Vol. 47, No. 1 SSN 0745 4031 August/September 2015Scan this QR code to find VFW web resources that will keep you informed and ready to engage.

VFW’s Strong Support of PA Troops Marches On

A VFW life member, PA Air National Guard TSgt. Keith Gregory accepts the PA VFW Eagle Award from incoming State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., during the State Convention. Joining him is his mother, Kathleen.

Convention Celebrates Success on Many VFW FrontsThe arching fireworks that entertained State Convention

Patriotic Rally participants served as a fitting tribute to the many successes that the Department of Pennsylvania VFW launched for veterans, military personnel and communities during the 2014-15 program year. As each colorful powder explosion echoed across Gettysburg–reminding attendees of the many powerful cannon blasts that enveloped the nearby historic battlefield in a heavy fog 152 years ago–VFW and Ladies Auxiliary members cheered the booming display that celebrated both freedom and the significant impact that both organizations have had on those they serve.

The popular pyrotechnic show was not the only convention highlight that drew frequent applause. Award recognition programs, committee reports announcing new progress on key issues, speakers promoting veteran-friendly resources and the installation of what is probably the State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., is

congratulated by then VFW National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief John A. Biedrzycki, Jr.

Top membership performers included (from left) the only All-State District Cmdr. Dwayne Anders (22) shown with State Cmdr. Gary R. Smith, All-State Captains Post 1620 Cmdr. John Stutzman and Quartermaster Ricky Snyder, and Post 6393 that won three top awards represented here by Chaplain Peter Hook and District 8 Cmdr. Nathaniel Smith.

Convention ... continued on page 11

Past All-American State Commander (2002-03) John A. “Big John” Biedrzycki of McKees Rocks Post 418, a retired Pittsburgh educator and Army veteran of service in Korea during the Vietnam War, became only the 10th Pennsylvanian to serve as the National VFW Commander-in-Chief on July 22. Chief Biedrzycki, who resides in Robinson Township just outside of the Steel City and who graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, was elected and installed at the National Convention in Pittsburgh where he spent much of his life.

When he was sworn in, Big John became the first VFW member from the Commonwealth to wear the Commander-in-Chief’s hat since Uniontown’s Joseph Vicites held the position in 1971-72. He is only the third Pennsylvanian to serve as Chief since 1959.

This issue includes expanded coverage of Biedrzycki’s election and his service to the VFW. Congratulations, Big John!

Special Coverage Inside on Pages 7-9Congratulations to PA Department’s Own PSC John Biedrzycki for Being Installed as VFW Commander-in-Chief

A dedicated team from West York Post 8951 and its Ladies Auxiliary honored the PAARNG 28th ID’s 828th Finance unit as its prepared to deploy to the Middle East. The Post provided and served the Guardians lunch and greeted them personally to wish them a safe and successful mission.

Chalfont Post 3258 adopted the Air National Guard F-111th Attack Wing and attended a luncheon honoring supporters at the Horsham Station. Shown from left are Command Chief Master Sergeant Paul Frisco, Brigadier General Anthony Carrelli, Quartermaster Jim Dunn, Commander Woody Hippel, Colonel Mike Regan and Major Brian Wilson.

What a start to our new year! It literally started with a “bang” from the fantastic fireworks show at the State Convention’s Patriotic Rally in Gettysburg. Next we hosted the

National Convention in Pittsburgh and elected our own “Big John” Biedrzycki as our Commander-in-Chief. With this much momentum, there is no telling what else we will accomplish this year!

My heartfelt thanks to everyone for their support and volunteering to make all those events successful. You have demonstrated the strength and resolve of this great State. But, this is just the beginning and we have a lot more to accomplish this year.

The theme for this year is “LDRSHIP,” which stands for – Legislative, Dedication, Recruitment, Service, Hospital, Integrity and Patriotism. Let’s use these seven ingredients to strengthen the VFW, our communities and our Country.

For this year’s Commander’s Project, “A Call to Service,” we will focus on community service, community activities and community involvement. Every individual community has a real need and a solution that is unique.

So many Posts and their Auxiliaries support meaningful programs that address community needs. Please continue to support those programs and others that benefit our fellow Veterans, Service Members and their Families.

To those who do not have a program that they support, you are encouraged to select one that will show the Veterans of Foreign Wars as a productive member of the community.

No Post is too small to get involved in their community. In fact, it may be a lack of community involvement that has kept new members from coming into small Posts to help them grow. Any Post is capable of honoring their local police, fire and EMT professionals. Any Post can contribute in some way to benefit those needing a helping hand through donations to food pantries and other assistance programs.

Submission of Community Activity Reports is essential, so we can document all the positive contributions being made. This documentation enables us to substantiate our actions as a Veterans Service Organization.

Receiving credit towards the “All State” contest for your program participation is easy. Conduct your activity, service or program in your community, while wearing your VFW shirts and hats. Take pictures of the event and submit them to Department HQs with a write-up of what occurred and who was involved. Invite Community Leaders to join in the event

and ask the media to cover it.Younger Veterans are looking for

projects to get involved in, where they can volunteer some time and see an end result when done. They are looking for family-friendly events where they can bring their spouses and children to do something together.

We had such a great start this year. Let’s work hard to make this as memorable of a year as possible; it will surely be a special year with Big John serving as Chief.

Go Team Pennsylvania!!

From the State CommanderLet’s Respond to a VFW “Call to Service”Glenn R. Umberger, Jr. - glenn.umberger@gmail.com

Desert Storm veteran Umberger addresses State Convention delegates.

State Commander Umberger makes the transition to State Commander with PSC John A. Biedrzycki, Jr., officiating.

PAGE 2 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

Leading the Way Forward in 2015-16PA Leaders Pledge to Serve with Honor and Integrity

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS PAGE 3

VA-Led Consortium Launches Brain Bank for Research on PTSD

A consortium led by the Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Center for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has launched the first brain tissue biorepository (also known as a “brain bank”) – to support research on the causes, progression and treatment of PTSD affecting veterans.

The national brain bank will follow the health of enrolled participants during their lifetime. Participants in the brain bank will donate their brain and other body tissue after their death. The donated tissue, along with each veteran’s health information, will provide crucial information for use in research on PTSD and related disorders.

“Although we have learned a great deal about abnormalities in brain structure and function from brain imaging research, there is no substitute for looking at the neurons themselves,” said consortium director Dr. Matthew Friedman. “Understanding the cellular and circuit c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o abnormal brain activity in PTSD is critical in the search for potential biomarkers of susceptibility, illness and treatment response and for developing new treatments targeting the conditions at the cellular level.”

The national brain bank will investigate the impact of stress, trauma and PTSD on brain tissue in order to advance the scientific knowledge of PTSD, particularly the identification of PTSD biomarkers.

PTSD is a significant mental health concern among veterans. In 2013, 533,720 veterans with primary or secondary diagnosis of PTSD received treatment at VA medical centers and clinics. PTSD is a serious mental disorder resulting from exposure to direct or indirect threat of death, serious injury or physical violence, including sexual violence.

Veterans interested in learning more about enrolling in the brain bank are encouraged to call its toll-free number 1-800-762-6609 or visit its website http://www.research.va.gov/programs/tissue_banking/PTSD/default.cfm

Diseases Associated with Agent OrangeThe VA assumes that certain diseases

can be related to a veteran’s qualifying military service, and these conditions are called “presumptive diseases.” VA has recognized certain cancers and other health problems as presumptive diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service. Veterans and their survivors may be eligible

for benefits for these diseases:AL Amyloidosis - A rare disease caused when an abnormal protein, amyloid, enters tissues or organs;Chronic B-cell Leukemias - A type of cancer which affects white blood cells;Chloracne (or similar acneform disease) - A skin condition that occurs soon after exposure to chemicals and looks like common forms of acne seen in teenagers. Under VA’s rating regulations, it must be at least 10 percent disabling within one year of exposure to herbicides;Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 - A disease characterized by high blood sugar levels resulting from the body’s inability to respond properly to the hormone insulin;Hodgkin’s Disease - A malignant lymphoma (cancer) characterized by progressive enlargement of the lymph nodes, liver,

and spleen, and by progressive anemia;Ischemic Heart Disease - A disease characterized by a reduced supply of blood to the heart, that leads to chest pain;Multiple Myeloma - A

cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in bone marrow;Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma - A group of cancers that affect the lymph glands and other lymphatic tissue;Parkinson’s Disease - A progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects muscle movement;Peripheral Neuropathy, Early-Onset - nervous system condition that causes numbness, tingling, and motor weakness. Under VA’s rating regulations, it must be at least 10 percent disabling within one year of herbicide exposure;Porphyria Cutanea Tarda - A disorder characterized by liver dysfunction and by thinning and blistering of the skin in sun-exposed areas. Under VA’s rating regulations, it must be at least 10 percent disabling within one year of exposure to herbicides;Prostate Cancer - Cancer of the prostate; one of the most common cancers among men;Respiratory Cancers (includes lung cancer) - Cancers of the lung, larynx, trachea, and bronchus; and Soft Tissue Sarcomas (other than osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma, or mesothelioma) - A group of different types of cancers in body tissues such as muscle, fat, blood and lymph vessels, and connective tissues.

This information is provided by the Department's Veterans Service Officer program. Call State HQ at (717) 234-7927 or visit www.vfwpahq.org for the nearest VFW Service Office. State HQ thanks the State of PA for Act 66 grant funds which expands VFW outreach into rural areas.

VA Benefit News & Other Important Health UpdatesVFW Salutes New Agent Orange DecisionAT YOUR SERVICE: MEMBERSHIP SUPPORTS BENEFITS ASSISTANCE

Contaminated C-123 aircraft used years after Vietnam War

The Veterans of Foreign Wars celebrates the recent decision by the Department of Veterans Affairs to begin accepting disability claims from veterans potentially exposed to Agent Orange-contaminated aircraft in the post-Vietnam era. The decision by VA Secretary Bob McDonald could now benefit as many as 1,500 to 2,100 Air Force and Air Force Reserve personnel, who might suffer from any of 14 presumptive conditions that are determined to be related to Agent Orange exposure.

The VA secretary made the decision to expand benefits following a 2015 report by the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine on Post-Vietnam Dioxin Exposure in Agent Orange-Contaminated C-123 Aircraft. The report found evidence

that those who served aboard or worked on the C-123 aircraft were exposed to the herbicide, both during and after Vietnam, when many of the aircraft remained in service for aeromedical transportation or in a mosquito abatement role in the U.S.

