of a
member or former member of the armed forces, and for ceremonial purposes. The
rifle, a U.S. caliber .30 M1 (Garand), is currently the only ceremonial rifle being donated.
The weapon is safe to fire blank ammunition.
b. Public Law 100-456 (10 USC Code 2572) authorizes the conditional donation of certain types of military combat equipment no longer needed by the military department concerned to approved organizations and entities for memorial or historical static display. c. Due to limited availability, military equipment conditionally donated for display is limited to one piece. However, rifles donated to any one Post or Chapter is limited to no more than 15 rifles. d. The replacement or exchange of ceremonial rifles is authorized on a one for one basis if the organization’s weapons have been destroyed by fire or flood, lost through theft, or are unserviceable beyond repair. e. Display equipment and ceremonial rifles remain the property of the United States government and cannot be borrowed, loaned, sold, transferred, or given to anyone else. 2. APPLICATION AND PROCEDURE FOR MILITARY EQUIPMENT OR CEREMONIAL RIFLES a. A written, formal request must be completed and signed by the current Post Commander, Adjutant, or Quartermaster, one of who needs to be the contact person. Include that contact person’s mailing address (street number) and phone number, not the Post’s. Address the request to the Adjutant General, VFW National HQ, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111.
71
If the request is for military display equipment, include the type of equipment desired and the intended display site. If the request is for rifles, include the number desired, the intended use of the weapons, and the number of active organization members. If the request is for replacement rifles, include the manufacturer and serial numbers of the rifles on hand and the quantity of rifles desired. The approved request is forwarded by VFW National Headquarters to the US Army TACOM Life Cycle Management Command (LMC) for processing. b. Upon receipt of an approved application for military equipment or ceremonial rifles, TACOM will provide the requesting organization with a self-explanatory checklist and the specified forms. These documents require the signature of the Post Commander, Adjutant, or Quartermaster. Some forms require a notary public endorsement. An exterior photograph of the organization’s building, if applicable, is also required. c. Return the requirements within60 days to TACOM or contact them for an extension when completing the eligibility requirements. Otherwise, the request is closed for non-response and your organization will have to reapply. d. The issue of rifles at no cost is based upon an organization meeting the specific requirements of the law and policy that govern this program along with the availability of funds. TACOM cannot make this determination until the review of an organization’s qualification documentation is completed. e. If your organization was previously issued M1 Garand rifles and they are not functioning properly, the Post is required to have a licensed gun dealer or armorer certify the serviceability to fire blank ammunition for each weapon in question. They must provide a report listing by model, manufacturer, and serial number, what is wrong with each rifle and the cost to fix it. TACOM will then determine if the cost to repair exceeds the cost to refurbish and authorize replacement of the rifle(s). If not, the Post is responsible for the cost to repair. Care and maintenance of the conditionally loaned rifles is the responsibility of the post.
72
3. STORAGE AND SECURITY OF CEREMONIAL RIFLES a. Storage of the ceremonial rifles is at the discretion of the Post as long as you comply with local/state/federal regulations. It is not recommended to store the weapons at a private residence. b. It is recommended to maintain a log showing serial numbers of weapons and names of the individuals whenever rifles are checked out and in for use by your organization. c. The Post Commander, Adjutant or Quartermaster is required to sign a notarized certificate regarding storage and security as indicated above. 4. DISPOSITION OF DONATED RIFLES a. If for any reason it may become necessary for the Post to dispose of, or to return donated rifles, disposition instructions must be requested in writing, from the Post Commander, Adjutant, or Quartermaster, to TACOM, Attn: AMSTA-LCL-SMD, M/S: 419D, 6501 East 11 Mile Road, Warren, Michigan 48397-5000. NEVER return any weapons to TACOM. b. Shipping costs for the return of rifles is at the expense of the Post. c. The Post is provided with the information to return the rifles with receipt requested to Anniston, Alabama. Two known carriers who can ship weapons are the U.S. Postal Service or UPS. Please contact them to get their requirements for returning the rifles. The organization may have to go through a licensed gun dealer to have the rifles packaged and sent to Anniston Army Depot. Let the carrier know the rifles are Army property and are being returned to an US Army depot. NEVER return any weapons to TACOM. The Army does not endorse any specific mail carrier. Therefore, you can choose any, but please ensure you comply with local and state laws. d. A copy of the serial numbers for the rifles along with a document number assigned by TACOM should be listed and packed in the box. If the rifles are split into more than one box, this information should be included in all of the boxes.
73
e. After Anniston receives the rifles and they return the receipt to you, make a copy and send the receipt, along with a list of the returned rifles to TACOM. TACOM will send a letter absolving your organization of all liability for the returned ceremonial rifles. 6. BLANK AMMUNITION AND CLIPS a. A written, forma request must be completed and signed by the current Post Commander, Adjutant or Quartermaster, one of who needs to be the contact person. Include that contact person’s residential mailing address (street number) and phone number, not the Post’s. Address the request to the Adjutant General, VFW National HQ, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, MO 64111. The approved request is forwarded by VFW National Headquarters to the Commander, US Army Joint Munitions Command, ATTN: AMSJM-CDS (Dawn Folland), 1 Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, IL 61299-6000. b. The .30 blank ammo (1,240 rounds) is sent in 2 metal cans in a wooden box. The quantity is limited to two boxes and provided free with no shipping charges. c. Between 6-8 weeks after Rock Island processes the request, the ammo is shipped FEDEX Ground from Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, Independence, MO. The recipient will be notified of the tentative ship out date by letter from the US Army Joint Munitions Command in Rock Island, IL. Normal FEDEX delivery is between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Prefer the ammunition be shipped to a residence and not to the post. A signature is required upon delivery. If absolutely necessary to be delivered to the post, an Officer’s signature is required. This will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. d. Blank ammunition is authorized for use in United States Army issued ceremonial weapons ONLY. Ammo is not authorized to posts who receive rifles through any other source. The use of ammo obtained from sources other than the US Army Joint Munitions Command is prohibited as it may result in damage to the rifles. More importantly, it could cause harm or serious injury to the user. NOTE: US Army Joint Munitions Command will contact TACOM Army Donations Office to confirm that the organization’s rifles are from the program and all records are current.
74
6. SLINGS AND REPAIR PARTS Slings and repair parts are not provided through TACOM. Your organization is required to obtain slings and repair parts from commercial sources. Two known sources are: Amherst Arms, PO Box 1457, Englewood, FL 34295, phone no. (941) 475-2020. Their website is www.amherst-depot.com. Another source is Fulton Armory, 8725 Bollman PL. #1, Savage, MD 20763. Their phone no. is (301) 490-9485. Their website is www.fulton-armory.com. VFW National Headquarters and the US Army does not endorse any specific commercial source for rifle accessories.