All airmen who were assigned to flight, ground or medical crew duties at Lockbourne/Rickenbacker Air Force Base in Ohio (the 906th

and 907th Tactical Air Groups or 355th and 356th Tactical Airlift Squadrons), at Westover AFB in Massachusetts (the 731st Tactical

Air Squadron and 74th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron), or with the 758th Airlift Squadron in Pittsburgh, during the period 1969 to 1986, and who may have developed an Agent Orange-related disability, are encouraged to file a disability compensation claim.

Call (717) 234-7927 to find a VFW Service Officer near you.

(ISSN 0745 4031) OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE DEPT. OF PENNSYLVANIA VFW - Act of March 1879

Dedicated to the comradeship of those who borne arms in defense of the USA, to the principle of informed and active patriotism, working to keep us strong and free.

Periodicals postage paid @ Harrisburg PA Post Office. Four issues printed annually dated August/September, November/December, March/April and May/June

Dept. of PA Veterans of Foreign Wars, 4002 Fenton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17109-5943State HQ - (717) 234-7927 - Fax: (717) 234-1955

www.vfwpahq.org - Facebook: "VFW Department PA"

Editors: State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., and Department StateAdjutant/Quartermaster John B. Getz, Jr.

Produced by Department Communications/Public Affairs Director David A. Sandman

$0.85 cents of membership dues is for a subscription to Pennsylvania VFW News.

Postmaster: Send address change to PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWSCirculation Dept., (VFW Magazine), 406 WEST 34TH ST.

KANSAS CITY, MO 64111-7503

Proposed Bill to Extend Aug. 31st Deadline Awaits Passage

On April 24, 2006, House Bill 1820 was signed into law as Act 29 of 2006. This Bill establishes the Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans Benefit Act. On November 7, 2006, Pennsylvania voters gave overwhelming approval to a ballot question to fund the program. The bond issue created a fund for the payment of compensation to, or on behalf of, eligible current and

former members of the United States Armed Forces, a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces or the Pennsylvania National Guard.

The deadline for submitting bonus applications is August 31, 2015. As of press time, HB 175, which would extend the deadline to August 31, 2018, was not passed by the State Legislature.

For more information call toll-free (866) 458-9182.

PA Desert Storm Bonus Deadline Approaching

US Air Force Museum Photo

Page 4 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

VOICE OF DEMOCRACY CHAIRMAN Dwight R. Fuhrman, VFW Post 8896WOMEN VETERANS CHAIRMAN Theresa M. Reeser, VFW Post 9264YOUTH ACTIVITIES CHAIRMAN James B. Miller, VFW Post 12019

MEMBERSHIPMEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN Henry Mannella, VFW Post 1810MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRMAN Eastern Area John J. Rybcinski, VFW Post 3474MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRMAN Western Area Cecil K. Dennis, VFW Post 5958MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN CO-CHAIRMAN Central Area David Gyger, VFW Post 3502RECRUITERS Stephen K. Calles Jr., Post 509; Eugene L. Myers, Post 8951; Nathaniel Smith, Post 7293; Ronald Peters, Post 212; and Sandra Showalter, Post 43NATIONAL RECRUITERS John J. Rybcinski, Post 3474, Cecil K. Dennis, Post 5958, and David Gyger, Post 3502

STATE SGT-AT-ARMSSTATE SGT-AT-ARMS James Gubash, VFW Post 1810STATE ASST. SGT-AT-ARMS Cecil K Dennis, VFW Post 5958STATE ASST. SGT-AT-ARMS James J. Ritchie, VFW Post 6495STATE ASST. SGT-AT-ARMS Robert I Hayes, VFW Post 6615STATE ASST. SGT-AT-ARMS Babara Loncar, VFW Post 6954STATE ASST. SGT-AT-ARMS William J. Mankey, VFW Post 2754

General Orders #1Having been duly elected and installed, I Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., State Commander, Dept. of Pennsylvania, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S., for 2015-2016, hereby assume command.

1. PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS: All previous appointments have expired and are null and void.

2. THE FOLLOWING OFFICERS HAVING BEEN PROPERLY ELECTED on June 20, 2015, in conjunction with the 96th Annual Convention in Gettysburg, PA, will be recognized and respected in accordance with the positions they occupy:STATE SENIOR VICE COMMANDER: Thomas A. Brown, VFW Post 928STATE JUNIOR VICE COMMANDER: Dwight R. Fuhrman, VFW Post 8896ADJUTANT/QUARTERMASTER: John B. Getz Jr, VFW Post 3376NATIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER: Robert C. Eiler, VFW Post 8805STATE JUDGE ADVOCATE: Frank J. McGovern, VFW Post 3460STATE SURGEON: Nelson E. Lowes, Sr., VFW Post 734STATE CHAPLAIN: Peter R. Hook, VFW Post 6393

3. DISTRICT COMMANDERS: The following members having been properly elected for the ensuing year are officially recognized as Commander of the District and members of the Department Council of Administration:DISTRICT 1 COMMANDER: Joseph Buckley, VFW Post 20DISTRICT 7 COMMANDER: Alfred Robinson, Jr., VFW Post 974DISTRICT 8 COMMANDER: James McComb, VFW Post 175DISTRICT 9 COMMANDER: James Haller, VFW Post 8795DISTRICT 10 COMMANDER: John Tomasovitch, VFW Post 7251DISTRICT 11 COMMANDER: Alexander Clabia, VFW Post 8253DISTRICT 12 COMMANDER: Bruce Kosack, VFW Post 3432DISTRICT 13 COMMANDER: James L. Lindsey, VFW Post 6558DISTRICT 14 COMMANDER: Mark Webster, VFW Post 8488DISTRICT 15 COMMANDER: Elmer Everetts, VFW Post 844DISTRICT 16 COMMANDER: Earl Colella, VFW Post 5308DISTRICT 17 COMMANDER: Ralph E. March, VFW Post 5754DISTRICT 18 COMMANDER: Willard D`Amico, VFW Post 1718DISTRICT 19 COMMANDER: Rickey Hicks, VFW Post 5887DISTRICT 20 COMMANDER: Ronnie Byrd, VFW Post 3448DISTRICT 21 COMMANDER: Terry Stokes, VFW Post 1446DISTRICT 22 COMMANDER: George Fletcher, VFW Post 7043DISTRICT 23 COMMANDER: Chester Prinkey, VFW Post 265DISTRICT 24 COMMANDER: Martin A Puchi, VFW Post 553DISTRICT 25 COMMANDER: Wayne Perry, VFW Post 7505DISTRICT 26 COMMANDER: Aaron C. Kepple, VFW Post 4843DISTRICT 27 COMMANDER: Robert Body, VFW Post 92DISTRICT 28 COMMANDER: Joseph Benacci, VFW Post 470DISTRICT 29 COMMANDER: John Winters, VFW Post 3945

4. THE FOLLOWING DEPARTMENT APPOINTMENTS ARE HEREBY ANNOUNCED:ADJUTANT: John B. Getz, Jr., Post 3376 CHIEF OF STAFF: James J. Ritchie, Post 6495 INSPECTOR: Albert F. Chambers, Jr., Post 6345STATE PARLIAMENTARIAN: John A. Brenner, Post 2493

STATE COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN:ARTHRITIS/DIABETES CHAIRMAN Robert A. Mandera, VFW Post 402BARGER SCHOLARSHIP CHAIRMAN William J. Mayer, VFW Post 8896BUDDY POPPY CHAIRMAN Richard Olvitt, VFW Post 8951 BY-LAWS CHAIRMAN Albert S. Thomas, Jr., VFW Post 974CITIZENSHIP EDU./ LOYALTY DAY CHAIRMAN Paul L. Kreiner, Jr., VFW Post 6704COMMUNITY SERVICE CHAIRMAN Thomas M. Hanzes, VFW Post 7599CREDENTIALS CHAIRMAN Barbara Moore, VFW Post 1586EMPLOYMENT CHAIRMAN Leslie Harvey, VFW Post 249FINANCE CHAIRMAN Robert C. Eiler, VFW Post 8805HOMELESS VETERANS CHAIRMAN Dwayne A. Anders, VFW Post 8724HOSPITAL/VAVS CHAIRMAN Nelson E. Lowes, Sr., VFW Post 734HOSPITALITY CHAIRMAN Harry P. Carper, VFW Post 1754INTERNAL AFFAIRS CO-CHAIRMAN Robert C. Eiler, VFW Post 8805INTERNAL AFFAIRS CO-CHAIRMAN James R. Frisbie, VFW Post 7251INTERNAL AFFAIRS CO-CHAIRMAN EAST Dennis Bicking, VFW Post 6495INTERNAL AFFAIRS CO-CHAIRMAN CENTRAL David W. Gyger, VFW Post 3502INTERNAL AFFAIRS SPECIAL ADVISOR-EAST Benjamin A. Mastridge, Sr., VFW Post 6495INTERNAL AFFAIRS SPECIAL ADVISOR-CENTRAL Frank G. Mills, Sr., VFW Post 1754LEGISLATIVE CO-CHAIRMAN Dominic A. DeFranco, VFW Post 764LEGISLATIVE CO-CHAIRMAN Nelson E. Lowes, Sr., VFW Post 734NATIONAL HOME CHAIRMAN James J. Ritchie, VFW Post 6495 PATRIOT’S PEN CHAIRMAN Wrayburn D. Reinsmith, VFW Post 6168POW/MIA CHAIRMAN Jonathan Bittner, VFW Post 5308SAFETY CHAIRMAN Ronald Smith, VFW Post 7045STUDENT VETERANS ASSOCIATION Adam Murphy, VFW Post 1630VETERANS & MILITARY SUPPORT CHAIRMAN Sandra L. Showalter, VFW Post 43VETERANS COURT ADVOCATE Terry Stokes, VFW Post 1446VETERANS SERVICE CHAIRMAN John J. Foster, VFW Post 2VFW MOTORCYCLE RIDERS GROUP David A. Dibelius, VFW Post 6493VFW PROGRAMS CHAIRMAN John A. Brenner, VFW Post 2493

Chaplain's CornerCongratulations, Chaplain John GrilloRev. Peter Hook, Chaplain - peterhook@verizon.net

At the Council of Administration meeting held in January 2011, approval was given to present a Chaplain of the Year Award. The award is given annually at the Department

Convention. It recognizes a District or Post Chaplain who demonstrates a commitment to the ministry and duties of a Chaplain, and who exhibits exemplary performance above and beyond normal expectations.

The recipient of the Chaplain of the Year Award for 2015 is Mr. John Grillo. John serves as Chaplain of VFW Post 92 in Lower Burrell. Four years ago Paul Smallwood, who had been the Post Chaplain for a number of years, asked John to consider taking his place and becoming Post Chaplain. John says, “It was a bit scary at first, but soon I felt truly honored to follow such a wonderful man and great chaplain as Paul, and to serve those who served. It is a privilege to join with our funeral detail and pay final respects to our departed comrades.”

John was nominated for the award by District 27 Commander, Robert L. Body. Commander Body stated that John Grillo is not an ordained minister but, he has been blessed by God with a caring and giving heart and is very dedicated to his duties as a Chaplain. He visits ill and hospitalized comrades from his Post.

He has attended and performed funeral and memorial services for departed Post Comrades and family members of comrades. This past year, John has faithfully ministered and been there for a Post family who lost a daughter and son-

in-law unexpectedly due to a violent crime.In addition to his duties as Chaplain,

John is in charge of their Tuesday Bingo. “He is really appreciated by our community and those who regularly attend bingo. He announces birthdays and prays for people who are ill or have had a death in their family,” says Commander Body.

John is a Vietnam veteran who served with the Army’s 11 Air Cavalry Division in 1965-1966. He has been married to his wife Jo-Linda for 47 years, and they have two children and eight grandchildren.

It was truly an honor for me to present this award to John, a true servant and model for those of us called to serve those who served. The Chaplain of the Year receives a certificate, a VFW watch and gains possession of a framed picture to be displayed at his Post for the coming year.

On the Department Website http://www.vfwpahq.org you will find my Chaplain’s Page with information about the award, the Monthly Chaplain’s Report, and various resources to help comrades.

Blessings as you serve.

Post 92 Chaplain John Grillo (center) is shown with his wife Jo-Linda, State Chaplain Peter Hook, outgoing State Commander Gary Smith and then-National Sr. Vice Commander John Biedrzycki.

General Orders ... continued on page 5

As the 25th anniversary of Operation Desert Storm is recognized across the nation, VFW posts and members are asked to consider supporting the fundraising drive to design and build a war memorial honoring veterans that war. The monument will be a tribute to the mission (Liberation of Kuwait), those that paid the ultimate price, and those family and friends who supported coalition troops.

Organizers have an immediate need to raise $300,000 to support the design and site selection efforts, and to

increase project awareness.For more information visit. http://www.

nationaldesertstormwarmemorial.org/donations/

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS PAGE 5Commander's Testimonial Weekend is November 6-8

State Commander Glenn R. Umberger will be the guest of honor at the Commander’s Testimonial Weekend scheduled for Friday, November 6 through Sunday, November 8 at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in Breinigsville, just west of Allentown.

The hotel address is 7736 Adrienne Drive, Breinigsville, PA 18031, and the Holiday Inn website is www.hilehighvalley.com.

Friday evening’s theme is a “Fall Harvest” so wear your comfortable flannel and denim clothes for a pig roast and musical entertainment.

Saturday evening will feature a “Military Ball.” Commander Umberger challenges all veterans to see if they can still fit into their dress uniform.

Everyone is asked to bring non-perishable food items which will be donated to local shelters.

More information including hotel details, meal choices and forms to submit an ad for the Testimonial Book will soon appear on the Department website under the “Events” section.

General Orders ... continued from page 4forth in sections 711 of the National By-Laws/Manual of Procedure. Department, District, County Council and Post commanders should arrange now for the distribution of Buddy Poppies in their respective areas. All profits accruing from the distribution of Buddy Poppies shall be used in accordance with section 704 of the National By-Laws and the Manual of Procedure.

6. POST RESERVE: Attention is directed to section 218(a)(5)(f), Manual of Procedure which mandates Post Quartermasters to maintain a dues reserve fund as prescribed in sections 717 of the National By-Laws and the Manual of Procedure.

7. Attention of commanders at all levels is directed to section 703 of the National By-Laws requiring that each accountable officer be bonded with an indemnity company in the sum at least equal to the amount of the liquid assets for which he may be accountable.

8. Attention of Post Commanders is directed to section 218(a)(11), Manual of Procedure, Trustees, which states that Post Trustees shall prepare and submit quarterly, through their Post Commander, a Post Trustees’ Report of Audit to the Dept. Quartermaster for referral to the Department Inspector. The first report is due at the close of September. Do not mail these reports to National Headquarters.

9. Attention of Department and Post Commanders is directed to the requirement of timely filing of Internal Revenue Form 990, 990/N and 990/T, where applicable. Forms may be secured from your local Post Office or branch office of the IRS.

10. Posts are urged to start planning suitable programs now to observe of Veterans Day (see section 223/Manual of Procedure).

11. A thorough program of Post inspection is necessary to ensure compliance with National and Department By-Laws and directives. Department and District Inspectors shall make every effort to inspect every Post under their cognizance on an annual basis and correct such discrepancies as may be disclosed.

By: Glenn R, Umberger, Jr., State Commander - 47 Pennypacker Dr., Schwenksville, PA 19473

ATTEST: John B. Getz, Jr., State Adjutant/Quartermaster

REGIONAL SERVICE OFFICERS:Service Officer Chairman: John Foster, 133 E. Wolfert Station Road, Mickleton, NJ 08056

NORTHEAST: WILKES-BARRE - Albert Pritchard, ASDO; Claims Consultant: Joanne Kane, 123 E. End Blvd., Bldg. 35, Suite 1, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702-1521 (570) 821-2535/2536 Fax (570) 821-2539; OUTREACH: Louis Ybarra

EAST: PHILADELPHIA - John Foster, DSO/, Barnell Neville, ASDO; Claims Consultants: Gertrude Strain; Secretary: Angela Johnson; VA Center 5000 Wissahickon Ave., P.O. Box 42938, Philadelphia, PA 19101-2938 (215) 381-3123 Fax (215) 381-3491; OUTREACH: Allen Dick, ASDO; OUTREACH RENOVA: Roy Cowfer and David Bower, ADSOs

WEST: PITTSBURGH OFFICE - Linda Eshenbaugh, Claims Consultants/Office Manager; Secretary Lyndsey Szynarek; 1000 Liberty Ave., Room 1601, Pittsburgh, PA 15022(412) 395-6259/6260 Fax-(412) 395-6261; OUTREACH: PITTSBURGH- Christopher Eshenbaugh, Elizabeth Salvador, Joshua Croner; OUTREACH ALTOONA Andrew Stowell, ADSO; OUTREACH BUTLER Clarence Madigan, ADSO

ERIE OFFICE- Michelle Messina, Claims Consultant/Office Manager; Secretary: Charlene Kontsky; 3112 Buffalo Road-Suite A, Erie, PA 16510(814) 835-8494 Fax (814) 835-8493; OUTREACH: Michelle Messina, Claims Consultant and Melissa Davis, ADSO

CENTRAL/HARRISBURG OFFICE - ADSOs Audrey Bergstresser, John Chiodi, Edward Fake and Christine Frederick; Claims Consultant Linda Jayman; 4002 Fenton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17109 (717) 234-7927 Fax (717) 909-7817

4. Every Post chartered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States will be expected to participate in the following programs during the 2015-2016 year: Voice of Democracy, Patriots Pen, National Citizenship Education Teacher’s Awards, Buddy Poppy and National Military Services. Additionally, it is necessary that all Post and Department Commanders comply with all provisions of the National By-Laws and the Manual of Procedure and Ritual.

5. The distribution of VFW Buddy Poppies will be conducted according to the provisions set

CorrectionOn page 1 of the May/June issue a caption for the photo of Titusville Post 5958 should have listed Edinboro University as the host of the ROTC unit supported by Post 5958 and Sr. Vice Commander Donnie Taylor as shown with Commander William McCrillis.

VFW Support is Needed for New National Desert Storm War Memorial

VFW Selects 85 Student Veterans to Receive $360k in Scholarships The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is proud

to announce that 85 service members and veterans have been named 2015 fall semester scholarship recipients courtesy of VFW’s “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” program. These student veterans will receive over $360,000 in combined aid.

Enacted in 2013 through the VFW’s long-standing relationship with Sport Clips Haircuts, the Help A Hero Scholarship program provides service members and veterans with the financial assistance needed to complete their educational goals without incurring excessive student loan debt.

The successful Help A Hero Scholarship program has awarded over $1.2 million dollars in financial aid and has provided scholarships to almost 300 service members and veterans to date.

Military educational benefits often run out or fall short of covering the full costs of a college education leaving many student veterans without a degree. The Help A Hero Scholarship program helps fill those gaps and provides student veterans the chance to achieve their academic and career goals.

Scholarship recipient Alfonso Rodriguez writes, “When a veteran comes home from war there are many

obstacles we face. At the top of our list are how to support our families and how to finish our education. Many do not complete their education due to finances. I am very thankful to know there are people who sincerely appreciate the sacrifices [made by] the military men and women who serve this great nation.”

Help A Hero scholarships are awarded twice throughout the year exclusively to service members and veterans and help cover the cost of tuition and fees.

Scholarship applications are currently being accepted for the 2016 spring semester. For more information or to apply, visit http://www.vfw.org/scholarship.

Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. With more than 1,400 Sport Clips stores, new locations open each month. Sport Clips is the “Official Haircutter” of the VFW, offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises, and was named as one of the “2014 Best for Vets: Franchises” by Military Times.

Our “Help A Hero” program has raised more than $3 million to help deployed and hospitalized U.S. service members call home through the VFW’s Operation Uplink™ and to provide scholarships for veterans transitioning to a civilian career.

The Department lost a dear comrade and dedicated VFW leader on July 18 when Vietnam War veteran Bill Mayer of East Berlin Post 8896 passed away. A 29-year Army veteran who retired as a Command Sergeant Major, Mayer was the current Chairman of the Department’s Barger Nursing Scholarship Committee, a National Certified Recruiter and Past Department Assistant Membership Chairman.

Mayer held many leadership positions at the VFW Post and District levels including as District 21 Commander.

Cards may be sent to Mrs. William Mayer, 529 West King Street, East Berlin, PA 17316. Comrade Mayer, we salute your service to our nation and to the VFW. You are greatly missed, but your service will not be forgotten.

PAGE 6 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

District Meeting ScheduleAUGUST 2015DIST. LOCATION DATE TIME13 VFW Post #6150 – Sinking Spring August 9, 2015 2:00 P.M.14 VFW Post #6223 – Great Bend August 16, 2015 2:00 P.M. 18 VFW Post #2385 – Lykens August 9, 2015 2:00 P.M.19 VFW Post #464 – Oil City August 16, 2015 2:30 P.M.

SEPTEMBER, 20151 Cpl. Michael Crescenz VAMC– Phila. September 9, 2015 7:30 P.M. 7 VFW Post 928 – Folsom September 23, 2015 7:30 P.M.8 VFW Post #7088 – Emmaus September 20, 2015 1:30 P.M. 9 VFW Post #106 – West Chester September 13, 2015 2:00 P.M.10 VFW Post #25 – Scranton September 20, 2015 2 P.M. 11 VFW Post #8335 – Avoca September 20, 2015 2:30 P.M.12 VFW Post #3432 – Pine Grove September 20, 2015 2:30 P.M.15 VFW Post #6221 – Emporium September 20, 2015 2:00 P.M.16 VFW Post #676 – Glenside September 16, 2015 7:30 P.M. 17 VFW Post #1754 – Huntingdon September 20, 2015 2:00 P.M. 20 VFW Post #294 – Albrightsville September 20, 2015 2:00 P.M.21 VFW Post #5265 – Spring Grove September 13, 2015 2:00 P.M. 22 VFW Post #8269 – Howard September 20, 2015 2:30 P.M.23 VFW Post #4584 – Masontown September 13, 2015 2:00 P.M.25 VFW Post #7505 – Mars September 20, 2015 2:00 P.M. 26 VFW Post #6648 – Freeport September 13, 2015 2:30 P.M.27 VFW Post #6743 – Jones Mills September 13, 2015 2:30 P.M. 28 VFW Post #264 – Corry September 13, 2015 1:00 P.M. 29 VFW Post #5008 – East Pittsburgh September 20, 2015 2:00 P.M.

OCTOBER 20151 Cpl. Michael Crescenz VAMC – Phila. October 14. 2015 7:30 P.M.14 VFW Post #8306 – Catawissa October 18, 2015 2:00 P.M.16 VFW Post #6956 – Gladwyne October 21, 2015 7:30 P.M.24 VFW Post #3491 – Carmichaels October 4, 2015 2:00 P.M.

State Chairman, Recruiter Mayer Passes Away

Membership Moment

The VFW Team Needs All-Star PlayersHenry R. Mannella, State Membership Chair - h.mannella72@yahoo.com

A message from State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr.“Pennsylvania is a machine,” “We’ve never had State Officers show up and

help out,” “Everyone was so polite and helpful” and “It’s rare to have so many volunteers” are just a few of the phrases heard in describing Team Pennsylvania’s effort to make the 116th National Convention a success.

I cannot express my sincere appreciation enough for all the hard work and efforts made by so many at the National Convention in Pittsburgh. Your contributions had a direct impact on the members of our National Organization having a successful convention and enjoyable time in Pittsburgh.

Team Pennsylvania accomplished their tasks quickly and in a professional manner. VFW members, Auxiliary members, family and friends, all came together to get the job done. During this time, Pennsylvania established new levels of support and achievement for other Departments to emulate.

Thank you for a job well done. Let’s keep this momentum going and keep Pennsylvania in the front of the pack!

Team PA Gets the Job Done at Nat’l Conv.

I was raised in the Pittsburgh area and I work in a steel mill. Any guesses which football team I root for? This is a column about VFW teamwork, so to my comrades who follow

the Eagles or other teams, let’s unite and play hard for the VFW team!

The NFL’s summer camps are up and running so team leaders are forming early opinions on where their squads stand. The VFW just held its State and National Conventions, our Department leadership conference and Post training, so our summer camps and pre-season are over. It’s game time; let’s play for keeps.

Every player on the VFW team–from State Commander Glenn Umberger and Department leaders down through the Districts and at individual Posts where membership growth happens–knows that we’ve lost too many of our existing members who decided that membership no longer interested them. We’ve missed too many opportunities to bring in new members. And, we’re not making enough changes to bring in younger members.

Our strategy to winning, and in the VFW that means succeeding in our programs and growing our membership, is rather simple: Recruit, Retain and Reinstate. We don’t need an extensive play book, just a commitment to doing basic drills as best we can.

So many of our Posts work hard to participate in our scholarship programs like Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen. Many of you perform tremendous community service, youth program support, troop care packages, public safety recognition, charitable donations and other important programs. I urge you

to put the same effort and commitment into your recruiting and retention efforts.

Today, we can proudly say that no veterans organization has a louder voice on Capitol Hill. However, if we keep losing members, lawmakers and government officials may not give as much preference to veterans issues. Remember, our members are our ammunition.

Please draw attention to all the good that your post does for others. Invite the media to your special events, send in photos to your local editors, participate in community events and be ready to report how your Post is not just a place that serves food and beverages.

Call members who left your Post. Find out if there are problem areas with how you treat and serve veterans, then discuss solutions. Coaches hold pre-game meetings to create a game plan that works. VFW Posts should do the same.

C o m m a n d e r U m b e r g e r ’ s Membership Contest Program has many new plays and the “x’s and o’s” are easy to follow. Mark contest deadlines on your calender and hold progress meetings. A total team effort will deliver a huge winning season for Pennsylvania.

Some of the contests will also help keep our Military Order of the Cooties and Auxiliary strong.

The clock is ticking for the 2015-16 season. Let’s huddle up, march to the line and go on the offense for the VFW!

“So many of our Posts work hard to participate in (VFW programs) and to perform tremendous community service... I urge you to put the same effort and commitment into your membership recruiting and retention efforts.

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS PAGE 7

Commander-in-Chief John A. Biedrzycki, Jr.“Big John” Becomes Only the 10th Pennsylvanian to Hold the VFW’s Highest Office

PA Department’s PSC Biedrzycki Leads VFW as Commander-in-Chief

After being sworn in, Commander-in-Chief Biedrzycki made the following remarks to National Convention delegates. He inspired all leaders and members to elevate their commitment to the VFW’s future.

“My heartfelt gratitude to all the delegates of this 116th National Convention for the honor, trust and confidence you have placed in me.

I first want to congratulate new Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief (Elect) Brian Duffy from Kentucky … new Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief (Elect) Keith Harman from Ohio … new VFW Auxiliary National President Francisca Guilford of Alaska … all your new line officers … and all our new Department, District and Post leadership.

I also want to recognize a few individuals who have greatly enriched my life and spirit … given me strength … and who join in my commitment to serving our nations veterans, service members, and all their families past, present and future.

I thank Past Commander-in-Chief John Stroud of Nevada and Past Commander-in-Chief Bill Thien of Indiana for welcoming me aboard to their teams.

To the officers and delegates of the Eastern States Conference, and to Past Chiefs Richard DeNoyer, George Lisicki, Ed Banas, John Smart, Bob Wallace, and especially Cliff Olsen and Paul Spera (my installing officer)—thank you for your support, your guidance and your friendship.

Special thanks goes to my VFW Post

418 in McKees Rocks, to District 29, all the Pennsylvania Officers, Delegates, Past State Commanders and State Presidents.

And I especially want to recognize Past State Commander Allen Jones and Past State Commander and National Council Member Bob Eiler for their guidance, wisdom and friendship.

One thing great about being elected Commander-in-Chief in your hometown is your family doesn’t have to travel very far. (John recognized his family members in attendance.) And to my partner in this journey we call life, Bette Jean, whose unconditional love and support over the past 46 years of marriage is more than any man could ever deserve, but one I’m certainly smart enough to acknowledge and certainly appreciate. Bette Jean is a Past State President of the Pennsylvania

Ladies Auxiliary and Past National Council Member. She is truly the wind beneath my wings.

And finally, to all the comrades and sisters here and watching online around the world who I have had the extraordinary opportunity to meet and spend time with during my travels these many years, thank you for your kindness and courtesies, and for allowing me to learn and share in your many activities serving our nation’s military and veterans’ communities. Thank you very much.

Like many of you, I joined the VFW because someone asked me to join when I came home on leave from Korea in 1969. That someone was a World War II veteran

All-American State Commander (2002-03) John A. “Big John” Biedrzycki, Jr., of McKees Rocks Post 418, a retired Pittsburgh educator and Army veteran of service in Korea during the Vietnam War, was installed during t he Na t i ona l Convention on July 22. A resident

of Robinson Township near the Steel City, Biedrzycki will spend much of his year as VFW Commander-in-Chief traveling for department, national and international VFW commitments.

Big John became the first VFW member from the Commonwealth to wear the Commander-in-Chief’s hat since Uniontown’s Joseph Vicites held

the position in 1971-72. His theme as National Commander is “Loyalty, Honor and Service,” matching his focus while he was State Commander.

Department National Council member PSC Robert C. Eiler of Post 8805 and PSC Allen Q. Jones of Post 21 participated in Biedrzycki’s nomination. State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., and PSC Ruth A. Fairchild moved to close the nominations. The large Pennsylvania VFW delegation at the Convention proudly marched behind Big John to celebrate his election as Chief.

Biedrzycki served in the U.S. Army from 1967-1970. He served in Korea as a Pay Distribution Specialist with the 7th Infantry Division. His decorations include the National Defense Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and Korean Defense Medal.

He joined the VFW in 1969 at McKees Rocks Post 418, where he is a Gold Legacy Life Member.

He has served in elected and appointed positions at the Post, County, District and Department levels culminating with his election as Department Commander in 2002-2003 during which he achieved

All-American status.On the national level, he has served on many

committees, including Chairman of the National VFW Programs Committee, Vice Chairman of the National Youth, Education and Community Service Committee and Vice Chairman of the National Legislative Committee.

Biedrzycki is a Life Member of the Military Order of the Cootie and a Life Member of the VFW National Home for Children. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Museum in Pittsburgh.

Biedrzycki is a retired history teacher. He received his B.A. and Master’s in Education from the University of Pittsburgh. He is married to Past Department Ladies Auxiliary President Bette Jean Biedrzycki, who also served as the Department’s Ladies Auxiliary National Council member.Editor’s Note: Big John is the tenth Commander-in-Chief from Pennsylvania to lead the organization after it became officially known as the VFW. Two other Pennsylvanians led earlier organizations that later became the VFW, including one who went on to serve as VFW Chief.

“To all the comrades and sisters here and watching online around the world who I have had the extraordinary opportunity to meet and spend time with during my travels these many years, thank you for your kindness and courtesies, and for allowing me to learn and share in your many activities serving our nation’s military and veterans’ communities.

Thank you very much.”

VFW Chief ... see page 8

VFW National HQs photo

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who also happened to be my father-in-law, Jack Kinneman.

I joined because someone dear in my life asked me. I stayed because I found the VFW to be an organization that shares my values of … Loyalty, Honor and Service:

• Loyalty to country;• Honor to America’s heroes and institutions; and• Service to our veterans, military, their families,communities and nation.

The VFW supports the tenets of a strong nation that espouses the values of freedom, and the rights of all to pursue a life of fulfillment. We support the rights of individuals to choose their destinies, limited only by their personal willingness to work and persevere through hardships.

When I speak about the VFW, I brag about the services we provide to so many:

• Thousands of care packages sent overseas to deployed troops;• Supporting first responders during natural disasters at home;• Promoting patriotism in our schools through Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen sponsorships;

• • • •• • • • •

•VFW Adopt-a-Unit programs that help troops get a proper send-off and equally important, a hearty welcome home;• The expert assistance provided by our Veterans Service Officers to all honorably-discharged veterans seeking to file or appeal a VA claim; and• The wise counsel provided by our national and local VFW’s to Congress and state houses across the country.

The VFW lifts spirits because we and our families have been there and done that, which is one thought I want you to share with everyone: “If not for the VFW, who?”

• If not for the VFW, who in our communities will help organize and participate in patriotic salutes to our nation and remember those who serve or fell?• If not for the VFW, who will promote patriotism in our youth?• If not for the VFW, who will help our veterans and troops navigate the complex VA claims system, or ensure their needs are properly taken care of?• If not for the VFW, who will give a collective voice on Capitol Hill against all the noise generated by 30,000

registered lobbyists who, other than lip service, don’t have the best interest of veterans, service members and families first on their agendas?

“If not for the VFW” is something I hope you consider deeply because there are SOME in our great organization—who I believe—have lost focus on why we exist, who think we should be a more SOCIAL organization than the veterans SERVICE organization we were created to be.

Less than three miles from here is where members met in 1914 to adopt the name Veterans of Foreign Wars. Today, we meet again in Pittsburgh to take stock of ourselves and to chart our course for the future.

We must rededicate our goals and objectives to the concept of service that was envisioned by our early leaders when they returned home to an America that they felt couldn’t relate to their service, and to a government that was unable and often unwilling to care for their sacrifices.

Not believing anyone can relate has been said by every generation of returning veteran—from our founders’ wars through Iraq, Afghanistan, and every contingency operation or lousy overseas duty posting in between.

B u t o u r f o u n d e r s d i d something instead of just complain about it. They created an organization that welcomed all who would serve in our wars and conflicts.

They created an organization that would treat current and future generations with dignity and respect, regardless of when or where they served. They created an organization that would do its part to take care of veterans, service members and their families, and to constantly teach the rest of America about what service to country truly means.

My challenge is what are you going to do to keep their vision alive? My challenge is how are you going to keep their VFW–our VFW–and tomorrow’s VFW relevant to generations of veterans still to come?

Comrades, this September will mark 14 years since that horrible Tuesday morning when radical Islamist terrorists hijacked four planes and murdered nearly 3,000 Americans in New York City, the Pentagon, and in an open field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, about 80 miles from here.

In the ensuing days and years, well

over 3 million men and women would raise their right hands to defend America against a new threat.

In the ensuing days and years, hundreds of nonprofit organizations would also be created to help support the troops, their families, our wounded, or their survivors.

That’s why the VFW was created, comrades... to take care of veterans, our troops and their families, but some of these new organizations offered something different … opportunities to get physically involved in their communities—from building housing for the homeless, to sponsoring environmental cleanups and staying physically fit through wholesome family sporting events.

And these new organizations provided opportunities without any membership requirement or further obligation to participate in future events. Invitations were extended through social media, and

event organizers simply learned to adjust on the fly.

Our founders wrote about entering a new era of Veterans Organizations. That the Old Boy’s network or day of Bar Room Commandos has come and gone.

This is where we are losing our relevancy with the new generation. World War II veterans were a generation of joiners, but Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans are a generation of doers, who prefer getting their hands dirty instead of discussing things to death in meetings.

I am not suggesting that our by-laws and manual of ritual are out-of-date, but I am suggesting that successful VFW Posts recognize and adapt. They’ve learned that in order to catch fish, you have to go where the fish are.

Take VFW Post 1435 in Spokane, Washington, for example. The city sponsors what’s billed as the largest 3-on-3-basketball tournament in the world, with 225,000 fans watching 7,000 teams. The Spokane Hoopfest also had a Team VFW in matching jerseys to prove that

PAGE 8 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

John Biedrzycki and his leadership team–including Chief of Staff Allen Q. Jones (far right)– swear their allegiance to the VFW.

Commander-in-Chief John A. Biedrzycki, Jr.

VFW Chief ... from page 7

2014-15 Commander-in-Chief John Stroud and incoming Chief John Biedrzycki accept a donation generated by the annual VFW Howard Vander Chute Memorial Motorcycle Ride. Shown presenting a check are VFW Rider Ric Knerr from Iowa who raised the most money individually, outgoing VFW Rider Commander Paul Eades from Nevada who rode the longest distance and PA Department VFW Rider Chairman David Dibelius. The total donation was $24,000. VFW National HQs photo.

Newly installed Commander-in-Chief John Biedrzycki is joined by very familiar faces–members of his home Post 418 in McKees Rocks.

VFW National HQs photo

VFW National Headquarters photo

we can do more than just sponsor Little League teams.

VFW Post 1115 in Hillsville, Virginia, created a “Young Guns” committee, led by a two-tour OIF vet, to get the Post more actively and physically involved in the community, as well as a way to recruit younger members.

One of the greatest challenges is convincing younger veterans about the value of being a VFW member. We have a proven record of 116 years of service to veterans and veteran advocacy. We are like an insurance policy, that you may never need, but one that will still continue to help those in need.

Take Post 7369 in Naples, Florida, for example. They took it upon themselves to restore part of a civilian cemetery after graves of nearly 70 veterans were discovered in the underbrush.

The success of America was built on the service and sacrifice of many Americans, but our continued freedom falls squarely on the shoulders of those wearing the uniform. Everyone in the VFW understands that. But unfortunately, as our nation’s population continues to rise, and the size of our military shrinks; the rest of America doesn’t get it.

That’s why I need you to continue to tell America’s story, so that it’s not lost to rewritten history books, by authors who never served—or worse, by authors who just don’t care.

Here in Pennsylvania, the saying “Freedom isn’t free,” means something. My state has the nation’s fourth largest veterans’ population, yet no active-duty bases. And it has the largest department membership with 87,000 members.

We know that it requires the citizenry to secure and

maintain the blessings of liberty for themselves, their families and their nation. We know that patriotism is not a short demonstration on the Fourth of July—it’s a lifelong commitment. America may have its faults, but no country has done more for the world than our nation. We are a shining example to those who desire to live in freedom and opportunity.

I also need YOU to continue telling the VFW’s story of loyalty, honor and service … how we were founded to serve others … and how we will continue to extend a helping hand to all veterans, service members and their families.

And don’t forget to recognize the work of our own volunteers as well as others. That’s why we present awards during convention, and why you should recognize excellence in your communities—especially VA hospital volunteers, who often touch more lives in a day than others do in a lifetime.

Never pass up the opportunity to give a hearty thank you from the VFW, and never pass up the opportunity to let people know that THE VFW STANDS FOR A STRONG AMERICA!

Serving others is my Number #1 goal, but right behind that is a strong and vibrant membership.

A strong membership opens doors in Washington, not just because you are veterans, but also because you vote—in every congressional district. We may not always vote for the same candidate, but every candidate knows where we stand on national defense and veterans issues.

As I previously mentioned, we compete in Washington against 30,000 registered lobbyists who see the world differently. That’s why a strong and engaged membership is so important—on Capitol Hill and in your state legislatures.

I wish to congratulate the 17 departments who exceeded 100 percent in membership this past year. I also wish to salute seven women serving as Department Commanders. I encourage all of you to reconsider how you can and must evolve to maintain your relevancy.

I need everyone to reflect on the future of our VFW, and the challenges our nation faces. First and foremost, our overseas conflicts are not over, and our government faces a return to mandatory sequestrat ion that threatens not only our nation’s readiness and security, but every military quality of life program the VFW helped to create.

I hope that my year as Commander-in-Chief will be remembered as a year of renewing our pledge to the VFW’s commitment of service. We need membership to stay strong to support our numerous programs, and to remain relevant in Congress and to America. We also need Departments, Districts and Posts to create more chances that better serve veterans and our military.

Here in Pittsburgh the VFW teamed up with academia, industry, and the nonprofit world to create “Pittsburgh Hires Veterans.” I hope many of you took the opportunity to visit their convention booth.

The idea behind “Pi t tsburgh Hires Veterans” is simple: We match veterans who are seeking jobs and careers with employers. Companies who have hundreds of vacancies in manufacturing. WHAT WE AREN’T DOING IN PITTSBURGH is relying on the federal government to solve local issues.

I also highly encourage you to reinvest in the VFW programs and services that benefit veterans, service members and their families. Yes, some of us can generate large sums of money that greatly benefit local communities. All I ask is for you to remember the VFW’s charities. After all, charity begins at home.

In closing, I would be remiss if I didn’t rededicate our support to the government’s Full Accounting Mission, to the families of all 83,000 American MIAs, and to the dedicated troops and DoD civilians who perform these investigations and recoveries in some of the most arduous places on earth.

I had the opportunity to visit with many of them earlier this year in Thailand,

Laos and Vietnam. I still cannot adequately express my pride in their commitment to return America’s fallen to their families.

Comrades, THAT’S MY VFW—a VFW that is recognized for the great work we do, whether it’s championing veterans issues on Capitol Hill or simply shaking the hands of American MIA searchers at the bottom of a muddy Vietnamese

mountain in a torrential downpour.What our VFW founders knew a

century ago has not changed—action, not words, will lead the way for our great organization. I ask all of you to reach out to your friends, families and communities, and have them join us in a re-commitment to our nation—and to a new generation of young men and women who serve her.

SOMEONE has to be America’s conscience to keep patriotism and the history of our great country alive. SOMEONE has to ensure we are strong, safe and secure, AND SOMEONE has to make sure our nation’s commitments to those who serve her in uniform never fail.

With your support, comrades, I am proud to say THAT SOMEONE! will be the men and women of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. May God Bless our great country and our great organization. And remember, No one does more for veterans than the VFW.

Thank you.”

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS PAGE 9

Outgoing Chief John Stroud places the VFW Commander-in-Chief pin on John Biedrzycki. VFW National HQs photo

Commander-in-Chief John A. Biedrzycki, Jr.

Big John and Bette Jean Biedrzycki give President Barrak Obama a warm VFW welcome.

“The VFW supports the tenets of a strong nation that espouses the values of freedom, and the rights of all to pursue a life of fulfillment... When I speak about the VFW, I brag about the services we provide to so many.... The VFW lifts spirits because we and our families have been there and done that, which is one thought I want you to share with everyone: “If not for the VFW, who?”

Big John and Bette Jean Biedrzycki prepare to march around the National Convention hall. VFW National HQs photo

VFW National HQs photo

PAGE 10 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

Posts 6393 & 7043 Earn All-American Honors

2015 State Convention Snapshots

Incoming VFW Commander-in-Chief salutes Pennsylvania Yardley Post 6393 Commander Russell Davidson who proudly wears his All-American Post Commander’s hat, which he received on stage during the National Convention.

Coalport Post 7043 Commander George Fletcher receives his All-American hat during the National Convention from then National Sr. Vice Commander John Biedrzycki. Post 7043 and Post 6393 were the only two Pennsylvania posts to receive this high honor.

State Convention highlights: (clockwise from top right) awarding of the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award to West York Borough Police Detective David J. Kahley; State Commander Gary Smith handing PA Wounded Warriors founder Helen Sajer a $10,000

check; Convention delegates from across the state listening to updates on VFW programs; representatives of posts that earned community service accolades pose for a photo; and some of the many women veterans at the State Convention show their camaraderie.

youngest Department leadership group ever sent delegates back to their VFW posts energized to enhance the lives of veterans, today’s freedom defenders and community neighbors.

Outgoing State Commander Gary Smith thanked all individuals and posts who helped him achieve a highly productive year, which finished with a strong membership effort of 95.41% of the 2013-14 year-end total. Smith’s special Commander’s project–the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors–received donations of over $10,000 to help wounded warriors enjoy productive lives.

Army Reserve Captain Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., of Schwenksville, proudly representing Trappe Post 7155 and who works as a staff supervisor for the U.S. Army’s Legal Command, was

elected and installed as the 2015-16 State Commander. When he was sworn-in by incoming National Commander-in-Chief PSC John Biedrzycki, he became only the second Desert Storm veteran to lead the largest VFW department.

Commander Umberger introduced his leadership team that includes six Global War on Terror veterans and eight veterans who served during Operation Desert Storm or in the years leading up to the War on Terror. Blending this “youth movement” with dedicated Vietnam War and Korean War veterans, along with veterans of smaller military operations

and peacekeeping service, created a promising foundation for continued success within the Department.

“It wasn’t that long ago that I was sitting out there in the audience, easily the youngest person in attendance, at that time, and Chaplain Teddy Bowers was the first person to approach me, welcome me to the convention and present me with his National Chaplain’s pin,” stated Commander Umberger during his acceptance remarks.

“It was encouragement like that, and the comradery from others, that kept me coming back to the conferences and conventions. It is that warm welcome, encouragement and comradery that we must continue to share with our fellow veterans, especially those who have never joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars, or

worse yet, did join and then left.”“Many of you already do so many

fantastic projects, so I am encouraging everyone to go out and help your community. From your work in youth activities, to the support of your local police, fire and emergency medical services, and everything in between, please keep up your efforts.

“When you are helping to improve your community, please wear your VFW shirts and hats. Invite the local media to cover the event. Invite your community, business and religious leaders to work with you. Advertise your project and

encourage veterans and service members to come out and help.”

State Commander U m b e r g e r congratulated his line officers on their commitment to help move the VFW forward: State Sr. Vice Commander Thomas A. Brown of Post 928; State Jr. Vice Commander Dwight R. Fuhrman of 8896, who won an uncontested election; State Quartermaster/

Adjutant John Getz of Post 3376; Chief of Staff James. J. Ritchie of Post 6495; Immediate Past State Commander Smith of Post 6319; State VFW Judge Advocate Frank McGovern of Post 3460; State Surgeon Nelson Lowes of Post 734; State Chaplain Peter Hook of Post 6393; State Inspector Albert F. Chambers of Post 6345; and State Parliamentarian John A. Brenner of Post 2493. PSC Bob Eiler of Post 8805 will continue to represent the Department on the National Council of Administration. (See General Orders for a list of officers and chairpersons.)Celebrating Success Stories

The following highlights showcase the many positive impacts that Pennsylvania VFW programs, services and activities have made on those who benefit from VFW support: • Even with Operation Iraqi Freedom over and Operation Enduring Freedom winding down, the VFW’s support of military personnel remains impressively high. Care packages, financial grants and troop support events continued lifting morale among troops and their families;• The Department’s military support included presenting its VFW Eagle Award to PA Air National Guard Master Sgt. Keith P. Gregory of Sewickley, a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraq Freedom;• The State VFW and Auxiliary donated $84,000 to the VFW’s National Military Services troop support programs, earning the Department a NMS Gold Award;• A photo opportunity with 12 female VFW members, plus numerous other women veterans attending the convention, reinforced the VFW’s commitment to welcoming female veterans into the organization;• Numerous posts were represented at the convention by Desert Storm and War on Terror veterans, offering clear evidence that more posts are encouraging younger members to help guide the VFW;• VFW award recipients for outstanding membership recruiting, community service, scholarships, teacher recognition, Buddy Poppy participation and other

programs were praised for their accomplishments (see list on page 10).• Convention delegates enthusiastically applauded the announcement that the Department’s annual March for Diabetes had raised more than $2 million for diabetes research and program support;• VFW units have donated more than $190,000 to the Medal of Honor Grove;• and the Department’s State Service Officers led PA veterans to more than $34 million in federal benefits during FY 2014-15. These service officer positions across the state helped thousands of veterans from all service eras and their survivors to file for and update their benefits.

PSC Biedrzycki, only one month away from being installed as the National VFW Commander-in-Chief, arranged his schedule to participate in the State Convention. He encouraged posts to include donations for VFW programs

when planning how to use earnings from small games of chance. Biedrzycki then announced a new national program that matches the first $500 spent by posts for community service programs.

These impressive accomplishments, along with praise given by guest speakers from many organizations, confirmed that the VFW continues to live up to its motto: “No One Does More for Veterans.”

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS PAGE 11

2015 Department of Pennsylvania VFW State Convention Coverage ... continued from page 1

“I thank Vietnam veterans because your efforts have made it possible for veterans returning from war today to receive a great welcome home... Appreciation, concern and support for our veterans translates into well integrated and fully adjusted veterans... This is why organizations like the VFW exists, to make sure veterans are not forgotten.” – BG Jerry Beck, Deputy Adjutant General of Veterans Affairs, PA DMVA

Many VFW posts made donations during the Convention. Phoenixville VFW Post 1564 presented $10,000 to the Medal of Honor Grove. Pennsylvania VFW posts have donated $190,000 to the grove to help restore the beauty of this treasure.

“In my conversations with younger veterans, they are looking for projects to get involved in, where they can volunteer some time and see an end result when done. They are looking for family friendly events to bring their spouses and children to do something together. This may not immediately lead to a new member, but it is a catalyst, it is an opportunity to show them the good that you, as VFW members, are doing as a team.” – State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr.

First-year Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf thanked the VFW for its outstanding service to others and its members for their service in uniform.

We are starting a new fiscal year in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, so it’s time that some important steps are taken at all Posts.

For new Post Quartermasters, please visit the N a t i o n a l V F W

website and log on to get your password. Under the “My VFW” section, you will gain access to a range of very helpful resources in the Quartermaster Tool area. You can check for members in your post who have not paid, and also see their dues deadline.

On the website, you can update member information such as addresses and phone numbers. You can order membership cards for members who lost their original one. If one of your

members passes away you can go to the site and update his or her status.

In addition, the website allows you to check your membership percentage, transfer members and file election results. Post Quartermasters who do not use this tool will spend more time fulfilling their responsibilities.

So please visit the National HQs website, take the few steps required to get an account and you’ll have all the information needed to be an effective and efficient Post Quartermaster. Post Commanders will also be able to lead their unit better by utilizing the Post Training section that answers many questions about basic VFW activities like running a Post meeting properly.

If you need any help with carrying out your duties or with anything related to running your Post, feel free to call me at (717) 234-7927.

Facts and FiguresOnline Resources are Valuable ToolsJohn Getz, State Adjutant/Quartermaster - quartermaster@vfwpahq.org

Educate, Adapt and Interact to be Successful Dwight R. Fuhrman, State Jr. Vice Cmdr. - dmfuhrman@comcast.net

Projects Enhance Your Community ImageThomas A. Brown, State Sr. Vice Cmdr. - paatom1@verizon.net

Page 12 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

Well , we’re off and running for another year so let’s get off to a great beginning as we fight for the future of our VFW organization.

I want to share two of the projects

which I had the honor to be part of over the past year: the Veterans Cruise for VA hospital residents in District 18 on the Pride of the Susquehanna and Media Post 3460’s Pennsylvania Breakfast.

Outstanding things can happen when you ask questions and then work to provide the best possible responses to benefit veterans. These two projects are great examples of the VFW working effectively to enhance veterans’ lives.

On City Island in Harrisburg, the Veterans Cruise gives veterans who live at several VA Medical Centers a wonderful day of camaraderie, good food and a very relaxing ride on a paddle wheel riverboat. A small team of dedicated VFW and Ladies Auxiliary members coordinate the cruise and it was my pleasure to attend one of the cruises to see just how much the veterans enjoy this treat. VFW Posts

and Ladies Auxiliaries make this possible through donations and volunteers.

At dinner the night before, we asked a Harrisburg restaurant if they would like to donate a snack item for the hospitalized veterans, and a local Texas Roadhouse came through with bags of peanuts.

There are lots of local businesses across the Commonwealth willing to support programs that benefit veterans. If your Post is not able to hold an event, ask your business neighbors to provide some products or volunteers.

District 18 and those who support the cruise can hold their heads high.

The second project I want to shine a spotlight on is one most Posts can do: hold a breakfast or other meal for veterans like our Media Post does each month. This Post and its volunteers go all out to provide an amazing full breakfast for those who have served their nation.

As many Posts know, projects like these help to make VFW units a valued part of the community. Remember, the VFW benefits when we serve others instead of waiting to be served.

Through teamwork, we can deliver a great year for our new State Commander Glenn R. Umberger, Jr.

I hope all who attended our State Convention had a good time; the fireworks were certainly one of the highlights!

Congratulations to all those who

earned awards for Commander Smith’s year. As we look ahead to the future under the direction of Commander Umberger, I am confident we will all use the information you learned at convention within your Districts and Posts to have a progressive start for your Leadership year.

I am asking that you please try to attend the Officer Training Institute closest to your area. The information is beneficial and necessary for you to take back to your Post and District.

Things do change from year to year. Many of us say “but we have always done it that way before?” Change is necessary and important for your District and Post to thrive and achieve your local and state VFW goals.

In order to attract our next generation of veterans and keep the

veterans that we have, we must be willing to make changes to become more family- and community-oriented. The “old way” of doing things might not be the best way any longer because the issues that impact all VFW Posts have changed over the past decade.

Please be open to ideas, invite all members to participate in Post meetings and ask people to serve on committees. You should never want to hear about members leaving your Post because no one seemed interested in their ideas or in asking them to take an active role in the future of their organization.

To make your year successful, please place the following things at the top of your list—membership, our VFW programs, community service, and helping our fellow veterans and those who still serve.

Please make sure that the VFW truly runs your Post. District inspections must include a check of all DD-214s on all elected and appointed Post and Home Association Officers to ensure they are truly VFW eligible.

I leave you with one statement: “Change is important, Comrades.”

Lead by example. God Bless.

Post With No “Home” Earns All-State HonorBy Michael Mauer, VFW Post 914Don’t try to find one of

Pennsylvania’s newest All-State VFW posts by walking into its bar. The post has been chartered and in operation for nearly 25 years, but can’t be identified under an aged illuminated sign.

Truth is, it has never had a home of its own.

Unlike many veterans service organizations, West Mifflin VFW post 914 Intrepid doesn’t operate a club or a bar. It is also one of the few VFW posts that doesn’t carry a list of social members. Each proud veteran in its ranks has been decorated with a campaign or occupational medal, and meets the requirements of VFW membership.

Without a bar to run, post officers don’t spend time worrying about staff payroll, liquor and food costs, cable television bills and video games. Each month, about 30 of the post’s more active members meet at the Thompson Run Athletic Club. The club permits the post to display a plaque featuring the names of its life members, as well as a picture of one of its Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans, who was inducted into the Joseph A. Dugan, Jr. Hall of Valor at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum. There is also a picture of Medal of Honor winner and West Mifflin native, Marine Colonel Mitchell Paige, and other post memorabilia.

The arrangement gives the atmosphere of a fraternal place for veterans to get together–without the challenges of running a club. And the

soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines that make up Post 914 like it that way.

“One of the things that attracted me to this post was that everything we do, we do to serve our fellow veterans,” said Iraq War veteran and Post Commander Jake Bradich, a VFW life member. “We stick to the core VFW programs, raise money to fund them, and are known as a group that can be counted on to serve.”

Bradich came into the post through one of its outreach events nearly a decade ago–an Operation Welcome Home picnic. Sponsored by the post and funded the National VFW organization, the picnic was held for all West Mifflin veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan and their immediate family members.

At the event, Bradich learned of the post’s commitment to helping veterans. “I was really impressed by how everybody was concerned with helping veterans, and how all the efforts of the VFW Post 914 ... to page 13

Post 914 Commander Jake Bradich, left, reviews annual financial reports with Buddy Poppy Chairman David Luikart.

Photo by Michael Mauer

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS Page 13

MEMBERSHIP CONTESTSALL-AMERICAN POSTSCOMMANDERS/QUARTERMASTERS: Post Commander Quartermaster 7043 George Fletcher William Dubler6393 Russell Davidson Horace Mundy, Jr.CAPTAINS ALL-STATE TEAM:Post Commander Captain - John Stutzman, Post 1620Quartermaster Captain - Ricky Snyder, Post 1620ALL-STATE DISTRICT CMDRS/MEMBERSHIP CHAIR: District 22 - Cmdr. Dwayne Anders; Chairperson Sandy ShowalterCHOSNYK PLAQUE: (GREATEST PERCENTAGE INCREASE NEW/REINSTATED AMONG DISTRICTS): District 22- Cmdr. Dwayne Anders; Chairperson Sandy ShowalterCOMMANDER’S PLAQUE (HIGHEST NUMERICAL INCREASE AS OF APRIL 30 AMONG POSTS): 40 Members - Post 6393 Commander Russell Davidson; Quartermaster Horace MundyROBERT MUSSER MEMORIAL PLAQUE (GREATEST POST PERCENTAGE INCREASE BY APRIL 30):116.07% - Post 6393 Commander Russell Davidson; Quartermaster Horace Mundy VAN ZANDT AWARD (MOST NEW/REINSTATED POST MEMBERS AS % OF MEMBERSHIP): 14.9% Post 6393 Commander Russell Davidson; Quartermaster Horace MundyJOE SALVO AWARD (INDIVIDUAL MEMBER SIGNING UP THE MOST NEW/REINSTATED MEMBERS OVER 25): 41 Members - Post 1810 member/NCR Henry Mannella

ALL-STATE POSTSPost Commander Quartermaster 928 Nicholas Constantine Fred Borda 175 James McComb Matthew Fisher 1597 Thomas Goodman, Jr Stephen Gill 3258 Elwood Hippel James Dunn 6393 Russell Davidson Horace Mundy, Jr.1620 John Stutzman Ricky Snyder, Jr2385 Cloyd Keister Glen Welker 3502 Randolph Mason Gerald Harvey 6497 Gregory Showers Joseph Heaney 7530 Brian Spagnoletti John Hafer 9639 Allen McCormack, Sr. Glen Hoffer 1446 Lawrence Wills, Jr. Terry Stokes 2493 Matthew Baskette Mark Windsor 5265 Michael Robinson Bradley Levault 8951 Eugene Myers Lloyd Greenwood 1785 John Rowles Edward Neeper, Jr.5825 Daniel Rhodes Dennis Brown 7043 George Fletcher William Dubler 7689 Richard McIntyre Richard Thomas 8724 Mark Nelson Larry English 267 Daniel Benincase Randy Peace 6231 Damian Hambley Larry Pifer 4843 Aaron Kepple Joseph Thevenin 740 Gerald Aggers Edward Denk 1338 Patrick Kelley Edgar Lake 5424 Lawrence Onderko Keith Garrity 5958 William McCrillis Jamey Duncan 7465 Daniel Kazmierczak James Bailey 914 Richard Fleischer Gary Ruston 7714 John Lee Martin Morris

SCHOLARSHIP CONTESTSVoice of Democracy Winner - Desiree McChesney, Post 8803 and Aux. VOD Teacher of the Year - Tracy Barcavage, Post 5507 and Aux. Patriot's Pen Winner - Ethan Schroeder, Post 92 and Aux.; Ethan also won the National Patriot's Pen Contest

ANNUAL VFW SAFETY AWARDSRadko Law Enforcement: West York Borough Police Detective David J. Kahley, nominated by Post 8951; Firefighter of the Year: Terry D. Phillips of Windber, nominated by Post 4795; EMT: Carbondale EMT/Paramedic Timothy Baron, nominated by VFW Post 4712.

CITIZENSHIP TEACHER AWARDSDepartment’s National Citizenship Education Teachers of the Year:K-5–Carla Starkweather, Don Gill Elementary School in Wellsboro,

Post 4907; 6-8—Susan Mousley, Lionville Middle School in Exton; Post 845 and its Ladies Auxiliary; 9-12—Michalee Christy, Mercer Area High School, Post 6345 and its Ladies Auxiliary

COMMUNITY SERVICE RECORD BOOK1st - Middletown Post 1620 and its Ladies Auxiliary; 2nd - Greensburg Post 33 and its Ladies Auxiliary; 3rd - Titusville Post 5958 and its Ladies Auxiliary.

DEPT. EAGLE SCOUT AWARD1st - Salvatore DeFrancesco, Troop 16, nominated by Post 34512nd - Emily Gallo, Troop 21048, nominated by Post 64953rd - Kyle Murry, Troop 248, nominated by Post 2493

BARGER SCHOLARSHIPSEach recipient received a $1,000 nursing scholarship: Whitney Taylor Cross, New Columbia; Taylor McCarthy, Philadelphia; Lauren White, East Stroudsburg; Jennifer Jones, Warminster; Hilary Barrows, Philipsburg; Courtney Muendlein,Wapwallopen.

BUDDY POPPY AWARDSTop Posts by Poppy Orders: 1st Post 6393 (District 8) 30,000 Poppies; 2nd Post 914 (District 29) 22,500; and 3rd Post 928 (District 7) 14,000State Convention Display Contests:Category 1 - 1st place: Post 4843 and Ladies Auxiliary/District 26 Category 2 - 1st place: Post 7465 Ladies Auxiliary/District 28 2nd place: Post 6704 Jr. Girls Ladies Auxiliary/Dist. 18 3rd place: Post 470 Ladies Auxiliary/Post 28Category 3 - 1st place: Post 4963 Ladies Auxiliary/District 26 2nd place: Post 1586 Hastings Auxiliary/District 26 3rd place: Post 6954 Ladies Auxiliary/District 21Category 4 - 1st place: Post 5207 Jr. Girls & Auxiliary/District 10National Convention Display Contests:Category First Place - Jr. Girls Unit Ladies Auxiliary to the Mechanicsburg Memorial Post 6704 Mechanicsburg; Third Place - Jr. Girls Unit Ladies Auxiliary to Post 5207, Daleville

NATIONAL MILITARY SERVICESThe Department of Pennsylvania VFW received a Gold Award for the amount donated from within the Department.

COMMUNICATIONS CONTESTSDepartment Post Newsletter Category - Shellsville Post 9639 first place Department award in the category for posts producing four issues a year; Editor Michael Stephens. Post 9639 also earned a third-place National Award. For newsletters printed three or less times a year, Hamburg Post 216 won the first-place award; Editor Heather Berger. Post 216 also won second-place in the National category.Department District Newsletter Category - District 16 and its Editor Earl Colella received a first-place plaque.Department's Post Website Contest - Chalfont Post 3258 and its Webmaster Michael St. John took home first place in the Department's inaugural Website Contest (www.chalfontvfw.net)National Department Communications Awards Category - State HQs and PA VFW News Editor David Sandman received honors with a third-place National Award in the category for Department newspapers. Sandman received a first-place National Award for writing the best feature story in Department publications.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDSNational Outstanding Community Service Posts from the Dept. included Posts 33, 1620 and 5958. These posts received special attention for submitting 10 or more community service reports: Post 175, 4480, 8317, 6072, 8306, 294, 1599, 3491 and 2006. Posts taking the top three positions in their categories include: Contest 1 - Posts 1989, 1599 and 2006; Contest 2 - Posts 8896, 23 and 6168; Contest 2/Districts 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 18, 21 and 29; Contest 3 - Posts 6393, 509 and 1568; and Contest 4 - Posts 3491, 5859 and 8306.

2014-15 Dept. of PA VFW Award Winnerspost went to support veterans and the community. It was something I wanted to be part of.”

To be selected as “All State,” Bradich and the other members accomplished a long list of service-oriented goals outlined by State Headquarters. Last year, less than 15 percent of Pennsylvania’s 460 Posts were feted during the PA VFW’s State Convention as All-State posts.

Fortunately for Post 914, none of the accomplishments needed to make All-State Post involve running a club or a bar. All the activities required are what Post 914 focuses on–supporting the VFW’s mission to help veterans and their families.

Examples of these good works include supporting student scholarship programs, visiting and engaging with hospitalized veterans and participating in fundraising to assist the VFW’s network of service officers.

Fundraising at the post level also provides money for more than $4 million in emergency financial grants given by the VFW to military families annually.

According to Past Commander Richard Fleischer, Post 914 cites community involvement as one of its keys to success. “When we turn out to hand out Buddy Poppies, everybody remembers seeing us from somewhere before,” said the Vietnam veteran. “They see the work we do and contribute because they know donations are well spent.”

Over the past 20 years, the post has regularly participated in and helped organize ceremonies for Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Pearl Harbor Day. Additionally, its honor guard and rifle team have flown the colors and fired salutes at youth league sporting events.

The post also supports Scouting, Air Force JROTC and the Greater Pittsburgh Soapbox Derby. In addition to the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen programs, the post funds and awards three Walt Kuczma Scholarships for seniors who have had a family member serve honorably.

Keeping the financial records straight is the job of Quartermaster Gary Ruston. “We wouldn’t be able to help near as many veterans as we do if it wasn’t for the great job the post does at distributing Poppies,” said Ruston, a Navy Gulf War veteran. “Also, we have several members who donate money to the post because they see all the good work that we do. Without a club, I can honestly say 100 percent of the money we spend supports veterans, their families and VFW programs.”

Ruston makes certain the post’s activities are promoted through its online home–social media and the Internet-which showcase its service and reflects the transparency of post operations. “This post belongs to every veteran here,” said Ruston. “It’s my job to make certain every dime is accounted for, but all of the money belongs to the post.”

With its visibility in the community and focus on service, finding new members hasn’t been a problem for Post 914. From its initial chartered membership of 37 veterans in 1991, the post’s roster has swollen to nearly three times that amount. The post has active members ranging from service more than 70 years ago in World War II to those who have recently returned from Iraq and Afghanistan.

As for Post 914 ever getting a home of its own? “We’re doing just fine without one,” said Commander Bradich.

VFW Post 914 ... from page 12Congratulations to Post 1810 member Henry Mannella for earning the Department’s Joseph Salvo Award as the top individual recruiter for the 2014-15 VFW year. Henry’s hard work recruited or reinstated 41 members. Mannella is serving as the membership chairman for State Commander Glenn Umberger and can be reached at (412) 523-5764.

Post officials honors JROTC students.

PAGE 14 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS August/September 2015

The Department President Says. . .Teamwork Drives Our Service and SuccessKaren Hoover - khoover@pbi.org or (717) 503-0996

Thank you to each and every member of this great Department of Pennsylvania for electing me as your Department President for 2015-2016. What a thrill and an honor to represent the Ladies

Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, visit the Districts and spend time with the Auxiliary members and Post comrades.

It is a very exciting year with a lot of changes, and I will continue to work with my State Commander Glenn Umberger Jr. We have spent a lot of time sharing ideas and suggestions, trying to make this a unique and memorable year.

Pennsylvania will shine with our National Commander-in-Chief John Biedrzycki and National President Francisca Guilford leading the way. We “Believe in America’s Veterans” and take pride in serving the needs of each member of this great organization.

I hope you all take an active role in supporting “Veterans – Now and Forever.” There are many tools and ideas available on the Ladies Auxiliary website, program

books and attending the various functions. We are here for you in any aspect that you may need assistance.

I look forward to meeting many of you and hope each Post and Auxiliary has a successful year–working together for our members, their families and our communities.

God Bless All, and God Bless our Veterans and our Troops.

Rally Around Our Veterans, Troops and Their FamiliesBy Andrea Meintel, Veterans & Family Support Chairman

Veterans and Family Support is the foundation of who we are and what we do in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. As we begin our program year, create ways to support the programs below.

1. Unmet Needs: provides grants of up to $5,000 for our deployed military service members and their families who may experience hardships.

2. Operation Uplink: keeps families connected, providing free phone time to our active military personnel and hospitalized veterans. Request virtual PINs through the VFW.

3. Military Assistance Program (MAP): obtain financial assistance to sponsor Send-Offs, Homecomings, and Social Events for local units. Apply through the Veterans and Military Support Office: 816-756-3390.

4. VFW National Home: provides opportunities for veterans and their families to grow and develop. Promote the Military & Veteran Family Helpline 1-800-313-4200: help@vfwnationalhome.org.

Our monthly communications will have a section called “Supporting Our Veterans Spotlight.” Here, we will be searching the state for auxiliaries who celebrate veterans and their families through fundraisers, activities or programs. Submit your projects to show us how you believe in our veterans now and forever, so we can shine the spotlight on your auxiliary.

The programs highlighted will help us share ideas and encourage each other to continue the great work of our organization. Through the Veterans and Family Support program, we show our commitment to serving “Our Veterans—Now and Forever.” We do this because in our hearts we “Believe in America’s Veterans.”

“It’s Five O’clock Somewhere–Plan Recruiting EventsKelley Lepak, Membership Chairperson - kms4013@hotmail.com

The Department of Pennsylvania Ladies Auxiliary needs to have a plan in place so we may retain our current members and recruit new members.

We must take every opportunity we can to recruit new members by having recruiting events monthly. A few suggestions would be to have a recruiting booth at the local mall, community events, sports events and church events.

Please take the time to speak with potential members, let them know who we are, what we do, and why we do what we do. There are brochures that you can use to help address these topics. If we use these tools our numbers will increase.

Remember “OUR VETERANS NOW & FOREVER “ because we “BELIEVE IN AMERICA’S VETERANS.”

A reminder of early incentive awards, a $25.00 award to the Ladies Auxiliary IN EACH MEMBERSHIP DIVISION with the highest percentage by the dates listed below:

Over 50% August 31, 2015Over 75% October 30, 2015Over 100% December 4, 2015Over 102% January 15, 2016Over 105% March 4, 2016NOTE: At least one transmittal in

each award period to qualify.Reminder there will be a dues

transmittal pickup at Fall Conference in August 2015, and there are two drawings for membership that can be won.

President

Chaplain

KelleyLepak

Aux. 2754

Nat’l Council

LynnMusselmanAux. 11322

Senior Vice

KarenHoover

Aux. 5507

Junior Vice

DonnaMills

Aux. 1754

Sec-Treas.

SharonMcCulloughAux. 6168

Conductress

CharlotteLopes

Aux.734

Guard

SandraWilder

Aux. 267

Chief of Staff

WendiHennemannAux. 8488

Parliamentarian

TheresaGroce

Aux. 974

Historian

LouiseGerhart

Aux. 5956

Patriotic Inst.

CeceliaCook

Aux. 2754

DeborahRothermelAux. 5507

August/September 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS PAGE 15

The Delaware Valley State Veterans Home Honor Guard is believed to be the only Honor Guard in the nation based at a Veterans Home. The team is shown here at the opening ceremonies of the Veterans Day at the State Capitol in Harrisburg. Members include (from left) Bill Houston, Richard Gibney, Bob Smith and Fred DeJosie. The Honor Guard is sponsored by VFW District 8.

Scalp Level-Paint fire fighter Terry Phillips received the VFW National Firefighter Award and the VFW Department of Pennsylvania Firefighter Gold Medal Award from PA VFW State Safety Chairman Ron Smith and Post 4795 Jr. Vice Commander Bob Portante. Photo taken by Sandy Wojcik

A proud group of PA VFW members and other veterans, state agency officials and politicians pose on the steps under the State Capitol rotunda during the first Pennsylvania Veterans Day at the Capitol. State HQs participated in a briefing on key veterans issues and spoke with many veterans at its VFW recruiting and information table.

St. Benedict Post 7783 awarded five $1,000 scholarships to deserving Cambria Heights Seniors. Each student was asked to write an essay about how they will show patriotism after high school. Pictured with the scholarship winners are (left) Post Jr. Vice Commander Jeremiah Johnston and (right) Post Quartermaster William Campbell

Members of the Dallastown High School JROTC received certificates and medals from the VFW. Taking part in the presentation ceremony were (shown) Commander VFW Post 1446 Lawrence Wills and State HQs Executive Secretary Georgia Snook. Also participating but not pictured were Post 1446 Quartermaster Terry Stokes and VFW State Service Officer Christine Frederick.

Members of Andreas Post 5069 recently donated $1,000 to the DAV van program. Pictured are (first row, from left): Senior Vice Commander Nevin Fritz, Commander Ernest Daubenspeck and Junior Vice James Martinez; second row: Trustee Glenn Stevens, Sergeant-at-Arms Carl Yacovelli, Quartermaster Harold Oenbach, Trustee Mahlon Shaffer, Trustee Paul Stahler, Chaplain David Houser and Secretary Eugene Schaeffer.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 PENNSYLVANIA VFW NEWS Page 16

PERIODICALS

The Shellsville Post 9639 Honor Guard proudly stands in front of the Post tank display after an event held to honor veterans. Also pictured is Service Officer Ed Fake (far left) and two members of the military.

The Lititz Walk for PA Wounded Warriors Committee presented a check for $6,600 to PAWW Vice-President LTC Gordon Weith, USAR at the Lititz Rec Center. The volunteer committee is made up of Post 1463 Ladies Auxiliary, VFW and social members, the Lititz Lions and Lititz Rotary Clubs, and the Lititz rec Center. Included in the photo (from left) are Joel Ellis, Lititz Springs Post 1463; Kathy Wiker, Ladies Auxiliary; LTC Weith; Susan Ellis, Ladies Auxiliary; and Emma Guinter, Ladies Auxiliary and Lititz Rec Center.

White Haven Post Commander Melissa Dimmitt donates $2,000 to the Valor Clinic Foundation’s Paul House, which provides transitional housing for veterans and leads residents through a 12-week program to help veterans become independent. The funds were raised through a Homeless Veterans Awareness Encampment.

Telford Post 5308 held their first VA Day and comments indicate that the event was very successful. Post member Ben Long spearheaded the effort along with Sean Halbom from the Montgomery County VA.

State Commander Gary Smith led a group of the Department’s best performing posts on a patriotic trip that included a visit to the World Trade Center Museum, the Flight 93 Memorial and a U.S. Air Force Base, where the C-17 Globemaster is based.

Jeff Harden, Post 470 Commander, presents $2,183 to Connie Miller, Program Director of Erie’s Liberty House. The monies where raised through an pool tournament held at the post. Liberty House is a transitional housing facility for honorably discharged veterans operated by the Erie United Methodist Alliance.

Focus on Mission Success